Chinese Menu Comedy Birthday Show!
May 10, 2019 at 10PM
The best improvisers from DC and beyond play on the Menu. This time they are coming together to have fun and celebrate the birthday of Menu founder Pete Bergen. Pete wants to have fun and having a killer show with great people is as good a way to celebrate as any. Joining Peteon stage will be some of the best, including Greer Smith, Kate Symes, Joe Randazzo, Eva Lewis, Heather Moyer, Kathryn Carlsen, Caroline Petit, Mikael Johnson and more!
Tickets are available here.
LGBTQ AF
Hosted by Ryan McClure.
Booth Operator: Elizabeth Fulton
April 28, 2019 at 7:30pm
LGBTQ AF is having a bi-monthly live comedy show featuring the best LGBTQ-identifying stand-up, storytelling, improv, and sketch performers in the DMV area. Rising LGBTQ talent will also be spotlighted. This is the only regularly occurring comedy show in the DMV area with an all LGBTQ line-up.
The awesome April line-up features Geoff Corey – Storytelling, Jonathan Horsford – Stand-up, Ugh – Improv, Miranda Pennington – Stand-up, Joyce Rebar – Stand-up, The Plumbers – Improv and more!
Tickets are available here.
In Your Ear
April 21, 2019 at 3:00PM
$5 at the door + Tips for the authors are appreciated // FREE to DCAC Members / Hang out at Songbyrd afterwards
Katy Bohinc is a poet and data scientist based in NYC. Publisher’s Weekly describes her most recent title, Scorpio (Miami University Press, 2018) as “an astute, witty, feminist collection.” She is also the author of Trinity Star Trinity (Scarlet Imprint, 2017) and Dear Alain (Tender Buttons Press, 2014).
Pamela Woolford is a filmmaker, writer, and performer whose work is especially concerned with the lives of black women and girls and others whose joy, history, and inner life are underexplored in American media and popular art. She has been a Maryland State Arts Council Individual Artist Award winner for screenwriting, a 2018 North Beach American Film Festival Jury Award winner for her film Generation, a 2018 Experimental Forum Honorary Mention Awardee for her “vision and the film’s unique contribution to cinema,” and a recipient of a 2018 Canada Shorts Award of Commendation, among other honors. She bases the script for Generation on her short story “Just After Supper,” nominated for a 2018 Pushcart Prize by novelist and Pushcart Prize editor Mark Wisniewski.
Washington D.C. native Morowa Yejide’s novel Time of the Locust was a 2012 finalist for the PEN/Bellwether Prize and the 2015 PEN/Bingham award, and was a 2015 NAACP Image Award Nominee for Outstanding Literary Work. Her stories have appeared in the Adirondack Review, the Istanbul Review, and others. Her short story “Tokyo Chocolate” was nominated for a Pushcart Prize, anthologized by Britain’s best of the Willesden Herald, and praised by the Japan Times. She is a PEN/Faulkner Writers in Schools and Hurston/Wright Foundation Workshop author. She lives in the D.C. area with her husband and three sons. Her next novel is forthcoming through Akashic Books.
Tickets are available here.
Life Advice: A Sketch Comedy Show
April 19 – 20, 2019
Door: $15 General / $10 DCAC Members
Oh man is this sketch comedy like you’ve never seen it before. Funny and irreverent. Not the kind of comedy your grandma likes. It’s the kind your crazy great aunt likes. Dark comedy exploring the (un)importance of men. Join us, will you?
Tickets are available here.
Naked Girls Reading: A Night At The Movies
Friday, April 12 at 7:30 pm
$25 General/ $20 for DCAC Members
Who doesn’t love a good movie? Your resident Naked Girls are no different. However, they are far fonder of the tales, legends, graphics, and novels that brought these Hollywood blockbusters into existence. Join us as we pop some popcorn and enjoy an all-new evening of in-the-buff readings exclusively at The Sexology Institute! $15 single ticket, $25 couple’s ticket, and receive 20% off purchases.
Tickets are available here.
House Comics Show: April 10, 2019 at 8:00PM
IMPROV WARS: April 13, 2019 at 3:00PM
Sketch Night: April 24, 2019 at 8:00PM
FEMIN-EDY & DUDE-EDY: April 26 & 27, 2019 at 10:00PM
Laugh Index Theatre is your one-stop shop for your comedy needs offering a variety of comedy shows and classes in stand-up, improv, sketch, & storytelling.
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
Tickets are available here
Annika B. Lewis: Oppressive Mechanics
A collaboration with DC Arts Center, The Danish Embassy and The Swedish Embassy. Supported by Kassandra Production and The Danish Arts Foundation
Sunday, April 7 at 7:30 pm; Monday, April 8 at 7:30 pm
$15 General/ $12 for DCAC Members
Welcome to this work-in-progress and ARTivistic encounter where everything can happen!
You are invited as guests to feast on dismantling oppressive mechanics.
Together, we will explore possible strategies through an artistic creative dialogue regarding these questions:
How can we change from exploitation to respect, from narcissism to empathy, from destruction to creativity, from pain to pleasure, from consumption to generosity, from oppression to freedom?
Oppressive Mechanics is initiated by the Scandinavian-American performance artist Annika B. Lewis in a co-creation with DC based fine artist Anna U Davis, sex educator Laura Zam, multi-talented musician Jamal Gray, Baltimore based dance artist Vincent Thomas, and guests.
Tickets are available here.
Rainbow Theatre Project: Clothes For A Summer Hotel
Directed by Greg Stevens.
April 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, & 28, 2019 at 7:30PM
Door: $35 General / $28 DCAC Members
The Rainbow Theatre Project presents Clothes for a Summer Hotel, by legendary writer Tennessee Williams. Clothes for a Summer Hotel is Tennessee Williams’ evocative “ghost play” about the tumultuous marriage and creative lives of Zelda & Scott Fitzgerald. Filled with music and dance of the jazz age, the play fuses the past and the present in a theatrical tour-de-force as Zelda and Scott re-visit their youth and the ghosts of characters (including Ernest Hemingway) who helped shape their existence.
Tickets are available here.
House Comics Show: March 20, 2019 at 8:00PM & March 31, 2019 at 8:00PM
IMPROV WARS: March 23, 2019 at 3:00PM
Sketch Night: March 27, 2019 at 8:00PM
Laugh Index Theatre is your one-stop shop for your comedy needs offering a variety of comedy shows and classes in stand-up, improv, sketch, & storytelling.
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
Tickets are available here
In Your Ear
March 17, 2019 at 3:00PM
$5 at the Door/ Free to DCAC Members
Hang out at Songbyrd afterwards
Erin Dorney is the author of “I Am Not Famous Anymore: Poems after Shia LaBeouf” (Mason Jar Press, June 2018). She is the recipient of a 2017 Artist Career Development Grant from the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council/McKnight Foundation; a 2017 Emerging Artist Residency at Tofte Lake Center; a 2016 Spruceton Inn Artist Residency; and was the first Modern Worker: Writer in Residence at Modern Art in Lancaster, PA. Erin’s recent projects include “Cento Box” for Container’s Multitudes series & “The Hidden Museum, 2018”, a collaborative conceptual art installation on display at the Susquehanna Art Museum. Erin is cofounder of FEAR NO LIT and volunteers with VIDA: Women in Literary Arts.
Buck Downs’s latest book is a selected poems, Unintended Empire: 1989-2012, just out from Furniture Press Books. He lives in the neighborhood east of Capitol Hill known as Stadium City and works as a writer and writing coach.
Laura Eve Engel is the author of Things That Go (Octopus Books). The recipient of fellowships from the Provincetown Fine Arts Work Center, the Wisconsin Institute for Creative Writing and the Helene Wurlitzer Foundation, her work can be found in The Awl, Best American Poetry, Boston Review, The Nation, PEN America, Tin House and elsewhere. She’s in a band called The Old Year with Washington DC-area musician Paul Erik Lipp.
Mathias Svalina is the author of five books, most recently The Wine-Dark Sea from Sidebrow Books. He is a founding editor of Octopus Books & runs a Dream Delivery Service (dreamdeliveryservice.com).
Josh Todarello is a writer, translator, and PhD student in German Studies at Johns Hopkins. He lives in Baltimore.
Tickets available to the door.
The Wheel Theatre Company: Anton Chekhov’s The Seagull
Adapted & Directed by Jack Read
March 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 at 7:30 pm; March 30 at 3:00 pm
$20 General/ $15 for DCAC Members
On a summer’s evening, at a makeshift theater by a lake, a young writer’s new work is performed. In the wake of its spectacular failure, its audience – all connected by love – confront their own regret, grief, mortality, pettiness and loneliness. The Wheel Theatre Company’s new adaptation of Chekhov’s comedy is an ode to our first drafts and our failures, to our most bewildering infatuations, to our futile, comic search for reason and to our inexplicable ability to endure.
Tickets are available here
Naked Girls Reading: The Occult Edition!
March 9, 2019
Saturday at 7:00PM
Online Pre-Sale/DCAC Members: $22; Door: $27
Gather around the cauldron, coven. We’re dusting off our spell books, ripping off our robes, and solemnly swearing that we are up to no good. It’s Naked Girls Reading: The Occult Edition! March 9th at the DC Arts Center, join us as we welcome our new Naked Girl, Callie Pigeon, for an evil evening of witchcraft and bitchery; a séance of storytelling, sorcery and sisterhood not to be missed.
Tickets available here.
Laugh Index Theatre Presents: Three’s Company
March 6, 2019
Wednesday at 8pm
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
LIT knows the rules of comedy, and they’re bringing you the power of three. Three types of comedy. One Show. Come on and knock at our door….
Tickets are available here
Next Stop: North Korea
March 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 16, 17, & 24, 2019
Door: $20 General / $16 DCAC Members
Written and Performed by John Feffer; Directed by Angela Kay Pirko
How far would you travel to help other people? How many compromises would you make?
In this new one-man show, acclaimed playwright and performer John Feffer brings audiences as close to North Korea as they can get without a visa and an airplane ticket. Based on his visits to the country and the work he did there, Feffer explores the challenges of doing good in a morally ambiguous environment. He takes you inside Kim Il Sung’s mausoleum, up and down the Tower of the Juche Idea, out to the North Korean countryside, and into the hearts and minds of North Koreans themselves. Follow along with this “brilliant writer and performer” (Washington City Paper) as he brings you on an alternately funny, sobering, and thrilling trip of a lifetime.
Tickets are available here
Laugh Index Theatre: House Comics Show
February 28, 2019
LIT’s monthly stand alone stand-up comedy show features its House Comics. CAST: Jennifer Amo, Laurent Amzallag, Doug Francken, Edward Francis Lee, Katie McKelvie, Ben Nemceff, Rashee Raj, Robert Rowlett, and Hedi Sandberg.
LIT’s Stand-Up 101 and Stand-Up 201 students will also be performing!
Tickets available here.
Laugh Index Theatre Presents: Sketch Night
February 27, 2019
Wednesday at 8pm
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
LIT’s Sketch Night is every month on Wednesday, and it’s an entire show devoted to sketch comedy in Adams Morgan. Brought to you by both of LIT’s house teams, Separate Beds and Hot & Sweaty, each month’s show is a different theme with new material.
Tickets available here.
Landless Theatre Company: Puffs
February 22, 2019
February 23; March 1, 2, 8, 9, 23 & 30, 2019
Door: $50 General / $40 DCAC Members
PUFFS – PUFFS or SEVEN INCREASINGLY EVENTFUL YEARS AT A CERTAIN SCHOOL OF MAGIC AND MAGIC by Matt Cox. For seven years a certain boy wizard went to a certain Wizard School and conquered evil. This, however, is not his story. This is the story of the Puffs… who just happened to be there too. A tale for anyone who has never been destined to save the world. Playing in rep with THE DOYLE AND DEBBIE SHOW.
Tickets are available here
In Your Ear
February 17, 2019 at 3:00PM
$5 at the door + tips are encouraged for the authors/ Free for DCAC members
Come hang out afterwards at Songbyrd
Dora Malech is the author of Stet, selected by Susan Stewart for the Princeton Series of Contemporary Poets and published by Princeton University Press in 2018. Her two previous books of poetry are Say So (Cleveland State University Poetry Center, 2011) and Shore Ordered Ocean (The Waywiser Press, 2009). Her poems have appeared in publications that include The New Yorker, Poetry, The Best American Poetry, Poetry London, The Kenyon Review, Lana Turner, and Tin House. Her visual art has appeared or is forthcoming in publications that include Poetry, Poetry Northwest, and Pinwheel. She is the recipient of awards that include an Amy Clampitt Residency Award from the Amy Clampitt Foundation, a Writers’ Fellowship from the Civitella Ranieri Foundation, a Ruth Lilly Poetry Award from the Poetry Foundation, and a Mary Sawyers Baker Award from the William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund. She lives in Baltimore, Maryland, where she is an assistant professor in The Writing Seminars at Johns Hopkins University.
Allison Titus is the author most recently of SOB STORY (Barrelhouse) and The True Book of Animal Homes (Saturnalia Books). She embroiders erasures from discarded library books and with the poet Ashley Capps is at work on The New Sent(i)ence project. She teaches in the low-res MFA program at New England College.
Anne-Adele Wight is the author of An Internet of Containment, just released by Blazevox. She has three other books: The Age of Greenhouses, Opera House Arterial, and Sidestep Catapult, all from BlazeVOX. Anne-Adele lives and writes in Philadelphia. She has read extensively there and in other cities and her work has been published internationally.
Tickets available at the door.
Landless Theatre Company: The Doyle and Debbie Show
February 16, 2019
March 15, 16, 22 & 29, 2019
Door: $50 General / $40 DCAC Members
THE DOYLE AND DEBBIE SHOW by Bruce Arntson is a sublime parody, simultaneously lampooning and idolizing country music’s tradition of iconic duos and their subsequent battle of the sexes. The production is directed by John Sadowsky (Gutenberg! The Musical!) and features Landless familiars Andrew Lloyd Baughman (Sweeney Todd) and Karissa Swanigan-Upchurch (High Fidelity). Playing in rep with PUFFS – PUFFS or SEVEN INCREASINGLY EVENTFUL YEARS AT A CERTAIN SCHOOL OF MAGIC AND MAGIC.
Tickets are available here
Laugh Index Theatre Presents: Three’s Company
February 6, 2019
Wednesday at 8pm
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
LIT knows the rules of comedy, and they’re bringing you the power of three. Three types of comedy. One Show. Come on and knock at our door….
Tickets available here
Laugh Index Theatre Presents: Sketch Night
January 30, 2019
Wednesday at 8pm
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
LIT’s Sketch Night is every month on Wednesday, and it’s an entire show devoted to sketch comedy in Adams Morgan. Brought to you by both of LIT’s house teams, Separate Beds & The Employables, each month’s show is a different theme with new material.
