When teenager Percy Jackson discovers he’s a demigod, the son of Poseidon, his life is turned upside down. With monsters on his trail and Zeus’s lightning bolt missing, Percy embarks on a cross-country quest with his friends, Annabeth and Grover, to prevent a war among the gods. Filled with witty dialogue, powerful songs, and heroic heart, The Lightning Thief is a fast-paced and electrifying musical adventure perfect for all ages.

Directed by Chris Maulden, with musical direction by Pam Gordet and choreography by Kimberly Geipel, this production showcases the vibrant energy and creativity of young performers from across the region. Cast members include: Callen Kraus, Isabella Lacson, Jeremiah Gates, Tati Crawford, Joel Jurack, Zeina Abdelhady, JJ Calavas, Sophia Leone, Shyla Biswas,Tristan Lamoreux, Kevin Murphy, Vaughn Schweitzer, Abigail Boymel, Danielle Wolfe, Stephen Armstrong, Grace Mulligan, Naomi Wilcox, Ellie Salinas, Mariam Trigui, Jolie Hinkle, Alayna Grey, Cailyn Burks, Noah Delaune, Wesley Pollington, Betsy Woodward, Ani Sarang, Cosette Pollington, Alan Sarang, Beatrice Armstrong, Bethany Lindorf, Eleanor Doane, Minnie Conroy, Jasmin Roy, Ryan Schultheis, Nathan Castro, Alicia Joya, Hadley Street, Grayson Dove, Mary Mott, Peter Mott, Jacob Smith, and Gwynn Mulligan.

Performances of The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical will be held on May 9, 10, 16, and 17 at 7:00 PM and May 11 and 18 at 2:00 in the Gregory Family Theater at the Hylton. Tickets can be purchased on the ARTfactory website at www.virginiaartfactory.org/tickets or by visiting the Hylton website at https://hylton.calendar.gmu.edu/. This project is supported by the Cecil & Irene Hylton Foundation.

About ARTfactory:
ARTfactory, located in Historic Downtown Manassas, is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to providing arts education, performances, and community outreach. Pied Piper Theatre, its youth theatre division, empowers young artists through professional-level theatrical productions and training.

ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre Launches New “Conservatory” Program with Production of 12 Angry Jurors

[Manassas, VA] – ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre is excited to announce the launch of its new “Conservatory” program, providing a unique opportunity for aspiring actors to delve into an intimate, ensemble-driven rehearsal process. The program’s inaugural production, 12 Angry Jurors, promises to showcase the actor-driven storytelling that sets this initiative apart from the company’s traditional productions.

12 Angry Jurors, adapted by Sherman L. Sergal and based on the Emmy Award-winning television movie by Reginald Rose, is a tension-driven drama that unfolds entirely within a confined jury room, where twelve jurors deliberate the fate of a young man accused of murder. As tensions rise and prejudices surface, the play explores themes of justice, prejudice, and the power of individual conviction amidst a backdrop of societal pressure and the presumption of innocence.

The play offers a departure from Pied Piper Theatre’s usual fare of vibrant musicals. Instead, the conservatory-based production will focus on deep character exploration, textual analysis, and the fine art of realistic, high-stakes drama. This workshop-style approach, taught by industry professionals, enables performers to strip away spectacle and immerse themselves in the power of pure performance. “We’re focusing on the most fundamental elements of theatre: character, connection, and performance,” explains ARTfactory’s Producing Artistic Director, Kimberly Kemp. 

Pied Piper Theatre’s Conservatory program is designed to support emerging talents by nurturing their growth through an in-depth, creative, and challenging rehearsal process. The production of 12 Angry Jurors will give these actors the opportunity to sharpen their skills in creating subtle performances that capture the intricate layers of dramatic tension and emotional depth. Acceptance into the program is by audition only and unlike Pied Piper’s mainstage productions, there is no participation fee.

Performances of 12 Angry Jurors will be held in the Wind River Theater at the ARTfactory on May 1 at 7:00 PM and May 3 and 4 at 2:00 PM. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the ARTfactory website at www.virginiaartfactory.org/tickets.

About ARTfactory and Pied Piper Theatre

ARTfactory is a premier arts organization committed to providing high-quality theatre experiences for all ages. Pied Piper Theatre, the organization’s youth theatre, fosters creativity, collaboration, and performance skills in young actors through educational programs and productions. By empowering young talent and creating meaningful opportunities, ARTfactory continues to inspire the next generation of theatre artists.

