* This exhibition runs Mar. 7–Apr. 12, with a public reception and awards ceremony on Sat., Mar. 21. *
Montpelier Arts Center strives to foster a positive, creative environment where young and emerging artists realize their full potential. Now in its 14th year, this annual exhibition spotlights the talents of visual artists ages 13-19 from the Washington, D.C., area. The juror awards prizes based on artistic excellence, with cash prizes for first, second, and third place. Beginning in winter 2025, interested teens may submit work online for consideration at MontpelierArtsCenter.submittable.com.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 12–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 14. *
Amanda Spaid was inspired during the pandemic to focus on hyper-local subjects, creating detailed drawings of birds in the D.C. area. She hopes that slowing down and examining what’s happening to the planet, not just on a global level, but literally in our backyards, will inspire people to make decisions that benefit all locals — humans and birds alike.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 14–Apr. 12, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 14. *
With pottery, there is a repetition to the craft, whether through the process, with the result, or both. In the work for this exhibition, Chris Kirages will explore and build two-dimensional imagery through the repetition of handmade clay objects arranged near others of similar size but varying in color, value, and tone, to create a ceramic wall painting.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 17, with a public reception on Thu., Apr. 2. *
Roxana is a collage artist fascinated by the art of collage. She uses snippets of magazine paper, fabric, photographs, pencil drawings, raw pigments, and anything that enriches the texture and color of her images. Her goal is for each of her art pieces to awaken feelings in the viewer. Consolation, love, festivity, protection, happiness, innocence, and solitude are words that she has heard others use to describe her collages.
This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from March 23-May 17, 2026, and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 28. *
South Korean artist Ju Yun navigates the tension between two contrasting worlds. Transitioning from traditional Korean art to fully contemporary subjects and techniques, Yun embraces the space in between. Through layered compositions of polymer clay and found objects, their mask projects explore themes of hybrid identity—transforming existing forms into something new, reshaping meaning, and influencing others.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 28. *
Kimberly Margioni’s work explores the delicate balance between nature, emotion, and cultural heritage. Drawing inspiration from the world around her—the vibrant landscapes or the quiet beauty of everyday moments—she seeks to capture the essence of life in its raw, unfiltered form. Her creative process is rooted in the belief that art has the power to transcend boundaries and speak directly to the soul. Each piece reflects her travel journey, an invitation to feel deeply and connect with the universal experience of love, resilience, and transformation. As a current naval officer and mechanical engineer, she brings a unique perspective to her art, breaking from the rigidity of her day-to-day to dive into her abstract, fluid, imperfect approach with emotional depth. This creates both structured and fluid works, grounded yet ever evolving.
Get ready for an afternoon of electrifying music as Kevin Levi takes the stage, blending hip-hop, R&B, neo-soul, and ballads with his signature rich and melodic saxophone sound. With over two decades as one of the most sought-after musicians on both coasts, Kevin brings an unforgettable performance that moves the soul and ignites the spirit. Now touring with his groundbreaking new album, ATONE, Kevin pushes creative boundaries with a fresh, rhythmically rooted sound, inspiring a new generation of saxophonists. Don’t miss your chance to witness this masterful musician live—feel the rhythm, embrace the soul, and experience the magic of Kevin Levi!
* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 17, with a public reception on Thu., Apr. 2. *
Roxana is a collage artist fascinated by the art of collage. She uses snippets of magazine paper, fabric, photographs, pencil drawings, raw pigments, and anything that enriches the texture and color of her images. Her goal is for each of her art pieces to awaken feelings in the viewer. Consolation, love, festivity, protection, happiness, innocence, and solitude are words that she has heard others use to describe her collages.
This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from March 23-May 17, 2026, and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 17, with a public reception on Thu., Apr. 2. *
Roxana is a collage artist fascinated by the art of collage. She uses snippets of magazine paper, fabric, photographs, pencil drawings, raw pigments, and anything that enriches the texture and color of her images. Her goal is for each of her art pieces to awaken feelings in the viewer. Consolation, love, festivity, protection, happiness, innocence, and solitude are words that she has heard others use to describe her collages.
This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from March 23-May 17, 2026, and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.
Message is not your typical concert series. It is an oasis where local artists find their voice and share their stories. Here, music transcends mere entertainment – it becomes personal. Local talent takes center stage. These are the musicians who play at the neighborhood cafes, scribble lyrics on napkins, and dream big. They’re not chasing fame, they’re chasing connection. From soulful ballads to introspective rap, their performances resonate with authenticity. Every Message event is unrepeatable, no two shows are alike; each carries a unique message. The audience sits close enough to see the artist’s fingertips on the strings and feel the raw emotion in every lyric. This is an event for anyone seeking refuge from the noise, who craves more than a passive concert experience.
