Arts & Entertainment:
Family Events in Metro DC
February 2015
Black History Month Events, Valentine’s Day Activities, and MORE!
Always call or check the event website before heading out;
Event information is subject to change.
***Washington D.C.***
Bessie & Bill, Black Wings in Flight: Celebrate Black History Month
Presented by: The Smithsonian Associates
Venue: Smithsonian Discovery Theater
Friday, January 30th thru Thursday, February 26 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ $5
Daring Bessie Coleman barnstormed the country as the first licensed African American woman pilot. Inspired by her grit and perseverance, Bill Powell promoted flying as a new frontier for African Americans. Meet these spunky pioneers of the air in a powerful show that speaks to even the youngest dreamer. Join a Smithsonian Aero-Club as we cheer African Americans in flight!
Ages 6-10.
Mockingbird
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Saturday, January 31 & Sunday, February 1 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $20
Adapted from the 2010 National Book Award-winning novel, this vibrant and inspirational world premiere play, commissioned by the Kennedy Center and VSA, tells the story of a young girl on the autism spectrum who changes a community. Age 10+
Free Community Day
National Museum of Women in the Arts
Sunday, February 1 ∙ 12:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Visit us on Community Day for FREE admission to the museum—take this opportunity to explore our collection and current exhibitions.
English Country Dance in DC: Winter 2015
Dumbarton House
Sundays, February 1 & 15 and March 1 & 15 ∙ 1:00 pm ∙ $5
English Country Dance is a social, folk dance form, which has earliest documented instances in the late 16th century. It was popular well into the Baroque and Regency eras.
All are welcome to join English Country Dance at Dumbarton House. No experience is necessary, just the desire to have fun!
Sunday Gospel Brunch with Harlem Gospel Choir
Howard Theatre
Sundays, February 1, 8, 15, 22 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $45
On any Sunday you can visit with the Harlem Gospel Choir and enjoy a soul food brunch at The Howard Theatre. Hear the Choir brings its experience of the Black Church to the U Street district in a foot-stomping, hand-clapping show for fans from around the world.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Tuesday, February 3 thru Sunday, February 8 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $30-$125
Led by Artistic Director Robert Battle, “America’s cultural ambassador to the world” returns for its annual engagement for more captivating new works and enduring classics, including Alvin Ailey’s signature masterpiece Revelations.
KanKouran West African Dance Company
Presented by: The Smithsonian Associates
Venue: Baird Auditorium, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Wednesday, February 4 ∙ 10:15 am & 11:30 am ∙ $5
The passion of drums, dance, and African history infuse the performances of this acclaimed Washington cultural treasure. The Washington Post praises the troupe’s “high-octane movement” and dancers who can “effortlessly…shift their style from smooth and silvery to sharp and swift.”
Ages 5 and up.
First Studio: An Art Exploration for 3-5 Year-Olds
Kreeger Museum
February 7, 11, & 21 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $7
Children and an adult companion are invited to use their imagination as they explore the paintings, sculpture, and architecture of The Kreeger Museum. Each program includes a gallery tour, analysis of works of art, a story and a hands-on art-making experience. Program continues through Saturday, July 18
The DC Contemporary Dance Theatre/El Teatro de Danza Contemporanea
Dance Place
Saturday, February 7 ∙ 8:00 pm & Sunday, February 8 ∙ 4:00 pm ∙ $15-$30
Reflecting the multicultural vision of Founder/Artistic Director Miya Hisaka Silva, the company’s repertory presents the power, passion and poetry of Latin America. Showcasing universal messages with a dramatic appeal, the diverse program includes works choreographed by Kevin Iega Jeff, Adrian Bolton, Francisco Castillo, Gloria Contreras, Yasmin Hernandez and Miya Hisaka Silva.
Lions of Industry, Mothers of Invention: Celebrate Black History Month
Presented by: The Smithsonian Associates
Venue: Smithsonian Discovery Theater
Thursday, February 5 through Thursday, February 12 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $5
Beauty magnate Madame C.J. Walker, agricultural chemist and “peanut man” George Washington Carver, education giant Booker T. Washington, and even cranky chef George Crum, who accidentally created the potato chip, all take center stage in this vibrant living-history production. Discovery Theater’s original interactive play honors the creativity and genius of African American entrepreneurs and inventors and inspires the achiever in all of us.
Ages 8 and up.
