Arts & Entertainment:
Family Events in Metro DC
including Theatre, Dance, Music & More
February 19 – 25, 2015
Always call or check the event website before heading out;
Event information is subject to change.
***Washington D.C.***
Atlas INTERSECTIONS Festival
February 20-March 7, 2015
Three weekends of over 100 Performances featuring artists from DC & beyond, spotlighting Sound, Movement, Story, Family & Café Concerts. All at the Atlas Performing Arts Center! Includes Happenstance Theater
Saturday, February 21 ∙ 1:00 pm & Saturday, February 28 ∙ 11:30 am ∙ $10.00-$15.00 ∙ Enjoy laughs galore when you meet two very silly clowns in a show that bubbles over with physical comedy, virtuosity, and musical surprises. From lyrical melodies played on a musical saw to classic pratfalls and a whoopee cushion, this show is sure-fire fun for all ages. Mark Jaster and Sabrina Mandell are consummate physical performers who have entertained audiences to great acclaim throughout the region. Also, Face the Music presented by Washington Performing Arts ∙ 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.
And on Saturday, February 28th: AirBorne DC! / Zip Zap Circus USA & Metropolitan Youth Tap Ensemble. View the complete list of performances here.
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+
Laser Cat
Presented by: Washington Project for the Arts (WPA)
Venue: Tingey St, SE
Friday, February 20 & Saturday, February 21 ∙ schedule varies ∙ FREE Admission
Lasers! Video Art! DJs! Laser Cat is a giant cat head with lasers for eyes that uses high-powered projectors to beam crowd-sourced personal art onto public buildings, in this case, the interior of the historic 200 Tingey Street Building. Laser Cat curates the art submitted, but it’s the public that fires it into public space. The viewer controls the content by pressing a giant button to change the art, lasers, and music.
NOTE: On Saturday afternoon, Laser Cat will be open from 12 – 2pm for families to experience a mellower side of the inflatable feline.
First Studio: An Art Exploration for 3-5 Year-Olds
Kreeger Museum
Saturday, February 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
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.
Yale School of Music
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Saturday, February 21 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
This event takes place in the Terrace Theater.
Students perform perform Mozart’s Piano Quartet in G minor and R. Strauss’s Piano Quartet in C minor.
Faculty and Workstudy Dance Project
Presented by: Joy of Motion Dance Center – Friendship Heights
Venue: Jack Guidone Theater
Saturday, February 21 ∙ 8:00 pm ∙ $13-$20
The Faculty and Workstudy Dance Project showcase will feature 12 performances in ballet, contemporary, modern and hip hop. Presenters are all faculty members and workstudies of Joy of Motion Dance Center. Choreography will be presented by: Lauren Borchard, Tiffany Haughn, Sara Herrera, Christina Huertas, Chika Imamura, Stephanie Kawesch, Maverick Lemons, Felipe Oyarzun, Roxann Rowley, Malaika Tate Scott, Rachel Turner and Adriane Whalen.
Sunday Gospel Brunch with Harlem Gospel Choir
Howard Theatre
Sunday, February 22 ∙ 1:00 pm ∙ $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.
The Peabody Institute at the Johns Hopkins University
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Sunday, February 22 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
This event takes place in the Terrace Theater.
Students perform Cantigas de Santa Maria by a Spanish Renaissance composer, arias for soprano by R. Strauss, songs by Brahms for tenor, Mey’s Musique de Tables for percussion, York’s Fantasia for Four Violas, and solo piano works by Chopin and Balakirev.
Concert: Marian Anderson String Quartet
National Gallery of Art
Sunday, February 22 ∙ 6:30 pm ∙ FREE!
This event takes place in the West Building, West Garden Court.
Music by African American composers; in honor of African American History Month.
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.
Food: Our Global Kitchen
National Geographic
Through Sunday, February 22 ∙ $0-$11
In the exhibition “Food: Our Global Kitchen,” explore the complex and intricate food system that brings what we eat from farm to fork. In sections devoted to growing, transporting, cooking, eating, tasting, and celebrating, the exhibition illuminates the myriad ways that food is produced and moved throughout the world.
With opportunities to taste seasonal treats in the working kitchen, cook a virtual meal, see rare artifacts, and peek into the dining rooms of famous figures throughout history, visitors will examine the intersection of food, nature, culture, health, and history—and consider some of the most challenging issues of our time.
Exhibit tours will be offered daily; free with Museum admission.
Protecting America’s Treasures: Black History in the Vault
National Archives
Tuesday, February 24 ∙ 12:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Archives specialist Netisha Currie describes records relating to African-American history held in our vault as well as unrestricted records available from our stacks.
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.”
