Spring is a time of renewal — more specifically, a time to visit one of Charlottesville’s many offerings to reignite an old artistic passion or explore a new one. The Charlottesville area is home to many affordable arts events, varying from orchestra performances to drag shows. Here are six upcoming arts events in the area from January through March for those looking to get in touch with the creative side of the community.
Jan. 31: The Southern Drag Show at The Southern Cafe and Music Hall
For fans of “Rupaul’s Drag Race,” or for those who want a fabulous evening with friends, this performance may be of interest. Expect to “bring your dollars, your applause and your best energy.” This event expands on the recent prevalence of drag shows in Charlottesville, with performers who aim to engage the spectators through humor, costumes and plenty of audience participation. The Southern Drag Show will be hosted by drag queen Darling Nikki, and will feature fellow drag queens, Raechel St. Laurent, Adoor Belle, Angelle Zhane and Teddi Baerbach. The show begins at 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31. Pricing information can be found on the Ticketmaster website.
Feb. 5: “Hamlet” at the Paramount Theater
For those who recently watched the new film, “Hamnet,” this show continues the trend of Shakespearean stories on the big screen. “Hamlet” is a classic tragedy written by William Shakespeare that explores the Prince of Denmark, otherwise known as Hamlet, on his quest for revenge for the murder of his father by his uncle. This particular version of “Hamlet” is a National Theater Live recording of a performance of the play in London, described as “sharp, stylish and darkly funny,” offering a new perspective on the beloved story. Starring Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekara, the Paramount Theater will screen “Hamlet” Thursday, Feb. 5. at 7 p.m.. Discounted tickets for students are available, and more pricing information is available on their website.
Feb. 6: Assoc. Prof. A.D. Carson on his new book “Being Dope” at the New Dominion Bookshop
Lovers of rap and hip-hop may be interested in expanding their knowledge and gaining a new perspective regarding these genres. Join A.D. Carson, professor of hip-hop and the Global South at the University, at the New Dominion Bookshop from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6 as he reads from his new memoir, “Being Dope: Hip Hop & Theory through Mixtape Memoir,” followed by an audience Q&A. Aside from teaching at the University, Carson is an award-winning performance artist. His memoir explores rap as a genre — its history, scholarship and its use to theorize and storytell. Each section features Carson’s lyrics, prose, analysis and more. Admission is free to the public, but seating is limited.
Feb. 14: Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia
For a musical way to spend Valentine’s Day, look no further than on Grounds. The Charlottesville Symphony will perform their romantic selection, “Masterworks Three,” for Valentine’s Day at Old Cabell Hall. Featuring songs from composers such as Rachmaninoff and Tchaikovsky, the songs selected are “some of the most romantic songs ever written.” The symphony is comprised of music faculty at the University, who serve as principal players, as well as students and community members. The performance will be conducted by Benjamin Rous, assoc. prof. of music conducting at the University. For more information on pricing, visit the University Arts Box Office website. Discounts and free tickets for students are available.
Feb. 22: Keb’ Mo’ at the Paramount Theater
For those feeling the post-Valentines Day blues, join Keb’ Mo’ at the Paramount Theater at 7 p.m. Feb. 22 for a night of classic blues music. Keb’ Mo’ is a musician who has won five Grammys, 14 Blues Foundation Awards and has nearly 50 years of musical experience. He has performed around the world and collaborated with artists such as Willie Nelson and The Chicks, as well as providing samples for musicians ranging from Zac Brown to BTS. Some popular songs that attendees can expect to hear are “Life Is Beautiful” and “Will The Circle Be Unbroken.” Ticket information is available on the Paramount Theater’s website.
March 20-March 22: The Virginia Festival of the Book
While an exact location is yet to be set, bibliophiles should mark their calendars for the Virginia Festival of the Book which returns to Charlottesville this March. This annual event is comprised of writers and readers alike with the common goal of promoting books, reading and literary cultures to the community by making literature more accessible and approachable. This year’s theme is “Revolutions” in recognition of America’s 250th birthday, and will include a wide slate of authors and events that center around fiction, non-fiction, children’s literature and poetry. Check out their website for location and pricing announcements.
Charlottesville is rich in artistic programming and events, with many price-friendly and convenient options for students and community members alike. For anyone with a broad range of interests in the arts, Charlottesville has plenty of artistic offerings to satisfy everyone from hip-hop heads to Shakespeare aficionados and beyond this spring.
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