Tag Archives: Rocknoceros

July 14, 2011 · 1:35 pm

Stay Entertained Through Summer

There’s no lack of live entertainment to enjoy around the DC area this summer. Here’s what you can catch the rest of the season, from currently running shows and series, to productions opening today, to performances coming up over the next few weeks. Most descriptions are pulled straight from the websites, and just about all tickets can be purchase online.

The Wind in the Willows
Where: Imagination Stage
When: June 22 – August 15
Tickets: $10 – $22 (Use the code Willows25 for a 25% discount)
Go on a wild ride with Mr. Toad! It’s early in the twentieth century, and Mr. Toad embraces the motor car with reckless abandon. When it is clear that he is on a road to disaster, Toad’s friends Mole, Ratty and Mr. Badger decide to intervene. Can they save Toad from himself? In an adventure with police chases, prison breaks and bandits, Mr. Toad learns the true meaning of friendship. This musical event is faithful to the classic, enchanting novel. Recommended for ages 4 and up.

Charlotte’s Web
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: June 24 – September 5
Tickets: $17
E. B. White’s popular tale of love and devotion, takes theatergoers to Zuckerman’s Farm, where the delightful runt pig Wilbur appears headed for the dinner table — as main course, not as guest. Yet he is saved by the remarkably crafty spider, Charlotte, and the whole town begins talking about it. Some pig! Recommended for ages 3 and up, the show runs about 1 hour.

Children’s Theater in the Woods
Where: Wolf Trap
When: June 28 – August 13
Tickets: $8 for a day pass – two shows in one
With 70 performances from late June through early August, Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods presents family-friendly shows at 10am and 11:15am on Tuesdays through Saturdays. Amidst 117 rolling wooded acres and nestled in a shady grove, the stage is set for lively adventures in music, dance, storytelling, puppetry, and theater. All performances are recommended for children between Kindergarten and 6th grade. The full schedule of shows in available of the Wolf Trap website.

Oklahoma!
Where: Arena Stage
When: July 14 – October 2
Tickets: $61-106
The classic show is back by popular demand, remounting its fall production after receiving numerous accolades, including 4 Helen Hayes Awards. Inspired by the toughness of the prairie, Artistic Director Molly Smith sets her production in the robust world of territory life filled with a dynamic cast as rich and complex as the great tapestry of America itself. With Rodgers and Hammerstein’s timeless music, Oklahoma! celebrates the vigor of America’s pioneering spirit with athletic dance and boot-stomping energy that will thrill audiences young and old. Oklahoma! runs approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. Every Saturday afternoon, free family-friendly events will be held in and around the Mead Center from 12:30-1:30pm., prior to the 2:00pm matinee. Enjoy pony rides and a petting zoo, learn some of the award-winning dance moves, or share a box social lunch with your friends and family.

Rocknoceros
Where: Jammin’ Java
When: July 16, 11am & 7pm
Tickets: $10
The local band adored by kids is doubling up the entertainment with two shows in one day. It’s the hometown debut of their new album “Colonel Purple Turtle,” which tells tales through song of the Colonel and his friends in their make-believe home of Soggy Bog. Families can opt for a mid-morning performance at 11am or rock out at the 7pm happy hour show.

Boogie Babes
Where: North Hall of Eastern Market
When: Thursdays at 10:30am through August 25
Tickets: $5/child, free for siblings 6 months and under
Make a weekly date with the Boogie Babes all summer long! Little ones can boogie along with their favorite local musicians in the cool, open space of Eastern Market’s North Hall every Thursday morning. Go for the show, then grab lunch in the Market and stay to play. See the line-up of performers on the Boogie Babes website.

Backyard Theatre for Children
Where: Strathmore
When: July 21 & July 28 ,9:30am & 11:30am
Tickets: $8, free for ages 2 and under
This theatre series brings children the music and mystery of exotic locales from around the world – all outdoors under a big tent! In the two weeks of the season, travel to India and Russia through these performances. Bring blankets or low chairs to sit on and a bag lunch for a picnic after show.

The Wizard of Oz
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: July 22 – September 4
Tickets: $10
This new version of L. Frank Baum’s “Great American Fairy Tale, “ recreates the characters illustrated by W.W. Denslow in a wide variety of puppet styles. Based on Baum’s first, best known, and best-loved of the classic Oz tales, rather than the 1939 MGM movie, the “wicked witch” is a minor character, dispatched easily with humor, and adventures never seen in the movie are brought to fore.

