Richmond, VA | The Virginia Commission for the Arts (VCA) announces its most extensive cohort of new artists and ensembles to date, welcoming to its prestigious statewide Touring Artist Roster:
American Shakespeare Center | Staunton
Fuse Ensemble Arts Collective | Modern Classical, Fairfax
Garth Newel Piano Quartet | Classical Chamber, Bath
Host of Sparrows Aerial Circus | Richmond
Jae Sinnett Trio | Jazz, Carrollton
Raman Kaylan Trio | Traditional Indian flute, Centreville
Roberta Lea | “Country-Neo-Pop”, Norfolk
Sumona Apsara Parii | South-Indian Dance, Falls Church
Brasswind | Eclectic brass, Hampton
Tidewater Classical Guitar Orchestra | Norfolk
Ty-Rone Travis | Ventriloquism and kids’ comedy, Chesterfield
Virginia Stage Company | Norfolk
Bringing Art to the Community
Representing a rich tapestry of talent from diverse regions across the Commonwealth, these twelve artists/ensembles broaden the esteemed lineup to 69 available acts for booking by any nonprofit organization, school, or unit of local or tribal government in Virginia.
“As the state agency dedicated to investing in the arts to benefit all Virginians, the VCA is committed to diversifying and growing our Roster. This, in turns, diversifies and grows the patrons engaging with the performing arts, allowing us to truly fulfill our mission” said Margaret Hancock, Executive Director of the Virginia Commission for the Arts. “This VCA-driven program is at the forefront of bringing arts to every corner of the Commonwealth, and we are so pleased to expand the program with these twelve new talented artists.”
About the Program
The VCA’s grant-funded Virginia Touring Program ensures that all Virginians have the ability to experience high-quality performing arts events. Performers accepted onto the distinguished Touring Artist Roster are selected by the VCA on the basis of artistic quality; sound management; and the ability to provide inspiring, entertaining, and educational programs.
The impact of the touring program is evident in the Roster’s performers and outreach, fostering connections and actively engaging with over 54,000 Virginia citizens in 2023.
Presenters may select artists from this Roster and apply for Virginia Touring Grants, which fund up to 50% of the performance fees for programs featured on the Touring Artist Roster.
Virginians can learn more about these artists by visiting the Virginia Touring Artist Roster, HERE. FY25 Virginia Touring Grants go online March 1, 2024.
About the New Artist
American Shakespeare Center | Staunton
American Shakespeare Center is a renowned theater company dedicated to the performance and study of Shakespeare’s works. The Center’s national tour is dedicated to authentic staging conditions, setting it apart as a cultural gem in Virginia.
Fuse Ensemble Arts Collective | Fairfax
Fuse Ensemble, a modern chamber ensemble, fearlessly crafts musical experiences integrating live interactive videos, electronics, and kinetic installations. Their multimedia approach includes collaborations with sculptors, visual artists, instrument makers, poets, and artists of diverse analog and digital mediums.
Garth Newel Piano Quartet | Bath
The Garth Newel Piano Quartet, renowned for their spirited performances, presents classical concerts featuring beloved chamber music classics and new discoveries. With a strong national and international presence, their performances include conversational and engaging introductions to the musical works.
Host of Sparrows Aerial Circus | Richmond
Host of Sparrows Aerial Circus, Virginia’s pioneering contemporary circus company, tours their latest production, “Metamorphosis”. These performances showcase a beautifully choreographed aerial silks display in both indoor and outdoor settings, celebrating the life cycle of the butterfly.
Jae Sinnett Trio | Carrollton
The Jae Sinnett Trio offers dynamic jazz performances with versatility. From classic swing to fusion and funk, their performances cater to serious jazz lovers, maintaining the essence of the classic jazz trio while incorporating soulful elements of swing and blues.
Raman Kaylan Trio | Centreville
Enchanting audiences worldwide with the ethereal tunes of the Indian bamboo flute, Raman Kalyan stands as a prominent figure among Carnatic music flautists. His repertoire spans South Indian Traditional Flute duets with violin and the rhythmic resonance of the double-headed drum (mridangam) and soft Tambura (drone).
Roberta Lea | Norfolk
Roberta Lea, hailed as one of Hampton Road’s best-kept secrets, is a member of the Black Opry collective, CMT’s Next Women of Country, and a recent inductee to The Recording Academy. Her distinctive “country-new-pop” fusion seamlessly incorporates elements of pop, country, and jazz.
Sumona Apsara Parii | Falls Church
Sumona Apsara Parii is a dedicated artist specializing in Bharata Natyam, Bollywood, and Indian Contemporary Dance. Through her inspiring performances, she shares the rich cultural heritage of Indian dance through intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures, and storytelling rooted in Hindu mythology
Brasswind | Hampton
Brasswind is an eclectic and high-energy horn band comprised of retired and active-duty military musicians and music educators. With a diverse repertoire spanning Motown, R&B, Jazz, Soul, and Funk, the ensemble combines an exceptionally talented rhythm section with authentic horns and outstanding vocals.
Tidewater Classical Guitar Orchestra | Norfolk
Tidewater Classical Guitar Orchestra showcases over a dozen accomplished guitarists known for their diverse repertoire spanning Bach to Bartok. TGO offers engaging concerts that seamlessly blend classical, South American, and Great American Songbook styles.
Ty-Rone Travis | Chesterfield
Uncle Ty-Rone, a multi-talented ventriloquist, DJ, puppeteer, and comedian who brings the joy of learning to young minds. His “One Mic Many Voices” show delivers a lively and animated performance, emphasizing the importance of reading and the power of believing in yourself.
Virginia Stage Company | Norfolk
For more than 23 years, Virginia Stage Company have fostered a love of literature and the performing arts among both youth and adults alike. Through its impactful Education and Community Engagement programs, their touring offerings not only entertain but also contribute meaningfully to the educational experience of the audience.
About the Virginia Commission for the Arts
The Virginia Commission for the Arts – established in 1968 – is the state agency dedicated to investing in the arts of the Commonwealth. Through funding from the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, the Commission invests in arts organizations, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, educators, and artists.