CITYPAPER Washington
schools: henderson’s social calendar 7
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Free Volume 35, no. 44 WashingtonCityPaPer.Com oCtober 30–noVember 5, 2015
gut reaction Fig & Olive is packed weeks after a salmonella outbreak, but the fallout is far from over. 14
by jessica sidman
2 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
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INSIDE
14 gut reaction Fig & Olive is packed weeks after a salmonella outbreak, but the fallout is far from over.
by jessica sidman
4 chatter District Line
7 9
10 11 12 19
Loose Lips: How the DCPS chancellor raises funds City Desk: Flag tattoos for Nnamdi, Sherwood, and Cheh Unobstructed View Gear Prudence Savage Love Buy D.C.
D.c. FeeD
city List
35 City Lights: Balanchine, Béjart, and The Bard dances its way to the Kennedy Center on Saturday 35 Halloween 36 Music 42 Galleries 42 Dance 42 Theater 44 Film
46 cLassiFieDs Diversions
20 Grazer: Milk Bar versus RareSweets 20 Are You Gonna Eat That? Wicked Bloom’s Smokehouse Bomb
47 Crossword
arts
Design by Lauren Heneghan Image from Thinkstock
23 Film: Olszewski on Difret and The Assassin 25 Arts Desk: The D.C. Alley Museum opens in Blagden Alley 26 Theater: Klimek on Girlstar and Avenue Q 28 Short Subjects: Gittell on Our Brand Is Crisis 30 Speed Reads: Villacorta on This Angel on My Chest 32 Disco: Fischer on Soccer Team’s Real Lessons in Cynicism and Knox on Witch Coast’s Burnt Out By 3 p.m.
on the cover
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my epidural stopped working, during the middle of labor, and this was way worse than that. —page9 washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 3
CHATTER 1099 Problems Last week’s cover stories on the 1099 economy in
D.C . covered misclassification of independent contractors, musicians who savor the freedom of dog walking, and whether or not the Affordable Care Act unleashed an entrepreneurial spirit in D.C. Andrew Giambrone wrote about a Postmates courier who filed a lawsuit against the company (“Supply and Demands,” Oct. 23) and the implications of its outcome for the ondemand industry nationwide. “Ordered from Postmates once upon rec of Silicon Valley-ish friend. Felt super shady. My gut was right,” @ APalleschi tweeted. In “Mis-Independent,” Sarah Anne Hughes presented the scope of misclassification, from the construction industry to exotic dancing. Eugene G. Johnson tweeted, “Millennials need stable jobs now. Independent contracts amount to wage theft.” Finally, Ron Knox’s “Walk and Roll” provided Dan Trombly with the peace he was looking for: “@ronmknoxDC answers a question hounding me for months: ‘is everyone I meet at shows walking dogs now?’”
In which readers declare Bowser a one-term mayor
mayor over the PAC. Our readers did not come to her defense, either. WARD4NDC wrote, “Mayor Muriel Bowser fate will be like her sister girlfriend in Baltimore, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. Due to her incompetence, handling of the riots, and her aloofness, Muriel Bowser is hated by most of the people and she will be a one time Mayor like Adrian Malik Fenty.” Responding to a Bowser spokesperson’s assertion that “folks have a thick skin, and we remain focused,” Big Pete commented, “I’m sure you do when you take bribes--er uh, ‘donations’--from any and every developer and you can afford mink coats to cover said skin. Always cool to stock a war chest with big business money to take out folks who don’t represent big business. Bowser might as well be a republican with all these BS tactics. She’s proven she can raise money, but she has NEVER proved she knows how to 807 V Street NW, between 8th & 9th Streets NW, next door to the 9:30 Club, Washington, DC 20001 legislate or lead.” And just in case the tone isn’t coming through, here’s what impeachemall wrote, “Good grief ! Doesn’t every DC resident know that DC’s hottest new theatre and lounge, Atlantic Plumbing Cinema, is now open. ‘what’s going on’ is that Bowser’s sucking Located in the U Street Corridor, the theatre features a full bar with food up to her corporate owners/funders and selections, six auditoriums, advance reserved seating and automated ticketing throwing the rest of us under the bus!!” To kiosks. Drinks purchased in the bar can be taken into any auditorium to enjoy which noodlez replied, “UMMM YES.” while watching a movie in our oversized, plush leather seats. —Sarah Anne Hughes
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Green at the gills. In last week’s Loose Lips column (“Swallow the Leader”), Will Sommer wrote about the increasing criticism Mayor Muriel Bowser faces for the warrantless search provisions of a crime bill she’s backed and a Green Team political action committee she’s associated with, among other causes for complaint. Even the Washington Post editorial board has turned on the
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Department of Corrections: The cover package story “Mis-Independent” incorrectly stated that Gregg Greenberg’s firm is representing Talayna Clements. She is being represented Michelle Lanchester. Want to see your name in bold on this page? Send letters, gripes, clarifications, or praise to editor@washingtoncitypaper.com.
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The Pepco Holdings-Exelon Merger: Now, It Works for Everyone. Dear Pepco customers, After working to learn what is important to the District, we’re pleased to report that we’ve reached a settlement with the District government and others on our merger. We listened to District leaders, residents and the community to find a path forward that is more focused on the District’s priorities. The settlement has more than 120 commitments that help ensure the merger benefits everyone in the District. The commitments include more than doubling customer benefits to over $72 million, which is expected to be used for: $25.6 million to offset distribution rate increases for residential customers through March 2019. $14 million in direct bill credits for residential customers. $16.15 million for low-income energy assistance. $3.5 million for renewable energy and $3.5 million for energy efficiency programs. $10.05 million to support the District’s Green Building Fund. The settlement also includes: New commitments for fewer and shorter outages and significant financial penalties if Pepco fails to meet them. Up to 10 megawatts of new solar generation and making it easier and faster for customers to install solar panels. More jobs located in the District as a result of the merger and $5.2 million for workforce development. $19 million in guaranteed charitable contributions over 10 years to nonprofits that serve District residents. The Pepco Holdings-Exelon merger will bring significant benefits to the District, and we hope you will agree that the merger now works for everyone.
Donna Cooper
Region President, Pepco
Melissa Sherrod
Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Exelon
Bringing significant benefits to the District. For more information or to voice your support visit PHITomorrow.com
Paid for by Exelon Corporation. 6 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
DISTRICTLINE Loose Lips
The Chancellor’s Calendar
Kaya Henderson’s fundraising, fundraising, and more fundraising with the toast of the education reform movement Kaya Henderson has hit the On a given day in the course fundraising circuit. of running the 47,000-student D.C. Public Schools system, Chancellor Kaya Henderson could be handing out iPads, reading to elementary school kids, or haggling with a councilmember. But running one of the country’s most-watched public school systems means something else, too: hitting up a group of well-heeled donors for cash and ideas. Like her controversial predecessor, Michelle Rhee, Henderson has found her way onto the circuit of private groups hoping to influence the District’s public schools. Using the Freedom of Information Act, LL obtained Henderson’s calendar between January 2013 and August 2015 to see who’s working with the chancellor behind the scenes. It turns out that while Henderson has avoided becoming a Rhee-style lightning rod in the education wars, she shares with her predecessor many of the same backers in the world of ond office, but she’s just as likely to be headed school reform. to Croatia or China. Henderson has made it to Unlike Rhee, Henderson doesn’t have a doc- big-deal conferences like the Allen & Co. Sun umentary like Waiting for Superman to make Valley confab, where she talked schools with her a star amongst education wonks. Still, she bigwigs whom one attendee described as “100 has kept up Rhee’s jet-setting schedule. percent of the one percent.” Like any good local District political figure, Henderson hasn’t shrunk from the public Henderson uses the Old Ebbitt Grill like a sec- profile established by her predecessor. In 2013,
washingtoncitypaper.com/go/MetroConsult
mittee aimed at pushing reform-minded candidates in the District. DFER has been staunchly pro-charter and anti-teachers union. Another carry-over from the previous administration: Rhee herself, who occasionally schedules phone calls with Henderson. Exmayor and Rhee patron Adrian Fenty made his own meeting with Henderson back in 2013, on behalf of an education technology company he was working for. Despite trips to conferences as far away as Turkey, Henderson doesn’t have to leave the District to call up wealthy donors with big ideas about DCPS. Below, some of the groups Henderson talks to most frequently: (A word about the number of meetings counted below. Because DCPS’ FOIA officer went heavy with the redactions, it’s hard to know how many meetings with donors were redacted from LL’s request. And the calendar doesn’t include Henderson’s interactions with donors at events or unscheduled meetings.)
Darrow Montgomery
By Will Sommer
Metro brings in highpowered consultants to change how it operates:
according to her calendar, she received media training help from Vince Gray’s 2010 campaign adviser Mo Elleithee. She meets with celebrities like politico Donna Brazile and basketball star Magic Johnson. Henderson has also been talking to Catharine Bellinger, now the head of the Democrats for Education Reform D.C. political action com-
The CityBridge Foundation Calendar Activity: At least seven contacts CityBridge President Katherine Bradley carries a lot of influence in the world of District education reform, and with good reason. Backed by the fortune of Bradley’s husband (and owner of the Atlantic) David Bradley, CityBridge has teamed with both Rhee and Henderson. The foundation’s website declares Henderson a “superstar.” Incidentally, the Advisory Board, the consulting company which David Bradley founded, is set to get a hefty tax break from the Bowser administration. The Washington Post Editorial Board and Don Graham Calendar Activity: At least
11 contacts Henderson, like Rhee, has maintained a tight relationship with the Washington Post’s editorial board. Henderson and Post local editorial expert Jo-Ann Armao are in regular contact. The relationship has paid off for Henderson, who has earned several favorable editorials from the Post.
washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 7
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DL But the Post isn’t just good for positive press. LL’s calendar dump spans the time when Post heir Don Graham sold the paper to Amazon’s Jeff Bezos in mid-2013. Graham, a prolific education donor in the District, was interested in Henderson and DCPS both before and after selling the paper. Graham has dropped as much ink as dollars on Henderson. When former At-Large Councilmember David Catania backed school legislation that could have cut into Henderson’s powers, Graham wrote an op-ed calling him a “bully.” The Broad Foundation Calendar Activity: At least two contacts Henderson has met with the school foundation heavies in the Broad Foundation, including on a trip to Los Angeles. Henderson has also met with Eli Broad, the tycoon whose fortune has funded a major charter school push in Los Angeles. Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Calendar Activity: At least three contacts Along with the Broad Foundation, the Gates Foundation signs some of the biggest checks in the ed reform world. Not included here are Henderson’s meetings with many Gates Foundation-funded groups, the complete counting of which would require LL to build a Homeland-style “crazy wall.” Venture Philanthropy Partners Calendar Activity: At least six contacts Venture Philanthropy Partners functions as a catch-all for reform-minded checks from the likes of Wizards owner Ted Leonsis. Leading the charge is former District mayoral chief of staff and regular Henderson contact Carol Thompson Cole. The D.C. Public Education Fund Calendar Activity: At least 30 contacts Fenty and Rhee set up the DCPEF as an intermediary for school reform checks from large donors like the Gates Foundation. Given its origin with the Green Team, it shouldn’t be any surprise to LL readers that it doubles as a hangout for Fenty types like Chico Horton and Ben Soto (both of whom are now steering Muriel Bowser’s controversial PAC FreshPAC). But the fund’s real power comes from the likes of chairman and Washington Kastles owner Mark Ein, who takes frequent meetings with Henderson. In a statement, DCPS spokeswoman Michelle Lerner calls DCPEF “an important aspect in bringing in additional CP funding to support our priorities.” Got a tip for LL? Send suggestions to lips@washingtoncitypaper.com. Or call (202) 650-6925.
DISTRICTLINE
Tomorrow’s history today: This was the week many in D.C. were aghast to learn city departments tell their employees to stand when the mayor enters a room.
City Desk
Stars and Bars
Mary Cheh Cheh has represented Ward 3—which includes Tenleytown, Cleveland Park, and other leafy, sleepy neighborhoods in Northwest—since 2007 and has lived there for decades. Sure, the outline of Ward 3 is not aesthetically pleasing and would probably not be a first choice for many getting a tattoo. But like an ugly baby, it’s a shape a mother-figure can love.
As part of WAMU’s fall fundraising drive, host Kojo Nnamdi and Politics Hour analyst Tom Sherwood once again agreed to have the D.C. flag tattooed on their persons in exchange for a $3,000 or greater single donation. (This time, they also got Ward 3 Councilmember Mary Cheh to join their pact.) The public radio gods finally delivered this year, as did a listener with a few thousand bucks to spare. Nnamdi, Sherwood, and Cheh pledge to get inked at a yet undisclosed time and place. Trust City Paper to stay on the story. Like all tattoos, D.C. flag ink can be really cool—to many, it’s a permanent rallying cry for statehood—or it can be a little bit tragic. Here, we suggest a few ways Nnamdi, Sherwood, and Cheh can elevate and personalize their flag tattoos and make D.C. proud. —Sarah Anne Hughes
Kojo Nnamdi
Graphics by Lauren Heneghan
Replacing the flag’s bars with microphones combines Nnamdi’s love of D.C. with his love of radio. Adding the WAMU logo makes it a real ride-or-die tattoo.
Tom Sherwood
Sherwood co-authored Dream City, a history of D.C. before and after Home Rule through the lens of Marion Barry’s rise and fall. The book, which turned 20 last year, is a must-read for D.C. newcomers. It’s also available as an e-book, a fact Sherwood can bring up when people ask him, “What does your tattoo say?”
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UNOBSTRUCTEDVIEW Let’s Actually Talk About Race and Sports By Matt Terl
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It would take a really churlish, cranky, Grinch of a viewer to turn Kirk Cousins’ release of enthusiasm and excitement after a stirring comeback win—“YOU LIKE THAT?!? YOU LIKE THAT!”—into anything negative. So of course I found myself thinking back to Bomani Jones’ comments a few weeks ago, positing a racial component to the way people treat the team’s quarterbacks. I wondered if people would’ve been quite so amused if it had been Robert Griffin III celebrating, or if they would have just seen a young black dude with braids glaring angrily into the camera and shouting. When Jones’ opinions came into the spotlight, many local fans and media got defensive. This is reasonable, as very few people enjoy being called racist, and those who do enjoy it generally don’t wind up in sports media. I didn’t take Jones’ comments as actually accusing people of conscious or overt racism, though. I think what he was talking about is the unconscious assumptions that people make, and the conclusions those assumptions lead them to. To use a completely non-racerelated example, it’s similar to the way Ryan Fitzpatrick’s Harvard-educated interceptions always seem to be afforded more leeway than those thrown by someone from a Southeastern Conference school. I know ESPN 980’s Thom Loverro and Kevin Sheehan a little bit, and I want to be explicitly clear here: I don’t think either man is even remotely racist. But to hear the two hosts, both of whom are white, not only brush aside Jones’ concerns but bristle at the very implication… that doesn’t seem likely to help anything. “I’m just incensed at this notion that the D.C. media is somehow racially biased in their coverage of the quarterbacks of the Washington [Pigskins],” Loverro said. “I just don’t see how any reasonable person would come to the conclusion that Cousins is being treated differently because of racial motivation,” Sheehan said. To me, this kind of thing is only reinforcing Jones’ point: If you’re a white guy outright dismissing the very idea that there might be a subconscious racial component to your thinking, it raises more questions than it answers. It’s also exactly the same kind of thinking
that leads to dismissing the concerns that people have with the team name. It’s embedded in ideas like “we don’t mean it to be offensive to your people so it isn’t” or “well, there aren’t enough people who are upset.” The most fundamental dismissal is “Oh, people will complain about everything.” There’s an othering and diminishing of the very idea of complaint in that dismissal, an eye-rolling sense of, “Oh, just suck it up, you whiners.” It’s the sort of dismissal can only be made by someone who isn’t part of the group in question. An anecdote from personal experience: I’m pretty comfortable in my own skin as a Jewish guy, and at this point in the 21st century (and in this part of America), most people would tell you that Jews are barely a marginalized or persecuted minority—that any claim that we’re other than white is being overdramatic, and that we only encounter the most “minor” of discrimination. A few years back, a realtor made a comment during discussions of an offer for a house: We should, she said, “put our Jewishness aside for a minute” and up our offer. I was furious and humiliated, and felt demeaned by being painted with the most tired stereotype in the history of the Jewish people. The realtor was apologetic. She’s a kind-hearted woman who thought that I would take it as a bit of light-hearted ballbusting. She sobbed throughout her apology. And I’m a pushover of a human being, so I lied and said it was OK. I’ve been fortunate to only have a few such incidents in my life, but each of them still makes me feel nauseated to recount. I’m not comparing my situation to the plight of anyone who faces genuine, day-to-day oppression, but I am comfortable extrapolating from my own weird blend of anger and embarrassment and nausea. And what I get from that feeling is this: When people of a minority group say “This bothers me” or “I suspect that there’s some subconscious racial motivation to your actions,” it’s not helpful at all to immediately dismiss those concerns. No one brings up these issues if they’re only casually concerned. These things get in deep, and they sting for far longer than you expect. What is helpful is to address it, to discuss it openly, to acknowledge the potential problem and figure out how to overcome it. The idea is to discuss race more openly, not less. The idea is to engage with and confront issues like this, not to brush them off in a moment of sports radio theater, appalled. And that applies whether you’re talking about the person depicted on the side of the helmet or CP the person wearing it. Follow Matt Terl on Twitter @Matt_Terl.
SKY AD PAGE Gear Prudence: I’ve been commuting by bike for a few months now and have been using a backpack, but my friends insist that I should buy a rack and panniers. I’m wondering if you have any recommendations. —Currently Assessing Racks. Really? Yes!
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Dear CARRY: Using a rack and pannier is an effective carrying method, especially if you are going longer distances and don’t want to carry a lot of weight on your back. Rear racks are more common than front racks, but both are acceptable. Prior to purchase, ensure that your bicycle has the proper rack mounts (some bikes don’t). Racks vary in material, quality, the amount of weight they can carry, and accordingly, price. Same with panniers. While racks are useful, GP suggests you consider a basket instead. A rack alone won’t accomplish very much (it’s just a platform), whereas a basket can provide an temporary home for all sorts of things, including your backpack. Baskets are especially good for groceries and will suffice even if you forget your reusable bags—just chuck your Funyuns —GP in there and go. Gear Prudence: Last year you gave some bike Halloween costume recommendations and they were all pretty lame. Do you have any better —Seeking Costume ideas for this year? And Rad Evening Dear SCARE: Thanks for reading the column! Only the most dedicated readers would remember to chastise GP for bad year-old advice, while simultaneously asking for more, which will invariably be of the same quality. But here goes: –Wear black and white stripes, but also cover yourself in dirt and tire tracks, and say you’re one of the new Pennsylvania Avenue NW cycletrack barriers. –Introduce yourself as “contributory negligence,” and when people ask what that is, pour your drink on them. When they start to complain, explain that since it’s at least one percent their fault, you’re not sorry and won’t apologize. –High-concept, low-cost idea: Put on a pair of really dark sunglasses at night and claim to be Vision Zero. –Wear whatever you wore to the Tweed Ride and say that you’re “a guy who did the Tweed Ride.” If that elicits shrugs, concede that you’re just an extra from Newsies. Whatever costume you choose, have fun with it. Bicyclists are known for their senses of humor and joie-de-vivre, so this will be a —GP real opportunity to shine. Gear Prudence is Brian McEntee, who tweets @sharrowsDC. Got a question about bicycling? Email gearprudence@washcp.com.
