20 Best Acting Programs In Richmond, VA (2022 Updated)

Our daughter came to St. Catherine’s in the 8th grade, and her experience has been nothing short of fantastic. The learning environment is so welcoming and inclusive. The consistent message from faculty is “thank you for trusting us with your child’s education- we are so glad that you are here.” This positive energy sets the tone for our entire experience. Our daughter has always been a hardworking student. But the incredible depth of experiences and resources offered, combined with the empowering atmosphere of the school, are clearly promoting leadership qualities. It is evident to us that she is thriving in the all-girls setting, and she is much more willing to be assertive, take risks, and be herself. I’m sure there are many great academic programs to choose from in our area, but seeing our daughter develop into a confident leader… we could not ask for more. The amazing list of extracurricular choices- many sports teams to choose from every season, dance, theater, music- it really can’t be beat. We are also amazed at the group of girls in her grade- friendly, kind, out-going kids. We’re so grateful that we chose St. Catherine’s (and they chose us!).Scott Nesbitt

I have two daughters at St. Catherine's, one in 1st grade and one in 3rd grade. I can honestly say they LOVE going to school. They get up literally every morning excited about school and they both love their teachers. That school has girls figured out, whether they are doing some spectacular dance performance or a science experiment with gummy worms and glow bracelets (which my daughter has done both). The school cultivates a safe learning environment without distractions. The chapel is centering and teaches them about giving back, kindness, respect and other attributes we want our children to obtain. When we moved here five years ago, as a mother, one of my biggest anxieties was finding the right school for my children. I can without a moment's hesitation say that St. Catherine's and St. Christopher's were the best decisions we made when we moved here. We have had such a positive experience and look forward to see the future!Caroline Smith

Enrolling our daughter at St. Catherine's is one of the best decisions we have made for her. She is incredibly happy and wants to go to school every day. The teachers and staff at this school are amazing, supportive and nurturing. I would not want her to be anywhere else, and I am confident she is getting the best education at St. Catherine's. The fact that this is an all-girls' environment has been such a positive, and I have watched her leadership skills and self-esteem flourish at this school. We have been here two years and have no complaints. I highly recommend this school to any parent who wants their daughter to receive a top-notch education in a nurturing environment filled with teachers and staff who truly care about your child's well-being and all facets of her development — academically, spiritually, socially, physically and emotionally.Martha Stwodah

My children love SPARC! They have varying programs to accommodate the variety of directions a student can take as they progress.Ahlece Gadson

This school truly provides the best private college preparatory education in the Richmond area. We have had the privilege of sending our son since his junior kindergarten year to the school and we receive daily ah-ha moments! My husband attended Saint Christopher's for high school and fell in love with the school as well as its teachers and staff. When we had our son we began our journey from Orlando, Florida area back to Richmond just so our son could attend Saint Christopher's Boys School. This decision has never once been regretted, any and all sacrifices we have made or will make in order to give our son an education like he is receiving at Saint Christopher's is well worth it. If you are looking for an excellent education for your son then please consider Saint Christopher's, I promise, you will not be disappointed!Kristell Wright-Jimenez

St Christopher’s has been an excellent journey for our son. The values and expectations we have at home are re-enforced at school helping to shape our son into a respectful, well-rounded young man, supporting him in the highs and lows along the way. We have had an excellent experience at St. Christopher’s School.Hyde Loupassi

Crappiest school in history-my son was bullied, kids there are racist, and they told me to f off when i stood up for my own son. Really, do better.Jade Brown

Have been to this venue a couple of times for the symphony and opera, and each time we had a great experience. Love the interior of the theater and its acoustics. Seating arrangement is perfect – good viewing angle even from the most affordable seats. Recently saw the Marriage of Figaro and they did a fantastic job. They don't require vaccine checks anymore and wearing a mask is "encouraged" not mandatory. Parking was never a problem so far. They do have an event parking but I believe it opens at 6 pm. Our show was before that time so parked somewhere else 6 min walking distance. I recommend arranging it in advanced if you're not familiar with the area though.Burcu Duran

