Come join the laughter and learning at 2023’s Jane Austen Summer Program, June 15-18.
The four-day Austen Extravaganza returns to Chapel Hill, bigger and better than ever!
"Love everything about JASP‐‐the welcoming atmosphere, the rich variety of experiences (literature, film, material culture), the generosity and competence of those involved."
Speaking of bigger, we’ll be settling into new digs at UNC’s Murphey Hall, a facility that will be better able to accommodate our growing number of attendees.
"I really enjoyed so much about the experience that I cannot wait to invite friends to join in next year."
THE BALL IS BACK, BABY! That’s right; we’ll once again have a chance to don Regency finery (or Regency-esque!) and dance to live music on Saturday evening. Regency garb is encouraged but not required, and there are a limited number of costumes for rent. If you don’t know your allemande from your half-hey, never fear! Included in your registration are three different dance practice sessions in which you’ll learn everything you need to know!
"Good variety of programming, including music, theater and cooking. Not everything was academic speakers. Lots of opportunities to mingle and have fun as well."
Thursday and Friday evening will have their own entertainments, including a film screening and theatricals by JASP’s favorite playwright, Adam McCune! What delectations from the juvenilia will the JASP Players stage this year?
"Nice mix of seriousness and fun. Discussions were a great way to hear other's ideas and to meet fellow participants."
Our days will be packed with goodies as well! There will be plenary addresses by scholars and renowned authorities on Austen’s Juvenilia; keep your eye on this blog for interviews with the speakers coming in the Spring! Context Corner presentations will return to fill in historical gaps and offer key contextual information.
One of the defining features of this event is the structure of small group discussions, offering all participants a deep dive into the material, and a chance to think through questions with other avid Austen readers. Whether you're toting a dog-eared copy of the juvenilia or this is your first encounter, you'll have a chance to explore your ideas in conversation.
We'll once again have a chance to sample treasures from the Wilson Library's Rare-Book Room holdings, and there will be hands-on craft workshops available as add-ons.
Since creating new Austen readers is the best way to continue the conversation, our teacher-focused programming will continue as well! Stay tuned for more information about teacher scholarships and special events to support middle and high school teachers introducing Austen to their students!
"The variety of sessions was great. I learned so many different things and was challenged to think about many aspects of the readings. The context corner presentations were concise and engaging. The materials that were provided were helpful for further discussion/research later."
And of course there will be the temptations of the Emporium, the silent auction, and clotted cream!
The first fifty registrants will receive a discounted price, so don't delay! Teachers and UNC staff also receive discounted rates. Stay tuned for information about possible dorm accommodations!
*all quotations are taken from comments on the JASP2022 evaluations.