Hampton Arts 2019-2020 Season Announce
There’s something for everyone at Hampton Arts! Coastal Virginia’s critically acclaimed cultural hub launches what promises to be the most dynamic and diverse season in its 32-year history.
Celebrating both the performing and the visual arts, more than 40 concerts, theatrical productions, dance performances and cultural conversations will grace the historic American Theatre stage, while The Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center will host a series of curated exhibitions and related programming.
“Every artist on our stage and in our galleries is a storyteller,” said Hampton Arts Artistic Director Richard M. Parison, Jr. “With or without words, their creative expressions evolve with a cultural urgency and resonance for audience members and our community. As part of our ongoing growth and diversity, our 32nd season includes two exciting additions. Conversations With… will bring a roster of national personalities to share up-close and intimate conversations with you on some of the most topical issues facing our nation and communities. Also new this season is Windows on the World, a series of multi-disciplinary performances that explores the global artistic influences that entertain and excite us right here at home.”
PREMIER PERFORMANCE
Tiffany
October 12, 2019
Legendary pop star Tiffany sounds even more amazing than she did when her single “I Think We’re Alone Now” hit #1 on the charts more than 30 years ago. Her self-titled debut album made her the youngest female artist to top the Billboard charts, and there’s been no looking back. To date, Tiffany has sold a staggering 15 million albums. Tiffany’s latest release, “Pieces of Me,” offers something for everyone, with nods to rock, electronic pop, and those soaring vocals for which she’s famous.
Harlem 100: A Harlem Renaissance Celebration
October 19, 2019
In celebration of its 100th anniversary, The Harlem Renaissance comes alive in a thrilling multi-media show that pays tribute to the sights and sounds of legendary artists that defined a generation. Created in collaboration with the National Jazz Museum, Harlem 100 brings to life the legendary songs and words of Fats Waller, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Langston Hughes, and others.
Smooth Jazz: Jeff Lorber
November 8, 2019
Trailblazing pianist, composer, producer and bandleader Jeff Lorber brings his groundbreaking contemporary jazz and funk to The American Theatre. After more than 40 years in the music industry, Lorber’s Grammy win for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album for Prototype affirmed his longstanding popularity among fans and critics alike.
David Sanborn
November 9, 2019
Acclaimed saxophonist David Sanborn brings his signature flair to The American Theatre to celebrate a career that has spanned more than six decades. With a genre-breaking style that simultaneously challenges the listener and goes straight to the heart, Sanborn has inspired countless other musicians, making an indelible impact on the music industry. This intimate evening brings together the David Sanborn Quintet to revel in the saxophonist’s musical mastery.
The Texas Tenors
November 16, 2019
The Texas Tenors are lassoing fans worldwide with their unique renditions of classic and contemporary songs. Since their first appearance in 2009, the Lone Star State sensations have become the most successful music group in the history of “America’s Got Talent.” Their global phenomenon continues to gain momentum with the release of their most recent albums, “Rise” and “A Collection of Broadway and American Classics” —both debuting at #1 on Billboard’s classical chart.
An Evening with Jane Monheit
November 30, 2019
Sung with sultry seduction, the Great American Songbook comes alive with Jane Monheit’s jazztinged vocals. Described as “a voice of phenomenal beauty and flexibility” by The New York Times, Monheit breathes new life into standards with fresh arrangements and an unmatched signature style.
A Debby Boone Christmas
December 7, 2019
Celebrate the season with three-time Grammy winner Debby Boone. This holiday concert celebrates the 30th anniversary of her album “Home For Christmas,” which includes “Silver Bells,” “Christmas Time is Here,” “White Christmas” and other yuletide favorites. Boone skyrocketed to the top of the charts in 1977 when “You Light Up My Life” became one of the biggest songs in history. It catapulted the singer into the spotlight, and she’s continued to sing and perform around the country throughout her 40-year career.
Christmas with the Nelsons
December 12, 2019
Third generation Matthew and Gunnar seamlessly weave together songs and stories from their showbiz family, along with their own chart-topping Billboard Christmas singles. This heart-warming multi-media live concert features quick humor, soaring sibling vocals and state-of-the-art big screen video that pays tribute to their legendary father, Ricky Nelson, as well as their grandparents Ozzie and Harriet.
