PAST: More Free Arts & Culture events from CultureCapital.com for TUES, June 10th

Here are some more great free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com! This site is a fantastic resource for events provided by CultureCapital (formerly known as the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington) a wonderful organization that supports and highlights the DC metro area's vibrant and diverse arts community! See the "Free in DC" Inside Out page on CultureCapital.com for a list of exhibits on view! Plus, CultureCapital.com is now on facebook.

Tuesday, June 10th 

Evening- Chamber Music at the Dumbarton House - between Dupont and Georgetown 

Friday Morning Music Club: Chamber Concert
7:30pm 

The Friday Morning Music Club and Dumbarton House present a program commemorating the War of 1812. See program details here.

Dumbarton House
2715 Q St, NW
between Dupont Circle and Georgetown
Metro: Dupont Circle and walk or take a bus closer. You can also take a bus along Wisconsin Ave to Q St and walk over if you're coming from that direction. For those driving, parking is free but limited (behind the garden at 27th and Q Streets NW).

See "Free in DC" Inside Out page for more events + connect with CultureCapital.com on facebook

PAST: Dance in Dupont Circle this SUN, June 8th from 2:00pm - 5:00pm, Beginner lesson around 12:00pm, Free!

Free Blues Dance in Dupont Circle

Sunday, June 8th
2:00pm - 5:00pm, beginner lesson around 12:00pm

Free

Free Blues Dance in Dupont Circle this Sunday afternoon as a part of a weekend-long dance exchange, Red Hot Blues n BBQ, organized Capital Blues. New to Blues Dancing? There will be a beginner lesson around noon to get your feet grooving

Keep the dance going afterwards by heading up to Meridian Hill Park for the weekly drum circle, which goes til sunset, and starting at 9:00pm you can head back down on U St for Red Hot Blues & BBQ 2014: Josh Fialkoff and the Downtown Shimmy at Liv Nightclub, though that one has a $15 cover. Stay up late enough and you can head over to The Keep, a private home just off of Georgia Ave in Petworth, for a free house party with more dancing from 1:30am - 4:00am.

Dupont Circle
intersection of  Connecticut Ave, Mass Ave & P St NW
Metro: Dupont Circle

PAST: FESTIVAL: Strathmore presents "Sounds of Brazil" Indoor and Outdoor Festival on SUN, June 8th from 12:00pm - 5:00pm, Family-friendly and Free

Discover Strathmore - Sounds of Brazil
Sunday, June 8th

12:00pm - 5:00pm

Free, no tickets required

See the full schedule of events!

A day full of free music and dance performances, workshops, artistic demonstrations and hands-on art activities celebrating the music of Brazil! The centerpiece of this celebration will be a re-creation of the original Jazz Samba album from start to finish, with new arrangements and added orchestrations for choir, and featuring jazz chanteuse Veronneau and harmonica virtuoso Hendrik Meurkens. This year, the festival takes place across the entire campus, with performances indoors and outside. Read more here.

Performances and Demonstrations by:

Batala performs from 1:00pm - 1:45pm

• Batala Washington
• Alma Tropicalia
• DC Choro
• Nation Beat
• Dende and His Band
• Emy Tseng and Quarteto Sonho

Note: Strollers are allowed outdoors, but to facilitate movement through the buildings, they will not be allowed inside the Music Center or Mansion. Stroller parking will be available outside the buildings.

Strathmore
5301 Tuckerman Lane - North Bethesda, MD
Metro: Grosvenor, cross the street to the left or take the walkway bridge across from the parking garage to get to the Strathmore campus. Driving? Parking: All parking is in the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro Garage (enter at 5301 Tuckerman Lane), which is currently free on weekends. Additional parking may be found at the meters along Tuckerman Lane.

PAST: FESTIVAL: The 2nd Annual Washington Jewish Music Festival Music in the Park! Family-Friendly Festival this SUN, June 8th from 11:00am - 3:00pm at Francis Field 25th & N St NW, Free

2nd Annual WJMF Music in the Park Festival

Sunday, June 8th

11:00am - 3:00pm

Free

Family-Friendly, Free Festival! Live music and more. See details here.

Francis Field 

25th St NW between M & N St NW 

Metro: Dupont Circle 

PAST: MUSEUMS: 31st Annual Dupont - Kalorama Museum Walk Weekend! Free admission to seven participating Museums SAT, June 7th from 10:00am - 4:00pm & SUN, June 8th 1:00pm - 5:00pm

The 31st Annual Dupont - Kalorama Museum Walk Weekend
Saturday, June 7th & Sunday, June 8th

Free admission to seven participating museums!

Rain or shine

Note: Not all museums will be open both days.

Saturday 10:00am - 4:00pm

Sunday     1:00pm - 5:00pm

Discover seven diverse museums in one of Washington, D.C.’s most beautiful neighborhoods. Save on gas and museum admission by hitting the pavement and taking a walking tour or riding the free shuttle which will circulate to the sites. Shuttles will circulate to the sites. Schedules will be available at all sites.