Tickets available here.
Chinese Menu: Jaci Says Goodbye
January 26, 2019
Saturday at 10:00pm
$10 General / $8 Pre-Sale & Members
Chinese Menu Comedy has done it again The best in DC come together in this celebration of great friends doing great work. Come see some of the best players you frankly don’t get to see that much anymore have a party on stage. There is always a Menu first timer and these days these shows don’t happen without it being a big(ger) deal event. Whats so special about this show? Other than than how good it is? Glad you asked.
This will also be your chance to say goodbye to Chinese Menu Comedy Hall of Famer Jaci Pulice.
Ticket information can be found here.
Laugh Index Theatre Presents: Threes Company
January 23, 2019
Wednesday at 8pm
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
LIT knows the rules of comedy, and they’re bringing you the power of three. Three types of comedy. One Show. Come on and knock at our door….
Tickets available here.
In Your Ear
January 20
Sunday at 3 pm
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
Ok, friends, In Your Ear has some heavy hitters coming to our nation’s capital. Join us in 2019 for a wonderful afternoon of poetry.
Please join us to hear poetry by Barbara Henning, Maureen Owen, Terence Winch & Erika Howsare & more!
We’ll head to Songbyrd after the reading for a drink, coffee, and/or food.
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Curated by Bevil Townsend with social media coordinated by K. Lorraine Graham.
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Tickets available at the door.
Rainbow Theatre Project:
Jeffrey
by paul rudnick
director: robert mintz
January 17–February 10, 2019
$35 General/ $30 for DCAC Members
When did we begin to remember to laugh and celebrate life? Jeffrey is a young New Yorker who says he wants love, but is afraid of making a commitment. He is surrounded by friends who, in their own unique, outrageous and stylish way, tell him to live for the present and let the future take care of itself.
Tickets available here.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Come Into My Parlor
January 11, 2019
Friday at 10pm
Online Pre-Sale: $22, Door: $27
Start 2019 off with a rousing good time: velvet tortures, lustful yearnings, and maybe even a salacious rendezvous or two. Come Into My Parlor features DCs official Naked Girls Cherokee Rose, Alice Darling and special guests Mindi Mimosa and original cast member Andre Shakti performing an aural assortment of erotica to warm your chilly January bones. Let Naked Girls Reading help you make sexiness and intelligence your resolution!
Tickets available here.
Chinese Menu: Home for the Holidays
December 23, 2018
Sunday at 7:30pm
$10 General / $8 Pre-Sale & Members
This annual show reunites some of DC’s most fun and accomplished ex-pats with some of the most fun players here in town. Tickets available soon but mark your calendar and don’t miss: Stephanie Anderson, Patrick Gantz, Erica Geiser, Rachel Showalter, Shawn Westfall, Eva Lewis, Mikael Johnson & Joe Randazzo
More to come!
(Cast subject to change)
Tickets available here.
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
HOT SPOT
December 22 & 29, 2018
Saturday at 8pm
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
One night only! It’s LIT’s musical comedy show! You’ll hear funny songs from our Laugh Index Players plus you’ll see them perform musical improv and musical sketch! This show is so much fun it will hit your hot spot! There will also be a jam at the end of the show! The 10 pm show features special guest Julian Stern.
Tickets available here.
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
A Hot & Sweaty Holiday
December 22, 2018
Saturday at 3pm & 5pm
Online Pre-Sale: $20, Door: $25
Nine times the charm and holiday spirit of its predecessors, the ninth annual “A Hot & Sweaty Holiday” will have nine times the laughs! You’ll laugh so hard you’ll sweat the holiday pounds away, and your ticket purchase will help Bread for the City.
Each show is ninety minutes long with no intermission.
Tickets available here.
In Your Ear
December 16
Sunday at 3 pm
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
Merry Christmas! In Your Ear will do an old fashioned group reading this December.
Please join us to hear poetry by Rod Smith, Buck Downs, Leslie Bumstead, Phyllis Rosenzwieg, Hope LeGro, Jennifer DePalma, Casey Smith & more!
We’ll head to Songbyrd after the reading to grab a bite and a pint.
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Curated by Bevil Townsend with social media coordinated by K. Lorraine Graham.
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Tickets available here.
AnyStage Theater:
Watergate…With Puppets!
Starring Melissa Carter, Sheryl Mebane, Alec Scheller, and Zachery Smith
Written By John-Nicholas Walsh; Movement Directed By Marshall Betz; Directed By John-Nicholas Walsh and Kirsten Grady
November 30-December 2, 2018
Friday-Sunday at 7:30pm
December 14 & 15
Friday at 7:30pm
Saturday at 3pm & 7:30pm
$15 General/ $12 for DCAC Members
Yep, it’s exactly what it sounds like. AnyStage Theater presents the story of Nixon’s last days in the White House- featuring puppets, humans, and a giant rubber fish! Watergate… With Puppets! is not affiliated with (or supported by) The Jim Henson Company, The Muppets, or Sesame Street. Visit AnyStageDC.com to learn more.
Tickets available here.
Camille Roberts and Friends
December 13
Thursday at 7:30pm
$5 General/ $3 for DCAC Members
A night of stand up from three up and coming in the DMV: Camille Roberts, Sarah Roche, and Katie McKelvie
Tickets available at the door. h
Laugh Index Theatre
Mondays & Wednesdays at 8pm
Improv Wars: December 3 & 10
Three’s Comedy: December 5 & 12
Online Pre-Sale: $10 / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 / $12 DCAC Members
Tickets available here.
The DC Center:
DC Queer Theatre Festival
December 7 & 8, 2018
Friday at 7:30pm
Saturday at 3pm & 7:30pm
$20 General/ $15 for DCAC Members
Founded in 2012, the DC Queer Theatre Festival is dedicated to unleashing and celebrating the underrepresented voices and diversity of our artists, audiences, and area.By featuring new plays with themes relevant to the DC area and local artists with roots in the community, the DC Queer Theatre Festival combines quality theatre with activism and charity. The 2012 and 2013 DC Queer Theatre Festivals partnered with The DC Center for the LGBT Community, raising money for and awareness of the essential services The DC Center provides to the LGBTQ communities in Washington, DC.
Our mission is to unleash and celebrate the underrepresented voices and diversity of our artists, audiences, and community.
Tickets available here.
Rainbow Theatre Project:
A Deafening Sound
a cabaret directed & performed by Jeffrey Higgins
November 23 & 24, 2018
Friday & Saturday at 7:30pm
$35 General/ $30 for DCAC Members
On November 8th, 2015 Jeffrey Higgins was fired from his singing job in the Archdiocese of Washington for being a gay, married man. After a short battle with the Church, Jeffrey left music behind, finding it too painful to relive his sacking with every note he sang. A Deafening Soundis his return to the musical world. Using music from several genres, Jeffrey will tell a deeply personal story of shame, depression, love, and the climb back to stable ground.
Tickets available here.
Chinese Menu March
October 28, 2018
Sunday at 10pm
$10 General / $8 Pre-Sale & Members
For those of you that don’t know, Chinese Menu Comedy put on a rock star mash up improv show for about 10 years. The show was a great outlet for old school players unable to commit to the grind of the improv style dues to geography or kids. We also enjoyed folding in newer players on the scene and giving hundreds of people in the community a chance to get together and play. Sometimes with some of the biggest out of town names in improv. We stopped our monthly show in the spring but we left the door open for “big deal or special occasion” shows. We think this one qualifies.
Luke Null (Saturday Night Live season 43 cast member and Chicago improviser) is in town and jumping on the Menu. Some great people are coming out to play with him.
The (tentative) cast includes:
– Luke Null (IO alum and season 43 cast member of SNL. loves the Bengals. from Cincinnati. great eyes.
– Denny Johnson (nice. pure joy. except when he’s not. Menu hall of Famer, Commonwealth alum, currently killing it with To Be Frank)
– Katie Carson Phillips (161 Alum, 1/3 of the all time great team, that person that we wish were available more. Biscuitville, pure joy. on our Mount Rushmore of DC improvisers)
– Jules Duffy (Chicago trained. Commonwealth alum. one of the smartest players around. so damn nice. until you’re a jerk)
– Donna Steele (RVA alum. plays with everyone. coaches everyone, takes great photos. very nice but will not hesitate to have a hard chat with you. sneaky young)
– Mikael Johnson (gadfly. one of the best teachers ever. Menu Hall Of Famer. honest to a fault. great dad. curious facial hair)
– Colin Murchie (161 Alum, “nobody has more vocabulary instantly available”- Shawn Westfall. intimidatingly smart. ju-jitsu devotee. elaborate scene painter. Also sneaky young.
– Justine Hipsky (Part of the Hellcat mob. educator. woke AF. cool pets. intimidatingly cool boyfriend.)
– Dan Milliken (IMusical mainstay, great coach, extraordinary server, looks bad in drag but is handsome AF
– Dots Thomas (plays with GUS, super handsome, loves BBQ, Naval officer, smarter than most.
– Pete Bergen- (whatever)
We have some invites out and will report back with a ticket link once the cast is filled out!
Until then plan on staying up a little later on the 28th!
Tickets available here.
Washington Improv Theatre Presents:
Road Show
October 25 – November 18
Thursdays – Sundays at 7:30pm
October 27 & November 3
Saturday at 10pm
November 9 – 17
Saturday & Sunday at 10pm
Online Pre-Sale: $12 General / $10 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
What will happen at the WIT Road Show? Your guess is as good as ours! WIT’s company ensembles and special guests take over DC Arts Center in Adams Morgan with our thrilling, unpredictable performances! Each show’s line-up is unique and every performance is one-of-a-kind.
Tickets & more info available here.
In Your Ear
November 18
Sunday at 3 pm
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
Please join us for In Your Ear’s November reading & please hang out for Drinks / Coffee afterwards at Songbyrd
Julie Carr’s most recent books are Objects from a Borrowed Confession and the essay collection, Someone Shot My Book. A mixed-genre work, Real Life: An Installation, is due out in 2018. She lives in Denver where she helps to run Counterpath and teaches at the University of Colorado in Boulder.
Chris Nealon is Professor of English at Johns Hopkins University. He is the author of two books of criticism, Foundlings: Lesbian and Gay Historical Emotion before Stonewall (Duke, 2001) and The Matter of Capital: Poetry and Crisis in The American Century (Harvard, 2011), and three books of poetry: The Joyous Age (Black Square Editions, 2004), Plummet (Edge Books, 2009) and Heteronomy (Edge, 2014). He recently completed a new manuscript, The Shore. He is currently at work on a critique of academic antihumanism. He lives in Washington, DC.
Edwin Torres is a New York City native and the author of eight books of poetry including, Ameriscopia (University of Arizona Press), The PoPedology of an Ambient Language (Atelos Books), and most recently XoeteoX: the infinite word object (Wave Books). Anthologies include: American Poets in the 21st Century (Vol. 4): Global Poetics, Who Will Speak For America, and Aloud: Voices From The Nuyorican Poets Café. His current 4-year project has been editing The Body In Language: An Anthology, forthcoming in 2019 from Counterpath Press.
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Tickets available here.
In Your Ear
October 21
Sunday at 3 pm
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
We’re back! It’s kind of like a Pop-Up event, only we always meet on 3rd Sundays 🙂
Join us for the October installment of In Your Ear to hear two wonderful local poets. $5 at the Door (proceeds split between artists and DCAC), plus, we encourage tipping so that we may pay our artists a little extra.
Sepideh Jodeyri is a winner of the Jovellanos International Poetry Prize, ‘The Best Poem in the World’ in 2015 for one of her poems, Chãk, and a graduate in chemical engineering from Iran University of Science and Technology. Jodeyri has published several works, including six poetry collections, a collection of short stories and an anthology of her poems. Her articles and interviews have been published in Iranian newspapers and magazines as well as European ones. She has also translated poetry books by Edgar Allan Poe and Jorge Luis Borges as well as the graphic novel Blue Is the Warmest Color by Julie Maroh into Persian.
Daniel D’Angelo’s poetry has appeared in The Collagist, alice blue, B O D Y, and elsewhere. He lives in D.C., thinks he works to advance and sustain higher education institutions, and juggles a few poetry manuscripts.
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Tickets available here.
darlingdance & Eames Armstrong
LOAD
Friday, October 5 at 8pm
Thursday, October 11 at 8pm
$23 General / $20 DCAC Members
darlingdance presents LOAD, choreographed in collaboration with painter Eames Armstrong. A soft exploration of self and others, the intention of touch, physical and emotional weight bearing, collapsing and congealing structures of support, butts, and shared space, time, and body. LOAD features music by local electronic and experimental musicians Antonia (Adriana-Lucia Cotes), PraxisCat (Christine Paluch), and Radiator Greys (Josh Levi).
Tickets available here.
Marimba Cabaret
September 27, 2018
Thursday at 7:30pm
$15 / $10 DCAC Members & Students
Come out of the musical closet with Brian & Erika! Marimba Cabaret is what happens when two classically-trained percussionists with a love of showtunes and shoes put on a show. Brian embraces his love of karaoke, marimba and heels, while Erika loves arranging awesomely bad songs for percussion and her voice. Together, they present a dynamic show full of musical theater, pop covers and guilty pleasures re-imagined for marimba, percussion and their voices.
Winner of the 2017 Critic’s Choice Award at PortFringe Theater Festival, Marimba Cabaret is a refreshing take on unexpected songs and stories. Audience members say “it’s a fabulous time” and “fun, unexpected, inventive, and full of heart!” Guaranteed to make you laugh, cry, and sing along, there’s something for everyone in this eclectic evening of mash-ups and marimba covers.
Tickets available here.
The Klunch:
How to Win a Race War
Written & Directed by: Ian Allen
September 21: Friday at 7:30pm
September 22: Saturday at 2:30pm & 7:30pm
September 23: Sunday at 2:30pm
September 28 – 30: Friday – Sunday at 7:30pm
October 6: Saturday at 2:30pm & 7:30pm
October 7: Sunday at 2:30pm
October 12 – 13: Friday & Saturday at 7:30pm
October 14: Sunday at 2:30pm
October 19: Friday at 7:30pm
October 20: Saturday at 7:30pm
$25 General / $20 DCAC Members
$40 Premium / $30 DCAC Members
Things take a darkly hilarious turn this fall, with the highly-anticipated world premiere of Ian Allen’s How to Win a Race War. The three-part comic satire, replete with song-and-dance numbers, and clocking in at three hours plus, is a parody of white supremacist “race war” fiction, which has proliferated in the years since Timothy McVeigh named William Pierce’s The Turner Diaries as inspiration for his brutal 1995 bombing of a federal building in Oklahoma City. How to Win a Race War takes the audience on an epic journey from one end of the white supremacist bookcase to the other: from the fear of slave rebellions in the antebellum South, to the militant skinhead scene of 1990’s Boston, and waaaay beyond – into a liberal dystopian future packed with the sort of orchestrated chaos we are seeing from these dangerous groups today. Part satire, part exposé, and part horror show, How to Win a Race War is guaranteed to be an experience like no other.
