No Fear and Blues Long Gone: Nina Simone
a Season Extra
No Fear and Blues Long Gone: Nina Simone
by Howard L. Craft
Directed by Kathryn hunter-williams
May 10 -14, 2023
This 90-minute, one-woman show features the Jazz legend and Civil Rights activist when she returns to present times to address certain events in her life, answer questions and leave her audience with a unique perspective on dealing with fear and current events in our world today. Featuring some of Ms. Simone’s greatest hits including “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood”, “I Wish I Knew How it Would Feel to Be Free”, “Feeling Good” and “Young, Gifted and Black”.
Run Time
This production runs approximately 90 minutes with no intermission.
Cast & Creative Team
DIRECTED BY
Kathryn Hunter-Williams
Scenic & Lighting Designed By
David Navalinsky
COSTUMES DESIGNED BY
Jennifer Bayang
SOUND DESIGNED BY
Brandon Reed
STAGE MANAGED BY
Natasha Jackson*
Featuring
Yolanda Rabun*
Starring
Brevan Hampden
Drums/Percussion
Russell Favret
Guitar
Christian Sharp
Bass
*Indicates members of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actor and Stage Managers in the United States.
Be the first to know! Join our email list.
Henry V
a co-production with Norfolk State University Theatre Company
HENRY V
by William Shakespeare
Directed by Tom Quaintance
April 12-30, 2023
Virginia Stage Company is excited to co-produce Henry V with Norfolk State University Theatre Company. "Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more!" William Shakespeare's celebration of the power of theatre is part action adventure, part comedy and one of the great love stories of all time.
Watch these videos to learn more about the show:
Events
April 12-14 | Preview Performances
April 14 | Young Professionals Night
April 15 | Opening Night
April 16 | Post-Show Talkback
April 20 | HR Pride Night Out
April 22, 3:00 PM | Open Captioning*
April 22, 3:00 PM | Audio Description
April 22, 7:30 PM | ASL Performance*
April 23 | Post-Show Talkback
Run Time
Approximately two hours and 45 minutes, with one 15-minute intermission
*Seating for Open-Captioning is provided in the Orchestra Left side of the House..
Please use promo code “AccessVA” on checkout for proper booking..
*Seating for ASL is provided in the Orchestra Right side of the House..
Please use promo code “ASL” on checkout for proper booking.
The role of the American Chorus on Wednesday, April 26th performance will be played by Terrance Livingston, Jr.
Cast & Creative Team
DIRECTED BY
Tom Quaintance†
SET DESIGNED BY
Dahlia Al-Habieli
COSTUMES DESIGNED BY
Jeni Schaefer
LIGHTS DESIGNED BY
Christina Watanabe§
SOUND DESIGNED BY
Steven Allegretto
STAGE MANAGED BY
Kyra Button*
Assistant STAGE MANAGED BY
Emma D. Emde*
Music Direction BY
Refiye Tappan
Music Devised By
Refiye Tappan with Dalia Berman
Fight Choreography BY
Gregg lloyd
Voice and Speech Coaching By
Anthony Mark Stockard
Assistant Lighting Designer
Eden Guill
Casting BY
Emel Ertugrul
† Member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers, Inc., an independent labor union.
§ Member of United Scenic Artists, local USA-829 of the IATSE.
Be the first to know! Join our email list.
Angry, Raucous, and Shamelessly Gorgeous
ANGRY, RAUCOUS, & SHAMELESSLY GORGEOUS
by Pearl Cleage
directed by Dr. Tawnya Pettiford-Wates, Ph.D.
March 1 - 19, 2023
When actress Anna Campbell is invited to restage her radical performance piece of re-imagined scenes from August Wilson’s play, she is surprised to learn she will not be taking center stage. A much younger entertainer will be stealing the spotlight at a new women’s theatre festival. Will they be able to build a bridge between their generations, or will the curtain close on Anna’s career?
sponsored by Capital Group
Cast & Creative Team
DIRECTED BY
Dr. Tawnya Pettiford-Wates, PH.D.
