WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Musical Thinking: New Video Art and Sonic Strategies at SAAM

Musical Thinking: New Video Art and Sonic Strategies explores the powerful resonances between recent video art and popular music. The exhibition focuses on video art that employs the strategies of musical creation--scores, improvisation, and interpretation--as well as its styles, structures, and lyrics to speak to personal as well as shared aspects of American life. On Friday, July 14, 6 to 8 p.m., to celebrate the return of SAAM’s signature evening concert, two local musical acts will perform in an after-hours concert. Libations and small snacks will be available for purchase from a cash bar as well as free tastings from a local brewery. Musical Thinking: New Video Art and Sonic Strategies is at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Eighth and G streets, NW, through Jan. 29, 2024. americanart.si.edu.

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens Lotus and Water Lily Festival

The 2023 Lotus and Water Lily Festival will take place from Saturday July 15 through Saturday July 22 with most of the activities on Saturdays. Festival activities include art opportunities, dance performances, live music and garden tours. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens within Anacostia Park is a hidden gem in Washington, DC. The summer lotus and lily blossoms are a “must see” during their peak blooming period in July, not unlike viewing the cherry blossoms in the spring. Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens are located at 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. nps.gov/keaq.

Carlos Santana at MGM National Harbor

Carlos Santana is at the MGM National Harbor on Wednesday, July 26, 8 p.m. For more than five decades—from his earliest days as a groundbreaking Afro-Latin-blues-rock fusion outfit in San Francisco—Carlos Santana has transcended musical genres and generational, cultural and geographical boundaries. To date, Santana has won ten GRAMMY Awards and three Latin GRAMMY Awards, with a record-tying nine GRAMMY Awards for a single project for 1999’s Supernatural (including Album of the Year and Record of the Year for “Smooth”). His most recent album, the powerful, energy-infused Blessings and Miracles features collaborations with Rob Thomas, Chris Stapleton, Steve Winwood, and many others. Tickets start at $179.50. mgmnationalharbor.mgmresorts.com.

Our Places: Connecting People and Nature at Natural History

Our experiences with nature can inspire us to connect, care, and act. Learn personal stories of connection and inspiration from scientists and community leaders. Participate in activities exploring your own personal connections. And, in a first for the museum, they have left parts of this exhibit unfinished waiting for audience contribution. By sharing your story, you can co-create an unforgettable exhibition experience for everyone. Our Places: Connecting People and Nature is on the first floor of the Natural History Museum through July 2024. naturalhistory.si.edu.

“A Republic if You Can Keep It” Exhibition at the Capitol

In an age of kings and queens, the US Constitution founded a democratic republic—a government of elected representatives of the people. The First Congress (1789-1791) was the first meeting of the legislature under the new Constitution. It faced the challenge of bringing the Constitution’s plan to life, while guiding the nation’s economy, welfare, and defense. Some “A Republic if You Can Keep It” Exhibition highlights are a piece of the balcony balustrade from Federal Hall in New York City, which George Washington stood behind in 1789 when he took the oath of office as the first president; an original boundary stone from the 1791-1792 survey that marked the boundary of the new federal district that became the home of the new government; and the first Appropriations Act, in which Congress spent $639,000. The largest portion of funding was for Revolutionary War pensions. The “A Republic if You Can Keep It” exhibition is at the Capitol Visitors’ Center through July 29. visitthecapitol.gov.

Kinship at the National Portrait Gallery

Through Jan. 27, 2024, the National Portrait Gallery, Eighth and G streets, NW, presents Kinship, an exhibition featuring the work of eight contemporary artists who explore the complexities of interpersonal relationships both within and outside of family units. Encompassing painting, photography, sculpture, video and performance, the presentation highlights recent work by Njideka Akunyili Crosby, Ruth Leonela Buentello, Jess T. Dugan, LaToya Ruby Frazier, Jessica Todd Harper, Thomas Holton, Sedrick Huckaby and Anna Tsouhlarakis. The exhibition of more than 40 works will visualize the complex and deeply moving ways in which interpersonal relationships endure and change, and how kinship, by its very nature, embraces contradictions. npg.si.edu.

