It is a chance for Squamish residents to perhaps channel their inner Eloise, Edwina, or Anthony from the Netflix show Bridgerton.
The show, like this upcoming Howe Sound Performing Arts Association event, celebrates the best of 1800s London with — music, tea and the readings of Jane Austen.
The "Jane Austen tea" is set for May 15 at the St. John the Divine Anglican Church.
The event will feature a traditional full afternoon tea, accompanied by readings from the works of Austen and musical performances by locals Julie Murakami, Kayla Mak, Alison Hunter, Erik Musseau and Veronica McPhee.
Facts about the life and times of Austen, one of the most beloved writers in English literature, are interspersed throughout the afternoon.
Austen, who was born in 1775 and died in 1817, wrote about aristocratic domestic life and the restrictions on women of her time with wit and insight.
McPhee, who spearheaded the event and serves on the HSPAA executive, told The Squamish Chief this event harkens back to an event held in Squamish years ago that centred around Leonard Cohen's work with readings and music.
"I thought that style of performance was really interesting and engaging and really successful for everyone involved," she said.
The music Austen and her family enjoyed is available in family songbooks online, as McPhee discovered.
"It's just an opportunity to get together and in a different kind of setting. The music of the time, I think, is still so beautiful. We're looking at Baroque and classical music. So some of the big names like Mozart and Handel, Purcell — these are names that musicians are still performing widely today."
Partial proceeds from the afternoon event will go to the Squamish Public Library.
When: May 15, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. (Seating starts at 1:45 p.m.)
Where: John the Divine Anglican Church at 1930 Diamond Road, Squamish
Tickets: $60 available on the Howe Sound Performing Arts Association webpage.
