Encouraging Creativity

2022 Victorian Chautauqua Season Poster.

A long tradition of Chautauqua programming centers on cultural enrichment. Programs are assembled from an array of talented people who bring theatrical performance, music, and historical narratives to the stage. One of The Victorian Chautauqua’s goals is to inspire and nurture creativity by providing a place where the fruits of that extraordinary work can be showcased.

2021

In 2021, Francis “Ranger Champ” Zumbrun was commissioned to produce an original theme song to teach people the meaning of Chautauqua and how to spell the “odd and lengthy word” as the song goes. The singalong was brilliantly composed as a friendly, memorable tune with a catchy hook that repeats the word Chautauqua. Zumbrun worked with sound engineer Mark Gowan at Budger Records in Frostburg, tapping talented drummer DJ Dunel Petit-Frere and assembling a chorus made up of Mountain Lake Park’s mayor, Don Sincell, his wife Suzie, his sister Mary McEwen, and his three grandchildren Lydia, Kasey, and Eva. The final recording was then turned into a music video to capture the spirit of the Victorian era, using Kasey Lambert as the flirtatious barker and Ranger Champ as the singalong host. A cameo by Mark Gowans hammering out the finale’s guitar riff builds to the song’s crescendo.

Another original presentation was that of Bill Grant, portraying Grover Cleveland. His premiere of this former president was greeted by an overflowing audience who enjoyed his overview of one of America’s most popular presidents who served three terms. Bill has taken a keen interest in presidential tales, and he will be returning in 2022 with his depiction of Warren G. Harding.

2022

This year’s Victorian Chautauqua will introduce a new event, especially for teens, the TeenPunk Silent Disco, sponsored by John Rose at Edward Jones®. Mark Gowans will return to his sound studio to remix The Chautauqua Song in a danceable form for this event. This new commission will expand upon the previous version and be played at the disco.

The 2022 Victorian Chautauqua will host three premiere performances of personalities from history. Bill Grant will return to the Victorian Chautauqua stage as President Warren G. Harding. Bill’s intensive study of one of America’s most controversial presidents will undoubtedly delight his audiences.

Sallie Stewart will portray Julia Ruhl, one of Mountain Lake Park’s most notable early residents. Until Sallie’s research began, Julia was a relatively unknown force behind the women’s rights movement and one who aided in the passage of the 19th Amendment. Sallie will share her discoveries in character for the first time under the Burlington Tent.

Sara Sincell will portray Harriet Quimby, the first woman to earn her pilot’s license. Often overshadowed by other female pilots of that time, Harriet’s short life was remarkable beyond her accomplishments in the air. When Sara first learned of Harriet, she was immediately compelled to premiere her performance for the Victorian Chautauqua. Sara is a seasoned actress who is no stranger to channeling personalities from the past.

The Victorian Chautauqua planning committee will continue seeking new and compelling presentations to perpetuate and foster creativity. Programming suggestions can be sent to the program committee for consideration. SUGGESTIONS