The Chautauqua Institution is an educational center on the shores of Chautauqua Lake in the western part of New York State. Besides year round and seasonal residences, thousands of visitors are attracted by educational workshops, theatrical and musical performances, and public events throughout the 9 week Summer season. The Chautauqua Summer School offer courses in art, dance, theater, music, the written word and an assortment of special interests.
          The Institution, originally the Chautauqua Lake Sunday School Assembly, was founded in 1874 as an educational experiment in independent Summer learning. Showing immediate success, it broadened it's courses training Sunday school teachers to include academic subjects, music, art and physical education in their curriculum.
          While founded by Methodists, other Protestant denominations participated from the very beginning, Today Chautauqua continues to be ecumenical in spirit and practice. Chautauqua's Department of Religion continues to be ecumenical presenting religious leaders of many faiths from around the world, both as speakers and teachers. Today, it stands as a national forum for open discussion of issues, both national and international, as well as literature and science.
          The 5000 seat Amphitheater plays host to The Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra (Which performs three times a weekly) as well as The Chautauqua Ballet Company. The Chautauqua Conservatory Theater can be enjoyed in Bratton Theater, while The Chautauqua Opera Company, performs in Norton Hall. This same amphitheater also regularly hosts well known speakers, performers, and musicians.
          For over 24 years, twice every Summer, (once each in July and August) the Institution plays host to a fine crafts show on Bestor Plaza. The Chautauqua Craft Alliance, a group of working crafts professionals residing in Chautauqua County, offers the public the opportunity to get acquainted personally with those who create decorative and functional items in ceramics, glass fiber, leather, metal, wood and fine art media.