State of the artS 2016 Spring ArtS & EntErtAinmEnt guidE
SPRING 2016
GREAT PERFORMANCES AT MASON VISIT US AT CFA.GMU.EDU Virginia Opera
Disney Fantasia
Romeo and Juliet
Live in Concert
FEBRUARY 27
FEBRUARY 13 & 14
$60, $51, $36
$98, $80, $48 Special Valentine’s Day Ticket Package: two tickets, champagne and chocolates, special photo booth, and two commemorative champagne glasses.
ff
Fantasia…reminds us of the emotional storytelling power of classical music.”
Direct from Ireland
Celtic Nights Spirit of Freedom
MARCH 20 $48, $41, $29
ff
(Spinningplatters.com)
$225, $190, $125
Walnut Street Theatre
A Moon for the Misbegotten FEBRUARY 28 $44, $37, $26
Mark Morris Dance Group
Moscow Festival Ballet
FEBRUARY 19 & 20
Giselle
$48, $41, $29
Swan Lake
APRIL 16 $56, $48, $34
TAO
APRIL 17 ff
$56, $48, $34
ff
Seventeen Samurai
FEBRUARY 21 $48, $41, $29
ff
“Extraordinarily talented…incomparable muscular zeal.” (Chicago Tribune)
Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra
Virginia Opera
Jim Carroll, Artistic Director; Victor Provost, Steel Pan
The Flying Dutchman
MARCH 5
APRIL 23 & 24
$44, $37, $26
$98, $80, $48
Caribbean Rhythms – Journey to the Islands
TICKETS 888-945-2468 OR CFA.GMU.EDU ff = Family Friendly performances that are most suitable for families with younger children
spring arts guide february 12, 2016 washingtoncitypaper.com
Located on the Fairfax campus, six miles west of Beltway exit 54 at the intersection of Braddock Road and Rt. 123.
5 21 33 36 37 39 43 music
museums & Galleries
Dance & performance
Comedy
books & talks
Film
theater
Cover Illustration by blair Kelly washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 3
DC BRAU 5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY MUSIC + BEER FESTIVAL
APRIL 16 TH
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5 BANDS
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5 SPECIAL COLLABORATIONS
WWW.DCBRAU.COM/BRAU5YR 4 february 12, 2016 washingtoncitypaper.com
@DCBRAU
2.12 Friday
bill frisell barns at Wolf trap. 7:30 p.m. $35–$40.
AAron “Ab” AbernAthy with bAnd nAt turner bohemian Caverns. 7:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m. $25–$77.
dC house grooves presents: body werk DC9. 10:30 p.m. $2–$5. the devil mAkes three, lAnghorne slim 9:30 Club. 8 p.m. $22.50.
Amel lArrieux Howard theatre. 7:30 p.m. $37.50–$75. bAio U Street music Hall. 10:30 p.m. $10.
dustin lynCh, Chris lAne, tyler riCh Fillmore Silver Spring. 7:30 p.m. $25.
CAlm the wAters, sAilor’s mouth, streAm, mother moon Velvet Lounge. 8:30 p.m. $8.
eugenie Jones twins Jazz. 9 p.m., 11 p.m. $20–$25.
the dAwn drApes, illiterAte light, peyote pilgrim IOtA Club & Café. 8:30 p.m. $10.
gAy men’s Chorus of wAshington: roCk Creek singers And potomAC fever Atlas performing Arts Center. 5 p.m., 8 p.m. $20–$39.
eugenie Jones twins Jazz. 9 p.m., 11 p.m. $20–$25.
the-dreAm Howard theatre. 8 p.m. $25–$100. virginiA operA: romeo And Juliet George mason University Center for the Arts. 8 p.m. $48–$98.
gAy men’s Chorus of wAshington: roCk Creek singers And potomAC fever Atlas performing Arts Center. 8 p.m. $20–$39.
voivod, vektor, eight bells black Cat. 9 p.m. $20.
grAveyArd, spiders 9:30 Club. 6 p.m. $25. heAvy breAthing, time is fire, smootA rock & roll Hotel. 9 p.m. $12.
2.14 Sunday
hey mArseilles, big bAd hAts U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $15.
AlAn Cumming sings sAppy songs music Center at Strathmore. 8 p.m. $35–$85.
JuliA nixon Amp by Strathmore. 8 p.m. $25–$35.
AlexAndriA symphony performs puCCini, respighi, And rotA George Washington masonic National memorial. 3 p.m. $5–$60.
lAdysmith blACk mAmbAzo GW Lisner Auditorium. 8 p.m. $40–$70. pebble to peArl Villain & Saint. 9 p.m. $10–$12.
Annie stokes, lAuren CAlve bAnd, milkbeArd IOtA Club & Café. 8:30 p.m. $12.
sArA Curtin, lAuren CAlve, mAriAn mClAughlin Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 9 p.m. $10–$12.
eugenie Jones twins Jazz. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $20–$25. lAurA JAne grACe And the devouring mothers, dAve dondero Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. 8 p.m. $20–$23.
tom prinCipAto, bobby thompson & friends feAturing ron hollowAy Gypsy Sally’s. 8 p.m. $15–$18. umphrey’s mCgee echostage. 6 p.m. $35.
protomArtyr, priests, proteCt-u black Cat backstage. 7:30 p.m. $15.
vAlentine’s soul JAm: the stylistiCs, drAmAtiCs, new birth, blue mAgiC DAr Constitution Hall. 8 p.m. $47–$125.
virginiA operA: romeo And Juliet George mason University Center for the Arts. 2 p.m. $48–$98.
2.13 Saturday AlexAndriA symphony performs puCCini, respighi, And rotA the Schlesinger Center at NOVA Community College, Alexandria Campus. 8 p.m. $5–$80. bAltimore symphony orChestrA: JoshuA bell plAys tChAikovsky with mArin Alsop, ConduCtor, JoshuA bell, violin music Center at Strathmore. 8 p.m. $150. beACon, nAtAshA kmeto Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 9 p.m. $10–$12. bebel gilberto State theatre. 9 p.m. $35–$38.
The-Dream
várJon-bAráti-várdAi piAno trio phillips Collection. 4 p.m. $15–$30.
In the late aughts, Terius Nash, aka The-Dream, was on top of his game. With Tricky Stewart, he was writing pop smashes like Rihanna’s “Umbrella” and Beyonce’s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)” that may have been inspired by Prince, Atlanta hip-hop, and Timbaland, yet still seemed totally unique. On his own albums, songs like “Falsetto” and “Shawty Is a Ten” showed off his brash-yet-sensitive ladies’ man persona, and his gift for singing memorable hooks and hitting high notes. Lately, however, The-Dream has had less commercial success. He just released Genesis, a confounding, uneven 10-song video album based on his dreams, available only through music streaming service Tidal. It’s weird: Imagine an art film crossed with a Victoria’s Secret commercial filmed, in part, in an abandoned, deteriorating church with a burning cross, and The-Dream caked in chalky, white plaster. There’s no telling how this ma—Steve Kiviat terial will work live. Feb. 13 at The Howard Theatre. $25–$100.
2.15 Monday budApest festivAl orChestrA with iván fisCher, ConduCtor, mArC-André hAmelin, piAno Kennedy Center Concert Hall. 8 p.m. $55–$120. CAz, sCotCh bonnets Galaxy Hut. 9 p.m. $5. grAhAm nAsh barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $80–$90. hunter vAlentine black Cat backstage. 7:30 p.m. $12.
washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 5
tAnyA tuCker birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $55.
sAndCAtChers, Anthony pirog bossa bistro. 8 p.m. $10.
2.16 tueSday
serAtones, spirit AnimAl rock & roll Hotel. 9 p.m. $12.
best CoAst, wAvves, Cherry glAzerr 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $30.
sonny lAndreth And Cindy CAshdollAr the Hamilton. 8:30 p.m. $20–$30.
ChuCk rAgAn & the CAmArAderie, Cory brAnAn black Cat. 7:30 p.m. $15.
yAndel echostage. 9 p.m. $31.
grAhAm nAsh barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $80–$90.
2.20 Saturday
JACkie greene with fAirground sAints birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $20.
briAn settles bohemian Caverns. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $18–$23.
miChelle wAlker blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $20.
brooke wAggoner And the CowArds Choir Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. 8 p.m. $12–$15.
sAfetysuit, Connell Cruise U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $20.
2.17 WedneSday bryAn AdAms DAr Constitution Hall. 8 p.m. $43–$89.95. dAybreAker rock & roll Hotel. 6 a.m. $21.60–$37.05. kAt dAhliA U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $20. unknown mortAl orChestrA, lower dens 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $25.
2.18 thurSday
Laura Jane Grace
Even in Ancient Rome, Valentine’s Day sucked. Some scholars trace the origins of the holiday to a Roman celebration called Lupercalia, where instead of exchanging Hallmark cards and CVS chocolates, the men would strip naked, slaughter goats and dogs, and beat their female counterparts with the animals’ pelts. Romantic! So instead, opt out of Valentine’s Day’s gross past (and grossly capitalistic present) by spending it with Against Me! frontwoman and trans activist Laura Jane Grace in a synagogue. Grace brings her new outfit, the Devouring Mothers, to Sixth & I for a set of unplugged takes on Against Me’s blistering catalog, including 2014’s brilliantly titled Transgender Dysphoria Blues. We’re not gonna promise you that spending your V-Day with a “true trans soul rebel” will be more interesting than waiting for that table on 14th Street, but… —Maeve McDermott yeah. Feb. 14 at Sixth & I. $20.
Budapest Festival Orchestra The National Symphony Orchestra’s announcement of the departure of Music Director Christoph Eschenbach and his replacement with Gianandrea Noseda earlier this year prompts daydreams of what could have been. Back in 2008, when the NSO hired Eschenbach, Hungarian conductor Iván Fischer was holding things down as principal conductor. Rumor then was that Fischer was the NSO’s first choice to lead the orchestra but turned them down. Despite being—nominally—an American orchestra, NSO loves its European conductors (Eschenbach is German; Noseda, Italian). Fischer would have likely been a good director—if not quite as high-profile as Eschenbach, perhaps more consistent. However, European conductors typically have greater control over their orchestras, running them like mini dictatorships, while American orchestras run on more of a consensus model, with conductors answering to presidents, boards of directors, and such. If true, t’s likely Fischer preferred his baby, the Budapest Festival Orchestra, which he founded and could run as he saw fit. Over three decades, he grew BFO from a part-time thing to one of the best orchestras in the world, and its rare stateside performances are not to be —Mike Paarlberg missed. Feb. 15 at Kennedy Center Concert Hall. $60–$120. 6 february 12, 2016 washingtoncitypaper.com
bAltimore symphony orChestrA: An evening with sutton foster music Center at Strathmore. 8 p.m. $40–$104.
Chris botti Kennedy Center Concert Hall. 8 p.m. $50–$100. Chrisette miChele Fillmore Silver Spring. 7:30 p.m. $37.50. hApA barns at Wolf trap. 7:30 p.m. $25–$30. hAndel And hAydn soCiety with direCtor hArry Christophers Library of Congress. 8 p.m. Free. proJeCt nAtAle twins Jazz. 9 p.m., 11 p.m. $15. renee tAnnenbAum with diAl 251 mr. Henry’s. 8 p.m. Free. sunwolf, sAvAkk,super! silver! hAze! Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 8:30 p.m. $10–$12.
2.21 Sunday
Christie dAshiell bohemian Caverns. 7:30 p.m., 9:30 p.m. $18–$23.
CAthedrAl ChorAl soCiety: vivAldi’s gloriA Washington National Cathedral. 4 p.m. $25–$77.
eli young bAnd Fillmore Silver Spring. 8 p.m. $20.
dAve mAson’s trAffiC JAm bethesda blues and Jazz. 8 p.m. $55.
elise testone, the wAtt brothers Gypsy Sally’s. 8:30 p.m. $12–$15.
gAme over dC: professor shyguy, you bred rAptors?, CheAp dinosAurs, triforCe QuArtet Velvet Lounge. 8 p.m. $10–$12.
freAkwAter, JAye JAyle DC9. 9 p.m. $12. the Jones fAmily singers barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $25. keeps, ChurCh girls black Cat backstage. 7:30 p.m. $12.
the good thing bAnd-old sChool funk madam’s Organ. 9 p.m. Free. hApA barns at Wolf trap. 7:30 p.m. $25–$30. Jordon dixon twins Jazz. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $10.
the shift Villain & Saint. 8 p.m. $7–$10.
k Jon Howard theatre. 7:30 p.m. $20–$65.
the soul rebels sound system feAturing tAlib kweli 9:30 Club. 10 p.m. $25.
kim wAters blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $43–$48.
where’s the bAnd? with Chris Conley (sAves the dAy), dAn AndriAno (AlkAline trio), mAtt pryor (the get up kids), Anthony rAneri (bAyside), And Andy JACkson (hot rod CirCuit) Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. 8 p.m. $16–$19.
2.19 Friday 40 thieves Villain & Saint. 9 p.m. $8–$10. Anders osborne, Amy helm & the hAndsome strAngers 9:30 Club. 8 p.m. $20. better off deAd, indeCision Gypsy Sally’s. 9 p.m. $15. dAn bAird & homemAde sin Hill Country Live. 9:30 p.m. $12–$15. kokAyi, the wAlking stiCks, CAutious ClAy, lAnCe neptune Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 8 p.m. $10–$12. mACeo plex, odd pArents U Street music Hall. 10 p.m. $20–$25.++ proJeCt nAtAle twins Jazz. 9 p.m., 11 p.m. $15.
mAdeon, skylAr spenCe 9:30 Club. 10 p.m. $30. post-brAziliAn CArnAvAl pArty tropicalia. 7 p.m. Free. rhett miller, sAlim nourAllAh Jammin Java. 7:30 p.m. $20–$28. rob kApilow’s whAt mAkes it greAt? Church of the epiphany. 6 p.m. $20.
2.22 Monday CristiAn perez Quintet blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $20. JAdAkiss Howard theatre. 9 p.m. $25–$65. Jon CleAry & the Absolute monster gentlemen the Hamilton. 7:30 p.m. $20.50–$25.50. leon russell with Jefferson grizzArd birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $39.50.
2.23 tueSday Josh ritter & the royAl City bAnd, elephAnt revivAl 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $40.
r5, rylAnd, pArAde of lights Lincoln theatre. 6 p.m. $35–$199. the robert CrAy bAnd birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $55.
rhiAnnon giddens, bhi bhimAn, And leylA mCCAllA GW Lisner Auditorium. 8 p.m. $35.
2.27 Saturday
2.24 WedneSday
AkuA AllriCh bohemian Caverns. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $20–$25.
AngelA stribling blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $25.
Awthentik, Aye yo smiley, supA kool kAt, loud Cru Fillmore Silver Spring. 7:30 p.m. $12.
bsQ twins Jazz. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $10.
Cheyney thomAs twins Jazz. 9 p.m., 11 p.m. $15.
the big pink, the heirs rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $15. bondAx And friends U Street music Hall. 10 p.m. $15.
dJ AyesCold, ACe Cosgrove, redline grAffiti Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 8 p.m. $10–$12.
Josh ritter & the royAl City bAnd, elephAnt revivAl 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $40.
dAriush music Center at Strathmore. 9 p.m. $52–$87.
András sChiff music Center at Strathmore. 8 p.m. $45–$85.
emmy the greAt DC9. 9 p.m. $12–$14.
2.25 thurSday
lvl up, bAd moves, prinCess reAson Comet ping pong. 10 p.m. $12.
AltAn birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $25.
lArry keel experienCe Gypsy Sally’s. 9 p.m. $16–$18.
Antone “Chooky” CAldwell Amp by Strathmore. 8 p.m. $25–$35.
grAmAtik echostage. 9 p.m. $30.
AutogrAf, Chet porter U Street music Hall. 10 p.m. $15.
nAtionAl symphony orChestrA pops: broAdwAy todAy with dArren Criss & betsy wolfe Kennedy Center. 8 p.m. $25–$99.
brAdley dAvis duo mr. Henry’s. 8 p.m. Free.
roy Ayers blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $43–$48.
CArrie underwood Verizon Center. 7 p.m. $46–$79.50.
tedesChi truCks bAnd, JormA kAukonen Warner theatre. 8 p.m. $54.50–$82.50.
CissA pAz bossa bistro. 10 p.m. $5.
will ClArke, billy kenny, shAwn Q U Street music Hall. 10 p.m. $15.
lAto Villain & Saint. 8 p.m. $6–$8. nAughty by nAture Howard theatre. 8 p.m. $30. tedesChi truCks bAnd, JormA kAukonen Warner theatre. 8 p.m. $54.50–$82.50. trio ooo, orgAnix trio Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 8:30 p.m. $10. ty segAll & the muggers, Cfm 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $25.
2.26 Friday
2.28 Sunday bAltimore symphony orChestrA: enigmA vAriAtions with mArin Alsop, ConduCtor, Colin Currie, perCussion music Center at Strathmore. 3 p.m. $33–$99. bobby munCy twins Jazz. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $10. CAlder QuArtet Kennedy Center terrace theater. 2 p.m. $50. editors 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $25.
AmAdou kouyAte Atlas performing Arts Center. 9 p.m. $15.
greAt good fine ok rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $12–$14.
bAltimore symphony orChestrA: off the Cuff with mArin Alsop, ConduCtor music Center at Strathmore. 8:15 p.m. $35–$99.
the legendAry orioles with speCiAl guest ron “posie” miles of the rAinbows mr. Henry’s. 5 p.m. $16–$25.
bisCuit miller & the mix madam’s Organ. 10 p.m. Free.
roy Ayers blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $43–$48.
Cheyney thomAs twins Jazz. 9 p.m., 11 p.m. $15.
2.29 Monday
fJ Chinese musiC fusion montgomery College Cultural Arts Center. 7:30 p.m. $5–$10. itAmAr zormAn, violin And kwAn yi, piAno barns at Wolf trap. 7:30 p.m. $35. the kenny gArrett Quintet Clarice Smith performing Arts Center. 7 p.m., 9 p.m. $10–$25. nAtionAl symphony orChestrA pops: broAdwAy todAy with dArren Criss & betsy wolfe Kennedy Center. 8 p.m. $25–$99. oliver heldens echostage. 9 p.m. $30. pissed JeAns, downtown boys black Cat. 9 p.m. $15. potty mouth, stove DC9. 7 p.m. $10. roy Ayers blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $43–$48.
herb Alpert And lAni hAll barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $55–$65. one nite stAnd madam’s Organ. 9 p.m. Free. rAdiAtion City, deep seA diver DC9. 9 p.m. $12.
3.1 tueSday bullet for my vAlentine, Asking AlexAndriA, while she sleeps Fillmore Silver Spring. 7:30 p.m. $25. Ceelo green Howard theatre. 8 p.m. $34.50–$75.
steep CAnyon rAngers 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $25.
herb Alpert And lAni hAll barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $55–$65.
swimming in dArk wAters: other voiCes of the AmeriCAn experienCe feAturing
the lone bellow, esCondido 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $25.
András Schiff
Some pianists aim to dazzle audiences, while others just want to get the job done. If the spectrum runs from Lang Lang to Pollini, András Schiff is somewhere in between but also above. With soft hands and a delicate touch, Schiff is the master of subtlety. His interpretations of familiar, often-overplayed classics (he specializes in the Austrian and German canon) never fail to add some surprising nuance to something you’ve heard many times before. In his latest project, “The Last Sonatas,” he plays the final sonatas that four famous composers—Beethoven, Haydn, Mozart, and Schubert—composed before their deaths. Perhaps a late-career meditation on Schiff’s own mortality, it promises to be a thoughtful, and unassuming, interpretation by “the anti–Lang Lang.” Feb. 24 at Strathmore —Mike Paarlberg Music Center. $45–$85.
Downtown Boys
Since you’ve already broken all your New Year’s Resolutions, here’s a new one: Make it your goal to see Downtown Boys as many times as you can this year. Joining D.C.’s Homosuperior and noisy Pennsylvania punks Pissed Jeans on Black Cat’s mainstage, the self-described “bi bilingual political dance sax punk party from Providence” released its first 7-inch in 2014 on D.C’s Sister Polygon records. Its fiercely political, whirling-dervish punk earned breathless acclaim since. The band’s missives on racism, homophobia, and the prison-industrial complex are delivered in both English and Spanish by vocalist Victoria Ruiz, one of the most thrilling people making music today, full stop. Often when bands are hailed as “important” performers, it smacks of hyperbole—but look at the current Republican poll numbers and tell us its mission, to “scream at the top of our lungs that we are brown, we are smart,” isn’t vital in 2016. —Maeve McDermott Feb. 26 at Black Cat. $15.
“Swimming in Dark Waters: Other Voices of the American Experience”
One of the great appeals of Rhiannon Giddens is her depth of knowledge about American music. The Greensboro, N.C. singer, violinist, and banjo player sounds as comfortable faithfully performing blues and folk as she does R&B and gospel. She’s washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 7
Luther Dickinson anD the cooperators, amy LaVere & WiLL sexton the Hamilton. 7:30 p.m. $20–$30. patty Griffin, sara Watkins & anaïs mitcheLL: use your Voice music Center at Strathmore. 8 p.m. $38–$48.
3.2 Wednesday coheeD anD cambria, GLassjaW, i the miGhty, siLVer snakes echostage. 7 p.m. $37.
one of the most visible performers keeping African-American string and folk band music alive today. This makes it all the more exciting that George Washington University is bringing her together with songwriters Leyla McCalla and Bhi Bhiman for an evening celebrating the history of musicians of color’s protest and resistance. This is more than a history lesson. One listen to Giddens’ “Cry No More,” her response to the massacre at the AME Church in Charleston, and it’s clear that protest music isn’t an academic exercise—it’s a vital art that’s needed now as much as ever. Feb. 26 at Lis—Justin Weber ner Auditorium. $35.
3.5 saTurday DriVe-by truckers 9:30 Club. 8 p.m. $35. nationaL symphony orchestra: christoph eschenbach, conDuctor, ray chen, VioLin, aDriana horne, harp Kennedy Center. 8 p.m. $15–$89. prince rama, time is fire, sistr miD9iGht Comet ping pong. 10 p.m. $12. QuiLt DC9. 9:30 p.m. $12. sLayer, testament, carcass Fillmore Silver Spring. 7:30 p.m. $49.50.