The Soul and Spirit of Christmas with CeCe Winans
December 14, 2019
Winan’s recent album, Something’s Happening! A Christmas Album, packs plenty of familiar tunes, including “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and “Feliz Navidad” as well as five original songs by her Grammy Award-winning son Alvin Love III. The true meaning of Christmas comes alive onstage with Winans and her merry band of musical revelers!
Coastal Virginia Bluegrass and Brew Festival
January 24-26, 2020
In what has become one of the most anticipated events of the season, this jam-packed concert weekend also features Coastal Virginia’s award-winning craft beers and spirits — but this year there’s a twist. All three acts showcase the leading ladies of bluegrass, each making their unique mark in the music industry. This year’s line-up includes Rhonda Vincent, Summer Brooke & The Mountain Faith Band, and Ladies of the Crooked Road, along with tastings from six local breweries, cideries and distilleries.
Clowning Around with Avner the Eccentric
February 1, 2020
If anyone ever told Avner the Eccentric to stop clowning around, he didn’t listen! From Broadway to abroad, the comedian delivers laughs for the entire family. His latest show, Exceptions to Gravity, defies the barriers of language and culture — once again, breaking new ground as a master of physical comedy.
Linda Eder in Concert
February 29, 2020
From pop and standards to jazz and country, Eder has been enchanting audiences since she first burst onto the scene on the televised talent competition “Star Search.” Eighteen solo recordings later, she’s become a worldwide phenomenon. Eder’s latest album, “If You See Me,” pays tribute to Broadway and beyond, delivering her unique song interpretation of Rodgers and Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim, Frank Wildhorn, and more.
10,000 Maniacs
March 21, 2020
Get ready for an exhilarating evening of chart-topping hits! 10,000 Maniacs have been entertaining fans for nearly 40 years with their “proudly eclectic” style, and today tours with a six-piece line-up that’s sure to have audiences on their feet. From their early beginnings in Jamestown, New York, to sold-out concerts around the world, 10,000 Maniacs have always found inspiration just outside of the mainstream with songs like “These Are Days,” “Because the Night,” and “More Than This.”
A Night with Buddy Holly
April 4, 2020
Award-winning entertainer Robbie Limon brings Buddy Holly to life in an intimate portrayal of one of the forefathers of rock and roll. Framed as an insider’s look into band rehearsal for Holly’s 1959 “Winter Dance Party Tour,” Limon captures the essence of Holly in the height of his career through anecdotes and favorite hits by the singer songwriter.
Emily Asher's Garden Party
April 11, 2020
Forget the tea and scones and get ready for an evening of hot jazz! Known as a celebrated bandleader, trombonist and vocalist, Emily Asher leads a versatile musical ensemble down a garden path of jazz greats. Together, they draw from Louis Armstrong’s Hot Five and Duke Ellington’s sophisticated melodies to the soulful music of New Orleans brass bands. Asher has shared the stage with the likes of Tony Bennett and Chaka Khan, and has also produced four albums that run the gamut from jazz’s early days, imbuing classics with a fresh musical perspective.
WINDOWS ON THE WORLD
Cirque Mei
October 26, 2019
Performing traditional and contemporary Chinese circus acts, this global sensation delivers a kaleidoscope of heart-pounding athleticism and artistry. Audiences of all ages will marvel at hoop diving, collective bicycle skills, contortionists, ladder balancing, and more, as 40 of the world’s most elite circus artists and acrobats display their awe-inspiring talents.
Che Malambo
March 7, 2020
Inspired by the precision footwork, rhythmic stomping, drumming and song of the gaucho (South American cowboy), renowned choreographer Gilles Brinas transforms Malambo’s origin as a test of agility, strength and dexterity into a sexy and spectacular stage performance. Witness these cultural rituals come to life through zapeteo, the fast-paced footwork inspired by the rhythm of galloping horses; the drumming of traditional Argentine bombos; and whirling boleadoras, a throwing weapon made up of intertwined cords weighted with stones.
BROADWAY AT THE AMERICAN
Xanadu
November 2, 2019
Based on the cult movie starring Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly, audiences will instantly recognize Xanadu’s hit songs including “Magic” and “Don’t Walk Away.” This Tony-nominated musical stars Ginger Minj and Jinkx Monsoon from “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” and imagines what happens when a beautiful Greek muse descends upon Venice Beach to help a struggling artist open the first roller disco.
Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus Live!
November 22, 2019
John Gray’s best-selling relationship book springs from the page to the stage in this hilarious adaptation. But this live comedy show is much more than a book reading. Your guide for the evening shares his experiences after discovering Gray’s acclaimed theories with plenty of belly laughs along the way
Mrs. Krishnan's Party
February 7 & 8, 2020
New Zealand’s Indian Ink Theatre Company will transport you to the colorful world of Mrs. Krishnan — where anything can happen. This immersive theatrical event invites you to sit around Mrs. Krishnan’s dining table in the back room of Krishnan’s Dairy during Onam, the annual Hindu harvest festival. “We aim to make theatre that is beautiful, funny… and true,” says Indian Ink’s founders. “We go to the theater to be transported by a great story and to enjoy characters who live large in our imaginations.”
That Golden Girls Show! A Puppet Parody
February 15, 2020
Get ready for an evening of laughter, jazzercise, shoulder pads and clever one-liners as The Golden Girls take to the stage — as puppets! “That Golden Girls Show!” parodies favorite classic episodes, from Sophia’s get-rich-quick schemes and Rose’s tales from St. Olaf to Blanche’s insatiable hunt for men and Dorothy’s daily struggle to make sense of her life. Devoted fans will fondly remember our four girls from Miami. And for first-timers, it’s a joyful introduction to the brilliance of the television series.
God Help Us! A Political Comedy Starring Ed Asner
April 25 & 26, 2020
Inspired by today’s headlines, “God Help Us!” is a hilarious, unifying and thought-provoking snapshot of the current partisan landscape. Ed Asner (“Up,” “Elf,” “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”) stars in this brand new play, which dives into the epicenter of today’s polarizing politics with plenty of laughs along the way.
CONVERSATIONS WITH...
Donna Brazile
Octover 11, 2019
Want to hear how Washington works from someone who’s been on the inside? Don’t miss an evening with veteran political strategist Donna Brazile, former Chair of the Democratic National Committee and author of the New York Times bestseller Hacks: The Inside Story of the Break-Ins and Breakdowns That Put Donald Trump in the White House.
Rich Lowry
November 14, 2019
Are you ready to have your political beliefs challenged? National Review editor Rich Lowry is the man to do it. With humor and extensive knowledge, Lowry offers a vigorous enthusiasm for the precepts of American democracy, advocating for the tenants of conservatism with a new perspective, and serving as a voice of the younger conservative generation.
David Hogg
November 23, 2019
Hogg’s eloquent responses to the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School immediately placed him in the national and international media spotlight. Committed to becoming an agent for change, he resolved that no other young person should have to experience the tragic impact of gun violence. He joined with friends from high school to co-found March For Our Lives, now one of the world’s most massive youth-led movements.
Connie Schultz
January 16, 2020
Praised for providing “a voice for the underdog and underprivileged,” Pulitzer Prize winning columnist Connie Shultz isn’t afraid to speak her mind. Nor does she shy away from some of the hard-hitting topics that divide our nation. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, The Washington Post, Politico, and The Atlantic. Schultz’s groundbreaking series “The Burden of Innocence” earned her the Robert F. Kennedy Award for Social Justice Reporting, the National Headliner Award’s Best of Show and journalism awards from Harvard and Columbia universities.
THE LIGHTHOUSE
Hampton Roads Philharmonic
Mendelssohn's "Italian" Symphony
October 13, 2019
HRP’s seventh concert season begins with Mendelssohn’s joyous Symphony No. 4, inspired by the composer’s travels to Italy. Don’t miss your chance to enter the annual Golden Baton raffle, where one lucky winner will be chosen to guest conduct the orchestra in December!
Winter Classics and Holiday Favorites
December 8, 2019
Christmas bells are ringing and so much more when HRP brings to life beloved holiday, film and classical compositions — not to mention a special guest appearance by the Golden Baton raffle winner! You won’t want to miss this fan favorite program for the whole family.
Young Artist Competition Showcase
March 8, 2019
Winners from the fourth annual Young Artist Competition perform chosen selections of concertos and virtuosic showpieces with the orchestra. Be inspired by the best of the future generation of performers that Coastal Virginia has to offer!
