Events

Get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of the season at our enchanting Holiday Marketplace! Savor delectable food and drink from our talented local vendors. We’ve got something for everyone as you stroll through our twinkling holiday marketplace. Support local shopkeepers and artisans by purchasing their lovingly crafted items Be captivated by an enchanting live performance! Gather ’round and let the music transport you to a winter wonderland. Later in the afternoon, cozy up with loved ones for a heartwarming film screening. We’re treating you to a free showing of a beloved holiday classic. Explore, laugh, and create cherished memories together.

The Brentwood Arts Exchange Artisan Shop has been a unique attraction in the Gateway Arts District for over ten years. It features a regularly evolving selection of craft and functional art. The Artisan Shop is an excellent destination to discover one-of-a-kind handcrafted items created by nearly forty local artisans, such as jewelry, textiles, pottery, fused glass, greeting cards, and more. The Holiday Craft Market and seasonal Artisan Shop Pop-Ups are highly anticipated annual events that provide additional opportunities to shop and support local artists. The Artisan Shop also hosts rotating Front Window Exhibitions that showcase small artworks and high-quality craftwork throughout the year.

Join us for three film screenings in May in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, featuring the influential Hong Kong filmmaker Kar-Wai Wong.

Brentwood Arts Exchange features three unique and affordable spaces perfect for hosting events of all types and sizes, including the Main Gallery, Lab Gallery, and Classroom. For more information about renting a space at Brentwood Arts Exchange, send an email to brentwoodarts@pgparks.com, visit pgparks.com, or call 301-277-2863.

Valerie June is a talented singer/songwriter known for her soulful voice and eclectic blend of folk, blues, and country music. With her distinctive sound and heartfelt lyrics, she has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Valerie’s music resonates with listeners, evoking emotions while showcasing her exceptional musical artistry. Come experience this Grammy-nominated, multi-instrumentalist live at the Publick Playhouse!

ON KEE Jazz Band delivers a fusion of smooth jazz and original compositions, captivating audiences across the Northeast United States. From prestigious jazz clubs like Connolly’s Jazz Club in Boston, MA, to notable events such as the Democratic Convention. Now celebrating their 30th anniversary, ON KEE continues to enchant listeners; grab your tickets today!

The blues world continues to discover and love the music of Memphis Gold. He’s made an indelible mark on the music world with a career spanning over fifty years. His journey through the realms of blues music has been nothing short of extraordinary, characterized by the release of four full-length albums. He has had the privilege of sharing the stage with icons such as James Brown, George Clinton & the Funkadelic All Stars, Shemekia Copeland, Bobby Parker, and many more. International tours and several festivals have brought Memphis Gold’s high energy blues to audiences worldwide.

* Exhibition runs Oct. 19, 2024-Nov. 24, 2024 *
Public reception Sat., Oct. 19, 2-4 pm

“Reflections of Enchantment” explores the intriguing interplay between mirrors and the imagination. Each piece in the exhibition mirrors the essence of the narratives of beloved fairy tales and ancient myths, weaving new stories from old images that transcend time and space. Keller uses deconstructed works from art history to propel each story forward, incorporating mixed media on paper, reclaimed books, and ceramics, as well as assemblage.

Ceramicist Cora Olson masterfully juxtaposes materials and aesthetics in her sculptures, delving into the rich tapestry of tradition and cultural responsiveness. By pushing the boundaries of clay, she crafts unique forms with intricate surface designs, all while exploring contemporary cultural issues. Olson also honors the ancient tradition of ceramics. Notably, she highlights historical gender inequality in household economics—women historically shaped clay for cooking and functional purposes. Through rough textures and elegant final pieces, Olson harmonizes masculine and feminine energies, creating a powerful artistic outlet. Her works continuing this exploration have also been shown at the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington at Marymount University.

Studios, liturgical dance companies, community dance groups, ministries, and individual dancers are invited to audition for the annual Uplift: Inspirational Dance Festival. Auditions will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024, and are by appointment only. We are seeking performances that tell a story of resilience, hope, and joy. If you would like to apply, please fill out the online application, https://bit.ly/4ehoSwA.

This annual dance program, which originally began as liturgical dance, is sourced from submissions by way of a professional adjudication process to ensure a high-quality program and is wonderfully unique year after year. We are seeking passionate and diverse dancers of varying spiritual dance styles, including, but not limited to worship, liturgical, lyrical, traditional dance styles, and specialty (African, hip-hop, contemporary, dramatic storytelling, spoken word, etc.). All styles of choreography, musical influences, and inspirations will be considered. Finalists must be available for the performance on Sun., Feb. 23, 2025 at 4pm and will receive a stipend for their participation.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please email PublickPlayhouse@pgparks.com.

