Note: This summer, Less Than is moving to 806 Baldwin Ave., the former location of Eleanor’s Books. For now, the shop at 803 Shirley remains open.
In a neighborhood known for its walkability and tight-knit community, Less Than has found the perfect home. Found in Ghent, this zero-waste and refill shop is all about revolution—the kind rooted in sustainability, mindfulness and spending dollars locally.
Store founder Chris Simmonds didn’t originally have “become a retail pioneer” on his bingo card, but here we are. “We came about out of necessity,” he says. “There just wasn’t anywhere like this in town.” Originally launched online, Less Than quickly evolved. After a short stint in a mobile tiny home converted into a rolling storefront, COVID accelerated Simmonds’ timeline and the move to a permanent brick-and-mortar space. By May 2020, Simmonds opened the doors at 803 Shirley Ave.—just as much of the world was closing its own.
Five Years in Ghent
The shop celebrates its fifth anniversary this spring, and it’s not hard to see why it’s still going strong. Less Than offers everything from bulk soaps and cleaning supplies to sustainable personal care, baby items and pet goods. Each item comes in compostable, refillable or packaging-free forms. Customers can bring their own containers or pick from sanitized community-donated jars, then refill as they see fit.
Of course, Less Than sells much more than soap. The store’s philosophy is rooted in changing people’s daily habits. “The most sustainable product is the one you already have,” Simmonds says. “You don’t have to replace everything overnight. Start small. Get just a few ounces. See what works.”
Inside, the store is split into intentional zones: one area offers self-care gifts like mindful games and journaling kits, while the refill station stocks everyday essentials like laundry detergent, dish soap and facial cleansers. The only thing that’s missing is synthetic fragrances and dyes. Local makers contribute to the shop’s unique inventory, too: Norfolk seamstresses provide reusable cloths, face rounds and even mop heads, keeping more dollars circulating locally.
Ceremony
Three years ago, the shop expanded to include Ceremony, a curated non-alcoholic bottle shop that features zero-proof spirits, functional drinks with adaptogens and a variety of mixers. It’s another extension of the store’s ethos—helping people meet their needs without compromise, whether they’re sober-curious or just looking for something new.
For travelers living a low-waste lifestyle, Less Than is a destination all its own. “People seek us out when they visit Norfolk,” says Simmonds, noting that vegetarians, zero-waste enthusiasts and sober travelers often arrive knowing exactly what they’re looking for—or discovering it for the first time.
Ghent locals already know the place is a gem. Residents routinely drop in for quick refills, eco-friendly gifts or just to see what’s new in stock. Less Than is just that way: unassuming, warm and rooted in a bigger purpose.
Less Than is open Tuesday–Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m. Closed Mondays. Delivery available within Norfolk.
What: Zemlinsky Quartet with Olga Kern When: May 22, 2025 Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: Robin Hixon Theater, Clay and Jay Barr Education Center Tickets: VAF website Program: Dvořák’s fiery Piano Quintet No. 2.
What: Virginia Arts Festival Players with Olga Kern When: June 11, 2025 Time: 7:30 p.m. Location: Robin Hixon Theater, Clay and Jay Barr Education Center Tickets:VAF website Program: HAYDN Piano Trio No. 39 “Gypsy,” DOPPLER Souvenir du Rigi, SAMAZEULH Esquires D’Espagne-Chant Sans Parole (1914), GLINKA Trio Pathetique, SCHUBERT Piano Quintet in A major, D. 667 “Trout”
Olga Kern has not only played with some of the world’s finest musicians – she is one of them. Over the decades, Kern has won some of classical music’s highest honors and dazzled audiences from Moscow to Manhattan. But this spring, she’s right at home in Norfolk.
“I’m here every year,” she says. “It’s a big visit — and a big part of my musical year.”
Kern, a Russian-American pianist with a vibrant stage presence and a clear love for repertoire that’s on the Romantic side, is back for the Virginia Arts Festival’s 2025 season with not one, but two Norfolk performances — and a lineup of collaborators that span continents and traditions.
She’ll first appear May 22 alongside the much-acclaimed Zemlinsky Quartet, tackling Dvořák’s fiery Piano Quintet No. 2. Then, on June 11, she returns to lead a series of chamber concerts alongside the Virginia Arts Festival Chamber Players. Kern will be joined by local artists and international guests.
Kern has become a fixture of the Virginia Arts Festival’s chamber music series — more than just a performer, she’s also its artistic director. It’s a role she says she enjoys immensely.
“As a pianist, it’s rare to get this kind of opportunity — to really dedicate time to chamber music. Usually it’s all recitals and concertos,” she says. “But here, I get to invite the musicians I most want to work with. Every year is different, and that’s what makes it exciting.”
Schubert and More
Among the many highlights is Schubert’s “Trout Quintet,” an unconventional piece that includes the double bass — unusual for chamber settings and, as Kern says, a key part of the magic.
