Renaissance Theatre Company, a local theater troupe that has been presenting plays in Central Virginia for more than 36 years, will perform its 2025 season at the University of Lynchburg.
The partnership was made possible through conversations with the Lynchburg Arts Consortium, a new initiative at the University that is developing community partnerships with arts organizations throughout the area.
According to a press release from Renaissance, “This new space allows RTC to expand the size of our productions and provides much-needed storage, rehearsal, and performance space as we grow our theatrical offerings.”
On RTC’s schedule for 2025 will be “Four Weddings and an Elvis,” “9 to 5,” and “The Sanders Family Christmas.” RTC will mount its productions in the University’s Snidow Chapel and Schewel Hall’s Sydnor Performance Hall.
“I feel that a partnership with Renaissance Theatre benefits the campus community, as it provides opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to participate in as well as attend performances,” said University President Dr. Alison Morrison-Shetlar.
“In turn, it also provides an opportunity for the patrons of Renaissance Theatre an opportunity to enjoy the many amenities that the University has to offer.”
In a way, RTC is returning home to the University of Lynchburg.
“Renaissance Theatre was the brainchild of several Lynchburg College alumni who missed all aspects of theater after completing their academic programs,” said Jeff Krantz ’87, an RTC board member. “I’m thrilled beyond words at the collaboration we are forging with the University.
“It feels as if Renaissance Theatre has come full circle and the future is certainly bright.”
RTC Board President Mary Mayrose added, “This is such an incredible opportunity for [RTC] that you may have to pinch me. To have access to the beautiful theatrical facilities the University of Lynchburg is offering us, and access to additional opportunities to bring a wide range of productions for our loyal patrons, is so exciting.
“We look forward to working with the incredible folks at … Lynchburg to continue bringing arts and culture to this wonderful community in many years to come.”
