Accokeek Foundation: "That’s Entertainment: The Politics of Mirth”
Sunday, July 29, 2012 | Start Time: 4:00 PM
National Colonial Farm | Accokeek, MD
The Scene–The time is 1774 and you’re invited to the Bealle Barbeque.
Be entertained the colonial way with food, sport, and merriment! Museum professionals, through an interactive performance and presentation of 18th century entertainments, enlighten guests about the social aspects of a colonial-era barbeque. The event will feature a quarter-race, a uniquely American invention and a tradition with deep roots in Prince George’s county, as well as food catered by Famous Dave’s BBQ.
Event Details and About the Museum Theater Intern Program:
“That’s Entertainment: The Politics of Mirth” is an intensive program designed to introduce the 21st century visitor into the world of 18th century entertainments and the deep social meanings they held for all classes of early Marylanders. The “barbecues” held throughout the Tidewater area were far more than how we view them today. Often hosted or sponsored by wealthy gentlemen standing for election the barbecue offers a perfect setting to explore not only what colonists did for fun, but more importantly, why and what it meant to them. Event participants will meet and interact with the local candidate Josias Bealle and various other members of the local parish, learning about colonial-era electioneering and the ways in which sport were used to conduct such business. The Museum Theater interns, under the guidance of museum theater professionals and scholars, will create characters and scenes designed to go far beyond the “this is what they played” presentation and focus on the deeper social benefits of such activities.
Please note: The main event kicks off at 4 pm each day, Saturday, July 28 and Sunday, July 29 with performances ending about 7 pm. Event guests have the option to attend the performance either Saturday or Sunday (or both!). Barbeque platters will be catered by Famous Dave’s BBQ; the cost of food is additional to the admission fee with tickets available for purchase each day.
