Ballet is usually not usually though of intentionally hilarious, but the “Trocks,” as their fans call them, are. And the more one knows about serious dance, the funnier this all-male troupe is. Their return engagement at the American Theater in Hampton did not disappoint, according to our critic-at-large.

The Virginia Symphony and Joann Falletta welcomed violin virtuoso Gil Shaham for a concert of American music in January. Copland’s Appalachian Spring, Dvorak’s New World Symphony, and Barber’s Violin Concerto, a specialty of Mr. Shaham’s, were performed. Our reviewer, M. D. Ridge, comments on the concert.

Virginia Opera’s third offering of the season is a fascinating re-telling of the legend of Orpheus, with the libretto from the screenplay of Jean Cocteau’s film and music by contemporary composer Philip Glass. Dr. Glenn Winters, Virginia Opera’s Community Outreach Musical Director, previews Glass’s opera “Orphee,” deMon,strating how the music is perfectly matched to the story.

For its second outing, the new Lyric Opera Virginia presented a Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, “The King and I.” The production boasted outstanding performers, staging and direction, according to our critic.

Another View’s host Barbara Hamm Lee intervieWed, the Muscarelle Museum’s John T Spike and director Aaron De Groft regarding the Seeing Colors: Secrets of the Impressionists exhibit.

Rene’s Feret’s costume drama about Mozart’s talented older sister, Nanerl, comes to the Naro Explanded Cinema in Norfolk. Our critic, M.D. Ridge, offers her impressions of this French film which examines life and musical talent in pre-revolutionary France.

For its performances of Handel’s “Messiah” this season, the Virginia Symphony invited Robert Franz to conduct. He is currently Music Director of the Boise PhilharMon,ic and Associate Conductor of the Houston Symphony. He spoke with Dwight Davis about his approach to Handel’s masterpiece.

As it has for years, Virginia Stage Company, brings to life on the stage of the Wells Theater “A Christmas Carol,” by Charles Dickens. This season’s Production has much to recommend it, according to our critic, M.D. Ridge.

Virginia Opera’s second production of the season is a beloved favorite in a new setting. Humperdinck’s “Hansel and Gretel” is updated and transplanted, but still retains its charm and features a fine young cast. Our reviewer, M.D. Ridge, explains.

The next offering from Virginia Opera is Humperdinck’s beloved “Hansel and Gretel.” Dr. Glenn Winters, the Opera’s Community Outreach Musical Director, examines the opera and the fairy tale it is based on, presenting musical excerpts and offering insight into the plot.