ODU’s first Yes Fest showcases local music
Old Dominion University wants its students to take advantage of Hampton Roads’ rich cultural scene.
In fact, the school is looking for ways for budding young scholars to rock out.
ODU’s inaugural Yes Fest, Friday and Saturday, will feature 25 bands, many of them based in Hampton Roads or greater Virginia.
“A lot of times students who are taking classes just aren’t aware of all of the local, area and regional talent that exists,” said Cullen Strawn, ODU’s executive director for the arts. “So, we wanted to bring a good dose of that here.”
Anyone can buy a ticket, even though administrators created the festival for students. Its bands will range in genre from hip-hop to funk to indie and alternative rock. Shows will be performed at neighboring venues on Monarch Way: Goode Theatre and the Baron and Ellin Gordon Art Galleries.
There will be opportunities to visit and speak with artists from the Norfolk Zine Fest, which is helping to present the festival, and even do a little yoga at a Virginia Community Yoga class.
ODU’s theater students are managing the festival’s lights and lighting designs to further engage the student body.
“We have high caliber talent throughout the area,” Strawn said. “I think it’s going to be an eye opener for some students who may have not otherwise had a chance to get out and check out the bands and creativity in the area.”
IF YOU GO
When: Doors open at 5 p.m. Friday and 3:30 Saturday
Where: Baron and Ellin Gordon Art Galleries, 4509 Monarch Way, Norfolk; Goode Theatre, 4601 Monarch Way Tickets: $9 to $47
Details: lavapresents.com