Come find the Sankofa Mobile Museum at the American Indian Festival! It is FREE to experience the museum.

“Reflections of Enchantment” explores the intriguing interplay between mirrors and the imagination. Each piece in the exhibition mirrors the essence of the narratives of beloved fairy tales and ancient myths, weaving new stories from old images that transcend time and space. Keller uses deconstructed works from art history to propel each story forward, incorporating mixed media on paper, reclaimed books, and ceramics, as well as assemblage.

Praised for his “otherworldly flourish” (Wall Street Journal), countertenor Chuanyuan Liu connects with audiences through empathy, authenticity, and creativity. In 2024, he makes his Carnegie Hall debut in Renée Fleming’s SongStudio. Tongyao Li is a Chinese pianist who has performed across China and the U.S. and worked extensively as an opera pianist and vocal coach.

Kristina Penhoet is a fiber artist using handwork methods to create sculptural objects and installations to encourage reflection on the human experience. For the body of work in Contextual Remnants, she installs crocheted work that addresses some pressing issues within our current cultural context such as bodily autonomy, an overabundance of information, and societal paralysis. Penhoet is based in Washington, DC and has held artistic residencies and/or fellowships in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and Japan. Her work has been shown at the Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C. as well as other galleries and art centers throughout the United States and in Brazil.

Come find the Sankofa Mobile Museum at PGCMLS TeenTober! It is FREE to experience the museum.

For more info about the main event: https://www.pgcmls.info/event/11697487

A masterful jazz pianist, Cyrus Chestnut balances his lithe technical skill with a robust, soulful style that speaks to his deep gospel roots and love of swinging hard bop. Raised in the church, he learned how to infuse his swinging, classically trained style with a warm gospel sound. Chestnut leads the Cyrus Chestnut Trio, whose 2022 album My Father’s Hands pays tribute to his late father, who first taught him how to play. He made his Carnegie Hall debut earlier this year.

Put on your favorite costume and head to Baden Community Center for an evening of sweet treats, fun games, a costume contest, festive crafts, hayrides, face painting, and more!

Discover the captivating journey of Jim Bennett, a soulful musician whose music resonates with the essence of the South. With a voice that weaves tales of love, loss, and redemption, Jim Bennett’s melodies transport listeners to the heart of southern soul. Join us as we delve into his musical legacy, celebrating the raw emotion and authenticity that define his sound.

Come find the Sankofa Mobile Museum at Josiah Henson Museum & Park for Maryland Emancipation Day! It is FREE to experience the museum. For more info about the main event: montgomeryparks.org/maryland-emancipation-day-at-josiah-henson-museum-and-park

Soulflexology is a holistic approach to wellness that combines the principles of reflexology with a focus on emotional and spiritual well-being. By applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, and ears, Soulflexology aims to stimulate energy flow throughout the body, promoting relaxation, stress relief, and overall balance. This practice not only benefits physical health but also addresses emotional blockages and spiritual alignment, fostering a sense of harmony and connection within oneself. Soulflexology offers a unique way to nurture both the body and the soul, promoting a deeper sense of well-being and vitality.

Ceramicist Cora Olson masterfully juxtaposes materials and aesthetics in her sculptures, delving into the rich tapestry of tradition and cultural responsiveness. By pushing the boundaries of clay, she crafts unique forms with intricate surface designs, all while exploring contemporary cultural issues. Olson also honors the ancient tradition of ceramics. Notably, she highlights historical gender inequality in household economics—women historically shaped clay for cooking and functional purposes. Through rough textures and elegant final pieces, Olson harmonizes masculine and feminine energies, creating a powerful artistic outlet. Her works continuing this exploration have also been shown at the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington at Marymount University.

B is for beatbox! Move, groove, and learn along with Max and Root, a dynamic dad duo. The Beatbox Dads give the letters of the alphabet rhythm and soul as they make music with their mouths! Their lively, interactive beatboxing style teaches foundational phonics, counting, and music skills as they engage kids in musical fun! This show is recommended for children ages 3-12. Please note everyone must have a ticket to enter, regardless of age.

Beyond Networks: Work by The New Image Artists, curated by Mary Welch Higgins, seeks to create a conversation about meaning and personal expression in a complex, wired, and networked world. The exhibit highlights work by New Images Artists that explores the meaning of networks and is intended to draw attention to how the processes inherent in the creation of textile art as well as the “encoding of meaning” have been mirrored in the invention and development of digital social networks. New Image Artists is a group of professional fiber and mix media artists including B.J. Adams, Mary Beth Bellah, Linda Colish, Joan Dreyer, Candace Edgerely, Cathy Kleeman, Verena Levine, Dominie Nash, Ginny Smith, Andrea Uravitch, and Saaraliisa Ylitalo.