LiL’ eD & the bLues imperiaLs the Hamilton. 7:30 p.m. $12.25–$17.25.
stanLey jorDan blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $25–$30.
peter roWan Gypsy Sally’s. 8 p.m. $23–$25. sWmrs, the friGhts black Cat backstage. 7:30 p.m. $10–$12.
tim WhaLen septet twins Jazz. 9 p.m., 11 p.m. $15.
WoLfmother, Deap VaLLy 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $35.
trifiLio tanGo trio With emmanueL trifiLio, banDoneon, DeVree LeWis, ceLLo, ramon GonzaLez, Guitar Atlas performing Arts Center. 6:30 p.m. $20.
Wynona & the biG noise With tim & myLes thompson birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $55.
zuLi, sean croft Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. 8 p.m. $10–$12.
3.3 Thursday cory henry on orGan bethesda blues and Jazz. 8 p.m. $20.
3.6 sunday
the eDDie LounGe reunion tour Amp by Strathmore. 8 p.m. $25–$35.
GoLDfish U Street music Hall. 10 p.m. $10–$15. Great on paper twins Jazz. 8 p.m., 10 p m. $10.
internationaL Guitar niGht featurinG brian Gore, LuLo reinharDt, mike DaWes, anDre krenGeL barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $25–$27.
miGos Fillmore Silver Spring. 8 p.m. $25. ra ra riot 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $22. stanLey jorDan blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $25–$30.
jack & jack, Daya Fillmore Silver Spring. 6:30 p.m. $25.
3.7 Monday
nationaL symphony orchestra: christoph eschenbach, conDuctor, ray chen, VioLin, aDriana horne, harp Kennedy Center. 7 p.m. $15–$89.
aLL DoGs, fLorist Comet ping pong. 9 p.m. $12. sons of an iLLustrious father DC9. 9 p.m. $12.
stanLey jorDan blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $25–$30. taLe of us, rush pLus U Street music Hall. 10 p.m. $20. the Weeks, tristan DC9. 9 p.m. $10–$12.
3.4 Friday the aLternate routes barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $22–$25. aztec sun, staycation, shininG bLaDe theory rock & roll Hotel. 9 p.m. $12. DaViD Guetta echostage. 9 p.m. $40. DriVe-by truckers 9:30 Club. 8 p.m. $35. Go-Go symphony Atlas performing Arts Center. 8 p.m. $25. a Great biG WorLD, secret Weapons U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $25. LouD boyz, LiLac Daze, coLLiDer Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 8 p.m. $12–$27.50. nationaL symphony orchestra: christoph eschenbach, conDuctor, ray chen, VioLin, aDriana horne, harp Kennedy Center. 8 p.m. $15–$89. racheLLe ferreLL birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $59.50. stanLey jorDan blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $25–$30. tim WhaLen septet twins Jazz. 9 p.m., 11 p.m. $15. WashinGton concert opera: Gaetano Donizetti’s La faVorite GW Lisner Auditorium. 7 p.m. $15–$110.
3.8 Tuesday
Carl Craig
Detroit techno producer Carl Craig’s perpetual relevance may be tied to a blend of funk, jazz, classical, and underground house music, but there’s an overarching desire to explore the future. For more than 25 years, he’s excelled not just as Carl Craig but as aliases 69, BFC, C2, No Boundaries, Psyche, Paperclip People, Tres Demented, and Urban Tribe. But it’s in his time working as Innerzone Orchestra—when he released the track “Bug in the Bass Bin” in 1999— that he’s largely credited as heavily influencing the drum ’n’ bass genre. Now, in 2016, it’s entirely possible that a Carl Craig set will head in any number of mind-bending directions that traverse through the history of techno, as well as sounds far —Marcus Dowling beyond modern comprehension. April 1 at Flash. $10–$15.
Kiran Ahluwalia
Kiran Ahluwalia’s music may be rooted in traditional ghazals and Punjabi songs from India, but she sings them with a twist. Ahluwalia’s band includes her Pakistani-American guitarist husband Rez Abbasi, but over the years she’s added collaborators ranging from Malian band Tinariwen to Cape Breton fiddler Natalie MacMaster, who all add their own distinct styles to her music. Thankfully, Ahluwalia—who was born in India, grew up in Canada, and now lives in New York—manages to mostly make such songs work without turning them into cliched world music mush. On her most recent album Sanata: Stillness, there are no prominent guests, but her husband plays some desert blues chords while Ahluwalia mesmerizes with her sultry timbre. March 4 at Rosslyn Spectrum Theatre. Free. —Steve Kiviat
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baG raiDers, pLastic pLates U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $20. bLanck mass, br’er DC9. 9 p.m. $15. rob croW’s GLoomy pLace, paLm black Cat backstage. 7:30 p.m. $12.
3.9 Wednesday aDam ezra Group, justin kaLk orchestra Gypsy Sally’s. 8 p.m. $12. ben capLan, stranGer in the aLps Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 8:30 p.m. $10–$12. miike snoW 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $35. porches, aLex G, your frienD rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $13.50–$15.
3.10 Thursday Deer tick, mutuaL benefit Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. 8 p.m. $25–$82.50. hinDs U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $15. jessie james Decker, temecuLa roaD Fillmore Silver Spring. 8 p.m. $20. Leo kottke birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $39.50. nationaL symphony orchestra: christoph eschenbach, conDuctor, jean-yVes thibauDet, piano Kennedy Center. 7 p.m. $15–$89.
washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 9
sheArwAter, Cross reCord rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $14. twiddle, litz 9:30 Club. 10 p.m. $15.
3.11 Friday Ariel QuArtet barns at Wolf trap. 7:30 p.m. $35. Corey hArris “rAstA blues experienCe” blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $25–$30. JACkie And the treehorns Villain & Saint. 9 p.m. $7–$10. mount moriAh rock & roll Hotel. 9 p.m. $12–$14. mystery skulls, frenCh horn rebellion Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 8 p.m. $10–$12.
Gary Lucas’ Fleischerei Best known for his noisy guitar playing with Captain Beefheart and Jeff Buckley, Gary Lucas has also long been a fan of the Popeye the Sailor and Betty Boop cartoons—which Max Fleischer created in the 1930s—and their hyperkinetic jazz-meets-klezmer-meets-Tin-Pan-Alley soundtracks. Along with trombonist Joe Fiedler, Lucas has created arrangements for a jazz band and singer/actress Sarah Stiles to accompany some of Fleischer’s classic animation. On Lucas’ album Music from Max Fleischer’s Cartoons, Stiles, for better or worse, perfectly captures ’30s actress Mae Questel’s squeaky, high-pitched rendition of Betty Boop’s signature phrases. But even if one finds that vocal style irritating, the exhilarating instrumentation and the joyously crazed antics of Popeye and others in these decidedly non-Disney efforts outweigh the sometimes shrill vocals. March 5 at AFI Silver Theatre. $28.75. —Steve Kiviat
3.16 WedneSday foxing, o’brother, tAnCred, AdJy rock & roll Hotel. 7:30 p.m. $13–$15. goldlink x sAngo 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $25. hAve merCy, A will AwAy DC9. 8 p.m. $13–$15.
3.17 thurSday lA servA pAdronA And giAnni sChiCChi Catholic University of America. 7:30 p.m. Free. AC/dC Verizon Center. 8 p.m. $75–$140. Cowboy mouth, dingleberry dynAsty 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $25.
nAp eyes, CiAn nugent DC9. 7 p m. $10.
keith sweAt Howard theatre. 7:30 p.m. $49.50–$92.50.
rAilroAd eArth 9:30 Club. 8 p.m. $25.
yung leAn Fillmore Silver Spring. 8 p.m. $22.
rogue ColleCtive martin Luther King Jr. memorial Library. 12 p.m. Free.
3.18 Friday
the snAils feAturing members of future islAnds Comet ping pong. 10 p.m. $12.
lA servA pAdronA And giAnni sChiCChi Catholic University of America. 7:30 p.m. Free.
3.12 Saturday
Chopteeth Afrofunk big bAnd the Hamilton. 8:30 p.m. $15–$20.
Corey hArris “rAstA blues experienCe” blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $25–$30.
J. roddy wAlston & the business rock & roll Hotel. 9 p.m. $25.
eli pAperboy reed, Jeremy & the hArleQuins U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $15.
keith sweAt Howard theatre. 7:30 p.m. $49.50–$92.50.
gAy men’s Chorus of wAshington presents: boots, ClAss, & sAss Lincoln theatre. 8 p.m. $25–$63.
peter white blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $37.75–$43.
greg dulli, derriCk brown Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. 8 p.m. $30–$33.
3.19 Saturday
mArCo bAiley U Street music Hall. 10:30 p.m. $12. nAtionAl symphony orChestrA: Christoph esChenbACh, ConduCtor, JeAn-yves thibAudet, piAno Kennedy Center. 8 p.m. $15–$89. rAilroAd eArth 9:30 Club. 8 p.m. $25.
3.13 Sunday Corey hArris “rAstA blues experienCe” blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $25–$30. honey soundsystem, mArtyn, tnx dJs U Street music Hall. 10 p.m. $10. the mAx levine ensemble, worriers, thin lips black Cat backstage. 7:30 p.m. $10–$12. metriC, JoywAve Fillmore Silver Spring. 8 p.m. $31.
3.14 Monday d∆wn DC9. 9 p.m. $20–$25. montreAl symphony with kent nAgAno, ConduCtor, dAniil trifonov, piAno Kennedy Center Concert Hall. 7 p.m. $60–$120. wAshington internAtionAl piAno series with hugh leClere Catholic University of America. 8 p.m. Free.
3.15 tueSday royAl southern brotherhood, sweet ledA Gypsy Sally’s. 8 p.m. $18–$22. trixie whitley rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $13–$15.
lA servA pAdronA And giAnni sChiCChi Catholic University of America. 7:30 p.m. Free. gAy men’s Chorus of wAshington presents: boots, ClAss, & sAss Lincoln theatre. 3 p.m., 8 p.m. $25–$63.
All Dogs
One of the most prolific names in DIY is Maryn Jones, one-quarter of the folk-rock outfit Saintseneca and the bandleader of the rawer, noisier Columbus, Ohio quartet All Dogs. The latter was responsible for one of 2015’s most underappreciated records: the grungy yearning of Kicking Every Day, an album that’s made to be heard live in a crowded room. All Dogs is joined by Florist (who shares a label with yet another one of Jones’ projects, Yowler), a band that channels similar confessions of anxiety and heartbreak— or, y’know, “growing up”— with triple the claustrophobia, via spacey organs and vocalist/keyboardist Emily Sprague’s —Maeve McDermott near-mumbled vocals. March 7 at Comet Ping Pong. $12.
Cloud Rat
The last time Cloud Rat—the forward-thinking experimental grindcore band from Michigan—came to these parts, its furiously noisey set in the cramped basement of The Dougout attracted the neighbors. They didn’t come to complain and ask the band to turn it down; rather, they were so infatuated with the abrasive noise oozing from the basement that they had to see it for themselves. On its latest record, 2015’s Qliphoth, Madison Marshall’s guttural vocals may come off like an aural assault, but take a deeper listen and you’ll hear philosophical opining: “Sometimes I think of how hardly alive you are at all/ Dodging bullets. Dodging raindrops,” she wonders on “Udder Dust.” And later in the song: “How do I convince you I’m living?” It’s heavy stuff, but you wouldn’t hear that with the barrage of blast beats and walls of distortion she screams over. Live, the band performs with such ferocity, it’s as if each member is working out frustrations through the power of music, attempting to tear down the walls —Matt Cohen of wherever it is they’re playing. March 13 at The Pinch. $10.
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kirk frAnklin Warner theatre. 7:30 p.m. $33–$53. pete yorn Howard theatre. 8 p.m. $35. peter white blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $37.75–$43. puff pieCes, JACk on fire, niCe breeze, esCApism Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 7:30 p.m. $10–$12. tortoise, mind over mirrors black Cat. 9 p.m. $15.
3.20 Sunday lA servA pAdronA And giAnni sChiCChi Catholic University of America. 2 p.m. Free. gAy men’s Chorus of wAshington presents: boots, ClAss, & sAss Lincoln theatre. 3 p.m. $25–$63. peter white blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $37.75–$43.
3.21 Monday AndrA dAy Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. 7:30 p.m. $20–$22. hippie sAbotAge U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $17. lAke street dive, the suffers 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $29.50.
Smithsonian American Art Museum
LUCE UNPLUGGED COMMUNITY SHOWCASE Friday, February 12 • 6-8 p.m.
Kick off your weekend with Luce Unplugged! The El Mansouris and Elena & Los Fulanos play and Port City Brewing Company offers free tastings of select beers (ages 21+) while you explore the Luce Center’s artworks. Free. Snacks and libations available for purchase.
www.washingtoncitypaper.com
Smithsonian American Art Museum • 8th and G Streets, NW • Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. • AmericanArt.si.edu • Free
washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 11
3.22 tueSday lAke street dive, the suffers 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $29.50. rihAnnA Verizon Center. 7:30 p.m. $35–$160.
3.23 WedneSday pushA t 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $35–$99. silverstein, being As An oCeAn Howard theatre. 6:40 p.m. $19–$23.
3.24 thurSday
GoldLink and Sango Like a peanut butter and banana sandwich, the pairing of local rapper GoldLink and Seattle production wizard Sango may seem odd, but the Soulection Records–affiliated duo are redefining both underground and mainstream music. GoldLink’s latest album, And After That, We Didn’t Talk, pushed his pioneering future bounce sound even further, merging indie-leaning electronic with ultra-ubiquitous rap sensibilities. That’s a narrow space, and when it’s defined by Sango’s rap-meets-baile funk beats, it gets even smaller. Sango and GoldLink’s “Wassup”—a track that flips Timbaland and Magoo’s “Indian Flute” on its head entirely— is likely one of the most unique hip-hop tunes in the past few years. That’s reason enough to buy a ticket, but when you stay for everything else, you quickly realize you’re hearing the fu—Marcus Dowling ture of pop music. March 16 at 9:30 Club. $25.
AnAt Cohen QuArtet Amp by Strathmore. 8:30 p.m. $40–$50.
bedroom Community GW Lisner Auditorium. 8 p.m. $25–$35. musiQ soulChild birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $65.
3.30 WedneSday blACk violin barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $27–$32. bombino, lAst good tooth the Hamilton. 7:30 p.m. $20–$30. ChAd vAlley, blACkbird blACkbird black Cat backstage. 7:30 p.m. $12. skizzy mArs, p-lo U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $20.
lAlAh hAthAwAy bethesda blues and Jazz. 7 p.m., 10 p.m. $85–$100.
3.31 thurSday
the who Verizon Center. 7:30 p.m. $49.50–$149.50.
An evening with Art gArfunkel Hylton performing Arts Center. 8 p.m. $40–$70. blACk violin barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $27–$32.
3.25 Friday
the dmA’s black Cat backstage. 7:30 p.m. $12.
the blACkbyrds bethesda blues and Jazz. 8 p.m. $25.
guy mintus trio, Adventurous originAls Logan Fringe Arts Space. 8 p.m. Free.
kindred the fAmily soul birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $59.50.
logiC, dizzy wright echostage. 7 p.m. $43.45.
lAlAh hAthAwAy bethesda blues and Jazz. 7 p.m., 10 p.m. $85–$100.
turkuAz And kung fu the Hamilton. 8 p.m. $16–$18.
rokiA trAoré with sinkAne GW Lisner Auditorium. 8 p.m. $25–$45.
4.1 Friday
tiësto, kshmr echostage. 9 p.m. $50. tom, hAnks, orChester prAževiCA Logan Fringe Arts Space. 9 p.m. Free.
AnoushkA shAnkAr GW Lisner Auditorium. 8 p.m. $25–$45.
wAy out west, guy mAntzur U Street music Hall. 10 p.m. $15.
CArl CrAig Flash. 8 p.m. $5–$15. ChArlie puth, phoebe ryAn, sophie beem U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $20.
3.26 Saturday
ChAd And Jeremy barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $30–$35.
Cleve frAnCis birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $35. the fAmily Crest rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $15–$17.
metropolitAn operA rising stArs ConCert series music Center at Strathmore. 8 p.m. $25–$65.
stAnton wArriors, worthy, proxxy & lAntern U Street music Hall. 10:30 p.m. $15.
4.2 Saturday
the ACA-ChAllenge with All nAturAl, CAtCh22, the distriCt, the overtones, redline, shArp Attitude, And voxpop Lincoln theatre. 8 p.m. $25–$50.
AlexAndriA symphony perfroms tChAikovsky, bruCh, And howArd the Schlesinger Center at NOVA Community College, Alexandria Campus. 8 p.m. $5–$80.
tiësto, kshmr echostage. 9 p.m. $50.
3.27 Sunday gin wigmore U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $20. kevin eubAnks blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $30–$35. sAvAges 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $25.
3.28 Monday intronAut, sCAle the summit, north rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $13–$15. musiQ soulChild birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $65. the new riders of the purple sAge Gypsy Sally’s. 8 p.m. $20–$25.
3.29 tueSday bAsiA bulAt, twin limb rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $12–$14.
seAn wAtkins barns at Wolf trap. 7:30 p.m. $20–$25.
Anat Cohen
The clarinet, a founding instrument of the jazz tradition, was largely neglected after 1945, but it’s mounted a comeback in recent years. First came Don Byron, charging through every conceivable genre with ease; on his heels was Anat Cohen, the most visible in a trio of jazz-playing Israeli siblings. Interestingly, though, it was the New York-born Byron who made a splash exploring klezmer. That would have been the obvious move for Cohen, too, and she’s frequently asked about it, but it’s not the direction she chose. Instead, the clarinetist (and sometimes tenor saxophonist) chases two animals: aggressive, rhythmically challenging postmodern jazz, and lyrical (but equally rhythmic) Latin jazz. Recently that’s meant the Brazilian tradition: Cohen’s 2015 album, Luminosa, is a sumptuous, luminous collection of Brazilian standards and samba-inspired originals. Terrific as it is on record, though, it’s on the bandstand that she breathes real life into her music. March 24 at AMP —Michael J. West by Strathmore. $40–$50.
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tobACCo, lord rAJA U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $20. tom rush birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $45.
4.3 Sunday AlexAndriA symphony performs tChAikovsky, bruCh, And howArd George Washington masonic National memorial. 3 p.m. $5–$60. ben hArper & the innoCent CriminAls, Christopher pAul stelling 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $57.50. lAurA stevenson black Cat backstage. 7:30 p.m. $13. young fAthers rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $15.
With Emcee Tony Colosimo (of Da Capo)
U T H I S SPR I NG F OR JOI N US A SOU N D L I K E NO OT H E R . C ndu ted by by the the GRAMMY GRAMMY®® Award-winning Award winning Robert R b rt Shafer Shafer Conducted
ave er R EQUIEM E EM FR R AGMENTS AGME TS tavener <a amer merican an <
Judges Catherine Lewis of RARB, Reggie Moore of The Persuasions, and Tom Kraus of TBD
premier mi ee > pr
ha el MESSIAH ME S A handel PART III
Sunda April Apri 10, 10 2016 20 6 || 4:30 4:30 pm pm Sunday, Nationa Pr sbyterian hurch Washington D. National Presbyterian Church, Washington, D.C.
s fer A SETTING SE G OF PSALM P A M 121 1 shafer E IEM d ruflé R EQUIEM duruflé Sunday June June 5, 5 2016 2016 | 4:30 4:30 pm pm Sunday, Saint Luke Luke Catholic atholic Church, hurch McLean, McLean Virginia Virginia Saint
Washington’s Greatest Contemporary
A CAPPELLA CONTEST! 8PM • Saturday March 26 at the Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U St. NW
Tic ets $15-$50. $15 $50 Student Student and and group group discounts disco nts available. available Tickets:
VISIT CITYCHOIR.ORG OR CALL 571-206-8525
COMPETING FOR OVER $2000 IN PRIZES The District
Redline
The Overtones
All Natural
Sharp Attitude
Catch22 Special guests, 2015 Aca-Challenge winners
VOX POP
with performances by hosts
TBD & THE ALEXANDRIA HARMONIZERS
Tickets starting at $25; come vote for your favorite to win! Tickets available @ http://tinyurl.com/acachallenge2016tickets washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 13
4.4 Monday
del’s messiAh National presbyterian Church. 4:30 p.m. $15–$50.
ben hArper & the innoCent CriminAls, Christopher pAul stelling 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $57.50.
the Cult Fillmore Silver Spring. 8 p.m. $39.50.
gAto bArbieri Howard theatre. 7 p.m. $30–$60.
frAnCesCA blAnChArd bossa bistro. 9:30 p.m. $10.
4.5 tueSday
4.11 Monday ChAmber musiC showCAse Clarice Smith performing Arts Center. 5:30 p.m. Free.
Andrew bird 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $46. sAntAnA Warner theatre. 8 p.m. $67.50–$147.50.
4.12 tueSday
4.6 WedneSday
fAnfAre CioCArliA, orChester prAževiCA bossa bistro. 8 p.m. $20–$22.
Cloud Cult U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $20.
Jimmie vAughAn And the tilt-A-whirl bAnd the Hamilton. 7:30 p.m. $30–$40.
dAughter 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $25. sAntAnA Warner theatre. 8 p.m. $67.50–$147.50.
the subwAys rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $18–$ 20.
4.7 thurSday
4.13 WedneSday
Aoife o’donovAn, mArk erelli barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $22–$25.
bleAChed, no pArents DC9. 9 p.m. $12–$14. JJ grey & mofro birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $35.
brAss bed Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 8 p.m. $10–$12.
yo-yo mA And emAnuel Ax Kennedy Center Concert Hall. 8 p.m. $215.
high highs black Cat backstage. 7:30 p.m. $10–$12.
4.14 thurSday
Jewel Lincoln theatre. 8 p.m. $55–$75. mAvis stAples the Hamilton. 7:30 p.m. $39.75–$82.50. pAtti lAbelle music Center at Strathmore. 8 p.m. $65–$150. rAmsey lewis blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $60–$65. restorAtions, Creepoid, the dirty nil DC9. 8 p.m. $12.
4.8 Friday the Aizuri QuArtet barns at Wolf trap. 7:30 p.m. $35. devin the dude, bACkyArd bAnd Howard theatre. 11:30 p.m. $25–$60. durAn durAn Verizon Center. 7 p.m. $29.95–$145. pAtti lAbelle music Center at Strathmore. 8 p.m. $65–$150. phil Cook rock & roll Hotel. 9 p.m. $15.
