Kentucky Chautauqua Series Brings History to Life
with Sue Grafton’s Kentucky’s Most Famous ABCs
Rebecca Hemlock
The Ashland Beacon
Have you ever dreamed of sitting down with your favorite author, delving into the secrets behind their captivating stories, and picking their brain about the creative process? Well, it’s time to dust off your tweed jacket and sharpen your pencils, because the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center is about to make that dream a reality! Thanks to the generous support of Kentucky Humanities, the museum is hosting the renowned Kentucky Chautauqua series, a program that brings historical figures to life, allowing audiences to connect with the past in an exciting and engaging way. And this month, they’re bringing us a literary giant: the legendary Sue Grafton, the mastermind behind the beloved Kinsey Millhone Alphabet Mysteries! Mark your calendars – this is an event you won’t want to miss.
On March 13th, the museum will bring Grafton – embodied by the talented actress Jaquiline Hamilton – to life for one unforgettable evening. Imagine the opportunity to step inside the mind of the woman who created the fierce and independent detective, Kinsey Millhone. From A is for Alibi to Y is for Yesterday, Grafton captivated millions with her witty prose and intricate plots. What fueled her creativity? What were the inspirations behind her unforgettable characters and stories? Now is your chance to find out! But this isn’t just a performance – it’s an immersive experience.
The Kentucky Chautauqua series isn’t about dry lectures or dusty textbooks. It’s about connecting with history on a personal level, hearing stories told directly from the source (well, almost!). It’s about understanding the lives, perspectives, and experiences that shaped our world.
Since its inception in 1992, the Kentucky Chautauqua program has brought over 70 figures – from pioneers to artists, from politicians to activists – back to life. Each portrayal offers a unique window into Kentucky’s rich history, giving audiences a deeper connection to the forces that have shaped our present. The program’s longevity speaks to the power of storytelling and our enduring fascination with those who came before us. It’s a chance to not only learn from the past but to experience it in a way that is truly unforgettable.
The Kentucky Chautauqua program was inspired by a traveling group from the late 1800s known as The Chautauqua troop from Chautauqua, New York. This group of actors, speakers, philosophers, and scientists traveled across the country, setting up camp and delivering a dynamic mix of education and entertainment. These itinerant performers were the rock stars of their time, captivating audiences eager for intellectual stimulation. And Kentucky was no exception. In the 1870s, the Chautauqua troop descended upon the Bluegrass State, drawing massive crowds eager to soak in the experience. Attendees even rented tents for just 50 cents a day – about $12 in today’s money – to fully immerse themselves in the event.
From pioneering scientists to groundbreaking artists, from influential politicians to everyday heroes, the Chautauqua program offers a captivating glimpse into the lives and legacies of those who have shaped our history. It’s a powerful reminder that history isn’t just about dusty textbooks and forgotten dates; it’s a living, breathing narrative filled with compelling stories and inspiring individuals. Now, the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center is offering you the chance to be part of this incredible legacy.
Mark your calendars for March 13th! Doors to the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center open at 5:30 p.m., with the performance kicking off promptly at 6 p.m. This is a rare opportunity to witness history come alive and engage with the brilliant mind behind the Kinsey Millhone mysteries. Tickets are $10 for museum members and $15 for nonmembers. This small investment gives you access to an evening of exciting storytelling, insightful perspectives, and the chance to connect with a literary icon. Don’t let this opportunity slip away! Secure your spot today and prepare to be transported back in time to meet Sue Grafton – a woman who left an indelible mark on the world of mystery and suspense. You might even get the answer to that burning question you’ve always wanted to ask! We’ll see you there!
To learn more about the Kentucky Chautauqua Program or to book a performance, visit https://www.kyhumanities.org/programs/chautauqua.
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