What’s Booming RVA: Film Fantasy Weekend
Boomer’s top 5 picks for the week ahead
Film lovers rejoice – or groan at the decisions you must make. Richmond hosts two very different film festivals this weekend, along with a tribute to the godmother of rock & roll, a patriotic new exhibition, and a hilarious psychic comic. “What’s Booming RVA: Film Fantasy Weekend.”
Up Above My Head: A Tribute to Sister Rosetta Tharpe
March 20, 7 p.m., at the Hippodrome, Richmond
She was the godmother of rock & roll, influencing stars like Chuck Berry and Elvis and Jimi Hendrix. And she lived in Richmond for nearly a decade, at the peak of her fame. Tribute performances led by local musicians and artists.
James River Film Festival
Through March 23 at various venues in Richmond
Take in an abundance of experimental, independent, avant-garde, foreign, cult, and classic films.
Inaugural Richmond Italian Film Festival
FREE. March 21 to 24, at various venues around University of Richmond and at Byrd Theatre, Richmond
Celebrating Italian cinema through several recent and highly acclaimed films and one restored film from the heyday of Italian cinema. The series also includes panels, featuring experts from UR in addition to special guests.
“Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation”
March 22 to Jan. 4, 2026, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond
The first major show for the commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary delves into Virginia’s role in the American Revolution, exploring the confluence of continental and global forces as well as the actions of both iconic and often-overlooked people who together established a new nation and changed the world. The opening coincides with Patrick Henry’s iconic “liberty or death” speech.
More from Boomer on “Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation”
Peter Antoniou: Pretty Psychic Tour
March 26, 7 p.m., at Funny Bone, Richmond
The “psychic” comedian has amazed the judges on “America’s Got Talent” and performed internationally. He combines British wit with an ability to know what his audience is thinking, in his interactive shows.
Check websites for more details, including prices and registration requirements.
More of What’s Booming in Richmond besides a film fantasy
More fun for your calendar
- MORE EVENTS from March 20 to 27, plus announcements and road trips – COMING SOON
- Lots of future Richmond happenings
