District Fray Magazine // June 2023

LOCAL ADVENTURES

SUMMER FESTIVAL GUIDE

DOG-FRIENDLY GLAMPING

COMMUNITY CLIMBING

PRIDE GUIDE OUT & ABOUT FESTIVAL DEBUTS AT WOLF TRAP

30 WAYS TO CELEBRATE PRIDE MONTH

20 LGBTQIA+ ARTISTS TO KNOW

D.C . Summer

Indie pop band Lucius returns to the DMV

June 24 + 25

Out & About Festival

Brandi Carlile

Yola | Lucius | Rufus Wainwright Celisse | Jake Wesley Rogers | Brandy Clark Bad Moves | Oh He Dead

70+ Shows On Sale Now!

July 21

DISPATCH

National Symphony Orchestra

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert

National Symphony Orchestra

July 8

Disney PrincessThe Concert

July 12

Natalia Lafourcade

July 20

July 5

Tori Amos

July 14 + 15

Joe Hisaishi Symphonic Concert

Music from Studio Ghibli

Films of Hayao Miyazaki

National Symphony Orchestra

August 3

Regina Spektor

Aimee Mann

Nickel Creek

Aoife O’Donovan

July 23

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit S.G. Goodman

August 2

Juanes

La Santa Cecilia

August 18

August 17

Masters of the Mic: Hip Hop 50 Tour Big Daddy Kane, Doug E. Fresh, KRS-One, Rakim, Slick Rick, Roxanne Shante, & DJ Spinderella

Robert Glasper Black Radio: A Hip Hop 50 Celebration A Kennedy Center Hip Hop Culture Collaboration with Wolf Trap

September 9

Ray LaMontagne

September 17

...and many more!

WOLFTRAP.ORG

EDITORIAL STAFF

Robert Kinsler, Publisher + CEO robert@unitedfray.com

Monica Alford, Editor-in-Chief + Director of Media monica@unitedfray.com

Nicole Schaller, Deputy Editor nicole@unitedfray.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Creative Director

Claire Smalley

Editorial Designers

Julia Goldberg + Sally Rafidi

Contributing Editors

Annie Agnone + Abi Newhouse

Writers

Annie Agnone, Heather Bien, Anna Jacoby, Colleen Kennedy, M.K. Koszycki, Keith Loria, Nevin Martell, Jamie McCrary, Haley McKey, Myles Mellor, Mariah Miranda, Paige Muller, Abi Newhouse, Jenna Schwartz, Farrah Skeiky, Christina Smart, April Thompson, Brandon Wetherbee

Illustrators + Photographers

María Mónica Cortés, Eric Dolgas, Mariah Miranda, Farrah Skeiky, Scott Suchman, Birch Thomas

ON THE COVER

Subjects

Jess Wolfe + Holly Laessig of Lucius

Photographer

Max Wanger

UNITED FRAY

Martin Espinoza, President martin@unitedfray.com

Brittany Rheault, COO brittany@unitedfray.com

Tom Roth, Key Account Manager tomroth@unitedfray.com

Lauren Gay, Accounts Executive lauren@unitedfray.com

Saige Elise Jackson, Account Executive saige@unitedfray.com

Betty O’Hellno performs at BENT. Photo by Farrah Skeiky.

D.C. SUMMER. The weather is warming up, and with it comes D.C.’s vibrant event season — a flurry of months that remind me of how hungry we are for connection and that we are home to endless places to explore and things to do. In the past few weeks, I’ve had a handful of friends and collaborators ask me to pinpoint my favorite part of running the magazine, and I felt completely paralyzed by how to answer each time because it is truly the combination of every single facet of the work I do that brings me joy. But one particular aspect of my role as Fray’s director of media came to mind: curating experiences for locals that extend beyond our content to activations, events and other forms of interconnectedness. There are countless talented individuals and local businesses and organizations we’ve featured via the written word but want to continue collaborating with because we love their energy and positive impact on the District. Bringing people together for editorially curated events where we weave a throughline between our content and an in-person experience is incredibly fun — for me, but also for our readers, extended Fray community and those who may not know about us yet. We kicked off a season of stacked events with our Style Issue Party on May 16 at The Upstairs at The Morrow Hotel, where we shot our May cover with Deontré Hancock and Lana Rae. The intimate gathering was filled with some of the city’s most stylish and bold individuals, and I’m still drooling over all of the bright pops of color and edgy looks (don’t ever let anyone tell you D.C. isn’t a fashionable city!) On June 3, we’re hosting a massive Pride party, Art Out Loud, at Selina Union Market & Cowork. Capital Pride tapped the magazine to host an event highlighting a diverse group of local queer artists, many of whom are featured in the pages that follow. On June 29, we’ll throw our rescheduled Move Party at metrobar, featuring everything from live artist installations to roller skating and skateboarding activations. In August, we’ll host our Trailblazers Party highlighting local entrepreneurs. But, in the meantime, dive into our D.C. Summer Issue highlighting local adventures including a summer festival guide, dog-friendly glamping and community climbing. Our Pride guide is also back with a look at Wolf Trap’s brand-new Out & About Festival, can’t-miss drag events, and interviews with our Art Out Loud co-curator Ashley Jaye Williams, headlining artists Nia Keturah Calhoun, Lisa Marie Thalhammer, haus of bambi and Maps Glover, and more than a dozen other makers participating in the event. And don’t miss my cover story on Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig of Lucius, who will perform at Out & About — which reminds me, interviewing folks who vibrate with good energy is another favorite part of my job. Happy summer, thank you for reading and, hopefully, we’ll see you twice this month.

MONICA ALFORD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

TOP. Baille Benemelis of Couture Circle, Monica Alford + Lindsey Evans of Lindsey Evans Studio. BOTTOM. May cover subjects Deontré Hancock of Netflix’s “Next in Fashion” + multihyphenate Lana Rae. LEFT. Barnette Holston of DCFashion Fool, Monica Alford, Carl Brown of FUBU, photographer Tony Powell, Crishon Landers of DC Fray, Joy Kingsley-Ibeh of Style by Kingsley, style coach Tee Wright + Jeincy Paniagua of Style by Kingsley. Photos by Ben Droz for District Fray’s Style Issue Party at The Upstairs at The Morrow Hotel on May 16.

RADAR

Artist Lisa Marie Thalhammer. Photo by Jill Gray of Higher Focus Photography.

Calendar

Summer Festival Edition

WORDS BY PAIGE H. MULLER

Can’t stop, won’t stop. As summer heats up and we look ahead to the start of fall, the frenetic pace of things to do around the DMV shows no signs of slowing down. From big-time festivals on the National Mall to neighborhood celebrations closer to home to over-the-top Pride festivities, you’ll want to do it all. Take it from us, you’ll want to start planning now. Seriously, go.

6.1

DC BRAU PRIDE PILS LAUNCH PARTY AT RED BEAR BREWING

Raise a glass — or can — to Pride Month with the release of DC Brau’s specially designed “All Hail the Queens” craft beer at queer-owned and operated Red Bear Brewing Co. All proceeds raised will be donated to SMYAL and The Blade Foundation. Free; RSVP required. 6 p.m. 209 M St. NE, DC; washingtonblade.com // @washblade

6.2-6.30

KOREAN FILM FESTIVAL AT NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ASIAN ART

Smithsonian museums have some of the best events in D.C., hands down. Spend the night at this one watching some of the most popular Korean movies of the past year. Free. Times vary. 1050 Independence Ave. SW, DC; asia.si.edu // @natasianart

6.3

ART OUT LOUD AT SELINA

Paint the town red with District Fray to celebrate D.C.’s queer culture, transforming Selina into an after-hours art party. Featuring three floors of art activations, craft cocktails, music and a wellness lounge. $25+. 6 p.m. 411 New York Ave. NE, DC; districtfray.com // @districtfray

6.3-6.4

SOUND SCENE 2023: AFTER THE END AT HIRSHHORN MUSEUM

Brace yourself for sensory overload. This one-of-a-kind art festival uses interactive sound and multi-sensory media to dive into some tough topics, like white privilege, climate change, patriarchy and colonialism. Free. 10 a.m. Independence Avenue and 7th Street in SW, DC; hirshhorn.si.edu // @hirshhorn

6.4

PLANET BETHESDA FESTIVAL AT ELM STREET PARK

Sink your teeth into lots of delicious plant-based foods and find out who gets crowned plant-based pie eating contest

champ. Be among the first 1,500 people and snag a jampacked goodie bag. Free. 12 p.m. 4600 Elm St. Bethesda, MD; planetbethesda.com // @farmusa

6.8-6.14

DC CARIBBEAN FILMFEST AT AFI SILVER THEATRE

In celebration of Caribbean Heritage Month, take a mini getaway to the islands with 11 films representing eight Caribbean countries. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll learn something new. It’s a journey. $13+. Times vary. 8633 Colesville Rd. Silver Spring, MD; afisilver.afi.com // @afisilvertheatre

6.9

RIOT! CAPITAL PRIDE OPENING PARTY AT ECHOSTAGE

Get into the groove. Pride Month kicks off with a dance party extravaganza, featuring a star-studded lineup of drag performances, including Alaska Thunderfuck and Tatianna from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and D.C. queens Blaq Dinamyte, Mari Con Carne, Pussy Noir, SHE and Samson. 18+ event only. $25+. 9 p.m. 2135 Queens Chapel Rd. NE, DC; capitalpride.org // @capitalpridedc

6.10

CAPITAL PRIDE BLOCK PARTY IN DUPONT CIRCLE

Get pumped for a jam-packed day of Pride events with local performers, DJs and two beverage gardens (must be 21+ to enter) with exclusive views of the Capital Pride Parade. Free. 12 p.m. Between P + Q Streets on 17th Street in NW, DC; capitalpride.org // @capitalpridedc

CAPITAL PRIDE PARADE IN LOGAN CIRCLE + DUPONT CIRCLE

It’s like the Macy’s parade, except with abs instead of balloons. Sport your rainbows — glitter paint recommended — in support and solidarity of LGBTQIA+ equality in one of the largest Pride parades in the District. Free. 3 p.m. Logan Circle + Dupont Circle in NW, DC; capitalpride.org // @capitalpridedc

CAPITAL TRANS PRIDE POOL PARTY AT PENTHOUSE

Dive in and chill out under the stars with music, light apps and special guests. 21+ only event. Free. 8 p.m. 1612 U St. NW, DC; capitalpride.org // @capitalpridedc

WASHINGTON BLADE PRIDE ON THE PIER AT THE WHARF

Party on the dock with DJs, cocktails, a drag show and the Pride parade on the big screen. Stick around for the grand fireworks finale. Free. 2 p.m. 101 District Sq. SW, DC; prideonthepierdc.com // @thewharfdc

6.10-6.11

FREDERICK FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS AT CARROLL CREEK PARK

Picture it: You’re strolling along a scenic creek and appreciating art and crafts from over 120 artists across the country in historic downtown Frederick, Maryland. Sounds like the meet-cute in every Hallmark movie, right? Free. 10 a.m. 50 Carroll Creek Way, Frederick, MD; frederickartscouncil.org // @frederickartscouncil_official

HONFEST

Practice saying “hon” in your best Baltimore accent and tease that beehive. See why this neighborhood is so beloved by local filmmaker John Waters with four blocks of people-watching, entertainment, food and the Best Hon Pageant. Free. 11 a.m. + 12 p.m. Roland Avenue and 36th Street in Baltimore, MD; honfest.net // @honfest

6.11

CAPITAL PRIDE FESTIVAL

It’s the most colorful block party in town. Get ready for a day of entertainment on three stages, eats and over 300 exhibitors, including local and national advocacy groups. Free. 12 p.m. Pennsylvania Avenue in NW, DC; capitalpride.org // @capitalpridedc

6.13-6.25

NORDIC JAZZ FESTIVAL

Hosted by the embassies of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, some of the best jazz artists from the Nordic region jam at venues around the city. $25. Various times and locations. houseofsweden.com // @swedeninusa

6.15-6.18

DC/DOX FILM FESTIVAL

World premieres of Nick Capote’s “Between Life & Death: Terri Schiavo’s Story” and an episode of the Showtime series “Supreme” are among the highlights in this new documentary film festival. The full slate includes 31 features and 21 shorts from eight countries and kicks off with a screening of “Joan Baez I Am A Noise” with Baez scheduled to attend. $25+. Various times and locations. dcdoxfest.com // @dcdoxfest

6.16

HOME RULE MUSIC FESTIVAL: LAUNCH PARTY AT SONGBYRD

Back and bigger than ever, the celebration of D.C.’s music and culture scene bumps up to three days of live entertainment. It starts off with a bang with headliner Kassa Overall, sets from Foots X Coles and DJ Underdog, plus a movie screening. $20+. 7 p.m. 540 Penn St. NE, DC; homerulemusicfestival.com // @hrrecords

6.16-6.18

AWESOME CON AT WALTER E. WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER

Wham! Bam! Shazam! Costumed heroes, heroines and villains unite for all things comic and geek culture, featuring celebrity guests, cosplay meetups, panel discussions and merch. $45+. Various times. 801 Mt Vernon Pl. NW, DC; awesome-con.com // @awesomecons

6.16-8.4

FRIDAY NIGHT CONCERT SERIES IN CAPITOL RIVERFRONT

This is what summer nights are all about — listening to live music from local bands and dining al fresco while watching boats sailing on the Anacostia River. Live the dream on Friday nights as the popular riverfront concert series returns. Free. 7 p.m. 355 Water St. SE, DC; capitolriverfront.org // @capitolriverfront

6.17

HIBALL NATIONAL ICE CREAM FEST IN NATIONAL HARBOR

Brain freeze alert: One scoop, two scoops, more. Sample unlimited combinations of ice cream flavors by local and national brands. $10+. 1 p.m. 165 Waterfront St. National Harbor, MD; nationalicecreamfest.com // @nationalicecreamfest

HOME RULE MUSIC FESTIVAL AT THE PARKS AT WALTER REED

Show your love for hometown sounds as go-go legend EU, the Home Rule Band, Kahil El’Zabar’s Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, The Experience Band & Show and Mark G. Meadows & The Movement perform. Free. 1 p.m. 1000 Butternut St. NW, DC; homerulemusicfestival.com // @hrrecords

Don’t miss DC Fray’s free, outdoor concert series. Find all events at bit.ly/ fraysummernightsfreeconcerts

THROUGH 8.24

SUMMER LIVE MUSIC SERIES AT THE BORO TYSONS

Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. 8350 Broad St. Tysons, VA

THROUGH 8.25

FRIDAYS AT FORT TOTTEN AT THE MODERN AT ART PLACE

Fridays at 6 p.m. 400 Galloway St. NE, DC

ROCKIN’ AT THE RIDGE AT CITY RIDGE APARTMENTS

Fridays at 6:30 p.m. 20 Ridge Sq. NW, DC

THROUGH 9.12

NOMA NIGHTS AT ALETHIA TANNER PARK

Second Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. 227 Harry Thomas Way NE, DC

THROUGH 9.16

CONCERT SERIES AT FOUNDERS ROW

Select Saturdays at 5 p.m. 109 Founders Ave. Falls Church, VA

6.19

JUNETEENTH FREEDOM CELEBRATION AT ANACOSTIA COMMUNITY MUSEUM

If you’ve never been to this museum, this is the perfect day to go. There’s lots to do: Test your east-of-the-river knowledge, show off your skills in a Double Dutch contest and learn about urban gardening. Local talent provides entertainment throughout the day. And don’t miss the museum’s latest exhibit about local women of color and their long history of activism and environmental justice. Free. 11 a.m. 1901 Fort Pl. SE, DC; anacostia.si.edu // @smithsonianacm

6.24

HOME RULE MUSIC FESTIVAL: CLOSING NIGHT AT BLACK CAT

Get turned up as the festival winds down with an eclectic music mix, featuring Hear In Now, Hamid Drake’s Turiya (with James Brandon Lewis, Jamie Saft, Pasquale Mirra, Joshua Abrams and Hamid Drake), Nag Champa Art Ensemble and a solo set from Jamal R. Moore. $20+. 7 p.m. 1811 14th St. NW, DC; homerulemusicfestival.com // @hrrecords

6.24-6.25

THE NATIONAL CAPITAL BARBECUE BATTLE

Come hungry for everything BBQ as restaurants and teams from across the country battle for the ultimate title of National

BBQ Champion and dine on food samples all weekend. Hungry for more? Sugar Bear, the Chuck Brown Band, Be’La Dona, Backyard Band, Black Alley and others lay down the go-go beat and DJ Jazzy Jeff headlines the ’90s throwback block party. $20+. 11 a.m. 5 55 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC; bbqindc.com // @bbqindc

6.29-7.4 + 7.6-7.9

CREATIVE ENCOUNTERS: LIVING RELIGIONS IN THE U.S. ON THE NATIONAL MALL

Like the George Michael song says, “gotta have faith.” Explore the creativity that comes from different religious beliefs and practices as musicians, cooks, artisans and storytellers share their experiences. Free. Various times. National Mall in NW, DC; festival.si.edu/2023/creative-encounters // @smithsonianfolklife

THE OZARKS: FACES AND FACETS OF A REGION ON THE NATIONAL MALL

Experience the culture of the Ozarks with large-scale murals and a mountain-bike trail build, music jam sessions and performances, dance and plant-knowledge workshops, food and craft demonstrations and curated discussions. Check out special concerts on select nights. Free. Various times. National Mall in NW, DC; festival.si.edu/2023/ozarks // @smithsonianfolklife

Dacha Beer Garden has been a neighborhood xture in Washington DC since 2013, a Bavarian concept adapted for an American palette, combining the charm of a classic German beer garden with a modern American bar. Dacha o ers a comfortable atmosphere for families, friends, and pets alike with amazing cocktails, delicious Bavarian-inspired food, and an unrivaled world-class beer program.

7.1

DC BLACK FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL AT GATEWAY DC

Sip and savor the flavors of Black-owned food and wine vendors in the D.C. culinary scene. Chill with live music from Black Alley, DJ beats, photo installations and games. 21+ only event. $40. 2 p.m. 2700 Martin Luther King Jr Ave. SE, DC; dcblackfoodwine.com // @dcblackfoodwine

A TASTE OF THE DMV: FOOD & CULTURAL FESTIVAL AT REPUBLIQ

Take a bite out of the diverse foods and cultures across D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Savor the experience with a glass of wine or a frosty one in the beer garden. 21+ only event. $20+. 2 p.m. 2122 24th Pl. NE, DC; atasteofdmv.com // @tasteofdmv

7.2

AFROBEATS & WINE FESTIVAL AT THE BULLPEN

Two things that go well together: African beats and premium wine samples of Black-owned wines. Paired with Afrocentric food and entertainment, you’re in for a unique cultural experience. $35+. 2 p.m. 1201 Half St. SE, DC; afrobeatsandwinefest.com // @afrobeatsandwinefest

7.4

AN AMERICAN CELEBRATION AT MOUNT VERNON

Spend the nation’s b-day with one of its founding fathers. At George Washington’s estate, you’ll get to watch daytime fireworks, hear a musical performance and witness people getting sworn in as U.S. citizens. $28. 9 a.m. 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy. Mount Vernon, VA; mountvernon.org // @mount_vernon

7.8

“STAR WARS: RETURN OF THE JEDI” IN CONCERT AT WOLF TRAP

If there is a more famous movie soundtrack, we can’t think of what it is. Hear it as you’ve never heard it before — played live by the National Symphony Orchestra as the movie is screened. $42+. 8 p.m. 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; wolftrap.org // @wolf_trap

7.12-7.23

CAPITAL FRINGE

Normal is so overrated. Catch edgy, genre-defying performances from comedy to improv, musical acts to experimental dance performances and everything in between. Shows are held in unexpected places like galleries, museums and churches around D.C. Prices and times to be announced. Multiple locations; capitalfringe.org // @capitalfringe

Get Dad into America’s Largest Exclusive Whiskey Club

All-year special treatment, curated top-shelf Spirits, original bottlings, in-depth articles, expert-guided tastings… He’s your VIP, so make him feel like one for Father’s Day and the rest of the year.

