UPCOMING & ONGOING: PERFORMANCE: Today! Weekly: Lunchtime Show from Congressional Chorus WED, May 22nd as part of the "Happenings at the Harman" Weekly Lunchtime Performance Series WED from 12:00pm - 1:00pm at Shakespeare Theatre's Harman Hall in Chinatown, Free

Free Performances on Wednesdays as part of "Happenings at the Harman"
every Wednesday at noon + New Monthly Happy Hour Shows
at Shakespeare Theatre's Sidney Harman Hall in Chinatown

"Happenings lunchtime performances...Bring your lunch and we will bring your shot of culture!" Check out one of  DC's best Free Performance Series every Wednesday at noon and every second Wednesday at happy hour! Performances are usually somewhere between 30 minutes and 50 minutes, sometimes with an opportunity for the audience to chat with the performers afterwards. For lunchtime performances, feel free to bring your lunch along to the show!

New this season, free monthly happy hour performances in addition to the weekly lunchtime ones. Super convenient location, across the street, to the left, from the Gallery Pl Metro, Arena exit at 7th & F St. Stay connected with STC on facebook!

Save the date for these Happenings in May! 

Wednesday, May 22nd

Congressional Chorus
Celebrating the spirit, diversity and power of American choral music has been the mission of the Congressional Chorus since its founding in 1987.

Note: No Happenings on Wednesday, May 29th due to the Memorial Day Holiday Weekend 

Monthly "Happenings Happy Hour" - usually on 1st or 2nd Wednesday - Final one of the season:

Wednesday, June 12th

Rachel Hynes: You Have Made a Story on my Skin.
Performance Artist and Storyteller

Shakespeare Theatre Company's Sidney Harman Hall 

Forum Theater, downstairs

610 F St, NW

Metro: Gallery Pl - Chinatown, just across the street, to the left from the arena exit

UPCOMING: MEDITATION: Tonight! In Arlington, VA "Meditation for Healthy Living" with Karin Silverman this WED, May 22nd from 7:00pm - 8:30pm at the Arlington Central Library in VA, Free

Learn more about "Meditation for Healthy Living" with Karin Silverman at the Arlington Central Library in VA

Wednesday, May 22nd
7:00pm - 8:30pm
Free

Karin Silverman, of Science of Spirituality DC chapter, will be coming to the newly renovated Mt. Pleasant Library to lead an interactive talk about how meditation can help you to live a more ease filled and balanced life. Karin, a long-time meditator and licensed massage therapist, will share simple and effective meditation techniques during this free workshop. All are welcome. No meditation experience is necessary.


Learn more about SOS DC and Jyoti Meditation on their website and feel free to connect with SOS DC on facebook and @SOS_WashDC on twitter.

Arlington Central Library
1015 N. Quincy St - Arlington VA 

Metro: Virginia Sq or Ballston, just about a five minute walk from either metro station, see map 

UPCOMING: HIGHLIGHTS: Today! Lunchtime Book Talk at the Archives at 12:00pm + More Free Events from CultureCapital.com for WED, May 22nd - SAT, May 25th - A little lighter due than usual due to Memorial Day Weekend

Here's a list of more free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com, a super online resource from the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington that covers the metro area's vibrant arts community! Find more upcoming free events and exhibitions on view on the customized  "Free in DC" Inside-Out page. Remaining Free events below are organized by start time. Be sure to click through for more details!

Free activities are a little lighter due to Memorial Day Weekend

Wednesday, May 22nd

Lunchtime - Book Talk and Signing - The Archives

The Guns at Last Light: The War in Western Europe, 1944–-1945
12:00pm - 1:00pm

The Guns at Last Light, the conclusion to Rick Atkinson's Liberation Trilogy about the battle for Western Europe during World War II, describes the final campaign of the European war, from D-day to Germany's surrender. A book signing will follow the program.

National Archives
between 7th & 9th on Constitution Ave NW,

Metro: Archives - Navy Memorial

Thursday, May 23rd

Evening - Dance Workshop at Publick Playhouse - Cheverly, MD

Line Dancing Workshop 

7:00pm

Advance RSVP is Required, Ages 16+

RSVP by phone to 301-277-1710

National Fitness Month Dance Workshop-You'll be leading the fun at wedding parties after this choreographed dance workout.

Publick Playhouse
5445 Landover Rd - Cheverly, MD 

Metro: West Hyattsville or Rhode Island Ave and take a bus, see metro trip-planner for best bus access

Morning - Film Screening and Discussion - Anacostia 

Troubled Waters: A Mississippi River Story

11:00am  - 12:30pm

The film (2010, 57 min, directed by Larkin McPhee) traces the development of America's bountiful heartland and its effect on the legendary river. It helps viewers grasp what is a profound truth -- that a single drop of water in Minnesota is connected to the "dead zone" in the Gulf of Mexico -- and offers concrete solutions and fresh ideas to the river's troubles. A discussion follows with Linda Maxwell, education specialist at the Anacostia Community Museum.

Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum
1901 Fort Place, SE
Metro: Anacostia, take the W3 bus from Howard Rd right by the Metro towards United Medical Center to Fort Pl & #1901. Bus is an 8 minute ride. About a 30 min, 1.3 mile, walk.

Saturday, May 25th 

Afternoon - Festival Celebrating Hawaii - NMAI on The Mall 

Celebrate Hawai’i Festival at NMAI

Two performance times

12:00pm & 3:30pm

Join Halau O 'Aulani in exploring the excitement of navigating and moving the Hawaiian culture across the Pacific through the hula, storytelling, demonstrations, a talk on navigation, foods of the islands, and hands-on activities.

National Museum of the American Indian

Fourth Street & Independence Avenue, SW

Metro: Federal Center SW or L'Enfant Plaza

UPCOMING: MEDITATION: Tomorrow! "Meditation for Spiritual Awareness" on THURS, May 23rd as part of this month's "Spring into Meditation" Series at the Palisades Library near MacArthur Blvd & V St, NW on THURS, May 23rd with Science of Spirituality DC from 7:00pm - 8:30pm, Free

"Spring into Meditation" A Three-Part Series on Thursday nights facilitated by David Newcomb of Science of Spirituality DC - Themes vary each week! Remaining events below

Attend any or all, Free

Save the date for the final session!

