Fredericksburg’s Riverside Center for the Performing Arts has welcomed a new force in its kitchen: Chef Stefan Boutchyard. With a rich culinary background spanning Fredericksburg, Culpeper, and high-profile catering events—including the inauguration of President Donald Trump—Boutchyard is breathing new life into the dinner theater’s menu.
A Culinary Journey to Riverside
Boutchyard’s journey to Riverside was as unexpected as it was serendipitous. “I was a chef in Culpeper working at a bistro, and I wasn’t making a whole lot, but I was sustaining myself,” he said. Then, a call from a friend, local restaurateur Daniel Orofino, founder of Fredericksburg’s Orofino Restaurant, set the stage for a major career shift. “Daniel told me, ‘I don’t know if it’ll be a job, but I want you to call my friend Patrick,’” referring to Riverside’s CEO, Patrick A’Hearn.
After meeting with Ahern, the opportunity became clear. “They wanted to move forward, felt a little stagnant where they were at,” Boutchyard explained. “So they offered me a position, and here I am. I really jumped headfirst into the deep end—on purpose.”
Reinventing the Menu
Boutchyard wasted no time infusing his personal touch into Riverside’s offerings, beginning with the menu for Heartbreak Hotel, an Elvis Presley-inspired musical on stage now. “I know a little about Elvis, so I said, ‘Let’s look at his early years—Tupelo, Nashville, and Vegas.’ That’s how the Viva Las Vegas shrimp cocktail made its way onto the menu.”
Southern flavors took center stage. “I wanted to do a nod to his roots, so we brought in shrimp and grits and fried chicken. But I thought, ‘Let’s do chicken and waffles—with cornbread waffles.’ Then we added a smoked maple syrup with Tabasco to give it a little different flavor.”
Boutchyard’s creativity doesn’t stop at entrées. Even a simple veggie pastry has meaning: “I had a dream about it. The marinara sauce I make for it is my little homage to Danilo Orofino—it’s not his recipe, but it’s a thank-you to him for introducing me to Riverside.”
The Future of Food at Riverside
With Riverside’s transition to a nonprofit, discussions about reimagining the theater space have been ongoing. Some plans suggest shifting to a more traditional theater seating arrangement and moving food service to a separate banquet area.
But Boutchyard is clear on one thing: “Food is not leaving Riverside. Food will always be a part of Riverside in some form.” Whether through a restaurant model or an event-style format, he insists, “There will always be some kind of culinary experience here.”
He’s already looking ahead to Jesus Christ Superstar, featuring Mediterranean-inspired dishes starting March 12, 2025. “We’re doing a saffron yogurt chicken kebab, roasted garlic Israeli couscous, and grilled curried zucchini with sun-dried tomatoes,” he revealed. “And we’re partnering with Sweet Reasons in Spotsylvania for a pistachio chocolate cheesecake that is absolutely amazing.”
“Super Fun Time” Sushi Class
Beyond the dinner theater experience, Boutchyard is launching an interactive culinary event: Super Fun Time Sushi Class. “It’s part cooking lesson, part comedy act,” he said. Drawing from his experience teaching sushi classes in Atlanta, he aims to offer a relaxed, entertaining introduction to sushi-making. “It’s a great way to introduce new people to Riverside. Maybe they’re not ready to commit to a full show, but they can come for a fun night, learn something, and have a great time.”
The hour-long class will show foodies how to make and and eat three types of sushi rolls. The class starts at 6 p.m. Monday, February 17, 2025. Tickets are $40 each.
As Riverside enters its next chapter, Boutchyard is determined to keep the flavors fresh and the experience unforgettable. “I want my food to complement the show,” he said. “I’m here to make Riverside something really special.”
Don’t miss out on the exciting “Seussical Jr.” performance at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts.
This limited-run show features the classic Dr. Seuss story of Horton the Elephant and his journey to protect the Whos and an egg left in his care. The show runs every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from February 4 to March 1, 2025, with an additional Saturday show on March 1. Tickets are just $20 per person, and children under three are free.
The Children’s Theatre returns with an amazing performance for all ages! You can even bring your own lunch to enjoy before the show on Tuesday and Thursday performances. Group tickets are available for Tuesday and Thursday shows by calling 540-479-1356, while Saturday matinees can be purchased online or by calling 540-370-4300.