SET DESIGNED BY
Jeffrey Hales
COSTUMES DESIGNED BY
Nia Safarr Banks
LIGHTS DESIGNED BY
Austin Harber
SOUND DESIGNED BY
Nicholas Seaver
STAGE MANAGED BY
Emily Ellen*
Events
March 1-3 | Preview Performances
March 3 | Young Professionals Night
March 4 | Opening Night
March 5 | Post-Show Talkback
March 9 | HR Pride Night Out
March 11, 3:00 PM | Open Captioning*
March 11, 3:00 PM | Audio Description
March 11, 7:30pm | ASL Performance*
March 12 | Post-Show Talkback
Run Time
90 minutes
No Intermission
*Seating for Open-Captioning is provided in the Orchestra Left side of the House..
Please use promo code “AccessVA” on checkout for proper booking..
*Seating for ASL is provided in the Orchestra Right side of the House..
Please use promo code “ASL” on checkout for proper booking.
“This is a story for anyone who has ever tried to build a bridge between generations, hoping to offer a lifetime of advice to some unsuspecting young person (who probably hasn't asked for it,) and discovered in the process that there is as much to learn as there is to teach. Engaging in multi-generational relationships and conversations is a really enriching part of life, and now, especially, it’s a big part of our national conversation.”
PEARL CLEAGE, PLAYWRIGHT
SHOW SPONSOR
Be the first to know! Join our email list.
The 39 Steps
THE 39 STEPS
Adapted by Patrick Barlow
From the novel by John Buchan
From the movie by Alfred Hitchcock
Directed by Mark Shanahan
January 18 - February 5, 2023
Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have The 39 Steps, a fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre! This two-time Tony and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs, over 150 zany characters (played by a ridiculously talented cast of four), an onstage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers, and some good old-fashioned romance!
Cast & Creative Team
DIRECTED BY
Mark Shanahan†
SET DESIGNED BY
D. Craig M. Napoliello
COSTUMES DESIGNED BY
JENI SCHAEFER
LIGHTS DESIGNED BY
Alyssandra Docherty
SOUND DESIGNED BY
Ryan Rumery
STAGE MANAGED BY
DANIEL LEMIEN*
Assistant STAGE MANAGED BY
EMMA D. Emde*
Events
January 18-20 | Preview Performances
January 20 | Young Professionals Night
January 21 | Opening Night
January 22 | Post-Show Talkback
January 26 | HR Pride Night Out
January 28, 3:00 PM | Open Captioning*
January 28, 3:00 PM | Audio Description
January 28, 7:30pm | ASL Performance*
January 29 | Post-Show Talkback
Run Time
Approximately 2 hours, with intermission
This show utilizes haze effects and loud sound effects
*Seating for Open-Captioning is provided in the Orchestra Left side of the House..
Please use promo code “AccessVA” on checkout for proper booking..
*Seating for ASL is provided in the Orchestra Right side of the House..
Please use promo code “ASL” on checkout for proper booking.
Winner! Two 2008 Tony Awards
Winner! 2008 Drama Desk Award, Unique Theatrical Experience
Winner! 2007 Laurence Olivier Award, Best New Comedy
Nominee: Six 2008 Tony Awards, including Best Play
More Here
“The 39 Steps” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.
www.concordtheatricals.com
By Arrangement with Fiery Angel Limited
THE 39 STEPS
Adapted by Patrick Barlow
From the novel by John Buchan | From the movie by Alfred Hitchcock
Licensed by ITV Global Entertainment Limited
And an original concept by Simon Corble and Nobby Dimon
The original London production directed by Maria Aitken designed by Peter McKintosh lighting designed by Ian Scott sound designed by Mic Pool and movement directed by Toby Sedgwick opened at the Tricycle Theatre (now known as Kiln Theatre) in Kilburn in August 2006 and transferred to the Criterion Theatre in the West End on 14th September 2006 and subsequently to the American Airlines Theatre on Broadway on 15 January 2008. The original production was directed by Fiona Buffini. This production is licensed and the film is distributed by ITV Global Entertainment Ltd.
Be the first to know! Join our email list.
The Twelve Dates of Christmas
a co-production with Core Theatre Ensemble
Featuring Emel Ertugrul
Directed by Laura Agudelo
December 8-18, 2022
After catching her fiancé kissing another woman at the televised Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, Mary's life falls apart -- just in time for the holidays. Over the next year, she stumbles back into the dating world, where "romance" ranges from weird and creepy to absurd and comical. It seems nothing can help Mary's growing cynicism, until the charm and innocence of a five-year-old boy unexpectedly brings a new outlook on life and love. This heartwarming yet hilarious one-woman play is sure to leave audiences in stitches. Take a break from the family holiday traditions and make your spirits bright with this holiday date night!