No bad seat in the house! Went to see the musical Cats! The staff at the venue provided stellar customer service! We prepaid for parking in the area but the lot was full when we arrived! The staff at the venue allowed us to park right at the venue; like VIPs! The show had started, we were frustrated going in circles looking for a spot, and the venue staff helped us without hesitation! See the awesome car in my photo? It's not mine (yet) but I was parked right in front of it 😄 Thank you staff; because of you, we had one of the best nights out since the beginning of the Pandemic!!!Reganda Smith

Great great show! What to see Toby Mack And it was an excellent awesome uplifting show….. But the seating at dominion's images center are too close and very uncomfortable. The people there did not know where our seats was and they said they worked there for a long time we were going around in circles it was kind of embarrassing. My apologies let me stop Complaining. She was helpful I still would say the seats are terrible but the show was greatU.T Winston

Amazing. We went the day before Christmas Eve for our first time at the Byrd and they showed It's a Wonderful Life. We knew to expect an organ concert but we did not know to expect a holiday sing-a-long, complete with jingle bells sung by dogs and fake snow blown from the balcony. It's a beautiful space, the movie was great, the staff was really friendly, the prices were FANTASTIC (I can't remember the last time we went to a movie for that cheap), and we had a great time – we very highly recommend the Byrd if you're in Carytown and in need of a great old movie palace!Kate Brown

Spectacular! Came to watch "It's A Wonderful Life" on Christmas Eve and instantly a new tradition is born! This wonderful theater in Carytown has so much old timey flavor it's living history. Before the movie began the organ arose and the audience participated in Christmas Song don't along. Then snow fell. This beautiful theater and organ introduction wholesomely warmed up my heart and it was like watching the movie for the first time all over again. Popcorn and candy was extra delicious too. I must needs come back often to this piece of legendary living historyJuan Gutierrez

The Byrd theatre is a beautiful place. I always feel transported to the past, and I'm always admiring the architecture and artwork. Love their theme months throughout the year, and love to watch movies from the past which are best experienced on the big screen. Also, they have the last working Wurlitzer Organ in all of Virginia which means they need all the support to help keep it in commission and working, along with keeping the theater running. Definitely check it out the theatre and walk around Cary town when your in the areaDamien O

I was there for a wedding on March 5. However, the owner was not pleasant when asked for certain things and seemed to be very rude and impatient. He spoke to adults as if they were children. I did not have a personal one on one conversation with Ron, however, I did witness him talk to an older woman in a manner that was disrespectful like talking to her as he was walking away. I was a bit disappointed in the way he treated us when he told us we had to leave when our rehearsal time was over. Basically yelling, “You all have to get out now!” I was also disappointed when I was told that a staff member (woman) walked into the one stall restroom on my friend (man) asking about alcohol. That was totally out of line and disrespectful as well. The wedding was beautiful, however, the experience of having it at this place brought my spirits down in a way that I couldn’t fully enjoy my friends wedding.LaTasha Pulley

We celebrated my husband's 60th birthday at the Hippodrome Theatre (Speakeasy and balcony). Our guests on the balcony were able to enjoy their meal while overlooking the dance floor and band. Ron was responsive, and helped to make the event memorable in a short period of time. The staff members were professional, respectful, and friendly. The appetizers were great and prepared to perfection. The plated chicken was a big hit, and our guests raved about the curry sauce. Several people tried to get the staff to share the recipe. I personally had the salmon and it was seasoned perfectly and the vegetables were good. The venue was beautiful and I am grateful for the experience. Thank you, Ron and staff, for making this milestone birthday celebration a memorable event.Lina Lassiter

We had our son's High School Graduation here (The SpeakEasy) and will definitely consider this place again for our next big event celebration. It is a Great place! Great space! Owners and staff were very friendly and helpful. Great communication from start to finish. They were very accommodating to our needs. Amy was extremely responsive to all my inquiries and helped me with the planning and execution from beginning to the end. Location was centrally located for our guests. I was worried that parking would be an issue, but it wasn't. Place was clean and organized; tables and chairs were set up nicely. Food was excellent. A/V was included in the package, which was great! Brilliant service! Thank you for making our event a memorable one!Sarah Galang