The Sound of DC: A Visual History is a four-part exhibition series in the Lab Gallery, focused on the rich history of the music scene in the DMV area organized by photographer Pete Duvall. Drawing from the University of Maryland’s expansive digital archives, the series begins with a focus on Punk, emerging on the scene in the 1970’s; follows with Go-Go, a style of funk that originated in D.C. in the 1970s; leading into a look at how fashion factored into these unique DC music scenes; and concluding with photography from behind-the-scenes at prominent local music venues. Each section will collaborate with local stakeholders and exhibit artifacts such as posters, flyers, zines, photographs, and audio recordings.

The Sound of DC: A Visual History of Punk explores the emergence of the punk rock subculture in 1976 in the Washington, D.C. area, leading out of a historically rich jazz scene and into subcultures distinct from other large music scenes such as New York City and London.

Anthony “Swamp Dog” Clark is a distinguished musician renowned for his unparalleled talent in blues. Inspired by blues legends such as Little Walter and Sonny Boy Williamson, Anthony’s musical journey led him to win the Washington Battle of the Blues Bands, earning a spot in the semi-finals in Memphis TN in 2011. With a repertoire that includes collaborations with Joe Louis Walker and Kenny Neal, Anthony “Swamp Dog” Clark continues to captivate audiences with his soulful performances and infectious groove.

Consisting of George Hazelrigg on piano, Geoff Hazelrigg on upright bass, and John O’Reilly, Jr. on drums, Hazelrigg Brothers is an instrumental trio that deftly melds jazz, rock, and classical music to create an experience that is engaging, entertaining, and eminently listenable. Critically acclaimed for both their musical approach and their recording techniques, Hazelrigg Brothers is a genre-defying group that is not to be underestimated.

“For Nkanza [Spring Silver], the creation of culture and the search for self appear to be tightly intertwined. The lustrous new Spring Silver album, “I Could Get Used to This,” sounds like it was made by someone who grew up minding the tweaky electronic details of the Warp Records catalogue and the melody-saturated guitar riffs of post-hardcore heroes Jawbox and Shudder to Think.” – The Washington Post  DMV-based “Leave a Message” is a project of Nathan Fussell, Ellie La’goon, and Jess Nguyen (Fictionals). Stemming from a diverse range of roots, they fuse backgrounds of jazz, electronic r&b, and classical piano, amongst a shared love of artists like Thundercat, Anderson .Paak, and the Isley Brothers. Leave a Message exposes the raw and emotive lyricism of Ellie and Jess, while intertwining the skilled and original multi-instrumentalism of Nathan. All three members take lead alternating vocals, while Jess and Nathan switch around on bass, guitar, sax, and keys. Leave a Message plays with themes ranging from deeply personal narratives of yearning to joyful liberation to create a sound that embodies a wide spectrum of soulfulness.

Experience the powerful narrative of resilience and hope in “The Color Purple” at Harmony Hall Arts Center. Directed by Blitz Bazawule, this adaptation delves deep into Celie’s struggles against adversity in the American South. Featuring a stellar cast including Taraji P. Henson and Danielle Brooks, this musical period drama depicts Celie’s journey through adversity.

Beyond Networks: Work by The New Image Artists, curated by Mary Welch Higgins, seeks to create a conversation about meaning and personal expression in a complex, wired, and networked world. The exhibit highlights work by New Images Artists that explores the meaning of networks and is intended to draw attention to how the processes inherent in the creation of textile art as well as the “encoding of meaning” have been mirrored in the invention and development of digital social networks. New Image Artists is a group of professional fiber and mix media artists including B.J. Adams, Mary Beth Bellah, Linda Colish, Joan Dreyer, Candace Edgerely, Cathy Kleeman, Verena Levine, Dominie Nash, Ginny Smith, Andrea Uravitch, and Saaraliisa Ylitalo.

The Sound of DC: A Visual History of Punk explores the emergence of the punk rock subculture in 1976 in the Washington, D.C. area, leading out of a historically rich jazz scene and into subcultures distinct from other large music scenes such as New York City and London.

Join us for an unforgettable perfume workshop! Create your own signature fragrance, exploring essential oils and fragrance families. Whether you love floral, fruity, woody, or oriental scents, this creative journey lets you express your unique style. Craft a bespoke perfume that turns heads and evokes memories. Awaken your creativity and indulge your senses in the world of perfumery.

