The Ampersand International Arts Festival in Williamsburg begins Monday and includes more than 50 events, featuring chats with former "Saturday Night Live" cast member Cecily Strong, theater and dance performances and screenings.
Ampersand runs through March 22 and many events are free and open to the public.
The festival, formerly the W&M Global Film Festival, has been around for nearly two decades and its goal is to foster a better understanding of the arts in the world. It will take place around campus and the city, including the Kimball Theatre, the Muscarelle Museum of Art and W&M PBK Hall-Studio Theater.
Some of the highlights include:
- Jennifer Egan: The Pulitzer Prize-winning author of "A Visit from the Good Squad" discusses her work with William & Mary Professor Brian Castleberry; a book signing and reception will follow. 7 p.m. Thursday, March 19.
- Humor Magazine Live: A troupe of award-winning writers, including from "Saturday Night Live," "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" and The New Yorker, perform. 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 19.
- Leslie David Baker: The actor is known for his role as Stanley Hudson in "The Office," but he has had standout roles in "That ‘70s Show," "Scrubs" and "Key & Peele." He will chat about his career. 7 p.m., Friday, March 20.
- Sarah Jarosz: The Grammy Award-winner performs from her catalog of folk Americana with a trio of musicians. 7:30 p.m., March 20.
- Cecily Strong: The actor and author was a regular on SNL from 2012 to 2022. She's produced and starred in the Apple TV+ series, "Schmigadoon." She will sit down with fellow comedian Holly Laurent, with whom she performed at Second City. 8 p.m., Saturday, March 21.
Visit ampersandfestival.com for more information, including a complete schedule, ticketed events and parking.
