An Interactive Journey with John Rollison

Recommended ages: Middle & High School Students

Date: February 19 - 20, 2026 

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Location: The American Theatre, 125 Mellen Street, Hampton VA 23663

Admission: Free

Register via ACTIVE

For Question or more information contact:

Hampton Arts Education: ronald.boucher@hampton.gov

Experience a compelling conversation with John Rollison—an 18th-century man of color of mixed heritage—brought to life by historical interpreter James Cameron. historian and interpreter, and an interaction with today’s students. Students will be encouraged to ask Mr. Rollison any questions that they wish may pertain to 18th century Virginia.

Experience a compelling conversation with John Rollison—an 18th-century man of color of mixed heritage—brought to life by historical interpreter James Cameron. historian and interpreter, and an interaction with today’s students. Students will be encouraged to ask Mr. Rollison any questions that they wish may pertain to 18th century Virginia.

Mr. Rollison was a wealthy, African American business owner who lived in York County and helped finance the war effort. He was connected to Patrick Henry, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Thomas Nelson, Jr. Because he was a local gentleman, his story will help students form a more personal connection to their own American history and how it does affect them today. As students learn about the early years of American history, it is extremely valuable that they are exposed to a variety of narratives, particularly from the African American experience.

Educational connections will include colonial life in 18^th century Virgina, colonial customs, slavery, currency, class distinctions, Virginia laws of the time as they pertain to property or race, voting rights, and women’s influence in 18^th century Virginia. Enhancing learning about American history in an interactive way certainly aligns with many principles of Virginia SOLs in history that include:

• The Declaration of Independence, that provides framework for our constitutional republic.
• Living up to the ideals expressed but not fully realized by the Founders for a society that recognizes all individuals are created equal.
• Native Americans and Immigrants from around the world have contributed to the rich history of the United States.
• America is both exceptional and imperfect.
• The rights codified in Virginia constitution provide for individual freedoms that place a responsibility on current and future generations of Americans to engage in the political process with civility.
• Through the ages, civilizations have grown, prospered and vanished. Every student should understand our Great American Experiment is not guaranteed forever. As Benjamin Franklin warned citizens over 200 years ago, “you have a republic… if you can keep it.”

Key Points of Interest for Teachers:

This program aligns with many principles of Virgina history SOLs as outlined above.

Program highlights include dispelling myths about mixed race individuals, native Africans, and indigenous Americans.

Recommended ages: Middle school and high school

A Pre-morning show Educational Experience

Recommended for: Grades 5–8

Date: Friday, April 24, 2026

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Location: The American Theatre, 125 Mellen Street, Hampton, VA

Cost: Free

Register via ACTIVE

Step into a world where creativity takes center stage!

Artrageous is an interactive, high-energy performance that blends visual art, music, theater, and dance into one unforgettable experience. Students will watch as artists create giant masterpieces live on stage—painting famous icons and pop culture figures at lightning speed—accompanied by music, choreography, and storytelling that celebrates the power of imagination and teamwork.

Originally founded as a street theatre troupe in Vancouver, Artrageous has traveled the world inspiring audiences from Paris to India. Their unique combination of live action painting, dynamic music, and audience participation transforms the stage into a living canvas of color, sound, and movement. Every show is different because every audience becomes part of the art!

Learning Connections

• Visual Arts: Students see color theory, composition, and technique brought to life through large-scale painting.
• Music & Performing Arts: The integration of rhythm, choreography, and stagecraft demonstrates how art forms work together.
• Teamwork & Creativity: The troupe’s story highlights resilience, collaboration, and the power of artistic expression.
• Cultural Literacy: Students explore art history through tributes to Van Gogh, Picasso, Monet, Frida Kahlo, and other masters.

Interactive Experience

Students are encouraged to sing, dance, and create along with the performers! Following the performance, students can engage in a Q&A session with professional touring artists—learning what it takes to build a show, travel the world, and pursue a creative career.

Post-Show Activities for the Classroom

Teachers will receive a study guide with hands-on art projects, discussion prompts, and vocabulary to deepen learning. Students can experiment with portrait drawing, explore art styles, and reflect on how music and movement can shape visual storytelling.

