City: Williamsburg, VA

Category: Nightlife

Telephone: (757) 627-4547

Address: 317 Monticello Ave.

Description: Housed in a restored vaudeville theater, the Norva consistently draws excellent touring rock, country, R&B, and hip-hop acts. It’s locally owned, and promoter Bill Reid competes (successfully) with larger corporate-owned venues by luring the musicians with all sorts of perks, including a plush backstage area and a Jacuzzi.Almost all shows are general admission; the main floor is generally left open, without seats, for standing and dancing. At those shows, there’s limited table seating—first come, first served, on the main floor and the second-floor balcony. (Tip: Make a reservation to eat at the attached Kelly’s Tavern and you get early entry to shows to grab the best locations.) Parking is available at a number of nearby garages, including the MacArthur Center mall. Tickets are available at the Norva’s Web site or through Ticketmaster.