Grand Central serves delicious classic American favorites year-round for dinner Monday through Sunday. We also offer sports betting. Please visit our website for more details.

7.15-7.16

BROCCOLI CITY FESTIVAL AT RFK STADIUM

D.C.’s annual hip-hop festival returns with heavy-hitting headliners Lil Uzi Vert, Jazmine Sullivan, Brent Faiyaz, Saucy Santana, Ice Spice, Kodak Black, City Girls and others. New this year: Saturday’s Battle of the Bands featuring legendary go-go acts Backyard Band, Uncalled For Band, Total Control Band, Reaction Band, TakeOvaBand and Sirius Company. $189.50+. 12 p.m. 2400 East Capitol St. SE, DC; bcfestival.com // @broccolicity

7.15-7.22

LOTUS AND WATER LILY FESTIVAL AT KENILWORTH AQUATIC GARDENS

Step into a surreal world of towering bright yellow, white and pink blooms and giant water lilies. On weekend festival days, you can see the flowers and enjoy ranger talks, cultural dance performances, yoga classes, crafts and music. Free. Times to be announced. 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE, DC; nps.gov/keaq // @kenilworthnps

7.22

COLOMBIAN FESTIVAL AT CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY

Close your eyes and it’s like you’ve been transported to Colombia. Immerse yourself in its culture, art, food and the sounds of salsa, merengue, reggaeton, vallenato

and more. $20+. 11 a.m. 3598 John McCormack Rd. NE, DC; colombianfestivaldc.com // @colombianfestivaldc

TACOS, MARGARITA, TEQUILA & BEER FESTIVAL AT SHIPGARTEN

The name pretty much says it all. Free. 1 p.m. 7581 Colshire Dr. McLean, VA; shipgarten.com // @tbiergarten

7.22-7.28

CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND PONY SWIM AT CHINCOTEAGUE ISLAND

Ponies! Watch these world-famous horses make their annual swim from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island. You can bid on them at the auction afterward. Free. Various times. Chincoteague Island, VA; chincoteaguechamber.com // @chincoteaguechamber

7.28-7.30

OTAKON AT WALTER E. WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER

Anime fans, assemble. Celebrate all aspects of Asian pop culture, from anime and manga to the region’s music, movies and video games. Meet writers, voice actors and animators; learn basic Japanese phrases; or attend a live concert. Come dressed as a favorite character — attendees are welcome to cosplay, LARP and play video games. $40+. Times vary. 801 Mt Vernon Pl. NW, DC; otakon.com // @otakonpics

8.3

ALL THAT JAZZ AT PHILLIPS COLLECTION

Inspired by an exhibit of Frank Stewart’s music photographs, the art gallery turns into a jazz club leading up to the DC Jazz Festival. BBQ, island fare, rum punch and brews for sale. $20. 5 p.m. 1600 21st St. NW, DC; phillipscollection.org // @phillipscollection

8.4

ANNAPOLIS ROTARY CRAB FEAST

Belly up to the table and loosen your belt at this all-you-caneat-and-drink feast which includes crabs, corn on the cob, BBQ sandwiches, hot dogs and beer. Funds go to support local organizations, so no worries if you can’t eat everything. $90+. 5 p.m. 550 Taylor Ave. Annapolis, MD; annapolisrotary.org

CINEMATERY: “BATMAN” AT CONGRESSIONAL CEMETERY

Beware of things that go bump in the night while watching classic movies after dark on cemetery grounds. $10. 8:30 p.m. 1801 E St. SE, DC; congressionalcemetery.org // @congcemetery

8.4-8.5

ROY WOOD JR. AT DC IMPROV

Fresh from his killer stint hosting the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, “The Daily Show” alum Roy Wood

Jr. makes a pitstop on his way to comedy superstardom. $39+. Various times. 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; dcimprov.com // @dcimprov

8.5

HEAL & RELEASE DC AT MALCOLM X PARK

Relax. Relate. Release. Positive vibes only for a day of healing in the great outdoors with yoga, meditation, drums and a release dance party to get your ya-yas out. Free. 12 p.m. 16th Street in NW, DC; healthysoulwellness.com // @healthysoulwellness

WATER LANTERN FESTIVAL AT NATIONAL HARBOR

It’s gonna be lit as thousands of floating water lanterns with messages of love and hope light up the night. Food trucks, music and more round out the festivities. $26+. 5:30 p.m. 802 National Harbor Blvd. Oxon Hill, MD; waterlanternfestival.com // @waterlanternfestival

8.7

P!NK: SUMMER CARNIVAL AT NATS PARK

P!nk is set to “Dance Again” on the largest tour of her career and she’s bringing along some friends. Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, Grouplove and KidCutUp join the lineup. $130+. 6:30 p.m. 1500 South Capitol St. SE, DC; mlb.com/nationals // @nationals

Located on the Rooftop at Union Market, Hi-Lawn is one of D.C.’s largest, most expansive rooftops for outdoor dining, drinking and socializing. We’ve got fun events every night of the week, from trivia and bingo nights, to live music and DJs, plus lawn games, picnics, grilled eats, creative cocktails, all with city views.

hilawndc.com | @hilawndc 1309 5th St. NE, DC | 202-481-0958

8.12

HIP-HOP BLOCK PARTY AT NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY & CULTURE

After last year’s blow-out success, the day-long event returns with local and national performances and activities celebrating 50 years of hip-hop history, culture and influence. Free. 10:30 a.m. 1400 Constitution Ave. NW, DC; nmaahc.si.edu // @nmaahc

NATIONAL BOOK FESTIVAL AT WALTER E. WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER

Literature lovers: This is the day you’ve been waiting for. Readers and aspiring authors convene with best-selling authors for talks, book signings, panel discussions and loads of other events and activities. Hosted by the Library of Congress. Free. 9 a.m. 801 Mt Vernon Pl. NW, DC; loc.gov // @librarycongress

8.13

THE CONCERT: A TRIBUTE TO ABBA AT WOLF TRAP

You can dance, you can jive, and have the time of your life at this sing-along of ABBA’s hits performed by the #1 ABBA tribute group. $39+. 8 p.m. 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; wolftrap.org // @wolf_trap

8.14-8.19

ALI WONG AT KENNEDY CENTER

The “Baby Cobra” comedian and “Beef” star brings her standup to the Concert Hall. Could another Netflix special be in the works? $59+. 8 p.m. 2700 F St. NW, DC; kennedy-center.org // @kennedycenter

8.19

CITYFEST DC AT CULTURE HOUSE

It’s like a cultural smorgasbord. Get a peek at some of the local artists, musicians, creators and retailers that make D.C. the awesome city that it is. $20. 12 p.m. 700 Delaware Ave. SW, DC; cityfestdc.com // @cityfest_dc

“SWEAT” OPENING NIGHT AT KEEGAN THEATRE

This dramedy asks: Can friendship survive when a group of friends who, together on the factory floor, are faced with layoffs and picket lines? $50+. Times vary. 1742 Church St. NW, DC; keegantheatre.com // @keegan_theatre

8.24

DC BURGER BATTLE AT THE WHARF

Taste test burgers from Wharf restaurants, and some special guest spots, and decide who should walk away with the grand prize and bragging rights. Beer will be flowing, and the dock will be rocking with live music. Prices and times to be announced. 760 Maine Ave. SW, DC; wharfdc.com // @thewharfdc

8.24-8.28

DCBX LATIN DANCE FESTIVAL AT RENAISSANCE HOTEL

Get your dancing shoes on at the largest Bachata Festival in the country. Featuring hundreds of performances and workshops, plus over seven ballrooms of nightly dancing (salsa, zouk, kizomba, reggaeton and more), rooftop parties and daily dance classes, let the rhythm move you. $69+. 5 p.m. 999 9th St. NW, DC; dcbachata.com // @dcbxevents

8.26

AROUND THE WORLD CULTURAL FOOD FESTIVAL AT ORONOCO BAY PARK

Leave your passport at home and take your taste buds on a culinary journey around the world. Immerse yourself in the experience with cultural performances, artisans and crafts. Free+. 11 a.m. 100 Madison St. Alexandria, VA; aroundtheworldfestival.com

8.28

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN AND THE E STREET BAND AT NATS PARK

The Boss and his legendary band will have folks “Dancing in the Dark” with a high-energy 28-song set, including favorites like “Born To Run,” “Prove It All Night” and “Wrecking Ball.” $85+. 7:30 p.m. 1500 South Capitol St. SE, DC; mlb.com/nationals // @nationals

8.30-9.3

DC JAZZ FESTIVAL

Get jazzed as D.C.’s largest jazz festival comes back for its 19th year with over 100 concerts at 30 venues across the city, wrapping up with a stellar, two-day event at The Wharf. This year’s featured artists include Gregory Porter, Samara Joy, Kenny Garrett, Charles Lloyd, Terri Lyne Carrington, Omar Sosa, Orrin Evans, Veronneau, Leigh Pilzer and more. $20+. Various times and locations. dcjazzfest.org // @dcjazzfest

9.2

STREET ART & LIBATIONS BAR CRAWL AT UNION MARKET

Sounds fancier than just saying “day drinking” doesn’t it? Fifteen artworks and three drinks, with some Union Market history thrown in. $54. Various times. 550 Morse St. NE, DC; unionmarketdc.com // @unionmarketdc

9.2-9.3

SOUTHERN MARYLAND SUNFLOWER FESTIVAL AT SERENITY FARM

It’s an Instagrammers’ paradise — six acres of pick-your-own sunflowers, plus hayrides, local art show, vendors, petting pen and more. $10+. 10 a.m. 6932 Serenity Farm Rd. Benedict, MD; farmheritageconservancy.org

Happening this summer:

THURSDAY, JUNE 8 Cornhole Tournament

SATURDAY, JUNE 17

Throwback 90s Bingo + Social with DJ

THURSDAY, JULY 6 Bootcamp

SATURDAY, JULY 15

Deanna Dove, Island Girl Concert

Hamilton’s Bar and Grill has great drink specials, fantastic comfort food and top notch service. Come check out our ALL-DAY Friday happy hour with $2 PBRs and High Lifes and you’ll see why we’ve been a Capitol Hill institution since 2006.

9.3

DC BIKE RIDE AT POTOMAC PARK

Start at West Potomac Park and pedal along 20 miles of carfree streets filled with epic views then end with high-fives, food and music. No bike? No problem, hop on a rental and join in. Free. 8 a.m. 121 West Basin Dr. SW, DC; dcbikeride.com // @dcbikeride

9.8-9.9

BLACK CAT 30TH ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND

Legendary. D.C. AF. This haven for all things indie and alternative celebrates 30 years with an eclectic weekend of live music featuring local favorites, staff bands and punk legends. $30+. 7 p.m. 1811 14th St. NW, DC; blackcatdc.com // @blackcatdc

9.10

ADAMS MORGAN DAY FESTIVAL

Enjoy a day filled with live music, local performances, art, activities and food at D.C.’s longest-running street festival.

9.16

H STREET FESTIVAL

Ain’t no block party like the annual H Street block party. Bring your energy and good vibes as you make your way through 11 blocks jampacked with live music and performances on multiple stages, interactive activities and retail and food vendors. Free+. 12 p.m. H Street NE, DC; hstreetfestival.org // @hstfest

9.22-9.24

ARTSCAPE

Billed as the nation’s biggest free arts festival, get your art fix while browsing 150+ fine artists, fashion designers and craftspeople, and visual art exhibits that stretch across three neighborhoods. But wait, there’s more. The schedule includes main-stage music performances, immersive experiences, an artist marketplace and more. Free+. Various times. Station North Arts & Entertainment District in Baltimore, MD; artscape.org // @artscapebmore

JUNE 10, 2023

2-9PM

DRAG SHOW 2:30PM

CAPITAL PRIDE PARADE ON THE BIG SCREEN 4PM

FIREWORKS SHOW 9PM FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! PRIDEONTHEPIER.COM

Hoot and over 50 local artisans and exhibitors. And there’s a dog show (awww). Free. 11 a.m. 800 block of Upshur Street NW, DC; celebratepetworth.com // @celebratepetworth

9.23-9.24

FIESTA DC

Get a glimpse into the diverse and vibrant cultures of those with roots in Latino countries through a lively display of traditional costumes, food and entertainment. It all culminates with a colorful and rhythmic parade of nations. Free. Times to be announced. Pennsylvania Avenue between 3rd + 7th Streets NW, DC; fiestadc.org // @fiesta.dc

9.24

OKTOBERFEST WEEKEND AT THE WHARF

Get your beer-and-schnitzel taste buds ready and shimmy into your finest lederhosen or dirndl. Test your strength at steinhoisting competitions and cheer on the dogs competing in the annual 500 Dachshund Dash. Throughout the weekend, enjoy Bavarian decor and costumes, and German-inspired fare. Free. 2 p.m. 760 Maine Ave. SW, DC; wharfdc.com // @thewharfdc

9.29-9.30

ART ALL NIGHT

Sleep? Who needs sleep? Expect the unexpected while you explore art activations around-the-clock across all eight

wards. You’ll find art of all kinds from hundreds of artists, including visual art, music, theater, crafts, fashion and poetry. There will also be local businesses and restaurant vendors. Free+. 7 p.m. Multiple locations; dcartallnight.org // @dcartallnight

9.29-10.1

WORLD CULTURE FESTIVAL ON THE NATIONAL MALL

Making its U.S. debut, this cultural extravaganza welcomes you to make connections and share in the diversity of the global community through music, dance, art, food and inspiring talks. Free. Various times. National Mall in NW, DC; worldculturefest.org // @worldculturefest

9.30

BLACK-OWNED WINE AND SPIRITS FESTIVAL AT CAPITAL TURNAROUND

The seventh edition of BOWSfest, as some like to call it, shines the spotlight on Black-owned brands in the wine and spirits industry. Enjoy unlimited samples of wine, beer and spirits from national and local vendors, paired with unlimited food samples. 21+ only event. $75+. 2 p.m. 770 M St. SE, DC; bowsfest.com // @bowsfest

Kelly’s Irish Times is a quaint, sometimes boisterous Irish pub, with great food, perfect cold pints, a wicked cast of characters behind the bar and a world-class jukebox.

DC COFFEE FESTIVAL AT UNION MARKET

There is no such thing as too much coffee. Feel the buzz as you sample cups of joe from some of the best roasters brewing unique flavors. $24+. 9 a.m. 1309 5th St. NE, DC; dccoffeefestival.com // @dccoffeefestival

9.30-10.1

ALL THINGS GO MUSIC FESTIVAL AT MERRIWEATHER POST PAVILION

Are flower crowns still a thing? The indie festival expands to two days with over 30 heavy-hitting stars and emerging artists across multiple stages. Lana Del Rey and Maggie Rogers headline with performances by Carly Rae Jepsen, Tegan and Sara, Meet Me at the Altar and Ella Jane. Immersive art and interactive experiences add to the fun. Sold out; get on the waitlist. $145+. Various times. 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD; allthingsgofestival.com // @allthingsgo

Paige H. Muller is the founder of Curious Caravan, specializing in custom off-the-beaten-path experiences, and creator of the monthly Wanderlist. She is the co-author of “22 Walks in DC That You Must Not Miss,” slated for release next year. She loves murals, museums, music and mimosas. Learn more at curious-caravan.com.

Looking for a fun,

bar with great food? Brighton has what you need. Watch today’s game on one of the many TVs from a table or booth. Choose from indoor, outdoor, first floor or upstairs seating. Check out the crow’s nest bar at the back of the upper bar for a marina hideaway feel. Or, sit on the Bourbon Street-style balcony overlooking Wharf Street

rowdy

Film Picks

WORDS BY BY M.K. KOSZYCKI

Before you delve into any anticipated summer blockbusters, may we humbly suggest some past films that you may have missed (or just missed seeing on the big screen)? From a recent body horror effort by a new voice in feature filmmaking, a bonafide classic as the director meant it to be seen and a riveting rom-com from a stage play great, there’s something to be said for playing catch up, or simply revisiting an old favorite in theaters.

6.7

“HATCHING” AT AFI SILVER

Don’t miss your chance to catch this extremely underrated, 2022 body horror from Finnish director Hanna Bergholm. “Hatching” explores mother-daughter tensions, influencer culture and the lengths we go to please those around us — all with a healthy dose of blood and guts. The struggling adolescent Tinja, crushed under the weight of her perfectionist mother’s expectations, becomes the unlikely caretaker to a superhuman creature born of an egg she found outside. As it hatches and bonds with Tinja, horrifying changes ensue for the whole family. At this special screening, grab a glass of wine beforehand thanks to the Embassy of Finland, and stick around for a Q&A with Bergholm after the film. $13. Wine reception at 6 p.m., film begins at 7:45 p.m. 8633 Colesville Rd. Silver Spring, MD; afisilver.afi.com // @afisilvertheatre

6.13

“BLADE RUNNER: THE FINAL CUT” AT LANDMARK’S E STREET CINEMA

While many versions of Ridley Scott’s genre-defining classic exist, 2007’s “The Final Cut” is the only one that sees Scott exercising full creative authority of the story famously adapted from Philip K. Dick’s novel “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep.” The film stars Harrison Ford as Rick Deckard, a bounty hunter on a mission to destroy rogue androids through a futuristic LA. As he embarks on this assignment, Decker is confronted with the looming struggle of what makes a human — as well as questions that plague his own identity. $7. 4 p.m. + 7 p.m. 555 11th St. NW, DC; landmarktheatres.com

6.18

“MOONSTRUCK” AT THE AVALON

“Moonstruck” is legendary playwright John Patrick Shanley’s first effort to appear on the silver screen, and it’s as gorgeous and affecting as his work on stages. The celebrated movie is anchored by the stellar chemistry between co-stars Cher and Nicolas Cage. Through their explorations of love, lust and fate, this movie transports you to the lives of two caring-butcomplicated families. $16.04. 10:30 a.m. 5612 Connecticut Ave. NW, DC; theavalon.org // @theavalondc

I Will Follow

WORDS BY M.K. KOSZYCKI

Overwhelmed by museums and want to make the most of every trip? Is your favorite movie widely, unjustly panned and you don’t know why? Are you ready to use your adult money to bring the cartoon foods of your youth to life? If you answered yes to any of the above, you’re the perfect candidate to add these accounts to lighten your daily doom scrolls.

@HISTORYONHOLIDAY

It’s a blessing and a curse to live in one of the most exciting cultural hubs in the world. A curse only in the sense that with a dizzying array of museums, historic sites and exhibitions, it can be hard to wade through all the District has to offer. That’s where @historyonholiday comes in. Helmed by Sarah, a historian and museum professional, these TikTok and Instagram accounts delve into not only the amazing museums and historical sites in the area, but they’re also chock-full of pro tips to make the most of your visits. Follow @historyonholiday on TikTok and Instagram.