Tiny Tots
Where: The Puppet Co.
When: Ongoing – Wednesdays, Saturdays, & Sundays at 10am
Tickets: $5
The series presents puppet shows designed for the youngest theater patrons (ages 0-4). They are shorter, the lights stay on, and the doors stay open. They have an arsenal of shows that they switch up every performance, so be sure to check the schedule to see what’s playing when you go.

Reptiles Alive!
Where: Discovery Theatre, Ripley Center, Smithsonian
When: July 20-22, 10:15am & 11:30am
Tickets: $6/adult, $5/child, $3/under 2
Reptiles Alive! is the most popular traveling wildlife education program based in the Washington Metropolitan area. We are very pleased to be welcoming them back to Discovery Theater to present Snakes Alive! Uncover the secret life of snakes during this spectacular show. Myths will be debunked about these misunderstood animals. You might see pythons, boa constrictors, legless lizards, milk snakes and more sssuper sssnakes! Recommended for ages 6 and up.

The Wizard of Oz
Where: Encore Stage
When: July 22 – 31
Tickets: $15/adults, $10/children
After a tornado whisks her away to the magical land of Oz, Dorothy and her new friends, a scarecrow, a tin man, and a cowardly lion, set off to find the powerful Wizard who can send her home. Based on the books by L. Frank Baum, this production will be performed by the Act III Theatre Company, an Arlington group presenting musical productions that are ideal for children and adults of all ages.

Just a Dream: The Green Play
Where: Adventure Theatre
When: July 25, 7pm
Tickets: FREE, RSVP to cmorrison@adventuretheatre.org by July 22
Adventure Theatre will make its international debut with Just a Dream: The Green Play, which in the Spring of 2011 took the message of environmentalism to over 50 Washington, DC-area schools and organizations. Based on the book by Chris Van Allsburgtt, the play will be presented in Singapore and Malaysia, but you have a chance to see it first. Adventure Theatre will also be hosting a free open rehearsal and kick-off party of this earth-friendly show at Glen Echo Park.

Urban Artistry
Where: Discovery Theater, Ripley Center, Smithsonian
When: July 26-29, 10:15am & 11:30am, July 27 & 29, 1:00
Tickets: $6/adult, $5/child, $3/under 2
They are guided by the origins of the drum, the energy of the underground dance movement and the art that documents all of our histories. Urban Artistry illuminates the counterculture styles of urban dance (often referred to as hip-hop), and their calling to create a diverse community of people with whom to share the experience. Returning to Discovery Theater this summer after a sold out run in 2009, this award-winning dance troupe will inspire you to get up on your feet! For ages 2 and up.

Disney in Concert: Magical Music from the Movies
Where: Wolf Trap
When: August 4, 8:30pm
Tickets: $20-52
Hear National Symphony Orchestra perform music from Disney’s hit movies at Wolf Trap’s Filene Center. The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Lion King, and more come to life with video clips and songs from your favorite Disney movies on giant screens in-house and on the lawn.

Fox and Branch
Where: Jammin’ Java
When: August 20, 10:30am
Tickets: $10
Dave Fox and Will Branch play a timeless kind of music. Their crowd-pleasing mix of old blues, jug band songs, fiddle tunes, New Orleans-flavored numbers and Cajun tunes makes people stop and smile. The duo has played to appreciative audiences at clubs, festivals, schools and libraries all over the Midwest, as well as on the east coast and south to Louisiana. Their music has been played on folk radio across the United States and Canada.

Peter Pan
Where: Wolf Trap
When: September 1-4
Tickets: $55-70
Tony Award-nominee Cathy Rigby takes flight in an all-new production of Peter Pan, filled with timeless magical moments and a captivating hook. The legend you thought you knew is now the adventure you never dreamed possible…Cathy Rigby is Peter Pan!

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April 22, 2011 · 7:15 am

Easter Weekend (Including Ideas for Non-Holiday Fun)

Getting ready for the Easter egg "hunt" at last year's Eggstravagana in Lincoln Park

If you’re looking for an egg hunt, you’ll have no problem finding one. Sheep shearing? Got you covered there, too. And if the forecast proves reliable, and thunderstorms soak the area, I’ve got plenty of suggestions for family fun indoors. Happy Weekend!  And Happy Easter, too!

