2024 - 2025 Wythe Arts Council, Ltd Board
Karen Melton, Chair
Stephanie Kelley McCroskey, Vice-Chair
Rachel Jones, Treasurer
Sue Sprano, Recording Secretary
Shane Terry, Communications Director
Bobby Angles
Patricia Bennett
Glenda Crockett-Eans
Kerrington Crockett-Eans
Matthew Frusher
Madeline Lenore
Angeline Lloyd
Jason Manley
Emily Mullins
Chesnut Pennington
April Schmidt
Jamie Stitt
2025 Grand Marshal
Benny Lynn & Charlie
41 years ago, Beth Pendleton, John Ward, Judson Lambert, Linda Butt,Anne B. Crockett-Stark, Pat Thompson & John Dowd planned the very first Chautauqua Festival-In-The-Park. Without thousands of volunteers each year, this festival would not be possible. Thank you to current and past board members for their time and service on the WytheArts Council.They spend all year dedicating their time to continue to make this tradition free for our community.
Chautauqua: (pronounced sha tauk’ wa) of Seneca Indian origin; a name of a place, variously represented as titles in early (chiefly French) writings and maps… literal meaning “one has take out fish there…” … which may account for the relationship to Lake Chautauqua in southwestern New York. Chautauqua, NY Is the site of the educational assembly started in 1874 and is still in existence today. In the late 19th century, the Chautauqua movement became a popular form of adult education and entertainment in the United States. Using noted lyceum speakers (such as Teddy Roosevelt and William Jennings Bryan) and local talent, the movement literally spread throughout the country, traveling in caravans and setting up their tent performances in towns with primary access to the railroad. In the 1920’s; Wytheville, VA was a stop on the Chautauqua circuit, reportedly known as the “Redpath Circuit” which ran perpendicular to the “White & Meyer Circuit” that crossed the rural Midwestern United States, where Chautauqua was particularly popular. The Chautauqua lectures, musical features, dramatic arts and children’s activities rose in popularity during the 1920’s, followed by its demise, brought on by the Great Depression and the rise of the film industry. In 1985, the Chautauqua Festival was rejuvenated in the southwest VA community of Wytheville, and has been a source of entertainment, enjoyment and education again over the past thirty-nine years.
In memory of Ranny Copenhaver
Many claim the compliment, but few truly possess the requisite fabric of talent, passion, wisdom, and influence required to be a true “Renaissance Man.” Without question, the late Ranny Copenhaver was one of a kind and for those who were fortunate enough to know him well, an obvious Renaissance Man. Most came to know Mr. Larry Randall “Ranny” Copenhaver through school. He spent most of his career teaching various science classes at George Wythe High School. He even tutored Algebra from time to time. His firm hand in the classroom never overshadowed his compassion and generosity. Most would agree that being a brilliant and beloved teacher, amazing father, and loving husband is extraordinary enough, but not for Ranny. All of that was only scratching the surface! Ranny did not casually dabble in woodworking, farming, or painting. He did not simply have hobbies; he was a jack of all trades and master of most. He could make a lathe sing, a canvas weep, a pen pray, and even the most obdurate of pupils learn. We may never truly know what we lost when Ranny passed away on August 14th, 2022, proving Robert Frost’s “Nothing gold can stay” right once again. In honor of Ranny’s memory and legacy, his devoted family has generously decided to sponsor this year’s Chautauqua Festival Art & Photography Show.
The annual Chautauqua Art & Photography Show this year is in memory of Ranny Copenhaver. We will be accepting artwork (paintings, drawings, photos, sculptures and jewelry) entries for hanging and display on Thursday, June 19th from 4pm-7pm in the lower level of the 4th Street Community Center. Judging will take place on Friday, June 20th. Access by the general public will be June 21st through 28th, 2025. Artwork must be picked up between the hours of 10am–2pm on Sunday, June 29th.. Please go to page 17 for a QR Code for our website for more information to participate. June
BUTTERFLY THE CLOWN
All Week
BeckitheBalloon Lady!
Meet our Artisans of the Day
VisitourArtisanoftheDayeachdayfrom10amuntil4pm. ArtisanswillbesetupoutsidetheArt&Photographyroom. Festivalgoerswillhaveanopportunitytoviewtheworkandmeettheartistinperson. Artworkwillalsobeforsale.