4.9 Saturday AnACostiA deltA: the legACy of dAnny gAtton Amp by Strathmore. 8 p.m. $35. brAnford mArsAlis birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $35. drew holComb & the neighbors, Jill Andrews 9:30 Club. 8 p.m. $17. keiko mAtsui birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $45. ms. lisA fisCher & grAnd bAton Howard theatre. 8 p.m. $55–$95. run river north, the lighthouse And the whAler U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $15. willie nile the Hamilton. 8:30 p.m. $20–$25.
4.10 Sunday City Choir of wAshington performs tAvener reQuiem exCerpts And pArt iii of hAn-
Basia Bulat Basia Bulat has been on a gradual trajectory to pop stardom since 2007: She’s put out a record every three years since then, and her fourth full-length, Good Advice, will arrive in early February. She’s been shortlisted for Canada’s Polaris Prize twice, for her 2007 debut of bedroom folk, Oh, My Darling, and for 2013’s Tall Tall Shadow on which she began reaching for bigger melodies and catchier tunes. However, 2010’s Heart of My Own is her best. The urgent, rolling rhythms make it an invigorating stampede that invokes images of the great Canadian wilderness. The first singles for Good Advice hint that her new album will push further into pop music by leaving her usual autoharp behind for sparkling studio productions. Fans shouldn’t be worried: The new songs are still more Feist than —Justin Weber they are FM pop. March 29 at Rock & Roll Hotel. $12–$14.
Logic
Over the past six years, Gaithersburg-bred Logic evolved from a being a standout in the local hip-hop scene to a Def Jam Records signee with global fame in his sights. This spring, he’s back in his home area on the heels of last year’s The Incredible True Story, a sophomore album that he describes as being “a sci-fi epic” taking place 100 years in the future on a post-apocalyptic, uninhabitable Earth. Logic’s evolution is quite impressive, but what’s remained constant throughout his career is his gift of spitting rhymes with both speed and finesse. It’s only sharpened with age, and Logic’s fanbase is quite passionate in their support, a feeling that he gives back in full measure and adds to every hometown —Marcus Dowling show. March 31 at Echostage. $43.45.
Damaged City Fest
For the fourth year, Damaged City Fest will take over several venues—including the Black Cat and The Pinch—to celebrate hardcore punk. So far the lineup is 33 bands strong with more to be announced. Co-founders Nick Candela and Chris Moore are bringing in a pair of classic bands to headline: Japan’s Systematic Death, who have been razing venues since
14 february 12, 2016 washingtoncitypaper.com
bAltimore symphony orChestrA: mAhler’s symphony no. 5 with mArin Alsop, ConduCtor music Center at Strathmore. 8 p.m. $35–$99. blind boys of AlAbAmA barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $35–$45. eleAnor friedberger, iCewAter U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $15. yellowJACkets blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $35–$40.
4.15 Friday fellow CreAtures tropicalia. 8 p.m. Free. le1f U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $15. the motet with the nth power the Hamilton. 8:30 p.m. $17–$20. thAo & the get down stAy down, sAintseneCA, little sCreAm 9:30 Club. 8 p.m. $20. yellowJACkets blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $35–$40. yuCk, big thief rock & roll Hotel. 9 p.m. $15.
4.16 Saturday the feelies 9:30 Club. 8 p.m. $25. the fuss, the reggAy lords, sir Collins, bettie Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 8 p.m. $10–$12. omAr sosA Amp by Strathmore. 8 p.m. $30–$40. sAn frAnCisCo symphony with miChAel tilson thomAs, ConduCtor, sAshA Cooke, mezzo-soprAno, simon o’neill, tenor Kennedy Center Concert Hall. 4 p.m. $55–$120. tACoCAt Comet ping pong. 10 p.m. $12. yellowJACkets blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $35–$40.
2016 Music Spring Preview
Benjamin T. Rome School of Music presents
Spring Productions (tickets required) Feb. 19-28 Into the Woods March 17-20 La Serva Padrona / Gianni Schicchi April 10 Opera and Musical Theatre Soiree Master Classes Feb. 17 Laurent Philippe March 8 Lynn Harrell March 13 Renee Fleming (tickets required) Washington International Piano Series at CUA Feb. 11 Yoshio Hamano March 14 Hugh Leclere April 21 Ivo Kaltchev and Ralitza Patcheva For more information and to purchase tickets, visit music.cua.edu Please call 202-319-5414 or email cua-music@cua.edu to request disability accommodations.
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We've Expanded! Over 700 Booths! Many New Dealers! www.thebigfleamarket.com.....757-430-4735 washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 15
4.17 Sunday big d And the kids tAble, CounterpunCh, the fAr eAst rock & roll Hotel. 7:30 p.m. $13.50–$15. yellowJACkets blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $35–$40.
4.18 Monday Cullen omori DC9. 9 p.m. $13. denzel Curry, AllAn kingdom, sdotbrAddy rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $15–$17.
4.19 tueSday esperAnzA spAlding 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. $38. little green CArs, seAn Croft rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $12–$14. operAtors DC9. 9 p.m. $12–$14. thirdstory U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $15. wAkA floCkA flAme Fillmore Silver Spring. 8 p.m. $22.50.
1983 with unmatched speed and power, and San Francisco’s The Avengers, who helped bridge the gap in the late ’70s from The Ramones and Sex Pistols to ’80s hardcore. While the older acts may be the biggest draw, they’re also a gateway to introduce fans to the current punk landscape: France’s Youth Avoiders infuse memorable melodies into hardcore, and Philly’s Sheer Mag proves the sounds of ’70s classic rock have a place in punk. Damage City Fest is true to its roots: The festival is open to all ages and is made possible —Justin Weber through a legion of volunteers. April 8–10. Ticket price TBA.
Melt-Banana
“What is Melt-Banana?” That question is cheekily posed on the band’s website, probably for unassuming metalheads who may have come across a YouTube video of the band, or saw them opening for one of their favorite metal bands at some point. The simple answer: Melt-Banana is a band from Japan, whose core members are always singer Yasuko Onuki and guitarist Ichirou Agata. But when you get into the nitty gritty, that question is a lot more complicated, because Melt-Banana is so much more than a band. Combining elements of grindcore, death metal, electronic, noise, and pop, Onuki and Agata create a style of music that’s both unparalleled and completely insane. Agata’s guitar screeches and squeals in ways that you didn’t think was possible as Onuki shout-screams as if she wandered out of a pop song into the metal underground. If you think that sounds crazy, —Matt Cohen imagine how this shit translates live. April 12 at 9:30 Club. $30.
4.24 Sunday Antoine tAmestit, violA Kennedy Center terrace theater. 7 p.m. $40. buikA GW Lisner Auditorium. 8 p.m. $30–$50. i Am Anne hutChinson/ i Am hArvey milk music Center at Strathmore. 4 p.m. $49–$99. ritA wilson barns at Wolf trap. 7:30 p.m. $35–$40.
4.25 Monday fAther John misty, tess & dAve Lincoln theatre. 8 p.m. $40. spektrAl QuArtet Composer reAding Clarice Smith performing Arts Center. 7:30 p.m. Free.
4.26 tueSday floetry Howard theatre. 8 p.m. $59.50–$95. rorem, rAvel, And rAgtime feAturing violinist irinA muresAnu And piAnist ritA sloAn Clarice Smith performing Arts Center. 8 p.m. Free. we bAnJo 3 the Hamilton. 7:30 p.m. $12–$17.
4.20 WedneSday
4.27 WedneSday
brAd mehldAu trio Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. 8 p.m. $47.
dAvid wAx museum, dArlingside the Hamilton. 7:30 p.m. $14.75–$22.25.
ellis And delfeAyo mArsAlis barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $35–$40.
floetry Howard theatre. 8 p.m. $59.50–$95.
the time Jumpers feAturing vinCe gill, kenny seArs And “rAnger doug” green birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $59.50.
4.28 thurSday AnA mourA music Center at Strathmore. 8 p.m. $28–$68.
white denim, sAm Cohen black Cat. 7:30 p.m. $18.
fAtoumAtA diAwArA Clarice Smith performing Arts Center. 8 p.m. $10–$25.
witCh CoAst, summer sAlt Songbyrd music House and record Cafe. 8 p.m. $10–$12.
tom pAxton barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $24–$28.
4.21 thurSday
4.29 Friday
Amon AmArth, entombed A.d., exmortus Fillmore Silver Spring. 7:30 p.m. $27.50. AurorA U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $15. wAshington internAtionAl piAno series with ivo kAltChev And rAlitzA pAtChevA Catholic University of America. 8 p.m. Free.
4.22 Friday CAmeo bethesda blues and Jazz. 7 p.m., 10 p.m. $65–$125. donnA the buffAlo, City of the sun the Hamilton. 8:30 p.m. $20–$25. JoAnnA wAllfisCh Atlas performing Arts Center. 8 p.m. $28. lAkou mizik Dance place. 8 p.m. $15–$30.
4.23 Saturday i Am Anne hutChinson/ i Am hArvey milk music Center at Strathmore. 8 p.m. $49–$99. into it. over it., the world is A beAutiful plACe & i Am no longer AfrAid to die, the sidekiCks, pinegrove black Cat. 7 p.m. $15–$17. the nields barns at Wolf trap. 7:30 p.m. $22. tori kelly DAr Constitution Hall. 8 p.m. $30.50.
Maria Schneider
One of America’s most vital patrons of the arts sits right under our noses: the Library of Congress. We think of it more as a custodian, being that it’s, well, a library. But it has done extraordinary stuff in the realm of commissioning new work from American composers of all stripes. This year, a commission went to Maria Schneider, one of the most acclaimed and creative writers and bandleaders in the jazz world. (And an occasional crossover: It was Schneider’s orchestra that collaborated with David Bowie on the single release of his song “Sue.”) The resulting piece will have its premiere this spring at LOC’s Coolidge Auditorium. The details are still under wraps, but here’s everything we know about it: It’s a composition for her 17-piece orchestra, and it’s the follow-up to her critically adored, Grammy-nominated recording from last year, The Thompson Fields. That’s it—but that’s enough to make the mouth water. April 15 at the Library of Congress —Michael J. West Coolidge Auditorium. Free.
The Feelies
There’s a song on The Feelies’ Crazy Rhythms—its 1980 debut album—called “The Boy With the Perpetual Nervousness,” which is apt because nervousness, in some ways, sums up the New Jersey band’s sound. With Velvet Underground and Modern Lovers-esque guitar squeals and a speedy motorik beat drawn from early krautrock and the minimalism of Philip Glass and Steve Reich, the nerdy rock combo has been a critics’ favorite for
16 february 12, 2016 washingtoncitypaper.com
del sol string QuArtet Library of Congress. 9 p.m. Free. dirty heAds, rdgldgrn Fillmore Silver Spring. 8 p.m. $29.50. Justin bieber Verizon Center. 7:30 p.m. $50.50– $126. m3 roCk festivAl: teslA, kix, vinCe neil, CinderellA’s tom keifer, night rAnger merriweather post pavilion. 4 p.m. $60–$850. miAmi horror, mothxr, foreign Air 9:30 Club. 10 p.m. $20. the Quebe sisters barns at Wolf trap. 8 p.m. $22–$25.
4.30 Saturday del sol string QuArtet with frederiC rzewski, piAno, Jennifer koh, violin, benJAmin hoChmAn, piAno Library of Congress. 8 p.m. Free. the wAifs with ruby boots birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $35.
5.1 Sunday Cowboy Junkies birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $45. Jennifer koh, ursulA oppens, frederiC rzewski phillips Collection. 4 p.m. $15–$30.
Brilliant. Fiery. Powerful.
Make a date with two legendary men.
Alliance Française de Washington presents…
FIRST
ANNUAL
“FABRIQUE À BULLES” ART
Vivaldi Gloria
“Factory” emphasizes the power of the mind and creativity of the young artists while “Bubbles” refers to “Speech Bubbles”; the many different techniques used to create a graphic novel make it an undeniable means to propagate political or social messages. Show us your message!
with the Washington Bach Consort
Sunday, Feb. 21 | 4:00 p.m. Washington National Cathedral
Fantastic Beethoven Sunday, May 15 | 4:00 p.m. Washington National Cathedral
CONTEST!
TICKETS STARTING AT $25!
RÉSISTER!
cathedralchoralsociety.org | 202-537-2228 THE
DRAMATIC SATURDAY FEBRUARY 13 8 PM at
Schlesinger Concert Hall
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 14
3PM at George Washington Masonic Memorial Bring your sweetheart and join us Valentine’s weekend for romantic classics, featuring Washington National Opera Domingo-Cafritz Young Artists and the 2013 Mary Graham Lasley Winner
Submit your slide for this contest celebrating the 9th art – Graphic Novels. This year’s theme will be “Résister!” (Resist! in English). Contestants must submit one 11”x17” panel, postmarked by April 15, 2016. There will be 2 winners: one for age group 12-16 and one for ages 16 and older.
For official contest guidelines and to enter, please visit FranceDC.org or contact Sandrine at
www.alexsym.org 703-548-0885
CultureAF@FranceDC.org
washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 17
years. Though The Feelies were inactive for parts of the ’80s and from 1992 to 2008, the band, still led by guitarists Glenn Mercer and Bill Million, has returned with some new songs that are more jangly than jittery. While its live shows now usually emphasize the shimmering axe-work heard on more recent cuts, the band sometimes returns to its time—Steve Kiviat less, edgy guitar approach of yore. April 16 at 9:30 Club. $25.
Lakou Mizik
Roots music collective Lakou Mizik, whose French Creole name roughly translates to “music from the homeland,” came together Port-au-Prince, Haiti after the earthquake struck in 2010. With members ranging in age from early 20s to late 60s, this nine-member ensemble does songs in multiple traditional Haitian styles with lyrics that frequently reflect the current sociopolitical climate in Haiti. And its music is just as dynamic—a blend of polyrhythmic Haitian rara carnival music propelled by homemade metal horns, percussion-filled afro-funky vodou grooves with call-and-response vocals, and strummed folk tunes coupled with vocal harmonies. Fluency in Haitian Creole may be needed to truly grasp it all, but one can still dance to its sounds and be wowed by its lush vocal harmonies. April 23 at Dance Place. $15–$30. —Steve Kiviat
Ring Cycle
Washington National Opera may have put on Moby-Dick two years ago, but the Ring Cycle is its white whale. The company tried to stage a complete production of Wagner’s monster four-opera series over a period of three years starting in 2006. They got three-quarters of the way through before running out of money and never fully staged the last one, Götterdämmerung. Francesca Zambello, who directed the aborted “American” Ring for WNO before putting on the whole thing in San Francisco, was brought back to D.C. with a mandate to finish what she started. She’s taken the artistic helm of the company with considerable success, putting on eye-popping contemporary operas like Florencia in the Amazon. But Ring is what WNO desperately wants to do, if only to say they’ve done it. For audience members, it can be an endurance test—18 hours of dragons, giants, and Wagner’s weird neopagan cosmovision spread out over four productions, beginning with The Rhinegold in April—but as a standard-bearer of the art form, it’s worth the slog—if only to say you’ve done it, too. April 30–May 22 at Kennedy Center Opera House. $75–$500. —MikePaarlberg
Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival The Kennedy Center’s Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival has reinvented itself in the past few years. Notice, for one thing, that it’s no longer called the Mary Lou Williams Women in Jazz Festival—the focus is still on female jazz artists, but the programmers wanted to give themselves a little leeway. In its 21st year, though, the “leeway” has gone to new lengths: The first of the festival’s two nights is less concert and more stage production. A Conversation With Mary Lou Williams, scripted by literary scholar Farah Jasmine Griffin and directed by Law & Order’s S. Epatha Merkerson, combines biographical sketches of Williams with a performance of her (still criminally overlooked) music by pianist Geri Allen, bassist Kenny Davis, drummer Kassa Overall, and vocalist Carmen Lundy (as Williams). The concerts are backloaded onto the festival’s second night, with sets by flutist Jane Bunnett with Cuban band Maqueue and drummer Allison Miller’s Tic Tic Boom. —Michael J. West May 13–14 at Kennedy Center Terrace Theater. $38. 18 february 12, 2016 washingtoncitypaper.com
murrAy perAhiA, piAno music Center at Strathmore. 4 p.m. $65–$100.
5.2 Monday umd perCussion ensemble ConCert Clarice Smith performing Arts Center. 8 p.m. Free.
5.3 tueSday bon Qui Qui, group 1 Crew presented by AnJelAh Johnson Warner theatre. 8 p.m. $32. yefim bronfmAn, piAno Library of Congress. 8 p.m. Free.
5.4 WedneSday bAne, boy sets fire DC9. 7 p.m. $20. filter, orgy, vAmpires everywhere, deAth vAlley high Howard theatre. 6:30 p.m. $22.50–$60.
5.5 thurSday Arturo sAndovAl blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $50–$55. mAtthew logAn vAsQuez of deltA spirit, dustin lovelis DC9. 9 p.m. $15.
itzhAk perlmAn, violin And emAnuel Ax, piAno Kennedy Center Concert Hall. 7 p.m. $60–$135.
5.11 WedneSday boyCe Avenue Fillmore Silver Spring. 7 p.m. $25. iris dement & loudon wAinwright iii birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $39.50.
5.12 thurSday nAtionAl symphony orChestrA: JAmes mACmillAn, ConduCtor, AlbAn gerhArdt, Cello Kennedy Center. 7 p.m. $15–$89.
5.13 Friday bAltimore symphony orChestrA: off the Cuff, beethoven’s emperor with John AdAms, ConduCtor Jeremy denk, piAno music Center at Strathmore. 8:15 p.m. $35–$99. domingues & kAne martin Luther King Jr. memorial Library. 12 p.m. Free. nAtionAl symphony orChestrA: JAmes mACmillAn, ConduCtor, AlbAn gerhArdt, Cello Kennedy Center. 8 p.m. $15–$89.
woods rock & roll Hotel. 8 p.m. $13–$15.
rené mArie, voCAlist montpelier Arts Center. 8 p.m. $30.
5.6 Friday
5.14 Saturday
Arturo sAndovAl blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $50–$55. big g & bACkyArd bAnd birthdAy bAsh Howard theatre. 11 p.m. $40–$50. nAtionAl symphony orChestrA: Andrew litton, ConduCtor, vAdim gluzmAn, violin Kennedy Center. 8 p.m. $15–$89.
5.7 Saturday AlexAndriA symphony performs CoplAnd, gershwin, kluge & kluge, And zimmer the Schlesinger Center at NOVA Community College, Alexandria Campus. 8 p.m. $5–$80.
nAtionAl symphony orChestrA: JAmes mACmillAn, ConduCtor, AlbAn gerhArdt, Cello Kennedy Center. 8 p.m. $15–$89. rené mArie, voCAlist montpelier Arts Center. 5 p.m. $30. strAthmore AnnuAl spring gAlA with pAtinA miller music Center at Strathmore. 9 p.m. $40–$85. the zombies robert e. parilla performing Arts Center. 7:30 p.m. $16–$37.
5.15 Sunday
Arturo sAndovAl blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $50–$55.
the Avett brothers eaglebank Arena. 7:30 p.m. $39.50–$55.
JAson AldeAn, thomAs rhett, A thousAnd horses merriweather post pavilion. 7:30 p.m. $55–$75.
CAthedrAl ChorAl soCiety: fAntAstiC beethoven Washington National Cathedral. 4 p.m. $25–$77.
Jerry Jeff wAlker birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $65.
sweet honey in the roCk birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $39.50.
nAtionAl symphony orChestrA: Andrew litton, ConduCtor, vAdim gluzmAn, violin Kennedy Center. 8 p.m. $15–$89.
5.8 Sunday Arturo sAndovAl blues Alley. 8 p.m., 10 p.m. $50–$55. mother’s dAy CelebrAtion feAturing dAmien esCobAr Howard theatre. 8 p.m. $49.50–$100.
5.9 Monday låpsley U Street music Hall. 7 p.m. $15.
5.10 tueSday bAbymetAl Fillmore Silver Spring. 8:30 p.m. $37.50.
5.17 tueSday AdiA viCtoriA DC9. 9 p.m. $12. flAtbush zombies, A$Ap twelvyy, remy bAnks Fillmore Silver Spring. 8 p.m. $25.
5.18 WedneSday strAwbs Amp by Strathmore. 8 p.m. $30–$40.
5.19 thurSday kenny Chesney merriweather post pavilion. 7:30 p.m. $50–$691.50. ottmAr liebert birchmere. 7:30 p.m. $35. todd mArCus Quintet mansion at Strathmore. 7:30 p.m. $30.