Earth Day Party for the Planet  – Looking for a Friday morning activity?  Celebrate Earth Day at the National Zoo!  From 10am – 12pm, guests can create eco-crafts, a meet the Zoo’s Green Team, get tips on enjoying a environmentally friendly lifestyle, and recycling opportunities (check the website for the list of recyclable items).  This free event will take place at the Zoo in Your Backyard exhibit.

Hop to It – It’s Easter weekend, and with it come many egg hunts and festivals. Celebrate at Cox Farms on Saturday from 11am–2pm with games, egg coloring, farm animals, and a visit from the Easter Bunny.  Annual Eggstravaganzas will be taking place at Lincoln Park on Capitol Hill from 1-3pm and in Ballston at 10:30am. The Reston Zoo will host Easter egg hunts on Saturday and Sunday at several times both days.  And ongoing are holiday festivities at Ticonderoga Farms and Bunnyland at Butler’s Orchard (open through Monday, though it’s closed on Easter Sunday).

Show Time – From Snow White on strings to Rocknoceros at Jammin’ Java, there’s a variety of live entertainment to enjoy this weekend.  For details on what’s playing, see this post about what’s on stage this spring.

The Plane, The Plane! –  Love the Air & Space on the Mall, but not all the crowds?  Head to the College Park Aviation Museum, just 15 minutes out of DC.  The state-of-the-art facility located on the grounds of the world’s oldest continuously operating airport in College Park, MD, contains relics of early aviation, including some interactive fun.  Open daily from 10am -5pm, though closed on major holidays.  Admission is $4/adults, $2/children, free for ages 2 and under.

A Walk in the Park – It’s still National Park Week, and entrance to over 100 parks that usually charge admission is free.  If weather permits, take advantage and hit the trails at a local park or even one a bit further away. For suggestions on good hikes with kids, see this post about tramping with little ones.

Think Outside…  The list of best places to enjoy the outdoors with the kids keeps growing.  Check it out for ideas on where to have fun al fresco. Again, if weather permits.

Space for Children at House of Sweden – The Swedish Embassy welcomes families to experience a unique exhibit through April 24.  Two rooms of “interactivity creativity” celebrate the parent-child bond and encourage creative play. The free exhibit is open Saturdays from 11am – 4pm and Sundays from 12 – 5pm.  Read more about it on the Embassy’s website.

Nature at Its Best and Biggest – See some amazing moments in the natural world captured in photos and on the big screen at the National Museum of Natural History.  The Nature’s Best Photography exhibit showcases winners of a prestigious photography competition.  And most of the films playing at the museum’s Samuel C. Johnson IMAX Theater have themes of nature at their core.

Portrait Story Days: Dizzy Gillespie – Drop in at the National Portrait Gallery on Sunday from 1 – 4pm to listen to a story about a person who has influenced American history and culture and to create a special piece of art.  On Saturday and Sunday, learn about jazz trumpeter, band leader, singer, and composer Dizzy Gillespie.

Shearing Madness – Sunday is Sheep Shearing Day at Watkins Regional Park, and you’re invited to watch the wool fly. This free event will feature sheep and llama shearing demonstrations, displays of products made from wool and hair, and more. Hayrides will be available during the event for $1.

Rainy Day Recs – I’m listing this last in hopes that it’s a last resort, and those thunderstorms in the forecast don’t materialize. But if it turns out to be a wet weekend, this post contains many suggestions on where to have fun and stay dry.

 

 

 

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March 9, 2011 · 1:18 pm

On Stages this Spring

There’s a whole new crop of live entertainment for kids coming to area stages this spring.  From puppet shows for tiny ones to plays for the preschool set to family symphonies to concerts for young rockers, there’s something to indulge every age and interest. Here’s info on what’s coming to venues near us (most descriptions pulled straight from the websites).

Wake Up, Brother Bear!
Where:   Imagination Stage
When:    March 8 – April 10
Tickets:  $5 – $10
Sitting on the floor around a circular playing area, children watch as Brother and Sister Bear discover a year in the wild.  Together we see a waterfall melt, meet a butterfly, chase an elusive fish and skate on an icy pond.  Children are invited to join in the action throughout the show with a big bag of small props that help to create magical moments.  Themes of the cycle of the seasons, sibling relationships, and the dreams that we pursue from day to day and year to year underpin the story and offer a delightful exploration for young imaginations.  Recommended for ages 1-5.

