Spring means the return of warm, breezy days spent outside appreciating Norfolk’s outdoors. As blossoms return and days grow longer, it’s the perfect time to honor Mother Nature. This April, to celebrate Earth Day 2026, we invite you to experience Norfolk, a city that actively innovates to protect the natural environment. From net-zero architectural marvels to 10.5 miles of car-free exploration, here is how to plan your perfect sustainable getaway to Mermaid City.
Ryan Resilience Lab on Colley Ave.
Start at the Source: The Norfolk Eco-District
Begin your journey in the Highland Park neighborhood (also known as North Colley Ave.) at the Pru and Louis Ryan Resilience Lab. Opened as the centerpiece of Norfolk’s Eco-District, this facility is a “living laboratory” for coastal living.
What to See: The lab features a solar array that powers the building, a rainwater harvesting system that flushes the toilets and an entry pavilion designed to float during high-tide events.
The Experience: Sign up for a guided tour to walk the permeable pavements and see the “living shoreline” that naturally filters runoff before it enters Knitting Mill Creek.
Pedal Through the City: The Elizabeth River Trail (ERT)
In spring, Norfolk is best seen from the seat of a bike. The Elizabeth River Trail offers 10.5 miles of waterfront views connecting 28 diverse neighborhoods.
New for 2026: Visit the newly opened ERT Trailside Headquarters in the Chelsea District. This hub serves as the “beating heart” of the trail, offering maps, hydration stations and community programming.
Celebrate Trails Day: If you are here on Saturday, April 25, don’t miss the grand opening festivities at the HQ, featuring botanical walking tours led by Norfolk Master Gardeners.
Earth Day Events You Can’t Miss
Mark your calendars for the city’s premier sustainability festivals:
Earth Month Kickoff (April 4, 2026): Join the Elizabeth River Project at the Ryan Resilience Lab for “Inviting Nature Home.” Explore native plant sales and learn how to become a “River Star” steward.
Live Green Norfolk (April 18, 2026): Head to Lafayette Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for this family-friendly festival. Expect interactive workshops on composting, a green marketplace and sustainability panels.
Dine and Shop with Purpose
Less Than in Ghent
Sustainability in Norfolk extends to the plate and the package.
Eat: Visit Codex on Granby Street for upscale farm-to-table fare, or head to Jikoni Cafe in Park Place for 100% vegan dishes that satisfy the soul. For a sustainable sip, Afterglow Brewing in the Railyard District is a local favorite.
Shop: Stop by Less Than in Ghent, a zero-waste and refill shop where you can stock up on plastic-free travel essentials. It’s also home to Ceremony, a
Stay: Treat yourself at Lotus Day Spa, a Virginia Green certified business that proves luxury can be eco-friendly.
Leave a Positive Trace
Want to give back during your stay? Join a Trail Beautification Day (like the one on April 24) to help maintain the native plantings along our urban waterfront.
In Norfolk, being an eco-conscious traveler is an opportunity to become part of a community that’s working together to protect the coastal way of life.
Update: Nauticus Museum and Battleship Wisconsin will be open on Mondays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. beginning April 6, 2026.
There’s little doubt that Norfolk, Virginia is the spot along the Mid-Atlantic coast to get your fill of events, attractions, dining and culture. But what if you’re here on a Monday? Nothing is ever open on Mondays, is it?
Turns out, much more than you might expect.
While several major Norfolk attractions and eateries close up shop on Mondays to give their staff a much-needed day of rest, others keep plowing ahead, and that’s great news for you.
So, let’s look at some of the top things to do on a Monday in Norfolk, VA.
Norfolk Botanical Garden
Outdoors Attractions
Norfolk enjoys a full four seasons, which means three-quarters of the time, it’s pretty enjoyable outdoors. Open year-round, the Norfolk Botanical Garden (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) is a great option for a Monday visit. With 175 acres of gardens, wildlife and kids’ exhibits, it’s perfect any time of year. Speaking of wildlife, the Virginia Zoo (9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.) lets you explore the plains of Africa where you’ll meet crocs, orangutans, snakes and other exotic critters without leaving Tidewater.
If you’re up for a walk, Downtown Norfolk has plenty of paths that take you to several only-in-Virginia type attractions. Stroll through the grounds of the Taiwanese Pagoda Garden Teahouse to see one of Norfolk’s most photographed locations, then make your way down to the site of the historic (and majestic) Battleship Wisconsin and Nauticus, which are now open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mondays, beginning April 6, 2026.
Look behind you and you’ll see the Trail of Honor, the city’s nod to its citizens who fought in battles from the Civil War to Vietnam.
Two nearby parks are worth your time. Closest to downtown is Town Point Park (6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.) a seven-acre waterfront park with water fountains and green spaces for chilling out on a warm day. Up the road a bit is Plum Point Park (8 a.m. to 7 p.m.), which boasts five acres of paths, Navy tributes and views galore of the Elizabeth River. The adjacent Elizabeth River Trail connects both parks and is a must-see for anyone touring the area on foot or bicycle. And, while the estate is closed on Mondays, there’s not much to stop you from walking around the 12 beautiful acres of the Hermitage Museum and Gardens grounds and admiring the scenery.
Get on the Water
On warmer days, the Elizabeth and Lafayette rivers are positively beckoning you to spend time on the water. Fortunately, the rivers don’t care that it’s Monday, so hop into a craft you can paddle at Norfolk Kayak Rentals. If you want to let someone else do the driving, we totally get it. For that, take a cruise on the Victory Rover or American Rover (both 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and the Spirit of Norfolk. Learn more about cruise schedules and pricing on our Harbor Cruises page.
Dig Into Culture
Art, anyone? Norfolk is happy to oblige. While downtown, swing into the Glass Light Hotel Gallery(8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) to see glass artworks from Dale Chihuly, Peter Bremmers and other masters of the medium. Or, walk around and see the colorful – and often inspiring – murals that dot the city’s landscape.
Feeling up for a movie? The Naro Expanded Cinema is a throwback single-screen theater in the historic and vibrant Ghent neighborhood. They routinely play first-run films alongside classics from the past and, yes, they’re open on Mondays.
Pick up a few souvenirs on your way into or out of town when you stop by the VisitNorfolk Mermaid Market (8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.) at 232 E. Main St. next to the Selden Market (also open for shopping on Mondays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
Ocean View Beach, Norfolk
Hit the Beach
Perhaps you don’t want to be in the water so much as adjacent to it. Well, we’ve got a beachin’ good time for you. Head 20 minutes north from downtown to Ocean View Beach Park where you’ll find lighter crowds and plenty of shoreline on which to relax. The nearby Ocean View Pieris the place to fish (gear for rent in the pier’s tackle shop) and dine during the spring, summer and early fall.