For audiences ages 18+
Tickets available here.
*DCAC Members: For promo code please email info@dcartscenter.org or call 202-462-7833 during open hours Wed-Sun 2-7pm.
In Your Ear
September 16
Sunday at 3 pm
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Curated by Bevil Townsend with social media coordinated by K. Lorraine Graham.
Buck Downs’ latest book is a selected poems, Unintended Empire: 1989-2012, just out from Furniture Press Books. He lives in the neighborhood east of Capitol Hill known as Stadium City and works as a writer and writing coach.
John Most is the author of Field, Timetable, Atelier, and Persephone. John’s latest video poem, co-written with Pauline Oliveros, is “In Absentia.” John lives in Crozet, Virginia. www.johnmost.com
Washington D.C. native Morowa Yejidé’s novel Time of the Locust was a 2012 finalist for the PEN/Bellwether Prize, longlisted for the 2015 PEN/Bingham award, and a 2015 NAACP Image Award Nominee for Outstanding Literary Work. Her stories have appeared in the Adirondack Review, the Istanbul Review, and others. Her short story “Tokyo Chocolate” was nominated for a Pushcart Prize, anthologized by Britain’s best of the Willesden Herald, and praised by the Japan Times. She received her MFA from Wilkes University and is currently a PEN/Faulkner Writers in Schools author. She lives in the D.C. area with her husband and three sons. Her next novel is forthcoming through Akashic Books.
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Tickets available here.
Photo Credit: Michael Geffner||The Inspired Word NYC
Felicitations
September 8, 2018
Friday at 10pm
$5 General/ $2 for DCAC Members
Felicitations is an improv show focused on the joy of community, the double-edge nature of uncertainty, and the inevitability of change. Showcasing the breadth and depth of talent in the DC scene, this show will feature new combinations of improvisers and will explore the essence of improv: mining the richness of each and every moment. This show embraces the “both, and” of improv and life. With every choice, there is opportunity, and each change carries with it both celebration and lamentation. Audience participation is highly encouraged!
Tickets available here.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Reading Banned Books
August 24
Friday at 10pm
At the door: $27 General/ $22 DCAC Members and Presale
There is nothing more subversive than reading banned books. Except maybe reading them naked…in public! Haters be damned, we’re doing it. Cherie Sweetbottom, GiGi Holliday, Alice Darling and Sucre a la Creme are stripping down at the DC Arts Center to show you why these pieces of literary rebellion are important.
Seating is limited, so advanced ticketing is suggested.
Tickets available here.
Rainbow Theatre Project:
In the Closet
A World Premiere directed by H. Lee Gable
August 16 – August 18
Thursday – Saturday at 7:30pm
August 23 – September 2
Thursday – Sunday at 7:30pm
August 27: Monday at 7:30pm
September 6 – 8
Thursday – Saturday at 7:30pm
September 9: Sunday at 3pm
Saturday September 15 at 7:30pm
$35 General/ $30 for DCAC Members
The season will kick off in August with the world premiere production of Siegmund Fuchs’ In the Closet, a metaphysical comedy that follows four men, each living during a different time period, as they look at their lives in the place where all gay men begin, in the closet.
Tickets available here.
We Finna Laugh: A Night of Comedy with Sampson
August 10
Friday at 7:30pm
$20 General/ $15 for DCAC Members
Award winning stand up comedian and writer Sampson McCormick, returns to DC for a very intimate and uproariously hilarious and thought provoking comedy performance.
Tickets available here.
Theory of Theories
Written & Directed by Sean Surla
Performed by Karoline Troger & Cristen Stephansky
August 3: Friday at 7:30pm
August 4: Saturday at 3pm
August 11: Saturday at 7:30pm
$15 General/ $10 for DCAC Members
Theories about life, love, desire, friendship, & connection… a play on vulnerability & evolving
Tickets available at door.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
THE MOVIES
July 27, 2018
Friday at 10pm
At the door: $27 General/ $22 DCAC Members and Presale
Who doesn’t love a good movie? Your Naked Girls are no different. But we are far fonder of the tales, legends, graphics and novels that brought them into existence. Bring your popcorn and join us for a Night at the Movies, July 27th at 10pm!
Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to the DC Arts Center to present the sexy starlets GiGi Holliday, Alice Darling and special guest Nina LaVoix to entertain, seduce and even educate you.
Seating is limited, so advanced ticketing is suggested.
Tickets available here.
It is better to speak!
July 27, 2018
Friday at 7:30pm
$10 General/ $8 for DCAC Members
RiverShe Collective Arts invites you to an evening of creative resistance & revival through spoken word, music, laughter, & community!
*DCAC members, please email info@dcartscenter.org to receive promotional code.
Tickets available here.
THE ACCIDENTAL PILGRIM
A NEW PLAY BY THEATRE DU JOUR
Directed by B. Stanley
July 7 – 15: Friday – Sunday at 7:30pm
July 19 – 26: Thursday – Sunday at 7:30pm
July 28 & 29: Saturday & Sunday at 7:30pm
$24 General/ $17 Fringe Button Discount
In this newly devised play Theatre Du Jour offers an intimate abstract spectacle with laser focus on humankind’s search for satisfaction. An unfulfilled individual starts on what he believes to be the road to his goals only to find the path is diverted and not as clear as he had imagined. Psychedelic visuals and sound caress the ensemble as they make their way through this decidedly obtuse adventure.
Featuring Jerry Herbilla, Jacquelyn Paulin, Rachel Reed, Kris Roth, and Annetta Dexter Sawyer. Sound design by Rob Gould and Nate Taylor.
This production is presented as a part of the 2018 Capital Fringe Festival, a program of the Washington, DC non-profit Capital Fringe.
Tickets available here.
GNO: Gay Night Out
June 23, 2018
Saturday at 7:30 & 10pm
$20 / $15 DCAC Members at the door
GNO brings together DC’s trendsetting LGBTQ musicians and performers for a night of queer excellence. You’ll be laughing, singing, and dancing your way through a new breed of nightlife entertainment.
Hosted by Jane Saw. Performances by Bryce, Hilary Morrow, and Jordan Genovese.
Tickets available here.
Chinese Menu March
June 22, 2018
Friday at 7:30pm
$10 General / $7 Pre-Sale & Members
These all star improv shows have been selling out for almost 10 years. Come see why!
Tickets available here.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Comedy Undressed
June 22, 2018
Friday at 10pm
At the door: $27 General/ $22 DCAC Members and Presale
We want to tickle your fancy and your funny bone! Join us as the Naked Girls read their favorite memoirs, tales, blogs and funny stories by the world’s most memorable jokesters! Cherokee Rose is in stitches to present GiGi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom, Alice Darling and a to be announced for Naked Girls Reading Presents Comedy Undressed.
Seating is limited, so advanced ticketing is suggested.
Tickets available here.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Science Fiction
May 18, 2018
Friday at 10pm
At the door: $27 General/ $22 DCAC Members and Presale
By Grabthar’s Hammer, through time and space, in a galaxy far far away, to boldly go where no Naked Girl has gone before, join us for Naked Girls Reading presents SciFi Fantasy. Will we be the Mother’s of Dragons, The Queens of Fairy or ruler of a realm both Muggle and Wizard alike? Join us, faithful squires, through journeys far and wide starting at our home the DC Arts Center on an epic the Bards will sing for ages to come. Cherokee Rose returns to the shire with Alice Darling, Cherie Sweetbottom and GiGi Holliday at the DC Arts Center on May 18th at 10pm. So say we all!
Seating is limited, so advanced ticketing is suggested.
Tickets available here.
WIT Road Show: Interplay
May 3 – June 16, 2018
Thursday-Sunday at 7:30pm
May 4 – 12 & May 25 – June 16
Friday & Saturday at 9:30pm
Online Pre-Sale: $12 General / $10 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
Washington Improv Theater’s Interplay features dynamic collaborations between WIT’s own improvisers and artists from a myriad of disciplines—from music to puppetry to storytelling. These one-of-a-kind mash-ups will be unlike anything you’ve seen before on WIT’s stage!
Tickets available soon. More info available here.
In Your Ear
December 17, 2017
Sunday at 3 pm
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Curated by Meg Ronan and Mike Walsh.
Tickets: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Washington Improv Theatre Presents:
Rise Up!
November 9 – 25, 2017
Thursdays – Sundays at 7:30 pm
Fridays & Saturdays at 9:30 pm
Online Pre-Sale: $12 General / $10 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
What will happen at the WIT Road Show? Your guess is as good as ours! WIT’s company ensembles and special guests take over DC Arts Center in Adams Morgan with our thrilling, unpredictable performances! Each show’s line-up is unique and every performance is one-of-a-kind.
Tickets & more info: witdc.org
Chinese Menu Invitational
November 3 & 4, 2017
Friday at 7:30 & 10 pm
Saturday at 7:30 & 10 pm
$10 Pre-Sale & Members / $12 General
An invite only festival where the teams have been curated and vetted ensures that they are up to the Menu standard! We have secured the DCAC for the whole weekend. There will be workshops, shows, laughs, and as always, pizza.
Tickets:
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
A Comedy of Horrors
October 27 & 28, 2017
Friday and Saturday at 10 pm
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $13 DCAC Members
It’s so funny, it’s scary. A Comedy of Horrors, LIT’s Halloween-themed comedy variety show, includes stand-up comedians, improv teams and sketch comedy. You’ll have a wicked good time.
Tickets: laughindextheatre.com
In Your Ear
November 19, 2017
Sunday at 3 pm
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Curated by Meg Ronan, Mike Walsh
Tickets: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Comedy Undressed
November 17, 2017
Friday at 10 pm
At the door: $27 General/ $22 DCAC Members and Presale
We want to tickle your fancy and your funny bone! Join us as the Naked Girls read their favorite memoirs, tales, blogs and funny stories by the world’s most memorable jokesters! Cherokee Rose is in stitches to join GiGi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom, Alice Darling for Naked Girls Reading Presents Comedy Undressed, November 17th at 10pm.
Tickets: https://nakedgirlsreadingscomedy.brownpapertickets.com/
Chinese Menu Home for the Holidays
December 23, 2017
Saturday at 7 & 9:30 pm
$10 Pre-Sale & Members / $12 General
Lots of very talented people come home for the holidays so we like to make sure we get them on stage. Come see some of your favorite Menu Regulars mix it up with some of the most fun ex pats! There is so much talent we have 2 shows!
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
A Very Naked Holiday
December 15, 2017
Friday at 10 pm
At the door: $27 General/ $22 DCAC Members and Presale
The holiday season is no reason to turn into a Scrooge. Join us for Naked Girls Readings Presents: A Very Naked Holiday and you’ll be filled with so much holiday cheer your wee heart will grow three sizes this year. Already a Suzy Snowflake? Then you won’t want to miss this North Pole Express filled with heart, wit and just enough sass to make anyone’s belly shake with Naked Girl class. It’s become our Holiday tradition make it yours too!
The Naked Girls celebrate any winter holiday they can get their hands on with their ever-popular, A Very Naked Holiday show! Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to the DC Arts Center with Cherie Sweetbottom, Alice Darling, GiGi Holliday, and a TBA special guest, December 15th at 10:00pm.
Judge Me Not
October 14 & 15, 2017
Saturday at 10 pm
Sunday at 6:30 pm
$25 General/ $20 for DCAC Members
Judge Me Not is a diverse ensemble production featuring seasoned actors in a variety of characters. A unique monologue performance that takes you on a journey through the lives of 10 souls and challenges our snap judgement through storytelling. Judge Me Not delves deeper beyond the surface of others to incite a little more compassion.
Tickets:
Theatre du Jour Presents:
The Accidental Pilgrim
October 12 – 28
Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30 pm
$20 General / $15 DCAC Members
A NEW PLAY BY THEATRE DU JOUR
Directed by B. Stanley
In this newly devised play Theatre Du Jour offers an intimate abstract spectacle with laser focus on humankind’s search for satisfaction. An unfulfilled individual starts on what he believes to be the road to his goals only to find the path is diverted and not as clear as he had imagined. Psychedelic visuals and sound caress the ensemble as they make their way through this decidedly obtuse adventure.
Featuring Jerry Herbilla, Jacquelyn Paulin, Rachel Reed, Kris Roth, and Annetta Dexter Sawyer. Sound design by Rob Gould.
More Info: theatredujour.com
Tickets:
Chinese Menu
October 7, 2017
Saturday at 10 pm
$10 Pre-Sale & Members / $12 General
The kick ass, rock star, grimy little monthly all star show is back. Mark your calendars and make sure you don’t miss this show that has been selling out for years!
Tickets:
In Your Ear
September 17, 2017
Sunday at 3 pm
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. This month features readings by Nat Baldwin and Mugabe Byenkya.
Curated by Meg Ronan, Mike Walsh
Tickets: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Washington Improv Theatre Presents:
Rise Up!
September 14 – October 1, 2017
Thursdays – Sundays at 7:30 pm
Fridays & Saturdays at 9:30 pm
Online Pre-Sale: $12 General / $10 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $10 DCAC Members
Over inauguration weekend in 2017, WIT presented a one-weekend politically-minded barrage of improv shows called Rise Up! That cathartic, eye-opening, and raw experience stirred something up in DC’s improv community and WIT is thrilled to present this three-week revisitation of politically inspired performances. Rise Up! explores all the ways the personal really is political, and vice versa. Part rallying cry, part group hug, Rise Up! is an artistic response to the life and times we live in.
Tickets & more info: witdc.org
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Mythology
September 8, 2017
Friday at 10 pm
At the door: $27 General/ $22 DCAC Members and Presale
Beloved by Seshat, blessed by Aphrodite, and drinking buddies with Anansi, Naked Girls Reading DC is pleased to take you back to a time of myth and legend for Naked Girls Reading Presents: Mythology! Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to the DC Arts Center with GiGi Holiday, Cherie Sweetbottom, and Alice Darling to pass down ancient and awesome tales of fairies, heroes, and the occasional trickster in this auspicously naked month of September.
Tickets: http://nakedgirlsreadingmyth.bpt.me/
Randy Syphax LIVE!
August 25, 2017
Friday at 10 pm
$5 / $3 DCAC Members
Come enjoy an evening of comedy with nationally touring comedian Randy Syphax as he tapes his latest special. It will be immediately followed by a Q&A with Randy.
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/randy-syphax-live-tickets-37103608893
Chinese Menu Comedy
August 19, 2017
Saturday at 7:30 pm
$10 General / $8 Pre-Sale & Members
*Presale tickets (only available online) end at midnight the night before the event*
The kick-ass, rock star, grimy little monthly all star show is back. Mark your calendars and make sure you don’t miss this show that has been selling out for years!