This year SuperCon will feature a special guest, Jamie Flanagan. Flanagan is a Bram Stoker Award-winning writer and actor whose writing credits include Netflix’s The Haunting of Bly Manor, Midnight Mass, The Midnight Club, The Fall of the House of Usher, AMC Shudder’s Creepshow, and Peacock’s Hysteria!. Flanagan will be onsite to host a panel on Saturday, as well as offer fan meet and greets, photo ops, and signings. 

The convention will also feature a vibrant Artist Alley and Exhibitor Gallery, where attendees can browse a vast selection of unique art, collectibles, and merchandise. From custom artwork to exclusive prints and one-of-a-kind creations, the Artist Alley will be the perfect place to find something special and support independent creators. Meanwhile, the exhibitors will showcase a variety of companies offering the latest fandom merchandise and collectibles.

Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a casual player, SuperCon has you covered. Test your skills at the console gaming area, drop in for a one-shot DnD campaign or Pokémon and Magic The Gathering games, or dive into some classic board games with friends and fellow fans. There will be plenty of opportunities to play and compete, so get ready for some friendly rivalry and fun challenges!

SuperCon will host a variety of panels featuring industry experts and creators. From deep dives into beloved franchises to discussions on the latest trends in pop culture, these panels will give fans the opportunity to learn, engage, and participate in fascinating conversations about their favorite fandoms. 

When the sun goes down on Saturday, the party heats up! SuperCon will host an exclusive after-hours party for fans 18 and over from 8 PM to Midnight. This is the perfect way to unwind after a day of panels and shopping, featuring live music, dancing, themed drinks, and a Cosplay Costume Contest.

ARTfactory’s SuperCon will be held on Saturday, April 26 and Sunday, April 27 from 10:00 AM until 5:00 PM at the ARTfactory 9419 Battle Street, Manassas. The SuperCon Super Party will be held on Saturday, April 26 from 8:00 PM to Midnight. Tickets may be purchased for the convention only, Super Party only, or a combination of both. For more on the event, visit the SuperCon webpage at www.virginiaartfactory.org/artfactorys-supercon.

Written by one of America’s most acclaimed playwrights, All My Sons is set in the aftermath of World War II, and focuses on Joe Keller, a businessman whose actions during the war have tragic consequences. While taking a critical look at the pursuit of success at any cost, the story follows Joe as he tries to justify his decisions. As the past unravels, the play’s characters must confront uncomfortable truths about their own morals, sacrifices, and the lies they’ve lived. The play’s theme, which examines the complexities of human choices, the price of ambition, and following the American Dream, is just as relevant today as it was in the post-war era.

Directed by Ahryel Tinker, the production will bring fresh perspective to Miller’s classic tale, with a talented cast and innovative staging, the intent is to highlight the emotional and psychological complexity of each character. All My Sons serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of personal and societal decisions.

The cast includes Scott Murphy-Neilson, Kimberly Kemp, Andrew Chi, Raeanna Nicole Larson, Chris Beatley, Eleanore Tapscott, Joshua Mutterperl, Devyn Tinker,Anastasia Hanchak, and Noah Delune. 

Performances will be held in the Wind River Theater at the ARTfactory on April 3, 5, 6, 11, 12 and 13. Showtimes are 7:30 every day but Sunday at 2 PM. The April 3rd performance is a pay what you can performance and ticket reservations are on a first-come, first serve basis. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the ARTfactory website at www.virginiaartfactory.org.

Artist Reception: April 12, 6-8 pm
RSVP: https://insidenovatix.com/events/natures-palette-opening-reception

Exhibit Summary
The vibrant beauty of nature takes center stage as local artists Michelle Evans, Marilyn Miyamoto, and Stevie Shifflett gather to present their breathtaking creations at the art exhibit, Nature’s Palette. Opening on April 9, 2025, at the ARTfactory, this exhibit celebrates the rich diversity of the natural world through the eyes of talented local artists, showcasing works inspired by landscapes, travel, and the ever-changing seasons. Curated to reflect the awe-inspiring sights and sounds of the outdoors, Nature’s Palette celebrates the beauty of nature’s palette through the rich, expressive medium of oil and watercolor paintings. The exhibit invites visitors to explore nature from different perspectives—whether through the serene stillness of a forest, the dynamic energy of a river, or peaceful shorelines.

