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.
Who Is Extended Play For?
Artists. VC’s. Executives. Founders. Creators. Innovators. Hard-working people ready to spark new ideas and meaningful connections — you.
Who Is Extended Play For?
Artists. VC’s. Executives. Founders. Creators. Innovators. Hard-working people ready to spark new ideas and meaningful connections — you.
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
Havana 59
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.
7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Unveiled
Presented by RVA Fashion Week
Deco at CNB
Step into the future of fashion at Unveiled, an RVA Fashion Week showcase dedicated to rising designers who are reshaping style as we know it. From the avant-garde edge of Omari Jade to the refined craftsmanship of Cuerazo Leathers, this curated runway features bold collections by emerging talents including Yani and Model Maven. This isn’t just a fashion show—it’s a statement.
Hosts:
RVA Fashion Week
Visit the RVA Fashion Week website to purchase tickets.
Afro-Zen Allstars on Shockoe Sessions Live!
DOORS 7 PM
SHOW 7:30 PM SHARP!
Afro-Zen Allstars, Richmond's guardians of global grooves, is a high-energy little big band featuring blazing horns, a driving rhythm section, and inspired instrumental jams.
With an extensive repertoire of material from across the globe, most notably the exotic sounds birthed in Ethiopia during its' musical "Golden Age" of the 1960's and '70's, the joyful music of Afro-Zen exists at the place where African musical tradition intersects with Jazz and Jam, rocking both body and spirit.
Wednesday, April 23
5:00 PM-7:00 PM
Extended Play: Lights, Camera, Connect with Virginia Video Network
Reynolds Gallery
Evening Mixer
Grab a drink, press play, and step inside the world of visual storytelling with Virginia Video Network (VVN). This evening mixer at Reynolds Gallery is your all-access pass to how powerful video content comes to life - whether it’s boosting a brand, telling a compelling story, or spotlighting impact.
Expect a curated reel of standout client work and original VNN series, two gallery rooms with looping content, a live DJ, great vibes, wine, beer, apps, and a few surprises. Pose at the step-and-repeat, chat with the creators, and get inspired by what’s possible when storytelling meets strategy. Casual, creative, and full of opportunities to connect - this is where the camera meets the conversation.
What You'll Gain:
A behind-the-scenes look at how strategic video content drives brand impact
Inspiration from standout client work and original VVN series
Direct connections with content creators and visual storytellers
A relaxed, artful atmosphere perfect for creative conversation and collaboration
Host:
Virginia Video Network
This event is free of charge, but space is limited.
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Wellness Wednesday
Presented by RVA Fashion Week
The Workshop by T&D
RVA Fashion Week isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about how you live. Wellness Wednesday invites the community to explore self-care and balance through a day of fitness sessions, wellness workshops, and mindful conversation—all hosted at The Workshop by T&D. The evening wraps with a community panel focused on wellness in the creative industries and how artists can thrive in their work and well-being.
Hosts:
RVA Fashion Week
This event is free, but RSVP is required.
Visit the RVA Fashion Week website to attend.
6:00 PM - 9:00 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 - 9:00 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.
*Extended Play is a free event. Space is limited.
Thursday, April 24
9:45 AM - 10:05 AM
Coffee Bar - Welcome
10:05 AM – 11:00AM
Muse + Machine: Exploring the Intersection of AI and Human Creativity
Robinson Theater Community Arts Center
Panel Discussion
This conversation will challenge conventional perspectives, inspiring creatives to view AI’s future impact through a new lens. From enhancing expression to redefining workflows, experts will share insights on how innovation combined with imagination will thrive in the AI era.
Don’t miss this chance to prepare for the future of creativity!
Click to see the full event details
11:00 AM – 11:20 AM
Break & Networking
11:20 AM – 1:00 PM
Higher Consciousness and AI
5:30 PM -7:00 PM
Lead Investors Reception
Overlooking Brown's Island
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
For details and to register, click here.
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.
Panel: “Obsolescence of Culture: Can Authenticity Survive the Tech Revolution?”
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
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.
*Extended Play is a free event. Space is limited.