The Arts Are Thriving at William & Mary — And It’s an Exciting Time to Be in Williamsburg
If you’ve spent any time around Williamsburg lately, you can feel it — the arts and music scene here has grown in a big way, and much of that energy is coming from programming happening at William & Mary.
And honestly, it’s been thrilling to watch.
The opening and expanded programming centered around Phi Beta Kappa Memorial Hall and the Music Arts Center have elevated what was already a strong arts presence into something truly special for the entire Williamsburg community. What used to feel like occasional campus performances has turned into a full, vibrant season of world-class music, theatre, dance, exhibitions, and comedy available right here in town.
And the best part? These events aren’t just for students and faculty — they’re for all of us.
A Lineup Worth Leaving the House For
Looking through this season’s calendar, it’s clear William & Mary is bringing in talent you’d normally expect to travel to Richmond, Norfolk, or even D.C. to see.
Whose Live Anyway? — January 30 & 31, 2026
Comedy fans won’t want to miss Whose Live Anyway?, performing Friday and Saturday, January 30 and 31 at 7:30 PM. Hosted by William & Mary alumnus Charles Esten, widely known for his starring role on the hit television series Nashville, the show features cast members from the Emmy-nominated Whose Line Is It Anyway? and delivers 90 minutes of completely improvised comedy and music driven by audience suggestions — meaning no two performances are ever the same. Expect big laughs, unexpected moments, and even the chance for audience members to join the fun on stage.
Kronos Quartet — February 8, 2026
The legendary Kronos Quartet performs Sunday, February 8 at 7:30 PM, bringing more than five decades of groundbreaking music-making to Williamsburg. Known for redefining what a string quartet can be, Kronos blends classical tradition with contemporary sounds and global influences, creating performances that feel fresh, relevant, and emotionally powerful — a rare opportunity to see one of the world’s most innovative chamber ensembles right here in town.
Irina Kulikova — February 13, 2026
Acclaimed guitarist Irina Kulikova takes the stage Friday, February 13 at 7:30 PM, captivating audiences worldwide with her expressive playing and remarkable stage presence. Her performances span beloved classical works and contemporary compositions, showcasing both technical brilliance and deep musical sensitivity. Even for those new to classical guitar, this promises to be an unforgettable evening.
Nicole Zuraitis — February 21, 2026
GRAMMY-winning jazz vocalist, pianist, and songwriter Nicole Zuraitis performs Saturday, February 21 at 7:30 PM, bringing her powerhouse voice and inventive songwriting style to Williamsburg audiences. Blending classic jazz influences with modern sensibilities, her performance offers a soulful and sophisticated evening appealing to longtime jazz fans and new listeners alike.
Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble — March 4, 2026
The Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Ensemble performs Wednesday, March 4 at 7:30 PM, delivering dynamic, high-energy modern dance rooted in African American traditions and global influences. Known internationally for powerful storytelling through movement, the company creates performances that celebrate culture, identity, and the shared human experience in ways that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
David Russell — April 17, 2026
Classical guitar master and GRAMMY Award winner David Russell appears Friday, April 17 at 7:30 PM. Celebrated worldwide for his artistry, precision, and expressive interpretations, Russell’s performances are intimate, lyrical, and deeply musical — a rare chance to hear one of the world’s great guitarists live in Williamsburg.
An Evening Celebrating Stephen Schwartz — April 30, 2026
On Thursday, April 30 at 7:30 PM, audiences can enjoy a special evening celebrating composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz, featuring conversation and performances drawn from his celebrated works including Wicked, Pippin, Godspell, and music from beloved film projects. The program concludes with an audience Q&A, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of Broadway’s most influential creators.
Beyond the headline touring performances, there is a constant lineup of concerts and productions featuring both visiting artists and incredibly talented students and faculty.
Some upcoming highlights include:
• William & Mary Choir Domestic Tour performances
• Ebony Expressions Gospel Explosion Concert
• Barksdale Treble Chorus Spring Concert
• Combined Choirs performances
• Botetourt Chamber Singers Spring Concert
And that’s just the choral side of things.
The theatre program continues to produce ambitious performances as well, including productions like The Minutes and Machinal, along with student-driven dance showcases such as the annual Evening of Dance featuring Orchesis Modern Dance Company.
In short, there’s almost always something happening.
Free Music Performances for the Community
One of the hidden gems many residents don’t realize exists is the Arts Quarter Music Series — a free concert series open to the public.
Recent and upcoming performances include:
• Washington Saxophone Quartet
• Violinist Kirstin Lee with pianist John Novacek
• DC Café Aman and other chamber and world music groups
These concerts are professional-quality performances offered at no cost, right on campus.
Festivals Bringing National Talent to Williamsburg
Williamsburg is also becoming a stop for larger arts festivals that draw performers and audiences from well beyond our region.
Two big examples:
The Last Word Comedy Festival
A packed weekend of improv and stand-up comedy featuring performers from around the country, along with workshops and live shows across town.
The Ampersand Festival
A week-long celebration of the arts featuring films, guest speakers, music, theatre, dance, and literary programming throughout Williamsburg.
Events like these make Williamsburg feel far more culturally connected than many people expect from a town our size.
Don’t Miss the Muscarelle Museum of Art
Another major development is the expanded Muscarelle Museum of Art at William & Mary, which now offers significantly more gallery space and rotating exhibitions.
Recent and upcoming exhibitions include:
• Liquid Commonwealth: The Art and Life of Water in Virginia
• Abstract Expressionists: The Women, highlighting major female artists who shaped the movement
The museum now offers rotating exhibits, lectures, workshops, a museum café, and a gift shop — making it worth repeat visits throughout the year.
And Yes — Parking Is Actually Easy
One of the pleasant surprises for many visitors is how easy attending performances can be.
• Free weekend parking begins Friday evenings.
• Evening parking is inexpensive and available in nearby garages and campus lots.
• Most venues are within easy walking distance once you arrive.
No downtown traffic headaches. No arena parking nightmares. Just park, walk in, enjoy the show, and be home in minutes.
Why This Matters for Williamsburg
When people ask what it’s like to live here, arts and cultural programming increasingly become part of the answer.
You can enjoy nationally recognized performances, museum exhibitions, concerts, theatre, and festivals without leaving town — and without big-city hassles.
Programming like this strengthens our community, enriches campus life, and gives residents and visitors more reasons to enjoy evenings locally.
And it’s only getting better.
Learn More & Get Tickets
You can explore upcoming performances and events through William & Mary’s arts programming site:
Many events sell out, so it’s worth checking schedules early.
And hopefully, I’ll see some of you there.
About Me — And Why I Write These Articles
If you’ve followed my work, you know that while I am a real estate agent, I’ve always seen myself as more of a local ambassador for Williamsburg.
People moving here don’t just want to know about houses — they want to know about lifestyle, community, events, and what makes this place special. Writing about things like William & Mary’s arts scene helps showcase why so many of us love calling this area home.
And if we run into each other at a concert or performance sometime, please say hello.
Warmly,
John Womeldorf
Mr. Williamsburg
757-254-8136