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SAVAGELOVE I am a straight, married, 38-year-old woman. My husband and I have two children. I have been with my husband for 12 years, married for six. Three years after we were married, we found out that he was HIV positive. We had both had multiple tests throughout our relationship because of physicals and the process we went through to get pregnant. Both of us were negative then, but only I am now. Needless to say, he was infected as a result of him cheating. We worked through that and remained married. Recently I saw a message from a woman saying, “Call me or I am calling your wife.” I identified myself, and she and I spoke briefly. I asked her how long they were having a relationship, and she told me since January. I did not mention his status. I confronted him, and he claims she is a crazy stalker. He says there was a brief flirtation but then she became clingy and “crazy,” and he did not know how to tell me without compromising our relationship. He blocked her calls and e-mails. He is undetectable, and we use condoms. He has never tried to not use a condom when we have had sex. In the state where we live, a positive person who does not inform a person of their status before having sex faces up to five years in prison. I have brought this to his attention. He is sticking to his story that he did not have sex with her. I do not believe him. We met with a therapist last week, only for a placement consultation. We did not mention his status. This is my biggest issue: I don’t think we can work through our problems without honesty. I need him to come clean and admit to me—and our therapist—that he had sex with this woman. If he does, I believe the therapist will be legally obligated to report his behavior to the police. I am preparing myself for divorce, something he doesn’t know, and while I don’t want to have him arrested, I feel we need the therapy in order to respectfully co-parent—and lying to a therapist or omitting the full truth seems crazy. —Seeking Truth About This Unpleasant Situation “Where to start?” asked Peter Staley, the leg-
endary AIDS activist, founding director of the Treatment Action Group, and longtime board member of the American Foundation for AIDS Research. “I’ll leave the relationship issues to you, Dan, but isn’t the level of distrust here the most toxic part of the story?” The level of distrust does strike me as toxic—but seeing as your husband cheated, STATUS, and not for the first time, your distrust is understandable. What I don’t understand is your desire to see your husband sent to prison. You don’t want honesty (he doesn’t seem capable of that), you don’t want to “work through your problems” (your marriage is over), you just want your soon-to-be ex-husband to rot in jail. But since you don’t want to call the police yourself—you don’t want your fingerprints on this—you want to con your husband (with my help!) into telling “the full truth” to a therapist who will have to call the police. “STATUS really does appear to be plotting her revenge here,” said Staley. “Divorce, checking her state’s HIV criminalization laws, drawing her husband into making a confession that could land him in prison.” And the instrument of your revenge—laws that require HIV-positive people to disclose to their sex partners—are unjust and unworkable. “I stand with every public-health organization, including UNAIDS and the World Health Organization, in abhorring HIV criminalization laws like the one STATUS cites,” said Staley. “We already have laws on the books that can adequately deal with someone who knowingly and intentionally transmits HIV to someone else. Adding additional laws around HIV disclosure, especially when no transmission occurs, ends up causing more harm than good. Stigma rises. Fewer people disclose. Jilted partners use the laws to lash out.” That’s exactly what you sound like, STATUS: a jilted partner who hopes to use an unjust law to lash out at her soon-to-be exhusband. And while you have cause to be angry (serial adulterers suck), you don’t have
grounds to destroy your husband’s life. And you can’t rationalize your plot based on the “danger” your husband presented to the other woman. Your husband is taking his meds and has an undetectable viral load. That means he’s effectively noninfectious. So even if he didn’t use condoms with this woman— and you don’t even know for sure if he was fucking her (and he’d be a fool to admit to you that he was)—he didn’t put her at risk of acquiring HIV. “There’s a great organization called SERO (seroproject.com) fighting these laws,” said Staley. “Their website is filled with frightening cases of people with HIV rotting in jail for supposed nondisclosure, even when no transmission occurred. There are no similar convictions for nondisclosure of hepatitis C, HPV, syphilis, herpes, etc., some of which can kill. People with HIV are being singled out by legislatures trying to ‘protect’ the public from ‘AIDS monsters’ created by local TV stations looking for ratings.” Follow Peter Staley on Twitter @peterstaley and on Facebook at facebook.com/peterstaley. My boyfriend of two years and I broke up because I found out that he was having sexual relations with anonymous men he contacted through Craigslist. My ex will not admit to being bisexual. He claims that he has these urges only when he smokes marijuana. But through our computer history, I caught him watching gay porn at times when I knew he had not smoked marijuana. I check CL periodically, and he is still posting ads regularly, even though he denies this and insists that he has the situation under control. Disturbingly, he is also dating women. I think this is dangerous because there is such a strong chance that he will give these women an STD, such as AIDS, and destroy both of their lives. Since I am the only person in his life who knows his secret, I feel some sort of responsibility. I am very emotionally troubled by this knowledge and I don’t feel right about ignoring this. —Anxiety Infuses Distressing Situation
His heteroflexibility is downright acrobatic. Your ex is obviously bisexual—or if not, AIDS, then his heteroflexibility is downright acrobatic. But policing your ex’s sexual identity, his love life, and his Craigslist presence is Not Your Job. Knocking dicks out of his mouth is not your responsibility, and you are not responsible for alerting other women to the porn, the personal ads, the dicks, and the laughable excuses. (Contrary to an infamous Reddit thread, marijuana does not make men “temporarily gay.”) You could, however, speak to your ex as a friend—a creepy friend who cyberstalks him, but still a friend. You could urge him to accept that, even if he isn’t bi, he needs to own up to not being entirely straight, either. If he’s going to engage in risky sex practices with men—and you don’t know that he’s doing that (he could be using condoms correctly and consistently)—he should talk to his doctor about getting on PrEP, aka pre-exposure prophylaxis, aka Truvada. Then, having said your piece, you can butt the fuck out his life with a —Dan clear conscience. Send your Savage Love questions to mail@savagelove.net.
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Jones et al. v. District of Columbia UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Civil Action No. 07-1206 (EGS)
NOTICE OF PROPOSED CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT TO ANY AND ALL
D.C. PUBLIC SECTOR WORKERS’ COMPENSATION/ DISABILTY RECIPIENTS WHO DID NOT RECEIVE COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENTS (COLAS)
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This Notice of Proposed Settlement and Fairness Hearing has been published pursuant to Rule 23 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure and by Order of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. The purpose of this Notice is to inform you of the proposed Settlement in the Jones et al. v. District of Columbia litigation, pending in the Court, and the hearing to be held by the Court to consider the fairness, reasonableness, and adequacy of the Settlement. THIS IS A NOTICE TO: ALL PERSONS WHO HAVE RECEIVED, OR ARE RECEIVING, WORKERS’ COMPENSATION BENEFITS (FORMERLY REFERRED TO AS DISABILITY COMPENSATION BENEFITS), WHO WERE INJURED WHILE WORKING IN A DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA GOVERNMENT COLLECTIVE BARGAINING UNIT (“UNION”) POSITION AND WHOSE BENEFITS WERE NOT INCREASED ON JUNE 27, 2004 OR THEREAFTER, BY ONE OR MORE OF THE PAY INCREASES (“COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENTS” OR “COLAS”) AWARDED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA ON OR ABOUT OCTOBER 5, 2003, JULY 10, 2005, OCTOBER 2, 2005, OCTOBER 1, 2006 AND OCTOBER 14, 2007. A Class Fund of Approximately $8.1 Million has been established to compensate Class Members under this Settlement. And if you are one of the above-described individuals, then you may be a CLASS MEMBER entitled to a monetary award out of the Fund for back benefits for missed COLAS, plus interest. If eligible, your amount will depend primarily on the salary you were receiving at the time of your injury, the start date and end date of your receipt of Benefits, and which COLAs you were not paid. It will also depend, in part, on how many Class Members submit valid Claims, and whether you have been overpaid benefits unrelated to this litigation. Additionally, if you are still receiving benefits, you may be entitled to an upward adjustment in benefits going forward. IN ORDER TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR A MONETARY AWARD AND/OR AN UPWARD BENEFITS ADJUSTMENT, YOU MUST FILE A CLAIM BY JANUARY 11, 2016. To obtain a Claim Form, view the Settlement Agreement and related documents, or learn more information about this Settlement, you may contact the Class Administrator: Settlement Services, Inc. Jones Settlement Class Administrator PO Box 10727 Tallahassee, FL 32302-2727 Tel: 1 - (855) 615-4344 www.JonesSettlement.com YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS AND OPTIONS IN THIS SETTLEMENT SUBMIT A CLAIM FORM
The only way to receive a payment. Claim Forms must be postmarked (if mailed), or electronically filed at www.JonesSettlement.com on or before January 11, 2016.
EXCLUDE YOURSELF
Receive no payment. This is the only option that allows you to ever be part of any other legal proceeding against the District of Columbia relating to the legal claims in this Class Action. Exclusions (referred to as “Opt-Outs”) must be sent to the Class Administrator, post-marked on or before January 11, 2016.
OBJECT
Write to the Court about why you do not like the Settlement and/or the Plan of Distribution. Objections must be postmarked or received by the Court and counsel on or before January 11, 2016. If you object, you can also file a Claim form.
GO TO A HEARING
Ask to speak in Court about the fairness of the Settlement. Requests to speak must be received by the Court and counsel on or before January 11, 2016. It is up to the Judge to decide whether people can speak in Court.
DO NOTHING
Receive no payment. You will be giving up your rights, but you will remain a Class Member.
1 - (855) 615-4344
www.JonesSettlement.com
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Get your Real Deal at realdeal.washingtoncitypaper.com washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 13
gut reaction Fig & Olive is packed weeks after a salmonella outbreak, but the fallout is far from over.
By Jessica sidman
14 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
Illustration by Lauren Heneghan
Fig & Olive sounds like a nightclub. It’s 6:30 p.m. St. Tropez-inspired beats pound over the chattering of a stylish crowd in suits, leather jackets, and high heels. The Crate & Barrelesque lounge at the CityCenterDC restaurant is packed. Even more people, martini glasses in tow, hover around the edges of the 25-seat, U-shaped bar. What salmonella? On this recent Thursday, it’s as if the widely reported outbreak that sickened and hospitalized diners here in early September never happened. Bar plans foiled, I ask about a table for two. “We’re fully committed to reservations right now,” says the hostess. I ask about the wait. She looks at her computer screen and contorts her face in all sorts of unpromising ways. “Forty-five minutes.” My husband and I wander around CityCenterDC for a bit. Centrolina, Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse, DBGB Kitchen and Bar, and Mango Tree all have seats available. Forty-five minutes pass. No word from Fig & Olive. An additional 45 minutes pass. Still no word. We head back to check on the status of our table. Without explanation, the hostess fidgets with her computer some more, then finally leads us to the crowded dining room upstairs. During the first few minutes of our dinner, the couple next to us sends an order of roasted potatoes back to the kitchen. Four women on our other side wait at least 10 minutes before the server even greets their table. At our table, empty water glasses go unfilled for long stretches, and the staff fails to take away the appetizer plates before plopping the entrees on the table. Our server, though friendly, forgets my husband’s beer. Only after the main course arrives does he acknowledge the error and offer to remove the drink from the check. Even then, it’s not until our meal is nearly over that the beer actually arrives. It’s warm. The chicken is dried out, and the paella is fine but unmemorable. Our total for two appetizers and two entrees comes to $113.60 with tax and tip. On the way out, I spot one of the cast members from The Real Housewives of D.C. It’s hard to say whether all these diners are very forgiving or merely ignorant of the salmonella outbreak that shut down the restaurant. As of Oct. 23, the D.C. Department of Health had confirmed 34 cases of the bacterial infection, which causes diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. It can be fatal. The agency interviewed an additional 209 people who dined at the establishment and reported illnesses—and that’s just in D.C. Fig & Olive also allegedly infected diners at its restaurants in West Hollywood and possibly New York, prompting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to open a multi-state investigation into the restaurant chain. Foodborne salmonella outbreaks are infrequent. This is only the fifth documented outbreak in D.C. in five years, according to DOH. If the outbreak began with Fig & Olive, it
now appears that some of these most recent salmonella cases could have been avoided: A hospital notified the D.C. Department of Health that multiple Fig & Olive diners had been sickened two days before health officials actually shut down the restaurant. In the interim, more people reported becoming ill. Some also alerted Fig & Olive to their food poisoning days before it was shut down. It’s unclear what the restaurant did to try to fix the problem before the health department intervened. Representatives for Fig & Olive declined to comment for this story. In the aftermath of the outbreak, four local victims have filed lawsuits against Fig & Olive, with additional lawsuits coming out of California. One lawyer says he has as many as two dozen more coming; another says he has about 15 more clients. A CDC spokesperson says the agency hasn’t identified the exact source of the infections. The D.C. Department of Forensic Sciences tested 84 environmental and food samples. So far, none have tested positive for salmonella, although it’s rare to isolate a particular ingredient in an outbreak. Health department officials say the common denominators among Fig & Olive’s victims include truffle mushroom croquettes and truffle fries. The restaurant has since removed all dishes with truffle oil from its menu. Elizabeth Lowe’s pain was debilitating. The international trade attorney and a colleague hosted a client for dinner at Fig & Olive on Monday, Aug. 31, and within 48 hours, her stomach felt horrific. “My epidural stopped working during the middle of labor, and this was way worse than that,” says the now-32-year-old. “I was having gastrointestinal issues between 30 and 40 times a day.” Her fever spiked up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and her night sweats were so bad that she would wake up soaking wet. She couldn’t eat anything and had a hard time drinking as well. By Friday of that week, Lowe sought treatment at MedStar Washington Hospital Center, but doctors couldn’t figure out what was wrong with her. They sent her home with some Percocet, which didn’t do much, and told her to come back after Labor Day weekend. After the weekend, Lowe went back and saw a gastroenterologist who wanted to admit her to the hospital to run more tests. But after waiting for almost the entire day, she decided instead to go to Sibley Memorial Hospital, where she spent the night. In the morning, she met with another gastroenterologist, whose first question was whether she had eaten out in the past week. Lowe told her she’d been to Fig & Olive. “She said, ‘You have salmonella... I’ve got three other people here who ate at Fig & Olive and had the exact same symptoms.’” All told, Lowe was hospitalized for four days. She was really sick for three weeks, she says, and it took another week to fully recover. She missed three weeks of work. Her husband also had to take time off work to take care of their daughter. “It’s difficult to explain to
washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 15
your two-year-old why mommy couldn’t get out of bed,” she says. Now, she’s suing Fig & Olive for $75,000. Sibley ultimately ended up treating a total of eight confirmed cases of salmonella. The hospital first contacted the health department’s Center for Policy, Planning, and Evaluation on Sept. 8. That same evening, another Fig & Olive customer contacted the health department’s Food Safety and Hygiene Inspection Services Division about gastrointestinal symptoms he was experiencing after eating at the restaurant a week prior. The two divisions did not communicate at that time. In response to the customer’s complaint, DOH sent an inspector to check out the restaurant the next day, Sept. 9. What the inspector found was not a pristine kitchen. In fact, the restaurant was nearly shut down for a number of other health code violations. The inspector found ten critical and six noncritical violations: Employees were not frequently washing hands or changing gloves between tasks while preparing and serving food. The temperature of the water in the hand washing sinks was not as hot as it was required to be. The prep table and other food contact surfaces as well as a rusty can opener were unclean. Wiping cloths were not stored in a sanitizing solution bucket. Some cold food items were not stored at the proper temperatures. The ice box had visible mold. Flies were found in the kitchen and at the bar. And the restaurant had no written employee health policy for the prevention of foodborne illnesses—an infraction that the health department first noted before the restaurant’s June opening. Despite all of this, the restaurant was able to correct five of the 10 critical violations to the health department’s satisfaction, which meant it could stay open. It takes six critical violations that cannot be corrected on site for the health department to automatically suspend a restaurant’s operations—Fig & Olive was just one shy. That same day, CPPE, the division of the health department that the hospital had contacted, began conducting patient interviews. DOH spokesperson Marcus Williams says that as a result of a “communication lag” between the two divisions, it wasn’t until after the visit to Fig & Olive that the inspection arm of the health agency was informed of the hospitalizations. That evening, the Washington Post reported that several people had been hospitalized with salmonella-like symptoms that appeared to be linked to Fig & Olive. The restaurant’s VP of Food & Beverage Fabien Guardiola claimed nothing was wrong. “This morning the health department conducted a full inspection of our premises,” he told the Post. “We are not aware of any violation or risk found.” (Guardiola did not respond to City Paper’s request for comment.) General Manager Ian Kitzmiller likewise told the Post that the restaurant had gone through all its products and food-handling procedures and “there were no issues.” The next day, Sept. 10, health inspec-
Fig & Olive is located in the posh CityCenterDC development.
tors returned to Fig & Olive. This time, they suspended the restaurant’s operations, citing 14 cases of foodborne infections linked to Fig & Olive, two of which were confirmed to be salmonella. In addition, they still found mold in the ice machine, flies, cutting boards that needed to be replaced, uncovered containers of potentially hazardous food items, and other violations. Williams says two of the confirmed salmonella victims and an additional 31 suspected victims reported eating at Fig & Olive on Sept. 8 and 9. Meghan Milloy was one of them. The 28year-old, who works for the American Action Forum, and a group of about nine other women arrived at Fig & Olive on Sept. 9 around 7 p.m. for a friend’s birthday dinner. They started with drinks at the bar, then headed upstairs for dinner. They shared crostini, and Milloy
16 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
ordered the truffle risotto. Milloy soon after learned about the salmonella scare from a news story shared on Twitter. Her friend with the birthday had sent out an email thanking everyone for coming to dinner. Milloy responded with a screenshot of the article and the message, “Haha, hope no one gets it!” The next day, Milloy was watching college football on her couch when she started to develop a fever and aches. By the evening, her symptoms were worse. “I was in the bathroom at least every hour, if not more often. That’s including what should have been sleeping hours,” she says. “I stayed home, took a lot of Tylenol, drank a whole lot of Pedialyte and Gatorade, and just kind of dug my heels in and dealt with it.” The brunt of her symptoms lasted for four days and continued several days after that.