“It gives it such a deep, warm sound. It’s exciting for piano, too. There’s a lot to play,” she says. “Everyone knows the theme — people may not realize it, but it’s one of those melodies that lives in the culture.”
That accessibility is something Kern cares deeply about. She knows that for some audiences, chamber music can feel intimidating or opaque, but that’s not how she sees it.
“This music comes from the heart,” she says. “It’s meant to be shared, not understood like some academic text. Even with contemporary pieces — we choose ones that are fun to hear. It’s all about making it easy to enjoy.”
For someone whose career spans major concert halls and festivals around the world, Kern remains firmly grounded. Perhaps this can be attributed to her roots — both her parents were pianists, and her connection to the Romantic tradition runs deep (she’s even distantly related to Anna Petrovna Kern, the muse of Russian poet Alexander Pushkin). Or maybe it’s her energy, which is equally intense on stage and off – as when chatting via Zoom about the upcoming Norfolk shows.
Seeing Colors in Music
Kern has often spoken of “seeing” color in music.
“Some pieces feel like blue, others gold or silver. Rachmaninoff is red. Mozart feels more classical — maybe gold. Beethoven? Sometimes blue. I talk to my designer about all of this,” she says. “It’s part of the show.”
As for newcomers, Kern offers one piece of advice: Come as you are.
“Don’t be afraid of classical music,” she says. “You’ll hear something you recognize, even if you think you haven’t. It’s in the movies, the culture. It all came from here.”
It’s that time of year once again: the time when Norfolk rolls out its red carpet and invites locals and visitors to enjoy a unique blend of global culture and naval tradition during the Virginia International Tattoo and NATO Festival, April 24-26, 2025. This itinerary offers a guide to these signature events, along with a few tips on how to discover our city’s rich history and diverse attractions.
Day 1: Thursday, April 24 – Tattoo’s Grandeur/Glimpse into Naval Power
Afternoon: Arrive in Norfolk and settle into your favorite hotel. Here in Norfolk, we cater to a multitude of preferences, from historic hotels in the heart of downtown to contemporary options along the waterfront. Either choice will put you in walkable proximity to the weekend’s action.
Late Afternoon: Begin your exploration at Nauticus, a maritime discovery center. Interactive exhibits bring Norfolk’s seafaring story to life, and a tour of the USS Wisconsin, one of the last U.S. Navy battleships, is a must-see. The sheer scale and history of this vessel are impressive.
Early evening: Grab dinner or snacks anywhere along Granby Street, where you’ll find everything from simple burgers and hot dogs to upscale Italian cuisine. Then, head to Scope Plaza at 5 p.m. to watch the annual NATO Festival flag raising, a colorful display that features performances from the U.S. Fleet Forces Band and representation from all NATO nations.
Evening: Grab your seat and get ready for the show to begin as the Virginia International Tattoo kicks off at Scope Arena at 7:30 p.m. As the largest Tattoo in the U.S., this event is a significant celebration of international cooperation and cultural exchange.
After-Party: After the Tattoo, downtown Norfolk offers an impressive late night scene. Check out what’s open late and keep the party rolling before heading to bed to prep for tomorrow’s activities.
Day 2: Friday, April 25 – Immersing in Coastal Virginia History and Culture
Morning: While downtown, delve into Norfolk’s past at the Douglas MacArthur Memorial. This museum and the final resting place of General Douglas MacArthur offer insights into his life and the broader context of American military history.
Lunch: Head to the Waterside District. This revitalized waterfront area is a hub of activity with restaurants, bars and entertainment with lovely views of the Elizabeth River to boot.
Afternoon: For a change of pace, visit the Chrysler Museum of Art. Its extensive collection spans various periods and styles, with a notable focus on glass art. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some culture. The newly-opened Perry Glass Studio is also worth a look for its free glass-blowing demonstrations.
Evening: Explore the Ghent neighborhood for dinner. Known for its charming streets and diverse restaurants, Ghent provides a more laid-back atmosphere.
Optional Evening: Depending on your interests, consider catching a show at the NorVa or the Harrison Opera House. Norfolk has a thriving arts community. Check out our calendar for a full run-down of your options.
Day 3: Saturday, April 26th – Tracing History
Morning (10:00 a.m.): 72nd Annual Parade of Nations winds its way through Downtown Norfolk, featuring more than 100 parade units including U.S. and international bands, military units, community groups and floats representing every NATO Member Nation. The Parade is free and open to the public, but reserved seating is available for purchase.
Lunch (11:30 a.m.): Experience the NATO Festival International Village, a celebration of the alliance between Norfolk and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, which has its North American headquarters right here in the city. Expect plenty of food and waterside views along with international village displays and cultural performances.
Afternoon: Depending on your departure time, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping at the Mermaid Market or just go for a leisurely walk along the waterfront.
