Ken Burns Previews ‘The American Revolution’ in Williamsburg

News Summary

Award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns is set to preview his new documentary ‘The American Revolution’ in Colonial Williamsburg. The event will take place outside the historic Governor’s Palace, featuring live remarks by Burns about the film. The documentary, which highlights key events of the American Revolution, is set to air on PBS later this year. The preview is part of a larger initiative to engage the community and celebrate the 250th anniversary of American Independence.

Colonial Williamsburg – Award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns is set to preview his newest documentary, “The American Revolution,” on March 25 at 8 p.m. This special event will take place outside the historic Governor’s Palace in Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area. The preview is hosted by The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation along with the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250).

Ken Burns will deliver live remarks about the documentary prior to the screening, offering insights into the eight-year production journey. The film, which covers significant historical events surrounding the American Revolution, is scheduled to air on PBS on November 16. Burns has expressed particular enthusiasm for sharing this film with the residents of Virginia, given Williamsburg’s notable role during that pivotal time in American history.

Colonial Williamsburg features prominently in “The American Revolution,” with multiple scenes filmed at well-known landmarks such as Raleigh Tavern, the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol, and the blacksmith shop. The documentary includes footage taken from over 100 locations across the United States, aiming to provide a comprehensive look at the events and figures that shaped the Revolutionary War.

Joining Ken Burns at the preview will be co-directors Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt. Schmidt holds local ties to Colonial Williamsburg, further enhancing the community connection at this event. Advance registration is encouraged for attendees, allowing them to receive updates regarding event details, including potential weather-related notifications.

Guests planning to attend the outdoor screening are advised to bring lawn chairs and blankets for comfortable seating. This public screening forms part of the third annual “A Common Cause to All” event, which aims to gather planners for the 250th anniversary of American Independence, marking it as the largest assembly held in preparation for this significant anniversary.

The anticipated screening in Colonial Williamsburg is just one of several previews scheduled to occur in Richmond and other locations nationwide leading up to the PBS premiere. Through these events, the production team hopes to engage a wider audience and generate excitement about the documentary’s release. It aims to provide viewers with an in-depth understanding of the complexities and narratives that define the American Revolution, making its historical significance resonate today.

With the upcoming event, Colonial Williamsburg continues to honor its rich history while also inviting the public to reflect on the events that shaped the nation. As the community looks forward to this exclusive preview, it is clear that Ken Burns’ dedication to storytelling and historical accuracy will shine through in “The American Revolution.”

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Additional Resources

• WYDaily: Colonial Williamsburg to Host Ken Burns Preview
• Wikipedia: American Revolution
• Alexandria Living Magazine: Ken Burns Preview
• Google Search: Ken Burns American Revolution
• New York Times: Building a Better Colonial Williamsburg
• Encyclopedia Britannica: American Revolution
• Leisure Group Travel: America250 in Virginia
• Google News: Colonial Williamsburg