Run Time
90 minutes. No intermission.
Age Recommendation 16+
Content Advisory
This production contains mature language and themes, smoking and alcohol abuse. If you have additional questions about content or age-appropriateness please contact the box office.
We've partnered with Downtown Norfolk to collect canned and dried food goods for the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. Bring your goods to the theatre and receive a free drink ticket for your generosity.
December 17 is our 12 Dates Christmas Party! Join us before and after the show.
Be the first to know! Join our email list.
The Hobbit
presented in collaboration with The Governor’s School for the Arts
THE HOBBIT
Based on The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
Represented by Middle-earth Enterprises
Adapted for the Stage by Greg Banks
Produced by special arrangement with Plays for Young Audiences
DIRECTED BY Billy Bustamante
October 19 - November 6, 2022
Travel to the fantasy world of Middle Earth, live on stage, as reluctant hero Bilbo Baggins takes the audience on an epic magical adventure ensuring fun for the whole family. When Bilbo is asked to leave his home to search for treasure, he encounters many obstacles along the way, including the legendary dragon, Smaug. J.R.R. Tolkien's charming classic is adapted with imaginative stagecraft.
Cast & Creative Team
DIRECTED BY
BILLY BUSTAMANTE†
SET DESIGNED BY
JOSAFATH REYNOSO
COSTUMES DESIGNED BY
JENI SCHAEFER
LIGHTS DESIGNED BY
christina watanabe§
SOUND DESIGNED BY
STEVEN ALLEGRETTO
featuring music composed and directed by
Jamison Foreman
STAGE MANAGED BY
Daniel Lemien*
ABOUT THE SHOW
Run Time
90 minutes. No intermission.
Audience Recommendation: 6+
For the Whole Family!
$25 Child Tickets for ages 12 and under
Events
October 19-21 | Preview Performances
October 20 | Young Professionals Night
October 22 | Opening Night
October 23 | Post-Show Talkback
October 27 | HR Pride Night Out
October 29, 3:00 PM | Open Captioning*
October 29, 7:30 PM | ASL Performance*
October 30 | Post-Show Talkback
*Seating for Open-Captioning is provided in the Orchestra Left side of the House..
Please use promo code “AccessVA” on checkout for proper booking..
*Seating for ASL is provided in the Orchestra Right side of the House..
Please use promo code “ASL” on checkout for proper booking.
MORE…
Be the first to know! Join our email list.
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
DIRECTED BY KHANISHA FOSTER
September 14 - October 2, 2022
Tennessee Williams’ Pulitzer Prize-winning drama paints a portrait of a family in crisis in the steamy Mississippi South. A birthday celebration brings secrets to the surface as everyone gathers at the family home. With Big Daddy’s dwindling health, Brick’s troubled past, and Maggie’s desperation for love and money, will the truth ever be revealed?
Cast & Creative Team
DIRECTED BY
Khanisha Foster†
SET DESIGNED BY
Josafath Reynoso
COSTUMES DESIGNED BY
Bryce Turgeon
Lights DESIGNED BY
David Castaneda
Sound DESIGNED BY
Steven Allegretto
Stage Managed BY
Charles K. BaYang*
ABOUT THE SHOW
Events
September 14-16 | Preview Performances
September 16 | Young Professionals Night
September 17 | Opening Night
September 18 | Post-Show Talkback
September 22 | HR Pride Night Out
September 24, 2:00 PM | Open Captioning & Audio Description*
September 24, 7:30 PM | ASL Performance*
September 25 | Post-Show Talkback
Run Time
Approximately two hours and 45 minutes, with two intermissions
Age Recommendation 16+
Content Advisory
This production contains mature language and themes, smoking and alcohol abuse. If you have additional questions about content or age-appropriateness please contact the box office.
*Seating for Open-Captioning is provided in the Orchestra Left side of the House..
Please use promo code “AccessVA” on checkout for proper booking..
*Seating for ASL is provided in the Orchestra Right side of the House..
Please use promo code “ASL” on checkout for proper booking.