“Cambodian Rock Band” at Arena

It’s 2008 and a father-daughter duo are heading to Phnom Penh; she to prosecute a notorious Cambodian war criminal, he 30 years after escaping thenCommunist rule. In a psychedelic theatrical extravaganza set to some of the country’s most popular rock music, including from Dengue Fever, Cambodian Rock Band shines a light on the country’s vibrant ’70s rock scene and how an entire generation of musicians was purged by the Khmer Rouge, as it brings long-buried family secrets back to life. $66 to $82. Cambodian Rock Band is at Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW, from July 17 to Aug. 27. arenastage.org.

Leonardo da Vinci Drawings at MLK Library

Through Aug. 20, the exhibition “Imagining the future: Leonardo da Vinci: in the mind of an Italian genius” will be open to the public at the Martin Luther King Jr. Library, 901 G St. NW. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to view twelve original da Vinci’s sketches and notes not seen in the United States until now. The Leonardo da Vinci exhibit is the first monographic one in the US dedicated to this universal genius. It provides an intimate look at one of history’s most brilliant thinkers. Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the origins of technologies we often take for granted and appreciate the remarkable mind that anticipated them centuries ago. Due to the high level of interest in Imagining the Future, visitors may encounter a wait to enter the exhibit. dclibrary.org.

NMAAHC Hip-Hop Block Party

The National Museum of African American History and Culture announces the return of its Hip-Hop Block Party Saturday, Aug. 12, 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 p.m., celebrating the culture and music that has been originated and shaped by Black America for decades. This year’s celebration will honor 50 years of hip-hop’s artistry, innovation and global transcendence. It will feature multigenerational performances by some of hip-hop’s most influential DJs, artists and cultural influencers. Attendees will also be able to participate in interactive activities, such as graffiti art, breakdancing and more. There will also be hip-hop-focused tours of NMAAHC’s renowned galleries, revealing the genre’s connection to centuries-old improvisation and social-consciousness traditions. nmaahc.si.edu/block-party.

The Shaw First Friday Art Walk

On the first Friday of every month, Ellington Plaza, on the 600 block of T Street, NW, in front of the Howard Theatre, transforms into a dynamic hub of artistic expression. From 6 to 10 p.m., residents and visitors can experience a fusion of visual arts and small businesses, creating a truly immersive and engaging environment for all. From soothing acoustic tunes to energetic bands, the musical talents on display cater to diverse tastes and ensure an inviting atmosphere for all attendees. You’re invited to spend time engaging in conversations with the artists, learn about their inspirations, and perhaps even discover that one-of-a-kind piece to add to your personal collection. In the event of inclement weather, the Shaw First Friday Art Walk will be cancelled. shawmainstreets.org.

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Live and Breath After Dark: An (adults only) Evening at the ACM

Join the Anacostia Community Museum for “Live and Breathe: After Dark: An Evening East of the River” on Thursday, July 20, 7 to 10 p.m. Explore the exhibition, indulge in sweets at the dessert bar from a local restaurant, enjoy vibes from Alex Love and conversation with the community. Follow ACM on social media for sneak peeks into the evening. This event is for 21+ only. Cash bar is by Liquid Therapy. Registration is free and recommended. Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu.

Prologue Theater’s “Monsters of American Cinema” and Classic Movie Series

When his husband dies, Remy Washington, a Black man, finds himself both the owner of a drive-in movie theater and a caregiver to his late husband’s straight, white, teenage son, Pup. United by their love of classic American monster movies, the two have developed a warm and caring familial chemistry—but their friendship fractures when Remy discovers Pup and his friends have been bullying a teen at his school. Told through dueting monologue and playful dialogue, Monsters of the American Cinema is a haunting and humorous tale about fathers and sons, ghosts and monsters. $35 to $45. For age 18+. Monsters of American Cinema is at the Atlas, 1333 H St. NW, from July 20 to Aug. 6. atlasarts.org. ... In a throwback to Atlas’ roots as a movie house, Prologue Theatre is bringing a classic movie series to tie-in to their summer production, Monsters of the American Cinema. Tickets are $7. Here’s the schedule: July 21, 9:30 p.m., Frankenstein; July 22, noon and 9:30 p.m., The Mummy; July 23, 4:30 p.m., The Maltese Falcon; July 28, 9:30 p.m., The Bride of Frankenstein; July 28, noon, The Creature from the Black Lagoon; July 30, 4:30 p.m., Singin in the Rain; Aug. 4, 9:30 p.m., The Invisible Man; Aug. 5, noon and 9:30 p.m., Dracula; Aug. 6, 4:30 p.m., Disney’s Alice in Wonderland. atlasarts.org.