Meditation for Spiritual Awareness

Thursday, May 23rd

7:00pm - 8:30pm

Free

Learn simple and easy technique to help you find peace and joy this spring with meditation. David Newcomb of Science of Spirituality DC will teach meditation to enrich your life -- personally, professionally, and spiritually. He has been teaching meditation for more than 30 years both in the U.S. and elsewhere.

Science of Spirituality offers free meditation workshops throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, including the DC area. Learn more about SOS DC and Jyoti Meditation on their website and feel free to connect with them on facebook and twitter as well @SOS_WashDC

Palisades Library

4901 V St NW (map) right near MacArthur Blvd and V St NW
Metro: See metro trip-planner for best bus access

UPCOMING: MUSIC: Today! Lunchtime Concert at the National Gallery of Art with Pianist and Soprano WED, May 22nd & Another Concert next Week with the National Gallery of Art Chamber Players on WED, May 29th, 12:10pm - 1:00pm, Free

Lunchtime Concerts at the National Gallery of Art
select Wednesday afternoons
12:10pm - 1:00pm
Free, remaining concerts this month listed below

Meri Siirala, soprano, with Marja Kaisla, pianist

Wednesday, May 22nd

West Building Main Floor, West Garden Court

National Gallery of Art Chamber Players

Wednesday, May 29th

Note: this one will be in the East Building Concourse, Auditorium

National Gallery of Art

West Building, 7th & Constitution Ave, NW 

Metro: Archives - Navy Memorial, closest to the West Building

UPCOMING: PHOTO: Tonight! Opening Reception for "Zoom In: National Lens, Local Focus" the 8th Annual Critical Exposure Show featuring Photographs and Writing by DC Youth at Pepco's Edison Place Gallery in Chinatown this WED, May 22nd from 6:00pm - 8:00pm, by donation, On view MON - FRI from 12:00pm - 4:00pm from WED, May 22nd - FRI, June 7th

Opening Reception for New Exhibit from Critical Exposure "Zoom In: National Lens, Local Focus" at Pepco's Edison Place Gallery in Chinatown
Wednesday, May 22nd
6:00pm - 8:00pm
RSVP requested, by donation, please donate as you are able, though the suggested donation says $35, they assured me that you can give $10 or less

Critical Exposure presents their 8th annual exhibit of D.C. student photos and writing. Critical Exposure students provide a youth-voice in the national education conversation by highlighting issues affecting students in D.C and across the country.

Exhibit will be on view Wednesday, May 22nd - Friday, June 7th
Gallery Hours: Monday - Friday 12:00pm - 4:00pm, Free admission.

Pepco's Edison Place Gallery
702 8th St, NW
Metro: Gallery Place - Chinatown, right near SAAM/ NPG on 8th St

UPCOMING: ART OPENING: Tonight! "Expressions 2013" The Corcoran's Annual ArtReach Exhibition WED, May 22nd from 5:00pm - 7:00pm at The Corcoran, Free, RSVP Requested

Expressions 2013 The Corcoran's Annual ArtReach Exhibition
Wednesday, May 22nd
5:00pm - 7:00pm

Free, RSVP Requested

Expressions 2013 celebrates and exhibits artwork created by students participating in ArtReach in school and after school. 

Join in for live performances, refreshments, and the unveiling of the Corcoran Community Portrait Exchange. ArtReach extends the resources of the Corcoran Gallery of Art into schools and community centers in Washington, D.C., through free in-depth arts programs. Using the Gallery’s collection as a primary resource, ArtReach fosters visual literacy, critical thinking skills, and creative expression while encouraging young people to develop meaningful connections between art and their lives. Expressions 2013 celebrates and exhibits artwork created by students participating in ArtReach in School and after School. 

The Corcoran Gallery of Art

500 17th St NW

Metro: Farragut North or Farragut West and walk down 17th St, just past E St

UPCOMING: FORUM: Tonight! Busboys and Poets in Hyattsville, MD hosts a Community Forum on Gun Violence this WED, May 22nd from 7:00pm - 9:00pm, Free

A Community Forum on Gun Violence
Wednesday, May 22nd
7:00pm - 9:00pm, doors 6:00pm
Free

Hear from three experts about why gun violence continues to plague our community and what we can do about it. Rev. Graylan Hagler Senior Pastor, Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ, Washington, DC, and long-time activist and leader for racial, social, and economic justice. Col. Douglas Holland Chief of Police, Hyattsville, MD James Atwood Chair, Heeding God's Call of Greater Washington Author, America and Its Guns: A Theological Expose Sponsored by the Washington Community Scholars' Center of Eastern Mennonite University and the Anabaptist Peace Center.

Busboys and Poets - MD
5331 Baltimore Ave - Hyattsville, MD (map)
Metro: West Hyattsville and take a bus, about 1.7 miles, see metro trip-planner for best bus access

UPCOMING & ONGOING: VARIETY SHOW: Tonight! Monthly: "The Wonderland Circus" is back this WED, May 22nd! Enjoy Live Comedy, Burlesque, Storytelling and Music at Wonderland Ballroom in Columbia Heights on select WED nights from 8:30pm - 10:00pm, doors 8:00pm, Free, Donations welcome for the Artists, 21+

The Wonderland Circus Monthly Variety Show brought to you by Christian Hunt and the producers of The Capital City Showcase
Wednesday, May 22nd
select Wednesdays of the month
8:30pm - 10:00pm, doors 8:00pm
Free, $5 donation suggested, 21+
All donations go to the performing artists
Seating is first come, doors at 8:00pm

New monthly variety show, launched in February, at Wonderland Ballroom in Columbia Heights! The event is organized by the same folks behind The Capital City Showcase, and they will be bringing you an evening of DC’s finest performing artists! "The Wonderland Circus" is open to a wide variety of performers, so you can "expect thrills, chills, and amazement." Dates vary each month but are always on Wednesday nights. Stay connected to The Capital City Showcase to be posted on the next one.