Riddick Dance
Visions of the Protest
October 18, 2019
Collaborating choreographers David Riddick and Marshall Sweeney push the boundaries of contemporary choreography for an evening of visual storytelling through spoken word, dance and music. Drawing from iconic inspirations including Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin, Maya Angelou, Paul Robeson and others, Visions of the Protest is an emotional journey of the struggle for equality and a celebration of diverse voices.
Three Souls Unfiltered
April 17, 2020
Three explosive, choreographic works comprise this dynamic evening, each uniquely expressing topical subjects through movement. Alice Coltrane’s celestial music provides the soundtrack for ONE, a mixed media piece that explores themes of love, loss and forgiveness. Spoken word comes alive in The King Project, where sermons about humanity are reimagined through dance. The final piece, A Little Mo Moses sets to movement the musical genius of James Brown and the social dance scenes from the 80s.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
October 31, 2019
Audiences will time warp back to the 1970s and shimmy the night away to the voices of Magenta, Dr. Frank-N-Furter and Riff Raff on the Theatre’s silver screen. Dust off your gold sequin top hat for some harmless musical fun — a delightful spoof of Hollywood horror movies and Old Dark House melodramas! Featuring a live shadow cast performance by Fishnet Inc.
The Jazz Side of Aretha Franklin Featuring Desiree Roots
February 22, 2020
Aretha Franklin's impact on the jazz world inspires this intimate evening of some of the singer’s greatest hits. Award-winning singer and actress Desirée Roots brings this portion of Franklin’s songbook to life for a can’t miss evening of stories and standards. Roots is one of Coastal Virginia’s brightest talents, honoring Franklin while delivering her unique spin with a soaring vocal range and lush quality that celebrates this rarely heard portion of Franklin’s repertoire.
FAMILY FUN
'Twas the Night Before Christmas
November 30, 2019
Kick off the holidays with the charming musical adaptation of Clement Moore’s “A Visit From St. Nicholas”! It’s 1823 and Moore, along with a jubilant cast of characters, comes to life as he struggles to write a Christmas poem. Eventually, the loving and joyous images he conjures inspire the famous poem’s creation. Jolly Santa, reindeer on the roof, dancing sugarplums and other colorful characters bring this delightful story to the stage for a new generation. What better way to celebrate the season than with the giddy anticipation of Christmas morning? A Virginia Rep on Tour production.
Little Bread Hen
January 18, 2020
Inspired by the classic tale of The Little Red Hen, this Barefoot Puppets production reveals the truth about what really happened that fateful day when a chicken decided to bake a loaf of bread! Were the other farm animals just lazy or was there something else stewing in the barnyard? Journey to a small European bakery as we cook up the answers to these questions and more in this hilariously tasty retelling. Barefoot Puppets’ award-winning shows feature handcrafted puppets and original music and scenery. These reimagined tales pack plenty of interactive elements to keep the whole family laughing and clapping all morning long!
Town Mouse and Country Mouse
April 4, 2020
When fast-talking Town Mouse touts the abundant riches of the big city, Country Mouse is tempted to move there. Will all of the town’s offerings become irresistible or will Country Mouse feel the tug of a different kind of riches left behind? Watch this rock and roll hoedown musical and find out. Adapted from one of Aesop’s fables, this fun-filled reimagining reminds audiences of all ages to appreciate and value what they have in life. A Virginia Rep on Tour production.
CREATING WELLNESS
The Mystical Arts of Tibet
August 8-11, 2019
Personal reflection and inspiration comes to life as the Tibetan monks of Drepung Loseling Monastery return to create a sand-painted mandala, which is used as a tool for re-consecrating the earth and its inhabitants. As the mandala is created and then deconstructed, the sands are then taken to the water and from there it spreads throughout the world for planetary healing.
IN THE GALLERIES - The Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center
For more than 60 years the historic building in downtown Hampton served as the city’s library. Built by Mrs. Grace Taylor Armstrong in honor of her father, it was meticulously restored and renovated, opening in 1989 as The Charles H. Taylor Arts Center to showcase the work of artists from throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic region.
