Events

This special exhibition will tell the stories of one of Newport News’ finest industries – shipbuilding. Highlighting this exhibition are the paintings of Thomas Skinner, as well as early photographs of the Newport News Shipyard (Northrop Grumman Newport News) and artifacts from the shipbuilding industry. The exhibition also features interactive activities and videos examining the art of shipbuilding. Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m.  Included in regular admission. Adults, $12; AAA members, military, students, $11; seniors, $10; children (6-12), $7.

This exhibit showcases unique items from the collection that are artistic, functional, or both. Expect to see a variety of items, from lighthouse lenses to bottles of rum, from stained glass windows to a medicine chest and ships in a bottle. Included in regular admission. Adults, $12; AAA members, military, students, $11; seniors, $10; children (6-12), $7. Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m.

The Hampton Roads Bird Club has monitored the bird population of Newport News Park since 1965. Join club volunteers in the Picnic Area I parking lot every first and third Sunday of the month for some early morning birding. Be prepared to car pool to several areas in the park. Beginners are welcome. Binoculars and field guides are recommended. Free. First and third Sunday each month.

Members of the Virginia Peninsula Astronomy/Stargazers (VPAS) will be on-site to share their knowledge of the evening skies. Drop by just after sunset for a glimpse of the night sky (weather permitting). Second and fourth Friday of each month. Free.

Enjoy a changing array of live music and activities. Light hors d’oeuvres. Included in regular admission. Adults, $7.50; seniors, students and active-duty military, AAA members, $6; children (6-12), $4. Third Thursday each month.

One of Hampton Roads most talented celebrities – architect, sculptor and artist. This exhibition will survey several decades of his extraordinary work. Included in regular admission. Adults, $7.50; seniors, students and active-duty military, AAA members, $6; children (6-12), $4. Free admission Tuesday from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Women of a New Tribe is a stunning national exhibition from noted award-winning photographer Jerry Taliaferro. The exhibit celebrates the physical and inner beauty of African- American women, presented in 1930s to 1940s fine art black-and-white glamour photography styles. In an effort to honor Peninsula African-American women, 24 local women were picked to be an addition to his normal exhibit. These women are celebrated for making a difference in the community. Tickets are available for purchase at the gallery on the day of admittance. Adults, $5; children, $3. Tuesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Leiber and Stoller, as much as anyone, virtually invented rock ‘n’ roll, and now their songs provide the basis for an electrifying entertainment that illuminates a golden age of American culture. In an idealized ‘50s setting, the classic themes of love won, lost and imagined blend with hilarious set-pieces and slice-of-life emotions. Featuring nearly 40 of the greatest songs ever recorded, Smokey Joe’s Café  isn't just great pop music – it's compelling musical theatre. Musical numbers include: “Stand By Me,” “On Broadway,” “Under The Boardwalk,” “Kansas City,” “Don Juan,” “Yakety Yak,” “Poison Ivy,” “Little Egypt,” “Spanish Harlem” and “I’m a Woman.” $15. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2:30 p.m.

Enjoy three different shows! Virginia Skies, an interactive program with a staff astronomer taking you on a tour of the current skies; The Art of the Hubble, exploring the stunning images taken by the Hubble Space Telescope and beyond and The Friendly Skies, an interactive introduction to astronomy for preschoolers. Members, $2 (without voucher); non-members, $4 plus museum admission: adults, $15; children (3-12), $12. (Wednesday to Sunday); Call for show information.