Participating Museums this Year:

• Anderson House
• Dumbarton House
• Heurich House (new member!) Yoga in garden; new self-guided tours
• Mary McLeod Bethune House
• NMAJMH 
• The Phillips Collection 
• Woodrow Wilson House 

Metro: Dupont Circle 

PAST: FITNESS + FUN: "Mint Condition Day" a Free Community Event at Marie Reed Field in Adams Morgan! Enjoy Free Yoga & Zumba Classes, Obstacle Course, Moon Bounce and more! This SAT, June 7th from 10:00am - 1:00pm, Free

Mint Condition Day - Free Community Event at Marie Reed Field in Adams Morgan

Free Yoga, Free Zumba, Obstacle Course, Moon Bounce and more!
Saturday, June 7th

10:00am - 1:00pm

Free, RSVP requested

Mint Club & Spa hosts it's first family friendly community day at Marie Reed Field in Adams Morgan. Enjoy obstacle courses, tug-o-war, tire flip, and other fun fitness activities for all ages. They'll also have tie dye available (they'll be giving away 40 Mint shirts for the first 40 participants, or bring your own item along to tie dye). They'll also have a moon bounce adults can go in - sweet!

Power Playground: Obstacle Course 

with Mint Master Trainer: Maurice Henderson

10:00am - 10:50am

Free Yoga Class with Mint Yoga Director Meredith McCullough

Intermediate/Advanced Class

10:30am - 12:00pm

Free Zumba Class with Mint Instructor Tara Ward 

12:00pm - 1:00pm

Plus, enjoy mint water (water with mint in it) and refreshments from Puree (their cold pressed juices are super! My personal fave is easy green).  

Bike on down if you can, they'll have a Free Bike Valet thanks to City Bikes! 

Marie Reed Field Soccer Field 

2201 18th St NW (see map)

Metro: Dupont Circle, walk across to 18th St and turn left to walk north, about 12 minutes, you can also see metro trip-planner for bus options 

PAST: OUTDOOR MUSIC: Batida Diferente performs in the Adams Morgan Concert Series this SAT, June 7th from 5:00pm - 7:00pm at BB&T Plaza at 18th & Columbia, Free

Batida Diferente performs in the Adams Morgan Concert Series!
Saturday, June 7th

5:00pm - 7:00pm

Free

See a video from their performance last year!

BB&T Plaza

18th & Columbia NW

Metro: Woodley Park and walk across the Calvert St bridge or take the 42 bus from Dupont or Circulator bus, Woodley-14th St-McPherson Sq route right to Adams Mill. 

PAST: THEATER: "Ordinary Days" at Round House Bethesda, MD final "$10 Tuesdays" on TUES, June 17th at 7:30pm, Side Section Seats $10

"Ordinary Days" On Stage at Round House Bethesda

Final "$10 Tuesdays" Performance
Tuesday, June 17th - SOLD OUT!

7:30pm 

$10
Note: Side section seats are available for $10 – call 240.644.1100. Discounts may not be combined. Not valid on previously purchased tickets. Supplies limited. More about tickets options

"From Adam Gwon, one of the theater’s most exciting new composers, comes this refreshingly honest, funny musical about making real connections in the city that never sleeps. When Deb loses her most precious possession - the notes to her graduate thesis - she unwittingly starts a chain of events that turns the ordinary days of four New Yorkers into something extraordinary as they search for fulfillment, happiness, love, and cabs. Told through a series of intricately connected songs and vignettes, this Off-Broadway hit is a vibrant, original musical about growing up and enjoying the view."

Round House Theatre Bethesda
4545 East-West Highway - Bethesda, MD

Metro: Bethesda, diagonally across from the metro, escalator exit

PAST: MUSIC: Art Soiree Sunset Rooftop Performances continue at the Beacon Hotel Sky Bar with Christopher Linman THURS, June 5th from 5:00pm - 11:00pm, 7:00pm Music, Free, RSVP Required, 21+

Sunset Rooftop Performances at the Beacon Hotel Sky Bar with Art Soiree!
select Thursday nights
5:00pm - 11:00pm
Free, RSVP Required, 21+

Enjoy the view from the Beacon Sky Bar and some live music thanks to Art Soiree's Sunset Rooftop Series. Dance along to the beats and soak up the summer sun or relax in a plush lounge chair with a refreshing cool beverage or cocktail.

Thursday, June 5th
Sunset Rooftop Performance with Christopher Linman
Performance begins at 7:00pm, RSVP on link above, 21+
Celebrate DC’s local thriving music scene with an unforgettable evening as London born Christopher Linman brings his jazz ensemble to Art Soiree's Sunset Rooftop Performance Series and takes you on a wonderful journey through America's all time classics.

Beacon Hotel Sky Bar
1615 Rhode Island Ave NW - corner of 17th St near N St
Metro: Dupont Circle, or you can take the 42 bus along Connecticut Ave to N St or the 16th St bus, S2 or S4 bus along 16th St to M St
http://performseries-june5.eventbrite.com Beacon Hotel Sky Bar 1615 Rhode Island Ave NW Dupont

PAST: ART: Gallery Talk on "Dragons in Art" at the National Gallery of Art West Building WED, June 4th from 1:00pm - 1:50pm, Free

"Dragons in Art" Gallery Talk at the National Gallery of Art

Wednesday, June 4th

1:00pm - 1:50pm
Free

Permanent collection gallery talk given by Bela Demeter, staff lecturer.

