EVENT CATEGORIES
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ART
Feb. 3 to 28
Afrofuturism: Artists on Three Continents Explore ‘Black to the Future’
Three artists – Daniel Kojo Schrade (Germany), Bernard Akoi Jackson (Ghana) and Adejoke Tugbiyele (United States) – use the lens of fiction to address issues of alienation and otherness. Afrofuturism, a term coined in the early 1990s, addresses themes and concerns of the African diaspora using elements of science fiction and magic realism to critique the disinheritance of the past while exploring aspirations for the future.
Goethe-Institut
Feb. 8 to March 8
Latvian Artists: Riga and World Cities. Live Paintings
Contemporary paintings and large-scale works by Aleksejs Naumovs and Kristaps Zarins, rector and vice-rector of the Latvian Academy of Art, capture cities such as Riga, Washington, D.C., New York, Paris, Venice and Peking, where the artists worked outdoors, without letting unexpected weather stop them, to paint directly onto the canvas without sketches. The exhibition is organized as part of the program “Riga 2014: Cultural Capital of Europe” and is open Fridays and Saturdays; for information, visit www.latvia-usa.org.
Embassy of Latvia Art Space
Through Feb. 9
Lines, Marks, and Drawings: Through the Lens of Roger Ballen
This exhibit considers the 40-year-plus career of Roger Ballen, one of the more recognized photographic artists working today, through a new approach: an examination of line and drawing in his photographs.
National Museum of African Art
Feb. 12 to June 21
Light Touch
The Cultural Service of the Embassy of France, in partnership with Maryland Art Place (MAP), features the work of five artists who explore aspects of the physical world through the lens of light as both a medium and a resource of value to our natural environment.
BWI Airport
Through Feb. 14
Illuminating Opportunity: A Photography Exhibit for Social Good
This photography exhibit by Trees, Water and People explores the organization’s solar energy program in Honduras through the eyes of photographer Darren Mahuron. Viewings are by appointment only; for information, call (202) 370-4618 or (202) 370-0151.
Organization of American States
Feb. 22 to July 27
Chigusa and the Art of Tea
“Chigusa” tells the story of a 700-year-old ordinary tea jar that rose to become one of the most famous and revered objects in the Japanese “art of tea” — so much so that it was granted a name, luxurious accessories and a devoted following.
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
Feb. 23 to June 29
Modern German Prints and Drawings from the Kainen Collection
Ruth Kainen’s love of German expressionism, first displayed at the gallery in the 1985 exhibition “German Expressionist Prints from the Collection of Ruth and Jacob Kainen,” will be celebrated with 123 works recently donated to the gallery through her bequest, as well as with a few of her earlier gifts.
National Gallery of Art
Through March 2
Heaven and Earth: Art of Byzantium from Greek Collections
In the first exhibition devoted to Byzantine art at the National Gallery, some 170 rare and important works, drawn exclusively from Greek collections, offer a fascinating glimpse of the soul and splendor of the mysterious Byzantine Empire.
National Gallery of Art
Through March 2
Our America: The Latino Presence in American Art
Nearly 100 works in all media by 72 leading modern and contemporary artists present the rich and varied contributions of Latino artists in the United States since the mid-20th century, when the concept of a collective Latino identity began to emerge.
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Through March 2
What’s Up: New Technologies in Art
Instructive, inventive, evocative and evolving: Tech innovation is revolutionizing the art world, and this amazing exhibit puts some of the most provocative new media on display, including that of Austrian artist Waltraut Cooper, who studied mathematics and theoretical physics and whose work explores light, mathematics and color through fluorescent lights, neon and glass.
Mansion at Strathmore
Through March 9
Alex Prager: Face in the Crowd
Los Angeles artist Alex Prager’s first solo museum exhibition in the United States debuts her latest series — elaborately staged crowd scenes, both poignant and revelatory — alongside earlier photographs and video works.
Corcoran Gallery of Art
Through March 16
The Dying Gaul: An Ancient Roman Masterpiece from the Capitoline Museum, Rome
Created in the first or second century AD, the “Dying Gaul” is one of the most renowned works from antiquity. This exhibition marks the first time it has left Italy since 1797, when Napoleonic forces took the sculpture to Paris, where it was displayed at the Louvre until its return to Rome in 1816.
National Gallery of Art
Through March 16
Transforming Cityscapes
On display are the winning entries of the 8th Ibero-American Architecture and Urban Design Biennial (IAUB), which focuses on lifetime achievements, outstanding works of architecture, publications, research projects and ideas presented by architects and architecture students.
