May/June 2006

Datebook

SPECIAL EVENTS

3rd Annual Literary Arts Festival
May 1-26: From poetry readings and lectures to book signing and exhibits, a variety of literary events for audiences of all ages will educate and entertain. Free. Suffolk Museum. 757-923-2371

Wine Down on the Wharf
May 4: Enjoy the sounds of the Michael Clark Band and taste an eclectic selection of wine. Presented by the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce. Suffolk. 757-664-2611

Shore Fest Golf Tournament, Auction and Party
May 5: Get a taste for the Eastern Shore’s unique cuisines and waterfront golf. Shotgun tournament followed by a Night in Vegas dinner party with food, music, dancing and an auction benefiting Shore Health Services’ cancer programs. $35-$85. Tournament at 1 p.m., party at 6:30 p.m. Eastern Shore Yacht and Country Club, Melfa. 757-422-2205. www.shorehealthservices.org

Cingular Wireless Downtown Cheers
May 5, 12, 19, 26: After-work office party and music series. 4 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Town Point Park, Norfolk. www.festeventsva.org

Jack Hanna at Busch Gardens
May 5-6: Animal enthusiast and host of the popular television series Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures returns to Busch Gardens with a herd of furry critters and a flock of feathered friends. Busch Gardens, Williamsburg. www.buschgardens.com

Portsmouth Notables Celebration
May 5-6: The City of Portsmouth celebrates notables who have been recognized nationally and internationally in a variety of fields. Help celebrate at a March of Dimes Walk through Olde Towne Portsmouth and a gala celebration at the Renaissance Portsmouth Hotel & Waterfront Conference Center. 757-393-8639

The Towne Bank Downtown Hampton In-Water Boat Show
May 5-7: 10th annual boat show with more than 50 vendors, boat clubs and seminars for anglers. Free. 757-727-1276

Family Fun & Craft Show
May 6: Fun for the whole family on the waterfront in Downtown Suffolk. Constant’s Wharf Park. 757-923-2360

Outdoor Recreation Open House
May 6: Try the alpine tower, climb the portable climbing wall or paddle in the pond. Check out the opportunities Hampton Parks and Recreation has to offer. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Grundland Creek Park, Hampton. 757-850-5134

Paddle for the Border
May 6: Paddle the Dismal Swamp Canal, adjacent to the Great Dismal Swamp. Canoe or kayak from Chesapeake to South Mills, N.C. 757-382-6411. www.cityofchesapeake.net/parks

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge Narrated Bus Tours
May 6, 11, 20, 25, June 3, 8, 15, 24, 29: Experience the mystery and lore of the Great Dismal Swamp. Reservations required. 9:30 a.m. Suffolk Visitor Center. 757-923-2360

18th Annual Flower and Art Show
May 6-19: Presented by the Historic Wakefield Foundation Center for the Arts. Opening Gala Reception on May 6, 7---9 p.m. 757-899-2365. www.wakefieldfoundation.org

A Fine Time for Wine
May 7: The Oceanfront Jaycees present a great event with wine, heavy hors d’oeuvres, door prizes and more. Funds benefit local charities. $35 in advance, $40 at door. 1-4 p.m. Croc’s 19th Street Bistro, Virginia Beach. 757-692-3105. www.ofjc.org

Music for an Olde Towne Afternoon
May 7: Portsmouth Music Study Club celebrates National Music Week with three mini-concerts. $7. Monumental United Methodist Church, 450 Dinwiddie St., Portsmouth. 757-538-1000

Picnic in Past Times at Rosewell Ruins
May 7: Join the 18th Century Page family for a gourmet picnic, Colonial games and period music. $14. 1 p.m. Rosewell Visitor Center, Gloucester. 804-693-2585

20th National Veterans Golden Age Games
May 8-12: Veterans compete in sports and recreation events including swimming, biking, croquet, shot put, table tennis, checkers, shuffleboard and more. It is the nation’s largest senior sports event for military veterans 55 and older. Hampton Roads Convention Center. 757-722-9961, ext. 3533

Virginia Beach Spring Craft Market
May 12-14: In celebration of Mother’s Day, this event features more than 250 juried artisans from across the nation with an additional showcase of local craft designers, guilds and educational demonstrations. $6. Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Virginia Beach Convention Center. 757-417-7771. www.emgshows.com

Suffolk Jazz & Blues Concert Series
May 12-26: The smooth sound of sultry jazz will permeate the waterfront with a variety of musicians on Friday nights. Free. 6:30-9 p.m. Downtown Suffolk. 757-923-2360

Celebration of Life Ride
May 13: The only free, fully supported bicycle ride held in the entire country. All ages and speeds welcome. Choose between distances of 25, 50 or 75 miles. 757-422-3425. www.tbarides.org

Jamestown Landing Day
May 13: Maritime demonstrations and interpretive activities exploring contact between European and Virginia Indian cultures to celebrate the 399th anniversary of Jamestown. Features a cannon salute, replica ship sailing, special education programs, weapons demonstrations, walking tours and more. 888-593-4682. www.historyisfun.org