The line-up for this month's Circus will feature (in alphabetical order): burlesque artist Blanche Boudoir, comedian Dana Fleitman, storyteller Yev Kirpichevsky, musician James Morris, comedian Max Rosenblum. Note, storyteller Chuck Na has postponed his appearance.


The Wonderland Ballroom

1101 Kenyon St NW
Metro: Columbia Heights, walk one block north on 14th St to Kenyon and turn right and walk a few blocks, Wonderland is at the corner of 11th and Kenyon

UPCOMING: YOGA + MEDITATION: "Yoga and Meditation for Spiritual, Mental, Emotional Physical Health and Peace" with Debbie Bennett, Founder of Heal Me Yoga, organized with Science of Spirituality DC Chapter at the Georgetown Library this SAT, May 25th from 1:30pm - 3:30pm, Free

"Yoga and Meditation for Spiritual, Mental, Emotional Physical Health and Peace" organized with Science of Spirituality DC at the Georgetown Library

Saturday, May 25th  

1:30pm - 3:30pm

Free, Please bring your own yoga mat! 

Debbie Bennett, Founder of Heal Me Yoga located in Bowling Green, VA, will lead this free workshop on Saturday afternoon at the Georgetown Library. This event is organized with the Science of Spirituality DC Chapter.

You can see a list of upcoming free events in DC, MD and VA from May - August 2013 on the SOS brochure here. Learn more about Science of Spirituality and additional free meditation workshops they offer. You can also read more about the Jyoti Meditation style on their local website and connect with SOS MidAtlantic on facebook and @SOS_WashDC on twitter.

About the workshop facilitator: Debbie Bennett has been a certified Yoga instructor since 1985. She is certified in the Integral Yoga method and Jyoti meditation and has studied in America and India with master teachers of Sant Mat, known as the Science of Spirituality in the west.  Debbie began her study of the human body as a classical ballet dancer. She danced for 20 years and studied yoga to help prevent injuries and manage the demanding nature of her dancing career. Debbie states, “I started teaching yoga to help me relax and recharge from a very demanding dance schedule. It worked for me. I really could feel the benefit of this ancient healing art."  She teaches the classical style of yoga which focuses on healing the tension – blocking off the energy flow – in the system caused by stress to bring the body back to optimal health and well-being.

Georgetown Library
3260 R St, NW - at Wisconsin & R St
Metro: best to take the Georgetown - Union Station Circulator bus to Wisconsin Ave stop closest to R St from K St, get off Farragut West or Farragut North. Circulator bus is only $1 and 50 cents if you have a smartrip card and take metro first. You can also catch any of the 30 lines buses, except for the 38B, or the cross town buses that run along Q St from Dupont Circle. See metro trip-planner for best bus access.

UPCOMING: MUSIC: Tonight! Laura Tsaggaris, Carolyn Crysdale & Sara Davenport play live at The Dunes in Columbia Heights this WED, May 22nd from 8:00pm - 10:30pm, Doors and Bar/ Happy Hour 6:00pm, $6 before 8:00pm, $8 after, All ages, Bar Available for 21+

Live at The Dunes - Laura Tsaggaris along with Carolyn Crysdale & Sara Davenport

Wednesday, May 22nd

8:00pm - 10:30pm 

Doors and bar open, 6:00pm

All ages, 21+ to drink of course
$6 before 8:00pm, $8 after 8:00pm

A special springtime solo show by Laura Tsaggaris along with Carolyn Crysdale and Sara Davenport. Happy Hour specials 'til 8:00pm, Bar opens at 6:00pm.

The Dunes
1402 Meridian Place NW
Metro: Columbia Heights, walk just a few blocks north on 14th, past Park Rd, turn left on Meridian, The Dunes is above The Getaway, go up one flight of stairs.

UPCOMING: ART PANEL: Tonight! WPA presents a Panel & Forum featuring Artists and Curators involved in the OPTIONS Exhibitions, Celebrating Emerging and Under-Recognized Artists over the past 32 years this WED, May 22nd at 6:30pm at the Arlington Arts Center, Free

Panel Discussion and Community Forum featuring Artists and Curators involved in the Exhibitions "32 Years of OPTIONS: Three decades Celebrating Emerging and Under-Recognized Artists"
Wednesday, May 22nd
6:30pm
Free

Washington Project for the Arts celebrates 32 years of its OPTIONS biennial (on view now) with a panel discussion and community forum featuring artists and curators involved in the exhibition throughout its history.

A consistent feature of DC’s local arts landscape since 1981, OPTIONS highlights work by emerging and unrepresented artists from DC, Maryland, and Virginia. The list of artists and curators who have been involved with OPTIONS over the years reads like a who’s who of the DC arts scene, reflecting the important role the exhibition has played in the development of the local arts community over the last three decades.

The panel will be moderated by Don Russell (Executive Director, Provisions Library) and Angela Adams (Public Art Administrator, Arlington Cultural Affairs), the co-curators of OPTIONS 1993, and will feature artists: Cynthia Connolly (OPTIONS 1997), Katherine Mann (OPTIONS 2011), Rogelio Maxwell (OPTIONS 1984), and Jeff Spaulding (OPTIONS 1981) and other OPTIONS alumni.

Gallery Hours: Wednesday – Friday, 1:00pm - 7:00pm; Saturday-Sunday, 12:00pm - 5:00pm

Arlington Arts Center
3550 Wilson Blvd - Arlington, VA
Metro: Virginia Square-GMU, right near the metro

UPCOMING & ONGOING: POETRY: Tonight! Monthly: *Sparkle* Queer-friendly Open Mic at Busboys and Poets 5th & K features Judson Lewis, Co-Producer of The Encyclopedia Show this WED, May 22nd! Monthly event every fourth WED from 9:00pm - 10:40pm, 8:40pm sign-up, All ages, $5

*SPARKLE* Monthly Queer Open Mic for all! at Busboys and Poets 5th & K St, NW
every fourth Wednesday

9:00pm - 10:40pm, sign-up 8:40pm

All ages, $5, you can buy tickets online
if tickets are available, you can also get them at the door

Wednesday, May 22nd
May edition features Judson Lewis

*Sparkle*Open Mic Poetry is a queer-friendly and focused reading series that has featured an array of LGBT-dedicated poets. All are welcome! Maximum of 15 slots for spoken word and acoustic or acapella musicians (no CD playback please) during the open mic.  4+ minutes, which is basically 2 short poems or 1 long one, not to exceed 5 minutes.