National Gallery of Art 

West Building Main Floor, Rotunda

6th & Constitution Ave NW

Metro: Archives 

PAST: ART: Photography Book Release for Carabanchel, Reception and Artist Talk with local artist Mark Parascandola at Studio 1469 this WED, June 4th from 6:30pm - 8:30pm, Free

Photography Book Release for Carabanchel, Reception and Artist Talk

with local artist Mark Parascandola at Studio 1469
Wednesday, June 4th

6:30pm - 8:30pm

Free

Artist Mark Parascandola releases his first photography book, Carabanchel on Wednesday, June 4 at Studio 1469 in Columbia Heights. Carabanchel spotlights Parascandola’s photography of the defunct prison that once jailed Spain’s most notorious political prisoners for the greater part of the 20th Century. The book documents the former prison, its history and nearby community. Parascandola visited the Carabanchel site in October 2008, as a fierce debate over the future of the prison grew. Unknown then to the photographer and the community, the prison was to be demolished a few weeks later. Carabanchel gives audiences a view into the famous prison’s unique architecture as it was altered by Spanish graffiti artists. Copies of the book will be available for $40 at the event. Afterwards, the book will be available via http://www.parascandola.com/ for $45.

About the artist: Mark is a local artist who lives in DC in the U St area. A PhD epidemiologist by training, he uses photography to explore patterns of movement in human populations, focusing on architecture as evidence of often-invisible social, environmental and economic processes. Mark has family roots in the desert landscape of Almería, Spain, and he is currently documenting the remains of old movie sets constructed in the region during the 1960s and 1970s. His exhibit “Once Upon a Time in Almería” was recently on view at the Embassy of Spain in Washington, DC and the Miami Public Library. His work has been featured at various galleries in Washington, DC and at Galería Acanto in Almeria, Spain and appears in the DC Art Bank and numerous individual collections.

Studio 1469

1469 Harvard St NW, rear - in the alley

Note: Entrance to the alley is located off of 15th St between Harvard and Columbia, directions 

Metro: Columbia Heights or take the S2 or S4 bus along 16th St right to Harvard St 

PAST: POETRY: LGBT Poetry Celebration at the Library of Congress on TUES, June 3rd at 12:00pm, Free

Local Poet Dan Vera

LGBT Poetry Celebration at the Library of Congress
Tuesday, June 3rd
12:00pm
Free

As part of the week-long LGBT pride celebration in Washington, DC, the Library of Congress in hosting an inaugural event with readings by established and emerging gay and lesbian poets Joan Larkin, Kamilah Aisha Moon, D. A. Powell, and Dan Vera. The event will also feature a display of the Library's rare LGBT materials. Book sales and a signing will follow. Co-sponsored by the Library of Congress Rare Books and Special Collections Division, and presented in partnership with Capital Pride.

Library of Congress
Thomas Jefferson Building
LJ-119 on the first floor (see map)
10 First Street SE
Metro: Capitol South

PAST: The Final performance as part of the "Eclectic Tuesdays" series at Anacostia Arts Center will be on TUES, June 3rd with J.A.M. Dance Show from 7:30pm - 9:00pm, Free

Eclectic Tuesdays at the Anacostia Arts Center 
every Tuesday night thru June 3rd 

7:30pm - 9:00pm
All ages, Free

Final Show - Tuesday, June 3rd

J.A.M. Dance Show

Anacostia Arts Center

1231 Good Hope Rd. SE
Metro: Anacostia and walk, bus, bike or cab closer. Starting on April 1st the Potomac Ave - Barracks Row- Skyland Circulator bus will be running past 7pm again! You can catch that Circulator bus from Howard Rd and get off at the stop right after it turns right onto Good Hope Rd, or pick it up from Eastern Market Metro on 8th St SE by the Starbucks)

PAST: POETRY: Capturing Fire 2014! A Queer Spoken Word Summit and Slam comes to a close at Busboys and Poets 14th & V on SUN, June 1st, 8:00pm *Sparkle*, $5, followed by Final Slam and Closing Party from 9:30pm - 11:30pm, $10 for students and those who attended preliminary slam on Saturday

Capturing Fire - A Queer Spoken Word Summit and Slam!
Friday, May 30th - Sunday, June 1st
Free and low-cost, $10 or less, events listed below!
If you plan to attend 5 or more events, best to purchase the entire festival pass for $50

Sunday, June 1st  

Extra-Special *Sparkle* - Queer Open Mic
Note: This event occurs monthly on the first Sunday
8:00pm - 9:30pm
$5
Free with the event pass
Extra-Special *SPARKLE* at Capturing Fire 2014.

Slam Finals and Capturing Fire Closing Party 9:30pm - 11:30pm
$10 tickets for students or those who have ticket from Saturday night preliminary slam, Free for those with full festival pass, $20 otherwise

Busboys and Poets
14th & V St NW
Metro: U St or take any of the 90 line buses along Florida Ave/ U St or the 50 line buses along 14th St or the Circulator bus to 14th & U

PAST: MUSIC: Record Fair at Artisphere by the Rosslyn Metro this SUN, June 1st from 11:00am - 5:00pm, $5 - $2

DC Record Fair at Artisphere
Sunday, June 1st
11:00am - 5:00pm

$5 - $2, buy tickets
This event is held in conjunction with the exhibit Fermata; brought to you by Som Records, DC Soul Recording, and The Vinyl District. In addition to dozens of vinyl vendors and DJ’s, the afternoon will feature unique programming. See the full schedule here!

As part of a summer of programming related to Fermata, Artisphere's first exhibition dedicated entirely to sound in the Terrace Gallery, the DC Record Fair returns to Rosslyn! Featuring dozens of record dealers, hundreds of crates of records, live DJ sets, film screenings and special musical guests in the Dome Theatre. Come join other vinyl enthusiasts in digging through some crates, watch a concert in the Dome Theatre, sprawl out in a bean bag chair and listen to Fermata's wall of speakers - all of Artisphere will be a celebration of sound on Sunday!  In addition to other special programming in the Dome Theatre, Artisphere will present a special 2:30pm screening of Led Zeppelin Played Here followed by a talk with director, Jeff Krulik and musician/ Dischord Records co-owner, Ian MacKaye. Free with your DC Record Fair admission! (The quarterly DC Record Fair is brought to you by Som Records, DC Soul Recordings, and The Vinyl District.)