OAS Art Museum of the Americas
Through March 23
S.O.S. Spanish Office Showroom
As part of the SPAIN arts & culture program (www.spainculture.us), “S.O.S. Spanish Office Showroom” presents the most avant-garde pieces of Spanish design conceived for modern working environments, highlighting how the creativity of contemporary Spanish designers adapts to any office space and how Spanish design companies are successfully competing in international markets, such as the United States.
Former Spanish Ambassador’s Residence
Through March 23
Tapas. Spanish Design for Food
Spain arts & culture showcases the Spanish chefs, including D.C.’s own chef José Andrés, as well as designers, architects, wineries and restaurants that pioneered the popular tapas movement, reflecting on the last 25 years of Spain’s avant-garde experimental blending of design and food.
Former Spanish Ambassador’s Residence
Through April 13
Judy Chicago: Circa ’75
The iconic body of work from the 1970s by Judy Chicago demonstrates the prominent feminist artist’s firm belief in the power of art to redress gender inequalities.
National Museum of Women in the Arts
Through April 27
Workt by Hand: Hidden Labor and Historical Quilts
Over time, quilts have been revered as nostalgic emblems of the past, dismissed as women’s work, and hailed as examples of American ingenuity. This exhibition breaks new ground by examining quilts through the lens of contemporary feminist theory.
National Museum of Women in the Arts
Through May 4
In Focus: Ara Güler’s Anatolia
Ara Güler, the “Eye of Istanbul,” is famous for his iconic snapshots of the city in the 1950s and ’60s, but with an archive of more than 800,000 photographs, Güler’s body of work contains far more than these emblematic images — as seen in this exhibition of never-before-shown works by the legendary photographer.
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
Through May 17
Man at the Crossroads: Diego Rivera’s Mural at Rockefeller Center
This exposition centers around the mural that Mexican artist Diego Rivera painted in New York City, reconstructing its history with unedited material, including reproduced letters, telegrams, contracts, sketches, and documents, following Rivera’s commission, subsequent tension and conflict, and finally, the mural’s destruction.
Mexican Cultural Institute
Through May 26
Damage Control: Art and Destruction Since 1950
The first in-depth exploration of the theme of destruction in international contemporary visual culture, this groundbreaking exhibition includes works by a diverse range of international artists working in painting, sculpture, photography, film, installation and performance.
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
Through June 8, 2014
Perspectives: Rina Banerjee
Born in India and based in New York City, artist Rina Banerjee draws on her background as a scientist and her experience as an immigrant in her richly textured works that complicate the role of objects as representations of cultures and invite viewers to share her fascination in materials.
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
Through June 15
Shakespeare’s the Thing
Marking the 450th anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth, this exhibition presents a miscellany of treasures in the Folger collection from Shakespeare’s 1623 First Folio to modern fine art prints, revealing the Bard’s influence on performance, adaptation, scholarship, printing, fine art and even in mild obsession.
Folger Shakespeare Library
Through July 13
Dancing the Dream
From the late 19th century to today, dance has captured this nation’s culture in motion, as seen in photos that showcase generations of performers, choreographers and impresarios.
National Portrait Gallery
Through Aug. 24
Africa ReViewed: The Photographic Legacy of Eliot Elisofon
“Africa ReViewed” showcases the African photography of celebrated Life magazine photographer Eliot Elisofon and explores the intricate relationships between his photographic archives and art collection at the National Museum of African Art. Elisofon’s images had a huge impact in framing America’s perceptions of Africa and its diverse cultures during the 20th century.
National Museum of African Art
Through Sept. 21
Ubuhle Women: Beadwork and the Art of Independence
A community of women living and working together in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, has developed a new form of bead art — using black fabric as a canvas and different colored Czech glass beads as the medium of expression — to empower local women.
The Anacostia Community Museum
DANCE
Feb. 4 to 9
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
America’s cultural ambassador to the world, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to the Kennedy Center for its annual engagement with its winning combination of captivating new works and enduring classics. Tickets are $30 to $140.
Kennedy Center Opera House
Feb. 7 to 8
Modern Dance Concert: Four By Burgess
The Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company performs new works by the critically acclaimed choreographer, recognized for his modern dances that sensitively translate the psychology of our human condition.Tickets are $25 to $31.
Kennedy Center Terrace Theater
Wed., Feb. 26, 7:30 p.m.
The Peking Acrobats
The ancient art form of the Peking Acrobats dates back thousands of years, but their unique acts — which include juggling, tumbling, magic and much more — are as fresh and awe-inspiring to today’s audiences as ever before. Tickets are $32 to $48.
George Mason University
Hylton Performing Arts Center
DISCUSSIONS
Tue., Feb. 4, 7:30 p.m.
