Virginia Stage Company Launches Fundraiser After Wells Theatre Flood

The Wells Theatre was hit by a severe flood on Thursday, according to Virginia Stage Company.

After a major rainstorm moved through Hampton Roads, water poured into the Wells from multiple areas of the building, reaching the stage, backstage areas, box seats, hallways, and other spaces throughout the theatre. Staff and crews worked through the night to begin cleaning and protecting the building, and repairs are already underway, the company said.

Virginia Stage Company said it remains confident that Come From Away will open as planned on September 2, crediting the quick action of its team.

The full extent and cost of the damage are still being assessed. The company said there will be expenses that were never part of its budget, including emergency cleanup, building repairs, and replacement of ruined scenic elements for Come From Away, among other costs tied to the incident.

Virginia Stage Company has launched a fundraising appeal, asking supporters to make a financial contribution to help cover recovery costs. Donations can be made at vastage.org/donate.

'If you have supported VSC before, thank you. Truly. Your support has always made this work possible, and it means even more to us right now,' the organization said in its appeal. 'The Wells Theatre has been a home for generations of artists and audiences in Hampton Roads. We intend to keep it that way.'