Ampersand International Arts Festival Returns to William & Mary in March ’24

Exciting News! The Ampersand International Arts Festival will return to William & Mary for its 17th year on March 18th, running through Mar. 24 with a variety of arts and entertainment on tap. Previously known as the William & Mary Global Film Festival, the Ampersand International Arts Festival expanded last year to a performing arts festival.

Get ready for a week-long extravaganza featuring films, author talks, live performances, and more, all aimed at sparking meaningful conversations about the power of art in our lives. The festival offers a broad scope of film and live performances, with a focus on international content. Though William & Mary students, alumni, and faculty are still given the opportunity to submit works.

One of the festival’s highlights is our Spotlight Programs, featuring acclaimed artists and thought-provoking discussions. Dive into the world of comedy with the legendary Maria Bamford as she shares her deeply personal and experimental insights on mental illness. Join award-winning actor and musician Daveed Diggs for an intimate conversation about his journey from Broadway sensation to Hollywood star, moderated by theater producer Caitlin Clements. And don’t miss the chance to engage with Emmy-nominated writer and director Cord Jefferson as he delves into his acclaimed work, including the Oscar-nominated film “American Fiction.”

???? But that’s not all! The Spotlight Programs also include exclusive pre-release screenings of groundbreaking films. Experience the inspiring story of “Madu,” a viral sensation turned ballet prodigy, followed by a conversation with editor Georgia Dodson. Plus, explore captivating documentaries like “Citizen Sleuth” and “We Grown Now,” featuring insightful discussions with the filmmakers.

???? Whether you’re a film enthusiast, theater buff, or simply looking for thought-provoking entertainment, The Ampersand International Arts Festival has something for everyone. Join in for a week of creativity, inspiration, and community celebration! And remember, it’s open to the public too! ✨????

Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:

Monday, March 18

• 5:00 PM: Blue Talon Prix Fixe Dinner inspired by The Taste of Things
• 7:00 PM: Screening of “The Taste of Things”
• 8:00 PM: World Premiere of “Breaking Point” by playwright Elliot Wegman
• Ongoing: Photography exhibit “The Barbershop and Beauty Confessions” by Dr. Kimberly L. Weatherly at W&M Entrepreneurial Hub

Tuesday, March 19

• 5:00 PM: Voice of the Artist: Delita Martin, a free artist lecture
• 7:00 PM: Screening of “The Passion of Joan of Arc” with live score

Wednesday, March 20

• 6:00 PM: World Premiere of “Music Talks” by artist/choreographer Koryn Wicks
• 7:00 PM: Screening of “Citizen Sleuth” with Director Chris Kasick
• 8:00 PM: Encore presentation of “Music Talks”
• 9:30 PM: 24 Speed: W&M Student Film Competition Screening

Thursday, March 21

• 5:00 PM: Author Talk: Jocelyn Nicole Johnson
• 7:30 PM: Live Comedy with Maria Bamford
• 8:00 PM & 9:30 PM: The Final Seance, an immersive production from magician James Lopez

Friday, March 22

• 3:00-7:00 PM: Living Libraries presented by Swem Library, a conversational storytelling event
• 5:00 PM: Festival Friday Reception at Williamsburg Community Building
• 5:00 PM: Screening of “The Zone of Interest”
• 7:00 PM: Premiere of “Going Up” with Sara Schaefer
• 7:00 PM: Screening of “Four Daughters”
• 7:30 PM: Screening of “We Grown Now”
• 7:30 PM: W&M Shorts #1, showcasing short films from current W&M students
• 9:00 PM & 10:00 PM: The Final Seance
• 10:00 PM: Screening of “Enter the Clones of Bruce” and “Dinner by Breakfast”

