George, Martha Washington visit Jonesborough in immersive program

History lovers in Jonesborough will have a rare opportunity to get to know America's first president a little better as George and Martha Washington make a visit to Jonesborough through a pair of immersive programs at The Jackson Theatre. The events coming up this Saturday, will give audiences an opportunity to meet America's first presidential couple through nationally recognized historical interpreters portraying George and Martha Washington. "We will have Daniel Shippey, who has been portraying George Washington for almost 20 years, alongside his wife Kelly who portrays Martha doing two separate events," said Jackson Theatre operations manager Amber Crumley. "He served as the official George Washington at Mount Vernon for many years." Shippey knows the ins and outs of Washington and his life. As for the events, the afternoon begins with Meet the Washingtons at 2 p.m., a family-friendly presentation exploring the lives, personalities and legacy of the nation's first president and first lady. Through first-person interpretation, guests will hear stories from the Revolutionary era and gain a closer look at the people behind two of the country's most recognizable historical figures. "The first show will be more digestible and better to bring the kids to," Crumley said. "It will feature more stories about George's rise to the presidency." Later that evening, the theater will host Dinner with George & Martha: Be Our Guest "In the Room Where It Happens," an immersive event combining history, dining and live entertainment. Guests will enjoy an 18th-century-inspired meal featuring recipes from Mount Vernon, period music by Muster Grounds Musick and appearances by George and Martha Washington as they share stories about their lives, leadership and the founding of the United States. Pending weather, the dinner will be held outdoors beside The Jackson Theatre in a colonial-inspired setting. "The dinner will be a great time for folks to break out their most Revolutionary War era inspired attire and come and enjoy great food and a unique experience," Crumley added. "At the very least, people can dress up and have a fun time for the night." Doors for the evening event open at 6 p.m., with music beginning at 6:30 p.m. and the Washingtons taking the stage at 7:15 p.m. The dinner tickets include one complimentary drink ticket, but additional beverages will be available for purchase. The programs are part of The Jackson Theatre's ongoing America 250 series, commemorating the nation's 250th anniversary through interactive historical programming designed to connect audiences with America's past. Tickets for Meet the Washingtons are $15, while Dinner with George & Martha is $76. The events are sponsored by the Historic Jonesborough Arts Foundation and McLeod Organics.