* Exhibition runs Nov. 12, 2024-Jan. 5, 2025 *
Public reception Sun., Dec. 8, 2-4 pm

Artist Pat Dillon lives in Columbia, MD, and works predominantly in oils. Subject matter includes portraits, the figure, landscapes, and still lives. Dillon draws inspiration from his career as a musician and from museums he has explored on his travels. His broad perspective and openness to diverse art forms continue to push him to create unique works of art.

Do you have to speak at large events, but feel you don’t always convey your message effectively? Do you find yourself uncomfortable once you get in front of an audience? Join us for a class that will focus on the basic skills and techniques of public speaking, with the goal of making you a more confident, effective, and persuasive speaker. Participants will examine content, style, and delivery to present in several modes of public speaking. All skill levels are welcome.

This is an in-person class at the Publick Playhouse on Tuesdays, from 7 pm to 8 pm, November 12 – December 17, 2024. Registration for Fall Classes will open on 8/14/24 for Residents and 8/21/24 for Nonresidents. Register at www.pgparksdirect.com or call the Publick Playhouse Box Office at 301-277-1710 (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Participants must register for the entire class; no drop-ins.

This 2023 drama/comedy was called “the best picture of the year” by the Washington Post. A novelist who is fed up with the establishment profiting from Black entertainment uses a pen name to write a book that propels him into the heart of the hypocrisy and madness he claims to disdain. Directed by Cord Jefferson and starring Jeffrey Wright, Tracee Ellis Rose, John Ortiz, and Sterling K. Brown. Please be advised, this movie contains strong language. Rated R | Run time: 1h 57m. 

Karen Linette is the go-to person for vocals in the Washington, D.C., area. A pillar in the music community known for her four-octave climb and her gentle, jazzy approach, she has more than 20 years of experience as a singer and collaborative artist. Linette has shared the stage with national recording artists such as Norman Connors, Mikki Howard, Regina Belle, and Dexter Wansel, and performed in the legendary Blues Alley, the world-renowned Apollo Theater, and beyond.

The energetic Wendy Whitten, known as “The Singing Scientist,” has been entertaining audiences her entire life. She is an American science educator, award winning children’s author, and songwriter and acclaimed scientist.

Founded in 2011 by Baltimore, MD-born drummer and music director Wes Watkins, Got My Own Sound is comprised of Elliot Jefferson (keys/vocoder), Johnie Steele (keys), Raynier Hodnett (bass), Izzy Lemons (guitar), Keith Hammond (guitar), and Larry Dennis (percussion). The DMV-based band blends elements from R&B, hip hop, jazz fusion and funk to create their unique, signature sound, delivering some of the greatest feel-good music you’ll ever hear.

* Exhibition runs Nov. 16, 2024-Jan. 5, 2025 *
Public reception Sun., Dec. 8, 2-4 pm

Gathering of Art highlights the close connection among artists who met in graduate school. Together, they created Cadmium Blue Collective to continue their routine with critiques, studio visits, and group exhibitions. This show celebrates the transformative power of friendship. It isn’t just about talent; it’s about the joy of creating together and supporting one another’s artistic growth.

Come find the Sankofa Mobile Museum at Frederick Douglass High School for their Fall Festival! It is FREE to experience the museum.

For more info about the main event: https://www.pgcps.org/schools/frederick-douglass-high/calendar

Experience a soul-stirring tribute to Motown’s greatest hits. Immerse yourself in the timeless classics that defined an era as talented musicians deliver electrifying renditions of legendary Motown tunes. From the iconic sounds of The Temptations to the soulful melodies of Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell, let the music transport you back to a golden era of rhythm and blues. With a diverse repertoire spanning electrifying medleys and powerhouse ballads, this tribute promises an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of Motown.

Singing with a “liquid baritone of great charm,” “highly attractive legato,” and “precise patter elocution” (Parterre Box), Brian J. Alvarado recently made his international debut as Falke in Die Fledermaus and the Baritone in The Four-Note Opera at Le Festival d’Art Vocal de Montréal, along with role debuts as Angelotti in Tosca (Opera Vermont), and Silvio in Pagliacci (New Rochelle Opera).

Join us for an opening reception of “Retrospective” with artist Joseph Shepperd Rogers (aka AIVEN). In this exhibit, Neo-Expressionism meets Naif, in this collection of iconic Madonna’s, “still lives” and fantastical creatures. Joseph Shepperd Rogers, also known as Aiven, earned an M.F.A. Degree from the University of North Carolina, and a B.F. Degree from Greensboro College in N.C. He continued his training locally at the Corcoran School of Art in Washington, D.C.

