Venus & Vance: A Conversation Around Reclaiming Narratives, Complexity, and Empathy – Vance Birthplace State Historic Site and the American Myth Center partner once again to present an evening of historical drama and discussion on the interpretation of the plantation and race in western North Carolina.
This program begins with a viewing of the annual, Appalachian Christmas Carol, that follows the story of Venus, an enslaved woman that lived on the Vance plantation, followed by conversation on the complicated legacy of Zebulon Vance, our collective histories, how we interpret them, and the role of museums and historic sites.
An Appalachian Christmas Carol – The Vance Birthplace will once again partner with the American Myth Center to present one of the greatest Christmas stories ever told, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Through the use of shadow theatre and moving panoramas the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future lead Zebulon in an exploration of the life of Venus, a woman enslaved by the Vances. For approximately 25 minutes, visitors will go on an illuminating journey through some of the history of the Vance Birthplace and the people who lived here.
Tours run every 30 minutes starting at 6:00 pm with the last tour at 8:30 pm. Visitors will walk the site as they experience the play and finish in the 1790 slave dwelling. Afterward, visitors are encouraged to return to our Visitor Center to talk with staff and visit our classroom where they can view the panel discussions from community members last year and hear present day discussion around how historic sites interpret slavery.
Reservations are strongly encouraged. Due to the nature of the program, after the play starts, late visitors will not be permitted. We recommend arriving to the Visitor Center at least ten minutes in advance to park, get checked-in, and explore our exhibit on the historical art form of crankies. Tickets are a tax-deductible donation through the Mountain History and Culture Group and are non-refundable.
*MASKS ARE REQUIRED INSIDE ALL FACILITIES.