Physicians for Peace Gala “Celebrating the Nations”
May 13: First annual gala to benefit Physicians for Peace, showcasing 50 developing countries that the organization has visited to provide medical services. $125. 5:30 p.m. Norfolk Waterside Marriott. 757-672-9465. www.physiciansforpeace.org

Air Power Over Hampton Roads
May 13-15: Three-day air show featuring numerous military and civilian aerial demonstrations and one of the largest displays of static aircrafts in the country. Langley Air Force Base, Hampton. 757-764-2018. www.langleyafbairshow.com

Historic Suffolk Narrated Bus Tour
May 13, 17, 27, 31, June 10, 17, 21: Discover Suffolk’s rich heritage through downtown, Constance’s Wharf and Cedar Hill Cemetery. Bus departs from the Historic Prentis House, 321 N. Main St. Reservations required. 757-923-3880

The Five O’clock Whistle
May 18: A “Business After Hours” networking event to kick off the Blackbeard Festival. Hosted by Cut’s Fitness Center, 125 Franklin St., Hampton. 757-727-1271

Olde Towne Curb Market
May 20: Grand opening of a charming farmers market with produce, homemade goods, an extremely popular seafood vendor and more. Musicians perform during each market. Every Saturday from 9 a.m.---noon. Downtown Smithfield. 757-257-2502. www.shopsmithfield.com

Virginia Beach’s 21st Annual Canoe/Kayak Demo Day
May 20-21: Wild River Outfitters offers customers the chance to test drive various canoe and kayak models for a day of fun. First Landing State Park, Virginia Beach. www.wildriveroutfitters.com

Fabulous Fundraiser
May 21: See the Ballet Russe Documentary and meet Frederick Franklin, the last surviving dancer of that early era. Presented by Todd Rosenlieb Dance. $25-$35. 4 p.m. The Chrysler Museum of Art, Norfolk. 757-626-3262

Elizabeth River Run
May 27: A popular 10k race along the Elizabeth River attracting up to 1,000 runners. Post race party at the nTelos Pavilion. 757-393-8983

Hi-5 at Busch Gardens
May 27-28: Emmy-nominated children’s group and stars of Discovery Kids’ Hi-5 hit television show perform their musical extravaganza. Busch Gardens, Williamsburg. www.buschgardens.com

Redskins Beach Blitz
June 2-4: Football fans interact with Redskins players, coaches and cheerleaders with games, activities, sports clinics, autograph stations and more. www.redskinsbeachblitz.com

Free Fishing Weekend
June 3-4: Fun-filled weekend of fishing (even if you don’t have a license). Learn about the sport at the Family Fishing Rodeo. Polls and bait provided. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Northwest River Park, Chesapeake. 757-421-7151

Shagging on the Riverwalk: Beach Music Concert Series
June 2-40: Five-week concert series featuring a variety of beach music for all ages. Free. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Riverwalk Landing, Yorktown. 757-890-3500

10th Annual Benefit by the Bay: Shooting for the Stars!
June 3: An elegant garden gala with a Champagne Reception, catered dinner and view of the Chesapeake Bay. Also features a silent auction, art exhibition and live entertainment. Raises funds for the Historic Palace Theatre in Cape Charles. $100. Butler’s Bluff, Cape Charles. Arts Enter Cape Charles. 757-331-2787. www.artsentercapecharles.org

17th Annual Alzheimer’s Education Conference
June 7-8: The region’s preeminent seminar on Alzheimer’s disease attended by more than 300 family and professional caregivers. Features workshops and keynote speaker Marilyn Albert, co-director of the Johns Hopkins University Medical School Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Registration required. $25-$60. 9 a.m.--4 p.m. Old Dominion University Webb Center, Norfolk. 757-459-2405. www.alzseva.org

Downtown Hampton Doggie Day
June 10: Bring your dog to enjoy doggie ice cream, treats and demonstrations. Register to walk in the Doggie Parade. Prizes will be awarded for best costume, master/dog look alike and Grand Pooch. 757-727-1271

13th Annual North American Sand Soccer Championships
June 10-11: The world’s largest sand soccer championships with all skill levels and more than 7,000 players. Also featuring beach tennis, kickball, coed football and the North American Beach Wrestling Championships. Virginia Beach Oceanfront. 757-368-3600. www.sandsoccer.com

The Five O’clock Whistle
June 15: A “Business After Hours” networking event. Hosted by Mary Helen’s Southern and Creole Cuisine, 87 Lincoln St., Hampton. 757-727-1271

Animal Quackers at the Virginia Zoo
June 17: The zoo teams up with medical professionals and local hospitals to help ease the pain of a child’s visit to the doctor. Children with a stuffed animal receive free admission. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The Virginia Zoo, Norfolk. 757-441-2374. www.virginiazoo.org

Fort Norfolk Tours and Encampment
June 17--18: Tours of the 1790s fort with re-enactors portraying life during the War of 1812. Features period camp displays, open fire pit, company drill and musket firings. Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fort Norfolk, 801 Front St., Norfolk. 757-640-1720. www.norfolkhistorical.org

Aloha Summer Hawaiian Luau
June 24: Live music and show Hawaiian style. Wear your Hawaiian attire for door prizes. 6-10 p.m. Fort Monroe Pool Beach Pavilion, Hampton. 757-788-3151

For a complete list of summer festivals throughout Hampton Roads, please check out this issue’s Summer Fun Guide Festivals Section, beginning on page 77.