Tickets: http://augmenu.bpt.me/
Go Get My Mom Improv
August 18, 2017
Friday at 8 pm
$12 General / $10 DCAC Members
A one night only comedy/storytelling performance, Go Get My Mom is centered around finding humor in life’s darker moments. Erik Beringer, John Barnes, and David Vaughn Staughn are three Virginia-based comedians with distinct and unique performance style brought together under one roof to share personal experiences and give you something to laugh about and they are making Washington D.C. the fourth stop on their five city tour.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Internets
August 11, 2017
Friday at 10 pm
At the door: $27 / $22 DCAC Members and Presale
*Presale tickets (only available online) end at midnight the night before the event*
You know it, you love it, it’s made you partially blind, let us bring you the best of it we can find. From the hilarious to the disturbing, Naked Girls Reading presents the Internet! Cherokee Rose returns to the DC Arts Center with Cherie Sweetbottom, Alice Darling, and GiGi Holliday at the DC Arts Center on August 11th at 10pm.
Videofreex Presents:
Mayday ’71
August 7, 2017
Monday at 7:30 pm
$10 / $8 DCAC Members
The first public preview of a new edit of rare footage of the largest civil disobedience in American history against the Vietnam War, which took place in Washington DC April 19 – May 5, 1971. The slogan was “If the Government won’t stop the war, we’ll STOP THE GOVERNMENT!” Recorded by thirty of the first generation of video filmmakers, armed with the first generation of portable video, the action-packed doc witnesses the protests from inside as well as interviews with Rennie Davis and Dr. Benjamin Spock. The new film has been re-edited for the 21st century with added newly discovered footage and international titles, by Emmy-winning filmmaker Skip Blumberg, an original member of Videofreex and Mayday Video.
More information: http://dcartscenter.org/performance6.htm
Rainbow Theatre Project Presents:
Blue Camp
September 16 & 18, 2017
Saturday at 3 pm, Monday at 7:30 pm
$15 General / $13 DCAC Members
Blue Camp is a drama with humor that takes place on an Army base somewhere in the U.S. in the late summer of 1964, just prior to the Gulf of Tonkin incident. Soldiers accused of homosexuality are kept in the Blue Barracks awaiting discharge while criminal soldiers are kept in the Green Barracks. These are the days leading into the event known as the Vietnam War. Written by Tim Caggiano and Jack Calvin Hanna. Directed by Christopher Janson.
The Rainbow Theatre Project offers eclectic performances that honor and uplift the gay community and affirm the worth of all people. Support LGBTQ Theatre.
Tickets:
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Sketch Night
December 1, 2017
Friday at 10pm
Online Pre-Sale: $10 / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 / $13 DCAC Members
LIT’s Sketch Night is an entire show devoted to sketch comedy. Brought to you by both of LIT’s house teams, Separate Beds & The Employables, each month’s show is a different theme with new material.
Naked Girls Reading Presents
Neil Gaiman
July 14, 2017
Friday at 10 pm
$27 General / $22 DCAC Members and Pre-sale
Sandman, Neverwhere, The Ocean at the End of the Lane, Norse Mythology. Do those words bring excitement to your very being? Then this is the show for you! Don’t know those titles yet? Then come and find out about this amazing literary and film sensation. We can never get enough of Neil Gaiman so Naked Girls Reading dedicates the month of July to the winner of a multitude of literary awards, our Erudite hearts and one of our Favorite Author’s, Neil Gaiman!
Chinese Menu
July 10, 2017
Monday at 7:30 pm
$12 General / $10 DCAC Members
The shows we had last year with our guests from the Second City gave us some of the best work and most memorable moments of the year. Including our current cover and event page photo!! They are back! We are waiting on confirmation for how many Chicago friends will be joining us. Once we know we will get those tickets available. Unlike last year it looks like we will only get ONE SHOW with them. You know it will be good.
Tickets: http://cmcsc3.bpt.me/
MOLOTOV THEATRE GROUP PRESENTS:
A READING BY RAFAEL ALVAREZ
July 11
Tuesday at 7 pm
FREE
Molotov Theatre Group brings Rafael Alvarez, author and writer for “The Wire” to DCAC on July 11, to kick off his latest book tour.
Rafael Alvarez, the author of 11 books and a former writer for the legendary HBO series “The Wire,” is coming to the DC Arts Center (DCAC) on July 11 to read selections from his new collection, “ Basilio Boullosa Stars in the Fountain of Highlandtown.” The reading will be followed by a question and answer session with attendees.
“Basilio Boullosa Stars in the Fountain of Highlandtown” is a mix of stories including such far-flung subjects as a junk man and his Greek lover, duck blood soup, flying John Lennon dolls, and a hot-air balloon shaped like the head of Elvis Presley. Basilio Boullosa is Alvarez’s alter-ego, an artist who brings canvases to life at night while painting the side of seafood trucks by day to make ends meet.
A lifelong Baltimorean, Rafael Alvarez graduated with a degree in English from Loyola University of Maryland. For twenty years, he worked as a City Desk reporter for the Baltimore Sun. He quit the paper in 2001 to work as a laborer on cable ships and soon after began writing for HBO’s police drama, The Wire. Since 2009, Alvarez has concentrated on writing books and screenplays for independent films.
Of Alvarez’s new book, Guggenheim Fellow Deborah Rudacille writes, “Past and present converge in an eternal now for both writer and character, a now flavored with the ache of abandonment.”
“Alvarez’s characters are a particular kind of American—those restless souls who leave because they cannot stay but who refuse to surrender the sight, smell, taste, and touch of that which has been lost. They live in a permanent state of exile, a liminal world of the present shot through with the past, how enchanting the ache.”
WHO WHAT WHERE THEATER PRESENTS:
WE FOUND THE WILD THINGS
July 8 – 16
Saturdays at 3 and 7:30 pm
Sundays at 3 pm
$15 General / $10 DCAC Members
Friendships are formed, broken and rewritten in Andrew Reid’s new coming-of-age story We Found the Wild Things. Seven friends mark seven New Year’s Eves in their hometown, learning the value of what we carry with us and of what we leave behind.
Tickets: www.whowhatwheretheaterco.org
Steampunked Stories
June 24, 2017
$8 General / $6 DCAC Members
This riotous performance of the wildly inventive Steampunked Stories by Tom Howell, including an imaginative slide show, punctuated throughout with eruptions from his time machine. It’s full steam ahead as Tom and his film crew activate the sparks and white lightning from the dome of his creation. Audience will be filmed, a portion of the proceeds to be donated to Autism Speaks. This event is family friendly, and will offer free kazoos!
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Nerdettes
June 23, 2017
At the door: $27 General/ $22 DCAC Members and Presale
*Presale tickets (only available online) end at midnight the night before the event*
Are you in possession of a TARDIS key, Sorting Hat, and your very own Precious? Then do we have a show for you! On the heels of Awesome Con, DC’s official Naked Girls are here to definitively prove Nerds can be Sexy. Naked Girls Reading Presents Nerdettes will showcase tales of Hobbits, Mutants, and The Doctor. Join the Nerdalicious Cherokee Rose, GiGi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom, and Alice Darling at the DC Arts Center on June 23rd at 10 pm. Dress in your best nerdy/cosplay outfit to enter our Nerdettes Costume Contest.
In Your Ear
May 21, 2017
$5 General / FREE for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. This month features readings by Toby Altman, Lauren Hunter, and Justin Sirois. Curated by Meg Ronan, Tony Mancus, and Mike Walsh.
Tickets: http://www.dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Washington Improv Theatre Presents:
Road Show
May 4 – June 18, 2017
Thursdays – Sundays at 7:30 pm
Fridays & Saturdays at 9:30 pm
Online Pre-Sale: $12 General / $10 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $10 DCAC Members
What will happen at the WIT Road Show? Your guess is as good as ours! WIT’s company ensembles and special guests take over DC Arts Center in Adams Morgan with our thrilling, unpredictable, performances! Each show’s line-up is unique and every show is one-of-a-kind!
Tickets: witdc.org
Chinese Menu
April 29, 2017
$12 General/ $10 DCAC Members
Keisha Zollar is coming to town and we are putting some fun people on stage with her.
Mark your calendars and get your tickets. Chinese Menu shows have been called “The Ramones” of the improv scene. Why? Because they are bare bones and a kick ass rock and roll good time. No real kitsch. No gimmicks. No real hook other than the best in town having a great time.
Tickets: http://april2017.bpt.me/
In Your Ear
December 18, 2016
$5 General / FREE for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. This month features readings by J.K. Daniels, Kelly Chick, and Camognhne Felix.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
A Hot & Sweaty Holiday 7, Part 2
December 16, 2016
Online Pre-Sale: $15 General / $13 DCAC Members
Door: $20 General / $18 DCAC Members
Seven times the charm and holiday spirit of its predecessors, the seventh annual “A Hot & Sweaty Holiday” will have seven times the laughs!
Join us at the DC Arts Center on 12.16.16. You’ll laugh so hard you’ll sweat the holiday pounds away, and your ticket purchase will help Bread for the City.
The show is ninety minutes long with no intermission. Tickers are $20 online, and all proceeds go to Bread for the City. Tickets are $25 CASH ONLY at the door.
The Wheel Theatre Company:
At Sea, Staring Up
by Finegan Kruckemeyer
December 9-11, 2016
$20 General / $15 DCAC Members
The Wheel is a new theatre company in Washington, DC dedicated to telling stories about bringing human beings from all walks of life together. The Wheel’s first production is the North American Premiere of At Sea, Staring Up by prolific Australian playwright Finegan Kruckemeyer. Set over three continents and one vast ocean, this richly poetic, magical realist romance weaves together the lives of five individuals searching for direction and belonging. Anyone that has ever lost their way will see themselves echoed in these characters’ journeys.
Tickets: www.thewheeltheatre.org
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Sketch Night
With Separate Bed and The Employables
December 2, 2016
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
During this show, Separate Beds & The Employables, two sketch house teams at Laugh Index Theatre, will perform sketch comedy.
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
All Work & Some Plays
By Mr. Lifeguard
December 2 – 3, 2016
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
An evening of short plays written and performed by LIT’s Mr. Lifeguard.
For more info, please visit: www.laughindextheatre.com
In Your Ear
November 20, 2016
$5 General / FREE DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. This month’s readings will feature James Belflower & Matthew Klane, Michelle Dove, & Matvei Yankelevich.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Poetry
November 19, 2016
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
Remember, remember, the month of November, with Naked Girls, charming and hot! Naked Girls Reading DC is proud to present Naked Girls Reading: Poetry! Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to the DC Arts Center with Cherie Sweetbottom, Alice Darling, GiGi Holiday and a TBA special guest star on November 19th at 10pm.
Tabla for Two Presents:
Birthday Beats Concert
November 13, 2016
$20 General / $15 DCAC Members
Tabla for Two is celebrating Abigail’s birthday by playing fabulous new music! Abigail Adams Greenway and Masood Omari have created original compositions drawing from rich musical traditions, blending classical Eastern beats with Western style to produce a powerful fusion for the tabla and harmonium. Many who have heard this music describe it as mesmerizing, energizing and transcendental. It is without a doubt a unique experience! Tabla for Two will be joined by Sofya Savkina, dancer.
Please call 202-462-7833 for reservations
Hot Spot
November 11, 2016
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
One night only! It’s LIT’s musical comedy show! You’ll hear funny songs from our Laugh Index Players plus you’ll see them improvise songs and freestyle rap! This show is so much fun that it will hit your hot spot!
Sketch Comedy
November 4 & 5, 2016
$15 General/ $12 for DCAC Members
Turkeys make for great pets–especially around the holidays. If you like sketch comedy and American holidays (not to mention elections), this sketch comedy show might be right in your bailiwick. Join us for an evening of laughter, love, and lewdness. And let’s make Thanksgiving ThanksKEEPing.
Tickets: https://urgentcreations.ticketleap.com/thankskeeping-comedy/
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Three’s Comedy
November 2, November 9, December 7, 2016
Online Pre-Sale: $5 General / $3 DCAC Members
Door: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Laugh Index Theatre LIT knows the rules of comedy, and we’re bringing you the power of three. Three types of comedy. One Show. Come on, and knock at our door….
Theatre du Jour:
To Have Done with the Judgement of God
October 21 – November 12, 2017
$20 General / $15 DCAC Members
Halloween is creepier and more bizarre with the return of the critically acclaimed To Have Done with The Judgement Of God. Profane and irreverent, profound and funny, this multi-media spectacle explores the futility of our relation to the government, nature, God and our bodies.
“Hallucinatory images … visual shock tactics … surreal pageantry” – The Washington Post
“Do not miss this production … an ambitious and audacious project.” – DC Theatre Scene
Having spent much of his final years in various mental asylums, Artaud resurfaced in 1947 with a radio play: To Have Done with the Judgement of God. The work remained true to his Theatre of Cruelty, utilizing an array of unsettling sounds, cries, screams and grunts, and it was shelved by French Radio the day before it was scheduled to air on February 2, 1948. Artaud died one month later. Using the text as a roadmap Theatre Du Jour uses sound, imagery, projections, video and music relay the author’s convictions as to the futility of government, the usurping of nature, the dismissal of God and man’s perverted relation to his body. This rare and unusual performance fuels the debate of whether Artaud was a visionary or a madman; sublime or insane
In Your Ear
October 16, 2016
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. This month’s readings will feature Cathy Eisenhower, Taylor Johnson, and Jee Leong Koh.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More info at: http://dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
The Chinese Menu Comedy Invitational
October 14, October 15, 2016
$10 General/ $8 for DCAC Members
Chinese Menu Comedy took the summer off to prepare for one of its biggest endeavors yet:
The Chinese Menu Comedy Invitational
One weekend. Five blocks of shows. Lots of out of town teams paired with the best in DC in a team-team mash up type format.
Each of the first four blocks will pair an out-of-town team with a mash up of DC’s best. Each group will do their show and then play as one team to close out each block. The last show of the weekend will be a mash-up featuring players from participating teams and some special guests . The line up is still coming together but here is who is coming to town so far:
Amie and Kristen Show – (PHIT & MAGNET)
Maxitor – (Fine Line Comedy ((BOSTON))
GUS – (Baltimore Improv Group)
(DC casts subject to change)
Schedule:
Friday at 7:30 – DC team / GUS / mash up
Friday at 10 – DC team / The Amie and Kristen Show / mash up
Saturday at 7:00 – DC team / Maxitor / mash up
Saturday at 9 – DC team / Visiting team / mash up
Saturday at 11- Three end of event mash ups featuring players from participating teams, DC players and special guests!
