Meet this week's guest editor, Kyle Epps! As a Richmond native, dedicated land steward, and passionate cultural advocate, Kyle M Epps brings a wealth of knowledge to their artistic practice. A proud graduate of VCU, they have remained a lifelong student of art, history, and science. Their impressive journey spans from published scholar to award-winning artist, with features in a range of publications. Now, married with children, Kyle seamlessly blends diverse interests to inspire and foster greater harmony amongst people and their surroundings.
Take it away, Kyle...
Peter and the Starcatcher at Firehouse Theatre
The hilarious Tony Award-winning play with music, Peter and the Starcatcher, serves as a prequel to the timeless tale of the “Boy Who Would Not Grow Up.” This whimsical adventure delves into themes of greed and despair, along with the unbreakable bonds of friendship, duty, and love, set against a backdrop of marauding pirates. With a cast of twelve actors bringing dozens of unforgettable characters to life, Peter and the Starcatcher dazzles with boundless imagination, whisking you away to a Neverland you never knew.
Explore, learn, and experience holistic health, wellness, and social change at the 21stHappily Natural Day Festival. The festival is dedicated to holistic health, cultural awareness and social change bringing communities together through arts and culture. Celebrate life with live performances, food, vendors, workshops and special guests. This year's festivities feature the globally recognized “Last Poets” and their new mural with a dedicated unveiling.
Vitals:
Happily Natural Day Festival / Saturday, August 31st, 12:00 - 10:00 pm / free / Fifth District Mini Farm, 2227 Wise Street
LGBTQ Richmond Bus Tour
Celebrate Richmond’s Endless Summer of Pride with a romp through the city’s LGBTQ+ scene past and present! Join The Valentine's Director Bill Martin and Beth Marschak, author of Lesbian and Gay Richmond, to explore the people, neighborhoods and events that shaped the gay, lesbian and queer community in Richmond over the decades.
*Limited Supply Remaining*
We're bringing back one of our most popular Grid shop items, an Old Fashioned glass that is anything but old fashioned! Our collaboration with artist Hamilton Glass continues, and features his signature #Whosham RVA logo laser-etched around these double rocks cocktail glasses. Hamilton, with his architectural background and passion for public art, has been prominently featured in Richmond Grid and Here Weekly. We’re thrilled to present this limited-edition product from Grid Supply Co. that highlights his distinctive style.
If cocktail glasses aren't your thing, Grid Supply Co. carries other locally made gifts and handmade items by some Richmond's favorite makers and artisans.
Artist Kyle M Epps is bringing a fresh wave of creativity to the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden with two new immersive experiences. The Blooms of Light AR exhibition transforms the garden into a digital wonderland, where vibrant music and interactive animations capture the essence of growth and transformation. Alongside this, visitors can embark on the Secret Garden Legacy Adventure, a geocaching experience that takes participants on a riddle-filled journey through the garden's historic landscapes. Both experiences offer unique ways to explore the garden, blending art, nature, and adventure.
Kyle will also be exhibiting new work in the BAAAR Group exhibition "Sweet to the Soul and Healing to the Bones," a visual arts show at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia. This exhibition complements the "Blacks in Medicine - A Prescription for Change" installation highlighting the history and achievements of Black medical professionals who broke down barriers during segregation. Kyle's contributions continue to engage audiences with powerful narratives and innovative artistic expression. Show your support by visiting these exhibitions, purchasing works, and sharing your experience with others to help keep creativity thriving.
Meet this week's guest editor, Liza Mickens! A native of Richmond, Liza carries forward the legacy of her great-great-grandmother, Maggie Lena Walker, by advocating for gender equality as a spokesperson for Vote Equality US. Currently, Liza is the Social Media Specialist at Virginia Tourism Corporation, where she shares why "Virginia is for Lovers" through engaging content.
Liza is a proud James Madison University graduate, majoring in Communications and Public Relations. After a brief stint in NYC pursuing a fashion industry dream, Liza returned home to Richmond to celebrate Virginia's ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. Since then, she’s embraced her hometown’s growth and while she eagerly anticipates JMU’s football season opener, she’s hoping the Washington Commanders will give her something to cheer for on Sundays.
Take it away, Liza...
Vintage Market
To celebrate two years at South Pine Street, CobbleStore Vintage is having an anniversary vintage market. The lineup includes vendors that have contributed to the store in some way since they began in 2016. Check out some of my favorite vendors like @grannys_garage plus snag some delicious eats from TBT El Gallo and Ruby Scoops. Fan Ran & Profound79 of Gritty City Records will be spinning a 2000s and 90s hip hop blend.
Vitals:
Vintage Market/ Saturday, August 24th, 11:00 am - 7:00 pm / Free / 324 South Pine Street
M?LES at Gallery 5
This Sunday kicks off a new monthly series with Gallery 5 and the Broad Street Bullies. Creative duo, M?les (Mylo Video Productions and M.P.) are inviting their friends to perform and showcase their work on the fourth Sunday of every month. The team at Gallery 5 has a special place in my heart after working together on Maggie Walker’s 160th birthday celebration. Their team recently moved their stage back in front of the large station doors. Come out and see my friends showcasing their talents in this redesigned space.