Heifetz on Tour
Kreeger Museum
Thursday, February 5 ∙ 7:30 pm ∙ $20-$25
The Heifetz International Music Institute is dedicated to the artistic growth and career development of some of the most talented and promising young musicians in the world. A showcase of Heifetz Institute graduates, Heifetz on Tour, reflects the professional status of these fine strings players.
NSO Teddy Bear Concert: Two Divas and a Bear!
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Saturday, February 7 ∙ 11:00 am & 1:30 pm ∙ $20
What happens when you bring together a concert violinist, an opera singer, and everyone’s favorite stuffed animal? You get Two Divas and a Bear! Explore the human voice with NSO violinist Marissa Regni and soprano Kari Paludan. Age 3–5
What Do You Spy?
Goethe-Institut
Sunday, February 8 ∙ 3:00 pm ∙ $5
This afternoon of espionage presents a number of puzzle-oriented and hidden role games, enlivened by several games with a spy/political intrigue theme. Can you solve the riddles and break the codes? Prizes will be awarded for some of the games.
Target Oratory Festival
Ford’s Theatre
Tuesday, February 10 & Wednesday, February 11 ∙ 10:30 am and 11:30 am ∙ FREE!
Washington-area school students deliver a selection of Lincoln’s greatest speeches from the stage of Ford’s Theatre, sponsored with support from Target.
Much of Abraham Lincoln’s power came from his ability to communicate his ideas to the people of the United States. By using meaningful images and ideas, Lincoln moved the people who heard him.
Jack’ s Tale: A Mythic Mountain Musical Adventure
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Saturday, February 14 ∙ 11:00 am, 1:30 pm, and 5:00 pm & Sunday, February 15 ∙ 1:30 pm and 4:00 pm ∙ $20
This world premiere Kennedy Center co-commission with Nashville Children’s Theatre uses actors and a live bluegrass band to dive deep into the eclectic music traditions of the Appalachians. The result: a delightfully authentic mountain musical! Age 8+
NSO Family Concert: The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs!
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Sunday, February 15 ∙ 2:00 pm & 4:00 pm ∙ $15-$18
Based on Jon Scieszka’s children’s book, NSO Principal Pops Conductor Steven Reineke composed an exciting new work that follows Alexander T. Wolf’s misadventures during his quest for a cup of sugar to finish his grandmother’s birthday cake.
Sleepy Hollow
Presented by: The Washington Ballet
Venue: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Wednesday, February 18 thru Sunday, February 22 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $25-$125
In a love triangle, the new school teacher, Ichabod Crane, finds himself smitten by a flirtatious beauty, Katrina Van Tassel, much to the displeasure of town rowdy, “Brom Bones” Van Brunt. A rivalry ensues and the ghostly “Headless Horseman” comes into play one fateful night. This program features original live music.
The Uncle Devin Show
Presented by: The Smithsonian Associates
Venue: Smithsonian Discovery Theater
Friday, February 20 ∙ 10:15 am & 11:30 am ∙ $5
Are you ready to make some noise? Uncle Devin invites young audiences to hear and play a world of percussion instruments in a show he calls a dynamic cross between Fat Albert and Schoolhouse Rock. Through all the bang-up interactive fun, kids also learn why percussion is the easiest, oldest, and most diverse form of musical creativity. Ages 2-6.
Outside the Bachx
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Friday, February 20 thru Sunday, March 1 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $20
NYC-based hip-hop company Full Circle Productions returns with more thrilling dance and spoken word for family audiences–this time set to classical music and awesome remixes–in this world premiere Kennedy Center co-commission. Age 8+
Picturing Mary Workshop: Gilding
National Museum of Women in the Arts
Saturday, February 21 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $13-$15
Guest artist Kay Jackson will introduce gilding, the delicate process of applying thin layers of gold to a surface. Participants will have ample time to learn from this skilled artist, practice the technique using specialized materials and tools, and explore gold leaf in art on view in the exhibition. This workshop is designed for audiences 13 and older.
Annual Mardi Gras Family Day
Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum
Saturday, February 21 ∙ 11:00 am ∙ FREE!
Join in on the fun with this popular annual museum event featuring storytelling, face painting, mask-making, other hands-on activities, live performances, and more. Attendees can also participate in the popular Art of Adornment workshop with artist and entrepreneur, Januwa Moja-Nelson.
