As many Hoos are aware, UVa is rich with a multitude of arts events happening across all artistic disciplines on any given weekend. From double-digit a cappella concerts every semester, to student theater productions, to musical concerts, there are almost too many events happening to keep track of them all. I enjoy taking advantage of the arts at UVa as much as I possibly can, and so here I've compiled a list of many of the arts events happening at UVa over the rest of the semester so that you, too, can indulge in the arts and feel cultured.
1. Mr Burns: A Post-Electric Play
One of the first events coming up, that began last weekend, is the Drama Department's production of Mr. Burns: A Post-Electric Play. If you missed it last weekend, definitely come out to see it this weekend. If you're looking for a very brief synopsis to entice you to attend, the play is essentially about a group of apocalypse survivors gathering to reflect on a particular episode of The Simpsons that applies to their situation, then translating those discussions into a theatrical spectacle. I have not seen this show yet, but the premise sounds very interesting to me and I always have faith in the high quality of Drama Department productions. Definitely try to see this if you have yet to experience the professional theatrical wonder that is the UVa Drama Department.
2. The Black Monologues
If you're looking for a production with a slightly different flavor than a mainstage Drama Department play, look no further than the Black Monologues, which are also continuing their performances into next weekend. These consist of black students at UVa reciting monologues on a variety of subjects and exercising their ability to speak passionately about subjects close to their hearts. This production is extremely popular at UVa, so popular in fact that all of the tickets are currently sold out. However, don't fret, because if you show up 20 minutes before one of the showings you could buy someone's unclaimed ticket. I have yet to attend a production of the Black Monologues at UVa due to scheduling conflicts, but it's definitely a bucket-list production for me during my time at UVa.
3. University Dance Club performance
If you'd like to take a break from intense dramas, consider attending the University Dance Club's Showcase that is also happening next weekend! I must confess that I have not really investigated the dance performance-scene during my time at UVa so far, but I danced all through high school and one of these days, I'll indulge in nostalgia and see a dance production. From what I've heard, these dance showcases are just as high in quality as any of the music or theater performances at UVa, so broaden your horizons and check this out!
4. First Year Players Presents: The Addams Family
Of course, what better way to combine dance and acting with singing than with a musical theater performance! If you're looking for a creepy, kooky, mysterious, and spooky good time, look no further than The Addams Family! This production of the hit Broadway musical is sure to brighten your day and instill in you a love for choreography and showtunes that you never knew was there. Hit up the SAB next Thursday-Sunday at 8 pm for an absolutely fabulous musical!
5. Academical Village People fall concert
It wouldn't be an article about the arts at UVa without mention of an a cappella group, so if you'd rather indulge in a night of singing without an accompanying pit orchestra, do not throw away your shot to attend AVP's fall concert next weekend, Christmas In July In November! Attending an AVP concert is definitely a must for any UVa student who enjoys feeling spiritually enlightened by a cappella. I know I always do.
6. Cavalier Symphony Orchestra concert
My involvements with theatrical and choral performances at UVa thus far has given me a deep appreciation for the magic of orchestras. Transport yourself to a magical world where violins, not violence, reign supreme, and attend their fall concert, Movie Music. If you love pop culture but aren't sure you love symphony orchestras, seeing this show is a wonderful way to dip your toe into the orchestral world.
7. Final Fridays
If you've never attended Final Fridays at the Fralin Museum of Art, you're seriously missing out. Not only on some really interesting art exhibits, but also on delicious snacks that include this heavenly bean dip... Though this event truly is about the art. It occurs on the last Friday of every month, in the late afternoon. Take a break from taking a break from the week and come out to this wonderful monthly event!
8. USingers holiday concerts
Every year, the University Singers perform two concerts in early December to usher in the holiday season with a lineup of festive musical selections, both classical and modern. These concerts are popular among students and the local Charlottesville community alike, so check out the UVa arts box office to reserve your ticket as soon as possible. Amidst confusion and turmoil, the USingers holiday concerts are perhaps two of the most uplifting events of the year. They epitomize joy, celebration, and unity.
9. Spectrum Theater Presents: Aida
To further satisfy your musical theater fix after seeing The Addams Family, check out this absolutely stunning production taking place in early December in the SAB. This production is of the musical Aida, written by Elton John and Tim Rice; it's not the opera of the same name. It also features many talented second-and-up years at UVa. Expand your musical theater horizons by seeing this striking, phenomenal show!
10. Lighting of the Lawn
Last but certainly not least on this list, we have Lighting of the Lawn. Affectionately known as "LOTL," this musical showcase/light show/lawn rager is a beloved tradition here at UVa. It happens right before finals begin, and is a wonderful way to let loose before stress fully kicks in. Not only are the performances festive, but the actual "lighting" portion of the evening is spectacular. Make sure you tap in to the Hoo deep inside you, if it hasn't fully risen yet, and attend this inspiring event in early December!
This list barely scratches the surface of all the fun, eclectic arts events happening around grounds throughout the rest of the semester, but use it as a starting point and see where that takes you. Engaging in the multitude of artsy events around grounds will surely brighten your semester!
