RVANews

5 Things

Susan Howson — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:00:18 +0000

Spring! SPRING! There is so much spring right now that I don’t know how we stand it. This weekend there are plenty of chances to go outside and spring it up all over town. Smell the tulips, eat the funnel cake, and watch your winter blues melt away. It’s April, y’all!

1. Tea and Tulips at Agecroft Hall

Listen. I have discovered what sounds like the perfect spring afternoon. Are you ready? Tea on the terrace at Agecroft Hall before a walk through their amazing gardens. That’s some frigging enchanting stuff right there. If you haven’t been to Agecroft (gasp!), now’s your chance to discover the Olde English magic (seriously, take a tour of the house, it’s really neat). And if you have been to Agecroft, well...then you know how delightful it would be to kick back on their terrace and destroy some Earl Grey.

Thurs. Apr. 4 • 5:30 - 7:00 PM
Agecroft Hall, 4305 Sulgrave Rd.
$10 for adults, $7 for students (advance payment required - call (804) 353-4241)

2. Black Girls at The Camel

Everyone I know who stumbles upon Black Girls¹ spends the next couple days talking about how amazing they are. Here are some actual quotes: “They’re super earnest. Everyone sings.” “It’s kind of like choral indie pop, but really weird and manic.” “They sure are enthusiastic.” Guys! Weird and manic? Let’s do this thing!

Fri. Apr. 5 • 9:00 PM
The Camel, 1621 W. Broad St.
$7

3. Fourth Annual Collegiate Regatta at Rocketts Landing

Regattas are so fun! Photo finishes, capsized boats (that never happens), and I love listening to coxswains yell at rowers. And I love typing that word “coxswains.” Coxswains. I’ll do it again. Coxswains. VCU hosts the fourth annual Collegiate Regatta at Rocketts Landing. There will be 11 races overall, featuring premiere rowing talent from colleges and universities all over the state. Bring your kids and teach them about sportsmanship! Lesson one: Every time you win something, throw a very small person into the water!

Sat. Apr. 6 • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Rocketts Landing, 5000 Old Osborne Tpke
Free!

4. G40 Art Summit 2012

Did you miss our piece on the G40 Summit? Why, we’ve never missed any of YOUR pieces! We’ll agree to let bygones be bygones if you promise to attend some G40 events. This celebration of lowbrow art by DC-based gallery Art Whino involves mural painting, art battles, weapon repurposing, and more. Check it out during Friday’s Art Walk and hit the reception on Saturday night.

Fri. Apr. 7 - Sat. Apr. 8 • see site for schedule
See site for locations (G40 Reception at 115 W. Broad St.)
Free!

5. Easter on Parade

Here’s how to explain Easter on Parade (known colloquially and misleadingly as The Easter Parade) to an out-of-towner: “OK, well, it’s a ton of people walking around aimlessly. Kind of milling about. Ambling, if you will. Many of them have dogs. Many of the dogs have hats. Many of the hats are covered in funnel cake sugar. Various vendors vend, various entertainers entertain, and sometimes there’s a petting zoo that’s a little awkward. It’s a tradition that we do every year, and we’ll keep doing it as long as we damn well please.” (Use the last sentence if they start looking skeptical when you get to “petting zoo.”)

Sun. Apr. 8 • 1:00 - 5:00 PM
Monument Ave., between Allen and Davis
Bring a dog in a costume, get in free (JK, it’s free for all)

— ∮∮∮ —

Footnotes

That’s a local band, by the way. I don’t know anyone who walks around tripping over African-American ladies. ↩

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5 Things

Susan Howson — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 10:00:43 +0000

A wise man once said, “When a film festival and a craft fair turn 20 on the same year that a huge behemoth of a race turns 13, we shall all have the best weekend ever.”

1. French Film Festival

I know what you’re thinking. “She’s going to start this with ‘Ooh la la! It’s time for the French Film Festival again!’” Well, you’re wrong. I started it with “I know what you’re thinking.” Ooh la la! It’s time for the French Film Festival again! And this time, it’s the TWENTY YEAR ANNIVERSARY. This collaboration between VCU and UR gives us the opportunity to watch a bunch of French films we would otherwise NEVER get to see in a theater. And as always, there are illuminating chats with actors and directors as well as other events to turn you into a sophisticated Francophile.

Thurs. Mar. 29 - Sun. April 1 • see site for times
Byrd Theatre, 2908 W. Cary St.
$15 for individual tickets, VIP passes start at $65

2. The Bizarre Bazaar

At my old job, people fought over taking a vacation day to go to the Bizarre Bazaar, so in my mind it’s the most amazing thing ever. And with 250 exhibitors peddling gifts for all your spring occasions (psst, Easter is earlier than you think it is this year), it’s kinda like being able to take a stroll around Etsy.com. This is not just another craft fair, it’s the Bizarre Bazaar. Interesting note: it is also their 20th anniversary, so you could make a weekend of it and plan to attend every event that is turning 20. Recapture the spirit of 1992!

Fri., Mar. 30 • 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Richmond Raceway Complex, 600 E. Laburnum Ave.
$7 for adults, $1.50 for kids

3. Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10k

This year, SportsBackers expects to herd 42.5 thousand through our fair city. If you’re participating in the 10k, you probably already know that by now. This message is for people who are not participating in the 10k: DO NOT DRIVE ANYWHERE ON SATURDAY MORNING. And don’t even THINK of trying to find parking. But! If you know someone who lives on the route, go over there really, really early and watch the spectacle. The nation’s 8th largest fully timed race spectacle, to be exact.

Sat. Mar. 31 • see site for wave details
...Monument Avenue?
$40 to race, free to watch

4. Slave Trail Tour

Let’s say you have some energy left after you run the 10K, and let’s say you feel like winding down with a leisurely yet educational stroll into our past. Warning: our past isn’t all that great, and we kind of messed up some basic human rights issues big time, but the more we learn about these things, the less likely we are to repeat them. Every American should hit the slave trail at least once in his or her life, and this weekend is your chance.

Sat. Mar. 31 • 2-4:30 PM
Ancarrow’s Landing
$5

5. Feast RVA

Creativity! It’s what’s for dinner! Mannnnn, I’m so pissed I didn’t think of that headline for our coverage of Feast RVA’s inaugural event. With two dinners under its belt and three projects partially or fully funded already, Feast RVA CANNOT and WILL NOT stop...until the food runs out. The April Feast will be provided by Nile Ethiopian Restaurant, and the funding for a creative project will be provided by you. Food, art, voting, being awesome...this sounds like it was made with you in mind.

Sun. Apr. 1 • 6:30 PM
Studio Two Three, 1617 W. Main St.
$25

5 Things

Susan Howson — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 10:00:39 +0000

Culture, cars, and commentators. If I were writing a paper about this weekend, that would be my title. Below are some high-falutin’ and some lower-falutin’ events for you to check out this weekend. They come highly recommended.

— ∮∮∮ —

1. Richmond Ballet’s Studio 3 (Ma Cong World Premiere and La Belle Danse by Jessica Lang)

Everyone’s all “Oh, RVA, you’re so good at tattooing and music and drinking PBRs by a river!” but what they should be saying is, “Oh, RVA, you’re so good at all of those things, and you’re also graceful as all get-out!” Richmond Ballet has some serious skills that have been recognized worldwide as...serious skills. And their Studio Series is a really breathtaking thing to see. Catch them this weekend and next as they premiere a new Ma Cong work as well as La Belle Danse by RB favorite, Jessica Lang.

Thurs. Mar. 22 - Sun. April. 1 • 6:30 PM
Richmond Ballet Studio Theatre, 407 E. Canal St.
$30 (opening night, feat. bonus talks with choreographers as well as a delicious reception - $75.00)

2. 2012 Virginia Motor Trend International Auto Show

Cars! Cars!! Cars 2!!! A lotta people love cars! We drive them, we wash them, we adorn them with stickers of Peeing Calvin. Get a sneak peek of major automakers’ newest innovations at the Virginia Motor Trend International Auto Show. You’ll see sweet rides from exotic sports car manufacturers as well as pre-production models from Ford, Chevy, and more. And bring those dang kids! They’ll like it!

Fri. Mar. 23 - Sat. Mar. 24 • 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM • Sun. Mar. 25 • 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 N. 3rd St.
$9 (adults), $5 (senior citizens and military), $3 (children 3-12), free! (children under 3)

3. Richmond Forum - Charles Krauthammer and Richard Reich

If you’re alive, you know that these days, conversation is rife with political controversy. It’s become totally acceptable to say things like “I wouldn’t be friends with a member of [a political party I don’t personally identify with].” Guys! This isn’t us! Remember? America? Melting pot? Since when are we all convinced that the other half of us are evil? Hear what celebrated political commentator Charles Krauthammer and former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich have to say about individual freedoms and their position in our society. What do we want? Something interesting to do on Saturday night! When do we want it? Um...Saturday night!

Sat. Mar. 24 • 8:00 PM
Landmark Theater, 6 N. Laurel St.
Here’s the thing. The Forum wants people to subscribe, so they don’t officially sell tickets to individual programs. But you can see if someone’s donated their subscriber ticket here.

4. Church Hill Irish Festival

Thought St. Paddy’s Day was over? THINK AGAIN! Church Hill brings it back year after year, one week later. “But...I just went to Shamrock the Block!” you say, dismayed. Well, sorry. Sorry for wanting you to have a good time. Sorry for delighting you with beer, food, and music. Guess we’ll cancel the whole thing because you’re “all funned out.”

Sat. Mar. 24 • 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Sun. Mar. 25 • 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Broad St. & 25th St., in front of St. Patrick’s Church
$2 donation to benefit all sorts of good causes

5. International Doula Week Richmond Film Festival

In the wake of all the hubbub about women’s reproductive rights, it may behoove you to round out your knowledge of the subject. Did you know that there is an entire community of birth professionals and concerned folks who provide a ton of resources for the soon-to-deliver? As many articles have recently pointed out, this information is important for both men and women to have under their belts (pun intended), as pregnancies, wanted or un-, have a fair amount to do with dudes. Attend the International Doula Week film festival and watch More Business of Being Born and DOULA! The Ultimate Birth Companion. You’ll leave with a lot more information than you had going in, which is something we could all say about babies, no?

Sun. Mar. 25 • 2:00 PM
Gallery 5, 200 W. Marshall St.
$10

— ∮∮∮ —

Bonus! Art Rodeo at Visual Arts Center

Making things with your own hands is one of the most satisfying things in the world, and it’s certainly easier than making something with someone else’s hands. Bring the family to the Visual Arts Center this Saturday for an Art Rodeo, where you’ll round up some cool projects like bookends, bandanas, sheriff stars, sheep, that sort of thing. You can chat with some talented artists and learn how to upcycle stuff around the house. Best of all, it’s expensive! JK! It’s free!

Sat. Mar. 24 • 1:30 - 3:30 PM
Visual Arts Center of Richmond, 1812 W. Main St.
Free! Although some projects cost $3.

5 Things

Susan Howson — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 10:00:10 +0000

Basketball shouldn't be the only thing on your mind this weekend. No, sir! It should be joined by a liberal dose of green beer! Our weekend plan has you starting off with a coin toss, coasting through puddles of bodily fluids, and kissing strangers. I believe a "You're welcome" is in order!

1. VCU vs. Wichita State

It's impossible not to be excited for those plucky Rams as they wreak havoc (SPORTS JOKE) on the NCAA tournament for the second year running. It's not 2011: The Sequel, as there's a different cast of characters, but the excitement brings the city together. It also brings the city to a screeching halt, so don't plan any Fan driving late Thursday evening, because a drunk guy in black and gold WILL be waiting to pound on your car hood with a sticky fist. As should we all. As should we all.

Thurs., Mar. 15 • 8:00 PM
Your local bar, couch, or kindly friend's house
However much a few beers costs these days

2. GWAR: Benefit for the Cory Smoot Family Fund

Something isn't right about actual tragedy striking GWAR, yet strike it did. Guitarist Cory Smoot, aka Flattus Maximus, was found dead of a heart attack last fall, leaving a widow and a yet-to-be-born child. Surviving band members don their terrifying masks at The National this Friday to honor his memory and raise a little cash for his family. Join Balsac the Jaws of Death, Beefcake the Mighty, and Snottus Fungoid (or whatever) for a celebration of how beautiful, fleeting, and all-out disgusting life can be.

Fri., Mar. 16 • 8:00 PM (doors at 7:00 PM)
The National, 708 E. Broad St.
$25

3. West End Comedy Downtown

I know this is counterintuitive, but West End Comedy will be coming Downtown. Repeat: you don't have to get on I-64 to enjoy some quality improv. Maybe you'll never have to get on I-64 ever again! Instead, enjoy ample parking and even ampler chuckling at a St. Paddy's Day celebration like no other. Mature audiences only, please.