Delve into History
Take a walk along the Cannonball Trail, which winds along the shoreline of the Elizabeth River and traverses 400 years of local and national history. See if you can spot the Revolutionary War-era cannonball still lodged in the wall of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church!
To go further afield, hop on the Elizabeth River Ferry for a short (less than 10 minute) ride over to Old Town Portsmouth, kick around there and hop back on to return to Norfolk. The ferry runs daily every half-hour from 5:45 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. with seasonal/holiday hours varying.
Elizabeth River Ferry
For more history, visit the inspiring End of Massive Resistance Wall, an eight-foot tall, 57-foot-wide tribute to a group of students who broke the color barrier in Norfolk city schools in 1959. Honor Norfolk’s fallen citizens – both military and civilian – at the historic, peaceful West Point and Cedar Grove cemeteries on Princess Anne Blvd. near Ghent. Both resting grounds are great for a meditative morning of photography, but keep it respectful: both are still in active use.
Norfolk’s moving Armed Forces Memorial uniquely recalls final letters from soldiers sent just before they paid the ultimate sacrifice. It is located at the end of Town Point Park, nestled between the Elizabeth River and Downtown Norfolk.
Fort Norfolk
Finally, see the town’s last remaining harbor-front forts at Fort Norfolk, authorized in 1794 by President George Washington. The fort overlooks the Elizabeth River and includes earthwork embankments, ramparts, a dungeon, officers’ quarters, powder magazine, barracks and guardhouse. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates the site and it’s open on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
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 (hello, Tattoo!). Here’s a look at some of our favorite events slated for April 2026.
Step into What Remains—an immersive, audio-guided journey through a house alive with memory and myth. Guests witness a magical dinner, taste elixirs, and descend into a dark night of the soul, guided by light, sound, and story. Created by ROŪGE—the team behind Dream Clinic, Gretels, and Pride & Prejudice & Dragons—this reimagined Victorian fable rises from the ether, where invention meets possession and the past refuses to stay buried.
Cruise days mean energy on the waterfront — and we’re celebrating with Cruise Norfolk Market Days, a lively pop-up market in downtown Norfolk just steps from the cruise terminal on our Port of Call Days, when visitors are here exploring our region.
Join us from 11 AM–2 PM as local vendors, musicians, and food trucks line the waterfront for a fun, family-friendly midday event. Whether you work downtown, live nearby, or are just looking for something different to do, this is the perfect excuse to step outside and enjoy the atmosphere.
Nicholas Cole, a dynamic and soulful keyboardist who has been captivating audiences with his unique blend of smooth jazz, gospel, and R&B. Emerging onto the music scene in the 2010s, Nicholas quickly made a name for himself, charting number one singles on the Smooth Jazz Songs chart with his hits like “Snap” and “Soulmate.” These groundbreaking achievements showcase not only his remarkable talent but also his ability to connect deeply with listeners through his music.
Join us at Waterside District on select Saturdays for Silent Disco! Choose your vibe; enjoy multiple DJs curating a playlist on music channels you can choose & enjoy exclusive access to drink specials & food discounts.
For the uninitiated, Steel Panther was formed in 2000. Hailing from Los Angeles, the epicenter for rock n’ roll in all its debauchery and glamour, Steel Panther has established themselves as the world’s premier party band, melding hard rock virtuosity with parody and criminally good looks. Steel Panther is a global phenomenon with four full-length albums, touring across the world, platinum-level You Tube status and high-profile television appearances such as Jimmy Kimmel Live, Larry King Now, and FOX NFL Sunday.
Hop on over to Grain for Easter Brunch. Join us for a cheerful spring celebration filled with tasty brunch favorites, sweet Easter treats, and plenty of good vibes. Indulge in a spread featuring traditional favorites such as honey-glazed ham and smoked prime rib of beef, alongside fresh salads, seasonal vegetables, and an array of pastries. Treat your sweet tooth with an assortment of delectable desserts, including our signature Easter desserts. Bring your appetite and your love for all things Easter.
Black Label Society bandleader Zakk Wylde wields his guitar like a Viking weapon, bashing out thick riffage and squeezing out expressive squeals as if the glory of his Berserker brotherhood depends upon every single note, which of course, it does. Charismatic beast and consummate showman, Wylde puts his massive heart and earnest soul on display with unbridled, unchained, animalistic passion in Black Label Society, whether it’s a crushingly heavy blues-rock barnstormer or a piano-driven ode to a fallen brother.
The Norfolk Tides, the Triple-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, take on the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp for a five-game homestand at Harbor Park. Thursday is a noon game; Sunday is at 1:05 p.m. The rest of the games see first pitch at 6:35 p.m.
This event is part of the Norfolk Theater Festival in March-April 2026. Learn more here. Who really shapes history? While spending weekends with a historical re-enactment society, award-winning theatre maker and “Fringe legend” (Time Out), Victoria Melody uncovered the story of a bunch of 17th-century radicals called The Diggers — and began a quest to find the Diggers of today. Blending storytelling and stand-up, this wildly entertaining show celebrates the ordinary people still making history.
This event is part of the Norfolk Theater Festival in March-April 2026. Learn more here. In the extremely intimate setting of the historic Hunter House Victorian Museum (Norfolk, VA), Core Theatre Ensemble will showcase their award-winning production like never before. The Lizzie Borden murder case captivated the nation over one hundred years ago and is still considered “one of the most dastardly and diabolical crimes that was ever committed.” Andrew and Abby Borden’s bodies were found axed to death in their home in August 1892; their daughter Lizzie was arrested and charged days later. The case was surrounded by a passionately divided public. The opinion of women and the extent of their capabilities fueled an intense debate concerning her guilt or innocence. Lizzie was ultimately acquitted of all charges due to circumstantial evidence, incompetent prosecution, and the pervading delusion that a “woman is incapable of doing so foul a deed.”
Celebrate 82 years of history aboard the legendary Battleship Wisconsin — one of the largest and last battleships ever built by the U.S. Navy. Enjoy a full day of special activities, educational programs and exclusive tours that highlight the history, technology and stories of this iconic vessel. Guests can explore new spaces aboard the battleship, participate in hands-on maritime programs like knot tying, rope making, and naval traditions demonstrations, hear from veterans during “Ask a Vet” talks, and more!