About this month's featured artist:  Judson Lewis is a poet, performance artist, and Co-Producer of The Encyclopedia Show DC. Possessing impeccable charm and humor, he has performed in various Universities, performance festivals, coffee shops, summer camps, and street corners. He also suffers from being too sexy (sorry ladies turns out he’s gay). Known for variety, his work ranges from poems like Chick-Fi-Gay: The Quest for The Forbidden Chicken to the performance art (parody) of Iselle Skyhug HeHe. He has earned an MA in Performance Studies from Eastern Michigan and a BA in English from George Mason. Judson also teaches public speaking at Northern Virginia Community College.

Busboys and Poets

5th & K St, NW

Metro: Take the Circulator bus to 5th & Mass or walk from Gallery Place or Mt Vernon Sq Metro.

UPCOMING: AUTHOR TALK: Tonight! Anne-Marie O'Connor comes to The Arts Club to talk about her book "The Lady in Gold" on Gustav Klimt and Nazi Art Theft this WED, May 22nd at 7:30pm Free

Author Talk with Anne-Marie O'Connor on her book "The Lady in Gold" on Gustav Klimt and Nazi Art Theft at The Arts Club
Wednesday, May 22nd

7:30pm

Free

Anne-Marie O'Connor, winner of the Marfield Prize National Arts Writing Award, discusses Nazi art theft and "The Lady in Gold, The Extraordinary Tale of Gustav Klimt's Masterpiece, Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer."

The Arts Club of Washington
2017 I St NW
Metro: Farragut West or Foggy Bottom or take the Circulator bus 

UPCOMING: STORYTELLING: Tonight! Monthly: StoryLeague is back at Busboys and Poets 14th & V this WED, May 22nd for their Monthly Story Contest, this Month on the Theme of "Gossip" 9:00pm - 10:30pm, $10 plus small fee online

Story League hosts Story Contest DC: May Edition on the Theme of "Gossip"
Wednesday, May 22nd

9:00pm - 10:30pm
$10, buy tix online for small service fee, see note
Note also, food and drink available for purchase at Busboys

This month there will be10 five-minute stories (instead of 7 seven-minute ones). The winner will be announced at the end of the night and will receive $100 cash as a prize. The audience will also select its favorite! Winners will go on to compete for $250 in Tournament later in the year.

Note: this event usually sells out completely and though the ticket is $10 there is a $1.34 service fee when you buy your ticket online, it's better to buy online if you want to be sure to get in.

Please Note: Seating cannot be guaranteed for any ticket holder after 9:10pm and this event always fills out. If you want to try to get in the night of, please arrive early to get your name on the list. The line forms around 8:30pm and doors open at 8:45pm

Busboys and Poets
14th & V St, NW
Metro: U St or take the Circulator bus, McPherson Sq - Woodley Park line that runs along 14th St to U St.

UPCOMING: PERFORMANCE: Tonight! YoungArts Week continues with a performance by Tim Callobre this WED, May 22nd as part of the Daily Free Performance Series at the Kennedy Center, Millennium Stage, every day from 6:00pm - 7:00pm, Free

Free performances at The Kennedy Center Millennium Stage 

Performances every night!
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Free

Free performances every night at 6:00pm. Can't make it in person? Stream the show live online, or watch it anytime after on the online archives! Click the links for more info about the show!

Wednesday, May 22nd
Tim Callobre
The classical guitarist, composer, pianist, 2011 YoungArts alumnus, and U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts (pictured) plays in an evening of spectacular music by Albeniz, Piazzolla, Tarrega, and others. Part of National YoungArts Foundation's YoungArts Week.

Remaining Performances this month:

May 23 Tzveta Kassabova & Raja “Feather” Kelly
May 24 Emmet Cohen Jazz Trio
May 25 Conrad Tao, Sirena Huang, & Anna Litvinenko
May 26 Kate Davis, Gabe Schnider, & Noah Kellman
May 27 Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month
May 28 Ilda Maria
May 29 Kyrenia Opera
May 30 Tamaki Kawakubo and Friends
May 31 Ryo Yanagitani

The Kennedy Center - Millennium Stage

2700 F St, NW

Metro: Foggy Bottom and take the free Kennedy Center shuttle that runs every ten minutes or so 

UPCOMING & ONGOING: KARAOKE: Tonight! Weekly: "Kostume Karaoke" in DC every WED night from 9:00pm - 1:30am - alternates between Solly's on U St and Little Miss Whiskey's on H St, NE - Free, 21+

Kostume Karaoke every Wednesday Night

every Wednesday night - location varies
9:00pm - 1:30am, or so

Free, 21+

Some people come for the karaoke, some come for the costumes, some come for both... and a lot of silliness! Costumes provided, and you must be in costume to take the mic.  


Kostume Karaoke takes place every 2nd &4th Wednesday and at Solly's on U St and every 1st & 3rd Wednesday at Little Miss Whiskey's on H St, NE. Stay connected to Kostume Karaoke on facebook here. 

Little Miss Whiskey's

1104 H St, NE
Metro: Gallery Pl - Chinatown and take the X2 bus there, runs along H St

Solly's Tavern

11th & U St
Metro: U St, African American Civil War Memorial exit

UPCOMING & ONGOING: COMEDY: Tonight in Clarendon - Open Mics most WED & THURS Nights in DC and VA and SAT night in Bethesda! Some Free, Some $10

Here's a list of Comedy Nights happening in the DC area!