An Interdisciplinary Music Education Program for Middle and High School Band & Orchestra

Program Overview

Blues in the Schools is a dynamic, multidisciplinary educational program designed to introduce students to the rich cultural and musical legacy of the Blues — America’s foundational music genre. This program connects students to history, culture, musical expression, and composition, while also fostering appreciation for the evolution of modern music.

Tailored for band and orchestra students, this curriculum aligns with educational standards in music, history, and the arts, and encourages both academic and artistic development.

Bobby “BlackHat” Walters is Virginia’s Blues Ambassador — a recording artist, singer, songwriter, and harmonica master who brings passion, humor, and authenticity to every performance. A U.S. Coast Guard Commander (ret.), Bobby has traded his uniform for a fedora, fusing Chicago, Memphis, and Delta blues with a dash of gospel soul to create his signature toe-tappin’, heart-stirrin’ sound.

A two-time VEER Award winner and Blewzzy “Song of the Year” honoree, Bobby has opened for legends such as B.B. King and Taj Mahal and was a finalist at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis. Through his “Blues in the Schools” outreach, he continues to inspire the next generation of musicians — proving that with Bobby BlackHat, you never know what’s gonna happen next.

Program Objectives

• Deepen students’ understanding of the Blues as a musical form and cultural movement
• Strengthen listening, playing, and improvisation skills within the Blues idiom
• Explore how the Blues influenced Rock, Jazz, R&B, Hip Hop, and modern composition
• Connect American history and social movements with musical expression
• Provide opportunities for composition, performance, and creative exploration

Curriculum Components

What Is the Blues?

• Origin, structure, and form (12-bar blues, call and response)
• Key artists: Bessie Smith, Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, etc.
• Listening sessions with live or recorded examples

History of the Blues

• Roots in African American spirituals, work songs, and folk traditions
• The Blues as storytelling during the Jim Crow era and Great Migration
• Regional development: Delta, Chicago, Texas, Piedmont styles

The Blues in America

• The socio-political impact of the Blues on American identity
• The Blues as a form of protest, healing, and resilience
• Civil Rights connections through lyrics and narratives

Blues Instruments & Improvisation

• Traditional and modern instrumentation (guitar, piano, harmonica, horns)
• Role of the rhythm section and melodic instruments
• Improvisation techniques adapted for band and orchestra students

Business of the Blues

• Introduction to music industry roles: producers, agents, engineers
• Royalties, copyright, and the economics of recorded/live performance
• Case studies of Blues artists and their legacies

Blues Influence on Other Genres

• Rock and Roll (Chuck Berry, Elvis, The Rolling Stones)
• Jazz (Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, Nina Simone)
• R&B and Soul (Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin)
• Hip Hop (sampling, lyrical storytelling, rhythm patterns)

Composition Lab: Writing the Blues

• Students compose original lyrics or instrumental Blues works
• Group collaboration and performance of student compositions
• Optional integration with school performances or community events

Program Structure & Flexibility

• Delivery options: In-school residency, workshop series, or digital modules
• Timeframe: 1-week residency, 4–6 session workshop series, or semester unit
• Grade levels: 6th–12th grade (adaptable by age group and skill level)
• Assessment: Reflection journal, listening quizzes, group performance

Partnership Opportunities

• Collaboration with local Blues artists and organizations
• Guest artists for masterclasses or performance demonstrations
• Opportunities for public school ensembles to perform Blues compositions

Educational Standards Alignment

• National Core Arts Standards (Creating, Performing, Responding, Connecting)
• Virginia Standards of Learning (or your local state equivalent)
• Cross-curricular ties to Social Studies, Language Arts, and Cultural Studies

Classroom Visits and Guest Artist Talks Available

Sponsored by Hampton Arts Education

The American Theatre and the Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center are excited to offer in-class guest artist presentations designed to inspire and engage your students in the performing and visual arts.

From the stage to the studio, our guest speakers bring real-world experience, creativity, and passion directly to your classroom.

Ron Boucher – Educational Manager for the American Theatre

Ron Boucher has performed with the New York City Opera, the Metropolitan Opera, and internationally in both musical theatre and classical repertoire. He has just released his memoire “Prelude” the first installment of a trilogy. He currently serves as the Arts Education Manager for Hampton Arts. Ron offers students a professional perspective and insights of his life onstage and provides insight to students who are exploring the stage as a career choice. Ron Boucher has performed with the New York City Opera, the Metropolitan Opera, and internationally in both musical theatre and classical repertoire. He has just released his memoire “Prelude” the first installment of a trilogy. He currently serves as the Arts Education Manager for Hampton Arts.

