Arts & Entertainment:
Family Events in Metro DC
October 2014
Always call or check the event website before heading out;
Event information is subject to change.
***Washington D.C.***
Stop, Drop & Roll
Presented by: Jane Franklin Dance
Venue: Sidney Harman Hall
Thursday, October 9 & Friday, October 10 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Two groups in an opposing structure of athletic-inspired movement! Have you ever gone to a ball game and marveled at the timing and chance moments of teamwork? A movement plan by Jane Franklin Dance explores competition and random opposition in the outdoor sidewalk space immediately in front of the theatre.
Evita
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Thorough Sunday, October 19 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $39-$120
Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Tony-winning musical tells the remarkable story of Eva Peron’s rise from Argentina’s slums to First Lady through some of theater’s most beautiful songs, including “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” and “High Flying, Adored.”
Doktor Kaboom: LIVE WIRE! The Electricity Tour
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Saturday, October 11 & Sunday, October 12 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $20
Back by popular demand, Doktor Kaboom returns with a world premiere Kennedy Center co-commission! This time focusing on the power of electricity, he creatively blends theater with the wonders of scientific exploration to audience’s delight. Age 7+
Teelin Irish Dance Company
Presented by: Joy of Motion Dance Center – Friendship Heights
Venue: Jack Guidone Theater
Saturday, October 11 ∙ 8:00 pm & Sunday, October 12 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ $13-$35
Teelin Dance Company is the JOMDC Dance Project Winner! Come see them at the Jack Guidone Theater!
Fairy Tea and Treats
Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
Monday, October 13 ∙ 1:00 pm ∙ $10-$25
Bring your favorite Tinkerbell, as children dress up in magical fairy costumes complete with tutus, wands, and wings. Dressed for tea, costumed interpreters explain the favored drink of early America. After the tea, children tour Tudor Place’s enchanting fairy gardens and make a special period craft to take home. Ages 4+
Tudor Tots: Fall Frolic
Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
Tuesdays, October 14, 21, 28 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $0-$5
Tudor Place has enchanted young children for almost two centuries. Experience it yourself on Tuesday mornings as we meet to read, sing, and play in the picturesque gardens. This family-friendly program offers a new theme each week, from “adventurous animals” to “growing gardens” and more. Children will participate each week in an interactive read-aloud, songs and themed movements, all related to the week’s topic, and will enjoy sharing this tranquil setting with the grown-ups who care for them. Parent/caregiver must remain with child. Ages 2-4
Fabulas Fairytales: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
Presented by: The Smithsonian Associates
Venue: Smithsonian Discovery Theater
Wednesday, October 15 & Thursday, October 16 ∙ 10:15 am & 11:30 am ∙ $5-$8
Start with three bears, three pigs, and three billy goats gruff. Add two languages, and what do you get? The perfect combination for a fresh and fun introduction to Spanish words—and a fabulas new take on a trio of familiar stories in this interactive Discovery Theater original. Kids will find our “found” costumes and set pieces crafted from recycled materials pretty fabulous, too. Ages 3-7.
Masters of Illusion – Believe the Impossible
Warner Theatre
Thursday, October 16 ∙ 7:30 pm ∙ $44.50-$79.75
Grand illusions, levitating women, appearances and vanishes, escapes, comedy magic, sleight of hand and beautiful dancers are all things you can expect to see at a Masters of Illusion live show.
Trick or Treat at Tudor Place
Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
Saturday, October 18 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $7-$10
Costumes too great to wear just once deserve a preview! Celebrate a Spooktacular Halloween at Tudor Place. Children in Halloween costumes are invited to trick-or-treat through the enchanting north gardens on the estate and participate in pumpkin painting, crafts, face painting, and games.
For children aged 2+ and their family members.
¡Tum Tica!: A Story of Music and Family
GALA Hispanic Theatre
Saturdays, October 18 & 25 ∙ 3:00 pm ∙ $10-$12
When a grandfather and his U.S.-born grandchild travel south to Colombia they discover their family history and culture through music – a fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and African rhythms that make up Latin American beats. Puppets of famous Latin American musicians and singers enliven this entertaining voyage.
