Chautauqua, New York Attractions

• Chautauqua features 19th century architecture and decorationcape may victorian fence image by Jorge Moro from Fotolia.com
  
  Since the 19th century, the town of Chautauqua, New York has been synonymous with the arts, religion, culture, lectures and debate. The historic district is listed on the federal National Register of Historic Places and also designated a National Historic Landmark. Set on Lake Chautauqua, the town continues to offer the public intellectual and spiritual nourishment each summer.
  
  

National Historic District

• Architecture devotees can spend hours marvelling at the buildings included in the towns's historic district. The 1929 Beaux Arts Norton Memorial Hall was one of the first to be built by on-site poured-concrete. The 1892 Amphitheater has hosted the greats of the arts, philosophy and politics since its construction to the present day, and can seat up to 7000. Check schedules to attend performances or lectures of your particular interest. Stop in at the Georgian Revival Smith Library and peruse its collections. The 1912 Piano Village consists of small cottages used for music practice. Go back in time and stay at the grand 1881 Athenaeum Hotel, which has been refurbished and offers private bathrooms for guests.
  
  

Music and Dance

• Annual attractions at Chautauqua include performances by the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, the Chautauqua Opera and the Chautauqua Ballet Company. The symphony performs approximately 20 concerts in each seven week season. The ballet company consists of dancers from various major dance institutions. Three major operas are presented each year, along with music theater revues and popular musical entertainers. Chamber music is also featured, with different performers appearing each year in the Elizabeth S. Lenna Hall.
  
  

Chautauqua Theatre Company

• Founded in 1983, this theater company and conservatory is part of the Chatauqua Institution. Each summer, well-known actors join the 18 students selected from acting programs nationwide to form a company which appears in three plays each season. Its combination of students and professionals present classic and contemporary works, along with new plays. Productions are held in the historic Bratton Theater.
  
  Chautauqua Theater Company
  
  PO Box 1098
  
  Chautauqua, NY 14722
  
  716- 357-6440
  
  theater.ciweb.org