Our History

Founded in 1988 by internationally renowned harpist Heidi Lehwalder and other visionary arts lovers of this community, the Fredericksburg Festival of the Arts evolved from a small, world-class chamber music festival into a premier, year-round presenter of the performing arts in the Rappahannock region.

In 2011, the name was changed to the Fredericksburg Festival of the Performing Arts (FFPA) and we added an identifying line that really captures the motivating force of our organization: educating • inspiring • celebrating since 1988.

In 2017, FFPA changed its name to ArtsLIVE!   We look forward to delight audiences with an ambitious calendar of musical and theatrical performances of the highest artistic integrity.


Produced in 2010 by Ugly Chair Productions, Our Town's Best Kept Secret! highlights ArtsLIVE!'s (formerly Fredericksburg Festival of the Performing Arts) efforts in promoting the performing arts in the Fredericksburg area.