ART

Blue Skies Gallery
May 1-30: Sculpture of Tee Jay Jones June 1-29: Watercolor of Holly Etheridge June 10: Clay Art: Slab and hand Building. 2nd Saturday children’s activity. 26 South King St., Hampton. 757-727-0028. www.blueskiesart.com

Charles H. Taylor Arts Center
Through June 11: Flying High. Tidewater Art Alliance juried art exhibition. Opening June 16: Hampton Roads Photographers. Group exhibition featuring works by some of the finest photographers in the Hampton Roads area. Plus: The Gilded Cage: Photographs by Jason Hanasik. Recent series of color photographs depicting the concerns of the newest members of the middle class. 4205 Victoria Blvd., Hampton. 757-727-1490. www.hamptonarts.net

Chrysler Museum of Art
Ongoing: Civil War Photographs from the David L. Hack Collection Ongoing: Civil War Redux: Pinhole Photographs by Willie Anne Wright Ongoing: Masterpieces from an English Country House: The Fitzwilliam Collection. Presented by the Masterpiece Society. Through May 15: Collecting the Impressionists: Masterpieces from the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute Every Wednesday: The Art of Jazz, featuring local performers. The Fine Art of Wine is the first Wednesday of every month. 6:15--8:45 p.m. Every Saturday: Public Tour. Theme varies. 2 p.m. Every Wednesday: Gallery Chat. 12:30 p.m. 245 W. Olney Rd., Norfolk. 757-664-6200. www.chrysler.org

Contemporary Art Center of Virginia
Through May 17: Me, Myself and I: Artist Self-Portraits from the Heather & Tony Podesta Collection Through May 14: LIKENESS: Portraits of Artists by Other Artists 2200 Parks Ave., Virginia Beach. 757-425-0000. www.cacv.org

The Courthouse Galleries
Ongoing: Outdoor Sculpture Competition. Selected sculptures on display in the museum’s courtyard. Opening May 5: Photorealist Prints from the James W. Hyams Collection. Outstanding collection of fine art prints with 13 original photo-realists. May 6: Picture Perfect: A gallery talk with James Hyams on Photorealist prints May 7: Ecstatic Ekphrastic: Poems Inspired by Art. ODU creative writing instructors read ekphrastic poetry inspired by art. 2 p.m. May 13-14: Artist Demonstrations in the Courtyard. Noon-3 p.m. May 20: Tropical Bonsai: Little Tree Growing Class. Receive a kit, instructions and your own Bonsai. $45. 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. June 4: Olde Towne Portsmouth: An Architectural Walking Tour of Portsmouth’s Historic Buildings. An ODU professor will address architectural features, style and history. 2 p.m. June 10: Tidewater Turning: Woodturning Class. Beginning class on the art of woodturning. $30. 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. June 17: Prismacolor Precision: Color-Pencil Photorealism Drawing Workshop. Intermediate drawing class with local artist Karla Mann. $25. 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. June 24: Design Time: Interior Design Class. Basic principles of interior design and how to avoid common errors. $25. 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Through June 25: Realisms: Virginia Artists. Realist approaches to art by Karla Mann, Susan Tolbert, Steve Wolfe and others. High and Court Streets, Portsmouth. 757-393-8543. www.courthousegalleries.com

d’ART Center
Through June 25: The 16th Annual Mid-Atlantic Art Exhibition: A national juried art exhibition featuring art in a variety of mediums from artist across the country. Selden Arcade, 208 East Main St., Norfolk. 757-625-4211. www.d-artcenter.org

Harbor Gallery
May 1-19: Memories in the Making. Forty works on paper expressing the creativity of local residents living with Alzheimer’s disease. Contact the Alzheimer’s Association at 757-459-2405 for details. 1058 Colley Ave., Norfolk. 757-627-2787. www.harbor-gallery.com

Imagine Art Studios Gallery
May 19-May 20: Mort Kunstler, painter of The New World, will exhibit his new works, sign artwork and sell prints and giclŽes to celebrate the Jamestown 400th anniversary. Friday 6-8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 131 Main St., Smithfield. 757-357-0690. www.imaart.com

Peninsula Fine Arts Center
May 4, 11, 18, 25, June 16, 15, 22, 27: Arts CafŽ. Live music and other activities. Free. 5:30-8 p.m. May 20, June 3, 9, 24: Artfully Delicious. Fundraising event featuring international themes and food. $50-$100. May 21: Community Day. Asian clay art activity for children. 1-5 p.m. Through May 25: Out of the Fire: Wood Fired and Salt Glazed Ceramics Through May 25: The Cutting Edge: Contemporary Wood Art Through May 25: New Works by Tom Wessells Through May 25: Ceramics from the Studio Art School Through May 25: Genesis 2006 College Student Juried Exhibition and Prefaces 2006 High School Student Juried Exhibition Opening June 3: Living with Art: Modern & Contemporary African-American Art from the Alitash Kebede collection. A variety of works by many of the most important African-American artists including Norman Lewis, Charles Alston and more. Opening June 3: Prints by Regional African-American Artists. Silkscreen, woodcut, engravings and other print techniques. June 11: Community Day. African-American art activity for children. 1-5 p.m. 101 Museum Dr., Newport News. 757-596-8175. www.pfac-va.org

