The Virginia Stage Company's "A Very Merry Christmas Carol" at the Wells Theatre has become a holiday tradition for our family and this year did not disappoint. The entire audience seemed excited for the performance, with the Christmas spirit felt throughout the lobby and theater. The staff were friendly, welcoming, and helpful. The available concessions were tasty, though the spiked eggnog was sorely missed this year. One recommendation would be to improve communication regarding drink availability at the bars. If certain beverages are not served at the theater entrance bar (like hot cocoa and coffee), they should not appear on that menu, or guests should be informed before waiting in line. I witnessed dozens of theatergoers being told after a long wait that hot drinks were only available at the side bar by the front windows which created a lot of unnecessary frustration. The Wells Theatre has a wonderful antique nostalgia while remaining well maintained and very clean. We were fortunate to experience the show from a completely different seat location that previous years, on the opposite side of the house, and the updated writing and script changes were enough to keep the production feeling fresh and engaging. We also appreciated the intermission being placed after the First Spirit rather than after the Second, as in previous years, as it made the acts feel more balanced. Additionally, the return of the Third Spirit's in-audience entrance was definitely appreciated. read more

Weird first time experience. Had to see the Christmas classic, A Merry Little Christmas Carol. A friend ordered the tickets online, so we ate dinner then dropped us off our front as she went to park. Masks + vaccination cards to be presented. There's 4 of us. Since she was parking, I went to will call and gave her name. The lady literally takes out 4 tickets and rips 2 to trash before I could even say anything. For them to have no parking super close, how can one assume we wouldn't need to number of tickets we ordered? I told her there was actually 4 of us and she said there was some glitch in the system then gave us 2 seats in a completely different section. Once my friend arrived, she showed them her tickets from online to see we were supposed to be on completely different spots? Since it was too close to show time, we suffered the first act in the mezzanine then the rest in the orchestra seats. Honestly made SUCH a difference. 3.5 rounded up because the play was great, but I hope they fix whatever glitch their system is going through because it put a sour taste in my mouth. read more

Virginia Stage - Performing Arts Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

The VA Stage company continues to delight, surprise and push some boundaries. I love their adaptations of old classics, the most recent being EMMA. It was a knock-out! Completely fresh, funny and musical. A better production by far than the Broadway version and way more enjoyable. The theater is a 100-year-old gem with upgrades, including great seats and acoustics. read more

The theater has been calling my name! I'm literally haven't been in over a year. So I'm thrilled that they have actual shows. I've seen a Christmas Carol so many times here. This year's version was different but entertaining. More of a musical but with the same theme. Tickets are not cheap by any means but totally worth it. Intermission was eggnog spikes with Rum Chata, how fabulous is that?! Lovely place, lovely time. read more

Virginia Stage - Piano at intermission - Performing Arts Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

See all

This place is beautiful! I was invited here via Yelp to check out opening night of "The Hound of the Baskervilles". It's been a long time since I've been to a play. I think my last encounter with theater was about 6+ years ago when Wicked came to the Scope. So I was excited to see and support something a little more local. I had never been to this Theater before, but I had an idea of where it was located. It's pretty much right behind the Macarthur Mall. So if I were you, I would park at the mall and just walk there. Which is what we did. When you walk inside it almost feels like you are taken back in time. To a time where theater was reserved for only those of wealth. It was beautiful to say the least. Most everyone was gathered in the lobby, chatting, and drinking complimentary glasses of Champagne. Not sure if they do this every night they have a play, or if it was because it was the opening night of ours, but it was a great way to kick off the evening. There is also a bar in the lobby. I;d recommend getting a glass of wine or something to sip on while you wait for the show to begin. I did see some people bring their beers into the auditorium, not sure if that's allowed or not, but it seems doable. We were seated in the top section in the center. Great seats, minus the lights on the floor. I think they are emergency lights? They were incredibly bright and actually started taking away from the show, especially when the lights would go dark, which happened a few times during the production. My peripherals were taking a major hit and it started making me a bit sick. If I could have one and only suggestion for the theater it would be to turn them down. They are just entirely too bright. Other than that we had a WONDERFUL time! The show itself had us crying from laughter. It reminded me how much I miss the theater. And attending this one is a real treat! I read from past reviews that they have "A Christmas Carol" playing here during Christmas time. My family and I are always looking for fun Christmas-y things to do while my father is in town. I definitely will make it back here this Christmas so the rest of my family can experience such a wonderful experience at this magnificent theater!j read more

See all

The Wells Theater off Granby in the heart of downtown Norfolk, home ot the Virginia Stage Company, is a venue like none other. It has been restored to its former glory, and, I dare say, it may be even better. It is a joy to attend VSC performances here. The creative team at VSC presents six plays per season. Last night, we enjoyed one of my favorite plays of all time, My Fair Lady. VSC did not disappoint. While I did not think it possible, they made My Fair Lady even better! The unique staging, including dual pianos onstage at all times and incorporated into the acting at times, was a stroke of genius. VSC draws some truly gifted actors and directors. We are truly blessed to have the Virginia Stage Company in Hampton Roads. Season tickets are a must! Get them now! read more