Bessie & Bill, Black Wings in Flight: Celebrate Black History Month
Presented by: The Smithsonian Associates
Venue: Smithsonian Discovery Theater
Thru Thursday, February 26 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $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.
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
Sea Monsters 3D: A Prehistoric Adventure
National Geographic
Through Wednesday, April 1 ∙ $7-$12
Sea Monsters 3D: A Prehistoric Adventure brings to life the extraordinary marine reptiles of the dinosaur age. Eighty million years ago, the American Midwest resided under a great inland sea where colossal creatures ruled the waves. From giraffe-necked Styxosaurus and sea birds with teeth to the T. rex of the ocean—the 40-foot super-predator Tylosaurus —these wondrous beasts defy imagination. In a remarkable journey, immerse yourself in this unexplored world of the “other dinosaurs,” delivering the creatures brought to life on the big screen in 3D.
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***
Christopher Piper
Aladdin! (and his wonderful lamp)
The Puppet Co. Playhouse
Thursday, February 19 thru Sunday, March 15 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $10 [Discount]
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
The Lost World
The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center
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 ”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.
Free Family Fun: Lunar New Year Celebration
BlackRock Center for the Arts
Saturday, February 21 ∙ 10:00 am ∙ FREE!
A free family fun day with family-friendly tours of the gallery exhibition “Transformations of Brush and Paper,” drop-in art making activities with a Lunar New Year theme, and performances of traditional Asian music and folk dance to celebrate 2015 The Year of the Goat.
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.
Godspell
Olney Theatre Center
Through 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).
Petite Rouge A Cajun Red Riding Hood
Adventure Theatre MTC
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
Black Artists of DC
Publick Playhouse
Through Friday, March 13 ∙ 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.
***Virginia***
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.
Children’s Theatre: ”All Tangled Up”
Workhouse Arts Center
Saturdays, February 21, 28 & March 7, 14, 21 ∙ 1:00 pm ∙ $9-$13
Rapunzel has let herself down from her tower without waiting for Prince Charming! She has changed her own fairy tale! As soon as she arrives at the cottage of a good and powerful wizard named Magical, she learns that the Fairy Tale Community is going to be upset for changing the story! Can Magical and his famous talking cat, Whiskers, set things right before it is too late? Join us to find out! Running time 75 minutes with one intermission, appropriate for all ages.
Date Night: Chef’s Table
Workhouse Arts Center
Saturday, February 21 ∙ 7:00 pm ∙ $85
Anyone can go out for dinner and a movie so why not make your night something special to be remembered? Date Night cooking classes are designed to be fun, relaxing and an escape from the daily grind. They are great way to learn some basic cooking techniques while enjoying your company and making new friends. The menu items will be prepared by participants working together at each of the cooking islands. Participants will be served a tasting portion of all the entrees and a pre-chef-selected drink of choice. No one will leave hungry! Every month you will prepare a new dish ranging from ethnic cuisines like Japanese, Thai and Spanish High Cuisine to Vegetarian and much more!
Another date opportunity on Saturday, March 21, 7 p.m.
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.
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.
Truth the Musical
THEARC
Thursday, February 26 thru Saturday, February 28 ∙ schedule varies ∙ $15-$20
When a troubled urban teen with a thirst for meaning gets himself in trouble, an unlikely champion from the the past appears to show him a way out. Sparks fly as Sojourner Truth takes Peter on a journey back through time, into her amazing life story, her world and its people. As Peter opens his eyes to scenes and songs from Sojourners life, part of his own history, he discovers who he really is and how good it feels and sounds to finally speak the truth!
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.
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)
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.
Ukulele Joy: A Strum-Along Jam Session with The Sweater Set and Louisa Hall
Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Saturday, February 28 ∙ 6:00 pm ∙ FREE!
Bring your ukulele (an instrument that came to the Hawaiian Islands from the Iberian Peninsula, derived from the Portuguese braguinha string guitar) for a strum-along from 5 to 6 pm, followed by a performance with D.C. uke stars The Sweater Set and Louisa Hall. The show closes with a full audience strum- and sing-along! Strum-along participants should know chords C, F, G, and A minor.
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.
Iberian Suite: Global Arts Remix
March 3 – 24, 2015
IBERIAN SUITE: global arts remix highlights cultures that comprise the Portuguese and Spanish speaking peoples with performances by some of the region’s best contemporary music, dance, and theater artists—many of whom are making their U.S. or D.C. debuts—as well as companies from around the world. Visual arts are highlighted in exhibitions and installations around the building, and additional events focus on literature, design, cuisine, and more.
St. Patrick’s Day March 17, 2015 in Metro DC
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Metro DC with this guide from CultureCapital.com. Find schedules for parades, concerts, events and more – leading up to and celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.
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.
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