Fri., Mar. 16 • 8:00 PM
Rhythm Hall at CenterStage, 600 E. Grace St.
$10

4. Shamrock the Block™

I've been to Ireland once or twice, and I COULD NOT STOP KISSING EVERYONE! What is with those kissable Irish!? JK that would be crazy and I would be arrested. Go crazy and maybe get arrested yourself at this year's Shamrock the Block™ in Shockoe Bottom. There's a bunch of bands, a bunch of beer, and lots of fun stuff for the whole family. Put on your greenest clothes and pucker up your lips and get going! I'll just be here putting ™ on everything! Erin go bragh!™

Sat., Mar. 17 • 12:00 - 6:00 PM
Shockoe Bottom
Free™

5. Elvis at 21: Photographs by Alfred Wertheimer at the VMFA

It's going to be a beautiful weekend for strolling contentedly in and around our beautiful art museum, wondering what it must have been like to be an impossibly good-looking and talented Elvis Presley at 21, with his whole life before him. Supposedly, Richmond photobombs some of the pictures in Wertheimer's 56-photo series. The King! In the King of Cities! Catch the last day of this exhibit this Sunday.

Through Sun., Mar. 18
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard
$8 for adults, $6 for seniors, free for members, children, and military personnel and families

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 11:00:52 +0000

Unless you've been nestled deep in a restful coma for the last few days, then you know that the VCU Rams are heading to the NCAA Tournament! Beating out Drexel in the CAA Championship game, the Rams are poised to take their skills back to "the Dance." It's unknown who VCU will play in the first round, but this weekend's Selection Sunday will give Rams fans the answer.

While VCU's tournament appearance is the most exciting thing to happen since Mayor's Jones's budget proposal (read: sarcasm), we don't have to suspend our lives on tenterhooks until the big announcement. There's loads of stuff to do. From mummies to ballet (sadly, no mummies performing ballet...maybe next week!) this weekend is going to kick you in the gonads with a foot-full of awesome!

1. Mummy: Secrets of the Tomb

What do you call a mummy who wins the lottery. A lucky stiff!. Why don't mummies have hobbies? Because they're too wrapped up in their work! The VMFA's "Mummy: Secrets of the Tomb" exhibit will conclude this Sunday. It focuses on a temple priest, Nesperennub, who lived 3,000 years ago. Not only will visitors get to see Nessie's mummy and coffin, but over 100 objects related to Egyptian society and funerary rituals. Cool stuff.

Exhibit ends Sun, Mar. 11th
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard
$12 - $15

2. Richmond Comedy Coalition: The Craigslist Show

Speaking of Egyptian culture, did you know that one of the oldest recorded jokes dates back to 1600 BCE and involves a pharaoh? It's this: How do you entertain a bored pharaoh? You sail a boatload of young women dressed only in fishing nets down the Nile and urge the pharaoh to go catch a fish! Wow. If that was passing for humor back then, no wonder human sacrifice was popular! Thankfully, we have no need for that in Richmond, as the Richmond Comedy Coalition has long made human sacrifice passé. Tonight (!) they are presenting an improvised event that deals only with the topic of Craigslist (a much better subject for humor than a boatload of women dressed in nets sailing down the Nile, don't you think?). These guys and gals are really funny, and I recommend them.

Thur., Mar. 8th • 8:30pm (doors at 8pm)
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall Street
$7 ($5 w/ a valid student ID)

3. Moscow Festival Ballet presents Swan Lake

If humor isn't your thing (and I can't blame you, laughing is such a waste of time, isn't it?), then make sure you head to the Moscow Festival Ballet presentation of Swan Lake because NO ONE will be laughing there. Swan Lake is no Coppélia (or Ghostbusters). It's about a young prince who tries to liberate a maiden from the spell that has been placed upon her by a sorcerer, one that has turned her into a...wait for it...SWAN. The Modlin Center has a track record of hosting übergreat performances, and this production of one of the greatest classical ballets is no exception.

Sun., Mar. 11th • 7:30pm
Modlin Center for the Arts, 28 Westhampton Way
$20 - $40

4. The Lemonheads

Have you seen the Anna Faris and Ryan Reynolds movie, Just Friends? If you haven't, you should! I just watched it again the other night with the gal I'm wiving and noticed a catchy tune in the soundtrack. It was the early 1990's hit by the Lemonheads, "Into Your Arms." As fate would have it, the band will be in town tomorrow to play at the Canal Club, for which tickets are still available. Here's an old performance of the band to get you into the mood:

http://youtu.be/ZNKPQ7ehV1w

Fri., Mar. 9th • 8pm
Canal Club, 1545 E. Cary Street
$15 - $17

5. Artisan Cafe

This Saturday you'll have an entire showroom consisting of up to 25 local artisans. Featuring wine vintners, clothing and jewelry designers, holistic and natural hair experts, and body care herbalists--you'll have a bevy of choices during this indoor lifestyle shopping affair. Local farmers and chefs will offer be on hand to offer organic, gourmet healthy food to sample and purchase. The Artisan Cafe says it does what it does for those who "honor distinction between the ordinary and the inimitable." I think Richmond knows inimitable pretty damn well, don't you?

Sat., Mar. 10th • 6pm - 10pm
Artspace Gallery, 0 E. 4th Street
FREE admission

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 11:00:23 +0000

Quite a week, uh? The Artist raked in a bunch of Oscars, and the state Senate passed a bill that requires all women who want an abortion to get an external ultrasound. No matter how you come down on any one of these issues, I think we can all get excited about a surfeit of awesome that’s headed to Richmond on the heels of the warm front that just pulled into town. From hot ball action in the CAA Tournament to a sexy beard-on-beard competition, this weekend is looking great for electric eccentricity in true Richmond fashion. 5 Things!

1. CAA Men’s Basketball Championship

Just look at these photos! Even a guy like myself who doesn’t know what a CAA is, can get amped about the CAA Tournament. VCU finished second in the conference after an impressive trouncing of George Mason last week, thus allowing them to bypass the first round and will face either Northwestern or William & Mary on Saturday. The CAA is no league of chumps, with Drexel, VCU, George Mason, and Old Dominion all viable contenders to win the CAA Championship and earn a spot in the NCAA Tournament. The games will be at the Richmond Coliseum, so plan your weekend trips accordingly in light of heavy traffic to be expected downtown. There’s also this handy guide with all you need to know, from tickets, parking, to where you can watch the games on television.

Fri., March 2nd - Mon., March 5th • various times
Richmond Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh Street
Various prices, click HERE for details

2. 36th Annual Richmond Home & Garden Show

If the hoopla about college hoops is lost on you, perhaps something a little more refined might be a better way to fill your weekend. Beginning tomorrow, the 36th Annual Richmond Home & Garden Show will kick off. With lectures on topics as varied as indoor gardening, seed knowledge, and even couponing, even the greenest of green thumbs will get something out of the three-day affair (spoiler alert: the first 200 ladies into the expo each day will receive a free pansy).

Fri., March 2nd - Sun., March 4th • all day
Richmond Raceway Complex, 600 E. Laburnum Avenue
$6 - $9

3. First Ever Mid-Atlantic Beard & Stache Competition

Beards! They are a definitely a thing, especially here in RVA. Whether you go for the kempt look or the I’m just plain ol’ bat shit-crazy vibe, beards are making a comeback in a big way. IFC airs a show devoted to beard competitions called Wisker Wars and beard competitions are sprouting all over the world. Being that Richmond is a cache of catchy-looking facial follicles, it makes sense that we have our own competition. This Saturday, the first ever Mid-Atlantic Beard & Stache Competition will take place at Strange Matter. Not only will you get to see some bitchin’ facial hair, but all proceeds go to benefit the Central Virginia Food Bank. Should be fun.

Sat., March 3rd •
Strange Matter, 929 W. Grace Street
$5 for admission ($10 to compete)

4. WRIR presents Japanther

Their name is Japanther. What more do you need to convince you to see them!?! Well, if you say so…

The band is a two-piece from New York City. They’ve been called “art-rock installation paratroopers” and “super hard, incredibly fast and overall inspiring.” WRIR is helping to bring them to Strange Matter for a performance Friday night. If you’re in the mood for a performance that will dazzle your eyes along with your ears, you should definitely go. Here’s a taste:

http://youtu.be/MJmn59mizGQ

Fri., March 2nd • 9pm
Strange Matter, 929 W. Grace Street
$7 (18+)

5. LolliPops: The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra

If fast art rock isn’t really your thing, being that you have kids and don’t feel it appropriate to escort them into Strange Matter on a Friday (or any other) night, you have at least one other music option. This Saturday, the Carpenter Theatre will feature a program that’s geared toward imparting orchestral appreciation to young ears. Using Benjamin Britten's The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra as a template, The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra will give kids (and probably a few adults) an entertaining survey of orchestral music. Relying on humor and storytelling rather than pedantic professing, this is a good way to learn a bit about music without being bored to tears.

Sat., March 3rd • 11am
Carpenter Theatre, 612 E. Grace Street
$12 - $17

photo by Fionnuala Bradley

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:00:01 +0000

Not only have Richmonders been keeping an eye on the legislation coming from the General Assembly, but it seems that the national media has as well. Proposed bills have been the subject of lampooning by Saturday Night Live and The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. If the idea of these laws passing makes you reach for the Pepto, then maybe a few pleasant distractions are in order. We have a great basketball game, a weekend-long wine drinking affair, and some...squash!?! These, plus more, constitute this week's installment of 5 Things.

1. VCU vs. George Mason

On Valentine's Day, VCU lost a proverbial heartbreaker against George Mason. A buzzer beater shot ruined the Rams' eleven-game win streak, and severely botched an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament. While the Rams can still make it in, they are going to have to prove their mettle in the rematch against a very talented George Mason squad. Being that these two teams are rivals (and two of the CAA's best) ESPN2 will carry the game should you not be able to make it to the Siegel Center.

Sat., Feb. 25 • 6pm
Siegel Center, 1111 W. Broad Street
Tickets are around $25, and the game will be on ESPN2

2. Virginia Wine Expo

While late February is typically a big cold mess of coldy coldness, temperatures near the sixties are far more autumn-like than the frigid farts of Old Man Winter. And what's one of the best things about autumn? Wine tastings! As it so happens, the Virginia Wine Expo is kicking off this Friday. Lasting through Sunday, the expo will feature wine from over 70 of Virginia's wineries. There will be an array of choices, from Sangiovese, Chianti, to Muscat (just don't expect this guy to have any f*#cking merlot). It's a great way to learn more about wine, to learn more about the people who make the wine, and (most importantly) to learn these things while drinking the wine.

Fri., Feb. 24 - Sun., Feb. 26 • all day
Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 N. 23rd Street
Tickets vary between $15 - $65

3. Squash Tournament

Squash! Is it a thing??? Turns out it is! It also turns out the Davenport North American Open is one of the featured events in the Professional Squash Association World Series. I'm not going to lie and say I know a lot about squash. Because I don't. However, I will direct your attention to the clip below that has an AMAZING rally between to players, followed by a John McEnroe-esque meltdown:

http://youtu.be/-GqU0gjv4Zc

Thru Sat., Feb. 25 • various times
The Westwood Club, 6200 West Club Lane
Tickets are $20 - $1,000

4. Eddie Griffin

Did you know that comedian Eddie Griffin has appeared in over 47 films AND performed on Dr. Dre's classic, The Chronic? Yeah, no joke. In 2004, Comedy Central named him one of the Top 100 greatest standup comedians of all time. He's going to be in town this Friday and Saturday performing four times. Tickets are still available, but you'll probably have to move fast to see him. Here's a taste (NSFW).

Fri., Feb. 24 - Sat., Feb. 25 • each day with an early and late evening show
Richmond Funny Bone, 11800 W. Broad Street
$30

5. Black Girls/No BS! Brass Band

One of Richmond's best local bands, Black Girls, is having a release show for their latest album, Hell Dragon. Not only are they playing, but local favorite No BS! Brass Band will also be joining the bill, along with White Laces, and the Trillions. If you're looking to get a pulse of what Richmond music can be (or you just want to have a good time), then this show is tailored for you.

Fri., Feb. 24 • 9pm
Kingdom, 10 Walnut Alley
$12

photo by Fionnuala Bradley

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:00:31 +0000

Have you seen Downton Abbey yet? Although I am quite content to sit down for a marathon viewing of British television, there's a lot of eclectic culture happening right here in RVA this weekend. Disney's Broadway production of The Lion King is finally in town, VCU tries to rebound from a unnerving loss to George Mason by facing off against Northern Iowa, and is there really a guy named "Stinky Cheese Man" coming to town? Here are this week's 5 Things!

1. Lion King

Back when I first heard that The Lion King was going to Broadway, I scoffed. But then I remembered: hey, Hakuna Matata, guy! The Lion King is the gift that keeps on giving. I mean, we have this mashup of Lil Wayne and the movie's theme song, and this deftly created spoof of The Dark Knight Rises trailer. The Lion King is both creative and a cash cow! The Broadway production is now in Richmond until March. This is a very popular production, so I advise that you snag tickets as soon as you can.

