The Historic Masonic Theatre in Clifton Forge, Virginia, is not only a venue for arts and entertainment, but also a showcase for the remarkable collection of Kaye England, an internationally renowned quilter and teacher. England has donated dozens of quilts and artifacts that celebrate influential women in history, as well as support the preservation and operation of the theatre.
Kaye England: A Passionate Quilter and Philanthropist
Kaye England, who lives in Indianapolis, Indiana, has been quilting since she was a child. She learned the craft from her grandmother, who taught her to appreciate the beauty and value of quilts. England has since become a master quilter, author, fabric designer, and educator. She has published several books and patterns, created online courses, and traveled the world to teach and inspire other quilters.
England is also a passionate philanthropist, who has donated many of her quilts and collections to various causes and organizations. She has a special connection to the Historic Masonic Theatre, where she hosts an annual quilt retreat for her students and fans. She said, “I wanted to do something for the Historic Masonic Theatre because the theatre holds a special place in my heart. My son is a musician and I understand first-hand how performers, theatres and music venues have suffered by being shuttered and unable to put on performances. I enjoy visiting the Alleghany Highlands and have seen the positive impact that this theatre has had on this community.”
Women in History: A Quilt and Artwork Exhibit
One of the ways that England has supported the Historic Masonic Theatre is by creating and donating a quilt and artwork exhibit called “Women in History”. The exhibit features 22 quilts that honor women who have made significant contributions to various fields and causes, such as science, politics, literature, entertainment, and social justice. Each quilt is accompanied by a photograph and a biography of the woman it represents, as well as an artifact or a letter that belongs to her.
Some of the women featured in the exhibit include:
- Helen Keller, a deaf-blind activist and author who wrote and signed a letter that is displayed with her quilt.
- Harriet Tubman, an abolitionist and conductor of the Underground Railroad who escaped slavery and helped hundreds of others to do the same. Her quilt is made with fabrics that resemble the ones she wore and used in her journeys.
- Lucille Ball, a comedian and actress who starred in the popular sitcom “I Love Lucy” and became one of the first female producers in Hollywood. Her quilt is inspired by her iconic polka-dot dress and the logo of her production company, Desilu.
- Marie Curie, a physicist and chemist who discovered radioactivity and won two Nobel Prizes for her groundbreaking research. Her quilt is designed with symbols of the elements she studied and the awards she received.
The exhibit is open to the public from now until March 8, 2024, on the third floor of the theatre. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
Antique Quilts: A Treasure Trove for Auction
In addition to the “Women in History” exhibit, England has also donated a number of antique quilts that she has collected over the years. These quilts are displayed in the theatre annex and will be sold by auction on March 8, 2024, the same day that England will draw the winning raffle ticket for another quilt that she has made and donated to the theatre.
The antique quilts are of various styles, patterns, and colors, and some of them are over 100 years old. They reflect the history and culture of different regions and eras, as well as the skill and creativity of the quilters who made them. England said, “I have always loved antique quilts and I have been fortunate to acquire some beautiful ones. I hope that they will find new homes and owners who will cherish them as much as I do.”
The auction will be open to both online and in-person bidders, and all proceeds will go directly to the Historic Masonic Theatre to help with its preservation and operation. The theatre, which was built in 1905 and renovated in 2016, is a landmark and a source of pride for the Clifton Forge community. It hosts a variety of events and programs, such as concerts, plays, movies, and workshops, for audiences of all ages and interests.
The Historic Masonic Theatre is grateful for the generosity and support of Kaye England, who has shared her quilts and collections with the theatre and the public. Justin Reiter, the executive director of the theatre, said, “Kaye England is not only a talented and accomplished quilter, but also a wonderful friend and benefactor of the theatre. Her quilts and exhibits are a testament to her passion and vision, and we are honored to display them and auction them for a good cause.”
