Events

Harmony Hall Arts Center presents “AILEY”—a captivating film celebrating Alvin Ailey, a revolutionary dance icon. Director Jamila Wignot skillfully brings Ailey’s enduring legacy to life, revealing the profound impact of his choreography on the Black American experience. Through intimate interviews and evocative archival footage, “AILEY” captures the brilliance of this visionary artist who created not just dance, but a community where emotions run deep and the human spirit soars. Experience the beauty and power of Alvin Ailey’s work.

Right over Left: DMV Runway Review (2017-Present) is a group exhibition, curated by Danyela J Brown. The exhibition, comprised of videos from legendary DMV runway clips and archived effects, seeks to juxtapose the artists’ relationships to craft and performance with the call-and-response timescale of Runway as a genre determined on the floor. Danyela insists upon critical ballroom studies as a methodology for reckoning with the material realities and urgencies of Black and brown, queer and trans, neurodiverse and disabled artists. Ballroom as a genre is stridently competitive, decidedly ephemeral, and absolutely ungovernable—at the same time it is the only platform many have to celebrate their expertise and self-determination. Brown started voguing in 2017 at SMYAL and has walked internationally in the mainstream and Kiki ballroom scenes. Currently, she is VA Mother of the Kiki House of Supreme, and she serves as Director of Operations for DMV Kiki Nights Inc, curating ballroom programming in DC.

The Sound of DC: A Visual History of Go-Go explores the history and contemporary influences of Go-Go, a music genre developed by African American DC musicians and named aptly for the funk style, heavy on bass and percussion, that went on for hours at a time.

Enjoy this concert version of the Broadway hit “Showboat” by composer Jerome Kern and lyrics by Rogers and Hammerstein, based on the ASALH 2025 theme of Blacks and Labor. Featuring Grammy award winning Black classical singers, chorus, and dancers, the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts (CAAPA) production highlights hit musical selections including “Ol’ Man River” and “Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man.” Also highlighted as a part of the show is CAAPA’s version of the famous “Cakewalk”…so remember to bring your own hat, bring your fans, and be a part of the fun!

Join us for an opening reception of “Myth and Mystery” with artist Sharon Robinson. Trained as a city planner and working in the transit and urban design field for over 20 years, Sharon Robinson has been a full-time artist, muralist and teacher since 2000. Her artworks are intricate and richly textured collages and mixed media pieces that explore identity and nourish the humanistic spirit.

This exhibit will be on display in the lobby of the Publick Playhouse from Mon., Feb. 3, 2025-Sun., Apr. 13, 2025 during regular building hours (M-F, 9 am – 5 pm). Please note that art exhibits are not viewable if a performance or event is taking place due to the close proximity of the theatre. Please contact the Box Office at 301-277-1710 if you would like to check the schedule before coming in to view the exhibit or before visiting with a group.

Gladys Knight is a legendary singer known for her powerful vocals and captivating performances. Her music has touched the hearts of millions and has inspired countless artists across generations. This tribute to Gladys Knight highlights her incredible talent, her contributions to music, and her impact on the industry. Join us as we celebrate her iconic songs, her soulful voice, and her lasting influence on the world of music. Gladys Knight is a true icon, and this tribute honors her enduring legacy.