"One of the most successful plays of our time…a play of tremendous dramatic impact…enormous theatrical power." — New York Post
"…Williams has fashioned his most compelling characters." — New York Journal-American
A Closer Look at…Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
Video Credit: Jeremy Bates Films
MORE…
Be the first to know! Join our email list.
Please visit vastage.org/entry for the most up-to-date Wells Theatre entry policy. Latecomers will be seated at the House Manager's discretion as to not disrupt the performance.
vastage.org and tickets.vastage.org are the only authorized ticket outlets for official Virginia Stage Company tickets. All sales are final.
Every Brilliant Thing (2022)
sponsored by Sentara Healthcare
DIRECTED BY TOM QUAINTANCE
MAY 18 - JUNE 5, 2022
This powerful story is told from the perspective of a single performer. An immersive storytelling experience performed in the round that blends comedy, improv, and audience interaction to tell the story of someone growing up in the shadow of their mother's struggle with suicidal depression while learning to grapple with their own journey. Every Brilliant Thing provides a life-affirming jolt of humanism, reminding us that hope comes from the miracles of life’s minutiae.
Seating is limited and entirely onstage at the Wells for this unique production! Our audience seating has been reconfigured to allow everyone in the audience to have equal access to the actor. Seating will be “in the round” so that every seat is a great seat.
‘[A] heart-wrenching, hilarious play…One of the funniest plays you’ll ever see about depression—and possibly one of the funniest plays you’ll ever see, full stop.’
— - THE GUARDIAN (2014 Edinburgh festival)
Cast & Creative Team
Directed by
Tom Quaintance†
Sound Designed by
Steven Allegretto
Lights Designed by
Christina Watanabe
Set Designed by
Mckay Coble
Costumes Designed by
Jeni Schaefer
Performances featuring Kathryn Hunter-Williams
Friday, May 27th @ 7:30pm
Saturday, May 28th @ 3pm
Sunday, May 29th @ 2pm
Thursday, June 2nd @ 7:30pm
Saturday, June 4th @ 7:30pm
Performances Featuring Jeffrey Meanza
Saturday, May 28th @ 7:30pm
Wednesday, June 1st @ 7:30pm
Friday, June 3rd @ 7:30pm
Saturday, June 4th @ 3pm
Sunday, June 5th @ 2pm
Audience Interaction:
This production involves audience participation. All Interactions are optional and confirmed by consent. The production may be enjoyed with or without directly participating.
Every Brilliant Thing speaks openly about depression, mental illness, and suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis or thinking about self-harm or suicide, there is help available.
Every Brilliant Thing is presented by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, Inc., New York.
Every Brilliant Thing was first produced by Paines Plough and Pentabus Theatre, on 28 June 2013 at Ludlow Fringe Festival. The play had its North American premiere at Barrow Street Theatre, New York, on 6 December 2014, where it was presented by Barrow Street Theatre and Jean Doumanian Productions.
Be the first to know! Join our email list.
Dreamgirls
DIRECTED BY ANTHONY STOCKARD
April 15 - 30, 2022
A sweeping and inspirational journey through 20th century American pop music, Dreamgirls chronicles one Motown group's rise from obscurity to superstardom. Through gospel, R&B, smooth pop, disco and more, Dreamgirls explores themes of ambition, hope and betrayal, all set in the glamorous and competitive world of the entertainment industry. This powerhouse musical will grace the Wells Stage around its 40th anniversary of its six Tony ® Award wins.
Cast & Creative Team
Directed By
Anthony Stockard
Lights Designed by
Jason Amato
Choreography By
Zipporah Gatling & Mikayla Revell
Music Direction by
Bart Kuebler
Set Designed by
Edward Morris
Costumes Designed by
Jeni Schaefer & Bryce Turgeon
Sound Designed by
Steven Allegretto
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SHOW
The Thanksgiving Play
DIRECTED BY JESSICA HOLT
January 19 - February 6, 2022
How does one celebrate Thanksgiving and Native American Heritage Month at the same time? In Larissa FastHorse’s biting satire, this is the question facing three “woke” white thespians tasked with devising an elementary school pageant about the first Thanksgiving while avoiding any culturally appropriative missteps. A roast of the politics of entertainment and well-meaning political correctness alike, The Thanksgiving Play puts the American origin story itself in the comedy-crosshairs.
