Written by Adam Kraar
Directed by Maryanne Kiley

Meet me at The Z for a special PRIDE Night Performance! Enjoy “As You Love It” with a pre-show reception in the lobby with raffle prizes and a cash bar. Proceeds raised at this performance support The Z, Hampton Roads Pride, Stonewall Sports and LGBT Life Center.

As Lydia pens a sequel to the beloved As You Like It, her “undiscovered Shakespeare play” takes on a life of its own. Her forgery captivates newspapers, scholars, and a Broadway producer, giving a new voice to what she loves most. This new comedy exploring the complexities of love and ambition was designated a Finalist by the American Shakespeare Center for its biennial competition for plays “in conversation with Shakespeare.

Contemporary and classical works with a focus on diversity and hope by Ballet Virginia Artistic Director Lydia Roberts Coco. Ms. Coco, a former Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater principal dancer, will be tapping into the diverse cultural roots of the Hampton Roads community. This transcendent program will feature a work honoring local and international ballet star, Lorraine Graves who passed away in 2024. Join us for inspiring dance with soulful music.

Performances Feb. 21-22 on The Z Mainstage

Virginia African American Cultural Center Artist Masterpiece Series MLK Day Celebration featuring Beauty for Ashes Dance Company.

Beauty for Ashes will present The King Project, a dance tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr.

A Z Ticket Bank FREE performance provided by Virginia African American Cultural Center. Additional funding for this performance comes from the City of Virginia Beach Cultural Affairs through the Arts and Humanities Commission. 

The celebration will include Nathan Richardson performing speeches by Frederick Douglas, intertwined with musical selections from two soloists. The performance will be followed by a panel discussion.

A Z Ticket Bank FREE performance provided by Virginia African American Cultural Center. Additional funding for this performance comes from the City of Virginia Beach Cultural Affairs through the Arts and Humanities Commission.

Plan B Comedy Kids Show. A family favorite, this show offers a delightful mix of laughter, creativity, and memorable moments for everyone in an interactive setting. Our talented comedians create hilarious scenes on the spot based on your suggestions. So come and experience a unique, engaging performance that will have the whole family laughing together!

Plan B Comedy is very proud to be the resident comedy group at The Z. Performing regularly in both the Studio and the Main Stage, Plan B Comedy provides a high energy, fast paced and exciting experience. Plan B Comedy’s brand is “FUN” and it shows.

A Tidewater Winds Big Band Christmas featuring The Tidewater Winds Big Band with guest jazz vocalist Danielle Roby.

Under the direction of John Brewington

The program will feature the Tidewater Winds Big Band playing some of the original arrangements from the Glen Miller Christmas Songbook, music from Jazz at the Lincoln Center, and even a couple of charts from Tommy Newsom as performed by Doc Severinsen and the Tonight Show Band! This performance is filled with holiday favorites, new arrangements, the debut of new vocalist Danielle Roby and classic holiday music of today and yesterday!