Impacted by government shutdown? Virginia Opera offering complimentary tickets to ‘Cinderella’ production

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Those impacted by the government shutdown have the opportunity to receive complimentary tickets to Virginia Opera's upcoming production of the classic "Cinderella" in one of three cities in the Commonwealth this November.

According to a release, the offer provides up to two free tickets per person to "Cinderella" -- or Goodness Triumphant -- for either production, which includes Nov. 7 and 9 at Harrison Opera House in Norfolk or on Nov. 14 and 16 at Dominion Energy Center in Richmond.

“Our community has always been at the heart of what we do,” said Adam Turner, Artistic Director and Chief Conductor of Virginia Opera. “We hope this gesture provides a small respite and a joyful evening at the theater for those navigating uncertainty during the shutdown.”

Tickets can be reserved by phone or in person at the Virginia Opera Box Office, located at 160 W. Virginia Beach Blvd. in Norfolk.

FULL COVERAGE: 2025 Government Shutdown in Central Virginia

Gioachino Rossini's two-act "Cinderella" production is described as "a sparkling tale of hope, kindness, and transformation – the perfect reminder that compassion and perseverance make the world a better place for all of us," according to a release.

In this variation of the fairy tale, the wicked stepmother is replaced by a stepfather, and the Fairy Godmother is the prince's philosopher and tutor. In addition, Cinderella identifies her silver bracelet, rather than a glass slipper, with some supernatural elements typically in "Cinderella" eliminated for the stage.

The Center for the Arts at George Mason University is also offering complimentary tickets for people impacted by the shutdown to attend the "Cinderella" performances on Nov. 22 and 23 in Fairfax, which can be purchased here.

For more information and to reserve tickets, contact the Virginia Opera Box Office at 866-673-7282 or visit the Virginia Opera's website.