Pick: A Promise to Grow

Growth spurt: Local author Marc Boston writes stories for young people that emphasize the importance of diversity and inclusion. His newest picture book, A Promise to Grow, was created in partnership with area nonprofit City of Promise, which works to end generational poverty and foster a culture of achievement in all kids. Set in Charlottesville’s […]

Pick: Richmond Ballet

Splendor on stage: In four distinctive works, the Richmond Ballet showcases what ballet can be in the 21st century. The State Ballet of Virginia executes classical choreographies alongside new works beginning with George Balanchine’s joyous and sprightly Allegro Brillante, followed by Ben Stevenson’s intimate Three Preludes and Colin Connor’s romantic Vestiges. The company finishes with […]

Pick: Cory Wong

Wong does it right: Cory Wong is a Grammy-nominated musical maestro who’s always got something fun up his sleeve. Whether it’s shredding guitar in full hockey gear on a skating rink, or hosting his podcast Wong Notes, his creativity and upbeat presence shine through. Recently, Wong got the chance to flex his acting chops with […]

Pick: Gordon Lightfoot

Song and story: With a remarkable career surpassing 50 years, it’s safe to say that Canadian musician Gordon Lightfoot is a living legend. The Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee has released over 21 albums, and had his songs recorded and performed by greats such as Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Barbra Streisand. In […]

Pick: Grease

Tell me about it stud: Cuff your jeans, grab your leather jacket or poodle skirt, and take it back to the ’50s for a Grease sing-along party. T-Birds, Pink Ladies, and beauty school dropouts should arrive early for a preshow hand jive contest, where a variety of props, including combs, ribbons, and salon caps, will […]

Pick: Anderson East

Into the groove: Anderson East is known for his careful blend of R&B, soul, and roots rock. East’s powerful vocals and soulful rasp helped him climb the charts and win awards for his 2018 breakthrough album Encore, which includes the Grammy-nominated “All On My Mind.” The Alabama born, Nashville-based singer-songwriter mixes things up on his […]

Pick: Immigrant: Courage Required

Longing for home: As a 21-year-old, Golara Haghtalab immigrated to the United States from Iran after her family was randomly selected to receive diversity visas. They settled in Charlottesville, and Haghtalab went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and studio arts from the University of Virginia. Inspired by social justice movements and the […]

Pick: Pride and Prejudice

Love actually: It’s universally acknowledged that Mr. Darcy is the ultimate swoon-worthy love interest. It’s sometimes acknowledged that Joe Wright’s 2005 film adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is the best, though a few BBC loyalists (and C-VILLE staffers) might beg to differ. Lovers of the iconic hand-flex scene will be pleased to learn […]

Pick: The Wizard of Oz

Twenty-five cents, oh my!: There’s no place like…the Paramount! The historic theater is celebrating its 90th anniversary with a special offer—viewings of classic films for the price of a movie ticket in 1931. Up next: the beloved musical The Wizard of Oz. Featuring the award-winning “Over the Rainbow” and the cheerful “We’re Off to See […]

Pick: Sticker

Stickered past: For author Henry Hoke, stickers do more than just stick—they have the power to recall a variety of emotions and memories. In his memoir, Sticker, Hoke uses several styles (including pink, glittery Lisa Frank, Mr. Yuk, and the bumper favorite “coexist”) to explore queer boyhood, parental disability, ancestral violence, and Charlottesville’s history with […]