VSC director reflects on arts in Hampton Roads: 'They build connections.'
From “ghost town” to a thriving arts hub.
Discover how the Wells Theatre helped spark downtown Norfolk’s comeback — and why it’s still the community’s living room 47 years later.
Read Managing Director, Jeff Ryder’s interview with WHRO:
Mistletoe Market 2025
Presented by Virginia Stage Company
November 22, 2025 at the historic Wells Theatre
2 PM - 7 PM
Step into the Sparkle at Mistletoe Market! ✨❄️🎁
Get into the spirit of the season at Virginia Stage Company’s annual Mistletoe Market, just in time for Norfolk’s Grand Illumination Parade! Inside the beautifully decorated Wells Theatre, discover locally made gifts, festive drinks, cozy treats, and a visit from the Big Guy himself (yes, Santa!).
Wander through a wonderland of handmade treasures from local artists and artisans—perfect for holiday gifting (or keeping for yourself). Outside, the Doorway Singers will keep the cheer flowing with classic carols.
Emma Audition Notice
Virginia Stage Company Presents
Emma
By Kate Hamill
based on the novel by Jane Austen
Directed by Tom Quaintance
Local Norfolk,VA Auditions (in person, by appointment only)
With VSC Resident Casting Director, Emel Ertugrul
Director, Tom Quaintance
Thursday, July 31 6:00p - 9:00p
Sunday, August 3 5:00p - 7:00p
Callback Auditions
with Casting Director and Director
Sunday, August 3 7:00p-9:00p
The Wells Theatre
108 E. Tazewell St. Norfolk, VA
Equity and non-Equity actors will be considered for all roles.
Members of Actor’s Equity Association will receive prior access to audition slots.
To request an in-person audition appointment, please complete this
EMMA In Person Audition Request Form OR Email: Auditions@vastage.org
(subject: “EMMA Appointment Request”) .
You will be contacted by Casting Director, Emel Ertugrul to confirm your assigned time.
Please be prepared to:
Perform the side corresponding to your desired role below,
a reader will be provided.
If you are not available for an in-person appointment, but still interested in auditioning, please complete the Video Audition Submission Form.
Video submissions are due by Sunday, August 3. Please no video files, viewing links only.
Curtain Up: Community Day at the Wells
Curtain Up: Community Day at the Wells
Saturday, August 23 | Wells Theatre | FREE
Ever wanted to peek behind the curtain? Now’s your chance! Join us for Curtain Up: Community Day at the Wells—a one-day-only celebration as Virginia Stage Company kicks off our brand-new season with performances, tours, treats, and a few surprises.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a total newcomer, this is your invitation to explore the magic of live theatre—and maybe even walk away with a piece of it.
Virginia Stage 2025-26 Norfolk EPA Notice
Norfolk Equity Principal Actor Auditions (EPA)
Saturday, July 26, 2025 11:00 AM- 7:00 PM (EST)
Sunday, July 27 11:00 AM- 7:00 PM (EST)
at The Wells Theatre (108 E. Tazewell Street)
The Virginia Stage Company is holding open in-person Principal Auditions for Members of Actors' Equity with Resident Casting Director, Emel Ertugrul
Request an audition appointment completing this formVSC 2025-26 EPA Audition Request FormORby emailing auditions@vastage.orgwith the subject “ Season 47 : EPA In Person Audition ” please include 1) productions/roles for which you are auditioning2) headshot/resume if you have it (not required for appointment)You will receive a return email confirming your assigned time slot.
For the audition: Please prepare a brief monologue of your choice. If you would like to audition for the musical, please also prepare a short song in the style of ‘JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT. Bring sheet music. An accompanist will be provided. Audition material may not exceed 2-minutes total.Also, please bring a copy of your headshot and resume stapled together.
Video Audition Submissions will also be accepted for Season 47. Use this form EPA VIDEO Audition or Email video viewing link (NO FILES) to auditions@vastage.orgSubject: “ Season 47 : EPA VIDEO Audition ” Please include what production(s)/Role(s) you are auditioning for.
PILOT ONLINE | New owner of Portsmouth events venue once went to school there. He bought it at auction.
Giovanni Donatelli, whose The Language Group is based in Virginia Beach, will reopen Cambridge Hall this summer.
PILOT ONLINE | Have a walk back in time, and among spirits, in a downtown Norfolk tour
Fact and fiction mesh in a landscape once dominated by theaters. Theater critic Page Laws reviews a tour that’s part of a downtown series.