Una historia de música y familia
A Bilingual Presentation
World Premiere
By Cecilia Cackley
Directed by Tom Mallan
Music by Cecilia Cackley and Diana Sáez
Puppets by Wit’s End Puppets
A Fable and the Flood
Presented by: Bowen McCauley Dance
Venue: St. Columba’s Church
Saturday, October 18 ∙ 5:00 pm ∙ $35-$45
BMD professionals reunite with Cantate Chamber Singers for a family-friendly performance of composer Gian Carlo Menotti’s The Unicorn, the Gorgan, and the Manticore—a production The Washington Post hailed in 2009 for its “wit and neoclassical grace.” The Chorus performs Benjamin Britten’s Noye Fludde with special choreography by Lucy for the “Raven” and “Dove” solos.
Archives Sleepover: History, Heroes, and Treasures
National Archives
Saturday, October 18 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ $100-$125
Join us for a special sleepover at the National Archives Museum in Washington, DC, and spend the night next to America’s most precious treasures: the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
Sleepovers at the National Archives Museum are open to children 8-12 years old, with at least one adult per group of four children.
NSO Youth Fellows
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Tuesday, October 21 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Members of the National Symphony Orchestra training program perform solos on the Millennium Stage. The program encourages high school students to become orchestral musicians of the future through a monitored, performance-oriented training program designed for serious music students.
Starry, Starry Night: with StoneLion Puppet Theatre
Presented by: The Smithsonian Associates
Venue: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Thursday, October 23 & Friday, October 24 ∙ 10:15 am, 11:15 am & 12:15 pm ∙ $5-$8
Blast into space with wacky Professor Van Gogo for an incredible celestial voyage! This imaginative introduction to stargazing includes star stories brought to life by StoneLion Puppet Theatre’s hand and rod puppets. After the show, we invite you to visit the Explore the Universe Gallery.Ages 3-8.
Washington National Opera presents Highlights from La bohème
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Thursday, October 23 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Enjoy a free preview of musical highlights from La Bohème, featuring members of Washington National Opera’s Domingo-Cafritz Young Artist Program and other artists from the WNO production in the Opera House this November.
NSO Pops: Danny Elfman’s Music from the Films of Tim Burton / John Mauceri, conductor
Presented by: National Symphony Orchestra
Venue: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Thursday, October 23 – Saturday, October 25 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $20-$88
Danny Elfman has composed unforgettable scores for director Tim Burton’s weirdly wonderful worlds of Edward Scissorhands, Batman, Alice in Wonderland, and more. John Mauceri conducts his music with visuals from Burton’s films.
From The Top: Live with Host Christopher O’Riley
Presented by: Washington Performing Arts
Venue: GW Lisner Auditorium
Friday, October 24 ∙ 8:00 pm ∙ $15-$30
What began as a radio experiment in 2000 quickly became one of the most popular weekly classical music programs on public radio. Broadcast on over 250 stations nationwide to an audience of more than 700,000 listeners, From the Top, hosted by acclaimed pianist Christopher O’Riley, celebrates the amazing performances and captivating stories of America’s best pre-college classical musicians. Expect to see and hear remarkable students from the D.C. area.
Harvest Festival
National Geographic
Saturday, October 25 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ FREE!
Celebrate all things food at the Harvest Festival, DC’s official Food Day celebration and part of the National Geographic Museum’s Food: Our Global Kitchen exhibition!Watch demonstrations by local chefs for both kids and adults, ride a smoothie-bike, taste healthy and delicious treats, explore a mini-farmers market complete with a produce scavenger hunt, explore your inner artist with fruit and veggie watercolor painting, and much more.Food Day is a nationwide celebration and a movement for healthy, affordable, and sustainable food.
Haunted Chocolate House: A Workshop for Children
Tudor Place Historic House and Garden
Saturday, October 25 ∙ 1:30 pm ∙ $3-$15
Enjoy a Spooktacular family-friendly tour through the historic gardens. After the tour, children participate in a chilling chocolate workshop to create 3-D haunted chocolate houses to take home (one per child registered). Ages 5+
Photo credit: Rashin Kheiriyeh
Author Talk: Rashin Kheiriyeh
Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum
Saturday, October 25 ∙ 3:00 pm ∙ FREE!
The museum celebrates October National Book Month with this family program featuring prize-winning children’s author and artist Rashin Kheiriyeh. Kheiriyeh talks about how she became an author and reads her book Two Parrots, a children’s story inspired by Rumi, the great 13th century Iranian poet. Limited copies of the book will be available for purchase.
