Virginians Will Dance or Die! – 18th Century Music and Dancing Demonstration

Music was everywhere in colonial-era Virginia. In taverns and private homes, at formal performances, and casually around the campfire, music and dance filled daily life. Join the VMHC for a hands-on exploration of colonial-era music and dancing.

Guests will enjoy a lecture from author Joshua LeHuray on his book Virginians Will Dance or Die!: The Importance of Music in Pre-Revolutionary Williamsburg. Following the talk, members of the Colonial Dance Club of Richmond, accompanied by musicians of RVA Baroque playing period instruments, will demonstrate and teach a beginner lesson in English country dancing. Bring your dancing shoes!

Program Info:

Tickets include after-hours access to the VMHC’s signature VA250th exhibition, Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation.
Light snacks and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) will be available for purchase.
Copies of the book will be available in store and at ShopVirginiaHistory.org closer to the event date.

Program Schedule:

4:30 – 5:30 – Participants are welcome to arrive early to explore the exhibition prior to the event.
5:30 – 6:30 – Lecture from author Joshua LeHuray on his book Virginians Will Dance or Die!: The Importance of Music in Pre-Revolutionary Williamsburg.
6:30 – 7:30 – English country dance demonstration and lesson led by the Colonial Dance Club of Richmond, accompanied by musicians of RVA Baroque.