Face the Music
Presented by: Washington Performing Arts
Venue: Atlas Performing Arts Center
Saturday, February 21 ∙ 3:00 pm ∙ $20
New York City’s youngest “alt-classical” ensemble – and the only teen ensemble in the U.S. dedicated to the creation and performance of music by living composers – makes its D.C. debut in a residency with Atlas Performing Arts Center and schools in our Capital Strings Program. Featuring 20 musicians from the groundbreaking Special Music School for musically gifted children (first envisioned by pianist Vladimir Feltsman), Face the Music performs Trance, the hair-raising and unstoppable ensemble work by Michael Gordon, along with original works composed by Face the Music students and D.C.-based composers under age 18.
Living the Dream…Singing the Dream
Presented by: Washington Performing Arts
Venue: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Sunday, February 22 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ $25-$70
This event takes place in the Concert Hall.
For more than 20 years, the Washington Performing Arts Gospel Choirs have shared the inspirational gift of gospel music to audiences throughout the D.C. region – and beyond. The choir’s annual concert with the Choral Arts Chorus, honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is a joyful celebration of the power of music and the human spirit.
10th High School Choir Festival
Presented by: Cathedral Choral Society
Venue: Washington National Cathedral
Wednesday, February 25 ∙ 7:15 pm ∙ FREE!
Celebrate Youth! Our 10th Annual High School Festival brings together choirs from DC public, charter, and independent schools with the DC Youth Orchestra Program. Join us for the grand finale concert at Washington National Cathedral.
Anything Goes
Warner Theatre
Wednesday, February 25 & Thursday, February 26 ∙ 7:30 pm ∙ $42-$72
When the S.S. American heads out to sea, etiquette and convention get tossed out the portholes as two unlikely pairs set off on the course to true love… proving that sometimes destiny needs a little help from a crew of singing sailors, an exotic disguise and some good old-fashioned blackmail. Peppering this timeless classic are some of musical theatre’s most memorable standards, including “I Get A Kick Out Of You,” “You’re the Top,” and of course, “Anything Goes.”
Youth Dance Project Performance
Joy of Motion Dance Center – Friendship Heights
Saturday, February 28 ∙ 8:00 pm & Sunday, March 1 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ $13-$25
Joy of Motion Dance Centers annual Youth Dance Project engages young artists throughout the DC area, providing a platform to present new dance works of all styles.
National Gallery of Art Ice Rink
Presented by: National Gallery of Art
Venue: National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
Through Monday, March 16 ∙ see schedule below ∙ $7-$8
The Gallery’s ice rink can accommodate more than two hundred skaters, with a music system that brings vibrant sound to visitors on and off the ice. At night, lighting creates a festive atmosphere for the richly landscaped ground and a distinctive backdrop for nineteen works of modern and contemporary sculpture.
The Sculpture Garden is located on the National Mall between 7th and 9th Streets along Constitution Avenue NW. It is accessible to visitors with disabilities.
Ice Rink Hours:
Mo–Th, 10am.–9pm.
Fr & Sa 10:00am–11:00pm
Su 11:00am.–9:00pm
Spinosaurus: Lost Giant of the Cretaceous
National Geographic
Through Sunday, April 12 ∙ $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***
Petite Rouge A Cajun Red Riding Hood
Adventure Theatre MTC
Friday, January 30 thru Sunday, March 8 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $19 [Discount]
Take a toe-tapping trip to the bayou in this family-friendly, Zydeco-driven musical soaked in N’awlins hot sauce! Based on the classic fairy tale and adapted from the book by Mike Artell and Jim Harris, a red-hooded duckling named Petite Rouge and her sidekick cat lead the Big Bad Gator on a wild “duck” chase through New Orleans and Mardi Gras. Will they make it to Grandmere’s house with a basket full of Cajun goodies?
Adapted from the book by Mike Artell
Book, music & lyrics by Joan Cushing
Directed and Choreographed by Michael J. Bobbitt
Assistant Director Danny Tippett
Featuring Kurt Boehm
Recommended for Ages 4 and up
How a Town Fought Hate
Publick Playhouse
Tuesday, February 3 ∙ 10:15 am & 12:00 pm ∙ $6-$8
Catskill Puppet Theatre and Young Audiences of New Jersey team up to tell the true story of an American town overcoming hate groups. Based on the award-winning children’s book “The Christmas Menorahs”, and underscored by original music, beautiful large puppets depict the struggle of Billings, Montana during the 1993 holiday season, when the community defeated the local bullies threatening their minority neighbors.
