Chautauqua workshop weekend at Dangberg Historic Park

The workshop will include training in the various aspects of Chautauqua scholarship and performance.

On June 25, Chautauqua 101 is an introduction to the performance art. 

Historian Debbe Nye will give a presentation on the history of Chautauqua. Authentically researching a character will be discussed by author and writer Karen Dustman. All aspects of costuming will be presented by Chautauquan DebiLynn Smith, and Chautauquan Kim Harris will speak on show how to bring a character to the point of presentation.

On June 26, Chautauqua 201 is more in-depth with nationally known Chautauquans Doug Mishler and Frank X. Mullen included as instructors. Mullen will present “My Lives as a Chautauquan,” and Mishler will present “The Art of Creating the Dead.” As well, Nye will give an expanded presentation on the origin and evolution of Chautauqua.

Two break-out groups will be offered on Sunday: hands-on assistance in research with Karen Dustman and Debbe Nye; and costuming assistance with DebiLynn Smith and Kim Harris.

Workshop attendees will receive materials relating to each presentation, a certificate of completion, a pass to attend 2022 Dangberg Summer Festival’s Chautauqua remaining evening events, and entrance to the 1:00pm Chautauqua performance for the workshop day they attend.

As a special added feature, nationally known premier Chautauquans will perform at the end of each workshop. Their performances are open to the public, but included in the registration package. 

Saturday the 25th, from 1–2pm will feature McAvoy Layne as humorist and author Mark Twain. Sunday the 26th from 1-2pm will feature Frank X. Mullen as Henry VIII.

All adults, and youth 14–17 years are welcome at the workshop; however, youth must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is due Wednesday, June 15 and must be accompanied with payment. Early registration is encouraged as space is limited for each day. 

Registration for Friends of Dangberg members is $30 1-day/$50 both days; non-members registration is $45 1-day/$75 both days. Contact events@dangberg.org to request a registration form, or for more information.

“We are hoping this workshop will be beneficial to all who are interested in bringing historical characters to life.” said events manager Kim Harris.

Funding in support of the workshop has been provided in part by a grant from Nevada Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Dangberg Summer Festival events are sponsored by Douglas County, Frances C. and William P. Smallwood Foundation, Carson Valley Accounting, D & B Cabinets, Tru North Wealth Management, Carson Valley Chamber of Commerce, Douglas Disposal & Recycling Service, Edward Jones Investments – Tim Cleveland, Hone Company, and Kaiser Genoa Property, LLC.

The park is located at 1450 Hwy 88, ¾ mile south of the high school and roundabout. The ranch house is currently open for visitors 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. Groups may also reserve the park’s events tent, with picnic table seating for up to 60 people, along with optional interpretive presentations and building access. For more information, visit Dangberg.org or write info@dangberg.org.