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Step into the life of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll with Riverside Theater’s electrifying production of “Heartbreak Hotel.” Featuring Elliott Litherland as “Old Elvis” and Luke Purcell as “Teen Elvis,” this high-energy show will have you singing, dancing, and cheering all night long.
In this episode, we sit down with the show’s stars to hear about their roles, what drew them to this production, and how they’re bringing Elvis Presley to life on stage. They share everything from personal connections to Elvis’s thrill of performing in this iconic musical!
Don’t miss out on this crowd-pleasing musical event, captivating audiences and warming hearts this winter.
Tickets & Info: riversidedt.com
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This winter, the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts is rockin’ with the sounds of Elvis Presley as the high-energy bio-musical Heartbreak Hotel takes the stage.
Created by the visionary behind the Tony Award-winning Million Dollar Quartet, the production delves into the life of the King of Rock and Roll, exploring his rise to stardom and the challenges that shaped his iconic legacy.
Featuring over 40 of Elvis’ greatest hits, including “That’s All Right,” “Hound Dog,” “Burning Love,” and “Jailhouse Rock,” the show blends electrifying performances with storytelling that gives audiences a closer look at the man behind the music. Heartbreak Hotel presents Elvis at pivotal moments in his life, guided by his younger self, in a journey that reveals the struggles and triumphs that made him a legend.
Actors Step Into the King’s Blue Suede Shoes
In a recent interview, Elliot Litherland, who portrays the older Elvis Presley, and Luke Purcell, playing teen Elvis, opened up about their unique experiences bringing the King of Rock and Roll to life on the Riverside Center stage.
“For me, playing Elvis is both an honor and a challenge,” said Litherland, who is no stranger to the role, having performed as Elvis in two previous productions. “Elvis’ music speaks for itself, but our goal is to show the human side of this icon. The show brings out both the joy and the tragedy of Elvis’ life, and we hope audiences leave with a deeper understanding of who he was.”
Luke Purcell, a 15-year-old high school student from Louisa County, shared how his lifelong admiration for Elvis brought him to the production. “Elvis has always been a big part of my life, but it wasn’t until I saw the 2022 biopic Elvis that I truly fell in love with his music and story,” said Purcell. “When I heard Riverside was putting on Heartbreak Hotel, I knew I had to audition. It’s been my dream to play Elvis, and doing so alongside such a talented cast is a dream come true.”
Litherland was quick to praise his younger counterpart, revealing how Purcell’s audition impressed the production team so much that they created a special role for him. “Luke is only 15, but his talent is incredible. He knocked everyone’s socks off during auditions. It’s amazing to see someone so young bring such depth and energy to this role,” said Litherland. “Honestly, when Luke leaves the stage, audiences can take or leave me. He’s the real star.”
The pair also discussed the challenges of portraying a figure as iconic as Elvis Presley. “It’s always nerve-wracking to step on stage as Elvis because everyone has their own vision of who he was,” said Purcell. “For me, it’s important to avoid being a caricature. Elvis was a real person with incredible talent and struggles, and I want to honor that.”
Litherland echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of balance in their performances. “What sets Heartbreak Hotel apart is its focus on storytelling. It’s not just a concert of Elvis’ hits—it’s a deep dive into his life, the highs and lows, and the humanity behind the legend,” he explained. “The show also touches on the struggles Elvis faced, from the pressures of fame to his relationships with those around him.”
Both actors credited the Riverside production team for creating a supportive and collaborative environment. “This cast feels like a family,” said Purcell. “Everyone, from the directors to the musicians, has been amazing to work with. It makes all the difference when you’re telling such a powerful story.”
The actors also reflected on the broader impact of Elvis’ music and legacy. “There’s a reason his music still resonates today,” said Litherland. “Even for those of us too young to have lived during his heyday, his influence is undeniable. It’s an honor to carry that torch, even if just for a little while.”
Performances and Ticket Information
Heartbreak Hotel runs at the Riverside Center through March 2, 2025, offering audiences a vibrant blend of live music, dance, and storytelling. The schedule includes matinees and evening performances to suit every schedule.
