Visit : Colonial Evening Programs

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Colonial Evening Programs

As night falls, enchanting evening programs begin in Colonial Williamsburg. Listen to the sweet sounds of music played on period instruments or take a walking tour by lantern light. Hear stories passed down through generations of free and enslaved blacks. Decide the guilt or innocence of a colonial criminal, or observe the anguish of a woman accused of witchcraft. Enjoy newly released independent and foreign films, live comedy, theatre, and musical performances at the Kimball Theatre in Merchants Square, or watch an 18th-century play. Whatever your choice, you'll find a program unlike anything you've experienced before.

• Evening events require reservations and seating is limited.
• Programs and times are subject to change.
• Book early to ensure availability.
• Tickets may be purchased at any ticket sales location, or by calling 1 800-HISTORY.

Enjoy a sampling of our offerings:

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  African American Music

  The African American community borrowed from the musical traditions of Africa and Europe. In the 18th-century African-American community, there were opportunities for everyone to participate, whether it was singing, dancing, or playing an instrument. Help us keep the rhythms, sing the songs, and dance the dances adapted from the West African people. As you walk the grounds of Great Hopes plantation by firelight, take the opportunity to explore the diverse nature of African American musical culture in colonial Virginia. Weather permitting.

  Find Colonial Evening Programs on the Events Calendar

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  Crime and Punishment

  Join a walking tour like no other when you examine man's mistreatment of his fellow man. Tour focuses on the the system of English Common Law and the laws of the Colony of Virginia and how those practices formed the basis of our modern justice system.

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• 

  Courage or Cowardice?

  You are members of the court in this reenactment based on a 1779 court of inquiry. A Virginia officer took his men and abandoned his post in the face of a British attack, which left the town of Portsmouth and the surrounding area defenseless.
  
  Did he act correctly? Was he a coward - or worse yet - a traitor? Hear the evidence, question the witnesses and cast your votes.

  Find Colonial Evening Programs on the Events Calendar

• 

  18th-Century Play Series

  Enjoy one of Thomas Jefferson’s favorite pastimes in the birthplace of American Theatre!

  Find Colonial Evening Programs on the Events Calendar

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  Dance, Our Dearest Diversion

  "Virginians will dance or die" wrote an 18th-century diarist. What better time than the 21st century to learn a few "new" dance steps in the candlelit Capitol?

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  Papa Said, Mama Said

  Experience a moving program in which 18th-century free and enslaved blacks reflect on lessons learned through stories told by their elders.

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  Capitol Concert

  Come celebrate an evening of 18th-century harpsichord music with Williamsburg’s premier musician, Peter Pelham. Mr. Pelham was the 18th C. organist of Bruton Parish Church, and Keeper of the Public Goal. You will hear selections that were popular here in Williamsburg, as well as an original composition by Peter Pelham. In addition to sparkling music, there will be observations of local personalities and opportunity for conversation.

  Find Colonial Evening Programs on the Events Calendar

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  In Defense of Our Liberty

  Enlist in the Continental Army at the Magazine. Become a new recruit and see what it was like to be a soldier in the 18th century.

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  Ghosts Amongst Us

  Travel to candlelit rooms to hear colonial tales of mystery and the unexplained.

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  Cry Witch

  Participate in a re-creation of a dramatic trial and weigh the evidence to determine the guilt or innocence of "The Virginia Witch."

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  Revolutionary Points of View

  Engage in the most important debate of our nation's history with one of three people of the past: a patriot, a loyalist, or an unconcerned resident.

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  Lanthorn Tour

  Explore four colonial trade sites by lanthorn light, and see a glimpse into Williamsburg craftsmen's lives.

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  Palace Concert

  An elegant evening of chamber music with Williamsburg's early music ensemble, the Governor's Musick.

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  Listen my Children

  Bring the entire family to this gathering where you'll hear fun and interesting stories. Storytellers will share their tales by firelight as young and old hear some of the same legends that entertained families of centuries past.

  Find Colonial Evening Programs on the Events Calendar