Primo spot tucked away right off Cherokee in the heart of a very wealthy and historic area. For the adventurous souls, keep an eye out for the original grave site of General A.P. Hill which is tucked away down one of the dirt trails on the property.Peter Fisher-Duke (zepter)

My mother and have been loyal students and have taken wonderful classes here . We have attended shows and summer camps the experience has always been positive . So it’s not a surprise this is the space we would choose to attempt and host my little sisters Quince at . The event space is lovely . Honestly if I could give the management zero stars I completely would . We started working with Nancy Allen and obviously when you give information on an event you are supposed to go give the full packet of Information . Nancy did NOT DO THAT, we kept having to ask and reach out and she was extremely unattainable and unhelpful it really seemed like she was just trying to make us spend as much as we could instead of giving us all the information and all of the prices upfront. MIND YOU , we paid for half of the space upfront and decided to pay the over half later , which we told Nancy , after having multiple issues with Nancy and her having a distasteful attitude towards us , we simply decided to cancel the event here and go somewhere else where we felt there was more professionalism and better treatment towards customers . After this whole experience and trying to get in touch with the President Kay Alferio who I briefly explained over voicemail the situation I have still not heard back . I understand work is difficult and maybe there’s a lot going on but time management is a skill I would expect an event planner to have to resolve issues and a CEO , over all the experience has not been positive which is truly a shame since we wanted to pay tribute with my sisters childhood ending and her stepping into womanhood in the place she practically grew up in .alexa cruz

Take advantage of this wonderful facility. We viewed the beautiful arts and crafts on display prior to us watching a wonderful presentation performed by three very professional and talented actors. This Center is meticulously maintained by Henrico county and the play we went to see was also very inexpensive. Ad a very friendly and efficient staff and you have all together a great night on the town in a very clean, safe, inexpensive and beautiful location.Red Bankston

Went here for the first time today and thoroughly enjoyed a delightful jazz concert outside on the lawn. The grounds and buildings are beautiful. There's much going on in a variety of disciplines. We have tickets for a play in 2 weeks and are looking forward to trying out their theater.Vicki Edwards

We have found our dance home and our sport! My daughter is beginning her third year at River City Dance and she loves it! Miss Ami is not only a professional dancer and teacher, she is a role model. My daughter dances at home every single day and she is even having her 7th birthday party at River City! The professionalism of the recital year after year keeps me excited for what’s next!Martha Moore

My daughter will start her 5th year with River City Dance this fall. Not only has her dance technique improved tremendously but her self confidence has grown by leaps and bounds. I love that River City Dance emphasizes character building AND becoming a great dancer. An added benefit is the warm community that surrounds the studio.Kathryn Haines

River city dance has given my daughter a wonderful experience …. has grown her confidence… is a safe place for my daughter to be. I am so glad we found this place. Effort is put I to make the girls a unit that works together…. I would recommend River city Dance to everyone interested on dancing I a positive environment.Ericka Pierce

Coalition Theater is hands down the best improv theater I've had an opportunity to work with! It's the inviting, fun, and down to earth atmosphere that makes each night special, your bound to have a great time no matter what show you see. Also, they have beer (cans and drafts) and wine! Love having some cold brews and comedy to round out the night.Alex Strauch

One of their improv shows made suchh an awesome date night for my boyfriend and I! Super entertaining, fun, and even some crowd-involvement. BEWARE: Though it's great that they serve wine (and beer I think), the wine we got was super old and had gone bad. Tasted like it had been opened for weeks before being served to us.D. C.

