Chautauqua Institution Ready for 'Jam-Packed' Summer Season

This summer is shaping to be a "jam-packed" one on the grounds of Chautauqua Institution. Its 152nd Summer Assembly begins Saturday and runs through August 30th. Chautauqua spokesperson Jill McCormick says one of the most talked-about highlights of the season will be during Week 6 in early August, when the lecture series focuses on America's 250th anniversary, in partnership with the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. McCormick says that week will feature a two-day conversation with famed documentary filmmaker Ken Burns...

Jill McCormick: Burns speaking two days

Burns will be joined by Jeffrey Rosen, CEO emeritus of the National Constitution Center on both days. Entertainment-wise, McCormick says some of the big names include Wynonna Judd and Melissa Etheridge, who will perform Saturday evening. Also on the Institution's schedule is Natalie Merchant, who will perform a free concert with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra on August 2nd...

Jill McCormick: performing "Cabinet of Wonder"

Another big draw is Harry Connick, Jr., who will perform at the Amphitheater on July 17th. McCormick, who was a call-in guest on WDOE's "Viewpoint" program on Friday, adds that this season, Chautauqua will be offering concession sales for most big events at the Amphitheater following the success of a Bonnie Raitt concert last fall.

Click here to listen to the entire "Viewpoint" interview featuring Jill McCormick.

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