Feb. 15 - Mar. 11 • various times
Landmark Theater, 6 N. Laurel Street
$65 - $127

2. VCU Bracketbuster Game

Sigh. What a loss. The Rams were on an eleven-game winning streak before (barely) losing to the George Mason Patriots. However, VCU is looking to get back to their winning ways in their Bracketbuster matchup against a talented Northern Iowa team. The game is a big deal, and will be broadcasted on ESPN2. Tickets may still be available if you hurry.

Fri., Feb. 17 • 7pm
Siegel Center, 1111 W. Broad Street
Tickets are $25, game will be broadcasted on ESPN2

3. MIX International Short Film Festival

MIX stands for Moving Image Xchange, and it rewards short films throughout the world. This year's festival features over 20 represented countries, with filmmakers from Virginia, D.C., New York, Los Angeles, and more. Short films can be the starting point for future auteurs and lead to cinematic styles later adopted by mainstream filmmaking. Whether you're looking to see the next big director or just want to see quality films that cater to your short attention span, the short film fest is probably for you.

Fri., Feb. 17 - Sun., Feb. 19 • various times
Byrd Theatre, 2908 W. Cary Street
$7 each, $20 weekend pass, $15 Sunday awards ceremony

4. The Stinky Cheese Man

Back in the early 1990's, The Stink Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tails came out. To call it a hit would be an understatement. The book as been adapted into a playful play that should suit both kids and adults. It features tales about the Ugly Duckling growing up to become super fugly, Cinderella proving to be not so lady-like to Rumpelstiltskin, and more. Suggested for ages four and up.

Feb. 17 - Mar. 18 • various times
Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre (formerly Empire Theatre), 114 W. Broad St.
$11 - $18

5. Zest Fest

FeedMore (the umbrella organization for Central Virginia Food Bank, Meals on Wheels Serving Central Virginia, and the Community Kitchen) puts on a super duper classy event to raise money for their various feeding programs. Not only is it a good cause benefiting local organizations, but it also lets people sample dishes from the area's best chefs, as well as the best wine from Virginia wineries. They're also raffling away prizes like a Walt Disney World package, having a chef from Buckhead's prepare you a dinner in your home, plus others.

Sat., Feb. 18 • 6pm - 10pm
Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 N. 3rd Street
$150 per person, $1000 table for ten

photo by Fionnuala Bradley

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:00:22 +0000

Now that the Super Bowl has passed, the weekend is looking a lot more open than it did this time last week. If you over indulged in the (awesome) brutishness that is professional football and are looking to get aligned to a more refined, sophisticated center, then you are in luck. There are assorted theatrical productions featuring ballet, Vaudeville pleasantries, and even an expert will be in town to talk about some of mankind's history with alcohol...5 Things!

1. Richmond Ballet: Coppélia

Most people think of ballet as a snooty snob fest wherein painfully thin dancers flail their legs with psuedo-grace to the applause of a comatose crowd. No way, brah, ballet can be totes fun! Don't believe me? For exhibit 'A' I offer this: Coppélia. The plot features a toymaker who makes a lady doll. Kinda boring and Pinnochio-esque, I know, BUT the toymaker's lady friend, Swanilda, ain't about to let her man go, and so the hilarity ensues (I love when hilarity ensues!). Alright, I know the story doesn't sound like Anchorman, but this is actually a dang funny piece that's really well done by the Richmond Ballet.

Fri., Feb. 10th - Sun, Feb. 12th • 2pm and 7pm showtimes
Carpenter Theatre, 600 E. Grace Street
$17 - $127

2. "The Garden of Love" Valentine's Day Vaudeville Revue

If ballet isn't your stock-in-trade, perhaps some Vaudeville is up your alley. Awhile back I told you about how a local burlesque shows had been banned at the Canal Club. Now it seems that the Richmond Varietease has regrouped and is now operating under the name Ritz and Revelry. Inspired by Vaudville variety acts (which went on to inspire burlesque), Ritz and Revelry will be putting on a Valentine's Day-themed performance. Including Richmond's only dancing flapper duo, the Garter Snaps, acrobatic tap dancing, singing, and comedic antics, this show will be a great way to get you into the spirit of Valentine's Day before the 14th rolls around.

Sat., Feb. 11th • 7pm
Hippodrome Theater, 528 N. 2nd Street
$15 - $145

3. The Elephant Man

I remember being young and watching the David Lynch movie The Elephant Man, based on the life of John Merrick, with my dad. The film, which starred Anthony Hopkins, has one of the most tense and despairing scenes, involving Merrick being confronted at a train station by...less than hospitable people. This remarkable man and his remarkable story will be put on the stage by VCU's Department of Theatre. The Tony award-winning play explores Merrick's life in 1880's Victorian England, and how this highly-intelligent, sensitive, and artistic individual was incarcerated by his dysmorphia.

Opening Night: Fri., Feb. 10th • 7:30pm (runs through Feb. 19th)
W.E. Singleton Center for Performing Arts, 922 Park Avenue
$25 (students $10)

4. Uncorking the Past: Ancient Ales, Wines, and Extreme Beverages

Unfortunately, the VMFA has just informed me that this event has been sold out!

Writer and teacher Patrick McGovern is the author of a book that examines the history of humanity's pursuit for the perfect drink. He is also a pioneer in the new field of Biomolecular Archaeology and will be appearing at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts to lecture on some of the things that he's discovered from his extensive research. After his lecture, there will be a tasting of several brewskies from the Dogfish Head Brewery.

~~Fri., Feb. 10th • 6:3pm - 8pm~~
~~Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard~~
~~$50 (VMFA members $35)~~

5. Freak Love: A Valentine's Day Dance Party Benefit

If any, or all, of the above things seem a little too...meh for you, then perhaps I can titillate your fancy with a little dancing. Serving as a sort of laboratory for various night time fun, Balliceaux is offering a FREE dance night this coming Tuesday...Valentine's Day. While the event is assuredly cover-free, Balliceaux will be taking donations for the Richmond Reproductive Freedom Project. Even if the cause isn't your thing, you can still dance, drink, and dance some more with impunity--no matter if you are single or coupled this Valentine's Day.

Tues., Feb. 14th • 10:30pm
Balliceaux, 203 N. Lombardy
FREE

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:00:34 +0000

While many of us are still in a coma of outright shock because of the recent weather, it's time to rub our eyes clear of the sunshine and t-shirt temperatures. Why? Because the weather is going to get a bit colder (and rainy) over the next several days. Before you fret, there are a bunch of things going on that are very indoor-friendly. We've got a smoking-hot VCU basketball team, a cool film festival, and parties to help two organizations that help make Richmond stand out. Oh, yeah, and a whole slew of commercials will air this Sunday (with some football thrown in as filler)...5 Things!

1. VCU vs. Northeastern

Honestly, I don't know much about basketball, but what I do know is that VCU is on a great run. They've won their last seven games and are tied in the CAA for second place. This Saturday they take on Northeastern Huskies, who are 11-10 on the year. It looks like the Rams will continue their record-holding sell-out of the Siegel Center, so your best bet is to watch the game on ESPN3. Don't forget to read our on-going coverage, and make sure to follow @rvaRAMnews on Twitter to stay in the know.

Sat., Feb. 4th • 7pm
Siegel Center, 1111 W. Broad Street
Sold out, but will be broadcast on the Comcast Network

2. RVA Environmental Film Festival

Now, before you smirk and call this event a "hippie fest," just consider a few of the films that are showing at this year's festival. There's a documentary on the Earth Liberation Front that Variety said "has to be seen to be believed," one on how pollution is affecting the night sky, a retrospective of West Virginian town that Newsweek called a "devastating expose," plus many others. Spanning two days, the festival kicks off with the original cartoon production of The Lorax, which is perfect for the wee ones. Don't sleep on this festival, folks.

Sat., Feb. 4th - Sun., Feb. 5th • various showtimes
Byrd Theatre, 2908 W. Cary Street
$15 festival pass, individual programs are $5

3. WRIR's 7th "Party for the Rest of Us" Birthday

WRIR touts that the independent radio station is "radio for the rest of us." So why not throw down with a party for the rest of us too??? The independent radio station, an audio hub for news insight, music, and NPR broadcasts, will take over the Renaissance Conference Center and offer three rooms filled with DJ's, comedy, spoken word, hors d'oeuvres, and birthday cake! Money raised will benefit the indie station.

Fri., Feb. 3rd • 7pm
Renaissance Conference Center, 107 W. Broad Street
$10 suggested donation, benefits WRIR

4. River City Rollergirls - Dance Your Cookies Off!

The River City Rollergirls are an WFTDA-sanctioned flat track roller derby league (here's some footage). Started in 2006, the league features two teams: Poe's Punishers and The Uncivil Warriors. I went to a match a while back thinking it was going to be 'meh' at best. It was AWESOME. This Saturday they're putting on their first ever fundraiser. Think it's some hoity-toity affair? Think again! There will be dancing, a raffle to win River City apparel, a cookie bake sale, and costume contest. The event is all ages and there will be drinks provided, so bring your ID. Our roller derby league is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, so every little bit helps.

Sat., Feb. 4th • 8:30pm
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall Street
$5 cover

5. Superbowl at the National

I'm sure you already have plans for the Super Bowl, but if they include merely staying at home to nurse a beer (or seven) and eat pizza, maybe you should treat yourself a little? The National is opening its doors--free to the public. Watch the game on a 15' x 20' (that's feet people, not inches!) with a $300,000 sound system! Bitchin. There are also HD televisions scattered throughout the venue, and the venue will offer food and drink specials to boot.

Sun, Feb. 5th • 5pm
The National, 708 E. Broad Street
FREE

photo by Fionnuala Bradley

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:00:57 +0000

Oscar nominations were announced earlier this week, the annual event that reminds us of all the great movies we didn't see the previous year. Instead, we chose craptastic celluloid like this. If you're thinking the weekend will consist of screening Oscar-nominated films...THINK AGAIN! There's way too much cool stuff happening to waste away watching movie after movie after movie at home. For instance, a classic book many of us read in high school is getting a theatrical touch, Robert Redford makes the Civil War-era America suspenseful, and a modern cult classic revisits the Big Screen. This and more in this week's 5 Things!

1. "RACE: Are We So Different?" Exhibit Opens

Race. I know--it's a thing. Instead of tip-toeing around the issue, the Science Museum is meeting it head-on, launching a new exhibit that examines the many facets of race in America. It begins with a look at what current science tells us about why humans vary, and just how similar and different we truly are. It'll last until April. This Saturday's opening event features guest speakers. Included in museum admission.

Sat., Jan. 28 • All day
Science Museum of Richmond, 2500 W. Broad Street
Included with museum admittance, $5 - $11

2. Lord of the Flies

I remember reading William Golding's Lord of the Flies in high school. It was one of my first required school readings that not only did not suck, but that I actually enjoyed. Now the literary classic is getting the theatrical treatment. Here's a promo for the production:¹

http://youtu.be/SREsYxiDWss

Thur., Jan. 26 - Sat., Feb. 25 •
Henley Street Theatre, 2106A N. Hamilton Street
$15 (Martin's Bonuscard holders receive $5 off)

3. Civil War Cinema: The Conspirator

The 2011 Robert Redford film about Mary Surratt, the only female charged in the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, will rekindle Civil War cinema. It's a joint effort by the Museum of the Confederacy and the Byrd Theatre to educate, entertain, and to raise money for both organizations. Before the movie, there will be a champagne and chocolate reception and a Surratt biographer will give a short lecture. Here's the film's trailer (because I'm in such a trailer-showing mood!):

http://youtu.be/4LzovRI4zig

Sun., Jan. 29 • 1pm - 4pm
Byrd Theatre, 2908 W. Cary Street
$15 (students) - $25 (regular), includes reception, lecture, and film

4. 13th Virginia Dance Festival

Who doesn't like dancing (I mean, aside from this guy)? Just as in years past, the Virginia Dance Festival helps raise money for the Children's Hospital of Richmond. Performers from all over the state convene and give the public a taste of what they can do. This year's participants include: Crossroads Irish Dance Troupe, City Dance Theatre, Sound Movement Performing Arts Academy, and many, many others. I hope this lady is able to make it.

Sat., Jan. 28 • 3pm and 7pm
James River High School, 3700 James River Road, Midlothian
$10 - $12

5. The Big Lebowski

I don't roll on shabbos...Shut the f*ck up, Donny! Ah, The Big Lebowski. So many great lines of dialogue. So many great moments. While this movie is easy to own or rent, seeing it on the big screen with fellow Achievers ² is the way to properly experience it. While you won't be able to sit back with a White Russian like the Dude, you will be able to watch The Big Lebowski at Bow Tie Cinema for under $6.