Saturday, June 21, 2025
ForgeAppalachia
ForgeAppalachia Collective is a community of makers whose vision is to support locally focused art for all, regardless of social or economic standing, with a strong focus on the positive connection between art, health, and well-being. Our center will be regionally minded to impact and empower creativity and wellness within and beyond our mountains.The FAFFACollective's mission is to forge a strong region by combining fine and folk-art ways, preserve our region's creative heritage and unique culture, and provide access to the arts and art education for all. FAFFAoffers an inspiring and inclusive environment for the beginner to imagine and discover, and for the master to explore and refine.
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Robby Suthers
There’s a childlike wonder to life that is too often lost upon us.There are a few things in life that can bring our inner child, and hidden parts of self, bubbling to the surface: love, exploration, dance, and art - to name a few. I’ve always been interested in the arts. When painting, I try to access a part of myself that’s raw, pure, playful, free - things I want to be in “the real world.” When I am painting, I can be as precise and calculated or as loose and liberated as I want, but I’m often this weird dichotomy of the two. With art, and in particular abstract art, anything is possible. I try to carry it with me even when I’m not painting.There’s a line that I like that I try to use as something of a mantra and code of conduct - “if you investigate enough, everything becomes abstract.”To approach life artfully is the goal from where I’m standing. I would have it no other way. - With love, Robb
Monday, June 23, 2025
Ken Johnson
Ken Johnson is a visual artist based in Wythe County, Virginia, celebrated for his evocative paintings that capture the rich history and rural charm of Southwest Virginia. His work serves as a visual archive, preserving the architectural heritage, cultural landmarks, and everyday life of the region. Johnson's attention to detail and commitment to historical accuracy make his work a valuable resource for those interested in the region's heritage. He has won ‘Best in Show’at this festival multiple times.
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Lily Formato
Lily Formato is a Southern expressionist artist and gallerist from Wytheville, Virginia. Her work spans oil painting, ceramics, and mixed media, often exploring femininity, memory, andAppalachian identity themes. In 2018, at the age of 18, she founded Formato FineArts, a vibrant gallery space that not only showcases emerging artists but also serves as a cultural hub for the community. Formato fosters an inclusive environment that celebrates both local heritage and contemporary expression.
Wednesday, June 25, 2025
TBD:
Thursday, June, 26, 2025
Laurel Creek Pottery
LauraAbbey is anAppalachia native. She moved away fromAppalachia, raising three children and traveling the world. She is an accomplished runner, qualifying for the Boston Marathon and winning her age group in multiple ultramarathons. Despite being away fromAppalachia, she never lost her love for the wilderness and mountains, she has hiked theAppalachianTrail, Camino de Santiago, and Mount Kilimanjaro. She spent time with the Peace Corps, bringing economic development techniques to communities in Namibia. She has now come to Wytheville and wishes to share her knowledge of ceramics and her passion for fostering community growth with her home region. Stop by the studio to meet her!!
Friday, June 27, 2025
Jason Dunford
Jason Dunford is the father of two boys, Kelley and Brady Dunford. He is a spray painter and mixed media artist. He is a born and raised Wythe Countian. He has loved art of all kinds as well as creating art since he was very young. Dunford’s mother has taught school in Wythe County at Max Meadows Head Start and is the #1 Mom. Dunford’s favorite artists are 1- Jean-Michel Basquiat, 2 Warhol, 3 Jackson Pollock, 4Alphonse Mucha, 5 Ralph Steadman, and 1000 more. He loves meeting people who dig his work.
Saturday, June 28, 2025
Madeline Lenore
Madeline Lenore is an international photographer and creative director with over 13 years of experience capturing bold, feminine portraits that celebrate strength, softness, and self-worth. Based in Wytheville, Virginia, she runsThe House of Lenore—a Main Street studio dedicated to empowering women through boudoir and beauty photography. Her work stretches from the wild landscapes ofTulum, Mexico to the heart ofAppalachia, but her mission is rooted right at home: to create spaces where women feel seen, safe, and celebrated.ThroughThe House of Lenore Sisterhood—a private Facebook group for local women—she’s building community and connection inAppalachia, where women uplift one another through creativity, storytelling, and shared transformation. Explore her work at www.mlenorephoto.com and follow along on Instagram at @mlenorephoto.