Portlock Galleries at SoNo
Through May 7: Glass Works. An exhibition highlighting artists Ali Rogan and Neil Duman. May 12-June 18: Photographers Van White and Ronn Maratea show photos of local scenes and African wildlife. Opening June 23: Hot, Hot, Hot: Art Made from Fire and Heat. Invitational exhibition showcasing works in glass, ceramics, metal sculpture and encaustic painting. 3815 Bainbridge Blvd., Chesapeake. 757-502-4901

Smithfield Cultural Arts Center
May 5-June 4: From the Earth: Featuring Jerry Whitehurst, Ruth Scalott and Lisa Melita Opening June 9: The Art of the Costume: Virginia Opera Costumes and the works of costume design artists and illustrators 346 Main St. in the Historic District, Smithfield. 757-357-7707. www.smithfieldarts.org

Suffolk Museum
Opening June 6: Suffolk Art League’s Annual Open Member’s Show Starting June 9: Art Day for Children. Every Thursday will be filled with fun art projects for kids. 118 Bosley Ave., Suffolk. 757-923-2371

MUSEUMS AND HISTORIC HOUSES

Children’s Museum of Virginia
May 13: Mother’s Day. All mothers admitted free with a paying child. June 17: Father’s Day. All fathers admitted free with a paying child. 221 High St., Portsmouth. 757-393-5258. www.childrensmuseumva.com

Endview Plantation
May 13-14: Colonial Craftsman’s Faire: A May Fair. National recognized traditional artisans demonstrate and sell their wares. Features costumed re-enactors, military drills, door prizes and workshops. Adults $8, Seniors and Children $6. Saturday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 7, 21: Song, Story and Praise: A living history program designed to teach visitors how religion was part of everyday life during the mid-19th century. Guests invited to sing hymns with staff. 10-11:30 a.m. June 10-11: Military Living History: Commemorating the Battle of Big Bethel June 24-25: Artillery Living History. Artillery demonstrations throughout the day. June 26-29: Civil War Children’s Camp. For children age 8--12. Includes camp life, drills, skirmishes and basic soldier’s equipment. Registration required. $150. 362 Yorktown Rd., Newport News. 757-887-1862. www.endview.org

Gloucester Museum of History
Through May 31: The Women of Fairfield Through June 15: Golden Memories Daffodil Exhibit Through June 30: Gremer Doll House Exhibit Historic Botetourt Building, 6539 Main St., Gloucester. 804-693-1234

Hampton History Museum
May 1: Port Hampton Lecture Series: Give me Liberty or Give me Death. Richard Schumann as Patrick Henry recounts his part in the 2nd Virginia Convention. May 13: Ice Cream Social for Mother’s Day. 2-4 p.m. June 17: “Grill Out at the Museum” for Father’s Day. 12-2 p.m. 120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, 757-727-1610, www.hampton1610.com

The Hermitage Foundation Museum
Through May 3: Norfolk Public Schools Middle School Exhibition May 8-31: Norfolk Public Schools High School Exhibit May 28: Shoreline Shindig. Kick off this summer with a barbecue, beverages and bands. June 13-28: Governor’s School for the Arts Spring Exhibition Thursdays: White Glove Tours. Behind the scenes with the curator of collections. 7637 North Shore Rd., Norfolk. 757-423-2052. www.thfm.org

Jamestown Settlement & The Yorktown Victory Center
June 1-30: Canoe, Capstan & Cargo. Lend a hand with canoe and boat building and sail and cargo handling, and learn the production of lumber for export. Jamestown Settlement: Route 31 in James City County. Yorktown Victory Center: Route 1020 in Yorktown. 757-253-4838. www.historyisfun.org

Lee Hall Mansion
May 13: Herbs and History. Explores the uses of herbs from the 17th century to the Civil War. $7. 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. May 20: The Battle of Chancellorsville. Tour the sites associated with General Robert E. Lee’s greatest victory and the loss of Stonewall Jackson with historian Michael Moore. $50. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. June 10: Summer Celebration Wine Festival. Sample wines from some of Virginia’s best wineries while enjoying musical entertainment, food, living history and more. $15 in advance, $20 at gate. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. June 17: The Bermuda Hundred Campaign. Historian Michael Moore takes visitors to Bermuda Hundred, Dutch Gap, Battery Danzler, Fort Stevens, Drewry’s Bluff, Fort Harrison and Wilson’s Wharf. $45. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 163 Yorktown Rd., Newport News. 757-888-3371. www.leehall.org

Lightship Portsmouth and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum
Opening May 29: Portsmouth in Revolution. This permanent exhibit explores the important of Portsmouth and the Gosport Shipyard’s role in the American Revolution using objects and images from the museum’s collection. Opening reception May 26, 6-8 p.m. June 7: Cross River. Guided tour of the Portsmouth Seawall, ferry ride across the Elizabeth River and self-guided tour of the USS Wisconsin. $5. 11 a.m., 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. June 10: Flags Day. Demonstration of Signal Flags, and children can create their own. 2 High St., Portsmouth. 757-393-8591. www.portsmouthnavalmuseums.com