See Standup Comedy To Go and DC Stand Up for more info about stand-up nights and comedy shows in the area.

Wednesday nights in Arlington, VA

Ri-Ra Wednesdays

Ha-Ha at Ri-Ra in Clarendon

8:00pm - 10:00pm

Free, 21+

Free Live stand-up comedy show. $25 cash prize joke contest for non-com audience members after the show and ½ price burger night.

Ri-Ra Irish Pub

2915 Wilson Blvd - Arlington,VA

Metro: Clarendon

Thursdays nights in Dupont
Topaz Thursdays

The Laughing Buddha-ha-ha in Dupont Circle

Live Stand-up Comedy Show

8:00pm – 10:00pm

Free, 21+

$25 cash prize joke contest for non-com audience members after the show

Topaz Hotel Bar

1733 N St, NW

Metro: Dupont Circle

Saturday nights in Bethesda, MD

Hyatt Saturdays at the Hyatt Hotel

$10 cover for this one
Rated R rules, 17 and under admitted with an adult 21 or older

Metro: Bethesda, right above the metro 

UPCOMING: ARTS GRANT INFO: The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities hosts FY 2014 Grants Kickoff event at the Lincoln Theatre on U St this THURS, May 23rd from 10:00am - 11:30am, Free, RSVP Requested

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities hosts FY 2014 Grants Kickoff at the Lincoln Theatre on U St
Thursday, May 23rd
10:00am - 11:30am
Free, RSVP Requested

Lincoln Theatre 

1215 U St NW

Metro: U St

UPCOMING: FILM: See this Film if you can, Incredibly Eye Opening! Learn how GMOs and other toxic chemicals used in our food production impact Animals, Our Planet and Our Health, "Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives" Screens on TUES, May 28th from 7:00pm - 9:00pm at BloomBars in Columbia Heights, All ages, by donation

BloomScreen presents a second screening of  "Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives"

Tuesday, May 28th
7:00pm - 9:00pm
All ages, $10 suggested donation, give as you can

BloomScreen hosts another screening (I saw it last week and it was incredibly eye opening) a "must see" educational film about GMOs and other toxic chemicals used in today's farming industry  "Genetic Roulette: The Gamble of Our Lives" (2012, 85 min), by Jeffrey M. Smith. This film will be screened the Tuesday following the March Against Monsanto, which will take place in DC on Saturday, May 25th at 2:00pm. Screening will be followed by a discussion with Emilianne Slaydon of GMO Free DC.

About the film: "When the US government ignored repeated warnings by its own scientists and allowed untested genetically modified (GM) crops into our environment and food supply, it was a gamble of unprecedented proportions. Never-before-seen-evidence points to genetically engineered foods as a major contributor to rising disease rates in the US population. Monsanto’s strong arm tactics, the FDA’s fraudulent policies, and how the USDA ignores a growing health emergency are also laid bare. This sometimes shocking film may change your diet and accelerate the consumer tipping point against GMO foods."

This screening takes place as part of the BloomScreen Indie Film Series which screens independent and foreign films every Tuesday night at BloomBars. Screenings are followed by a Q&A and discussion with filmmakers and other experts. Join their group on Meetup.com - The DC Bloomscreen Film Club - Film + Discussion / Every Week! if you want to stay in the loop with more advance noticed. By the way, BloomBars is always looking for volunteers to help out with this event and other events so if you have free time to help out, please contact Jonathan Branch at jonathan@bloombars.com.

BloomBars
3222 11th St, NW
Metro: Columbia Heights, walk north on 14th one block to Kenyon and turn right, left on 11th. BloomBars is just past Wonderland Ballroom.

UPCOMING: ART: Opening for "The New Direction of Color" at Aaron Gallery on 21st St between M and L St this THURS, May 23rd from 6:30pm - 8:30pm, Free

Aaron Gallery presents an Opening Reception for "The New Direction of Color"
Thursday, May 23rd
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Free

Works by Javier Cabada, Tina Palmer,  Duane Cregger, and Nia Tavlarides Stratos. The Aaron Gallery will auction a piece of art from their collection with proceeds benefiting the NAEA.
Gallery hours are by appointment only.

Aaron Gallery

2101 L St NW Suite 400
Metro: Farragut North, entrance on 21st St. between M and L St. NW

UPCOMING: ARTISTS TALK & CLOSING PARTY: Save the Date for THURS, May 30th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm for "Domesticated" Recent Paintings by Dana Ellyn & Matt Sesow at Art Enables Off Rhode Gallery, On view SAT, May 11th - THURS May 30th, Free

Artists Talk and Closing Party
"Domesticated" Recent Paintings by Dana Ellyn and Matt Sesow
at Art Enables Off Rhode Gallery
Thursday, May 30th
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Free
On view Saturday, May 11th - Thursday, May 30th

From the invite: "Dana Ellyn and Matt Sesow have created an exhibition focusing on their definition "domestication". The DC artist power-couple who met in 2001 and married at the height of a historic snow storm in 2010, have created a series of paintings that celebrate their philosophy on life, art, and being married."

More about the artists (who also happen to be friends of mine, love these guys!) "Sesow's popular animal creatures and icons are an expected interpretation of his work, as are Ellyn's familiar creations that celebrate her vegetarian lifestyle and respect for animal rights. "Domesticated" takes an unexpected turn with the artist's interpretation of marriage. They live and create paintings separately throughout their creative week. Sesow in Adams Morgan while Ellyn is downtown in her subsidized artist housing at Mather Studios. Their living situation is non-traditional; however, it works, and perhaps the only way married artists can continue to create is separately. Additionally, marriage has somewhat 'domesticated' the reckless animal spirit of Sesow, making him more focused and able to create a concentrated body of work - with spurts of primitive behavior (oftentimes alone during long creative sessions from his Adams Morgan studio). Whereas Ellyn's "domestication" has given her the confidence of commitment, process, and much needed "quiet time". Ellyn's paintings come from long periods of quiet and study, where she is able to carefully plan the composition, and execution of her work. Together the duo of Sesow and Ellyn are eclectic, unexpected, non-traditional, but unmistakably "domesticated", at least according to their definition."

