Virginia Rep is among the top children's theatres in the nation in terms of scope of programming, geographic reach, and audience size, but our facilities have not been on par with this distinction... until now.

We have entered the serendipitous moment where preparation meets opportunity. After relinquishing our children's theatre space at Willow Lawn, and after months of careful planning and due diligence, we are embarking on a new path for the future of Virginia's children, families, and schools — the acquisition and renovation of VIRGINIA REP CENTER FOR ARTS AND EDUCATION, formerly the Scottish Rite Temple on Hermitage Road in Richmond.

With this project, Virginia Rep seeks to engage, inspire, and empower the next generation of leaders by establishing a nationally prominent center of excellence for our children's theatre productions, educational touring programs, and camps, classes, and workshops.

We invite you to take a look inside "Richmond's Kennedy Center" and join us on this exciting endeavor!

*Select 'Great Stages Campaign' from the Paypal dropdown menu.

Timeline

Great Stages will take place in three acts: Act 1 includes property acquisition, HVAC, and environmental improvements. Acts 2 and 3 will occur in the future and will include additional build-out, upgrades, and amenities. Ultimately, the facility will provide the opportunity for Virginia Rep to serve thousands of Virginia's children, families, and schools for decades to come.

Budget

$3.5 million - Purchase price
$0.4 million - Closing costs
$1.3 million - Immediate Renovations (HVAC, environmental improvements)
$5.2 million - Total Act 1 Campaign Goal

Facility Features

This landmark building has a long history as a performing arts venue, and it is the former home of the Richmond Children's Theatre. Virginia Rep is preserving this legacy and will be making it available to other local theatres, dance companies, schools, community nonprofits, and area arts and education organizations.

Space

• Three distinct performance areas — a 650-seat main auditorium and two smaller studio spaces — that allow for an increase in the number and diversity of performances
• Rehearsal space for our 18 annual tour productions that reach over 400,000 students and families
• Office space that allows our administrative, tour, and education staff to work together under one roof close to programs and rehearsals
• Room to double the number of camps, classes, and workshops currently offered

Safety

• Safe and secure drop-off and pick-up area for parents, patrons, and school buses
• A large lighted parking lot with 230 spaces, eliminating the need for street parking

Flexibility

• Multi-purpose, adaptable space that can be used concurrently for rehearsals, recording, classes, workshops, camps, readings, and more
• A full commercial kitchen and dining hall seating up to 450 people for special events, community gatherings, themed character meals, and school group lunches

Location

• Easy highway access from I-64 and I-95
• Located adjacent to the Bellevue neighborhood with close proximity to Bryan Park that allows for outdoor programming and new community partnerships
• Accessible by public transit on a GRTC bus line

Contact

For more information about the Great Stages Campaign, or to discuss naming gift opportunities, please contact Director of Development Emily Cole-Jones at (804) 783-1688 x1238.