Keep in mind, Norfolk is a walkable city center, and the light rail (we call it The Tide) is a convenient option. Ride-sharing and car rentals are also readily available.
May might be the perfect month in Norfolk, as the weather turns pleasant, offering a hint of summer, but without all that humidity. Outdoor events kick into overdrive, as concerts, festivals and outdoor activities dominate the calendar. It’s also Bike Month, making it the perfect time to hop on two wheels and explore the city. Enjoy the scenery and the fun around town this month with this list of our favorite May 2025 Norfolk events.
Your Norfolk Tides, Triple-A affiliates of the Baltimore Orioles offer up a pair of long homestands this month, taking on the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp mid-month and the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs to close out the month.
Farmers’ Markets
Various Dates and Locations
Norfolk is home a pair of recurring farmers’ markets, with Ghent hosting them the first and third Fridays of each month from 4 to 7 p.m., and East Beach holding them each Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon.
Norfolk Home and Garden Tour
Harborfront Garden Club and the Garden Club of Norfolk May 1, 2025
Lakewood embodies the historic beauty of Norfolk, providing sweeping waterfront vistas, wetlands wildlife, and a canopy of towering trees. Situated on a peninsula between the Lafayette River and Wayne Creek, this hidden gem of a neighborhood features varied architectural styles and gardens, from traditional 1930s Colonial Revivals to 1950s Ranch houses. Visitors will enjoy a walking tour of five properties full of historic charm and modern updates for today’s families.
DeAndre Ramone Way (born July 28, 1990 in Chicago, Illinois), better known by his stage name Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em, or simply Soulja Boy, is an American pop rap artist. In September 2007, his single “Crank That (Soulja Boy)” reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The single was initially self-published on the Internet, and it became a number-one hit in the United States for seven non-consecutive weeks starting in September 2007.
Distilling a heady mix of Afro-Caribbean styles and irresistible on-stage energy, this sizzling Puerto Rican band has been thrilling international audiences for nearly three decades. With mesmerizing hand drumming, raucous horns and soaring vocal harmonies, they’ll have you on your feet! Discover a fan-favorite band who “can rock the house with traditional singing and drumming, then turn around and lay down a smoking, jazz-heavy, Afro-Rican jam” (East Bay Express).
Chris Staples is an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for his introspective indie folk sound. Originally from Pensacola, Florida, he later moved to Seattle, touring with artists like Telekinesis, Father John Misty, Jeremy Enigk, and Dave Bazan. Despite his success as a hired musician, he found his true voice in solo work, crafting melodic, reflective songs on love, loss, and self-discovery.
Step into the jazzy world of the Roaring Twenties with this new production of the World Ballet Company. See the glitz, glamor, and tragic romance of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless novel LIVE on stage, featuring a multinational cast of 40 professional ballet dancers, an all-star creative team, lustrous hand-crafted costumes, and lavish, groundbreaking sets. The original score evokes the energy and atmosphere of the 1920s.
Matisyahu’s spirituality has evolved in parallel with his music, though his Jewish heritage remains a central theme throughout his life and music. The new EP, Hold The Fire (out February 2024), also finds him reflecting on celebrity and artistic success. For Matisyahu, “the unbelievable and miraculous feeling of being connected to our people” is what keeps the creative fire alight.
Held on Saturday & Sunday, May 3 & 4, 2025 at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront, the festival showcases more than 25 of the Commonwealth’s top wineries in a picturesque setting along the Elizabeth River, to go along with gourmet foods, specialty merchants, live music, and much more! All wines presented during the festival are available for purchase by the bottle or case throughout the day.
After clamoring acclaim and a run of hit albums established him as a y’alternative superstar, this fiercely independent Tulsa-born singer-songwriter stopped working, turned off his cellphone, and unplugged to rest, heal and reflect. Faithful fans are thrilled that Moreland has emerged from his self-imposed silence with an “incredibly powerful and timely album” (Americana Highways), filled with deeply personal, moving songs that beg to be heard again and again.
PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL features an original score by Grammy® winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance (“Summer of ’69”, “Heaven”), and a book by the movie’s legendary director Garry Marshall and screenwriter J. F. Lawton. PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL will lift your spirits and light up your heart. “If you love the movie, you’ll love the musical!” (BuzzFeed News).
Remember putting on an album and listening from start to finish? Relive that moment with a live concert experience unlike any other as The Black Jacket Symphony recreates Jimmy Buffett’s iconic album “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes” live in its entirety; note for note, sound for sound.
Inspired by actual events, MEMPHIS is about a white radio DJ who wants to change the world and a black club singer who is ready for her big break. Come along on their incredible journey to the ends of the airwaves- filled with laughter, soaring emotion, and roof-raising rock ‘n’ roll. Winner of four 2010 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and two 2015 Olivier Awards, MEMPHIS features a Tony-winning book by Joe DiPietro and a Tony-winning original score with music by Bon Jovi founding member David Bryan.
