Ticketing Policy
Do you have questions about how ticketing works for events at Downing-Gross? Our frequently asked questions are available in our full ticketing policy.
Missing Something?
Looking for an event that isn’t listed on our website? It may be a rental or private event. For questions, please give us a call or email us.
2025 Event Schedule
Open Mic Night
2nd Tuesday of Every Month @ 7:00 PM
Join host Quinton 'Q5' Jennings-Sherman in the Newport News Community Gallery at Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center for an evening of creativity, community, and conversation. This is a free family-friendly open mic event.
Black Music Month Concert
A Night with Donald Hurdle
Born and raised in Newport News, Donald has had music running through his veins since birth. When you think about good grooves, a retro R&B sound with a soulful voice that can warm up any room, only one person fits the bill, Donald Hurdle.
June 7th | $20
Doors open: 6:30PM
Show Starts: 7:00PM
Prelude to Freedom
The Contraband Slaves Story
Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery – you can celebrate it with the musical story of the beginning of the end of slavery, right here on the Virginia Peninsula! “Prelude to Freedom” tells how, starting at Fort Monroe in the early days of the Civil War, enslaved people first escaped from their enslavers as “contraband of war.” It was the first step in turning that struggle into a war of emancipation. With stirring music and gripping drama, it depicts the historic events here in 1861. Thanks to the generous support of Newport News Arts Commission, TowneBank, and individual donors, and assistance from Suffolk African American Cultural Society and Virginia 250, the Contraband Historical Society presents this entertaining and inspiring drama to the public free of charge. Produced in partnership with Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center.
June 13th | 7:00PM
June 14th | 2:00PM & 7:00PM
FREE Admission
Event & Program Calendar
