Arts Council

The Altavista Arts Council was formed on January 9, 2000. The council is funded by an endowment established by B.B. Lane in memory of his mother, Myrtle Bell Lane, and in honor of his wife, Minnie Lane. The Altavista Arts Council is charged with the promotion and development of artistic and cultural programs for youth and adults in the Altavista Area, and with providing coordinated methods of support for such programs.

The Altavista Arts Council provides programs in the following categories:

Arts and Education

The council works closely with Altavista Elementary and Altavista High School to provide cultural activities for students of all ages. The Dance Theatre of Lynchburg, Mill Mountain Theatre of Roanoke, Virginia Opera and Red Grammer have performed for area students. On-going programs include the O'Keefe Academy, summer mini-camps, and Artists in Residence at AES.

Literary

The council has formed book clubs for both children and adults. The adult book club meets on the second Wednesday of each month, 7:00 p.m., at the Avoca Museum. The childrens book club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday at the Staunton River Library.

Poetry Plus

Poetry Plus is a casual venue for poetry reading, musical singing and playing, and in-character storytelling. Poetry Plus occurs every three months in the YMCA Multipurpose Room for performers of all ages.

Visual Arts

The council is committed to promoting visual art throughout our community. Hanging art displays at the Town Hall and YMCA Athletic Center display the art and photography work of local citizens and are maintained by the Visual Arts Committee. Art classes and seminars are provided throughout the year.

Altavista Little Theatre

The Altavista Little Theatre is a group of volunteers dedicated to serving area citizens through dramatic arts. The organization is managed by a board chosen by active participants, and financial support is provided through the Altavista Arts Council. The normal season includes two performances per year, which are held at the Altavista High School auditorium.

Concerts

The council strives to provide concert performances by musical performers and groups that appeal to people of all ages. The United States Air Force musical group, Langley Winds, world renowned pianist Gustuvo Romaro, and the Jefferson Choral Society are some of the performances sponsored by the Altavista Arts Council. See Avoca Calendar of Events for details.

Vista Flix

The YMCA/Arts Council is pleased to offer movies to the community as part of the Vista Flix program. Movies are shown on the lawn at AVOCA and at various locations throughout the year. The state of the art projection and sound system provide for quality family entertainment at affordable prices.