The Fredericksburg Film Festival (FFF) is back for its second year, promising an impressive lineup of films from around the world, including selections from prestigious festivals like Cannes, Sundance, and Tribeca.

Set to take place from April 16-20, 2025, this year’s event will highlight top-tier independent films, Virginia-based filmmakers, and a growing arts culture in Fredericksburg.

The festival’s programming director, Ryan Cudahy, said the event started as a passion project while he worked for the Fredericksburg Economic Development and Tourism Office. After early struggles—including an initial venue closure—Cudahy and Dalton McColo of 1108 Media worked to bring the festival to life. The community’s response has been overwhelmingly supportive, helping to solidify Fredericksburg’s place in Virginia’s indie film scene.

FFF will feature films that have made waves at major festivals, including:

• “Beautyiosity” by Zac Solberg, screened at Cannes Film Festival.
• “Border Hopper” and “Somebody Cares,” both Sundance selections. Screenwriter Brian Grove of Somebody Cares will attend the festival.
• “Beacon,” a Tribeca Film Festival selection starring Academy Award nominee Demián Bichir.
• “The French Italian,” featuring SNL alum Aristotle Atari, with the director attending the festival.

Beyond internationally recognized films, Virginia filmmakers will take center stage. Notable entries include:

• “500 Fireflies” (shot in Staunton, VA) and Dear Luke, Love Me (shot in Richmond).
• “Calamity and Mercy,” a documentary about Ukrainian refugees, was directed by Woodbridge native Daniel W. Smith.
• “Waiting for April” and “Memory Project,” two shorts by Virginia filmmaker Timothy Parsons.

Cudahy emphasized the importance of showcasing local talent alongside global award winners. “The Virginia filmmakers this year really stepped up and made some incredible films, and we are so excited to screen those,” he said.

Screenings and events will occur across multiple venues, including Courtyard Marriott Downtown on Caroline Street, Red Dragon Brewery, and Reign on Princess Anne Street. Opening night (April 16) will feature a special documentary screening of “The Body Politic”, focused on Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, followed by a Q&A session with activist Erica Bridgeford, moderated by Fredericksburg Mayor Terry Devine.

On Saturday, April 19, FFF will host a block party at 4 p.m. in the Red Dragon Brewery parking lot, featuring a live performance by Fredericksburg-based band Virginia Man. The festival will also include after-parties at Ironclad Inn, Curitiba Art Café, and Wild Hair Cider.

Though Richmond and Charlottesville are often known for their arts scenes, Cudahy believes Fredericksburg is ready to embrace a major film festival. He pointed to the success of the Middleburg Film Festival in nearby Loudoun County, which attracts top-tier films and talent. “We looked at Middleburg and said, why can’t Fredericksburg do the same thing?” he said.

The city’s expanding arts scene, supported by galleries like Pawn Shop and LibertyTown and organizations like the Fredericksburg Arts Commission, has helped drive interest in independent film. “Fredericksburg is growing as an arts hub, and FFF is a great contribution to that,” Cudahy added.

Ticketing details and a full schedule will be available on the festival’s website.

 

 

The paint job on an antique ambulance that roams the streets of Fredericksburg hints that a story behind this truck is waiting to be told. Was it part of the British Royal Air Force stationed in Lossiemouth, Scotland? Was it connected to Prince Harry?

Did it see time in the Falkland Islands war in the early 1980s?

Answers to these questions aren’t etched in stone, but one thing is for sure: “It drives like a tank,” said owner Hamilton Palmer, a resident of Fredericksburg who owns the ambulance, which has become a novelty of sorts.

What is known about it started with the British Royal Air Force, which used it at their fighter base in Lossiemouth, Scotland, in 1973. They owned this ambulance made by a company called Marshall, but something happened to the wheel structure, so it now sits on a 1983 Land Rover frame. One of the previous owners, Ed Wallis in Stafford County, kept it in his yard near the Stafford Airport, where he was the airport director. He brought it over from Europe and sold it to Palmer.

Palmer does know some things about his ambulance, which has a for-sale sign on the front seat. He’ll sell it to someone who’s serious about buying, but he’s not really advertising it anywhere. He does drive it around town a bit and seems to like the novelty of owning this collector’s item. You better hope Mike Wolfe from the “American Pickers” show doesn’t show up with a wad of cash.

“I’ve seen it around, but I don’t know anything about it,” said a woman passing by on the sidewalk.

When Wallis was the airport director, Palmer was one of the officials there, too, which led to the ambulance transaction in 1989. Somehow, he drove it over from the airport and fixed it up a bit.d

Palmer went into the database of British Military Vehicles, matched the Vehicle Identification Number, or “VIN” as they say around the garage, and became entrenched in his ambulance’s capabilities.

