Virginia Episcopal School

VES is a co-ed college preparatory school for boarding and day students in grades 9 – 12. In our intentionally small, diverse and engaging community—260 young men and women and 40 faculty—we guide students to strive Toward Full Stature in their academic, ethical, spiritual and personal growth.

400 VES RoadLynchburg, Virginia24503
434.385.3600

Fine & Performing Arts

The Dead Leaf is a butterfly that possesses two arts. With wings open, it reveals glossy stripes of black, orange, and blue. While lovely, this does not distinguish it in an order known for iridescence. It is when the butterfly closes those opulent wings that it earns its name. It looks like a dead leaf, brown, of course, but complete with veins, slight nicks on the sides, small pale circles to look like boreholes. A famous lepidopterist once noted that this sort of excessive mimicry was like art, “a form of magic ... a game of intricate enchantment and deception.”

At Virginia Episcopal School, our Fine and Performing Arts department, much like this butterfly, seeks to produce and inspire art that appeals to both experts and novices. We believe art holds a special place in the story of man, for the thing is, once you have learned about the Dead Leaf butterfly, you tend to watch your step. Like art, you are observant for it everywhere.

With nearly 20 courses in the arts, students can explore visual and performing arts through classes and ensembles. The curriculum can be viewed below, and don't miss the opportunity to learn more about the full extent of the arts program.

Department Staff

Debbie Burton

June McGraw McBroom Chair of Fine & Performing Art | Vocal Ensemble Director

Chris Aldrich

Theatre Arts Teacher & Theatre Director

Greg Childress

Chamber Ensemble Director

Jesi Hodges

Visual Arts Teacher | Advisor, Afternoon Arts

Ed Mikenas

Jazz Ensemble Director