Conversations with Thomas Jefferson and Captain John Smith Tickets

Step into history with Conversations with Thomas Jefferson and Captain John Smith, a live, unscripted dialogue brought to you by Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest. In this engaging performance, Bill Barker (Jefferson) and Willie Balderson (John Smith) bring 18th-century America to life through a dynamic, audience-driven conversation, followed by a Q&A session. This is a unique opportunity to hear two seasoned historical interpreters share perspectives on exploration, governance, and daily life in early America.

Presented as part of the annual Conversations program, produced by Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, this Lynchburg event invites history lovers, students, and families to secure their seats for an educational and entertaining evening at the Academy Center of the Arts.

Event details: Date – Date to be announced; Venue – Academy Center of the Arts, 600 Main St., Lynchburg, VA. Tickets are priced at the best available price for adults, the best available price for students and youth, and the best available price for children. Doors typically open ahead of showtime, with a host-led introduction and a moderated Q&A with the audience.

About the performers: Bill Barker is a veteran Thomas Jefferson interpreter, renowned for his work at Monticello and in national tours. Willie Balderson brings decades of living-history experience from Jamestown Rediscovery and Colonial Williamsburg, offering an authentic glimpse into Captain John Smith’s era. While there are no public music releases or studio albums for these interpreters, their stagecraft and historical knowledge are honed through immersive research and public programs.

Location context: Lynchburg’s Academy Center of the Arts is a key regional venue that hosts a range of live performances and educational programming. If you’re visiting from surrounding areas in Virginia, this event provides a convenient, family-friendly way to explore American history in a modern theater setting.

Ticketing & accessibility: We’ve got you covered with straightforward purchasing. Secure your seats early for this popular historical dialogue, and arrive ready to engage with a lively, educational Q&A session. For updates, follow the official profiles linked below.