Frustrated in the midst of her illness, Milloy emailed the restaurant sarcastically thanking them for her 10-pound weight loss in one week. She never heard back. Milloy is now in touch with an attorney and planning to take legal action against Fig & Olive, although she has not filed a suit yet. Since the restaurant’s license was restored on Sept. 15, the health department has conducted an additional three inspections. The restaurant continues to have some violations, albeit fewer and less critical ones. During an inspection, on Oct. 9, the establishment had no approved procedures for responding to a contamination due to vomiting or diarrhea. And there was still mold accumulating in the ice machine. Fig & Olive said that it hired a third-party food safety firm and was cooperating with local health department officials to address
Photographs by Darrow Montgomery
the problem. The restaurant also destroyed its entire food inventory during the six days that it was shuttered. “After taking steps to ensure that all food preparation and safety standards were being followed, that food stocks were safe, and all employees had been screened, the restaurant reopened the same day with the Health Department’s approval,” the company said in a statement released to the public on Sept. 25. “We are confident we have adequately addressed the situation. We remain committed to delivering the highest quality food and excellence of preparation and service that is the hallmark of the Fig & Olive brand.” Josseline De Saint Just doesn’t dine out a lot. The 61-year-old federal employee says she’s the kind of person who prefers to bring her lunch to work. So going to Fig & Olive
on Sept. 5 was meant to be a bit of a treat— and not a very cheap one, she notes. Her dining companion got away with cramps, but De Saint Just suffered from diarrhea and excruciating pains. “I had never had pains like this, maybe during delivery when I had my baby. I had a hard labor,” she says. “My belly was extended like when you see these pictures of starving African babies.” De Saint Just didn’t know what was wrong with her until Sept. 10, five days after she dined at Fig & Olive, when she saw a headline about the salmonella outbreak. That day, she called the restaurant and got a call back from the headquarters in New York. The Fig & Olive representative told her they don’t give refunds, but maybe they could—if she could prove she had gotten sick from the restaurant. The next day, De Saint Just called a woman who’d had been quoted in the Washington
Post to hear her story. She told De Saint Just that she and her three colleagues, all of whom had gotten sick, received an immediate refund. “I said, ‘So you have to be in the pages of the Washington Post to get a refund?’” De Saint Just did eventually get her money back as well as a $100 gift card. She says she won’t be using it. Instead, she is suing Fig & Olive for $250,000. De Saint Just also wants answers: “The fact that their service is not that great, is it the same equivalent in the kitchen? Do they cut corners? I want to know what happened, when did they know, and how they can address this so that nobody is at risk.” At least a couple victims contacted Fig & Olive about food poisoning over Labor Day weekend—several days before the health department intervened. But on Sept. 9, when James Lloyd, another confirmed sal-
monella victim, contacted Fig & Olive after being discharged from Sibley, the restaurant’s manager told him they had received no other complaints. They said they would follow up with him, but they never did. “They kind of shrugged it off,” says attorney Salvatore Zambri, who’s representing Lloyd in a lawsuit against Fig & Olive. “It seemed like a nonsensical comment. And if it even were true on his call, the idea that they didn’t follow up with him smacks of callousness.” Bill Marler, a nationally recognized foodsafety lawyer based in Seattle who’s suing the restaurant on behalf of both D.C. and L.A. clients, says to win a case like this, lawyers will have to prove the link between the illnesses and the consumption of the restaurant’s food. For Fig & Olive, Marler expects that will be no problem. “The restaurant is at a major disadvantage to a lawyer like me,” he says. “In many respects, the real question at this point is not if they’re responsible or if they’re liable. It’s how much are they going to pay?” How much a restaurant pays depends on how sick its victims are. Marler says the payout could be as low as tens of thousands of dollars and as high as hundreds of thousands of dollars per case. “This is not going to be an inexpensive problem for Fig & Olive,” he says. And while no deaths have been reported in this particular outbreak, some people have lingering health issues. Lloyd, a marathon runner who was in peak physical shape, is still suffering, his lawyer says. He’s seeking $500,000. Meanwhile, Marler says one of his clients in California has developed Reiter’s syndrome, an arthritic condition that can result after a salmonella infection. “Her knees are all swollen up and they’ve had to drain it,” he says. “What happens is the salmonella gets into your bloodstream and then will travel into a joint and then infect the joint.” It can take months to several years to fully recover. It might seem surprising that a restaurant neighbored by Dior, Hermès, and Louis Vuitton shops could be at the center of all this. But Marler says the places where you might expect to get sick—like fast food chains—have actually become much more sophisticated in dealing with foodborne illnesses. A lot of fast food items are cooked before they even show up at the restaurant, so the chance that a 16-year-old burger flipper’s error sickens a diner is much smaller. In the past decade, Marler says the majority of cases he’s been involved with didn’t revolve around mega chains but independent restaurants where there’s contamination from a raw product or an ill employee. “Just because a restaurant’s fancy and highpriced doesn’t necessarily mean that they can’t poison you,” Marler says. Gene Grabowski is the guy many companies call when they’re in trouble. Recently, the “crisis guru” and partner in D.C.based communications firm kglobal worked with Blue Bell Ice Cream to manage the fallout
washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 17
After the outbreak, the restaurant removed all dishes with truffle oil from its menu.
from its listeria outbreak. He says that restaurants hit with food poisoning troubles should avoid looking desperate by discounting food or offering free desserts. But that’s exactly what Fig & Olive did in the aftermath of its outbreak: It offered diners free dessert. A PR campaign, Grabowski says, will only go so far. While it works when you’re trying to build excitement for a brand, it’s harder to sell food safety. Grabowski doesn’t necessarily advise that the restaurant issue press releases or seek out interviews, but he says they should still take calls from reporters, giving them straightforward answers to the best of their ability and encouraging them to come in and experience the restaurant themselves. “They should be treating reporters like diners,” he says. I emailed Fig & Olive’s local PR team,
TAA PR, three times over the course of more than a week before a representative even responded with “we’re going to pass on this.” Multiple attempts by phone and email to directly reach Fig & Olive’s in-house marketing and public relations director, Ludovic Barras, were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, Fig & Olive’s chef de cuisine Laurence Cohen says he is resigning, although he declined to comment any further until after his last day, Nov. 1. Maybe none of this ultimately matters for Fig & Olive. The CityCenterDC restaurant is situated in a relatively transient area that draws a lot of tourists and business travelers. And some regulars, frankly, appear not to care. Grabowski suggests that the best way for Fig & Olive to fully recover is to take a handson approach with diners who do come in so that they can build goodwill through word
18 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
of mouth. The maître d’, manager, or owner should be out front in the restaurant greeting customers and amping up the personal touch. “Unlike a big food company, they can’t do a mass marketing or a mass PR effort. They have to do it by onesies and twosies.” On this front, Fig & Olive is having mixed results. Real estate attorney Melissa Nelson was a regular at Fig & Olive before the outbreak, stopping by as often as once a week. The 38-yearold likes the vibe and the fact that it’s a slightly older crowd, not a bunch of millennials. The salmonella outbreak has not changed any of that. (She did not get sick.) “Right now, it’s got to be the cleanest place in the city,” she says. Plus, she figures this could have happened to any restaurant. “Their reputation around the country at their different restaurants is on the line as well. I know that they
took it very seriously.” So for her birthday, Nelson chose Fig & Olive to celebrate with four friends. Normally, the bar would be several people deep on a Friday evening. However, since the restaurant reopened, she says it’s full but not as busy as it used to be. “There seemed to be more managers running around,” she notes. And the staff was “on top of their game.” She says a manager even brought her a complimentary bottle of Champagne. Rania Senusi hasn’t found the hospitality quite so charming since the restaurant reopened. The real estate agent, who’d been to Fig & Olive a couple times prior, says she had “literally the worst experience” during a recent visit because her server had “the biggest attitude ever.” She gave the server a $3 tip—something she says she never does. “What I remember about Fig & Olive now is that experience, unfortunately. It’s not even the salmonella.” Marler, who’s worked on thousands of food poisoning lawsuits over the course of three decades, has found that the restaurants that recover their reputations are those that are very public about what happened, very apologetic, and openly embrace food safety. “If ten is good and one is bad, Fig & Olive has been a one,” he says. “They just really have been pretty quiet about the outbreak.” (To be fair, this is coming from the man who is suing them, although he says how the restaurant handles its PR doesn’t much affect the facts of his case.) Contrast that to the 1996 E. coli outbreak from Odwalla juice, which killed one child and sickened dozens of others. After issuing a voluntary recall, Odwalla proactively announced it would pay victims’ medical bills, offered daily updates to the press, and introduced new food safety measures. Marler sued them anyway. “Several people in the media were like, ‘Well how come you’re suing them? They’re being so nice!’” The company is now held up as a case study for crisis management. Mackie Barch, another D.C. salmonella victim, says Fig & Olive should be used as an example of how not to handle a crisis. He and his pregnant wife celebrated their anniversary at the restaurant on Sept. 1. He tested positive for salmonella, but she was fine. When the news first broke, Barch called Fig & Olive and was referred to woman at the restaurant’s New York office. “She was just super cold,” he says. “It was really very curt and non-sympathetic… It didn’t seem like they could have given two shits to be quite honest.” Barch is also bothered that the restaurant had diners’ emails and phone numbers in its reservation system but never tried to inform them of the outbreak. “When you have a major health thing going on, you probably should try to contact the people that were dining there to let them know. They were not proactive in any shape or form,” he says. “It seemed like they just tried to stick their head in the sand and ignore it, ignore it. I think to this day, they haven’t done an adequate job of CP apologizing to people.”
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A Ghoul’s Best Friend Forget about your costume. How are you going to dress up your dog? Halloween pet costume, $18.99 (with 20 percent off through Oct. 31). Howl to the Chief. 733 8th St. SE. (202) 544-8710
I’m Here for the Boos ‘Tis the season to indulge that sweet tooth. Halloween cookie, $1.50. Fine Sweet Shoppe. 225 7th St. SE. (202) 543-9729
1000+
BEERS
WESTOVER MARKET OPENING SOON
• Groceries • Wines from Around the World • Butcher Shop • Great Beer Selection • Open for Sunday Brunch from 9-2
With a butcher shop & great beer selection, we are your Beer & BBQ Headquarters!
A Great Sense of Humerus Pick up this skeleton T-shirt if you are a fan of understated celebration. Praying skull tee, $38. Commonwealth. 1781 Florida Ave. NW. (202) 265-1155
Looking for Your Necks Victim D.C. is full of figurative blood suckers. You can either mock them or join them with this vampire ensemble. Satin cape, $15. Meeps. 2104 18th St. NW. (202) 265-6546
BEER GARDEN & HAUS IS NOW OPEN!
Music on Beer Garden Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
5863 Washington Blvd | Arlington, VA 703-536-5040 | westovermarket.com washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 19
DCFEED
what we ate last week:
Tableside wonton soup, $16, The Source, Satisfaction level: 5 out of 5 what we’ll eat next week:
Wood-grilled sardines, $12, BlackSalt, Excitement level: 4 out of 5
Grazer
Cookie Row
Famed New York City dessert destination Milk Bar opened in CityCenterDC Friday after months of construction and hype. Shoppers waited in line for more than an hour to taste sweets like crack pie and cereal milk soft-serve. But is CityCenterDC big enough for two fancy sweet shops? Armed with a sampling of cookies from
Milk Bar and RareSweets, located less than a block away, City Paper staff bravely conducted a taste test to find out whose baking is boss. —Tatiana Cirisano Milk Bar $2.25 per individual cookie; 6 for $11.75;12 for $22.25 RareSweets $2 per cookie Cookies rated on a scale of one to five; scores are average of all testers’.
Are you gonnA eAt that?
The Dish: Smokehouse Bomb Corn
Chocolate Chocolate
4.1
“Oreo meets brownie”
3.85
“Glorious subtlety. Perfect blend of soft vs. chew;” “Yup, tastes like corn;” “Like a sugar cookie but worse! What’s next—a sorghum cookie?”
Compost
3.7
“Most cookies become less exciting with each bite, but this one is unpredictable.”
Where to Get It: Wicked Bloom, 1540 North Capitol St. NW; (202) 750-6375; wickedbloomdc.com Price: $14 What It Is: A waffle made out of mac and cheese topped with pulled pork, brisket chili, queso sauce, barbecue sauce, and sour cream. Basically, it’s the best/worst thing ever. What It Tastes Like: This sloppy drunk food disguised as a breakfast staple stays slightly crispy on the outside but gooey on the inside. Like chili nachos, it’s oozing with meats, cheese, and sauces.
Chocolate Chip
Blueberry and Cream
“Good crunchy to chewy ratio;” “Crisp but soft”
“Very muffin-like. A 9 a.m. cookie, not a 9 p.m.;” “Wouldn’t order it, but the cream tones down the blueberry, good”
“Funky back taste. Too chewy;” “I didn’t want to like this. But BUTTER!”
Sugar
Cocoa Crinkle
“Meh;” “Eh”
“Bland;” “Tastes like air;” “Where’s the flavor??!!”
3.65
Gingersnap
3.15
“Just the right amount of chew;” “Gingery but not snappy”
20 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
3.6
2.75
Cornflake Chocolate Chip Marshmallow
3.15
2.3
The Story: The Smokehouse Bomb wasn’t even supposed to be on the menu. Chef Rob Sonderman and Bar Manager Ben Matz were trying to come up with a hot food item that the bar could prepare without a stove or oven and threw this dish on a sample menu to send to the Alcoholic Beverage Regulation Administration so they could get their liquor license. Somehow, that menu accidentally got passed onto the media before Wicked Bloom’s opening. “Now, it’s something that we’re never going to be able to take off the menu,” Sonderman says. “It seems like every press person that’s all they want to talk about.” (Sorry, Rob!) Beyond that, the waffle—along with the brisket nachos—are now the top sellers on the menu. The only problem is Wicked Bloom only has one waffle iron. “It’s probably something we’re going to have to invest in sooner rather than later,” he says. How To Eat It: “It’s not something you can eat two of,” Sonderman says. In fact, you may want to solicit the help of a friend. —Jessica Sidman
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HALF PRICE PIZZA EVERY WEDNESDAY 4:00-10:00PM
2400 WISCONSIN AVE NW, WASHINGTON DC | 202.827.8745 | ARCURIDC.COM washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 21
1 Adam Lowitt
9 Gina Chávez
6 Kennedy Center
Opera House Orchestra
Members of the KCOHO play the Brahms Piano Quintet in F minor.
#MSTAGE365
NOVEMBER IN THE TERRACE THEATER
Broadway Tomorrow
Part of ASCAP’s Musical Theater Week
7 Nick Blaemire
The Brooklyn-based writer, performer, and composer of Glory Days performs.
1 Comedy at the Kennedy Center:
Adam Lowitt*
Award-winning Co-Executive Producer for The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, Adam Lowitt performs. Haywood Turnipseed Jr. opens. This program contains mature themes and strong language.
8 Charlie Sohne and Tim Rosser
The 2015 Jonathan Larson Award-winning composers perform some of their greatest hits.
10 Neil Bartram
The composer and lyricist of Broadway’s The Story of My Life showcases his works.
2 Drum Bommel
Sven Kiefer takes audience members on a fun trip through the world of percussion. For ages 3+. Presented in collaboration with the Embassy of Luxembourg. Part of Kids Euro Festival 2015.
IN THE TERRACE GALLERY
3 Writing Truth: Stories from
11 Michael Mott
This New York City–based composer, lyricist, singer, actor, and voice teacher has performed in numerous Off-Broadway, regional, and national touring shows.
12 Karen Mason
Having recently garnered rave reviews starring as The Queen of Hearts in Wonderland, the Broadway actress has also appeared in television shows such as ED and Law & Order.
the Military Experience*
Join us for readings of highly personal and thought-provoking stories written by U.S. veterans and caregivers of injured veterans. This program may contain mature themes. This performance is co-sponsored by the Writers Guild Initiative and the Office of VSA and Accessibility.
4 Julia Tasheva
In Baba Marta’s Yarn, the master storyteller shares a traditional Bulgarian folktale with puppets and props made of yarn. For ages 5+. Presented in collaboration with the Embassy of Bulgaria. Part of Kids Euro Festival 2015.
5 NSO Youth Fellows
Members of the National Symphony Orchestra training program present a recital of solo performances featuring works by Saint-Saëns, Shostakovich, and Zimbalist, among others.
9 Gina Chávez
The singer invites audiences on a journey to discover her own Latin roots through music including bilingual songs.
13 Charlotte Blake Alston
and Oba William King
Hear stories come alive with drumming, rhythm, singing, and audience participation during Family Night: Storytelling Rejuvenation. Presented in collaboration with the National Association of Black Storytellers.
14
Family Night: Top Notch 2015
This 3 vs. 3 b-boy competition was created by a hip-hop–based, urban, youth-driven programming focused on changing society through the arts. Presented in collaboration with Words Beats & Life.
FOR DETAILS OR TO WATCH ONLINE, VISIT KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG/MILLENNIUM.
EVERY DAY AT 6 P.M. NO TICKETS REQUIRED* *Unless noted otherwise
DAILY FOOD AND DRINK SPECIALS 5–6 P.M. NIGHTLY • GRAND FOYER BARS FREE TOURS
are given daily by the Friends of the Kennedy Center tour guides. Tour hours: M–F, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Sa./Su. from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. For information, call (202) 416-8340.
PLEASE NOTE: There is no free parking for free performances.
22 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
19 Ana Šinkovec Burstin
26 Jive Aces
15 Community-wide Spiritual Sing
Led by Nolan Williams Jr., choirs and community participants from across the region come together for an evening of spirituals. Note: the call for participants is 4 p.m. Presented in collaboration with NEWorks Productions.
23 Xuejuan Dance Ensemble
The dance ensemble fuses Tibetan, Mongolian, Dai, Miao, Yang Ge, Uygur, and Chinese classical dance styles.
24 Sofya Melikyan
The Armenian-born pianist performs compositions by Khachaturian and other Armenian composers. Presented in collaboration with the Embassy of Armenia.
16 Bum Rush the Boards
Check mate! This chess tournament–based program aims to connect the hip-hop generation to chess as a model of overcoming through strategic struggle. Presented in collaboration with Words Beats & Life.
25 Charm City Junction
The Baltimore-based quartet melds Old Time rhythms, foot-stomping Irish melodies, harddriving bluegrass, and three-part harmonies.
17 Tamaki Kawakubo
and Ryo Yanagitani
This violin and piano duet overture program features music by Kreisler, Sarasate, Manuel de Falla, Tchaikovsky, and others. Presented in association with S&R Foundation.
18 Congressional Chorus
A multi-sensory performance that celebrates the emotions and seasons of our lives.
26 Gottaswing and Jive Aces
Dance off that turkey at a 1940s-themed Thanksgiving Day Swing Dance Party. Free swing dance lessons begin at 6 p.m. followed by a free, evening-long dance party from 7 to 9 p.m.
27 The Lovejoy Group
Explore Billy Strayhorn’s legendary music in The Giant that Lived in the Shadows. Part of East River Jazz’s Strayhorn Centennial Celebration Series.
19 Ana Šinkovec Burstin
The pianist plays Lebic’s Impromptus, Beethoven’s Sonata in A major, Chopin’s Barcarolle, and Scriabin’s Sonatas No. 4 and No. 10. Presented in collaboration with the Embassy of Slovenia.
20 Suricato
Five jazz musicians from Bogota use voice, guitar, bass, trombone, and drums in a diverse and balanced musical style. Presented in collaboration with the Embassy of Colombia.
28 The Harry Bells
Experience a horn-and-percussion-driven tribute to the music of Harry Belafonte, in addition to arrangements of holiday classics.
29 Peacherine Ragtime Society
Orchestra
Enjoy a night of ragtime orchestra accompaniment with two screenings of classic Harold Lloyd silent films: Get Out and Get Under (1920) and Never Weaken (1921).
21 NSO Prelude
Members of the NSO play Beethoven’s Sextet and Schubert’s String Quartet No.13 “Rosamunde.”
22 Pre-Thanksgiving Square Dance
Enjoy an energetic evening of traditional Appalachian music from Leah Weiss (fiddle), Gary Wright (guitar), Kate Brett (banjo), and Kevin Enoch (bass) as well as square dancing with free instruction by Janine Smith from 5 to 7 p.m.
TAKE METRO to the Foggy Bottom/
GWU station and ride the free Kennedy Center shuttle departing every 15 minutes until midnight.
GET CONNECTED!
Become a fan of KCMillenniumStage on Facebook and check out artist photos, upcoming events, and more! The Kennedy Center welcomes persons with disabilities.
ALL PERFORMANCES AND PROGRAMS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
30
James A. Johnson Young Artist Series: In Song: Celebrating Youth Voices
This showcase features exemplary, local young singers.
*
Free general admission tickets will be distributed in the States Gallery starting at approximately 5:30 p.m., up to 2 tickets per person.
The Millennium Stage was created and underwritten by James A. Johnson and Maxine Isaacs to make the performing arts accessible to everyone in fulfillment of the Kennedy Center’s mission to its community and the nation. Additional funding for the Millennium Stage is provided by The Isadore and Bertha Gudelsky Family Foundation, Inc., The Meredith Foundation, The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, Dr. Deborah Rose and Dr. Jan A.J. Stolwijk, U.S. Department of Education, and the Millennium Stage Endowment Fund. The Millennium Stage Endowment Fund was made possible by James A. Johnson and Maxine Isaacs, Fannie Mae Foundation, James V. Kimsey, Gilbert† and Jaylee† Mead, Mortgage Bankers Association of America and other anonymous gifts to secure the future of the Millennium Stage. Kennedy Center education and related artistic programming is also made possible through the generosity of the National Committee for the Performing Arts and the President’s Advisory Committee on the Arts.
