AT THE SMITHSONIAN

Events May 8-10: Carolyn Morrow Long, Encore Chorale Spring Concert, and The Unknown Aaron Burr

May 7, 2012

The Encore Chorale at the Kogod Courtyard at last year's popular performance. Feedloader (Clickability)

Tuesday, May 8 Carolyn Morrow Long

Carolyn M0rrow Long, conservator at the American History Museum, will be signing copies of her two books, Madame Lalaurie, Mistress of the Haunted House and A New Orleans Voudou Priestess: The Legend and Reality of Marie Laveau. Both nonfiction books explore the myths surrounding infamous women in New Orleans. Madame Delphine Lalaurie, a wealthy society matron who had to flee the city after rumors that she abused her slaves started to spread. On the other side of the spectrum, Marie Laveau, the “voodoo princess,” became legendary for her charisma and charity in caring for yellow fever victims and condemned prisoners alike. Long traveled the country to untangle the roots of these stories and separate truth from sensationalism. Free. 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. American History Museum.

Wednesday, May 9 Encore Chorale: A Spring Concert

Enjoy a lunchtime performance by the Encore Chorale for Older Adults, directed by Jeanne Kelly and featuring baritone David Williams. The concert features lively renditions of pop songs, including “When I’m 64,” “Rockin’ Jerusalem,” “Shenandoah,” and Gilbert & Sullivan show tunes. Free. 1:00 p.m. American Indian Museum.

Thursday, May 10 The Unknown Aaron Burr

He was a Revolutionary War hero, a prominent New York politician, and a U.S. vice president, but Aaron Burr is best remembered today as the villain who killed Alexander Hamilton in a duel. Discover the full story in this talk by Pulitzer Prize finalist and best-selling author H.W. Brands, whose new book, The Heartbreak of Aaron Burr, depicts a man ahead of his time, tragically ensconced in political scandal. Brands draws on Burr’s extensive, witty correspondence with his daughter Theodosia to trace the arc of Burr’s scandalous political career, but also includes the touching story of a father’s love for his daughter. $20 for general admission, $15 for members. 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Meyer Auditorium, Freer Gallery.

For a complete listing of Smithsonian events and exhibitions visit the goSmithsonian Visitors Guide. Additional reporting by Michelle Strange.