The Mariners’ Museum
Ongoing: The Nelson Touch Ongoing: Ironclad Evidence: Stories from the USS Monitor and the CSS Virginia May 5: Grand Opening of the Redesigned Crabtree Exhibition. The popular collection of miniature ships of August F. Crabtree is back on display with a major transformation, including a special section highlighting Crabtree’s life and work. 100 Museum Dr., Newport News. 757-591-7739. www.mariner.org

Nauticus, The National Maritime Center
Ongoing: Treasures of NOAA’s Ark Ongoing: The Greatest Places Film June 3: 12th Birthday Celebration featuring Breakfast with the Sharks. 8:30-10 a.m. June 8: World Ocean’s Day One Waterside Dr., Norfolk. 757-663-1000. www.thenmc.org

The Newsome House Museum and Cultural Center
May 6: Pre-Mother’s Day Jewelry Extravaganza. Find a special gift for your mother at the museum’s annual sale featuring a variety of merchandise. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. June 2: It’s a Birthday Party. Join the museum staff in a celebration of the 137th birthday of Joseph Thomas Newsome. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 18: Juneteenth. Living historians explain the significance of this traditional African-American holiday that commemorates when Texas slaves learned of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1865, two years after it was issued. Features period music, a reading of the proclamation and refreshments. Continue the celebration at the James A. Fields House at 617 27th St. for a festival with vendors, music, tours, dancing and cookout. Living history portion from noon-1 p.m., festival from 2:30-8 p.m. Through June 27: Hampton native Stacy Whiting exhibits his photography and digitization of architectural scenes and marbles. 2803 Oak Ave., Newport News. 757-247-2360. www.newsomehouse.org

Norfolk Botanical Garden
May 11-14: Birds, Blossoms and Blues Festival. Walking and boat tours, kayaking, concerts, birding, plant sales and classes all in one fun filled weekend. Opening June 15: Around the World in 80 Days. An interactive exhibition featuring themed displays that focus on modes of transportation used throughout the novel. www.nbgs.org

The Old Coast Guard Station
Through May 29: Fort Story & Cape Henry: 1607-2007. Gearing up for the celebration of the 400th anniversary of the English’s first landing in the new world. May 30-July 2: Lifeguards: The Other Lifesavers. A pictorial and artifact exhibit of Virginia Beach’s lifeguards past and present. June 2: Lifeguard Reunion. Join the museum is celebrating our beach lifesavers. Refreshments, cap and T-shirts sales and tall tales. 6-9 p.m. 24th St. and Boardwalk, Virginia Beach. 757-422-1587. www.oldcoastguardstation.com

Riddick’s Folly Museum
June 11: American Girl Program featuring “Kaya.” Includes crafts and refreshments. Reservations required. Free. 510 North Main St., Suffolk. 757-934-1390. www.riddicksfolly.org

Virginia Air and Space Center
May 6: National Space Day Celebration. Meet an astronaut, participate in live science demonstrations, create cosmic crafts and more. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Opening May 12: Poseidon on IMAX. Disaster strikes a luxury cruise liner when a giant waves topples the ship and survivors are forced to fend for themselves. Opening May 26: Zap! Surgery Beyond the Cutting Edge. Experience the excitement of lasers, endoscopes, ultrasound and more as you become the surgeon. June 3-11: Air Force Days. Bring your active-duty military ID for free admission, activities, carousel rides and more. Opening June 30: Superman Returns on IMAX 600 Settlers Landing Rd., Hampton. 757-727-0900. www.vasc.org

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
May 5-13: Celebrate Virginia’s Birds. Participate in International Migratory Bird Day and learn about bird conservation and increasing awareness of local bird species through aviary walks and guided nature trail programming. May 19: Taste of the Bay. Dinner and wine tasting along with the opportunity to learn about the Chesapeake Bay seafood and how it is prepared. $50. 6-10 p.m. 757-437-6358 Opening May 27: In Search of the Giant Squid. Interactive, multimedia exhibit observing this legend in the wild. June 8: World Oceans Day. With the theme “Dare to Care,” this event focuses on how we impact our oceans. June 18: Father’s Day. Learn about strange dads in marine life. Marsh Pavilion. 717 General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach. 757-425-FISH. www.VirginiaAquarium.com

Virginia Living Museum
Through May 27: Laser rock show. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. $8 Through June 11: Spring Planetarium Shows. Laser Spirit and Laser Pop on the weekends. May 4: Wild and Starry Night. Special presentation on urban landscaping for wildlife and the planet Jupiter. 7-9 p.m. May 6-7, 13-14: Spring Wildflower Sale. More than 40 species of native perennials, grasses, trees and shrubs available for purchase. Saturday 9 a.m.--3 p.m., Sunday noon-3 p.m. May 27-Oct. 1: Scoop on Poop. Premier of a traveling exhibit that examines what poop is and how animals use it. A tactful blend of good science and fun. Adults $13, Children $10. June 1: Wild and Starry Night. Special program on red wolves and the planets. 7-9 p.m. Opening June 17: Laser Beatles, Laser Magic and Cowboy Astronomer 524 J Clyde Morris Blvd., Newport News. 757-595-1900. www.valivingmuseum.org