Vitals:
M?les at Gallery5/ Friday, August 25th, 5:00 - 10:00 pm / $10 in advance, $15 at the door / Gallery 5, 200 W. Marshall Street
RATIFIED at the Byrd Theatre
Join us on Women's Equality Day for Virginia's debut of RATIFIED at the Byrd on August 26th. The film follows the key figures involved in Virginia’s ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment. Though Virginia was the final state needed to ratify the ERA in 2020, it is still not a Constitutional amendment. Come learn more about efforts that happened right here in our city. I will emcee a panel after the film with Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan, Andrea Miller, Kati Hornung, and Eastan Weber.
Vitals:
RATIFIED / Monday, August 26th, 6:30 - 9:30 pm / Tickets range from $5 - 28 / Byrd Theatre, 2908 W Cary St, Richmond, VA 23221
We're bringing back one of our most popular Grid shop items, an Old Fashioned glass that is anything but old fashioned! Our collaboration with artist Hamilton Glass continues, and features his signature #Whosham RVA logo laser-etched around these double rocks cocktail glasses. Hamilton, with his architectural background and passion for public art, has been prominently featured in Richmond Grid and Here Weekly. We’re thrilled to present this limited-edition product from Grid Supply Co. that highlights his distinctive style.
If cocktail glasses aren't your thing, Grid Supply Co. carries other locally made gifts and handmade items by some Richmond's favorite makers and artisans.
Women’s Equality Day is not just a celebration, but a call to action. Check out the Equality Toolkit from RATIFIED for examples of how to get involved. Democracy takes all of us, taking action together to shape our collective future, so invite the people you love to get off the sidelines!
Now is also a great time to double-check your voter registration, research issues and candidates, and make your voting plan. Friends don’t let friends vote alone!
Meet this week's guest editor, Kayen Wilborn! As a Family Partner at The Faison Center for Autism, he offers compassionate support, advocating for his clients' independence and well-being. Alongside his care work, Kayen is an accomplished musician with 12 years as a professional DJ and eight years as the singer, trumpeter, and bandleader of Weekend Plans, known for its blend of Jazz, Funk, Hip-Hop, and R&B. He has shared the stage with many national and international touring acts like Ledisi and Trombone Shorty. Kayen’s studies in Music Performance and Social Psychology at Virginia Commonwealth University enhance his artistic and empathetic approach to life. Passionate about art in all forms, Kayen also enjoys cooking and is known for his flavorful BBQ and vegan dishes. As a professional DJ (DJ Lēto), he has extensive experience with various events and is always ready to provide a memorable musical experience.
Take it away, Kayen...
Vibes at Sunset
Take a little time to enrich yourself on this pre-Friday evening! The amazing curators of Electric Sun Society will be leading yoga and meditation sessions, there will be food vendors, merch vendors, and two guest DJs, one of which is my guy J. Kirven, who will be spinning under the blissful rays as the sun sets. Bring your blanket, your yoga mat, even a furry friend or two!
Vitals:
Vibes at Sunset / Friday, August 15th, 5:00 - 9:00 pm / Free / Libby Hill Park, 6801 E. Franklin Street
Pay Rent Brass Band at Get Tight Lounge
If you want to get sonically hit in the face with some of your favorite pop, hip-hop, rock, and even video game songs, Pay Rent Brass Band has you covered. These dudes don't play around. With their intricate arrangements and bombastic presence, they bring the heat to whatever room they're in. Grab a friend, grab a drink at the bar, dance the night away, and sing your heart out!
Weekend Plans, North by North, Beefcake & Flatspot at The Camel
Now what kind of self-respecting bandleader would I be if I did not take every opportunity to shamelessly promote my band? Yes, my band Weekend Plans is performing at The Camel with some friends! Beefcake and Flatspot are some of our local buddies, and North by North is traveling from Chicago to throw down with us! It's going to be a great time with some rockin', funkin', groovin' music to boot! We can't wait to hang with you on Hump Day!
We're bringing back one of our most popular Grid shop items, an Old Fashioned glass that is anything but old fashioned! Our collaboration with artist Hamilton Glass continues, and features his signature #Whosham RVA logo laser-etched around these double rocks cocktail glasses. Hamilton, with his architectural background and passion for public art, has been prominently featured in Richmond Grid and Here Weekly. We’re thrilled to present this limited-edition product from Grid Supply Co. that highlights his distinctive style.
If cocktail glasses aren't your thing, Grid Supply Co. carries other locally made gifts and handmade items by some Richmond's favorite makers and artisans.
My best friend Jordan and I, seen here in the photo of us apparently attempting to smile like horses, are working on new music for our band, Weekend Plans (he is the co-founder, lead songwriter, and bassist). Additionally, though not pictured, my other best friend Justin (keyboard player and also co-founder) and I are working hard behind the scenes to put together a string of shows in the coming months (some might call it a "tour"), so stay tuned!
Lastly, I am just grateful to be alive, to interact with family and friends, and to hopefully learn some lessons and make new friends along the way. So many goals, aspirations, and dreams...I'm lucky to be alive to pursue them with all of my might. A comedian once said, "In your life, in any given moment, the strongest dream of that moment, WINS that moment." I think I am a very powerful dreamer, and I try to bring my dreams closer to fruition every day.
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