Count Basie

Attucks Events (pre-Festival)

A Tribute to Count Basie
Featuring the music of Frank Foster
with the Virginia Arts Festival Big Band

Iconic saxophonist, arranger, composer and band leader, Frank Foster began his relationship with the Count Basie Orchestra in 1953. His original works including “Shiny Stockings,” “Down for the Count,” and “Blues Backstage” were signature pieces for the Basie band. Hear Foster’s inventive arrangements and original works directed by John Toomey at this tribute to band master Count Basie.

Fri Feb 20, 2009 at 8 pm
Attucks Theatre, Norfolk
$20, student tickets $10
Call 800-982-ARTS or visit www.vafest.org for tickets.

Rhythm Live!

Rhythm Live!

Rhythm Live is a fully staged production outlining the evolution of Caribbean steelpan, and Calypso music. This colorful and rhythmically rich production is designed to captivate the young and the old with its high energy choreography and scintillating music. Come see members of the Rhythm Project’s All Stars and students from the Governors School perform in a blend of Caribbean music and African drumming and dance, sure to leave you wanting more.

Sat Feb 28, 8 pm
Attucks Theatre, Norfolk
$15, students under 25, $10
Call 1-800-982-ARTS for tickets. For information, call 757-282-2822.

Simone

Simone

She is her own woman, a singer, songwriter and performer whose ability to transcend genres echoes the tradition of her mother, musical icon and pioneer Nina Simone.  Blessed with a rich vocal range, an innate skill for lyrical interpretation, and a soul-deep understanding of music as a means of healing, empowerment and celebration, Simone is very much her mother’s daughter, but most assuredly a multi-talented artist in her own right.

Sat March 14, 8 pm
Attucks Theatre,
Tickets $20, students under 25, $10
Call 800-982-ARTS or visit www.vafest.org for tickets.

Gabriel Montero

Gabriela Montero

This virtuoso pianist brings a fascinating twist to her solo  concerts, launching into inspired flights of improvisation, delighting her audiences as they rediscover classic works  performed in a new way. Enjoy a classical concert unlike any you have ever experienced, performed by a “prodigiously gifted pianist” (The New York Times).

Tues April 14, 7:30 pm
Chrysler Museum Theater, Norfolk
$35
Call 800-982-ARTS or visit www.vafest.org to purchase tickets.

Brasil Guitar Trio

Brasil Guitar Duo

These master musicians are true guitar heroes: gliding  effortlessly from the intricacy of Bach to the brash sensuality of Gypsy jazz, dazzling with their virtuosity and range. Described as “simply outstanding” by Classical Guitar Magazine, this will be a unique musical experience.

Thurs April 23, 7:30 pm
Chrysler Museum Theater, Norfolk
$25
Call 800-982-ARTS or visit www.vafest.org to purchase tickets.

Liza

Liza Minnelli

An icon of stage and screen, Liza Minnelli has won virtually every major award, including an Oscar, three Tonys, two Golden Globes, a Grammy, and an Emmy. Surrender to an unstoppable force—a performer who commands the stage with irresistible musical style and sheer star power. Don’t miss your chance to see Liza, fresh from her triumphant Broadway engagement!

Fri April 24, 8 pm
Chrysler Hall, Norfolk
$150, Gold Circle, $95, $75, no discounts
Call 800-982-ARTS or visit www.vafest.org to purchase tickets.

CarlaCook

Carla Cook

with John Toomey Trio
This Grammy-nominated singer weaves jazz tapestries of music of all kinds, from R&B to Simon & Garfunkel, singing with “a richness and range that is beyond most of her contemporaries” (Chicago Sun-Times). “She can sing—really sing. Cook can  cook! (Time Magazine).

Sat April 25, 8 pm
Attucks Jazz Club, Norfolk
$20
Call 800-982-ARTS or visit www.vafest.org to purchase tickets.

Virginia Beer Festival

Beer Festival

Raise a glass to the great art of beer! Sample the brews of beermakers from across the United States as you enjoy live music, great food, and the great spring weather at the Nauticus Plaza on the Norfolk waterfront.

Sat April 25, 2-6 pm
Sun April 26, 2-6 pm
Nauticus Plaza, Norfolk
Beer Tasters (age 21+) $25 advance, $30 day of
Non-Tasters (age 13+) $15
Call 800-982-ARTS or visit www.vafest.org to purchase tickets.

Kronos Quartet

Kronos Quartet

Embark on a musical adventure with the ensemble that has transformed chamber music. Combining a singular artistic vision with a spirit of fearless exploration, the Grammy Award-winning Kronos Quartet has become one of the most celebrated and influential groups of our time. Past concerts have included such unconventional instruments as bowed water glasses and the Chinese pipa (lute), and the group is celebrated for its inspired collaborations with such diverse artists as David Bowie, DJ Spooky, and Joan Armatrading.

Sun April 26, 7 pm
NorVa, Norfolk
$20
Call 800-982-ARTS or visit www.vafest.org to purchase tickets.

Jerusalem Quartet

Jerusalem Quartet

One of the most exciting classical ensembles performing today, the Jerusalem quartet is in great demand around the world. Their critically acclaimed performances throughout Europe and the United States have brought rave reviews from critics and concertgoers alike. “Impassioned, richly coloured performances…subtly detailed, beautifully balanced, ardently played” (The Daily Telegraph, London).
Haydn ~ Quartet in C Major, Op. 33/3
Bartok ~ Quartet No. 4
Borodin ~ Quartet No. 2

Mon April 27, 7:30 pm
Ohef Sholom Temple, Norfolk
$30
Call 800-982-ARTS or visit www.vafest.org to purchase tickets.

2 | 3 | 4