Extended Play
Richmond's Music & Culture Scene
Beyond Daytime Innovation
When the sun sets on the Big Dipper Innovation Summit™, our Extended Play programming takes center stage. Each evening, Richmond's thriving creative ecosystem comes alive across multiple venues, highlighting the city's remarkable talent and innovative spirit.
These showcases feature diverse performances and cultural experiences that complement the Summit's exploration of creativity, commerce, and community. Choose your adventure each night and experience why Richmond's creative scene is gaining national recognition.
Why Culture Matters to Innovation
At Big Dipper, we believe that cultural expression is not separate from innovation – it’s a vital part of it. The creative processes that drive artistic exploration parallel those that fuel technological and business breakthroughs. By immersing Summit participants in Richmond's diverse creative ecosystem, we create opportunities for inspiration that transcend traditional boundaries.
Extended Play programming deliberately blurs the lines between business networking and cultural celebration, creating spaces where unexpected connections flourish and new ideas emerge.
Extended Play Artists
Tuesday, April 22
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Future Forward: The Innovator's Mixer
Main Street Station Plaza
As day one of the Summit draws to a close, join fellow attendees for this energizing reception that turns conversations into collaborations. Featuring curated networking opportunities and a showcase of Richmond's innovative culinary scene.
Wednesday, April 23
7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Extended Play
Shockoe Records @ Vagabond
Experience an evening celebrating Richmond's diverse musical landscape at the intimate Vagabond venue. This showcase features the rich tapestry of folk, soul, R&B, neo-soul, and hip hop that defines the city's vibrant sound. Shockoe Records presents a night where traditional influences meet contemporary innovation, highlighting the boundary-pushing musical identity that makes Richmond's scene unique.
Lineup:
6:15 PM: Holy River
6:45 PM: Kenneka Cook
7:15 PM: Radio B
Blank Verse Records @ Quirk Hotel Loft 209
The Quirk Rooftop transforms for the first night of Blank Verse Records' showcase, featuring master tenor saxophonist Charles Owens & Friends. They'll be commanding the rooftop with sophisticated jazz explorations, bringing decades of musical excellence to the space.
Lineup:
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Charles Owens & Friends
VCU Jazz @ Downtown Marriott
IImmerse yourself in the sophisticated sounds of Richmond's jazz future as VCU Jazz Department presents an evening of performances led by Chet Frierson. This showcase demonstrates how traditional jazz forms evolve through education and musical experimentation.
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Candid Conversation with Larenz Tate
The Hippodrome Theater
Join us for an intimate fireside chat featuring award-winning actor, producer, and philanthropist Larenz Tate, in conversation with Shakia Gullette Warren, Executive Director of the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia.
Thursday, April 24
Time: TBA
Lead Investors Reception
Location: New Market Pavilion (4th & Byrd Street)
Join Richmond's influential business leaders who are shaping our region's future. This exclusive gathering brings together ChamberRVA's Lead Investors - providing strategic direction for both the Chamber and Richmond area. Connect with key decision-makers while enjoying James River views. Registration required.
Host:
Co-hosted by ChamberRVA and Venture Richmond
7:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Extended Play
Shockoe Records @ Vagabond
Return to Vagabond for the finale of Shockoe Records' two-night showcase featuring an eclectic mix of progressive sounds that define Richmond's innovative music scene. This closing night brings together emerging and established artists who blend traditional influences with forward-thinking approaches.
Lineup:
6:15 PM: Paulo from Los Hermanos Alacranes
6:45 PM: Kenneka Cook
7:15 PM: Night Idea
Blank Verse Records @ Quirk Rooftop
The Quirk Rooftop transforms for the second night of Blank Verse Records' showcase, featuring DJ Markus Gold. He'll be controlling the rooftop vibes with his signature sound, representing Richmond's boundary-pushing musical innovation.
Lineup:
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM: DJ Markus Gold
RVAMAG Beats + Vinyl @ Common House
Join RVAMag for a dynamic exploration of Richmond's evolving identity through music, conversation, and community. This interactive event features live DJ sets, vinyl spinning, and a panel discussion examining how technology is reshaping cultural expression in mid-sized cities like Richmond.
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Theme: "Innovation in Practice"
VCU Jazz @ Downtown Marriott
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Close out the summit with the sophisticated sounds of VCU Jazz Department's ensemble featuring current students and distinguished alumni, led by Chet Frierson. This culminating performance showcases the polished technical skill and creative innovation that represents the future of Richmond's jazz scene.