Welcome to ‘Backstage Pass’, CultureWorks artoberVA blog series where we highlight the amazing organizations participating in this year’s artoberVA celebration. ArtoberVA 2024 is a month-long celebration of arts and culture in the region, featuring a variety of events and activities for everyone to enjoy. Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Bridge 9, a fantastic partner organization in the artoberVA All-Access Pay-What-You-Will event series.

About the Organization

CultureWorks: Can you tell us a bit about Bridge 9 and its mission?

Bridge 9: We an organization dedicated to connecting communities through laughter. We believe in a space in classes, shows, and workshops where everyone is able to come create, engage, and laugh. Bridge 9 Theater connects persons of all communities through improvisation by: Creating to Include, Teaching to Empower, Performing to Delight.

No matter where you're from, you're welcome on Bridge 9.

CultureWorks: How long has Bridge 9 been involved in the arts and culture scene in the region?

Bridge 9: We began in June 2023, so we are new as an organization, but I have been involved in RVA all my life.

CultureWorks: What inspired you to participate in this year’s artoberVA celebration?

Bridge 9: The theme this year really excited us as an organization. We believe that the arts should be accessible to all and it was exciting to see the Artober theme and be able to join in with so many wonderful organizations.

Spotlight on the Event

CultureWorks: What is the name of your event, and what can attendees expect?

Bridge 9: Intro to Improv Drop in Class: This is an adult improv class that is perfect for beginners and folks curious to know more. The class will be 90 minutes and is a great chance to try something, learn about improv, and laugh.

Culture Works: Can you share some details about the date, time, and location of the event?

Bridge 9: Our class will be October 20th from 4-530pm and take place at 400 E Grace St, Suite 400 in the RPAA Classrooms.

Our show will take place October 27 at 630pm at 1800 Decatur St, in a venue call Crescent Collective.

Impact and Community Engagement

CultureWorks: How do you hope your event will impact the community?

Bridge 9: Improv at its core is about community. Laughter is a shared language and happens because we connect. We hope with the class folks can learn something new and view the world through the lens of improv.

CultureWorks: Can you share any stories or experiences from previous events that highlight the importance of arts and culture in our community?

Bridge 9: It's hard to believe, but every class we've found has really been an example of why it matters. The ability for people to come as they are, be themselves, and share joy is so needed in the world and improv has this unique ability to bring things together.  With our sensory friendly improv shows we are always reminded that having spaces for everyone to come and laugh, no matter their ability, is vital for all of us. We all need that space to be seen and be ourselves.

Getting Involved

CultureWorks: Where can people find more information about your event and Bridge 9 Theater?

Bridge 9: People can visit us online at bridge9theater.com and visit our classes and shows page for more information about our upcoming events! We are also on Instagram and Facebook for those who prefer social media.

Closing Thoughts

CultureWorks: Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers about your event or your organization?

Bridge 9: Come have fun and laugh. Come as you are and share joy!

We are thrilled to have Bridge 9 Theater as a part of artoberVA 2024 and encourage everyone to attend their pay-what-you-will event. It’s a fantastic opportunity to experience the richness of our local arts and culture scene. Stay tuned for more interviews with other participating organizations, and don’t forget to check out the full calendar of events on our website.

Visit our artoberVA Event Calendar to explore all the exciting happenings this October. Don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate arts and culture with Bridge 9 Theater and many others!