Virginia War Museum
May 13: Armed Forces Day Toy Soldier Show. Vendors will be selling antique and contemporary toy soldiers and miniatures. May 29: Memorial Day. Sponsored by the American Legion, Braxton-Perkins Post #25, annual ceremony held at the Victory Arch in downtown Newport News. 11 a.m. 9285 Warwick Blvd., Newport News. 757-247-8523. www.warmuseum.org

STAGE

Death by Disco
Ongoing: Solve this ’70s dance party murder mystery while enjoying a delicious four-course dinner. $36.95. 7:30 p.m. Mystery Dinner Playhouse. Located inside the Doubletree Hotel, Virginia Beach. 888-471-4802. www.mysterydinner.com

Russian Cossack Dance Company
May 1: Russia’s premier dance troupe’s folkloric tales of battle, glory, love and loss in an unforgettable show of energy and passion. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $20-$35. 7:30 p.m. King’s Fork High School, Suffolk. 757-282-2800. www.vafest.com

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre
May 2-3: The world’s most renowned modern dance company is a must-see. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. 7:30 p.m. Chrysler Hall Theater. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Tintypes
May 4-7, 11-14, 18-20: The growing pains of a nation are chronicled in this grand pageant of pre-World War I America told in the exuberant words and music of the day. $12. Evening shows at 8 p.m., Sunday matinees at 2:30 p.m. The Smithfield Theater. 757-357-7338. www.smithfieldlittletheater.com

Russian Cossack State Dance Company
May 5: Thirty dancers, musicians and singers from Moscow perform superhuman acrobatic feats with amazing artistic skill. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. 8 p.m. Chrysler Hall Theater. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

The Three Musketeers
May 5: Classic coming-of-age tale following a boy’s journey to maturity. Presented by The Acting Company. $25-$30. 8 p.m. The American Theatre. 757-722-ARTS. www.hamptonarts.net

Blithe Spirit
May 5-7: Hilarious, intelligent and spooky play about a sophisticated couple providing a sŽance as entertainment at a dinner party. By Noel Coward. Adults $12 in advance, $15 at door. Students $5 in advance, $8 at door. Arts Enter Cape Charles. 757-331-2787. www.artsentercapecharles.org

Children’s Letters to God
May 5-7: Charming musical made famous on The Oprah Winfrey Show that answers questions from young people to God. Presented by Virginia Musical Theatre. Adults $25, Youth $15. The Barry Robinson Theatre and Performing Arts Center, Bishop Sullivan Catholic High School, Virginia Beach. 757-340-5446. www.vmtheatre.org

1776
May 5-7, 12-14, 19-21, 26-27: The seminal event in American history blazes to vivid life in this Broadway musical hit. Put a human face on the pages of history and see the men behind the icons. $15. Friday, Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 2:30 p.m. Peninsula Community Theatre. 757-595-5728. www.peninsulacommunitytheatre.org

Bill Cosby
May 6: America’s favorite humorist and legendary star. $40-$50. 4 p.m., 7 p.m. Ferguson Center for the Arts. 757-594-8752. www.cnu.edu/fergusoncenter

Macbeth
May 6: See ambition gone wrong in Shakespeare’s great tragedy presented by the Acting Company. $25-$30. 8 p.m. The American Theatre. 757-722-ARTS. www.hamptonarts.net

Tidewater Comedy Jam
May 6: Comedians Katt Williams and Lavell Crawford with host Sheryl Underwood. $52. 8 p.m. Hampton Coliseum. www.ticketmaster.com

Nrityagram Dance Ensemble of India
May 9-10: Traditionally trained dancers push the limits of dance and theater, creating powerful imagery and an intriguing performance. Funded in part by the National Dance Project of the New England Foundation for the Arts. $30-$35. 7:30 p.m. The American Theatre. 757-722-ARTS. www.hamptonarts.net

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
May 9-14: The Broadway hit based on the biblical tale of Joseph comes to Hampton Roads. Chrysler Hall. 757-761-8100. www.ticketmaster.com

Snow White Goes West
May 19-21: Presented by the Hurrah Players. Friday 7 p.m., Saturday/Sunday 3 p.m. 757-627-5437. www.hurrahplayers.com

The Adjustment
May 19-June 11: A political lobbyist and non-practicing Jew falls in love with her Orthodox-Jewish chiropractor. A charming, bitter-sweet comedy about politics, religion and what we do for love. Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. Generic Theater. 757-441-2160. www.generictheater.org

An Act of Imagination
May 25-June 17: Masterful suspense tale about a mystery writer whose latest work strangely turned into a romance and his life starts imitating his work. 8 p.m. 2 p.m. Saturday matinees. 757-229-0431. www.williamsburgplayers.org

