Social distancing means the loss of so much in our lives - in particular enjoying RVA’s rich performing arts scene. However, amid the COVID-19 crisis, Central Virginia’s performing arts community is stepping up by providing online shows and virtual classes through social media. With so many show cancellations and refunds, they are also asking for community support. Below are a few local performances you can participate in from your living room.
Richmond Performing Arts Alliance (RPAA) announced their Legends at Home series featuring online performances from local artists every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at noon and 7 p.m, streaming live from the RPAA Facebook page.
Currently, SPARC offers a number of opportunities to engage with performing arts students. SPARC is one of the nation’s most comprehensive, community-based youth performing arts education organizations. Their Live Art program celebrates students with and without disabilities, and culminates each year in an award-winning, celebrity-studded, live performance to sell-out crowds at the Altria Theater.
Because SPARC cannot hold classes, rehearsals, or performances during the coronavirus pandemic, their resident teaching artists offer daily story time, dance lessons, warm-ups, acting exercises, easy crafts, yoga, and more through SPARC's social media channels on Facebook and Instagram.
Acting instructor Desirée sends out a challenge to her students to make a video of them doing something creative - like reciting a soliloquy, reading a poem, or turning music lyrics into a performance piece.
Like all performers and artists in Richmond and around the country, the call for social distancing comes at a price. Without ticket sales, local artists and arts organizations - many of which are nonprofits - will feel deep cuts in revenue. Look for performing artist support programs popping up in the region - as theater, music, and dance organizations ask for funds to give our local artists employment during this crisis.
If you want more online performing arts, check with your local favorite theater or stage group. Many already have plans for online performance or classes. You can also try the University of Richmond’s Modlin Center list of online performing arts. It’s a comprehensive list that highlights a more global view of our arts community. You’ll find everything from Josh Gad reading for kids to chamber music at the Lincoln Center, from Irish Repertory Theatre to NPR’s List of Live Virtual Concerts.
All the world’s a stage - stay in and enjoy it!
About the Author
Terry Menefee-Gau works in Education and Engagement for VPM. She has a rich background in the Richmond arts scene, as well as performing and writing for film & stage.
