VBGIGs (Virginia Beach Globally Inspired Gatherings) kicked off again Nov. 2 at Zeiders American Dream Theater with more than 600 people enjoying a free Dia de Muertos show featuring Mexican music, ballet, panel discussions, art and more.  
 
Part of Virginia Beach’s Arts Plan 2030, VBGIGs encourages learning about neighbors near and far and sparks cultural curiosity through the performing arts. Children receive a VBGIGs passport and stickers to track the world regions they “visit” at each performance. An additional three shows are planned now through April 2025 – all are free, but registration is required as space is limited.

Next in November: Journey to India

Don’t miss Classical Dance of India featuring Padmarani Rasiah Cantu, Nov. 23, 2 p.m. at the Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library, 4100 Virginia Beach Blvd. Journey to another land, into the timeless and alluring mythology of India! Join Padmarani Rasiah Cantu and her senior disciple, Bhagya Nair, as they share exciting, dramatic and epic tales from India through Bharatha Natyam, a classical Indian dance form over 2000 years old. The program presented in partnership with Virginia Beach Public Library and Asian Indians of Hampton Roads. 

Jazz it up in February 

Beat the winter chill with Ethio Blue featuring Meklit Hadero, Feb. 28, 2025, 7 p.m. at Zeiders American Dream Theater, 4509 Commerce St. Meklit Hadero is an Ethiopian American vocalist, songwriter, and composer, known for her electric stage presence, innovative sound and vibrant cultural activism. This exciting and exclusive performance in Virginia Beach will feature works from her latest album, released March 8, 2024: “Ethio-Blue.”  Meklit’s Ethio-Jazz performances have taken her to renowned stages across four continents and her albums have topped world music charts across the U.S. and Europe. 

April: Dig into Earth Month 

Learn about Indigenous culture and our critical ties to the earth with Red Crooked Sky, April 12, 2025, 7 p.m. at Zeiders American Dream Theater, 4509 Commerce St. Led by Chief Keith Anderson, this music, dance and fashion exploration features members of several Native American nations, including the local Nansemond Nation. Based in Southeastern Virginia, this collaborative, multi-generational group of American Indians represents an array of tribes, including Cherokee, Sioux, Meherrin, Osage, Pamunkey, Seneca, Monacan and others. Experience the traditions of the past and present as they take you on a spiritual and emotional journey like no other.  
 
VBGIGs is presented by the Virginia Beach Cultural Affairs Department. Additional performances will be announced as scheduled. For more info and to register for VBGIGs events, visit the Cultural Affairs calendar of events or email [email protected].