POPLAR FOREST CONVERSATIONS
When I first discovered Poplar Forest, Jefferson’s private retreat in Lynchburg, I was living in Texas and homeschooling my kids.
Stumbling upon video recordings of these presentations, I incorporated them into our early 19th century studies.
This year, which happens to be the 200th anniversary of Lafayette’s Grand Tour, I discovered that Poplar Forest would again host Mark Schneider as Lafayette and Bill Barker as Thomas Jefferson in 1824.
Having met both of the actor interpreters in Colonial Williamsburg, I knew this would be a grand event.
Although I’ve met Benedict Arnold and King George III at two other Conversations at Jefferson’s private retreat of Poplar Forest, this time the event was held in nearby Lynchburg at the stunning Academy Center of the Arts.
BREAUX ARTS NEOCLASSICAL STYLE
This theater, recently restored to its 1911 appearance (after a simpler version of the theater burned down in 1905) features the neoclassical Breaux Arts Style, perfect for a Jeffersonian event.
Developed in 1830s and taught in Paris, the Breaux Arts Style returned to French neoclassicism, which nods to the Ancient Greek and Romans, while additionally incorporating elements from the Renaissance and Baroque Eras.
America popularized the Breaux Arts style from the late 19th to the early 20th centuries.
During the presentation, Jefferson and Lafayette reminisced about both the American Revolution (since Lafayette fought on our side) and the French Revolution (since Jefferson witnessed the siege of the Bastille).
RECEPTION
After the presentation, which included Q&A, they mingled with the audience at the reception.
Ever shy, I was nudged by my husband to say hi to Lafayette so he could take a picture of us.
What fun, since Lafayette greeted me so warmly…I don’t get to visit as often as I did when I homeschooled my kids.
Isn’t his attire great…perfectly styled for his 1824 appearances before the official 200th anniversary begins.
This was my hubby’s first time to see Bill Barker as Thomas Jefferson, and his second time to meet Lafayette.
Totally wowed by the excellent performance, my mid-Century hubby is slowly coming over to the late 18th and early 19th century! 😉