- Wednesday Matinees:
Meal Service: 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
Show-Only Arrival: 12:45 PM
Performance Start: 1:30 PM - Thursday – Saturday Evenings:
Meal Service: 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
Show-Only Arrival: 6:45 PM
Performance Start: 7:30 PM - Sunday Matinees:
Meal Service: 1:00 PM – 2:15 PM
Show-Only Arrival: 2:15 PM
Performance Start: 3:00 PM
Ticket Prices:
- Dinner & Show: Adults $82, Seniors $77, Children $70
- Show Only: Adults $65, Seniors $60, Children $55
- Military Discount: $77 (limit 4 tickets)
- RUSH Tickets: $35 (same-day purchase, limited availability)
In this episode of the Potomac Local News podcast, host Uriah Kiser interviews Ashlee Waldbauer, Kadejah Onè, and Sarah Andersen, three lead performers in Riverside Center for the Performing Arts production of “Beautiful: The Carole King Story.”
The trio shares their experiences portraying iconic figures, their challenges, and the timeless music shaping this beloved musical.
Here’s what listeners can expect:
Host Uriah Kiser introduces the three talented actresses from Beautiful, setting the stage for an engaging conversation about their roles and the production.
1:00 – Ashlee Waldbauer on Playing Carole King
Ashlee, who plays Carole King, discusses how stepping into the shoes of such a well-known figure came with its own set of challenges. She opens up about battling imposter syndrome during rehearsals and how she ultimately found confidence through her connection to the role.
4:00 – Sarah Andersen on Playing Cynthia Weil
Sarah talks about her portrayal of Cynthia Weil, a dynamic woman with a powerful presence. She explains how she developed her character, the chemistry between Cynthia and Barry Mann, and how both onstage and offstage friendships helped her bring authenticity to the role.
6:00 – Kadejah Onè on Her Powerful Character
Kadejah shares insights into her character, part of a Black girl group trying to navigate the segregated music industry of the time. She talks about how her character’s assertiveness and courage were critical in achieving a Billboard hit, especially during the civil rights movement.
8:00 – The Energy of the Production
The cast reflects on the fast-paced, high-energy nature of the show. Ashlee notes the constant costume and set changes, while Sarah highlights the joy of being part of a production where there is always something happening on stage—even during scene transitions.
10:00 – The Evolution of Music
Uriah and Kadejah discuss the shifting landscape of the music industry in the 1960s, when artists like Carole King began to take creative control. They reflect on how the music of that time had a lasting impact and continues to resonate with audiences today.
12:00 – Why This Show Matters
The actresses express their belief in the emotional depth of the show. Kadejah speaks about the power of the story and its ability to inspire hope, while Ashlee and Sarah emphasize the importance of showcasing female empowerment through music and storytelling.
14:00 – Final Thoughts
The episode wraps up with the cast sharing what they hope audiences take away from Beautiful. Ashlee highlights Carole King’s journey to creative self-discovery, while Sarah reflects on the rare chance female composers had in the music industry and the importance of this story.
Tune in to this insightful podcast for a behind-the-scenes look at “Beautiful: The Carole King Story, and hear more about how these actresses bring the legend of Carole King to life on stage.
This October, the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts Children’s Theatre is set to delight audiences with its staging of Roald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka.” The musical, scheduled for performances every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday throughout the month, except for a break on Thursday, October 24, promises a captivating adventure for all ages.
Adapted for the stage by Leslie Bricusse and Timothy Allen McDonald, with music and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley, the production is based on Dahl’s timeless story, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” The show features the beloved songs from the 1971 film starring Gene Wilder and introduces new tunes by Bricusse and Newley, transporting audiences into Willy Wonka’s mysterious and wondrous chocolate factory.
The show will take place at a specific time each day of the week: On Tuesdays and Thursdays, doors will open at 10:30 a.m. to accommodate school groups wishing to eat their lunches before the show begins at 11:30 a.m. Saturdays start later, with doors opening at 12:30 p.m. and the performance kicking off at 1 p.m. Each show is designed to last one hour, fitting perfectly into a family-friendly schedule.