Jody Madaras – Artistic Director for the American Theatre

Producer, Director, Choreographer, Playwright Award-winning producer, actor, director, choreographer, educator and playwright; Jody has a passion for producing innovative performances and managing large-scale productions. Skilled in collaborating with diverse, inclusive teams to create unique and engaging theatrical experiences for audiences.
Ohio Native. 35 years professional singer/actor/dancer. 30 years professional director/choreographer. 15 years executive producer. Credits:  Broadway, Off-Broadway, Daytime Television, Regional Theatre, European Theatre, Cruise Ship, Educational Theatre. Highlight Credits: 1st National Broadway "The Drowsy Chaperone," 1st European "Crazy For You," "1st National Tour "I Love Lucy Live Onstage,” Broadway Concert version of “Finian’s Rainbow” with Lauren Bacall, creator & star of ALL HANDS ON DECK! Show, CBS-TV "As The World Turns. Awards: 2023 Bob Bender Leadership Excellence Award, 2007 ariZoni Award - Outstanding Actor in a Musical, 2017 Branson Terry Music Show Award Winner, 1983 State Of Ohio Civic Oration Speech Contest Winner.

Topics Include:
- Life Upon The Broadway Stage
- The Fundamentals of Tap Dancing
- The Arts: Is it a Career or a Job?
- How to Produce Your Own Show

Cody Latpakdy – Assistant Visual Arts Manager Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center

Cody Latpakdy is a professional visual artist with a BFA in Drawing & Design from Old Dominion University. His interactive talks and workshops guide students through the creative process—from concept and design to exhibition and community engagement.

Topics include:

• Exploring the creative process: From idea to exhibition
• Drawing and design fundamentals
• Art as communication: How images tell stories
• Careers in the visual arts

Why Invite Us?

Our classroom sessions:
• Align with Virginia Standards of Learning (Visual & Performing Arts)
• Offer real-world perspectives on artistic careers
• Encourage creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression
• Can be tailored for elementary, middle, or high school levels

Program Details

• Format: 45–60 minute lectures or 90-minute interactive workshops
• Cost: Complimentary for participating schools (limited availability)
• Availability: Spring 2026

Book a Visit or Learn More

To schedule a school visit or request more information:

Ron Boucher
Arts Education Manager | The American Theatre / Hampton Arts Education

Ronald.boucher@hampton.gov | 757-728-3098

Let’s inspire your students to see the world through the eyes of an artist—on stage and on canvas.

Contra Dance at The American Theatre

February 2026 - May 2026

7pm - 10pm

• Feb 28 – Ben Allbrandt (caller), Orion (music)
• March 27 – Virginia Varland (caller), Orion (music)
• April 25 – Brian Hamshar (caller), Cutie & The Hot Wings (music)
• May 23 - TBA

Contra Dance at The American Theatre: Community, Connection, and Joy in Motion

Step into a lively tradition of rhythm, movement, and community! Contra Dance at The American Theatre—a welcoming evening of social dancing inspired by American folk traditions. Held monthly, these events blend the spirit of a dance party with the ease of a beginner-friendly class, guided by a professional caller and accompanied by live music. Participants of all ages and experience levels will learn simple, energetic patterns in lines and circles, fostering connection, coordination, and joy. With soft-soled shoes and a willingness to move, dancers are invited to celebrate culture and camaraderie in a dynamic, inclusive environment where everyone can join the fun.

REGISTER

Dates: February 18 & 25, 2026; March 4, 11, 18 & 25, 2026

Time: 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (2hrs)

Class Size: 12–16 participants for optimal scene work

Performance: Free and Open to the public

The Actor’s Edge: Classic & Contemporary Theatre is a six-week intensive for adults (18+) who already have some stage or acting experience and want to sharpen their craft. Participants will dive into the great dramatic texts of past and present—from Shakespeare and Chekhov to Mamet, Marber, and McDonagh—while exploring cutting-edge performance techniques. Through guided script analysis, rehearsed readings, ensemble exercises, and scene work, actors will develop a deeper understanding of text, character, and the physical life of performance. The program culminates in a final open studio presentation of selected scenes for invited guests.