Virginia Stage - Performing Arts Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Last night was my second time coming to the Virginia Stage Company/Wells Theatre. I'm not super into the arts and entertainment scene but the more I go there the more I want to get into it. The theater itself is gorgeous. The seating area isn't very large but given that there isn't a bad seat in the house. You can hear everything clearly and see all that is happening throughout the performance. Last night's event had the Hurrah Players performing and it was certainly a treat. It's one of those places you don't really think about going to but when you do you're reminded of the talent that comes from this area. This place really defines Norfolk and Hampton Roads. read more

It's a real treat to watch a production by the Virginia Stage Company. I've been fortunate to many shows, all of which have been fantastic. Performances are held at the Wells Theater, which deserves a visit in and of itself. The theater was built in 1913 and is restored with ornate fixtures and is truly spectacular. The staging and props are always excellent, but usually simple in keeping with the budget of a community-supported theater. The actors are true professionals and give amazing performances. Get to the theater as often as you can! read more

See all

Hound of the Baskervilles hands down one of the best shows I have ever seen. 3 men playing over 20 colorful characters. Amazing chemistry between the actors. Comedic timing was phenomenal. So much laughter and the connection between the actors and the audience was tangible. My sides were in stitches by the end of the show! If you get a chance to see this you will not be disappointed! A must see! Wells Theater is beautiful building downtown. Thick, beautiful carpeting and interesting facades decorate the lobby. Theater seating is comfortable and not claustrophobic. We were seated in the mezzanine and the view was spectacular. Easy to see everything going on on stage. read more

My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the Pride and Prejudice performance. Performances were great, sets were lacking, but we'll definitely be back! read more

It must have been employees of the company that wrote these superb reviews, because my experience with this organization has differed greatly. The Virginia Stage Company canceled performances of the Christmas Carol on December 14th and 15th. They provided little to no notice for the customers that bought tickets. Although there was an offer to seat you at a later performance, but this is likely just an effort to fill seats in not already sold out shows. As a poor attempt at customer service, they said you can call the box office for this seating arrangement. When I called the box office, they said they only had limited hours between Monday and Friday. The shows were canceled late Friday evening, so there was minimal time for any kind of reparations before the weekend. I assume they thought people will forget about this slight by Monday. Why should customers have to see reschedule for when it is more opportune for them? They shouldn't have sold tickets and taken money from customers if there was a chance the show would be canceled. There has been no mention of a refund by Virginia Stage Company, so these cancellations amounts to organized theft since no service was performed for the money paid. I doubt they will change in the future, so buyer beware. read more

We've been season ticket holders for several years and always enjoy the show. The production of Hound of the Baskervilles was outstanding. Three men played at least 20 characters and each one was perfect! I don't know how they did it. The most amazing feat came after intermission when they re-enacted the 1st Act in maybe 5 minutes. How they did it and still had the energy to go on to the second act, I don't know. I just know we were exhausted from laughing so hard. It certainly is one we'll remember. The Wells is a great venue for VSC. The theater is lovely and recent renovations have made the pre-show and intermission more enjoyable. If you haven't seen a show at the Wells you should make the effort to catch one. You won't be sorry! read more

The Hound of the Baskervilles was a hoot! From double entendre to "punny funnies to sharp witticisms, the production was well-written, well-acted, and just all-around pure electric (sometimes in slo-mo) hilarity. Ingeniousness from just three actors! FUN! FUN! FUN! read more

The wife and I are big fans of the theater and we recently went to a production of "A Christmas Carol" at the Wells Theatre. It was a family excursion as we brought along our two boys, ages 9 and 7, and we had a wonderful afternoon at the matinee showing. The first thing that catches your attention is the sheer beauty of the theater itself. Wow. With the high and beautifully adorned ceilings and the box seating along the sides, the interior of the theater was just gorgeous. I secretly wished I was sitting up in the boxes, though our seats were great too. The production was quite enjoyable. We were sitting in the fifth row and the only complaint I would have is that it was sometimes hard to hear the actors if they weren't directly facing you. Perhaps I am just losing my hearing! But, the costumes were well done and the actors were all quite good. Overall, the theater and the VSC are tremendous assets to the local fine arts scene. We loved our experience and will definitely return for a future engagement. read more

I had never been here until a few nights ago when I came for Hollywood style event. It was unexpectedly beautiful and reminded me of a miniature version of the San Francisco Opera House. Lots of lush decor makes it feel very dramatic. It was the perfect venue for this event! read more

See all

I've been here only twice. Once was a back stage showing of Hansel and Gretel (we took the kids from work there) and then just yesterday to see The Fanstasticks. The theater is small - but that's what you get when you're talking historic. It's absolutely beautiful! I'd love to come back! The seats we had were great and I think that there really is no terrible seat in this house. read more

Virginia Stage - Performing Arts Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

See all

I saw a Christmas Carol and it was fabulous! In addition, they had free champagne and cupcakes at the beginning of the show. The Wells theater is beautiful! read more

We had a fantastic time attending A Christmas Carol at The Wells Theatre. I look forward to attending more Virginia Stage Company events in the future! read more

This will be my first time there going see the Christmas carol looking forward to it!