Target Family Night: Chocolate City Rocks presents Jali D, Uncle Devin, and Bab Ras D
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Saturday, October 25 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
This for the kids edition features live performances by critically acclaimed musicians, children entertainers, and educators and is hosted by Risikat Okedeyi.
NSO Family Concert: Halloween Whodunit
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Sunday, October 26 ∙ 2:00 pm & 4:00 pm ∙ $15-$18
There’s a mystery in the Concert Hall on All Hallows’ Eve! For this frightfully fun concert, don your freaky-deakiest costumes and join all the ghoulishly attired musicians for a wickedly wacky, music-filled whodunit. Age 5+
Schubert-Impromptus, Op. 90
Presented by: Washington Performing Arts
Venue: Baird Auditorium, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Sunday, October 26 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ $20
In his acclaimed What Makes It Great? series, former NPR music commentator Rob Kapilow “gets audiences in tune with classical music at a deeper level than they ever thought possible” (Los Angeles Times). In a three-part format, Kapilow unravels and explores a great musical masterpiece with the audience. Next, pianist Yuliya Gorenman performs the piece in its entirety, followed by a Q&A with the audience and performers.
Theatre Mala Scena
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Sunday, October 26 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
This show uses miming and circus arts to tell the story of an unusual girl who was born with needles all around her body. Although she tries desperately to fit in with everybody else, she struggles to find a place in society.
Shannon Dunne Dance
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Monday, October 27 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
The company performs old style Irish dance in a hilarious modern day theatrical context.
Laurent Piron’s Magicalement Drole
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Tuesday, October 28 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Highly skilled magic, comedy, and a bit of craziness come together for a dynamic performance that won’t soon be forgotten!
Zombie Parasites!
National Geographic
Wednesday, October 29 ∙ 7:30 pm ∙ $24
What if, unbeknownst to you, someone—or something—was controlling your behavior for its own nefarious ends? This nightmare scenario gets acted out over and over across the natural world, from insects to fish—even mammals—as mind-sucking parasites compel their hosts to nurture and protect them. For a close-up look at this horrifying (but fascinating!) phenomenon, science writer Carl Zimmer (author of Parasite Rex and a National Geographic blogger) will join photographer Anand Varma for an evening of unbelievably stunning, and sometimes shocking, photography and weird (but true) science.
Get in the Halloween spirit! Dress as a zombie for a chance to win a prize.
Tev un Man
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Thursday, October 30 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
This folk/pop ensemble performance features a sing-along with the children from Riga-European Capital of Culture 2014.
Thriller on H Street
Presented by: Joy of Motion Dance Center – Atlas
Friday, October 31 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ $13-$35
The Joy of Motion Dance Center will be hosting a workshop to learn the iconic choreography for the timeless Michael Jackson classic, followed by an outdoor performance of the full dance routine.
Spinosaurus: Lost Giant of the Cretaceous
National Geographic
Through Sunday, April 12, 2015 ∙ $0-$11
Meet Spinosaurus. At over 50 feet long, 20 feet high and weighing in at 6 tons, Spinosaurus is the largest predatory dinosaur to ever roam the Earth — even bigger than T. rex. This bus-sized dino’s extraordinary features include a crocodile-shaped skull and 7-foot spines forming a sail along its back. Spinosaurus is unlike any other dinosaur you’ve seen or heard of before. Encounter this bizarre predator for the first time at the world premiere of “Spinosaurus: Lost Giant of the Cretaceous.”
In this exhibition, you can explore a full-sized skeletal model as well as genuine dinosaur fossils and learn about the latest technologies modern paleontologists use. Travel with National Geographic explorers and scientists to the remote edges of the Sahara to discover the origins of this rare African dinosaur and the mysterious journey that led to its rediscovery.
***Maryland***
Stuart Little
Adventure Theatre MTC
Thursday, October 9 – Wednesday, October 15 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $19 [Discount Tickets]
Stuart Little is no ordinary mouse. Born to a family of humans, he lives in New York City with his parents, his older brother George, and Snowbell the cat. Shy and thoughtful, Stuart’s greatest adventure comes when his best friend, a beautiful little bird named Margalo, disappears from her nest. Determined to track her down, Stuart ventures away from home for the very first time in his life. He finds adventure aplenty. But will he find his friend?