Cast & Creative Team
Directed by
Jessica Holt†
Set Designed by
Edward Morris
Costumes Designed by
An-Lin Dauber
Sound Designed by
Michael Costagliola
Lighting Designed By
David Castaneda
Choreography by
Charlotte Bydwell
Cultural Consultant
Dr. Courtney Mohler
NY CAsting By
Binder Casting, Chad Eric Murnane, CSA
‘Very, very funny. Larissa FastHorse’s The Thanksgiving Play skewers liberal pretensions with glee – this clever satire is something for which to be truly thankful.’
— - Hollywood Reporter
Be the first to know! Join our email list.
Hold These Truths
HOLD THESE TRUTHS
by Jeanne Sakata
Directed by Seema Sueko
OCTOBER 19-NOVEMBER 7, 2021
at the Wells Theatre
presented in rep with Ken Ludwig’s
DEAR JACK, DEAR LOUISE
In 1941, American placed its own citizens in internment camps. Hold These Truths tells the true story of American Gordon Hirabayashi, the son of Japanese immigrants who fought against an unjust court order to uphold the American values of freedom and justice for all. Ultimately a story of hope and patriotism, Hirabayashi’s strength and wisdom will leave you moved by the American spirit. Hold These Truths has played to sold out performances across the country as we’re thrilled to have it grace the Wells Theatre stage this Fall.
“Surprisingly humorous and openhearted… luminous moments of youthful joy arise too.”
Misha Berson, The Seattle Times, 2015
PLEASE NOTE: All patrons who visit the Wells Theatre and/or attend performances must be fully vaccinated by the date of their visit or provide proof of a COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of your performance.
DIRECTED BY SEEMA SUEKO
SET DESIGNER ALAN E. MURAOKA
COSTUME DESIGNER JENI SCHAEFER
LIGHTING DESIGNER LYNNE M. HARTMAN
SOUND DESIGNER ANDRE PLUESS
STAGE MANAGER Adrienne wells*
starring greg Watanabe
* Member of Actor’s Equity Association
SEEMA SUEKO (Director) directs stage, digital, consensus organizing, and R&D projects for theaters, think tanks and community organizations. Previous positions include Deputy Artistic Director of Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., Associate Artistic Director of Pasadena Playhouse, and Co-Founder and Executive Artistic Director of Mo`olelo Performing Arts Company. She recently co-created and directed Germantown Plays Pericles, an original, large-scale, outdoor artistic fair and performance with the community of Germantown, Philadelphia. During the 2020 global pandemic she created the Arena Stage Theater Artists Marketplace, a socially-distant way to connect artists with audiences and generate income for artists. Coming up, Seema has been commissioned by Mixed Blood Theatre in Minneapolis to create an artistic piece inspired by interviews with 100 people across the U.S. starting with the prompt “imagine a U.S. without racism.” Seema earned her M.A. in International Relations from the University of Chicago. She serves on the boards of Stage Directors and Choreographers Society (SDC) and the SDC Foundation. You may find more info at www.seemasueko.com.
GREG WATANABE (Gordon Hirabayashi) made his Broadway debut in Allegiance and was recently seen in Lauren Yee's Cambodian Rock Band at Victory Gardens, The City Theatre Pittsburgh, Merrimack Repertory Theatre. He has performed in the world premiere productions of The Ballad Of Yachiyo (Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Public Theater-New York), The Summer Moon (A Contemporary Theater, South Coast Repertory Theatre), The Happy Ones (South Coast Rep, L.A. Drama Critics Circle nomination for Best Featured Performance) and Extraordinary Chambers (The Geffen Playhouse, Ovation nomination for Best Featured Actor). Other appearances include Golden Child (Signature Theatre), Hold These Truths (Perseverance Theater, New Century Theater), Yellow Face (Mo’olelo Performing Arts Company, San Diego Theater Critics Circle nomination for Outstanding Lead Performance in a Play).
Dear Jack, Dear Louise
by Ken Ludwig
DIRECTED BY SEEMA SUEKO
OCTOBER 17-NOVEMBER 7, 2021
at the Wells Theatre
PRESENTED IN REP WITH HOLD THESE TRUTHS
Ken Ludwig’s joyous tale and heartwarming story of his parent’s courtship during World War II. Dear Jack, Dear Louise tells the story of a military doctor and a Broadway chorus performer’s unlikely romance, entirely via letters, during WWII. This beloved production from the spring returns to the Wells as a fully realized production.
