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Cultural Events Bloom in Williamsburg This Spring

Visitors enjoying the lively arts festival in Williamsburg this spring.

News Summary

Williamsburg is bursting with life this spring, offering an array of theatrical performances, classical music concerts, and interactive theater. Notable highlights include a thought-provoking play, classical music by renowned artists, and a celebration of the Kimball Theater’s 90th anniversary. With events such as “Music of Star Wars” by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and memorable concerts by the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the rich cultural landscape of this historic city.

Exciting Arts and Cultural Events in Williamsburg This Spring

Spring is here, and so are a plethora of exciting arts and cultural events in beautiful Williamsburg. Whether you’re a theater aficionado, a music lover, or a fan of fine art, there’s something happening this season that is sure to tickle your fancy. So grab your calendars and get ready to mark down some dates!

Theatrical Delight at William & Mary

First up on the agenda is the highly anticipated play, “A New and Well-Ordered City,” which is set to take the stage at the Glenn Close Theatre in PBK Memorial Hall. Scheduled for Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, this play explores the fascinating interplay between urban planning fantasies and the realities of everyday city life.

Co-created by Bryan Schmidt, the play draws inspiration from Williamsburg’s rich history as one of colonial America’s first planned cities. It tackles themes of utopia versus the chaos of urban life, all while intriguing audiences with a creative narrative. Performances take place at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday and Saturday, with a matinee at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets can be snagged at wm.universitytickets.com/w/event. Don’t miss this chance to witness something truly original!

A Musical Evening with the Arts Quarter Music Series

If you love classical music, you’ll want to stop by W&M’s Comey Recital Hall on Friday evening. The Arts Quarter Music Series is proud to present renowned violinist Kevin McMahon alongside distinguished pianist Hamilton Tescarollo in a free concert starting at 7:30 p.m.

The program promises a delightful mix of pieces, including McMahon’s world premiere of “Rise” for unaccompanied violin, the beautiful Beethoven’s Sonata No. 4 in A minor, and Faure’s Sonata No. 1 in A major for violin and piano. Enjoy a night filled with enchanting melodies and impressive talent – and best of all, it’s free!

A Galaxy Far, Far Away with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra

Prepare to be transported to a galaxy far, far away on May 3 when the Virginia Symphony Orchestra presents “Music of Star Wars” at the Ferguson Center for the Arts, beginning at 7:30 p.m. It’s a fantastic opportunity for fans of the franchise and music lovers to enjoy iconic scores that have delighted audiences for generations.

On May 9, the VSO’s performance of Mahler’s Ninth Symphony promises to be a deeply moving experience, one that’s considered among the “greatest accomplishments of humanity.” Tickets for these amazing performances are available at virginiasymphony.org.

Concerts to Remember

The fun keeps rolling with the Virginia Arts Festival, featuring a concert with Tessa Lark, Edgar Meyer, and Joshua Roman on May 7 at W&M’s Concert Hall. Then, the world-renowned pianist Olga Kern will grace the stage with the Zemlinsky Quartet on May 21. These concerts are not to be missed!

Additionally, mark your calendars for the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra’s exciting “side-by-side” concert with the Williamsburg Youth Orchestra on May 4 at 4 p.m. at the Williamsburg Community Chapel. The WSO will also wrap up its season with “From the New World” on May 14, featuring R. Carlos Nakai and the world premiere of a piece by Dawn Avery. For choral enthusiasts, the Williamsburg Choral Guild presents Brahms’ Requiem on May 10 at 7:30 p.m. in W&M’s Music Arts Concert Hall. There’s truly something for everyone!

Opera and Interactive Theater

Fans of opera won’t want to miss “Madama Butterfly,” with performances on May 23, 25, and 27 at the Kimball Theater, led by the talented conductor Jorge Parodi. And for those who enjoy hands-on experiences, interactive live theater is available in Colonial Williamsburg daily through June 1, 2025, allowing visitors to witness historical events come to life.

90 Years of Kimball Theater

The Kimball Theater is also celebrating its 90th anniversary this year with a delightful series of events, performances, and nostalgic films. It’s a perfect way to reflect on the rich cultural history this venue has offered to the community.

With such a vibrant lineup of events kicking off this spring, Williamsburg is undoubtedly the place to be for arts and culture aficionados. Gather your friends and family, enjoy a night out, and embrace the thriving creative community right at your doorstep!