Join us for an egg-citing afternoon of Easter egg dyeing! Experiment with colors, patterns, and fun techniques to create one-of-a-kind eggs for your spring celebrations.
* This exhibition runs Apr. 6–May 30, with a public reception on Sat., Apr. 11 and an artist and curator talk on Sat., May 9. *
Curated by Akemi Maegawa in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Borderless explores themes of identity, migration, and cultural fluidity. Featuring Jeff Huntington (JAHRU), Mei Mei Chang, Tang, June Lee, and Julia Chon, this exhibition highlights the diverse artistic expressions of AAPI artists who challenge boundaries—both literal and conceptual. Through dynamic visual storytelling and innovative materials, Borderless reflects the interconnectedness of heritage and contemporary experience, embracing art as a space without limits.
This exhibition runs Apr. 6-May 30, with an opening reception on Sat., Apr. 11 and an artist & curator talk on Sat., May 9.
Art Enables presents Maurice Barnes & Nonja Tiller: Real Characters for the first part of the Art Enables at Brentwood
series. Barnes and Tiller, both prolific and long-time Art Enables resident artists, bring their unique illustrative work to life, filled with narrative depth, keen observation, and expressive characters. Barnes’ colored pencil drawings depict vibrant scenes from everyday life, evoking a wide range of emotions, from laughter to surprise, tension, and compassion. They create a complex emotional landscape that reflects a deep sensitivity to individual experiences. Tiller’s ink drawings, brimming with whimsical and surreal creatures, often merge the familiar with the fantastic. Her works are populated by relatable human figures and alien-like beings, exploring raw emotions and gritty storytelling.
Immerse yourself in the rich and musical traditions that span continents and cultures, bringing together the joyous and infectious rhythms that have shaped global music. Celebrate and move to the captivating sounds of Samba, Bossa Nova, Calypso, Cha Cha Cha, and other world beats. Join us for an unforgettable experience that celebrates the diversity and beauty of these timeless sounds.
National recording artist Kevin Howard is an award-winning keyboardist, writer, composer, and producer. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, he was named Jazz Artist of the Year in 2018 by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. He and his band of world-class musicians will tantalize and delight you with their energy, charisma, and smooth, dynamic sounds.
Young Stars Live: A Showcase of Rising Talent! Get ready for an electrifying night of music, theater, and dance as the Young Stars take the stage. This dynamic showcase features incredible teen performers who have honed their talents through our artist development program, bringing creativity, passion, and high-energy performances to the spotlight. From powerful vocals to stunning choreography and captivating drama, this is a show you don’t want to miss. Come cheer on the next generation of stars and experience the magic of live performance. One night only—don’t miss it!
Jonathan “Juanito” Pascual is an internationally recognized guitarist and “flamenco phenom” (The Boston Globe). The Trio creates a sound that seamlessly merges flamenco with elements of jazz, world music, rock, pop, and soul. This performance features exciting new music, including arrangements of Jimi Hendrix and other pop and jazz icons.
* This exhibition runs Apr. 6–May 30, with a public reception on Sat., Apr. 11 and an artist and curator talk on Sat., May 9. *
Curated by Akemi Maegawa in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Borderless explores themes of identity, migration, and cultural fluidity. Featuring Jeff Huntington (JAHRU), Mei Mei Chang, Tang, June Lee, and Julia Chon, this exhibition highlights the diverse artistic expressions of AAPI artists who challenge boundaries—both literal and conceptual. Through dynamic visual storytelling and innovative materials, Borderless reflects the interconnectedness of heritage and contemporary experience, embracing art as a space without limits.
This exhibition runs Apr. 6-May 30, with an opening reception on Sat., Apr. 11 and an artist & curator talk on Sat., May 9.
Art Enables presents Maurice Barnes & Nonja Tiller: Real Characters for the first part of the Art Enables at Brentwood
series. Barnes and Tiller, both prolific and long-time Art Enables resident artists, bring their unique illustrative work to life, filled with narrative depth, keen observation, and expressive characters. Barnes’ colored pencil drawings depict vibrant scenes from everyday life, evoking a wide range of emotions, from laughter to surprise, tension, and compassion. They create a complex emotional landscape that reflects a deep sensitivity to individual experiences. Tiller’s ink drawings, brimming with whimsical and surreal creatures, often merge the familiar with the fantastic. Her works are populated by relatable human figures and alien-like beings, exploring raw emotions and gritty storytelling.
Jump into spring with a little cosplay costume and some animated magic! Join us at the Publick Playhouse for our annual Family Dress-up & Movie Day. Dress as your favorite royal character and capture memorable photos with our special guest, a real-life princess. Enjoy craft activities for kids and then settle in to watch the film Snow White (2025). Please note, this event is recommended for ages 3-12, however, everyone must have a ticket to enter.