“ROTTEN REWIND”

Most filmgoers can relate to the baffling experience of looking up a Rotten Tomatoes score for a beloved movie only to find it deemed “rotten” by the site. “Rotten Rewind,” a podcast by Kourtney Paranteau and Max Roux, seeks to revisit these

“rotten” films and discuss if such loathing is warranted, or if a fresh set of eyes will exonerate them. The well-researched, whipsmart and always comedic show sees the pair of hosts and their stable of guests reevaluate everything from historic flops to recently maligned masterpieces. The show is in the midst of their “Auteur Misfires” miniseries interrogating the lows of cinema greats like Wes Anderson, Elaine May and Ridley Scott. Subscribe on your favorite podcast app for all things rotten, and follow them on Instagram @rottenrewind.

@THROWINGITDOWN

My fellow millennials, do you yearn for a time when you weren’t plagued by fears of global warming or never owning a house and animated TV food looked so good you wished it was real? I can’t do anything about the first part of that list, but I can point you to someone who will make your animated culinary dreams a reality. Enter @throwingitdown, a YouTube and TikTok account who brings to life the most nostalgic of foods. You’ll find recipes for the Krusty Krab Pizza from “Spongebob,” the gloriously messy layer cake from “Max and Ruby,” the mesmerizing pink custard from “Teletubbies” and so much more. The nostalgic soundtracks and VHS filter will transport you back to the ’90s. Follow @throwingitdownn on YouTube and @throwingitdown on TikTok.

EVENT series

Off the Clock with

Evan Kerschensteiner

WORDS BY BRANDON WETHERBEE

A date night in Blagden Alley is always a good idea. The somewhat-hidden oasis near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center is home to some of D.C.’s most buzzworthy and fun bars and restaurants. One such destination is Tiger Fork . The restaurant serves up extremely pleasing fare inspired by Hong Kong’s street food. And it’s packed almost every weekend night.

We asked Tiger Fork Bar Manager Evan Kerschensteiner where he goes when he’s off the clock. Similar to Blagden Alley, his recommendations are a fine mixture of high- and low-end, illustrating the best life is a varied life. In fact, if you’re not able to get a date-night reservation at Tiger Fork, Kerschensteiner’s recommendations serve as a pretty good back-up plan.

Before a Shift

If I go for food before a shift, I generally don’t go too far out of the neighborhood. Maybe some fried chicken or shrimp tacos at El Sol. Or, if I’m feeling slightly more mobile, I’ll head to Chicken + Whiskey for poquito wraps and mac and queso.

After a Shift

After a shift, I’m usually looking for some drinks to start. Lost & Found is a spot that I’ve been going to for years; it’s a great neighborhood spot. If I’m feeling a change of scenery, I’ll head down to U Street to hit Solly’s or Fainting Goat [ed. note: The Fainting Goat closed last month] for a late bite.

On a Day Off

Favorite day-off spot is Pearl Dive on 14th. I’ve always loved seafood, being a Maryland guy whose family used to own a crab house. The Angels on Horseback oysters are one of my favorite bites, otherwise great Cajun food and tasty drinks. I’m also a big fan of St. Anselm if I’m looking for a steak or some grilled fish. Their pimento-cheese biscuits and grilled oysters are also favorites of mine.

Keep up with Kerschensteiner and Tiger Fork at tigerforkdc.com and on Instagram @tigerforkdc.

Chicken + Whiskey: 1738 14th St. NW, DC; chickenandwhiskey.com // @chickenandwhiskey

El Sol: 1227 11th St. NW, DC; elsol-dc.com // @elsoldc

Lost & Found: 1240 9th St. NW, DC; lostandfounddc.com // @lostnfounddc

Pearl Dive: 1612 14th St. NW, DC; pearldivedc.com // @pearldivedc

Solly’s: 1942 11th St. NW, DC; sollystavern.com // @sollystaverndc

St. Anselm: 1250 5th St. NE, DC; stanselmdc.com // @st.anselm_dc

Tiger Fork: 922 N St. NW, DC

Photo courtesy of Julep PR.

Eradicating the Status Quo with Multidisciplinary

Artist Ashley Jaye Williams

WORDS BY NICOLE SCHALLER

Walking Union Market District, artist Ashley Jaye Williams is bound to run into a familiar face.

At La Cosecha, Williams greets me ahead of the interview, then promptly makes her way to Grand Cata Latin American Wine Bar & Market to catch up with owner, co-founder and CEO Pedro Rodríguez about mutual friends and upcoming projects. Before departing, Rodríguez insists she take some marinated hibiscus. As we make our way outdoors to a shaded spot — taking advantage of the fleeting, non-humid warm days of D.C. spring — Williams spots installation artist and Pop Up Bae Creative Director Adriana Salame Aspiazu.

In both encounters, minutes apart, Williams is quick to introduce and try to engage me in the conversation, which is indicative of her start in the industry. When working as a busser at the Wardman Park Hotel, Williams cold-pitched artist and entrepreneur Maggie O’Neill, who offered her an assistant position at her studio.

Fast-forward eight years later, Williams is established in the local art scene as a freelancer with a diverse portfolio of multimedia work, including countless murals around the city, paintings, illustrations (like the cover of Ms. Magazine’s 50th anniversary edition), sculptures, installation art and printmaking for clothing line Model Mutiny with partner and fellow artist Anthony Le. She has shown at HOMME Gallery, Legacy Gallery and Umbrella art market, and recently started a joint art blog and newsletter Aqua Plums with Le.

Based on her beginnings, Williams now makes it a point to create bridges for people, not only fostering connections within the community but also offering advice to those seeking to one day join.

“I love when people ask me for advice,” Williams says. “I have some artists and pals that are younger who saw my Ms. Magazine cover and reached out. We’ve maintained correspondence [since 2021]. One just graduated and is looking at art schools. I told them to not spend all their money [for the prestige of a school] and to make connections while there.”

When not looking outward, Williams’ art focuses on questioning social norms not working for or not representative of most people. Her upcoming permanent mural at Selina Hotel allows Williams to lean fully into her art ethos.

“I’m really excited to work with Selina,” Williams says. “It’s such a great crew of women, which is cool because I can paint what I want. I don’t have to paint flowers or idealize cliches of women’s bodies and promote impossible beauty standards.”

Williams points out standard mural themes portray women and femme people as the same visually pleasing stereotype. Once noted, it’s hard to unsee how frequently painted modelesque women are draped on walls throughout the District.

“The male gaze is the status quo. I don’t think all women are just one archetype. The subjects on the Selina mural don’t exist to serve the viewer.”

Instead, the mural features two vignettes, including a anthropomorphic dragon fruit staring into a teeth-adorned mirror, hiding a chunk of missing fruit on its back. There is also a self-portrait of Williams with her head covered by a lampshade — a nod to women being represented as objects in

murals. Each piece is different, but they both represent a larger theme of queer identity expression and Williams’ personal self-reflection.

In our first interview together in 2021, Williams noted she wanted her art to highlight people’s strangeness “that isn’t necessarily polarizing, [but rather] subtle. [I want people to] accept the strangeness that’s part of them. I’m trying to get away from binary ideas that paint absolutes.”

Now, Williams notes the descriptor was a placeholder.

“I’ve used the word ‘strangeness’ a lot as an attempt to get my work to have a universal appeal,” Williams says. “But I think a lot of what I’m relating to as strangeness is actually queerness.”

Not one to use labels and an admittedly private person, Williams held back from publicly identifying as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

“I think I’ve always known I was queer,” Williams says. “And I’ve definitely always been attracted to and dated whoever regardless of gender and presented myself however I wanted to present myself.”

While Williams acknowledges that she identifies closest to pansexual — although she jokingly laments the term reminds her of “pots and pans” — she did not feel like her experience was valid enough to become public, especially since her marriage is a hetero-passing relationship.

“If you care about a community and you care about the part of your identity that is tied with the community, you want to do good and do right by them.”

However, with current political pushback and legislation striking down recent progress for LGBTQIA+ rights, Williams felt compelled to speak more publicly about her identity, regardless of her apprehension.

“Now more than ever, it’s important for everyone to rally and show ourselves and remind each other we, identifying and allies, are the majority,” Williams says. “With everything that’s going on, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and powerless because evil is prevailing, but there are more of us.”

Completing the mural and co-curating an official Capital Pride art party with District Fray is William’s inaugural public step into the LGBTQIA+ community.

“I’m excited to have a big, fun art event and to create safe space for different viewpoints,” Williams shares about the June 3 party featuring 30+ queer artists and allies.

On the drive home from the interview, I stop at a red light in Columbia Heights. To my left, a mural depicts a conventionally attractive woman watering flowers. While visually pleasant, the depth is missing. I am reminded of Williams’ question when we talked about redundant mural patterns: “What are we really communicating?”

With Williams and the community she is helping build, we can look forward to local public art that eradicates the status quo, makes you think and embraces the many dimensions of life — the imperfect, the strange, the beautifully queer.

To learn more about Williams and her upcoming projects, visit ashleyjayewilliams.com or follow her @ashleyjayewilliams.

Photo courtesy of subject.

Visual Artist Lisa Marie Thalhammer

Paints the Colors of Love

WORDS BY ABI NEWHOUSE

Lisa Marie Thalhammer wants to paint the world a rainbow. The artist responsible for the iconic “LOVE” mural in D.C.’s Blagden Alley, Thalhammer was inspired by people’s response to her work. After the mural was completed in August 2017, residents and visitors flocked to the alley for creative photo shoots.

“They used the work as a way to convey their own positive messages of love and joy and acceptance,” Thalhammer says.

After the hype continued for two years, Thalhammer came up with the idea to do a rainbow tour of the United States, painting “LOVE” murals in all states and territories. It was the end of 2019, so we all know what’s coming — the Covid-19 pandemic put a temporary hold on her plans.

“But I think now’s a really good time,” Thalhammer says. “Every four years, we spend so much time dividing our country into red and blue states that we often forget we’re united — people of all different colors.”

The “LOVE” Mural Tour kicked off last month in St. Petersburg, Florida with a mural painted on the side of The Body Electric Yoga Company.

Though Thalhammer’s vision is country-wide, her artistic story really started in D.C. You can see her work all over the place: Notables include the “TOGETHER” mural inspired by the Women’s March on 9th Street Northwest; “DC 51” on Pennsylvania Avenue in Georgetown; and, of course, “Boxer Girl,” which, when it was painted in 2009, started major conversations about public art in neighborhoods — especially rainbow art.

“It’s pretty cool to see the cultural shift towards acceptance and being a champion of equity,” Thalhammer says.

During Pride Month, we see rainbows on businesses everywhere, but some stick around longer — metaphorically and literally. In 2019, Thalhammer worked with Stoli Vodka to create a label that celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall uprising.

“That was really cool, because it’s a business that’s not just slapping a rainbow on something,” Thalhammer says. “They’re really trying to tell the story of LGBTQ history.”

As an artist and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Thalhammer says she wants to authentically represent the stories of her people, and so her work goes deeper than creating murals for photo ops or advertisements.

“I think the more authentic people can be, the more you’re coming to Pride Month with real love in your heart,” Thalhammer says. “While yes, LGBTQ issues is a cornerstone of the messaging, [the mural] also speaks to a broader message of acceptance.”

Thalhammer considers the colors of her murals carefully. The 13 colors used in the “LOVE” mural are inspired by the chakra centers of the body according to yoga theory.

“I see the colors like the human flag, where we are respectful of all our lives and intersections,” Thalhammer says. “Every human wants to be loved. There’s no one on the planet who doesn’t have some inkling of understanding that feeling.”

To reach the humans who want to be loved in different U.S. locations, Thalhammer has help. She is in the process of identifying ambassadors in different states to help connect the dots for the “LOVE” Mural Tour — finding the perfect location, funding for the project and involving the community. Born in, as Thalhammer puts it, the “American heartland” of St. Louis, Missouri, she understands that love looks different in all places, so she makes sure to understand how her ambassadors view the concept and how that resonates with the larger community in each location.

“I feel like our ‘why’ is so important,” she says. “Like what is motivating us? What’s the point — why rainbows on walls?”

Thalhammer draws on color therapy to create a balanced, harmonious color spectrum in each “LOVE” piece. Fittingly, the “LOVE” mural in Connecticut, slated for June of this year, is sponsored by Mental Health Connecticut.

“A lot of us struggle with depression or loneliness,” Thalhammer says. “Especially LGBTQ people — we’re at a much higher rate of having mental health issues. So, when you go to the rainbow walls, you feel better and uplifted emotionally and spiritually. These colors have a physical, mental and emotional effect upon our energy fields.”

Thalhammer sells canvas versions of the “LOVE” mural in all different color spectrums to address different needs in viewers. One features a spectrum of yellow and gold — representing the solar plexus chakra and self-confidence.

“When you’re needing self-confidence and personal power, gold and yellow are the colors you want to surround yourself with,” she says.

Another painting focuses on teal colors, which Thalhammer says represent speaking from the heart. Another had peaches, creams, tans and browns — an ode to the colors of all people. Thalhammer, a survivor of intimate partner abuse, says her mission goes deeper.

“I’m on a mission to understand self-love,” she says. “It’s really a healing journey that I’ve gone through, and it’s helped to see that relating to so many people. And now, we take it to the street.”

Check out more of Thalhammer’s work at lisamariestudio.com and follow her on Instagram @lisamariestudio. See the artist in action at Art Out Loud on June 3, an official Capital Pride event hosted by District Fray and Selina Union Market & Cowork. Register here: districtpride2023.eventbrite.com.

Photo by Lauren Victor.

Making Space for Joy with Artist + Designer

Nia Keturah Calhoun

WORDS BY ANNIE AGNONE

When I meet Park View-based artist and designer Nia Keturah Calhoun, her partner and dog (a boxer, aptly named Cassius) are scurrying out of frame to give her the room for our interview.

“I’m obsessed with him maybe a little bit,” Calhoun says, gazing after Cassius for a moment before turning back to the screen. “He’s so emotive. It’s like there’s a little grown man walking around our house all the time.”

Calhoun is sitting in her living room, prints of her own art adorning the wall behind her. She’s wearing a white longsleeved T-shirt, purchased from the streetwear boutique Commonwealth in Northwest, with “by any means necessary” in block letters across the chest — a nod to the phrase popularized by Malcolm X less than a year before his death.

“A lot of people see it as a call to violence, which I don’t,” she says. “To me, it’s just that there are certain things in this life that are non-negotiables, and I will do what I have to do to maintain those things. Peace of mind is non-negotiable. I won’t live in a state of anxiety or worry. So whatever I have to do to achieve peace, it’s by any means necessary.”

One of the featured artists at District Fray’s Capital Pride kick-off event on June 3 (hosted in collaboration with Selina Union Market & Cowork), Calhoun tells me she’ll otherwise be taking Pride Month for herself.

“I’m Black and I’m queer, so usually there’s this expectation [during Black History Month and Pride Month]: ‘Oh my gosh, this is your time! You can go out and make art.’ And I’m like, ‘Yeah, but I do that 365.’ So I’m taking time to just stay in and read some books that I’ve been wanting to read and hang with my people.”

During the course of our conversation, I learn it’s exactly this ethos — that simply being and creating authentically is enough to make art — that epitomizes Calhoun’s approach to creative life.

Calhoun spent her early years in North Carolina, where her father was a pastor. She remembers drawing for the first time to stay quiet, channeling her ADHD into art while watching her father preach in the Black churches she grew up in.

“I think how I first started focusing my brain was through art,” Calhoun says. “By drawing him while he was preaching, I would listen more deeply and intently to what he was saying and try to put that into my drawings. I’m sure it wasn’t great, but it’s always been that undercurrent of trying to capture what was happening in sacred spaces.”

When she was 8, Calhoun’s family returned to D.C., where her father was from. She went on to attend Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, dropping out part way through to make a mixtape. From there, she joined an art collective, taught at the Hirshhorn and worked as a graphic designer before Peter Chang and Brandon Hill from No Kings Collective invited her to paint with them. With No Kings, she learned to make big pictures on walls, including designing the nationally

recognized Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson mural on 14th Street after the judge’s historic confirmation to the Supreme Court. Reflecting on her career, Calhoun finds a throughline in making concepts that connect with people.

“Even during blips of my life where I’m like, ‘Let me go find a big-girl job,’ it’s always felt in the vein of art,” she says. “My core belief is that everyone’s always doing their own kind of art. How people move through the world — the way a host will greet somebody at a restaurant — that’s art. You’re creating a way to connect with people and, on the most visceral level, that’s art.”

These days, Calhoun finds most joy in making art that feels honest — the most genuine expression of who she is, when making art in D.C. sometimes means facing expectations or pressure to be political. Authentically representing herself, she believes, is just as important.

“I think we’re experiencing a moment of expansiveness, which is really awesome and always feels at the precipice of being endangered through legislation or popular sentiment, so it also feels like something that has to be protected,” Calhoun says. “So just making art that is innately Black and queer because that’s who I am — it just feels like precious work.”

For District Fray’s Pride event, Calhoun says she wants to share that joy with others.

“I’ve just been really obsessed with cartoons recently, and so I’m making some very queer Black characters,” Calhoun says. “It’s the first day of Pride, it’s pop-out season, it’s time to go outside and be happy, and so I really just want to throw joy on the board through these avatar characters that all kind of identify with bits of me and folks who I love and look up to.”

She hopes people will see themselves in her characters, too, perhaps in a way they haven’t felt represented before — the way she felt when she first encountered “The Boondocks” in elementary school, trying to convince her parents to buy her the book at Barnes & Noble.

She turns her screen to give me a sneak peek of one of the characters she’s been working on: a Black man with hot pink hair, diamond earrings, a nose ring, a full beard and a chain that says “Baddie.” Speaking faster and faster, she tells me her plans for him: fierce pink eyelashes, cuts in his eyebrows, a neck tattoo that says “love,” a cross tattoo on his arm.

“What I really love about him is he’s really in touch with peak masculinity and peak femininity at the same time,” she says. “He’s like, ‘No, they’re both me. Yes, and.’”

She pauses, gazing at him adoringly: this person she created to exist boldly, to hold parts of herself, of everyone.

“I’m in love with him. I think he’s wonderful. And I want nothing but the best in this world for him.”

Keep up with Calhoun online at nias.work and follow her on Instagram @niaketurah.

Photo courtesy of subject.

A Great Today Begins at The Morrow

Located just steps from the bustling NoMa district, The Morrow Hotel was designed by a collection of award-winning architectural design firms. Our chic, brasserie-style restaurant, Le Clou, offers an exceptional dining experience from Michelin-starred chef Nicholas Stefanelli while our celebrated bar, Upstairs at The Morrow, pulses with energy and unparalleled city views. Whether you’re a D.C. local or just planning a visit, there’s always something happening at The Morrow Hotel.

EAT

Caruso’s Grocery. Photo courtesy of Leading DC.

A Love Letter to Italian-American Cuisine in D.C.

WORDS BY HALEY MCKEY

Spaghetti and meatballs, calamari, penne alla vodka — you’ll find all the hits on the Caruso’s Grocery menu, and not a foam, gel or “modern interpretation” in sight. For chef and partner Matt Adler, who came to D.C. as Osteria Morini’s opening chef, that’s intentional: Quality ingredients and great cooking techniques come first. This year, the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington nominated him for their Chef of the Year award. We spoke with Adler to learn more about his inspiration, favorite items on the Capitol Hill spot’s menu and recommendations for the perfect way to end an ItalianAmerican dinner.

District Fray: How would you describe your career as a chef?

Matt Adler: I always had a deep love and passion for Italian food: My father ran an Italian restaurant in upstate New York called Scoozi, and I spent a lot of time traveling in Italy and learning about regional cuisine. But I ran away from that as quickly as possible once I went to culinary school. When I was young, I wanted to cook fancy food — I didn’t have a lot of respect for Italian-American cooking at the time. My background is in contemporary French cooking, and I did that for a long time, working in Boston and New York.