Fri., Jan. 27 & Sat., Jan. 28 • 11:30pm
Bow Tie Cinema, 1301 N. Boulevard
$5.50

— ∮∮∮ —

Footnotes

although it's no The Dark Knight Rises trailer, amiright!?! ↩
what fans of the film are called (like Trekkers are to Star Trek) ↩

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 11:00:31 +0000

This week’s been topsy-turvy thus far. First we found out that Nate’s tacos are coming to Carytown, and then we had to deal with Wikipedia shutting down for a full twenty-four hours (I had to wait an entire day to find out the origins of the word Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious…the horror!!). Anyway, now that things seem to have rocked back onto an even keel, it’s time to brainstorm plans for the weekend. From basketball, to metal, to even a bit of opera, this weekend looks to be eclectic and electric. Here are 5 Things worth keeping in mind…

1. VCU Rams Basketball

The Rams have won two straight games (rather impressively, too) and are looking to continue their winning ways. They have not one, but TWO, upcoming games against CAA rivals--later tonight and then on Saturday. Taking a look at the CAA standings, it looks as though the Rams SHOULD win against William & Mary tonight. The big test, however, will come on Saturday against Old Dominion. If the Rams can win against the ODU squad, it will be a HUGE confidence boost and will show the CAA that VCU is still a powerhouse team, despite fielding a younger squad compared to last year’s Cinderella team.

The Siegel Center is sill selling out like crazy, so your best bet is to watch the games on television. Oh, and here you can find all of our Rams coverage, and be sure to follow @rvaRAMnews on Twitter to stay up to date during the games!

Thur., Jan. 19 & Sat., Jan. 21 • Both games begin at 8pm
Siegel Center, 1200 W. Broad St.
Thursday’s game will air on ESPNU; Saturday’s game will be on Comcast Sports Net

2. Lamb of God

Perhaps the most popular band to come out of Richmond, Lamb of God is touring to support their new album, Resolution, which will be released on January 24th. This Sunday, they’ll be back in town to play the National. Speaking of lambs, I can only hope that they will cover this childhood classic. Hey, a guy can dream, can’t he?

You can listen to a new track from Resolution here:

http://youtu.be/o-hn32fyic4

Sun., Jan. 22 • 7pm
The National, 708 E. Broad Street
$20 advance / $25 door

3. Vaudeville Galore

Burlesque? check. Circus acts? check. Comedy? check. Are you kidding me??? ALL OF THESE THINGS are awesome! If they don’t float your boat, you’re probably an Italian boat captain named Francesco Schettino (ah, snap!!!). Now, if you like all of the things mentioned above, then you’ll want to come out to Gallery5 to take in the debut of Vaudeville Galore. This new monthly event will feature a rotating cast of delightful characters to showcase what a powerhouse Richmond is at the cabaret arts. Definitely worth checking out.

Sat., Jan. 21 • Doors at 8pm, shows start at 9pm
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall Street
$8 - $15

4. “The King and I”

If Vaudeville isn’t quite your thing, and you prefer to dabble in classical forms of entertainment, then perhaps a new operatic production of the novel written by Margaret Landon, Anna and the King of Siam. The operatic form conveys…certain preconceptions, as this absolutely hilarious Billy Connolly bit showcases (NSFW). Doing away with the “syrupy, artificial operetta aura” that people typically think of when they think of operas, this production looks to be a modern, yet tasteful, vision. You have the chance to see two shows, one of Friday night, and the other on Sunday afternoon.

And, as it so happens, RVANews is giving away tickets to BOTH performances! Enter to win here.

Fri., Jan. 20 & Sun., Jan. 22 • 8pm & 2pm showtimes, respectively
Landmark Theater, 6 N. Laurel Street
$42 - $87

5. Black Girls

Our friend Chris Bopst, host of the weekly Bopst Show, keeps going on about a local band called Black Girls. Turns out, Black Girls will be playing a late set at Balliceaux on Friday, and being that they seem like a lot of fun, might be a good way to spend a Friday evening.

http://youtu.be/0h-3UzDY1GA

Fri., Jan. 20 • 10:30pm
Balliceaux, 203 N. Lombardy
$5

6. RVANews Beer Dinner

What’s this, you ask? I thought this was 5 Things??? Well, were so excited about this year’s annual beer dinner being held at the Roosevelt, we felt like we had to add a very special 6th thing!

Join us later this month for a four-course meal with a beer specifically paired with each course. Sounds good, right? Well what if I told you that it was only $45 to attend? Whoa dang, ya’ll. There’s only room for 45 people, so make sure you buy your tickets ASAP!

Sun., Jan. 22 • 6pm
The Roosevelt, 623 N. 25th Street
$45

photo by stopherjones

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:00:12 +0000

Who else is super excited about presidential primary season!?! Yeah, me neither. But don’t worry! While South Carolinians ready themselves for the polls next week, Richmonders are readying themselves to run wild in the streets. Why??? Because we are so AWESOME, that’s why! If you’re itching to do things this weekend, here are 5 Things that are ready to scratch you silly.

1. VCU vs. JMU

Despite a couple of recent losses to conference teams, the VCU men’s basketball team is by no means out of contention this early in the season. They’re a young team with players that could bust-out any game now. Later this evening, they will take on conference rivals JMU. The Rams are in need of a solid win against a fellow CAA team, and there’s no better place to do it than the Siegel Center. If you can’t make it to the game, you can watch all home games free online at ESPN 3. Tonight’s game will also be on ESPN-U (although, I’m not sure if the game will be on ESPN 8, aka ‘the ocho’).

Thur., Jan. 12 • 6pm
Siegel Center, 1200 W. Broad Street
$15 - $20 (student get in FREE). Watch on ESPN-U

2. Feast RVA

If you haven’t heard of RVA Feast, you probably want to take off your shoes…because I’m about to knock your socks off. The idea is simple: you donate $25. You then get to enjoy dinner and drinks while listening to short presentations by local people who try to win you over with their new ideas. You talk among the other attendees and then vote for the best locally-grown idea for the city. It’s a great way to have fun, and to help fund the next big thing in RVA.

Sun, Jan. 15 • 6:30pm
1708 Gallery, 319 W. Broad Street
$25

3. Friday Art & Wine at the VMFA

If you’re looking to impress a date (or you want to stoke the home fires a bit) then I recommend you take a look at the VMFA. Sure, it’s known for exhibits ranging in subjects from Elvis to whales, but the museum is also a good place to spend an early Friday evening. How so, you ask? Each week, they offer discounted beverages and free half-hour gallery tours at 7pm and 7:30pm. Get drunk and cultured!

Fri., Jan. 13 • 5pm - 8:30pm
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard
FREE to attend

4. West End Comedy Downtown

Did you know that some people in the West End are actually funny? Yeah, it’s a new one for me too. Turns out West End Comedy is a troupe of improv comedians. This Friday, they’re coming to downtown Richmond to perform their Who’s Line is it Anyway?-style show. Although funny, their show isn’t for the little ones.

Here’s an episode from their web series to give you a taste of their talents:

http://youtu.be/Gt04hYXW9AA

Fri., Jan. 13 • 8pm
CenterStage Comedy Club, 600 E. Grace Street
$10

5. Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates

Did you know that former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates gave up his government gig to become a full-time, one-man comedian that also smashed fruits at the end of his set, launching juicy entrails into the first several rows of his audience? Wait…I’m thinking about another guy.

Any who, the former Defense Secretary will be in town this weekend. The guy spent nearly 27 years as a CIA intelligence professional. He most recently served under both presidents Bush and Obama, and notably pushed for the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” While tickets are hard to come by at the Richmond Forum, there are a few available. He’s an interesting guy, which should make for an interesting forum.

Sat., Jan. 14 • 8pm
Richmond Forum, 6968 Forest Hill Avenue
$36 - $70

photo by billaday

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 11:00:20 +0000

I was recently overseas visiting Ireland for about a week. Among the many things that I learned (aside from the fact that Leprechauns don't exist, wtf???) was the origin of the Irish coffee. In the 1940's, the Irish Department of Defense built an airport in Shannon. Visiting American military, freezing from the lack of heat on their planes (and also the fact that Ireland isn't exactly Bermuda either), were served coffee with the addition of whiskey to help warm them up. These Americans then went home and told their buddies: "Hey, you gotta try this Irish coffee that they make over there!" Word traveled fast and now when you say "Irish coffee" throughout the world, people know what you're talking about.

Just because Richmond doesn't have its own claim to coffee fame (at least yet) that doesn't mean there isn't cool stuff happening around town. If you're into things that are a thing, then here is a weekly collection of things we call 5 Things.

1. First Fridays Art Walk

Alright, I know what you're thinking. Why the H-E- double hockey sticks would I want to walk around outside in the cold...when the effing sun is down!?! Try this reason on for size: This Friday marks the first First Fridays Art Walk of the new year. Just because it's cold doesn't mean that art hibernates, people. Gallery5 has new exhibits planned, and the usual surfeit of artful skill will be on display in the countless other galleries that is Richmond's Arts District. Drink some Irish coffee if you must, but make sure you don't miss out on this event.

Fri., Jan. 6 • 5pm - 9pm
Richmond Arts District
FREE

2. "My Fair Lady"

Now, you know a theater is old when the name is spelled with "theatre" and not "theater" (it seems that the latter didn't really hit it's stride in common language until the 1980s, IN CASE YOU WERE WONDERING). Way back in 1911, Richmond's Empire Theatre opened. That makes the Empire Theatre over 100 years old, people. Pygmalion, the play on which My Fair Lady is based, was written in 1912--100 years ago! The latest run of the famous play will end this Sunday. Watch a classic while sitting in a classic. If you haven't had a chance to see it, then run, don't walk, to get tickets.

Through Sun., Jan. 8 • various 2pm and 8pm showtimes
Empire Theatre, 114 W. Broad St.
$24 - $48

3. "Jezebel" with Bette Davis

Speaking of classics, the 1938 film Jezebel is regarded as having the first fully nude sex scene between a man and a woman in American cinema history. KIDDING! It's definitely a family-friendly film starring Bette Davis and Peter Fonda about "a haughty headstrong Southern Belle in Antebellum Louisiana loses her fiancé due to her stubborn vanity and pride and vows to get him back." You go, girlfriend! This classic will be this week's "Movies and Mimosas" special at Bow Tie. You can watch a movie while drinking a mimosa? The future is now, folks!

Sat., Jan. 7 - Sun., Jan. 8 • 11am
Bow Tie Movieland, 1301 N. Boulevard
$5.50

4. Elvis Birthday Celebration

I'm going to level with you. I think Elvis is kinda 'meh.' I mean, I get the whole "he was the first HUGE rockstar and helped define music for years, even well after his death" thing. I get it. What I don't get are the troves of people imitating him and wanting to be married by one of his look-alikes. Having said that, however, the Elvis-related event happening this Sunday is kinda cool.

As you may or may not know (or as you will come to find out in the next few seconds as I will explicitly tell you, wait for it...), the VMFA has the "Elvis at 21" exhibit now. Elvis's birthday just so happens to be this Sunday. To coordinate the two events, the VMFA will host Barbara Gray. Who the heck is that, you ask? Well. She's the woman in this famous 1956 photo taken by Alfred Wertheimer. No one, not even Wertheimer, knew who the woman was. The "mystery woman," as she was known, remained mysterious until 2011 when Vanity Fair exposed her to the world. Why did the King give her a smooch before heading on stage to perform? Barbara Gray speculates that "I was very thin and very stacked."

Sun., Jan. 8 • 1pm - 3pm
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard
FREE

5. GardenFest of Lights

Christmas is long gone and 2012 is in full swing. But just because the holiday season is a thing of the past doesn't mean that luminous decorations need to fall by the wayside. If you haven't had a chance to take in the sights at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden's GardenFest of Lights, I recommend that you do so. This coming Monday will be the last day to see half a million bulbs in strands that, if stretched out, would extend about 40 miles. Whoa dang, y'all. Whoa dang.

Through Mon, Jan. 9th • 5pm - 10pm
Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, 1800 Lakeside Avenue
$4 - $11

photo by jovino

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 13:38:09 +0000

I know *sniff* what you're thinking *sniff*. It's the last *sniff* 5 Things for 2011. It's been a great year for all...things...5 Things. And, although I'm sure 2012 will have even fivey-er and thingy-er 5 Things, we still have a duty to see 2011 through. So, without further ado, here are five totally awesome things on which to end 2011. Suit up!

1. New Year's Eve

You may think of me as being quite the jolly fellow, but one thing that I am not jolly about is New Year's Eve. It is the BIGGEST letdown of the year by far. Nothing ever goes well. Nothing. People build it up as being the most suspenseful, joyous time of the year, but it ends up looking more like this. But if you really want to venture out into the cold, heartless world that is humanity (OK, maybe I'm being a tad cynical) there's a host of cool ways to spend the New Year. Check out our New Year's Eve list of haps here.