Curriculum Connections: anti-bullying, history, social studies, literature, character building, theatre arts.
Recommended for grades K-5.
Kid’s Day Out-Lincoln & Tubman
Arts Harmony Hall Regional Center
Wednesday, February 4 ∙ 10:30 am ∙ $5
This production delves into the childhoods of Harriet Tubman and Abraham Lincoln, recreating the key moments and events that shaped both of their lives. Audiences follow these great leaders as they face challenges in order to do what is right for their fellow Americans. Abolition and the Civil War are seen through the eyes of two great leaders. This show seeks to celebrate the many contributions of heroic Americans while encouraging audiences to make a difference in their own world.
Godspell
Olney Theatre Center
Wednesday, February 4 thru Sunday, March 1 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $38-$75 [Discount]
Told through an exciting array of music and dance, the parables of Jesus Christ come to life in this modern take on a timeless tale of friendship, loyalty, and love. Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin).
Savion Glover’s STePz
Strathmore
Friday, February 6 ∙ 8:00 pm ∙ $25-$68
Tony Award winner (Bring in ‘Da Noise, Bring in ‘Da Funk) has stepped into his own legendary status in the tap world, and in his newest show he pays homage to past tap masters to music that ranges from John Coltrane to Prince to Shostakovich. With an ensemble of dancers, Glover flashes from easy rhythms to daredevil moves that take the audience’s breath away.
Jazz Meets Blues: Phil Wiggins and Karen Lovejoy
Publick Playhouse
Saturday, February 7 ∙ 8:00 pm ∙ $20-$25
Phil Wiggins brings his incredible talent to the Playhouse for an evening of sublime blues backed by the Chesapeake Sheiks. A Smithsonian Folkways blues recording artist with echoes of gospel and jazz, Wiggins says he has “performed on every continent except Antarctica.” Silky, funky, and smooth Karen Lovejoy performs lively and imaginative renditions of jazz standards, energetic blues and solid Latin rhythms, with instrumental pros The Lovejoy Group. Wiggins and Lovejoy connect with the audience in a way that shouts for more.
Tiny Tots – Teddy Bear’s Picnic
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Sunday, February 8 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $5
Baby Bear has a picnic for his friends – they bring food to share and entertain one another with hilarious results! Reminder: Everyone needs a ticket, including infants.
Running Time: 30 minutes ∙ Recommended: 0-4 ∙ Limited performances through Sunday, August 23, 2015.
Festival: Expressions Of A People
Arts Harmony Hall Regional Center
Sunday, February 8 ∙ 1:00 pm ∙ FREE!
A free Black History celebration featuring musical performances, children’s activities, workshops, and entertainment for the entire family. Past performers at this popular event have included gospel singer Robert Pearson, The Oxon Hill High School Gospel Choir, The Yancey Brothers, Baba Jamal Koram, The Smooth & EZ Hand Dance Performance Troupe, a cappella singing group Nu Era, and many more. Children will enjoy mask-making, face painting and a caricaturist.
African American Inventors
Montpelier Arts Center
Sunday, February 8 ∙ 2:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Patricia Sluby, author of “The Inventive Spirit of African Americans” and “The Entrepreneurial Spirit of African Americans” will discuss well known and not so well known inventions attributed to African Americans. She will also discuss the creative spirit and the “ah” moment that precipitated inventions and the perseverance required to complete the patent process. Mrs. Sluby will also sign copies of her book available for sale. Light refreshments available after the program.
Black Violin
BlackRock Center for the Arts
Sunday, February 8 ∙ 3:00 pm ∙ $15-$26
Virtuoso violinists Kev Marcus and Will B are Black Violin – a dynamic duo of high-energy, classically trained musicians renowned for their ability to meld highbrow and pop culture into a single genre-busting act. Their electrifying style mines the synergy among classical, jazz, blues, R&B and hip-hop. Whether you lean toward Bach or Beyoncé, Black Violin is sure to enthrall and rock the house. School Matinee on Monday, February 9 at 10:30 am, $8.