It’s powered by a Land Rover 225 engine, and in the back, there was room for two people on stretchers as well as mounting brackets for two more stretchers. “You could put four people in here and two bodies on top,” he said. There is a NATO-sized plug in the back and the gas tank nozzle is under the front passenger seat. The windows in the back are treated with a substance that makes them “black out” in case it is in combat, and there’s a rack on the front that is used to push airplanes off the runway when needed.

“I drive it once a week,” Palmer added. He did loan it to the Historical Fredericksburg Foundation once but hasn’t entered any parades. Some have asked about refurbishing it but Palmer’s not enthusiastic. There’s NATO camouflaged paint and red crosses on the side, and it’s registered with the DMV.  “As far as I’m concerned, it’s preserved,” he said.

Many newly graduated college alumni like the familiarity of the college town, so they stick around after they get the degree for one reason or another. It’s still known as ‘home,’ making escaping hard.

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The stage is set, the lights are shining, and the electrifying energy of Jesus Christ Superstar is ready to take over the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts. The iconic rock opera, which first captivated audiences in the early 1970s, officially opened on March 13, 2025, and will run through April 27.

In a recent interview with Potomac Local News Podcast, lead cast members Anthony Nuccio and Kylie Ernest shared their excitement about bringing this timeless production to the local stage. Nuccio, who plays Judas Iscariot, described Jesus Christ Superstar as a fully sung-through rock opera with no traditional dialogue breaks. “It’s an incredibly high-energy show that blends rock music with a powerful narrative,” he said. “Audiences can expect a visceral and emotional experience.”

Nuccio, whose character is known as both the betrayer and confidant of Jesus, emphasized the human complexity of Judas. “The show does a really good job of showing the nuance and humanity in all characters involved. It’s not just about history—it’s about emotion, relationships, and the political climate of the time.”

Kylie Ernest, who portrays Mary Magdalene, also highlighted the deep storytelling embedded in the musical. “Mary is often portrayed as a background character, but in our production, she’s an integral part of the action. She’s always present, reacting, and emotionally invested in what’s happening,” Ernest said. “It’s been so rewarding to bring her character to life in a way that allows the audience to feel her emotions and struggles.”

For those unfamiliar with Jesus Christ Superstar, the musical is entirely driven by its legendary rock score, composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice. Unlike traditional musicals, which incorporate spoken dialogue between songs, this production is non-stop music from start to finish. “Performing in a rock opera is an entirely different challenge,” Nuccio explained. “There’s no vocal break—you’re constantly singing, and that requires incredible stamina. But it also means the energy never dips.”

Ernest echoed that sentiment, noting how music helps convey the intensity of the story. “Even if audiences miss some of the lyrics or political nuances, the music itself carries the emotion. You feel the tension, the joy, the heartbreak—it’s all there in the sound.”

Since its debut in 1970, Jesus Christ Superstar has been both celebrated and controversial. Some traditional audiences initially objected to its portrayal of Jesus and its humanization of Judas. However, the show’s powerful storytelling and musical genius have made it a staple of modern theater. “The show allows us to see Jesus and Judas as real people with complex emotions,” Nuccio said. “That’s what makes it so compelling.”

Beyond its gripping performances, Jesus Christ Superstar at Riverside brings a fresh perspective to the classic rock opera, incorporating unique staging and deep character dynamics. “Our version places a strong emphasis on the relationship between Jesus, Judas, and Mary,” Ernest noted. “We explore their dynamic as a trio, which adds another emotional layer to the production.”

With its stunning visuals, passionate performances, and a score that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its debut, Jesus Christ Superstar at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts promises to be a must-see event this season.

The production runs through April 27. Tickets are available at riversidedt.com. Don’t miss the chance to experience this rock opera phenomenon live in Fredericksburg.

PRICES:

Adult Dinner & Show – $82 (plus applicable taxes)
Seniors (65+) Dinner & Show – $77 (plus applicable taxes)
Children (3-17) Dinner & Show – $70 (plus applicable taxes)
Military Discount (limit 4 tickets with ID) – $77 (plus applicable taxes)
Adult Show Only – $65
Seniors (65+) Show Only – $60
Children (3-17) Show Only – $55

PERFORMANCES:

Thurs. – Sat. Evenings
5:30pm-6:45pm: Meal Service & Appetizers
6:45pm: Show Only Arrival
7:30pm: Performance Start

Sunday Matinees
1:00pm-2:15pm: Meal Service & Appetizers
2:15pm: Show Only Arrival
3:00pm: Performance Start

Families and adventure seekers in Stafford County can gear up for a fun-filled outdoor experience this spring as Blue and Terrence’s Eggcellent Eggventure returns for another year. The event, which kicks off on April 1, 2025, encourages participants to explore local parks and tourism sites while hunting for hidden eggs and earning prizes.

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Art enthusiasts will have a chance to experience diverse creative works at the 74th Annual Fredericksburg Fine Arts Show & Sale, from March 14 to March 16 at the Dorothy Hart Community Center, 408 Canal Street, Fredericksburg.