A fun stop. A small, but well set up theater. We were there for an improv night where they had three groups perform about a half hour each. As with all improv, in was some hit and miss, but overall a good time. And the bar had a decent selection of beer and wine at not unreasonable prices.Scott Davis

I went to see the Dreamgirls production on Sunday July 31st. This was a wonderful Off-Broadway reproduction of the movie. I would have given this 5 stars but there were a couple of things that made me have strong reservations. I would have liked the gift shop to stay open after the play was over to purchase items but instead it closed shortly after intermission. Also in the balcony the guards do not have flashlights and the steps are carpeted and uneven which makes it very hard to navigate. I would have liked to see even tap lights on the sides of the steps to help people get around in the balcony. I understand that it is a historic theater so the seats are small but the intermission was too late into the program so you sat uncomfortably for a long period of time, I heard a lot of complaints in the crowd. I love the set I loved the costumes I love the singers (the character Jimmy was amazing). My favorite set change was how they used people and inanimate objects as the red carpet very creative . In summary it was a great program and I plan to see a full production this year.Saran S Ross

We received tickets as a gift. Got to the theater and were told we couldn't attend without proof of vaccination. I'm all for vaccination, and both myself and my wife are vaccinated and wear masks regularly. The Virginia rep is also entirely within their rights to have this requirement. However, despite both my wife and I visiting the Virginia rep website before the show, we were unaware of the policy. As this policy differs from the predominant policy in the area, even for the performing arts, I would have expected a prominent warning on the main page of the website. Instead, about 1/2 way down the main page, below info on upcoming shows, there is an easy to miss text box with same black text used on the rest of the page that mentions the policy. If the rep wants to have this policy, they really need to step up their game in making sure customers are aware.Hugh Eaves

Oh! I was so impressed with the whole experience. The staff is so pleasant, kind, and helpful! The theater is lovely. The cast was phenomenal. This is the first time I have seen "WEST SIDE STORY". The orchestra did a wonderful job. The music was beautiful! There's no way to describe this cast. They were passionate in their delivery. The acting was flawless as was the dancing and singing. They have very professional singers and their voices blended seamlessly. This will not be the last time for me to come to a performance. The last scene brought me to tears,and they received a well deserved standing ovation. There is just no way to describe the beauty in their voices, the colorful costumes, the perfection in their dance moves, and the overall breathless execution of the entire play. Bravo!C West

For the Chinese New Year celebration, one day extends outward to a week & a half. U of R hosted an afternoon of festivities. The Fine Arts Center allowed for this. I would choose a hall though that had a more spacious ingress & egress. It was tight moving around with the flow of people. The Campus is a natural setting that protects a lot of wildlife & natural growth. Impressive. The lawns had dandelion & clover. Great care for our pollinators!!Portnoy

Beautiful building housing museums and the Alice Jepson theater, which is a wonderful space to see performances. The theater is intimate, beautiful, and there's not a bad seat in the house. The lighting and acoustics are great. The variety and quality of the performances is great, and there are several shows that will appeal to toddlers. Overall, incredible!Christopher Winkler

Was the for a elementary school class field trip to see a show. Staff handled the onslaught of 3rd graders with ease. Facility was impeccably clean and in excellent condition. Theater seating was spacious and comfortable. And it was a great show to boot! Will look for opportunities to return.Jeff Duszak

I was a 13 year senior of the Collegiate School many years ago. I had a great experience at Collegiate, and still enjoy visiting when I am back in Richmond. I was well prepared both academically and socially to go on to college. Some of my closest friends today, are the ones from Collegiate.Rhea Egbert

Theater is small, seats aren't super comfy (padded folding chairs), but they do some great work production-wise. Recommend sitting either front row or up the risers a bit – the stage is low so it can be hard to see around people's heads.Erinn Perry

I've grown up in this theatre. It's my whole world. I am so fortunate to have been able to spend 10 years here so far and can't wait to come back as an adult. The teachers here are fantastic and this truly is a safe space.Burn Wells

My daughter participated in their year long program and summer camp, and loved both. I would recommend HATTheatre to anyone interested in acting!Stuart Jones

This review is specifically for Kids’ Place, which provides outstanding support to working parents. The team goes above and beyond to care for the kids. My son attends three days per week, T-R, but is welcome there for full days even when his school is closed on a Monday or Friday. They offer enriching activities like chess and swimming, and made tutoring available if parents were interested. They took the kids on field trips during spring break, bowling and roller skating. They went way out of the way to collect my son from his Field Day at Benedictine even though he typically gets picked up from Saint Bridget. I didn’t even have to ask—they asked me! They knew my son’s school schedule better than I did. Their trusty fleet of vans departs the center every day to collect kids from far and wide, and the one that picks up my son is always first in the pick-up line. I can’t say enough good things about it—thank you. Sincerely.Jaime Molbreak