Michelle Evans, a self-taught oil and watercolor artist, brings her love of water and its fluidity into her paintings, creating evocative seascapes and landscapes that embody serenity. Her paintings transport viewers to calming shorelines and tranquil rivers, embodying the peacefulness she hopes to share with her audience.

Marilyn Miyamoto’s work shines through her mastery of the oil medium, where she delicately explores the soft, ethereal aspects of nature in impressionistic style. As the co-founder of NOVA Plein Air Artists, Marilyn has spent over a decade fostering a vibrant community of outdoor painters. From peaceful garden scenes to tranquil rivers, her paintings evoke a sense of quiet beauty, inviting viewers to pause and appreciate the subtle details in the world around them.

Stevie Shifflett showcases works inspired by her recent cross-country travels, including a three-month adventure through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Alaska, the wild beauty of the Midwest, and her time spent between Virginia and the Lower Keys. While the show will feature some of her signature Coral Reef Series, it will also highlight a broader spectrum of subjects.

Contact
ARTfactory, Gallery Director: Jordan Exum | jexum@VirginiaARTfactory.org
9419 Battle St, Manassas, VA 20110 | 703-330-2787
Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Saturday (10 am-5 pm), Sunday (12-5 pm) VirginiaARTfactory.org

READ THE ARTICLE HERE

In response to their mother’s attempted suicide, and in the hopes of understanding her better, a child begins a list of Every Brilliant Thing worth living for: Ice cream, water fights, staying up past your bedtime and being allowed to watch TV. As the child journeys into adulthood, they continue telling the story of the list and in the process, remind us of the power of human connection, the beauty in the everyday, and the importance of holding on to hope, even in our darkest moments. 

Written by Duncan Macmillan with Jonny Donohoe, the play uses sadness and humor, sweetness and honesty, silliness and poignancy to bring insight into the subject of loving someone with mental illness. Although aspects of mental health are approached from a positive perspective, and the play is about resilience and hope, Every Brilliant Thing does address the topics of depression and suicide.  

Directed by ARTfactory Producing Artistic Director, Kimberly Kemp, the play stars David Johnson as the story-teller. Johnson, a long-time ARTfactory director and actor, had been hoping to perform Every Brilliant Thing for several years. “I remember (in 2017) telling the theatre arts director of the ArtFactory about this breathtakingly beautiful play and how badly I wanted to do it in the theatre on the third floor of the ARTfactory.” In 2022, when Kemp mentioned she wanted to direct the show, the collaboration was inevitable.

The production is personal for both Johnson and Kemp who have experienced this type of loss. Johnson speaks candidly about the loss of an ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre youth, “He reminded me of the character in the [Every Brilliant Thing] because he was so fearless in his creativity and expression.” He goes on to mention individuals like Robin Williams, who spent a lifetime entertaining the world, while hiding a darkness that covers them constantly. Johnson’s hope is that this production openly explores that premise and encourages healthy conversations regarding seeking support for those in need. 

Every Brilliant Thing was first produced in June 2013, by Paines, Plough and Pentabus Theatre at the Ludlow Fringe Festival, performed by Jonny Donahoe. Its North American premiere, also performed by Donahoe, was at the Barrow Street Theatre, NYC, in December 2014. Every Brilliant Thing was a Lucille Lortel Award Nominee for Outstanding Solo Show.

The play will be performed in an intimate in-the-round setting, and involves audience participation. All participation is optional. The production may be enjoyed with or without directly participating. It should also be noted that although the play uses humor when telling this reverent story, Every Brilliant Thing does discuss the topic of suicide and this may be triggering for some audience members.

Performances of Every Brilliant Thing will be held on February 28 and March 1 at 7:30 PM and March 2 at 2:00 in the Wind River Theater at the ARTfactory. Tickets can be purchased on the ARTfactory website at www.virginiaartfactory.org.

Artist Reception: March 9, 2-4 pm
RSVP: https://virginiaartfactory.org/event/artist-reception-variegated/

Artists’ Demonstrations: April 6, 3-5 pm
RSVP: https://virginiaartfactory.org/event/artists-demonstrations-variegated/

Exhibit Summary
Oxford dictionary defines the adjective “var·i·e·gat·ed” as “exhibiting different colors, patches, or streaks”. “VAriegated” is a dynamic group art exhibit where each Virginia artist explores these elements in their own unique way. The collection of works visually bridges Patricia Taylor Holz’s experimental, textured mixed media pieces with the vibrantly colored abstract work of Nancy Ramsey, and the soft moving atmospheric studies of Caroline Adams into a seamless, complimentary display.