The NoCo (North Colley) Spring Wine Fest gives you the opportunity to taste and order wines for all of your Spring and Summer festivities. Pricing will be the lowest in market so it will be a good time to come and make your selections or find your new favorite wine. Hank’s will be offering mixed case volume discounts, so you are not limited on deals. With 40 different wines spanning the globe, you will not find more selections to impress your family and friends this season. Our wine professionals will complete the experience by offering expert recommendations.
Join Norfolk Tour Company and Elizabeth River Trail for this FREE and special walking tour of historic Fort Norfolk! Fort Norfolk is a historic fort and national historic district dating back to the founding of our country. It is the last remaining fortification of President George Washington’s 18th century harbor defenses, later termed the first system of US fortifications — and it’s right on the Elizabeth River Trail! Some of the buildings in the fort date back to the 1790s.
In a celebration of friendship, please join us for a special performance between the Musique de la Marine Nationale (National Band of the French Navy) and the United States Fleet Forces Band. This special performance will honor the 400th anniversary of the French Navy. Free and open to the public – ticket reservation required.
Over nearly three decades, the multi platinum record-breaking New Orleans icon served up a string of classic albums, influenced two generations of stars, and pioneered a sound rooted in Louisiana bounce, yet carried by worldwide rap appeal and ambition. Like all timeless stories though, his stretches back to humble beginnings in the neighborhood his music put on the map: the Magnolia Projects. As if predisposed by destiny to pick up a microphone, he heard Melle Mel’s verse on “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five, commenced spitting, and never stopped since…
Renowned nautical historian and bestselling author Ian Toll will discuss the importance of the U.S. Navy in World War II and the role of Naval Station Norfolk in supporting the war effort. Toll is best known for his Pacific War Trilogy and Six Frigates: The Epic History of the Founding of the U.S. Navy, which won the Samuel Eliot Morison Award for Naval Literature.
Verminous is The Black Dahlia Murder’s most dynamic, rousing and emotional release to date, and it achieves this without compromising one iota of heaviness. “I think this is the biggest evolutionary leap we’ve ever taken from one album to the next. We stoked the creative fires with 2017’s Nightbringers and it’s gone much further now in Verminous,” states vocalist Trevor Strnad. “It’s a very colorful, moody, and charismatic album that experiments with new sounds and ideas without losing the cutthroat Black Dahlia edge. There is a lot of minutiae to digest. Plenty of delicious little easter eggs woven into the fabric of each song. Each one is a living, breathing entity that will stand on its own as some of the best music this band has ever created.”
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.
Downtown Norfolk and Town Point Park April 18, 2026
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 every NATO Member Nation! The Parade is free and open to the public, but reserved seating is available for purchase. Following the parade, follow the crowd to explore vendors, food and drink at the NATO Festival in Town Point Park. (Note: this year’s parade has a noon start time and will follow a slightly altered route due to a cruise ship being in port the same day).
The Filipina-American artist Eras captures the hearts of others with her ethereal melodies and captivating performances. Self-described as a maker of sounds, Eras offers an atmospheric soundscape that blends indie alternative to soulful electronica.
Join us for a vibrant day dedicated to eco-friendly living, upcycling and sustainable practices that can enrich how we live, learn, play, eat and experience a greener Norfolk together! Event highlights include: Interactive Workshops, Kids’ Eco-Zone, Community Art Project, Green Marketplace, Eco-Tours, Sustainability Panels and Discussions. Live Green Norfolk is FREE, family-friendly and open to everyone!
Celebrate India’s timeless traditions and inspiring innovations with a vibrant experience of food, culture, and shopping. Enjoy Bollywood and classical dance performances, savor delicious Indian cuisine, explore vendor booths offering Indian clothes and handicrafts, and have fun with kids’ carnival games and henna hand painting.
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 Bon Jovi’s iconic album “Slippery When Wet” live in its entirety; note for note, sound for sound.
The Norfolk Tides host a six-game homestand against the Memphis Redbirds at Harbor Park. Game times are 6:35 p.m. except on Thursday (12:05 p.m.) and Sunday (1:05 p.m.).
NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater April 24-26, 2026
This event is part of the Norfolk Theater Festival in March-April 2026. Learn more here. This 6X Tony Award-winning best musical introduces us to Evan, who writes a letter that was never meant to be read. It finds its way into the hands of a grieving mother who thinks her son wrote the letter to Evan before taking his own life. She refuses to believe her son didn’t write the letter, so Evan goes along with it and creates a story that changes everyone’s lives forever. Dear Evan Hansen contains strong profanity, adult situations, conversations about suicide and dark comedy.
“Creatures of the Naro” returns with all the chaos, costumes, callbacks, and camp you expect from a live Rocky Horror shadow cast. Starring Tim Curry and Susan Sarandon, this cult comedy-horror-musical remains one of the most interactive movie experiences ever created.
This is a once-in-a-century celebration of 100 Years of Jaw-Dropping “No Way!” moves, 100 Years of “Wow!” and 100 Years of Heart-Pounding Thrills! The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to your city with their most LEGENDARY TOUR EVER. From gravity-defying dunks to game-changing tricks, experience the team that redefined basketball! This is history you can feel and a celebration of 100 years of over-the-top FUN with all-new surprises like the Golden Basketball by Spalding®. This is fan celebration from the moment you arrive with epic new pre-game magic, unforgettable post-game interactions, and the most fan-fueled experience in sports. This is your only chance to be part of The Harlem Globetrotters 100 Year Tour.
Norfolk experiences four true seasons, and it’s universally agreed that spring is one of its most enchanting. The city blooms as cool days give way to warmer coastal breezes and the earth awakens from its slumber. Soft pastel colors surround visitors who are free to dig into outdoor dining at local eateries and take leisurely walks along the Elizabeth River.
Day One
Norfolk Botanical Garden
Morning
Start your day with a visit to Apelu Island Cafe, a charming spot in Norfolk known for its cozy atmosphere and delightful morning treats. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee paired with a delicious pastry to kickstart your morning. After your refreshing breakfast, head over to the Norfolk Botanical Garden. In spring, the garden is a vibrant display of blooming flowers, perfect for a peaceful morning stroll through its various themed gardens. After Memorial Day, enhance your experience with a relaxing boat tour, offering a unique perspective of the gardens.
Afternoon
Rent a bike from E-Bike Alley (formerly Pedego Electric Bike Rentals) and enjoy a scenic ride along theElizabeth River Trail (ERT). This picturesque path offers beautiful waterfront views and a relaxing ride through some of Norfolk’s most charming areas.
Scenery along the Elizabeth River Trail
As you make your way along the ERT, stop for lunch atOrapax in the Ghent District. Known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine,the perfect place to refuel after your bike ride. If you’re feeling thirsty, end your ride at Benchtop Brewing Company for a refreshing brew. This local favorite offers a great selection of craft beers, providing the perfect conclusion to your active and enjoyable afternoon.