The program culminates in a final open studio presentation of selected scenes for invited guests.

Materials Provided: Scene packets, selected monologues, recommended reading list

Vincent A. O’Reilly is an award-winning Irish director and playwright with an M.A. in Directing for Theatre (First Class Honours) from University College Dublin. Founder and former Artistic Director of Sheer Tantrum Ltd, he has created and staged numerous world-premiere productions across Ireland and Europe, from bold adaptations of Ibsen to acclaimed new works such as Jack Kairo and The Long Hard Kiss Goodbye. His inventive direction has been praised by The Irish Independent and The Irish Times for its “high level of comic inventiveness” and “buoyant, well-paced action.” O’Reilly’s work blends classical and contemporary influences, bringing sharp text analysis and striking physicality to every production.

Who Should Enroll:
Actors, directors, and theatre practitioners with prior training or performance experience who are eager to deepen their interpretive and performance skills.

Key Takeaways:
- Advanced tools for text analysis and character development
- Techniques for classical and contemporary styles
- Experience with ensemble collaboration and devised theatre methods
- Confidence in rehearsal and performance settings

(see six week course outline on our website)

A Showcase for Young Performing Artists

Your Moment. Your Stage. Your Future.

Are you a talented young singer, instrumentalist, or dancer between the ages of 12 and 21? This is your chance to shine under the lights!

Spotlight: Rising Stars showcases exceptional young performers through three public performances at The American Theatre. Selected through audition, participants receive professional coaching in technique, stage presence, and artistic interpretation—gaining real-world experience in a professional setting.

Each performance is a new opportunity to grow, refine your artistry, and captivate an audience. Step onto the stage where passion meets purpose and talent takes flight.

Audition. Perform. Inspire.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Hampton Roads’ most exciting youth performance opportunity!

Auditions:

Sunday January 11^th  2:00 p.m. -5:00 p.m.

Registration Required: ACTIVE

Audition Fee: $15 (if selected, no other fee will be required)

Selection Process: Performers will audition to be part of this exciting opportunity. Selections will be made based on talent, creativity, and the goal of presenting a diverse range of performing art forms that truly represent the spirit of The American Theatre.

Those chosen will continue to work closely with their coaches, refining and developing their pieces between performances to help them grow as confident, expressive artists.

Performance Dates:

Performance 1: (Feb 1 @ 2 p.m.) Introduction and baseline performance

Performance 2:(April 5 @ 2 p.m.) Midpoint showcase reflecting professional coaching

Performance 3 (Finale, May 31 @2 p.m.): A culminating performance showcasing artistic development, followed by adjudicator feedback and recognition

Final Performance is open and free to the public!

Educational Component:
Between each performance, participants will be mentored by professional performers and educators, offering guidance on technique, interpretation, and performance polish.

Outcome:
This experience will foster confidence, refine talent, and provide a platform for serious young artists to grow under the guidance of seasoned professionals—while being celebrated by their peers and community.

In Two Parts

Puppet Making

Suitable for children ages 6 - 12

Date: Saturday, January 17^th                               

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Location: Charles Taylor Visual Arts Center

Instructor: Heidi Rugg, Director of the Barefoot Puppet Theatre

Performing with Puppets

Date: Saturday, January 24                                    

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Location: The American Theatre

Fee: $45 (Includes both days & a Free Ticket to 1/31 performance)

Register via ACTIVE

Dive into the fun and discovery!

This two-fold, hands-on workshop brings Galapagos George to life, and participants are recommended to attend both parts for the full experience.

In the first workshop, students design and build their very own puppet, inspired by the vibrant Antarctic world of squid, penguins, orcas, and jellyfish. In the second workshop, participants bring their creations to the stage—learning to perform with their puppet through storytelling, movement, and interactive games.

On the day of the performance, each student’s puppet will be proudly displayed in the theatre lobby, celebrating their creativity as part of the larger event.

Blending creativity with science, these workshops spark imagination, encourage self-expression, and build awareness of our oceans and the creatures that call them home. And to complete the experience, every participant receives a free ticket to the performance on the January 31^st at 3 p.m.!