Sat., Dec. 31 • All night, baby!
Various spots around town
Prices will vary

2. Harlem Globetrotters

Did you know that Henry Kissinger is an honorary Globetrotter? Such a strange world. Although Krusty the Clown may not be their biggest fan, the Harlem Globetrotters have actually been around since the 1920's in one form or another. The current team will be in town to dazzle us with how they handle their balls.

Thur., Dec. 29 • 7pm
Richmond Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh Street
$18 - $102

3. Capital City Kwanzaa Festival

Kwanza is a week-long celebration observed from December 26th - January 1st every year. This Saturday is a Kwanzaa Festival, featuring music, a candle lighting, and a whole bunch more.

Sat., Dec. 31 • 1pm - 9pm
The Showplace, 3000 Mechanicsville Turnpike
FREE - $7

4. ExtravaganzApocalypse

Just read this description for a moment: "It's an evening of Darwinism in Action, Poisonous Wit & Luscious Cabaret, followed by a full contact world circus music dance party hoedown." How awesome is THAT!?!

Ultimately, it's a combination of burlesque, circus arts, and music. Whether you have big plans for Saturday or not, this Friday night event sounds totes awesome.

Fri., Dec. 30 • 8pm
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall Street
$10 (18+)

5. Arena Racing

It's cold out, but you still want to see stupid-fast cars race one another. What do you do???? Take the action indoors! If getting crunked on New Year's Eve isn't your thing, and you're the type of person that likes fast cars, then you are in luck! A bunch of fast cars will be motoring around the Richmond Coliseum this Friday. Treat yourself to some raucous fun before you ring in the New Year!

Fri., Dec. 30 • 7:30pm
Richmond Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh Street
$11 - $20

photo by tangi_bertin

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 11:00:09 +0000

Buying gifts, wrapping gifts, baking, traveling—this week is a big bag of stress balls. If you do manage to catch some downtime and are looking for things to do, then get ready to do all of the things! We have dancing, a taste of the bizarre, Elvis, and an annual reminder that life is rather wonderful after all. It’s the 5 Things, pre-Christmas holiday super-spectacular mega awesome edition!

1. Holiday Guide

What is this, some kind of a joke, you say? You’re giving me a link to a guide list within a guide list? You bet I am! It’s not because I’m lazy (well, sorta…), but because I don’t want to overwhelm you with a bunch of holiday events. So. If you want to find out about the awesome lights at Lewis Ginter, or the hours and cost of ice skating downtown, plus more, head to the Holiday Guide—it’s a thing…within a thing!

Through Christmas • various times
All over RVA
Prices for events and activities vary

2. Elvis at 21

It seems that just about everyone has attempted an Elvis Presley impersonation at least once in their life. No matter if you’re a thin Elvis, fat Elvis, or non-Elvis fan, I think we can all appreciate that he was a musical and cultural icon, one of the first in the Television Age. 56 black-and-white photos taken by Alfred Wertheimer in 1956 will be on display at the VMFA starting on Christmas Eve and through January. Sadly, this photo won’t be one of them.

Opens Sat., Dec. 24 • regular hours
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts,
$5 - $8 (free for VMFA members)

3. Balliceaux Christmas Blowout with Amazing Ghost

I’m typically not a live music or a dance around a large number of other people kind of guy. The drinks are typically too few and the people far too many. However, with the stresses of looming holiday horrors nigh, I just might be inclined to give a dance party a try. The kind folks at Balliceaux are having a Christmas Blowout, which features, among other things, a tacky holiday sweater contest. Tacky sweaters AND dancing!?! The Ancient Romans would be sooo jealous.

Fri., Dec. 23 • 10pm
Balliceaux, 203 N. Lombardy Street
FREE (21+)

4. Bizarre Market Holiday

Did you remember to get Aunt Edna a gift? WHAT! You didn’t? Fret not forgetful fellow, there’s still time to get something cutesy and craftsy at the Bizarre Market Holiday! Head to Chop Suey in Carytown, go upstairs, pull the first Michael Chabon book that you see off the shelf and a secret door will open. Ok, not really. Just go upstairs and you will find a room filled with bizarry, awesomey stuff. It’s a good place to find rare holiday finds. Peruse the bookshelves when you’re done too, you know, because books are cool and stuff.

Thru Sat., Dec. 24 • Thur: 10am - 6pm, Fri. & Sat. 10am - 8pm
Chop Suey Books, 2913 W. Cary Street
FREE to enter

5. “It’s a Wonderful Life”

The 1946 Frank Capra film, while a ubiquitous component of Christmas now, was not uniformly loved at its release (The New Yorker disparaged the film). The movie met with reinvigorated interest in the 1970’s and 1980’s and boom it’s now up there with A Christmas Story for the all-time most watched Christmas celluloid. People love it this much. To get the original experience, the Byrd is showing the film for $2 on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Sat., Dec 24 - Sun., Dec. 25 • Sat: 7:15pm showtime ; Sun: 7:15pm & 9:45pm
Byrd Theatre, 2908 W. Cary Street
$2.00

photo by jeffesp0

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 11:00:30 +0000

What’s orange and sounds like a parrot? A carrot!

Did you hear about the fire at the circus? It was in tents!

While I may not be accepted into the Richmond Comedy Coalition anytime soon with that material, I could certainly watch one of the most successful modern comedians perform at the Landmark Theater tonight. Not only is there comedy to be had, but some Holiday events, a musical, and some titillating jazz. As the Buddha once said: be one with the 5 Things, and you will know enlightenment.

1. Jerry Seinfeld

What’s the deal with mega-successful comics returning to standup well after their prime? Seinfeld remains one of the most-watched, most-loved television sitcoms in history. Early shows featured Jerry (yeah, he and I are on a first name basis) performing his standup, the same standup that caught the eyes of NBC executives back in the late 1980’s. After years of staying rich while doing nothing, Jerry is back on the road performing stand up. He’ll be in town later this evening. Tickets are still available, but you’ll have to move fast.

Thur., Dec. 15 • 7pm
Landmark Theater, 6 N. Laurel St.
$47 - $77

2. Holiday Events

If you haven’t taken the kids to see Santa yet (but don’t take them to see this Santa), quit being such an indolent parent! The 75th Legendary Santa event is going on at the Children’s Museum. Let the little ones try to convince the almighty Bearded One that they haven’t been petulant nuisances all year long, and after they plead their case, head over to the Carpenter Theatre to see The Nutcracker.

Sat., Dec. 16 - Sun., Dec. 17 •
Various locations
Event prices vary

3. South Pacific

If you’re interested in treating yourself to something not Holidays-related, you might turn your attention to a musical at the Landmark Theater. Set on a tropical island during World War II, South Pacific is about the happiness of two couples being threatened by the (rather oxymoronically-named) Pacific War. Both the acting and the score will tug at your heart strings--plus it’ll get you out of the house!

Fri., Dec. 16 - Sat., Dec. 17 • Various times
Landmark Theater, 6 N. Laurel St.
$32.50 - $62.50

4. All That Jazz

If exposing yourself to the emotional hardships of war seems a bit too much for you, and you’d rather have other people doing the exposing, then All That Jazz may fit you just like Goldilocks’s last bowl of porridge. Richmond’s Voix De Ville Follies burlesque troupe will put on their last performance of the year, paying homage to the romantic Jazz Age with a performance inspired by the sounds of New Orleans and Chicago.

Sat., Dec. 17 • 8pm
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall St.
$10.50

5. A Year with Frog and Toad

Based on the books by Arnold Lobel, A Year with Frog and Toad follows the escapades of the cheerful Frog and the dyspeptic Toad through an entire year. Along the way they learn the important things in life: the importance of drinking liquor before beer, the limitations of an Austrian economic philosophy, and that diarrhea—when it has to be experienced—is best experienced at home. Kidding! Appropriate for children ages four and up.

Fri, Dec. 16 - Sun., Dec. 18 • Various times
Barksdale Theater, 1601 Willow Lawn Drive
$18 - $24

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 11:00:43 +0000

Hark. Do I hear angels singing? Yes! And they’re harmonizing to the Rob Halford version of “We Three Kings!” Another reason for their jovial incantations is that the weekend is nigh and, unlike the looming monstrosity that will be the Donald Trump-moderated presidential primary debate, it is a good thing! Speaking of good things, here are five of ‘em.

1. VCU vs. University of Richmond

Allow me to be forthcoming: I don’t know anything about college basketball. So, I have no fracking idea what the Black & Blue Classic is. That being said, I do know that it will feature both the VCU and UR mens basketball teams facing off at the Siegel Center. Tickets are sold out, but StubHub had a few floating around for upwards of $65 a ticket.

Too steep for your budget? Dont’ worry, ESPN 2 will carry the game. If you’d like some camaraderie, we recommend the following bars and restaurants to help you enjoy the game:

- Mulligans, the Fan
- Stella’s, Near West End
- City Limits, West End
- Bellytimber, the Fan
- Banditos, Museum District

Sat., Dec. 11 • 8pm
Siegel Center
Tickets are sold out, best bet is to watch the game on ESPN 2

2. Christmas events

If you haven’t checked it out yet, I recommend you take a moment and look at our Holiday Guide. One thing that we have in there that’s particularly appropriate for 5 Things is our “Things to do” list. If you mosey on over, you’ll find info on the RVA on Ice event, but more importantly, two events that are taking place this Saturday. The first is the James River Parade of Lights and the other is the 25th Annual Court End Christmas. Both events are worth checking out, so CHECK THEM OUT!

Sat., Dec. 10
Throughout RVA
FREE

3. Virginia Food and Wine Festival

If you feel you’ve been remiss in getting your Bacchanalia on, then this weekend you can kiss your remiss goodbye. Beginning in 2009, the holiday food and wine festival celebrates local wine and eats with sampling and speciality gifts for sale that will make any stocking more tasty for a loved one (maybe even yourself).

Sat., Dec. 10 • 12pm - 5pm
Farm Bureau Center at Meadow Event Park, off the Kings Dominion exit on 95
$12 ($6 for Farm Bureau Members)

4. Handel’s “Messiah”

While this is my favorite “Hallelujah” song, Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” is no slouch either. The latter song is one of the most famous parts of Handel’s “Messiah” oratorio. This Saturday, the Richmond Symphony (who are no slouches either) will be performing the musical accompaniment at the Carpenter Theatre. Put your copy of Jingle All the Way back on your DVD shelf, and do something with a little more class to celebrate the holidays people!

Sat., Dec. 10 • 7pm
Carpenter Theatre
$12 - $45

5. No BS! Brass Band

Can’t stand the holidays? Neither can I, nor my cat! Thankfully, there is a respite from all the tacky lights, the audio carnage that is Christmas music, and the capitalistic consumerism…the No BS! Brass Band! They’re going to be playing free Friday night and are (just like your mother) always a good time.

http://youtu.be/L-Q-P0sarRI

Fri., Dec. 9 • 10:30pm
Balliceaux, 203 Lombardy Street.
FREE

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 11:00:48 +0000

Richmond’s collective power bill is going into the stratosphere with both the Grand Illumination and the Poe Museum illumination this weekend, to say nothing of the Christmas lights that have, and still have yet to be, put up. Christmas season is in full swing, y’all, so let’s get to it!

1. Christmas Parade

Who doesn’t like a good parade? This Saturday marks the 28th annual Dominion Christmas Parade. This year’s Grand Marshall, Todd “Parney” Parnell, Vice President and COO of the Flying Squirrels. The parade will also feature local high school marching bands, dance troupes, floats, balloons, and even martial artists! Because we’re awesome, we have a guide that will tell you all that you need to know to enjoy the parade this weekend.

Sat., Dec. 3 • 10am - 12pm
Departs from the Science Museum on W. Broad Street, heading east to 7th Street
FREE

2. Grand Illumination

Did you know that Santa will be in town and he’s going to lead a historically-narrated canal cruise? Man, that dude does it ALL! Before that happens though, the Grand Illumination will kick off at 6pm sharp on Friday with lights galore. Afterwards, Santa and the Varina High School marching band will head down to the turning basin where they will perform. THEN Santa will take part in a canal cruise. This is one of the biggest holiday events in the city, that and it’s also free.

Fri., Dec. 2 • 6pm - 9pm
10th and E. Cary streets to the 17th Street Farmers Market
FREE

3. Poe Illumination

After you watch the illumination, head on over to the Poe Museum, as they’re going to get in on the whole “bright lights” action by illuminating the Enchanted Garden. Poe might have been a dark, lugubrious guy, but his garden is going to get lit up like an Alaskan aurora borealis! There will be special exhibits, activities, and music. Free food, cash bar, and very family friendly.

Fri., Dec. 2 • 6pm - 9pm
Poe Museum, 1914 E. Main Street
FREE

4. Bizarre Bazaar

Need to start Christmas shopping? Don’t worry. Over 500 exhibitors will be on hand from all over the country to take part in the Bizarre Bizaar. From gourmet food and cookbooks, fine linens, designer clothing, toys, crafts, furniture, artwork, and jewelry, if you need it then you’ll likely find it at the Bizarre Bazaar. It’ll only be around this weekend, so make sure you take advantage of such a highly concentrated conclave of all sorts of crafty Christmas goodies.