This exhibit will be on display in the lobby of the Publick Playhouse from Mon., Nov. 11, 2024-Sun., Jan. 19, 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.

Celebrate 25 years of sweet memories! Darnall’s Chance House Museum is celebrating the 25th year of its Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Show. Come see the amazing displays of creative gingerbread structures, then vote for your favorites in the Viewer’s Choice Competition. No registration required.

Expect holiday music, hot chocolate, and 20% off every single gorgeous, handcrafted item in the store! Enjoy a stress-free shopping experience and support local artists, who still receive their normal commission. Come join us, and let’s kick off the holidays together. All ages; FREE

* Exhibition runs Dec. 4, 2024-Jan. 8, 2025 *
Public reception Sun., Dec. 8, 2-4 pm

Ceramicist and sculptor Jeremy Wright explores the concept of identity and the interplay between the actual and the perceived, challenging viewers to look beyond what they immediately see to find a more subtle, yet important, subtext. Born in Canada of Cree descent, Wright identifies as a trans-cultural artist. It is not unusual to see totem spirits such as bears, eagles, and bison in the imagery of his work.

Get into the seasonal spirit with this concert of Christmas classics! Helen Hayes and Wammie-nominated performing artist and playwright Charisma Wooten is pleased to present a return engagement of her popular holiday-themed cabaret show. Cabaret Scenes Magazine notes, “Wooten’s most endearing characteristic is a deep respect for the cabaret performing tradition and her desire to share it with her audience.”

Vocalist Lena Seikaly and guitarist Steve Herberman have played together regularly for the past seven years in the DC metro area. They enjoy spontaneous interaction while performing live, offering something new each time, harkening the iconic collaboration of Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Pass. Seikaly, a finalist in the 2015 Thelonious Monk vocal competition and bandleader in her own right, has headlined venues throughout the US, as well as Turkey and China. Herberman is an internationally known jazz guitarist featured in the book The Great Jazz Guitarists by Scott Yanow. Steve switched to a 7-string guitar 30 years ago, which lends a deep foundation to the duo’s sound, much like having a bassist and a guitarist rolled into one. As a duo, they appear regularly at the Tabard Inn, have headlined Blues Alley, Gaithersburg Arts Barn and various other DC venues, and released an album in 2018 entitled “A Little Closer.”

Beyond Networks: Work by The New Image Artists, curated by Mary Welch Higgins, seeks to create a conversation about meaning and personal expression in a complex, wired, and networked world. The exhibit highlights work by New Images Artists that explores the meaning of networks and is intended to draw attention to how the processes inherent in the creation of textile art as well as the “encoding of meaning” have been mirrored in the invention and development of digital social networks. New Image Artists is a group of professional fiber and mix media artists including B.J. Adams, Mary Beth Bellah, Linda Colish, Joan Dreyer, Candace Edgerely, Cathy Kleeman, Verena Levine, Dominie Nash, Ginny Smith, Andrea Uravitch, and Saaraliisa Ylitalo.

The Sound of DC: A Visual History of Punk explores the emergence of the punk rock subculture in 1976 in the Washington, D.C. area, leading out of a historically rich jazz scene and into subcultures distinct from other large music scenes such as New York City and London.

Returning to the Publick Playhouse stage, the National Ballet Company revisits the enchanting world of “The Nutcracker,” a holiday classic that has captivated audiences of all ages for generations. The production, with its magical storyline, vibrant costumes, and breathtaking choreography, is set against the backdrop of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, creating an immersive experience that transports viewers to a whimsical winter wonderland. The tale of Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, the malevolent Mouse King, and the ethereal Sugar Plum Fairy unfolds with grace and beauty, embodying the spirit of the holidays and the transformative power of imagination.

Celebrate the arts and the holidays at Montpelier Arts Center! Meet our talented resident artists and see how they make their art through demonstrations and artist talks. Visit exhibitions in our three galleries and enjoy our receptions for Pat Dillon, Cadmium Blue Collective, and Jeremy Wright. Take part in an art activity and celebrate the season with your family and friends!

Artist Pat Dillon lives in Columbia, MD, and works predominantly in oils. Subject matter includes portraits, the figure, landscapes, and still lives. Dillon draws inspiration from his career as a musician and from museums he has explored on his travels. His broad perspective and openness to diverse art forms continue to push him to create unique works of art.

