Marian Anderson

On Mother’s Day weekend, treat mom to an unforgettable afternoon of fashion history over tea.

Join Jillian Pirtle, CEO of the Marian Anderson Museum and Historical Society, as she brings the story of civil rights icon and opera singer Marian Anderson to life through her musical legacy and timeless sense of style.

A story of empowerment, history and a fashion presentation

As the first African American to perform at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, Anderson dazzled the world with her voice and stage presence, resplendent in breathtaking gowns like the one on view at the Penn Museum’s Stories We Wear exhibition. This merlot gown was likely created by Zelda Barbour Wynn Valdes—one of the first Black fashion designers who dressed the “who’s who” of the 20th century, like Ella Fitzgerald and Josephine Baker.

Aside from gaining access to exclusive archives, you will catch a rare glimpse of Anderson’s exquisite wedding gown––on view during the program only.

Tea time & Collections Access

Tea and light bites will be served after the program. Tickets include same-day Museum admission.

*Marian Anderson Collection of Photographs, Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts, University of Pennsylvania.

Refreshments provided by Denise's Delicacies