Off-Rhode Studio at Art Enables
2204 Rhode Island Ave NE
Metro: Rhode Island Avenue and catch a bus that runs along Rhode Island Ave to the stop closest to 22nd St NE, see metro trip-planner for access, it's about 1.6 miles from the metro, see map,

ON VIEW: ART: Last Chance! This Month's "Art Crimes" Show at The Dunes features lots of great DC Artists! Closing Party for "The Gun Show!" will be on THURS, May 30th from 8:00pm - 10:00pm, On view from FRI, May 3rd - THURS, May 30th, Free

"The Gun Show!" on view at The Dunes
Free

Friday, May 3rd - Thursday, May 30th

"In the midst of the current gun debate, opinions once widely polarized seem to be nearing agreement on reasonable gun laws. The Gun Show assembles DC area artist's views on guns, from all perspectives - including the reach of their various impacts on society, family, and pop culture - in this month long exhibition. Artists include: Ismael Carrillo, Anna U. Davis, Dana Ellyn, Anson Holzer, Ishim, Paul Mangano, Sandy Miller, Matt Sesow, Dafna Steinberg, Andrew Wodzianski and Yanina Angelini-Young.

Save the Date! Closing Party 

Thursday, May 30th
8:00pm - 10:00pm
Free

The Dunes
1402 Meridian Place NW
Metro: Columbia Heights, walk just a few blocks north on 14th, past Park Rd, turn left on Meridian, The Dunes is above The Getaway, go up one flight of stairs.

UPCOMING: THEATER: WSC Avant Bard Final Pay-What-You-Can Matinees for Harold Pinter's "No Man's Land" will be on SAT, May 25th from 2:00pm - 4:00pm, by donation

WSC Avant Bard presents "No Man's Land" by Harold Pinter
Final Pay-What-You-Can Saturday Matinee for this show
Saturday, May 25th
2:00pm - 4:00pm
by donation, buy online to ensure your seat
Post-show discussion to follow

WSC Avant Bard is offering pay-what-you-can Saturday matinee performances of Harold Pinter's "No Man's Land." An acting vehicle of depth and resonance, "No Man's Land" features a fallen poet and his drunken dispute with a mysterious stranger over success, adventures and romantic conquests. A stellar cast features former WSC artistic directors Christopher Henley and Brian Hemmingsen, as well as audience favorites Frank Britton and Bruce Alan Rauscher. New Artistic Director Tom Prewitt directs the show.

Theatre on the Run
3700 S. Four Mile Drive - Arlington, VA
Metro: Ballston, take the 23A bus toward Crystal City departing at 1:35pm to Four Mile Run Dr. & S. Shirlington Rd, 3700 S Four Mile Run Dr. will be on your left.

ON VIEW: ART: Last Chance! International Show curated by Astrotwitch …with love and care, at The Fridge from SAT, May 4th - SUN, May 26th, Free

International Show curated by Astrotwitch …with love and care, at The Fridge

Free
On view Saturday, May 4th - Sunday, May 26th

This international group show, curated by DC-based artist Astrotwitch, features seven artists - from places as far as Sao Paulo and Berlin - known for creating hand-painted posters to put up on the street. Artists: N.O Bonzo and Circle Face (Portland, OR); MAR! (Los Angeles, CA); Galo (Sao Paulo, Brazil); Alaniz (Berlin, Germany); and DECOY and Astrotwitch (DC). Read more here.
The Fridge
516 1/2 8th St SE
Metro: Eastern Market, turn right onto 8th and walk down about a block and a half, left into alley right after you pass Belga Cafe, across from matchbox 

ON VIEW: ART: Last Chance! "InterGrowth" solo exhibit by Melanie Kehoss at Hillyer Art Space in Dupont Circle, FRI, May 3rd - FRI, May 31st, Free

InterGrowth: Solo Exhibit at Hillyer in Dupont
Free
On view Friday, May 3rd - Friday, May 31st

Featuring paper-cut works by Melanie Kehoss exploring how cultures and traditions grow and merge.

Open: M 12-5pm T-F 12-6pm Sat 12-5pm

Hillyer Art Space
9 Hillyer Court NW

Metro: Dupont Circle

ON VIEW: Last Chance! "Color, Line, Light: French Drawings, Watercolors, and Pastels from Delacroix to Signac" at the NGA West Building SUN, Jan 27th - SUN, May 26th, Free

Edgar Degas, Two Women Ironing,
c. 1885, National Gallery of Art,
Washington,  Dyke Collection

New Exhibit at the National Gallery of Art West Building

Color, Line, Light: French Drawings, Watercolors, and Pastels from Delacroix to Signac
Free

Sunday, January 27th - Sunday, May 26th

"James T. Dyke is one of the most astute American collectors of 19th- and 20th-century French works on paper. About 100 drawings and watercolors from the Dyke collection..." read more. 

National Gallery of Art 

West Building, Main Floor

7th & Constitution Ave, NW

Metro: Archives - Navy Memorial, closest to the West Building

ON VIEW: ART: Last Chance! "ki-momo" at Mad Momos in Columbia Heights, FRI, March 29th - TUES, May 21st, Free

"ki-momo" on view at Mad Momos
Free
Friday, March 29th - Tuesday, May 21st

Mad Momos restaurant, beer deck and lounge on 14th St, on the northern end of Columbia Heights, hosts a show featuring works by DC-area photographer, Andrea Reisenfeld. "This series of kimono images blends the sensibility of an ancient art form and the free-for-all expression of the 70's, interpreted through today's technology of the iPhone." Not sure how long it will be on view for, assuming at least one month.