Sensory-Friendly Performance
The theatre will present an exceptional sensory-friendly performance of “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka” on October 19 at 10 a.m. This unique showing creates a supportive environment for children and adults with sensory processing differences. During the show, the lights will remain on, and a quiet room will be available, allowing attendees to experience the performance comfortably and according to their needs. Additionally, sensory-friendly bags will be provided by Cooking Autism, Inc., enhancing the experience for those who might find the theatre setting challenging.
Pack a lunch
No meal or beverage service will be provided, so attendees can bring lunches to enjoy before the performances. Tickets are available for $20 per person, and children under three can enjoy the show for free. An additional $3 online processing fee applies to each ticket purchased through the theatre’s website.
For group tickets for Tuesday and Thursday shows, contact Group Sales at 540.479.1356. Saturday tickets can be purchased online at www.riversidedt.com or by calling the Box Office at 540-370-4300.
Ashlee Waldbauer stars as Carole King, a role that she describes as both exhilarating and intimidating. Waldbauer shared her struggles embodying King, a beloved figure known for her soulful music and relatable lyrics. "I battled with a bit of imposter syndrome," she admitted, reflecting on the immense responsibility of playing such a well-regarded artist. The production showcases the daunting yet fulfilling journey of artists tasked with living up to their real-life counterparts.
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Riverside Center for the Performing Arts in Fredericksburg is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season. It will showcase a diverse lineup of musicals, classic plays, and compelling dramas. With a mix of nostalgic favorites and thought-provoking productions, Riverside aims to offer something for everyone.
Season Opener: “Heartbreak Hotel”
The season kicks off in January with Heartbreak Hotel, a musical celebrating Elvis Presley’s rise. Featuring over 40 of his classic hits, the production promises to transport audiences back to the early days of rock and roll. Director Patrick A’Hearn expressed confidence that the show will be a hit, noting that “group ticket sales are already off the charts.” Heartbreak Hotel is set to be a fun and high-energy start to the new season, inviting the audience to relive the music and magic of a young Elvis.
A Powerful Story: “Jesus Christ Superstar”
In time for the Lenten season, Riverside will bring the iconic *Jesus Christ Superstar* to the stage. This legendary rock opera tells the story of the final week of Jesus’ life, focusing on the music’s emotional depth and power. “It’s a story that we all know, and it’s an inspirational one,” said A’Hearn. “From Elvis to Jesus, we’re moving through musical history and telling stories that people connect with on a deep level.”
A Classic Drama: “To Kill a Mockingbird”
One of the season’s highlights is the stage adaptation of To Kill a Mockingbird. Riverside will present the original version of Harper Lee’s beloved novel, featuring Fredericksburg native Tug Coker in the role of Atticus Finch. Coker, a Broadway veteran, will bring a local connection to this classic tale of justice and morality. “This is a story that needs to be told again and again,” A’Hearn emphasized, noting the play’s timeless relevance.
Addressing Mental Health: “Next to Normal”
In a powerful turn, Riverside will produce Next to Normal, the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical about a family dealing with mental illness. The show explores themes of bipolar disorder, grief, and resilience. Riverside is partnering with local mental health organizations to raise awareness through this production. A’Hearn described Next to Normal as “a story that will deeply move audiences” and added that it’s essential to address these issues on stage in a way that resonates with the community.
Nostalgic Favorite: “The Sound of Music”
Riverside will revive The Sound of Music for the 2025 season, marking the return of a beloved classic. A’Hearn will direct the production, ensuring a fresh and captivating take on this family favorite. While many know and love the movie version, A’Hearn believes the stage production has a unique appeal.
A’Hearn will direct Sound of Music. Although he had initially been hesitant to direct this iconic show, he is now looking forward to the challenge and is excited to bring a fresh perspective to this beloved classic.
Holiday Showstopper: “White Christmas”
The 2025 season will conclude with *White Christmas*, a holiday favorite known for its festive spirit and timeless songs. This musical will offer Riverside audiences a heartwarming year-end filled with familiar tunes and holiday cheer. A’Hearn noted that Riverside has done this show before, and it remains a crowd-pleaser that people look forward to during the holiday season.