I am a huge fan if the JCC. It is a true community center with emphasis on community. People are warm, friendly, and staff are dedicated to their jobs. I love our deep water aerobics class taught by Amy Wilson. It is excellent exercise and a fun way to meet interesting and kind people. In addition to Amy’s upbeat teaching style, I must also commend Pete (sorry I do not know his last name). It is obvious that Pete looks closely at the women in the class (ages 50 something – 80 something ) at the beginning of class to check if everyone is okay, and then he watches us closely while still guarding the recreational pool. I have a great sense of security that we are safe under Pete’s diligent watch. He should be commended for his professionalism.Kathleen Barrett

Preschool is the best, gym is awesome, cafe is delicious! All staff is always super helpful and kind. Ladore helped me figure out my way around the gym. Scott is the BEST as you enter the building in helping you find your way, get checked in, etc.! Nancy & her husband fix the most scrumptious food in the cafe (& many school lunches for my daughter as well!) kosher & kind! Barbara, Erin, Donna, & Marianne have all been helpful and attentive since my daughter’s very first day a year ago in the early education sector. Grateful to have found such a great community.Kyrie Dibling-Moore

A niche' school located in the quiet West End that is focused on "collaborative" learning to help many of their struggling students receive their "best effort" due to small class sizes and remedial Business Practices. After much phone tag with-the admissions department and trying to gain a grasp on how the day to day of this business is ran. Yes, I said business, not educational institution. Upon final review of the school and campus seeking enrollment for our children, it was decided that it was in our best effort to forgo the lush campus, clique' atmosphere and athletics program for our children's educational future.Brian Bowman

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was deeply missing the experience of in-person, live theatre. I was blessed to find out about Firehouse Theatre, one of the few (if not only) theatre companies in RVA that continued to present in-person performances with proper safety precautions in place, in addition to giving guests the option to enjoy the show from home via live stream. The quality of the performances have not been impacted by the pandemic – Firehouse continues to debut works of art that are thought provoking and culturally relevant while providing opportunities to new directors and playwrights. The intimate setting of Firehouse's black box theatre offers guests the opportunity to escape their current reality and become engulfed in the stories that are beautifully acted out before them. I am proud to be a supporter of the Firehouse Theatre and I look forward to witnessing many top quality productions in the future.Kyra Molinaro

This is how you operate during a pandemic! Just attended The Picture of Dorian Gray , and this was my best use of a Tuesday afternoon. Billy Maupin is a talented performer; I thoroughly enjoyed his versatility on stage. Limited seating and all the extra precautions, made it a very safe experience. I ordered my ticket and drinks in advance, so there was no social contact. My drinks were ready before the show and during intermission ,and the communication e-mail sent prior to the date outlined what to expect upon arrival , only added to an exceptional afternoon. Please support this theatre, they are doing extraordinary things during these difficult times.Andre Johnson

Saw the production of Preludes by Dave Malloy, my favorite composer. The cast was simply amazing and the theatre itself was very, very nice. It was much smaller than I expected, but it was comfy and had a very nice setup. If I lived closer, I would be seeing many more shows there. Ushers and everyone working there were very kind and helpful and made the experience even more enjoyable. An excellent, intimate setting for a production.Ava N. Marie

I frequently buy season tickets to Swift Creek Mill for my mother and I to enjoy an evening out together. However, the show Love Sick had content that I was uncomfortable with. I took my 13 year old grandson with us on Friday evening. I called ahead to make sure it was appropriate for me bring him. I was told there was nothing too bad in it probably a pg13 rating. Ok thats fine. However two of the nine scenes contained gay love scenes which I did not appreciate having to endure with my mom and grandson. I have never seen the theater that empty before. It was unusual. Then I knew why. They need to find a way to better inform the public when they choose to show controversial material. I am rethinking my season tickets already purchased for next season.Vicki Ryder