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CPARTS
D.C.-born women who should replace Bill Cosby on Ben’s Chili Bowl’s mural. washingtoncitypaper.com/go/cosbymural
Film
Women Under the Influence
Two women fight against cultural misogyny and patriarchy. Difret Directed by Zeresenay Berhane Mehari The Assassin Directed by Hou Hsiao-Hsien By Tricia Olszewski When a film comes across as slight, there’s nothing to blame but the storytelling: It’s simple either for the sake of expediency or because the screenwriters want you to fill their quiet with depth or meaning that isn’t always there. The
former case can be shrugged off. The latter, however, is often a frustrating experience, making you feel like you’re a slave to the filmmakers’ pretension as you continually squint at your watch. Zeresenay Berhane Mehari’s Difret, about a girl abducted in her Ethiopian village for marriage, is guilty of the first sin. The issue of forcing developing-world traditions to abide by first-world morals—and, in turn, laws—is a thorny one not easily distilled in 99 minutes. But Mehari’s script paints the intricate true story as an unchallenging, instantly judgeable matter of good guys versus bad, not truly taking into account that the “bad guys” are abiding by generations-old customs. Difret
Granted, it’s no easy task to make kidnappers and rapists sympathetic. Difret, which in Amharic has a double meaning of “to dare” and “to be raped,” tells the tale of 14-yearold Hirut (Tizita Hagere), a smart girl who goes to school and has just been promoted to a higher grade. She skips out of the classroom with a smile on her face, but Mehari makes quick work of putting the plot in motion: As she’s walking home, Hirut is surrounded by men on horses and carried off to a shack, where she’s beaten and assaulted by Tadele (Girma Teshome), a man who says he is her husband to be. Before this, we briefly meet Meaza (Meron Getnet), a tenacious women’s rights lawyer who runs a nonprofit. The first client we see her meet is an abused wife whose family tells her that her husband is a “kind man” and “hits you because he loves you.” And with that, the attitudes of rural 1996 Ethiopia are set. Naturally, Hirut and Meaza’s paths will cross. Hirut, briefly left alone with a rifle, takes the opportunity to escape. She gets a good distance—really, none of the guys outside heard the squeaking shed door?—but is quickly encircled. Nonetheless, she is unafraid to brandish the weapon and shoot Tadele when he approaches her. Police appear—instantly!—before Tadele’s henchmen can react, and retain Hirut in an Addis Ababa station for murder. Guilt is not a question here; what authorities want to verify is Hirut’s age, because she looks older than 14 and that may affect her punishment. Meaza is on the case before anyone even asks her to be, having heard the situation on the radio. She demands for Hirut to be released on bail so she can take her to the hospital. From here, Difret is one big fight whose direction and outcome isn’t difficult to guess. Nearly everyone wants the death sentence for Hirut, and the misogyny behind it is meted out in illustrative moments throughout the story—lines such as “Abducting for marriage is our tradition!” during an informal court hearing; Hirut’s father saying of his daughters, “They are not boys, but they are good girls”; and a friend of Tadele’s telling Meaza, “Men abduct when they fall in love.” Even Meaza’s mentor, an apparently wealthy former lawyer, points out that a self-defense case has never been awarded to a woman. Throughout, Hagere’s Hirut is dour, with the nonprofessional actor only showing some range of emotion toward the end of the film. (It’s way overdue when she breaks down and cries.) Getnet, a star in Ethiopia, is more watchable—her Meaza knows how to be tough with opponents and connect with the fragile Hirut, taking into consideration when the girl stays with her that she’s never seen modern conveniences— but still rather one-note. Difret’s biggest downfall, however, is making the resistance they face too easy to brush off. Someone fires at their car; in the next scene, everything’s fine. Meaza’s foundation is shuttered—the majority of the area’s citizens believe death is, without condition, the answer for Hirut—but gee, some important people are speedily convinced otherwise. Mehari may have had noble intentions in telling this girl’s story, and it’s one that needs to be heard. But in portraying one instance of change as coming so effortlessly, the bigger picture is disserviced. washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 23
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Huji is pregnant. If you don’t know who Huji is or why it matters that she’s pregnant, you still won’t after it’s mentioned twice in Hou Hsiao-Hsien’s wuxia film, The Assassin. Set in seventh-century China, The Assassin tells a threadbare story about Yinniang (Shu Qi), a young woman whose parents gave her away as a child to a nun “to save her.” She’s taught to be an assassin, complete with the policy of keeping professional and personal matters separate. Once she finished her studies, Yinniang was returned to her family, even though her mentor had told her, “You have mastered the sword, yet your heart lacks resolve.” Besides Yinniang’s parents (Yong Mei and Ni Dahong), there’s a host of characters here whose relationships and stature are unclear. One thing is certain: Yinniang has been tasked with killing Tian (Cheng Chan), the man she was to marry at 15. But unlike Difret’s Hirut, Yinniang loves Tian and struggles with her mission. This, as far as one can glean, is all in service of avoiding war. There are court scenes, there are talks with Mom, there’s an
24 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
unidentified woman who slowly plays an instrument not unlike a lap steel while telling of a bluebird who sang and danced itself to death. Long pauses and static scenes are the norm. This goes on for nearly two hours, little of it connects, and it took four screenwriters, including Hou, to adapt the film from a short story.
What Hou excels at, however, is painterly compositions: The film opens in crisp black and white, then a blood sky fills the screen as the title credit is revealed. Hou’s shots are long and majestic, with gorgeously photographed ancient architecture and sumptuous costuming of whoever these people are. It’s easy to get lost in the beauty; however, it’s easier to just get lost. One takeaway The Assassin offers is that although—not surprisingly—patriarchy reigned in this milieu, women were also accepted as powerful and even dangerous. No one waves Yinniang off when there are whispers of her return, and Shu’s beautiful killer is as graceful as she is lethal in the few action scenes that take place. Yes, The Assassin there is fighting, but much less than one expects from a martial arts film. When Tian sends his provost...somewhere...to protect...someone, he says, “Be ready for anything.” Or, you know, nothing. CP Difret opens Friday at AFI Silver. The Assassin opens Friday at Landmark E Street Cinema.
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CPARTS Arts Desk
Listen to the demo versions of Soccer Team’s latest record, Real Lessons in Cynicism. washingtoncitypaper.com/go/soccerteamdemos
One trAck MinD
Alley Cry
“This used to be an alley filled with artists, weirdos, and punks,” artist Bill Warrell says of Blagden Alley. Today, the transformation of the historic Shaw alley looks a lot like what’s happening to the rest of the city: Bougie restaurants, towering condos, and chic coffee shops occupy what was once an artist’s haven. But thanks to Warrell and several other D.C.-area artists, the alley’s historic legacy is being preserved in the form of the D.C. Alley Museum. Through a grant from the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities and support from the Blagden Alley Neighbors, a series of murals by Warrell, Lisa Marie Thalhammer, Rozeal Brown, Kelly Towles, Aniekan Udofia, and Cita Sadeli Chelove populate the walls of Blagden Alley. The Alley Museum officially opens tomorrow with six murals, but more will go up in the coming years, Warrell says. Here is a sampling of what you’ll see at the D.C. Alley Museum. —Matt Cohen
Reesa Renee “Hello Mama”
Untitled by Rozeal Brown, 2015
“Sun Ra and Erykah Badu” by Aniekan Udofia, 2015 “Meditation” by Lisa Marie Thalhammer, 2015
Standout Track: No. 4, “Hello Mama,” an upbeat, joyous R&B cut from the Landover-raised singer’s second effort, the seven-song Lovers Rock. A preacher’s daughter, Reesa Renee first entered the spotlight when she won Amateur Night at the Apollo in 2011, and she released her debut album, Reelease, the following year. Recorded at House Studios in Hyattsville, “Hello Mama” starts off with a repeated rhythm guitar lick and handclap percussion courtesy of producer Reggie Volume. Renee then comes in with conversational vocals that slowly cascade into soaring and jazzy harmonies. Her soulful and vibrant delivery of the phrase “ride, ride, ride” stands out melodically. Musical Motivation: Contrary to the title, the song is not about a mother. Rather, it’s a searching-for-love tune about a flirtatious guy who wants the singer to go for a drive. “The lyrics for ‘Hello Mama’ were written on the spot, some of which were organized as I was recorded,” Renee says. “This is where [House Studios] writer Mikki Carlton came into play. It was our first time working together and she really played a big role in helping me organize my thoughts during the recording [and] writing process.” Teamwork: Though the polished production of “Hello Mama” may make it seem like a studio experiment, Renee says it’s one of her favorite tunes to play in concert. “I don’t know if it’s more fun for me or my longtime drummer Silky [aka Silk Gates],” Renee says, referencing the rhythmic aspect of the cut that has a bubbly, Pharrell Williams feel to it. She’s written “I love you but I hate you” kind of love songs in the past but her manager challenged her to write one that was purely positive. “Hello Mama,” Renee says, “was my way of letting it all go— all the stress, all tensions, and everything—and —Steve Kiviat just escaping with love.”
Untitled by Cita Sadeli Chelove, 2015 “A System of Politics And Art” by Bill Warrell, 2015
Listen to Reesa Renee’s “Hello Mama” at washingtoncitypaper.com/go/hellomama. washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 25
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TheaTer
Petty Hurts
A new pop musical that doesn’t understand pop music, and a hit Muppets parody with more soul than The Muppets
By Chris Klimek In the 1976 movie The Man Who Fell to Earth, the pop chameleon David Bowie plays an alien who does his best to pass as human while trying to figure out how to share Earth’s abundant water supply with his drought-choked home planet. Girlstar, a slick and amusing but deeply confused new musical at Signature Theatre, is derived from far less obscure sources: the Disney princess factory and singing-contest TV shows. But in its perception of how pop music gets made, this glossy, pink-frosted fable could just as well be an extraterrestrial’s attempt to reverse engineer it after mainlining every single episode of American Idol and The Voice during a sleepless, years-long journey from another galaxy. What it lacks in music-industry veritas, or insight into how talent is nurtured or songs get written, it makes up for—sort of—in bright melodies and attractive actors. That is both far from nothing and not nearly enough. In plotting his story of the rise and fall of Tina, who is winsome and a nice person but exhibits no skills that would seem to make her a candidate for divadom, book writer and lyricist Anton Dudley betrays a puzzling belief: Smooth moves, glass-shattering pipes, and some offstage string-pulling are all it takes to become a pop idol. (Try telling that to Beyoncé, who stands for nothing if not Sasha-fierce determination and practice, practice, practice.) It’s curious that a professional songwriter would so completely discount the role of, well, songwriting. It’s as if every cranky parent’s claim that whatever singer their kid likes is just the vapid product of studio engineers and makeup artists (and in this case, supernatural voodoo) were literally accurate. That sounds like a rich proposition for a musical, but Dudley’s script doesn’t exploit it well because he hasn’t decided whether his heroine is a genuine talent or a deluded fraud. The casting of the marvelous Desi Oakley as Tina only clouds the issue. She looks and moves
Girlstar
like the flesh-and-blood incarnation of a Disney feature animation leading lady, and she can sing. (It’s a Signature Theatre show. Everyone here can sing. But Oakley has obvious star power.) Whether her character is meant to share these gifts remains maddeningly out-of-focus. Case in point: In “Tonight,” the song that introduces Tina, she stands on a picnic table, pretending to preen before adoring thousands. In her hand is a guitar—her dead mom’s guitar, she tells us, which she’s just found. She cradles it like a baby. She waves it around like a baton. What she never does is even attempt to play it. Not every musician is a guitarist, but if she isn’t, why choose that object to link Tina to her mother? If she has a musical molecule in her, wouldn’t she at least try to strum a few chords? Perhaps because the heroine is so vague, the show opens with its villain. Signature stalwart Donna Migliaccio plays Danielle Espere—essentially Cruella de Vil reimagined as a kingmaking record producer. A video prologue informs us that as a child Espere murdered her sister and harvested her musical talent in the form of a glowing green liquid (you might call this the Midichlorian Theory of talent transfer). Strangely, Danielle never evinces any hunger to make herself an object of adulation. Rather, she wants to engineer the ultimate pop star by fracking out the individual talents of the performers in her stable and then infusing all that green goo into one ripe vessel. Espere finds a suitable dupe in Tina, her long-lost niece. Raised by her Uncle Derek (Bobby Smith), who forbade her to listen to music (Q: “Why would you want to live in a world without music?” A: “Because it hurts too
26 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
Avenue Q
Handout photo by Stan Barouh OR DJ Corey Photography
Avenue Q Music and lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx Book by Jeff Whitty Directed by Allison Arkell Stockman At Constellation Theatre Company to Nov. 22
Handout photo by Christopher Mueller
Girlstar Book and lyrics by Anton Dudley Music by Brian Feinstein Directed by Eric Schaeffer At Signature Theatre to Nov. 15
much!”), Tina is easily seduced by the cushy life Espere offers. Her wicked aunt wastes no time raiding her existing client list for spare parts: She takes Piper’s pipes and Neela’s dancing ability, and injects them into Tina, just in time for “the live E concert,” whatever that’s supposed to be. You know what works? The Esperes, a trio of singers and dancers played by Kellee Knighten Hough, Nora Palka, and Bayla Whitten, who follow Espere around. They all sound great, even if their execution of Lorin Latarro’s choreography isn’t quite in lockstep synchronization. They wear Frank Labovitz’s costumes, which are informed by glam and punk without embracing any particular era, with elan. Sam Edgerly’s sweet-natured Jeff—a concierge at the luxury hotel where Espere installs Tina in her penthouse—is the only character who ever gets down to the lonely, frustrating task of actually trying to write a song. Whether or not Tina will ever return his affections on something other than a platonic level is agreeably murky—it’s the one part of the show wherein the air of indecision actually works. When Sesame Workshop announced a couple of months ago that the next five seasons of Sesame Street would premiere on HBO nine months before they hit the public airwaves, surprisingly few of the ensuing thinkpieces cited Avenue Q. Maybe that’s because it’s been gone for a while. The bawdy adult parody of the long-running children’s TV show premiered off-Broadway the same month the U.S. invaded Iraq. Its Broadway run lasted six years. What’s most surprising about Constellation
Theatre’s sublime (and at $20 to $45, relatively bargain-priced) revival is its reminder that as blue as Q is, it’s still a hell of a lot less cynical than the depressing new iteration of The Muppets that debuted on ABC last month. Donald Trump’s name replaces George W. Bush’s as a punchline in this version, and long-ago sitcom star Gary Coleman—who did not perform in Avenue Q, but was and is a character in it—is now dead. But for the most part, the passing of a dozen years hasn’t made the material any less hilarious or weirdly heartwarming. “The Internet Is for Porn” is still a great comedy song. As is “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist.” And “My Girlfriend, Who Lives in Canada.” And “Schadenfreude.” The only thing that’s slightly disappointing about Constellation founder Allison Arkell Stockman’s boisterous, crisply executed production is that despite her company’s history of bold design work, it hasn’t reinterpreted the puppets. They’re the same intentionally Muppet-like creatures seen in the Broadway run. Constellation rented the puppets from Music Theatre International, a theatrical licensing agency. It would be interesting to see how this show would play if its furry stars didn’t so closely resemble their Muppet Show forebears, wocka wocka. As in the Broadway version, the actors/puppeteers wear black but don’t conceal themselves, and their own expressions seem to project emotion onto the unblinking craft-store visages of the creatures on their hands. Katy Carkuff, a fixture of Constellation shows, turns out to be a more-than-able singer and puppeteer in the role of the idealistic Kate Monster, and Matt Dewberry matches her exuberance as Princeton, Kate’s on-again, off-again beau, who’s seeking his capital-P Purpose in life. The other actors are largely new to the company. No one is deficient, but Vaughn Ryan Midder—who performs as both Rod, the show’s closeted, Republican analog to Old Buddy Bert, and Trekkie Monster, who shares Cookie Monster’s lack of self-control but who bows to the false god of onanism rather than refined sugar—is a standout, giving each of his two characters a distinct and expressive verbal rhythm. Squeezed into the confines of Constellation’s usual venue, the Source Theatre, and powered by a six-piece band under the direction of Jake Null, this Broadway-sized musical only benefits from the forced intimacy. After more than a decade, Avenue Q a still a fecund collision of liberal optimism and life-during-wartime gloom; of youth and slightly faded youth; of repression and freak-flag-flying; of flesh (well, felt) and fur. Turns out, being 22 and unemployed CP and broke is still scary. 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington. $40–$96. (703) 820-9771. sigtheatre.org. 1835 14th St. NW. $20–$45. (202) 204-7741. constellationtheatre.org.
MASON BATESÕS
competition rooms
KC JUKEBOX
100 Years of Ambient Music
corporate team building
dupont circle
Teams of 2 up to 35
with one goal - getting out!
Satie • Reich • Eno DJing • Cocktails
November 9 at 8 p.m. Atrium
KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG (202) 467-4600 New Artistic Initiatives are funded in honor of Linda and Kenneth Pollin.
MAYOR MURIEL BOWSER Presents The most prestigious honors conferred by the city on artists, teachers, nonprofit organizations and patrons of the arts.
With appearances by Citizen Cope, DC Youth Slam Team, Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, Capital City Symphony, and more!
Historic Lincoln Theatre 1215 U Street, NW Washington, DC 20009 Thursday, October 29, 2015 Ceremony 7:00 - 9:00 PM Free Admission
www.dcarts.dc.gov 202.724.5613
washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 27
“Splendid Staging! Saturday Night Live spirit and hyperactive energy!”MONTREAL GAZETTE
FilmShort SubjectS
Original script Greg Kramer - Director Andrew Shaver
DAVID ARQUETTE as Sherlock Holmes JAMES MASLOW as WATSON RENEE OLSTEAD as LADY St. JOHN
ON STAGE NOV. 17-22 WARNER TheatRE
ON SALE NOW!
sherlockholmesonstage.com Produced by Starvox EntertainmenT in association with June Entertainment
Accordion Virtuosi of Russia Sun, Nov 8, 7pm The Lincoln Theatre An awe-inspiring experience: Dozens of master accordionists and beloved works spanning the “Sabre Dance,” West Side Story, Carmen, and more. Co-presented with Lincoln Theatre.
Anonymous4 Molsky,, fiddle Bruce Molsky 1865
Sun, Nov 22, 7pm Historic Sixth & I His oric Synagogue Just weeks bef before retiring, etiring, Anonymous 4 and Bruce Molsky bring tto life the stories ories from the North War and South at the end of the Civil W ar through songs instrumental tunes from and instrument om the hills and back roads of America. Americ Made possible by the Abramson Family Foundation and BB&T Wealth.