9:30 club 815 V St. NW. (202) 265-0930. 930.com amp by strathmore 11810 Grand park Ave., North bethesda. (301) 581-5100. ampbystrathmore.com atlas performing arts center 1333 H St. Ne. (202) 399-7993. atlasarts.org austrian cultural Forum 3524 International Court NW. acfdc.org Barns at wolf trap 1635 trap road, Vienna. (703) 255-1900. wolftrap.org Bethesda Blues and Jazz 7719 Wisconsin Ave., bethesda. (240) 330-4500. bethesdabluesjazz.com Birchmere 3701 mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. (703) 549-7500. birchmere.com Black cat 1811 14th St. NW. (202) 667-4490. blackcatdc.com Blues alley 1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 337-4141. bluesalley.com Bohemian caverns 2001 11th St. NW. (202) 299-0800. bohemiancaverns.com Bossa Bistro 2463 18th St. NW. (202) 667-0088. bossadc.com catholic University of america 620 michigan Ave. Ne. (202) 319-5000. cua.edu church of the epiphany 1317 G St. NW. (202) 347-2635. epiphanydc.org clarice smith performing arts center Stadium Drive and route 193, College park. (301) 405-2787. theclarice.umd.edu comet ping pong 5037 Connecticut Ave. NW. (202) 364-0404. cometpingpong.com Dance place 3225 8th St. Ne. (202) 269-1600. danceplace.org Dar constitution hall 1776 D St. NW. (202) 628-4780. dar.org Davis performing arts center at georgetown University 3700 O St. NW. (202) 687-3838. performingarts.georgetown.edu
Dc9 1940 9th St. NW. (202) 483-5000. dcnine.com
Kennedy center 2700 F St. NW. (202) 467-4600. kennedy-center.org
the schlesinger center at noVa com-
eagle Bank arena 4500 patriot Circle, Fairfax. (703) 993-3000. eaglebankarena.com
Library of congress 101 Independence Ave. Se. (202) 707-5000. loc.gov
3001 N. beauregard St., Alexandria.
echostage 2135 Queens Chapel road Ne. (202) 503-2330. echostage.com
Lincoln theatre 1215 U St. NW. (202) 328-6000. thelincolndc.com
sixth & i historic synagogue
Fillmore silver spring 8656 Colesville road, Silver Spring. (301) 960-9999. fillmoresilverspring.com
Logan Fringe arts space 1358 Florida Ave. Ne. (202) 737-7230. capitalfringe.org
songbyrd music house and record cafe
Flash 645 Florida Ave. NW. (202) 827-8791. flashdc.com
madam’s organ 2461 18th St. NW. (202) 667-5370. madamsorgan.com
songbyrddc.com
galaxy hut 2711 Wilson blvd., Arlington. (703) 525-8646. galaxyhut.com
mansion at strathmore 10701 rockville pike, rockville. (301) 581-5100. strathmore.org
220 N. Washington St., Falls Church.
george mason University center for the arts 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. (703) 993-2787. cfa.gmu.edu
martin Luther King Jr. memorial Library 901 G St. NW. (202) 727-0321. dclibrary.org/mlk
tropicalia
george washington masonic national memorial 101 Callahan Drive, Alexandria. (703) 683-2007. gwmemorial.org
munity college, alexandria campus (703) 845-6156. nvcc.edu/schlesingercenter
600 I St. NW. (202) 408-3100. sixthandi.org
2477 18th St. NW. (202) 450-2917.
state theatre (703) 237-0300. thestatetheatre.com
merriweather post pavilion 10475 Little patuxent parkway, Columbia. (410) 715-5550. merriweathermusic.com
gw Lisner auditorium 730 21st St. NW. (202) 994-6800. lisner.gwu.edu
montgomery college cultural arts center 7995 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring. (240) 567-1300. cms.montgomerycollege.edu
gypsy sally’s 3401 K St. NW. (202) 333-7700. gypsysallys.com
montpelier arts center 9652 muirkirk road, Laurel. (301) 377-7800. arts.pgparks.com
the hamilton 600 14th St. NW. (202) 787-1000. thehamiltondc.com
mr. henry’s 601 pennsylvania Ave. Se. (202) 546-8412. mrhenrysdc.com
hill center at the old naval hospital 921 pennsylvania Ave. Se. (202) 549-4172. hillcenterdc.org
music center at strathmore 5301 tuckerman Lane, bethesda. (301) 581-5100. strathmore.org
hill country Live 410 7th St. NW. (202) 556-2050. hillcountrywdc.com
national gallery of art 6th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. (202) 737-4215. nga.gov
howard theatre 620 t St. NW. (202) 803-2899. thehowardtheatre.com
national presbyterian church 4101 Nebraska Ave. NW. (202) 429-2121. nationalpres.org
hylton performing arts center 10960 George mason Circle, manassas. (703) 993-7759. hyltoncenter.org
phillips collection 1600 21st St. NW. (202) 387-2151. phillipscollection.org
iota club & café 2832 Wilson blvd., Arlington. (703) 522-8340. iotaclubandcafe.com
robert e. parilla performing arts center 51 mannakee St., rockville. (240) 567-5301. montgomerycollege.edu/pac
Jammin Java 227 maple Ave. east, Vienna. (703) 255-1566. jamminjava.com
rock & roll hotel 1353 H St. Ne. (202) 388-7625. rockandrollhoteldc.com
2001 14th St. NW. (202) 629-4535. tropicaliadc.com twins Jazz 1344 U St. NW. (202) 234-0072. twinsjazz.com U street music hall 1115 U St. NW. (202) 588-1880. ustreetmusichall.com Velvet Lounge 915 U St. NW. (202) 462-3213. velvetloungedc.com Verizon center 601 F St. NW. (202) 628-3200. verizoncenter.com Villain & saint 7141 Wisconsin Ave., bethesda. (240) 800-4700. villainandsaint.com warner theatre 513 13th St. NW. (202) 783-4000. warnertheatredc.com washington national cathedral 3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 537-6200. nationalcathedral.org
washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 19
Feb 23 CAPTURING THE WORLD
Tue • 7:30 PM Enjoy an inspiring evening with award-winning National
Geographic photographer John Stanmeyer as he takes you on a journey of visual storytelling.
Mar 8 ANIMAL STORM SQUAD
Tue • 7:30 PM Karissa Hadden, veterinary assistant and host of a new Nat Geo
WILD series, shares tales from her work rescuing injured pets and wild animals.
Apr 11 ALMOST HUMAN
HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR NEW SEASON!
Mon • 7:30 PM Scientist and Nat Geo Explorer-in-Residence Lee Berger recounts
the discovery of Homo naledi, a discovery that is changing our understanding of the human story.
May 31 LIFE ON THE VERTICAL
Tue • 7:30 PM Join climber Mark Synnott for an evening of superb storytelling
and spectacular imagery as he shares his life’s mission: to seek out and climb the world’s largest and most remote big walls.
MARK SYNNOTT
Jun 2 THE ILIAD: AN EPIC RENDITION
Ticketts star at $25
Thu • 7:30 PM Join renowned author Caroline Alexander for dramatic readings
and lively discussion around one of the oldest stories ever told: Homer’s Iliad.
17th & M Streets | Metros: Farragut N & W
202.857.7700
| natgeolive.org/dc
ONE MAN. 5,000+ SPECIES.
ONE CRITICAL MISSION. EXHIBITION OPEN THROUGH APRIL 10
LEARN MORE AT NATGEOMUSEUM.ORG FARRAGUT NORTH
20 february 12, 2016 washingtoncitypaper.com
FARRAGUT WEST
17TH & M STREETS NW WASHINGTON, D.C.
AND GALLERIES OngOing Alex l. Porter And MArC robArge Local artist porter presents ink drawings of tree branches; robarge shows sculptures inspired by natural forms like leaves, moss, and wood. Hillyer Art Space. Feb. 5–Feb. 27.
“Martin Puryear: Multiple dimensions” at smithsonian American Art Museum, May 27 to sept. 5
All MeMbers members whose work has never appeared at the gallery present new pieces. Foundry Gallery. Feb. 3–Feb. 28. belize 35 Celebrate the 35th anniversary of belize’s independence from britain with this new exhibit, a collaboration between sculptor Santiago Cal and photojournalist Karl Villanueva. Among the featured pieces are a work depicting prime minister George Cadle price along with items of national significance, as well as images Villa captured on Sept. 21, 1981, belize’s Independence Day. Art museum of the Americas. Feb. 11–march 13. exCellenCe in PrintMAking the printmaking programs at four local institutions are celebrated in this exhibition that highlights many techniques and new talents. Washington printmakers Gallery. Feb. 3–Feb. 27. Helen FrederiCk the acclaimed printmaker, who created pyramid Atlantic, presents a selection of new work. Hillyer Art Space. Feb. 5–Feb. 27. Helen FrederiCk: ACts oF silenCe Local artist Frederick uses her work to comment on the degradation of the environment and juxtaposes her paintings and pulp prints with the work of American artist morris Graves in this latest exhibit in the phillips Collection’s “Intersections” series. phillips Collection. Feb. 4–may 1. MArket syMPHony Nigerian artist emeka Ogboh presents this sound art piece that captures the voices and noises of Lagos’ balogun open-air market and recreates them in the quiet confines of an indoor gallery. National museum of African Art. Feb. 3–may 15. niCole FAll the ceramic artist, a D.C. native, presents works that explore the life cycle and themes of rebirth. Hillyer Art Space. Feb. 5–Feb. 27. PHoto Ark this special exhibition features portraits of some of the planet’s rarest animals and encourages visitors to learn more about species conservation. National Geographic museum. through April 10. PriM@s Nao bustamante and marcus Kuiland-Nazario present multimedia and sculptural works inspired by mexican history and popular culture. transformer Gallery. Feb. 4–march 5. QuArtet nouveAu Four artists who joined Foundry Gallery last year—Ann pickett, Charlene Nield, becky S. Kim, and patrick murphy—present their recent work. Foundry Gallery. Feb. 3–Feb. 28. relAxed stAtes Artist Sally Kauffman showcases a series of paintings that highlight abstracted versions of human forms. Studio Gallery. Feb. 3–Feb. 27.
washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 21
seeing nAture: lAndsCAPe MAsterworks FroM tHe PAul g. Allen FAMily ColleCtion Nearly 40 paintings created over the course of 500 years make up the bulk of this exhibition dedicated to landscape works and how they’ve changed over time. the pieces come from the collection of microsoft co-founder paul G. Allen. phillips Collection. Feb. 6–may 8. sHAPes oF Fluidity Artist Athena tacha creates sculptures from natural materials, including shells and feathers, and photo collages meant to capture the feel of certain locations. marsha mateyka Gallery. Feb. 4–march 19. susPended AniMAtion Computer animation is celebrated and studied in this new show that features work by six artists who use digitally generated images in their work: ed Atkins, Antoine Catala, Ian Cheng, Josh Kline, Helen marten, and Agnieszka polska. Hirshhorn museum and Sculpture Garden. Feb. 10–Jan. 8, 2017.
on display show this transition. National Gallery of Art. Feb. 22–June 3.
Carolina’s middleton plantation and texas’ Fountain place. National building museum. Feb. 20–Sept. 5.
kesHA bruCe the France-based painter debuts a new mixed-media work at the Adams morgan gallery. morton Fine Art. Feb. 26–march 17.
nArA PArk And dAne winkler New work by sculptors park, who creates work that resembles natural surroundings, and Winkler, who works with wood and other earthy materials. Hamiltonian Gallery. Feb. 20–march 26.
konstAntin MAkovsky: tHe tsAr’s PAinter 19th-century russia comes alive in this exhibition that features makovsky’s “A boyar Wedding Feast” as well as garments, headdresses, and intricate silver and ivory objects from the Hillwood’s collection. Hillwood estate, museum & Gardens. Feb. 13–June 12. luMinous lAndsCAPes: PHotogrAPHs by AlAn wArd In these black and white images, landscape photographer Alan Ward focuses on the textures and materials that make up locations around the nation, from D.C.’s Dumbarton Oaks to South
neCessArily invisible rachel Hamel presents small structural paintings related to the themes of home, landscape, and displacement. VisArts. Feb. 19–march 20. A new Moon rises See 61 new images from the Lunar reconnaissance Orbiter Camera, which has spent the past six years capturing the moon’s landscape, from mountains to valleys and pole to pole, in this new exhibit that captures the satellite’s grandeur. National Air and Space museum. Feb. 26–Dec. 31.
wHAt A tiMe to be Alive maya Fletcher and Iwan bagus curate this photo exhibition celebrating black History month that looks to the 1970s for inspiration. Studio Gallery. Feb. 3–Feb. 27.
“Power and Pathos: Bronze Sculpture of the Hellenistic World”
wings FroM CHinA this open exhibition invites artists to present work that comments on women’s role in society in the past, present, and future. Athenaeum. Feb. 4–march 13.
February #tHisiswHyiMsingle Artists Dafna Steinberg, Jennifer towner, and Jenny Walton channel their experiences with social media and online dating into the art shown in this exhibit that celebrates the many ways women express themselves online and in person. Flashpoint Gallery. Feb. 20–march 19. CrAnes in Motion Artist and filmmaker Cathy Cook, who’s always had an interest in birds, turns her attention to cranes in this exhibition that encourages viewers to learn more about the the species and how we relate to them within a shared ecosystem. VisArts. Feb. 26–April 24. destroy And CreAte A variety of artists decorate and design halfpipe models in this exhibition from boundless brooklyn that celebrates the “Skate and Destroy” culture. blind Whino. Feb. 20–march 20. FeAtHered the movements of birds are celebrated in this exhibition showcasing the work of 20th century printmakers Frank W. benson, H. emerson tuttle, and Stow Wengenroth. Old print Gallery. Feb. 13–April 9. FlorA oF tHe nAtionAl PArks timed to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the National park Service, this new exhibit showcases the many types of plants and flowers seen in parks around the country. United States botanic Garden. Feb. 18–Oct. 2. HeArt oF An eMPire: HerzFeld’s disCovery oF PAsArgAdAe the German explorer’s discovery of the first capital of the Achaemenid persian empire and the final resting place of Cyrus the Great is examined in this exhibit, which features notes, drawings, and photographs from Herzfeld’s multiple visits to the Iranian city. Arthur m. Sackler Gallery. Feb. 13–July 31. idle tiMe Artist Henry bagato presents this exhibition that comments on the push and pull of D.C.’s rapid gentrification. the Fridge. Feb. 13–Feb. 28. tHe interseCtion oF CoMMerCe And instruCtion in Art the latest exhibit in the National Gallery’s library explores how art has overlapped with education and money over time, from long ago eras, when artists had to create their own materials, to periods after the Industrial revolution when paints and canvases became much more easily accessible. books, catalogs, and instruction manuals
“Maxwell MacKenzie: Going Deep”
Maxwell MacKenzie’s photographs of tumbledown barns and other largely abandoned buildings in the upper Midwest have always been about the passage of time—peeling paint, missing windows, and sagging beams. Now, in the exhibition “Going Deep: Exploring the Melancholy Beauty in the Midwest over 35 Years,” his images are doubly about the passage of time: Taking a page from William Christenberry, MacKenzie’s exhibit includes before-and-after images of some of his favorite locations, such as the little building in Everts Township, Minn., with a fresh coat of red paint amid a field of golden wheat in the 1980s but in later renderings with a window in increasing states of disrepair. For this critic, the exhibition will be thrice about the passage of time: A review of MacKenzie’s “Abandonings West: Black & White Panoramic Photographs of the Dakotas, Idaho, Montana & Minnesota” was my first major photography assignment for City Paper, more than 16 years ago. —Louis Jacobson Through March 31 at Cross MacKenzie Gallery. Free.
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Even for those not particularly interested in any art before Picasso, the traveling exhibition of Hellenistic sculpture at the National Gallery of Art does not fail to impress upon the viewer the skill, ingenuity, and interconnectedness of the Ancient World. Hellenistic refers to the spread of Greek culture, particularly its art, following the conquests of Alexander the Great and continuing with Roman admiration and downright forgery. Rome got its Grecophile fix with cheaper marble copies, which we’ve come to broadly recognize as “classical” sculpture. But bronze was the medium of currency for centuries, the technique of casting and the Greek perfection of form and expression spread throughout the Mediterranean. Lost at sea, melted down for weapons, toppled along with leaders, bronzes that had proliferated in the thousands have been whittled down to a sparse 200 works left in the world, 50 of which are shown here. Truly a once in a lifetime exhibition, it leaves viewers astonished by a striving for perfection intrinsic to the Greeks, who forged not only bronze but the foundations of Western culture. Through March 20 at the National Gal—Erin C. Devine lery of Art. Free.
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no MountAins in tHe wAy Originally presented in 1975, this exhibition features work by Jim enyeart, terry evans, and Larry Schwarm, who drove across Kansas to chronicle its people, buildings, and landscape using funds from the National endowment for the Humanities. Now a part of the Smithsonian American Art museum’s permanent collection, 63 prints from this series are displayed to mark the 40th anniversary of this important work. Smithsonian American Art museum. Feb. 26–July 31.
liFe in one CubiC Foot While one cubic foot doesn’t seem like a lot of space, this new exhibit explores the many organisms that can be found living in biocubes in the sea and how our treatment of the planet will affect the things we see. National museum of Natural History. march 4–Dec. 31. linA AlAttAr the local abstract painter presents a series of new work. Hillyer Art Space. march 6–march 27. newly Juried Artists oF tHe tFAA New members of the torpedo Factory Artists’ Association display work in a variety of mediums at this exhibition. target Gallery at torpedo Factory. march 26–April 10.
tHe norie AtlAs And tHe guAno trAde See the atlas belonging to the acclaimed chart maker and mathematician alongside models of American clipper ships and maps showing the American guano trade, in which many of those ships participated, in this new exhibition in the museum’s documents gallery. National museum of American History. Feb. 12–Feb. 12, 2017.
no sHArPs, no FlAts Alex braden, emily Francisco, and Adam richard Nelson Hughes showcase a sculpture created from 30 cassette players. each system plays a piece of original music, allowing the audience to experience different arrangements over the course of the exhibit. transformer Gallery. march 26–April 30.
orCHids in FoCus the world’s largest plant family (and the USbG’s largest collection) is on display in this new exhibition that celebrates the colorful and bright flowers found on six of the seven continents. United States botanic Garden. Feb. 27–April 17.
oils And enCAustiCs Local artist Georgia Nassikas uses wax from her own honeybees and oil paints to create bright landscapes and untraditional pieces. Athenaeum. march 17–April 24.
PAn-AMeriCAn student Art exHibition Work from students in nations throughout the Americas is displayed in this exhibit of posters. Winning pieces will be displayed on banners displayed on Kansas City’s Grand boulevard of the Americas. Art museum of the Americas F Street Gallery. Feb. 17–April 8.
outwin booCHever PortrAit CoMPetition About 50 finalists from this competition display their work at the portrait Gallery’s exhibit. the winner, who will create a portrait for the museum’s permanent collection, is named at the show’s opening. National portrait Gallery. march 12–Jan. 8, 2017.
streets For everMore Artist erick Johnson comments on the urban environments he encounters in this exhibition of ink drawings and paintings. Gallery Neptune and brown. Feb. 27–march 26. tAkeFuMi Hori the Japanese artist, now based in brooklyn, presents works that combine basic shapes with gold paint. Long View Gallery. Feb. 18–march 20. you And Me, you And i Artist Calla thompson displays a series of tableaus that focus on how power is exchanged and what dissent means in our culture. VisArts. Feb. 26–April 10.
March 47tH AnnuAl lAurel Art guild Juried exHibition Local artists submit paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photos to this yearly juried exhibition. montpelier Arts Center. march 6–march 28. Alex keto the local photographer showcases a series of images printed on metallic paper as well as collages. Washington printmakers Gallery. march 30–April 23. AMending AMeriCA the latest exhibition at the Archives’ Lawrence F. O’brien Gallery focuses on amendments to the U.S. Constitution and explains why some have become laws while others have withered without being adopted. National Archives. march 11–Sept. 4, 2017. APPetite For Art Artists present a variety of works centered around the theme of food at this exhibition presented by the Capitol Hill Arts League. Capitol Hill Arts Workshop. march 5–April 15. Figure 8 Plus 1 eight painters and one sculptor present work that examines the human body in all its forms as part of this group exhibit. touchstone Gallery. march 4–march 27. FourtH AnnuAl Artists on tHe rise: Juried teen exHibition Artists between the age of 13 and 18 showcase their work in this yearly showcase that celebrates young artists from the D.C. area. montpelier Arts Center. march 10–march 28. tHe lAte style University of maryland students work with brentwood Arts exchange staff to create this exhibition featuring work by senior artists who come to art late in life. brentwood Arts exchange. march 28–may 28.
“No Mountains in the Way” To the extent that anyone associates the National Endowment for the Arts with photography, it’s probably for the 1989 Robert Mapplethorpe exhibit at the Corcoran Gallery of Art that caused an enormous culture-wars hubbub. But a decade and a half before that, the NEA funded a far less controversial photographic project that is now being re-exhibited for a new generation. With a grant of just $5,000, the federal agency sponsored “No Mountains in the Way,” a project to document the architecture, landscape, and people of Kansas. Jim Enyeart, then the curator of photography at the University of Kansas Museum of Art, took part in the project, along with Kansas natives Terry Evans and Larry Schwarm. The Kansas effort proved to be enough of a success that between 1976 and 1981, the NEA handed out similar grants to more than 100 regional photographers across the country. The Smithsonian American Art Museum eventually became the repository of the Kansas project’s 120 photographs, and of these, 63 vintage prints will be part of the new exhibit. Feb. —Louis Jacobson 26–July 31 at Smithsonian American Art Museum. Free.
“Turquoise Mountain”
“Turquoise Mountain” at the Sackler Gallery sounds a bit like a throwback to ethnographic exhibitions from a century ago: The museum plans to create a replica of Old Kabul in which living, breathing artisans from Afghanistan will be on display, demonstrating their skills. Yet the show is only a sampling of an even more ambitious historical recreation. Since 2006, the Turquoise Mountain Foundation, a Kabul-based British NGO, has tried to erase the changes wrought by Taliban, mujaheddin, and Soviet control in the Murad Khani historic area. The foundation has built up infrastructure, restored historic buildings, and revived traditional crafts and culture—including jewelry making, which was forbidden by the Taliban. “Turquoise Mountain” will feature architectural fragments, photographs, and videos highlighting the work of artists who continue to struggle with threats of violence and terror in a rapidly changing city. March 5–Jan. 29, 2017 at the Arthur M. —Jeffry Cudlin Sackler Gallery. Free.
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ryAn MCCoy the local artist attempts to capture certain moments on his canvases using unconventional materials, including ash, pine needles, and baby powder. Long View Gallery. march 25–April 24. syMboliC Cities: tHe Art oF AHMed MAter the Saudi Arabian artist creates contemporary images of his homeland and presents his work in this first American exhibition. Arthur m. Sackler Gallery. march 19–Sept. 18. turQuoise MountAins: Artists trAnsForMing AFgHAnistAn Since 2006, turquoise mountain, an art organization founded by the prince of Wales and the president of Afghanistan, has helped turn an abandoned section of Old Kabul into a thriving cultural district. this exhibit celebrates the artists and artisans whose jewelry, woodwork, and ceramics are created with support from the organization. Arthur m. Sackler Gallery. march 5–Jan. 29, 2017. tyPeCAst Curator Jarvis Dubois juries this exhibition of work focused on the theme of identity. Hillyer Art Space. march 4–march 26.
april AlwAys into now Artist Lisa Kellner presents a painting that takes over the entire gallery and immerses the viewer in the experience. target Gallery at torpedo Factory. April 16–may 29. AMeriCA’s sHAkesPeAre explore how Americans have embraced Shakespeare’s words and created our own original works based on his source material in this new exhibition tied to the 400th anniversary of the bard’s death. Folger Shakespeare Library. April 7–July 24. CHristinA sHMigel New sculptural work by the American artist, now the resident artist at the Duolun museum of modern Art in Shanghai. Hillyer Art Space. April 1–April 30. CiAnne FrAgione And setH Adelsberger Fragione creates a series of assemblages using paper, paint, and textiles that chronicle her childhood experiences. Adelsberger presents a series of paintings and prints made using unconventional materials. montpelier Arts Center. April 9–April 29. Cnn PolitiCs CAMPAign 2016: like, sHAre, eleCt Learn about the 2016 election in real time
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The exhibition is co-organized by Portland Art Museum, Seattle Art Museum, and the Paul G. Allen Family Collection.
