It's time to revive Chautauqua

Re. “K-days planners seek public feedback to help `reimagine' 140-year-old festival,” April 29

In the past, I have been involved with Chautauqua celebrations and I can't conceive of a better alternative to K-days than this excellent historical celebration. On Canada's sesquicentennial, the Eastside Grannies of Sherwood Park chose it as the theme for our yearly Rhubarb Rally, and it was a wonderful time of reminiscence and discovery.

Chautauqua originated in the United States, but in 1916, John M. Erickson, “conceived the idea of taking

Chautauqua to Canada” and the unparalleled artistic event began on the prairies in Lethbridge. Magnificent Chautauqua tents were set up and the spectacle lasted about a week in any one centre, then moved on to the next village or town. It was the greatest and most anticipated artistic event on the Prairies, with songs, drama, oratory, and bands, and widespread interest in surrounding towns who travelled by wagon to get there.

The general sociability, involvement and community frolic was intense and dynamic. Please check out the book Chautauqua in Canada, by the Glenbow-alberta Institute, and you will find that Edmonton was eager partner, planner, and participant in this amazing happening.

There is so much to learn about, so much to do, so much to enjoy, so wide a range of opportunity to explore in any Chautauqua event, that Edmonton — with time and attention — could be the centre of a new extravaganza that could even rival the Stampede to the south. C.D. Maier, Sherwood Park