Richmond Ballet returns to VMFA after 30 years after $5.3 million renovation

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- After millions of dollars in renovations, the Richmond Ballet will be returning to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) after 30 years.

Beginning on March 20, the Richmond Ballet will be relocating its repertory series, Moving Art, to the museum's Leslie Cheek Theater after it has almost completed a $5.3 million renovation, according to a VMFA press release.

The last time the Richmond Ballet performed at the VMFA was in the 1990s, according to the museum. This time around, the Moving Art performances -- previously known as the Studio Series -- will include contemporary and classical ballet.

“It is truly such an honor to once again perform within the walls of VMFA,” said Richmond Ballet Founding Artistic Director Stoner Winslett. “It has been a dream of mine to one day return to the Leslie Cheek Theater and we are so grateful that the recent renovation has made this dream into a reality. We could not be more thrilled to forge a strong partnership with VMFA, and we look forward to the countless opportunities that it will present for our community.”

Renovations to the theater include upgrades such as a widened stage, improved lighting and audio equipment, as well as accessibility-related features like assisted listening devices and ramp installations near the house and stage for those that use wheelchairs.

The ballet's return will be kicked off by Moving Art One which runs from March 20 to March 30, and will also include Moving Art Two from May 8 to May 18. For more information about the performances and to purchase tickets, visit the Richmond Ballet's website.