“Beautiful...perfectly performed”
- VSC patron
Winner of the 2020 Helen Hayes / Charles MacArthur Award for Best New Play or Musical of the Year!
PLEASE NOTE: All patrons who visit the Wells Theatre and/or attend performances must be fully vaccinated by the date of their visit or provide proof of a COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of your performance.
“An intimate play with tremendous breadth... Ken Ludwig’s DEAR JACK, DEAR LOUISE plumbs the depths of human courage, commitment, and connection when the world and your heart are at stake.”
— DC Metro Theater Arts
DIRECTED BY SEEMA SUEKO
SET DESIGNER ALAN E. MURAOKA
COSTUME DESIGNER JENI SCHAEFER
LIGHTING DESIGNER LYNNE M. HARTMAN
SOUND DESIGNER ANDRE PLUESS
NY CASTING BY BINDER CASTING,
CHAD ERIC MURNANE, CSA
STAGE MANAGER Kurt Hall*
JACK DAN FENAUGHTY *
LOUISE LARISSA KLINGER*
* Member of Actor’s Equity Association
LEARN MORE…
The Legend of Georgia McBride
The Legend of Georgia McBride played its final performance on Saturday, March 14 at 3pm. Those with tickets for cancelled performances will be contacted by the box office with options for tickets.
*Please consider turning your unused tickets into a tax-deductible donation. Contact msmith@vastage.org for more information.
march 4 - 22, 2020
Casey is down on his luck. Recently fired from his gig as an Elvis impersonator, he scrambles to pay his rent. To top it off, his wife just announced she is pregnant. When a new drag show replaces his act, Casey trades in his jumpsuit for a dress and finds that he has a whole lot to learn about show business—and himself. This music-filled comedy explores the art of finding your true voice, with loads of laughs and dance numbers along the way.
DIRECTED BY BRUCE WARREN
“A stitch-in-your-side funny new comedy full of sass and good spirits!”
- The New York Times
SCENIC DESIGN BY DAVID ARSENAULT
COSTUME DESIGN BY BRYCE TURGEON
LIGHTING DESIGN BY AKIN RITCHIE
SOUND DESIGN BY SINAN ZAFAR
CHOREOGRAPHED BY STEPHANIE CARD †
NY CASTING BY BINDER CASTING,
CHAD ERIC MURNANE, CSA
STAGE MANAGED BY BRITTANY SANDFORD *
This production runs 100 minutes.
Please note: This production contains strong language, strobe lights, haze, big hair, glitter, and an insatiable impulse to clap and dance along!
show sponsored by
CHERRY BEKAERT LLP CPAS & ADVISORS
with support by
The Helen G. Gifford Foundation
Decorum Furniture
Part of the second annual Norfolk Theatre Festival
March 3 - 8.
Sense & Sensibility
january 22 - february 9, 2020
Jane Austen’s timeless classic has new life in this exuberant adaptation of Sense & Sensibility. After their father’s sudden death leaves them destitute, the sensible Elinor and sensitive Marianne must journey through hardship, heartbreak, and the gossipy climate of late 18th century England. Sense & Sensibility is a hilarious, madcap adventure for Jane Austen fans and novices alike!
director JESSICA HOLT †
scenic design BY ALEXANDER WOODWARD§
costume design BY JENI SCHAEFER
LIGHTING DESIGN BY LYNNE M. HARTMAN§
SOUND DESIGN BY MEGUMI KATAYAMA
CHOREOGRAPHED BY CHARLOTTE BYDWELL
NY CASTING BY BINDER CASTING,
CHAD ERIC MURNANE, CSA
STAGE MANAGED BY ADRIENNE WELLS*
Sense & Sensibility runs three hours.
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
and join us for…
Austen-Approved Dance Lessons
Thursday, January 23 at 6pm
Friday, February 7 at 6pm
$10 cover (paid at the door)
Sensibili-Tea Party
Saturday, February 1 at 6pm
Enjoy tea and light refreshments from Southern Virginia Tea Company in our Tazewell Lounge!