Night
Begin your evening with rooftop views at Grain, enjoy the spring weather and stunning sights of the city while also having a delicious meal. After dinner, head over to Harbor Park for a Norfolk Tides game. Starting in April, you can catch exciting baseball action and even enjoy one of their themed nights, adding a fun twist to your evening. This lively atmosphere is a perfect way to end your day in Norfolk.
Day Two
Morning
Start your morning at Cure Coffeehouse, a cozy spot perfect for enjoying quality coffee and a bite from their vast food menu while relaxing in their outdoor seating. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming Freemason District, admiring the gorgeous cobblestone streets and historic architecture.
Farmers market
Wander over to The Pagoda and Japanese Garden, then check out any number of pop-up markets that occur throughout town. Explore other local farmers markets in East Beach, the Railyard District and Ghent for fresh produce and unique finds. This is a great way to experience the local culture and support local vendors.
Afternoon
For the afternoon, grab a bite to eat at TASTE, where you can enjoy salads, wraps, sandwiches and more. If you need an afternoon pick-me-up, head around the corner to Cafe Stella for a lively atmosphere and freshly-brewed coffee and tea concoctions.
Signs of Spring in Norfolk
Then, visit the Virginia Zoo to see 700 different types of animals from North America, Africa, and Asia. You can check out the electric train or just stroll the grounds while viewing the various exhibits during the gorgeous spring weather.
Night
Finish the day with a photoshoot at the Hermitage Museum and Gardens, it is the perfect spot for capturing photos during golden hour or even just seeing a gorgeous sunset. After dinner, head over to the Railroad District to grab a nightcap at Only You Lounge inside the Veil Brewing Co. Enjoy drinks and dessert while listening to one of their vinyl DJs, making for a perfect end to your day.
Packed House 915 W 21St. Suite B, Norfolk, VA 23517 Hours: Wednesday – Friday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
If Ghent is Norfolk’s quirky, hip and artsy little neighborhood, then Packed House is its epicenter. Home to thousands of vintage finds, this 21st Street throwback shop is, well, packed with everything from ‘90s clothing to VHS tapes, antique cameras, posters, lunch boxes, hats and some things that simply defy description.
Owners Morgan Tomasovic and Nick Rayfield spent years doing pop-up markets before opening the shop in August 2023. Nomadic by nature, they soon found that breaking down booths, hauling racks and loading boxes was losing its charm. Needing a home base, they picked a busy spot on 21st between Hampton and Colley, where foot traffic is strong and the potential for walk-in business is high.
Definitively Not a Thrift Store
Before you think, “cool little thrift shop,” think again. Nothing you see in Packed House is random. Morgan and Nick are quick to point out that they don’t take donations and don’t put out inventory just to fill rack space. Every item in the shop has been purchased and chosen intentionally.
If someone brings in a box of odds and ends, it’s evaluated carefully. If it fits, they buy it. If not, they’ll point the seller in the right direction. But the one thing you won’t find at Packed House is a pile of castoffs.
The common thread? At least one of them likes the item and understands what it’s about.
Vintage Threads
In the store’s middle aisle, clothing is organized by size rather than gender. Sure, some cuts may lean traditional, but most pieces are meant to work however (and on whoever) they best fit. You’ll find vintage graphic tees, denim, workwear, vintage jackets and regional pieces rotating in regularly.
To Tomasovic and Rayfield, authenticity is the top priority. You won’t find modern reprints from Target masquerading as old. If it’s a band tee, it’s original. If it says it’s vintage, you can trust that it is.
Records, Books and Analog Finds
Packed House carries roughly 1,000 records at any given time. The owners say this is curated on purpose. Morgan and Nick are collectors themselves and keep the selection manageable rather than turning the shop into a full-scale record store. In fact, they test out each record individually before putting it up for sale.
Books pop up randomly throughout the shop instead of in a single aisle. Spend a few minutes and you’ll come across vintage hardbacks and paperbacks around every corner.
You’ll also find audio equipment, cassette tapes, old lunchboxes, classic laser tag sets and the kind of nostalgic pieces that make you stop mid-aisle and say, “I had one of those.”
Local History on the Racks
Being locals from Virginia Beach, Morgan and Nick have an eye for regional pieces. Vintage Granby High School jackets from the late 1940s and early ’50s have passed through the shop. Some of what’s displayed on the walls isn’t for sale, but if a duplicate surfaces, it may end up being offered to Packed House customers.
Packed House also serves as the physical box office for The Annex, selling paper tickets in-store.
The shop has hosted markets, game nights and live shows, and they’re working to expand that side of the business. The rolling clothes rack in the center of the store was built specifically so the space can be reconfigured for events.
Next door, Vang Go Bistro is bringing new energy to the block. During markets and special events, customers frequently move between the two spaces, making for the ultimate Ghent atmosphere of creative eats and vintage finds. It is, as they say, a vibe.
Take a walk up Granby St. on any given night and you’ll think you’ve wandered into a trendy NYC borough complete with restaurants of every cuisine type and happy foodies enjoying dinner on sidewalks and in cozy parklets/streateries. From the cozy and casual to the upscale and on-trend, Norfolk downtown restaurants have a little bit of something for everyone.
Drive down Church Street any given evening and you’re likely to catch the bright red and blue glow of the Attucks Theatre sign. Proudly hanging over the building, which was constructed and operated completely by African-Americans in the early 20th Century, the sign has seen many famous faces walk under it to take the historic stage at the “Apollo of the South.” Duke Ellington. Louis Armstrong. Cab Calloway. Ruth Brown. B.B. King. The Great Ella Fitzgerald. Just a few of the marquee names who’ve graced the hallowed halls of the Attucks.
Built in 1919 by the Twin City Amusement Corporation, a group that consisted of black doctors, lawyers, pharmacists and businessmen from Norfolk and Portsmouth, the Attucks opened the following year as a major hotspot for live entertainment. For decades, it would serve as a place where African Americans could gather, perform and be entertained with dignity in a time when it was in short supply.
Setting the Course
SevenVenues Event Administrator Denise Christian says that by opening in 1920, Attucks charted the course for other Black theaters to follow. That includes Harlem’s Apollo Theater, which technically opened earlier, but did not feature Black performers until 1934. Christian recalls hearing stories of Duke Ellington, who would perform primetime shows in Downtown Norfolk, and then make a beeline to the Attucks for midnight jam sessions that often lasted until 4 a.m.