Festival Locations
CC, UL- 4th Street Civic Center Upper Level
CC, LL- 4th Street Civic Center, Lower Level
CC, UG- 4th Street Civic Center Upper Grounds
EBMP, LG- Elizabeth Brown Memorial Park, Lower Grounds
EBMP, UG- Elizabeth Brown Memorial Park, Upper Grounds
Withers Park- 4th Street Shelter- Upper Grounds Stage
Main Stage- Lower Grounds Stage
Bouncy House Hours
Saturday (June 21st & 28th) 10 am - 2 pm 4 pm - 8 pm
Sunday - Friday (June 22 - 27) 4 pm - 8 pm
Baby Miss Chautauqua-Keylan Jenkins
Wee Miss Chautauqua-Brynlee Milgrim
Mini Miss Chautauqua-Aurelia Aker
Little Miss Chautauqua-Daizy Sisk
Junior Miss Chautauqua-Alyssa Stoots
Pre-Teen Miss Chautauqua-Josie-Kate Stoots
Teen Miss Chautauqua-McKenzie Hottinger
Miss Chautauqua-Piper Bailey
Ms. Chautauqua-Zoë Atwood
Miss Chautauqua Piper Bailey
Blue Ridge Revival is a rock band based out of Southwest Virginia with its members originating from different parts of the area. While most of the songs they perform are original songs, they also provide a variety of classic rock songs that fans of rock and roll will know and love!
Wytheville Community College Band
Festival Information Gazebo
We are at the Gazebo to answer your questions, get you registered for Crafts, Workshops, & Events. Get your 50/50 Tickets here as well!
hard-hitting anthems that reflect their journey from Detroit grit to national recognition. Led by vocalist Amanda “Eva Marie” Lyberg, the band has earned millions of streams and chart success by crafting emotionally charged, heavy rock that explores grief, identity, and survival.Their 2025 album Villainous captures this evolution, blending industrial beats and aggressive riffs with themes of self-discovery, loss, and empowerment. Drawing onAmanda’s experience as a therapist, the band created a deeply collaborative record that encourages listeners to embrace authenticity and find strength in their own stories.
Join us on the green of Elizabeth Brown Memorial Park for a day full of lawn games such as Bocci, Giant Jenga, Jumbo Checkers, Croquet, Ladder Ball and many more.
The Drummonds
Community College
Deadman’s Hand is a high-octane outlaw country and Southern rock band known for their gritty storytelling, hard-hitting sound, and electrifying live shows. With a style that channels the soul of the South and the spirit of the open road, they’ve built a loyal fanbase and racked up accolades—including the 2023 Lincoln Theater People’s Choice Award, 2024 Brews and Bands title, and 2025 Battle of the Bands crown. Whether delivering whiskey-soaked ballads or foot-stomping anthems, Deadman’s Hand doesn’t just perform—they live every note.
Wytheville
Reading, PA-based Erich Cawalla & The Uptown Band are thrilled to return to the Chautauqua Festival after last year’s crowd-favorite “Salute to the 60s.” This year, they’ll light up the stage with their “Sizzlin’ 70s” show, featuring hits from icons like The BeeGees, Earth, Wind & Fire,Chicago,andEltonJohn.Since2005, this award-winning band has been a top choice for major Northeast events, with originalmusicfeaturedonnationalTVand radiostationsworldwide.
Grab a Bite, Support the Festival! Did you know that a portion of food and drink sales from our amazing vendors helps fund the festival? Every funnel cake, lemonade, and corn dog helps us keep Chautauqua free and fabulous for everyone — thank you for supporting the festival!
George Michael Reborn, the incredible tribute to the late, great George Michael & WHAM! is a must see! With his live vocals (NO LIP-SYNCING here), Robert Bartko exudes the energy and passion of George in the 80’s and 90’s... getting the crowd on the dance floor for “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and prompting standing ovations for his performance of “Careless Whisper.” ” He even gets the fans involved! Robert’s spot-on looks, vocal range, dance moves, crowd interaction, and charisma will leave you cheering for an encore. Close your eyes and you’ll swear you’re listening to the real deal.