Tickets: http://cmcinvitational.bpt.me/
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Something Wicked
October 21, 2016
$25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
This October, DC’s Naked Girls Reading celebrates its fifth-year anniversary with Naked Girls Reading Presents Something Wicked! Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to the DC Arts Center with Cherie Sweetbottom, GiGi Holliday, Alice Darling and Special Guest, Lyra Valkyrie, on October 21st at 10pm. The Naked Girls will scare the pants off you with tales to thrill and chill; disturb and perturb; tease, tantalize and terrify! This special annual show will feature a costume contest judged by the Naked Girls themselves and naked tarot card readings by the Bewitching Beauty, Cherokee Rose!
Press Play Hump Days
October 12, 2016
Pre-sale: $10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
Press Play was founded in 2010 and, not to brag or anything, has yet to have a show with any form of flatulence-based humor. Seriously. This is not a joke. We keep track. Press Play has performed at venues across the country such as the LA Improv Festival, Steel Stacks, and the Del Close Marathon. We also perform regularly at improv theaters around DC, and once at a birthday party. The birthday boy threw cake.
Chinese Menu Comedy
October 8, 2016
FREE
Summer is ending and the Chinese Menu Comedy Invitational is in October. Before we get there we thought we would get back to business with a good old fashioned Menu mash up featuring DC’s best!
Please call 202-462-7833 for more information and reservations
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
House Comics
October 7, 2016
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
Laugh Index Theatre presents it’s monthly House Comics show and open mic. For more
information, please visit: www.laughindextheatre.com
Tickets: http://lithousecomicsshow.bpt.me/
Laugh Index Theatre Presents: A Comedy of Horrors
October 7, October 28, October 29, 2016
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
It’s so funny, it’s scary. A Comedy of Horrors, LIT’s Halloween-themed comedy variety show, includes stand-up comedians, improv troupes and sketch comedy. You’ll have a wicked good time.
Sketchy Comedy & Riotous Readings
September 30, October 1, 2016
$15 General/ $10 DCAC Members
Rabble Crew Productions presents a double-shot of light theater.
Friday we feature bawdy comedy (think SNL) written and performed by local women including Star Johnson, Madeline Farrington, Cristen Stephansky, Yvonne Paretzky, and Kristina Brooks.
Saturday will be an evening of side-splitting staged readings with light blocking. Playwrights featured will include Dara Gold, Matt Spangler, and Jessica Bylander.
Both evenings contain adult humor, offensive language, off color jokes, and women in pearl clutching situations.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Comedy Undressed
September 23, 2016
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
We want to tickle your fancy and your funny bone! Join us as the Naked Girls read their favorite memoirs, tales, blogs and funny stories by the world’s most memorable jokesters! Cherokee Rose is in stitches to join GiGi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom, Alice Darling and our Special Guest, 2016 So You Wanna Be A Naked Girl Winner, for Naked Girls Reading Presents Comedy Undressed.
In Your Ear
September 18, 2016
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an vantgarde tradition.
This month’s readings are from Mathias Svalina, Danielle Evennou, Temim Fructher, Angelique Palmer.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
House Comics
September 16, 2016
Online PreSale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
Laugh Index Theatre presents it’s monthly House Comics show and open mic. For more information, please visit: www.laughindextheatre.com
Tickets: http://lithousecomicsshow.bpt.me
How To…
Sex Education: 8 One Acts in 2 Weekends
September 16, September 17, September 23, September 24, 2016
$15 General/ $10 DCAC Members
Rabble Crew Productions flexes it tutorial muscles with an eclectic posse of DCbased playwrights, directors and actors. With four original shows per weekend, you’re sure to learn a lesson or two!
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/how-to-sex-education-8-one-acts-in-2-weekends-tickets-27217456144
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
House Comics
September 16, October 7, November 18, December 16, 2016
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
Laugh Index Theatre presents it’s monthly House Comics show and open mic. For more information, please visit: www.laughindextheatre.com
Tickets: http://lithousecomicsshow.bpt.me/
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
So You Wanna Be a Naked Girl
August 26, 2016
$25 Door/ $20 Pre-sale & DCAC Members
Have you always wondered how your Naked Girls do it? Ever daydreamed about joining Cherokee Rose & company in their fun? Wanna know what it’s like to sit onstage with your favorite book, displaying your (ahem) good literary taste to a crowd? Well, if you’re ready to give it your all while showing your all, now’s your chance!
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Three’s Comedy
August 24, September 7, September 21, October 5, October 19, 2016
Online Pre-Sale: $5 General / $3 DCAC Members
Door: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Laugh Index Theatre LIT knows the rules of comedy, and we’re bringing you the power of three. Three types of comedy. One Show. Come on, and knock at our door….
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Improv Wars
August 22, August 29, September 12, September 19, September 26, October 3, October 10, October 24, 2016
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
Laugh Index Theatre – LIT’s IMPROV WARS is a friendly competition among improv troupes representing all factions of improv within the DC area. The audience votes for the winner. Both audience members and performers should prepare to enter a surprise-filled combat-zone where ANYTHING goes. After all, this is war.
All matches, team stats, rules and all things IMPROV WARS can be found at the LIT website:
www.laughindextheatre.com
May the “yes and” be with you!
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Improv Wars
August 22, August 29, September 12, September 19, September 26, October 3, October 10, October 24, November 7, November 14, December 5, December 12, 2016
Online Pre-Sale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
Door: $15 General / $12 DCAC Members
Laugh Index Theatre – LIT’s IMPROV WARS is a friendly competition among improv troupes representing all factions of improv within the DC area. The audience votes for the winner. Both audience members and performers should prepare to enter a surprise-filled combat-zone where ANYTHING goes. After all, this is war.
All matches, team stats, rules and all things IMPROV WARS can be found at the LIT website: www.laughindextheatre.com
May the “yes and” be with you!
Bad Medicine
August 20, 2016
$10 Door/ $8 DCAC Members
Bad Medicine is a sketch comedy group specializing in the dark, the cerebral, and the absurd. It has grown into one of the most eclectic sketch groups in the District featuring a cast of singers, lawyers, and students with the shared goal of writing the best sketch comedy about the worst of humanity. No side effects. No horse pills. No cures. This show’s special guest is comedian, Martin Amini.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Summer Blockbusters
July 22, 2016
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
The summer in DC is hot, Hot, HOT! And Naked Girls Reading Presents Summer Blockbusters has no intention of cooling you off. We are bringing you the best of the hits of the summer; scripts from movies, hot gossip, insider info on movie making and more. Civil War was amazing but the debate is always better when your DC Naked Girls are involved. Let us, help you; choose a side on July 22 nd, 10pm at the DC Arts Center. This month features returning special guest Natasha Nacre.
Press Play Hump Days
July 20, 2016
Presale: $10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
Press Play was founded in 2010 and, not to brag or anything, has yet to have a show with any form of flatulence-based humor. Seriously. This is not a joke. We keep track. Press Play has performed at venues across the country such as the LA Improv Festival, Steel Stacks, and the Del Close Marathon. We also perform regularly at improv theaters around DC, and once at a birthday party. The birthday boy threw cake.
Tickets: http://pressplaydcac.bpt.me/
Chinese Menu
July 11, 2016
$12 General / $10 DCAC Members
Chinese Menu on a Monday? In the summer? We know we said we were taking off until The Invitational in October but we couldn’t miss an opportunity to bring you a great show.
Why a Monday? Because a good part of the cast for this show is from the Second City touring company and they are in town looking to find some quality playtime. So here we are.
Some people joining our guests from Chicago include:
Mikael Johnson
Rich Nyman
Colin Murchie
Ceci de Robertis
Josh Kuderna
Pete Bergen
75 Lezbos, 2 Trannies, 1 Pannie, Me & Me Too!
A part of the 11th Annual Capital Fringe Festival July 7 31, 2016
July 8 & July 10, 2016
$17 General/ $15 for DCAC Members
*(If you have a Fringe button your ticket is $10 General / $8 Members)*
After experiencing tremendous pain and the unexpected loss of a love Me thought was forever, she turns to Me Too for understanding, meaning, and selfawareness in processing her grief to find new love.
Tickets: email info@dcartscenter.org or call 202-462-7833
Molotov Theatre Presents:
Blood, Sweat, & Fears:
A Grand Guignol Sick Carbaret
Translated from the French by Richard Hand and Michael Wilson
July 7 – July 31, 2016
$25 General / $20 DCAC Members
Get ready for some scary, campy, sexy fun from the turn of the 19th century, courtesy of the warped minds of D.C.’s Molotov Theatre Group.
Blood, Sweat & Fears: A Grand Guignol Sick Cabaret features English translations of three nearlyforgotten one-act plays from the Theatre du Grand Guignol, the influential style of French horror theater that was popular from the 1890s to the 1960s. (President Eisenhower was a patron!
Look it up!)
Stitched together by bawdy mistress of ceremonies Bella Donna, the production uses music, laugh and scares to take you back to a simpler time for the horror and suspense genre.
Director: Alex Zavistovich; Assistant Director: Elliott Kashner; Composer: Gregory Thomas Martin Lighting Designer: Pete Vargo; Costume Designer: Jesse Shipely; Set Designer: Mary Seng; Stage Manager: Sara Smith
Featuring: Jen Bevan, Zack BrewsterGeisz, Elizabeth Colandene, Katie Culligan, David Dieudonne, Brian Kraemer, Alex Miletich IV, Fabiolla Da Silva, Jennifer Restak, Mallory Shear, Annette Mooney Wasno, and Gray West
• This show will be featured as a case study in a textbook planned for 2017 on the Grand Guignol tradition, to be released by the University of Exeter Press.
• Parental discretion advised: May not be appropriate for some children under age 13.
• The running time is approximately one hour and 20 minutes, with no late admission and no readmission.
About the one-act plays in Blood, Sweat & Fears: A Grand Guignol Sick Cabaret:
The Lighthouse Keepers: A father and son, caring for a remote lighthouse, settle in for the long haul, with the next boat of provisions weeks away. Then one of the two reveals a secret that locks father and son in a struggle to the death.
Tics (or Doing the Deed) : A sex farce about a young couple visiting the country estate of a wealthy doctor and his wife. What the women don’t know is when things get hot, the men can’t keep from hiding signs of their arousal.
The Last Kiss: A young man, convalescing in a hospital after having been scarred by a jealous lover invites the woman to his room to make peace with her. As things progress, “peace” may not really be what he’s after.
Tickets: molotovtheatre.org
Steampunked Stories
June 24, 2016
$15 General / $10 DCAC Members
A multimedia storytelling of a group of people’s adventures on a time traveling airship, who journey to different periods in history and investigate various psychic phenomena. The stories are told by the author and his time machine, which emits intriguing sounds, laser beams, and fog during each time travel event. Now featuring the NUDIEKAZOO all girl band.
Audience: 18+
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/steampunked-stories-tickets-25895988599
In Your Ear
June 19, 2016
$5 General / FREE for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. This month’s readings are from E.C. Belli, Brooke Ellsworth, K. Lorraine Graham, & Roberto Montes.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus
More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Summer Improv Medley
June 12 – June 19, 2016
$20 Door/ $15 DCAC Members + Presale
*(June 17th show: $10 Door/ $5 DCAC Members + Presale)*
Laugh Index’s “Summer Improv Medley 2016” is an improv festival showcasing the best blend of improv comedy you’ll find in DC. Summer Improv Medley consists of 26 shows, over 50 acts and 15 workshops.
See full schedule on www.laughindextheatre.com
Press Play Hump Days
May 18, June 22, 2016
Presale: $10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
It’s our second annual Red Nose Day charity comedy show! This year, help Press Play raise money for the Ulman Cancer Fund for Teens and Young Adults. Last year we raised over $770 for a local food bank. Help us raise even more, and help the Ulman fund help young folks diagnosed with cancer.
Nearly 70,000 young adults are diagnosed with cancer in the United States each year. The Ulman fund changes lives by creating a community of support for young adults, and their loved ones, impacted by cancer. Read more about the Ulman fund here: http://ulmanfund.org/
This is our line-up for this night of comedy for a cause:
*Comedy from O’Bernierama!
*Improv from Herringbone!
*Music from Tone!
*Stand up comedy from Phil Mike!
*Even more improv from your hosts Press Play!
Here is info about our performers!
O’Bernierama:
O’Bernierama is a comedic exploration into the political characters Bernie and Obama, performed by Press Player Matt Mansfield and Jose LopezSanchez. Jose has been performing improv comedy in the Washington D.C. area since 2013, and has been stuntin’ on everybody since 1993 (though he was born in 1987). Jose is a founding member of several independent troupes, including Middle Child and The Rock Creek Ramblers. Matt Mansfield is famous for being in Press Play, among other things.
Herringbone:
Herringbone is a DC indie team formed in February 2016 by two scientists, an investigator, and a teacher. They like to perform characterdriven, grounded, and energetic scenes that develop organically. Blasphemous and classy, sexy and profound, Herringbone keeps the audience on its toes. The two scientists are dating each other.
Music: Tone
Tone is an Artist, Songwriter, Activist, Washington DC Native, and Hip hop Caucus spoken person Make sure you stay on the look out for his New Project and Book coming this summer 2016. Thisistone.com
Instagram:aye_tone
Stand Up: Phil Mike
Phil Mike is a D.C. based comic who has been performing standup for the last year. His realizations on life and his racially ambiguous heritage have brought him to venues across the area, including The Big Hunt in Washington D.C., the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Winchester and The Boneyard in Charlottesville.
Press Play:
Press Play was founded in 2010 and, not to brag or anything, has yet to have a show with any form of flatulencebased humor. Seriously. This is not a joke. We keep track. Press Play has performed at venues across the country such as the LA Improv Festival, Steel Stacks, and the Del Close Marathon. We also perform regularly at improv theaters around DC, and
once at a birthday party. The birthday boy threw cake.
Tickets: http://pressplaydcac.bpt.me/
In Your Ear
May 15, 2016
$5 General / FREE for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avantgarde tradition. This month features readings by Jen Tynes, Kelly Forsythe, and Michael Sikkema.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Chinese Menu
May 14, 2016
$12 General/ $10 DCAC Members
So long for now? Yup. Chinese Menu is going on an indefinite hiatus from its monthly all star mash up show so make sure you dont miss this installment. We are finishing strong with a powerhouse group from the DMV. We have some great DC players mashing up with some of the ladies of GUS (Baltimore Improv Group) and returning from Charlottesville is a Menu favorite. We even a cast member with a birthday!
Committed so far:
Denny Johnson
Mikael Johnson
Brigit Cavaiola
Kathryn Carlsen
Heather Moyer
Rachel Showalter
Joe Randazzo
Macey Schiff
Pete Bergen
(CAST SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Herstory
May 13, 2016
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
4 years ago, one courageous Naked Girl had a dream to bring seductiveness, sassiness and education to DC in the form of, Naked Girls Reading. Three other brazen Naked Girls joined her and the rest, as they say, is Herstory. Join us as we tell the tales of brave, scary and dauntless journeys to gain peace, joy and righteousness at Naked Girls Reading Presents Herstory, May 13th, 10pm at the DC Arts Center. The past has never been so alluring.
