The NorVa is a storied live music venue in Norfolk, Virginia, with a history dating back to 1922 when it opened as the NorVa Theatre. Reopened in 2000 as The NorVa, it has hosted a wide range of artists from James Brown to Prince, making it a beloved stop for touring acts. With about 1,500 capacity and a flexible, general admission setup, The NorVa offers an intimate yet vibrant concert experience on two levels.

Located at 317 Monticello Avenue in the heart of downtown Norfolk, The NorVa combines historic charm with modern acoustics, making it a reliable choice for fans seeking a straightforward, no-fuss ticket experience. We’ve got you covered with practical details on seating, parking, transit, and nearby lodging and dining to help you plan your night out.

Plan ahead to secure your seats: general admission means first-come, first-served on the floor with chairs and tables on the first and second floors. For parking, you’ll find convenient options at MacArthur Center North Garage and Freemason Street Garage, with meters free after 6 p.m. Mon–Sat and all day Sunday. The NorVa is easily accessible via the Tide light rail (Monticello stop), multiple bus routes, and ferry services. If you’re traveling for a show, consider nearby hotels like Sheraton Norfolk Waterside, Norfolk Waterside Marriott, Courtyard Norfolk Downtown, and Residence Inn Norfolk Downtown for a comfortable stay within walking distance of the venue.

Notable moments in The NorVa’s history include James Brown opening the venue on April 28, 2000, and Prince performing on April 17, 2001. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the venue, we can help you secure your tickets and get you to the show with reliable, friendly service.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

Address: 317 Monticello Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23510.
Capacity: Approximately 1,500 (standing; some shows use balcony seating; no fixed seating).
Venue type/history: Historic theatre (originally NorVa Theatre, 1922–1980) reopened as The NorVa in 2000 for live music.
Seating/chart: General admission with no fixed seating; chairs and tables on first and second floors; seating is first-come, first-served.
Parking: Nearby parking garages include MacArthur Center North Garage and Freemason Street Garage; meters free after 6 p.m. Mon–Sat and all day Sunday.
Transit: Accessible via the Tide light rail (Monticello stop), multiple bus routes, and ferry services.
Nearby hotels: Sheraton Norfolk Waterside, Norfolk Waterside Marriott, Courtyard Norfolk Downtown, Residence Inn Norfolk Downtown.
Notable events: James Brown opened The NorVa as a concert venue on April 28, 2000; Prince performed on April 17, 2001.
Renaming/demolition note: Originally NorVa Theatre (1922–1980); renamed The NorVa and reopened as a music venue in 2000.