If You Give a Cat a Cupcake
Where:   Adventure Theatre
When:     3/11-4/23
Tickets:   $15
If you give a cat a cupcake, he’ll ask for some sprinkles to go with it.  When you give him the sprinkles, he might spill some on the floor.  Cleaning up will make him hot, so you’ll give him a bathing suit… and that’s just the beginning!  From the author of If You Give a Mouse a Cookie!

Tiny Tots
Where: The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo
When: Ongoing – Wednesdays, Saturdays, & Sundays at 10am
Tickets: $5
The Tiny Tots series continues the tradition of shows designed for the youngest theater patrons — ages 0-4. Productions are shorter, the lights stay on, the doors stay open, and the show is set up on the floor. A different show is presented every performance, so check the schedule to see what’s playing.

The Vanishing Viola, The Triumphant Trumpet, & Potions for Piano
Where:    Glen Echo Recital Hall, South Arcade Building
When:     Many Saturdays at 3pm, starting March 12
Tickets:   $10
The Washington Conservatory of Music presents a new series of Family Music and Magic Shows, The Magic of Music, featuring Musico the Magnificent and musical guests. The shows are designed as a fun introduction to music. Drew Owen, cellist and magician, is Musico the Magnificent.  Owen, a cello faculty member at the Washington Conservatory who performs with the National Symphony, the Baltimore Symphony and the Washington National Opera, is also a popular local magician. Owen will be joined by musical guests for each show.

Alice in Wonderland On Ice
Where: Gardens Figure Skating Club, Gardens Ice House
When: March 26-27, 1:30pm & 3pm
Tickets: $10 – $15, children 2 and under are free
The Gardens Figure Skating Club in Laurel will hold its seventh annual spring show, Alice in Wonderland on Ice. Young audiences will enjoy watching the cast, all ages 14 and under, glide, leap, and twirl across the frozen stage as the perform the beloved children’s story. The Gardens Ice House is located at 13800 Old Gunpowder Road in Laurel.

Let Freedom Sing: The Story of Marian Anderson
Where: THEARC Theater
When: March 27, 3pm & 5pm
Tickets: FREE
The story of the great African American singer whose performances at the Lincoln Memorial in 1939 helped launch the civil rights movement. This is a one-hour opera for all ages and appropriate for middle and high school students. Reserve your tickets online. Availability is limited.

Imago Theater: ZooZoo
Where: Strathmore
When: March 27
Tickets: $15 – $35
Imago Theatre makes its Strathmore debut in ZooZoo. This one-of-a-kind company conjures up one surprise after another, including a menagerie of a giant dinosaur, hungry anteaters, hitch-hiking rabbits, introverted frogs, insomniac hippos and cantankerous polar bears. Mixing deftly designed costumes, brilliant physical comedy, illusion and audience participation, Imago Theatre is simply “captivating.” (The New York Times)

NSO Family Concert: The Trumpet of the Swan: A Novel Symphony
Where:    The Kennedy Center
When:     March 27
Tickets:   $15 – $18
Starring John Lithgow, the Kennedy Center commission based on E.B. White’s classic, The Trumpet of the Swan, returns. Though Louis is a trumpeter swan, he was born without a voice. Will a brass trumpet bring freedom, fame, fortune, and love? Recommended for ages 7 and up.

There will also be one “petting zoo” from 3-4:45pm, in between the two performances of The Trumpet of the Swan. Young concertgoers can get up close and hands-on with the instruments they’ll see played on the stage — from violins, trumpets, and oboes to trombones and percussion — in the Kennedy Center Atrium.

Various Weekend Concerts
Where:   Jammin’ Java
When:    Nearly every weekend
Tickets:  $8 – $10
Kids can jam as some of their favorite musicians play live shows at the venue in Vienna.  Family concerts are on the schedule almost every weekend for the next two months, starting with a Rocknoceros happy hour show this Friday, March 11, at 7pm.  Most of the other concerts are on Saturdays and Sundays.  Check the schedule for your kids’ fave – there’s a good chance they’re playing soon!