As one of the industry’s top touring comics, Shane recently wrapped up a leg of his sold-out arena circuit, setting an all-time ticket record at Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena and achieving a historic sell-out at Philadelphia’s Wells Fargo Arena, which marked the venue’s largest comedy show ever.
Presented by Virginia Arts Festival. Never content to rest on his laurels as the world’s greatest banjo player—and with 17 Grammys out of 38 nominations, he surely could– Béla Fleck has spent a lifetime innovating through collaborations that have taken him from bluegrass to jazz to music of many continents. His newest adventure explores an entirely new sound as he joins with Grammy-winning drummer and composer Antonio Sanchez and Colombian harpist Edmar Castañeda. Fleck fans, prepare to have your mind blown (again!).
The Norfolk Greek Festival at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral celebrates Hellenic heritage and Orthodox Christian values. It offers Greek culture through food, fellowship, and traditions, dedicating proceeds to charitable organizations. Stop by to immerse yourself in Greek culture, including plenty of baklava and dolmas.
Hermitage Museum and Gardens Thursdays, May through Aug.
This summer, head over to the Hermitage Museum & Gardens for our 15th Anniversary of Sunsets on the River! Relax on the shoreline and enjoy live concerts from across the musical spectrum, including Alternative Rock, Blues, Country, Yacht Rock, and more.
Indulge in the flavors of New Orleans at the Bayou Bon Vivant, a three-day celebration of the tastes, tunes, and traditions of the Crescent City. From juicy handfuls of crawfish to world-renowned N’awlins jazz musicians, the Bayou Bon Vivant captures the vibrant spirit of Louisiana and transforms it into a weekend-long party Friday-Sunday, May 17 – 19, 2024 at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront! A wide-ranging and fun experience for the entire family, the Bayou Bon Vivant also features an Arts Market featuring 30+ New Orleans crafters, crocodile and reptile exhibits, mouth-watering Cajun dishes such as beignets, gumbo, etouffees, and jambalaya.
Created by Marcy Heisler and Zina Goldrich, the team that brought you Dear Edwina, comes Junie B. Jones, The Musical – a delightful adaptation of four of Barbara Park’s best-selling books, brought to life in a genuinely comical (and not strictly-for-kids) musical developed by TheatreworksUSA. Awaken a young person’s desire to read with the sassy little diva, Junie B. Jones, and her adventures in first grade.
Since 1984 Hope House Foundation has hosted the Stockley Gardens Arts Festival, a two-day event featuring over 125 artists from across the U.S. and overseas to participate and showcase their art in a variety of mediums, including photography, pottery, sculpture, painting, mixed media and jewelry. Stockley Gardens Park offers the festival a distinctive atmosphere with its peaceful garden setting in the heart of the historic district in Ghent, Norfolk. The festival is free and open to the public and attracts thousands of people who enjoy the art, live music, an array of food and the community atmosphere of the event held in the spring and fall each year.
Presented by Virginia Arts Festival. Hailed by Paste Magazine as “masters of soulful folk,” The Wood Brothers have cemented a reputation, among fans and critics alike, as freethinking songwriters and road warriors. Their latest studio album, Heart is The Hero, has won rave reviews for “songs that reflect the fears, hopes, and joys of everyday people. Their poetry is sonic as well as lyrical and will speak to you in ways you won’t anticipate” (Rock & Blues Muse).
Co-presented with The Feldman Chamber Music Society and Virginia Arts Festival. So much of the great string quartet repertoire has come from Czech composers; there has come to be a deep appreciation among chamber music fans for what is known as “the Czech tradition.” The Zemlinksy Quartet has become a much-lauded example of that tradition, winning top prizes in international competitions and releasing a library of critically acclaimed recordings. In their Virginia Arts Festival debut, Van Cliburn Gold Medal-awarded pianist Olga Kern joins the ensemble for an evening of chamber classics, including Dvořák’s fiery Piano Quintet No. 2.
Known for their powerful live performances and intense sound, Of Mice & Men will be bringing their signature blend of heavy riffs and soaring vocals to the venue. Fans can expect to hear a mix of their popular tracks and potentially new material, making it a must-see show for metal enthusiasts in the area.
Formed in Venice, CA, in the early ’80s, the band, led by vocalist Mike Muir, initially played hardcore before transitioning to thrash metal. Despite early difficulties booking shows due to violence and gang affiliation rumors, their 1983 debut album became the best-selling hardcore album of its time.
The raucous energy of heavy metal rock meets the strength and athleticism of ballet in this spectacular new work from Birmingham Royal Ballet, presented in its U.S. premiere by Virginia Arts Festival. With eight classic Black Sabbath hits arranged for orchestra and rock band, and a live guitarist onstage with the dancers, the pulsing light show frames the action in an unforgettable experience.