Patricia Taylor Holz is a multimedia freelance artist, designer, photographer, and Benjamin Moore home color consultant, mostly known for her murals, faux finishes, gilding, and selfie wings around Loudoun County. Taylor experiments with vast amounts of texture and mixed media, as well as reflectivity and patterns, and includes a series of heavily textured fragmented surreal canyonlands in a style of “monochromatic minimalism”. She paints on paper, metal, wood and canvas with dye, watercolor, acrylics & oils. Her surfaces are then sculpted with gesso, molding paste, rice paper, twine, crackling paste, cheesecloth, sand, sawdust, and lava salt.

Nancy Ramsey approaches art as an exploration and investigates various ways to represent nature alongside man-made structures and the human form in her abstract paintings. Her vibrant abstract landscape paintings are initially based on maps and images that the artist has collected, then abstracted, creating a result that is quite different than the traditional landscape. Ramsey’s medium of choice has evolved from watercolor to mixed water media, acrylics and oil and includes, most recently, layering drawing and painting on translucent substrates.

Caroline Adams received her BFA in Printmaking from the Rhode Island School of Design in 2001. Over the past two and a half decades, Caroline has spent many years abroad, studying, painting, teaching printmaking and bookmaking, mentoring students, and working with children’s art classes, at the Aegean Center for the Fine Arts in Paros, Greece, in Quito, Ecuador, Frankfurt, Germany, and Bogota, Colombia. Adams paints her atmospheric studies in multiples, hoping to immerse the viewer in an endless expanse of landscape. These abstracted landscapes are created in oil and egg tempera on canvas and panel. Adams’s paintings present a degree of ambiguity, allowing them to provoke a sense of familiarity and calm, without representing a specific location.

ARTfactory Rooftop Productions (now Actors Theatre) won seven awards under the non-professional status, including Best Choreography of a Play or Musical (Kimberly Geipel) for The Rocky Horror Show, and Best Musical, Best Dance Production, Best Music Direction & Orchestra (Chelsea Majors), Best Scenic Design of a Play or Musical (Jimmy Conroy), Best Sound Design of a Play or Musical (Chelsea Majors), and Best Supporting Performer in a Play or Musical (BrandRick Levy) all for Kinky Boots. ARTfactory’s Pied Piper (Youth) Theatre won Best Theatre for Young Audiences for their production of The Wizard of Oz.

The DC Broadway World Awards take place online, with patrons nominating and voting for performances, actors, directors, or productions in various categories. Because outcomes depend on the collective preference of patrons, the winners reflect not just professional opinions but also the tastes and preferences of audience members and theatre goers. 

For the complete list of 2024 DC Broadway World Award Winners, you can visit their website at https://www.broadwayworld.com/washington-dc/.ARTfactory is home to the professional theatre company, Actors Theatre at the ARTfactory, as well as the youth company, ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre. For more information on ARTfactory, its theatre companies, or other offerings, please visit their website at www.virginiaartfactory.org.

Directed by Talya Conroy, this immersive dinner theatre event invites guests to step into the shoes of a pirate crew embroiled in a treacherous game of betrayal, greed, and suspicion. The scene is set: a rowdy tavern on a dark and stormy night, where five pirates—each with their own secrets—are gathering to settle their loot. But things go awry when one pirate is found murdered in cold blood, leaving the remaining captains to point fingers and prove their innocence.

Who’s the murderer? Was it the superstitious captain? The beautiful but ruthless noblewoman? The charismatic ladies’ man? Or the hard drinking harpy of the high seas? Every guest will play a part in piecing together the clues, interrogating suspects, and uncovering the truth behind the deadly crime.

Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy a multi-course meal and interactive performances, in addition to a costume contest and 50/50 raffle. Expect plot twists, red herrings, and plenty of opportunities to solve the mystery—if you’re sharp enough to stay ahead of the game.

Tickets are $85 per person, with sales ending Feb. 7. Table reservations (eight seats) are also available. All proceeds benefit ARTfactory whose mission is to ensure arts accessibility to the Manassas and Greater Prince William communities. Who Killed Jolly Roger, presented by ARTfactory Feb. 14 and 15 at 7 p.m., and a brunch performance on Feb. 16 at 11 a.m., in the Wind River Theater at the ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas.

Tickets may be purchased online. Please have your food preference ready at time of purchase.