Academy Center of the Arts

Lynchburg's Local Arts Center

High School Theatre Showcase

A community is oftentimes defined as a group of people with a particular characteristic in common; a fellowship, and a common set of goals or interests. Community has a deep meaning and defining purpose to the Academy.

“The arts are a community builder,” said Executive Director Geoffrey Kershner. “The arts gather people together to share in an experience in real space and in real time. Very often these experiences involve powerful emotions or the exchange of meaningful ideas. When this happens, the boundaries that divide a community are broken down and people find common ground. This common ground is the basis of any healthy community. A community that shares experiences and finds commonality can grow.”

As community is a foundational driver in Academy programming, you’ll see a mass of programming surrounding it moving forward. Last weekend, the Academy was host to our local high school theatre community in our High School Theatre Showcase. Over 90 students from 6 area high schools participated in two days of theatrical training and performance.

FullSizeRender[1]Day 1 of the showcase comprised workshops led by our region’s top collegiate theatrical professors. From singing to improv, and technical training in scenery work to lighting software, thespians had their pick of workshops. Day 2 was under the stage lights, with troupes showcasing theatrical selections they’ve been working on for upcoming school performances.

“Academically it’s proven that students who participate in the arts and theatre test stronger and have better in-school attendance than those who do not,” said Director of Education Kelly Posenauer. “The arts have a huge impact on the lives of youth in our community. There’s nothing I love more than to see teens bond because of programs happening at the Academy. ”

Our High School Theatre Showcase was an early addition to the Academy’s Community Engagement and Outreach Initiative, purposed to introduce new outreach programs that will strengthen our community and build a culture of inclusion and accessibility within the arts.

CONTACT US:

(434) 846-8499
600 Main Street
Lynchburg, VA 24504
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ACADEMY ANNOUNCES MASK MANDATE STARTING 9/17/21

At the Academy Center of the Arts, the health and safety of our patrons, staff, performers, and volunteers is our priority. Like you, we are closely monitoring COVID-19 and its current impact on our community, and are following CDC guidelines and recommendations from local authorities and the Virginia Department of Health.


In response to current CDC recommendations, the requests of our performing artists, and to protect our community, everyone entering the Academy Center of the Arts’ facilities for Academy ticketed performances, classes, and gallery activities will be required to wear a face mask starting September 17, 2021.


– Guests must remain masked at all times, however, masks can be removed momentarily only when eating or drinking.

– Mask must fit snugly and cover the wearer’s nose and mouth.

– Masks will be readily available in our lobbies, galleries, and classrooms for patrons in need.


Any patrons with tickets to an Academy performance that do not wish to comply with this policy may receive a full refund through our Box Office, M-F, 12PM – 5PM, by phone at (434) 846-8499 or by email at [email protected].