Celebrate arts and culture: 3 free shows at Norfolk’s Attucks Theatre
Enjoy three free performances at Norfolk’s historic Attucks Theatre, showcasing diverse cultural arts and celebrating community spirit this winter!
The historic Attucks Theatre in Norfolk is set to come alive this winter with a vibrant celebration of culture and performing arts. The venue, once known as “The Apollo of the South,” will host three free performances as part of the “Arts at the Attucks” series, bringing diverse local talent to the heart of the city.
Free cultural performances showcase local talent
Located at 1010 Church Street, the Attucks Theatre will present three distinct performances that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Norfolk and beyond. The series aims to make arts accessible to all community members through free admission and diverse programming. The schedule features:
- Ballet Virginia’s “Heart + Soul.” This tribute performance honors Norfolk’s own Lorraine Graves, a pioneering African American ballerina. The showcase will take place on Sunday, February 23 at 5 p.m.
- TRS Kids Performing Arts presents “This Joint is Jumpin’.” Set for Friday, March 7 at 6:30 p.m., this production takes audiences on a musical journey from the Harlem Renaissance through jazz’s golden age, featuring vibrant rhythms and soul-stirring melodies.
- Tidewater African Cultural Alliance’s “Afro MANIA: Ghana.” In partnership with the Norfolk Sister Cities Association Tema Committee, this March 8 celebration at noon will immerse attendees in Ghanaian culture through traditional dance, music, and arts.
A landmark venue’s continuing legacy
The Attucks Theatre holds special significance in Norfolk’s cultural landscape. Designed by Harvey Johnson, an African American architect, the theater opened its doors in 1919. During its heyday, the venue hosted legendary performers including Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, Mamie Smith, Nat King Cole, and Redd Foxx. The building honors Crispus Attucks, the first American to fall during the Revolutionary War.
After closing for several decades, the theatre received historic landmark status in 1977 and reopened in 2004. Today, it continues its mission of cultural enrichment through programs like “Arts at the Attucks,” supported by Norfolk Arts, Virginia Commission for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts.
No tickets or reservations are required for these free performances. Just visit www.norfolk.gov/artsattheattucks for more information.
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