Franz Schubert, 1797-1828: A Literary Biography
Gloria Kaiser discusses her literary biography “Franz Schubert,” based on letters and excerpts from diaries that form a picture of the composer’s life, including the suffering that led to the divine spark of genius; the lecture is framed by a performance by pianist David Montgomery. Admission is free but RSVP is required and can be made at http://franzschubert.eventbrite.com.
Embassy of Austria
Wed., Feb. 5, 6:45 p.m.
Barbara Tenenbaum on the Constitution of 1917
In this illustrated talk, Barbara Tenenbaum, specialist in Mexican culture at the Library of Congress, discusses the nature of the Mexican Revolution — what it was and what it was not — showing how this first lasting revolution of the 20th century was much more about Mexico than about revolution, and how the nation grew into its constitution of 1917. Admission is free; RSVP to rsvp@instituteofmexicodc.org.
Mexican Cultural Institute
Wed., Feb. 5, 6:45 p.m.
Medieval Mosaics in Norman Sicily: An Artistic Convergence of Empires
The artistic treasures of the Norman Sicilian kingdom during the 12th and 13th centuries vied with those of the most resplendent in the known world, thriving under the Hauteville Normans, who embraced the artistic legacy of both Muslims and Byzantines. Tickets are $25; for information, visit www.smithsonianassociates.org.
S. Dillon Ripley Center
Feb. 5 to 7
Protocol and Etiquette Seminar
Protocol Partners-Washington Center for Protocol presents a two-and-a-half-day comprehensive seminar on diplomatic, military and international protocol, as well as business and dining etiquette, including how to: greet and host guests; accommodate international customs; and coordinate VIP visits and conferences. Tuition is $1,795; for information, visit www.theprotocolpartners.com.
Willard InterContinental Washington
Sat., Feb. 8, 9:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
The Artistic Legacy of Byzantium
Art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine explores the Byzantine Empire, which shone with intellectual and artistic brilliance at a time when Western Europe was deep in the Dark Ages and flourished long after the first stirrings of the Renaissance. Tickets are $130; for information, visit www.smithsonianassociates.org.
S. Dillon Ripley Center
Tue., Feb. 11, 6:45 p.m.
The Flavors of India: The Original Fusion Cuisine
Monica Bhide looks at Indian cuisine’s history and contemporary expressions, focusing on how modern Indian food combines time-honored and distinctly regional styles with new culinary influences and ingredients. Tickets are $30; for information, visit www.smithsonianassociates.org.
S. Dillon Ripley Center
Wed., Feb. 19, 6:45 p.m.
El Greco, Goya, Velazquez, and Picasso: A Spanish Quartet
Barbara von Barghahn of George Washington University looks at selected masterpieces that span from the Baroque golden age to the 20th century and explores how these enduring paintings reveal both the individual characters of their creators and the character of a nation. Tickets are $42; for information, visit www.smithsonianassociates.org.
S. Dillon Ripley Center
Thu., Feb. 20, 6:45 p.m.
Ancient Jewish Sects: Pharisees, Sadducees, and Essenes
First-century historian Josephus observed that there were three sects among the Jews: the Pharisees, the Sadducees and Essenes. Historian Pamela Nadell examines these once-flourishing sects that thrived in the late Second Temple era until the war between the Jews and the Romans sealed their fates. Tickets are $42; for information, visit www.smithsonianassociates.org.
S. Dillon Ripley Center
Sat., Feb. 22, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Scandal, British Style: 400 Years of Naughtiness and Notoriety
Lorella Brocklesby of New York University offers a perspective on how, over the centuries, famous and infamous Brits have misbehaved. Tickets are $130; for information, visit www.smithsonianassociates.org.
S. Dillon Ripley Center
MUSIC
Sat., Feb. 1, 8 p.m.,
Sun., Feb. 9, 4 p.m.
Haifa Symphony Orchestra of Israel
Appearing in Northern Virginia as part of its first tour of the United States, this orchestra (now in its seventh decade) is a centerpiece of Israeli cultural and musical life, and boasts a massive following in its homeland. Tickets are $30 to $60.
George Mason University
Center for the Arts (Feb. 1)
Hylton Performing Arts Center (Feb. 9)
Tue., Feb. 4, 6:45 p.m.
Cepromusic Contemporary Ensemble
This 10-piece contemporary music ensemble from the Institute of Fine Arts in Mexico guides audiences through the landscape of new Mexican music, featuring interpretations of works by Julio Estrada, Víctor Ibarra, Ricardo Zohn, Jorge Torres and Georgina Derbez. Admission is free; RSVP to rsvp@instituteofmexicodc.org.
Mexican Cultural Institute
Wed., Feb. 12, 8 p.m.
Soweto Gospel Choir
Formed in 2002, this 52-member choir was formed to celebrate the unique and inspirational power of African gospel music, singing in six of South Africa’s 11 official languages to blend traditional sounds with contemporary music. Tickets are $30 to $45.