Georgia O’Keeffe
This exhibition is supported by an indemnity from the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities.
Gerhard Richter Ed Ruscha John Singer Sargent Paul Signac
Vulcan Inc. has also provided generous in-kind support. Additional in-kind support is provided by
J. M. W. Turner Thomas Moran, Grand Canyon of Arizona at Sunset, 1909. Oil on canvas, 30 x 40 in. Paul G. Allen Family Collection
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at this exhibit that allows visitors to post messages, determine their ideal candidate, and make predictions about the upcoming races. Newseum. April 15–Nov. 6. do you know wHere your Art CoMes FroM? In the third exhibition in this series, Victoria reis, executive and artistic director of transformer, and tim Doud, associate professor of art at American University, highlight the work of artists and organizers at elsewhere, a living museum located in a former North Carolina thrift store. Katzen Arts Center at American University. April 2–may 29. doMinie nAsH Nash uses layers of fabrics to create the collage-like works. montpelier Arts Center. April 9–may 29.
“The Outwin 2016: American Portraiture Today” The 43 pieces that encompass this juried exhibition, held every three years and named for benefactor Virginia Outwin Boochever, cover the broad range of contemporary portraiture. Amongst these works are various sculptures, photographs, paintings, and even mixed-media pieces. As such, the small selection from the more than 2,500 entries to the portrait competition demonstrates the growth in our collective under—Jerome Langston standing of what constitutes a portrait. March 12–Jan. 8, 2017 at National Portrait Gallery. Free.
First yeAr MFA And MFA tHesis exHibitions Current students display completed works and works-in-progress in this annual exhibition. Katzen Arts Center at American University. April 2–may 29. tHe gAP Judith Seligson presents a wide variety of works, including hard-edged oil paintings, digital prints, and text collages. Athenaeum. April 28–June 5. giAn gAroFAlo the artist, who frequently showcases his work at Long View, creates striped works by dripping resin across canvases and boxes. Long View Gallery. April 28–may 29. HeloisA esCudero the brazilian artist presents conceptual and tactile works. Hillyer Art Space. April 1–April 30. Hollywood And tiMe: Celebrity Covers the original portraits of Time cover subjects, including elizabeth taylor, marlon brando, paul Newman, and Diane Keaton, are presented in this exhibition culled from the museum’s collection. National portrait Gallery. April 1–Oct. 2. irene sylvester the local artist continues her exploration of space in this series of abstract works. montpelier Arts Center. April 3–April 24. kevin MACdonAld Local artist macDonald became known for his pastel and oil paintings of daily scenes. Now, 10 years after his death, his work is celebrated with a retrospective at American University. Katzen Arts Center at American University. April 2–may 29. less is More Artist Judith Kornett presents a series of sculptures that focus on themes of peacefulness and anti-violence. montpelier Arts Center. April 30–may 22. nAte lewis And Andrei Petrov Lewis, a selftaught artist and critical care nurse, presents works inspired by human anatomy. petrov showcases abstract paintings inspired by his ongoing trouble with memory. morton Fine Art. April 8–April 27. nAturAl ConneCtion Artists Gabriel Jules and Nina muys display prints inspired by the wildlife and plants they see from their waterfront homes. Washington printmakers Gallery. April 27–may 28. no Joke philadelphia-based artist Sascha HughesCaley presents a new recorded performance piece. Hillyer Art Space. April 1–April 30. PAinting witH words: gentleMAn Artists oF tHe Ming dynAsty this new exhibition celebrates members of the Wu School, poets, painters, and calligraphists with work from the Freer’s permanent collection as well as pieces from museums around the world. Arthur m. Sackler Gallery. April 16–July 24. robert irwin: All tHe rules will CHAnge the Hirshhorn hosts the first major retrospective of the American postwar era held outside California since 1977, highlighting Irwin’s work between 1958 and 1970, a period when he moved from small abstract works to larger discs and columns. It culminates in a new installation for the museum that responds to its unique architecture. Hirshhorn museum and Sculpture Garden. April 7–Sept. 5.
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TRENDING: CONTEMPORARY ART NOW! • JANUARY 23 - FEBRUARY 28 WCA and Target Gallery team up to exhibit contemporary works by women artists
MARCH150: 6TH ANNUAL EXHIBITION FUNDRAISER • MARCH 5 - 20 Our annual fundraiser, featuring 200+ artworks by local artists, only $150 each
LISA KELLNER: ALWAYS INTO NOW • APRIL 16 - MAY 29
Maine-based artist Lisa Kellner transforms the gallery into an immersive Painting in Space
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“Robert Irwin: All the Rules Will Change”
If you like going to museums to have an emotional experience, Robert Irwin is your man. Years before the installation trend blew up (“Wonder” at the Renwick is a perfect example), a number of California-based artists in the 1960s played with the ideas of light and perception, creating minimalist installations that completely altered the atmosphere and mood of a room, often through subtle changes in lighting. Aptly named the California Light and Space movement, artists included Robert Irwin, John McLaughlin, Bruce Nauman, and James Turrell. This spring, the Hirshhorn presents the first museum survey devoted to Irwin’s work from that pivotal period in the 1960s, as well as the first U.S. museum survey outside of the artist’s native California since 1977. As an added bonus, Irwin has created a whole new installation especially for the Hirshhorn. April 7–Sept. 5 at the Hirshhorn Museum. Free. —Elena Goukassian
“robert irwin: All the rules will Change” at Hirshhorn Museum and sculpture garden, April 7–sept. 5
sound oF butterFly Artist Soomin Ham’s ongoing project, which includes photos of items belonging to her mother and old photos that haven been washed, frozen, and otherwise distressed, comments on the ways we process and experience grief. Flashpoint Gallery. April 2–April 30. stories oF MigrAtion: ConteMPorAry Artists interPret diAsPorA Forty-four invited artists present work that tells unique tales of moving around the world and how they relate to current events in this juried exhibition. the George Washington University museum and textile museum. April 16–Sept. 4. twisted teenAge Plot presented in conjunction with the Kevin macDonald show, this exhibition looks at artists who also performed in local bands including robin rose, Joe White, michael reidy, and macDonald. Katzen Arts Center at American University. April 2–may 29. tHree Centuries oF AMeriCAn Prints FroM tHe nAtionAl gAllery oF Art As part of the gallery’s 75th anniversary celebration, this exhibition highlights prints from the museum’s permanent collection, from John Simon’s 1710 print “Four Indian Kings” to Kara Walker’s 2010 work “no world.” National Gallery of Art. April 3–July 24.
May in CelebrAtion oF PAul Mellon more than 90 pieces donated to the museum by the acclaimed collector are displayed at this exhibition presented in conjunction with the gallery’s 75th anniversary. National Gallery of Art. may 8–Sept. 18. MArtin PuryeAr: MultiPle diMensions Craftsman and sculptor puryear presents a wide variety of pieces that incorporate the traditions of places he’s spent time, including Scandinavia and West Africa. Smithsonian American Art museum. may 27–Sept. 5. senses oF tiMe: video- And FilM-bAsed works oF AFriCA Video work by Sammy baloji, theo eshetu, moataz Nasr, berni Searle, Yinka Shonibare, and Sue Williamson is presented in this exhibition that celebrates African artists working in the film field and asks each participant to consider how time is measured and understood. National museum of African Art. may 18–Dec. 31. try And try AgAin this sculptural installation
wendy gArner New landscape paintings by local artist Garner. Cross mackenzie Gallery. April 1–April 30.
by artist brian Davis turns Flashpoint’s gallery into
williAM dunlAP: look At it—tHink About it Learn about the inner narratives Dunlap creates in his art in this exhibition of his intricate assemblages. Katzen Arts Center at American University. April 2–may 29.
vention. Flashpoint Gallery. may 7–June 4.
a self-contained world that includes projections of skyscrapers and structures that react to human inter-
williAM MACkinnon the Australian artist displays a new series of landscape paintings. morton Fine Art. may 13–June 2.
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“She Who Tells a Story: Women Photographers from Iran and the Arab World” “She Who Tells a Story: Women Photographers from Iran and the Arab World” features the work of 12 women artists using photography to tackle social codes, political issues, and gender identity. The show includes some traditional documentary photography, but many more of the images seem staged or surreal. Moroccan-born artist Lalla Essaydi’s triptych, “Bullets Revisited #3” (2012), for example, shows a dream-like space in which a female figure, her skin covered in Islamic calligraphy, reclines on a bed made of glittering bullet casings. In her series, “Today’s Life and War” (2008), Iranian photographer Gohar Dashti depicts a young married couple who seem to be hanging laundry and eating meals on a ruined battlefield from the Iran-Iraq War; tanks loom on the periphery. With more than 70 photos and one video installation, “She Who Tells a Story” scrambles past- and present-day Arab revolutions, and offers a complicated picture of what it means to be a contemporary woman artist in a Muslim country. April 8–July 31 at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. $10. —Jeffry Cudlin
addison/ripley Fine art 1670 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 338-5180. addisonripleyfineart.com
montpelier arts center 9652 muirkirk road, Laurel. (301) 377-7800. arts.pgparks.com
arlington arts center 3550 Wilson blvd., Arlington. (703) 248-6800. arlingtonartscenter.org
morton Fine art 1781 Florida Ave. NW. (202) 628-2787. mortonfineart.com
art museum of the americas 201 18th St. NW. (202) 458-6016. museum.oas.org
national air and space museum 700 Independence Ave. Se. (202) 633-2398. nasm.si.edu
arthur m. sackler gallery 1050 Independence Ave. SW. (202) 633-4880. asia.si.edu
national archives 700 pennsylvania Ave. NW. (202) 357-5000. archives.gov
athenaeum 201 prince St., Alexandria. (703) 548-0035. nvfaa.org
national Building museum 401 F St. NW. (202) 272-2448. nbm.org
Blind whino 734 First St. SW. (202) 554-0103. blindwhino.org Brentwood arts exchange 3901 rhode Island Ave., brentwood. (301) 277-2863. arts.pgparks.com
national gallery of art 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. (202) 737-4215. nga.gov national museum of african art 950 Independence Ave. SW. (202) 633-4600. africa.si.edu
capitol hill arts workshop 545 7th St. Se. (202) 547-6839. chaw.org
national museum of american history 14th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. (202) 633-1000. americanhistory.si.edu
cross mackenzie gallery 2026 r St. NW. (202) 333-7970. crossmackenzie.com
national museum of natural history 1000 Constitution Ave. NW. (202) 633-1000. mnh.si.edu
Flashpoint gallery 916 G St. NW. (202) 315-1305. culturaldc.org
national portrait gallery 8th and F streets NW. (202) 633-8300. npg.si.edu
Folger shakespeare Library 201 e. Capitol St. Se. (202) 544-7077. folger.edu
newseum 555 pennsylvania Ave. NW. (888) 639-7386. newseum.org
Foundry gallery 1314 18th St. NW. (202) 463â&#x20AC;&#x201C;0203. foundrygallery.org
phillips collection 1600 21st St. NW. (202) 387-2151. phillipscollection.org
the Fridge rear Alley, 516 8th St. Se. (202) 664-4151. thefridgedc.com
pleasant plains workshop 703 edgewood St. Ne #2. pleasantplainsworkshop.com
gallery neptune and Brown 1530 14th St. NW. (202) 986.1200. neptunefineart.com
smithsonian american art museum 8th and F streets NW. (202) 633-7970. americanart.si.edu
the george washington University museum and textile museum 701 21st St. NW. (202) 994-5200. museum.gwu.edu
studio gallery 2108 r St. NW. (202) 232-8734. studiogallerydc.com
hillwood estate, museum & gardens 4155 Linnean Ave. NW. (202) 686-5807. hillwoodmuseum.org hillyer art space 9 Hillyer Court NW. (202) 338-0680. hillyerartspace.org hirshhorn museum and sculpture garden 7th Street and Independence Avenue SW. (202) 633-4674. hirshhorn.si.edu honfleur gallery 1241 Good Hope road Se. (202) 365-8392. honfleurgallery.com Katzen arts center at american University 4400 massachusetts Ave. NW. (202) 885-2787. american.edu/cas/katzen Long View gallery 1234 9th St. NW. (202) 232-4788. longviewgallery.com
target gallery at torpedo Factory 105 N. Union St., Alexandria. (703) 838-4565. torpedofactory.org touchstone gallery 901 New York Ave. NW. (202) 347-2787. touchstonegallery.com transformer gallery 1404 p St. NW. (202) 483-1102. transformerdc.org Visarts 155 Gibbs St., rockville. (301) 315-8200. visartsatrockville.org Vivid solutions gallery 1231 Good Hope road Se. (202) 365-8392. vividsolutionsdc.com washington printmakers gallery 1641 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 669-1497. washingtonprintmakers.com Zenith gallery space 1111 pennsylvania Ave. NW. (202) 783-2963. zenithgallery.com washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 31
2015.2016 SEASON Director’s Cut
Andile Ndlovu by Dean Alexander
February 24–28, 2016
Stephen Mills’ Hamlet March 23–April 3, 2016
Carmina Burana and Balanchine’s
Theme and Variations April 13–17, 2016
Bowie & Queen
May 4–15, 2016
AND MORE! Coppélia: The Magical Toy Shop May 21–22, 2016
The Little Mermaid June 25–26, 2016
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Ayano Kimura & Andile Ndlovu by Dean Alexander
In collaboration with Imagination Stage
February
AND PERFORMANCE
MArIInsky BAllet the russian dance company performs choreographer marius petipa’s Raymonda, an intricate ballet based on a medieval legend. Kennedy Center Opera House. Feb. 23–26, Feb. 27, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Feb. 28, 1 p.m. $49–$225.
AtlAs IntersectIons FestIvAl performers from around the region congregate at Atlas to present a wide variety of work, from tap and flamenco dance performances to new theater pieces to circus acts, at this annual festival. Atlas performing Arts Center. Feb. 26–march 6. Various times. $20.
MArk MorrIs DAnce grouP the acclaimed contemporary dance company celebrates its 35th anniversary with an evening of pieces pulled from its expansive repertoire, including the D.C. premieres of “the” and “Whelm.” George mason University Center for the Arts. Feb. 19 and 20, 8 p.m. $29–$48.
Bowen MccAuley DAnce vAlentIne concert Celebrate Valentine’s Day with bowen mcCauley Dance. the company collaborates with the National Chamber ensemble to present moody and romantic pieces that relate to the holiday. rosslyn Spectrum theatre. Feb. 13, 7:30 p.m. $17–$33.
revIsIon DAnce coMPAny the local dance company honors its commitment to community engagement with a new piece choreographed by artistic director Shannon Quinn and artist Natty mncube. ben Levine contributes scenic, lighting, and multimedia design. Dance place. Feb. 20, 8 p.m., Feb. 21, 4 p.m. $15–$30.
contrA-tIeMPo the Los Angeles-based contemporary dance company performs Agua Furiosa, a work inspired by both Shakespeare’s The Tempest and the Afro-Cuban god of wind and storms that incorporates music from pyeng threadgill as well as the dancers’ own responses to the environment. Dance place. Feb. 13, 8 p.m., Feb. 14, 4 p.m. $15–$30. DAkshInA/DAnIel PhoenIx sIngh DAnce coMPAny In Mortal Tongues, Immortal Stories, the local dance company uses movement to comment on the history of the AIDS epidemic and current HIV treatment and infection rates. presented as part of the Atlas Intersections Festival. Atlas performing Arts Center. Feb. 27, 9 p.m., march 5, 1:30 p.m. $30. DAnA tAI soon Burgess DAnce coMPAny the local dance company presents another new work created at the portrait Gallery. The Foster Suite: The Remains of Loss and Longing takes inspiration from Civil War photographs in the “Dark Fields of the republic” exhibit. National portrait Gallery. Feb. 28, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Free. DIrector’s cut the Washington ballet performs works by choreographers William Forsythe, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, and Septime Webre that push the boundaries of contemporary ballet at this showcase. Kennedy Center eisenhower theater. Feb. 24–26, 7:30 p.m.; Feb. 27 and 28, 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. $30.50–$100. DIssonAnce DAnce theAtre the company performs Heads or Tails, a two-part presentation that combines classical and contemporary technique to explore the theme of personal connection. Atlas performing Arts Center. Feb. 28, 2 p.m. $30. MAIDA/AnnIkA: DAnce AnD PolItIcs Local choreographer maida Withers joins Danish choreographer Annika b. Lewis to perform and discuss art in the United States and europe at this casual gathering that celebrates creativity. Arts Club of Washington. Feb. 28, 1:30 p.m. Free.
shen yun PerForMIng Arts the Chinese dance and music company performs a new production that imagines China as a prehistorical heaven. Kennedy Center Opera House. Feb. 16–19, 7 p.m.; Feb. 20, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Feb. 21, 1 p.m. $60–$250.
Agua Furiosa In drought-stricken California, Los Angeles-based Contra-Tiempo has turned to water. The activist company, led by Artistic Director Ana Maria Alvarez, seeks to provoke conversations about social justice using dance theater influenced by Latin and Afro-Cuban movement and rhythm. Contra-Tiempo’s newest work uses Shakespeare’s The Tempest as a point of departure, but rather than producing an interpretation, Agua Furiosa creates an alternate narrative. The story centers on not one but four distinct Calibans, Shakespeare’s slave character, while his mother, the witch Sycorax, is reimagined as Ella or Oyá, the Afro-Cuban orisha who is the spirit of storms and water. Adding to the original play’s exploration of the issues of exile, slavery, family, and the environment, Contra-Tiempo’s contemporary perspective asks audiences to examine the connections between these issues, to confront race relations in America, and to consider issues of power and politics as they —Emily Walz play through water. Feb. 13–14 at Dance Place. $15-30.
New York City Ballet
soul In MotIon the company celebrates 32 years with a new piece, “Kpanlogo,” created by Ghanaian company members, and several other works celebrating the African diaspora. Joe’s movement emporium. Feb. 27, 8 p.m., Feb. 28, 7 p.m. $10–$25. wAsh over you Jane Franklin Dance presents this new piece about travelers moving along an unpredictable river as part of the Atlas Intersections Festival. Atlas performing Arts Center. Feb. 27, 4:30 p.m., march 5, 2 p.m. $20. worD DAnce theAter the dance company performs pieces originally created by martha Graham while responding to art from the merritt Gallery’s collection and poet rose Solari reads original work at this intimate celebration of the arts. merritt popUp Gallery. Feb. 26, 6 p.m. Free.
March
New York City Ballet’s week-long residency at the Kennedy Center has been a spring tradition for over a decade. The company will perform in repertory, so audiences can see different programs on different nights. For fans of classical ballet, one program is entirely a tribute to the 19th-century Danish choreographer August Bournonville. The other program includes pieces by NYCB legends: its co-founder George Balanchine, considered to be the father of American ballet, and Peter Martins, the company’s longtime ballet master-in-chief. Washingtonians can also be among the first to see Justin Peck’s The Most In-
AurA curIAtlAs PhysIcAl theAtre Aura Curiatlas considers ordinary situations in fantastical ways in the engaging collection of movement stories called Dream Logic. Atlas performing Arts Center. march 5 and 13, 7 p.m.; march 6, 5 p.m.; march 11, 8 p.m.; march 12, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. $20. Bloch’s evenIng wIth kAthryn MorgAn morgan, a former soloist with the New York City ballet, tells her life story through dance, performing excerpts from to Dance the musical and the red
washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 33
Shoes, at this program organized by ballet in the City. Kennedy Center terrace theater. march 29 and 30, 7 p.m. $25–$45. chrIstoPher k. MorgAn & ArtIsts morgan explores his feelings about his mixed-race identity in Pohaku, a new work co-commissioned by Dance place. Dance place. march 19, 8 p.m., march 20, 7 p.m. $15–$30. cleo PArker roBInson DAnce enseMBle the company, which is dedicated to preserving and sharing African-American traditions and culture, celebrates its 45th anniversary with a new performance at Dance place. Dance place. march 12, 8 p.m., march 13, 7 p.m. $15–$30. DAnce exchAnge As part of its “Home” series, Dance exchange performers present and discuss the creation process behind “brick & bones.” Dance exchange. march 31, 7 p.m. Free. FlAMenco vIvo: PoeMA De AnDAlucíA experience the thrill of Spanish culture in this presentation that immerses the audience in the world of flamenco. music Center at Strathmore. march 4, 8 p.m. $28–$72.
credible Thing, a contemporary adaptation of a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale featuring 50 dancers. Its staging here will come just a few weeks after its world premiere in New York. March 1–6 at Kennedy Center Opera House. $29–$119. —Anya van Wagtendonk
Bowie & Queen
The Washington Ballet ends its 2015–16 season with what promises to be a real crowdpleaser. Choreographers Trey McIntyre and Edwaard Liang have created some very unique pieces to the music of David Bowie and Queen. McIntyre’s “Mercury Half-Life” is an unusual combination of tap and ballet, while Liang explores the many faces of David Bowie in his brand new, world premiere ballet, “Dancing in the Street.” Although the performances will likely feature many men in tights (Bowie and Freddie Mercury’s glam costumes fit perfectly into the ballet aesthetic), don’t expect to see many tutus. Unlike most ballets, the leading performers will likely be men. May 4–15 at Kennedy Center —Elena Goukassian Eisenhower Theater. $32.25–$130.
Forty+ the company of dancers over the age of 40 presents a mixed repertoire showcase of works by Jane Franklin, Andrea Ligon, and emily Crews. theatre on the run. march 17, 10:30 a.m., march 19, 5 p.m. $5–$20.
BlAck to sIlver: A BlAck lgBt exPerIence modern company Dissonance Dance theatre draws inspiration from the black LGbtQ community to create this multidisciplinary evening of art, which includes a new piece about a man who’s obsessed with himself until he encounters love for the first time. Jack Guidone theater. April 16, 8 p.m , April 17, 7 p.m. $15–$25.
coMPAny e the company welcomes emerging Israeli choreographers, who will set their work on local dancers, at this mixed-work showcase. Sidney Harman Hall. April 16, 8 p.m. $30–$40.
JAne FrAnklIn DAnce the company incorporates live illustrations, text, and varieties of movement into its modern piece “Wash Over You.” In “Incidence,” the dancers interact and manipulate a kinetic sculpture by Howard Connelly. theatre on the run. march 12 and 19, 7:30 p.m.; march 13, 4 p.m. $10–$20.
