The 2nd Stage series at the Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen has to be one of the best music deals in the area. The prices are reasonable, the genres wide-ranging and you can experience more than just music. Simple entrees are available (usually $5), as well as home-made desserts, beer and wine. Early arrivals can get quite a dose of culture – the center’s 4 galleries are also open. Shows are usually the first Friday of every month and offer cabaret-style seating in the Cardinal Ballroom.
Admittedly off the beaten path (Mountain Rd. in Glen Allen), the series took some time to build an audience. K Alferio, the center’s president, remembers the first couple of shows, “We seemed to have more people on the stage performing than in the audience.” But enthusiasm – something K has a healthy supply of – and diverse musical offerings overcame those early challenges. As marketing and PR director Christopher Murphy says, “the Center offers cultural opportunities beyond music.”
The 6th season kicked off recently with cool jazz and blues from Virginians Barbara Martin and Vincent Lewis. Their simpatico vibe may have something to do with the fact that they’ve been dating for about a year. On stage, Barbara handles the vocals, while both play laid back acoustic-electric guitars. They cover standards and some originals. Barbara, in Virginia for over 20 years, feels like the state is a good place for jazz, although it may take a little searching. It is good enough for them to make a living via their music without having “day jobs.” They do take their show on the road and have a New Zealand tour in February.
Upcoming 2nd Stage shows of note include an Evening of Judy Garland by Debra Wagoner, the Uke Fest (11/7 & 8), Love Songs with Susan Greenbaum and The Honky Tonk Experience doing country April 10 (this show usually sells out). Season subscriptions are available at a slight discount or you can buy individual tickets ($15). Over in the larger November auditorium, Oct. 18 will feature a tribute to Ray Charles and Nov. 21 and 22 will showcase some RVA favorites – Robbin Thompson, Susan Greenbaum and Donna Meade backed up by the Richmond Symphony. Truly something for anyone – if you’re willing to take a short drive to the burbs.
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