Special Events

PEP BANNED

Sunday, June 28, 2026 at 4:30 PM

PEP BANNED

June 28 at 4:30 pm

Synopsis:

For nearly three decades, the University of Virginia Pep Band was loved by students, hesitantly supported by administrators, and reviled by others. Sports, humor, and culture collided in the performances of this unique, student-run organization as it pursued its goal of entertaining sports fans while addressing current events around Charlottesville, the nation, and the world.

Founded in 1974 as a light-hearted scramble band, the Pep Band ran into its first major controversy in the fall of 1977 after offending the acting governor of Maryland. Laughter, mayhem, and adversity continued to follow the band around the country until 2003 when it was permanently banned from all university events.

During its time, the band established itself as one of the University’s most unique traditions, leaving its mark on generations of students, visiting fans, national press, and a legion of former band member for whom wearing the orange vest marked the high point of their college experience.

Running Time: 90 minutes
Directors: Chris Farina and Bill Reifenberger