Caruso’s linguini in white clam sauce. Photo courtesy of Leading DC.

A look inside Capitol Hill mainstay Caruso’s Grocery

How did you come to be chef-partner at Caruso’s?

Michael Babin [of Neighborhood Restaurant Group] approached me in 2019 — he was developing The Roost food hall and he needed a chef to help guide the project for him. He said he was interested in opening an Italian-American restaurant in the space next door. I hadn’t really thought about that food in a long time and I was excited about it. I wrote a menu and after a couple conversations, we agreed on this partnership.

Caruso’s is not a chef’s interpretation of the classics. It’s classics, period. Why is that so important? Our ethos is not, “Oh, wow, how can I interpret chicken parm?” It’s, “How do we make the best possible chicken parm?” You want thinly pounded chicken breast, the best possible parmesan and great tomatoes to make a really beautiful, robust sauce. And while the idea of a grandma in Italy making all the pasta at a restaurant is great, how do you produce that at volume and keep the quality? That’s why technique is huge.

Any signature dishes on the Caruso’s menu you want to highlight that are fond favorites for you?

I’ll tell you about three dishes I really love. This first one comes directly from my dad’s restaurant in New York: mozzarella in carrozza — layers of bread with roasted garlic herb puree and mozzarella cheese that’s breaded and fried. It’s often served with marinara sauce, and if you want to get really classic, with a lemon-anchovy sauce. Next, linguine and clams: We use local fresh clams, as well as canned clams we buy

directly from Italy. Plus clam juice, so it’s ultra-clammy. Then we make a white clam sauce with sliced garlic, lemon juice, white wine and herb butter, and use De Cecco linguine for our pasta. We make our linguine and clams extra saucy, so you can use garlic bread to run through the sauce after. And, finally, veal francese: classic battered cutlets in a lemon-butter sauce. It’s the second most popular item on our menu, and people have really gravitated towards it.

And what about drinks?

We do get a little creative with our cocktails, like a martini made with limoncello, or our antipasti martini made with mozzarella brine — that was developed by our cocktail director, Nick Farrell. When it comes to wine, we have an affordable wine program focusing on small producers with good production practices throughout Italy — it’s not stuff you’ll find in the supermarket.

What’s the best way to end an Italian-American meal?

There’s always a robust dessert menu in these restaurants. At Caruso’s, I would share either our tiramisu or our cheesecake with strawberry sauce — we call it Brooklyn-style, because it’s that classic cheesecake first made famous at Junior’s in Brooklyn. Digestif-wise, you can’t go wrong with limoncello or sambuca — we make both in house.

Enjoy Continental’s half-priced game rates until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Our beer garden is dog and family-friendly (under 21 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian; valid ID required to purchase alcohol).

Caruso’s Grocery: 914 14th St. SE, DC carusosgrocery.com // @carusosgrocery

The Inside Scoop on Goodies

WORDS BY NEVIN MARTELL | PHOTO BY SCOTT SUCHMAN

Back in the day, Brandon Byrd was the marketing and events director for groundbreaking hip-hop magazine XXL, crisscrossing the country to produce shows and host parties with the genre’s biggest stars. But the constant travel and stressful schedule burned him out.

“I just wanted to do something fun and wholesome,” he says.

He decided to return to his roots by opening Goodies Frozen Custard & Treats, an homage to the frozen custard he grew up eating in Madison, Wisconsin. The treat differs from other icy desserts because it’s made with eggs, frozen at a lower temperature than ice cream and traditionally made fresh daily, all of which helps give it a luxuriant texture.

“It’s velvety smooth, like pillows or marshmallows,” Byrd says.

In 2012, he rolled out the new venture by selling scoops out of Gigi, a 1952 International Harvester Metro van painted with a patriotic color scheme: custard white, Coca-Cola red and sky blue. That was just the beginning. Two years later, he opened a frozen custard and soda bar in National Harbor.

Another few years down the road, he was driving through Old Town Alexandria when he spotted a run-down, boarded-up building that still managed to radiate cuteness and charm. Along the top of its brick facade, he could just make out the word “ice.” Intrigued, he reached out to the owner. Turns out, the building was built back in 1931 to house Mutual Ice Co.

“When the Potomac River would freeze over, ice men would go down there to chop out blocks of ice, pack them in sawdust and straw and transport them to these neighborhood ice houses, where you would get ice to put in your root cellar to keep everything cold and fresh,” Byrd says.

He bought the 300-square-foot building in 2018, spent three years rehabbing it and debuted the brick and mortar in the spring of 2021, during the Covid-19 pandemic. The shop is generally open Memorial Day through Labor Day, but Byrd offers catering from the truck year-round.

Like on the truck and at his stand in the harbor, the menu at the refurbished icehouse is short and sweet. All the offerings are built around his freshly made vanilla bean frozen custard. You can design your own sundae or choose one of Byrd’s two creations: the Boogie Woogie topped with pecans, chocolate, caramel and whipped cream, or the Jukebox, a classic cookies-and-cream combo featuring plenty of Oreos. On the shake side of the equation, there’s a banana pudding milkshake dubbed the Johnny B Goode and the Jitterbug shake laced with creamy Reese’s peanut butter. There are several floats on offer, including one with root beer, a nod to the sarsaparilla floats Byrd grew up drinking.

Last, but certainly not least, are Byrd’s donutwiches, which take ice cream sandwiches to a gloriously gluttonous new level. His signature features a cinnamonsugared apple cider donut stuffed with frozen custard and drizzled with caramel, though ’wiches can also be made with an alternate donut, such as red velvet, buttermilk or chocolate.

Though the menu hasn’t changed much since he opened, Byrd keeps looking forward, thinking how he can take Goodies to another level. He’s now restoring another Metro van to expand his catering option and is teaching his three nieces the ins and outs of running the operation in hopes they will one day take it over, or at least have a good foundation to start a business of their own. He knows how tough the market can be and how fickle fate is, so he wants them to be prepared to handle the ups and downs.

“These days, if you get a three- to fiveyear run in the food business, you’re doing good,” Byrd says. “More than a decade later, I’m still here. I count my blessings every day.”

Goodies Frozen Custard & Treats: 200 Commerce St. Alexandria, VA mmmgoodies.com // @mmmgoodies

Three sweet spots where you can feed your need for a cone or a cup (or a cone in a cup, if you’re one of those indecisive types).

ICE CREAM JUBILEE

Attorney turned self-proclaimed ice cream-preneur, Victoria Lai is the powerhouse behind this D.C.-born venture turning out pints that revel in nostalgia — think cookies and cookie dough, mint chip — and artful seasonal flavors, such as orange blossom tea cake and a boozy riff on chocolate-covered cherries.

301 Water St. SE, DC 1407 T St. NW, DC 4238 Wilson Blvd. Arlington, VA icecreamjubilee.com @icecreamjubilee

HAPPY ICE CREAM

The pandemic-born ice cream cart from Happy Gyro’s Ben Brunner is now a permanent fixture on the 17th Street Northwest sidewalk, with the pastry pro scooping flavors like pumpkin with coffee-caramel swirls and graham cracker crumbles, and passion fruit-laced coconut sorbet studded with chocolate chunklets. 1509 17th St. NW, DC happyicecreamdc.com @happyicecreamdc

VAN LEEUWEN

These hipster scoop shops in Union Market, Georgetown and Adams Morgan offer the company’s classics — such as honeycomb, churros and fudge — and limited-edition collabs with local talent, like birch ice cream with raspberry jam made with Bar Spero Chef Johnny Spero. 418 Morse St. NE, DC 3245 Prospect St. NW, DC 2421 18th St. NW, DC vanleeuwenicecream.com @vanleeuwenicecream

WORDS BY HEATHER BIEN

The RAMMYS Debut New Categories + Interactive Format

Like D.C.’s restaurant industry, the 2023 RAMMY Awards will surprise guests.

No one celebrates food the way D.C. does. The city comes together annually at the RAMMY Awards to vote on and celebrate locally owned restaurants by looking back at the accomplishments, openings and standout meals of the previous year.

Shawn Townsend stepped into the role as the new president and CEO of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) just in time for the 2023 event.

“For so many years, D.C. was known for the White House, Congress and the federal government,” says Townsend, who grew up in his father’s restaurant. “We have shown folks through hospitality, our restaurant scene and the nightlife that we’ve birthed world-renowned chefs and created an award-winning restaurant scene.”

Townsend’s career includes a tenure as the inaugural director of nightlife and culture in the mayor’s office. In that role, he saw dining grow as part of the fabric of D.C. culture, and he also served through one of the most tenuous times in dining. He counts his work on the Streatery Program as one of the proudest moments of his career.

“To see the Streateries today still being utilized and to hear that permanent Streatery policy is being discussed makes me feel really good about the work we were able to do during the pandemic,” Townsend says.

It’s the work that was done during the Covid-19 pandemic years and beyond that will define this year’s RAMMYS.

“The RAMMYS this year speak to the importance of restaurants in our daily lives as places to come together, savor new experiences and celebrate important moments,” Townsend says. “We are excited to be out of the shadow of the pandemic in terms of this event, but also as an industry. Our beloved guests have returned to restaurants in a big way.”

The 41st annual RAMMYS will return in a big way, too, with new and unexpected food, beverage and entertainment experiences.

“Like the restaurant industry we serve, the RAMMYS strive to be a trendsetter, continually surprising guests,” Townsend says.

This year, an interactive format brings the dinner and celebration portions of the event to the main lobby of the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. There will be art, sponsor activation experiences and interactive discoveries throughout the entire space.

It’s not just the format that’s new. Townsend explains that the RAMMYS represent the constant evolution of the industry, which, this year, takes the form of two new categories. The Best Bar category will highlight the nightlife scene and its significant comeback over the past few years.

Meanwhile, the Pastry Chef of the Year category has expanded to include bakers and bakeries. If you’ve sampled the dreamy cakes and cozy breads coming out of bakehouses across the city, you know this is a necessary and worthy addition.

“Like our industry, the finalists represent a wonderful and diverse range of cuisines, curated experiences and cocktails,” Townsend says. “They showcase those who have earned the clout of categories like Chef of the Year, as well as the rising stars making their names known.”

The RAMMY Awards ceremony takes place July 9 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Tickets start at $250 and can be purchased at therammys.org/tickets.

Walter E. Washington Convention Center: 801 Mt. Vernon Pl. NW, DC; therammys.org // @ramwdc

Photo courtesy of Linda Roth PR.

DRINK

Zeppelin cocktail. Photo by Kimberly Kong.

A Night Out in Shaw

Zeppelin +

offer a campy, delicious ode to Japanese culture

Picture this. You meet friends for steaming-hot fried crab rangoon wontons and a cucumber-laced happy hour cocktail with lemon, ginger beer and Pimm’s on one of Shaw’s most bustling patios. The sun starts to set, and it feels like the right time to introduce some fire. You order a cocktail called The Cure, which arrives in flames, literally — the rosemary garnish is torched, bringing out its earthy notes.

As the night goes on, you break off from the pack for an al fresco date night in the shadows of a campy Godzilla mural. You decide to split a table full of sushi and yakitori while sampling one of the best sake selections in the District.

Now, a few drinks in, you’re tempted by the sweet sounds of karaoke drifting from upstairs. You wander up and, without hesitation, belt out a vintage Billy Joel tune. With your star power now known across the bar and your date still going strong, you make a quick exit, stopping once more at Chaplin’s for an order of late-night dumplings before, finally, calling it a night.

This is the evening evolution that brothers Ari and Micah Wilder had in mind when they created their Shaw enclave of Zeppelin and Chaplin’s, two bars and restaurants just a two-minute walk from one another. Both establishments have similar visions, and their food and drink menus share a common thread. They embrace flavors beloved in Japan, like yuzu and kabosu, and pair those with cultural moments like the Godzilla mural — painted by Patrick Owens — and everyone’s favorite way to round out a night (and test their own bravery): karaoke.

“Having such a large Japanese influence in D.C. helps us access unique Japanese sake, liquor and fruits to use throughout the beverage program,” Ari Wilder says. He always keeps his favorite Japanese spirit, Komasa Gin, stocked in both bars.

A classic Japanese highball machine is a centerpiece at Zeppelin and is a reference to Japan’s iconic highball cocktails, which traditionally mix sparkling water and whiskey.

Zeppelin’s takes include the purist Toki Baller with Toki Whisky and the Getaway, which includes Roku Gin, apricot liqueur, passion fruit and tamarind vinegar. At Chaplin’s, a favorite since the bar opened in 2014 is the Tokyo Tea, which mixes vodka, gin, rum, cointreau, coconut, pineapple, matcha and cream soda in what some might call a Japanese take on a Long Island Iced Tea (but, we promise, this one tastes delicious).

While Zeppelin and its patio have a sultry feel, driven by its two-top tables designed for an intimate evening, Chaplin’s offers a space for groups looking for a buzzy scene. The two stand alone, but when added to the same night-out itinerary, you get the best of lively atmosphere, spicy vibes and carefree karaoke.

And, if you’re looking for the ultimate food and drink to get a taste of the menu as you hop from one spot to the next, Wilder says, “Order the Heartbreak at Zeppelin paired with a Zeppelin Roll and O’o Toro nigiri. Then, at Chaplin’s, go for the two in one, with the Pay Day Dumplings, which are injected with whiskey, lime, maple, ginger, sriracha, soy sauce.”

A two-for-one dish on a two-for-one night out? We’ll see you under the Godzilla.

Chaplin’s: 1501 9th St. NW, DC; chaplinsdc.com // @chaplinsrestaurantdc

Zeppelin: 1544 9th St. NW, DC; zeppelindc.com // @zeppelindc

WORDS BY HEATHER BIEN | ILLUSTRATION BY JULIA GOLDBERG

Chaplin’s

MUSIC

Lucius. Photo by Max Wanger.

Indie Pop Icons Lucius Play New Pride Festival at Wolf Trap

Powerhouse frontwomen Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig open up about singing what you can’t always say, sharing one superhero identity onstage and the undeniable lure of 9:30 Club’s signature cupcakes before taking the stage at Out & About Festival on June 24-25.

WORDS BY MONICA ALFORD

Lucius is a staple of the D.C. music community. Lead singers Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig formed their indie pop band in Brooklyn 16 years ago and are now based in LA, but it was their appearance on NPR Music’s “Tiny Desk Concerts” with creator and host Bob Boilen in 2013 that jumpstarted their national success. They have a soft spot for the District, and we have the bragging rights (thanks, Bob) for helping put them on the map.

A decade later, they’ve released three studio albums — each with its own thoughtfully curated sonic concept and visual aesthetic — and collaborated with everyone from Harry Styles and The Killers to Sheryl Crow and The War on Drugs. They’ve become close friends with queer country artist Brandi Carlile, often performing and recording together, and now they’re on the same bill for the debut of Wolf Trap’s Out & About Festival on Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25.

The new festival, a particularly proud moment for the DMV during Pride month, will “spotlight LGBTQIA+ artists and allies who live out loud,” according to the venue. Fierce allies with deep roots in the queer music community, Wolfe and Laessig will take the stage on Sunday with guitarist Peter Lalish and drummer Dan Molad for a stacked lineup on three stages including Celisse, Brandy Clark, Oh He Dead, and of course, Carlile.

We had the opportunity to sneak in a Zoom call with the duo during a VIP party they were attending last month to pick their brains about the upcoming festival and what new concept they’re creating for their fans. Luckily, the call ran long, and we were able to chat about how they’ve swung the pendulum from the stripped-down, breathtakingly beautiful acoustic songs on 2018’s “Nudes” to a disco dance party filled with vulnerable lyrics surrounding divorce and motherhood on 2022’s “Second Nature” to an upcoming record they’re describing as surreal and centered on connection. Read on to learn more about the musicians, from the reason behind their identical onstage fashion to their favorite Ethiopian spot in D.C.

District Fray: Why was joining the lineup for Out & About Festival important to you?

Jess Wolfe: Those are our people. It totally made sense. This is about community and lifting people up and giving a voice to people who need to be given a voice. We’re just so proud to be

a part of it and be considered. Even though we’re not ourselves queer, to be included in that community is everything to us. To be able to do something in our work that resonates with people who feel different and who feel seen? Hell yes, that’s everything.

Tell me about your friendship with Brandi Carlile.

Wolfe: She always talks about the Island of Misfit Toys and that resonated with us. We grew up not having a community and feeling different. Finding community once we met, going to music school and building this musical safe space with so many incredible artists and friends of all different backgrounds has been the proudest place I could ever imagine being in. I feel so incredibly grateful and privileged to have that, and the ability to open that up for other people. That comes from being in Brandi’s community and building our own audience and vision for the band. Brandi is intertwined with that feeling because that’s everything she stands for.

Who are you most excited to hang with at the festival?

Wolfe: Rufus Wainwright. We have mutual friends, but we’ve never really spent time together and I’ve been a fan of his for such a long time, ever since the Judy [Garland] Carnegie record. And Celisse is one of our best friends. Being with new and old friends together, celebrating and lifting each other up — it’s everything. The lineup is pretty tremendous. Jake Wesley Rogers is going to be there. He’s the sweetest guy ever. He just played Union Stage in D.C. I saw him at SXSW last year and interviewed him for last June’s issue.

Wolfe: He was actually an OG Lucius fan. We did a little radio show during the pandemic, and he showed us a photo of the three of us all together from maybe 10 years ago…

Holly Laessig: …at the merch table. It was awesome.

Wolfe: Yeah, he’s just a total gem. What are you excited to see?

You, obviously. And I haven’t had the chance to see Brandi live yet, which is wild, so I’m looking forward to that. Do you have a favorite D.C. memory?

Laessig: The first thing that comes to mind is the “Tiny Desk”

that we did, because that put us on some sort of map. When we would be playing shows and go to the merch table afterwards and actually meet people who were not our relatives or friends [both laugh]. Like, “Oh, you know who we are?” “Yeah, we saw you on ‘Tiny Desk.’” That was the first thing that really helped us get to that next step, so it certainly is a fond memory.

Wolfe: That was definitely one of the most pivotal moments in our career — an identifier of when things really shifted. We are indebted to D.C. in many ways, and we’ve always had particularly wonderful times in D.C. When we were on tour with Roger Waters, we actually got some time to explore all the sites and museums and walk around. It’s so beautiful.

Laessig: There’s a really good Ethiopian restaurant we’ve gone to a couple times with Bob [Boilen]: DAS Ethiopian.

Wolfe: There’s a lot of good Ethiopian restaurants. We love Ethiopian food. We always get it when we are in D.C. And just a couple weeks ago, we were in D.C. to honor Joni Mitchell at the Library of Congress. That was one of the most magical weeks in a long, long time just being able to celebrate her and be with so many of our friends: Brandi, Celisse, Marcus Mumford, Annie Lennox. We got to sing at the Library of Congress with Sara Bareilles and Brandi for Joni, and it was just so amazing.

I was just about to ask your favorite D.C. venue to perform, but now that I think of it, I’m guessing it’s probably the Library of Congress?

Wolfe: [Both laugh] That is a pretty good one, but D.C. has amazing venues.

Laessig: I mean, 9:30 Club always lures you in with those cupcakes. Every musician knows about those cupcakes.

I really appreciate you both being in the D.C. fan club, but I want to refocus and talk more about the two of you. One of the things that’s really special about your music is that you cover real topics like relationships and divorce and motherhood. How does that play into your songwriting process?

