ARTfactory’s four-story haunted attraction is returning to downtown Manassas this October with a new immersive storyline, Factory of Fear: Outbreak, the organization said in a release.
The annual fundraiser transforms the historic ARTfactory building into a walk-through experience built around infection, quarantine and chaos, with live scare actors, special effects and new sets on each floor, according to the release. Proceeds support ARTfactory and its accessible arts programming.
ARTfactory’s production of Jean-Paul Sartre’s No Exit opens Friday, Sept. 18, at the ARTfactory in Manassas.
The four-actor existentialist drama follows three souls — Vincent (Andrew Chi), Inez (Becca Parsons) and Estelle (Amantha Peterson) — ushered into a single room in the afterlife by a mysterious Valet. Expecting the physical torment of damnation, they instead find they are destined to become one another’s eternal tormentors, according to ARTfactory press materials. Ned Kieloch plays the Valet for performances Sept. 18–20, and Brendan Banner plays the role Sept. 25–27.
The ARTfactory in Historic Downtown Manassas, partnering with The Black Art Today Foundation, will present “Beyond the Frame,” an exhibition of work by Levi Robinson and Dion J. Pollard, from Aug. 15 through Sept. 19, 2026. An opening reception runs Saturday, Aug. 15, from 6 to 8 p.m., with RSVP available online. The free show examines Black identity, cultural memory, resilience and the narratives that extend past a canvas’s edges, according to a press release from the ARTfactory. Exhibition programming is sponsored by Micron, which operates a major manufacturing facility in Manassas.
Robinson layers history, mythology and contemporary culture through painting, collage and mixed media inspired by jazz and hip-hop traditions, while Pollard (who creates as DionJa’Y) uses vibrant color, texture and mixed media to highlight joy, family, spirituality and perseverance. The gallery is at 9419 Battle Street and is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.; admission is free. The press release does not list regular contact details beyond the reception RSVP, confirm whether the artists will appear after opening night, or note any related talks or programs.
Actors Theatre at the ARTfactory has rescheduled its Saturday, July 25 performance of Christopher Durang’s comedy Beyond Therapy because of the Mariachis Taco & Tequila Festival taking place next door.
The performance will now be held Thursday, July 30, at 7:30 p.m. Ticket holders for the original July 25 show will be contacted with available options, the ARTfactory said.
The ARTfactory delivered a standout year of arts programming in the city, drawing a record 46,000+ visitors and announcing a new partnership to expand access for individuals with disabilities.
During a presentation at the June 2026 Manassas City Council meeting, CEO Talya Conroy highlighted the organization’s achievements since taking responsibility for the former candy factory in 2002. “Our wins are your wins,” Conroy told council members, crediting city support and partnerships for the organization’s success.
Actors Theatre at the ARTfactory will present Disney’s Newsies the Musical at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas this June. The high-energy show, based on the real 1899 Newsboys Strike in New York City, follows young newspaper sellers who unite against powerful publishers for fair treatment. It features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman with a book by Harvey Fierstein.
The production runs June 5 through June 21 in the Gregory Family Theater. Performances are scheduled at 7:30 p.m. on June 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20, and at 2 p.m. on June 7, 14 and 21. Directed by Caroline Scarborough, the cast includes Evan Zimmerman as Jack Kelly, Sean Pflueger as Joseph Pulitzer, and many others from the area.
Hey neighbors, it’s your weekend vibe check from Potomac Local News—that cozy roundup of Don’t Miss Weekend Events right here in Prince William, Stafford, Fredericksburg, and our surrounding spots.
We’re wrapping up February 2026 with theater magic wrapping up, some community heart, skating fun, and more. Whether you’re grabbing the kids for a show, lacing up skates, or stepping out to support neighbors, here’s what’s worth your time this weekend. Let’s get into it!
The play centers on a court-ordered visit between an elderly widower, Mr. Green, and a young corporate executive, Ross Gardiner. What begins as an obligation gradually develops into a relationship that explores forgiveness, tradition, and understanding across generations.
“Using simple sculpting techniques, you will create a small, abstract or figurative sculpture from earthenware clay that represents a feeling, a goal, or a part of your inner world,” the organization stated. “This workshop will be a powerful and cathartic exercise in self-reflection.”
The free wellness workshop will be held on Valentine’s Day from 1 to 4 p.m. Participants will take home their finished clay pieces to air-dry and complete as they wish. Seating is limited, and advance registration is required. The class is offered in collaboration with UVA Health.
“Founded in 2023, the Onyx Art Group brings together artists whose diverse cultural perspectives inform a collaborative and dialogue-driven practice,” the post stated. “During the talk, participating artists will discuss their creative processes, the themes of resonance and connection within their work, and the role of art in transcending cultural and emotional boundaries.”
