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.

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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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• 

  To Go A'Pirating

  Don't miss the recreation of a notorious event that took place in Williamsburg in 1727 – the trial of two accused pirates, John Vidal and Martha Farley. Become part of the trial and help determine its outcome.

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• 

  18th-Century Play Series

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

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  Grand Medley of Entertainments

  Marvel at the amazing feats, strange beasts, and fast-paced hilarity of the traveling players in a performance for the entire family.

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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.

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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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  Upon A Violl at Sea: A 1607 Concert

  At Jamestowne in 1624, John Utie sued William Taylor for slander--come see what all the fuss was about. Enjoy an evening of "Full various and devicefull musick" performed on the violla de gamba and harpsichord.

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  From Ear to Ear

  From Africa, to the Caribbean, and to America, musical traditions transformed and grew with the changes that happened in the lives of the people who created it. Hear African instruments, intricate rhythms, and soulful vocals passed from ear to ear in this one-hour musical concert.

  Find Colonial Evening Programs on the Events Calendar