Our Programming Season
The Dante Society's programming year runs from September through May, with board meetings held on the first Tuesday of each month from September through May.
Programs include lectures on Italian-related topics, musical performances, film screenings (followed by an optional dinner at a local Italian restaurant), and wine tastings. We celebrate the Risorgimento (September), the Holidays (December), and Carnevale (February).
We also partner with Opera on the James, the Maier Museum of Art, Alliance Française, and other area organizations for special events.
Upcoming Events
An Evening with Peter Leonard
Friday, October 16, 2026 · 5:30-6:30
Location: 701 Main Street, Lynchburg VA
The season’s first Dante Society & Opera on the James collaboration — an evening with Artistic Director Peter Leonard and Mozart’s beloved The Magic Flute.
The Dante Society will offer light refreshments, and there is no charge for the event. Members will have an opportunity to renew their dues, and guests will have an opportunity to join.
To reserve your seats, Kindly reply by Oct 9th
Gail Morrison · 434.670.5053 (cell/text)
gailjohnsonmorrison@gmail.com
Vino e Viaggio – “Piemonte Taste and Tales”
Thursday, October 29, 2026 · 5:30-7:00PM
Location: St. Paul's Episcopal Church Undercroft
Opera on the James: The Magic Flute
Friday, November 6, 2026 · 7:30PM
Location: Historic Academy Theater
Matinee Performance: Sunday, November 8, 2026 – 3:00PM
A prince on a quest. A magical flute with extraordinary powers. A lovable bird catcher searching for love. A fearsome Queen of the Night. Mozart’s The Magic Flute is one of opera’s greatest adventures.
Filled with dazzling costumes, spectacular music, memorable comedy, and timeless themes of courage, wisdom, and love, this enchanting masterpiece has captivated audiences for generations. Perfect for families, first-time opera-goers, and devoted opera fans alike, The Magic Flute is a magical theatrical experience you’ll never forget.
More info here: https://www.operaonthejames.org/magic-flute
MOVIE NIGHT
Wednesday, November 18, 2026 · 4PM
Location: 3rd floor Commons at Westminster Canterbury
On November 18 at 4 pm in the 3rd floor Commons at Westminster Canterbury, Dante members and residents of Westminster Canterbury can watch La Famiglia (The Family) with subtitles. Bettye Chambers will introduce the film. Wine will be available for donations.
Reservations for dinner after the movie at 6:30 at Isabella’s can be made by emailing Pat Bradbury at Patriciaebradbury@gmail.com
Parking for visitors is available on the rear area atop the parking deck on the right as you enter WC or in The visitors/employees lot on the left-both from VES Road.
Hope to see you Wednesday, Nov 18.
Dante Society Holiday Party
Monday, December 7, 2026 · 5pm-7pm
Location: Randolph House 3115 Rivermont Ave
Hosted by Randolph President Sue Ott Rowlands
Randolph House
3115 Rivermont Ave
Please bring a favorite sweet or savory dish to share. Wine and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.
Reservations by Dec. 1st to Gail Morrison gailjohnsonmorrison@gmail.com or 434.607.5053
Carnevale
February 2027
Watch for more details to this special event.
Additional Programs Coming Soon — Fall 2026 – Spring 2027
Our Board is planning an exciting lineup of lectures, film screenings, dinners, and cultural events for the 2026–2027 season. Check back regularly for updates. To be added to our email list, please contact Membership Chair Gail Morrison, gjm.opera@gmail.com
Film & Dinner Series — Ongoing
The Society screens an Italian-themed film followed by dinner at a local Italian restaurant. Films range from classic Italian cinema to documentaries about Italian arts, history, and culture. Dinner reservations are coordinated by Pat Bradbury, patriciaebradbury@gmail.com.
Collaborations with Local Organizations — Ongoing
Dante has enjoyed partnerships with Opera on the James, the Maier Museum of Art, Alliance Française, and other cultural organizations for special programs. Members receive advance notice and discounted tickets where available.
Program Format & Email Reminders
Program reminders are sent by email approximately one week before each event. Each reminder includes:
- Event date, time, and location
- Program description and featured speaker/performer
- Dinner details and reservation contact
- Parking instructions and directions
- RSVP information