The UVA Department of Drama prepares students to work in theatre by providing excellent training and interactions and fostering collaboration in coursework and productions.
Almost every week at the Downtown Mall, The Southern Cafe and Music Hall hosts Monday Night Mic standup comedy that is free and open to the general public. Pioneered and hosted by Chris Alan, professional comedian who has opened for the likes of Michael Che, Louis C.K. and Amy Schumer, the night allows comedians of all walks of life to try out their material amongst their peers and a small crowd.
Live Arts Theater announces its 2025/26 Season of Passion: four plays, one musical and a new works festival. The 35th Season opens with Lisa Amour’s AIRLINE HIGHWAY, followed by a holiday offering, the musical WOMEN ON THE VERGE OF A NERVOUS BREAKDOWN. In 2026, Live Arts presents Sarah Ruhl’s STAGE KISS, followed by Shakespeare’s HAMLET, and Dominique Morisseau’s BLOOD AT THE ROOT. The Season of Passion wraps up with our fourth annual WATERWORKS Festival, our “fringe-adjacent” celebration of new theatrical works that continues to attract writers near and far and engage hundreds of volunteers every year.
For many aspiring actors in rural areas, opportunities to engage in the performing arts are scarce — theater programs in these areas are often underfunded or non-existent. Located just south of Charlottesville in Fluvanna County, Empowered Players is working to change that — by bringing free theater classes to children in the rural area, which culminate in a public production showcasing the students’ skills.