One Noble Journey: A Box Marked Freedom
Publick Playhouse
Tuesday, February 10 & Wednesday, February 11 ∙ 10:15 am & 12:00 pm ∙ $6-$8
Henry “Box” Brown was an African American born into slavery in 1816 Virginia. As a child, his family was torn apart. The same thing happened again years later, when Brown’s wife and children were wrenched away. That devastation was his breaking point, spurring him on to devise an ingenious plan to escape the fierce oppression of slavery. Sealed in a wooden box, he shipped himself to friends and freedom in Philadelphia. This engrossing drama by Mike Wiley Productions of North Carolina epitomizes the courage, creativity, and resourcefulness people can find within themselves.
Curriculum Connections: American history, social studies, language arts, theatre arts.
Recommended for grades 3 and up.
The Lost World
The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center
Friday, February 13 through Saturday, February 21 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $10-$25
Growing up may be tough, but try discovering that dinosaurs exist under your bed. For twins Oscar and Olivia, that’s precisely the predicament. Amid ’90s Dino-mania, the duo delve beneath their mattresses and unearth a wily world where velociraptors and dilophosaurus roam free. But when the siblings let their secret run wild, they discover the real monsters to be the naysayers who mock them. Adapted from Conan O’Doyle’s eponymous silent film, The Lost World explores the ugly phases of adolescence, the treacherous task of preserving our imaginations and the primordial struggle between chaos and control.
Tiny Tots – Winter Wonderland
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Saturday, February 14 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $5
The King of Winter and the Snow Queen welcome Jack Frost, Marco Polo Bear, and Isabella on Ice. Also, a magic snowflake comes to life with a surprise ending! Reminder: Everyone needs a ticket, including infants.
Running Time: 30 minutes ∙ Recommended: 0-4 ∙ Another performance on Wednesday, July 8, 2015.
The Beauty of Watercolor – From My Heart To Yours
VisArts at Rockville
Saturday, February 14 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $75
Paint your own Valentine! This four hour workshop is designed for the beginner to intermediate artist. You will choose your favorite heart and paint it. Barbara will be giving hands on demonstrations throughout the class. At the end of the session you will have a beautiful Valentine painting of your own regardless of your experience and ability. Working from a pre-sketched piece of prepared watercolor paper, you can choose your image from four different hearts. Great fun for couples, a special valentine gift or a parent and child activity.
Christopher Piper
Circus!
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Thru February 15 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $10
In grand circus tradition, the “Grandest Show on Strings” features a collection of clowns, death-defying acrobats, and an amazing menagerie of fauna from the farthest reaches of the globe. Many of the acts were built more than 50 years ago by Christopher’s parents for “Len Piper’s International Marionette Circus.”
Recommended: PreK – Adult ∙ Running Time: 35 minutes
Teacher Workday & School Holidays = Arts Camp! (1 day)
Workhouse Arts Center
Monday, February 16 ∙ 9:00 am ∙ $100
So you’ve got the day off, huh? Well, don’t just sit around join us! At the Workhouse, well explore the realm of Fine Arts through projects in 2D, 3D and more! Use this opportunity to develop your skills in the arts, create incredible work, and have FUN! Take advantage of your day off and learn something new! (Meets in W-3/ 304, & 305).
Coretta Scott King and the Fight for Freedom
Publick Playhouse
Tuesday, February 17, 2015 ∙ 10:15 am & 12:00 pm ∙ $6-$8
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s Art Reach presents a drama with music about the life of the woman behind Dr. Martin Luther King. Born in Alabama, Coretta Scott King overcame childhood racism and adversity in the segregated South. A talented singer, she graduated from the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. As Dr. King’s wife, the “First Lady of the Civil Rights Movement” often used her singing voice to inspire people to act. After Dr. King’s 1968 assassination, she took on a major leadership role in the movement. An author, public speaker, singer, and activist, she inspired the nation and the world.
Curriculum Connections: American history, social studies, civics and politics, music, language arts and self-esteem. Recommended for grades 3-8.
Christopher Piper
Aladdin! (and his wonderful lamp)
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Thursday, February 19 thru Sunday, March 15 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $10
From ancient Persia comes this lavish and entrancing tale, true to the original “one thousand and one Arabian nights,” full of genies, wizards, magic caves, exotic princesses, and an elephant! Half life-size rod puppets and exciting special effects make this production exciting theater.
Running Time: 50 minutes ∙ Recommended: K- Grade 6
Tiny Tots ”Sing-a-Long”
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Saturday, February 21 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $5
Everybody sings in this happy-go-lucky show where favorite childhood songs come to life with big colorful puppets. Reminder: Everyone needs a ticket, including infants.