For over 50 years,TheTams have been thrilling audiences with their signature blend of Beach Music, Smooth Soul, and R&B. With hits like “BeYoung, Be Foolish, Be Happy,” “What Kind of Fool,” and “Hey Girl Don’t Bother Me,” they’ve earned multiple Gold Records and a Platinum single.Their timeless sound has topped charts in the U.S. and the U.K., and their high-energy, feel-good performances continue to charm fans of all ages. Get ready for a show that’s fun, fresh, and full of soul!
A Southeastern staple since 1980, The Party Time Party Time Band (PTPTB) is known for delivering unforgettable, high-energy performances that get every crowd dancing. Inducted into the Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame in 2013, PTPTB has shared the stage with legends like The Four Tops, The Tams, Delbert McClinton, and The Beach Boys. With a dynamic lineup of talented musicians, PTPTB blends showmanship and musical versatility for a party you won’t forget!
JennyGrace
Haden Carpenter is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter originally from Fort Smith, Arkansas. He describes his musicalstyleas“Arkansoul,”ablendof SouthernsoulandAmericanainfluences. HiscareerincludestouringwithWarner Nashville artist Big Smo and appearances on theA&E reality series Big Smo .
exhausting shifts while recording music, McDaniel was eventuallysignedbyBigMachineRecords.Overthelastfew years,, he’s scored the #1 spot on the Billboard Country Digital Song Sales and iTunes Country single charts with the self-aware “Project” and reached #3 (all-genre) for “Your Daughter” (a heartbreaking track written about his sister). The Big Machine Records talent released his debut EP Blame It All On Country Music in early 2024, and began taking his Country Rock sound and rich baritone vocals to sold-out audiences across the country. With his debut single “Burned Down Heaven” at Country radio, and more new music on the way like recent release “Risk ItAll,” McDaniel’s ultimateaimistohelpothersfindthelight.
2025 Chautauqua 5k
Chautauqua Festival in the Park 5K Road Race
Date: June 28, 2025
Start Time: 9:00AM
Location: Start and Finish – 4th Street in front of the 4th Street Civic Center
Race Day Registration: 7:45 am – 8:45 am on 4th Street
Pre-registration Entry Fee: $30.00
Registration/paid entry fees before 6:00 PM June 26, 2025 at Elizabeth Brown Memorial Park Information Gazebo.
(MUST PRE REGISTER TO GET A T-SHIRT. T-Shirts available while supplies last.)
$35.00 - Day of Race: At race event registration
Thank you to the following for chairing events:
Sid Crockett
Kelsey Robert
Julie Tomiak
John Matthews
Mary Cassell
Mike Jones
Thank you to the following for providing workshops:
Caroline Stuart
Nikki Somers, Wytheville Curves
Beagle Ridge Herb Farm
Backyard Party Company LLC
Rural Retreat Boy ScoutsTroop 58
Hitachi Energy
Sugarbird Farms
Becki the Balloon Lady
WythevilleTown Library
SomicAmerica
St. John's Preschool
Wytheville Womens Club
Debi Gouge
Wytheville Department of Museums
Journey w/ JenYoga
St. Paul UMC
Petals of Wytheville
Laurel Creek Pottery
Wythe County 4H, Halle
Rose-Sample
Butterfly the Clown
Soiree Sisters
The Groovy Elephant
Wohlfahrt Haus DinnerTheatre
Town of Wytheville
Spiller PTO
Gilly's Shaved Ice
Sue Sprano
Moribana Garden Club
Frank X. Walker
Author • Educator •Affrilachian Poet
Frank X. Walker is a celebrated poet and cultural voice whose work blends powerful, liberating style with profound insight. His writing explores the intellectual, political, and cultural struggles of a people with honesty and heart.
AuthorReading June20th,2025 12PM TheMillwaldTheatre 2025WritingCeremony Contest tofollow.
Not to risk inadvertent oversights, the Wythe Arts Council wishes to express sincere thanks to all who contributed toward the success of the Chautauqua Festival-in-the-Park. We know this festival would not be possible without countless volunteer hours. It is estimated that approximately 1,000 volunteers support the activities leading up to and carried throughout the festival.