Mad Momos 
3605 14th St NW
Metro: Columbia Heights and walk north on 14th St, past Park, toward Spring St

ON VIEW: Last Chance! "Cherry Blossoms in Spring Time" at the Washington DC Economic Partnership near 15th & F St NW from WED, March 20th - FRI, May 26th, Open MON - FRI from 9:00am - 5:00pm, Free

''Cherry Blossoms at the Tidal Basin'' by Michela Mansuino

"Cherry Blossoms in Spring Time"
Free

On view Wednesday, March 20th - Friday, May 31st

Zenith Gallery presents "Cherry Blossoms in Spring Time," a group show featuring Bradley Stevens, Michela Mansuino, Ken Girardini, Jim Magner, and Phil Hazard. 

Open Monday - Friday  9:00am - 5:00pm.

Washington DC Economic Partnership
1495 F St NW

Metro: Metro Center

ON VIEW: ART: Last Chance! Two More Exhibitions On View in DC, MD and VA through May, Free

Artwork from Beauty and the Waste 

Highlights Post for Exhibitions on view from CultureCapital.com

Free
Organized by the end date
Please click through for exhibit and location info
See Metro trip-planner for best metro and bus access

Window on Weimar at Robert Brown Gallery in Upper Georgetown

Saturday, April 6th - Friday, May 24th

Beauty and the Waste at Target Gallery in the Torpedo Factory in Old Town, Alexandria, VA

Saturday, April 6th- Sunday, May 26th

ON VIEW: ART: Last Chance! "People and Places: Four Distinct Views" at the Arts Club of Washington featuring works by Dana Ellyn and Three Other Artists! FRI, May 3rd - SAT, June 1st, Free

"People and Places: Four Distinct Views" on view at the Arts Club of Washington

Free

On view Friday, May 3rd - Saturday, June 1st

The Arts Club May show features works by four artists - Dana Ellyn, Oenone Hammersley, Juan E. Hernandez Gonzalez and Paul Reuther - in the Monroe and MacFeely Galleries. Curated by Pat Moore, Chair, Arts Club of Washington Exhibition Committee.

Dana Ellyn - D.C. artist Dana Ellyn documents the political, social and cultural events of the day with the humor of a satirist, the mind of an informed citizen and the color and brush strokes of an engaging artist who is serious about her work. Ellyn's unique view of religion has made her bring her own torment upon herself; insults, damnations and death threats. And, with her political work, she is story-teller, a modern day town crier, documenting current events.

Oenone Hammersley - Best known for her rainforest and wildlife paintings, Oenone has spent the last three years working on this collection of semi-abstract oil paintings on canvas titled Magnificent Trees. Read more.

Juan E. Hernandez Gonzalez - This body of work depicts people working in the streets, markets and neighborhoods of Tegucigalpa, Honduras created from memory. Read more.

Paul Reuther - The pictures in this exhibition were completed between 2009-2012. During this time Paul was artist-in-residence at New Pacific Studio in Kaiparoro, New Zealand and Arte Studio Ginestrelle in Assisi, Italy. Read more.

Save the date! "A Conversation with the Artists"

Wednesday, May 15th
5:00pm - 8:00pm
Free

Arts Club of Washington
2017 I St, NW
Metro: Farragut West, 18th St exit, or Foggy Bottom

ON VIEW: ART: Last Chance! Two Exhibits this Month! "Signs and Seasons" and "In My Nature" On View at the Washington Printmakers Gallery in he Pyramid Atlantic Arts Center in Silver Spring WED, May 1st - SUN, May 26th, Free

Art by Margaret Adams Parker

Signs and Seasons and In My Nature on view at WPG
Free
Wednesday, May 1st - Sunday, May 26th

Margaret Adams Parker's May solo exhibition, Signs and Seasons is on view along with In My Nature by
Pennsylvania-based landscape print artist Robin Gibson.

Washington Printmakers Gallery - Silver Spring, MD
in the Pyramid Atlantic Arts Center

8230 Georgia Avenue, 2nd Floor
Metro: Silver Spring, walking distance from the metro 

ON VIEW: ART: Last Chance! Gian Garofalo's "Ain't That America..." at Long View Gallery near the Convention Center THURS, May 2nd - SUN, June 2nd, Free

Gian Garofalo's "Ain't That America..." at Long View Gallery

Free

Thursday, May 2nd -  Sunday, June 2nd

This exhibit marks Chicago-based artist Garofalo’s first solo show at Long View Gallery and in Washington, D.C.

Gian Garofalo  is a visual artist who explores color and technique through the application of resin and pigments. Inspired by several contemporary artists, including Gene Davis of the Washington Color School, Garofalo meticulously applies resin to panel, creating stripes that slowly gravitate to the base, ultimately punctuating the work with intriguingly suspended paint droplets.

"In this exhibit Garofalo presents a new body of work employing his distinctive yet familiar style. Ain’t That America… presents a vibrant medley of Garofalo’s resin drip paintings composed in varied color palettes. Executed in a wide range of shapes and sizes, the artist continues to explore this finicky yet rewarding medium. A selection of pieces will feature pop culture artifacts, some still relevant, others lost and forgotten. Physically incorporating these elements into the work acts as a rebirth of sorts, transporting the viewer to the relevant time. The pieces in Ain’t That America… were inspired by childhood, fatherhood, and contemporary culture. This is a body of work intended to incorporate humor, wonder, irony and a decided bit of seriousness."

Long View Gallery
1234 9th St NW
between M and N St
Metro: Mt Vernon Sq - Convention Center, keep left on M and right on 9th and cross the street

ON VIEW: ART: Last Chance! "A Visual Feast" at Gallery Underground in Crystal City from MON, May 6th - SAT, June 1st, Free

A Visual Feast on view at Gallery Underground in Crystal City
Free
Monday, May 6th - Saturday, June 1st

Jane McElvany Coonce's mouth-watering paintings from her Crab Series and other food still life representations. Presented by Arlington Artists Alliance. Gallery Hours: Monday - Friday 10:00am - 6:00pm, Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pm.

Gallery Underground
in the Crystal City Shops

2100 Crystal Drive - Arlington, VA
Metro: Crystal City

ON VIEW: ART: Last Chance! "Trees- The World Greatest Cooperators" In Celebration of Zenith's 35th Anniversary! SUN, March 17th - MON, June 1st, Free

"Trees- The World Greatest Cooperators"In Celebration of Zenith's 35th Anniversary!