In the Dome Theatre: Burn to Shine - Film Screening / 11:30 - 12:30 Bob Weston (Shellac) curated a daylong recording session in a small, doomed house in Chicago in 2004, with performances by Wilco, Tortoise and others..."a time capsule of a single day." Produced by Brendan Canty and directed by Christoph Green.  A Conversation with Chad Clark / 12:30 - 1:15 Chad Clark is a musician, producer and mastering engineer whose fingerprints can be found on a list of records too long to mention, having worked with seminal bands such as Fugazi and The Dismemberment Plan. Clark sits with Artisphere's new media curator Ryan Holladay to discuss his process, his thoughts on Immersive Ideal looking back and the future. Kiara Lanier: Live Performance / 1:30 - 2:15 

Led Zeppelin Played Here - Film Screening + Q&A / 2:30 - Close. Followed by a talk with director, Jeff Krulik and musician/ Dischord Records co-owner, Ian MacKaye.

All day: Fermata: A Celebration of Sound Artisphere presents it's first exhibition dedicated entirely to sound and the largest of its kind in the region to date. Lounge in bean bags and bask in the sound from a wall of speakers with new works from Ryuichi Sakamoto, Peals (members of Future Islands + Double Dagger) and more.

Artisphere

1101 Wilson Blvd - Arlington, VA

Metro: Rosslyn, turn right when you exit the metro, left on Wilson, walk a block

PAST: ART: "The Alexandria Community Library" at the Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria, VA from SAT, May 31st - SUN, July 13th, Free

"The Alexandria Community Library" at the Torpedo Factory
Free

Saturday, May 31st - Sunday, July 13th

Open late during the "2nd Thursday Art Night"
Thursday, June 12th
6:00pm - 9:00pm
Free

In celebration of the Torpedo Factory Art Center’s 40th Anniversary, a group of artists will transform the Target Gallery into a community library. Constructed from repurposed and locally sourced building materials, this Library of Alexandria will feature a diverse array of public arts programming. While on the one hand serving to archive and share TFAC’s rich history as a creative place, the exhibition also questions newly emerging modes of both art making and arts funding. official website

Target Gallery
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 North Union Street
Alexandria, VA
Metro: King St and walk down King, take any bus closer along King St or take the free trolley 

PAST: POETRY: Monthly: "Performetry: Old Poems, New Poems, Your Poems" Featured Readings + Open Mic at BloomBars every third SUN of the month from 6:00pm - 8:00pm, All ages, by donation, $10 suggested

Performetry: Old Poems, New Poems, Your Poems at BloomBars

and every third Sunday of the month 

6:00pm - 8:00pm
All ages, by donation, $10 suggested donation
complimentary homemade refreshments included

Next event - Sunday, July 20th

Performetry: noun \pə(r)-ˈfȯrm-ə-trē\, also \pə(r)-ˈfȯrm-i-trē\ : The act of giving body to sound and presence to poetry through performance.

This monthly performance series at BloomBars traverses generations of verse, focusing on the theatrical presentation of classical, contemporary, and musical forms of poetry. Each event includes the performance of a classic poem, featured works from a contemporary DC-area poet, an open mic, and live musical interludes.

Performetry is sponsored by The Performing Knowledge Project with the generous support of BloomBars, and funded in part by the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities, an agency supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts.

Bloombars
3222 11th St NW
Metro: Columbia Heights, walk north on 14th St one block and turn right on Kenyon, left on 11th 

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: Here is a list of Fabulous Free Arts & Culture events from CultureCapital.com for SUN, June 1st

Here are some more great free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com! This site is a fantastic resource for events provided by CultureCapital (formerly known as the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington) a wonderful organization that supports and highlights the DC metro area's vibrant and diverse arts community! See the "Free in DC" Inside Out page on CultureCapital.com for a list of exhibits on view! Plus, CultureCapital.com is now on facebook.

Sunday, June 1st

Late Afternoon - Concert with IBIS - Arlington, VA

American Voices
4:00pm

Presented by IBIS: A Chamber Music Society. Soprano Elizabeth Kluegel sings words of great American writers Frost, Whitman, Agee and Lincoln set to music. The program includes a newly commissioned work for IBIS by composer Ray Shattenkirk: "The Better Angels" sets texts by and about Abraham Lincoln. Also on the program-- an original arrangement of Barber's "Knoxville Summer of 1915."

Rock Spring Congregational Church - Arlington, VA (map)
5010 Little Falls Road
Metro: See metro trip-planner for best bus access from metro

Afternoon - Literary Reading - Bethesda, MD

Janice Gary and Marion Winik
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Janice Gary reads from Short Leash: A Memoir of Dog Walking and Deliverance.She is joined by Marion Winik, author of Highs in the Low Fifties: How I Stumbled Through the Joys of Single Living. Reading followed by a reception and book signing.
The Writer's Center
4508 Walsh St - Bethesda, MD
Metro: Bethesda, elevator exit is closest

See the "Free in DC" Inside Out page + follow CultureCapital.com on facebook

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: More Free and low-cost events to choose from on FRI, May 30th

Friday, May 30th

Celebration in Honor of Asian American & Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month at the Lincoln Theatre 

7:00pm - 9:00pm

Free, RSVP to ensure your space

This celebration will feature performances from AAPI artists both locally and internationally and will also commemorate the 10th year anniversary of the Language Access Act. Note: If this event is sold out you can be added to the wait list online. You can likely also wait in a stand by line for no shows, usually easier to get in to sold out events if you don't mind sitting on your own. 