Running Time: 30 minutes ∙ Recommended: 0-4 ∙ Another performance on Wednesday, July 22, 2015.
Youth 4 PRAISE
Publick Playhouse
Saturday, February 21 ∙ 8:00 pm ∙ $5-$10
We’re pleased to introduce a new Playhouse program featuring talented young dancers inspired by liturgical traditions. Look forward to being charmed and impressed by this showcase of new praise talent.
Tiny Tots – Old McDonald’s Farm
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Sunday, February 22 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $5
The animals on Old McDonald’s Farm come out to entertain us. Al E. Cat introduces us to his barnyard buddies who will delight and amaze with their antics! Reminder: Everyone needs a ticket, including infants.
Running Time: 30 minutes ∙ Recommended: 0-4 ∙ Limited performances through Saturday, August 29, 2015.
Imago Theatre: Frogz
Strathmore
Sunday, February 22 ∙ 4:00 pm ∙ $25-$38 [Discount]
The spellbinding Imago Theatre thrilled Strathmore audiences in 2011 with the “Felliniesque mayhem” (Variety) of its brilliant physical comedy and stunning stagecraft. The company returns with its best-known show, Frogz— a double hit on Broadway in two smash engagements at the New Victory Theatre. Enjoy “familyfriendly entertainment” that’s “lively, inventive, mysterious, thrilling, truly goofy fun” (Boston Globe)!
PRAISE Dance Festival
Publick Playhouse
Sunday, February 22 ∙ 4:00 pm ∙ $20-$25
The annual dance festival presents top liturgical dance companies from area studios and dance ministries. Inspiring and colorful, this in-demand program showcases the depth of praise dance talent in the metropolitan area.
Tiny Tots – Baby Bear’s Birthday
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Wednesday, February 25 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $5
You are invited to a BIG birthday bash! Please join Baby Bear as all of his special Teddy Bear friends perform their very best circus tricks as a great, big birthday surprise. Reminder: Everyone needs a ticket, including infants.
Running Time: 30 minutes ∙ Recommended: 0-4 ∙ Limited performances through Sunday, August 30, 2015.
Four Score and Seven Years Ago
Publick Playhouse
Thursday, February 26 ∙ 10:15 am & 12:00 pm ∙ $6-$8
Lemuel has escaped slavery in Georgia and finds a new life in Gettysburg, but his ideas about the North and the South are challenged when he unexpectedly befriends Jacob, a young Confederate soldier. Understanding and empathy combat racial prejudice when these young men realize that fighting back is not the path to peaceful resolution, and that each has much to teach each other about bravery and loyalty. Gary Blackman, ArtsPower’s producer, says “By encouraging young people to see history through the eyes of characters who endured and succeeded despite facing tremendous adversity, children are able see new possibilities in their own lives.”
Curriculum Connections: American history, relationships, language arts, music.
Recommended for grades 3-8.
Children’s Talk and Tour
Strathmore
Saturday, February 28 ∙ 10:15 am ∙ $5
This event takes place in the Mansion.
Young art lovers enjoy a talk about the current exhibition. Get behind the brushstrokes and into the head, heart and history of the artists with these kid-friendly Saturday tours. The program includes a hands-on activity.
Only children require tickets – their guardians do not need a ticket.
Dare to Draw: Watercolor Edition (Grades 3-5) 6 Sessions
VisArts at Rockville
Saturday, February 28 ∙ 11:00 am ∙ $62.50
Watercolor is a wonderful way to explore drawing techniques and this six week class will give your children the basics and fundamentals to grow on for a lifetime. We don’t promise your child will leave as a budding Picasso, but we know that your child will have a great time and will learn techniques that will stay with them always.
Black History Month Family Program: Meet Benjamin Banneker!
Montpelier Mansion
Saturday, February 28 ∙ 1:00 pm ∙ $4-$5
Explore Black History with this family program. Meet Benjamin Banneker, as played by Bob Smith, who will visit and tell us about his work as an astronomer, mathematician, almanac writer and farmer. Participants will create related crafts and other activities.
***Virginia***
A Valentine’s Sweetheart Mini Camp (1 day)
Workhouse Arts Center
Saturday, February 7 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ $75
Wait! You don’t need a sitter! Enroll in this super sweet, Valentines Day themed camp instead! You will LOVE learning how to bake sweet treats, draw and paint portraits, and participate in other Valentines themed activities. Indulge your sweet tooth and fall in love with this special arts opportunity! (Meets in W-3/ 302 & 305)
Story Ballet Workshop-FROZEN! (4 Sessions)
BalletNova Center for Dance
Sunday, February 8 ∙ 2:00 pm ∙ $115
Do you want to build a snowman? Or maybe learn to dance like one? Escape into a magical world of dance and music during this 4 week workshop. Dancers will learn dances and create crafts within Disney’s FROZEN theme!
