5 Things: Chinese films, stand-up comedy, classical music…and oh yeah, Valentine’s Day

Love is in the air. But so are a lot of other things this weekend!

February 11, 2016; 11:37 AM • by Rachel Marsh

1. ChinaFest

This month, good ol’ University of Richmond is helping to bridge the cultural gap between us and China. For four days, they’re bringing us discussions, films, and arts-related events about the culture of China. Perfect if you have a strong interest in China; even more perfect if you don’t actually know that much about it, but want to learn.

Thursday, February 11th – Sunday, February 14th • see site for schedule
Various spots on the University of Richmond campus • see site for schedule
Free!

2. The Ultimate 80’s Experience: The Legwarmers

Calling all material girls! Small town girls! City boys! People named Jack and Diane! Kick off your Sunday shoes and check out the Legwarmers, the greatest ’80s cover band to come to Richmond. They’ll be playing all of your favorite throwbacks, WHILE wearing headbands, studded belts, and leopard print pants; there’s just nothing like a man in tiny cutoff jorts encouraging you to whip it, whip it good. Anyway, I’m out of ’80s song references, so dust off your hair crimper (don’t be ashamed, I still have mine too) and go back in time to the boppiest era of music ever.

Friday, February 12th • 8:00 PM
The National, 708 E. Broad Street
$16

3. Classical Revolution RVA Presents: Immortal Beloved

When you hear “classical music,” does anyone else think it’s reserved for stuffy concerts and traditional musicians? Guys, it’s totally not like that. Classical Revolution RVA is, well, revolutionizing classical music in RVA. They’re removing all stereotypes and integrating classical music into local galleries, cafes, and even bars. This weekend, they’re presenting Immortal Beloved at the Byrd, a movie about Beethoven and his lover. A mysterious lover, in fact! Great for a Valentine’s Day date, or for a not Valentine’s Day date. Just a great thing to see for any reason.

Sunday, February 14th • 7:00 PM
The Byrd Theater, 2908 W. Cary Street
$5

4. Bill Engvall

If you enjoy fishing, beer, and deer hunting, you will like Bill Engvall. If you enjoy hearing jokes about fishing, beer, and deer hunting, you will love Bill Engvall. One of the members of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour, he’s coming to town to bring some hilarity-with-a-splash-of-southern-twang to Richmond.

Sunday, February 14th • 6:00 PM
Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel Street
$40-$60

5. Lovey Dovey Stuff!

‘Tis the weekend of romance. But the good news is, you can totally do all of these things with your friends instead. Or by yourself! It’s 2016, after all!

5a. Richmond Ballet: Romeo & Juliet

What says “romance” like true love divided by feuding families? Romeo & Juliet, the most romantic love story of all, obviously! Romeo & Juliet will be showing all weekend to get your emotions all a-flutter; and it’s presented by the Richmond Ballet, so you know it’ll be good. Here’s our interview with Stoner Winslett, who will tell you just why it’s so dang important and good.