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

• 10:30 AM: American Fiction at Kimball Theatre (Free)
• 10:30 AM: W&M Shorts #2 at Tucker Theater (Free)
• 12:30 PM: Copa 71 at Williamsburg Regional Library ($12)
• 1:00 PM: Author Talk: Walter Hickey at Tucker Theater (Free)
• 1:30 PM: Past Lives at Kimball Theatre ($12)
• 2:00 PM: 24 Speed: Festival Reception at W&M Entrepreneurial Hub (Free)
• 3:00 PM: Author Talk: Kiley Reid at Williamsburg Regional Library ($16)
• 3:30 PM: We Will Not Fade Away at Tucker Theater (Free)
• 5:00 PM: A Conversation with Daveed Diggs at Kimball Theatre ($35)
• 7:00 PM: Anatomy of a Fall at Williamsburg Regional Library ($12)
• 7:00 PM: Harris Simon in Concert at W&M Music Arts Center Concert Hall (Free)
• 7:30 PM: One and the Same at PBK Hall Laboratory Theater (Free)
• 8:00 PM: A Conversation with Cord Jefferson at Kimball Theatre ($35)
• 9:30 PM: 24: Speed: W&M Alumni Filmmaking Competition Screening at Tucker Theater (Free)
• 10:00 PM: The Final Seance at PBK Studio Hall Theatre ($35)

???? SUNDAY, MARCH 24

• 10:00 AM: Sunday Brunch Reception at Williamsburg Community Building ($12)
• 10:00 AM: The Creative Types Web Series Screening at Sadler Center Commonwealth Auditorium (Free)
• 11:00 AM: 24 Speed: Alumni Remix Challenge Screening at Tucker Theater (Free)
• 12:30 PM: W&M Shorts #3 at Sadler Center Commonwealth Auditorium (Free)
• 1:30 PM: Madu pre-release screening with Editor Georgia Dodson at Kimball Theatre ($16)
• 3:00 PM: Voices of Integration at Tucker Theater (Free)
• 3:30 PM: WeMake Filmmakers Student Film Showcase at Sadler Center Commonwealth Auditorium (Free)
• 5:00 PM: Perfect Days at Kimball Theatre ($12)
• 7:30 PM: One and the Same at PBK Hall Laboratory Theater (Free)

FESTIVAL PASSES
Multi-event passes are not available for purchase. All events are ticketed individually.

FREE PROGRAMMING
Many programs are free and unticketed, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Details for every program are available via the full festival schedule.

ARRIVAL & SEATING POLICY
Doors open 25 minutes before each program. Theaters will be cleared after each event. Ticket holders must be in the theater ten minutes before each program to guarantee their seats. Admission may be restricted after a program begins.

SERVICE FEES
Ticketbud, the festival’s ticketing service, will collect a service fee on all orders, both online and at the in-person Box Office. All sales are final. There will be no refunds or exchanges.

FREE TICKETS FOR W&M STUDENTS
Current W&M students may claim free tickets by waiting in a standby line prior to ticketed events. Students in the standby line will be able to enter the theater to fill any available seats just prior to the program. Standby seats are not guaranteed. A current student ID must be presented, with a maximum of one ticket per person per show. We do not have control over when standby lines will form and cannot advise students on an arrival time. Saving places in the line is not permitted.

For more information about upcoming events and offerings, visit the festival’s webpage.

As the author of the previous post, John Womeldorf, also known as Mr. Williamsburg, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Williamsburg, Virginia community. With over 20 years of residency in the area and a family history dating back to the 1700s in Virginia, John offers unparalleled insight into what it’s like to live in Williamsburg. Through his website, mrwilliamsburg.com, John provides valuable resources for those considering a move to the area, offering not only neighborhood information but also a comprehensive overview of life in Williamsburg.

From music and events to arts and festivals, John covers all aspects of life in Williamsburg. Whether you’re interested in college events, sports, recreation, boating, or even grocery shopping, you’ll find valuable insights and information on his website. John’s dedication to keeping the community informed ensures that residents and newcomers alike have access to everything happening in the area.

If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in Williamsburg, John Womeldorf is the expert you need. With his in-depth knowledge of the local real estate market and commitment to serving his clients, John is ready to help you navigate the process and answer any questions you may have. Reach out to John today for personalized assistance with all your real estate needs.