If you haven't been to downtown Norfolk's Well's Theatre you are in for a treat. Step in the lobby and look up at the gorgeous ceiling of the rotunda. It is gorgeous. We saw Virginia Stage Company's Pride and Prejudice. If ya love Jane Austen this is so right up your alley! Mr. Darcy had his hands full with Elizabeth Bennett. Great performance in a fab setting. Really looking forward to the comedy Hound of the Baskervilles coming at the end of this month. Easy to park right across the street at Macarthur Mall. read more

Excellent production of A Christmas Carol - up to the usual standards of the company. Beautiful location, easy parking, and a great show! Definitely a great way to spend an evening in Norfolk. read more

We enjoyed Pride and Prejudice today. The casting was spot on and the performance was top notch. The next show will be Hound of the Baskervilles , we are looking forward to seeing this too. The seats are comfortable and parking is easy at the McArthur Mall which is right across the street. We come from the Outerbanks in NC to see each show! read more

Virginia Stage - We saw Pride and Prejudice today. Virginia Stage Company put on a fabulous ! - Performing Arts Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

The Wells Theatre is truly a local treasure. I can't believe it when I encounter locals who have never been inside of it. Once a vaudeville house, it's nearing 100 years old and its ornate red and gold decor and fresco-ed ceilings and lobby are an experience unto themselves. The Wells is the permanent home of Virginia Stage Company, the only honest-to-God full time professional theater company in the area. The company stages four or five major productions a year including their annual version of "A Christmas Carol" which has become a popular holiday tradition locally. I've never seen a bad show there. They hire local actors occasionally but most often the cast is shipped in from New York or elsewhere. The sets, props and lighting are always top notch. The last show I saw there was Jules Verne's "Around the World in 80 Days", a period comedy that was full of physical humor and clever staging. A few years back they started a "pay what you can" night where you can go see the final dress rehearsal (just like a performance) on the el-cheapo. Me likey. read more

I was Invited a couple of weeks ago to the Virginia State Company (Wells) I been in Norfolk Almost 5 years, And been all over Granby and Monticello and never knew this little Gem existed! I was very exited to go watch the play, The location is very small, but interesting. We got seats on the mezz first row ,Great seats! Even tho the play was a little boring for my taste (peter and the Starcatcher) we did had a good time. I made sure to take a calendar and I'll be looking forwards to go see other plays. Its Nice to have other things to do in the area besides Movies, Bars and Food :P read more

Love, love, love this place. The hubster and I have been going for years and years, sometimes with another couple or two, sometimes just us. Best night out in all of Hampton Roads! First of all the 100 year old theatre is stunning and unique. We love to get a drink in the lobby bar and just enjoy the beautiful space. They don't make 'em like this any more! The shows are always amazing and range from musicals to Shakespeare to super contemporary scripts. The location is close to restaurants and bars for a pre-show meal, and the atmosphere of the theatre itself is warm and inviting. It feels like a special night on the town, but relaxed at the same time. You see all ages and all types of people in the audience. A true gem in downtown Norfolk! read more

Excellent production of Pride and Prejudice. Did a good job following booek. Scene changes very smooth.

Went to see Pride and Prejudice with 14 year old daughter. We absolutely loved it! We were worried about the 21/2 hour length, but the time flew by. My daughter said she would see it again. The theatre is beautiful and the customer service is awesome. read more

Such a local treasure! I grew up going to Wells Theater, and continue to be a huge fan. The productions are always fantastic. Looking forward to Pride and Prejudice! read more

I took my family to see A Christmas Carol at the Virginia Stage Company / Wells Theater. It was our first visit, and it won't be our last! The production was wonderfully orchestrated and directed, the staff was pleasant, and the setting was quaint and cozy. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit. Thank you David for the invite! read more

We've been to A Christmas Carol the last 3 years and it never gets old. The cast and crew are absolutely perfect each time. Just a great amount of energy and talent that pours out in their peformances. The location is wonderful with tons of restaurants to go to before or after the show. Wells Theater is beautiful, comfortable, and charming. You can't go wrong spending a few hours with this great organization! read more

Best venue in downtown Norfolk. Great casting crew! Awesome shows! Beautiful theater! There isn't a bad seat in the house! Currently a Christmas Carol is playing and it made for a great night out with the family don't miss this season! read more

My wife and I have been season subscribers for over 15 years to the VSC at the Wells Theatre. We have enjoyed many memorable productions over the years, and we have to say if anything, they are getting better and better. The current production of "Parchman" is a timeless story of overcoming oppression, and is just as relevant today as it was when the real events occurred in the 60's. Production and staging are efficient and fast paced, and the varied cast is talented, energetic, and passionate. All of this in the uniquely intimate setting that is the Wells Theatre, a national treasure! Go see a VSC performance at the Wells NOW! You will be glad you did. read more