Thur., Dec. 1 - Sat., Dec. 3 (10am - 7pm) and Sun, Dec. 4 (10am - 5pm)
Richmond Raceway Complex, 600 E. Laburnum Avenue
$7

5. Michael Ian Black

If all this holiday hoopla is giving you a mental hernia, then I recommend you take in the cool comedy stylings of Michael Ian Black. You’ve seen him on VH1’s I Love the… TV series, the cult classic show The State, and the best movie EVER MADE, Wet Hot American Summer. He’ll be performing his stand up at the National. Here’s a taste:

http://youtu.be/euso64Utui0

Sat., Dec. 3 • 7pm
the National, 708 E. Broad Street
$20 (plus ticketing fees)

photo by iriskh

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 11:00:43 +0000

Whether it’s turkey, Tofurkey, or a Smörgåsbord of Thanksgiving fare, our food will be well-chewed come Thursday evening. With jaw muscles throbbing and bellies bulging, our comatose bodies will likely be laid across a sofa or bed—whichever is closest—for a good portion of the weekend. But don’t forget that you, like many people, will have a four-day weekend (unless you work for Best Buy). Do you really want to waste it sitting indoors for four days? Whether you want to treat visiting family, or treat yourself by being away from your family, this is a good weekend to do so.

1. Garden Fest of Lights Illumination at Lewis Ginter

Like bright, shiny things? Well, Lewis Ginter will have about, oh, a half-million lights, along with Christmas decorations, trains, family activities, and more beginning this Friday. That’s right: it will be a cornucopia of f-ing awesome Christmas stuff. If Christmas is indeed your thing, then this is a great place to start.

Fri., Nov. 25 - Mon., Jan. 9
Nightly, 5pm - 10pm
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
$4 - $11

2. Improv Comedy featuring Nate from Nate’s Taco Truck

If hanging out with your family in close quarters is decidedly not your thing, you may want to entertain the idea of getting your entertainment elsewhere. The fine folks of the Richmond Comedy Coalition are putting together another installment of their improv comedy event, Richmond Famous. Nationally recognized Nate of Nate’s Taco Truck fame will be on hand to supply improv comedians with true tales to inspire their hilarious performance.

Fri., Nov. 25 • 8:30pm
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall St.
$10 ($8 for students), includes one complimentary taco

3. Hansel and Gretel Opera

Let me say this right out of the chute: I just farted. No, wait! What I meant to say is that this Hansel and Gretel production is NOT a kid’s play. If you’re not an opera aficionado, this just might be a great place to test the opera waters to see if you can navigate its celestial, musical storm.

We have two tickets for the performance to give away, too!

Nov. 25 • 8pm
Carpenter Theatre, 6th and Grace streets
$29 - $107

4. Model Railroad Show

For whatever reason, it seems that every little boy loves him some trains. No, not these guys. I’m talking about the real deal here, people! Head to the Science Museum and watch model trains weave through little cities and detailed landscapes. While you’re there, learn about the science behind those model trains (and if learning and science aren’t your things, then just gawk at the awesome trains).

Fri., Nov. 25 - Sun., Nov. 27 • regular museum hours
Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W. Broad St.
Regular museum admission

5. Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Wed., Nov. 30 • 4pm & 8pm
Richmond Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh Street
$38.45 - $72.40

Like heavy metal guitars? Like Christmas? Then don’t walk—run—to next week’s performance at the Richmond Coliseum! I’m giving you a full week’s notice. There are two shows that day (4pm and 8pm) and if you want to get pumped for the holidays, there’s no better way to do it. If you’re unfamiliar with Trans-Siberian Orchestra, here’s a taste:

http://youtu.be/fh7Ku2CEjdo

photo by stevendepolo

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 11:00:57 +0000

Unless a spot has opened up on the lawn next door to Mayor Jones’s home, it seems that most of us are going to be on our own to come up with weekend plans. As it so happens we have a folk legend that will be in town, some mummy paraphernalia, a tattoo convention, and a…Johnny Cash look-alike?

1. Joan Baez

Did you know that Joan Baez dated Bob Dylan and Steve Jobs—AT THE SAME TIME??? I’m kidding (j/k, j/k). As you know, there is much more to Ms. Baez than her past beaus. She began her recording career in the 1960‘s when she became a folk star, lending her fame to civil rights and various social causes. One of America’s best writers, Joan Didion, wrote an article about Baez back titled “Where the Kissing Never Stops” (it’s quite interesting). She may not look it, but Baez is 70 years-old, and she’s STILL touring. She’ll be in town this Friday.

Fri., Nov. 18 • 7:30pm
Carpenter Theater at Richmond Center Stage, University of Richmond
$10 - $50

2. Mummy: Secrets of the Tomb

Over 100 objects are coming to town from the renowned Egyptian collection of the British Museum. And they’re all related to DEATH and BURIAL in Ancient Egypt! The exhibition opens with a 3-D film, narrated by Patrick Stewart, which shows the virtual unwrapping of Nesperennub’s mummy using the most advanced scanning technology currently available. Bitchin’. The exhibition kicks off this Saturday and will be in town until March.

Nov. 19 - Mar. 11 • Regular museum hours
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard
Free for VMFA members, $12 - $15 for everyone else

3. 47th Annual Richmond Craft and Design Show

Christmas is fast approaching, and I doubt that most of you have finished shopping (if even started). If you’re looking to give one-of-a-kind gifts, then I recommend the Craft and Design Show. There will be 60 preeminent artists represented in a variety of media: clay, wood, jewelry, metal, glass, mixed media, fiber, and wearable art. Not only will you find gifts for loved ones, but you even might find something for yourself while you’re at it. Ticket proceeds go to help the Visual Arts Center of Richmond.

Sat., Nov. 19 - Sun., Nov. 20 •
Science Museum of Virginia
$12 - $15, or $20 for a weekend pass

4. Richmond Tattoo Arts Festival

Did you know that Richmond is the third most tattooed city in the country? It's true. Take the number of tattoo shops in the city and divide that against Richmond’s population, and BAM, Richmond is a tattoo hotspot. Being that Richmond is known throughout the country as a tattoo town, the tattoo festival this weekend will bring out some of the best artists around. Even if you’re not tattooed, you can see some great artists, spectate tattoo contests, and hangout with some cool people.

Fri., Nov. 18 - Sun., Nov. 20 • 6pm
Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 N. 3rd Street
$20 for a day pass, $40 for a weekend pass, children under 12 are FREE

5. The Legend of Johnny Cash

Since 1985, Philip Bauer has been recreating the music and live performance of Johnny Cash. His show includes top hits "Get Rhythm," "Man in Black," "I Walk the Line," "Ring of Fire," and many others. If you’re a die-hard Cash fan, then I think I know what you’re doing this Saturday evening.

Here’s a clip of Bauer doing his thing:

http://youtu.be/y0JgIKFRf8I

Sat., Nov. 19 • 7pm
The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountain Road Glen Allen, VA 23060
$35

photo by Invisible Hour

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 11:00:23 +0000

We all know what the big news of the week as been thus far…Google+ now has brand pages!! Huzzah! Eventhough Google+ kinda sucks, we at RVANews have decided to help Google out by joining the service. We will singlehandedly catapult the G+ into stardom—a dome of stars!

Now, if you go to our Google+, you’ll see the following video of our Chairman Brando demonstrating his card-throwing prowess. Now if that display of Gambit-like skill doesn’t get you randy for the weekend, perhaps these events will tickle your fancy!

1. Richmond Marathon

Running? That’s still a thing!?! Well, I guess so, as the annual Richmond Marathon has broken registration records with over 16,000 people expected to participate. Dang. If you’re like me (superfluously handsome), you enjoy the occasional jog, but a full marathon, heck, even a half marathon strikes you as a rather strenuous physical undertaking. So perhaps watching is better suited for our ilk.

And even if you’re planning to neither run nor watch, be sure to check out our street closure map so you don’t get stuck while you’re out and about this weekend.

Sat., Nov. 12 • 7am - 3pm
Here’s a chart of street closures
Free to spectate

2. Bollywood Night

While running is definitely a thing, there is perhaps no bigger thing than Bollywood. Not even joking, y’all. What’s awesome about Bollywood is that when done right, it’s unabashed fun and catchy song after catchy song. Speaking of which, here’s a song that I’ve listened to on repeat for...oh, about fifty times now (not even kididing!).

http://youtu.be/For7OSMFpOs

CousCous is having a Bollywood-centric Saturday night. If you want to have some bollylicious Bollywood fun, I highly recommend going.

Sat., Nov. 12 • 10:30pm
CousCous, 900 W. Franklin St.
FREE

3. VCU Alternative Eats Tour

“Food: it doesn’t suck!” That’s my new motto that I wrote all by myself (screw you, Martin Agency). Not only does food not suck, but the food around the VCU/Fan area most definitely does not suck either. Remember: it’s going to be nice this weekend, and if running a bajillian miles doesn’t whet your appetite, perhaps a leisurely stroll around the VCU area while you taste some of the best food from some of the best chefs will rev your engines. Tastes from the Cellar Door (the only restaurant on Monument Ave.), Ipanema, Belly Timber, the Magpie, among others will be dished out in rather delectable and delicious quantities.

Sat., Nov. 12 • 2pm
Meet at the Cellar Door, 1600 Monument Avenue
$39 (plus a ticketing fee)

4. “The Spirituality and Ethics of Occupation”

We’ve been hearing a lot lately about the Occupy movement, especially here in Richmond. And while people are wont to discuss how they feel about the protestors quite unabashedly, argumentative tit-for-tats don’t get to the heart of the matter. Associate Professor of Religious Studies at VCU, Dr. Mark Wood, will give a talk about the social, spiritual, and ethical meaning of Occupation. Seems really cool.

Sun, Nov. 13 • 1pm
First Unitarian Universalist Church, 1000 Blanton Ave.
FREE

5. The National Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China

Based in Beijing, The National Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China was the first national performing arts troupe established by the Chinese government in 1950. The company also has a school with over 150 acrobat performers and over 500 students of all ages. While having performed all over the world, 2011 was the first time that the company the company toured the United States. This stuff will be quite amazing live. Here’s a taste:

http://youtu.be/uHTF5NpVajA

Tue., Nov. 15 • 7:30pm
Carpenter Theatre, Grace Street between 6th and 7th streets
$30 - $38

photo by Daran Kandasamy

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:00:33 +0000

People seemed to lose their proverbial shit after hearing that Katie Couric bought $300 shoes at Pink in Carytown. If that wasn’t big enough news, not only has Kim Kardashian split from her husband in record time, but Zooey Deschanel has separated from Death Cab for Cutie frontman, Ben Gibbard. Before you fling yourself from the rooftop of downtown’s SunTrust building, calm your self! Life will go on. To prove this point, here are five things that are happening in Richmond that that beg for your attention—with one event kicking off things later this evening.

1. Downtown Forum on Biking in RVA

After we won the bid to host the 2015 UCI World Cycling Championships and hired our first ever bicycle, pedestrian, and trails coordinator, it seems that Richmond has the momentum to propose and implement changes that will make it less like this and more like Denmark. Come out and hear what’s in the works for short-term and long-term development (case in point: did you know that VCU is working on a bike-share program?). Hear directly from the new bike coordinator, Jakob Helmboldt, and others. This event is free and open to the public.

Thur., Nov. 3 • 5:30pm
Virginia War Memorial, 621 Belvidere St.
FREE registration

2. Both Sides of Broad: The Art & Soul of Richmond

Unless you’re a hibernating bear, you’ve probably noticed that it’s gotten a bit chilly. If you’re like me, you can’t afford property somewhere on the Earth’s equator, so you’re stuck here for the duration of Old Man Winter’s chilly flatulence. One of the best ways to stay warm is by…eating! That’s right. Filling your belly with warm delicious goodness will make life A LOT more tolerable. Plus, it’s not bikini season, so who do you have to impress with a bangin’ body? This Friday afternoon marks another installment of the Both Sides of Broad food tour. Make your way through Monroe and Jackson wards as you stop by places such as Comfort, Thai Corner, Ettamae’s Cafe, Tarrant’s, Mama J’s, Perly’s, Nate’s Taco Truck Stop, and Lemaire at The Jefferson Hotel—get in ma’ bell-lay!

Fri., Nov. 4 • 2pm - 4:30pm
Meet at Linden Row Inn—100 E. Franklin St.—at 1:55pm
$39, plus a small ticketing fee. They are running a “Buy 1; get 1 free” ticket special

3. First Fridays Art Walk

Another First Fridays Art Walk is upon us! Dayuuuum. This very well might be the last art walk to attend before it gets cold as various unmentionable parts. As per usual, Broad Street east of Belvidere Street and west of 9th Street is the location for this month’s event.

