Arts, Leisure and Sports
Since 2006 the Playwright’s Lab at Hollins University and Mill Mountain Theatre have teamed up every summer for “Overnight Sensations” – six short plays written after directors and writers are randomly paired with groups of actors – using themes drawn from a hat. It all takes place within 24 hours; in the past the free event was held at Mill Mountain Theatre but with COVID-19 it can be seen virtually via Zoom on Saturday at 8pm. Viewers must register for access to the Overnight Sensations Zoom event at brownpapertickets.com. Todd Ristau is program director for the playwrights lab:
Photo: Treetop Quest
Explore Park is once again reachable from the Blue Ridge Parkway, and while its operators are among those happiest with the move, they say many park activities have remained well-used. Mudslides have forced the parkway’s closure for weeks now through much of the Roanoke Valley. Roanoke County Parks, Recreation and Tourism Spokesperson Scott Ramsburg says despite recent access only through local roads, some major park attractions have remained popular. WFIR’s Evan Jones has more:
Photo: Splash Valley
Splash Valley Water Park will not open at all for the summer season. But the Green Ridge Recreation Center’s indoor pool will re-open later this month. WFIR’s Evan Jones has the latest:
NEWS RELEASE: Due to Virginia’s Phase 3 Coronavirus restrictions, Splash Valley Water Park will remain closed for the duration of the Summer 2020 season. Under Governor Ralph Northam’s executive order, hot tubs, spas, saunas, splash pads, spray pools, slides and interactive play features must remain closed. While these enhanced water features are some of Splash Valley’s most unique assets, the pool’s design does not allow for a partial opening under Phase 3 restrictions. All 2020 Season Passes purchased earlier this year will be automatically extended until September 2021. Pass holders may request a full check refund by calling (540) 387-6078 ext. 0.
Green Ridge Recreation Center’s indoor pool will re-open for limited use on Saturday, July 18 Portions of the pool including the lap lanes, current river, central swimming area and zero depth entry area will be available daily, according to the following schedule:
- Monday to Thursday: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:45 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:45 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
The indoor sprayground, hot tub and water slides will remain closed. We expect water aerobics classes to continue on select weekdays beginning late July. A new pool-only daily admission pass will be available for $5 per person (ages 2 and under are free). For more information please visit www.GreenRidgeRecreationCenter.com.
Waynette Anderson – (L)
Its been a rough half-year for many local businesses with COVID-19 restrictions in place. Now in Phase 3, Dr. Pepper Park at The Bridges will finally open its outdoor music and events venue this Friday. Park president Waynette Anderson was live on WFIR this morning. The complete conversation follows:
Not only will the Grandin Theatre start showing classic movies every Friday in July, executive director Ian Fortier says they will also encourage more Roanokers to book the main auditorium for private movie showings. The Grandin Theatre Foundation earns much-needed revenue – as patrons get to support the historic theater while having a unique get-together. Fortier says they booked 15 private rentals last month; see the Grandin Theatre website for details.