The Lincoln Theatre

1215 U St NW

Metro: U St 

Don't Block the Box 4-Year Anniversary Extravaganza!
7:30pm - 10:00pm
$3, 21+
Fourth anniversary party! Headliner Lafayette Wright (Dr. Dreamo's). Featuring: Graham Hall (Listrani's) Ryan Schutt (Club Heaven & Hell) Hosted by Reggie Melbrough (Blue Banana).
Wonderland Ballroom
1101 Kenyon St, NW
Metro: Columbia Heights

PAST: ART: Ben Tolman's Solo Show "Fiction" at The Fridge SAT, May 3rd - SUN, June 1st + Closing Party on FRI, May 30th from 7:00pm - 10:00pm, Free

Ben Tolman’s “Fiction” on view at The Fridge
Free
Saturday, May 3rd - Sunday, June 1st

You’re invited to see a series of 40 new artworks from Ben Tolman, one of DC's most talented artists, whose work has been even featured in the National Portrait Gallery. "The series presents a mythology that is rich and dynamic, while the stripped down minimalism in each piece allows storylines to breathe and develop in a way never experienced in Tolman’s artworks past." Soundtrack from Bellflur will accompany the evening. Read more about the show on The Fridge site here.

Save the date! Closing Party
Friday, May 30th
7:00pm - 10:00pm
Free

The Fridge
516 8th St SE
Metro: Eastern Market, keep right on 8th St near Starbucks, cross the street, turn left into the alley right after Belga Cafe across from matchbox

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: More Free events on THURS, May 29th Thanks to Gravy - local events app and website

Did you know? You can find lots more local events online on the new local events site, Gravy + if you have an iPhone or Android, I recommend downloading the free Gravy app!

Some cool things that make Gravy unique: You can save events + select to save them saved directly on to your calendar on your iPhone! You can search by what you are in the mood for! Whatever, Lively, Classy, Brainy; Playtime. You can also search by Currently Trending Events. Channels: My favorite channel of course is the Free & Discounted one! Others include Live Music, Happy Hours, Family Friendly, Around the Corner and more - connecting you with specific types of things going on around you. You can find the Channels in your MyStuff section.  

Select Free events found on Gravy listed below. Click "Learn More" on each post for more details! Note that while free, some events may require RSVP so please click through links for more info. If RSVP's have already ended you can always call the venue or contact the event organizer online. By the way, this will be the last Gravy highlights post for a while so please be sure to get
the app now!

Thursday, May 29th

Screening: Exposing the Invisible at OpenGovHub

6:00pm - 8:00pm

Metro: McPherson Sq 

DC: Oiselle Fashion Show at City Sports Gallery Place

6:00pm - 8:00pm

Metro: Gallery Pl - Chinatown

The Gravy app is totally Free, Download it here now!

PAST: THEATER: Final Pay-What-You-Can Matinee of WSC Avant Bard's "Nero/Pseudo" at Fort Fringe will be on SAT, May 31st at 2:00pm, by donation

Pay-What-You-Can Saturday Matinees!
WSC Avant Bard's Nero/Pseudo
"A scorching new glam-rock musical!" at Fort Fringe

Final Date! Saturday, May 31st

2:00pm

by donation, or reserve tickets in advance for a minimum of $10 here

Nero/Psuedo: Rome has burned down and Nero is toast. Then this stranger shows up. Looks like Nero, sounds like Nero—and when he rocks out, the emperor’s fans go berserk. A WSC Avant Bard world premiere, Nero/Pseudo is a hot mash-up of ancient history, glam rock, and the politics of celebrity. Book and lyrics by Richard Byrne, original music by Jim Elkington (Zincs, Horse’s Ha) and Jon Langford (Mekons, Waco Brothers).

Fort Fringe--The Shop
607 New York Avenue, NW
Metro: Mt. Vernon Sq or take the Circulator bus to 7th & Mass, also walking distance from Gallery Pl

PAST: WORKOUT: Drop In App hosts a #DropInLive event at BodySmith Gym on 14th St this SUN, June 1st from 9:00am - 3:00pm, Enjoy Free Workouts and other Giveaways

#DropInLive: Free Drop In at BodySmith Gym
Sunday, June 1st
9:00am - 3:00pm
Free, RSVP here

Drop In is a new kind of app that lets you drop in to any participating gym. The folks from Drop In will be kicking off the #DropInLive (Sunday, June 1st - Saturday, June 7th) week this Sunday at BodySmith Gym with giveaways from SweetGreen, RelayFoods, and Press Juice Bar. In the morning you can check out a fitness class (yoga, spinning, b-FIt, kettle bells) or come by for the open house from noon til 3pm. The first 50 guests will receive a $25 gift card. Read more about the event and RSVP here

BodySmith Gym
1630 14th St NW - between Q & R St
Metro: U St or Dupont Circle and walk over, or you can take any of the 50 line buses along 14th St or the Circulator bus to 14th & P or RI Ave

PAST: JAZZ: Tribute to Curtis Fuller and Hank Mobley on Blue Note with Shannon Gunn and the Bullettes Quintet WED, May 28th at 8:30pm at the Goethe-Institut $7, $4 for students and seniors

Tribute to Curtis Fuller and Hank Mobley on Blue Note with Shannon Gunn and the Bullettes Quintet at the Goethe-Institut

Wednesday, May 28th

8:30pm

$7, $4 students and 65+

buy tickets online for an additional 75 cents

Trombonist Curtis Fuller (b. 1934) and saxophonist Hank Mobley (1930-1986) both signed with Blue Note Records in the mid-50s. Fuller later joined other labels, but Mobley remained with Blue Note for the rest of his career. 