Dr. Kabooom!
Where:   The Kennedy Center
When:     April 1 – 10
Tickets:   $18
Scientific logic usually doesn’t have much use for words like magic or wonder. But Doktor Kaboom knows the value of these unscientific terms. Join him for a sidesplitting journey of increasingly spectacular, and often successful, experiments and demonstrations that will keep you riveted with interest and rolling with laughter. Doktor Kaboom! is an amazing educational tour of the modern scientific method, using humor and comedy while demonstrating spectacular applications of the physical sciences. Recommended for ages 7 and up.

Cinderella, The World’s Favorite Fairytale
Where:   Alden Theatre
When:    April 2, 3, 9, 10
Tickets:  $8/McLean residents, $10/non-residents
The heroine we all know and love brings to the stage three of her counterparts in other cultures. This is a charming retelling of the Cinderella story featuring the legends of Plum Blossom (China), Vasilisa (Russia) and Broken Wing (Native America). Recommended for ages 6+.

George and Martha – Tons of Fun
Where:   Imagination Stage
When:    April 9 – May 29
Tickets:  $11 – $22
The two endearing hippos from the James Marshall picture books stomp onto stage in this warm and funny musical adaptation.  George and Martha are best friends.  They play music together and share meals, presents, picnics, and exciting adventures like flying a balloon.  Sometimes they have differences as all friends do.  But it cannot last.  Like all good friends George and Martha just can’t stay angry for long!  This simple story says much about our relationships at any age.  Geared for our youngest theatre-goers but enjoyable for all, this new musical by Joan Cushing sparkles with clever lyrics and laughter. Enjoyed by ages 3+

Junkyard Pirates
Where:   Discovery Theater (Smithsonian’s Ripley Center)
When:    April 19–22, 10:15am and 11:30am
Tickets:  $3 – $6
Ahoy, ye mateys! Meet puppet pirates created from recyclables, who discover that one person’s trash is another person’s treasure in an eco-adventure by Michelle and Ingrid of DinoRock Productions. Nettie the Recycler explains that a pirate’s favorite letter (“ARRRRRRR!”) stands for Reduce, Reuse, Repair, and Recycle. This musical lesson in ecology and recycling features songs like “Reduce the Use,” “More Trees, Please,” and “You Don’t Have to Throw It Away.”  Recommended for ages 3-10.

PLAY! A Video Game Symphony
Where:  Wolf Trap
When:    July 8, 8:30pm
Tickets:  $20 – $52
Award-winning music from Super Mario Brothers, World of Warcraft, Final Fantasy, the Legend of Zelda, Halo, Battlefield 1942, and many more. Outstanding visuals on huge screens in-house and on the lawn highlight memorable moments from these blockbuster video games.

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March 4, 2011 · 8:06 am

What To Do This Weekend

There’s so much going on this weekend, it almost seems more appropriate to ask, “What isn’t there to do?” Museum family days, Mardi Gras celebrations, even some outdoor fun (if the weather cooperates) are all part of the mix.  Here are details on all of them and more.  Happy Weekend!

Tots Rock! – Rocknoceros at the Air & Space Museum.  I almost feel like nothing more needs to be said.  But in case you’re wondering, a planetarium show starring Big Bird and Elmo, plus “Flights of Fancy” story time will also be part of Saturday’s entertainment at the museum on the National Mall. Visit the website for a schedule of events, and note that tickets are required and seating is limited for planetarium shows.

Space for Children at House of Sweden – The Swedish Embassy welcomes families to experience what sounds like a unqiue exhibit on weekends through April 24.  Two rooms of “interactivity creativity” celebrate the parent-child bond and encourage creative play. The free exhibit is open Saturdays from 11am – 4pm and Sundays from 12 – 5pm.  Read more about it on the Embassy’s website.

Mardi Gras Festival – This party at the Rockville Town Square will have all the makings for a New Orelans-style celebration – the family-friendly version, anyway. Put on crazy balloon hats and whoop it up with a parade, live music, masks and beads, arts & crafts, a moonbounce, and plenty more Mardi Gras fun.  The free event will take place Saturday from  10am – 2pm.

D.C. Color Splash! – If you follow KidFriendly DC on Facebook, you may have seen the Corcoran Gallery of Art’s 2011 Family Festival mentioned a few days ago.  It sounds like a great opportunity to check out the museum and have a fun, art-filled day with the kids. Guests can try their hands at various art mediums, join in interactive performances, groove along with local musicians, and explore the hues and  illuminations of the exhibit “Washington Color and Light.”

