6 Best Performing Arts in Central and Western Virginia, Virginia

Experience Shakespeare's plays the way the Elizabethans did at the world's only re-creation of the bard's indoor playhouse, which has gained acclaim for its attention to detail. Unlike the open-air Globe Theatre styled around a courtyard, this theater was, in its time, an innovative indoor winter venue. As in 17th-century London, most seating consists of benches (modern seat backs and cushions are available), and some stools are right on stage.

From February through the Christmas season, audiences flock to Barter Theater, America's longest-running professional repertory theater. Founded during the Depression by local actor Robert Porterfield, the theater got its name in the obvious way: early patrons who could not afford the $40 tickets could pay in produce. Patricia Neal, Ned Beatty, and Gregory Peck are among the many stars who began their careers at the Barter, which today presents classics, dramas, comedies, musicals, and new and Appalachian works. Although times have changed since Noël Coward was given a Virginia ham for his contributions, patrons can still barter for their seat a few times a year. But don't show up at the box office with a bag of arugula and expect to be seated—all trades must be approved by advance notice.

Open year-round, this chamber music venue in the heart of Virginia's Allegheny mountains also offers lodging in the Manor House and gourmet meals paired with live music.

This festival brings classical, jazz, and folk music to the Allegheny Mountains on weekends from May to September. The events are held at the Orkney Springs Hotel, an early 19th century spa that's now an Episcopal retreat. An ice cream social and an art display precede each concert. Concertgoers can sit on the lawn or in one of two pavilions.

has hosted such notable authors as Garrison Keillor and Michael Ondaatje. Thousands attend, and it is open to the public. Most of the events are free.

Every autumn, Charlottesville hosts the Virginia Film Festival, with screenings of important new movies, panel discussions, and appearances by stars of the cinema. The movies are shown at four sites throughout the university and downtown.