High Tea and History at Blenheim
The public is invited to a “High Tea and History” at Historic Blenheim’s Visitors Center. Put on by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute’s (OLLI) development committee, it’s set for Friday, May 10, from 2-4 p.m., at 3610 Old Lee Hwy. in Fairfax.
This event will include a wide array of traditional British pastries and teas, docent-led tours of Blenheim, actors in historic costumes, and door prizes. Register at OLLI's office at 4210 Roberts Road in Fairfax. The cost is $65, with $50 of this fee benefiting the Friends of Olli. Go to olli.gmu.edu or call 703-503-3384 for more information.
Built around 1859, Historic Blenheim is a brick farmhouse designed in the Greek revival style. During the Civil War, Union soldiers were often encamped on the grounds surrounding the home and used it as part of a reserve hospital system. As a result, more than 115 of these soldiers inscribed words and pictures on the walls of the first and second floors and in the attic. Blenheim is also on the National Register of Historic Places.
Fairfax Academy Spring Dance Concert
The Fairfax Academy Dancers are premiering new work at their Spring Dance Concert, showcasing dances with a fairytale theme. “Once Upon a Twisted Tale” is a fusion of storytelling and dance, with each piece inspired by the Brothers Grimm’s work. It will be presented Friday, May 10, at 7:30 p.m.; and Saturday, May 11, at 2 p.m., in the Fairfax High auditorium. For tickets, go to https://fxdance.ticketleap.com/once-upon-a-twisted-tale/.
“It’s a unique dance performance unlike the typical, high-school showcase,” said Director Meredith Barnes. “When you think of fairy tales, the Brothers Grimm are the masters. The dances tell some tales you might be familiar with, and a few that are new. The dancers and I worked together to incorporate the original story into the dances.”