“Legacy and Stories” An exhibition in conjunction with the Hampton 1619 commemoration
July 30 – September 14, 2019
Hampton artists use their creative medium to present narratives, accounts, and anecdotes that are historical, biographical, or autobiographical in nature. From artist John J. Moore’s carved wood sculpture and dioramas depicting famous and infamous scenes that shaped African American history and culture to artist Anthony Hurt and artist, art educator, and musician Jackie Merritt who both bring their own unique stories and journeys into their creative expression.
2019 Virginia Artists Juried Exhibition
October 1 - November 23, 2019
This much anticipated, annual juried exhibition showcases the talents of many of Virginia’s finest artists and craftsmen. This exhibition features a $1,500 Best in Show prize; the David J. Levinson Photography Award for $1,000; the David and Sandra Hillerson Memorial Award for $500; as well as awards for First, Second, and Third Places and several awards of distinction in a variety of media. Artworks from all styles, genres, and media will be selected.
Sherman Watkins: Something for Everyone
Virginia Artists 2018 Best in Show Winner Sherman Watkins presents his solo exhibition, Something for Everyone, in the Annex Gallery. Watkins is an Air Force veteran and retired illustrator from the United States Air Force Space Shuttle Program. A Hampton resident born in Danville, Virginia, he began painting at the age of 15, has exhibited internationally, and has received countless awards.
Small Works
December 10, 2019 – January 18, 2020
Artists from around the Commonwealth and the region are invited to submit miniature and small artworks. Artworks in all media are represented, and the exhibition presents a wide range of styles, techniques, content, imagery and intent.
Hampton Holiday Fine Arts Bazaar
December 14-15, 2019
The opening of the “Small Works” exhibition will be accompanied by this two-day, fine arts bazaar featuring original, handmade works from artists around the region, where attendees can meet the artists and shop holiday gifts.
2020 Hampton Arts League Member Exhibition
February 1 – March 7, 2020
The diverse exhibition showcases the talented and unique artists who reside and work in Hampton Roads and support and advocate for The Charles H. Taylor and Hampton Arts.
Artists Who Teach 2020 and Ryan Muldowney: Interruptions
March 21 – April 25, 2020
Artists Who Teach is an annual exhibition that presents the artwork of our talented regional arts educators from the entire Coastal Virginia region – the Southside and the Peninsula. Artwork in all media are represented by current faculty at area schools and colleges.
Also presented is Artists Who Teach 2019 Best in Show winner Ryan Muldowney’s solo exhibition, Interruptions. Muldowney teaches painting, drawing, and printmaking at Tidewater Community College’s Visual Arts Center in Portsmouth.
“Materials” and Morgan Gilbreath
May 16 – June 30, 2020
This exhibition explores engaging artworks in a variety of media that impart the physicality of the materials used. Whether metal, glass, clay, wood, fiber or pigment, all these materials have intrinsic, exact qualities that are thrilling to explore, discover and push boundaries. “Materials” looks at tactile and compelling artworks, art-making processes, and how the various properties and possibilities of materials inform artists’ decisions to use them. Also included, in the Annex Gallery, is 2018 Virginia Glass Guild Exhibition Best in Show winner Morgan Gilbreath’s solo exhibition.
Sponsor Acknowledgement
Hampton Arts is proud to thank the following businesses, foundations, and sponsors who have helped support our programs on stage, in the classroom, in our galleries, and in our community.
Platinum Season Sponsors: Hampton Convention and Visitors Bureau, Virginia Media
Gold Season Sponsors: Holiday Inn Express at Coliseum Central, The Point at Phoebus, WHRO Public Media
Premier Performance Series Sponsor: Coliseum Central
Performance Sponsor: Jeff’s Flowers of Course
Magazine Media Sponsor: Coastal Virginia Magazine
Hampton Arts is supported in part by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and Art Works for The National Endowment for the Arts.
Season Subscription
FLEX-8 subscription consists of eight tickets to use in any combination with $5 discount per ticket.
Individual performance tickets are available on August 5, 2019, and may be purchased in person at The American Theatre Box Office or Hampton Coliseum Box Office. Subscription inquiries can be made in person or by phone at The American Theatre Box Office (757) 722-ARTS or Hampton Coliseum Box Office (757) 838-4203. Single Tickets may be ordered online after August 5, 2019 at Ticketmaster.com or by phone at 1-800-745-3000.