Laessig: The songs we end up loving the most that actually make it onto records are the ones that are the most honest. Sometimes we have songs we try as a character, but they don’t always work out. We’ve written a lot of songs that stay on the cutting table, or whatever the term is. The best art and the best music — or at least our favorites — are always the most real because people can relate to them. They’re the things you can’t always say, but you can sing through music.

What advice would you give women in the creative industry you wish someone had given you years ago?

Wolfe: If you want something and believe in something enough, you just do whatever it takes to make it work. And also, give yourself the space to have quiet and rest — to figure out the balance and honor yourself in doing that.

What do you want to do next sonically? Is there a new sound or concept you’re currently working on?

Laessig: We are working on a bunch of new music. It’s a little bit closer to the heart and more raw and getting back to our roots, so we’re excited about that. We have another record we

finished, but I think we’ll wait on that because it’s a little bit more experimental.

Wolfe: But equal parts exciting. There will be a special way we present that one when the time is right.

What’s a shared vision you both have for a future project or collaboration that you’re equally excited about?

Wolfe: I think this record is part of that. We’ve been circling around the best way to connect it to some visual and maybe technological elements. It’s a very surreal record about connection and the different ways in which we connect, and how we are automatically connected to something when we come into this world and how we’re cut from connections and have to find them. We’ve been trying to figure out a way to bring it to life where it can best serve the record and its purpose.

Who are a few of your forever music influences, and/or a new one on your radar?

Wolfe: Danielle Ponder is on tour with us right now and she’s supremely gifted. It’s been such a pleasure to listen to her every night. We were doing Instagram Live open mics during the pandemic and she signed up one night and sang, and we were like, “Oh, shit, this girl is the real deal.” She’s tremendous. Laessig: My OG forever is Bowie. That would be mine. I need to listen to more new music is the truth. Danielle is amazing. We always reference Radiohead, like every other musician.

Wolfe: Bowie, Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Aretha, Roy Orbison: These are the people who made me believe in the power of music.

You’re iconic for always rocking a nearly identical style. How do you come up with a concept or a look in a collaborative way that you both feel really good about?

Wolfe: Both of our moms are visual artists, and I grew up in the theatre, so having an automatic landscape to transport us and our audience is a big deal. It makes us feel automatically connected. It’s like putting on our uniform — our superhero outfit — and matching makes it much easier for people to see us as one, to see us as they hear us. That’s the root of it. And we just love fashion. We love artists who always had a strong visual representation of their music: Bowie, Björk, James Brown, The Supremes — people who dress the sound. We have a different visual idea for every album, and we let ourselves go all the way in that direction. We’ve been able to still make it a Lucius thing because we do it together, and that commitment between the two of us makes it us. It’s always evolving and when we’re writing songs, we’re actually collecting imagery and starting to visualize how we want it to look.

So it becomes a whole mood board.

Wolfe: Yeah. We love a mood board. [both laugh]

Learn more about Lucius at ilovelucius.com and follow them on Instagram @ilovelucius. Catch them on Sunday, June 25 at Wolf Trap’s brand-new Out & About Festival. Tickets start at $59 and are available at wolftrap.org.

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts: 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA; @wolf_trap

WOLF TRAP

EMBRACES BIG CHANGES IN 2023 SEASON

WORDS BY CHRISTINA SMART | PHOTOS BY BIRCH THOMAS

From a brand-new festival focused on LGBTQIA+ visibility to massive renovations geared toward enhancing the artist experience, Wolf Trap is defining itself for a new era. We caught up with CEO and president Arvind Manocha as well as several artists scheduled to play this month about exciting developments at the DMV’s favorite national park-music venue hybrid.

Out & About Festival Celebrates the LGBTQIA+ Community

When Andy Valenti, guitarist for the D.C. band Oh He Dead, learned they were booked for Wolf Trap’s Out & About Festival — where they would share the bill with artists including Yola, Lucius, Rufus Wainwright and headliner Brandi Carlile — he knew it was a big deal. He just didn’t realize how big of a deal until he shared the news with some friends in the queer community.

“I told them that we’re playing on a show with Brandi Carlile,” Valenti says. “They were like ‘Brandi f--king Carlile?’ They freaked out.”

There’s a lot to be excited about with the launch of Out & About. The brainchild of Sara Beesley, Wolf Trap’s Vice President, Program and Production, the two-day festival on June 24 and 25 will feature Carlile headlining both nights. The singer-songwriter has an extensive history with the venue, first appearing there as an opener for the Indigo Girls in 2008. According to Wolf Trap’s Vice President, Development, Sara Jaffe, the festival came together fairly quickly.

“Brandi Carlile is an amazing partner for Pride,” Jaffe says. “It was just a great fit that came to fruition.”

Scheduled for the final weekend of Pride Month, the festival gives members of the LGBTQIA+ community in the DMV (and beyond) as well as allies a chance to celebrate the human rights advancements that have been made over the years.

Manocha says he hopes the festival provides an opportunity for all generations to celebrate who they are.

“It’s hard to imagine a festival like Out & About happening where I grew up in Ohio, but certainly it would have meant a lot to me, as I hope it does now to younger members of LGBTQ+ communities today,” he says. “Visibility is an important part of empowerment. Inclusivity has a powerful impact on self-confidence.”

The festival will utilize all three of the park’s stages, allowing attendees to experience the entire campus of Wolf Trap and its recent renovations.

“Part of the reason it’s ‘Out & About’ — I mean, the ‘out’ is fairly obvious — but we want people to get out and about in the park and to really do a walkabout to feel like they’re here for the day and experiencing all this,” Manocha says. “Which is why we’re activating the Meadow Stage. We will have something going on at the Children’s Theatre as well so people are encouraged to come through and walk through [the park].”

Singer-songwriter Wainwright, both a friend and colleague of Carlile’s, didn’t hesitate to jump on board when she reached out to him about the festival.

“I’ve had the pleasure of both hanging out and working with [Carlile]. She’s just fun to be around and I love singing with her,” Wainwright says. “When she does want me to be a part of something, it’s usually pretty special, so it was a quick ‘yes.’”

In a time when state and local governments are passing laws criminalizing the existence and expression of members

of the LGBTQIA+ community, Wainwright — a member of Generation X who witnessed everything from the AIDS epidemic (and the government’s non-response) to the passing of the Respect for Marriage Act — hopes that Out & About will serve as a rallying cry for the community.

“I think we’re in a somewhat regressive stage,” Wainwright says. “It’s like we’re activists again, and we’re out there fighting for our rights once more.”

“When we create moments that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and our allies, it helps show people that it’s okay to be who they are, and that they are seen,” Manocha says. “Younger people, folks on the journey of coming out, and older members of the community who might still carry with them some of the hurt or fear they experienced growing up in less enlightened times will hopefully find joy and a measure of peace while surrounded by nature and listening to the artists on the bill.”

As one of the two local bands on the bill along with D.C. band Bad Moves, Valenti is honored to be part of the festival and its message.

“Our band has been aligned with the LGBTQ+ community and we’ve played Pride Festival twice before,” Valenti says. “We really value our friends in that community and want to do what we can to support and uplift what everyone’s doing.”

Greeting the Future with Extensive Renovations

In the years leading up to Wolf Trap’s 50th anniversary in 2021, the performing arts center had plans in the works for massive renovations over several years, both front-of-house and backstage.

With the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, the shuttering of the live music industry was gutting in one aspect but in another allowed Wolf Trap’s management to expedite the renovations.

Now with $15 million already spent on the renovations (and another $15 million planned for additional improvements), Wolf Trap has emerged from the pandemic with much more than a fresh coat of paint.

“The first thing we wanted to do was improve the lives of our artists,” says Manocha. “We wanted that to be done for the 50th anniversary as well as make patron amenities fresh and new and improve the experience pre-concert.”

One of the first things patrons will notice upon arrival is the updated wood paneling of the entire building.

“The Park Service replaced all of the Douglas fir on the building in 2022 to help make it fresh,” Manocha says. “It feels very new. I think of the Douglas fir siding of this building as part of its iconography. There’s not a lot of big outdoor venues that are not entirely clad in a natural organic material.”

Seating in the orchestra and prime orchestra sections of the amphitheater now have center aisles (no more climbing over 40 people if you want to get a beer), something Wolf Trap was able to configure without losing any capacity. Additionally, ADA seating in the orchestra section expanded and a new crosswalk was added between sections, allowing for a much better flow of foot traffic.

A new sound system was installed, so the overall sound quality for both the performers and audience has also been enhanced.

In 2020 and 2021, four new pavilions were added throughout the grounds to serve as pre-concert lounges for donors, and they’re also available for rentals.

But for those who have access to backstage, the upgrades to the entire area are nothing short of astounding. Prior to the improvements, the backstage area resembled a ’70s rec room (and that’s being polite).

Entering the area now, artists are greeted by a large-paneled wall comprised of refurbished original Douglas fir that was removed from exterior of the building, with an enormous Wolf Trap sign burning bright in neon pink — in case artists forget where they are (“Hello, Cleveland!”).

Numerous dressing rooms are ensuite, some large enough to fit dance and opera companies, wired with the most complimentary lighting imaginable. (If you’re ever backstage, take a selfie. I promise you: You have never looked better.)

The suite for the headliners is large enough for artists to entertain guests (like The War and Treaty did after their headlining show in 2021, when they celebrated their son Legend’s birthday with close family and friends), while a Baldwin grand piano in the corner gets plenty of use pre- and post-show. The suite also contains a private patio so artists can enjoy nature, or they can hike the two-mile path next to the venue (as Sting was seen doing last year).

The new and improved game room offers a pool table, pingpong table (both the billiard balls and pingpong balls are branded with Wolf Trap’s logo — give whoever thought of that a raise), video games and assorted board games in case anyone wants to get into a competitive Jenga match.

Additionally, Wolf Trap’s backstage features a wellness room where artists can meditate, have a training session or a massage, or play with puppies (this is actually a thing) to calm pre-show nerves.

If this seems over the top, that’s the whole point. Wolf Trap’s aim with these much-needed renovations was not only to make a patron’s experience more enjoyable, but the artist’s as well.

“When artists say things to me like, ‘Can I stay here for the weekend?’ We feel good about that,” Manocha says. “We feel like we’ve done what we’re supposed to do.”

The Out & About Festival takes place on June 24 and 25 at 4 p.m. Tickets start at $75. To purchase tickets and see Wolf Trap’s full lineup, visit wolftrap.org or follow on Instagram @wolf_trap.

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts: 1551 Trap Rd. Vienna, VA

Wolf Trap President + CEO Arvind Manocha.

What to expect following the inaugural shows at OG 9:30 Club replica The Atlantis

WORDS BY COLLEEN KENNEDY

Just as this issue of District Fray was heading to mailboxes and distributors around the District, the Foo Fighters performed the very first show at The Atlantis, the District’s newest music venue, on May 30: an iconic band opening the hotly anticipated club, kicking off 44 nights of acclaimed acts with deep ties to the 9:30 Club. While The Atlantis replicates the OG 9:30 Club on F Street Northwest in many ways, it’s not all nostalgia all the time. The Atlantis is supporting the evolution of new music.

“All of us look back at when a band played a venue that was just so small before they really took off,” says Zhubin Aghamolla, co-director of booking for I.M.P. “Beyond the 44 [shows in the inaugural lineup] will be really incredible. It’s gonna be great when someone sees a new band there and then three or four years down the line, they’ll say to themselves, ‘I cannot believe we saw this band at this venue.’”

The History + the Future

The Atlantis’ design is full of nods to the OG 9:30 Club’s storied past, from the twisty floor plan that recreates the original labyrinthine flow to the black-and-white vinyl flooring. While the original 9:30 Club had several problematic poles obstructing views, there is now one floor-to-ceiling pole near stage left that gives a wink to the past without blocking sightlines. (What’s left in the past are the infamous rat problems and even worse stench. Even nostalgia has its limits.)

And, of course, there is the corner-stage, just like in the original, that brings the action even closer to the audience.

As construction crews climbed scaffolding a few weeks before the grand opening, this shortie reveled in the fantastic sightlines. The Atlantis will boast two levels — with a bar on each — and the proximity to the performers will be incredibly close. The venue is somehow both compact — with a capacity of only 450 — but also beautifully designed for access and intimacy. Whether grabbing a beer at the downstairs bar, leaning against the railing on the mezzanine level or posted up on the floor, you will always have a clear view of the elevated stage.

But the Atlantis is not just old-school; it’s also a state-ofthe-art, 10-million-dollar renovation, designed as a high-tech music box, engineered to buffer out noise from next door and to best support its own acoustic integrity, as designed by master acoustician John Storyk of Walters-Storyk Design Group. There is an elevator that makes the new space more accessible for patrons with limited mobility, but also makes loading equipment and gear easier, too.

The building’s facade, too, is futuristic. The facade of The Atlantis replicates the original building’s exterior,

but — recalling the interior curtains and swags decorating The Anthem — it is composed of perforated metal backlit by thousands of lights. A ghostly visage of the past is now rendered in a multi-story, postmodern marquee that is of the moment: A large “2023” adorns the cornice above The Atlantis.

Beyond the 44

The Atlantis will cultivate the next wave of music by inviting emerging artists and niche acts to play a smaller venue that has all the perks of playing a major venue: clout, visibility and representation — and joining the I.M.P. family.

Seth Hurwitz — chairman of I.M.P., which owns the 9:30 Club, The Anthem and The Atlantis, and operates both Merriweather Post Pavilion and Lincoln Theatre — points out key differences between other 450-capacity venues and a musical behemoth like the I.M.P musicverse.

“We have the same resources, personnel and talent that work on the big shows working on The Atlantis,” Hurwitz says.

He credits his marketing and communications team for teaching the public about artists coming through I.M.P.’s venues.

“So much of the presentation of these artists is also about education,” Hurwitz says. “And that translates to the next time the band comes back, and now people know who they are.”

The other key part of The Atlantis’ strategy, Hurwitz says, is carefully selecting up-and-coming bands with the potential to be the next big thing.

“For some promoters, it’s like playing Monopoly and buying everything you can land on,” Hurwitz says. “We’re not going to book everything we land on. We’re going to be picky and curate The Atlantis just like the way we curate the 9:30 Club.”

Hurwitz should know. He’s been the owner of the 9:30 Club since 1986 and has seen it through its different iterations. He is the one who believed in little-known bands, like four girls from LA in a surfer pop-punk band, booking the iconic GoGo’s on their first tour. The list of before-they-were-stars — R.E.M., Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana and so many more — who played the original 9:30 Club with its 200-person capacity, condemned-building look, stench and terrible sightlines is the stuff of legend.

“When I was young, I booked bands because I believed in them, and I see that happening with Zhubin now,” Hurwitz says. “It’s very exciting for me to see him doing what I did 30 years ago.”

And that brings us back to Zhubin Aghamolla, who since 2015 has been booking bands for The Anthem, Merriweather

Post Pavilion and now The Atlantis, too. As major venues, The Anthem and the Merriweather attract nationally recognized artists or artists from multiple genres touring together. It’s a whole new frontier for The Atlantis, though, and Aghamolla is always searching for what’s new and next.

“The best way to learn about new acts is to ride around in Zhubin’s car,” Hurwitz adds, sharing that he’s been introduced to such diverse artists as the Backstreet Lovers, Goth Babe and Rainbow Kitten Surprise because of Aghamolla.

Aghamolla, for his part, is curious, open and eager when it comes to his musical voraciousness, listening to almost anything but trusting his gut when he thinks he’s heard the right artist.

“Sometimes, I just hear it and think, ‘Other people need to hear this,’” he says.

He then plays an artist’s music for some of his most trusted friends to see if they have the same visceral or emotional reaction. If so, he books them.

For Hurwitz, it’s all about having faith in the next generation of artists, and asking audiences to have faith, too.

“We want the public to trust us to say, ‘We’ve booked this band: You should go see them.’”

Where Music Begins

The first roster of artists after the first 44 Atlantis shows was just announced in mid-April, demonstrating that commitment to exploring the next wave of music.

There are international artists, such as Irish singersongwriter Cian Ducrot and Jerusalem-born Saint Levant who sings and raps in French, Arabic and English. Multiinstrumentalist Vagabon combines synth beats with delicate acoustic guitar in her introspective and powerful womanist

Rockin' at The Ridge

songs; Brooklyn trio Nation of Language carries the torch for dark wave; JP Cooper creates smooth, sexy pop hooks; and Couch’s jazz-inflected pop is pure and uplifting. And there are the classics who want to get back to basics: Bob Mould will play a solo electric set.

Ahead of their gig at The Atlantis, New Orleans-formed indie pop duo Generationals share that the group has a long history with D.C., recording their first three albums here — “Con Law” (2009), “Actor-Caster” (2011) and “Heza” (2013) — with producer Dan Black in his D.C. studio, and attending many shows at 9:30 Club over the years, including Built to Spill and Arctic Monkeys. Touring in support of their most recent record “Heatherhead,” guitarist Ted Joyner says the latest album is “the further crystallization of our sound; the clearest, best cluster of Generationals’ songs.”

When we discuss how The Atlantis plans to carry on the mission of the original 9:30 Club, Joyner reflects, “It’s so interesting that there’s this connectivity stretching back. Maybe some of the same people will be here in this new room. The spirit of a place lives on even though scenes change and evolve, and it’s cool to be part of that.”

Hurwitz sees this all as a continuum, too, stretching back and forth throughout time and uniting music lovers, hence The Atlantis’ motto, “Where music begins.”

“Every single act in that 44 — people went to see these bands before they became big,” he says. “That’s the 9:30 Club and that’s The Atlantis, now, too.”

ReneeReesa

The D.C. singer-songwriter talks resilience + resurgence

WORDS BY HALEY MCKEY

Reesa Renee has a way with words. If you ask the musician to describe her sound, she doesn’t blink: “If Jill Scott and Pharrell had a baby, and Chuck Brown was the godfather.”

Her first hit, “Got Me Loose,” put her on the map. She’s been exploring and developing her signature style and performing, writing and releasing her infectious music ever since, including the albums “Reelease” and “Lovers Rock” and singles “The Cure” and “Wonderland Cool.”

This summer, Reesa Renee will release her latest album, “Time Flies,” a title with significance.

“You set the plans, and life lifes,” she says. “The name of the album is partly in reference to the fact that it took five years to make it — and partly to the pivot I had to make, to focus on myself for a while.”

During the album’s production, the singer-songwriter experienced a personal crisis that profoundly affected her.

“Nobody expected the pandemic to do what it did. That, combined with some personal things, caused me to fall into a mental health crisis.”

The experience forced her to cede control.

“I was always in the driver’s seat, but when things fell apart, I wasn’t even able to be in the passenger seat — or even in the trunk, for that matter. That was a hard season of my life.”

Now, with the support of medical care and therapy, Reesa Renee is looking back on that hard season — and looking to the future with a new perspective. We caught up with her to hear more about how she came to this place in her life and how her journey influenced her art, identity and relationships.

District Fray: Where did your path to becoming a musician begin?

Reesa Renee: As a kid, I was an athlete — and being an athlete taught me discipline. I was classically trained in piano and learned to play lots of different instruments. My brother, P.Kay, is a producer and has been since we were in high school — if I go back even further, when my brother and I were kids, we’d make cassettes with our own mixes. In 2008, while I was in college, two of my friends were leaving my birthday party and died in a car accident on my street. That was a very overwhelming incident for me. During that time, my brother had been making music. I was playing his music, and I found myself writing lyrics to it — and then singing. It was poetry. It was releasing for me. I wrote a song about the accident and the emotions I was processing called “Invisible.”

