The Virginia Beach Oceanfront offers more than surf and sand. Beach goers can get a “legendary” experience when strolling the scenic boardwalk. In addition to concerts, magic and other acts, visitors can be entertained by the “Virginia Legends Live!” program, which teaches local history in a theatrical performance.
Mike Hilton, Live on Atlantic manager, said “Virginia Legends Live!” can be traced back to the Virginia Legends Walk on 13th Street and Atlantic Avenue. The original goal was to bring some of the historical figures featured in the Virginia Legends Walk “to life” with shows that present their powerful life stories. The productions are all locally written and produced shows featuring local actors, musicians and authentic costumes and sets. Each 30 minute show is presented in three unique oceanfront venues and is offered free to the public.
“Visitors to the Virginia Beach resort love these free offerings that are unique to our area and tell stories that are interesting and entertaining as well,” said Hilton. “They create memories for our guests and add value to an already exceptional resort experience.”
Gary Spell, writer and producer of five of the shows, said recent studies show that tourists are increasingly drawn to areas that are deep in heritage, and Hampton Roads is quite rich with historical relevance.
“These stories are critical to Hampton Roads because they’re ours,” said Spell. “There’s room at the table for all types of entertainment, but in today’s culture, there have to be items of substance on the menu. These younger audiences aren’t just content with being entertained. They want to learn.”
“ELLA: The Life & Music of Fitzgerald” was the first show presented in the program and is still running. The production features a live band and an Ella Fitzgerald impersonator who shares with the audience watershed moments from the famous singer’s life. “This show, along with several other productions, bring to life a little bit of Virginia, or more specifically, Virginia Beach history,” said Hilton.
This year, “Virginia Legends Live!” features seven standalone shows, each one highlighting a story with local roots. The performances run through Labor Day and include the following shows:
ELLA:The Life & Music of Ella Fitzgerald: Shares the story of Ella, who was born and raised in Newport News.
The Wreck of the Dictator: Tells the breathtaking true story of the rescue mission of a ship that was slowly being beaten to pieces less than 300 yards from the Virginia Beach shore while a crowd of shocked bystanders looked on.
1619: When Destinies Collide: Shares the compelling story of the native Africans who first set foot on American soil.
Contraband: Tells the riveting story of three enslaved men searching for sanctuary and Benjamin Butler, the lawyer/General, who improvised a legal strategy that pulled the thread that unraveled slavery.
Aviators and Afterburners: A Virginia Beach Airpower Legacy: Tells the history of naval aviation and its humble beginnings in coastal Virginia.
Valor: The Story of the US Navy Seals and Little Creek: Learn the history of the US Navy SEALs, some of their most compelling missions and the establishment of their Virginia Beach headquarters – Joint Expeditionary Base, Little Creek.
The Witch of Pungo: Earlier this summer, the series shared the story of Grace Sherwood, the first and only woman ever convicted of witchcraft by the Commonwealth of Virginia (*Note – this show wrapped in July).
Go to beacheventsvb.com for times and dates of the performances.
Lee Belote, [email protected]