Free

On view Sunday, March 17th - Monday, June 1st 

Featuring Sculpture, Painting & Mixed Media by Zenith Gallery Artists. Read more and see images from the exhibit here. 

Zenith Hours: Friday & Saturday, 12:00pm - 6:00pm

and by liberal appointment

Zenith Gallery

1429 Iris St, NW - just off 16th Street

Metro: Silver Spring or Columbia Heights - walk over to 16th Street and take the S2 or S4 bus to Hemlock, which is the stop closest to Iris and walk to Iris, and a block and a half over to the address. 

ON VIEW: ART: Last Chance! "Beyond Function" at the Target Gallery in the Torpedo Factory by the Waterfront in Old Town Alexandria, VA from SAT, May 4th - SUN, June 2nd, Free

Beyond Function on view at the Target Gallery in the Torpedo Factory by the Waterfront in Old Town Alexandria, VA 

Free

Saturday, May 4th - Sunday, June 2nd

Target Gallery presents Beyond Function, an exhibition focusing on non-functional ceramic artwork. These works go beyond utility, seeking to be valued for their aesthetic quality over their usefulness. In addition, juror Novie Trump and Laurel Lukaszewski will create a site-specific ceramic installation outside of the gallery. 

Open Daily 10:00am - 6:00pm, Thursdays 'til 9:00pm

Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 North Union Street - on the Waterfront in Old Town Alexandria, VA
Metro: King St and take the free trolley down to the Waterfront or any bus that runs down King St and gets you close to the Torpedo Factory

UPCOMING & ONGOING: YOGA + JUICE: **Back at a new, later time starting on SAT, May 25th!** Weekly: "Yoga. Juice. Om." Anusara Inspired Yoga Class + Fresh Squeezed Juice Bar at The Dunes, a unique Arts space in Columbia Heights every SAT, now from 12:00pm - 2:30pm or so, always by donation! $5-$10 suggested for Yoga, $5 suggested for Juice

Yoga. Juice. Om.  Saturday Mornings at The Dunes
Donation-based Yoga Class + Fresh Squeezed Juices
now every Saturday at a later time!
12:00pm -2:30pm or so (used to start 10:00am)
All ages, by donation*
$5 - $10 suggested for yoga, $5 suggested for juice bar, no one turned away, please give as you are able

Now at a later time! Saturdays at The Dunes, you can treat yourself to a fabulous, fun donation-based anusara (inspired) yoga class guided by Mallory Hemerlein. Stick around after the class if you like for fresh fruit and vegetable juices and smoothies made with love by your hostess, Lisa Markuson. Start your Saturday with some good vibes with some good people and get a little stretching and exercise in. Great class to enjoy with friends.

If you want to come just for yoga that's cool, if you want to come just for the juice, that's cool too. Please bring your own yoga mat for the class.

*Please note that the suggested donations are just recommendations to help cover the cost of renting the space and the juice supplies. If you are strapped for cash, you are still welcome to come and join, no one will be turned away. Of course, if you have a little extra to give, that's super too! Donations exceeding the costs will all be going to cool local charities cause that's the hip thing to do with profits/karma. Beginners and skeptics welcome.

The Dunes
1402 Meridian Place NW
Metro: Columbia Heights, walk just a few blocks north on 14th, past Park Rd, turn left on Meridian, The Dunes is above The Getaway, go up one flight of stairs.

UPCOMING & ONGOING: Sonic Diaspora presents "African Endless Summer Series" at Sankofa Cafe near Howard University every other Sunday from SUN, May 12th - SUN, Sept 1st, 2:00pm - 8:00pm, Free

Sonic Diaspora presents : African Endless Summer Series
"positive vibrations and libations" at Sankofa Cafe
every other Sunday
2:00pm - 8:00pm
Free, RSVP Requested on facebook
Sunday, May 12th - Sunday, September 1st

Save the date for the remaining Sunday events:

May 26th - Afro Boy (NYC)
June 9th - DrewCool (Okayafrica)
June 23rd - Chief Boima (Dutty Artz/Africa Is A Country) + Old Money
July 7th - King Selassie I Sound (Patty Boom Boom)
July 21st - Itzi Nallah (Sonic Diapora/FEX, Chicago) + Brotha Onaci
Aug 4th - DJ Senyo (Swenka)
Aug 18th - DJ Salah Ananse (ATL/Afrique Electrique) + DJ JahSonic (Main Ingredient)
Sept 1st - Summer Block Party


Sankofa Cafe
2714 Georgia Ave NW
between Fairmont and Girard (see map)
Metro: Columbia Heights and walk over to Geogria or Shaw - Howard University and walk up Georgia Ave or take a bus

UPCOMING & ONGOING: MUSIC: Weekly: Sunday Night Concert Series at the National Gallery of Art, SUN, May 26th will be a 4:00pm due to the Memorial Day Holiday and will feature Pianist Gabrielius Alekna in the West Building Lecture Hall, Concerts every SUN night, usually from 6:30pm - 8:30pm, Free

Vlach Quartet Prague  play on Mother's Day

The Sunday Night Concert Series at the NGA

every Sunday night in the West Building, unless otherwise noted

6:30pm - 8:30pm

Free
Please note: You must arrive before 6:30pm to get in. Late entry and reentry is not permitted.

Gabrielius Alekna, pianist
Sunday, May 26th 

Note: Earlier time and different location due to Memorial Day Weekend 

4:00pm
West Building Ground Floor, Lecture Hall

The next concert will be:
Inscape Chamber Orchestra

Sunday, June 2nd
6:30pm
Note: this one will be in the East Building Concourse, Auditorium

Note: The West Building Main Floor, West Garden Court, where the concerts are usually held, is a beautiful space, however almost all of the seats have an obstructed, or very minimal view. If you want a seat with a view, best to arrive early to get in line.

Usually in the West Building, Main Floor, West Garden Court

6th & Constitution Ave, NW entrance

Metro: Archives - Navy Memorial or Judiciary Sq