How did your break-out song, “Got Me Loose,” come to be?

“Got Me Loose” was originally written in 2008. My brother wrote the music to the song, and we later recorded the version you all know to this day. It’s still my most popular song, with half a million streams. We won the Apollo Theater’s amateur music competition — which is supposed to be for performing covers — with our original song. That was a huge thing for me personally, because it showed me I could do this. We started getting booked for gigs, and we were like, “We need more songs.” To extend the show, we wrote more records. From there, I released my first album, “Reelease,” in 2012. We had no industry connections and there was no streaming at that time. We were actually able to make money from hard-copy CDs.

Tell me more about your new album, “Time Flies,” coming out this summer.

It’s definitely a feel-good project. Amidst all the turmoil and challenges I was going through, I wanted to communicate in a fun way. There’s one record called “Nah Baby,” which I think will be the lead single; the first line is, “If I had words, I’d start off by saying f--k you,” but the beat has N.E.R.D., Janelle Monáe energy. It’s got you dancing. I’m talking big shit, but we’re dancing and having a good time about it. We intentionally gave the album that really funky side (the collaborative records produced by Reggie Volume and earth2yourbrain) and tapped into the more nostalgic sound you’ll recognize from previous works with my brother, who brings in the go-go aspect.

Who else worked with you on the album?

Everyone who has touched the album is from the DMV. From the mixing to the masters to the video shooting to the features (Pinky KillaCorn, Noochie and Visto) — all from the DMV. I think those who know will definitely be able to hear the nuances of the production and I truly value that, because it really assisted in keeping the authenticity of my sound while also elevating it. I’d also like to acknowledge artist and producer

Aleem Bilal (AB), who inspired the title track “Time Flies” and has been a mentor and true friend over the last eight years or so.

While you were making the album, you were also rebuilding your mental health. What was that like? Did your personal experiences influence its sound?

I was hospitalized for different periods voluntarily, and I would be out of the hospital and do a shoot or record while working on myself. I’m really proud of the project and the work put in, both in the studio and the personal work that’s responsible for 100 percent of the lyrics. I think folks from the area will be proud, too. And, honestly, beyond just that: those who’ve struggled and are even currently navigating some of the spaces I address. It’s for all of us.

Now that you’re on the other side of that period, how has it affected your sense of self?

I’m a triple minority: I’m Black, I’m female, I’m queer. I’ve had a hard time identifying positively with all three of those things in the past. The LGBTQ community is very important to me — because I can relate to it, but it’s also beyond that. What was the purpose of what I learned in life, in my vulnerability and transparency? It’s to help the next person, to help my community, to share the tools people can use to free themselves.

What about your relationships?

I’m team, “Two whole individuals come together and build a life together.” You have to learn to be by yourself. And it’s okay. Nobody’s 100 percent healed. It’s important to be forgiving when you’re in a space to do that. But don’t go around trying to fix someone who doesn’t hold themselves accountable.

How do you think someone can learn to do that — to stop struggling to be “chosen” by a partner?

It starts with valuing yourself — when you do that, you know the boundaries you need to set, you know how to honor yourself and can tell when someone else is not honoring you. It’s a maturity thing. But as irritated or hurt as I’ve felt about past experiences, it’s shaped me into who I am today.

As we step into Pride Month, what does Pride mean to you personally?

The Pride for me is in my story. It’s the fact that I’m still standing and I’m not only still here, but I’m thriving, creating and back in touch with myself. I needed help. I needed the tools to get better. I was living day by day, second by second. The Pride is in the struggle — the lessons I learned.

Learn more about Reesa Renee at reesarenee.com and follow her on Instagram, YouTube and Twitter @reesarenee. Listen to her music on Spotify and Apple Music.

Photo by Matthew Hickson Photography.

ART OUT LOUD

15 local LGBTQIA+ creators to know

On Saturday, June 3, District Fray is teaming up with Selina Union Market & Cowork for Art Out Loud. This official Capital Pride event will celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and kick off the month’s festivities with live installations and activations by local artists, a makers’ market, a massive dance party, and much more. We caught up with the featured artists and makers to ask them about their work, Pride and why they call D.C. home.

haus of bambi. Photo by Keylimehi.

WORDS BY ANNIE AGNONE + ABI NEWHOUSE

Maps Glover

Multidisciplinary artist

The visionary artist creates captivating and immersive art installations and experiences that forge connections and spark conversations.

District Fray: How did your early life in Charles County, Maryland shape your creative life? Can you see echoes in your work today?

Maps Glover: I wanted to be anywhere but there, so it just made me dream. I grew up on these seven acres where it was just us — my family, my siblings. The opportunity to imagine and create worlds and games is definitely something I carry into my practice now. A lot of the work is a combination of play, but also it’s an exploration of yourself through play, education through play. A lot of that came from coming up with games in the field, running through the farms. It created a space for imagination.

Can you tell us a little bit about what you’re planning for our Pride event at Selina?

I love Selina. Selina plays an interesting role in the history of D.C. arts. Selina was the 411 Collective, one of the only spaces in D.C. where artists were really able to build and create space for themselves. And so having it be there, and it also still being utilized for artistic purposes, is important. The installation includes a lot of graphic images, and a lot of recognizable patterns that people have associated with my practice, and really those patterns are about matter — the fiber, the matter of things before it becomes the thing. Who are we going to decide to be? What can the matter be? What matters? It’s like an eight-foot projection that’s going to go up the side of the courtyard, and it’s going to display all of those things I just mentioned.

Anything special you’re activating or planning to support for Pride Month?

I’m going to support myself and my mental health for Pride. I’m gonna be kind to me, I’m gonna pull up at Selina, I’m gonna get a drink at Solly’s. I’m going to have a good time. I’m going to make sure my mental health is good.

What do you wish people knew about D.C.? D.C. is one of those places that has a huge energy around it because of the gravity of politics in our country. There’s a huge perception of what D.C. is, but D.C. is probably one of the freest places I’ve ever been in my life. When you come, don’t be afraid to go to the places that people tell you not to go. Not all those places are bad. Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue is not a dangerous street. D.C. artists are very talented and will continue to thrive. Continue to support them: Invest as much money as you can into these artists. If you’re interested in working with or creating space and really watching

Maps Glover. Photo by Tony Powell.

a community grow, this community needs a lot of watering when it comes to financial support for the arts.

What D.C. places feel especially sacred to you?

I ain’t tellin’! Nope, I’m keeping them to myself. The only way you’re going to find out what places are sacred to me is to get to know me and to find yourself in the atmosphere of freedom. I find the sacredness in the people that I go to those places with. mapsglover.com // @mapsglover

Bambi

Producer + artist

haus of bambi is a community of LGBTQIA+ artists and performers building safe spaces, events and activities for the queer community in D.C.

District Fray: What is the ethos of haus of bambi?

Bambi: Art as a catalyst for engagement with community: the chance for people to be in the same space together and actually get to know each other and have a sense of community, and not in the woo-woo sense. Whether it’s throwing parties, hosting social hours, teaching dance class at a bar or organizing a dance sanctuary, all these things are building this cohort of familiar faces, because everybody wants to be invited somewhere, and everybody feels a little bit lonely. It feels really good to use art — especially queer art and artists — as a catalyst to bring queer people together.

What is your favorite performance you’ve put on?

I did a duet with King Molasses in January that was commissioned by Dance Place, and that show was transformative. It was supposed to be Molasses and another performer but, because of a family emergency, that performer had to leave. I stepped in and the piece had to change because

the person who dropped out was a Black nonbinary person, and the piece was about Black nonbinary masculinity. So, we started all over. And this collaboration with Molasses challenged me to be a different performer, to be more than I’ve ever been asked to be on stage. That opening night was the most alive I’ve ever been on stage. And the friendship that came out of that piece continues to change the way I make work.

What do you find fulfilling about this work?

I found myself completely invisible during the Covid-19 pandemic. Coming out of lockdown, it became clear to me that all anybody wants is to be invited somewhere, to feel seen and to have a good time. My very first piece involved drag and contemporary dance. Another was about go-go dancing and how a queer nightclub can be a sacred space. haus of bambi creates these opportunities, so people can feel seen. Right now, I have this laser focus on exactly what my value-add is, and what I can provide through my work. It all feels so in line.

How do you use your art to reflect the times?

I think maybe not reflect, but respond to. In my head, it seems so obvious, because all I’m doing is responding to what I see. We’re in this specific moment that’s exciting because everybody is reevaluating who they are, who they are in relationship to home, who they are in relationship to work and art and others. I also think there’s a lot of anger in this moment. There’s a lot of rage and pain and confusion, and one of the things I can do is provide comfort. We can’t always be at a riot. That’s not sustainable. It is political to find rest. It is its own act of resistance to find joy. Only then is it possible to continue that work. What I can do is let us have a good time, so that we are reminded why we’re doing it. And maybe that pushes things forward. Or maybe that gives you a great night. That’s enough for me.

hausofbambi.com // @hausofbambi

haus of bambi. Photo by Keylimehi.

Daryle Locko Artist + designer

Locko’s bold designs blend the worlds of street art, fine art and functional/wearable art.

District Fray: What’s next for you now that you’ve graduated St. John’s College?

Daryle Locko: On May 26, I moved into Selina in Union Market. I’m doing a work exchange where I’ll be working with Disco Mary and various other activities in exchange for a room, which I’m very excited about. It’s supposed to be a month long, although they’ve been talking to me about extending it, but I really want to go to New York in July. So it’s a lot of options. It’s like looking through a Rolodex and trying to pick the golden card, and each card seems golden.

How did your art practice transition to creating functional and wearable pieces?

I’ve always wanted to do fashion. Growing up, I watched my sister sew, and all the females in my family are very big on fashion. But it was sophomore year of college when I had to start paying my own tuition. I was like, “I can’t sell poetry. No one buys poetry.” And my best friends came together and they were like, “Daryle, what if you put your poetry on a bag?” And I was like, “Who the hell would buy a poem on a bag? It’s just a waste of money.” But I put one of my poems on the bag, and I ended up putting a doodle on a bag, and that was the beginning. And then, lo and behold: jeans, shirts, hats. They just adopted their way into my little art of ignorance.

Do you have any events, shows or collaborations coming up that you want people know about?

I am curating an exhibition involving color theory for a private client this fall. I don’t really know all the details about it yet, but it’s something in the works coming soon at a major place in D.C. And I’m supposed to be collaborating with Ron David on some clothes. I’m also co-hosting an event at Touchstone Gallery for queer artists and collectors on June 6, so I’m excited for that. I plan on doing pop-up art shows and I really want to do a fashion show at some point. I think that’s long overdue.

What are you planning for the District Fray Pride event on June 3?

Most of the things I’ll be doing at the event for District Fray will be a surprise to the guests, but I’ll also be selling my clothes and art as well as doing painting under the blacklight in hopes of elevating queer bodies.

Any favorite DMV spots you want to shout out?

I love Flash. It’s a club in Shaw. They’re very supportive of artists. I used to sell my art there at this little event called Sunday Love. Art Roving is amazing — the person who runs it is Abbey Alison McClain and she does artist residencies at Selina and she definitely helped me get connected into the D.C. art scene, which I appreciate a lot. And Touchstone Gallery — it’s like a mecca for D.C. art. I work there occasionally and I always meet other artists there and art collectors and art lovers. It’s very beautiful.

darylelocko.square.site // @darylelocko drunkpoete.com // @lockoolocko

Daryle Locko. Photo courtesy of subject.

Sarah O’Neal + Kiria Kanios

Creators + co-owners of ArtNite

ArtNite is a creative DIY group that brings together people wanting to access their artsy side.

District Fray: Why is it important for people to set aside time to create?

Kiria Kanios: I feel like we’re born creative. Sometimes in our day-to-day lives, we forget our creativity, though. It’s great to inspire people and help them let go, and it’s great to have other things to do in the city. Instead of going out and drinking, they can go out and create something and feel fulfilled when they get home.

Sarah O’Neal: People definitely forget how creative they can be. They’ll be like, “Oh, I don’t really feel like I’m a creative person.” But then I’m looking at this artwork they did at one of our events, and I’m like, “Don’t sell yourself short.” All they have to do is come as they are and let the feelings flow.

What do you find fulfilling about activating in these spaces around D.C.?

O’Neal: I think our jobs and day-to-day life make you think you’re not creative. So that’s really fulfilling to see that creativity start to spill out of people, when at first they’re kind of tentative. And also the community fostering — this feeling of having a space where there’s no judgment. Sometimes you feel kind of detached, like, “Where are all the artists? Where’s the creative people?” So being able to be a part of that, it’s very awesome.

What’s planned for your event with Capital Pride?

Kanios: We’re gonna do some Pride bracelets, and we’ll have different types of beads and letters and lots of fun, little trinkets. We chose this type of activity because it would be something that’s fast.

O’Neal: Yeah, it’s approachable. Anybody can put together a string of beads. And the great thing is, every single one is going to be unique. I love Pride; I’m bi/pan myself, so to be able to participate in an event of this scale, I’m just so excited.

How do you express Pride through art?

Kanios: I feel like we’re all connected. And I feel like, as a whole, we should support each other, and we can support people in our community. I’m happy to celebrate people’s individuality. The only way we can grow is if we can grow together. Like a blade of grass can grow on its own, but a field is a lot stronger than just one piece of grass.

O’Neal: Pride is obviously a very collective thing, one that we all come together and celebrate. But it’s also just such an individual thing because everybody has a unique relationship to their own gender, sexuality and everything. A lot of times, people have a very narrow idea of what an artist is or what being artistic or creative is. I think it’s like gender and sexuality. It’s a spectrum. We celebrate everyone’s unique voice and can be there as support, but we’re also there as part of the community, too.

@artnitedc

L TO R. Sarah O’Neal + Kiria Kanios. Photo by Renée Regan.

Gwynne Davis Founder of Earcandie

Most surprising fabric source. Swimsuits! It’s my favorite material to work with. It’s lightweight, doesn’t fray, it holds the shapes I make and it’s sweat/water resistant so they make great earrings to swim or work out in. Why earrings. I have this recurring experience when I make the first earring: I think it’s so perfect, and I won’t be able to make the second one quite as well. Almost always, the second one is objectively closer to perfect while the first one might be a little more unruly, but together, they bring balance. I find this process to be really fulfilling, especially when I get to meet the person who is drawn to them and ends up wearing them home. Connection to D.C. queer culture. I feel so seen, held and supported by the D.C. queer community. I am so honored to be a part of it. My earrings are well represented in this community, and it makes me so happy to hear how much mutual joy they bring. How you’re activating for Pride. I designed earrings a few years back that are Pride inspired. They sold out that year but also have become year-round best sellers. I spend a lot of time gathering all the fabric to make sure I can always have them in stock and celebrate all year, not just in June. How D.C. inspires your work. There is such a desire and need for self-expression here in D.C., and my earrings give people permission to show up big. I am continually inspired by my customers and friends who share with me that my earrings have helped them find their own style and feel more like themselves. A tactile memory of D.C. I love when it’s pool season in D.C., because I get to showcase my earrings and do water testing for the different designs. I love to jump off the diving board in them. I had my friend Morgan do a slow-motion video of me walking out of Banneker Pool with my favorite earrings of the summer on. The weight of the wet fabrics moving across my face is a great memory.

earcandie.bigcartel.com // @earcandied

Leticia Sanchez

Woodworker + founder of She Built That

Your favorite creation. Building all of my house furniture and home decor. Why you create. I started creating as a way to escape my day job. Local LGBTQIA+ shoutout. Chesapeake & Potomac Softball (CAPS). Best queers around, and the league is everything you never knew you were missing. What Pride means to you. Pride means being balls-to-the-wall you with no regret. Best season in D.C. Fall. Everything beautiful about D.C. is amplified by the gorgeous tree foliage. Even the leaves on the ground have a beauty to them.

@she_built_that

Gwynne Davis + Leticia Sanchez. Photos courtesy of subjects.

Claire Blount

Vintage style expert + wardrobe curator

All-time favorite vintage find. My mother Keren Blount’s 1960s tan suede trench coat that I found in the family attic at 16 years old. The beauty of the details sparked my love of vintage fashion. Why wear vintage. Why not? To wear vintage, you embody the uniqueness, the history, of the vintage garment, which gives your style character and a story to tell. Your career journey. I have been collecting, styling, reselling vintage fashion, accessories and home goods for my brand Modretro Couture for 10 years. Your aesthetic in three words. Colorful, eclectic and streetwear/hip-hop. D.C.’s vintage persona. I feel many are now embracing the overall cool factor of vintage and, most of all, realizing that the sustainability offered is unmatched [by] today’s fashion. Local fashion inspiration. I love the DMV’s diversity. I simply “people watch” the street fashion while vending at local markets in the Georgetown and Union Market area. mod-retrocouture.com // @modretro_couture

Lilly Crown Wilder Owner of Relume

Curation/design ethos. I love to make products celebrating nature, vintage and creativity. We all take life too seriously — so my goal is to create objects that you just can’t help but smile when you look at or wear. How you build community in the DMV. Whether at a street fair, a workshop or via social media marketing, my team and I try to make everyone interacting with the brand feel welcome. And by injecting positive, warm energy into everything we do, the community part comes naturally. Favorite thing about teaching. I love seeing workshop participants enjoy themselves in a relaxed yet structured social environment. How you celebrate Pride as an ally. As a business, I celebrate Pride by making things that allow members of the LGBTQ+ community to celebrate themselves through their style. Accessorizing may seem like a small thing, but it’s an essential part of self-expression — and there’s no better time for the queer community to be wholly themselves than during Pride. Best local spots to shop vintage. I highly recommend thrifting all over the suburbs of the DMV. Salvation Army tends to have great finds for good prices. My favorite is to visit small, independently owned antique stores. Where in the DMV you feel most at home. I can’t get enough of the Botanic Garden. Surrounded by all that chlorophyll, it’s the best place to make me feel wholly in the moment and detach myself from whatever stressors I’m dealing with. I feel like I escaped to a magical world and never want to leave. relume.co // @relume_co

FROM TOP. Claire Blount + Lilly Crown Wilder. Photos courtesy of subjects.

Diane D’Costa Artist, educator + organizer

Your art inspiration. Beautiful people. My communities, my identities and this beautiful life I get to live. How you focus on inclusivity. As a queer, mixed, brown, Jewish woman, I’m always looking to create space for my voice and other voices like mine that don’t fit neatly into the boxes society tries to push us into or have been historically excluded. How ceramics can be resistant. bell hooks’ quote: “‘Queer’ not as being about who you’re having sex with (that can be a dimension of it); but ‘queer’ as being about the self that is at odds with everything around it and that has to invent and create and find a place to speak and to thrive and to live” inspires my art and how I move through life. Favorite part of Pride Month. Honestly the memes — so many folks (re: companies) get Pride so wrong that it leads to incredible comedy, content and creativity by queer folks online. Best way to unwind. Hours in the studio, basking in the sun, submerging in a body of water or enjoying a tasty little treat. Favorite art gallery in D.C. Something about the National Portrait Gallery really does it for me.

dianedcosta.com // @dianedcosta

Molly Jackson

Esthetician + body piercer

Your piercing/waxing ethos. I think it’s so important to help people see themselves how they want and deserve to be seen, and sometimes even one new piercing or fresh wax can help them better take care of the person they are inside — self-expression and self care aren’t selfish. Ear curation philosophy. Ear curations are all about selectively styling the piercings and jewelry to fit your anatomy, lifestyle and personality. The possibilities are endless. Words of wisdom for clients. Don’t overthink. Life is short, have fun. What Pride means to you. To me, Pride means showing my support for the people in the LGBTQIA+ community and the opportunity to feel safe to be authentically themselves. Favorite way to celebrate D.C. queer culture. Definitely Capital Pride and supporting Artsy Queers, which is an indoor market that showcases local artists selling handmade artwork, photography, pottery, jewelry and clothing. Three things that come to mind when you think of D.C. Home, diversity and culture.

creativechaosbodycare.com // @mmollay

FROM TOP. Diane D’Costa.