Besides being a premier theater for African-American performers, the Attucks also served as a first-run movie theater and was home to several offices and stores, including an ice cream parlor. Remnants of these offices can still be seen throughout the building’s three main levels. Christian says the Attucks housed professionals, supported Black entrepreneurship and was often championed in the Norfolk Journal and Guide, a leading black southern newspaper of the time.
“It was a catalyst for other economic development,” Chrisitan says, adding that the Journal and Guide helped guide African American travelers to spaces where they were welcome.
Bringing Down the Curtain
When the theater originally closed in 1955, the building weathered decades of neglect. It saw retail conversions, roof leaks and plenty of termite damage. Christian joined the restoration effort in 1993. After years of persistence, “we opened in October, 2004,” she says.
During restoration, it was quickly decided that the theater’s massive fire curtain — which depicts Crispus Attucks, an African American long regarded as the first person killed in the Boston Massacre — would be saved. The textile, which is at least 30 feet wide and just as high, weighs 500 pounds and is a stunning visual reminder of the sacrifices African Americans have often made in the name of freedom. Painstaking work was undertaken to encapsulate the curtain’s many asbestos fibers, Christian says.
“The team was careful. They were not trying to make it look like a new curtain, obviously.”
Standing in the dim theater as the curtain lowers, it’s easy to imagine countless opening nights, ovations, curtain calls and classic performances the room has been witness to.
Black Voices & Visions
Today, the Attucks is widening its scope. Through “Black Voices & Visions,” presented in partnership with Norfolk Arts, the theater has embraced visual art alongside performance. The 1,500 square foot gallery features 60 original works of art selected by Joan Rhodes-Copeland, who also runs the Church Street Aspire Gallery. The gallery features Hampton Roads-based artists, and most works are for sale.
“This is the first art exhibit we’ve had in the building,” Christian says. The gallery showcases local African American artists, transforming the historic space into a space that is both intimate and inspiring.
The works will rotate twice per year. Visitors can see the current exhibit through April 3, 2026 by attending any ticketed performance at the Attucks or during Arts at the Attucks events. Learn more about events at the Norfolk Arts website.
March is a time of transitions. It’s when winter gives way to the warmer breezes of spring, and when hockey season becomes baseball season. This March, there’s a lot to do, both indoors and out in Norfolk, Virginia. Here are a few of our favorite events.
Parodies, homages, and entirely new absurdities unfold in a mixed bill of sketches, improv, and games inspired by Austen’s most beloved themes. Expect drawing rooms under pressure, feelings expressed far too late, and at least one story created live onstage that Austen herself would have strong notes about.
At every show, Manilow will celebrate local music educators with the Manilow Music Teacher Award. Created through the Manilow Music Project, a program of the Manilow Fund, the Manilow Music Teacher Award honors educators whose passion and dedication help bring music to life for their students. Nominees will be revealed on January 22nd, the same day voting opens. The teacher receiving the most online votes will be recognized live onstage during Manilow’s concert and will receive a total prize of $10,000 — a $5,000 cash award and $5,000 in “Manilow Bucks” for classroom instrument purchases.
This extraordinary production will be performed by Grand Kyiv Ballet, the most renowned Ukrainian ballet company, under the direction of Oleksandr Stoianov, one of Europe’s leading figures in classical dance. Their interpretation brings a new emotional depth and technical brilliance to this timeless masterpiece. Featuring breathtaking choreography, evocative music, and a cast of world-class dancers, Giselle promises to be an unforgettable evening of elegance, passion, and pure artistry.
Bert Kreischer is the ultimate comedy powerhouse, known for his wild stories, larger-than-life personality, and legendary shirtless performances. From Netflix specials to sold-out arena tours and hit podcasts Bertcast and 2 Bears, 1 Cave, Bert keeps audiences laughing nonstop. Don’t miss your chance to see “The Machine” bring the party live on stage!
Come celebrate your favorite TV obsession as we dance to the Heated Rivalry soundtrack, the hottest queer pop anthems, and nostalgic alt hits all night long!
Join us for the 9th Annual UNCF Hampton Roads Mayors’ Masked Ball! The premier fundraising gala and major social event focuses on raising public awareness and large donations to support deserving students across Virginia.
Bringing together individuals, small businesses, corporate sponsors, celebrities, dignitaries, civic leaders, public officials, and alumni who support UNCF’s mission, the evening encourages every attendee to invest in better futures for all.
The 2026 Hampton Roads Pride Brew Tour is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever. They’ve partnered with the best breweries in the region to bring you exclusive discounts and a fantastic way to explore the vibrant craft beer scene while celebrating Pride. The Brew Tour Kicks off at Maker’s Craft Brewery on March 7th with food, drinks, DJ, and a drag show! Pick up your Brew Tour Passport from 4-6PM, then enjoy the fun! The Cousins Maine Lobster Food Truck will be here 4-10PM. DJ Bearcub Belladonna goes on from 6-10PM. The drag show, featuring Host Fushia DeVilla, Skarlett Letter, Grey Area, Anna Trocity, and Euthanasia, is from 7:30 to 8:30!
The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) enters its 55th year of intercollegiate competition with the 2025-26 academic school year. Located in Norfolk, VA., the MEAC is made up of eight outstanding historically black institutions across the Atlantic coastline: Coppin State University, Delaware State University, Howard University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Morgan State University, Norfolk State University, North Carolina Central University and South Carolina State University. The Norfolk State Spartans and the Howard Bison won the 2023 women’s and men’s titles, respectively and received bids to the NCAA Tournament.
This event is part of the Norfolk Theatre Festival in March-April 2026. Virginia Stage Company presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Lyrics by Tim Rice and Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber This beloved musical reimagines the Biblical story of Joseph, a magical tale packed with adventures, beguiling characters (like the Elvis-inspired Pharoah), and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s brilliant score, full of catchy songs from country-western (“One More Angel in Heaven”) to Caribbean (“Benjamin Calypso”), along with the unforgettable classics “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door.” Directed and Choreographed by Billy Bustamante.
One man’s lifelong love of music fueled a composing career and endowed programs that would nurture artists for generations to come. F. Ludwig Diehn, a successful businessman with degrees in law and chemistry, fulfilled his musical dreams by composing works for orchestra and chamber ensembles that have been performed around the world. He chose Norfolk as his home, and left a legacy to the community whose impact is vast, touching the lives of aspiring artists, students, and audiences alike. Virginia Arts Festival joins Hampton Roads Community Foundation to celebrate Diehn’s life and music in this memorable performance of his works featuring some of the region’s finest musicians.
Join the Party after the Parade at COVA on Saturday, March 14th! Green beer will be flowing all day. Enjoy live music, food, drinks and an Irish good time.