My husband and I had dinner and watched the play “Gas light”. Both we’re great! The restaurant was cozy and perfect for date night. The drinks and food were delicious! The dessert was lacking… we ordered sticky toffee pudding which was a flavorless muffin with toffee sauce on it. The sauce was good but the pudding errr. muffin was not. The play was outstanding! I loved the intimacy of the theater. I felt like I was part of the play. The actors and actress was very professional. We loved our experience and plan to return.Brandy Bond

This theater is the greatest venue for an enjoyable experience. If you want to spend a great evening with your wife or family this is it. I have seen several shows in this venue and have enjoyed the dinner before the show.Always a good time and good food . If you want an enjoyable evening come on down WHY Be ause it's SHOW TIME. Enjoy yourself and have a GREAT evening at this venue.Kevin Joyce

Dogtown has a lot of meaning for my husband and I. We first met rehearsing for a dance show in the first floor studio at Dogtown. Nearly four years later, we got married in the theatre where we had our first performance together and had our first looks in the studio where we met. While this fact alone makes for an extremely sentimental wedding, it was the staff at Dogtown that truly made our wedding experience so memorable. Jess Burgess (artistic director) is amazing in so many ways – beautiful dancer, organized manager, easygoing and quick to communicate, and most importantly, caring, respectful, and hardworking. Her staff mirrors her qualities, making for a wonderful and personable crew at Dogtown. They set up for the wedding, ran our sound, lights, and music, helped flip the space between ceremony and reception, cleaned up afterward, accommodated every wish and demand as possible and were friendly and fun as well. Wedding week is one of the most stressful weeks for a bride and groom, but Jess made sure everything was taken care of to lessen the stress on us. She was such a pleasure to work with throughout the entire process – always responding to texts/emails, checking in, and always sending positive words of encouragement. If you’re looking for a wedding or event venue or just a place to take some awesome dance classes, Dogtown is the place. It is sometimes an overlooked gem in the community, but deserves the utmost respect for playing house to so many talented artists. Dogtown is like a second home for my husband and I and will always have a special place in our hearts – not just for the meaning, but because the staff went above and beyond to make our wedding as special as possible. Jess Burgess – Thank you so much again for all of your hard work and hospitality. We are forever grateful for you and our beloved Dogtown!Chelsea Coffey Boo

Once you're in the classes, they're quite fun! Everyone's very friendly and the instructors are knowledgeable. They offer a large variety of classes, are very involved in the arts community, and there's so much to join, watch or perform. Floors are dirty and need to be cleaned more especially since there's both shoes and bare feet in the studios. However, they claim to be screening or checking vaccination statuses. Mask wearing is enforced, hand sanitizer is everywhere, and signs everywhere talking about protocols.None of the COVID checks enforced. You can walk in the building, they don't check your temperature or ask for your cards. Nobody confirms that you have the Vagaro app or did the pre-check before. They don't update their social media for closures nor return phone calls. I left a voicemail midday asking what the status was for a class since there was a light snowfall that evening. Never got a call back. Showed up that evening to an empty, unlocked building. Looked at their facebook page and they had updated it an hour prior saying everything was closed. Pretty inconvenient.Lieplay Lieplay

This place is AMAZING. I Dogtown is one of those places you would consider to be a staple in the Richmond Culture. On top of the great atmosphere it provides a safe home for students, teachers, and independent artists to do what they love. Be sure to check out the website to see all the classes offered! I teach Hip Hop Cardio on Tuesdays 7-8PM. (Shameless Plug lol) Hope to see you there!Rahvee Williams

The speakers are often excellent, but the venue, parking and RMC staff are all pretty terrible. Also, it would be great to see community access, of some kind (public radio/tv/something)… I'm certain students, the elderly, and many others who just can't afford tickets would greatly benefit from the presentations!M. Hunter Haglund

My wife and I are huge fans of the Richmond Forum. We have been attending for 6 years. It’s wonderful to have access to such interesting speakers in RVA.Edward O'Leary