Thanks, as well, are due for the unending gifts-in-kind. These types of gifts are abundant in quantity, invaluable in quality, and often so behind-the-scenes that they can be overlooked. They never seem to be motivated by recognition, yet without them, the show could never go on!
Finally we dedicate this endeavor to our local and visiting festival-goers. Enjoy the 41st annual Chautauqua Festival!
Our Partners
Town of Wytheville, Wythe County, Virginia Commission of Arts
Oscar
Alpha Therapy, Ballad Health - Smyth County Community Hospital, BHMA Forrest Family Care, and BHMA Family Medicine, Hitachi Energy USA Inc., New Peoples Bank, Wythe County American Legion Post # 9
Emmy
Teresa Hagee, Robert & Melissa Kegley, Somic America Inc., Wythe County Community Hospital
Grammy
Aschenbach Auto Group, The Bolling Wilson Hotel & Graze on Main, Burke & Herbert Bank, Carol Copenhaver, Clarke Precision Machine, Peking Restaurant, The Red Stag Restaurant & Matterhorn Lounge/Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre
Tony
Anytime Fitness, Benny & Gale Lynn, Camrett Logistics, Creative Glass, Danny & Ellen McDaniel, David Martin Insurance Company, Dutch Miller Nissan of Wytheville, Elizabeth & Edmund Pendleton, Eversole Well & Pump, Mike & Rachel Jones, Moribana Garden Club, Wes & Sarah Asbury, Wytheville Community College
Star
Anne B. Crockett-Stark, Anne Powell, Black Bear Harley Davidson, Dennis & Faye Barker, First Bank & Trust Company, GFWC Wytheville Women’s Club, Kiwanis Club of Wythe County, Martha Riggle, O’Dell’s Landscape & Lawn Care, LLC, Petals Wine Bar, Rob & Gale Kern, Sesco Group, Thomas & Bonnie Terry, Willowbrook Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork
Patrons
Adams & Delp, PC, Phyllis Ashworth, Kathy & Mark Bloomfield, Community Animal Clinic, Sid & Nancy Crockett, Ely Financial Network, James Gearhart, Gary & Katherine Grubb, Teresa Matthews, Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials, Ron & Kathy Sherowsky, Keith & Lynne Storms, Terrence Suarez, C.M. & Mary Walters, Jerry & Judy Willis
members of the Wythe Arts Council, Ltd., in addition to the officials of the Town of Wytheville.
•no possession or consumption of drugs and/or alcohol: no one intoxicated, under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
• no consumption or use of tobacco products in designated areas
•no firearms, knives, or weapons
•no disorderly conduct
•no property damage or destruction of property
•no fighting
•no stealing or theft of property
•no abusive language or profanity
•Animals must be on a leash
Violation of these rules can result in disciplinary action, including expulsion from the park and/or legal liability for unlawful actions.
Follow Us
In addition, to ensure the safety of participants and festival-goers, please observe the following guidelines. These guidelines are enforceable by the Wythe Arts Council, Ltd., from the beginning of the festival (Friday, June 15 through Sunday, June 23 ,2024)
The rear and side of the lower and upper stages are reserved for the performers and members of the stage crew. So that all Festival patrons can enjoy the concerts and NO SMOKING or VAPING allowed in
Since beverages and food are available, we request that coolers not be brought into the park
• Pets must be on a leash and cleaned up after.
• Audience members are asked not to use umbrellas during performances.
• Shoes & Shirts are required
• Bicycles, motorbikes, motorized vehicles, skateboards, roller skates/blades, and/or other forms of transportation, except wheelchairs for the handicapped, will not be permitted in the festival area.
• Only those vehicles displaying handicapped plates or special parking permits will be permitted to park in the area designated “special parking.”
• No campaigning or solicitations (no brochures, pamphlets, etc.) without the expressed permission of the Wythe Arts Council, Ltd.
• Please do not congregate on the pedestrian bridges or sit on the side supports. This creates serious congestion and traffic flow problems.
• The park closes immediately following the closing of the act each evening. Please remove chairs each evening to avoid risk of being discarded.
• A first-aid kit is located at the gazebo.