Generic Theater

Welcome to the Generic Theater.

The Generic Theater of Virginia holds a unique place in the cultural life of Hampton Roads as the area's "off-Broadway" playhouse. Since 1981 it has challenged and delighted audience with the new, and off-beat in theater fare, always looking for plays of artistic merit which, for a variety of reasons, are unlikely to be produced on other stages.

Joe DiPietro
Art of Murder
Edgar Award Winner for Best Mystery Play.
August 22-September 14, 2008 (date subject to change)

“Don’t Question me. I’m an artist.” Jack Brooks is one of modern art’s brilliant painters. However, his best work is behind him. His flamboyant art dealer claims the only things Jack has left are his rugged good looks and celebrity. Jack’s looks and fame sell magazines, but his paintings won’t increase in value until he dies. So Jack and his wife choose his next career move – kill the art dealer! Artistic egos have never been this chilling or hilarious. This roller coaster ride will have you laughing and guessing who killed who as the bodies pile up.

“It is hilarious, suspenseful, surprising and dazzling in every way.” —Equinox News.

Generic Theater is moving...

A year from now you won’t recognize this familiar old block on 21st Street. Generic Theater has called this neighborhood home for 25 seasons. And thanks to our faithful patrons and contributors loca performers have been on this stage since 1983. And we’re just getting started!

Through the generous support of Norfolk’s Department of Cultural Facilities , Arts and Entertainment, we have a new home down under Chrysler Hall (also known as Little Hall). Many of you enjoyed the performances there by other producing organizations. We’re excited because our new performance space allows for actual space! When you attend a play next season you’ll enjoy comfortable seating you won’t have to climb into. No longer will you be looking at the top of an actor’s head. You’ll be face-to-face with the actors. Moving Generic Theater to down under Chrysler Hall will finally allow us a versatile performance space. Every time you see a play the seating and stage configuration may change allowing directors, designers and actors exciting new choices. You will see unique productions by established and emerging local artists.

“The Generic fills a unique position in our roster of theater groups...
You can’t find what they offer anywhere else.”
Mark Watson, arts manager
for the Norfolk Commission
on the Arts and Humanities.

For directions to our new location Generic Theater downunder Chrysler Hall, Please visit our Directions Page.

Our new Generic Theater GoTicket and Memberships offer you the opportunity to play when you want. New Memberships packages offer patrons affordable tickets and offer every convenience possible.

We are proud to be Sponsored in part by the City of Norfolk, The Norfolk Commission on the Arts and Humanities, The Business Consortium for the Arts, City of Hampton, The Hampton Arts Commission, The City of Portsmouth, Portsmouth Museum and Fine Arts Commission, The Virginia Commission for the Arts and the generous support of its patrons whose contribution help to continue our theater tradition.