Washington Improv Theater Presents:
Road Show: Pandemonium
May 12 – June 11, 2016
$15 / $10 Members
As DC’s premier company for long-form improv, WIT’s ensembles make up the most experienced and skilled improvisers in the city. Spurred by a single audience suggestion, these creative performers spontaneously build entire worlds populated by colorful characters and situations. Each performance is a one-of-a-kind show, never to be seen by another audience.
Tickets: witdc.org
Press Play Hump Days
April 20, 2016
Presale: $10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
Press Play hosts and produces a monthly show featuring some of the best comedy, music, and storytelling acts in the area!
Press Play was founded in 2010 and, not to brag or anything, has yet to have a show with any form of flatulence-based humor. Seriously. This is not a joke. We keep track. Press Play has performed at venues across the country such as the iO West Festival, Steel Stacks, and the Del Close Marathon. We also perform regularly at improv theaters around DC, and once at a birthday party. The birthday boy threw cake.
Dudes on Dudes:
Dudes on Dudes (DoD) is an independent longform improv troupe from Washington, DC. featuring: Ahmed Amonette, John Beck, Nicholas Boros, Charles Bowles, Anthony Cusumano, Phil Greene, Keegan Hines, and David Richman; coached by Xavier Padin. Members of the group met during their Harold class at Washington Improv Theater and have since worked together to master the Harold format and take over the comedy scene in DC. Members of DoD have also trained at DC Improv Comedy School, The Unified Scene Theater, Dojo Comedy and The Second City in Chicago.
Cake Bagel:
Cake Bagel is as whimsical as pink icing and as savory as smoked salmon. Or at least that’s what they tell themselves to justify their pre-show carbo-loading. Formed in 2012, the troupe has logged several years’ worth of shows around the Washington, D.C. area, including featured appearances at Washington Improv Theater’s Seasonal Disorder, Harold Night and road shows. Cake Bagel has also brought its glutenous goodness to the Del Close Marathon, North Carolina Comedy Arts Festival, Baltimore Improv Festival, District Improv Festival and Chicago Improv Festival. Bold, character-driven and super-fun, a Cake Bagel show is like having your cake…and eating a bagel, too. Cake Bagel is Sophia Cai, Tim Hunt, Jordana Mishory, Richie Pepio and Julia Rocchi. The team is coached by Jonathan Murphy.
Jon Watkins and Porter Ryan:
2/3rds of The Bloody Onions, Porter Ryan and Jon Watkins join us tonight in the hopes of rocking our collective socks off with their musical stylings, ranging from blues to Irish to folk. Porter comes to us from the Palisades of DC, while Jon inhabits the sleepy borough of Kensington, MD.
Tickets: http://pressplaydcac.bpt.me/
In Your Ear
April 17, 2016
$5 General / FREE DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avantgarde tradition.
April’s In Your Ear will be celebrating the recently released anthology, What I Say: Innovative Poetry by Black Writers in America.
A little about the book:
What I Say: Innovative Poetry by Black Writers in America is the second book in a landmark two-volume anthology that explodes narrow definitions of African American poetry by examining experimental poems often excluded from previous scholarship. The first volume, Every Goodbye Ain’t Gone, covers the period from the end of World War II to the mid-1970s. In What I Say, editors Aldon Lynn Nielsen and Lauri Ramey have assembled a comprehensive and dynamic collection that brings this pivotal work up to the present day.
Several of the poets discussed in What I Say forged relationships with members of the L=A=N=G=U=A=G=E poetry movement and participated in the broader community of innovative poetry that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s and continues to exert a powerful influence today.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus
More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Chinese Menu
April 16, 2016
$12 General / $10 DCAC Members
Two old friends of Chinese Menu are coming to DC to mash up and do some ‘prov with the Menu. Terry Withers from the Upright Citizens Brigade and Patrick Gantz from the Richmond Comedy Collective will take the stage with the most fun, most talented and most dangerous improvisers in town.
Get on it early. These shows sell out quickly.
Theatre du Jour Presents:
To Have Done with the Judgement of God
By Antonin Artaud
April 15 – May 7, 2016
$20 / $15 DCAC Members
Theatre Du Jour brings unbridled spectacle to the small stage with Antonin Artaud’s 1947 radio play, To Have Done with The Judgement Of God. Written and produced for French Radio, the cacophonous rant against government and religion was shelved until after Artaud’s death. Using the play as a roadmap, this production utilizes sound, imagery, projections, and music to explore the author’s conviction of the futility of man’s relation to government, nature, God, and his body. Profane and irreverent, profound and funny, this performance fuels the debate of whether Artaud was a visionary or a madman, sublime or insane. Featuring Rachel Reed, Jerry Herbilla, Jacquelyn Paulin, and Annetta Dexter Sawyer. Directed by B. Stanley. Soundscapes by Nate Taylor and Rob Gould, sculptural costuming by Stephanie Williams.
What the Washington Post is saying >
What the DC Theatre Scene is saying What the DC Theatre Scene is saying >
Pivotal Encounters:
3 One Act Plays About Family Surprises
April 9, April 10, 2016
$20 / $15 Members
Three unique stories that dig deep into the surprising ways your heart, mind and very existence are transformed by a drunk grandmother, long lost brother, and a mom who tries to find herself by being an internet sex kitten.
Tickets: call 2024627833 or email info@dcartscenter.org
More information: oneactsthisway.wix.com
April Fool’s Laughstravaganza:
Four Original Comedies
April 8, 2016
$18 / $15 Members
Winter is over… Let’s laugh!!! Join us for four short, original, sidesplitting comedies. What happens when four bros ponder the meaning of deep commitment? What shenanigans ensue in a lighthouse when a young stranger pops in for an unexpected visit? Who vandalized the saloon overnight and why? And what happens when a family just seems a little too perfect? It’ll be a show you won’t want to miss. See it once. See it twice. Bring a friend!
“The Last Rager” written by Andy De, directed by Rebecca Fischler
“On the Rocks” by written by Jenny Oberholtzer, directed by Patrick Miller
“A Fistful of Doilies” by written by Erica Smith, directed by Jenny Oberholtzer
“Family Circus” by written and directed by Michael Reilly
Tickets: thecoilproject.org
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Internets
April 8, 2016
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
You know it, you love it, and it’s made you partially blind, let us bring you the best of it we can find. From the hilarious to the disturbing, Naked Girls Reading presents the Internet! Cherokee Rose returns to the DC Arts Center with Cherie Sweetbottom, Alice Darling, and GiGi Holliday at the DC Arts Center on April 8 th at 10pm.
Space in Comedy: Ladies’ Night
April 1, 2016
$15 / $10 Members
Looking for some April Fools Day jokes?
Come watch some of DC’s finest comedic talent! And the best part? This show is run and performed completely by women! Join the amazing comedian and host Stacey Axler on April 1st at 10:00pm at DCAC and explore the often underrepresented population of Women in Comedy! Who knows, maybe this will be your chance to see a future president or late night talk show host perform live on stage! Either way, this will be a magical experience not to be missed.
In Your Ear
March 20, 2016
$5 General / FREE DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avantgarde tradition. This month brings readings from Rod Smith, Bettina Judd, and Carabella Sands.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Chinese Menu
March 19, 2016
$12 General/ $10 DCAC Members
This month Ryan Karels from the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater is in town. The best improvisers in town will join the cast and mash up for the usual Menu awesomeness. Get your tickets now.
About Ryan:
Ryan Karels is the representative comedian for all of North Dakota (Huffington Post, 2011) and is a member of Grandma’s Ashes. Previous Harold Night teams were Decoster, Creep and Filth. Ryan is one of KROMPF. Past shows at the UCB include Radio Rogue, The Ol’ Factory, Intellectual Yoga, Your Favorite Thing, After School Super Power Hour, and The July 4. OffBroadway with Les Freres Corbusier he performed in Hell House, Heddatron, Boozy, and The Franklin Thesis and was in the original cast of Gutenberg, the Musical! On television he has portrayed well-liked characters such as Bernie the Hernie, Derek McGillicuddy, Ryan, Matt Yaegar (Meth Head), Hank, Dad, Guy with a Mullet, other Dads, and the Google Horseman.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Science Fiction
March 11, 2016
$25 General / $20 DCAC Members
By Grabthar’s Hammer, through time and space, in a galaxy far far away, to boldly go where no Naked Girl has gone before, join us for Naked Girls Reading presents Science Fiction. Cherokee Rose to the holodeck with Alice Darling, Cherie Sweetbottom and GiGi Holliday.
Freshly Squeezed
March 4 & March 5, 2016
$15 General/$12 for DCAC Members
Do you like laughter? Well this show is for you! In one hour, we will chuckle your belly about Oscars, droids taking over the world, and pronunciation mistakes. Who doesn’t think pronunciation mistakes aren’t not not funny?
Tickets: Freshly Squeezed
Laugh Index Theatre:
“All Work and Some Plays”
by The Employables
February 27, 2016
$15 / $12 Members
The Employables, a performance troupe comprised of the Theatre Lab’s 2015 Honors Conservatory graduates, are ready for work and employable as actors. They’ve written and will star in their first show!
In Your Ear
February 21, 2016
$5 General / FREE DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. This month’s readings will be by Jay Deshpande, Tafisha Edwards, Natalie Infante, & Kevin Thurston.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Real Magic:
A Magic Show Benefitting N Street Village
February 21, February 28, 2016
$37 / $30 DCAC Members
AwardWinning Magician Danny Dubin invites guests to enjoy a unique blend of crisp sleight of hand and astonishing illusion, all in support of N Street Village. Live goldfish appear out of thin air, volunteers’ thoughts are predicted and borrowed objects mysteriously appear in random locations. Dubin believes that magic has the power to bring people together, and he is proud to present “Real Magic.”
Your $37 ticket provides 30 hot and nutritious meals to women in need at N Street Village. The added cost is a processing fee.
N Street Village empowers homeless and lowincome women to claim their highest quality of life by offering a broad spectrum of services and advocacy in an atmosphere of dignity and respect. The Village also provides affordable rental housing for low and moderateincome individuals and families.
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/real-magic-a-magic-show-benefiting-n-street-village-tickets-20487417417
Chinese Menu
February 20, 2016
$12 General/ $10 DCAC Members
The February installment of Chinese Menu Comedy is coming up. These monthly improv shows are always fun. No troupes or teams, just a collection of the best players in DC and beyond mashing up for party in three acts.
The all stars this month:
Topher Bellavia
Mikael Johnson
Krish Mohan
Molly Murchie
Dave Johnson
Rich Nyman
Jordan Hirsch
Yuliya Malamud
Chris Ulrich
Yael Grant
Pete Bergen
Ken Hays
Tickets: http://febmenu.bpt.me/
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
i heart improv
February 19, February 20, February 26, 2016
$10 / $8 Members
Time to put away the high-calorie chocolates, mixed tapes and lame greeting cards. Steer clear of those once-you’ve-seen-one-you’ve-seen-them-all romantic comedies. This February, listen to your heart and its one true desire the desire to laugh hysterically. “i heart improv” will fulfill this desire and introduce you to a new passion, long-form improv comedy. The commitment is only for one night, but it’s a night you’ll always remember.
Press Play Hump Days
February 17, March 16, 2016
Presale: $10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
Press Play hosts and produces a monthly show featuring some of the best comedy, music, and storytelling acts in the area! Press Play was founded in 2010 and, not to brag or anything, has yet to have a show with a fart joke. Seriously. That’s how committed Press Play is to the craft of long-form improv. The group performs in festivals around the country, theaters around DC, and once at a birthday party.
Tickets: http://pressplaydcac.bpt.me/
My Funny Valentine
February 14, 2016
$20 / $15 Members
My Funny Valentine Comedy Show (MFV) is a fun, entertaining, and refreshing standup comedy show featuring local comics in support of ending chronic homelessness in Washington, DC. This year’s show will mark the 6 th year running.
MFV comedy show is balanced with an array of comedic styles that is sure to capture the audience’s attention while leaving them laughing and craving for more! Each show is hosted by its creator, Adaylah Banks, while disc jockey, DJ KLa keeps the audience musically entertained between sets and throughout the show!
Check out this year’s lineup: Comedian Stiletto, Adaylah Banks, Mike “Ol Mike B” Brown, Rue D., Greg Stevens, and Tommy Taylor, Jr.
35% of the proceeds will benefit Miriam’s Kitchen
Tickets: http://adaylahbanks.com/tix
Tabla for Two:
New Music for the New Year
February 7, 2016
$20 General / $18 DCAC Members
Tabla for Two is a musical duo consisting of Masood Omari and Abigail Adams Greenway. Masood has created original compositions drawing from rich musical traditions, blending classical Eastern beats with Western style to produce a powerful fusion for the tabla and harmonium. Many who have heard this music describe it as mesmerizing, energizing and transcendental. It is without a doubt unique! Tabla for Two will be joined by Sofya Savkina, dancer, and Helen Burns, singer, for this performance.
Tickets: Email info@dcartscenter.org or call 202462-7833
In Your Ear
January 17, 2016
$5 General / FREE DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Chinese Menu
January 16, 2016
$12 General / $10 DCAC Members
It is the first Menu show of 2016! The cast is still coming together but you know we always have at least one first timer. Early commits to this show include long overdue Eva Lewis and the exciting Tyler Laminack! Returning to the cast are Menu veterans Jaci Pulice, Bryan Jackson, Pete Bergen and Nick Murawski as well as Menu Hall Of Famer Mikael Johnson
The rest of the show is coming together but rest assured that Menu awesomeness will happen.
Tickets: http://janmenu.bpt.me/
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Come into My Parlor
January 15, 2016
At the door: $25 General / $20 for DCAC Members and Presale
Join us as we start the year with our annual New Years tradition of salacious books, kinky authors and naked women. It was such a rousing good time last year we had to bring it back to ring in 2016. Come Into My Parlor features DC’s official Naked Girls: Cherokee Rose, Gigi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom, and Alice Darling performing an aural assortment of Erotica to warm those chilly January bones. We invite you to join us at our home, the DC Arts Cetner, to kick off the New Year with sexiness, kinky tricks, lustful yearnings, and a salacious rendezvous or two, if you’re lucky, on January 15th at 10 pm.
Washington Improv Theater Presents:
Road Show!
January 14 – February 13, 2016
$15 General/ $10 for DCAC Members
As DC’s premier company for long-form improv, WIT’s ensembles make up the most experienced and skilled improvisers in the city. Spurred by a single audience suggestion, these creative performers spontaneously build entire worlds populated by colorful characters and situations. Each performance is a one-of-a-kind show, never to be seen by another audience.