Trombonist Shannon Gunn and the Bullettes Quintet perform a retrospective of their Blue Note recordings, including music from their collaborations such as Fuller’s The Opener. The musicians pictured are Anita Thomas, tenor saxophone; Shannon Gunn, trombone; Lianna Gekker, piano; Isabel De Leon, drums; and Karine Chapdelaine, bass. The group is called Shannon Gunn and the Bullettes Quintet. The concert was curated by Bertrand Uberall.

Goethe-Institut
812 Seventh St NW

Metro: Gallery Pl - Chinatown or take the Georgetown-K St/ Mass Ave - Union Station Circulator bus to 7th & Mass Ave NW 

PAST: More Free events this SAT, May 24th

Saturday, May 24th

City of Rockville Hometown Holidays
2:00pm - 10:00pm
Free
Click here for a full schedule of events
Hometown Holidays is Rockville's premier music and community event. Hometown Holidays features more than 30 free concerts on five stages, a Taste of Rockville as well as kid and teen activities and entertainment. Some performers this year are The Shack Band, B Side Shuffle, Brothers Osborne, Green River Ordinance, The Nighthawks, Fighting Jamesons, Lionize, Elenowen, John Brown’s Body, Lloyd Dobler Effect, American Aquarium and many, many more.
Downtown Rockville
200 East Middle Lane - Rockville, MD
Metro: Rockville

Haitian Art Reception!
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Free
Come enjoy a taste of Haitian culture through unique fair-trade artwork! Beyond Borders, a local non-profit which supports social movements in Haiti to: end child slavery, guarantee universal access to education, end violence against women and girls, and supports dignified and sustainable livelihoods, is hosting an art reception at Modern Times Coffeehouse. The reception will be featuring metal work done by Haitian artisans and art work done by a talented Haitian artist, named Michelet "Najee" Calice. Not only will you be able to view his unique art but, you will also be able to hear from the the artist himself and have the opportunity to ask him questions.
Modern Times Coffeehouse
5015 Connecticut Ave, NW
Metro: Friendship Heights and walk or take the L1, L2 or M4 bus

PAST: ART: "Judy Rushin: Between us: Variance Invariance Project by Judy Rushin &" at Flashpoint Gallery in Chinatown from FRI, May 16th - SAT, Jun 21st, Open TUES - SAT from 12:00pm - 6:00pm, Free

Judy Rushin: Between us: Variance Invariance Project by Judy Rushin &

Free

On view Friday, May 16th - Saturday, June 21st

Gallery Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 12:00pm - 6:00pm or by appointment

Judy Rushin treats paintings as things in motion rather than inert artifacts. With a focus on the vernacular of quick-assembly housing and furniture, Rushin created a system in which artworks are assembled, dismantled and shipped in small boxes. By sharing her work with individuals and in galleries and museums with their shipping boxes, texts and project documentation, her work is an experiment in collaborative design, alternative platforms for artistic engagement and affirms the gallery's role as a site for social discourse. Presented by CulturalDC.

Flashpoint Gallery
916 G St NW
Metro: Gallery Pl - Chinatown, 9th & G exit

PAST: Here's a list of Fabulous Free Arts &Culture events from CultureCapital.com for SAT, May 24th

Here are some more great free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com! This site is a fantastic resource for events provided by CultureCapital (formerly known as the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington) a wonderful organization that supports and highlights the DC metro area's vibrant and diverse arts community! See the "Free in DC" Inside Out page on CultureCapital.com for a list of exhibits on view! Plus, CultureCapital.com is now on facebook.

Saturday, May 24th

Photo courtesy WTTG Fox 5 via CultureCapital

Morning - Gardening Workshop - Anacostia
Preparing Your Spring Garden
10:30am
Join TV personality Derek Thomas of WTTG Fox 5 (the Garden Guy) as he leads a workshop on the ins and outs of creating a luscious and productive home garden for the upcoming spring season.

Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum

1901 Fort Place, SE (map)
Metro: Anacostia and take the W2 bus, see metro 

CultureCapital.com is now on facebook + Find more free events on their "Free in DC" Inside Out page!

PAST: MEDITATION: Science of Spirituality DC Intro to Meditation conctinues at the Palisades Library on THURS, May 22nd, Free

Final of Two Part Series - Thursday, May 22nd
"Meditation: A Path to Mental and Physical Well Being"
A Two-Part Series with Sangeeta Prasad
7:00pm - 8:30pm
Free

Science of Spirituality offers free meditation workshops at area libraries and at their new home in DC. See a list of their ongoing events at their DC center most Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. You can learn more about Jyoti Meditation on their website and connect with them on twitter @SOS_WashDC.

