NRF promotes and invests in the architectural heritage of the Newport community, the traditional building trades, and Doris Duke’s fine and decorative arts collections, for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of all.
As a leader in the preservation of early American architecture, NRF supports research and education in areas directly related to its collections and issues of critical concern to the field of historic preservation.
Visit Doris Duke’s art-filled mansion and enjoy panoramic ocean views from the extensive grounds. Open late March to November.
The Vernon House is a site for expansive story-telling, contemporary dialogue, and preservation trades skill-building.
Newport Restoration Foundation holds one of the largest collections of period architecture owned by a single organization anywhere in the United States.
Celebrate excellence in historic preservation efforts within the City of Newport, Rhode Island.
Live amidst history by renting one of our many historic properties.
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PLEASE NOTE: This event is sold out. If you would like to join the wait list, please register your name on the Eventbrite page (under Tickets).
Doris Duke’s lifelong passion for jazz is reignited at Rough Point this summer. Composer and musician Francisco Pais has assembled musicians from around the world to debut an original contemporary jazz suite inspired by Doris. The suite is imagined as a soundtrack of Doris’ life and each movement tells a story. Pais was inspired by meaningful moments in Doris Duke’s life and by her wide ranging interests in the arts, surfing, and music. In the words of the composer:
“In music it’s important to be daring, to allow yourself to experiment even if it means you fail. Doris Duke was a daring woman, a strong woman; she was always looking for new ways forward.” The I Dare You suite takes its title from a quote by saxophone legend Wayne Shorter, who said, “To me jazz means: I dare you.”
The intimate performance will take place in the Great Hall at Rough Point and will be followed by a talk-back with the composer.