U.S. National Arboretum– There may be some rain in the forecast for this weekend, but we all know how quickly that can change around here.  So, I’ll go ahead and recommend the Arboretum for some outdoor recreation. The plants aren’t yet blooming (I know from being there last weekend), but tramping through the woods, playing among the old Capitol columns, and visiting the Koi pond are always a thrill for kids.  Don’t forget to check out the new Lunar New Year exhibit at the Bonai Museum  on display until March 27.

Watkins Regional Park – If weather does work in our favor, another great outdoor pursuit is a visit to Watkins Regional Park.  The train and carousel aren’t open this time of year, but you can see the animals at Old Maryland Farm and maybe even catch a pony ride.  The Watkins Nature Center will have even more critters that guests can check out along with a squirrel gym that showcases squirrels performing tricks and eating corn.  Pack a picnic for lunch al fresco, then play on the sprawling colorful playground.

Circus of High-Flying Events – It’s another Family Saturday at Intersections: A New America Arts Festival taking place at the Atlas Performing Arts Center.  Starting at 11am and continuing into the evening , there will be all kinds of arts and activities for guests to enjoy, from a performance of Adventure Theatre’s “Mirandy and Brother Wind” to acrobatic acts by circus performers to a tap dancing production to a flamenco show.  There will also be opportunities to take part in some movement and art workshops.  Some of the activities are free – check the schedule to see which require tickets and what time they are happening.

Tie & Dye a Textile – Your kids can connect with their inner hippies at the Textile Museum’s monthly Arts for Families program.  This Saturday, guests are invite to create their own colorful textiles as they explore tie-dyeing. Learn various fold and tie techniques to create unique designs on cloth to take home. This free activity runs from 2-4pm.  Recommended for ages 4 -12.

Dance Your Socks Off – River Park Nursery School in Capitol Hill is hosting its annual Sock Hop and Silent Auction on Saturday from 4 – 7pm. Folks all over the area are invited to join the party.  For details, check out this post from last week.

Merry Mardi Gras – Laissez les bons temps rouler!  The Launch Zone at the National Children’s Museum will transform into New Orleans for a just-for-kids Mardi Gras celebration on Saturday from 11am – 4pm. Kids can make their own jester hats, traditional masks, and all of the other essentials for a traditional Mardi Gras parade.  This is all free, just head on over to the National Harbor and join the fun.

Flying in the Great Hall ­– The National Building Museum’s Great Hall is one of the most magnificent spaces in the city.  I bet it’ll be even more so with model airplanes soaring through it.   Witness the spectacle this Sunday from 11am – 4pm when DC Maxecutors’ model planes take flight.  It should be quite a sight.  All ages are welcome to this free event.

Theatre on Strings – A few productions will be performed at The Puppet Co. this weekend.  Tiny tots can enjoy “Old MacDonald’s Farm” on Saturday and “Penguin’s Playground” on Sunday.  Both start at 10am.  Tickets are $5 and available online.   Tiny Tots shows are recommended for ages 0-4.  Older children will enjoy “Jack and the Beanstalk,” showing both Saturday and Sunday at 11:30am and 1pm. Tickets are $10 and also available for purchase online.

Show Time – Several live family-friendly productions are in local theaters, and tickets are still available for some of this weekend’s performances.  Check out this post to see what’s playing and how to reserve your seats.

Stories in Art –Sculptor David Smith is the subject for this week’s children’s program at the National Gallery of Art. The workshop will start with a reading of “Half of the Elephant,” n elephant on a humorous journey to find his missing half.. From there, the group will explore the work of David Smith, then build a sculpture with wood and metal. Hour-long sessions begin at 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, and 2:30pm on Sunday. Sign-in will take place in the East Building Atrium, beginning at 11am that day and will continue until all spaces are filled.  No admission fee required.

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January 14, 2011 · 8:05 am

MLK Celebrations and More this Weekend

Whether you’re looking for ways to pay tribute to MLK, interesting activities at the museums, or fun entertainment for the kids, this weekend has it covered.  Here’s what’s going on around town Saturday, Sunday, AND Monday.  Happy Weekend!