Gathering of Art highlights the close connection among artists who met in graduate school. Together, they created Cadmium Blue Collective to continue their routine with critiques, studio visits, and group exhibitions. This show celebrates the transformative power of friendship. It isn’t just about talent; it’s about the joy of creating together and supporting one another’s artistic growth.

Ceramicist and sculptor Jeremy Wright explores the concept of identity and the interplay between the actual and the perceived, challenging viewers to look beyond what they immediately see to find a more subtle, yet important, subtext. Born in Canada of Cree descent, Wright identifies as a trans-cultural artist. It is not unusual to see totem spirits such as bears, eagles, and bison in the imagery of his work.

Back by popular demand! Celebrate the Holidays with the soulful sounds of Motown. The soul-stirring melodies of iconic artists like the Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Nat King Cole, the Jackson 5, James Brown, and Chuck Brown are guaranteed to get you swaying in your seat and singing along with the Brencore Allstars. Gather your group and get your tickets early – this show is sure to sell out!

Get a head start on your holiday shopping and support local artists at our festive Holiday Craft Fair. Shop from more than a dozen local artists showcasing their hand-crafted art, enjoy holiday carols from a live brass band and sample the latest brews from Maryland Meadworks. You’ll be sure to find a gift for everyone on your list! All ages; FREE

Christmastime is here! Montpelier Arts Center and The Eric Byrd Trio celebrate the season with an afternoon filled with festive music from the Peanuts’ special A Charlie Brown Christmas. Comprised of pianist/vocalist Eric Byrd, bassist Bhagwan Khalsa, and drummer Alphonso Young, Jr., the Trio has traveled the world as enthusiastic ambassadors of jazz. Bringing fresh arrangements to these familiar songs, they are sure to put you in a holiday mood. “Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown!”

“A Tribute to the Music of Donny Hathaway and Roberta Flack” features National Recording Artists Jamar Dukes and Shuga Shang. Join us for an evening of live music celebrating these incredible artists. Close your eyes and savor Jamar Dukes’ renditions of beloved Donny Hathaway ballads like “The Ghetto,” “Someday We Will All Be Free,” and “A Song For You.” Shuga Shang pays homage to Roberta Flack with hits including “Killing Me Softly,” “First Time I Ever Saw Your Face,” and their duets like “I Who Have Nothing” and “Where is the Love.”

Embrace the joy of the season by joining us at our annual December family event! Get into the holiday spirit with your community, neighbors, and friends at the Publick Playhouse. Children will have a chance to visit and take pictures with a special someone from the North Pole. We’ll also have coloring activities and a short, animated movie to entertain our youngest guests before showing our feature film, “The Polar Express.” This event is recommened for children ages 3-12. Please note everyone must have a ticket to enter, regardless of age.

Be part of an afternoon of family fun and cultural immersion while learning about the event known as Kwanzaa. International griot and master storyteller Baba-C will give a preview of the annual, week-long celebration of African American culture and the seven principles that define it. This event features a ceremony, live music, and educational stories shared in the African tradition to enlighten and bring a better understanding of the occasion.

Celebrate the holiday season in spectacular style by attending an unforgettable performance from the sensational Sylver Logan Sharp, the former lead singer of the legendary group CHIC. As the holiday season draws near, there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by experiencing a live concert that promises to blend the soulful vibes of classic holiday tunes with the unique flair that only Sharp can deliver. Her dynamic voice and vibrant stage presence are sure to add a special twist to all your holiday favorites, making this event a must-see for music lovers. Having toured extensively across the US, Europe, Japan, and the UK, Sharp’s performances are a testament to her prowess as a world-class artist.

Jenny Nordstrom is a fine arts photographer who captures deeply colorful, textured images from around the world. She has been featured in solo and group shows and is a resident artist at the Torpedo Factory Art Center. This special show will simultaneously feature two separate bodies of work—her abstract imagery of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Iceland, and the Sahara Desert in Morocco.

Jenny Nordstrom is a fine arts photographer who captures deeply colorful, textured images from around the world. She has been featured in solo and group shows and is a resident artist at the Torpedo Factory Art Center. This special show will simultaneously feature two separate bodies of work—her abstract imagery of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Iceland, and the Sahara Desert in Morocco.

Feeling the Funk Band is a group of talented musicians who bring the groove and energy to the stage with their funky tunes. Their music is infectious, getting audiences up on their feet and dancing along to the beat. With their soulful melodies, tight rhythms, and killer horn section, Feeling the Funk Band delivers a performance that is both entertaining and electrifying. The band members are passionate about their craft, and it shines through in every note they play. Feeling the Funk Band is definitely a must-see live act for any music lover looking to have a good time.

This programs meets every third Thursday starting in January and running through May.