Complimentary for ticket holders for the matinee or evening performance on February 1.
Tinto’s Wine Tasting
Wednesday, February 5 at 6:30pm
$5 cash cover - All proceeds go to the Little Black Dress Initiative of Junior League
The Santaland Diaries
december 12 - 21, 2019
DIrected by tom quaintance
This irreverent holiday comedy returns to Virginia Stage for its third go-round on the Wells Theatre stage. Based on the memoir of award-winning comedic author David Sedaris, this one-man show recounts his days as a struggling writer working to make ends meet as one Santa’s Elves at Macy’s Department Store. Drunken Santas, flirtatious actors, and aggressive parents abound. Enjoy the holiday season with laughter, drink, and merry spirits at the Wells. Only 7 performances!
Tom DeTrinis
(Crumpet) is thrilled to be back with the VSC for a second year on THE SANTALAND DIARIES. Recently, Tom returned from his second year at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with international hit, TILDA SWINTON ANSWERS AN AD ON CRAIGSLIST, as well as producing and performing with LA based parody troupe, 30 Minute Musicals. In LA, he co-directed RAVENSWOOD MANOR by Justin Sayre at the Celebration Theatre, and will be making his directorial Off-Broadway debut in February with Drew Droege's HAPPY BIRTHDAY DOUG at the SoHo Playhouse. He also co-created the series, FINDING THE A**HOLE, which premiered at the Slamdance Film Festival in 2019 and is available online. MORE?! detrinis.com or @detrinis on insta.
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
December 19, 2019 at 6:30 PM
Virginia Stage Company invites “mature elves only” to a Bourbon Tasting with Ironclad Distillery. Ironclad is a local, family-owned distillery focused on creating authentic bourbon. This is a one night only event! Tickets to the Bourbon Tasting are an additional $5, paid at the bar.
December 21, 2019 at 10 PM
You’re invited to our Ugly Sweater Party! Wear your most festive Holiday sweater for your chance to win a 2nd Act Membership, which includes: Sense & Sensibility, The Legend of Georgia McBride, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and The Hobbit.
A Christmas Carol
november 29 - december 22, 2019
DIrected by MARIANNE SAVELL
Virginia Stage’s most popular production continues its tradition at the Wells Theatre. Follow Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey through time with the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future as he learns about redemption, kindness, and compassion. Filled with music and mirth, this timeless play is recommended for all ages and is fun for the whole family to enjoy.
Show runs one hour and forty-five minutes.
Red performances have limited availability, get your tickets today! Yellow shows are filling fast, while green performances have room for the whole family.
Theater for Everyone December 11
Learn More
Detroit ‘67
OCTOBER 23- November 10, 2019
DIrected by Tom jones
Turntables turn to turmoil in the heart of Detroit when a mysterious woman enters the lives of siblings Chelle and Lank. Underground basement parties are the talk of the town as the spirit of Motown breaks barriers across neighborhoods. As riots erupt in their beloved city, tensions escalate at home. How will this family keep it together as their community falls apart?
Detroit ‘67 runs 2 and a half hours.
Please note that Detroit ‘67 contains adult language and situations.
directed by
TOM JONES‡*
sound designed by
CHRIS LANE
NY CASTING BY
BINDER CASTING, CHAD ERIC MURNANE, CSA
STAGE MANAGED BY
KAREN CURRIE*
set designed by
MATTHEW ALLAR†
costumes designed by
NYROBI MOSS
lighting designed by
MARY FRANCES PARKER
* Member of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States † Member of United Scenic Artists, an independent labor union.
‡ The Director is a member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers, Inc., an independent labor union.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SHOW…
Guys and Dolls
SEPTEMBER 18 - OCTOBER 6, 2019
DIrected by Nicolas Minas
Prohibition Era New York is bustling with glitz and glamour in this classic Tony Award-winning musical. Nathan Detroit, the city’s most infamous craps game organizer, makes the bet of a lifetime with high-roller Sky Masterson. Sky accepts, and tries to win the heart of “Save-A-Soul” missionary Sarah Brown, while Nathan’s fiancé of 14-years, Adelaide, grows tired of him gambling with hers. When it comes to love, these characters discover you’ve gotta play the right cards if you want to win big.