Presented by the City of Fredericksburg Department of Parks, Recreation and Events in partnership with the Woman’s Club of Fredericksburg, this juried show will feature over 270 original pieces from 112 artists across more than eight artistic disciplines. The event highlights local talent and serves as a fundraiser benefiting the Woman’s Club’s charitable programs and Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation, and Events initiatives.

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The Stafford Race Series is set to kick off on April 5, 2025, with four races scheduled throughout the year, bringing together runners, families, and fitness enthusiasts for a community-driven experience.

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The Fredericksburg Nationals (FredNats), in collaboration with the Fredericksburg Area Museum, Germanna Community College, and Dovetail Cultural Resource Group/Mead & Hunt, have unveiled a new alternate uniform identity for select games in the 2025 season.

For select home games, the FredNats will take the field as the Fredericksburg Frogs, a tribute to an all-African American team that played in downtown Fredericksburg from 1919 through at least the late 1930s, according to a press release. Known in the press as “the world’s hoppinest team,” the Frogs were a source of pride and entertainment for the local community, the team adds.

The Fredericksburg Nationals did not respond to a request for an interview for this story.

A Historic Tribute Through Design

According to the press release, the newly designed uniforms reflect a mix of historical homage and modern aesthetics. The jerseys feature a white base with green pinstripes, complemented by “Fredericksburg” in a bright mustard-yellow script across the chest. A circular logo on the left sleeve showcases a crowned frog within a diamond emblem, while the caps feature a marching frog logo sporting the FredNats’ “F” on its crown. The hat design incorporates a white front panel, yellow back, and green bill.

Despite the Frogs’ strong presence in Fredericksburg’s baseball scene for over two decades, little recorded history remains beyond scattered newspaper mentions and oral recollections. With no known photographs of the original team, the FredNats and their community partners undertook an extensive historical research project upon the team’s arrival in 2020 to reconstruct the Frogs’ legacy.

The Naming Controversy

When the minor league team, called the Potomac Nationals, moved from Woodbridge to Fredericksburg in 2019, it held a naming competition to drum up support and buzz. The team didn’t veer far from its old name, choosing to be called the “Fredericksburg Nationals” AKA “FredNats.” At the time, it sparked outcry from the public participating in the naming competition. Because the internet never forgets, here are some comments posted to the team’s Facebook page after the announcement:

• “Ugh, so disappointed in the name. We had an opportunity to make it fun and exciting we play the ‘Pelicans, Mudcats, Woodpeckers.’ We could have been Cannons, Generals, Foxhounds.”
• “Seriously?! You hype a new name for months and then don’t change the name at all?!!!!”
• “I’m fine with it being the Nationals but why go thru the all naming contest and all the hype unnecessarily? I still think The Gridlocks would have been perfect. Some big ass ugly orange cone as a mascot…”
• “Seriously.. in this age of amazing marketing potential. The F-Nats? … minor league indeed! I just recently got to visit Huntsville, AL – they named a minor league baseball team the Trash Pandas! Crazy right? No! Genius! They can’t keep merchandise in stores – sells out too fast! Truly brilliant. Anyway. Have fun, F-Nats!  We’ll miss you in Woodbridge!”

However, a championship team has a way of silencing critics. The FredNats clinched the 2024 Carolina League Championship, securing their second league title in franchise history. The team defeated the Down East Wood Ducks in a thrilling championship series, proving their dominance in Minor League Baseball. Fueled by standout performances from top prospects and strong team chemistry, the FredNats’ victory reinforced their identity in the city and solidified their place in Fredericksburg’s sports culture.

Unveiling at Virginia Credit Union Stadium

The new identity was revealed last month at Virginia Credit Union Stadium during a special event featuring a panel moderated by Dr. Gaila Sims, Curator of African American History and Vice President of Programs and Interpretation at the Fredericksburg Area Museum.

Historian Dr. Kerri Barile Tambs, of Dovetail/Mead & Hunt, presented extensive research detailing the history of African American baseball in Fredericksburg. The panel also included esteemed community members who shared personal stories and insights on the sport’s cultural significance in the region over the past century.

2025 Fredericksburg Frogs Game Schedule

The FredNats will take on their alternate identity as the Frogs on the following dates:

• Friday, May 9
• Friday, June 6
• Friday, July 18
• Friday, August 15
• Friday, September 5

The FredNats will begin their 2025 season on the road at Carolina on Friday, April 4, before returning for their home opener at Virginia Credit Union Stadium on Tuesday, April 8 at 6:35 p.m.

In mid-February, Peter Mealy headed to the Walker Grant Middle School PTA meeting in Fredericksburg to speak about his latest venture teaching guitar to students after school at Walker Grant and hopefully enlarging the program in one form or another.

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