Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown are proud to host the Talking History Lecture Series, which offers free public lectures that link storylines found in the museums’ exhibition galleries and share how these vast moments in America’s past influenced its progression to the present.

Conflict Between Church & State: An Audience with King Henry VIII

December 12 • 7 p.m. • Jamestown Settlement

The year is 1542 and the King, newly a widower, following the execution of his fifth wife, Queen Catherine Howard, contemplates his actions and their outcomes. Join us for a one act production that encompasses the ending of King Henry VIII's first marriage, to Aragon, the marriage to Boleyn, the break with Rome, the dissolution of the monasteries, the rebellion in the north and, collectively, the impact upon his Realm and people.

Performer John White

John White is a performer who has specialized in recreating historical characters for over 25 years and has appeared at numerous heritage, educational and corporate venues across the UK and US. Among the more than 30 characters he performs, Henry VIII is the most popular. First created as a one-man show, over 12 years ago, the show has gone through a number of revisions and currently is offered as a theatrical experience in which the audience comes face-to-face with the King. 

Admission to the event is free and advance registration for each individual is recommended to reserve your seat. 

Recorded videos will be made available to view online following each program – based on prior approval from individual guest lecturers. Learn more about past lectures.

About the Museums

Jamestown Settlement and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s days. Jamestown Settlement is located on State Route 31 near the Colonial Parkway in James City County, just southwest of Williamsburg and adjacent to Historic Jamestowne. The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is located on Route 1020 in Yorktown, near Yorktown Battlefield and Historic Yorktown.

The museums allow visitors of all ages to enjoy extensive indoor gallery exhibits and outdoor living-history areas to connect with the stories of our shared history. Admission tickets can be purchased online or in person. Plan your visit today or call (757) 253-4838 for more information.