Creating Community Beyond the Stage

Since 1990, the Center for the Arts has been home to performances by renowned international, national, and regional artists, as well as student and faculty productions and community events. Each year, our grand venue welcomes hundreds of thousands of patrons from D.C. and Northern Virginia, who join the Mason community to enjoy—and support—our performing arts experiences. But, how else are we uniting these lovers of great art? 
 
Since the New Year, our main lobby has been buzzing with activity surrounding Great Performances at Mason events. For instance, we had a group of dancers from the Culkin School of Irish Dance warm up the audience and perform before the Dublin Irish Dance mainstage production on January 27. The following evening, artist Jeremy Sutton created artwork in reaction to the music performed live by The Birdland All-Stars and drummer Tommy Igoe. The original art pieces were later made available to members of the public for bidding in the main lobby. 
 
Looking ahead at February, we are excited to make available a Valentine’s Day package to couples seeking a night of art and romance! This special offer includes 2 tickets to Virginia Opera’s new production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, 2 commemorative champagne glasses, boxed chocolates from a local chocolatier, and a photo opportunity before the performance or during intermission. These packages are on sale through our website. 
 
Next up in March, we are welcoming fairytale enthusiasts to a Princess Weekend with Moscow Festival Ballet. Princess attire is highly encouraged to fully enjoy a special girls’ night out or whole-family outing! The esteemed Russian company will present 2 enchanting ballets that are based on well-known stories: Swan Lake and Cinderella. Following this theme, concessions will offer specialty princess cocktails and sweet treats for purchase onsite. And, a photo booth will be available to immortalize the memories of a lovely time at the Center for the Arts.  

We hope you’ll visit us in February and/or March and be a part of these fun communal experiences!