Jan. 16th 2025

Feb. 20th 2025

Mar. 20th 2025

Apr. 17th 2025

May 15th 2025

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. 7, 2025.

Get ready for an unforgettable evening as we pay homage to the iconic music of MAZE and Frankie Beverly, featuring their greatest hits including “Happy Feeling,” “Southern Girl,” “Before I Let Go,” and more. Spread the word and gather your friends for a night of great music and unforgettable memories. Secure your tickets now for what promises to be an evening of soulful tunes and celebration!

Right over Left: DMV Runway Review (2017-Present) is a group exhibition, curated by Danyela J Brown, and featuring contemporary DMV Runway artists: Boom Boom Balenciaga, Lolita Balenciaga, Gio Blahnik, Corey Chanel, Tracey Loubiton, and Kiko Old Navy. 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.

Right over Left: DMV Runway Review (2017-Present) is a group exhibition, curated by Danyela J Brown, and featuring contemporary DMV Runway artists: Boom Boom Balenciaga, Lolita Balenciaga, Gio Blahnik, Corey Chanel, Tracey Loubiton, and Kiko Old Navy. 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.

Cabaret Noir is a series of dark, comic vignettes featuring Femmes Fatales and fedoras, trench coats and torch songs, intrigue, suspense, and shadows. Happenstance Theater’s ensemble mesmerizes in a virtuosic display of physical comedy, object manipulation, and period style, with music played on multiple instruments, and characters costumed in vintage attire. Happenstance Theater, winner of five Helen Hayes Awards, has been called “DC’s leading peddler of whimsy” by the Washington Post.

* Exhibition runs Jan. 27, 2025-Feb. 28, 2025 *
Public reception Sun., Feb. 2, 2-5 pm

The M-NCPPC Black History Program returns to Montpelier Arts Center with its annual exhibition in honor of Black History Month. For more than 40 years, the Black History Program has worked to preserve, honor, and celebrate Prince George’s County’s rich African American heritage. Come out and explore stories from our county’s past that highlight the challenges and triumphs of the African American community.

For centuries, Black people have experienced the struggles of work, employment, and labor legalities in their lives. From enslaved Africans working for free and using music to endure to discrimination on the stages of today’s major opera houses, we see unjust labor practices that are discriminatory toward Black people. Based on the 2025 Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) annual theme, the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts’ (CAAPA) experts explore Black Music and Labor.

For over 15 years running, Akua Allrich has curated and performed a soul-stirring tribute presentation, honoring Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba. Akua Allrich pays homage to these two powerhouse artists, who have inspired her and millions of other jazz and music lovers around the globe. Allrich, whose own musical genesis comprises the blues, jazz, R&B, and pan-African music, features songs that Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba made their own. Join us in a musical experience based in freedom and self-expression, and particularly African expression. Allrich’s Nina Simone, Miriam Makeba tribute will leave you feeling both empowered and inspired!

The M-NCPPC Black History Program returns to Montpelier Arts Center with its annual exhibition in honor of Black History Month. For more than 40 years, the Black History Program has worked to preserve, honor, and celebrate Prince George’s County’s rich African American heritage. Come out and explore stories from our county’s past that highlight the challenges and triumphs of the African American community.

James Stephen Terrell’s Transcendence: Beyond the Terrestrial Plane weaves line, shape, and pattern into a mesmerizing collage. Figures emerge, surreal and otherworldly. Drawing from the legacy of David Driskell and Romare Bearden, he launches into uncharted territory. His work captivates the eye, demanding time for revelation. The unseen emerges, like light through stained glass windows in Black and Roman Catholic churches. Terrell’s art pulses with the vibrancy and movement of optical art, echoing Bridget Riley and Victor Vasarely.

Maryamm Abdullah, once a child enamored with painting, now finds her passion in ceramics. After a decades-long hiatus, she returned to clay, mastering the art of throwing pots. Seeking surface treatments, she drew inspiration from her love of Spain and the Moorish Aesthetic, with its vibrant patterned tiles and archways. Revisiting middle eastern art through pottery, she developed a unique approach: “Gestured Geometry.” This departure from precision allows her to capture the essence of this exquisite art form. Seemingly impossible freehand geometry thrives in her artwork, granting Ms. Abdullah boundless creative space.

Ta-Nehisi Coates’ lyrical novel “The Water Dancer” weaves tasker Hiram’s inhuman separations, fear, toil, and the supportive African American community on Lockless plantation into a quest for freedom. His mastery of spiritual conduction, work with Harriet Tubman, and determination triumph! Join Dr. Karen Arnold for a deep dive into history.

