What’s Booming RVA: ‘Unearthing Hidden History’

By Annie Tobey | April 9th, 2026

Boomer’s top picks for the week ahead


Generic copper box, AI created, representing “The Buried Cause: Unearthing Hidden History in the Lee Monument Cornerstone”

What lay buried beneath Robert E. Lee’s statue for more than a century? What long-time Richmonder influenced choral music? What new exhibition examines the impact of slavery? Where can you enjoy an outdoor concert of classic country music hits? And how have local veterans dramatized their experiences? In this week’s What’s Booming RVA: “Unearthing Hidden History.”


Richmond Symphony Chorus Celebrates James Erb

Honoring the 100th anniversary of the founding director of the Richmond Symphony Chorus and the celebrated arranger of the beloved American folk song. The performance recognizes Erb’s impact on choral music in Richmond and beyond, inviting singers across the Commonwealth to take part.

FREE. April 9, 6 p.m., at Capitol Bell Tower, Richmond.

RichmondSymphony.com

War in Pieces

The Mighty Pen Project, Virginia War Memorial, and the Firehouse Theatre present a festival of new short plays written by veterans, capturing their experiences in and out of uniform.

April 10 to 19 at the Virginia War Memorial, Richmond.

FirehouseTheatre.org

Slate River Band

An outdoor country music concert with Michelle and Nick Nixon and band, playing pedal steel, keys, bass, guitar/mando, and drums, with classic country music hits from the 1960s to today, especially the ’90s.

April 12, 3 p.m., at the Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.

ArtsGlenAllen.com

Expanding Freedom Premiere Week

The exhibition reveals the evolution of American racial slavery and its enduring impact on our national life. Visitors are invited to learn and reflect on this history, then continue their learning journey in the Lab, where they can explore how to put history to work to improve civic life.

April 12 to 15, Main Street Station, Richmond.

ShockoeInstitute.org

“The Buried Cause: Unearthing Hidden History in the Lee Monument Cornerstone”

Katherine Ridgway discusses the book of essays on the copper box of artifacts that had been buried for 134 years beneath the Monument Avenue statue of Robert E. Lee, unearthed in December 2021.

FREE. April 15, noon to 1 p.m., at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.

LVA.Virginia.gov

Check websites for more details, including prices and registration requirements.


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