Lunchtime Follies

Inspired by the WWII-era lunchtime performances that brought music and entertainment directly to communities during the 1940s, Virginia Opera’s Lunchtime Follies is a new program designed to foster connection, engagement, and well-being among aging adults.

Four times throughout the season, residents from local retirement communities are welcomed to the Harrison Opera House for a shared midday experience featuring live music, storytelling, and performances by Virginia Opera artists. Through meaningful artistic engagement and opportunities for cross-generational interaction, Lunchtime Follies encourages lifelong learning, sparks memories and conversation, and promotes a sense of belonging through the power of the performing arts.

By creating welcoming spaces for connection and cultural participation, Lunchtime Follies helps enrich quality of life while ensuring that the joy of live performance remains accessible to audiences of all ages.