Based on the Award Winning Book by E.B. White ∙ Adapted for the Stage by Joseph Robinette ∙ Directed by Colin Hovde ∙ Starring Chris Dinolfo ∙ Recommended for All Ages
This performance continues through Sunday, October 26, 2014.
Rapunzel ***LAST WEEKEND***
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Friday, October 10 – Sunday, October 12 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $10 [Discount Tickets]
A “bewitching” tale by Duane T. Bowers, of the Grimm’s fairytale, featuring the music of Jacques Ibert. Witch Wartsmith wants a baby, and after bargaining for little Rapunzel, must go to great lengths to keep her out of the hands of a handsome prince. The Puppet Co. uses “coloring-book” charm and the simplicity of hand puppets in a production designed to delight its younger audiences.
Big Nate
Olney Theatre Center
Friday, October 10 – Sunday, October 12 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $22 [Discount Tickets]
Nate Wright, a detention-riddled sixth grader (and drummer for the greatest garage band in the history of the galaxy, Enslave the Mollusk!) hopes to woo beautiful Jenny away from her boyfriend Artur by winning “The Nickelodeon”, the first prize in his school’s Battle of the Bands. But when Artur and Jenny team up with Nate’s arch-rival Gina to form the sap-pop band, Rainbows and Ponies, he’s gotta take his game to an all-star level. What will he do? (Recommended for ages 5 and up)
The Me Nobody Knows
The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center
Friday, October 10 thru Friday, October 17 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $10-$25
Portrayed within the span of a single day, The Me Nobody Knows poetically examines the aspirations and fears of a multi-racial cast of young people. Inspired by actual writings of students, their stories are universal. In these student’s struggles lies their hope, and ours. They are the voices of change. The musical score combines rock music, classical fugues, rap and jazz that inspire passion and transformation.
Montpelier Fall Festival
Montpelier Arts Center
Saturday, October 11 ∙ 11:00 am ∙ FREE!
Celebrate fall at the second annual Montpelier Fall Festival! Paint pumpkins, create autumn-themed crafts, have your face painted, skate in the skate mobile, and have loads of family fun! Bring a large paper shopping bag to Montpelier, and carry it with you as you create fun art projects at different stations throughout the arts center.
A Classical Afternoon
Riversdale House Museum
Sunday, October 12 ∙ 12:00 pm ∙ $0-$3
Did you know early 19th century America was greatly influenced by the classical world? Come celebrate ancient Rome as you meet Roman Legion XX and find classical connections in the historic house!
Tangle of Tales
Publick Playhouse
Thursday, October 16 ∙ 9:30 & 11:15 am ∙ $5
Three classic children’s stories are presented with a tangle of zany vaudeville-like characters who bring toddlers laughter and surprises before, after, and between each tale. The Frog Prince teaches children about keeping promises, The Three Billy Goats Gruff cleverly outsmart the troll, and The Three Little Pigs demonstrate the value of hard work. Recommended for grades Pre-K – 2.
Arithmetickles
Publick Playhouse
Tuesday, October 21 ∙ 10:15 am∙ $6-$8
Math leaps out of the textbook and into everyday life in this unique and interactive show. Fast-paced comedy, mime, theatrical effects and creative number games make multiplication, division, fractions, and geometry fun and exciting.
Recommended for grades 3-5.
Kids’ Day Out: The Reluctant Dragon
Arts Harmony Hall Regional Center
Wednesday, October 22 ∙ 10:30 am ∙ $5
Jack discovers that a dragon is living in his village! Much to his surprise, this dragon is friendly and loves a good book. Soon, Jack and the dragon become best friends, but not everyone in the village believes a dragon can be friendly. With the help of the hilarious and heroic Sir George, Jack and his new best friend use teamwork to win the hearts of everyone in the village.
Page Turner Adventures: The Mixed Up Fairy Tale
Publick Playhouse
Thursday, October 30 ∙ 10:15 am & 12:00 pm ∙ $6-$8
The Emmy Award-Winning Comedy Story Theatre sparks children’s imagination, curiosity and laughter. Everyone in the audience becomes the main character, solving clues and participating in the storytelling experience. Recommended for grades K-3.
***Virginia***
Second Thursday Art Night
Torpedo Factory Art Center
Thursday, October 9 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Second Thursday Art Night series brings the fun and spontaneity of the creative process to the streets of Old Town. Visitors can browse open studios and galleries, interact with artists, and enjoy refreshments and music for free on the second Thursday of each month. Stop by on your way to dinner and make an evening of it!
