Reenactor group to offer period dancing, interactive history Dec. 12 & 19
Tryon Palace visitors will have more opportunities to experience 18th-century dancing during the 35th annual Candlelight Christmas Celebration, held Dec. 12 and 19. Historic Interpretations, Inc., a North Carolina-based group of reenactors specializing in living history programs that combine education and entertainment, will host a recreated tavern filled with period dancing, music and family games on the Dixon House lawn during both nights of the annual holiday celebration.
“We feel very lucky to have gotten Historical Interpretations for this year’s Candlelight Celebration” said Megan Raby, Tryon Palace director of education. “Period dancing is one of the most popular parts of Candlelight and we really wanted people to see as much of it as possible.”
Historic Interpretations will host The Tavern at the Sign of the Oak and Acorn, a recreated tavern that does not offer alcohol, but will be home to holiday merriment, singing and dancing. The tavern includes games of chance, outdoor historic games and family games. Traditional music and dance of both the Americas and Britain will be performed at designated times throughout the evening and include audience participatory folk dances and holiday songs.
“By adding Historical Interpretations to our group of outdoor acts, we’re giving our visitors another opportunity to experience and interact with history,” said Raby. “Not only can visitors see as much dancing as they like, but if they’re feeling brave, maybe they can even join in.”
Tryon Palace’s annual Candlelight Celebration includes tours of the Governor’s Palace and historic homes, 18th-century circus acts and fireworks, as well as performances by Jonkonnu and the Tryon Palace Fife and Drum Corps. Tryon Palace will continue to offer period dancing demonstrations during candlelit tours through the Governor’s Palace, while Historic Interpretations offers visitors an opportunity to spend more time watching and participating with the reenactors in an outdoor setting.
Tickets to the 35th annual Candlelight Christmas Celebration are currently offered at a discounted rate that will continue through Nov. 30. Tickets may be purchased at Tryon Palace, located at 529 South Front St., New Bern, by phone at 252-639-3524 and online at www.tryonpalace.org/candlelight.
Photo by: Allen Hales
For more information call 252-639-3500 or visit TryonPalace.org.
Upcoming events at Tryon Palace include:
Nov. 27: Holiday Kickoff Weekend
Nov. 28: “White Christmas”
Nov. 29: “Polar Express”
Submitted by: Craig Ramey, Marketing and Communications, Manager, Tryon Palace