Nurturing New Talent
Riverside Center continues to serve as a launching pad for young performers. The 2025 season will feature several high school and college students in various productions, including Heartbreak Hotel and Jesus Christ Superstar. Talented young performers like Aniyah Lee and Nyarai Burrell are already making their mark on the Riverside stage.
“Talent is talent, no matter the age,” said A’Hearn. “We’re lucky to have these young performers bringing their energy and skills to our productions, and it’s exciting to watch them grow.”
One of Riverside’s greatest strengths is the sense of community it fosters among its cast and crew. The 2025 season will see the return of several familiar faces, including cast members from past productions like Jersey Boys and They’re Playing Our Song. A’Hearn noted the importance of this continuity, explaining that it enhances both the onstage performances and the overall experience for audiences.
“We’ve built a family here, and that sense of community makes Riverside special,” said A’Hearn. “We aim to offer something for everyone, and that’s reflected not just in the shows we choose but in the talent we bring together to tell these stories.”
Tickets for Riverside’s 2025 season are now on sale.
Ashlee Waldbauer returns to the Riverside stage with a show-stealing performance as Carole King. Her rendition of “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” melts the audience and reminds us why King’s music continues to resonate across generations. Waldbaur, who also starred in Riverside’s spring production of They’re Playing Our Song, showcases an ability to channel the emotional depth and vulnerability that made King’s music timeless.
Another Riverside veteran, Zachary Spafford, brings powerhouse vocals to his portrayal of characters like one of the Righteous Brothers, delivering a stunning performance of “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling.” Audiences will remember Spafford from his standout role as Frankie Valli in Riverside’s acclaimed production of Jersey Boys earlier this year, and his talent for hitting those high notes remains an undeniable highlight of the show.
Adding fun and charm, Andy Braden plays record producer Don Kirshner behind the famed Brill Building in New York City, the hub of pop songwriting in the 1960s. Braden’s portrayal provides comic relief and serves as a grounding force as the show transitions through the more turbulent parts of King’s personal and professional life.
The show’s pacing is brisk, keeping audiences on their toes with seamless costume and set changes, infectious dance numbers, and a compelling portrayal of the music industry’s shift from the polished pop songs of the early ’60s to the introspective singer-songwriter era of the later part of the decade, and 1970s. As King’s career evolves, so does the soundscape of the show, with the music growing more prosperous and more personal as it mirrors her journey to stardom.
Much like Jersey Boys, Beautiful invites the audience to sing along and often leaves them marveling, “I didn’t realize they did that song!” The show celebrates King’s profound impact on popular music, from her early collaborations with husband Gerry Goffin to her solo successes.
Aniyah Lee, who plays one of the Shirelles, is still in high school. “I’m very grateful to be where I am right now because this time last year, I was doing community theater, and now it’s a step up,” she said.
Nyarai Burrell, an understudy, said it has been eye-opening to work with so many locals and talent from all over the U.S. who have come to Fredericksburg to perform in the show. “This is my first show with Riverside, and the rehearsal process was incredible,” she said. “Being able to curate my own performance while preparing to step into any role has been a huge help.”
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical transports audiences back to the era of vinyl records, jukeboxes, and cultural revolutions, offering a musical ride that’s both exhilarating and deeply emotional. Winner of two Tony Awards, the production features a treasure trove of hit songs, including “I Feel the Earth Move,” “One Fine Day,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “You’ve Got a Friend,” and the title song “Beautiful.”
Ticket prices for Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts vary. Adult tickets are priced at $82 plus applicable taxes for those looking to enjoy dinner and the show, while seniors aged 65 and over can attend for $77. Children between 3 and 17 can enjoy dinner and show combinations for $70. For guests interested in the show alone, adult tickets are available for $65, seniors for $60, and children’s tickets for $55. Note that there is a $5 online processing fee per ticket.
The performance schedule includes Wednesday matinees, with meal service running from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., followed by show-only arrivals at 12:45 p.m., and the performance beginning at 1:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday evening performances offer meal service and appetizers from 5:30 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., with show-only arrivals at 6:45 p.m., and the performance starting promptly at 7:30 p.m. Sunday matinees provide meal service and appetizers from 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m., with show-only arrivals at 2:15 p.m., and the performance beginning at 3 p.m. Please be advised that meal service for all performances ends 45 minutes before the show starts.
