Arts & Entertainment:
Events in Metro DC
February 4 – 11, 2015
Always call or check the event website before heading out;
Event information is subject to change.
***Washington D.C.***
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.
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.
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s OrchKids
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Friday, February 6 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Students from the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra during- and after-school music program perform.
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
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
Shannon Dunne Dance
Presented by: Joy of Motion Dance Center – Friendship Heights
Venue: Jack Guidone Theater
Saturday, February 7 ∙ 8:00 pm ∙ $15-$20
Shannon Dunne Dance is an intergenerational dance company, committed to performances and classes that represent the values of sean-nós dancing.
Sunday Gospel Brunch with Harlem Gospel Choir
Howard Theatre
Sundays, February 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.
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.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
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. NOTE: FREE – Revelations Workshop with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater on Saturday, February 7 at 5:30 pm.
Beijing Chamber Players
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Monday, February 9 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Straight from the Central Conservatory Preparatory School in China, the group makes their Kennedy Center debut.
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.
Shaanxi Folk Art Theatre
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Wednesday, February 11 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
The group returns with its trademark shadow puppetry that features a collection of six signature vignettes based on Chinese folklore.
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
Wednesday, February 4 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
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).
Circus!
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Friday, February 6 Thru Sunday, 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
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.
Black Artists of DC: Opening Reception
Publick Playhouse
Saturday, February 7 ∙ 6:45 pm ∙ FREE!
Established in 1999, Black Artists of DC is comprised of artists at different stages of artistic development. Their work spans all media, subject matter, and style, with membership inclusive in age, gender and ethnicity.
The common bonds between the artists is their African descent, love of art, a commitment to people, and an intuitive understanding that there can be a profound bond among artists of African descent in the Diaspora.
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.
***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
Target Family Night: The Howard Gospel Choir of Howard University
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Friday, February 13 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
The Howard University group, directed by Reginald Golden, performs its energetic gospel music. The ensemble is formed by students, alumni, and community members, and is the first college choir of its kind.
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.
Frederick Douglas Day
Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum
Saturday, February 14 ∙ 11:00 am ∙ FREE!
The museum participates in this annual collaborative program with the National Park Service. A museum educator will provide a walk-through tour of the exhibition How the Civil War Changed Washington, then participants board the museum shuttle bus to take part in a map study of Anacostia/Uniontown.
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+
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bessie & Bill, Black Wings in Flight: Celebrate Black History Month
Presented by: The Smithsonian Associates
Venue: Smithsonian Discovery Theater
Wednesday, February 18th 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.
Story Time in the ReSource Room for Pre-Schoolers and Adults
National Archives
Wednesday, February 18 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ FREE!
Join us for story time designed for 3- to 5-year-olds and accompanying adults. Children will practice their listening skills, participate in group activities, and create a craft. The theme for February is Presidents.
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.
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.
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