This performance is part of our Tiny Tots Series and is recommended for PreK-Grade 2. Bats, butterflies, and bees – OH MY! Join us on a journey to learn about the world of our planet’s powerful pantheon of pollinators! Take an adventure to meet pollinators big and small as they do their part to keep the biodiversity of all our ecosystems thriving. Get ready to dance like a honeybee, leap like a lemur and beat those hummingbird wings in this new Discovery Theater Original piece! Note: this show has two versions, one targeting the science curriculum focuses of K to Grade 2 (“Powerful Pollinators” at 10 am), and the other for Grades 3 to 5 (“Mother Earth & Me” at 11:15 am), each reinforcing topics explored in the state standards for DMV schools. Please note, everyone must have a ticket to enter, regardless of age.
This performance is part of our Education on Stage Series and is recommended for Grades 3-5.The magic of earth science takes center stage in this fun, interactive Discovery Theater original as we explore the origins of our planet, the water cycle, and our essential role in protecting the ecosystem, as well as folklore about the “big blue marble” we call home. Kick off Earth Month by pledging to become an Earth Warrior—and find some great ways to start immediately! Note: this show has two versions, one targeting the science curriculum focuses of K to Grade 2 (“Powerful Pollinators” at 10 am), and the other for Grades 3 to 5 (“Mother Earth & Me” at 11:15 am), each reinforcing topics explored in the state standards for DMV schools.. Please note, everyone must have a ticket to enter, regardless of age.
I Dream of Wires uncovers the history and resurgence of the modular synthesizer, tracing its evolution from a niche music tool to an essential part of modern music production. This film is a must-see for those intrigued by the combination of engineering and musical innovation.
Brentwood Arts Exchange is excited to host ongoing jam sessions featuring a unique, original synth and modular music style. Drop-in musicians of every genre are invited to join and contribute. Bring your instrument, plug in, and be part of the sound!
Ceramic is clay from the earth plus fire, colored with minerals ranging from common iron oxide to gold and silver. Linda Bernard will explore forms, images, and colors that reflect our beautiful Earth. She hopes they may inspire us with fire in our hearts to take care of our amazing home and its people.
* This exhibition runs Apr. 18–May 31, with a public reception and awards ceremony on Sun., May 3. *
This annual exhibition, organized by the Laurel Art Guild, is juried by a regional professional and shows works by artists ages 18 and older in the Washington, D.C., area. The exhibit includes paintings, drawings, photographs, wall-hung sculptures, collages, and more. Cash prizes are awarded for first, second, and third place, along with three merit awards. Get involved and enjoy the support and camaraderie of your fellow local artists — more information is available at laurelartguild.org.
Designed for musicians and performing artists, this session dives into branding, booking gigs, securing royalties, and building a sustainable career in the performing arts industry.
Using paint, collage, papercuts, and other media, Yemonja’s intricate and colorful mixed-media works emphasize self-care. She aims to create new forms through focused examination and deconstruction while reassembling tenderly, even elements of broken spirit.
Active service members and veterans of all eras are invited to join this free, monthly small group reading and discussion dinner series centered around books which relate to military experiences or offer a veteran’s perspective. Veterans Book Group is coordinated statewide by Maryland Humanities and presented locally in partnership with Montpelier Arts Center. Discussions are led by Dr. Karen Arnold, former poet-in-residence at the Arts Center and discussion moderator for multiple literature groups in Baltimore. Dinner and reading materials are provided. Call 301-377-7800 for more information and to register. Spaces are limited; registration is required by Jan. 6, 2026.
Enjoy the abbreviated matinee show presentation from the acclaimed Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT). For nearly 50 years, DBDT has mesmerized audiences with its spellbinding performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and reach diverse communities. Founded in 1976, DBDT is the oldest, continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas. The ensemble, a contemporary modern dance company, consists of experienced, full-time dancers performing a mixed repertory of modern, jazz, ethnic, and spiritual works by nationally and internationally known choreographers. Their repertoire includes works by Alvin Ailey, Elisa Monte, Milton Myers, Asadata Dafora, Matthew Rushing, Christopher L. Huggins, Twyla Tharp, and others. Note: there are TWO showtimes for this performance, 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. Please double check your showtime before completing your purchase.
Enjoy the abbreviated matinee show presentation from the acclaimed Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT). For nearly 50 years, DBDT has mesmerized audiences with its spellbinding performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and reach diverse communities. Founded in 1976, DBDT is the oldest, continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas. The ensemble, a contemporary modern dance company, consists of experienced, full-time dancers performing a mixed repertory of modern, jazz, ethnic, and spiritual works by nationally and internationally known choreographers. Their repertoire includes works by Alvin Ailey, Elisa Monte, Milton Myers, Asadata Dafora, Matthew Rushing, Christopher L. Huggins, Twyla Tharp, and others. Note: there are TWO showtimes for this performance, 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. Please double check your showtime before completing your purchase.