GW Lisner Auditorium
Feb. 13 to 15
National Symphony Orchestra
“Brilliant violinist” (The New York Times) Anne-Sophie Mutter joins two programs led by conductor Cristian Macelaru in his NSO debut: one features Dvorák’s Violin Concerto; the other offers a D.C. premiere written specifically for Mutter. Tickets are $10 to $85.
Kennedy Center Concert Hall
Fri., Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m.
Musical Valentine
This Valentine’s Day concert spotlights soprano Irina Mozyleva, performing a repertoire of one of the most renowned Russian cabaret singers, Kavdia Shulzhenko, who resembled the famous French singer Edith Piaf. Acclaimed accordionist, Alexander Sevastian also performs Russian romantic repertoire and Viennese waltzes. Tickets can be ordered through the Russian Chamber Art Society at http://thercas.com.
Embassy of Austria
Sun., Feb. 16, 7 p.m.
Angelique Kidjo
Angelique Kidjo is a Grammy-winning vocalist deemed “Africa’s premier diva” by Time magazine whose internationally acclaimed repertoire crosses boundaries, blending Western pop and African traditions. Tickets are $30 to $45.
GW Lisner Auditorium
THEATER
Feb. 5 to March 2
Seminar
In Theresa Rebeck’s Broadway comedic hit, four aspiring young novelists sign up for a private class with an international literary figure, some thriving while others flounder under his recklessly brilliant and unorthodox instruction. Tickets are $$10 to $45.
Round House Theatre Bethesda
Feb. 6 to March 9
La Señorita de Tacna (The Young Lady from Tacna)
A writer tried to recreate the grand romance of Mamaé, a 100 year-old spinster aunt who ended her engagement with a dashing Chilean captain when she was young. Tickets are $38 or $42.
GALA Hispanic Theatre
Feb. 8 to 25
Orphie and the Book of Heroes
Spunky and curious Orphie, a young girl in Ancient Greece, sets out to save storyteller Homer and his Book of Heroes in this humorous world premiere musical. Tickets are $20.
Kennedy Center Family Theater
Feb. 10 to March 9
We Are Proud to Present…
“We Are Proud to Present…” follows a group of idealistic actors — three black and three white — who come together to tell the little-known story of a centuries-old conflict in southwest Africa, recreating the extinction of the Herero tribe at the hands of their German colonizers. Tickets start at $35.
Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company
Feb. 13 to March 9
La Vida Que Me Das … y no me alcanza
(Such a Life You’ve Given Me … and it’s not enough)
This work tackles with humor the encounter of three women who examine maternity and sexuality, looking for the balance between their desires, their negative perceptions and pettiness. Tickets are $15 to $35.
Teatro de la Luna
Gunston Arts Center
Through Feb. 16
Peter and the Starcatcher
In this swashbuckling prequel to “Peter Pan,” a company of 12 actors plays more than a 100 unforgettable characters, all on a journey to answer the century-old question: How did Peter Pan become the Boy Who Never Grew Up? Tickets are $55 to $135.
Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater
Through Feb. 16
The Tallest Tree in the Forest
Daniel Beaty brings to life the true story of Paul Robeson, hailed as the “best-known black man in the world” for his incomparable singing and acting, brought low by accusations of disloyalty to America. Please call for ticket information.
Arena Stage
Feb. 18 to March 23
Beaches
Based on the beloved book, “Beaches” follows two extraordinary friends through 30 years of camaraderie, laughter and sorrow. Please call for ticket information.
Signature Theatre
Through Feb. 23
Tribes
When Billy, who was born deaf into a garrulous academic family that raised him to lip read and integrate into the hearing world, meets Sylvia, who is going deaf herself, he decides it’s time to speak on his own terms in Nina Raine’s moving play, the second offering in Studio’s yearlong New British Invasion Festival. Tickets are $39 to $75.
The Studio Theatre
Through March 2
The Importance of Being Earnest
Keith Baxter returns to direct Oscar Wilde’s most perfect of plays — a comedy of class, courtship, and avoiding burdensome social conventions. Please call for ticket information.
Shakespeare Lansburgh Theatre
Through March 9
Mother Courage and Her Children
Kathleen Turner returns to Arena to star as a tough-as-nails matriarch who profits off the very war that steals her children from her one by one. But will the cost of war be higher than she’s prepared to pay? Please call for ticket information.
Arena Stage
Through March 9
Richard III
Explore Shakespeare’s portrait of maniacal ambition and dig into the truth about this king’s real nature with this celebrated history play — staged, for the first time in Folger history, in an Elizabethan Theatre reconfigured to allow for a production “in the round.” Tickets are $39 to $72.
Folger Shakespeare Library