This year’s events focus on specific artistic disciplines represented in our building. Look for special themed exhibits, sales and activities designed to highlight a particular visual form.
19th Annual Art Safari
Torpedo Factory Art Center
Saturday, October 11 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ FREE!
An Alexandria tradition, Art Safari is a day of hands-on craft activities for kids and families. Throughout the day, visitors can participate in activities such as origami, giant papier-mache animals, and more. The Art League and the Alexandria Archaeological Museum will offer even more engaging programming. Children should wear clothing that can get a little dirty. Most activities are appropriate for children kindergarten age with parental supervision through middle school.
Bremen Town Band
The Alden
Saturday, October 11 ∙ 2:00 pm ∙ $10-$15
A menagerie of unlikely friends, including a donkey, a dog, a cat, and a rooster, set off in search of musical stardom in the German town of Bremen. You will tap your toes to this delightful musical adaptation of the famous Grimm’s tale.
Scary Halloween Treats!
Workhouse Arts Center
Saturday, October 18 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $40
Have fun learning how to make Witches hands, Rat Meatloaf, Mummy Dogs and other healthy treats for your little ghouls and goblins. Designed to be a fun family activity where parents can learn alongside their child. This interactive class is fun and educational for the whole family. (Meets in W-3, 302)
All Skill Levels, Ages 4 and Up, Family Class, Instructor: Chef Kathleen Linton. Meets Sat Oct 18 (10am-12pm) Price is per student- at least one youth AND at least one adult must register the same time for these special classes. Materials cost of $5 per student covers fresh foods used in class, payable to instructor at first class.
Vocal Trash
The Alden
Saturday, October 18 ∙ 8:00 pm ∙ $15-$20
Described as “Glee meets Stomp,” Vocal Trash features world-class singing, industrial-style drumming, lighthearted comedy, and award-winning breakdancing. Led by creator/producer Steve Linder and child star Kelsey Rae (Broadway’s “Annie”).
Haunted Trail at the Workhouse
Workhouse Arts Center
Friday, October 24 – Saturday, November 1 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ $5-$10
Strange things are happening in Lorton. One by one, citizens are succumbing to an unidentified infection that mutates them into empty drones with a single purpose: to convert more and more humans to a growing Horde. Self-appointed militias are assigning un-infected persons to safe zones until the situation can be contained. Safe passage is not guaranteed.The trail takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Please note that this is an outdoor trail and may not be appropriate for everyone. This trail is rated PG-13 and recommended for teens 13+.
The Monster Who Ate My Peas
The Alden
Saturday, October 25 ∙ 2:00 pm ∙ $10-$15
ArtsPower’s newest musical tells the funny and poignant story of a young boy who doesn’t want to eat his peas. Children and adults alike will be entertained and engaged by this wonderfully written tale about the value of willpower.
John Tartaglia: ImaginOcean
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Sunday, October 26 ∙ 2:00 pm & 4:00 pm ∙ $5-$15
Tony Award nominee John Tartaglia takes young audiences on a magical under-the-sea adventure in this one-of-a-kind live glow-in-the-dark musical! Fishy friends Tank, Bubbles, and Dorsel discover a treasure map, thus beginning their remarkable journey of underwater discovery. Jam-packed with music ranging from swing to R&B to big band, this charming story appeals to audiences of all ages and is a blast from the first big splash to the last wave goodbye!
The Big Meow
Presented by: Jane Franklin Dance
Venue: Athenaeum
Sunday, October 26 ∙ 4:30 pm ∙ $10-$15
The Big Meow, is family-friendly performance inspired by the book by Elizabeth Spires. It is the story of an ever-hopeful fluffball who desperately wants to belong to the band of neighborhood cats, but is ostracized for a “loud as a lion’s roar” meow. The Big Meow is a story of hope, disappointment, courage and the need for belonging. These simple themes are part of every neighborhood, but in this wonderful tale told through the experiences of Little Cat, a potential weakness is a unique strength.
Halloween 2014 BOO!
Looking for SPOOK-TACULAR FUN in Metro DC this Halloween? We’ve gathered together Halloween events for families and adults to enjoy. From zombies to haunted houses, from harvest festivals to concerts and everything in between. CultureCapital.com’s Boo! will put the TREAT in your Trick or Treating.
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