If you’ve ever found yourself looking for “a little something” to celebrate a friend or just to treat yourself, Rhett Quattlebaum knows exactly how you feel. In fact, it’s what inspired her to open her new shop on 21st Street in Ghent, where the browsing is as inviting as a summer evening on a Southern porch.
Quattlebaum, a North Carolina native, brings a touch of Southern hospitality and style to this carefully curated boutique. With a background in education and a passion for unique finds, Quattlebaum envisioned a space where women could discover that “little something” special – and often leave with much more.
The name itself is a nod to the experience of many first-time shoppers to the store. “Women will come in and say, ‘I’m just looking for a little something,'” Quattlebaum says, recognizing it as an unspoken request for assistance in finding the perfect item.
Stepping into “A Little Something” is like entering a stylish home. Quattlebaum’s husband, who handled the construction, created a welcoming backdrop with hardwood floors and a thoughtfully designed interior. The shop is a delightful mix of color and texture, showcasing Quattlebaum’s finds from her travels.
Here, shoppers can browse a diverse selection, from dressy apparel suitable for special events and fun athletic wear like tennis skirts, to unique home goods. You’ll also find fragrant candles – including the ever-popular lotion candles – and even laundry detergent that adds “a little something” to your next load of laundry. Accessories are aplenty, with costume and 14-karat gold jewelry, stylish bags and even some fun cocktail mixers. Quattlebaum’s Southern roots shine through in offerings like Lily Pulitzer-esque coolers and a general appreciation for classic, quality pieces.
Quattlebaum praises the collaborative spirit of her fellow 21st Street merchants. “If someone goes to one store and they can’t find what they’re looking for, they’ll say, ‘Oh, try A Little Something,'” she says. “We all kind of uplift each other.”
While Quattlebaum curates items from across the country, she’s also open to featuring local vendors who meet her standards of quality and uniqueness.
Aside from offering a delightful shopping experience, Quattlebaum’s true passion lies in helping women feel confident. “I don’t really believe in trends,” she says. “I believe in a woman who walks into a room with self-confidence, and I want to make sure she feels that when she leaves here.”
As renovations continue at the Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center, we’re eagerly anticipating the return of Carnival Sunshine, which will offer 6-8 day sailings to the Bahamas, Bermuda and more.
The Carnival Sunshine returns to Norfolk in 2025! Sailing to the Bahamas and the Exotic Eastern Caribbean, cruises will enjoy 6- and 8-day tours from Norfolk.
Tucked into a narrow slice of Granby St., PJay’s Kitchen stands as testament to one man’s passion, curiosity and natural ability to deliver powerful flavors. Over the past year, Owner Phillip James has morphed a small space into a culinary haven, earning coveted five-star Google ratings and a loyal following.
James’ journey to restaurateur diverges from the usual script. Instead of attending culinary school or working as a line cook, James spent seven years in the Army. After that, he spent nearly a decade working as a contractor and DOD employee in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Turkey.
“I lived in Maryland for a while, dipped my toes into the dining scene there,” James recounts. “But then, another deployment, and eventually, I found myself in Norfolk.”
Initially, James’ plan was to open a food truck. But when a small storefront became available, James saw an opportunity. “I didn’t want to go too big,” he says. “This space felt perfect. We opened in January 2024, and last year, we did pretty well.”
The menu at PJay’s is a vibrant mix of street-inspired dishes, carefully chosen to fill a void in the local culinary landscape.
“I wanted to offer something different,” James says. “No fried seafood, no po’boys on the block (of Granby). I looked for what was missing and drew inspiration from there.”
The result is a menu that boasts mouthwatering oxtail, perfectly executed fried seafood baskets, and soon, a lunch menu featuring po’boys and tacos. Rasta pasta and jerk chicken and shrimp are also fan favorites.
“It’s a micro-diner experience,” James says, offering 14 seats inside and 16 outside.
James’s culinary journey is largely self-taught, fueled by a lifelong love of cooking and a desire to learn.
“I grew up with my grandmother, picking up things subconsciously,” he says. “When I joined the Army, I cooked in the barracks. Some of it wasn’t good, but I was trying.”
He credits his mentor, JR Robinson of D.C.’s KitchenCray, with shaping his approach to the business.
“When I started taking this seriously, I reached out to him,” James says. “He’s been instrumental in my growth, teaching me about the business side, understanding margins, and cutting costs without compromising quality.”
Despite the success of PJay’s, James continues to work his corporate job in satellite communications. “We exceeded the goals we set for ourselves,” he says of PJay’s, “but I still have my other job.”
The influence of his mother and grandmother is revealed in every dish. “They’re from a culture known for not measuring ingredients,” James explains. “They just had it honed. I’m trying to figure out if I should write those recipes down.” He also dreams of one day legitimizing his grandmother’s legacy of selling food and alcohol.