Fri., Nov. 4 • 5pm - 9pm
Here’s a PDF map of the participating galleries
FREE

4. Screens 'n' Suds Presents: S 'n' S Original Print Show Opening

To go along with this month’s First Fridays event, there is an amazing art show taking place at Gallery5.

Screens 'n' Suds has been active raising money for the National MS Society and local charities through special events since 2009. This Friday, Gallery5 will host the Original Print Show Opening. Artists that will have one-of-a-kind art will include The Bungaloo, Scott Campbell, Doe-Eyed Design, DWITT, Brian Ewing, and many more. It’s free to attend, and proceeds raised from sold art will benefit charity.

Fri, Nov. 4 • 6pm - 10pm
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall St.
FREE

5. Richmond Burlesque Review

In August, I wrote an article about Richmond burlesque. Little did I know prior to writing that article just how big burlesque is in the state, and how Richmond serves as its epicenter. Despite not being able to perform in a near-perfect venue, Canal Club, burlesque has not slowed down. This Saturday, Gallery5 (when did this place become so f-ing awesome???) will host a burlesque show featuring both local favorites and rising stars. I really can’t speak enough to this—burlesque is not stripping, but a fun, entertaining art form that wows women (if not more...really!) and men alike. Take some time out with friends, or your significant other, wind down from Halloween, and have some fun this weekend.

Sat., Nov. 5 • 8pm - 11pm
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall St.
$10

photo by emilydickinsonridesabmx

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 10:00:50 +0000

Ah, yes. Halloween. The time of year when we humiliate our children for our amusement, and we have social permission to dress as a sexy <insert noun>. Oh! And don’t forget the PRANKS!!

http://youtu.be/lYOPvSY2lwU

There’s a lot going down this weekend, so let’s mosh through this monster mash.

1. Richmond Zombie Walk

For seven years the Richmond Zombie Walk has been grotesquely shambling about within the confines of the sometimes prissy and proper Carytown. Thankfully, this year will be no different! The annual zombie walk gets bigger each year, and this year could bring with it 800 reanimated corpses sauntering on the sidewalks of Cary Street. Not only is this event wholesomely ghoulish fun, it also raises money for the American Cancer Society.

Sat., Oct. 29 • around 2pm
Walk begins at the Kroger in Carytown
FREE

2. The RCC Must Die

Andrew Dice Clay may have killed comedy back in 1990. But now it’s time to kill off the Richmond Comedy Coalition. Watch as some of Richmond’s funniest people improvise an on-stage horror movie. Audience members are encouraged to dress up. The winner of the their costume contest will guest star in the improvised movie. C’mon. Let’s get NUTS!

Fri, Oct. 28 • 8:30pm (doors at 8pm)
Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall Street
$7 ($5 w/ a valid student ID)

3. Richmond’s Eerie Canal Boat Rides

You may think that there’s nothing scarier than being on a boat with T-Pain. But you would be wrong. To make things REALLY scary, you need to be on a boat in one of Richmond’s canals. Don’t think that this sounds scary? Well, how about if I tell you that while you travel down the Kanawha Canal a narrator will regale you with tales of Richmond’s haunted and spooky past? But if _even that_ doesn’t whet your appetite, how about this: free f-ing candy for the kids. Rides will depart every half hour.

Mon., Oct. 31 • 6pm - 9pm
Canal Turning Basin, Dock and 14th streets
FREE

4. Richmond International Wine Excursion

It seems that there are two components for adults celebrating Halloween: dressing up and getting tipsy. If the former doesn’t appeal to you but the latter certainly does, then perhaps you need to embark on an excursion into international wine. But do you think that there is only wine to taste? Oh, no, no, no. There will be tastings, yes, but there will also be luncheons and seminars. This event is becoming a big deal. Don’t sleep on it.

Fri, Oct. 28 - Sat., Oct. 29 •
Historic Tredegar, 490 Tredegar Street
Various ticket packages

5. Artist Talk: Tristin Lowe

Mocha Dick! No, it’s not some bizarre new Starbucks latte, it’s the big-assed whale sitting in the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts! The artist who created the very cool piece (which I have seen and I thought was very cool so I am not lying by saying it’s cool if THAT’S WHAT YOU WERE THINKING) will be giving a talk at the VMFA later tonight. Come listen to why and how he put this whale of a…whale together.

Thur., Oct. 27 • 7pm - 8pm
Leslie Clark Theater, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, 200 N. Boulevard
$8 (VMFA members $5)

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 10:00:11 +0000

I’ve been sick most of the week, so I’ve been rather ‘out of it’ of late. But now that the medication is parting my voluminous mucus like Moses did the Red Sea, I’m ready for some hot weekend action, y’all! There’s pop-punk, beautiful nighttime lights, some free-ass Shakespeare, fashion for a good cause, and some raunchy gourd on gourd action (that’s family appropriate). All this gets going tonight, so let’s get to it.

1. New Found Glory

Who says nothing good comes out of Florida? Formed in 1997, New Found Glory has been making catchy power chord progressions ever since. Their new album Radiosurgery came out last month, and they’re playing the National. There are still some tickets left, so get moving.

http://youtu.be/ZucieuIux4s

Fri., Oct. 21 • 6:30pm
The National, 708 E. Broad Street
$24.50 plus surcharges

2. 1708 Gallery 4th Annual InLight Richmond

The InLight event is one of the coolest visual spectacles that Richmond offers. All sorts of creative light concoctions emit amazing and lovely luminescence. This year, the event is being held along the James River. You can look at a map HERE (PDF). You’ll be able to vote for your favorite piece by texting ‘InLight’ and the number of the artwork to 30364. This is a very cool event. Don’t miss it.

Fri., Oct. 21 • 7pm
Tredegar Iron Works, 500 Tredegar Street
FREE

3. Bootleg Shakespeare

I know what you’re thinking: William Shakespeare…really? Some people like to showboat snobbery by saying (or pretending) that they enjoy the works of the witty Willy. But most people can also be downright afraid to say that they don’t understand his plays because his old, Fancy Shmancy language is so inaccessible to us nowadays. Well, dang it, his work is hard to understand. It really is. But the reason why it’s been around for soooo long because it’s soooo good.

To help make Willy’s work more interesting, Barksdale is putting on a free, ad hoc performance of Troilus & Cressida. Sixteen actors will have NO rehearsals. Free to watch, cash bar, and tasty desserts await. Make sure you get to Barksdale at 6pm this Saturday to get your tickets (no reservations taken and only 2 tickets per person).

Sat., Oct. 22 • 7:30pm
Barksdale Theatre at Willow Lawn, 1601 Willow Lawn Drive
FREE

4. Key to the Cure

Who says that fashion and the sartorial-minded must be vain? Case in point: Key to the Cure. While a $100 ticket may seem like a lot, this event is meant to benefit women’s cancer research at the VCU Massey Cancer Center. With your ticket, you’ll get to sample some fine food from some fine local restaurants, as well as watch a fashion show featuring cancer survivors and researchers as models of lab coats “imaginatively designed by local artists.” T-shirt will also be sold, with 100% of the purchase price going to the VCU Massey Cancer Center.

Thur., Oct. 20 • 6pm
Saks Fifth Avenue, Stony Point Fashion Park
$100 per person

5. Goblins and Gourds

Did you know that Richmond has its own Indigenous Gourd Orchestra? You didn’t? Have you been living under a rock??? This Sunday, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden is putting on a Goblins and Gourds event. There will be pumpkin painting, costumes, and whole bunch of other family fun.

Sun., Oct. 23 • 1pm - 4pm
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden,1800 Lakeside Avenue
Regular garden entrance fees apply

photo by Vasenka

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 10:00:31 +0000

OK. If you can take a minute to pull yourself away from iCloud and iOS 5 for just a few minutes, there are other things happening in the world, people! I have the run down of a really great weekend that’s shaping up. So, before our iPhone 4S’s arrive, and non-digital productivity ceases to exist, let’s take a moment, hold hands, and venture into the weekend TOGETHER.

1. Folk Festival

If you didn’t know that the Folk Festival was this weekend, you’ve probably been a resident of the International Space Station. There are over 30 musical acts from around the world that will be in Richmond this weekend to give us a taste of folk music from some of the most distant peoples and cultures. We have answers to your FAQ, bios of the performers, and a whole host of other Folk Festival articles do get you excited for this very awesome, and very FREE, event!

Fri., Oct. 14 - Sun., Oct. 16 • All Day
Various locations
FREE Admission

2. Fantoberfest

If folk music isn’t your thing, there’s still another awesome music event happening. Fantoberfest is a Microbrew and Music festival that will benefit Connor’s Heroes, a nonprofit with the aim of lessening the burdens of childhood cancer. Local and regional breweries such as Starr Hill, Legend, Devil's Backbone, Hardywood Park, Southern Tier, and more will be in attendance. There will also be food from Star-lite, Lady N'awlins, F.W. Sullivans, and DeLux.

Less than Jake and No BS! Brass Band will be among the bands playing, along with local groups Long Arms, The Gill, and Good Birds, among others.

Sat., Oct. 15 • 12pm - 10pm
2053 W. Broad Street
$12 in advance; $15 at the door

3. Nightmare on 3rd Street - River City Rollergirls Roller derby

If I was a girl, and I played roller derby, my name would be Nation Crushing and I would TOTALLY look like THIS!

I went to my first roller derby event roughly one year ago. The only reason I kick myself for that decision is that it took me so long to actually see an event in person! Richmond has some really amazing roller derby girls that put on one helluva show. This Saturday features a derby double header. The first match features the Uncivil Warriors vs. DC Rollergirls Capitol Offenders. The second match will be Poe’s Punishers vs. Boston B Party.

Sat., Oct. 15 • 6pm
Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 N. 3rd Street
$10 in advance; $12 at the door

4. Feast RVA

FEAST began in Brooklyn, and since 2009, the Brooklyn FEAST has raised over $15,000. Now, Feast is moving south.

This is a cool idea. Simply donate $25, have dinner and drinks, and listen to short presentations by local creatives who have ideas that they want to make happen. You then chat with these creatives, as well as other attendees. Then you vote for your favorite idea, and watch as your money helps reify that idea.

These events can really show how sound the creative pulse of Richmond truly is. You can also see--and fund--the next big idea while you are at it.

Fri., Oct. 14 • 7pm
Quirk Gallery, 311 W. Broad Street
Tickets are $25, and includes dinner

5. Belly Dance Brunch

If the idea of Sunday brunch, I dunno…bores the living hell out of you like it does me, and you need an injection of pizzaz to make the whole affair not suck so much, then I think some belly dancing is exactly what you need. While you eat your eggs and waffles, watch some first-class dancing of the bellies to help the food in your belly digest.

Sun., Oct. 16 • 12pm
Balliceaux, 203 N. Lombardy Street
$7

photo by the half-blood prince

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 10:00:32 +0000

The big news of the week is that Arrested Development is coming back for a ten-episode television series AND a feature film. Huzzah! The film likely won’t be released until 2013, so we have some time to kill. Now, if you’re looking to enjoy the cooler weather, this is looking to be a good weekend for you. We have the return of First Fridays, an awesomely creepy hayride, oysters galore, the best of Carytown, and a special day for the ladies.

1. First Fridays

We all know that First Fridays had a host of most unpleasant issues this past summer. After taking a hiatus in September, the Art Walk will be making a very welcome (and walkable) return to our weekends. With a new noise ordinance in place, along with the September respite to purge unruly teens, organizers are hoping that the October First Friday will return to its former glory. As with previous months, the event starts at 5pm and runs until 9pm. It looks to be pleasant walking weather for some art watching, so keep that in mind, too.

Fri., Oct. 7 • 5pm - 9pm
You can peruse a map of participating venues HERE
FREE

2. Creepy Hollow Hayride

You know what’s scary? The Count from Sesame Street CURSING LIKE A SAILOR! But do you know what’s REALLY scary???? The Creepy Hollow Hayride. Celebrating it’s 19th year (dang!), visitors can see first hand the devilish and diabolical horrors of Dr. Ulysses S. Farrington's experiments deep within the woods of the Hollow.

May not be (and probably isn’t) appropriate for small children. Or me, for that matter, because I’m a scaredy cat.

Fri., Oct. 7 - Sun., Oct. 9 • 7:30pm - 11pm (10pm on Sundays)
14435 Stone Horse Creek Road, Glen Allen, VA 23059
Tickets are between $15 - $29

3. Oystorberfest

You probably know that yours truly is a proud and committed vegan. And, although you may not care much, it is rather interesting to know that there is debate among vegans as to whether oysters are permissible entrées within the vegan diet. Personally, I think they look like syphilitic discharges from a geriatric rhinoceros (image). But to each his or her own!

For those who enjoy guzzling (slurping?) down oysters, you are in luck! St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church in Ginter Park will have, not only oysters, but brats, beers, bands, and a kids’ zone. All proceeds go to support the St. Thomas Outreach Programs.