JoDy oBerFelDer ProJects For The Brain Piece, the New York-based company examines how science and art intersect and how our minds perceive the world. Dance place. April 16, 8 p.m , April 17, 7 p.m. $15–$30. JurIJ konJAr In Bound, choreographed by Steve paxton in 1982, Konjar performs a series of isolated vignettes that begin to make sense as they add up. American Dance Institute. April 15 and 16, 8 p.m. $15–$30.
Joy oF MotIon DAnce center 40th AnnuAl gAlA concert Join the dance studio as it celebrates 40 years of teaching and performing at this annual gala. Its resident companies and arts partners will perform, followed by cake and an allinclusive dance party. Atlas performing Arts Center. march 11, 8 p.m. $75.
les BAllets trockADero De Monte cArlo the all-male dance ensemble parodies classical ballet, from the choreography to the costumes, and leaves audiences laughing. Alden theatre. April 7, 7:30 p.m. $40–$50.
MArylAnD youth BAllet the local youth dance company presents a variety of contemporary and classical ballets at this showcase, including eric Hampton’s “meadow” and a new piece, set to Andean music, by Christopher Doyle. robert e. parilla performing Arts Center. march 12, 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.; march 13, 1 p.m. $15–$25.
rennIe hArrIs grAss roots ProJect Harris’ third street-dance group draws inspiration from social and political upheaval, as well as the style of
april cArMInA BurAnA AnD theMe AnD vArIAtIons the Washington ballet reinterprets Carl Orff’s famous cantata as an intricate ballet during this performance. the company also performs George balanchine’s classic Theme and Variations, set to music by tchaikovsky. Kennedy Center eisenhower theater. April 13–15, 7:30 p.m.; April 16 and 17, 1:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. $32.25–$130.
cIrque ZuMA ZuMA the African-style circus troupe incorporates acrobats, jugglers, and vocalists with gumboot dancers and Zimbabwean percussionists. montgomery College Cultural Arts Center. April 10, 2 p.m., April 10, 6 p.m. $15–$35.
JAne coMFort AnD coMPAny the dance group presents a new work, developed and supported at ADI, which will incorporate community members as well as professional dancers. American Dance Institute. march 18 and 19, 8 p.m. $15–$30.
new york cIty BAllet City ballet returns to the Kennedy Center for its annual engagement with two programs. the first features work by contemporary choreographers Christopher Wheeldon, Justin peck, and peter martins; the second features two works by Danish master August bournonville, “La Sylphide” and “bournonville Divertissements.” Kennedy Center Opera House. march 1–4, 7 p.m.; march 5, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.; march 6, 1 p.m. $29–$119.
rIP the Floor the annual hip-hop showcase invites dance groups from up and down the east Coast to perform new work and compete for a $500 prize. Clarice Smith performing Arts Center. march 26, 7 p.m. $9–$15.
BrIAn Brooks MovIng coMPAny the group’s latest work is created around a sculptural installation and will focus on how the dancers experience their environment. American Dance Institute. April 29 and 30, 8 p.m. $15–$30.
hAMlet the Washington ballet turns Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy into a moving ballet with this company premiere of Stephen mills’ work. Kennedy Center eisenhower theater. march 23–25 and march 31, 7:30 p.m.; march 26, 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. $32.25–$130.
MonIcA BIll BArnes & coMPAny In “Happy Hour,” a new contemporary duet, barnes and Anna bass invite audience members to relax and celebrate shortcomings. Kennedy Center terrace Gallery. march 10 and 11, 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. $59.
the West Coast, to create this new work. Dance place. march 5, 8 p.m., march 6, 7 p.m. $15–$30.
MoonlIght tAngo Local tango performers showcase their talent at this celebration of rhythm and South American dance. rosslyn Spectrum theater. April 2 and 9, 8 p.m. $30–$35.
Malpaso Dance Company
The young Cuban contemporary dance company Malpaso brings its 10 dancers and a steadily growing repertoire on a U.S. tour this spring. Past work has drawn inspiration from scenes of daily life in Havana, though the company also performs works by international choreographers. Unlike many in Cuba, the company receives no government funding and instead has been forging its own way, building partnerships with art institutions abroad that helped make the company’s 2014 international premiere possible. The program will feature D.C. premieres of pieces by resident choreographer and Artistic Director Osnel Delgado, formerly of the Danza Contemporánea de Cuba; Ronald K. Brown’s “Por Que Sigues (Why You Follow),” commissioned for the company in 2014; and “Bad —Emily Walz Winter” by Trey McIntyre. May 21–22 at Dance Place. $15–30.
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Moscow FestIvAl BAllet the acclaimed russian company performs two of ballet’s classic tragedies: Giselle, the story of a young peasant who falls in love with a count, on Saturday; and Swan Lake, the tale of the enchanted princess turned into a water fowl. George mason University Center for the Arts. April 16, 8 p.m., April 17, 4 p.m. $34–$56. neJlA yAseMIn yAtkIn DAnce Chicago-based choreographer Yatkin performs “What Dreams may Come,” a solo piece that includes themes of freedom and oppression while combining contemporary dance with traditional turkish movement. Dance place. April 30, 8 p.m., may 1, 7 p.m. $15–$30. orAnge grove DAnce Inspired by a recent residency in Llorenç del penedès, Spain, choreographers matt reeves and Colette Krogol present Un castell built for two, an evening-long piece that
highlights new partnering techniques. Joe’s movement emporium. April 1 and 2, 8 p.m. $20. PAM tAnowItZ & BAllet ADI the choreographers present the story progresses as if in a dream of glittering surfaces, a piece dedicated to ballets that incorporates narrative and abstract elements. American Dance Institute. April 1 and 2, 8 p.m. $15–$30. sAcreD AnD ProFAne: An InsIDer’s tAle FroM the DArk sIDe the Washington ballet takes viewers inside the world of 12th century monks to explain its forthcoming production of Carmina Burana. the Washington ballet. April 6, 6:30 p.m. $20. seAn Dorsey DAnce the San Francisco-based company performs The Missing Generation, a dance and theater piece inspired by the longtime survivors of the early years of the AIDS epidemic. Choreographer Dorsey created the piece over the course of two years after conducting interviews with survivors and activists and accessing archival research. Dance place. April 2, 8 p.m., April 3, 7 p.m. $15–$30.
alden theatre 1234 Ingleside Ave., mcLean. (703) 790-0123. mcleancenter.org/alden/default.asp american Dance institute 1570 east Jefferson St., rockville. (855) 263-2623. americandance.org arts club of washington 2017 I St. NW. (202) 331-7282. artsclubofwashington.org atlas performing arts center 1333 H St. Ne. (202) 399-7993. atlasarts.org
May BowIe & queen Drawing inspiration from two of the most artistic rock acts of all time, the Washington ballet performs trey mcIntyre’s “mercury HalfLife” to music by Queen and a world premiere set to music by David bowie. Kennedy Center eisenhower theater. may 4, 7:30 p.m., may 5, 6, and 13, 7:30 p.m.; may 7, 8, 14, and 15, 1:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. $32.25–$130. cItyDAnce’s DreAMscAPe Accomplished dancers from around the nation come to D.C. to perform in support of CityDance’s free after school program. Lincoln theatre. may 7, 8 p.m. $25–$38. Icons: oF DAnce Arthur mitchell, founder of the Dance theatre of Harlem, coaches Washington ballet dancer brooklyn mack through pieces of specific choreography at this intimate evening that takes audiences behind the scenes of the ballet. Artistic Director Septime Webre offers insight and discusses his process throughout the event. the Washington ballet. may 11, 6:30 p.m. Sold out. les BAllets JAZZ De MontréAl the contemporary dance company, led by Louis robitaille, presents energetic pieces by choreographers benjamin millepied, rodrigo pederneiras, and Andonis Foniadakis. Clarice Smith performing Arts Center. may 5, 8 p.m. $10–$25.
national portrait gallery 8th and F streets NW. (202) 633-8300. npg.si.edu
Joe’s movement emporium 3309 bunker Hill road, mount rainier. (301) 699-1819. joesmovement.org Kenmore middle school 200 South Carlin Springs road, Arlington. (703) 228-6800. apsva.us/Domain/1742 Kennedy center 2700 F St. NW. (202) 467-4600. kennedy-center.org Lincoln theatre 1215 U St. NW. (202) 328-6000.
DUNYA MIKHAIL
Featuring music by Philemon E. Kirlles AbdEllah & Michael Pestel
SATURDAY, MARCH 5, 6 – 8 PM Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery McEvoy Auditorium 800 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20001 Free and open to the public www.amsshdc2016.org / #startheredc On the anniversary of the 2007 bombing of Baghdad’s bookselling street, join us in standing in solidarity with the people of Iraq and celebrating freedom of expression.
Smithsonian Libraries
montgomery college cultural arts center 7995 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring. (240) 567-1300. cms.montgomerycollege.edu
Dance exchange 7117 maple Ave., takoma park. (301) 270-6700. danceexchange.org
Jack guidone theater 5207 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 520-3692. joyofmotion.org
BEAU BEAUSOLEIL
merritt pop Up gallery 5471 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase. (301) 564-4447. merrittgallery-renaissancefinearts.com
music center at strathmore 5301 tuckerman Lane, bethesda. (301) 581-5100. strathmore.org
george mason University center for the arts 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. (703) 993-2787. cfa.gmu.edu
AMAL AL-JUBOURI
thelincolndc.com
clarice smith performing arts center Stadium Drive and route 193, College park. (301) 405-2787. theclarice.umd.edu
Dance place 3225 8th St. Ne. (202) 269-1600. danceplace.org
Commemorative Poetry Reading
robert e. parilla performing arts center 51 mannakee St., rockville. (240) 567-5301. montgomerycollege.edu/pac rosslyn spectrum theater N. Kent St., Arlington. (800) 494-8497. synetictheater.org sidney harman hall 610 F St. NW. (202) 547-1122. shakespearetheatre.org theatre on the run 3700 S. Four mile run Drive, Arlington. (703) 228-1850. arlingtonarts.org Visarts 155 Gibbs St., rockville. (301) 315-8200. visartsatrockville.org the washington Ballet 3515 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 362-3606. washingtonballet.org washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 35
February
Christian Finnegan the popular talking head, who recorded a live album at the Improv, has also appeared on Chappelle’s Show and hosted the Audio Spackle podcast. DC Improv. Feb. 12–14, 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. $17–$20. adam devine the actor, who appears in Workaholics and Pitch Perfect, brings his standup act to the Lisner. GW Lisner Auditorium. Feb. 13, 8 p.m. $35. Oh hellO with niCk krOll and JOhn mulaney the comedians appear as Faizon and Geeglund, two old men frequently seen in turtlenecks sharing outdated beliefs, characters they honed in comedy clubs and on Kroll Show. Warner theatre. Feb. 14, 15, and 17, 7:30 p.m. $37–$87. trump vs. Bernie: the COmedy deBate tOur Comedians James Adomian and Anthony Atamanuik portray presidential candidates bernie Sanders and Donald trump in this mock debate that promises to be more lively and intentionally humorous than the real ones. Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse. Feb. 18, 8 p.m.; Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m.; Feb. 20, 4 p.m. $20. david CrOss the popular comedian, known for his roles on Mr. Show and Arrested Development, brings his “making America Great Again!” tour to D.C.’s Warner theatre. Feb. 19, 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. $35. sarah tiana Known for her turns on Chelsea Lately and Reno 911!, the comedian currently appears and writes for Cmt’s The Josh Wolf Show. Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse. Feb. 19, 10 p.m., Feb. 20, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. $20. paul reiser the author and star of Mad About You was recently seen in the Amazon series Red Oaks. At the Howard, he returns to his standup roots. Howard theatre. Feb. 20, 8 p.m. $35–$45. identity Crisis COmedy shOwCase Local comedians eli Yudin, Shep Kelly, Wendi townsend, Jesse thomas, Sean Savoy, Umar Khan, Wendy Wroblewski, and russ Green test out new material at this show. black Cat backstage. Feb. 21, 7:30 p.m. $10. COmmedia dell media Local journalists, including City Paper Food editor Jessica Sidman, perform short standup sets at this evening that raises funds for reporters working in Syria and other conflict areas. DC Improv. Feb. 25, 7:30 p.m. $20–$30.
March
vir das Das, already a big comedy star in India, appears at the DC Improv for the first time. DC Improv. march 4 and 5, 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m.; march 6, 7:30 p.m. $15–$22. paBlO FranCisCO the former MADtv cast member and star of two Comedy Central specials performs. DC Improv. march 10 and 13, 7:30 p.m.; march 11 and 12, 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. $30.
hal sparks the actor and comedian, who’s remembered for stints on Queer As Folk and VH1’s I Love the ‘80s, currently appears on the Disney XD series Lab Rats. Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse. march 11 and 13, 7:30 p.m., march 12, 10 p.m. $25. the rOyal COmedy tOur Sommore, Gary Owen, and earthquake perform at this lively comedy showcase. DAr Constitution Hall. march 19, 8 p.m. $55–$125. dOminique the former D.C. postal worker turned her attention to comedy and has since performed with Chris rock and tracy morgan. DC Improv. march 24, 7:30 p.m.; march 25 and 26, 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. $17–$20. COlin JOst the former head writer and co-host of Saturday Night Live’s “Weekend Update” performs. Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse. march 25, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.; march 26, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. $25. CarlOs menCia After headlining his own show, Mind of Mencia, on Comedy Central, the Honduran-born comedian has returned to his standup roots. Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse. march 31, 7:45 p.m.; April 1, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.; April 2, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. $30.
april
maz JOBrani the popular comedian, a founding member of the Axis of evil Comedy tour and a regular panelist on Npr’s Wait Wait...Don’t Tell Me, performs at the Kennedy Center with fellow comedians Amir K and Omid Singh. Kennedy Center Concert Hall. April 1, 8 p.m. $25–$110. the dunCan trussell stand up COmedy Bus tOur the popular comedian, who appears on SyFy’s Joe Rogan Questions Everything and hosts The Duncan Trussell Family Hour podcast, performs. Howard theatre. April 5, 8 p.m. $22.50–$25.
Tracy Morgan Tracy Morgan’s appearance at the Kennedy Center in April will be the first chance for D.C. fans to see the actor and comedian perform since a serious vehicle collision in 2014 threatened his performing future. After more than a year of rehabilitation, Morgan began reviving his often suggestive routine last fall with an added dose of self-deprecation about the crash and rumors of potential brain damage. Morgan is known for his outlandish celebrity impressions and playing Tracy Jordan, his exaggerated alter ego on NBC’s 30 Rock. Since October, he has made a series of late-night appearances, including a mini 30 Rock reunion on Saturday Night Live. His “Picking Up the Pieces” tour began in February. April 22 at —Quinn Myers Kennedy Center Concert Hall. $50–$99. lewis BlaCk the Daily Show commentator returns to the area for his “the emperor’s New Clothes” tour. Warner theatre. April 28 and 29, 8 p.m. $43–$77.50. niCk dipaOlO the popular comedian has appeared on The Tonight Show and The Sopranos and received emmy nominations for writing The Chris Rock Show. Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse. April 29, 10 p.m.; April 30, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. $25.
May
russell hOward the popular british comedian brings his standup act stateside. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. may 4, 8 p.m. $25. ian Bagg the Canadian comedian has been seen on Last Comic Standing, The Tonight Show with
Jay Leno, and Late Night with Conan O’Brien. DC Improv. may 5 and 8, 7:30 p.m.; may 6 and 7, 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. $17–$20. 29th annual evening OF COmedy Nationally known comedians perform at this annual showcase. past guests have included television performer Jimmie Walker and the “area code guy” mitchell Walters. barns at Wolf trap. may 6 and 7, 8 p.m. $25–$28. Bert kreisCher the rowdy comedian currently hosts two programs on the travel Channel, Trip Flip and Bert the Conqueror. DC Improv. may 19, 7:30 p.m. $20.
tOm arnOld the popular comedian and actor, who’s been seen in films and on tV shows for decades, returns to his standup roots and performs several intimate shows. Arlington Cinema & Drafthouse. April 8, 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m.; April 9, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. $25. rOd man the Atlanta-based comedian performs at the DC Improv for the first time. DC Improv. April 15 and 16, 7:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m.; April 17, 7:30 p.m. $25. traCy mOrgan After surviving a major car crash, the Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock star has returned to his standup roots and presents his “picking Up the pieces” tour at the Kennedy Center. Kennedy Center Concert Hall. April 22, 8 p.m. $50–$99. miranda sings the popular Youtube star performs humorous covers of pop songs and discusses whatever’s on her mind when she takes the stage. Kennedy Center Concert Hall. April 23, 7 p.m. $35–$70.
36 february 12, 2016 washingtoncitypaper.com
arlington cinema & Drafthouse 2903 Columbia pike, Arlington. (703) 4862345. arlingtondrafthouse.com Barns at wolf trap 1645 trap road, Vienna. (703) 255-1900. wolftrap.org
gw Lisner auditorium 730 21st St. NW. (202) 994-6800. lisner.gwu.edu howard theatre 620 t St. NW. (202) 803-2899. thehowardtheatre.com
Black cat Backstage 1811 14th St. NW. (202) 667-4490. blackcatdc.com
Kennedy center 2700 F St. NW. (202) 467-4600. kennedy-center.org
Dar constitution hall 1776 D St. NW. (202) 628-4780. dar.org
sixth & i historic synagogue 600 I St. NW. (202) 408-3100. sixthandi.org
Dc improv 1140 Connecticut Ave. NW. (202) 2967008. dcimprov.com
warner theatre 513 13th St. NW. (202) 783-4000. warnertheatre.com
amBer TamBlyn the actress, seen on Joan of Arcadia and in the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants films, reads from her third book of poetry, Dark Sparkler. busboys and poets brookland. Feb. 19, 6:30 p.m. Free. Dawn TriPP the relationship between artist Georgia O’Keeffe and photographer Alfred Stieglitz is examined and imagined in tripp’s new novel, Georgia. She discusses it with author and critic bethanne patrick. Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe. Feb. 16, 6:30 p.m. Free. hanya yanagihara the author reads from her novel A Little Life, about four male friends coming of age, a finalist for the National book Award. busboys and poets takoma. Feb. 21, 6:30 p.m. Free.
March roBerTa Beary anD ann BraCken the poets read from their most recent work. beary discusses her latest collection, Deflection, and bracken discusses The Altar of Innocence, a memoir written in verse. the Writer’s Center. march 13, 2 p.m. Free.
February
auguSTen BurroughS the audacious memoirist reads from the latest volume from his busy life, Lust & Wonder. busboys and poets 14th & V. march 30, 6:30 p.m. Free.
0-Dark-ThirTy reaDing Female veterans read from their essays and short stories collected in the February 2016 issue of this journal published by the Veterans Writing project. the Writer’s Center. Feb. 19, 6:30 p.m. Free.
TraCy CheValier the popular local novelist reads from her latest release, At the Edge of the Orchard. politics & prose. march 18, 7 p.m. Free.
BewilDer SenSaTion: SurrealiSm anD PoeTry ToDay A group of local poets read and perform at this event connected with the Hirshhorn’s ongoing surrealist sculpture exhibit. Hirshhorn museum and Sculpture Garden. Feb. 14, 3 p.m. Free.
Down To noThing In this public discussion, mountaineer Hilaree O’Neill talks about her harrowing journey up a remote peak in myanmar and the physical and emotional tolls these treks take on climbers. National Geographic Grosvenor Auditorium. march 22, 7:30 p.m. $25.
CaPTuring The worlD National Geographic photographer John Stanmeyer tells the stories behind 14 of his favorite features for the magazine and discusses how his career relates to current events. National Geographic Grosvenor Auditorium. Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m. $25.
lynDSay faye Faye recasts Charlotte brontë’s Jane Eyre as a murder mystery and explains why a quiet country girl would become a serial killer in Jane Steele. One more page books. march 23, 7 p.m. Free.
Safia elhillo As part of the Al-mutanabbi Street Starts Here cultural festival taking place across the city, the Sudanese poet reflects on the culture of the middle east and reads from her work. Georgetown University. Feb. 29, 7 p.m. Free.
miTChell S. JaCkSon anD leSlie JamiSon At this reading centered around the intersection of fiction, nonfiction, and life, novelist Jackson and essayist Jamison read from their intensely personal work. Folger elizabethan theatre. march 21, 7:30 p.m. $15.
riCharD engel the author and journalist, who currently serves as chief foreign correspondent for NbC News, reflects on his career in his new memoir And Then All Hell Broke Loose: Two Decades in the Middle East. politics & prose. Feb. 16, 7 p.m. Free.
howarD JaCoBSon the author, a winner of the man booker prize, discusses his new book, Shylock is My Name, a unique retelling of The Merchant of Venice. Folger elizabethan theatre. march 14, 7:30 p.m. $10–$15.
Joel grey the Oscar winner and broadway star chronicles his career in his new book, Master of Ceremonies. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. Feb. 23, 7 p.m. $16–$45. yann marTel the author of Life of Pi reads from his new novel, The High Mountains of Portugal, about a man who uncovers a journal that sends him on a quest that resonates decades later in the lives of a portuguese doctor and a Canadian senator. One more page books. Feb. 12, 7 p.m. Free. CeleSTe ng anD John wray Ng, the author of Everything I Never Told You, and John Wray, author of Lowboy, discuss the ways families and danger intersect in their work at this reading presented by the peN/Faulkner Foundation. Folger elizabethan theatre. Feb. 23, 7:30 p.m. $15. Dolen PerkinS-ValDez the award-winning author reads from Balm, her novel set in post-Civil War Chicago. martin Luther King Jr. memorial Library. Feb. 22, 6:30 p.m. Free. amBer SParkS Local author Sparks reads from her new collection of short stories, The Unfinished World, and discusses her work with Chris Chester, audience editor at WAmU. Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe. Feb. 24, 6:30 p.m. Free.
Hanya Yanagihara
A Little Life sucked me out of my life for one week this past summer. I stayed up late reading, and when it was time for work, I carried the 720-page tome to the office and snuck a few pages in at lunch, completely lost in the story of Jude and his three best friends from college as they pursued their dreams in law, art, architecture, and acting, and battled their demons from the past. While the novel has been hailed as a long-awaited Great Gay Novel, Yanagihara writes intelligently on a range of subjects—math, mental health, morality—but with particular honesty about art. Feb. 21 at Busboys and Poets Takoma. Free. —Natalie Villacorta
Jim lehrer In celebration of the Writer’s Center’s 40th anniversary, the news anchor, author of more than 20 books, and honorary member of the center’s board, discusses his work. the Writer’s Center. march 24, 7:30 p.m. $15.