Middle & High School students can enjoy an abbreviated performance from the acclaimed Dallas Black Dance Theatre (DBDT), including a brief talkback after the show. For nearly 50 years, DBDT has mesmerized audiences with its spellbinding performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and reach diverse communities. Founded in 1976, DBDT is the oldest, continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas. The ensemble, a contemporary modern dance company, consists of experienced, full-time dancers performing a mixed repertory of modern, jazz, ethnic, and spiritual works by nationally and internationally known choreographers. Their repertoire includes works by Alvin Ailey, Elisa Monte, Milton Myers, Asadata Dafora, Matthew Rushing, Christopher L. Huggins, Twyla Tharp, and others. For Grades 7-12. Groups of 20+ can call 301-277-1710 for Group Sales or fill out the online request form.
A spellbinding and hilarious lady, Miss Gayle began her comedy career at Jeff Valdez Comedy Club in Colorado Springs in 1992. After a standing ovation for her first performance, she was hooked. Born in Chatham, Virginia, and now residing in Danville, Virginia, she has been amusing audiences since age six. Known for her down-home humor, Miss Gayle is bright, energetic, and outrageously funny. She has headlined and featured before sold-out audiences nationwide, opened for national acts, and appeared on national television. She performs across the U.S. and abroad, captivating audiences with humor and charm.
Gwenyth Aggeler is a classical guitarist whose performances have been described by the Cultural Voice of North Carolina as “full of energy” and “striking.” Passionate about collaborating, she is working on a new project involving the commissioning and recording works for a guitar duo by composers from diverse backgrounds. Gwenyth is pursuing a Graduate Performance Diploma at the Peabody Conservatory.
Fences is a 2016 American period drama film directed and co-produced by Denzel Washington from a screenplay by August Wilson, based on his 1985 play. It stars Washington, Viola Davis, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Jovan Adepo, Russell Hornsby, Mykelti Williamson, and Saniyya Sidney. It follows a working-class, African-American father who tries to raise his family in the 1950s, while coming to terms with the events of his life.
For nearly 50 years, the Dallas Black Dance Theatre has mesmerized audiences with its spellbinding performances and educational programs that bridge cultures and reach diverse communities. Founded in 1976, DBDT is the oldest, continuously operating professional dance company in Dallas. The ensemble, a contemporary modern dance company, consists of experienced, full-time dancers performing a mixed repertory of modern, jazz, ethnic, and spiritual works by nationally and internationally known choreographers. Their repertoire includes works by Alvin Ailey, Elisa Monte, Milton Myers, Asadata Dafora, Matthew Rushing, Christopher L. Huggins, Twyla Tharp, and others.
Pianist, composer, arranger, and author Sharp Radway is a protégé of jazz legend Dr. Randy Weston. With deep roots in the church, his debut album of gospel jazz is Hymns and Things. His latest endeavor, Black Woman—A Conversation, combines Latin jazz, spoken word, ensemble pieces, pocket grooves, and more in tribute to Black women.
Celebrate Spring in full bloom with a paper flower-making workshop! Learn techniques to craft delicate and vibrant paper flowers that will never wilt—perfect for home décor or gifts.
Join our educators at this hands-on activity table where creativity takes flight! Perfect for budding engineers and aviation enthusiasts, this interactive program allows visitors to design and build their own creations. Whether you’re constructing airplanes, airports, or inventing something entirely new, Saturday STEAM Hour encourages you to dream big and bring your ideas to life. Drop in anytime during the hour for an opportunity to explore the wonders of aviation through play. This program is ideal for learners ages 6-12 and is FREE with museum admission. No registration required.
* This exhibition runs Apr. 18–May 31, with a public reception and awards ceremony on Sun., May 3. *
This annual exhibition, organized by the Laurel Art Guild, is juried by a regional professional and shows works by artists ages 18 and older in the Washington, D.C., area. The exhibit includes paintings, drawings, photographs, wall-hung sculptures, collages, and more. Cash prizes are awarded for first, second, and third place, along with three merit awards. Get involved and enjoy the support and camaraderie of your fellow local artists — more information is available at laurelartguild.org.
* This exhibition runs Apr. 18–May 17, with a public reception on Sun., May 3. *
Ceramic is clay from the earth plus fire, colored with minerals ranging from common iron oxide to gold and silver. Linda Bernard will explore forms, images, and colors that reflect our beautiful Earth. She hopes they may inspire us with fire in our hearts to take care of our amazing home and its people.