Key to PJay’s success is Tamila Spruill, James’s childhood friend and the backbone of the operation. “She’s been here from the beginning,” James says. “She handles things without me even being contacted. She’s consistent, on time, and a thriving force for PJay’s. I appreciate her for coming on this journey with me.”
Each plate James and Spruill serve us tells a story: of hard work, grit, and the unwavering pursuit of flavor. Not convinced? Just take it from those who’ve eaten there. Currently, PJay’s enjoys a coveted 4.9 star rating on Google with more than 476 reviews and counting.
Featuring Tony Award-winning Hit Broadway Musicals, Drama, Comedy, and more!
Norfolk, VA-Virginia Stage Company is thrilled to announce a new season of musicals, thrillers, classics, and a world premiere! The 47th season from Hampton Roads’ leading professional theatre company begins in September at the historic Wells Theatre in Norfolk.
We kick the season off with a bang with Norfolk State University Theatre Company’s All-New Professional Series with our co-production of Ain’t Misbehavin’. The joint is jumpin’ as five actors croon, wail, strut and dance their way through the songs of legendary jazz musician, “Fats” Waller. Get ready for your toes to be tappin’ and your leg shakin’ with Ain’t Misbehavin’ directed by Professor Anthony Mark Stockard. September 3 – 21, 2025.
Audiences will be transported back to a time with a fresh and funny take on a treasured classic, in Kate Hamill’s adaptation of Emma. Emma Woodhouse is a clever, educated and energetic woman who prides herself on her matchmaking abilities. But where Emma goes, screwball comedy follows! October 22 – November 9, 2025.
Ring in the holidays with two Christmas classics, A Merry Little Christmas Carol and A Sherlock Carol, both by Mark Shanahan. A Merry Little Christmas Carol is one of Hampton Roads’ most heartfelt holiday traditions. And returning for its 2nd year is A Sherlock Carol, VSC’s newest tradition. In this engaging tale, Moriarty is dead and Sherlock is a haunted man. Will the untimely death of Mr. Ebenezer Scrooge bring the Great Detective out of his self imposed-retirement to solve this Dickens of a Christmas Case? A Merry Little Christmas Carol and A Sherlock Carol run in rep, December 3 – 28, 2025.
In a pulse-pounding thriller, a blind woman is threatened by criminals inside her Greenwich Village apartment in Wait Until Dark by Frederick Knott. Susan soon discovers that her blindness is the key to her escape… if she can stall her tormentors until dark. This edge-of-your-seat drama moves from one moment of suspense to another as it builds towards a heart-stopping conclusion. January 28 – February 15, 2026.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat lends the brilliance of Andrew Lloyd Weber to the season! This musical reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph is packed with magical adventure, beguiling characters and a brilliant score full of catchy songs–a treat to share with family and friends, March 14 -29, 2026.
Capping the new season is the world premiere of Malcom X & Redd Foxx Washing Dishes at Jimmy’s Chicken Shack in Harlem. In 1943, two young Harlemites form a friendship over leftover fried chicken and dirty dishwater. But a long, hot summer of heartbreak, betrayal, and racial uprisings moves them closer to the men they will become and farther from each other. This electrifying new play blends sharp humor with raw humanity, revealing the laughter, struggle, and brotherhood that shaped two legends. April 8 – 26, 2026.
Tickets for the 2025-2026 season are on sale now by subscription only. Subscription options include fixed-seat packages at special savings, which allow patrons to keep the same great seats for every show; or a flexible theatre-on-demand option. Subscription benefits include discounts on every ticket, invitations to special insider events and more. More information can be found at vastage.org/subscribe or by calling the Virginia Stage Company Box Office at (757) 627-1234 Monday through Friday from 10am – 5pm.
April; that most transitional of seasons when the chill gives way to warmth, when rain is a welcome sight and when festival season kicks off in Norfolk. Here’s a look at some of our favorite events slated for April 2025.
It’s last call for Norfolk Admirals action, as the city’s ECHL team takes on Reading Royals at 7:05 p.m. Wednesday, April 9; then a two-game home-stand to close out the season against South Carolina Stingrays at 7:05 p.m. April 11-12. Playoff games would follow throughout April if applicable, but don’t miss your last guaranteed chance to see the on-ice action.
Catch all the NCAA tournament hoops action on 30+ TVs in the Market, a 20×16-foot TV wall and more than 70 other TVs throughout the District so you don’t miss a second of the action. Food and drink specials offered, VIP packages available.
Seamlessly blending illusion, acrobatics, magic, and whimsy, MOMIX sends audiences flying down the rabbit hole in Moses Pendleton’s newest creation, ALICE, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s classic Alice in Wonderland. “I don’t intend to retell the whole Alice story” Pendleton says, “but to use it as a taking off point for invention.” Join this dazzling company on a mind-bending adventure, as Alice encounters time-honored characters including the undulating Caterpillar, a lobster quadrille, frenzied White Rabbits, a mad Queen of Hearts, and a variety of other surprises. Filled with visual splendor and startling creative movement, Alice reveals that nothing in MOMIX’s world is as it seems!
