In celebration of America 250, join us July 21-25, 2026 for America's Stories:
Susan Marie Frontczak as ERMA BOMBECK: Popular 20th century humorist
Martin Lahman as THOMAS PAINE: English-born American founding father
Becky Stone as MARY FIELDS: "Stagecoach Mary," mail carrier in Old West
John Dennis Anderson as WASHINGTON IRVING: 19th-century writer, historian, diplomat
Rebecca Marks Jimerson as CORETTA SCOTT KING: Author, activist, civil rights leader
"The Chautauqua is the most American thing in America." -- Theodore Roosevelt
In the tradition of the American Chautauqua, the Ashland, Ohio Chautauqua allows audiences to witness history in its most compelling form - first person historical portrayals. Nationally recruited scholar-actors take on the roles of historical figures, appearing in costume and presenting exciting living history performances. Concurrent with these performances, and again in keeping with the Chautauqua tradition, Ashland Chautauqua also provides musical performances with each living history performance and daytime workshops throughout the week of Chautauqua.