“Fun Home” at Studio

Alison is nine, begging her father to play with her. She is 19, overcome by the aching and joyous pain of first love. She is 43, an out lesbian hunting for the truth of her brilliant, volatile, and closeted father’s life and death. She is all three at once, trying to untangle the central mystery of her childhood: How did she survive their shared hometown, when her father could not? With a score that ranges from exuberant 70s pop to aching melodies and dissonant harmonies of characters longing to be known, Fun Home is the Tony Award-winning story of a daughter and father, of coming out and coming to terms with a life shaped by a family’s secrets. $55 to $125. Fun Home is at Studio Theatre, 1501 14th St. NW, through July 30. studiotheatre.org.

Twelfth Night and Measure for Measure: STC Academy

Twelfth Night: Viola, separated from her twin Sebastian, dresses as a boy and works for Duke Orsino, whom she falls in love with. Orsino is in love with Countess Olivia and sends Viola to court her for him, but Olivia falls for Viola instead. Sebastian arrives, causing a flood of mistaken identities. Measure for Measure: The Duke of Vienna leaves Angelo in charge of the city. Angelo soon condemns Claudio to death for immoral behavior but offers to pardon Claudio if his sister, Isabella, sleeps with him. Isabella agrees but arranges for Angelo’s erstwhile fiancée to switch places with her. Twelfth Night and Measure for Measure are performed by the Shakespeare Theatre Company Academy in rotating repertory from July 7 to 22 on the George Washington University Campus at Theatre XX, 814 20th St. NW. Tickets are $15. shakespearetheatre.org.

The

First Aid Kit

Palomino Tour at The Anthem

Palomino horses aren’t usually born with the golden coats that they’re eventually known for. Instead, they grow into their striking splendor as the years pass, brandishing these colors with age. In similar fashion, First Aid Kit has grown into the majesty and magic of their sound. The sister duo—Klara and Johanna Söderberg—share stories of heartbreak, happiness, life, and love above a patchwork of natural instrumentation. After quietly amassing over one billion streams and counting and earning widespread acclaim, the duo shine like never before on their aptly titled Palomino Tour. First Aid Kit is at The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, on Friday, July 14, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.). $40 to $65. theanthemdc.com.

An Evening with Eric Lindell (full band show)

Eric Lindell, an American singer and songwriter, performs at the Pearl Street Warehouse, 33 Pearl St. SW, on Saturday, July 15, at 8 p.m. Lindell’s musical style is said to borrow from 1970s blues-rock, soul, and R&B and has been called blue-eyed soul, a common shorthand used for Anglo blues singers. Tickets are $35 to $60. Must be 21+. pearlstreetwarehouse.com.

Nickel Creek at Wolf Trap

On Sunday, July 23, 7:30 p.m. (gates at 6 p.m.) Nickel Creek, the renowned roots trio of mandolinist Chris Thile, violinist Sara Watkins, and guitarist Sean Watkins, stops by Wolf Trap on their long-awaited reunion tour. Grammy winner Aoife O’Donovan, a frequent collaborator of Sara Watkins and Chris Thile, kicks off the evening. Tickets start at $39. Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, VA. wolftrap.org.

The Last Improv Show at the KC

@lastimproveshow

From July 11 to 23, after a year of sold-out shows in Los Angeles, The Last Improv Show is bringing their hit long-form improv comedy to the Kennedy Center Theater Lab. This rotating cast of all-star improvisers is comprised of the top comedic minds working in comedy today, many of whom have been performing together for a decade or more. The group improvises scenes inspired by true stories told by a celebrity special guest who are themselves inspired by an audience suggestion. The result is hilarious comedy that has never been seen before and will never be seen again… but it’s the most fun you’ll have all summer. The Last Improv Show is recommended for mature audiences. $45. Kennedy-center.org.

Let’s Get Physical: True Tales about Sports & Fitness

On Tuesday, July 11, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.), enjoy a night of storytelling about the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat with the DMV’s premier storytelling organization. Since 1997, Story District has been producing and teaching the art of autobiographical storytelling at its best. Referred to as the gold standard in storytelling, you can count on a riveting night of original, entertaining, and thought-provoking true tales by diverse local talent. Appropriate for age 17 and older. $30 for general admission. Let’s Get Physical is at the Miracle Theater, 535 Eighth St. SE. Other upcoming shows are Which Way is Mecca? at Union Stage on Aug. 8 and Stories in the Key of Life at Union Stage on Sept. 12. storydistrict.org.