TICKETS:
WashingtonPerformingArts.org (202) 785-9727 28 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
A BrAnd ApArt Our Brand Is Crisis Directed by David Gordon Green It must be really hard to make a good film about politics. Last week saw the release of Truth, about the ousting of Dan Rather following his controversial piece on George W. Bush’s military service, which turned a complex-real-life story into an oversimplified piece of propaganda. Our Brand Is Crisis is a failure for almost the exact opposite reason: It could have used a little more propaganda, or at least a clear reason to exist. Based on the fascinating 2005 documentary of the same name, the Sandra Bullock-starring comedy-drama about an American politico who gets embroiled in a South American presidential election is artistically flat and politically inert. Mixing broad comedy with shallow political insight, it’s unclear what the filmmakers—including George Clooney as producer—were aiming for, but it’s equally clear they didn’t achieve it. Although the role of Jane was originally written for Clooney, not Bullock, Our Brand Is Crisis feels in every way like a star vehicle: a film whose unwavering commitment to redeeming its flawed protagonist obliterates any actual inquiry. When we first meet Jane, she has withdrawn from public life after a series of losing campaigns, and is hermetically sealed in a remote mountain cabin. Two consultants (Anthony Mackie and Ann Dowd) lure her out of quasi-retirement and convince her to join their team for the chance to vanquish an old foe (Billy Bob Thornton), who is working for a rival candidate in the Bolivian election. The hijinks that follow are terribly predictable, but the failure is as much political
as creative. The humor is as lazy and meanspirited as we’ve seen in any film this year— amazingly, someone still thinks it’s funny to show an animal get hit by a car and killed— while the supposedly provocative backroom political machinations come off as tame and antiquated. Are viewers supposed to shake their heads in disbelief that Jane urges her candidate to cry on camera? Or that she goes negative on her opposing candidate? Even the idea represented in the film’s title—that a candidate can win support by scaring voters about a made-up crisis—may be politically accurate but it feels a decade or so too late to be revelatory. To compare Bullock movies, Our Brand Is Crisis has as much of value to say about politics as The Blind Side does about race. Given these artistic and political failures, it will surprise no one to find that Our Brand Is Crisis also has a white savior problem. As Jane and her American friends work to determine the future of a country they know nothing about, eventually the concerns of Bolivia’s indigenous people start to work their way in from the margins. Jane, of course, starts to question the value of her win-at-all-costs approach to politics. Shouldn’t she be, like, helping people instead? The film never explains what that might actually entail; apparently, a late shot of Jane protesting with a crowd of brown people is enough. Using an entire nation of foreigners to serve an American character’s redemption is mind-numbingly misguided, but it may be the purest distillation of a film that simultaneously puts itself on a high moral pedestal while pandering to the lowest com—Noah Gittell mon denominator. Our Brand Is Crisis opens Friday at AMC Mazza Gallerie and AMC Tysons Corner 16.
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BooksSpeed ReadS KRAMERBOOKS KRAMERBOOKSAFTERWORDSCAFE
UPCOMING EVENTS
Celebrate With Us!
Mon. 11/2 at 6:30pm Getting Screwed Alison Bass Tues. 11/3 at 6:30pm How the Other Half Banks Mehrsa Baradaran
Crying on the BaCkstreets
Wed. 11/4 at 6:30pm Learning to Die in the Anthropocene Roy Scranton
This Angel on My Chest By Leslie Pietrzyk University of Pittsburgh Press, 224 pp., $18.60
Mon. 11/9 at 6:30pm JFK’s Forgotten Crisis Bruce Riedel Tues. 11/10 at 6:30pm Growing Tomorrow Forrest Pritchard Wed. 11/11 at 6:30pm Hotels of North America Rick Moody Sun. 11/15 at 1:00pm Growing Tomorrow Forrest Pritchard
Dupont Circle Farmer’s Market
Sun. 11/15 at 6:30pm Notorious RBG Irin Carmen Mon. 11/16 at 6:30pm America’s Political Dynasties Stephen Hess Sun. 11/15 at 6:30pm Notorious RBG Irin Carmen
1517 CONNECTICUTE AVE. NW 202.387.1400 | KRAMERS.COM
OCTOBER 30 – NOVEMBER 1, 2015
WASHINGTON MARRIOTT WARDMAN PARK
30 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
www.animeusa.org
When you’re a writer and your husband suddenly dies at a young age, your natural inclination is to write about it. “That’s what we do as writers, isn’t it, write about all the bad things that happen to us?” a character asks in Leslie Pietrzyk’s new collection of stories, This Angel on My Chest. Alexandria-based Pietrzyk knew that people—particularly her fellow writers—expected her to write about her first husband’s fatal heart attack when he was just 37. But she feared that turning her loss into a potentially profitable, popular book could be seen as exploitative. Through her characters, Pietrzyk acknowledges her discomfort about this internal conflict, with the ultimate hope to avoid judgment. But it’s not by anticipating criticism that Pietrzyk escapes it—it’s through the power of her writing. Her single-minded obsession with Robb’s death—which unfolds over a dozen stories about young women who have lost their husbands, told in various formats including a quiz, list, and an index of foods mentioned in the book—shows how she uses writing as a mechanism for processing his death. “We tell ourselves stories in order to live,” Joan Didion once famously said. (The quote serves as This Angel on My Chest’s epigraph.) Pietrzyk needs
to write these stories to grapple with her own grief, but that doesn’t mean the stories demand an outside audience. Still, by turning her personal experience into a universal story of loss, Pietrzyk transforms the stream-of-consciousness of a diary into a compelling narrative. Borrowing its title from a Bruce Springsteen lyric in the song “Backstreets,” This Angel on My Chest often uses such minor cultural cues as a signifier to confront the powerful nuances of her marriage. The song appears in one of the stories, bringing together its narrator and her late husband when they meet in college. “I’d never exactly understood what it meant—or what the song meant—or who betrayed who—and was Terry a boy or a girl— though I’d listened alone to the lyrics on repeat on my record player many long, late, unsettled nights,” Pietrzyk writes. This thought exemplifies a larger theme that Pietrzyk grapples with throughout the book: What is the truth? What is the difference between what happened and “being honest,” and how does who is telling the story influence it? Like the character that incessantly listens to “Backstreets,” Pietrzyk must retell the story of her first husband’s death over and over. It’s catharsis: The more she tells it, the more she believes that it happened and understands what it means for her life now. Sometimes she tells the story in the first person, other times in the surprisingly effective, immersive second person (“You’re a writer. That’s how you solve problems: You write about them.”). Sometimes the husband dies of a brain aneurysm; other times he dies in a car accident. Sometimes the wife has been unfaithful; other times the dead husband has been in love with someone else. Readers can’t help but wonder: How much of this really happened and how much of this is just a story? But these questions are a distraction from the core of the book, which is an exploration of how it feels to lose someone you love. Pietrzyk proves that she can get closer to the truth when she has the freedom to change the details. This Angel on My Chest is as much about writing and storytelling as it is about grief. The narrator is self-conscious about her writing process—how it departs from basic storytelling rules, how her work compares to the kinds of books that sell. These passages convey the idea that real life doesn’t follow the neat rules of the ideal story—though sometimes Pietrzyk’s criticism of the writing establishment can be excessive. The reader doesn’t care about the rule of three; the reader cares about the cornflakes Robb was eating when he had the heart attack, that he once compared the author to an avocado, that he loved malted milk balls. It’s in those minute details that Pietrzyk breathes life into stories about death. —Natalie Villacorta
KENNEDY CENTER
THE BALTIMORE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA AND 89.7 WTMD PRESENT
Jason Moran, Artistic Director for Jazz
2015–2016 Season
Butler, Bernstein & the Hot 9
With a large dose of Jelly Roll Morton and Fats Waller, the allstar band Hot 9 performs selections from their 2014 recording Viper’s Drag (Impulse!). Saturday, November 7 at 7 & 9 p.m. | Terrace Theater
A Family Affair
Dorado Schmitt and the Django Festival All-Stars
Showcasing the rhythmic, virtuosic intricacies of the Django Reinhardt guitar style of “hot jazz,” the Django Festival All-Stars return to the Kennedy Center by popular demand, featuring superstar Dorado Schmitt on lead guitar and violin. Friday, November 13 at 7 & 9 p.m. | Terrace Theater
Carmen Lundy
Lundy returns for a two-night run in celebration of her 14th album, Soul to Soul, with pianist Patrice Rushen, bassist Kenny Davis, drummer Jamison Ross, guitarist Andrew Renfroe, and vibraphonist Warren Wolf. Friday & Saturday, November 20 & 21
KC Jazz Club • Performances at 7 & 9 p.m. in the Terrace Gallery. No minimum. Light menu fare available.
KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG (202) 467-4600 Tickets also available at the Box Office. Groups call (202) 416-8400.
WPFW 89.3 FM is a media partner of Kennedy Center Jazz.
FEATURING
WYE OAK & MEMBERS OF THE
BALTIMORE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA JOHN LUTHER ADAMS: BECOME RIVER
THU, NOV 12
Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall
BSOpulse.org
» BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY! «
PLUS! HAPPY HOUR 5:30 PM Featuring your favorite local restaurants and breweries
washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 31
MusicDiscography Squad GoalS Real Lessons in Cynicism Soccer Team Dischord Records Bless Soccer Team for subtweeting J.J.Abrams, because somebody’s got to. Scan the Internet and you won’t find too many voices dissenting to the intergalactic hype for this winter’s Star Wars sequel. Wherever you’d turn for demurral to the film’s instant pre-coronation, it probably wouldn’t be a release from notoriously parochial Dischord Records. But Soccer Team’s second album of delicate, smart-kid punk rock is full of surprises, chief among them “Too Many Lens Flares,” whose title I took as a sneering reference to director Abrams’ signature visual tic. “Has film become the last option of the weak?” the band’s Ryan Nelson and Melissa Quinley plead, soon adding, in a perfectly concise critique of modern geek sycophancy, “It’s too bad when genre falls prey to its fans/It’s degrading to subject us to boring test-group demands.” If there’s been a better indie-pop anthem this year than “Lens Flares”—with its twinkly guitar figures, jogging bass riffs, subtle tensions, and cathartic builds—I haven’t heard it. Real Lessons in Cynicism, Soccer Team’s first full-length since its 2006 Dischord debut, is an album of affecting vignettes and quick, no-filler flicks at ideas (both sonic and cerebral). It has less in common with any of Soccer Team’s local predecessors and peers than it does with a particular impulse of arty post-punk—the one connecting genre-curious minimalists like Wire, Minutemen, and Young Marble Giants, who fucked around with songwriting forms and never expressed a smart idea in four minutes when they could do it in two. In Soccer Team’s case, that means wry, Morrissey-esque song titles like “Fits of Jealous Rage Are in This Year” and “Lazy Colonist”—and it means an eclectic and erudite collection of songs whose rippers, shakers, and ballads feel like they’re of one piece, all slim and basement-fashioned and precise. It’s a record not of big statements, but of tiny revelations. Sometimes, those moments of grace and insight arrive via skeptical, jewel-box cultural commentaries, like “Lens Flares” and the fleet, wiry “Best Employed New Beau,” a riff on journalistic vapidity. That’s how it struck me, anyway; Nelson and Quinley write elliptical lyrics that call for projection, not lesson-taking. With its references to “our Virgil to guide” and “this weight I know from Alighieri,” “Fits of Jealous Rage” clearly concerns a descent into perdition, but listeners will have to pick which inferno they believe the song details. Nelson and Quinley—both multi-instrumentalists and vocalists—formed Soccer Team when they worked at Dischord in the
aughts, and reunited for an EP in 2011, after Nelson returned to the District after several years in Michigan. On Real Lessons in Cynicism they’re joined by Quinley’s husband, Dennis Kane, and Jason Hutto, whose ecstatic keyboards on “Dinner With Derelicts” channel the funhouse synthpop of his old band the Aquarium. Sometimes, loud and fast arrangements (“Lazy Colonist,” “Nose to Chin”) obscure crafty songwriting tricks. Elsewhere, the band takes pop detours into mournful themes, as it does on “Problems With Prolonged Youth” (the title says it all) and “If You Were Here,” a fizzy, low-key cover of the Thompson Twins hit best known for its use in Sixteen Candles. With its moaning keys and lilting guitars, the gentle “Short Term Expectations” almost washed over me, until I listened to Quinley’s crestfallen vocals, which clearly—more clearly than anything else on this record—concern a miscarriage or death of a child. “We had you destined to be the perfect one no one was yet,” she sings, moments before Hutto plays a soul-nagging guitar solo that’s somehow as heartbreaking as the lyrics, at least until this tragic, maybe inevitable kicker: “It is unfair, but it is what it is, and it’s probably best you left.” —Jonathan L. Fischer
BeSt CoaSt Burnt Out By 3 p.m. Witch Coast Babe City Records The members of Witch Coast exude a kind of archetypal rock ’n’ roll nonchalance. Vocalist/guitarist Jon Weiss projects a breezy
32 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
ease: a washed-out vibe with hat askew, cigarette dangling from lips. He should be perpetually smirking, half-lounged on some couch somewhere. It’s all an illusion of course—Weiss and Witch Coast are out there grinding, gigging, recording, sweating the sweat, hustling the hustle—but still, that vibe pervades. Witch Coast’s new record, Burnt Out By 3 p.m., embodies the band’s dichotomy of aesthetic. It’s a deceptively simple record: a rattling, fuzzy homage to lo-fi garage rock that exudes a stoner’s ease. It might have been recorded in a weekend, and Weiss’ rudimentary and sometimes disjointed lyrics only add to Witch Coast’s aura of laissezfaire dream-punk. But like the band itself, the record’s slipshod sound belies its intentionality. The thing was recorded in 24 hours on a Tascam 338, the absolute cutting edge of home recording devices ... in 1985. The warbling strain of Weiss’ vocals adds depth and vintage to his straightforward lyrics. Then there’s the reverb, the ballet dance of Jordan Sander’s bass lines, and Kevin Sottek’s driving drums, all levelled flat and pushed through distortion to the point of urgency. It’s a deft trick, really: The spacy lofi rock act manifests as wholly forceful and punk-rock potent. But that potency emerges in bursts. “Dopesick” begins in some dusty, open space, with Weiss’ voice bathed in melancholy, then devolves into a wild wail of a chorus: “I don’t want to be there when you’re dope sick/No I don’t want to take another white rip.” The album’s second track, “Chokehold,” approaches being outright catchy without suffering polish or silencing the band’s perpetual racket. And
the surf-y, excellent “Feeling Sick” delivers perfect bouts of quiet amid a dead-on garage rock banger, the hollow ricochet of reverb filling those few moments when guitar strings fall silent. These moments are tiny triumphs peppered throughout the record, and they collectively raise the album and the band above the overflowing garage-rock pool. At the record’s strongest, it smacks of Bass Drum of Death, only dirtier—or of Ty Segall, tamped back down to the underground. The band’s approach can stumble at times. The high-wire balance between crafting a sound and simply sounding repetitive challenges most bands, but Witch Coast seems particularly susceptible to repetition—a side effect of such intentional sonic craftwork. Start a mid-tempo metronome at the beginning of the record and it would miss few beats throughout, and Weiss churns out a guitar sound and pace that takes few breaks from start to finish. In the few places on the record where the songs escape the mid-tempo mire, Weiss’ oscillating vocals threaten to drown an otherwise upbeat structure and melody. The brilliant bass line and sparse guitars that open “Gold Now” give way to an ass-shaking beat that is perhaps the best on the record. But moments later, the vocals spread over the song like a hazy film—or tar poured into the gears of the machine. These are small quibbles with a band and an album that delivers with such intent. Burnt Out By 3 p.m. strives to be a rough and urgent record, and it succeeds in wholesale quantity. But it’s in the albums’ myriad sideeffects—its lyrical mystery, its rage, its momentary bouts of beauty—that Witch Coast —Ron Knox truly shines.
TWYLA THARP
From the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, the battle for equality in America marches on.
Francesca Zambello, Artistic Director
Photo by Cade Martin
Matthew Dibble and Rika Okamoto in Yowzie; photo by Ruven Afanador
50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR
PHILIP GLASS / CHRISTOPHER HAMPTON
D.C. premiere of two new works PRELUDES AND FUGUES and YOWZIE November 11–14 | Eisenhower Theater
APPOMATTOX November 14–22 | Opera House In English with Projected English Titles | Titles may not be visible from the rear of the orchestra.
Major support for WNO and Appomattox is provided by Jacqueline Badger Mars. David and Alice Rubenstein are the Presenting Underwriters of WNO. WNO acknowledges the longstanding generosity of Life Chairman Mrs. Eugene B. Casey. General Dynamics is the Presenting Sponsor of WNO’s 2015-2016 Season.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG (202) 467-4600
WNO’s season is presented with the support of Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello.
Tickets also available at the Box Office. Groups call (202) 416-8400.
Additional support for Appomattox is provided by John and Cynthia Gunn.
These works were commissioned by The Joyce Theater, New York with funds from the Estate of John L. Klebanoff, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington, D.C. (lead commissioners); Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University & Ravinia Festival Association, Chicago; TITAS Presents in association with AT&T Performing Arts Center, Dallas; and The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Beverly Hills. This work was also made possible by the New England Foundation for the Arts’ National Dance Project, with lead funding from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, with additional support from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Tickets are also available at the Box Office. Groups call (202) 416-8400.
Appomattox is a production of the Clarice Smith Opera Series.
KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG (202) 467-4600
KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG (202) 467-4600
KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG (202) 467-4600
Tickets are also available at the Box Office. Groups call (202) 416-8400.
Tickets are also available at the Box Office. Groups call (202) 416-8400. washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 33
34 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
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CITYLIST
Halloween . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Galleries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Dance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Theater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 2 Film . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
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HALLOWEEN
Clarendon Halloween Bar Crawl Enjoy drinks at more than a dozen Clarendon establishments at this annual event that awards prizes for the best costumes. Participants receive raffle tickets, party favors, and a commemorative mug with their admission fee. IOTA Club & Café. 2832 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. $20–$30. Oct. 31, 1 p.m. (703) 522-8340. d.C. Halloween Crawl Explore some of Dupont Circle’s busiest bars on this organized bar crawl through the neighborhood. In addition to the Front Page, the event includes stops at the Bottom Line, Rumors, the Mad Hatter, Ozio, and many other restaurants and bars. Deals include $2 Yuenglings, $3 Smirnoff drinks, and $4 haunted shots. The Front Page. 1333 New Hampshire Ave. NW. $15–$30. Oct. 31, 3 p.m. (202) 296-6500. del ray artisans Halloween Costume Party Come dressed in costume and mingle with monsters and artists at this party presented by the Alexandria art gallery, which will display work from its “ Skeletons: Exploring Under the Surface” exhibit on the walls. Del Ray Artisans. 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. $5. Oct. 31, 8 p.m. (703) 838-4827. Ha!lloween: Part tHeme Party, Part Comedy sHow, all Hallows’ eve Dana Fleitman hosts this evening of spooky standup comedy that features a costume contest and mummy wrapping activities in addition to sets by Jamel Johnson, Elahe Izadi, Tok Moffat, Alyssa Cowan, and Isaac Hirsch. Bier Baron Tavern. 1523 22nd St. NW. $10–$13. Oct. 31, 5 p.m. (202) 293-1885. Halloween BrunCH Costume Contest Enjoy your brunch with a side of elaborate costumes at this celebratory meal. Post a photo of your costume to Instagram and be entered to win a $75 gift card for a future meal. Masa 14. 1825 14th St. NW. $39. Oct. 31, 10 a.m. (202) 328-1414. tHe Halloween CirCus Enjoy burlesque performances and live music from local artists at this Halloween celebration hosted by the creative minds behind Church Night. Black Cat. 1811 14th St. NW. $10–$12. Oct. 31, 9 p.m. (202) 667-4490. Halloween on tHe arts walk The weekly farmers market gets in the Halloween spirit with costume contests for kids, adults, and pets, themed snacks, and trick-or-treating at various artists’ studios. Monroe Street Market. 625 Monroe St. NE. Free. Oct. 31, 9 a.m. (866) 339-1487. Halloween on tHe row Shop and celebrate the fall at various Bethesda Row shops. Kids can pick up treats, while adults can receive discounts and coupons from different retailers. Bethesda Row Cinema. 7235 Woodmont Ave., Bethesda. Free. Oct. 30, 5 p.m. (301) 652-7273. “Hell is...” Halloween Party The Black Sheep Contingent, Fweetonian, and Gabby DiPasquale perform at this show that doubles as a fundraiser for local theater company Nu Sass Productions. Admission fees also grant attendees discounts on food and drinks throughout the night. The Pinch. 3548 14th St. NW. $15. Oct. 31, 7 p.m. (202) 722-4440. tHe man wHo laugHs Get in the Halloween spirit by watching this spooky movie based on Victor Hugo’s novel about the disfigured Gwynplaine and the blind woman who he loves. The look of Gwynplaine served as inspiration for the Joker character in the Batman comics. Alden Theatre. 1234 Ingleside
CITY LIGHTS: FRIDAY
GIN BLOSSOMS You played their 1992 hit album New Miserable Experience, ordered from the RCA Record Club; couldn’t stop singing “Til I Hear It From You” after viewing Empire Records for the 50th time; or drove around town with your friends blasting “Hey Jealousy.” If you came of age between 1985 and 1995, you probably have a fond memory whose soundtrack is a Gin Blossoms song. Unlike some bands you loved in your youth that refuse to play old hits (paging “Creep” refuseniks Radiohead), the Gin Blossoms are road warriors—its members play around 120 shows every year and have done so since 2001. Even better, the band honors longtime fans by performing five favorite songs along with new tracks at every show. A quick listen to the group’s latest live album shows that singer Robin Wilson’s vocals have withered a bit over the decades, but the Blossoms’ show at the Howard Theatre will still provide a quick hit of nostalgia. After all, White Ford Bronco’s show at Rock & Roll Hotel is already soldout. Gin Blossoms perform at 7:30 p.m. at the Howard Theatre, 620 T St. NW. $32.50–$38. (202) 803—Diana Metzger 2899. thehowardtheatre.com.