Sat., Oct. 8 • noon - 6pm
St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church, 3602 Hawthorne Avenue, Richmond, VA 23222
FREE (although $2 donations are suggested)

4. Carytown Wine and Food Festival

Like Ginger Thai? How about Mezzanine? Nacho Mama’s? Weezie’s Kitchen? Of course you do. You’re not some culinary Luddite! This Sunday, some of Carytown’s best restaurants will open their doors, and some of Virginia’s best wineries will be in attendance to show off their goods and titillate your taste buds. With a projected high of 77 degrees and lots of sunshine, Sunday looks to be a great day to feast and drink like the Greek gods we all wish we were.

Sun., Oct. 9 • noon - 6pm
Carytown
$15 in advance ($20 at the door)

5. HCA Girl’s Day Out

HCA Virginia is holding it’s second annual Girl’s Day Out event at the Jefferson Hotel. With shopping, free health screenings, mini-seminars on a variety of health and wellness topics, this year’s event is going to be a must-attend for Richmond women. Although registration has ended, walk-up registration will be made available tomorrow beginning at 9am.

This year’s keynote speaker will be local author, Casey Quinlan, author of Cancer for Christmas: Making the Most of a Daunting Gift.

Fri., Oct. 29 • 9am - 3:30pm
Jefferson Hotel, 101 W. Franklin Street
$10 for Spirit of Women members, $20 for non-members

photo by XWRN

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 10:00:28 +0000

Football is a playin’, allergies are a menacin’, and the weather has been…really f-ing humid? While we may not be into the autumn frame of mind just yet, we are getting mighty close to the Fall (no, not this Fall, but this fall). This time of year is a big festival-laden cyst of all sorts of pus-rich viscosity (OK, maybe that wasn’t the best way of putting it). But no matter which analogy strikes you, we have some really f-ing fantastic S-word happening. Let’s get to it…

1. Virginia State Fair

Animals? Check Food? Check Rides that will make grandma puke so hard her dentures fall out? Check. The 2011 State Fair is happening...and it ain’t way up in northern Virginia! You can expect fireworks, a BMX stunt show, flying dogs, racing pigs, and exotic animals.

We're also giving away FREE tickets to this shindig. Simply fill out the form below:

Sep. 29 - Oct. 9 •
The Meadow Event Park, 13111 Dawn Blvd Doswell, VA 23047 (located off I-95 exit 98)
Tickets $7 - $15

2. 2nd Street Festival

The 2nd Street Festival is happening this weekend. Get stoked! You see, back in the day, 2nd Street was the hotspot for a vibrant African-American community (Richmond was called the “Harlem of the South,” after all), and what this festival aims to do is bring back the classic sense of community to historic Jackson Ward. There’s going to be a TON of food, live music, and things to keep the kids entertained.

Sat. and Sun., Oct. 1-2 • Saturday: Noon to 7 p.m. & Sunday: Noon to 6 p.m.
Jackson Ward
FREE admittance

3. Casablanca w/ live symphony

I’m going to level with you…I’ve NEVER seen Casablanca. Ever. I know, I know—only a truly terrible person would be remiss in seeing this cinematic classic. Well, not only do I want to experience this, what many consider to be a masterpiece, I want to do it in style. This Saturday at the Carpenter Theatre, we can watch the classic film with a LIVE accompaniment by the Richmond Symphony. Yeah, you read that correctly. Screw the 3D gimmick…we have a symphony playing along with a movie! Here’s looking at you, Richmond Symphony.

Sat., Oct. 1 • 8pm
Carpenter Theatre, 600 East Grace Street
Adult tickets are $18 - $76

4. Italian Street Festival

Parlo italiano? No? Very well. I guess we shall have to communicate in our lingua franca. But that’s just fine with me (I don’t remember much of my Italian classes anyway). Now, if your culinary experience with Italian food is limited to Papa John’s and Chef Boyardee…you need to quit being a Philistine. Italy is rife (RIFE) with history and heritage. One downside, though, is that Italy is SUPER expensive to visit. But that’s OK! This weekend brings with it the Italian Street Festival. Load up on some great food, events to keep the bambini at bay, and drink up the Italian wine, beer, and lemoncello.

Sat., Oct. 1 - Sun., Oct. 2 • Saturday: 11am - 8pm & Sunday: 11am - 6pm
Horticultural Gardens, Richmond Raceway Complex thru GATE 4
$5 for individual tickets, or a book of 6 for $25

5. They Might Be Giants

These guys have been around since 1982—the year I was BORN, y’all. Not many bands can claim that kind of longevity. They have released 15 albums in their career, so they will have no shortage of songs from which to choose when they play the National tonight. Get the weekend started right. Thumbs up, everybody, for rock n’ roll!

http://youtu.be/NAbZzdalZh4

Thur. Sep. 29 • 8pm
The National, 708 E. Broad St.
$26.50

photo by Jill Clardy

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 10:00:27 +0000

Ah, yes. It seems that we are vast approaching a whole new weekend. I will be moving into Church Hill, my first inner-Richmond living quarters that has been outside of the Fan and Museum District. Although I’m going to be busy moving box after box after box, that doesn’t mean you can’t go out and have a good time. We’ve got a little bit of Disney, cancer ka-powing, Belgium brew tasting, green thumbin’, and some free peace, love, and harmony.

1. Disney on Ice: Dare to Dream

Disney is trying it’s hand at adult content, with this X-rated musical on ice…

Ha. FOOLED YOU!

Disney is doing NO such thing, and this Dare to Dream production will feature wholesome family entertainment. Featuring Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen from The Princess and the Frog, this is sure-fire way to win some points with the kids. To make matters even MORE enticing, we’re giving away four FREE tickets! Simply fill out the form below to enter. All you have to do is swing by our office before 5pm on Friday to pick up your winnings.

- Thursday, Sept. 22 - 7pm
- Friday, Sept. 23 - 7pm
- Saturday, Sept. 24 - 11am & 3pm
- Sunday, Sept. 25 - 1pm & 5pm

See dates and times above
Richmond Coliseum, 601 E. Leigh Street
$16 - $79

2. Massey on the River

I think we can agree on two points: 1) having fun is great, and 2) cancer sucks. So why don’t we combine the two? That’s what Massey on the River is all about. In addition to supporting the Massey Cancer Center, there will be music, beverages, and dinner by Ukrops Homestyle Foods. Not only that, but there will be a silent auction, featuring such prizes as original art, spa packages, exotic vacations, and four tickets for VCU men's first 2011-2012 basketball game, and an autographed Final Four "Countdown to the Championship" poster. Oh, yeah!

Sat., Sep. 24 • 6pm - 10pm
Rock Bottom Island, 5995 River Rd.
$35 in advance, $45 at the door

3. Old Belgium Beer Tasting

With a population just over 500 million, and sharing a border with China, Belgium’s chief exports are wheat, diamonds, and dijon mustard. If you believed what you just read, then I recommend that you double down on your daily dose of smart pills, because only ONE of the factoids that I pompously put forward is actually accurate (care to guess which one it is?).

If thinking makes your head hurt (which is why I seldom partake in that fruitless intellectual exercise) then perhaps we can turn to something that unites both American and Belgian alike: beer. Needing a little pick-me-up, what better way than indulging in a liquid depressant! Later this evenin, Tobacco Co. will host a Belgium Beer tasting. Among the featured beers will be all three styles of Chimay—being that I don’t drink, I have NO idea what that means…but is sure SOUNDS cool! If Belgium beers aren’t your thing then bear in mind that regular Happy Hour goes from 3pm-9pm, which is mighty generous time frame to indulge in discounted libations.

Thur., Sep. 22 • 5:30pm
Tobacco Company Restaurant, E. Cary & South 12th streets
$20 per person

4. Go Green Virginia Garden Festival

If you forgot what rain looks like, prepare to get a fist full of it for the next several days. But don’t let that dissuade you from tending to your garden. Fall is actually a good time to plant and shrubs and bushes (garlic is great to plant in November!). So don’t write-off the autumn, folks. The expo will feature fall flowers for sale at great prices, and there will also be local VA growers will have perennials, flowering shrubs, and much more. Organizations and projects that support green living will be on hand to inspire and answer questions.

There will be food provided by Boka Taco Truck and Buzz & Ned’s Barbecue, and wine tasting by James River Cellar. There will also be wreath making, pumpkin painting, rabbits (and more) for the kids. At $3, this is perhaps no better way to spend a rainy Saturday.

Sat., Sep. 24 • 9am - 4pm
Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W. Broad Street
$3

5. Family Peace Festival

Alright, I’ve gotta be honest. The name for this festival is pretty gosh-darn hokey and twee. But, at least it’s FREE! Some of the intentions behind the event are rather noble:
* understand each other through art, music, devotions, dance, and other cultural expression
* promote self-esteem in children through age-appropriate activities
* encourage cooperation and collaboration among the diverse communities of Richmond

The festival is also inter-Faith, so Westboro Baptist Church members should probably not attend (maybe they should protest another Foo Fighters concert).

Sun., Sept. 25 • 11am - 5pm
Byrd Park, 600 S. Boulevard
FREE

5 Things

Nathan Cushing — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 10:00:18 +0000

The Squirrels have been kicking butt in the playoffs, and will be playing at the Diamond beginning tomorrow. Here’s the scoop on the team’s winning ways, and how you can get tickets to see them take it to the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

But if baseball is not your thing, fret not. There’s a slew of mad, wicked, and totes awesome events happening this weekend. So, what are we waiting for? Let’s get started…

1. 43rd Street Festival of the Arts

Who says art sucks??? PHILISTINES do, that’s who. Are YOU a Philistine? Of course not! This is Richmond. We’re art-savvy, art-conscious, and undeniably artfully art-centric. We’re also people who take great pleasure in knowing that the weekend looks as though it won’t surpass 80 degrees. Being that we share a love of art and nice weather, perhaps the Art gods are shining down on us as the 43rd Street Festival of the Arts takes place this Saturday. It’s FREE to enter, and there will be all sorts of vendors beckoning your very unPhilistine predilections.

Sat., Sep. 17 • 10am - 5pm
Forest Hill Avenue and 43rd Street
FREE

2. Church Hill Walking Tour

Later this month, yours truly will be moving to historic Church Hill. I’ve spent the last eight years living in either the Fan or Museum District, so this is going to be a minor culture shock. I’ve heard many people laud the oldest neighborhood in Richmond, so I’m very much looking forward to making the move. There is, however, one catch—I know NOTHING about Church Hill! But as luck would have it, there’s going to be a walking tour of the historic area: “Examine 19th century architecture and modern revitalization efforts in Richmond’s oldest intact neighborhood. Developed by Major William Mayo, Church Hill is home to St. John’s Church, where Patrick Henry made his famous speech, and the city’s largest number of antebellum structures.”

Bitchin’!

Sun., Sep. 18 • 2pm - 4pm
Meet at Patrick Henry Park across from St. John’s Church, E. Broad and 24th streets
$10

3. "When the Lights Go Out: Death, Sin and Slavery in Richmond" Walking Tour

WARNING: Subject matter may not be suitable for young children.

That’s not a misprint, folks. That’s for REALSIES! Who says walking tours have to be so painfully banal!?! C’mon, just read the description for the event:

Explore the capital city through the eyes of the citizens who braved the terrors and turmoil of Civil War. Hear first hand accounts of the horrors experienced at Libby Prison, Castle Thunder, and Belle Isle. Walk the streets that were once home to hospitals, brothels, and prisons to discover the sometimes gruesome fate that awaited soldiers when the battles were over.

Do I really need to hype this for you any more????

Sat., Sep. 17 • 10:30am - 12pm
1500 E. Main Street
$9 for non-members (includes Museum admission), free for members

4. Real Richmond Food Tour--Both Sides of Broad: The Art & Soul of Richmond

I know what you’re thinking, this week’s 5 Things contains an awful lot of walking-related events…well, get ready for another one!

If there’s one thing we tend to like more than walking, it’s eating. While leisurely walking 1.5 miles through historic Monroe and Jackson ward, sample some of the best (i.e. non-craptastic) restaurants that Richmond has to offer. And if you pork out, don’t worry about becoming a fatty—you can burn off the calories by walking!

Sat., Sep. 17 • 2pm - 4:30pm
Please gather inside Quirk Gallery (311 W. Broad St. Richmond VA 23220) at 1:50 p.m
Tickets are $39 with a small ticketing fee and can be purchased HERE

5. Strike Anywhere

This famous Richmond band will be performing a special acoustic set at the Camel tonight, and will feature Rob Huddleston of Anne Berretta. Rumor has it that a “special guest” will make an appearance later in the evening, too…

Here’s a taste:

http://youtu.be/bl_0eEtyRzc

Thur., Sep. 15 • 8pm
The Camel, 1621 W. Broad Street
$6

photo by woodleywonderworks