Limon Dance Company
May 26: Experience the power and glory of 60 years of dance making. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. 8 p.m. Regent University Performing Arts Center, Virginia Beach. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Pilobolus Dance Theatre
June 3: Feisty, highly unusual dance company with amazing acrobatic and weight-sharing positions. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. 8 p.m. Ferguson Center for the Arts. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Shakespeare in the Grove: Romeo and Juliet
June 28-July 2: Tidewater Community College’s annual event draws more than 2,500 guests. Settle on blankets and lawn chairs for outdoor theater at its best. Free. 8 p.m. 757-822-5219

MUSIC

Catch 22
May 1: With the Tossers and the Flatliners. $12. 6:30 p.m. The Norva. www.ticketmaster.com

Fallout Boy
May 3: With All American Rejects, Hawthorne Heights, Form First to Last and a Special Decaydance Band. $28.50. 6:30 p.m. Constant Convocation Center, Norfolk. www.ticketmaster.com

Mark O’Connor’s Appalachia Waltz Trio
May 4: The violinist/composer/fiddler and his American classical music. Presented by the Chesapeake Fine Arts Commission and the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 7:30 p.m. Great Bridge Presbyterian Church, Chesapeake. 757-282-2822. www.vafest.com

Say Anything
May 5: With special guest. $10 in advance, $12 at door. 7:30 p.m. The Norva. www.ticketmaster.com

Culture
May 5: Reggae headliner with local favorite Seed Is. $13.50 in advance, $16 at door. 9 p.m. The Norva. www.ticketmaster.com

Virginia Symphony Concert
May 6-7: JoAnn Falletta conducts Beethoven’s Ninth in D Minor. $22-$78. Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 2:30 p.m. Chrysler Hall, Norfolk. 757-892-6366. www.virginiasymphony.org

Old Fashioned Hymn Sing
May 7: Experience the tradition of beautiful four-part a cappella singing in the grand acoustics of the Yoder Barn. Free. 6 p.m. Yoder Barn Theatre, Newport News. 757-249-4187. www.yoderbarn.com

Tlen-Huicani
May 7: Said to be the best folk music group in Mexico, these seven vocalists and musicians with stunning costumes and saucy Latin music styles will make you want to shout “Ole!” Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 7:30 p.m. Attucks Theatre, Norfolk. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Miro Quartet
May 8: Texas-based foursome with youthful intensity and mature interpretations. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $30. 8 p.m. Ohef Sholom Temple, Norfolk. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

The Roots
May 8: Hip-hop sensation performs with equally successful rap artist Common. $21.50 in advance, $24 at door. 9 p.m. The Norva. www.ticketmaster.com

David Russell
May 9: Classical guitar player combines his Scottish heritage and Spanish upbringing in a captivating and expressive performance. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 7:30 p.m. TCC Roper Performing Arts Center, Norfolk. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Jane Ira Bloom Quartet
May 11: Soprano saxophonist plays selections from her latest CD plus other adventurous jazz numbers. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 7:30 p.m. Granby Theater, Norfolk. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Lunchtime Chamber Music Concert
May 11: Ani Kavafian on the violin and Charles Woodward on the piano play Mozart and Dvorak with the Miami String Quartet. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $17. Noon. Trinity Episcopal Church, Portsmouth. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Virginia Symphony Concert
May 11-12: JoAnn Falletta conducts Beethoven’s Second. 8 p.m. Thursday at St. Bede, Williamsburg. Friday at Regent University, Virginia Beach. 757-892-6366. www.virginiasymphony.org

Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra
May 12: Eighteen prominent soloists from the Latin jazz scene performing classics of the Afro-Latin jazz traditions. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 8 p.m. Willett Hall, Portsmouth. 757-282-2822. www.vafest.com

Evening Chamber Music Concert
May 12: Ani Kavafian on the violin and viola and Charles Woodward on the piano with the Miami String Quartet play Mozart, Shostakovich and Mendelssohn. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $30. 7:30 p.m. Phi Beta Kappa Hall, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Gretchen Wilson
May 12: With Trace Adkins. 7:30 p.m. Verizon Wireless Virginia Beach Amphitheater. www.ticketmaster.com

Ruth Brown Blues Festival
May 13: Portsmouth native and blues/R&B legend “Miss Rhythm” is coming home with an all-star line-up of blues artists. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $37--$47. 8 p.m. nTelos Pavilion at Harbor Center, Portsmouth. 757-282-2822. www.vafest.com

Brooks & Dunn
May 14: With Sugarland. 7:30 p.m. Verizon Wireless Virginia Beach Amphitheater. www.ticketmaster.com

Stephen Stills
May 14: The rock legend plays the greatest hits of Crosby, Stills and Nash, Buffalo Springfield and his solo career. $22.50 in advance, $26 at door. 8 p.m. The Norva. www.ticketmaster.com

Evening Chamber Music Concert
May 15: Deborah Wendells Cross on the flute and Andre-Michel Schub on the piano with the Miami String Quartet play Mozart. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 7:30 p.m. Chandler Hall, ODU, Norfolk. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

An Evening with Dark Star Orchestra
May 16: Playing the music of the Grateful Dead. 8 p.m. The Norva. www.ticketmaster.com