Puppet Yes! This 6-week class focuses on the power of making puppets, moving puppets, and voicing puppets. Participants will be working with fabric, paper, glue, scissors, thread and needle, and several accessories to create magical characters that then through breath, focus, locomotion, and voice come alive.

This is an in-person class at the Publick Playhouse on Tuesdays, from 7 pm to 8 pm, February 4 – March 11, 2025. Registration for Winter Classes will open in mid-November for Residents and one week after that for Nonresidents. Register at www.pgparksdirect.com or call the Publick Playhouse Box Office at 301-277-1710 (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Participants must register for the entire class; no drop-ins.

Cybele is a Washington, DC-based jazz vocalist. She brings a cool, classic sound influenced by Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and the jazz greats with her fresh takes on the great American songbook. After getting her start at Moonlight DC, formerly the Green Island Cafe, Cybele has gone on to sing in jazz duos, trios, and larger bands in bars, restaurants, and music venues around the area, including Bukom Cafe, Marx Cafe, Sala Thai, Pearl Street Warehouse, and DC9, among others.

James Stephen Terrell’s Transcendence: Beyond the Terrestrial Plane weaves line, shape, and pattern into a mesmerizing collage. Figures emerge, surreal and otherworldly. Drawing from the legacy of David Driskell and Romare Bearden, he launches into uncharted territory. His work captivates the eye, demanding time for revelation. The unseen emerges, like light through stained glass windows in Black and Roman Catholic churches. Terrell’s art pulses with the vibrancy and movement of optical art, echoing Bridget Riley and Victor Vasarely.

Maryamm Abdullah, once a child enamored with painting, now finds her passion in ceramics. After a decades-long hiatus, she returned to clay, mastering the art of throwing pots. Seeking surface treatments, she drew inspiration from her love of Spain and the Moorish Aesthetic, with its vibrant patterned tiles and archways. Revisiting middle eastern art through pottery, she developed a unique approach: “Gestured Geometry.” This departure from precision allows her to capture the essence of this exquisite art form. Seemingly impossible freehand geometry thrives in her artwork, granting Ms. Abdullah boundless creative space.

Enjoy a screening of a high-quality, filmed version of Anthony Davis’s groundbreaking and influential opera, X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X, as presented by The Metropolitan Opera. Director Robert O’Hara oversees a potent new staging that imagines Malcolm as an Everyman whose story transcends time and space. An exceptional cast of breakout artists and young Met stars enliven the operatic retelling of the civil rights leader’s life. “Not just a thought-provoking show, it is also highly entertaining.” -MSNBC. Run Time: 3h 20m (3 acts with two 15-minute intermissions). Recommended for ages 18 & up; contains strong language. This screening is free, however, reservations are strongly recommended due to limited seating.

Join us for “A Tribute to the Music of the Isley Brothers.” Get ready for an unforgettable night as we pay homage to The Isley Brothers with hits like “Fight the Power,” “Choosey Lover,” “Footsteps in the Dark,” “Voyage to Atlantis,” and more. With hit after hit, the band will keep the music going all night long, so don’t miss out on the energy and powerful voices as we pay tribute to The Isley Brothers.

Don’t miss this sophisticated-yet-ridiculous, family-friendly, clown circus from Happenstance Theater! A quintet of charming vintage clowns become circus animals, transform into a human calliope, do the classic circus mirror routine with a twist, perform a several preposterous “entrées”, make live music and sound effects, and execute a very satisfying slow-motion number involving a pie! This show is recommened for children ages 3-12. Please note everyone must have a ticket to enter, regardless of age.

Ta-Nehisi Coates’ lyrical novel “The Water Dancer” weaves tasker Hiram’s inhuman separations, fear, toil, and the supportive African American community on Lockless plantation into a quest for freedom. His mastery of spiritual conduction, work with Harriet Tubman, and determination triumph! Join Dr. Karen Arnold for a deep dive into history.

Renowned saxophonist Kevin Levi is set to unveil his debut solo project, “ATONE,” a vibrant fusion of hip hop, R&B, Neo-soul, and ballads infused with his signature melodic flair. “ATONE” ventures into uncharted creative territory, showcasing Levi’s boundless artistry and collaborative spirit. Each original composition reflects his personal inspiration and meticulous craftsmanship, highlighted by the talents of collaborator Leroy “Scooter” Taylor. With a storied history performing alongside luminaries like Wynton Marsalis and Marcus Miller, Kevin’s music transcends boundaries, inviting listeners to tap into their imagination and create their own narratives through his soul-stirring saxophone melodies.