Ave., McLean. $8–$12. Oct. 31, 2 p.m. (703) 790-0123.
St. NW. $27.50–$60. Oct. 31, 11 p.m. (202) 803-2899.
nigHt of tHe living Zoo See the animals up close and enjoy snacks and craft beer from a variety of local food trucks and breweries at this annual Halloween celebration. National Zoological Park. 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW. Sold-out. Oct. 30, 5:30 p.m. (202) 633-4800.
nigHtmare on k street Celebrate Halloween with music from funk cover band Covered With Jam, who collaborates with Beck tribute act the New Pollution and Phish-influenced act the Last Rewind. Winners of the evening’s costume contest receive two tickets to a future performance at the club. Gypsy Sally’s. 3401 K St. NW. $13. Oct. 31, 8:30 p.m. (202) 333-7700.
nigHtmare at tHe Howard feat. team familiar Celebrate the end of Halloween with a spooky go-go show at the Howard. Howard Theatre. 620 T
sCary league: a story league Halloween at tHe kennedy Center! Storytellers from D.C. and
washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 35
around the nation share their spookiest tales while dressed in costume at this free Halloween event. Kennedy Center Millennium Stage. 2700 F St. NW. Free. Oct. 31, 6 p.m. (202) 467-4600.
Music
FridAy Rock
9:30 CluB 815 V St. NW. (202) 265-0930. Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Psycho Killers, Litz. 8 p.m. $15. 930.com. Howard tHeatre 620 T St. NW. (202) 803-2899. Gin Blossoms. 7:30 p.m. $32.50–$38. thehowardtheatre.com.
Blues alley 1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 3374141. John Pizzarelli. 8 p.m. & 10 p.m. $40–$45. bluesalley.com. kennedy Center millennium stage 2700 F St. NW. (202) 467-4600. Marc Cary’s Indigenous People. 6 p.m. Free. kennedy-center.org. montPelier arts Center 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel. (301) 377-7800. Remembering Ronnie Wells and Ron Elliston. 8 p.m. $25. arts.pgparks.com. mr. Henry’s 601 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. (202) 5468412. Herb Spice and the Cinnamonstix. 8 p.m. Free. mrhenrysdc.com.
countRy gyPsy sally’s 3401 K St. NW. (202) 333-7700. Nikki Lane, Frankie Lee. 9 p.m. $14–$18. gypsysallys.com.
songByrd musiC House and reCord Cafe 2477 18th St. NW. (202) 450-2917. Humble Fire, the Effects, the Sherrod Brothers. 8:30 p.m. $10. songbyrddc.com.
tHe Hamilton 600 14th St. NW. (202) 787-1000. Tim O’Brien, Old Man Luedecke. 8:30 p.m. $17–$25. thehamiltondc.com.
Funk & R&B
Folk
villain & saint 7141 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda. (240) 800-4700. Broadsound Band. 9 p.m. $8–$10. villainandsaint.com.
BirCHmere 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. (703) 549-7500. David Bromberg Big Band. 7:30 p.m. $49.50. birchmere.com.
Jazz
classical
Barns at wolf traP 1645 Trap Road, Vienna. (703) 255-1900. Catherine Russell. 8 p.m. $22–$25. wolftrap.org.
kennedy Center ConCert Hall 2700 F St. NW. (202) 467-4600. National Symphony Orchestra, Lang Lang. 8 p.m. $35–$129. kennedy-center.org.
CITY LIGHTS: SATURDAY
BALANCHINE, BéjART, AND THE BARD
Whether you’re a Balanchine aficionado or a dance noob looking for an introduction to American ballet that won’t leave you squirming before intermission, this weekend’s performance by the Suzanne Farrell Ballet at the Kennedy Center will reward. The company is premiering two new additions to its repertoire—“Walpurgisnacht Ballet” and “Emeralds”—both by Balanchine; the latter is a classic from the choreographer’s seminal Jewels ballet. “Emeralds” should breeze by: It’s abstract (which means don’t try to pick out a plot because there isn’t one) but only about a half-hour long. Its calling card is the stunning green costumes—women will float across the stage in calf-length tulle skirts. Expect Farrell’s treatment of the dance to hew closely to its original staging—she not only danced with Balanchine and was among the original cast of Jewels, but she was among his most important choreographic “muses.” Also on the stage tonight are two classic pas de deux: one from Balanchine’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream (choreographed to Mendelssohn’s music) and the scène d’amour from Romeo and Juliet, another classic mid-century ballet by Maurice Béjart. For this kind of performance, consider breaking out your black-tie attire. The Suzanne Farrell Ballet performs at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Kennedy Center Opera House, 2700 F St. NW. $20–$119. (202) 467-4600. kennedy-center.org. —Emily Q. Hazzard
36 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
SKY AD PAGE
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SKY AD PAGE ----------
3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Alexandria, VA • 703-549-7500
1811 14TH ST NW
For entire schedule go to Birchmere.com Find us on Facebook/Twitter! Tix @ Ticketmaster.com 800-745-3000
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@blackcatdc OCTOBER / NOVEMBER SHOWS FRI 30
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MON 2 TUE 3 WED 4 THU 5 FRI 6
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WE WERE PROMISED JETPACKS
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MEYERHOFF SYMPHONY HALL
This November 3, 2015, 8:00pm BALTIMORE, MD Tues! Tickets On Sale Now through Ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000
Oct 29 Visions from Cape Breton & Beyond
NATALIE MACMASTER DONNELL LEAHY
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Abigal DAVID BROMBERG BIG BAND Palmer
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with The Guilty Ones
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TO BUY TICKETS VISIT TICKETFLY.COM
Members of the Polyphonic Spree never intended, despite their matching white choral robes and choreographed dance moves, to resemble a cult, like the identically dressed adherents of Heaven’s Gate. The group’s mission was to create orchestral arrangements reminiscent of the Beach Boys and Beatles that featured vocals inspired by Ozzy Osbourne and hope that from that mix, an audience would grow. The Spree developed a devoted following after its joyful “Light & Day/Reach for the Sun” was featured in several commercials, and for the past fifteen years, the group has toured the nation with several dozen members and jangle-pop songs in tow. When the Spree plays the Birchmere, 15 to 20 members will perform the group’s first album, The Beginning Stages of…, in its entirety. Since that album only runs about 30 minutes, expect the band to perform some old favorites and a few covers as well. Founder Tim DeLaughter is a big fan of Wings, so perhaps now’s the time to memorize the lyrics to “Band on the Run.” The Polyphonic Spree performs with Telegraph Canyon at 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon —Caroline Jones Ave., Alexandria. $35. (703) 549-7500. birchmere.com.
THE POLYPHONIC SPREE Telegraph Canyon
3&4
JOSHUA RADIN
solo & acoustic with special guest Anya Marina
5
DELBERT McCLINTON Damon Fowler
OLETA ADAMS 7 SUZANNE WESTENHOEFER 6
8
An evening with
22
An Evening with
GEORGE WINSTON In The 9 TOADIES “Heretics Tour” Whale 15 LEE ANN WOMACK 16 ACOUSTIC ALCHEMY 18&19 THREE DOG NIGHT
JERRY DOUGLAS 23 BONEY JAMES 27&28 THE SELDOM SCENE
DJ niGhts
MADISEN WARD & THE MAMA BEAR Penny & Dec 1 DELTA RAE w/ Sparrow Winter Acoustic Tour • A Holiday Celebration
Vocal
BUMPER JACKSONS (27) & THE KENNEDYS (28)
30
A PETER WHITE CHRISTMAS with MINDI ABAIR & RICK BRAUN 3 SHEILA E 4 BLOOD SWEAT & TEARS featuring BO BICE
Howard tHeatre 620 T St. NW. (202) 803-2899. Halloween Mixtape. 11 p.m. $10–$12.50. thehowardtheatre.com.
kennedy Center terraCe tHeater 2700 F St. NW. (202) 467-4600. Randy Graff. 7 p.m. $50. kennedy-center.org.
sAturdAy Rock
CHERYLWHEELER & JOHNGORKA 7 A DAVID BENOIT CHRISTMAS
9:30 CluB 815 V St. NW. (202) 265-0930. The Revivalists, Gedeon Luke and the People. 8 p.m. $22. 930.com.
FOURPLAY John 9 ROSANNE CASH Leventhal Holiday 10 THE DAN BAND Show! Ari 11&12 JUDY COLLINS Hest 14 THEAIMEEMANN & TEDLEOCHRISTMASSHOW
BirCHmere 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. (703) 549-7500. Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin, Webb Wilder. 7:30 p.m. $29.50. birchmere.com.
5
“Tribute to Charlie Brown” with special guest JANE MONHEIT
8
WE ARE LOCATED 3 BLOCKS FROM THE U STREET/CARDOZO STATION
THE POLYPHONIC SPREE
Performing “The Beginning Stage of . . .” in its entirety & more!
2
WE WERE PROMISED JETPACKS
CITY LIGHTS: SUNDAY
with JONATHAN COULTON, LIZ PHAIR and very special guests!
38 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
Barns at wolf traP 1645 Trap Road, Vienna. (703) 255-1900. Joan Armatrading, Marti Jones and Don Dixon. 7:30 p.m. $85–$95. wolftrap.org.
fillmore silver sPring 8656 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. (301) 960-9999. STS9. 8 p.m. $31.50. fillmoresilverspring.com. gyPsy sally’s 3401 K St. NW. (202) 333-7700. Covered with Jam, Stella Blues Band, Uffizi. 8:30 p.m. $15–$17. gypsysallys.com. Nightmare on K Street. 8:30 p.m. $13. gypsysallys.com.
villain & saint 7141 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda. (240) 800-4700. On the Bus, Beggars Tomb, Comic Book Colors, Black Muddy River Band. 6 p.m. $30. villainandsaint.com.
Funk & R&B gw lisner auditorium 730 21st St. NW. (202) 994-6800. Mavis Staples, Joan Osborne. 8 p.m. $30–$50. lisner.org.
ElEctRonic u street musiC Hall 1115 U St. NW. (202) 5881880. Chad Valley, Keep Shelly In Athens, Stranger Cat, Different Sleep. 7 p.m. $20. ustreetmusichall.com.
Jazz Blues alley 1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 3374141. John Pizzarelli. 8 p.m. & 10 p.m. $40–$45. bluesalley.com. mr. Henry’s 601 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. (202) 5468412. Coniece Washington. 8 p.m. Free. mrhenrysdc.com.
Go-Go Howard tHeatre 620 T St. NW. (202) 803-2899. Nightmare at the Howard feat. Team Familiar. 11 p.m. $27.50–$60. thehowardtheatre.com.
CITY LIGHTS: MONDAY
PHILIP GLASS
The composer Philip Glass is best known for his experiments in minimal music and his film scores, from The Thin Blue Line to the most recent Fantastic Four movie. (Yes, really.) But over the past four decades, he’s also written more than a dozen avant-garde operas, none of which the Washington National Opera has staged—until now. This November, WNO will mount a six-performance production of Glass’ 2007 opera Appomattox. The revised version of the Civil War–civil rights work, with a libretto by Christopher Hampton, adds an act about Martin Luther King Jr. and Frederick Douglass. Glass will sit down for a conversation with WNO Artistic Director Francesca Zambello ahead of the premiere. While it’s easy to guess some of the topics of discussion— why WNO waited so long to stage a Glass opera, why Glass chose to revise Appomattox— let’s hope Zambello tries to break as much new ground as Glass over his career. Philip Glass speaks at 5:30 p.m. at the Kennedy Center Theater Lab, 2700 F St. NW. $15. (202) 467-4600. kennedy-center.org. —Sarah Anne Hughes
classical
WoRlD
kennedy Center ConCert Hall 2700 F St. NW. (202) 467-4600. National Symphony Orchestra, Lang Lang. 8 p.m. $35–$129. kennedy-center.org.
Patriot Center 4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax. (703) 993-3000. Juan Gabriel. 7 p.m. $59–$149. patriotcenter.com.
suNdAy
MONdAy
9:30 CluB 815 V St. NW. (202) 265-0930. Youth Lagoon, Moon King. 7 p.m. $25. 930.com.
9:30 CluB 815 V St. NW. (202) 265-0930. The Districts, Lady Lamb, Sun Club. 7 p.m. $20. 930.com.
Barns at wolf traP 1645 Trap Road, Vienna. (703) 255-1900. Joan Armatrading, Marti Jones and Don Dixon. 7:30 p.m. $85–$95. wolftrap.org.
roCk & roll Hotel 1353 H St. NE. (202) 388ROCK. Craig Finn. 8 p.m. $18. rockandrollhoteldc.com.
BirCHmere 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. (703) 549-7500. The Polyphonic Spree. 7:30 p.m. $35. birchmere.com.
u street musiC Hall 1115 U St. NW. (202) 5881880. TOPS, Molly Nilsson. 7 p.m. $15. ustreetmusichall.com.
Rock
dC9 1940 9th St. NW. (202) 483-5000. Joanna Gruesome. 8 p.m. $12. dcnine.com. veriZon Center 601 F St. NW. (202) 628-3200. The Who, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts. 7:30 p.m. $49.50–$149.50. verizoncenter.com.
tuEsdAy Rock
Funk & R&B tHe Hamilton 600 14th St. NW. (202) 787-1000. Brass-A-Holics. 7:30 p.m. $25. thehamiltondc.com.
gyPsy sally’s 3401 K St. NW. (202) 333-7700. Shawn Mullins. 8:30 p.m. $18–$23. gypsysallys.com.
Jazz
tHe Hamilton 600 14th St. NW. (202) 787-1000. David Cook, Andrew Ripp. 7:30 p.m. $17.50– $77.50. thehamiltondc.com.
twins JaZZ 1344 U St. NW. (202) 234-0072. Bobby Muncy. 8 p.m. & 10 p.m. $10. twinsjazz.com.
PReseNts a MIcHael JacksON tRIBute
F 30
HALLOWEEN HOWL W/ THE SidLEyS, CAL EvErETT, CrimESTOppErS, COSTumE CONTEST, prizES
sa 31 THE vi-KiNGS “pEOpLE ArE STrANGE” HALLOWEEN SHOW W/ COSTumE CONTEST, prizES!
NOVeMBeR s1
CHriS GrASSO TriO W/ dANiELLE WErTz & SHACArA rOGErS
M2
dAryL dAviS prESENTS dAmON fOrEmAN
Rock
dC9 1940 9th St. NW. (202) 483-5000. Strange Names, Carroll. 9 p.m. $10. dcnine.com.
Blues alley 1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 3374141. John Pizzarelli. 8 p.m. & 10 p.m. $40–$45. bluesalley.com.
tHRIlleR tHuRsday OctOBeR 29 MIcHael lIVe PROJect
linColn tHeatre 1215 U St. NW. (202) 328-6000. Beirut. 6:30 p.m. Sold-out. thelincolndc.com. roCk & roll Hotel 1353 H St. NE. (202) 388ROCK. Born Ruffians. 8 p.m. $12–$14. rockandrollhoteldc.com.
tuesday NOVeMBeR 3
tHe JaM
GaRy GRaINGeR & FRIeNds tH 5
pJ mOrGAN’S GEEEK SQuAd
FRIday NOVeMBeR 6
teedRa MOses 7719 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, MD (240) 330-4500 Two Blocks from Bethesda Metro/Red Line Free Parking on Weekends washingtoncitypaper.com OCTOBER 30, 2015 39
$10 BURGER & BEER MON-FRI 4 P M -7 P M
TRIVIA EVERY M O N D AY & W E D N E S D AY
$3 PBR & NATTY BOH ALL DAY EVERY DAY
600 beers from around the world
Downstairs: good food, great beer: $3 PBR & Natty Boh’s all day every day *all shows 21+ SUN, NOVEMBER 1ST
ALEXX STARR COMEDY
DOORS AT 7PM SHOW AT 8PM MON, NOVEMBER 2ND
DISTRICT TRIVIA STARTS AT 730PM
BOARD GAME NIGHT STARTS AT 530PM
TUES, NOVEMBER 3RD
LAST RESORT COMEDY
DOORS AT 8PM SHOW AT 830PM WED, NOVEMBER 4TH
PERFECT LIARS CLUB
CITY LIGHTS: TUESDAY
jOSHUA RADIN
Given his ubiquity, you’re probably a Joshua Radin fan without realizing it. The folk singer-songwriter has contributed dozens of songs to the soundtracks of TV shows and movies from Grey’s Anatomy and Dear John to various Zach Braff productions, including Scrubs and The Last Kiss. There’s a reason such dramas work with Radin’s music: The artist is known for his emotive lyrics and whispery vocals, each song a love letter left in the open that you can’t help but read. And it doesn’t get much more romantic than this: Radin wrote his latest album, Onward and Sideways, to woo a woman he met on vacation in Sweden. Tuesday’s intimate, acoustic concert at the Birchmere will highlight Radin’s raw, guitardriven sound, as well as the techniques of his guest star, indie rock crooner Anya Marina. In line with his reputation for soul-baring, Radin might burst into impromptu covers from influences like Bob Dylan and Tom Petty. Joshua Radin performs with Anya Marie Tuesday and Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. $35. —Tatiana Cirisano (703) 549-7500. birchmere.com.
DOORS AT 7PM SHOW AT 8PM
DISTRICT TRIVIA STARTS AT 730PM
THURS, NOVEMBER 5TH
UNDERGROUND
COMEDY
DOORS AT 8PM SHOW AT 830PM FRI, NOVEMBER 6TH
BIG LEBOWSKI BURLESQUE
DOORS AT 8PM SHOW AT 10PM S AT, N O V E M B E R 7 T H
CYN FACTORY PRESENTS HAUNTS YOUR DREAMS
DOORS AT 8PM SHOW AT 9PM SUN, NOVEMBER 8TH
KEN VEGAS PRESENTS
DOORS AT 5PM SHOW AT 6PM 1523 22nd St NW – Washington, DC 20037 (202) 293-1887 - www.bierbarondc.com @bierbarondc.com for news and events
40 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
ElEctRonic
Jazz
9:30 CluB 815 V St. NW. (202) 265-0930. Lido, Tunji Ige. 10 p.m. $20. 930.com.