Martin Luther Kind Jr. Holiday Family Festival – The National Museum of Natural History has commemorated the birthday of MLK for over 30 years and will continue the tradition this weekend.  On Saturday, Sunday, and Monday guests are invited to participate in an interactive play recreating a sit-in, hear the words of Dr. King brought to life in a dramatic presentation, and participate in a discussion on civil rights.  The free event runs from 10am – 5pm each day and is open on a first-come, first-served basis.

Stories in Art at the National Gallery – The museum’s winter program for kids ages 4 – 7 begins on Sunday with a study of Alexander Calder.  The workshop will start with a reading of “Sophie’s Masterpiece,” a book about a spider and her wondrous creations.  From there, the group will explore Calder’s “Spider” and learn to weave their own wire mobiles.  The hour-long session begins at 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, and 2:30pm. Sign-in for Stories in Art will take place in the East Building Atrium, beginning at 11am that day, and will continue until all spaces are filled.  No admission fee required.  For more about the series, see this post from last week.

Sharing the Dream: A Multicultural Celebration of Love & Justice – This two-day festival at the National Museum of the American Indian celebrates the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. and brings together artists from African, Latino, and Native American communities. Listen, watch, and learn as  they share their expressions of love and justice through their music, spoken word, and storytelling performances. The weekend also includes hands-on activities for all ages as well as films, tours, and other regularly scheduled programs at the museum. The event takes place on Saturday and Sunday from 12 – 5pm.  A complete schedule of activities is available on the NMAI website.

“I Have a Dream…” Pillowcases – Kids are invited to share their dreams with the National Children’s Museum Launch Zone on Saturday from 11am – 4pm in commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by making their own “I Have A Dream…” pillowcases. Other activities will be presented to celebrate the life and accomplishments of Dr. King.  The Launch Zone is located at the National Harbor in Oxon Hill.

Poetry Extravaganza – All ages are invited to this tribute honoring the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. at the MLK, Jr. Memorial Library on Saturday at 1pm.  The poetry readings and recitals by Collective Voices will take place in the library’s Great Hall.

Last Call for the Nutcracker – If the kids missing the magic of the holidays or maybe you didn’t get to see the season’s most classic show, you have one last chance to recapture the holiday spirit on stage before we say farewell for a while.  The Synetic Family Theater’s production of The Nutcracker has two final performances this weekend — and KFDC readers can get a discount on tickets.  For details, see this post from a few days ago.

Girl Up “Unite for Girls” – Teen girls in the Washington, DC, area have an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of girls around the world. This Saturday, January 15, the United Nations Foundation’s Girl Up “Unite for Girls” city tour is stopping in the nation’s capitol to hold a pep rally in support of girls across the globe, and local teens are invited to take part in the educational and empowering event.  For details about the event, see this post from earlier this week.

Theater Time – Several children’s stage productions begin this week, and tickets are still available for some of the performances.  Check out this post from a few days ago to see what’s playing and how to reserve your seats,

Rock Out Sunday Morning – What better way to start the day than rocking out with local kids’ fave Rocknoceros.  The band is laying at the Sixth & I Historic Synagogue at 10:30am.  Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 day of the show.  Purchase online through the Sixth & I website.

Give Together Family Volunteer Day – Looking for something to do with the kids on the day off from work and school on Monday?  Volunteer Fairfax is hosting an event that will give families an opportunity to give back.  The second annual Give Together Family Volunteer Day will bring together several non-profits from the region with local families to work on various service projects.  For complete details about the event, see this post. 

Let Freedom Ring on Millennium Stage – The Kennedy Center and Georgetown University host a musical celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. The concert featuring Grammy Award–winning, platinum-selling vocalist Patti LaBelle also includes the Let Freedom Ring Choir with Music Director, Rev. Nolan Williams Jr. Georgetown University will award the ninth annual John Thompson Legacy of a Dream Award to Rev. Dr. Joseph Lowery—a leader in the American Civil Rights movement.  Free tickets will be given away two per person in line in the Hall of Nations at 4pm on Monday on a first-come, first-served basis.

Free Admission to National Parks – In celebration of the holiday weekend, the National Park Service is waiving entrance fees at more than 100 national parks that usually charge admission.  Layer up for a hike in the woods or cruise through Shenandoah and take in the views.  This is the first of five fee-free weekends at national parks this year.

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