For ages 5-7 ∙ Sundays, 2:00-3:30 pm ∙ February 8-March 1
Choreo101 Workshop with Karen Reedy
BalletNova Center for Dance
Sunday, February 8 ∙ 3:00 pm ∙ $15
A starter course in the basics of choreography and composition for aspiring choreographers ages 13-18. Karen Reedy will guide young choreographers in the art of composition.
$15 per session; $30 for all 3
2nd Saturday Art Walk
Workhouse Arts Center
Saturday, February 14 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
The 2nd Saturday Art Walk at the Workhouse showcases the diverse work of more than 100 visual artists in a unique historic venue, creating an atmosphere that encourages visitors to immerse themselves in the richness of this creative community.
Presidents’ Day Holiday Mini Camp: Outer Space Adventure
Presented by: Encore Stage & Studio
Venue: Cherrydale United Methodist Church
Monday, February 16 ∙ 9:00 am ∙ $70
When school’s out, Encore’s in! Travel with Encore as we will explore movement, fun music and great stories about outer space. With imagination, students will bring to life outer space adventures. Students must bring a brown bag lunch; a healthy snack will be provided. Students will enjoy a day of theatre activities and games, crafts, and fun in a safe and supportive environment.
2015 Northern Virginia Camp and Summer Fun Expo
Presented by: Washington Parent Magazine
Venue: Dulles Town Center Mall
Saturday, February 21 ∙ 10:00 am & Sunday, February 22 ∙ 11:00 am ∙FREE!
Meet with summer program representatives, day camp and overnight camp directors, and associates from summer fun destinations to plan your 2015 summer.
Discounts. Activities. Demonstrations. Giveaways. Performances. “Enter to Win” prizes, Mascots.
Theatreworks USA in ”Fly Guy & Other Stories”
The Alden
Sunday, February 22 ∙ 2:00 pm ∙ $10-$15
Fly Guy has met his match, and her name is Fly Girl. Fly Guy is totally impressed and totally smitten. Will Fly Guy and Fly Girl get married and leave Buzz without his dear pet? Other stories by authors such as McMullan, Howe, Henkes and Munsch will be featured.
For ages 5+.
Ravioli Time! – Family Class
Workhouse Arts Center
Wednesday, February 25 ∙ 4:00 pm ∙ $40
In this workshop kids and parents will get to create homemade ravioli pasta with a couple of different fillings. (Meets in W-3, 302) All Skill Levels, Kids & Adults. Instructor: Chef Erin Clarke. Materials cost: $8 per student covers fresh foods used in class, payable to instructor.
Pushcart Players: Alice in Wonderland
Hylton Performing Arts Center
Saturday, February 28 ∙ 11:00 am & 2:00 pm ∙ $5-$15
Lewis Carroll’s zany and fantastical tale comes to life when this Emmy-nominated troupe returns to the Hylton Center with Alice in Wonderland. Filled with pure nonsense and madcap characters that everyone knows and loves – from the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter to the Cheshire Cat and the Queen of Hearts – this intriguing tale about a curious and imaginative young girl has enchanted readers for many generations. Pushcart Players now brings young Alice’s adventure to the stage in this delightful adaptation, complemented by whimsical music, vibrant costumes, and spectacular scenic elements. “A polished and knowing theater company and a felicitous event for children.” (The New York Times)
Black History Month
February 2015 in Metro DC
Black History Month is celebrated throughout Metro DC in theatre, dance, music, visual arts and the spoken word. Check here for arts and culture events commemorating, honoring and focusing on the history and contributions that Black Americans have made to the United States.
Valentine’s Day
Saturday, February 14, 2015 in Metro DC
Treat your sweetheart to The Arts Valentine’s Day Weekend 2015. This CultureCapital.com Valentine’s Day Guide is packed with suggestions from Metro DC’s theatre, dance and music presenters. You and yours can be serenaded with love songs, hear the music play, enjoy an evening of laugh-out-loud comedy, paint your own valentine, cook that special meal, and more.