Virginia Arts Festival to stream concert by Judy Collins from Chrysler Hall

norfolk — Missing live music as much as we are? An upcoming exclusive stream just might do the trick to cure your concert-less coronavirus blues.

Legendary folk singer Judy Collins, backed by the North Carolina Americana band Chatham County Line, will film a concert at Norfolk’s Chrysler Hall. The performance will be streamed by the Virginia Arts Festival on Friday, Oct. 23, and Saturday, Oct. 24.

For more than 60 years, the Grammy winner and hall of famer has combined her passion for song and social activism, delivering hope and wonder to fans, including 1967′s “Both Sides, Now” – the first commercially released performance of folk singer/songwriter Joni Mitchell’s iconic song – to 2018′s “Dreamers," an a capella inspired by the legislation enacted against immigrants and their children.

Fans can expect no less from Collins during the stream as she performs a collection of her favorites from over the years.

In a news release, Collins emphasized the importance of art in these unprecedented times and its ability to bring us together even though we’re physically distanced.

“This pandemic has brought into focus how vital and fulfilling writers, filmmakers, musicians, photographers and artists in any mediums are. Artists help create an environment of hope and help create an outlet to express concern during this time," Collins said in the release. “Although the audience can not join us at the beautiful Chrysler Hall in Norfolk, Virginia, we can all be together online at the same time. Unity comes in all forms as this year has taught us.”

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has kept venues shuttered and stages dark, but the VAF is one local organization that has gotten creative with performances in recent weeks, taking shows outdoors and now, virtual.

“With the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, we have been exploring ways to stay connected with our audiences and continue to present the arts in a creative way,” VAF’s Artistic Director Rob Cross said in the release. “We’re thrilled to bring these great artists to Virginia Arts Festival supporters and fans to enjoy in the comfort of their own homes.”

General admission tickets for the stream are $25 and will allow you to watch the concert at any time on either day. VIP packages are $75 for either day and include an exclusive Zoom group chat with Collins at 8 p.m., a concert poster, and a physical copy of her newest album, “Winter Stories,” featuring Chatham County Line. Both are available at vafest.org or by calling the box office at 757-282-2822.

Amy Poulter, 757-446-2705, amy.poulter@pilotonline.com