Photo by Alexya Brown. Molly Jackson.

Photo by Kate Pannozzo.

AnaMarie King Artist + photographer

Why you create. Creating is how I take apart what’s around me and make it into something new, because reality is depressing, so I cut things up and rearrange them to make them silly. Your art ethos. Art is one of those aspects of culture that keeps humanity going even through the darkest times. Art is about sharing and connecting. Favorite Pride event. Every day is Pride, every month is Pride, so my favorite Pride event is anything that a queer member of my community is ever putting on for other queer people. How identity shows up in your art. My art and my identity are intertwined; I see no separation between what I make and who I am. Favorite D.C. mural. The mural plus the added graffiti on the old Wendy’s in the Dave Thomas Circle have been fascinating to me. It looks visually like how gentrification in D.C. feels. Favorite bar in D.C. Showtime is my all-time favorite bar ever; everyone is a friend even if I don’t know their name. anamarieking.com // @7avk7

Beth Hansen

Screen printer + owner of The Arcade

What you love about screen printing. The ability to play and experiment with a single image in a spectrum of different ways. Why community is important in art . Sharing ideas makes us all better. A single conversation can alter your thinking of a concept you’ve been mulling on or a technique you have been working with. Favorite part of screen-printing workshops. I love working with people who are new to screen printing, because they bring fresh ideas and make me constantly rethink my process as I explain it to others. How art and Pride mesh. Art is just one way to celebrate individuality and share it with others, even if it is simple as a way of dress or as complicated as creating a large-scale installation or mural. Art and Pride have always gone handin-hand; I can’t even think of how one would look without the other. Favorite way to celebrate Pride. Pride is about supporting and celebrating your loved ones and the community whenever and however you can. I like engaging with the community and sharing my love of screen printing through a pop-up shop or live screen-printing event. Best park in D.C. Is saying Rock Creek Park cheating? I just love being able to enjoy it on so many different levels, whether you’re driving through it, going on a bike ride or a run, or exploring while hiking. bethhansenart.com // @thearcadedc

FROM TOP. AnaMarie King.

Photo by Rowan Gjersvold. Beth Hansen.

Photo by María Mónica Cortés.

C.S. Corbin Visual artist

How your work explores queer joy. Using my art as an outlet to better understand myself created this theme of intimacy in my work (with oneself, community, nature, etc.) — that intimacy is queer joy to me. One thing you can’t stop painting. Fruit. Lately, I’ve been enjoying getting back into still-life compositions while having fun with texture and color. One thing you couldn’t make art without. I can’t create without background noise. It’s currently “The Sopranos” (again). How you’re celebrating Pride. I’ll definitely be acting a fool on a dance floor at some point, but I mostly like to take this month to focus on resting and learning more queer history. Must-go D.C. place to take out-of-town visitors. Heat Da Spot Café for breakfast. Favorite local wine bar. St. Vincent, Grand Cata and my front porch. cscorbin.com // @cscrbn

Mathilde Corot

Founder + owner of Epikurious Herbal Enchantments

Benefits of herbal alchemy. Herbal alchemy is the transformation of plants to extract their healing essence — and apply it within us for our growth and healing. Herbal alchemy connects us with the wisdom of the Earth. Your creation inspiration. Gaia, our Earth and the plants themselves are my greatest source of inspiration. Particularly aromatic plants. Favorite aspect of Pride Month. My favorite aspect of Pride is the celebration of love and all its expressions. And you can feel the love energy during a Pride parade — it’s magical. Also the fashion. How your work is inclusive. I work with aromatic plants to create personal and home fragrances, and I often get asked about scents for specific genders. To me, aromas, scents, smells do not have gender. I do not mean to say that aromatic tastes and preferences are a one size fits all, but rather I believe that as much as people, each aroma has its own personality, and this is what I want to celebrate when I develop a new scent. Favorite D.C. suburb. I live not too far from Bethesda and I must say, it’s pretty cute. Go-to D.C. restaurant. I love The Wharf and its many delicious restaurants with the water views. I was also really impressed by L’Ardente. epikurious.life // @mathilde_epikurious

FROM TOP. C.S. Corbin.

Photo by Alena Pollitt. Mathilde Corot. Photo courtesy of subject.

11 Can’t-Miss Drag Events in June

If you’ve ever been to a drag event in D.C. between July and May, you know that Pride is year-round for the queer community. Drag has always been a rebellious celebration of queer spirit, genderless expression and counterculture despite recent misconceptions of the art form. For those looking to celebrate Pride Month this June, we encourage you to take this opportunity to look beyond The Big Weekend and find grassroots parties and events, many of which happen monthly. Your favorite performer is working hard 12 months a year, and they’ve put a lot of work into each performance. And remember, in the presence of any drag royalty, cash is always king.

6.3

BENT AT 9:30 CLUB

This quarterly queer party started not long before Covid-19 and quickly became one of D.C.’s most popular nightlife events. DJ Lemz and company have a knack of curating an

impressive and diverse rotating lineup of drag performers, DJs, dancers and more. $25. 10 p.m. 815 V St. NW, DC; 930.com // @930club

BINGO + A SHOW WITH TARA HOOT + FRIENDS AT CRAZY AUNT HELEN’S

Tara Hoot has become a fixture at Crazy Aunt Helen’s. Her outfits and song choices bring “Casserole Festival Queen” energy to every event. This month’s drag bingo is an excellent feel-good event to ease into a busy month and features special guest Shelita Ramen. $10. 6 p.m. 713 8th St. SE, DC; crazyaunthelens.com // @crazyaunthelens

THE LEMONADE STAND AT TWIN VALLEY DISTILLERS

For drag with a side of cocktails, head to The Lemonade Stand. This monthly drag showcase hosted by Lemon X Fluiditea just celebrated a year at Montgomery County’s first distillery. $10. 7:30 p.m. 1029 E Gude Dr. Rockville, MD; twinvalleyd.com // @lemonxflu

WORDS + PHOTOS BY FARRAH SKEIKY

Pussy Noir performing at BENT.

CULTURE

6.9

BOOTYREX AT BLACK CAT

The unofficial after party of D.C.’s Dyke March, BootyRex is an inclusive sapphic paradise. The list of talent at this event seems never ending — DJs Natty Boom, Wannabe, Junebullet, bent, Kristy la Rat and more spin a wide variety of dance records while performers like King Molasses and Ricky Rosé provide the shows. $20+. 8 p.m. 1811 14th St. NW, DC; blackcatdc.com // @bootyrexparty

6.10

CAFECITO AT AS YOU ARE BAR

King Rico Pico brings an excellent cast of Latinx performers and DJs together to As You Are for Cafecito. The June edition is a Trans Pride celebration, and you can count on seeing more members of the Casa Sin Miedo drag family there. Free+. 9 p.m. 500 8th St. SE, DC; asyouaredc.com // @kingricopico

6.11

SUNDAY SERVICE BY DOMINGO SAINT X AT DC9

This monthly recently re-named “drag varie(tea) show” hosted by the versatile Domingx features a new theme every month, and June’s event will be a Baltimore takeover. Pariah Sinclair guest hosts, and Kotic Couture DJs for a drag cast from Charm City. Free+. 8 p.m. 1940 9th St. NW, DC; dc9.club // @domingosgottalent

6.15

T4T AT TRADE

For a night out by and for Trans folks, Samson and Mary’s T4T at Trade is part dance night and part drag show. Guests Roman Noodle and Queenie Iman Zhané will perform while Franxx blends hardcore and hyperpop. Free+. 9 p.m. 1410 14th St. NW, DC; tradebardc.com // @tradebardc

6.17-6.18

PRETTY BOI DRAG PRIDE WEEKEND AT UNION STAGE

D.C.’s champions of drag kings and gender non-conforming performers bring a weekend celebration of masc performance to Union Stage. On June 17, swing by #OpenKingNight to see amateur and veteran drag kings show their stuff, open mic night style. The next afternoon, June 18, #PrettyBoiPride showcases the best of D.C. drag king talent. $20+. 2 p.m. + 3 p.m. 740 Water St. SW, DC; unionstage.com // @prettyboidrag

6.24

FEARLESS PRIDE AT PUBLIC OPTION

This queercore celebration brings together local drag artists and hardcore punk bands, hosted by metalhead drag king Rico Pico. A more perfectly D.C. event might not exist. $15. 7:30 p.m. 1601 Rhode Island Ave. NE, DC; thepublicoptiondc.com // @kingricopico

6.30 BANSHEES AT JR’S

On the last Friday of every month, Jane Saw and King Molasses host and curate a rock and roll and soul drag night that blends classic rock, glam, metal, pop-punk and more. Expect to see performers with no fear of heights. Free+. 10 p.m. 1519 17th St. NW, DC; jrsbar-dc.com // @bansheesdc

TRANS AGENDA AT AS YOU ARE

Co-hosted by The Becoming Fund, “a DMV-focused financial support fund aiding transgender drag artists,” Trans Agenda features trans drag talent and a dance party you won’t want to leave. All proceeds support The Becoming Fund, so be generous with those tips. Free+. 10 p.m. 500 8th St. SE, DC; asyouaredc.com // @asyouaredc

Jane Saw performing at Banshees.

LIFE

Black Alley performing at Pink in the Park. Photo by Scott Fields.

Navigating the District with a Hidden Disability

WORDS BY APRIL THOMPSON

“I thought you were high as a kite,” the street cleaner said, shaking his head after hearing my story. “But I could see you really needed help.”

“You’re my guardian angel,” I said, laughing and crying as I climbed out of his ride — a trash can on wheels — in front of my building.

For nearly 20 years, I’ve suffered from ME/CFS, otherwise known as chronic fatigue syndrome, characterized by a systemic intolerance to exertion. I was in peak health and physical condition when ME/CFS hit — a multisport athlete who ran marathons at elite qualifying times, boxed competitively

and climbed mountains all over the world. A mild viral bug I picked up while traveling morphed overnight into a condition that left me so weak I couldn’t walk around the block.

In many ways, I am lucky. Three out of four people with ME/CFS, which has no known treatment, are too ill to work due to severe physical and cognitive dysfunction. One in four are housebound or bedbound, some too ill to speak or read, or feed and bathe themselves.

I am “mild” on the ME/CFS spectrum and can work full-time. Still, a small amount of physical exertion has the

A number of helpful programs exist for people with mobility challenges. Here are some I learned about after more than 10 years of chronic illness.

AMTRAK’S RED CAP SERVICE

Amtrak’s Red Cap staff are dedicated to helping passengers with service issues, large or small. Call the number in front of Union Station for a Red Cap to whisk you in a motorized cart straight to your seat. Bring cash to tip them!

ASSISTANCE AT AIRPORTS

All local airports have wheelchair attendants who will get you through security and straight to your gate. Tip them well if you can — they are underpaid for this important service job.

HIDDEN DISABILITIES SUNFLOWER LANYARD PROGRAM

Other cities, in addition to a growing number of airports, have adopted a hidden disabilities sunflower lanyard program, a simple way for visitors and residents to self-identify as having a disability that might require a little extra help.

METROACCESS

Most people with mobility challenges are eligible for this program, which offers discounted door-to-door rides throughout the DMV area. It is an imperfect system, but still a lifesaver.

TRANSPORT DC

Registered MetroAccess users can call for same-day rides within D.C. limits for a $7 flat rate through a partnership with local cab services.

WHEELCHAIR LOANERS

Many venues, from the Smithsonian museums to The Kennedy Center, have free wheelchairs on hand to lend.

UBER

Uber waives wait fees for passengers with disabilities, but you have to identify on the app as having a disability to put this in effect.

potential to make me ill for days, though on the outside I look perfectly healthy. Living with an invisible yet disabling chronic illness that fluctuates day to day, decade to decade, I never know when I will get stuck somewhere, unable to move without becoming further fatigued. And though riding in a trash can was a first, after two decades with ME/CFS I’m used to getting around D.C. by any means necessary.

And I’m not alone. I caught up with others who have hidden disabilities, who are also learning to navigate the DMV.

D.C. resident Ally Thompson was diagnosed with ME/ CFS, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), among other conditions in the past few years, and is still trying to find her comfort zone navigating the city.

“CFS has me exhausted and with POTS I experience syncope fairly often, which makes me nervous to go out alone,”

debilitating condition caused by a preventable drug interaction her physician failed to detect many years ago.

“People like me want to come and support the arts and businesses in D.C., but it’s always a hassle to park, even with our special plates,” Thuku-Jones says. “I always plan ahead and have a plan B.”

We all have to get creative with solutions. The day of the trash can incident, I’d successfully walked uphill one block to the 70 bus to take me six blocks to CVS. On the journey back, I was suddenly very ill from the exertion, and I accidentally took the 79 Express, which stopped one block further from my home than the 70. I begged the bus driver to stop one block earlier, letting him know just how ill I was, but he refused. I got out, demoralized at how far I’d fallen physically.

No bus route would take me the two blocks, and it was too short a distance for a rideshare to pick me up. I am a

National Landing Brings the Party to Their Parks

A full summer of programming kicks off this June in National Landing. Visit nationallanding.org for a full lineup of free community events, and for happenings in Crystal City, Pentagon City and Potomac Yard.

6.4-8.27

YOGA IN THE PARK AT CENTER PARK, POTOMAC YARD

Produced in partnership with Mind Your Body Oasis, this Sunday-evening outdoor yoga series will make you stretch in all the right ways. Free. 7 p.m. 3400 S Clark St. Arlington, VA

6.5-9.25

GATEWAY TO FITNESS AT GATEWAY GREEN

Produced in partnership with United Fray, this is a curated fitness series that’s open to the public each Monday evening. Free. 6 p.m. 101 12th St. S Arlington, VA

6.15-8.17

JAZZ AT METROPOLITAN PARK

Produced in partnership with DC Jazz Festival, each Thursday, this curated jazz series will have you in your feels. Free. 5 p.m. 1330 S Fair St. Arlington, VA

6.21-9.27

FITNESS AT METROPOLITAN PARK

Each Wednesday morning, you can join in on this curated fitness series, produced in partnership with United Fray. Free. 8 a.m. 1330 S Fair St. Arlington, VA

6.23

MOVIE NIGHT AT METROPOLITAN PARK

Bring your own chair or blanket to this movie night where you might be surprised with food trucks and swag giveaways. Stay tuned for the movie pick. Free. 7 p.m. 1330 S Fair St. Arlington, VA

To mark the end of cherry blossom season, National Landing hosted a free outdoor festival, Pink in the Park, on April 30. Local artists took the stage throughout the festivities, starting with DJ Chan Don and followed by Crush Funk Brass, Umami House, Footwerk, Reesa Renee and Black Alley. Along with the concerts, visitors could imbibe in the beer and wine garden, grab a bite at multiple food trucks or play cornhole and other games, courtesy of DC Fray. Photos by Scott Fields.

COMPILED BY DISTRICT FRAY STAFF

PLAY

Aisha White, Rex Delafkaran + Ashley Jaye Williams camping at Greenbelt Park Campground. Photo by Mariah Miranda.

Climbing Toward Inclusivity

WORDS BY JAMIE MCCRARY

When Andrea Vega Yudico moved to D.C. a few years ago, she struggled finding a sense of belonging. Living in a predominantly white community, Mexican-born Vega Yudico felt disconnected from her Hispanic roots and missed speaking Spanish with family and friends.

When Vega Yudico — who is also an avid rock climber at DC Bouldering Project — discovered ¡Escala! though, she knew she’d found the type of community she was looking for.

A bilingual, multicultural climbing organization, ¡Escala! organizes weekly meetups for Spanish speakers at climbing gyms throughout the D.C. area, with the goal of making climbing more culturally and linguistically accessible. The organization is one of the many affinity groups hosted by DC Bouldering Project.

“Connecting with others in my native language through the sport I love has been really meaningful,” Vega Yudico says. “¡Escala! members are from all over Latin America and Spain, so the group also connects different Spanish-speaking cultures. This isn’t something I get through work or other hobbies.”

Inclusivity is one of DC Bouldering Project’s core values — and a guiding principle for how the group builds community.

Each week, the gym hosts a different D.C.-based affinity group, which bring together climbers of similar cultural, racial or gender-identifying backgrounds. Each group is sponsored by a local grassroots organization and receives free entry to the gym for the evening — a $30 per person value.

Current participating groups include ¡Escala!, Stonewall Climbing for the LGBTQIA+ community, Soul Trak for BIPOC climbers and Climb Deaf DC for hard-of-hearing people.

“One of my biggest passions is bringing movement and climbing to communities that have been historically excluded

from fitness spaces,” says Tyler Brent, DC Bouldering Project’s community marketing manager. “I’ve found so much power in different forms of movement and believe everyone should have access to them.”

The gym’s inclusive approach is one small but significant step toward creating greater equity in climbing, a sport that’s majority white. Only 3% of climbers are Hispanic and 1% are Black, according to a recent report by The American Alpine Club.

“When there are so few Hispanic climbers, it’s important to reduce barriers, one step at a time,” Vega Yudico says. “Our affinity groups are an inclusive way to do so.”

DC Bouldering Project’s financial inclusivity also helps lower barriers for minority climbers. Grace Thompson, a member and coordinator for Stonewall Sports, says free entry for Stonewall’s affinity group has been key to growing a community of LGBTQIA+ climbers.

Stonewall Climbing, a subsidiary nonprofit of Stonewall Sports, also offers a pay-as-you-can membership, helping make climbing more accessible to BIPOC, queer and neurodivergent people. The organization, which hosts meetups at seven D.C. area climbing gyms, aims to be an inclusive space by addressing financial, geographic and sociocultural barriers to entry for people historically excluded from climbing.

“Climbing gyms can be really expensive, which is just another barrier,” says Thompson, who is also a personal trainer and owner of Embody Pure Fitness. “This highlights the difference between equality versus equity. It’s important to find ways to uplift people who aren’t on the same footing.”

As a community hub, DC Bouldering project also offers non-climbing fitness options, including daily yoga and HIIT classes, a traditional gym space with weights and a dry sauna.

Its open office co-working space and member lounge are added community benefits.

“This helps build community in different areas and provides yet another space where people can see and interact with others who look like them,” Thompson says. “I think that’s an important feature of any community.”

Even the gym’s grading system is inclusive. Rather than using the traditional V scale, which ranks climbing course problems in order of increasing difficulty, DC Bouldering Project employs a circuit system. Circuit grades group problems according to range of difficulty, encouraging climbers to navigate boulders with an open mind.

Brent says this approach is especially helpful for beginners — the gym’s primary type of climber — who may feel intimidated by more advanced problems.

“We want our routes to feel accessible and easy to navigate,” Brent says.

As Brent continues growing DC Bouldering Project’s community, she envisions building in-house groups of different climbers to help shape the gym’s culture. She hopes this can create a diverse, consistent community that helps model inclusivity for newcomers.

To do so, she’s planning to continue

hosting weekly affinity group nights, as well as regular DC Bouldering Project-sponsored events like DJ nights, which feature $10 gym passes as an incentive for entry. Most of all, she wants to continue building an inclusive community where climbers like Vega Yudico and Thompson feel welcomed and at home — and empowered to invite others to join, too.