Diane Rehm
Jorge ramoS the popular Univision host and activist reflects on his 30 years in journalism in take a Stand: Thirty Years of Lessons From Rebels. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. march 14, 7 p.m. $15–$40.
For 30 years, Diane Rehm has hosted her own show on WAMU, bringing domestic and foreign issues to audiences around the country. Now, she gets vulnerable in her latest book, On My Own. Out of the studio, Rehm supported her husband of more than 50 years as he battled Parkinson’s disease. Rehm’s experiences and emotions reach readers as she illuminates one of the most difficult times of her life. Through sorrow and pain, the journalist examines how being alone changed her perspective and her existence. This book is no doubt about Diane Rehm’s struggles, but it’s also a companion for those who have experienced loss. March 2 at Sixth & I. $20; April 5 at Politics & Prose. Free. —Jordan-Marie Smith
annie mahon the author offers healthy eating tips in her humorous book Things I Did When I Was Hangry: Navigating A Peaceful Relationship With Food. tenley-Friendship Library. march 2, 7:30 p.m. Free.
Barry SVrluga Svrluga spent the 2014 baseball season following the Washington Nationals, chronicling the movements of its star players as well as its supporting staff. He records his observations in his new book, The Grind. One more page books. march 17, 7 p.m. Free. reBeCCa TraiSTer Journalist traister, who regularly writes about the intersection of gender and politics, discusses All the Single Ladies: Unmarried Women and the Rise of an Independent Nation. politics & prose. march 3, 7 p.m. Free.
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Glen Weldon Weldon, a book reviewer for Npr and Pop Culture Happy Hour panelist, discusses his latest book, The Caped Crusade. Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe. march 29, 6:30 p.m. Free.
April Malachi Black, laurie ann Guerrero, and a. Van Jordan Like the playwright whose name appears on the building, these three contemporary poets have mastered the sonnet and discuss what they like about the form at this reading. Folger elizabethan theatre. April 11, 7:30 p.m. $15. anthony doerr As part of the 2016 Arlington reads campaign, the pulitzer prize-winning novelist discusses his novel, All the Light We Cannot See. Washington-Lee High School. April 7, 7 p.m. Free. i BouGht a rainforest british photojournalist Charlie Hamilton James takes attendees on this journey through the world, from the Serengeti of tanzania to the rainforests of peru and the hills of Yellowstone, in this discussion. National Geographic Grosvenor Auditorium. April 5, 7:30 p.m. $25. JaMes McBride the acclaimed author examines the origins of the real James brown and learns something about himself in the process in Kill ‘Em and Leave: Searching for James Brown and the American Soul. politics & prose. April 7, 7 p.m. Free. edna o’Brien the acclaimed author reads from The Little Red Chairs, her first novel in a decade. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. April 3, 6 p.m. $20.
colin sarGent and Maryhelen snyder Sargent, the author of The Boston Castrato discusses his work as an author and editor. Snyder reads from Never the Loss of Wings, her latest poetry collection. the Writer’s Center. April 3, 2 p.m. Free. curtis sittenfeld elizabeth bennet arrives in the 21st century in Sittenfeld’s latest book, Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride and Prejudice. politics & prose. April 28, 7 p.m. Free.
MAy the 36th annual Pen/faulkner aWard for fiction Authors and readers come together at this annual celebration that the honors the best works of fiction published by an American citizen in a calendar year. Folger elizabethan theatre. may 14, 7 p.m. $100. Patricia enGel A traumatized woman and a Cuban immigrant connect in the Florida Keys and through their companionship, begin to forgive themselves for past mistakes in engel’s new novel, The Veins of the Ocean. Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe. may 11, 6:30 p.m. Free.
helen oyeyeMi the british author reads from her latest collection of short stories, What Is Not Yours Is Not Yours. busboys and poets takoma. April 21, 6:30 p.m. Free.
a triBute to roBert stone readers and writers, including madison Smartt bell, Stephen Goodwin, and Lauren Groff, pay tribute to the late novelist, who served as chairman of the peN/ Faulkner Foundation for 30 years. Folger elizabethan theatre. may 2, 7:30 p.m. $15.
arlington central Library 1015 N. Quincy St., Arlington. (703) 228-5990. library.arlingtonva.us
martin Luther King Jr. memorial Library 901 G St. NW. (202) 727-0321. dclibrary.org/mlk
austrian cultural Forum 3524 International Court NW. acfdc.org
national geographic grosvenor auditorium 1600 m St. NW. (202) 857-7700. nationalgeographic.com
Busboys & poets 14th and V 2021 14th St. NW. (202) 387-7638. busboysandpoets.com Busboys and poets Brookland 625 monroe St. Ne. (202) 636-7230. busboysandpoets.com Busboys and poets takoma 234 Carroll St. NW. (202) 726-9525. busboysandpoets.com Folger elizabethan theatre 201 e. Capitol St. Se. (202) 544-7077. folger.edu georgetown University 3700 O St. NW. (202) 687-0100. georgetown.edu hirshhorn museum and sculpture garden 7th Street and Independence Avenue SW. (202) 633-4674. hirshhorn.si.edu Kramerbooks & afterwords cafe 1517 Connecticut Ave. NW. (202) 387-1400. kramers.com 38 february 12, 2016 washingtoncitypaper.com
diane rehM the syndicated radio host reflects on the loss of her husband in her new book, On My Own. politics & prose. April 5, 7 p.m. Free.
one more page Books 2200 N. Westmoreland Street, No. 101, Arlington. (703) 300-9746. onemorepagebooks.com politics & prose 5015 Connecticut Ave. NW. (202) 364-1919. politics-prose.com sixth & i historic synagogue 600 I St. NW. (202) 408-3100. sixthandi.org tenley-Friendship Library 4450 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 727-1488. dclibrary.org/tenley washington-Lee high school 1301 N. Stafford St., Arlington. (703) 228-6200. apsva.us/washingtonlee the writer’s center 4508 Walsh St., bethesda. (301) 654-8664. writer.org
February
12th AnnuAl ShowcASe of AcAdemy AwArd–nominAted documentArieS And Short SubjectS Catch up on your film viewing at this annual event, which shows the Oscar-nominated docs and shorts in the days leading up to the ceremony. National Archives mcGowan theater. Feb. 24–Feb. 28, various times. Free. Alien And totAl recAll these two science fiction films screen at the Library of Congress as part of its “music for martians” series. Library of Congress James madison building. Feb. 13, 12 p.m. Free. bolShoi PoSt-modern: innovAtive PerformAnce in hd experimental opera and dance works created at the bolshoi theatre, helmed by such artists as Alexei ratmansky and Dmitri tcherniakov, are shown in this series. Featured titles include The Bolt, Flames of Paris, and Eugene Onegin. National Gallery of Art. Feb. 20–march 12, various times. Free.
Washington Jewish Film Festival
“music for martians” series. Library of Congress James madison building. Feb. 19, 7 p.m. Free.
If you’ve ever said to yourself, “I wonder if Natalie Portman would make a good director,” the Washington Jewish Film Festival’s got you covered. Portman’s directorial debut, A Tale of Love and Darkness, will close out a week-long festival of nearly 80 international films, screened across the city. Features, documentaries, and shorts illustrate the diversity of the Jewish experience, which includes Persian farmers (Baba Joon, billed as “the first Persian-language Israeli film”); African tribes (Black Jews: The Roots of the Olive Tree); teenage love and rebellion (Barash); and Barney Frank (Compared to What: The Improbable Journey of Barney Frank). Directors, actors, producers, and writers will speak between screenings. Other events include a panel about Arab citizenry in Israel and an evening of storytelling with Story District on the subject of faith and sexuality. Feb. 24–March 6 at —Anya van Wagtendonk various locations. $13 single tickets; passes start at $150.
fly by light this short documentary follows several struggling D.C. teenagers who find renewal in a trip to rural West Virginia. Following the screening, director ellie Walton and producer rajeev Kasat discuss their work. Anacostia Community museum. Feb. 13, 4 p.m. Free. miSery the library shows this short film, based on an Anton Chekhov short story. michael J. evans, who wrote the score to the film, discusses his work following the screening. West end Library. Feb. 16, 7 p.m. Free. StAr trek vi: the undiScovered country When Captain Kirk is arrested for assassinating a Klingon leader, the entire enterprise crew must join together to save him. this campy science fiction flick screens at the Library of Congress as part of its
wAShington jewiSh film feStivAl Dozens of films about Jewish life around the world are screened at venues across D.C. during this annual festival. Highlights include A Tale of Love and Darkness, the screen adaptation of Amos Oz’s memoir, and a screening of barry Levinson’s Avalon, presented in conjunction with the WJFF Visionary Award. Various venues. Feb. 24–march 6, various times. prices vary. AttAck the block before appearing in Star Wars, John boyega starred in this british indie film about a group of friends who have to defend their neighborhood from alien invaders. AFI Silver theatre and Cultural Center. Feb. 26–march 3, various times. $9.50–$13.
the creePing gArden explore the slimy organisms that live inside rotting logs and learn how they impact our ecosystem in this documentary from tim Grabham and Jasper Sharp. It screens at the National Gallery of Art in conjunction with the environmental Film Festival. National Gallery of Art. Feb. 19, 3:30 p.m. Free. dc ShortS winS! A series of acclaimed short films, some that have shown at DC Shorts in the past and some that were nominated for Academy Awards, are screened at this event that allows audiences to see short films they may have missed during the year. Naval Heritage Center at the United States Navy memorial. Feb. 19 and 20, 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. $15–$25.
wAll writerS: grAffiti in itS innocence John Waters narrates this film about the early days of graffiti as an art form, spanning from the early 1960s through its heyday in the 1970s and ‘80s and up to the emergence of popular artists like Shepard Fairey and banksy. roger Gastman, producer of The Legend of Cool “Disco” Dan and Exit Through the Gift Shop, directs. AFI Silver theatre and Cultural Center. Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m. $9.50–$13.
March
cAPitAl iriSh film feStivAl See a selection of the best films coming out of Ireland at this annual festival presented by Irish arts organization Solas Nua. Featured titles include Made in Belfast, My Bonnie, and Vultures. Various venues. march 3–march 6, various times. $84.99.
In Transit
Perhaps no other filmmakers have single-handedly shaped the form of documentary filmmaking more than Albert and David Maysles. With seminal films like 1969’s Salesman, 1970’s Gimme Shelter, and 1976’s Grey Gardens, the Maysles pioneered documentary filmmaking through their cinéma vérité approach, which places viewers in the lives of the subjects like a fly on the wall. David died in 1987 and Albert last year, while he was working on what would be his final film, In Transit. It’s perhaps the most fitting note to go out on. A love letter of sorts to the fleeting relationships formed while we’re, er, in transit, Maysles’ film puts us in the middle of the lives of several passengers on the Empire Builder, Amtrak’s 46-hour passenger line that runs from Chicago to the Pacific Northwest. What starts out as simple conversations with passengers evolves into an intense and intimate portrait of life. It’s a deeply human film that sticks with you long after the journey has —Matt Cohen ended. March 6 at National Gallery of Art East Building. Free.
d.c. indePendent film feStivAl Dozens of films from around the world, including shorts, features, documentaries, and work by high school students, are shown at this long-running festival. Headlining the opening night screening is Districtland, an episodic series about millennials making their way in D.C. Various venues. march 4–march 13, various times. prices vary. environmentAl film feStivAl A variety of films based around environmental themes are screened at venues throughout the region during this annual festival. Featured titles include Oddball and the Penguins. Various venues. march 15–march 26, various times. prices vary. i Am biAlik A man discovers that his grandfather was the illegitimate son of Israel’s national poet, Haim Nahman bialik, and tries to draw attention to this fact in Aviv talmor’s mockumentary. Avalon theatre. march 23, 8 p.m. $6.75–$12.
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in TransiT the final film made by legendary documentary director Albert maysles follows the travelers on Amtrak’s empire builder line, a 46-hour journey that links Chicago and the pacific Northwest. National Gallery of Art. march 6, 4 p.m. Free. The royal road Director Jenni Olson examines her butch identity and her experience with unrequited love in this romantic documentary. busboys and poets brookland. march 1, 6:30 p.m. Free.
april
d.c. asian Pacific aMerican filM fesTival See a variety of films created by Asian Americans at
this annual festival. Various venues. April 21–April 24, various times. prices vary. King Kong Count Gore de Vol presents the original version of this monster thriller, starring Fay Wray as the woman who enchants the enormous titular primate. AFI Silver theatre and Cultural Center. April 9, 7:30 p.m. $8–$13.
May
The BlacK Power MixTaPe 1965-1975 Containing journalistic footage never seen on U.S. tV, this documentary takes a look at the black power movement. Anacostia Community museum. may 17, 11 a.m. Free.
Attack the Block
If you found yourself wondering, while watching Star Wars: The Force Awakens, just where its charismatic young star John Boyega came from, you’ll find your answer in Attack the Block, a fast and funny 2011 British indie. Boyega plays Moses, the 15-year-old leader of a gang of budding criminals who have their courage tested when their inner-city neighborhood—known simply as “the block”—is the target of an alien invasion. With its convincing genre thrills and dash of self-awareness, Attack the Block often draws comparison to Shaun of the Dead (the presence of Nick Frost as a cowardly pot dealer doesn’t help), but Boyega elevates it to something even more special. He gives a more quiet, soulful performance than in The Force Awakens (although his trademark heavy breathing is still on display), which makes his action-star antics in the final third all the more cathartic. It’s bloody good fun. Feb. —Noah Gittell 26 at AFI Silver Theatre. $13.
The Creeping Garden ROBERT E. PARILLA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 2015-2016 GUEST ARTIST SERIES
CONFERENCE OF THE BIRDS Written by Farid ud-Din Attar Wednesday – Saturday, April 20-23, 2016, 8pm Sunday, April 24, 2016, 2pm
The most unsettling films aren’t always the scariest ones. Sure, there’s something to be said for how a filmmaker can take a spooky story and manipulate lighting, music, and mise-en-scène to create a truly terrifying atmosphere, but often times they need not go further than taking a deep dive into the natural world. Case in point: co-directors Tim Grabham and Jasper Sharp’s modestly eldritch documentary The Creeping Garden, which takes an in-depth look at the bizarre creatures that are slime molds, and the “fringe scientists, mycologists, and artists” who dedicate their life’s work to the off-putting organisms. To most, the subject might seem dry—fodder for an educational science film one might watch in a 400-level microbiology course—but Grabham and Sharp frame the film as a slow-burn sci-fi, with a creepy retro analog-synth score by Sonic Youth’s Jim O’Rourke. After all, you need some sort of thematic manipulation to thoroughly creep audiences out. —Matt Cohen March 19 at National Gallery of Art, East Building. Free.
IN THE HEIGHTS Written by by Lin-Manuel Miranda Wednesday – Saturday, February 24-27, 2016, 8pm Sunday, February 28, 2016, 2pm
aFi silver theatre and cultural center 8633 Colesville road, Silver Spring. (301) 495-6700. afi.com/silver
SPRING DANCE CONCERT Friday – Saturday, April 29-30, 2016, 8pm Sunday, May 1, 2016, 2pm
anacostia community museum 1901 Fort place Se. (202) 633-4820. anacostia.si.edu avalon theatre 5612 Connecticut Ave. NW. (202) 966-6000. theavalon.org
All tickets are: $10 Regular, $8 Seniors, $5 Students w/ID
Busboys and poets Brookland 625 monroe St. Ne. (202) 636-7230. busboysandpoets.com
Montgomery College • 51 Mannakee St., Rockville, MD 20850 www.MontgomeryCollege.Edu/PAC • Box Office: 240-567-5301
Library of congress James madison Building 101 Independence Ave. Se.
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(202) 707-5000. loc.gov national archives mcgowan theater 7th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. (202) 357-5000. archives.gov/nae/visit/theater.html national gallery of art 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. (202) 737-4215. nga.gov naval heritage center at the United states navy memorial 701 pennsylvania Ave. NW. (202) 737-2300. navymemorial.org west end Library 1101 24th St. NW. (202) 724-8707. dclibrary.org
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110 in the Shade at ford’s theatre, march 11–may16
February
comes to D.C. as part of its 2016 national tour. tHeArC. Feb. 25–Feb. 26. $10–$20.
Antigone Project: A PlAy in 5 PArts Five female playwrights present their personal takes on Sophocles’ Antigone, imagining it in different places and times, as part of this evening-length work. rep Stage at Howard Community College. Feb. 17–march 6. $15–$40.
Br’er cotton tearrance Chisholm’s play follows ruffrino, a young man determined to break out of his quiet family and assert himself in the world in the wake of the black Lives matter movement. Catholic University of America. Feb. 13–Feb. 20. $5–$15.
BlAck Angels over tuskegee Layon Grey’s historical drama tells the story of the tuskegee Airmen, the elite corps of black soldiers who overcame prejudice to help defeat the Axis powers in World War II. the long-running Off-broadway production
cArmen: An Afro-cuBAn jAzz musicAl tony-nominated director moises Kaufman writes and directs this new adaptation of Georges bizet’s opera. the setting moves to 1950s Cuba and Carmen works as an arms smuggler but the central
story of two lovers divided by outside forces remains as timeless as ever. Olney theatre Center. Feb. 10–march 6. $18–$75.
local actors, including Joe Duquette and paul reisman. Spooky Action theater. Feb. 11–march 6. $25–$35.
cloud 9 theater students present this lively comedy by Caryl Churchill that bounces between 1880s Africa and 1980s england while telling the story of a century of british domination around the world. George mason University Center for the Arts. Feb. 24–Feb. 28. $10–$15.
constellAtions A theoretical physicist and a beekeeper might not fall in love in a typical environment, but in this play by Nick payne, they find themselves drawn to each other. David muse directs this show as part of the Studio X series. Studio theatre. Feb. 10–march 6. $20–$65.
collABorAtors John Hodge’s dark comedy imagines a conversation and relationship between russian writer mikhail bulgakov and Joseph Stalin. Spooky Action’s production features a variety of
eretz chAdAshA this documentary-style play looks at the many Sudanese refugees who fled their country and took up residence in Israel. told from the perspective of young Israeli actors, the produc-
washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 43
tion is led by michael bloom, former artistic director of the Cleveland playhouse. Woolly mammoth theatre, melton rehearsal Hall. Feb. 16–Feb. 28. $20–$50.
words that celebrate female sexuality as part of the V-Day movement to stop violence against women and girls. George mason University Center for the Arts. Feb. 12–Feb. 13. $5–$20.
for colored girls who hAve considered suicide/when the rAinBow is enuf Ntozake Shange’s classic work about the struggles and triumphs of seven African-American women blends 20 poems with music and movement. performed in repertory with Word Becomes Flesh. Anacostia playhouse. Feb. 24–march 26. $25–$65.
when the rAin stoPs fAlling michael Dove directs this production of Andrew bovell’s family drama that spans multiple generations and locations to tell the story of fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, and the events that happen over the course of 80 years. 1st Stage. Feb. 4–Feb. 28. $15–$30.
guArds At the tAj two guards tasked with overseeing the completion of the taj mahal are assigned to do something so gruesome that it will alter their lives and relationship for years to come in this tragicomedy from playwright rajiv Joseph. Woolly mammoth theatre. Feb. 1–Feb. 28. $43–$68.
word Becomes flesh A father reads a series of letters to his unborn child, conveying his love and fear, in this emotional work by marc bamuthi Joseph, which combines music, spoken word, and visual images. Anacostia playhouse. Feb. 24–march 26. $25–$65.
the inAugurAtion of BArAck oBAmA: A chAnge is gonnA come Audiences learn the story of how barack Obama became the nation’s first African-American president in this show pitched at viewers of all ages. publick playhouse. Feb. 23–Feb. 24. $8.
March 110 in the shAde A young woman aches for a life outside her small town and when she meets a handsome stranger who promises her opportunity and the ability to ease the region’s drought, her dreams appear within reach in this lively romantic musical by Harvey Schmidt, tom Jones, and N. richard Nash. Ford’s theatre. march 11–may 14. $28–$69.
the lion benjamin Scheuer tells his life story with the help of six guitars in this original one-man show that incorporates original rock songs and personal pain. Arena Stage. Feb. 26–April 10. $45–$70. A moon for the misBegotten philadelphia’s Walnut Street theatre performs eugene O’Neill’s poignant play about a young Irish woman who falls in love with a disgruntled alcoholic, written as a prequel to Long Day’s Journey Into Night. George mason University Center for the Arts. $26–$44.
1984 George Orwell’s classic dystopian novel about an all-seeing government is turned into a dramatic stage play in this new multimedia production by robert Icke and Duncan macmillan, originally created by the british theater collective Headlong. Lansburgh theatre. march 8–April 10. $20–$108.
othello Acclaimed director ron Daniels leads this classic tale of jealousy and scheming about the moorish general whose imagination leads him to turn against those who care about him while the duplicitous Iago benefits. Sidney Harman Hall. Feb. 23–march 27. $20–$108.
After the wAr An Israeli pianist returns to his home country to perform with the Israeli philharmonic and attempts to reconnect with the family he became estranged from following the 2006 war in Lebanon in this drama by motti Lerner, author of The Admission. Atlas performing Arts Center. march 24–April 17. $20–$60.