The RnB Block Party will welcome a headlining set from international mixtape DJ and producer DJ Drama. Additional sets will be played by national DJ and host Jae Murphy; RnB Block Party resident DJ, Izzy The DJ; Chris Brown’s tour DJ, DJ Fresh; and Sony Da Goat, DJ Flood, and Malika.
Hermitage Museum & Gardens March 19 – April 4, 2026
Step into What Remains—an immersive, audio-guided journey through a house alive with memory and myth. Guests witness a magical dinner, taste elixirs, and descend into a dark night of the soul, guided by light, sound, and story. Created by ROŪGE—the team behind Dream Clinic, Gretels, and Pride & Prejudice & Dragons—this reimagined Victorian fable rises from the ether, where invention meets possession and the past refuses to stay buried. This event is part of the Norfolk Theatre Festival.
Richman says it best himself: “The music we’re doing now works well in quiet places like theaters and performing art centers. We still don’t use a program or a set list, so we don’t know what we’ll do until we do it. Please do not expect old songs. Many singers my age do a retrospective; this show is not like that. It’s mostly stuff made up in the last 3 and 4 years. Some of the songs presented might be in different languages; this is not to be esoteric or clever, it’s because the different languages help me express different feelings sometimes. One last thing, my idea of a good show has nothing to do with applause. It’s about if all the songs I sang that night were ones that I felt.”
The Chrysler Museum of Art and the Governor’s School for the Arts (GSA) proudly present the 12th annual Wearable Arts Show, a one-of-a-kind runway event celebrating the innovation and ingenuity of more than 50 students. Inspired by the Chrysler Museum’s permanent collection and temporary exhibitions, this long-standing collaboration encourages young artists to use museums as sources of inspiration and artistic growth.
In 2026, Virginia Arts Festival proudly welcomes the return of Dance Theatre of Harlem—this time bringing one of the company’s most beloved signature works: Firebird. This legendary production reimagines the classic Russian folk tale of love’s triumph over evil in a lush, Caribbean setting. With John Taras’ masterful choreography, Igor Stravinsky’s iconic score (1945 version) performed live with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, and Geoffrey Holder’s dazzling costumes and sets, Firebird is a feast for the senses. First created in 1982, this Dance Theatre of Harlem classic has toured the world and enchanted audiences everywhere. As The New York Times declared: “…it does one thing other versions do not – send its audience into a whooping spell of delirium.”
NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater March 27-29, 2026
This event is part of the Norfolk Theater Festival in March-April 2026. Learn more here. This 2024 Pulitzer Prize winner is a touching comedic drama about a young man named Kenneth and his journey towards new beginnings as he finds the courage to really enter the world for the first time. Primary Trust contains adult content.
The Norfolk Tides, the Triple-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, will kick off their 2026 season with a three-game homestand against the Nashville Sounds on March 27 (6:35 p.m.), March 28 (6:35 p.m.) and March 29 (1:05 p.m.) at Harbor Park.
Be astounded by the world’s most revered composition, Ludwig van Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony. This cornerstone of Western music takes audiences on a euphoric journey of fate, from tragedy to triumph, from sorrow to joy, and serves as the fitting grand finale of our fifth symphony celebration. Revel in Mozart’s compositional brilliance with his Sinfonia Concertante featuring the Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s own Principal Viola Celia Daggy and Principal Second Violin Elizabeth Vonderheide.
Famed Broadway music director and the Festival’s Goode Family Artistic Advisor for Musical Theater and the American Songbook, Rob Fisher cut his musical teeth on Gershwin. The uniquely American music that George and Ira Gershwin created fused classical, Broadway, jazz and Tin Pan Alley to form an exhilarating new kind of music for the 20th century and beyond, conquering stage and screen with enduring classics like “Embraceable You,” “Summertime,” “Love is Here to Stay,” and “Rhapsody in Blue” a favorite for audiences and orchestras. Rob Fisher curated the Carnegie Hall Gershwin Centennial celebrations of Ira’s in 1996 and George’s in 1998. The Gershwin brothers’ timeless songs explore the joys and disappointments of love, brought vividly to life by Ross Lekites (Brigadoon, Frozen) and Patti Murin (Frozen, Wicked). In this must-hear concert, Fisher gathers Broadway singers and a swinging quartet for a trip down a memory lane of greatness, courtesy of the immortal Gershwin brothers.
David Spade became a household favorite during his tenure as a cast member on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live”. Spade has starred in film and television highlights such as JOE DIRT, GROWN UPS, THE WRONG MISSY, “Rules Of Engagement” and “8 Simples Rules”. For his memorable role as Dennis Finch on “Just Shoot Me”, Spade received nominations for a 1999 Emmy Award, Golden Globe, and American Comedy Award. Spade continues to be a box office draw, touring his stand-up shows nationwide. He can be heard co-hosting the hit podcast “Fly on the Wall”, alongside fellow SNL alumni Dana Carvey, and their spin-off pop culture podcast “Superfly”. Currently, Spade is in production on BUSBOYS, a film he co-wrote, is co-producing and co-starring in alongside Theo Von.
In this moving, inspiring play, Supreme Court Justice “RBG” welcomes a friend of the family to her cozy chambers to convey fascinating and often funny moments of her life and its many trials: losing her mother the day before she graduated as valedictorian of her Brooklyn high school … being one of only nine young women studying law at Harvard while also raising a daughter and helping her husband battle cancer … fighting for women’s rights in the 1970s… and taking courageous stands for human rights as a voice of reason amid a splintering and increasingly politicized Supreme Court. An evening with a great and compassionate icon of American justice–an RBG who is not only “notorious” but victorious as she takes a stand for ordinary people facing the many challenges of a changing world.
Psst. Call it a well-kept secret if you like, but Norfolk, Virginia is home to more historic theaters and high-quality stage productions than nearly anywhere else in the Commonwealth. Now, the Norfolk Theatre Festival aims to make that a commonly-known fact.
This year’s festival brings a virtual gumbo pot of artists and productions to the city’s historic theaters and venues, from a classic Broadway musical to a post-modern cabaret diva to tales of justice, a spine-chilling true story of Victorian murder and much more to Mermaid City.
According to organizers, the festival’s aim is to deliver engaging theater, “produced by great local companies performing in beautiful venues that include some of the city’s architecturally and historically significant spaces – as well as spectacular touring Broadway companies.”
Headed up by Virginia Arts Festival, the annual event kicked off in 2019 but was sidelined by the COVID pandemic. In 2024, it made its return with the idea of presenting a variety of performances in Norfolk’s historic venues. The current partnership includes productions from Virginia Arts Festival, Rouge Theatre Reinvented, the Norfolk State University Theatre Company, Core Theatre Ensemble and Broadway in Norfolk (Seven Venues).