First Virginia exhibit of works by master illustrator and artist Charley Harper (1922-2007) whose life-long love of nature inspired his work. Harper was best-known for his highly stylized wildlife prints, posters and book illustrations. He called his style “minimal realism," capturing the essence of his subjects with the fewest possible visual elements. Using graphic shapes and bold colors, Harper distilled and simplified complex elements. His nature-oriented artwork is often contrasted with the realism of John James Audubon and the simplicity found in Inuit Art. Harper used many media in his artwork, though he is best-known for his serigraph prints. During his career, Harper illustrated numerous books, notably The Golden Book of Biology. He also created interpretive displays and “bio” posters for many nature-based organizations, including the National Park Service and the Cincinnati Zoo. The exhibit is built around the personal collection of Museum Executive Director Page Hayhurst and her family. Includes artwork by fifth grade students at Deer Park Elementary School, based on Charley Harper’s techniques. Hands-on art activities include tangrams, large puzzles, alphabet art table and rubbing stations.   Included in regular admission. Adults, $15; children (3-12), $12. Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m.

This exciting new musical about a group of students on a tour who meet past White House residents, including George Washington, is a special project with the White House Historical Association, staged by the Kennedy Center. Free.

Celebrated for its versatility, artistic excellence and thrilling performances, The London Philharmonic Orchestra has earned its place among the world’s most respected orchestras. Since its first performance in the Queen’s Hall in 1932 brought an ecstatic audience to its feet, this renowned ensemble has performed trail-blazing international tours and produced award-winning recordings with the world’s leading conductors. Under the baton of Maestro Jurowski, this promises to be a night to remember! The program will include: Shostakovich’s Five Fragments Op. 42 9'; Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G (Toradze) 21' and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 4 Op. 43 60'. $62 to $97.

An exciting day packed with hands-on activities will bring the Battle of Hampton Roads to life for home-school families and school groups during this 148th anniversary celebration of the historic clash of the ironclads. $5. Registration required; call 757-591-7743.  Adults, $12; AAA members, military, seniors, $11; students, $10; children (6-12), $7.

The most revered of classical ballets, Swan Lake tells the story of Odette, a princess turned into swan by an evil sorcerer's curse. Swan Lake is a perennial favorite to be enjoyed by all! New to the Ferguson Center, Coppélia is based on a story by E.T.A. Hoffmann about a dancing doll so life-like that Franz, the village swain, becomes so infatuated he sets aside his true heart’s desire. The Moscow Festival ballet was founded in 1989 by legendary principal Bolshoi Ballet dancer Sergei Radchenko. It brings together the classical elements of the great Bolshoi and Kirov Ballet companies within the framework of Russian classic ballet. $22 to $52. 2 p.m. (Swan Lake) and 8 p.m. (Coppélia)

Take a behind-the-scenes tour in one of the world's largest research bird collections. The tour will include dried study skins, skeletons, mounted birds and alcohol preserved samples dating back to the late 1800s. Some examples include extinct specimens of Passenger Pigeons and birds collected by John James Audubon and Teddy Roosevelt. Dr. Carla Dove will explain how this collection is used for current bird studies and the specialized work of the Feather Identification Lab to solve bird strike cases. Members, $40; non-members, $60. Advance registration required.

The Mariners’ Museum’s newest exhibition highlights the artistic talents of students from around the country and their interpretations of the Battle of Hampton Roads, between the USS Monitor and the CSS Virginia. The juried art show, “…To Our Children’s Children”: The Battle of Hampton Roads Juried Youth Art Exhibition, was open to students in three age categories: 4-7 years, 8-12 years, and 13-18 years. Each artist was allowed to submit up to three pieces. 125 entries, ranging from traditional oils, crayons and pencil drawings to collages, found objects and even marshmallows, were submitted for consideration. The winners in each category will be announced at an opening reception at 6 p.m. on March 5. Included in regular admission. Adults, $12; AAA members, military, students, $11; seniors, $10; children (6-12), $7. Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m.

Join The Mariners’ Museum and NOAA’s Monitor National Marine Sanctuary in observance of the 148th anniversary of the Battle of Hampton Roads, the backdrop of the famous clash between the ironclads USS Monitor and CSS Virginia. NOAA and Mariners’ staff will give informative lectures about the history of these revolutionary vessels as well as updates on recovery and conservation of the Monitor. Behind-the-scenes tours of the award-winning USS Monitor Center, living history demonstrations, music, and children’s activities will round out the day. Families can also sign up for a ditty-bag craft activity at an additional charge of $5 per participant. Advance registration suggested; call 757-591-7744. Included in regular admission. Adults, $12; AAA members, military, students, $11; seniors, $10; children (6-12), $7.