CAST & CREATIVE TEAM
DirectED BY
Nicolas Minas
ChoreographY BY
Jordan Dunlap
Fight Choreography by
GREGG LLOYD
NY CASTING BY
BINDER CASTING, CHAD ERIC MURNANE, CSA
Stage ManageD BY
ADRIENNE WELLS*
SET DesigneD BY
David Shuhy§
CostumeS DesigneD BY
Jeni Schaefer
Lighting DesigneD BY
Christina Watanabe§
Sound DesigneD BY
Steven Allegretto
Music DirectED BY
Barton Kuebler
Percussion
Randolph Hagin
Reed
Tommy Loyola
Trumpet 1
Keith Felkner
Trumpet 2
Aaron Lovelady
Trombone
Carl Lundgren
John Lloyd
Conductor/Associate Music Director
Dean Englert
Piano and Violin 2
Calvin Hitchcock
Violin 1
Heejin Weisbrod
Cello
Dionne Smith
Bass
Madeline Dietrich
* Member of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States § Member of United Scenic Artists
The musicians in this production perform under an agreement with the American Federation of Musicians Local 125
LEARN MORE…
The Tempest
This September, more than 100 Hampton Roads artists from all walks of life will assemble on the Wells Stage via Public Works Virginia’s initiative to present Shakespeare’s The Tempest adapted by Patrick Mullins with music by Jake Hull.
This fully-realized production will be an inclusive, audacious work of theatre presented by Virginia Stage Company, the region’s leading professional theatre company, in collaboration with local artists. Norfolk State University Theatre Company is a producing partner. Cameo performance groups include Teens With a Purpose, Atumpan Edutainment, and Philippine Cultural Center School of Creative and Performing Arts. Community members that have participated in Public Works theatre classes across the region will work with actors, performers, and other professional theatre makers to present a life-changing adaptation of Shakespeare's mystical tale in a one-weekend engagement at the Wells Theatre August 30, August 31, and September 1.
This production is supported by Batten Educational Achievement Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation and Norfolk Rotary Charities
Virginia Stage Company & Public Works VA Presents
The Tempest
Directed by Patrick Mullins
Open Captioning will be offered on Fri Aug 30 at 7:30PM Sat Aug 31 at 3PM Sun Sep 1 at 2PM
ASL Interpretation will be offered on Sat Aug 31 at 3PM
Audio Description will be offered on Sat Aug 31 3PM
TEMPEST REHEARSAL PHOTOS
WITH SUPPORT FROM
Norfolk Rotary Charities
Batten Educational Achievement Fund of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation
Norfolk State University Theatre Company
Access Virginia
Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical
MAY 22 - June 2, 2019
This musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic book tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, a young girl with a sharp wit and love for books. With her special brand of ingenuity, she dares to stand against the tyranny of adults who seek to crush her imagination. This multi-Tony award-winning musical provides the perfect opportunity for collaboration between Virginia Stage Company and The Governor’s School for the Arts to highlight our local students alongside some of the top professional actors from around the country.
This production is fun for the whole family and is suggested for all ages.
DIRECTED BY
TOM QUAINTANCE†
choreographer & associate director
BILLY BUSTAMANTE
orchestrations & additional music
CHRIS NIGHTINGALE
ny casting director
BINDER CASTING, CHAD ERIC MURNANE, CSA
production stage manager
ADRIENNE WELLS*
set designer
MCKAY COBLE
costume designer
JENI SCHAEFER
lighting & projections designer
MARANDA DEBUSK
sound designer
STEVEN ALLEGRETTO
music director
ALLAN DECIPULO ‡
Keys 1 ALLAN DECIPULO ‡
Keys 2 MARK SNEDEGAR ‡
Acoustic/Electric Bass Derrick Englert ‡
Guitar Eldon Sully ‡
Sax/Flute/Clarinet Joe Camarda ‡
Contractor (Trumpet) Roy Muth ‡
Tenor/Bass Trombone Dean Englert ‡
Cello Jeff Phelps ‡
Percussion Reid Stickdill ‡
† Member of the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers, Inc., an independent labor union.
* Member of Actors’ Equity Association, the Union of Professional Actors and Stage Managers in the United States
‡ Member of the American Federation of Musicians
SELECT YOUR DATE AND TIME:
