LEVEL 1
Henrico Center for the Arts | September 26, 2026 | 10 AM–12:30 PM
Press start. Level 1 begins here!
The Genworth Lights Up! Youth Series kicks off another season of free visual and performing arts workshops and live performances for young artists ages 3–18. Kids can jump into hands-on creative experiences led by local artists and arts organizations. Whether they’re trying something new or building on skills they already love, there’s a way for every young artist to play.
LEVEL 1
September 26 | Henrico Center for the Arts | 302 Azalea Ave, Richmond, VA 23227
Completely free!
Workshops are completely free, no cheat codes required. The total program lasts from 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and includes options for multiple workshops, though participants can leave early as needed for their schedules. Pre-registration is encouraged to help us plan, but you’re always welcome to just press start and show up.
RPAA staff and Lights Up! volunteers will be wearing name tags—please ask them for help at any time. Parents/guardians must remain on site for children ages 13 and under. Students should stay in the building at all times and may only leave with their assigned caretaker. If your child is 14 or older and will be dropped off, please return no later than 12:30 PM for pickup. Parents/guardians are welcome to observe workshops (space permitting). Parents of children ages 3–6 must participate alongside their child.
Workshops + Performance
Performance: Henrico Center for the Arts Student Showcase
See Henrico Center for the Arts students take the stage! This special showcase celebrates young artists and their creativity with performances highlighting the talent being developed right here in our community.
Ages 3-6: Greater Richmond Wolf Trap Calabash Experience
Taught by LaShaunda Craddock
This interactive workshop combines storytelling, singing, and dancing to engage young learners in creative expression. Children will explore magical stories while using their voices, bodies, and imaginations to bring the adventure to life.
Ages 3-6: Experimental Printmaking | Painting with Marks
Taught by Samuel Vaughn
In this hands-on visual arts workshop, we will create an abstract painting using experimental printmaking techniques. Students will move between printmaking stations, using different tools, shapes, and textures to add printed marks to their works. As they collect and layer marks, students will explore positive and negative space, color, shape, pattern, and composition. The workshop encourages experimentation, movement, creative decision-making, and discovery as each student builds a finished composition.
Ages 7-11: Radio Drama and Voice Acting
Taught by Josh Mullins
Want to know how performers used to create live sound effects? Interested in acting on your feet with various games and exercises? Then join Mr. Mullins as we discuss and discover how activities we use as an actor can translate to foley and voice work.
Ages 7-11: Big Marks and Big Shadows
Taught by Stu Hamsberger
In this session, young artists will learn to really look at light and shadow. Students will create a large scale still life drawing by observing an arrangement of interesting objects placed right in front of them. Using large, expressive drawing tools, they will explore how light creates highlights, shadows, and everything in between. The focus will be on light, medium, and dark values as students discover how to make their drawings feel three-dimensional. This will be an opportunity to experiment with bold marks, careful observation, and light and shadow.
Ages 12-18: Paper Clay Vessel
Taught by Megan Mattax
Students will learn how to make paper clay from shredded paper, glue, and water, then use recycled plastic bottles as a base to sculpt their own unique vessel.
Ages 12-18: Feel the Beat | Musical Theater & Show Choir Intensive
Taught by Morgan Day and Company 302
Ready to step into the spotlight? Join the students of Company 302 to sing, dance, and perform Justin Timberlake’s mega-hit “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” Whether sharpening your vocals or learning new moves, this high-energy workshop gives you the opportunity to get your feet in motion and your vocals soaring. Bring your passion, learn an amazing routine, and discover what it takes to shine on stage!
Your Presence is Your Permission
Photographers and videographers will be capturing each of our Lights Up! events throughout the year. Some media (images/video) may be used in later promotional materials, publications, news releases, or other communications related to the mission of Richmond Performing Arts Alliance. Your presence at the event is seen as your permission for such promotional use by RPAA.
English