Palisades Library
4901 V St. NW
Metro: bus access only, see metro trip-planner for best bus access

PAST: MEDITATION: Intro to Meditation Series with David Newcomb of Science of Spirituality DC on WED, May 21st from 7:00pm - 8:30pm at the SE Neighborhood Library by the Eastern Market Metro, Free

"Deeper Into Meditation" with David Newcomb of Science of Spirituality
Three-part introduction series
Wednesdays - May 7th, 14th & 21st
7:00pm - 8:30pm
Free
Attend any or all sessions as able

Final class in this series!
Wednesday, May 21st
Feel free to attend even if you missed the other classes

Regular meditation has been shown to promote tranquility and relaxation, and to lower stress levels. All levels of meditation practice are welcome, especially beginners! Learn how meditation can help to reduce stress and improve the quality of your life at this free, three-part workshop on Wednesday nights at the beautiful Southeast Library right by the Eastern Market metro.

The workshop will be led by David Newcomb of Science of Spirituality, DC Chapter, which offers free meditation workshops throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, including the DC area. David is a long-time meditator. He'll share some simple and effective meditation techniques during this free workshop and be there to answer any questions you may have.

About the facilitator: Author, musician, teacher and long-time D.C. resident David Newcomb has been mediating for many years. He worked for as a contract consultant specializing in construction contract disputes until his retirement in 2010. David is a published author, and has written three stage plays and numerous poems. His more recent work includes a collection of spiritual songs, Satsangi Symphony and he is currently working on a musical which, like his meditation practice, focuses on spreading the message of love, unity and peace through meditation and service

You can learn more about SOS DC and Jyoti Meditation on their website and connect with the SOS DC on twitter @SOS_WashDC. Science of Spirituality also has a brand new Meditation Center in DC near Arizona Ave and Cathedral Ave NW. You can see a list of events that they host there on the post on Free in DC.

Southeast Library
403 7th St SE
Metro: Eastern Market, right by the metro!

PAST: ART: Free events from this Weekend's East City Round Up for SUN, May 18th - Open Studios, Art Openings and More + East City now covers more than just SE, NE and MD events!

Weekend East City Round Up: Activism in Art Edition

New! East City now covers more than just SE, NE and MD events! 

Sunday, May 18th

Mid City Artists - Annual Spring Open Studios!

12:00pm - 5:00pm
The artists of Mid City are holding an Open Studio Tour. On Saturday and Sunday join fellow art enthusiasts in visiting studios spread among the Mid City area of NW Washington DC (from Dupont Circle to Logan Circle). The day offer visitors a rare portal into the artists’ creative habitat and an opportunity to participate in the District’s dynamic and diverse arts community. There will also be two-hour free, guided walking tours of 4 to 6 studios in Mid City. Space for those tours is limited so sign up now!
Various venues around Logan Circle and 14th St
Metro: Recommend walking down 14th St from U St south or north from McPherson Sq or take the Circulator bus, Woodley-McPherson route, along 14th St to RI Ave or P St

Book Launch and Mini-Workshop at SCRAP DC 

1:00pm - 3:00pm
Join SCRAP DC in welcoming author Betsy Greer to celebrate her new anthology, Craftivism. This book launch and darning mini-workshop support the worldwide movement that functions at the intersection of craft and activism. So bring a piece of clothing to mend and join the movement! Details here.
Scrap DC

3101 12th St NE

Metro: Brookland 

Jess Oros is the Production Manager of East City Art. You can get more information about East City Art on Facebook by follow them on Twitter or click here to sign up for their newsletter.

PAST: HIGHLIGHTS: More Free events this SUN, May 18th - Thanks to CultureCapital.com, a Fabulous resource for Arts and Culture events in DC, MD & VA

Here are some more great free arts and culture events from CultureCapital.com! This site is a fantastic resource for events provided by CultureCapital (formerly known as the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington) a wonderful organization that supports and highlights the DC metro area's vibrant and diverse arts community! See the "Free in DC" Inside Out page on CultureCapital.com for a list of exhibits on view! Plus, CultureCapital.com is now on facebook.

Sunday, May 18th

Israel Fest at Rockville Town Square
1:00pm - 5:00pm
Rock the Square for Israel’s 66th birthday! Come and celebrate the sights, sounds and flavors of Israel, right in your own backyard! Israel Fest brings together friends, family and neighbors together for a fun filled afternoon of music, entertainment and food. Presented by Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington. Read more here. 

Rockville Town Square

Metro: Rockville, just about a 7 minute walk or so, take the elevator up to the bridge and follow the path, down the stairs, past the shops and movie theater, turn right and cross the street, the Square is a little further down, past more shops, on the left side.

Afternoon - Literary Readings - Bethesda, MD
Ron Capps and Joseph Bathanti
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ron Capps reads from his new memoir, Seriously Not All Right. He is joined by visiting writer Joseph Bathanti. Followed by a reception and book signing.
The Writer's Center

4508 Walsh St - Bethesda, MD

Metro: Bethesda, elevator exit is closest

Afternoon - Chamber Music Concert at NoVa Community College - Alexandria, VA

The U.S. Marine Chamber Orchestra performs My End Is My Beginning
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Works by Mozart, Barber and Beethoven! See program details here.
Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall
at NoVa Community College
3001 North Beauregard St - Alexandria, VA
Metro: See metro trip-planner for best bus access from metro. Driving? Parking $6 per car in the Beauregard Garage.

CultureCapital.com is now on facebook + more free events on their "Free in DC" Inside Out page!

