On the Move with Randy

I'm fundraising for Generic Theater — here's why it matters

In 2018, my friend Shon convinced me to join the ensemble for Chess at Generic. Looking back, I’m in awe that we tackled such a massive show. We had 52 people on stage every night—the talent in that room was overwhelming. I walked away from that experience feeling like I had found my troupe.

By 2022, after performing in several more Generic productions, I decided to step into a leadership role. I started as Secretary, then served as Treasurer, and in 2024, I had the privilege of becoming President.

It has been an honor to watch this team grow into its full potential. We stepped into leadership in the wake of a global pandemic, at a time when so much was uncertain. What began as a group that could fit into a single room has grown into a vibrant community of more than 200 people across Hampton Roads, collaborating and creating together, show after show.

During that time, we’ve seen incredible support from our audiences, with nearly every production selling out.

We’re proud of what we’ve built—and we’re not done yet. We want to keep growing, keep creating, and we would truly love your support as we move forward.

For 45 years, Generic Theater has been Norfolk's home for bold, unexpected theater — volunteer-powered and sustained by community. And now we're doing something we've never done before: we're building a permanent home.

We're moving to the historic Norfolk Masonic Temple, 7001 Granby Street — a dedicated space for contemporary theater, built by the community it serves. Retirees, students, military, court-referred volunteers, actors, technicians, neighbors, and first-timers — all showing up, side by side, to make it happen.

A larger capital campaign is coming. But first — Give Local 757. This is the community's chance to tell major donors: we're behind this.

The Sherman McDaniel Challenge will double every dollar given by May 5  — up to $5,000. 

• $25 - First stroke — a gallon of paint for our new home.
• $50 - A roll of cable — the nervous system of our stage.
• $75 - Clamps and cables — one light, safely in the grid. 
• $100 - Paint, brushes, drop cloths — one room, fresh start.

Can't give that much? Even $5 buys a moving box — and we have a lot to pack!

Give now, then share this link.

#SaveGenericTheater #GenericTheater #GiveLocal757