Mission Statement
The Arts at Chautauqua: exploring the best in human values and the enrichment of life
Our mission is to expand the lives of our audience within and beyond the Institution’s gates through the power of the performing and visual arts.
We seek to serve the purposes of the Institution by inspiring, educating, entertaining and engaging a diverse and growing audience; by serving as an integral part of the Chautauqua community; by exemplifying artistic excellence in presenting programs that celebrate both tradition and innovation; and by demonstrating sound financial stewardship.
Symphony Orchestra
Performing 21 concerts including two accompanying visiting dance companies, our resident professional orchestra also provides musicians that perform for Chautauqua Opera.
Theater
Internationally known actors, directors, designers and writers join 19 emerging artists drawn from top training programs to produce a vibrant body of work in the historic Bratton Theater.
Family Entertainment
This series appeals to family members of all ages providing fun, interactive entertainment.
Chamber Music
Instrumental and vocal music from medieval chant to Brahms to jazz to the contemporary music of our time.
Opera
Chautauqua Opera is the oldest continuously producing summer opera company in the U.S. as well as the fourth-oldest American opera company overall.
Sunday Entertainment
Sundays are always free at Chautauqua — free admission to the grounds and a free afternoon show in the Amphitheater.
Visual Arts
The Visual Arts at Chautauqua Institution (VACI) includes the School of Art, the galleries of the Strohl Art Center, the Fowler-Kellogg Art Center, the Melvin Johnson Sculpture Garden and the visual arts lecture series.
Dance
Chautauqua showcases four visiting dance companies each season, with wide-ranging styles from masterpieces in classical ballet to modern dance and contemporary ballet.