Evening Chamber Music Concert
May 16: Deborah Wendells Cross on the flute and Andre-Michel Schub on the piano with the Miami String Quartet play Mozart. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 7:30 p.m. American Theatre, Hampton. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Joanne Shenandoah
May 17: Trancelike voice with a soulful and intimate exploration of Native American ways. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $35. 7:30 p.m. Phi Beta Kappa Hall, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Lunchtime Chamber Music Concert
May 17: Andre-Michel Schub on piano plays Schumann and Mozart with the Miami String Quartet. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $17. Noon. Chrysler Museum Theater, Norfolk. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

The Fray
May 17: Presented by the New Zone 106.1. With the Damwells. 8 p.m. The Norva. www.ticketmaster.com

Beach Music Weekend
May 17-21: Jam-packed beach party featuring Band of OZ, Mardi Gras Band, Coolin’ Out and much more. www.beachstreetusa.com

Loudon Wainwright III
May 18: One of today’s more poignant and honest singer/songwriters with touching lyrics and Dylan-inspired tunes. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 7:30 p.m. Granby Theater, Norfolk. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Broadway under the Stars
May 19: Norfolk native Rob Fisher, music director of New York’s City Center’s Encores! series, returns to conduct the Virginia Symphony Orchestra with guest vocalists Tony Award-winner Debbie Gravitte and Ron Raines. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $10-$35. 8 p.m. The Sunken Garden, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Chamber Music under the Stars
May 20: Hear world-renowned chamber artists Cho-Liang Lin and Andre-Michel Schub perform works of Mozart and Walton while enjoying wine and cheese. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $40. 8 p.m. The Sunken Garden, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Evening Chamber Music Concert
May 22: Julius Rudel returns to conduct this evening concert showcasing the intimate nature of chamber music. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 7:30 p.m. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Suffolk. 757-282-2800. www.vafest.org

Lionheart
May 23: Six men perform Gregorian chant and ancient a cappella music. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 7:30 p.m. Christ & St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Norfolk. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Natalie MacMaster
May 24: Traditional, Celtic-inspired fiddler with bluegrass and jazz influence. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 7:30 p.m. Granby Theater, Norfolk. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Virginia Symphony Orchestra Outdoor Concerts
May 24, 26, 27: Free outdoor concert series. Wednesday 7 p.m. at Old Dominion University, Norfolk. Friday 8 p.m. at the Chrysler Museum of Art, Norfolk. Saturday 7 p.m. at Oyster Point City Center, Newport News. 757-892-6366. www.virginiasymphony.org

Lunchtime Chamber Music Concert
May 25: Arnaud Sussmann on the violin, Julie Albers on the cello and Andre-Michel Schub on the piano play Mozart, Ravel and Brahms. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $17. Noon. First Presbyterian Church, Virginia Beach. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Big Bands at the Cavalier Hotel
May 27-28: The glory days of the Cavalier are coming back. Retro swing kings Big Bad Voodoo Daddy will start things off with many more excellent bands to follow. Co-produced by the Virginia Arts Festival and Beachevents. Cavalier Hotel Beach Club, Virginia Beach. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Big Bands on the Bay
May 28-Sept. 3: Concert and dance series. Free. 7-9 p.m. Ocean View Beach Park, Norfolk. www.festevents.org

Tommy Dorsey Orchestra
May 29: An evening of toe-tapping authentic sound and style. Swinging classics of the Big Band Era and Dixieland; plus R&B and jazz standards. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival and the Cape Charles Consortium for the Arts and Humanities. $25. 7 p.m. Palace Theatre, Cape Charles. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

James Moody
June 1: Engaging entertainer, saxophonist and flutist famous for his signature love serenade, “Moody’s Mood for Love.” Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $25. 7:30 p.m. Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Lunchtime Chamber Music Series
June 1: Quintet Royal, VAF Emerging Masters Ensemble—Debra Wendells Cross on the flute and Barbara Chapman on the harp—play Ligeti, Bolcom and D’Rivera. Presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. $17. Noon. Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Oz with Orchestra
June 4: The finale of the Virginia Arts Festival with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra playing along to the brilliantly re-mastered Wizard of Oz. $25-$45. 7 p.m. The Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News. 757-671-8100. www.vafest.com

Brad Paisley
June 15: With Sara Evans. 7:30 p.m. Verizon Wireless Virginia Beach Amphitheater. www.ticketmaster.com

Pat Benatar
June 17: The 80s legend plays her greatest hits with Neil Giraldo and a special guest. $30 in advance, $35 at door. 8:30 p.m. The Norva. www.ticketmaster.com

Tommy Fest
June 29-July 2: Australian guitarist Tommy Emmanuel returns for his annual sell-out show. Hampton Roads’ own Stephen Bennett will join Tommy onstage. $25. 7:30 p.m. Yoder Barn Theatre, Newport News. 757-249-4187. www.yoderbarn.com

SPORTS

Norfolk Tides
Home Baseball Games: May 1-2 (Rochester Red Wings), May 12-15 (Columbus Clippers), May 16-19 (Toledo Mud Hens), May 20-21 (Richmond Braves), June 1-4 (Charlotte Knights), June 5-8 (Syracuse Sky Chiefs), June 13-16 (Pawtucket Red Sox), June 17-20 (Louisville Bats). Times vary. Harbor Park, Norfolk. 757-622-2222. www.norfolktides.com