Arts Outreach

What is Arts4All?

Arts4All is an initiative by Generic Theater to bring the joy, excitement and entertainment of live theater to communities who might not otherwise have access.

Why is it needed?

Generic Theater realized that though our area has a variety of arts opportunities, the costs for many citizens are prohibitive. To see a Broadway tour of a play can cost approximately $500 for a family of 4. Tickets for community theaters generally run between $15 and $25 each. Shows at local professional theaters cost even more. Many in our community have financial struggles, which make enjoying theater impossible. Generic Theater wants to change that. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy live theater.

How does it work?

Any person receiving public assistance for housing, food, or medical is eligible for Arts4All. They need simply to present themselves at the Generic box office for any scheduled performance and provide staff with a card for SNAP, EBT, Medicaid or other proof of public assistance and they will be admitted to the show for $5. Generic sets aside a block of seats for each show to welcome Arts4All participants. Please arrive at the on-site box office no later than 30 minutes before the performance to purchase a seat.

When are the shows?

Generic shows run on selected weekends throughout the year. Friday and Saturday performances are at 8:00pm, and Sunday matinees are at 2:30pm. The on-site box office opens ~1 hour before each performance, and those interested in Arts4All tickets should check in no later than 30 minutes before a performance. Because theater is live action, patrons who may arrive late may have to wait for a break between scenes to be seated. Find the schedule of upcoming shows here.

Where is Generic Theater?

Generic Theater recently moved and is now located at 7001 Granby St. in the Norfolk Masonic Temple. Find directions & visit information here.

What is Kids Free Hampton Roads?

Kids Free Hampton Roads is a Generic Theater outreach initiative that offers FREE theater to Hampton Roads high school students, their teachers and escorting parents.

Who is eligible?

Hampton Roads high school students, high school drama teachers and any parents who escort teens to the shows are eligible to attend the Invited Dress Rehearsal (IDR) for each regular season show.

When are the Invited Dress Rehearsals?

Each regular season show has one IDR performance scheduled for 8pm on the day before the show officially opens. For example, if a show opens on Friday, November 6th, the IDR will be scheduled for 8pm on Thursday, November 5th.  Find the schedule of upcoming shows here.

How Does Kids Free Work?

1. Select the show to be seen
2. Secure permission from parent or guardian
3. Arrive at the theater no later than 7:45pm (seats are on a first come first served basis). Those attending will be met by Generic volunteers who will direct patrons to seats and make note of the school they attend.
4. If there are questions or concerns, contact Kathy Strouse, Program Coordinator at [email protected]
5. Enjoy the show!!!

Where is Generic Theater?

Generic Theater recently moved and is now located at 7001 Granby St. in the Norfolk Masonic Temple. Find directions & visit information here.