Critics, fans and fellow comedians agree: Brian Regan is one of the most respected comedians in the country with Vanity Fair calling Brian, “The funniest stand-up alive,” and Entertainment Weekly calling him, “Your favorite comedian’s favorite comedian.” Having built his 30-plus year career on the strength of his material alone, Brian’s non-stop theater tour continuously fills the most beautiful venues across North America, visiting close to 100 cities each year.
Pride & Prejudice & Dragons transports you to the drawing rooms of Jane Austen’s England, where regency balls and courtship blend with quests and dragons. With a roll of the dice, the story unfolds in unexpected ways — will Elizabeth charm Mr. Darcy or leave him behind to battle mythical creatures?
Unleash your inner wild child during our adults-only evening at the Zoo! Trails and exhibits will be open late* and there will be drinks, a DJ, food trucks, and local vendors alongside yard games and a bounce house to enjoy in our Event Field. To celebrate springtime, our education team and community vendors will host plant-themed trivia, scavenger hunts and more for prizes! Event is Ages 21+ and takes place rain or shine.
Grab your lederhosen, practice your best Maria von Trapp impression and get ready to enjoy Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music Sing-A-Long! Join us in your city for a screening of the smash-hit 1965 movie musical in glorious, full-screen technicolor, complete with onscreen lyrics. Based on the amazing true story of The Trapp Family Singers, The Sound of Music is a cinematic landmark and winner of five Academy Awards®, including Best Picture. Starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, the film features timeless songs by Rodgers & Hammerstein including “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Edelweiss,” “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” and more.
For the past decade, Flatland Cavalry has built a reputation as “one of the most dynamic presences in country music” (Rolling Stone) with their signature “Easy on the ears, heavy on the heart” sound. In 2024, the sextet celebrated 10 years together with Flatland Forever, an acclaimed album that pays tribute to their journey, revisiting fan favorites while introducing new songs that showcase how far they’ve come.
Led by nine-time GRAMMY winner (with an astonishing 32 nominations!) and winner of the Pulitzer Prize and National Medal of the Arts Wynton Marsalis, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra is the emblem of jazz for the United States and the world – and a swingin’ great time for audiences. With veteran and virtuoso musicians bound by years of performing and touring together and an abiding love and respect for the art form, this legendary band is “an immense and perfectly balanced engine,” says the Guardian, UK.
Nauticis celebrates 81 years of history aboard the mighty Battleship Wisconsin. Enjoy special activities, exclusive tours, and hands-on experiences in honor of this iconic vessel. Tours, talks and ice cream and a chess workshop will be offered.
Try some of the best beer & wine in town, all at Waterside District, for a Veteran’s Day Weekend celebration like no other. Enjoy specially curated exhibitors, including top breweries and wineries, as they share with you some of the best craft beers, wines, and more. All tickets include unlimited sampling of over 40 beers, multiple food trucks, live music including karaoke, DJs, and more.
Presented by Virginia Arts Festival. Composer and violinist Jessie Montgomery has won accolades across the U.S. and around the world, creating vibrant works that engage audiences and are defining a new classical canon. As she completes her residency as the Virginia Arts Festival Composer in Residence, Montgomery will curate and perform in a program that includes her own chamber music and works by her contemporaries. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear this important composer’s engaging works!
Co-presented with Tidewater Classical Guitar and Virginia Arts Festival. With a repertoire that ranges from Bach to bluegrass, this dazzlingly gifted ensemble plays to sold-out houses around the world, bringing “unrivaled joy, technical élan, and a questing spirit” (Los Angeles Times) to every performance. Their musical appetites encompass music from every age and nearly every corner of the earth, and “the effect is astonishing. If it’s true that variety is the very spice of life, it follows that the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet is a habañero chili pepper” (The Berkshire Edge).
Presented by Virginia Arts Festival. Known globally for his mastery of the tabla—“the drum with a thousand voices”—Zakir Hussain has collaborated with a wide range of musicians, including Yo-Yo Ma, Béla Fleck, Van Morrison, and George Harrison. For this Festival return engagement, Hussain has gathered a dream team of percussionists representing music and cultures from around the world, including Indian sarangi player Sabir Khan; Colombian-born jazz master Tupac Mantilla; balafon, barra, djembe, and conga player Melissa Hié, and master of the dholak and tabla, Navin Sharma. A global journey in sound!
Climb aboard the Virginia Zoo Express and take a *photo with the Easter Bunny! Easter train rides will be offered on April 19th from 11am-2pm. Also enjoy an Easter Egg Hunt at the train station at 12pm; eggs will include candies, train punch cards, and coupons for the Virginia Zoo Gift Shop! We encourage guests to sign up for the Easter Egg Hunt at the train station before 12pm.