Norfolk State University Theater Director Anthony Stockard, who heads up the festival, says, “Norfolk is uniquely situated with the highest concentration of arts organizations. This is unique for any region in America.”
Stockard says, “this is a huge collaborative effort and this year will be the largest in history in terms of participants. We’re really happy to see it growing.”
Among the venues hosting Theatre Festival performances are the historic Wells Theatre, home to Virginia Stage Company productions; the Attucks Theatre, the oldest theater built by African-Americans; Chrysler Hall, home to the annual Broadway in Norfolk shows; the Harrison Opera House, home to the Virginia Opera; the Hermitage Museum & Gardens; the Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater to HBCU Norfolk State University; the Robin Hixon Theater; and the Hunter House Victorian Museum.
In short, a ticket to the Norfolk Theatre Festival is a chance to see some of Virginia’s top performing arts venues in a historic city.
March 20 – 29 The Wells Theatre This beloved musical reimagines the Biblical story of Joseph, a magical tale packed with adventures, beguiling characters (like the Elvis-inspired Pharoah), and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s brilliant score, full of catchy songs from country-western (“One More Angel in Heaven”) to Caribbean (“Benjamin Calypso”), along with the unforgettable classics “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door.”
March 20 – April 4 (Thursdays – Saturdays) The Hermitage Museum & Gardens Step into What Remains—an immersive, audio-guided journey through a house alive with memory and myth. Guests witness a magical dinner, taste elixirs, and descend into a dark night of the soul, guided by light, sound, and story. Created by ROŪGE—the team behind Dream Clinic, Gretels, and Pride & Prejudice & Dragons—this reimagined Victorian fable rises from the ether, where invention meets possession and the past refuses to stay buried.
Primary Trust
March 27 – 29 NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater This 2024 Pulitzer Prize winner is a touching comedic drama about a young man named Kenneth and his journey towards new beginnings as he finds the courage to really enter the world for the first time. Primary Trust contains adult content.
March 28 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Rob Fisher, piano and music director Patti Murin, vocalist Ross Lekites, vocalist Famed Broadway music director and the Festival’s Goode Family Artistic Advisor for Musical Theater and the American Songbook, Rob Fisher cut his musical teeth on Gershwin. The uniquely American music that George and Ira Gershwin created fused classical, Broadway, jazz and Tin Pan Alley to form an exhilarating new kind of music for the 20th century and beyond, conquering stage and screen with enduring classics like “Embraceable You,” “Summertime,” “Love is Here to Stay,” and “Rhapsody in Blue” a favorite for audiences and orchestras. Rob Fisher curated the Carnegie Hall Gershwin Centennial celebrations of Ira’s in 1996 and George’s in 1998. The Gershwin brothers’ timeless songs explore the joys and disappointments of love, brought vividly to life by Ross Lekites (Brigadoon, Frozen) and Patti Murin (Frozen, Wicked). In this must-hear concert, Fisher gathers Broadway singers and a swinging quartet for a trip down a memory lane of greatness, courtesy of the immortal Gershwin brothers.
March 29 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Written by Tony Award-winning playwright RUPERT HOLMES Starring Michelle Azar as Ruth Bader Ginsburg Directed by Laley Lippard In this moving, inspiring play, Supreme Court Justice “RBG” welcomes a friend of the family to her cozy chambers to convey fascinating and often funny moments of her life and its many trials: losing her mother the day before she graduated as valedictorian of her Brooklyn high school … being one of only nine young women studying law at Harvard while also raising a daughter and helping her husband battle cancer … fighting for women’s rights in the 1970s… and taking courageous stands for human rights as a voice of reason amid a splintering and increasingly politicized Supreme Court. An evening with a great and compassionate icon of American justice–an RBG who is not only “notorious” but victorious as she takes a stand for ordinary people facing the many challenges of a changing world.
March 30 – 31 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center An experience you will never forget, this internationally acclaimed cabaret star draws fans from every continent. As critics note in swooning reviews, “There are not many women who can stun an audience into pin-drop silence with an exquisitely delivered torch song one moment and rock the rafters with laughter the next” (The Evening Standard UK). “The voice alone is glorious in its range and texture. But combine it with carefully chosen songs, superb comic timing, improvisational wit, and some engaging audience participation so cannily conducted that you suspect a degree in psychology, and you have an evening that demonstrates that Meow Meow really is the cat’s whiskers” (The Guardian).
March 31 – April 5 Chrysler Hall Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Norfolk in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we’re better together.
April 8 – 26 The Wells Theatre 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 world premiere blends sharp humor with raw humanity, revealing the laughter, struggle, and brotherhood that shaped two legends.
40 Whacks: The Nightmare of Lizzie Borden
April 9 – 12 The Hunter House Victorian Museum In the extremely intimate setting of the historic Hunter House Victorian Museum (Norfolk, VA), Core Theatre Ensemble will showcase their award-winning production like never before. The Lizzie Borden murder case captivated the nation over one hundred years ago and is still considered “one of the most dastardly and diabolical crimes that was ever committed.” Andrew and Abby Borden’s bodies were found axed to death in their home in August 1892; their daughter Lizzie was arrested and charged days later. The case was surrounded by a passionately divided public. The opinion of women and the extent of their capabilities fueled an intense debate concerning her guilt or innocence. Lizzie was ultimately acquitted of all charges due to circumstantial evidence, incompetent prosecution, and the pervading delusion that a “woman is incapable of doing so foul a deed.”
April 10 – 11 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Edinburgh Fringe favorite Victoria Melody returns to Virginia Arts Festival after her successful wildly witty tale Major Tom. Who really shapes history? While spending weekends with a historical re-enactment society, award-winning theatre maker and “Fringe legend” (Time Out) Victoria Melody uncovered the story of a group of 17th-century radicals called The Diggers—and began a quest to find the Diggers of today. Blending storytelling and stand-up, this wildly entertaining show celebrates ordinary people still making history.
Dear Evan Hansen
April 24 – 26 NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater This 6X Tony Award-winning best musical introduces us to Evan, who writes a letter that was never meant to be read. It finds its way into the hands of a grieving mother who thinks her son wrote the letter to Evan before taking his own life. She refuses to believe her son didn’t write the letter, so Evan goes along with it and creates a story that changes everyone’s lives forever. Dear Evan Hansen contains strong profanity, adult situations, conversations about suicide and dark comedy.