Barefoot Puppet Theatre Presents: Galapagos George Performance

Saturday, January 31^st, 2026

Time: 3 p.m

Cost: $10 (free for those attending the workshop)

Tickets: Available through Ticket Master

Where heritage meets evolution - this is ballet reimagined.

Dates: Saturday & Sunday, April 18–19, 2026

Location: The American Theatre; 125 Mellen Street, Hampton, VA 23663

Experience a rare fusion of classical discipline and contemporary innovation led by two master teachers of international acclaim. Former principal ballerina Sandra Balestracci brings the grace, precision, and artistry of grand classical ballet, while Jenny Teller, of Complexions Contemporary Ballet and Steps on Broadway, ignites creativity through contemporary movement and musicality.

Designed for intermediate to advanced dancers, this weekend intensive blends tradition and transformation—challenging students to refine their technique, expand their artistry, and rediscover the expressive power of dance.

Sandra Balestracci

International Principal Dancer • Master Teacher • Artistic Visionary

Ms. Balestracci is a former international principal ballet dancer and acclaimed master teacher whose artistry and insight have inspired dancers across generations. Trained at the American Ballet Theatre School under Mario Ignisci, Ana Roje, Sulamith Messerer, Mme. Nemtchinova, and Mme. Swoboda, she toured extensively throughout the United States, Europe, and South America. Ms. Balestracci was principal ballerina with the New York City Opera and San Francisco Opera and performed frequently at Radio City Music Hall—earning the only artist citation ever presented there for her unforgettable portrayal of Charlie Chaplin in Here’s Charlie! She also appeared as a guest on The Ed Sullivan Show.

As former Artistic Director of the American Youth Ballet Company and the Eastern Virginia School for the Performing Arts, she has guided students to success in major ballet schools and companies worldwide. Her classes blend discipline, passion, and inspiration—an experience every serious dancer will treasure.

Jennie Begley Teller

International Principal Dancer • Master Teacher • Artistic Visionary

Jennie is a dancer and educator based in New York City whose early training in ballet began in Colorado after growing up in Manila, Philippines. Broadway Dance Center, Steps on Broadway, She joined the internationally renowned contemporary ensemble Complexions Contemporary Ballet, touring globally and appearing in acclaimed works and music-video projects. Broadway Dance Center Following her performance career, Jennie has taught master classes and ongoing sessions at institutions including Steps on Broadway in NYC, where she shares her blend of classical technique and contemporary expression with students at all levels.

Step 1: Submit a YouTube link of your video via email or Mail us a Thumb Drive of your audition

• Due:. March 10^th, 2026
• Length: Total 5 minutes

Content to Include:
• Center: adagio, turns, grand allegro
• Two simple pointe exercises
• One contemporary combination (improvisation)

Submit to: Ronald.boucher@hampton.gov

Or Mail to: Ron Boucher, 125 E. Mellen Street, Hampton, VA 23663

Selected participants will be notified by April 2, 2026

Step 2: Tuition

If selected, $150 (includes both days)
Payment Schedule
• Once accepted, a non-refundable deposit of ½ the total ($75) is due to reserve your place.
• Remaining balance due one week before the workshop. (full payment is required to participate)

Register via ACTIVE

Contact Info:

Ron Boucher

Education Program Manager

Hampton Arts/Education

757-728-3098

Class Size & Ages

• Limited Enrollment: Maximum 30 students
• Placement by Video Audition (no fee)

Recommended Training Background
• Intermediate (approx. ages 12–14): Pointe: minimum 2 hrs/wk; Ballet: 4–5 hrs/wk
• Advanced (approx. ages 15+): Pointe: minimum 3 hrs/wk; Ballet: 5–6 hrs/wk
 

Daily Schedule

10:00 – 12:00
Studio A: 1 hr. 15 min Ballet Technique + 45 min Pointe
Studio B: 1 hr. Contemporary Technique + 1 hr. Choreography

12:00 – 12:30 Break

12:30 – 2:30 Continue same rotation

Closed Session: Only registered students may attend.

Dress Code

• Ballet: Any color leotard with pink tights
• Contemporary: Convertible tights (rolled to ankle) with contemporary footwear

Requirements

• Students must participate in both classes on both days.
• Session is closed to observers.