PAST: FESTIVAL: The Annual Food Festival of the Americas on the grounds of the OAS this SUN, May 18th from 11:00am - 5:00pm, Free, Food available for Purchase, Benefits Charity

Annual Food Festival of the Americas
Sunday, May 18th
11:00am - 5:00pm
Free, but you'll likely want to bring some money to spend on the food, raffles and whatnot - all proceeds benefit charities that support the well-being of women and children of the Americas

Come out to the OAS’s Annual Food Festival of the Americas this Sunday on the grounds of the Organization of American States on 17th and Constitution Avenue, NW. The festival, now in it's 16th year, will feature live music, raffles, food, dance, and drinks from around the Hemisphere, everything from Brazil’s caipirinhas, Caribbean food fare, to Canadian beer and cupcakes. Explore the food and culture of Latin America, the Caribbean and OAS Observer States. Proceeds from this year's event will assist deserving institutions in Mexico, Paraguay, Panama, the Bahamas, Barbados and DC.

The grounds of the OAS
17th & Constitution Avenue, NW
Metro: Federal Triangle, Farragut West or Farragut North, about a 14 minute walk from the metro

PAST: MUSIC: The "Music with the Angels" Concert Series presents Mosaique a solo program of Spanish dances and melodies featuring cellist Ana Topalovic on SUN, May 18th at 7:30pm at the Church of the Holy City, Free, donations appreciated

The "Music with the Angels" Concert Series presents Mosaique a solo program of Spanish dances and melodies featuring cellist Ana Topalovic
Sunday, May 18th
7:30pm - 9:00pm
Free, donations to the Organ Fund will be gratefully received

Reception follows the program

Church of the Holy City
1611 16th St. NW
Metro: Dupont Circle and walk over or take the S2 or S4 bus along 16th St right there, stop closest to Corcoran 

PAST: ART + SCIENCE: "Prometheus Unbound" A DASER Special with Scientist Talks + local Singer/Songwriter Margot MacDonald and DJ AutoRock on THURS, May 15th from 6:00pm - 9:00pm, Free, RSVP Required

Prometheus Unbound: A DASER Special 
Thursday, May 15th
6:00pm - 9:00pm

Free, RSVP required, please bring photo ID 

Cultural Programs of the National Academy of Sciences, thirstDC, and The Science & Entertainment Exchange announce Prometheus Unbound: A DASER Special, a collaborative live event at the National Academy of Sciences. The event will feature local singer-songwriter Margot MacDonald and DJ AutoRock playing music and scientists from NIH, Johns Hopkins, Columbia University, and NAS scientists. You can join or follow the twitter conversation at #DASERthirst.

Prometheus Unbound brings together a group of diverse experts for an entertaining look at the science behind the popular movie Prometheus (2012). The panel of experts includes: Summer Ash, Astrophysicist and Director of Outreach, Department of Astronomy, Columbia University, New York City; Jeffrey Kahn, Professor of Bioethics and Public Policy, Johns Hopkins University Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, MD; Michael Sappol, Historian, National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD; and Eric Schulze, Molecular Biologist and Co-Founder, Creative Director, and Chief Nerd, thirstDC, Washington, D.C. JD Talasek, Director, Cultural Programs of the National Academy of Sciences, moderates the discussion.

About the organizers: Cultural Programs of the National Academy of Sciences sponsors exhibitions, film screenings, the quasi-monthly salon called D.C. Art Science Evening Rendezvous (DASER), and other events that explore relationships among the arts and sciences. The Science & Entertainment Exchange of the National Academy of Sciences connects entertainment industry professionals with top scientists and engineers to create a synergy between accurate science and engaging storylines in both film and TV programming.  thirstDC aims to create and foster thought leaders both on and off stage by crafting an informal environment where world renowned experts socialize, interact with, and inspire attendees in a lounge atmosphere. thirstDC: Be utterly fascinating.

Margot MacDonald and DJ AutoRock will provide creative disruptions. Included in NPR’s Favorite Discoveries from the 2013 CMJ Music Festival and voted 2014 Best Singer by Washington City Paper readers; songwriter, vocalist, and live looper Margot MacDonald embodies a one-woman band. With his former band Big/Bright and as a DJ, AutoRock has played to packed crowds at the Howard Theater, U Street Music Hall, Black Cat and other venues around Washington, D.C. His monthly party MASS APPEAL is now in its sixth year at the Rock & Roll Hotel.

The National Academy of Sciences
2101 Constitution Ave NW
Auditorium and Great Hall
Metro: Foggy Bottom and walk about 13 minutes or see metro trip-planner for bus options, ie 80 bus, that may get you closer. 

UPDATE: Weekly: District Flea is no longer.... Update from THURS, May 15th - District Flea has Closed - was every SAT from 10:00am - 5:00pm at the corner of W St & Florida Ave NW starting on SAT, April 5th, near the U St Metro

District Flea is back for the Season!

every Saturday beginning on April 5th

10:00am - 5:00pm

Free to get in though you'l probably want some money to spend while you're there.

Update: Thursday, May 15th, 2014
I just read that District Flea has closed. Bummer.

Like the original Brooklyn Flea, the District Flea is an outdoor market that will feature top vendors of vintage and repurposed furniture, vintage clothing, collectibles and antiques, as well as a tightly curated selection of jewelry, art, and crafts by local artisans and designers, plus delicious fresh food. A collaboration between local vendors and the folks that started Brooklyn Flea, District Flea hosts 100+ collectors, makers, and chefs from in and around DC, Baltimore, Philly, and New York. Beginning April 5, 2014 they will be open every Saturday from 10am-5pm, at 945 Florida Ave., NW (W and Florida). If you go, be sure to swing by and say hi to my friend + say hi to Christopher at Brown & Williams British clothing wares, he usually vends.

District Flea outdoor market

945 Florida Ave NW

Metro: U St, African American War Memorial exit