A celebration of one of Virginia’s most theater-rich cities! Throughout the year, Norfolk is home to vibrant, creative, engaged and engaging theater, produced by great local companies performing in beautiful venues that include some of the city’s architecturally and historically significant spaces – as well as spectacular touring Broadway companies.
Serving up all of what theater does so well, the 2026 Norfolk Theatre Festival brings moving, funny, thought-provoking, entertaining works to stages throughout Norfolk. Rediscover how theater thrills, transports and moves us. Visit NFKTHEATRE.COM for more details on each performance and for links to buy tickets!
March 20 – 29 The Wells Theatre This beloved musical reimagines the Biblical story of Joseph, a magical tale packed with adventures, beguiling characters (like the Elvis-inspired Pharoah), and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s brilliant score, full of catchy songs from country-western (“One More Angel in Heaven”) to Caribbean (“Benjamin Calypso”), along with the unforgettable classics “Any Dream Will Do” and “Close Every Door.”
March 20 – April 4 (Thursdays – Saturdays) The Hermitage Museum & Gardens Step into What Remains—an immersive, audio-guided journey through a house alive with memory and myth. Guests witness a magical dinner, taste elixirs, and descend into a dark night of the soul, guided by light, sound, and story. Created by ROŪGE—the team behind Dream Clinic, Gretels, and Pride & Prejudice & Dragons—this reimagined Victorian fable rises from the ether, where invention meets possession and the past refuses to stay buried.
Primary Trust
March 27 – 29 NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater This 2024 Pulitzer Prize winner is a touching comedic drama about a young man named Kenneth and his journey towards new beginnings as he finds the courage to really enter the world for the first time. Primary Trust contains adult content.
March 28 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Rob Fisher, piano and music director Patti Murin, vocalist Ross Lekites, vocalist Famed Broadway music director and the Festival’s Goode Family Artistic Advisor for Musical Theater and the American Songbook, Rob Fisher cut his musical teeth on Gershwin. The uniquely American music that George and Ira Gershwin created fused classical, Broadway, jazz and Tin Pan Alley to form an exhilarating new kind of music for the 20th century and beyond, conquering stage and screen with enduring classics like “Embraceable You,” “Summertime,” “Love is Here to Stay,” and “Rhapsody in Blue” a favorite for audiences and orchestras. Rob Fisher curated the Carnegie Hall Gershwin Centennial celebrations of Ira’s in 1996 and George’s in 1998. The Gershwin brothers’ timeless songs explore the joys and disappointments of love, brought vividly to life by Ross Lekites (Brigadoon, Frozen) and Patti Murin (Frozen, Wicked). In this must-hear concert, Fisher gathers Broadway singers and a swinging quartet for a trip down a memory lane of greatness, courtesy of the immortal Gershwin brothers.
March 29 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Written by Tony Award-winning playwright RUPERT HOLMES Starring Michelle Azar as Ruth Bader Ginsburg Directed by Laley Lippard In this moving, inspiring play, Supreme Court Justice “RBG” welcomes a friend of the family to her cozy chambers to convey fascinating and often funny moments of her life and its many trials: losing her mother the day before she graduated as valedictorian of her Brooklyn high school … being one of only nine young women studying law at Harvard while also raising a daughter and helping her husband battle cancer … fighting for women’s rights in the 1970s… and taking courageous stands for human rights as a voice of reason amid a splintering and increasingly politicized Supreme Court. An evening with a great and compassionate icon of American justice–an RBG who is not only “notorious” but victorious as she takes a stand for ordinary people facing the many challenges of a changing world.
March 30 – 31 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center An experience you will never forget, this internationally acclaimed cabaret star draws fans from every continent. As critics note in swooning reviews, “There are not many women who can stun an audience into pin-drop silence with an exquisitely delivered torch song one moment and rock the rafters with laughter the next” (The Evening Standard UK). “The voice alone is glorious in its range and texture. But combine it with carefully chosen songs, superb comic timing, improvisational wit, and some engaging audience participation so cannily conducted that you suspect a degree in psychology, and you have an evening that demonstrates that Meow Meow really is the cat’s whiskers” (The Guardian).
March 31 – April 5 Chrysler Hall Everyone’s favorite Scottish nanny is headed to Norfolk in this internationally acclaimed hit musical critics call “wonderful, heart-warming, and laugh-out-loud funny” (Manchester Evening News) and “a feel-good, family-friendly comedy that delivers” (The Hollywood Reporter). Based on the beloved film, MRS. DOUBTFIRE tells the hysterical and heartfelt story of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his kids. It’s “the lovable, big-hearted musical comedy we need right now,” raves the Chicago Tribune – one that proves we’re better together.
April 8 – 26 The Wells Theatre 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 world premiere blends sharp humor with raw humanity, revealing the laughter, struggle, and brotherhood that shaped two legends.
40 Whacks: The Nightmare of Lizzie Borden
April 9 – 12 The Hunter House Victorian Museum In the extremely intimate setting of the historic Hunter House Victorian Museum (Norfolk, VA), Core Theatre Ensemble will showcase their award-winning production like never before. The Lizzie Borden murder case captivated the nation over one hundred years ago and is still considered “one of the most dastardly and diabolical crimes that was ever committed.” Andrew and Abby Borden’s bodies were found axed to death in their home in August 1892; their daughter Lizzie was arrested and charged days later. The case was surrounded by a passionately divided public. The opinion of women and the extent of their capabilities fueled an intense debate concerning her guilt or innocence. Lizzie was ultimately acquitted of all charges due to circumstantial evidence, incompetent prosecution, and the pervading delusion that a “woman is incapable of doing so foul a deed.”
April 10 – 11 Robin Hixon Theater, Clay & Jay Barr Education Center Edinburgh Fringe favorite Victoria Melody returns to Virginia Arts Festival after her successful wildly witty tale Major Tom. Who really shapes history? While spending weekends with a historical re-enactment society, award-winning theatre maker and “Fringe legend” (Time Out) Victoria Melody uncovered the story of a group of 17th-century radicals called The Diggers—and began a quest to find the Diggers of today. Blending storytelling and stand-up, this wildly entertaining show celebrates ordinary people still making history.
Dear Evan Hansen
April 24 – 26 NSU Brown Memorial Hall Mainstage Theater This 6X Tony Award-winning best musical introduces us to Evan, who writes a letter that was never meant to be read. It finds its way into the hands of a grieving mother who thinks her son wrote the letter to Evan before taking his own life. She refuses to believe her son didn’t write the letter, so Evan goes along with it and creates a story that changes everyone’s lives forever. Dear Evan Hansen contains strong profanity, adult situations, conversations about suicide and dark comedy.
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