From “Anansi the Spider” to “Brer Rabbit,” traditional slave tales have hidden meanings that serve to educate and celebrate African American history. Storyteller Dylan Pritchett brings the early days of slavery to life through these tales that are wound tightly with themes of family strength and morals as well as lessons that teach about character and survival.

Dylan Pritchett shares his folktales with thousands of children and adults throughout the country, with positive messages that cross cultural boundaries. As the past president of the National Association of Black Storytellers, Dylan is dedicated to passing on the rich oral tradition of storytelling. In addition to live performances, Dylan has produced narration and served as a performer and consultant for a number of broadcast documentaries, including the PBS program, “View from the Mountaintop,” the Thomas Jefferson biography.

Presented in partnership with the Virginia African American Cultural Center and Arts for Learning. Free performance is provided through The Z Ticket Bank, special thanks to sponsorship from Virginia African American Cultural Center.

Additional program support is provided by Arts Alliance, Virginia Commission for the Arts, and National Endowment for the Arts.

Photos and/or videos may be taken of adults and children at performances and used for promotional purposes, which may include social media, web, and print

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Family Time: The Z and community partners present a full season of original tales and family favorites in fun, engaging performances for theater-lovers of all ages! Family fun starts here! 

Ballet Virginia’s season kicks off with a mix of contemporary and classical works. These performances will feature choreography by Lydia Roberts Coco, BV’s Artistic Director, as well as Dwight Rhoden, Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Complexions Contemporary Ballet. Mr. Rhoden was hailed as “one of the most sought-after choreographers” by the New York Times. Rhoden’s work, “Evermore” and Coco’s work “Bolero” are sure to delight. These wonderful and diverse artists will leave a lasting impression on the audience with their passion and artistry. Prepare to be thoroughly captivated!

Ballet Virginia’s winter performances bring a mix of contemporary and classical dance with a focus on diversity and hope. This transcendent program will also feature audience favorites “FIVE” and “A Seed of Faith”. “FIVE” is Coco’s work of historical significance which tells the moving story of the Central Park Five. Prepare to leave the theater with your heart and soul full of joy and hope.

For Group Discount information, call the Box Office 757-499-0317

Written by Anton Five, Directed by Mike Burnette

Join CTHR and a host of Faerie Folk this Spring for a magical romp through the sidh- or call it, Faerie Land, if you prefer.

You’ll meet representatives of the Good Folk, like the mischievous Red Man, the elusive Leprechaun, and the even more elusive Pooka. They’ll need your help untangling the mix-up at the Changeling Office and, more importantly, finding out what happened to the Magic Cow!!
This brand-new production is a fairy tale mash-up guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages with lots of laughs, audience interaction, and a bit of Irish Magic!
Appropriate for all ages, best enjoyed by those four and up.

Written by Anton Five, Directed by Mike Burnette

Strange things are afoot in Christie’s town this October. Mysterious theft, zany characters, and old Mrs. Karey has lost her keys! And why did it all seem to start when the new mummy exhibit opened at the museum?

Thankfully, CTHR’s resident detective is on the case and there’s no mystery she can’t solve with the help of her stuffed animal partner and, of course, YOU!
Join us October 28th for some whacky, not-so-spooky fun.

Appropriate for all ages, best enjoyed by those four and up.

Adaptation by Anton Five, Directed by Mike Burnette

Descend, bold traveler! CTHR presents Jules Verne’s classic tale brought to life with actors, puppets, and interactive storytelling! What mysteries lie beneath the very ground below our feet? What secrets will it tell? Will there be treasure untold? Will we be met by monsters out of time? There’s only one way to find out. Join CTHR on a “Journey to the Center of the Earth”! this November.

Explorers of any age are invited to attend (best appreciated by adventurers four and up).

FAMILY TIME: The Z and community partners present a full season of original tales and family favorites in fun, engaging performances for theater-lovers of all ages! Family fun starts here! Featuring performances by the Children’s Theater of Hampton Roads.