In January 1863, Grenville Weeks, who had served as surgeon on the USS Monitor, wrote that he hoped “the work of the Monitor [would] be remembered, and her story told to our children’s children.” In that spirit, and in commemoration of the 148th anniversary of the great clash of the ironclads, The Mariners’ Museum and NOAA’s Monitor National Marine Sanctuary are sponsoring a juried youth art competition. Opening reception, March 5, 6 p.m.  Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m.

Enjoy a free popcorn and a classic movie from the “Golden Age” of film the second Tuesday of every month. March’s film is The Wizard of Oz, starring Judy Garland, Ray Bolger, Jack Haley and Bert Lahr. $5.

Author Brian Haig, the son of Alexander Haig, secretary of state under President Ronald Reagan, and author of seven books will discuss his latest book, The Hunted. His first novel, Secret Sanction, was published in 2001, and became a national and Washington Post bestseller. Other books include Mortal Allies, The Kingmaker, Private Sector, Man in the Middle and The President’s Assassin. Secret Sanction has been optioned by Nicholas Cage’s production company for a motion picture. A book signing and reception will follow the talk. Brian Haig’s lecture is presented by the Friends of the Trible Library and the Friends of The Mariners' Museum Library. Free.

Sadie, the caterpillar, has ‘turned over a new leaf’ by starting classes at a brand new school. The only problem is that a bullying cockroach is working to ensure none of the bugs befriend her. Determined not to be made fun of, she befriends a very different ladybug and learns a valuable lesson….true beauty really does come from within! In becoming a butterfly, she soon realizes she has transformed much more than just herself. A Bright Star Children’s Theatre production. $7.

The internationally acclaimed brass quintet that is the Canadian Brass finds joy in playing music they love with good colleagues. That joy is instantly transmitted to audiences at performances resulting in a fun-filled atmosphere that has been one of the key ingredients in their “recipe” for longevity and sustained popularity. Joining the Brass for its performance is the acclaimed “Irish” tenor, John McDermott, for a “Trip Down Memory Lane: Songs of the Isles.” Don’t miss this pairing of two of the Center’s favorite artists. $37 to $52.

Since 1986, The Peking Acrobats have redefined acrobatics. They perform daring maneuvers, treacherous wire-walking, trick-cycling and precision tumbling. They defy gravity with amazing displays of contortion, flexibility and control. With astonishing juggling dexterity and incredible balancing feats, the envelope of human possibility is pushed to the limit. Traditional Chinese musicians and high-tech special effects coalesce with the music and awe-inspiring feats to create an exuberant entertainment event featuring all the excitement and festive pageantry of a Chinese Carnival! $22 to $42.

Join Michael Moore for a walk along portions of John B. Magruder’s main defensive line across the Peninsula visiting Fort Crafford, Lee’s Mill, Skiffes Creek Redoubt, Dam No. 1 and Yorktown. All tours leave from Lee Hall Mansion. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early. Bring a bag lunch, drink, and small cooler. You will be walking a lot; wear comfortable walking shoes. Sign up early; space is limited. $45. Advance reservations required; payment due by March 6.

Jesus Christ Superstar, the first masterpiece from the legendary writing team of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, exploded onto the scene in 1971 changing the world of musical theatre forever. With a score of amazing songs – “I Don’t Know How to Love Him,” “Hosanna,” “Everything’s Alright,” “What’s the Buzz,” “Superstar” and “Heaven on Their Mind,” this original groundbreaking production starring Ted Neeley in the title role is as relevant and timeless as ever. $42 to $65.