(D)rafts and (C)rafts at International Square

(D)rafts and (C)rafts combines dozens of local craft beverage producers and artisan makers in DC’s first small-scale producers festival. On Saturday, July 22, noon to 4 p.m., join the DC Brewers’ Guild and the newly established DC Makers’ Guild for this indoor festival at The Square, the new food hall at Int’l Square, 1850 K St. NW. Grab unlimited tastes from craft beverage producers while exploring locally made artisan goods such as ceramicists, woodworkers, printmakers, jewelers, and more. The Square features brand new local culinary concepts throughout the market-style food hall and will be open just for festival-goers to purchase food and nonalcoholic beverages. $20 to $80. dcbg.org and dcmakers.org.

Ru The World Tour at The Fillmore Silver Spring

Michael Adebayo Olayinka popularly known as Ruger, is a Nigeria, Afrobeat musician and songwriter. He has described his music as Afrodancehall--a fusion of Afrobeats with dancehall elements. Ruger is at The Fillmore Silver Spring, 8656 Colesville Rd., Silver Spring, on Saturday, Aug. 5, 8 p.m. Tickets are $54 to $387. This is a general admission, standing room only event with reserved seating in the balcony. This show is for all ages. livenation.com.

Michael Adebayo Olayinka popularly known as Ruger

Cisco Swank: More Better Tour at Songbyrd

Brooklyn-based jazz/hip hop artist Cisco Swank, renowned in the jazz and hip-hop world, flexes his range following Anderson, Paak & Anthony Fantano-backed indie triumph “All The Same” with “No Funny”, a self-assured, beaming alt-hip hop track. Gathering inspiration from contemporary spaces and weaving intricate webs of jazz, hip-hop and R&B, Cisco’s talent is rooted in his uncanny ability to play just about any instrument. Cisco Swak’s “More Better Tour” stops by Songbyrd, 540 Penn St. NE, on July 17, 8 p.m. (door at 7 p.m.). Tickets are $19.32—the price you’ll pay. No surprises later. All ages. songbyrddc.com.

Are you an aspiring or existing business in the District? The Small Business Resource Center (SBRC) is here for you!

WEBINAR: LEARN HOW TO BECOME A CERTIFIED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (CBE)

Wednesday, July 5, 2023 • 10:00 am Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/58981

DLCP AT YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD LIBRARY –LEARN THE PROCESS OF STARTING A BUSINESS

Tuesday, July 11, 2023 • 6:00 pm

Woodridge Library 1801 Hamlin St NE Washington, DC 20018 , Washington DC 20018 Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/60825

WEBINAR: INTRODUCTION TO GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING

Wednesday, July 12, 2023 • 2:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/60450

DLCP, WHO WE ARE AND HOW WE SERVE? (HYBRID)

Monday, July 17, 2023 • 3:00 pm

R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center 2730 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE Washington DC 20032 Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/62471

STREET VENDOR SERIES (HYBRID)

Monday, July 17, 2023 • 5:00 pm

R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center 2730 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE Washington DC 20032 Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/62472

GENERAL BUSINESS LICENSE BOOTCAMP IN PERSON

Thursday, July 20, 2023 • 10:00 am

R.I.S.E. Demonstration Center 2730 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE Washington DC 20032 Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/62448

SBRC ONE-ON-ONE CALL SESSION: STEPS TO OBTAINING A BUSINESS LICENSE

Monday – Friday by appointment between 10:00 am – 4:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

SBRC ONE-ON-ONE CALL SESSION: “TALK BUSINESS AFTER HOURS”

Wednesdays by appointment between 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

LLAMADA TELEFONICA: 1:1 PASOS PARA OBTENER UNA LICENCIA COMERCIAL CON LA SRA. HERRERA

Miercoles con cita de 12:00pm a 1:00pm Registro: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

MEET IN PERSON MONDAY - 1.1 BUSINESS SESSION

Mondays by appointment between 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events

Small Business Resource Center (202) 442-4538 | dlcp@dc.gov