Conversations with Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton
May 12, 2012
It’s Back to the Political Future!
They could be torn from today’s headlines – spirited conversations between Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton, presented at Thomas Jefferson’s retreat, Poplar Forest, on Saturday, May 12. Not only will these two historic antagonists go head to head, but they will also host a reception on the lawn where guests will have the opportunity to talk one-on-one with these founding fathers whose consciences still shape our world.
Jefferson, his ideas rallying the Democratic Republicans, believed in strong state governments and strict interpretation of the Constitution. Hamilton, leader of the Federalists, wanted a dominant federal government and loose understanding of the Constitution. They argued over the national debt (a whopping $54 million at that time), the role and size of government and the priorities for stimulating economic health. Hamilton favored rule by the wealthy class; Jefferson by the people. Does all this sound familiar?
It is simply uncanny how their ideas and arguments are still boiling over in the news today. The May 12 Conversations between Mr. Jefferson and the first Secretary of the Treasury will provide a unique way for visitors to experience their very own time capsule of American history, as a prelude to today. While their opposing views may dominate this conversation, they may also speak of Hamilton’s surprising role in Jefferson’s securing the presidency.
The exceptional talents of Bill Barker, who portrays Jefferson at Colonial Williamsburg, and Ed Whitacre, a professional actor who also performs at Williamsburg, will bring to life these famous rivals and their passionate views about the best course for a democratic people to choose.
Renowned for his role as Thomas Jefferson at Colonial Williamsburg, Mr. Barker has also portrayed Jefferson at the White House, the Palace of Versailles, in countless television programs, and 14 years starring in Poplar Forest’s annual Conversation with Mr. Jefferson.
Mr. Whitacre first took on the persona of Alexander Hamilton in the late 1980s for the opening exhibition of a private collection of Hamilton's writings and other artifacts in New York City. In addition to his work at Colonial Williamsburg, Mr. Whitacre has appeared in several Discovery Channel and History Channel productions.
There are two opportunities to experience Poplar Forest’s trip back in time. Guests may attend a 1:30 p.m. reception on May 12, socializing with Mr. Jefferson and Mr. Hamilton, and then proceed to the pavilion for the matinee conversation at 2:15 p.m. In the evening, both gentlemen will be receiving guests at a second reception beginning at 7 p.m. on the lawn, which includes the opportunity to tour the house. The two will begin their conversation at 8 p.m. in the pavilion. Guests will then have an opportunity to ask questions of both gentlemen.
Advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended. Tickets can be purchased online (http://2012conversations.eventbrite.com/), or by calling the Museum Shop at Poplar Forest (434 534-8120). Online ticket sales end at 5 pm Friday May 11th. Ticket sales via the Museum Shop continue to Saturday May 12 unless the performances sell out prior to May 12th.
Ticket prices:
Matinee:
Admission to reception beginning at 1:30 p.m. and to matinee performance at 2:15 p.m.
Adult: Advance price $28, at the door $32
Youth: Advance price $12, at the door $14
House tours are not included with the ticket price, but reduced-rate house tour tickets may be purchased for $9 each
Evening:
Admission to reception beginning at 7:00 p.m. and to evening performance at 8 p.m.
Adult: Advance price $32, at the door $37
Youth: Advance price $12, at the door $14
Tickets for the evening performance include the opportunity to tour the house after normal touring hours. Guides will be stationed throughout the house to talk with guests during the reception time.
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