Greater Chicago Region
Birthday
Tea Party
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But indeed I would rather have nothing but tea.
—Jane Austen
Mansfield Park
Get into the festive spirit of December with our Annual Birthday Tea Party for Jane Austen as we celebrate not only her birth, but also her literary masterpieces.
Jane Austen's 250th Birthday Tea
Celebrating Jane's Work Through Music
Presented by Ruth Mudge
This year-end only marks Austen's 250th birthday but also the 20th and 30th anniversaries of the beloved adaptations Pride & Prejudice (1995) and (2005). These adaptations have become deeply beloved and along with those are the soundtracks that help convey the story and set the scene.
Join us as we uncover the variety of ways that these soundtracks interpret Austen's stories through instruction options, staying in the classical era or radically departing from it, the use of character themes vs emotional swells, to the visions of the directors and composers.
Also for this year we are partnering with the Fortnightly to offer our members a docent led tour of the Fortnightly! Let us know when you register if you would like to join the tour!
2025 Birthday Toast
Disclaimer. The 2025 Jane Austen Birthday Toast cites the book Outlive: The Science & Art of Longevity, by Dr. Peter Attia. At the time the toast was given, it was not known that Dr. Attia had a relationship with Jeffrey Epstien. On February 2, 2026, The New York Times published a report describing Attia and Epstein as having “frequent and raunchy” contact with each other. The Times article also reported Dr. Attia’s use of a pejorative term to describe female anatomy during one of their exchanges.
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At the time this information became known, JASNA-GCR was planning to post a recording of the toast on its website. Initially, we decided not to post the recording when we first learned of the Attia, Epstein connection. We then consulted with an ethicist and with JASNA National’s Ombudsperson. They both stated we could post the Toast. The example was given of classical music composer Richard Wagner’s music still being played today despite him being an anti-Semite. Another example was of Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling being anti-transgender, but her books continue to sell.
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Dr. Attia’s book contains research-based information that many people have found to be useful. His relationship with Epstein is not a reason to refrain from utilizing the book’s content. The Toast was not a celebration of Dr. Attia, but rather, an acknowledgement of the book’s contribution to health and well-being.
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The JASNA-GCR Board has decided to post the recording of the Toast on the website. It is your choice whether to listen to it.
Thank you.
The Birthday Tea offers a unique opportunity to connect with fellow community members who share a passion for all things Austen. Picture an exquisite setting adorned with Regency-inspired decor, where attendees can enjoy a leisurely afternoon of tea, conversation, and camaraderie. The elegant surroundings create the perfect backdrop for mingling and forming lasting connections with like-minded individuals who appreciate the wit and wisdom of our favorite author
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As part of the festivities, the event features presentations from leading members and authors in the Jane Austen community. Gain insights into the latest research, discoveries, and discussions surrounding Austen's works. Whether you're a seasoned scholar or a casual reader, the Birthday Tea provides a welcoming space to deepen your appreciation for Austen's literary genius and engage in thoughtful conversations with fellow enthusiasts.
Join us in December for a joyous celebration that honors Jane Austen's legacy and brings the community together in the spirit of warmth and shared admiration.