Blues alley 1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 3374141. Carol Welsman. 8 p.m. & 10 p.m. $25. bluesalley.com.
Jazz
countRy
Blues alley 1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 3374141. Elan Trotman. 8 p.m. & 10 p.m. $25. bluesalley.com.
gyPsy sally’s 3401 K St. NW. (202) 333-7700. By & By, Burt the Dirt, Herb & Hanson. 8:30 p.m. $10–$12. gypsysallys.com.
Folk
madam’s organ 2461 18th St. NW. (202) 6675370. The Human Country Jukebox Band. 9 p.m. Free. madamsorgan.com.
BirCHmere 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. (703) 549-7500. Joshua Radin. 7:30 p.m. $35. birchmere.com.
Folk
WEdNEsdAy Rock
dC9 1940 9th St. NW. (202) 483-5000. The Hotelier, Runaway Brother, Oso Oso, Spirit of the Beehive. 7 p.m. $12. dcnine.com. linColn tHeatre 1215 U St. NW. (202) 328-6000. Beirut. 6:30 p.m. Sold-out. thelincolndc.com.
ElEctRonic 9:30 CluB 815 V St. NW. (202) 265-0930. Parov Stelar. 7 p.m. $55. 930.com.
BirCHmere 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. (703) 549-7500. Joshua Radin. 7:30 p.m. $35. birchmere.com. mansion at stratHmore 10701 Rockville Pike, Rockville. (301) 581-5100. Danny Knicely. 7:30 p.m. $17. strathmore.org.
tHursdAy Rock
Barns at wolf traP 1645 Trap Road, Vienna. (703) 255-1900. Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds. 8 p.m. $20–$25. wolftrap.org. villain & saint 7141 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda. (240) 800-4700. Groove Quest. 8 p.m. $8–$10. villainandsaint.com.
CITY LIGHTS: WEDNESDAY
OLIVER!
A childhood spent living in poverty never looks as glamorous as it does in stage musicals like Annie. Charles Dickens, who realistically captured the squalor of London’s slums, never ended his novels with the 19th-century equivalent of Jamie Foxx or Albert Finney instantaneously propelling his characters into the lap of luxury. Yet the sweet-voiced orphans who take the stage in Oliver!, Lionel Bart’s musical adaptation of Oliver Twist, look so adorable in their pre-ripped pants and dirtied faces that it’s easy to stop obsessing about accuracy and just enjoy the songs. “Consider Yourself,” “Where Is Love?”, and many of the show’s other numbers have become standards in the 55 years since the musical first opened in London. Arena Stage is hoping to bank on that nostalgia with its new production, which runs through the busy holiday season. The tiny face of Jake Heston Miller, the fourth-grader who stars as the title character, will win over the most jaded theatergoers.The musical runs Oct. 30 through Jan. 3 at Arena Stage, 1101 6th St. NW. $64– —Caroline Jones $99. (202) 554-9066. arenastage.org.
JUST ANNOUNCED!
F OOT B ALL AWAY GAME WAT CH PART Y TONIGHT AT 8 PM!
FREE TO ENTER! DRINK + FOOD SPECIALS +
H O M E G A M E T I C K E T G I V E AW AY S !
THU, OCT 29
FRI OCTOBER 30TH
WILLIE NILE
GIN BLOSSOMS
JEFFERSON GRIZZARD
TUE NOVEMBER 3RD
JILL NEWMAN PRODUCTIONS & PM7 ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS
PAUL MOONEY & DICK GREGORY
DEBUT ARTIST!
ONE NIGHT ONLY!
PRODUCED BY JILL NEWMAN PRODUCTIONS
THU NOVEMBER 5TH
FRI, OCT 30
TERRI LYNE CARRINGTON'S MOSAIC PROJECT
CATHERINE RUSSELL
FT. VALERIE SIMPSON & JAGUAR WRIGHT
FRI NOVEMBER 6TH
Grammy-winning vintage jazz vocalist
DEAFHEAVEN
SISTER SPARROW & THE DIRTY BIRDS
TRIBULATION | ENVY
SAT NOVEMBER 7TH STEPHANIE MILLS
Funk & R&B Blues alley 1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW. (202) 3374141. Kia Bennett. 8 p.m. & 10 p.m. $20. bluesalley.com. dC9 1940 9th St. NW. (202) 483-5000. Denai Moore. 9 p.m. $12. dcnine.com. Howard tHeatre 620 T St. NW. (202) 803-2899. Terri Lyne Carrington’s Mosaic Project feat. Valerie Simpson and Jaguar Wright. 8 p.m. $35–$70. thehowardtheatre.com.
ElEctRonic 9:30 CluB 815 V St. NW. (202) 265-0930. Gorgon City, Kidnap Kid, Waze & Odyssey. 7 p.m. $25. 930.com. u street musiC Hall 1115 U St. NW. (202) 5881880. Gorgon City. 7 p.m. $25. ustreetmusichall.com.
BluEs BirCHmere 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. (703) 549-7500. Delbert McClinton, Damon Fowler. 7:30 p.m. $45. birchmere.com.
countRy gyPsy sally’s 3401 K St. NW. (202) 333-7700. Jeff Austin Band, Highland Hill Boys. 8:30 p.m. $20–$23. gypsysallys.com. tHe Hamilton 600 14th St. NW. (202) 787-1000. The Bros. Landreth, The Ballroom Thieves. 7:30 p.m. $15–$20. thehamiltondc.com.
mr. Henry’s 601 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. (202) 5468412. Davis Bradley Duo. 8 p.m. Free. mrhenrysdc.com.
hip-hop fillmore silver sPring 8656 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. (301) 960-9999. Andy Mineo, Mali Music. 7 p.m. $25. fillmoresilverspring.com.
classical kennedy Center ConCert Hall 2700 F St. NW. (202) 467-4600. National Symphony Orchestra: Mahler’s Symphony No. 3 with Anne Sofie von Otter and 2 Choruses. 7 p.m. $15–$89. kennedy-center.org. kennedy Center millennium stage 2700 F St. NW. (202) 467-4600. NSO Youth Fellows. 6 p.m. Free. kennedy-center.org. mansion at stratHmore 10701 Rockville Pike, Rockville. (301) 581-5100. Ashu. 7:30 p.m. $30. strathmore.org.
GALLEriEs
WILD ADRIATIC
THU, NOV 5
SUN NOVEMBER 8TH SEVYN STREETER MON NOVEMBER 9TH MINUS THE BEAR
MOUNTAIN HEART SUN, NOV 8
O'BROTHER | AERO FLYNN
TUE NOVEMBER 10TH
CALIFORNIA GUITAR TRIO
AN EVENING WITH
ANDERSONPONTY BAND
WED, NOV 11
W/ JON ANDERSON & JEAN LUC PONTY
THU NOVEMBER 12TH THE CHARLATANS
DEBBY BOONE
FRI NOVEMBER 13TH PABLO ALBORAN SAT NOVEMBER 14TH ANGIE STONE
KUOK-WAI LIO,
THU, NOV 12
EYELIDS
PIANO
ZOLTÁN FEJÉRVÁRI, PIANO
SUN NOVEMBER 15TH
CHAMBER MUSIC AT THE BARNS
FRI, NOV 13
1200 first st. ne 1200 First St. NE. OngOing: “David Bellard.” Muralist David Bellard draws inspiration from the NoMA neighborhood for this new installation that features photos of the neighborhood’s architecture. Sept. 3–Nov. 27.
BRENCORE ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS
arlington arts Center 3550 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. (703) 248-6800. arlingtonartscenter.org. OngOing: “2015 Fall SOLOS.” New works by local artists are presented in this year-end show. Oct. 24–Dec. 20.
BUY TICKETS AT THE BOX OFFICE OR ONLINE AT THEHOWARDTHEATRE.COM 202-803-2899
A TRIBUTE TO THE MUSIC OF MOTOWN
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the athenaeum 201 Prince St., Alexandria. (703) 548-0035. nvfaa.org. Opening: “Mike McConnell.” New works by McConnell, who worked for many years as a commercial illustrator before turning his attention to fine arts. Oct. 29–Dec. 13. carroll square Gallery 975 F St. NW. (202) 234-5601. carrollsquare.com. OngOing: “This Is Light.” See works by Tommy Bobo, Lisa Dillin, Pamela Gwaltney, and Esther Ruiz, four east coast artists who use light in their pieces, in this new exhibition. Sept. 18–Nov. 25. cross mackenZie Gallery 2026 R St. NW. (202) 333-7970. crossmackenzie.com. OngOing: “Sylvania.” Photographer Anna Beeke presents a series of photographs from the American Northwest in this new exhibition. Also on view is “Intersections,” a five-image exhibition by artist Lea Eouzan. Oct. 1–Nov. 14. Opening: “Rob Hitzig.” Paintings, sculptures, and painted sculptures by the Vermont-based multimedia artist. Nov. 4–Nov. 29. flashPoint Gallery 916 G St. NW. (202) 3151305. culturaldc.org. OngOing: “Diamond Blind.” Brightly colored, site-specific paintings that mix formalism with abstraction by Erin Curtis. Oct. 24–Nov. 21. Goethe-institut WashinGton 812 7th St. NW. (202) 289-1200. www.goethe.de/washington. OngOing: “Surveillance Blind.” This group exhibition asks American and German artists to consider the digital footprints we leave and the people who have access to the information we leave behind and create work in response to that. Sept. 14–Dec. 3. Greater reston arts center 12001 Market St., Ste. 103, Reston. (703) 471-9242. restonarts.org. OngOing: “Ephemeral.” Area sculptors present a variety of work that comments on the temporary nature of art. Featured artists include Millicent Young, Artemis Herber, Elissa Farrow-Savos, Elizabeth Burger, and Diane Szczepaniak. Sept. 10–Nov. 14. hamiltonian Gallery 1353 U St. NW. (202) 3321116. hamiltoniangallery.com. ClOsing: “new. now. 2015.” New works by a variety of local artists. Sept. 19–Oct. 31. hemPhill 1515 14th St. NW. (202) 234-5601. hemphillfinearts.com. OngOing: “Wild World.” Artist Renee Strout creates handmade machines powered by spiritual energy and invites viewers to interact with them in her fifth Hemphill exhibition. Sept. 26–Dec. 19. hillyer art sPace 9 Hillyer Court NW. (202) 3380680. hillyerartspace.org. ClOsing: “Perspective: A Look at Contemporary Painting and Drawing.” New works by a variety of locally and nationally known artists. Oct. 2–Oct. 31. ClOsing: “Looking into the distance becomes difficult.” New paintings by German artist Surya Gied. Oct. 2–Oct. 31. honfleur Gallery 1241 Good Hope Road SE. (202) 365-8392. honfleurgallery.com. ClOsing: “How We Lost DC.” Members of the Delusions of Grandeur collectively comment on the gentrification of D.C. and its impact on life in the city in this new group exhibition. Sept. 11–Oct. 31. lonG VieW Gallery 1234 9th St. NW. (202) 232-4788. longviewgallery.com. Opening: “Tony Savoie.” Mixed-media works by the Florida-based artist. Oct. 29–Nov. 29. montPelier arts center 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel. (301) 377-7800. arts.pgparks.com. ClOsing: “Unique Visions.” Brightly colored images by photographer Richard Paul Weiblinger. Sept. 11–Nov. 1. ClOsing: “Chaotic Attractors: Fractal Art of Abdi Darai.” Geometric designs by UDC mathematics professor Abdi Darai. Sept. 11–Nov. 1. ClOsing: “Montpelier Instructors Showcase.” New works in a variety of mediums, from ceramics to rug hooking, by teachers affiliated with Montpelier. Oct. 3–Nov. 1. old Print Gallery 1220 31st St. NW. (202) 9651818. oldprintgallery.com. OngOing: “20th Century People.” Works by acclaimed 20th century printmakers are showcased in this new exhibition. Sept. 18–Nov. 14.
42 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
Pyramid atlantic art center 8230 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring. (301) 608-9101. pyramidatlanticartcenter.org. OngOing: “SHERWOOD TRUE, The Phoenix Project, Photographs 2012-2015.” James Sherwood and Shirley True share photos from their four years of work in Phoenix, Az. After each day of shooting, the pair downloaded their photos, selecting two that they would later email to friends and colleagues. The results can be seen in their book, Two by Two Sherwood True, The Phoenix Project. Oct. 28–Nov. 30. transformer Gallery 1404 P St. NW. (202) 483-1102. transformergallery.org. ClOsing: “The Temporary Art Repair Shop.” Berlin-based artist Tobias Sternberg turns the gallery space into a repair shop and invites visitors to drop off their objects that don’t work to be transformed into sculptures. Oct. 3–Oct. 31. Visarts 155 Gibbs St., Rockville. (301) 315-8200. visartsatrockville.org. OngOing: “Vanitas.” Annie Farrar uses found objects to create assemblages that comment on themes of loss and decay in this new exhibition. Oct. 9–Nov. 8. OngOing: “Feynman’s Sister and Other Space Weather Hazards.” Heather Harvey assembles this piece from items she collects on daily walks, arranging them in manners that suggest maps or journeys. Oct. 14–Nov. 15. Opening: “Project 837, Part 2.” This exhibition, the first part of which was displayed in Baltimore earlier this year, comments on the ideas of home and homelessness and asks artists, curators, and community members to contribute their thoughts. Oct. 28–Dec. 13. WashinGton Printmakers Gallery 8230 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring. (301) 273-3660. washingtonprintmakers.com. Opening: “Pauline Jakobsberg.” Hand-pulled prints made from recycled materials by the co-founder of Washington Printmakers Gallery. Oct. 28–Nov. 29. Zenith Gallery 1429 Iris St. NW. (202) 783-2963. zenithgallery.com. Opening: “Voyages on Earth and in Space.” New paintings and sculptures by Ken and Julie Girardini. Nov. 5–Nov. 28.
Dance
12th annual fall festiVal of south asian arts Dakshina/Daniel Phoenix Singh Dance Company welcomes artists from India and around the U.S. for this celebration of music, dance, and poetry. Atlas Performing Arts Center. 1333 H St. NE. Oct. 30; Oct. 31; Nov. 1. $20–$50. (202) 399-7993. atlasarts.org. marGot Greenlee Inspired by her work as a choreographer in healthcare settings, Greenlee’s evening-length work Medicine by the Book incorporates elements of literature, graphic novels, and personal stories to comment on the current state of healthcare in America. Joe’s Movement Emporium. 3309 Bunker Hill Road, Mount Rainier. Nov. 4, 7 p.m. Free. (301) 699-1819. joesmovement.org. ronald k. BroWn/eVidence With Jason moran and the BandWaGon The acclaimed modern dance troupe collaborates with the Kennedy Center’s Artistic Director for Jazz to present an evening of contemporary dance and music. Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater. 2700 F St. NW. Oct. 30, 7:30 p.m. $29–$59. (202) 467-4600. kennedy-center.org. the suZanne farrell Ballet The Kennedy Center’s resident ballet company debuts two new works by Balanchine and returns to two favorites, the act II pas de deux from Balanchine’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Scène d’amour from Béjart’s Romeo and Juliet at this performance that opens the center’s ballet season. Kennedy Center Opera House. 2700 F St. NW. Oct. 30, 7 p.m.; Oct. 31, 7 p.m.; Oct. 31, 1 p.m.; Nov. 1, 1 p.m. $20–$89. 202-467-4600. kennedy-center.org. theneWmoVement: Balanchine & Beyond Members of the ballet’s studio company perform pieces by master choreographer George Balanchine and other pieces by his many disciples. The Washington Ballet. 3515 Wisconsin Ave. NW. Oct. 29, 7 p.m; Oct. 30, 7 p.m; Oct. 31, 7 p.m. $25. (202) 362-3606. washingtonballet.org.
TheaTer
#txtshoW Brian Feldman presents this interactive show in which he reads anonymous online messages sent from audience members every Sunday in 2015. Anything goes in terms of subject matter and profanity, so arrive with no expectations. American Poetry Museum. 716 Monroe St. #25. To Dec. 27. Pay what you can. (800) 838-3006. txtshow.brownpapertickets.com. alice in Wonderland Follow Alice down the rabbit hole and experience this darker take on Lewis Carroll’s loopy tale featuring the Queen of Hearts, the Mad Hatter, and the Cheshire Cat. In true Synetic fashion, the production, presented as part of the Women’s Voices Theater Festival, is directed by Paata Tsikurishvili and choreographed by Irina Tsikurishvili. Synetic Theater at Crystal City. 1800 South Bell St., Arlington. To Nov. 8. $15–$70. (800) 494-8497. synetictheater.org. the aPPle family cycle Two years after Studio presented the first two plays in Richard Nelson’s series about a family experiencing changes in contemporary America, the company presents the final two plays. In Sorry, set on Election Day 2012, the siblings come together to move their uncle into an assisted living facility and discuss their reactions to the political and personal changes in their lives. In Regular Singing, as the siblings hold a vigil for one of their own, they remember the 50th anniversary of the JFK assassination and reflect on the past halfcentury of American history. Studio Theatre. 1501 14th St. NW. To Dec. 13. $20–$71. (202) 332-3300. studiotheatre.org. aVenue q Constellation’s actors break out their puppetry skills in this lively musical about a young college graduate and the eccentric monsters, humans, and friends he makes in his new neighborhood. Allison Arkell Stockman directs this production written by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx. Constellation Theatre at Source. 1835 14th St. NW. To Nov. 22. $20–$45. (202) 204-7741. constellationtheatre.org. Bad doG A woman begins to drink again after remaining sober for ten years and quickly crashes her car into her house, causing her family to throw together the most unlikely and comedic intervention ever seen on stage. Jeremy B. Cohen directs this new play by Jennifer Hoppe-House, known as a screenwriter for programs like Damages and Nurse Jackie. Olney Theatre Center. 2001 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Olney. To Nov. 1. $15–$60. (301) 9243400. olneytheatre.org. cake off Sherri L. Edelen stars in this new play about a bake off with a $1 million prize and the tough competitors aiming to take home the dough. Expect a production full of flour, sugar, and bitter batter battles. Signature Theatre. 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington. To Nov. 22. $40–$96. (703) 8209771. signature-theatre.org. the children’s hour The inner workings of a school for girls are threatened by one pupil’s secrets and lies in this revolutionary play by Lillian Hellman. Ira Aldridge Theater at Howard University. 2455 6th St. NW. To Nov. 8. $7–$17. (202) 806-7050. the criPPle of inishmaan A young boy with diabilities living in 1930s Ireland vies for a chance to appear in a big Hollywood movie alongside the rest of his neighbors and aims to impress the casting directors in this black comedy from Irish playwright Martin McDonagh. Atlas Performing Arts Center. 1333 H St. NE. To Nov. 29. $35–$45. (202) 399-7993. atlasarts.org. the cruciBle Mason’s theater students present this classic play about the Salem Witch Trials, written by Arthur Miller during the height of McCarthyism. George Mason University Center for the Arts. 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. To Nov. 1. $15–$25. (703) 993-2787. cfa.gmu.edu. the dealer of BallynafeiGh When his boss’ niece ends up in a coma after consuming some bad drugs, Billy is tasked with taking out the guy who sold her the stuff. But soon, his mission involves his ma taking a ride along, his boss chasing him down, and the cash going missing. Abigail Isaac Fine directs
CITY LIGHTS: THURSDAY
THE CRIPPLE OF INISHMAAN Nominally, The Cripple of Inishmaan is about an Irish orphan with a physical disability who dreams of catching a break in the movie industry as a way to escape a dull and often cruel existence in his backwater town. The village’s grim-but-wacky cast of characters (written as grotesquely as any of Van Gogh’s “Potato Eaters” were painted) nicknamed “Cripple Billy” for his uneven gait and crooked hand. If that’s a depressing premise, it says lot about playwright Martin McDonagh’s craft that the story actually takes off in hilarious directions— it’s a pitch-black comedy. In the wrong hands, the script can seem to steer its cast of characters dangerously close to eyeroll-inducing Irish stereotypes; when handled carefully, it’s one of the genre’s most appealing works. McDonagh wrote the screenplays for In Bruges and Seven Psychopaths, among other classics, so you can come for the sharp wit, but you’ll leave feeling vaguely beaten down and depressed, and therefore right at home in the grand tradition of the very best Irish stage writing. The play runs Oct. 24 through Nov. 29 at Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. $25–$45. (202) 3997993. atlasarts.org. —Emily Q. Hazzard
UPTOWN BLUES
happy hour m-f • 4-8 1/2 Priced APPetizers Fri. Oct. 30 T.B.A. Bg & Sat. Oct. 31 HAlloween PArTy w/ THe moJo HAndS
D.C.’s awesomest events calendar. washingtoncitypaper.com/ calendar
Erma BomBEck: at Wit’s End Dramatists Allison and Margaret Engel return to Arena Stage after presenting Red Hot Patriot: The Kick-Ass Wit of Molly Ivins in 2012 with this look at mid-20th century humorist, newspaper columnist, and feminist. David Esbjornson directs this one-woman show starring Barbara Chisholm. Arena Stage. 1101 6th St. SW. To Nov. 8. $55–$90. (202) 488-3300. arenastage.org. Girlstar Part reality competition, part fairy tale, this musical focuses on the lengths people will go to for fame. When a popular record producer transforms her long lost niece into an international pop star through some unconventional means, they’re forced to consider the limits of success and how far they’re both willing to go. Signature Theatre. 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington. To Nov. 15. $40–$96. (703) 820-9771. signature-theatre.org. thE maGic trEE A lonely man and an equally lonely woman meet on a stormy night in an abandoned home and immediately form a connection. But as soon as things take a turn for the romantic, other factors come in to drive them apart. Matthew J. Keenan and Colin Smith direct Ursula Rani Sharma’s play as part of the Women’s Voices Theater Festival. Keegan Theatre at Church Street Theater. 1742 Church St. NW. To Nov. 13. $25–$36. (703) 892-0202. keegantheatre.com. maytaG VirGin A recent widow living in rural Alabama connects with her new neighbor, a quiet observer who starts watching her and interpreting her behavior, and together they learn to repair their spirits in this quiet play by Audrey Cefaly. Presented as part of the Women’s Voices Theater Festival. Quotidian Theatre Company at The Writer’s Center.
