In partnership with our Premiere Performance Partner, the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts at James Madison University, 3rd graders from Rockingham County Public Schools attended a performance and workshop highlighting JMU Dance. This annual workshop explores contemporary dance, movement, and choreography, performed by members of the Virginia Repertory Dance Company (VRDC). As JMU’s pre-professional dance ensemble, VRDC consists of talented student dancers who are interested in pursuing a career in the professional dance field.

Hosted by JMU Dance Program faculty, company dancers performed modern choreographic works from their upcoming show and talked with the 3rd grade audience about elements of dance and movement to watch for during the performance. The students also had an opportunity to learn a short choreographed dance in their seat. The program shared how art, creative practice, dance and movement can be used in various and exciting ways.

Photo credit: Tall + Small Photography

In partnership with Court Square Theater, over 1,500 2nd grade students from Harrisonburg City and Rockingham County Public Schools attended “Galapagos George,” presented by Barefoot Puppet Theatre. During this 4-day teaching artist residency, students adventured to Pinta Island and learned about the true story of "Lonesome George." Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, Heidi Rugg of Barefoot Puppet Theatre engaged students in an educational and fun show highlighting the art and craft of puppeteering, puppet-making, set-design, theatre techniques, and storytelling. 

We're grateful to the Virginia Commission for the Arts and Arts Council of the Valley for grant monies that helped make this residency possible and for making the arts come alive for our students. Photos by the incredible Tall and Small Photography.  ​

Kicking off our 2025-2026 Live Arts Experience Season, Harrisonburg City and Rockingham County Public School 1st grade students had a blast at the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts at JMU with Jamie Adkins and his unforgettable circus comedy show. Channeling vaudeville legend Charlie Chaplin, Jamie Adkins put on a hilarious and highly engaging one-man show filled with physical comedy, acrobatics, and audience participation. Students were equally in awe of his incredible talent while laughing out loud at the silliness of his performance. Our friends, Tall and Small Photography captured the joy beautifully; check out the images below to see the magic.