Queen nur’s voices of courAge the popular storyteller incorporates music into this one-woman show in which she tells the stories of seven famous African-American women: Sojourner truth, maria Stewart, Frances Harper, Cathy Williams, Ida b. Wells, mary Church terrell, and mary mcLeod bethune. publick playhouse. Feb. 18. $8. the right to dreAm the story of a young African American coming of age in 1960s mississippi is told in this drama that incorporates information about history and government. publick playhouse. Feb. 29. $8. roAd show Signature presents its 26th musical by Stephen Sondheim, this time taking on the story of two brothers who spend their days traveling around the world, from Alaska to India to boca raton. Gary Griffin directs this production, which he originally created at the Chicago Shakespeare theater. Signature theatre. Feb. 16–march 13. $40–$72. romeo And juliet Synetic theater brings back its popular silent production of the classic tale of young love and tragic loss seven years after it debuted. Synetic theater at Crystal City. Feb. 17–march 27. $15–$60. señoritA y mAdAme: the secret wAr of elizABeth Arden And helenA ruBinstein Gustavo Ott’s comedy about dueling women at the heads of the marketing and cosmetics world and the conflicts that impact their careers is brought to life by Consuelo trum. GALA Hispanic theatre. Feb. 4–Feb. 28. $20–$42. suddenly lAst summer rainbow theatre project presents a concert reading of tennessee Williams’ horrific play about a man who lures young men into his company, only to meet his end at their hands. Greg Stevens directs this one-night-only event. Source theatre. Feb. 22. $15. the vAginA monologues Students at George mason University perform eve ensler’s empowering
Constellations It’s a classic love story: She’s a woman of science. He’s a man of bees. Can they make it work? In Nick Payne’s Constellations, the answer depends on which multiverse their courtship unfolds in. Over the course of the play, Roland and Marianne build toward romance and into a relationship again and again, in different ways and on different timeframes. The play delighted critics when it first debuted in London, earning Payne comparisons to Tom Stoppard, another playwright who spins theoretical physics into drama. It reopened on Broadway last January in a production starring Jake Gyllenhaal. Now it will be staged in Studio Theatre’s intimate Studio X, so audiences can get cozy as they contemplate how crazy chance is, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Feb. 10–Mar. 6 at Studio Theatre. $20–$65. —Anya van Wagtendonk
for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf Ntozake Shange’s for colored girls who have considered suicide/when the rainbow is enuf proved its point upon its first production. A piece about the structural limitations imposed on women of color, it was only the second play by a black woman ever performed on Broadway when
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AmericAn idiot Keegan theatre presents this musical about disaffected youth coming of age in the early 21st century set to the music of Green Day. Keegan theatre at Church Street theater. march 12–April 9. $45–$55. Annie this classic musical about a young orphan who finds a wealth of opportunity when she’s taken in by rich Daddy Warbucks is presented in a brand new production. National theatre. march 15–march 20. $48–$98. BeAutiful thing two London neighbors go from friends to lovers, much to the frustration of their loved ones, in this warm comedy from playwright Jonathan Harvey. Jeanette buck directs rainbow theatre project’s reading about the abiding power of first love. Source theatre. march 14. $15. cAt on A hot tin roof Secrets and flawed relationships are revealed in tennessee Williams’ classic drama about two generations fighting to figure out inheritance and their roles in the world. round House theatre bethesda. march 30–April 24. $46–$61. fAlling out of time Author David Grossman reflects on losing his son in the 2006 Israel-Lebanon conflict in this moving story about a man who, with his wife, embarks on a journey that will impact his life forever. the stage version is adapted and directed by Derek Goldman, artistic director of the Davis performing Arts Center at Georgetown University. theater J. march 17–April 17. $27–$67. the flick three minimum-wage workers do their best to keep a small-town movie theater running and along the way, form tenuous connections with one another, in this pulitzer prize-winning play by Annie baker. Signature theatre. march 1–April 17. $40–$89.
WINNER OF MD THEATRE GUIDE’S
BEST PROFESSIONAL THEATRE FROM THE THE CREATOR CREATOR OF OF THE THE LARAMIE LARAMIE PR PROJECT FROM E T
CARMEN AN AFRO AFRO-CUBAN JAZZ MUSICAL MUSICAL AN CUBAN JAZZ
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All the Way
it debuted there in 1975 (just a few years after Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun). Shange’s Tony Award-winning play wasn’t a play at all, but an arrangement of 20 poems read and performed by seven women named for the colors of the rainbow. She referred to her genre-busting exploration of self-love and self-harm as a “choreopoem,” and for the artists who have adapted it since, figuring out what that means has been the first order of business. Over the last 40 years, for colored girls has been produced as a book, a television film, and even a Tyler Perry movie. Even if Theater Alliance’s production (directed by Deidra Starnes) hews to the traditional staging envisioned by Shange, it can’t help but be radical. —Kriston Capps Feb. 24–March 26 at Anacostia Playhouse. $35.
INTERSECTIONS Festival The Atlas Performing Arts Center launches its 10th anniversary season with the INTERSECTIONS Festival, 10 days of performances encompassing every genre you can imagine. Theater, music, and dance mix with spoken word, acrobatics, puppetry, and opera—often in the same performance. Artists span age, race, and gender spectra, and many come from around the world; performances include Indian jazz, Russian folk music, a play about women of the African diaspora, and “avant-garde flamenco.” D.C. flavor will also be on tap with the Go-Go Symphony, Metropolitan Youth Tap Ensemble, and a tango piece celebrating both Buenos Aires and the District, among other local works. Much of the work, too, will have a social bent, such as Restoration Stage’s Standing for Trayvon, a play about Trayvon Martin’s mother, and Rude Mechanical’s reimagining of Antigone in the context of last spring’s Baltimore uprising. Between ticketed performances, festival attendees can see free concerts in the lobby, and Saturdays offer kid-friendly entertainment and activities. The festival will close with a day focused on youth, featuring local students performing original works, and a youth summit about how art impacts community. Feb. 26–March 6 at the Atlas Per—Anya van Wagtendonk forming Arts Center. $8–$30.
A fresh of BreAth Air Actress Dale Stein portrays all the characters in this lively one-woman satirical show set within the fictional Fifi’s Cafe. George mason University Center for the Arts. $10–$15. the gosPel According to thomAs jefferson, chArles dickens, And count leo tolstoy: discord three famed thinkers who adapted the bible to suit their own lives debate the merits of their own interpretations in this clever comedy by Scott Carter. Washington Stage Guild at Undercroft theatre. march 31–April 24. $40–$50. the lAnguAge of the future performance artist Laurie Anderson continues her explanation of American narratives with this work that combines songs and stories that explore our fascination with the world of information. Kennedy Center terrace theater. march 4–march 6. $36–$45. mArjorie Prime A woman reinvents her past with some help from a hologram of her late husband in this experimental comedy by Jordan Harrison. Olney theatre Center. march 10–April 10. $22–$65. mArried But single A woman in love with a sensual r&b singer who can’t manage to give her the love she needs seeks comfort from others in this romantic drama from Je’Caryous Johnson. Warner theatre. march 11–march 13. $51.50.
middletown Will eno’s play, set in a small American town, follows the relationship between a longtime town resident and a new arrival as their journey takes them through birth, death, and outer space. George mason University Center for the Arts. march 24–April 3. $15–$25. moment tony-nominated director ethan mcSweeney makes his Studio debut with this family drama set in Ireland. When a young man returns home to visit his estranged mother, he starts a series of conflicts within his suburban town and within his family. Studio theatre. march 16–April 24. $20–$86. the odyssey: from vietnAm to AmericA to mark the 40th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, performer Vân-Ánh Võ tells the story of the boat people, who fled Vietnam in the aftermath of the war, through music, spoken word, and live media. Kennedy Center terrace theater. march 11–march 12. $49. the PillowmAn An author living in a totalitarian state is investigated when a series of horrific crimes align with events in his stories in martin mcDonagh’s play. Yury Urnov directs Forum’s production featuring maboud ebrahimzadeh, James Konicek, and bradley Foster Smith. Forum theatre at Silver Spring black box theatre. march 10–April 2. $30–$35.
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The Flick Much of the buzz surrounding Annie Baker’s exhaustively long yet decidedly rewarding play, The Flick, has focused on its length, its lack of pronounced, highly dramatic conflict, and its tendency toward the visual exploration of the mundane. Yet the play, which received the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, has been knighted by New York City theater critics as a great new addition to the American canon, following its Off-Broadway premiere in 2013 at Playwright Horizons. And Baker herself has emerged quite notably as a star writer for the stage. For its D.C.-area premiere at Signature, award-winning resident director Joe Calarco will face the unenviable task of keeping butts in seats during the show’s approximately
washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 47
three-hour run time, as some patrons have reportedly walked out during intermission in prior productions. All of this for a play about three movie theater workers in a Massachusetts art-house cineplex who make minimum wage and chop it up about movie stars and millennial angst? Perhaps patience is indeed a virtue that The Flick eventually rewards. —Jerome Langston March 1–April 17 at Signature Theatre. $40–$94.
Hugo Ball: A Super Spectacular Dada Adventure at logan fringe Arts space, April 15–May 14
The Pillowman
Irish playwright Martin McDonagh may be having a D.C. moment. Three of his dark comedies have been staged around town in the past two years, and Forum Theatre is adding to the trend with its production of The Pillowman. The play is a creepy Kafka-esque comedy (black, as is McDonagh’s wont) about a writer whose work hews too closely to a gruesome reality. It’s a change from the McDonagh works Washingtonians may have already seen: Instead of a depressing rural Irish village, the play is set in various dark chambers of an unnamed totalitarian state. The Pillowman is not quite novel at this point, but director Yury Urnov, whose career has largely focused on post-Soviet works, should bring a keen eye to authoritarianism absurdities. As always, Forum will sell most tickets at a pay-what-you-will rate. It’s one of the best deals in —Anya van Wagtendonk town. March 10–April 2 at Forum Theatre. $25–$35.
Proof In this pulitzer prize-winning play, a young woman who has spent much of her life caring for her unstable father must reckon with his actions after his death. When she encounters her estranged sister and a former student of her father’s, the three of them begin to figure out what’s left behind. 1st Stage. march 31–may 1. $15–$30.
April All the WAy explore the power and personality of Lyndon Johnson in this drama from playwright robert Schenkkan. Featuring appearances by martin Luther King, J. edgar Hoover, and other public figures from the era, this play serves as both history lesson and cautionary tale. Arena Stage. April 1–may 8. $55–$100. the AnnuAl ten-Minute PlAy festivAl Students write, direct, and perform new works created over the course of 10 intense days as part of this annual celebration of theater. George mason University Center for the Arts. April 22–April 23. $10–$15. BlAck PeArl sings American folk songs and spirituals are put to use in this play set in Depression-era texas, about two women whose love of music draws them together during difficult times. metroStage. April 21–may 29. $55–$60. the Body of An AMericAn A war reporter and a playwright, both haunted by their pasts, form a friendship that takes them around the world in this new play by Dan O’brien, who based the drama on his own relationship with friend paul Watson. theater J. April 27–may 29. $27–$67.
chronicle of A deAth foretold A young woman returns to her family after her husband discovers she is not a virgin, leading her brothers to take revenge in this tale based on the novel by Gabriel García márquez. GALA Hispanic theatre. April 7–may 8. $20–$42. diAl “M” for Murder A former tennis star aims to get away with killing his wife in order to cash in on her wealth but he’s quickly investigated by a detective and his wife’s former lover, leading to a wild chase and surprising ending. Jason King Jones directs this play, which inspired Alfred Hitchcock’s film of the same name. Olney theatre Center. April 6–may 1. $15–$45. disgrAced Ayad Akhtar’s pulitzer prize-winning drama considers the consequences of the American dream from the perspective of Amir, a South Asian immigrant who fears that his lavish lifestyle has alienated him from his roots. Arena Stage. April 22–may 29. $55–$100. ghAshee W MAshee Im Hussein stars in this comedic play about generational differences, know-it-all husbands, and other frustrating aspects of modern life. Lincoln theatre. April 9. $55–$85. hugo BAll: A suPer sPectAculAr dAdA Adventure pointless theatre presents this wild romp based in part on the life of one of the Dada movement’s founders. Logan Fringe Arts Space. April 15–may 14. $20–$25. hunting And gAthering In this lively comedy from playwright brooke berman, a group of New Yorkers seek temporary shelter in different locations as they cohabitate and separate over the course of
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Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
Like any classic Tennessee Williams play, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof is all about the dark side of Southern gentility, with more than a few helpings of family dysfunction. But don’t let the characters’ hilarious names fool you. Big Daddy, Big Mama, Brick, Gooper, and Maggie the Cat’s personal and familial tragedies are truly heart wrenching. In fact, after A Streetcar Named Desire, this play won Williams his second Pulitzer Prize. The Keegan Theatre’s production of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof last summer was fantastic; if Round House’s version is even half as good, it’ll be a real treat. March 30–April 24 at Round —Elena Goukassian House Theatre. $36–$61.
All the Way
The growing fascination with Lyndon Baines Johnson, the quietly complicated 36th president of the United States, has clearly transcended the halls of academia and moved into popular public discourse. Credit is certainly owed to Ava Duvernay’s 2014 Oscar-nominated Selma, which raised valid questions about LBJ’s motivations as the “civil rights president” and scrutinized his character with quite a bit of controversy in tow. In Robert Schenkkan’s Tony-winning All the Way, however, LBJ’s political danc-
time. rep Stage at Howard Community College. April 6–April 24. $15–$40. In a Word two years after her son’s disappearance, a mother continues to grieve and feel lost within her community. through interactions with an incompetent detective, an absent husband, and a strange local kidnapper, Lauren Yee’s play shows how people cope with tragedy and what we must do in order to move on. the Hub theatre at John Swayze theatre. April 1–April 24. $20–$30.
Jersey Boys the tony-winning musical tells the story of the rise and fall of the Four Seasons and includes many of the group’s hit songs, including “Walk Like a man,” “big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Sherry.” National theatre. April 6–April 24. $53–$113. Journey to the West mary Zimmerman’s take on this ancient Chinese legend about a monk on the search for sacred scriptures is both mystical and dreamy, as presented by Constellation theatre.
ing act and undeniable courage are contextualized differently. Jack Willis stars as Johnson in the Arena Stage premiere, while Bowman Wright again takes the role of Martin Luther King Jr., which he played to near perfection in Arena’s production of Katori Hall’s The Mountaintop. Their performances as these two towering 20th century figures alone should drive interest during the drama’s month-plus run. April 1–May 8 —Jerome Langston at Arena Stage. $40–$127.
The Mystery of Love & Sex
British playwright Bathsheba Doran deserves a lot of credit for delving into the oft misunderstood world of sexual fluidity, as she’s done as a writer on Showtime’s Masters of Sex. Doran’s dramatically heavy Nest premiered at Signature in 2007, and she returns this spring with a newer work. The Mystery of Love & Sex explores the friendship between two college students, Charlotte and Jonny, who have known each other since childhood. They toy with the idea of taking their relationship further, amidst questions surrounding their individual sexual identities. This D.C. premiere, directed by Stella Powell Jones, promises complete male and female nudity, as well as a story that might eliminate some of the static notions of identity. April —Jerome Langston 5–May 8 at Signature Theatre. $40–$89.
Chronicle of a Death Foretold
Gabriel García Márquez’ 1981 novella Chronicle of a Death Foretold starts with a murder and traces it back to its origins. But it’s not a detective story as much as a psychological roller coaster infused with tales of familial honor, rape, revenge, and smallmindedness. Although the murder is gruesome, the real tragedy is encapsulated in a magical-realist twist, which gives the story its prophetic title. Adapted for the stage by Jorge Triana, GALA’s Chronicle of a Death Foretold—like most of the theater’s shows—will be in Spanish with English surtitles. April 7–May 8 at GALA Hispanic —Elena Goukassian Theatre. $38–$50. washingtoncitypaper.com february 12, 2016 49
Constellation theatre at Source. April 21–may 22. $20–$45. A Lesson from ALoes Laura Giannarelli directs this acclaimed drama by Athol Fugard about three civil rights activists whose work has driven them apart. the arrival of another friend, a black man who is imprisoned for his work, forces all the characters to confront their failures and the realities of the nation in which they live. Quotidian theatre Company at the Writer’s Center. April 29–may 29. $15–$30. miLLion DoLLAr QuArtet Jerry Lee Lewis, elvis presley, Carl perkins, and Johnny Cash perform classic rock hits in this popular musical that makes a day-long stop at the Warner on its national tour. Warner theatre. April 3. $42–$72.
the nether Local favorite ed Gero makes his Woolly mammoth debut in Jennifer Haley’s fantastical play about what happens when earth turns into a gray wasteland. A special place where all desires are met serves as a safe space for some individuals, but when a detective begins to look into the forces behind this wonderland, the artifice around it crumbles. Woolly mammoth theatre. April 4–may 1. $35–$68. PriDe AnD PrejuDice Drama students tell the story of the frustrated love between mr. Darcy and elizabeth bennet in this stage adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel. Catholic University of America. April 21–April 24. $5–$15.
my Queer BoDy rainbow theatre project pays tribute to legendary performer tim miller by presenting a one-night-only reading of his seminal work exploring gender and sexual identity. bier baron tavern. April 10. $15.
the rAt PAck three regular Signature performers take on the songs of Frank Sinatra, Dean martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. at this cabaret featuring lively renditions of songs like “that’s Amore” and “I’ve Gotta be me.” Signature theatre. April 19–April 23. $35.
the mystery of Love & sex On the eve of their college graduations, two longtime friends debate pursuing a romantic relationship and in the process, learn about themselves, as well as about love and sex, in this warm comedy from author bathsheba Doran. Signature theatre. April 5–may 8. $40–$85.
reDuceD shAkesPeAre comPAny the popular british comedy group, which presents the bard’s work in silly, abbreviated form, returns to the Folger with William Shakespeare’s Long Lost First play. Folger elizabethan theatre. April 21–may 8. $35–$75.
1st stage 1524 Spring Hill road, mcLean. (703) 854-1856. 1ststagespringhill.org
Forum theatre at silver spring Black Box theatre 8641 Colesville road, Silver Spring. (240) 644-1390. forum-theatre.org
alden theatre 1234 Ingleside Ave., mcLean. (703) 790-9223. mcleancenter.org anacostia playhouse 2020 Shannon place Se. (202) 290-2328. anacostiaplayhouse.com arena stage 1101 6th St. SW. (202) 488-3300. arenastage.org atlas performing arts center 1333 H St. Ne. (202) 399-7993. atlasarts.org Bier Baron tavern 1523 22nd St. NW. (202) 293-1885. bierbarondc.com catholic University of america 620 michigan Ave. Ne. (202) 319-5000. cua.edu constellation theatre at source 1835 14th St. NW. (202) 204-7741. constellationtheatre.org
gaLa hispanic theatre 3333 14th St. NW. (202) 234-7174. galatheatre.org george mason University center for the arts 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. (703) 993-2787. cfa.gmu.edu the hub theatre at John swayze theatre 9431 Silver King Court, Fairfax. (703) 674-3177. thehubtheatre.org Keegan theatre at church street theater 1742 Church St. NW. (703) 892-0202. keegantheatre.com Kennedy center 2700 F St. NW. (202) 467-4600. kennedy-center.org
too much Light mAkes the BABy go BLinD the New York Neofuturists bring their show, in which performers attempt to present 30 serious and silly plays in 60 minutes, to the mcLean Community Center. Alden theatre. April 16. $15–$25.
May An AmericAn DAughter Keegan theatre presents the D.C.-area premiere of Wendy Wasserstein’s drama about a doctor whose sudden appointment to a Cabinet position unleashes a series of scandals that she has to reckon with. Keegan theatre at Church Street theater. may 7–may 28. $30–$40. BAkersfieLD mist A poor bartender buys a painting that just might be a lost Jackson pollack in this lively comedy from author Stephen Sacks. Her fate resides with a curator who must authenticate the work and determine whether maude is living with a treasure or an imitation. Olney theatre Center. may 12–June 12. $22–$65. heDDA gABLer mark O’rowe presents a contemporary adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play about a woman who returns from her honeymoon and is devastated by the banality of married life. Studio theatre. may 11–June 19. $20–$86.
national theatre 1321 pennsylvania Ave. NW. (202) 628-6161. nationaltheatre.org olney theatre center 2001 Olney-Sandy Spring road, Olney. (301) 924-3400. olneytheatre.org publick playhouse 5445 Landover road, Cheverly. (301) 277-1710. pgparks.com Quotidian theatre company at the writer’s center 4508 Walsh St., bethesda. (301) 816-1023. quotidiantheatre.org rep stage at howard community college 10901 Little patuxent parkway, Columbia. (443) 518-1500. repstage.org round house theatre Bethesda 4545 east-West Highway, bethesda. (240) 644-1100. roundhousetheatre.org sidney harman hall 610 F St. NW. (202) 547-1122. shakespearetheatre.org
Flashpoint mead theatre Lab 916 G St. NW. (202) 315-1306. culturaldc.org
Lansburgh theatre 450 7th St. NW. (202) 547-1122. shakespearetheatre.org
Folger elizabethan theatre 201 e. Capitol St. Se. (202) 544-7077. folger.edu
Lincoln theatre 1215 U St. NW. (202) 328-6000. thelincolndc.com
source theatre 1835 14th St. NW. (202) 204-7800. sourcedc.org
Ford’s theatre 511 10th St. NW. (202) 347-4833. fordstheatre.org
metrostage 1201 N. royal St., Alexandria. (703) 548-9044. metrostage.org
spooky action theater 1810 16th St. NW. (301) 920-1414. spookyaction.org
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signature theatre 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington. (703) 820-9771. sigtheatre.org
the mAn in the iron mAsk In this follow-up to The Three Musketeers, D’Artagnan continues to serve King Louis XIV, only to be interrupted by his former comrades who rescue his twin brother from the bastille. Synetic’s production features more swashbuckling fun and pageantry. Synetic theater at Crystal City. may 11–June 19. $15–$60. the tAming of the shrew the complex relationship between Kate and petruchio is explored in this new production of Shakespeare’s comedy, in which director ed Sylvanus Iskandar blurs gender roles and examines identities. Sidney Harman Hall. may 17–June 26. $20–$108. when jAnuAry feeLs Like summer mosaic theater Company presents this urban comedy by Cori thomas about romance, heroism, gender identity, and immigration. While the original script sets the action in Harlem, director Serge Seiden moves his play to D.C.’s Anacostia and H Street Ne neighborhoods. Atlas performing Arts Center. may 19–June 12. $20–$60. the wizArD of oz Andrew Lloyd Webber and tim rice contribute several new songs to this production of the classic musical about a lion, a scarecrow, a tin man, and a girl who just wants to go home to Kansas. National theatre. may 3–may 15. $48–$98.
studio theatre 1501 14th St. NW. (202) 332-3300. studiotheatre.org synetic theater at crystal city 1800 South bell St., Arlington. (800) 494-8497. synetictheater.org thearc 1901 mississippi Ave. Se. (202) 889-5901. thearcdc.com theater J 1529 16th St. NW. (202) 518-9400. theaterj.org warner theatre 513 13th St. NW. (202) 783-4000. warnertheatre.com washington stage guild at Undercroft theatre 900 massachusetts Ave. NW. (240) 582-0050. stageguild.org woolly mammoth theatre 641 D St. NW. (202) 393-3939. woollymammoth.net woolly mammoth theatre, melton rehearsal hall 641 D St. NW. (202) 393-3939. woollymammoth.net
WINNER OF THE STEINBERG PLAYWRIGHT AWARD
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