4508 Walsh St., Bethesda. To Nov. 1. $15–$30. (301) 816-1023. quotidiantheatre.org. thE niGht aliVE A man living in Dublin is content living a lonely life but finds hope when he is able to help a woman who’s been beaten recover in his tiny room. Katie deBuys and Edward Gero star in this new play by Irish author Conor McPherson. Round House Theatre Bethesda. 4545 East-West Highway, Bethesda. To Nov. 13. $36–$61. (240) 644-1100. roundhousetheatre.org. oliVEr! Arena Artistic Director Molly Smith directs this musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic novel about an industrious orphan and the friends he meets in London. Classic songs from this show include “Consider Yourself,” “Where is Love?” and “Food, Glorious Food.” Arena Stage. 1101 6th St. SW. To January 3. $64–$99. (202) 488-3300. arenastage.org. salomé Adaptor and director Yaël Farber presents this new production chronicling the story of the princess who begged for the head of John the Baptist on a platter and takes back ownership of her body. Presented as part of the Women’s Voices Theater Festival. Lansburgh Theatre. 450 7th St. NW. To Nov. 8. $20–$108. (202) 547-1122. shakespearetheatre.org. smartphonEs Two couples addicted to revealing their every thought on social media begin to lose their cool while trapped on the estate of an eccentric friend in this absurdist play by Emilio Williams. Flashpoint Mead Theatre Lab. 916 G St. NW. To Nov. 15. $20–$40. (202) 315-1306. culturaldc.org. tEchnicolor lifE With the help of her invisible friends, a bookish teenager named Maxine cares for her sister, a wounded soldier returning from war, and her aging grandmother. The world premiere of Jami Brandli’s drama is presented at Rep Stage as part of the Women’s Voices Theater Festival. Rep
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Irish playwright Rosemary Jenkinson’s drama. Keegan Theatre at Church Street Theater. 1742 Church St. NW. To Nov. 14. $25–$36. (703) 892-0202. keegantheatre.com.
STill STAnding Sat. Nov. 7 Big Boy liTTle BAnd Fri. Nov.13 Sookey JumP BlueS BAnd Sat. Nov. 14 Smokin’ PolecATS Fri. Nov. 6
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Saturday, October 31
THE DEAD WILL RISE AGAIN
Rex Foundation event & costume contest:
FRI, OCT 30
TIM O’BRIEN W/ OLD MAN LUEDECKE TUES, NOV 3
DAVID COOK W/ ANDREW RIPP THURS, NOV 5
Tuesday, November 3
THE BROS. LANDRETH W/ THE BALLROOM THIEVES FRI, NOV 6
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THE JOHN
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GROOVE QUEST plays:‘THE WALL OF FAME’
W W W. V I L L A I N A N D S A I N T. C O M
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Bohemian Caverns Tuesdays Artist in Residency
The Apple Family Cycle at studio theatre, oct. 28–dec. 13
Federico Peña T OC
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visit washingtoncitypaper.com/events for more details
44 OCTOBER 30, 2015 washingtoncitypaper.com
th
Stage at Howard Community College. 10901 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia. To Nov. 8. $15–$40. (443) 518-1500. repstage.org. tyler Perry’s madea on tHe run Tyler Perry’s insane grandmother character tries to evade the police by helping an ailing friend in this lively comedy that also stars Cassi Davis. Warner Theatre. 513 13th St. NW. To Nov. 1. $80–$90. (202) 783-4000. warnertheatre.com. winners and losers Two friends engage in lively debates about whether certain cultural icons (Kanye, the Berlin Wall, goat cheese) are winners or losers, a casual game that turns serious as their discussion topics begin to touch on privilege and class issues. Canadian performers James Long and Marcus Youssef created and star in this production. Woolly Mammoth Theatre. 641 D St. NW. To Nov. 22. $35–$68. (202) 393-3939. woollymammoth.net. world Builders Two schizophrenia patients interact while participating in a clinical trial and fall in love while they fight to hold on to the fantasy worlds they’ve come to know. Johnna Adams’ play is about unconventional romance and the lengths we’ll go to for love. Forum Theatre at Silver Spring Black Box Theatre. 8641 Colesville Road, Silver Spring. To Nov. 21. $30–$35. (240) 644-1390. forum-theatre.org.
FiLM
Bridge of sPies In Steven Spielberg’s latest historical drama, Tom Hanks stars as a lawyer recruited to help the CIA negotiate a spy exchange during the height of Cold War tensions. (See washingtoncitypaper.com for venue information) Bradley Cooper stars as a chef with a n Burnt bad attitude who must figure out a way to save his career after he ruins it with diva-like antics in this drama directed by John Wells. (See washingtoncitypaper.com for venue information)
Hugo’s novel about the disfigured Gwynplaine and the blind woman he loves. The look of Gwynplaine served as inspiration for the Joker character in the Batman comics. Alden Theatre. 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. (703) 790-0123. mcleancenter.org. navigators: PatHfinders of tHe n tHe PaCifiC In this stirring documentary, learn about anthropologist Sanford Low’s journey across thousands of miles of ocean in a replica voyaging canoe. After the screening, Low discusses his journey with audience members. S. Dillon Ripley Center. 1100 Jefferson Dr. SW. (202) 633-3030. si.edu/ripley. our Brand is Crisis A political crisis mann agement consultant arrives in South America to help install a new leader, only to be thwarted along the way by rivals. David Gordon Green’s film is adapted from the documentary of the same name. (See washingtoncitypaper.com for venue information) Paranormal aCtivity: tHe gHost dimension In the fifth installment of this horror franchise, a family is traumatized when their new home appears to be possessed by supernatural entities. (See washingtoncitypaper.com for venue information) room Brie Larson stars as Joy Newsome, an abused woman trapped by a mad man in a garden shed in this dark drama adapted from the acclaimed novel by Emma Donoghue. As she comes to terms with her need to escape, Joy must make a decision that benefits both her and her son. Directed by Lenny Abrahamson. (See washingtoncitypaper.com for venue information) guide to tHe ZomBie aPoCalyPse n sCouts Three friends spend the last night of their camp-out saving their community from a zombie invasion in this new film directed by Christopher Landon. (See washingtoncitypaper.com for venue information)
exPerimenter The Milgram obedience experiment gets the big screen treatment in this drama starring Peter Sarsgaard as the famed social psychologist and Winona Ryder as his wife. (See washingtoncitypaper.com for venue information)
trutH The controversy about George W. Bush’s National Guard experience and Dan Rather’s reporting on it gets dramatized in this new film directed by James Vanderbilt. Starring Robert Redford, Cate Blanchett, and Topher Grace. (See washingtoncitypaper.com for venue information)
man wHo laugHs Get in the Halloween n tHe spirit with this spooky movie based on Victor
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Legals PUBLIC AUCTION Nov. 14, 2015 10:30 AM start 7436 Old Alex Ferry Road Clinton, MD Johnson M&S will sell these lots of household goods for fees due: B. Harris, C. McAllister, T.Goodman, C. Jenkins, N. Jenkins, T. Dupree, P. Duvall, J. Jackson, T. Jackson, F. Urner Mechanics’ Lien: 2000 Jaguar VIN# SAJDA01C3YFL35660. Sale to be held 11/7/15 at 10 a.m. on the premises of CTI TOWING & STORAGE, 4825 Lydell Rd, Cheverly, MD 20781.
REAL CUTE in BLOOMINGDALE English Basement Apartment available now. Includes washer/ dryer, SHORT/Long Term lease available. Call/Text for a private tour: 202.277.0588. $2000/month 1Br (Adams Morgan) Gas, Trash and Water included. Amazing Studio, Walking distance from DC Nightlife, Metro access. Fully Furnished! 6 month lease option. Flatscreen, Games. On site Laundry, No smoking. Cats allowed. CALL OMAR 703953-5444 Excellent Spacious 2Br/1Ba Condo.$990. CAC, Balcony, Fully Carpeted, Pets allowed, In Bladenswood Condominium, Bladensburg, Near DC and major Arteries Call 240-472-1520
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Rooms for Rent Capitol Hill Living: Furnished Rooms for rent for $1,100! Near Metro, major bus lines and Union Station - visit website for details www.TheCurryEstate.com
FIND YOUR OUTLET. RELAX, UNWIND, REPEAT CLASSIFIEDS HEALTH/MIND, BODY & SPIRIT
Administrative/Clerical/ Office
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Administrative Assistants We are looking for Administrative assistants, We need someone to ensure an effi cient operation of the offi ce, need to be detail oriented, reliable and organized. He/ She will support our manager and employees through a variety of tasks related to organization and communication ensuring that all administrative tasks are completed accurately and delivered with high quality in a timely manner. Interested person should contact:recruit@radiantballoons.com for more info and wages.
PARTICIPANTS WANTED FOR RESEARCH STUDY
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FIND YOUR OUTLET. RELAX, UNWIND, REPEAT CLASSIFIEDS HEALTH/ MIND, BODY & SPIRIT http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/ HUGE MULTI-FAMILY YARD/ BAKE SALE @3526 Mass Ave NW, DC this Sat Oct 31 from 10-2. Furniture, household, electronics, antiques, books, and lots more. Great Deals! Rain or Shine
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Print Deadline The deadline for submission and payment of classified ads for print is each Monday, 5 pm. You may contact the Classifieds Rep by e-mailing classifieds@washingtoncitypaper.com or calling 202-650-6926.
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Majesty Barber Hair Studio in Hyattsville seeks licensed Barbers, Stylists, Braiders, Make Up Artists, and a Host 2 chairs for booth rent or for commission. Call Mr. Brown 240-678-1208.
Classified Ads
Antiques & Collectibles
Miscellaneous Update your skills for a better job! Continuing Education at Community College at UDC has more than a thousand certifi ed online & affordable classes in nearly every fi eld. Education on your own. http://cc.udc.edu/continuing_education
PAID IN ADVANCE! Make $1000 Restaurant/Hospitality/ http://www.washingtonciA Week Mailing Brochures From Hotel Home! No Experience Required. typaper.com/ Helping home workers since DC Caterer in search of DRIVER/ 2001! Genuine Opportunity. Start KITCHEN ASST., SOUS CHEF, & Immediately! www.MailingHelp. KITCHEN COORDINATOR. Moncom Fri. 5AM-1PM. Must speak & understand English. 202-726-0053, foodfirstdc@gmail.com.
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Print & Web Classified Packages may be placed on our Web site, by fax, mail, phone, or in person at our office:
Young men & women are wanted for a study on health-related behaviors. Participants must be ages 18-20. Earn up to $200 if eligible! Visit http://depts.washington.edu/uwepic/ or email Project EPIC at UWepic@uw.edu for more information.
Moving & Hauling Green Movers. Local and out of state, residential and commercial. Bulk Trash Removal. 240-8822663. Movers for hire. Pick up and delivery service available. www. green-movers.net
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Beside oneself Flying start? Lap of luxury Tour de force Action flick director Wiseman Ingredient in a Southside Microsoft search engine query? Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, e.g. Wedding vow preposition Rock’s Royal Blood, e.g. NASA Nana? Lures “___ Sabe” Prepared, as dinner Eat up “Allow me” Job after an internship, maybe: Abbr. Some apples
Down 1 Girl’s closest pal, in texts 2 One who uses MapQuest and Commute apps, maybe 3 Rude dudes 4 This year’s model? 5 “ORLY?”
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Locally-made Ketchung! sauces are now in stores throughout the DMV. You can find Ketchung! Signature Sauce -- a spicy ketchup -- and Ketchung! Barbecue Sauce at Fern Street Gourmet and Teaism in Old Town Alexandria, at Teaism in Penn Quarter in DC and at Eddie’s of Roland Park in Baltimore. Learn more at www. ketchung.com. Cheers! David and Helen of Ketchung! LLC
Moving? Find A Helping Hand Today
Out with the old, In with the new Post your listing with Cars/Trucks/SUVs Cash For Cars Any Car/Truck. Washington Running or not! Top dollar paid. City Paper We come to you. Call for Instant Offer: 1-888-420-3808 www. Classifieds cash4car.com. http://www.washingtonMusical Instruction/ citypaper.com/ Classes
Voice, Piano/Keyboards-Unleash your unique voice with outof-the-box, intuitive teacher in all styles classical, jazz, R&B, gospel, neo-soul etc. Sessions available @ my studio, your home or via Skype. Call 202-486-3741 or email dwight@dwightmcnair.com
Musician Services
Voice, Piano/Keyboards-Unleash your unique voice with outof-the-box, intuitive teacher in all styles classical, jazz, R&B, gospel, neo-soul etc. Sessions available @ my studio, your home or via Skype. Call 202-486-3741 or email dwight@dwightmcnair.com
LAST WEEK: HE WHO HESITATES H A L O G E N S
S M F O L L U T Z A I B M O A S M I U M B H A O K T E
P E R U
A L U M
A L L E N
P O E
B R O N
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N M O O T M S T O G R R E C B Y I N C C O L N E T L O O D M C A A Z L E
Singers wanted 2 sing in choir 4 premiere of ecclectic Gospel musical written by David Griffi ths. Event is December 5 at 5:30pm at 19th Street Baptist. Email: David@journeytoworship.org
I R O N
S A L E
O L D S
Gifted Drummer needed for top notch Band. call Mik. 703-2324710 wwww.thebandeternity.com
L O O M E D
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T E E N S Y
FREE: Salute to America Concert with performances by Jefferson Starship and The Grass Roots on Nov. 8 at 2pm at DAR Constitution Hall. Tickets at Ticketmaster $2 service fee per ticket will apply.
R O M U R E M O N
Licensed Massage & Spas
Excellent Massage by beautiful Outtherapists within Qithe old, In Spa. Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone massage. 3106 M with the new Post Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007. Pandit Sugoto Nag - Sitar www.qispadc.com. Ask for cash listing with Pandit Subhankar Bannerjee -your discount! Appointment or walk-ins Tabla welcome. 202-333-6344. (Also introducing Sneshesh andWashington City The experience of being Archik on Sitar & Tabla) Paper touchedClassifieds by an Angel. Best of east
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and west massage. Acupressure – November 15, 2015, 4:30pm http://www.washingtoncityRelaxation - Stretching and Hair at Jane E Lawton Community Rec-paper.com/ remove. In/outcall by appt.only reation Center, Large Social Hall Jane/703-400-0441 4301 Willow Lane, Chevy Chase Md 20815 Admission: $25, $20
For more info: Contact Debu Nayak 703 795 3019, Soumya Chakraverty 240 460 3799. h t t p s : // w w w.y o u t u b e . c o m / watch?v=LeXNfkTOq3g
Events COMMUNITY YARD SALE K Street, SE 20019 November 7, 2015 8am-3pm Cash only All items purchased MUST be taken, NO holds. MEn, Women, and Children clothing, shoes, household items, furniture, yard tools. From Capital Hill *Head Southeast on Pennsylvania Ave SE toward 7th SE *Use Left land to turn left onto Minnesota Ave SE *Turn Left onto N St SE * Turn Right onto Fairlawn Ave SE * Turn Right onto K St SE or From Alabama Ave *Head West on Alabama Ave SE toward Mass Ave SE * Slight Right onto Mass Ave SE * Turn Right onto Randle Circle SE * Turn Left onto Minnesota Ave SE * Turn Right onto Nelson Pl SE * Turn Right onto Fairlawn Ave SE * Turn Right onto K St SE
Is the Glass half full? Is the Glass half empty? how about half off!
Upcoming Shows
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A-1 DONATE YOUR CAR FOR BREAST CANCER! Help United Breast Foundation education, prevention, & support programs. FAST FREE PICKUP - 24 HR RESPONSE - TAX DEDUCTION 855403-0215
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Musicians Wanted
S M A S P I N T F I N A G F A N A L E V C O R O I N V I A S E C L O S E A S U C C P R A T E G G O D E E R
Upcoming Shows D&A Presents Indian Classical Instrumental Music - Sitar & Tabla With Two Maestros of India
Backpack On the 28th of September my mum lost her backpack on the Blue Line, (direction Franconia-Springfi eld) station Arlington Cimetry, with camera and holiday-pictures. If you’ve found it...the pictures would mean a lot to her. You can contact me on balevelien@yahoo.com. Thank you!
Volunteer Services Defend abortion rights. Washington Area Clinic Defense Task Force (WACDTF) needs volunteer clinic escorts Saturday mornings, weekdays. Trainings, other info:202-681-6577, http://www. wacdtf.org, info@wacdtf.org. Twitter: @wacdtf
Out with the old, In with the new Post your listing with Washington City Paper Classifieds http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/
Counseling Pregnant? Thinking of Adoption? Talk with a caring agency specializing in matching Birthmothers with Families Nationwide. Living Expenses Paid. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. 866-413-6293. Void in Illinois/New Mexico/Indiana. Struggling with DRUGS or ALCOHOL? Addicted to PILLS? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 800-978-6674
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