The Opening Note: A Hylton Season Worth Fall-ing For

As autumn approaches, there is a distinct energy building across our venue. The spirit of the new season is in full swing, bringing a schedule packed with extraordinary artistry, vibrant community gatherings, and unforgettable experiences.

I am thrilled to invite you to our annual Arts Alive! Festival on Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cosponsored alongside our wonderful partners at Prince William County, this year’s festival is bigger and bolder than ever, featuring two extra hours of performances and activities. Best of all, admission is completely free for all ages!

Throughout the day, all three performance halls will host live entertainment, while our classrooms, gallery, and creative spaces come alive with hands-on fun. Explore the Instrument Zoo and Makers Space, enjoy guest readings at the Book Nook, sing at the Karaoke Café, or join the Bubble and Beach Balls Dance Party. During lunch, enjoy comedy from Capitol Fools, grab a bite from local food trucks, unwind in the Wine and Beer Tent, and shop our Vendor Village of local artists and businesses. Don't forget to grab your free Arts Alive! tote bag at the entrance!

The excitement continues the following week as we officially launch our 2026–27 season on September 19 with Broadway icon Bernadette Peters. While bringing world-class artists to our stage is central to our mission, your total patron experience is equally important. This fall, our team remains dedicated to making every visit seamless and welcoming, from keeping parking free and offering accessible concessions to ensuring a magical time with every performance.

Our community commitment also shines through our Veterans and the Arts Initiative, recently awarded two grants from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Having served over 20,000 military-connected individuals across Northern Virginia, the Initiative is expanding its fall lineup with dynamic workshops and concerts for Veterans, Servicemembers, families, and caregivers. Highlights include a staged reading program led by College of Visual and Performing Arts Dean Rick Davis, the 80th Anniversary Concert of The U.S. Army Field Band, and a concert by The U.S. Army Band "Pershing's Own," in celebration of Veterans Day.

Looking further ahead, we are excited to welcome Galapagos George! This larger-than-life puppet will spend a week touring local public schools and the community before closing out his residency with two family performances at the Hylton Center. This residency highlights our Education Initiative, which reaches over 20,000 learners annually through school matinees, workshops, and Lifelong Learning programs designed to inspire curiosity and creative growth.

Whether you join us for family fun at Arts Alive! Festival, an evening with a Broadway legend, a Veterans workshop, or a visit with a giant traveling tortoise, we are honored to be your gathering place for world-class arts and culture.

Bring your family and friends, come as you are, and leave inspired!
Gratefully,
Carolyn Hays