Tickets: http://witdc.org/
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Three’s Comedy
January 13, January 27, February 3, February 10, March 2, March 9, April 6, April 13, May 4, May 11, 2016
$10 / $5 DCAC Members and Presale
LIT knows the rules of comedy, and we’re bringing you the power of three. Three types of comedy. One Show. Come on, and knock at our door….
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Improv Wars
January 11, January 18, January 25, February 1, February 8, February 15, February 22, February 29, March 7, March 14, March 21, April 4, April 11, April 18, April 25, May 2, May 9, May 16, May 23, 2016
$10 / $8 DCAC Members and Presale
Laugh Index Theatre LIT’s IMPROV WARS is a friendly competition among improv troupes representing all factions of improv within the DC area. The audience votes for the winner. Both audience members and performers should prepare to enter a surprisefilled combatzone where ANYTHING goes. After all, this is war. All matches, team stats, rules and all things IMPROV WARS can be found at the LIT website: www.laughindextheatre.com
May the “yes and” be with you!
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Improv Wars
January 11, January 18, January 25, February 1, February 8, February 15, February 22, February 29, March 7, March 14, March 21, April 4, April 11, April 18, April 25, May 2, May 9, May 16, May 23, 2016
$10 General / $8 DCAC Members and Pre-Sale
Laugh Index Theatre LIT’s IMPROV WARS is a friendly competition among improv troupes representing all factions of improv within the DC area. The audience votes for the winner. Both audience members and performers should prepare to enter a surprisefilled combatzone where ANYTHING goes. After all, this is war.
All matches, team stats, rules and all things IMPROV WARS can be found at the LIT website: www.laughindextheatre.com
May the “yes and” be with you!
The Best of:
The International Shorts Film Festival
January 9, 2016
$10 General / $7 DCAC Members
A comedic babysitting snafu out of Argentina, a bitter divorce drama from India, a violent outbreak in a West Texas roadside dive. Out of 500 cinematic shorts representing 70 countries, D.C.’s International Shorts Film Festival cherry-picked these as some of the best of the fest. Settle in for a two-hour screening of the top 10 and you’ll catch shorts like “Best of Festival Winner” Cuerdas, from Spain. This tender animated treat introduces you to a young school girl who makes a very special new friend. Shorts from Spain racked up “Best Comedy” and “Best Feature” awards as well, with Grown Ups and Sermon on the Mount, respectively. You’ll also see an unexpected “bump in the night” comedy from France, as well as charming animated tales from Germany and Ireland.
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/best-of-the-international-shorts-film-festival-2015-tickets-19937165599
Steampunked Stories
January 6, 2016
$10 General / $7 DCAC Members
Steampunked Stories is a multimedia event about the adventures of a group of people on a time traveling airship, who journey to different periods in history and investigate various psychic phenomena. The stories are told by the author and his time machine, which emits strange sounds, laser beams, and fog during each time travel event. The series presented is an Action/Adventure Comedy with a twist of paranormal, and a touch of humor.
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/
The Eulogy
November 29, 2015
$15 General / $12 DCAC Members
See the awardwinning, soldout hit of the 2015 Capital Fringe, IndyFringe, Scranton Fringe, and Atlantic Fringe!
After an eight-city North American tour, The Eulogy returns to DC for one night only! This will be the last performance of The Eulogy for 2015 and the last performance in North America before the show heads to Australia.
Set at the funeral of “Thomas” — a man who, after a lifetime of gluttony, died from eating too many eggs — The Eulogy features a menagerie of characters whose inept and inapt speeches give anything but a proper homage. The only tears at this funeral will be from laughing.
Praise for The Eulogy:
“a comic gem” The Washington Post
“hilarious … deftly written” The Indianapolis Star
“a triumph” Washington City Paper
★★★★★ “insanely funny” NUVO
★★★★★ “brilliant” DC Theatre Scene
★★★★★ “magnificent” DC Metro Theater Arts
“outstanding” The Coast
“incredible” NEPA Scene
Ages 15+
Tickets: TheEulogyDCAC.brownpapertickets.com
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Get Lit
November 22, 2015
$5 General / $3 DCAC Members
GET LIT is Laugh Index Theatre’s student showcase. It will feature our standup students and Sara Armour. For more information, please visit: www.laughindextheatre.com
Tickets: http://getlit.bpt.me
Chinese Menu
November 21, 2015
$12 General / $10 DCAC Members
Chinese Menu invites you to our November show where we get in touch with what makes us great. Sure, we regularly bring in guests from other theaters but these shows started out as and remain a gathering place for the very best improvisers in DC.
The overwhelming majority of those players have spent time learning, teaching, or performing at Washington Improv Theater. The team here at Chinese Menu appreciates all they do.
How do we celebrate them? We bring back the team that, in our opinion, is on a short list of the best teams to ever come out of DC.
161!!!
Come out and join the cast:
Colin Murchie
Dave Johnson
Tyler Korba
Katie (Carson) Webster
Topher Bellavia
Mark Chalfant
Greer Smith
Mikael Johnson
Mike Bass
Catherine Deadman
The night will be kicked off by returning DC comic, Kay Marvin!
There will be revelry, pizza and beer next door after the show.
(cast and host subject to change)
Tickets: http://novmenu.bpt.me/
Press Play Hump Days:
Comedy Turducken Night
November 18, 2015
Presale: $10 General / $8 DCAC Members
At the door: $12 General / $10 DCAC Members
Press Play hosts and produces a monthly show featuring some of the best comedy, music, and storytelling acts in the area!
This month, Press Play is getting into the holiday spirit with our Comedy Turducken Night. It’s improv, stuffed into music, stuffed into standup, stuffed into imprpov! And unlike the poultry turducken, it’s safe for vegetarians. And we hope it will be way funnier though a turducken is pretty funny already, in a sick way.
Members of the DC Arts Center get $2 off each ticket. All audience members get $200 off a workplace improv workshop from Mindhatch (www.mindhatchllc.com)!
We’ll have real performances from some funny and talented people:
* Standup from Charles Lipper
* Improv from Middle Child Improv Troupe
* Music from AZTEC SUN
* Improv from Mighty Mighty School Project
* And more makeemups from your hosts, Press Play
Press Play was founded in 2010 and, not to brag or anything, has yet to have a show with a fart joke. Seriously. That’s how committed Press Play is to the craft of longform improv. The group performs in festivals around the country, theaters around DC, and once at a birthday party.
Tickets: http://pressplaydcac.bpt.me/
In Your Ear
November 15, 2015
$5 General / FREE DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. This month features readings by Sandy Florian, Justin Limoli, and Mel Nichols.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information at: http://www.dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Washington Improv Theater:
Seasonal Disorder
November 12 – November 14, November 19 – November 21, November 27 – November 28, 2015
$15 General / $10 DCAC Members
Embrace the chaos of the holidays! At Washington Improv Theater’s medley of unscripted shows, you never know what the performers will unwrap. From iMusical’s famous improvised musicals to the improvised romantic comedy Improv Actually, each show is full of wonderful surprises.
Tickets: http://witdc.org/
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
A Night at the Movies
November 6, 2015
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
Who doesn’t love a good movie? Your Naked Girls are no different. But we are far fonder of the graphics, legends, and novels that brought them into existence. Bring your favorite movie night pal and join us for a Night at the Movies! Naked Girl style. Cherokee Rose, is delighted to return to the DC Arts Center with the stunning starlets GiGi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom Alice Darling and one of our most infamous Naked Girls guests of all time, 2014 So You Wanna Be A Naked Girl contestant, Michelle Carnes of The Eye.
Mikey Scott: Bad Choices
October 27, 2015
$15 / $10 DCAC Members
Mikey Scott, one of the original Queers of Comedy, has been seen on Oxygen’s “Funny Girl’s,” Showtime’s “2015 AVN Awards,” WE’s “Sex Box,” “Dante Presents: The Gay List” and, most recently, the movie “Bro, What Happened?”
Stepping away from his acclaimed weekly show, “The Mikey and Teddy Comedy Hour” in West Hollywood, Mikey brings to DC stories of his pursuit of love, fame and fortune and, well, all the wrong choices that have made for hilarious stories along the way.
Join him on a journey that will leave you with laughter in your heart and a pretty strong feeling you just might need to buy him a drink!
Press Play Hump Days
October 21, 2015
Presale: $10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
Press Play was founded in 2010 and, not to brag or anything, has yet to have a show with a fart joke. Seriously. That’s how committed Press Play is to the craft of longform improv. The group performs in festivals around the country, theaters around DC, and once at a birthday party.
Tickets: http://pressplaydcac.bpt.me/
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Improv Wars
October 19, October 26, November 2, November 9, November 16, 2015
$10 / $8 DCAC Members
Laugh Index Theatre LIT’s IMPROV WARS is a friendly competition among improv troupes representing all factions of improv within the DC area. The audience votes for the winner. Both audience members and performers should prepare to enter a surprisefilled combatzone where ANYTHING goes. After all, this is war.
The first match of the 2015-16 season will be Monday, August 24th at 7:30 pm in Adams Morgan, where current Best Of IMPROV WARS champions, Door #3, will face of with Helper Pony.
NonMember tickets are twofor$15 or $10 online until 5 pm the day of the show, and $15, CASH ONLY, for a single ticket at the door.
All matches, team stats, rules and all things IMPROV WARS can be found at the LIT website: www.laughindextheatre.com
May the “yes and” be with you!
Tickets: www.laughindextheatre.com
In Your Ear
October 18, 2015
$5 General / FREE DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Happy Buddha XX:
Last Call for Buddha
October 17, 2015
Presale: $10, Door: $15 / $8 DCAC Members/Military/Student
It’s been a wonderful ride, but the time has come to say goodbye! This will be our final non/Toys for Tots Buddha show, and there will be some great comedy for a great cause! A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Marine Corps Birthday Ball! Our awesome trio of troupes includes: The Lodge, Prettier Than You, and Dial M for Nasty! Don’t miss our bye-bye Buddha!
If you are not able to attend the show, but would still like to make a donation to the Marine Ball, you may do so via the ticket link.
Tickets: https://buddhatwenty.eventbrite.com/
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Something Wicked
October 16, 2015
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
This October, DC’s Naked Girls Reading celebrates its fouryear anniversary with Naked Girls Reading Presents Something Wicked! Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to the DC Arts Center with Cherie Sweetbottom, GiGi Holliday, Alice Darling and Special Guest, Lyra Valkyrie. The Naked Girls will scare the pants off you with tales to thrill and chill; disturb and perturb; tease, tantalize and terrify! This show will feature a costume contest judged by the Naked Girls themselves, so dress in your spooky best, and tarot card readings by the Bewitching Beauty, Cherokee Rose!
Molotov Theatre Presents:
Lovecraft:
Nightmare Suite
October 15 – November 8, 2015
$25 General / $20 DCAC Movie
A tribute to the godfather of modern horror, Lovecraft: Nightmare Suite presents a theatrical experience taken directly from H.P. Lovecraft’s stories, essays and poetry. Six strange tales of monsters, madmen and mayhem are brought to life.
Director: Jay D. Brock
Composer: Gregory Thomas Martin
Cast:
Storyteller/Old Man: Alex Zavistovich
Randolph/Young Man: Brian McDermott
Warren/Gentleman: Elliott Kashner
Narrator/Woman: Jen Bevan
Outsider/Landlady: Jennifer Restak
Box Office: 7:00 pm; Doors: 7:15 pm
Showtime: 7:30 pm
Run time: Approximately 85 minutes with no intermission
There will be no late seating.
Please plan to arrive at least an hour before show time to find parking in Adams Morgan.
Tickets: www.molotovtheatre.org
Chinese Menu Comedy
October 10, 2015
$12 / $10 DCAC Members
First it was Amey Goerlich. This time Tim Martin makes his return to DC! He will be joined by some of DC’s best including Greer Smith, Mikael Johnson, Tara Maher, Kate Symes, Chis Ulrich as well as some of his former team mates from “bright young things,” Joe Randazzo, Pete Bergen and Sir Shawn Westfall. This will also be the last Menu show for Hall of Famer Cara Hayes! She is headed off to Nairobi. Let’s make sure to come out and show her the love.
Tickets: http://octmenu.bpt.me/
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
A Comedy of Horrors
October 2, October 3, October 30, October 31
$15 General / $10 DCAC Members
Laugh Index Theatre presents ‘A Comedy of Horrors’, a Halloween-themed comedy variety show that includes LIT’s stand-up comedians, improv and sketch teams. There are six shows, and the line-ups vary. You’ll have a wicked good time.
Tickets: http://laughindextheatre.com
Improv Spectacular
September 25, 2015
$12 General / $8 DCAC Members
An improv show benefiting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Featuring a mega awesome line-up of local teams!
Current line-up:
Sandwich and the Jets
Ugh
Jukebox Heroes
and an awesome mashup team created specifically for this show!
The show begins at 7:30 PM and 100% of ticket sales will be donated to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Tickets: www.eventbrite.com
In Your Ear
September 20, 2015
$5 General / FREE DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More info at: http://dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Chinese Menu Comedy
September 19, 2015
$12 General / $10 DCAC Members
Amey Goerlich from the UCB Theater is in town to play with some of the best DC has to offer. Mark your calendars as Chinese Menu returns from its summer break. This show will also feature the Menu debuts of Dennis R. Johnson and Marianne Lalonde! Also, Chadd will be there and the show will open with his story.
Lots going on so this will be a hot ticket!
Also in the line up: Zak Roland, Greg Tindale, Kate Symes, Pete Bergen, Murphy McHugh, Ken Hays, Joe Uchno, Rich Nyman, Mikael Johnson
and more…..
(cast subject to change)
Tickets: http://septmenu.bpt.me/
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Comedy Undressed
September 11, 2015
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
We want to tickle your fancy and your funny bone! Join us as the Naked Girls read their favorite memoirs, tales and funny stories by the world’s most memorable jokesters! Cherokee Rose is delighted to join Gigi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom, Alice Darling and Special Guest, 2015 So You Wanna Be A Naked Girl Winner, Natasha Nacre, for Naked Girls Reading Presents Comedy Undressed
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Three’s Comedy
September 2, September 9, September 23, October 7, October 28, November 4, November 11, 2015
$10 General / $5 DCAC Members
Laugh Index Theatre LIT knows the rules of comedy, and we’re bringing you the power of three. Three types of comedy. One Show. Come on, and knock at our door….
You’ll see:
LIT’s House Comics (our resident standup/storytellers)
LIT’s Community Sauna (our shortform improv team)
and our newest longform improv team.
Nonmember tickets are $5 online before 5 pm the day of the show, and $10 CASH ONLY at the door.
Tickets: www.laughindextheatre.com
Laugh Index Theatre Presents:
Improv Wars
August 24, August 31, September 7, September 14, September 21, September 28, October 19, October 26, November 2, November 9, November 16, 2015
$10 / $8 DCAC Members and Presale
Laugh Index Theatre LIT’s IMPROV WARS is a friendly competition among improv troupes representing all factions of improv within the DC area. The audience votes for the winner. Both audience members and performers should prepare to enter a surprise-filled combat-zone where ANYTHING goes. After all, this is war.