“There’s a lot of power in forming a space where people feel welcomed and can get out of their comfort zone,” Brent says. “We hope we can help facilitate meaningful connection and encourage people to try something new they just might fall in love with.”

Climb Deaf DC: fb.com/groups/climbdeafdc

DC Bouldering Project: 1611 Eckington Pl. NE #150, DC; dcboulderingproject.com // @dcboulderingproject

¡Escala!: escalaclimbing.org // @escalaclimbing

Soul Trak: soultrak.com // @soultrakoutdoors

Stonewall Climbing: stonewallclimbingdc.leagueapps.com // @stonewallclimb

Upcoming Affinity Group Nights

June 7: Soul Trak Climbing Night (BIPOC community)

June 13: Ladies Climbing Coalition Affinity Night (women + nonbinary community)

June 14: Climb Deaf DC Affinity Night (deaf + hard-of-hearing community)

June 21: Queer Climb Night with Stonewall Climbing (LGBTQIA+ community)

June 27: Dyke Night (queer femme + nonbinary community)

June 28: ¡Escala DC! Climbing Night (Spanish-speaking community)

July 5: Soul Trak Climbing Night

July 11: Ladies Climbing Coalition Affinity Night

July 12: Climb Deaf DC Affinity Night

July 19: Queer Climb Night with Stonewall Climbing

July 25: Dyke Night

July 26: ¡Escala DC! Climbing Night

Welcome to River Mountain

WORDS BY ANNA JACOBY

As much as locals may love D.C., sometimes we have an underlying urge to, well, GTFO. In my case, I needed a break from applying to countless job openings per day after a recent layoff. I was desperate to get away from D.C. (aka LinkedIn: The City) and take advantage of my funemployment while I could.

Between their own jobs and kids, none of my friends could join me on a last-minute mini adventure. As this would be a solo trip with my dog Jack, I had some requirements: I sought a place that was within a reasonable driving distance, dogfriendly and, above all, remote enough that I could see the stars, but not too secluded. Jack is afraid of his own shadow and therefore not a great guard dog, and I didn’t want to be Jane Doe on the next true crime podcast.

Ultimately, I wanted a getaway where I, a solo female traveler with a dog, would feel safe and comfortable. Google brought me to an option that checked all those boxes and more: River Mountain.

“We aimed to create a place where everyone would feel welcome and have access to the great outdoors,” Owner Meghan Gruszynski says. “An accessible and inclusive destination where we hope people are able to grow their relationship to the natural world through time spent with others and in nature.”

Just two hours and 20 minutes away by car, River Mountain is right on the other side of the western Maryland border in Everett, Pennsylvania. It was the perfect amount of seclusion:

far enough away to be surrounded by nature, but not so far for a hypothetical axe murderer to handily dispose of my body.

The resort is situated alongside Sweet Root Creek in Buchanan State Forest, with 150 acres of sprawling meadows, trails, springs and woodlands to explore. Gruszynski and her business partner Ryan Tyrrell work with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation to protect and maintain the land and its natural resources. The foundation’s Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership aims to facilitate the planting of 10 million new trees in priority landscapes in Pennsylvania by the end of 2025.

“Sweet Root Creek is a part of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, so we’re directly connected to our neighbors in the DMV community,” Gruszynski says. “We do bi-annual tree plantings, stream rehabilitation and education.”

The owners put as much thought in guest accommodations as their environmental partnerships. The cabins work with the property’s natural environment and are specifically designed to align with the body’s circadian rhythm: Floorto-ceiling windows allow guests to wake up with natural light and wind down under the stars when the sun sets. The expansive valley is just outside for you and your pup to traverse.

I recommend packing a long leash so your dog can take advantage of the wide-open-spaces here and along the trail. River Mountain’s hiking trail is a pleasant 1.45-mile loop along the creek, which Jack loved to dip his paws in to cool off. Look for the “Hammock Hideaway,” a spot amongst the trees with

swaying hammocks perfect for taking a relaxing nap or reading a good book.

When happy hour rolls around, head to the 1800s-era Old Log Cabin for complimentary drinks and to socialize with other guests. For mealtimes, you are welcome to do your own thing or opt to order fresh meals prepared by resort staff. I can vouch for the chili, which comes with warm homemade cornbread.

Guests can book accommodations in the main lodge, private cabins, glamping yurts or tents. I stayed in a yurt, which included electricity, two queen beds, a large deck, firepit, twinkle lights, parking spot, pellet stove and electric blanket — plus a heater, fan, charcoal grill and outdoor seating. The yurts are just a stone’s throw away from modern restrooms and a shared kitchen area.

Additional amenities include cedar hot soaking tubs, outdoor yoga platforms, indoor and outdoor lounge areas, complimentary coffee and tea and a conference room. You can book

excursions like horseback riding or yoga sessions a la carte. The resort has a calendar of events throughout the year and is also available for weddings and group retreats.

If you need a place to escape the city with your dog, River Mountain is a great option that doesn’t break the bank. Depending on the season, rates range from $130 per night in a yurt for four to $580 per night in a cabin that fits a party of 12. Split among a group, that’s a getaway from the LinkedIn Capital of the World for less than the price of a D.C. parking ticket.

River Mountain is open to guests yearround and is available to host retreats, conferences, weddings and other group events. To learn more and book, visit them online at rivermountain.org or follow on Instagram @rivermountain.

River Mountain: 3600 Black Valley Rd. Everett, PA

COMMUNITY

Know before you go BE READY TO CONNECT DIFFERENTLY.

You most likely will not have a cell signal, but walkie-talkies are supplied in case you need any assistance. Wi-Fi is strong throughout the property — great for remote workers.

PROTECT YOUR PET.

Make sure your dog is on flea and tick preventative. Check them (and yourself) for ticks during and after your stay. Before booking, be sure to read River Mountain’s pet policy to make sure a stay there is the right fit for your pup.

NO CASH? NO PROBLEM. QR codes abound for any and all provisions you may need during your stay. River Mountain is extremely mobile-friendly.

How D.C.’s Queer Community Finds Joy in Nature

Camping at Greenbelt Park Campground with locals

WORDS + PHOTOS BY MARIAH MIRANDA

The act of taking your community into the woods to explore and navigate a patch of wilderness together — setting up camp, foraging for food, building a fire and sleeping beside one another — is innately intimate. You’re tucked away from the pressures of the world and able to embrace self-expression fully while freeing your inner child and reconnecting with nature in the process. These photos capture friends in the local queer community coming together in nature for a collective experience of joy and exploration.

Performance artist, fine artist + co-owner of but, also

“It is a really special thing to feel the support and connection of the local queer community broadly, but also in our intimate circles. I remember it hitting me not that long ago that I now have such sweet queer friendships and closeness around me in so many ways, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. It is transformative and life-giving.”

rexdelafkaran.com + but-also.com

Aisha White, Ashley Jaye Williams + Rex Delafkaran

Rex Delafkaran

Aisha White Arts organizer, deputy director of Rising Organizers + creative operations director of TILA Studios

“I love seeing queer camping groups. There are some great groups in D.C. who plan accessible trips into nature. You don’t need to buy out REI or be decked out in outdoor gear to get started. My first camping trip was with a friend in college, and we decided to do a three-day hike on the Appalachian Trail. I wore low-top Converse (the knock-off version from Target), my regular school backpack stuffed with ramen and trail mix, and a trash bag holding my sleeping bag tied to my back. We had a great time.”

risingorganizers.org + tilastudios.com

Ashley Jaye Williams

Art Collective

“I love the idea of a mass wave of visual representation in mainstream culture highlighting the innate link between queerness as the truest expression of one’s nature, as it mirrors the physical ecosystem of flora and fauna. As a public artist, I am constantly talking about the power and responsibility of representation, so I think any visual representation assuring queer and POC that their joy and safety is prioritized in outdoor spaces is crucial.”

ashleyjayewilliams.com + themodelmutiny.com

Multidisciplinary artist + co-founder of Model Mutiny

June 2 - August 25 // 6-8 p.m.

Modern at Art Place

FRIDAYS AT

Fort Totten

A Free Concert Series

Join DC Fray + The Modern for live music, food trucks, games and community vibes this summer.

Illustration by E$. Follow the artist on Instagram @theedollarsign.

FUN

Members Only with Inge Colsen

WORDS BY KEITH LORIA

We are so grateful for the people who make District Fray possible, so we’re highlighting them in our Members Only series. Become a member at districtfray.com/membership.

This month, we visit with Inge Colsen, founder of Gold Atlas, a New York-based creative PR and marketing collective that handles musical acts and events, including our area’s popular All Things Go Festival. Colsen speaks of her career, growing up in the Netherlands and why she always enjoys visiting the District.

How would you characterize your passion for music?

Inge Colsen: I’m a Dutch person and I studied business economics, but I was passionate about music coming from a small, small town in the Netherlands. I always found that

there was a mechanism of people belonging to something — if you like the same band, you could bond. When I first went to concerts and shows, I saw the energy between the musicians and the people enjoying the music.

How did you go from economics to the music business?

On a flight, I saw someone reading Billboard Magazine and I saw the words “music business” and I was doing business and I loved music, so I realized this is what I wanted to do. When it was time to do an internship, instead of going to an accounting firm I went to the financial side of a record label in New York.

What was your path to forming your own company?

I had also interned at Nastyboy Records, and when I went back to Amsterdam to finish my diploma I started interning for Dutch record labels and others wanted me to work for them. I was offered a part-time job at V2 Records, Richard Branson’s company at the time, and it was fun. In New York, I got a job as an office manager at a PR company and was a publicist, and after 10 years, I decided to go off on my own and create Gold Atlas together with my business partners from Neon Gold Records.

You do a lot in the D.C. area. Tell me a little about your favorite events here.

The big one is the All Things Go Festival. I love it. It’s an independent music festival and I’m so proud of what they’ve accomplished. They were a blog who turned their vision and love of music into a small festival. After a few years, they went bigger, and three years ago, they went to Merriweather and that was a huge leap. Last year it sold out, and this year the festival is two days and it also sold out in no time.

What are some of your favorite places to visit when you’re in D.C.?

The 9:30 Club for sure. Every now and then I visit NPR with my artists, and those are always good times. Once I went to the White House and I really enjoyed that. It was when Obama was still in office.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

Meeting people who are passionate like me. I like to combine the positive, curious energy of people and making them fall in love with a new artist.

Photo courtesy of Gold Atlas.

Learn more about Gold Atlas and follow Colsen on Twitter @wearegoldatlas.

Players’ Club with

William Dennis

WORDS BY JENNA SCHWARTZ | PHOTO BY MARÍA MÓNICA CORTÉS

We love our DC Fray players, so we’re highlighting them in our Players’ Club series. Join Fray leagues at dcfray.com/leagues.

Over the course of 12 years, William Dennis built his chosen family playing kickball on Thursday nights. Working in the hospitality industry, playing kickball was a way to take a much-needed break and eventually find his closest friends — including his current roommate. Two years ago, during the pandemic, Dennis began a career with DC Fray as a staffing coordinator and now he’s enjoying his role as senior operations manager.

“Covid took a lot from a lot of people,” Dennis says. “For me, personally, it actually gave me what I needed.”

Feeling burnt out from a career in the restaurant business and craving more time with his community, he found a way to bring both his career and his community together at DC Fray. We sat down with Dennis to talk about his time working for DC Fray, what social sports mean to him and where you’ll find him when he’s not working or playing kickball.

District Fray: What brought you to the D.C. area?

William Dennis: I joined student government in college and I got involved in a lot of different nonprofits. Through mixing and mingling, I first thought I wanted to move to D.C. after I graduated. I got a post-undergrad fellowship working for a nonprofit called New Virginia Majority, where they focus on voter rights, particularly in the Latinx community. But I realized after two months, that’s not the avenue I want to go down. And I was like, “I don’t want to go back to North Carolina. As much as I love her as a state, I don’t want to go back.”

Are you still politically active now?

I’m not as politically active as I was when I first moved to D.C. However, with my kickball team, we raise money for the Wanda Alston Foundation, which is here in D.C., as well as Equality PAC. Two organizations that focus on LGBT rights.

What drew you to do social sports with DC Fray?

I’ve always been an athlete. In high school, I did track and field, cross country and intramural sports. And so when I moved to D.C., I was like, “I want to stay active.”

What do you think is the most important or best part of being a part of a community like DC Fray?

For any young adult coming into D.C., finding their community is really difficult because D.C. is such a transient city. DC Fray just makes it so easy to connect with someone. Not just for me, but for any other player. DC Fray is an escape

for us. We’re working either a nine-to-five, or we’re working a double shift at the restaurant. I don’t think about table 12 getting mad because their steak was overcooked. I’m thinking about being here and just connecting and having fun with my friends.

Obviously working for a social sports org is fun, too. What do you do for fun outside of work?

Video games. On Friday, I took a half day because the new Zelda game came out that morning. I just wanted to play all weekend. Outside of that, I enjoy just hanging out with my friends. Having that chosen family is really important. I’m also fortunate that my mom lives in D.C., so I hang out with my mom. And then of course I hang out with my dog Frank and my lovely cat Coco.

Your neighborhood. Ivy City. Favorite cuisine. Seafood and ramen. Favorite D.C. restaurant. JINYA Ramen Bar and Black Jack for happy hour. 2023 goal. Win the national championship for kickball in July, and create not only more queer but also more women leagues at Fray. Favorite D.C. sports team. D.C. Pickleball Team.

Follow Dennis on Instagram @speakupyouth. Visit dcfray.com or follow @dcfray to learn more and register for summer sports leagues.

Crossword

CREATED BY MYLES MELLOR

This month’s theme is the double entendre of our dreams: all things camp. Make your way through this crossword that interprets our theme in many ways, from adventures in the DMV and beyond to the style, flair and celebration of D.C. Pride. Let’s get this show on the road.

NOTE: Check districtfray.com for the answer key.

Across

1 Express train for an NYC getaway

4 Historic West Virginia city where the Potomac and the Shenandoah Rivers meet

8 Large deer

9 Tree that’s a symbol of strength

10 Sled dog

11 Wedding vow, 2 words

13 Skiing destination in Colorado

15 Fir tree

17 caching

18 Nav system calculation, abbr.

20 Takes the car

23 Like clear night skies

24 Disappointing firecracker

26 Car club

27 Cocktail additions, 2 words

30 “The Simpsons” character Flanders

3

2 New Jersey beach getaway

36 Pitched a tent for the night

41 Short flight

4 3 Historical time period

44 Falls back, as a tide

45 Location of the Summerfest DC: Beer, Wine & Music Festival, 2 words

Down

1 Virginia city with a historic Old Town center

2 Mock cry of horror

3 Squirrel food

4 Walking a trail

5 Delaware beach city getaway

6 Singer performing at FedEx Field in Maryland in June, 2 words

7 Great blue yonder

12 Bucks’ mates

14 Capital Parade

16 River craft

19 “ -la-la”

21 College email address ending

22 Big sandwich, for short

25 Bear’s winter lair

28 Nod, maybe

40

SAVOR SUMMER WITH FRAY

Basketball

Bocce

Cornhole

Flag football

Hockey

Kickball

WORDS BY NICOLE SCHALLER

When Ryan Jamaal Swain spun on-screen in FX’s critically acclaimed “Pose,” he commanded attention with his expressive dance style and performance as Damon RichardsEvangelista. Portraying a Black gay teen who finds his chosen family in New York City’s Black and Latinx ball culture in the ’80s, Swain helped shed light on an overlooked community living during the HIV and AIDS epidemic.

“I’m fortunate to have been part of a project that changed the course of American television history and how we talk about people living with HIV and AIDS,” Swain says. “I think that type of representation has the opportunity to shift hearts and minds in the direction of, ‘Let’s look at full people instead

“Pose” Actor Ryan Jamaal Swain Takes the Stage at Mosaic Theater

of what circumstances are a part of them.’”

In the same vein, Swain is now starring in a project that sheds light on a current overlooked fact: One in two Black gay men will contract HIV in their lifetime. The play, “one in two,” will run at Mosaic Theater through June 25. Swain joins local theatre heavy hitters Justin Weaks and Michael Kevin Darnall — fresh off their successful run in “Angels in America” at Arena Stage — as three Black queer men navigating the possibility of, or receiving, an HIV diagnosis in modern day.

We caught up with Swain to learn more about pursuing this play, grappling with the show’s inherent unpredictability and prioritizing self-care.

District Fray: Why did you want to star in “one in two”? Ryan Jamaal Swain: At this juncture in my life and my career, I’m only taking things that are personal and pivotal stories. I saw the play’s world premiere in New York City and left the theater shaken to my core about how I show up in the margins of the lives of so many other people that are part of my community who are having to experience living with the [HIV] virus.

Why do you believe there is not more awareness on the statistic that one in two Black gay men will contract HIV in their lifetime?

Black and brown people have been on the outside of the margins for so long with healthcare and classism. There’s this distrust with health and Black bodies. I think we’re seeing a new generation, and this impetus to have autonomy over our full bodies — there’s a sense of respect being demanded. I’m looking forward to all the things happening with Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC) and different organizations that are making sure that we get to zero and we stay at zero, that we destigmatize HIV and AIDS, that we do all this work to make sure people realize it’s an additive to your life. You can still show up for your life in a very normal, visceral, healthy and joyous way.

I don’t think I have ever seen a script where so much of the play is determined by the audience. What was your first impression when you learned that the audience selects the role you play (#1, #2 or #3) each time?

The first initial response was nervousness and fear. This is the first time I’m a part of something where it’s not a static track. I kind of went in confidently with blind faith knowing that Mosaic Theater, the director and the team are going to support all of us actors in what we need to do each night with our fourth cast member, the audience. I’m excited to see the social experiment take place. The audience doesn’t really know what they’re voting on, and it allows people to sit with their discomfort and then see what they chose play out.

You often work with intense subject matter and have overcome a lot of personal tragedy. How do you self-care?

It is a joy and a pleasure to do this project. I have been fortunate to be on shows that have something to say. But they also come with harrowing and sobering truths about humanity. What I’ve done to make sure I’m taking care of myself is surround myself with my tribe members, my friends, my family who only want to make sure I’m good. And focus on things that bring me joy. Skincare has really been big for me. I have a dance break before I leave for rehearsal every day. After rehearsal, I get home and take some time to read Viola Davis’ “Finding Me,” play my Nintendo Switch, have something good to eat, then I’ll probably open the scripts up and start working. I’m just giving myself the capacity to enjoy, to not be anxious but to take it one day at a time.

TV show you are watching. “Beef.” Go-to style of dance. Afro-Cuban or modern. Current dancers or companies you admire. Camille A. Brown and A.I.M by Kyle Abraham. Favorite ballroom family. I will say that I am a child of all of them, because you are not going to get me [laughs]. Current songs on repeat. “PLASTIC OFF THE SOFA,” “VIRGO’S GROOVE,” “MOVE” and “HEATED,” in that order, by Beyoncé. Must-have skincare products. Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser and Caudalie Beauty Elixir. Quote stuck on your mind. “We are the only profession that celebrates what it means to live a life.” — Viola Davis

See Swain in “one in two” at Mosaic Theater Company through June 25. To see showtimes and get tickets, visit mosaictheater.org. To stay up to date with Swain’s latest projects, follow him on Instagram @ryanjamaalswain.

Mosaic Theater Company: 1333 H St. NE, DC; mosaictheater.org // @mosaictheaterdc

Photo by Matt Doyle.