For centuries, the cry “Tattoo” echoed throughout Europe — first a call by to innkeepers to “Turn off the taps!” — and then as the name for a grand display of military bands and drill teams. The legendary Tattoos of Edinburgh and Nova Scotia are now rivaled by the largest Tattoo in the U.S. — our own Virginia International Tattoo. Mounting a mighty spectacle that changes every year, the Virginia International Tattoo summons more than 1,000 performers including fife and drum corps, bagpipers, military bands, precision drill teams, and performing ensembles ranging from step dancers to motorcycle stunt drivers.
The only parade in the U.S. to honor NATO features over 100 parade units including U.S. and international bands, military units, community groups and floats representing ever NATO Member Nation! The Parade is free and open to the public, but reserved seating is available for purchase.
The NoCo (North Colley) Spring Wine Fest gives you the opportunity to taste and order wines for all of your Spring and Summer festivities. With 40 different wines spanning the globe, you will not find more selections to impress your family and friends this season. Wine professionals will complete the experience by offering expert recommendations.
Award-winning journalist Bob Woodruff has covered the most influential stories and breaking news around the globe for more than 30 years. He has reported from the White House to war zones and conflicts, from some of the planet’s most remote areas to some of the most prominent events. Bob and Lee founded the Bob Woodruff Foundation to assist post-9/11 injured service members, veterans, and their families heal from the physical and silent wounds of war. To date, the non-profit foundation has invested more than $20 million, funding and shaping innovative programs across the country that are helping veterans successfully integrate back into their communities.
April 29, 2025 Christ and St. Luke’s Episcopal Church
Co-presented with Christ & St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and Virginia Arts Festival. Dubbed “the rock stars of Renaissance vocal music” by The New York Times and “one of the UK’s greatest cultural exports” by BBC Radio 3, this legendary ensemble has perhaps done more than any other group to establish sacred vocal music of the Renaissance as one of the great repertoires of Western classical music. Norfolk’s historic Christ & St. Luke’s Church makes the perfect setting for their beautiful sound, which summons the echoes of the past and reveals new delights in works by contemporary composers.
Norfolk’s Perry Glass Studio, part of the Chrysler Museum of Art, is ready to show the world its highly anticipated expansion, a $30 million project that triples its size and significantly enhances its capabilities. The newly renovated 32,000 square-foot space at 245 Grace St. in Downtown Norfolk will help elevate the studio’s position as a premier glass art destination and expand opportunities for both local and visiting artists as well as the community.
The recent expansion, roughly six years in the making, helps the studio deal with previous capacity constraints while allowing for a broader range of programming, said Ashley Grove Mars, Director of Communications for the Chrysler Museum.
“We were really getting to capacity with our partner classes,” said Mars. “This expansion allows us to welcome more students, visiting artists and offer diverse educational experiences.”
First impressions are everything, and visitors to the Perry Glass Studio will be wowed by the state-of-the-art hot shop and theater, now capable of seating 200, equipped with cutting-edge lighting, sound, and monitor systems. The new facility also features dedicated classrooms, metal, mold and wood shops, along with a catering kitchen, creating a one-stop artistic hub.
Planners have worked hard to continue the Perry’s commitment to accessibility with free daily noon demonstrations, allowing anyone to get an up-close look at the intense process of glassblowing. The expansion was also undertaken to draw a wider range of artists, with rental spaces and specialized equipment available for independent projects and visiting professionals.
To celebrate, the Chrysler Museum is hosting a grand opening weekend, March 29-30, 2025, offering a blend of artistic showcase and community engagement.
Saturday, March 29th: “Glass & Glitz: Grand Gathering and Auction,” is a ticketed gala ($129 per person) featuring live glass blowing demonstrations by renowned artists Dante Marioni and Corey Pemberton, alongside musical performances by Kishi Bashi and BJ Griffin. It promises to be a night of artistic spectacle and celebration.
Sunday, March 30th: “El Día de los Niños,” is a free, family-friendly festival from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This vibrant block party will feature live performances, hands-on glass-making demonstrations, an art carnival and activities inspired by the “Oaxaca Central: Contemporary Mexican Printmaking” exhibition at the neighboring Chrysler Museum. Visitors will enjoy performances by the De La Torre brothers, Einar and Jamex, who are visiting artists from Oaxaca, Mexico.
Designed to get visitors into the fun, the “Oaxaca Central Passport” program invites the community to explore local creative experiences. Participants can collect stamps at various events and partner locations, redeeming them for rewards like tickets to “Ignite: Ink” or limited-edition prints.
Designed by Norfolk-based WPA Architects, the expansion includes an inviting outdoor terrace, providing additional workspace during pleasant weather. The new entrance, now facing the museum, enhances accessibility and creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Already open to the public, the Perry Glass Studio will continue to offer ongoing hot glass classes, studio sales and ever-popular “Glass After Dark” events, ensuring it remains a top cultural destination in Norfolk.