The first match of the 201516 season will be Monday, August 24th at 7:30 pm in Adams Morgan, where current Best Of IMPROV WARS champions, Door #3, will face of with Helper Pony.
Non-Member tickets are two-for $15 or $10 online until 5 pm the day of the show, and $15, CASH ONLY, for a single ticket at the door.
All matches, team stats, rules and all things IMPROV WARS can be found at the LIT website: www.laughindextheatre.com
May the “yes and” be with you!
Tickets: www.laughindextheatre.com
Press Play Hump Days
August 19, 2015
Presale: $10 General/ $8 DCAC Members, Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
Press Play’s monthly show returns with a super lineup: Standup from Dana Fleitman, Improv from DC favorite Jive Turkey, Music from Chase Willet, Improv from your hosts, Press Play
Laughs, music, and more laughs. Hope to see you at the show!
***Performer Bios***
Dana Fleitman is a Washington, D.C. comedienne who brings laughter to the joyless masses of our nation’s capital through her imaginative over-analysis of everyday life. Clever, sarcastic and generally awesome, Dana will merrily pontificate on groundbreaking and original topics like her cat, dating and eating. Dana comes from an activist and social justice background and is excited to lend her voice to less important issues. She has appeared at the DC Improv, Howard Theatre and the She Devil Comedy Festival.
Dallas native, Chase Willett, draws on dynamic vocals and penetrating lyrics to produce movingfolksongs.
JiveTurkey is one of DC’s oldest independent troupes, and since 2008 has been a unique blend of comedy spices blended together to create a mouthwatering taste for the senses. Though some might say they are just two idiots who get together and get their fast-paced brand of smart improv on when they’re not slaving away at the heels of their oppressive DC jobs for the MAN and to escape their sad little lives. That first thing sounds better though. Sounds like a gourmet pizza. Yeah, a pizza, let’s go with that. With nationwide performances, numerous festivals and over 25 comedy years between them,JiveTurkey stars Joe Randazzo (Sistine Robot, Madeline) and Chris Ulrich (King Bee, Nox).
Press Play was founded in 2010 and, not to brag or anything, has yet to have a show with a fart joke. Seriously. That’s how committed Press Play is to the craft of long-form improv. The group performs in festivals around the country, theaters around DC, and once at a birthday party.
Tickets: http://pressplaydcac.bpt.me/
Happy Buddha XIX: Georgia On My Mind
August 15, 2015
Presale: $10, Door: $15 / $8 DCAC Members/Military/Student
On August 15th, Buddha returns, and it will be a celebration, beeyatches! Our dear friend, the lovely
and talented Katie McDermott is departing for the Dirty South, and this show will be in her honor.
Currently slated to perform are: Hot & Sweaty, Fisticuffs, and,with members coming down from the
Big Apple for this very special occasion, Late Expectations! And, of course, we’re sending Ms. McD
back to the Dirty South with a killer, thriller mashup of her dear funny friends!
The Capital City Showcase
August 15, 2015
$10 General / $8 DCAC Members
The Capital City Showcase is the variety show featuring the best comedians, musicians, and performing artists in the DMV! For over four years, The Showcase has featured some of DC’s best stand-up comedians, improv comedians, storytellers, bands, acoustic performers, and hip-hop artists.
For tickets and info: www.capitalcityshowcase.com or call 202-431-4704.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
So You Wanna Be a Naked Girl
August 14, 2015
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
Do You Have What it Takes to Get Naked?
Have you always wondered how the ladies of Naked Girls Reading do it? Ever daydreamed about joining Cherokee Rose & company in their fun? Wanna know what it’s like to sit onstage with your favorite book, displaying your *ahem* good literary taste to a crowd? Well, fair contestants prepare to give your all while showing your all!
The lucky winner, chosen by YOUR votes, will join us as our very special guest for the September 2015, Funny Bone performance, and who knows? may be called upon for other, future shows.
BAD MEDICINE SKETCH SHOW
June 19 and July 25
Saturdays at 10 pm
$10 General/ $8 for Members
Bad Medicine is a DC-based sketch comedy group specializing in the dark, the cerebral, and the absurd. Though it has humble beginnings–conceived over a plate of tater tots and a few warm beers–Bad Medicine has quickly grown into one of the most eclectic sketch groups in the District and features a cast and crew trained by Second City, the Upright Citizen’s Brigade, Washington Improv Theater, The DC Improv, and DoJo Comedy. They are a group of singers, designers, lawyers, and students with the shared goal of writing the best sketch comedy about the worst of humanity. So please join Bad Medicine for the second ever Bad Medicine Show!
No side effects. No horse pills. Just comedy.
Featuring:
Stand up from Baltimore comedian Mike Moran
A character piece from DC improviser Kate Symes
Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1900039
Press Play Hump Days
July 15, 2015
Presale: $10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
Press Play brings the comedic heat to your summertime goodness! Come out for a fantastic night of comedy!
Home Improv Mints (improv troupe)
Andre Cutair (musician)
Michael Scherzer (storyteller)
Press Play (longfrom improv) That’s us! One of DC’s longestrunning improv teams and frequent
festival performers brings the comedic heat! Well, comedic spring breeze. Comedic heat for our
summer shows.
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
We Can Do It
July 10, 2015
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
“You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself.” Join us as we share the stories of female empowerment both real and imagined, new and old, and what it really means to be female. The power is within us all and needs to be shared to grow. Cherokee Rose, is delighted to return to the DC Arts Center with the Ferocious GiGi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom, Alice Darling and special guest Pria Puss!
Mark your calendars for August 14th at 10pm and the annual competition of Naked Girls Reading DC Presents: So You Wanna Be a Naked Girl. Where one lucky Lady will be chosen by YOUR votes to join us as our very special guest for the September 2015 show, and who knows? may be called upon for other, future shows.
Molotov Theatre Presents:
Neighborhood 3: Requisition of Doom
July 9 - August 2, 2015
$25 General / $20 DCAC Members
A psychologically addictive video game emulates players’ actual neighborhoods as the onscreen environment. Moving from one level to the next means destroying armies of zombies. But what does it mean for the neighbors who aren’t playing the game?
Neighborhood 3: Requisition of Doom is directed by David Dieudonne and assistant directed by Elliott Kashner, with musical composition and sound design by Molotov stalwart Gregory Thomas Martin, lighting design by Pete Vargo, set design and projections by Rachel Marie Wallace, costumes by Jen Bevan, and fight choreography by Mallory Shear.
The ensemble cast comprises Jen Bevan, Yoni Gray, Brian Kraemer, Annette Mooney Wasno, and Molotov Artistic Director Alex Zavistovich.
In a suburban subdivision with identical houses, parent find their teenagers addicted to an online horror video game. The game simulates the players’ actual neighborhood as the onscreen environment. Moving from one level to the next means destroying armies of zombies. But as the teens approach the Final House, the zombies start looking more and more like their parents.
*A WARNING FOR AUDIENCE MEMBERS: Neighborhood 3: Requisition of Doom contains adult language, realistic and hyperrealistic portrayals of violence, and strobe effects. Parents of children under 13 are cautioned.*
Tickets: http://molotovtheatre.org/
IN YOUR EAR
June 21
Sunday at 3 PM
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
THE CAPITAL CITY SHOWCASE
June 20
Saturday at 10 PM
$10 General / $8 DCAC Members
The Capital City Showcase is the variety show featuring the best comedians, musicians, and performing artists in the DMV! For over four years, The Showcase has featured some of DC’s best stand-up comedians, improv comedians, storytellers, bands, acoustic performers, and hip-hop artists.
For tickets and info: www.capitalcityshowcase.com or call 202-431-4704
Press Play Presents:
Hump Days
June 17
Wednesday at 7:30 PM
Presale: $10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
Press Play brings the comedic heat to your summertime goodness! Come out for a fantastic night of comedy!
Home Improv Mints (improv troupe)
Andre Cutair (musician)
Michael Scherzer (storyteller)
Press Play (longfrom improv) That’s us! One of DC’s longestrunning improv teams and frequent festival
performers brings the comedic heat! Well, comedic spring breeze. Comedic heat for our summer shows.
Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1071265
Happy Buddha Presents:
The Last Roundup
Saturday at 10 PM
Presale: $10, Door: $15 / $8 DCAC Members/Military/Student
*Presale tickets (only available online) end at midnight the night before the event*
On December 7, 2013, JJ Jackson, John Heiser, Lura Barber, and I made our debut as Pony Poni Pone! in a Happy Buddha show at the DC Arts Center. We had an absolute blast, made each other double over with laughter, and called it an improv set, just because it was easier to call it that than “Having Fun With Friends In Front Of A Paying Audience”.
Over the next year and a half, we went on to have a riotous good time under the guise of putting on an improv show at Buddha shows, opening for ShawnMikael(s), Spring Medley Washington Improv Theater events, and, of course, in our own beloved sister city of Baltimore thanks to Charm City Comedy Project and Baltimore Improv Group. Lura left us amicably, the lovely and hilarious Deanna Price took her place, and we kept having a ball all the while. With the help of our incredible coach, Topher Bellavia, we developed a unique, patient, style that we enjoyed performing and people have seemed to enjoy watching. Of the many troupes I’ve been in over the years, 3P has easily been the most consistently funny and fun.
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end; my troupemates are in demand these days as members of several of the best indie troupes in town, as well as in Washington Improv Theater Harold and house teams. As for your beloved Buddha, I am busy doing all of this adult stuff, getting my life act together, and making up of lost/wasted time both careerwise and personally. We’re all up to good stuff which keeps the four of us from practicing, and, with all due respect to my fellow Hoya Allen Iverson, we gotta practice. And we just don’t have the time, so, with great sadness, we have decided that we will no longer perform as just 3P, though we will still invite our buddies to join us as Ponies and Friends! We love playing with each other, but if we’re going to do it, we want to do it right, for us and for you, our audience. June 13th at 10 PM will be our last show, and we will be joined by some very special guests, including @Richmond Coalition Theater House team The Johnsons, local indie superstars Press Play, and veteran standup Wayne Manigo. It’s the last roundup for 3P, and we hope you’ll come and join us.
Tickets: https://junebuddha.eventbrite.com/
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
THE 3RD ANNUAL NERDETTES
June 12
Friday at 10 PM
At the door: $25 General / $25 DCAC Members and Presale
The Nerds have inherited the earth. Long live the Nerds! On the heels of Awesome Con, Naked Girls Reading Presents: The 3rd Annual Nerdettes. To prove yet again, without a doubt, nerds are sexy. Naked Girls Reading is bringing high class to nerd culture favorites like Mutants, Caped Crusaders and The Doctor. Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to DCAC with the Nerdalicious Gigi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom, Alice Darling and special guest the Porcelain Provocateur Lucy Flawless of Chicago. Dress in your best Nerd themed costume for our Nerdettes costume contest!
Tickets: http://nakedgirlsreadingnerds3.bpt.me/
STEAMPUNK STORIES
June 7
Sunday at 7:30 pm
$10 / $7 DCAC Members
Steampunk Stories is a series of five short stories about the adventures of a group of four people on an airship, with a time travel device, that journey to different periods in history to investigate various psychic phenomena. Raconteur Tom Howell will deliver his amazing tales of travels back in time onboard the airship Flying Capricorn. Actual hysterical characters such as Ratko, Aleistar Crowley, Nostradamus, Tesla, and Edgar Cayce will come to life before your eyes.
Tickets: 2024627833 or info@dcartscenter.org
WASHINGTON IMPROV THEATER PRESENTS:
SUMMER LOVE
Fridays and Saturdays
June 56 at 7:30 / 10 pm
June 1213, 1920 at 7:30 pm
June 2627 at 7:30 / 10 pm
$12 (online) $15 (door) / $8 Members
As DC’s premier company for longform improv, WIT’s ensembles make up the most experienced and skilled improvisers in the city. Spurred by a single audience suggestion, these creative performers spontaneously build entire worlds populated by colorful characters and situations. Each performance is a one-of-a-kind show, never to be seen by another audience.
Tickets: www.witdc.org
ACT DC Black Pride Weekend LGBTQ Theater Showcase:
Good Hope Road
May 24, 2015
$15 / $12 DCAC Members
Inspired by the very first DC Black Gay Pride Weekend observance in 1991, nearly every Pride weekend since then, AfricanAmerican Theater (ACT) has presented its own “DC Black Pride LGBTQ Theater Showcase.” This annual spring event consists of two performances of readings of new plays written and directed by ACT Founding Artistic Director, Alan Sharpe.
OUR CAST
Monte J. Wolfe, Jeremy Keith Hunter, Tristan Phillip Hewitt
Juan Raheem, Michael SainteAndress, Donald Burch III, Jason Crews
Gregory Ford, Justin Fair, Reginald Richard, Raquis Da’Juan Petree
TICKETS
PLEASE CHECK to ensure that you are clicking on the correct link for which ever performance you wish to attend.
In Your Ear
May 17, 2015
$5 General / FREE DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. This month’s In Your Ear includes Tina Darragh and M. Mack.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously supported by Bridge Street Books.
Chinese Menu
May 16, 2015
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Mixing up the format was a huge hit last month. We add a new wrinkle by featuring two existing teams for the May show. The Haddington Club is one of DC’s newest teams. It brings together old friends who have populated some of the best teams from the indie scene and Washington Improv Theater.
Cara Hayes – Season Six
Joe Uchno – The Score, Jackie
Kate Symes – Commonwealth, Sistine Robot, The Score
Nick Murawski – Whiskey Rebellion (IO Harold team)
Pete Bergen – The Score
Topher Bellavia – 161, Topher and Joe
Rich Nyman – Jackie
Catherine Deadman – 161, Musical, Be Our Guests
Dave Johnson – 161
They will be joined by Haggis: Mikael Johnson and Murphy McHugh
At the end of the show, both groups will mash up Menu style.
Tickets: http://maymenu.bpt.me/
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Ladies Choice
May 15, 2015
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
What would your Naked Girls read if the world of literature was theirs to choose? In the past three years Naked Girls Reading has brought you the best of fantasy, erotica, comedy, horror and everything in between. They’ve made you laugh, cry, squeal with delight and squirm with desire. Aren’t you curious what “Ladies Choice” will bring you next? Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to the DC Arts Center with the lovely Cherie Sweetbottom, Gigi Holliday and Alice Darling to entertain, seduce and even educate you May 15th at 10pm.
The Capital City Showcase
May 9
Saturday at 10 pm
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
The Capital City Showcase is the variety show featuring the best comedians, musicians, and performing artists in the DMV! For over four years, The Showcase has featured some of DC’s best stand-up comedians, improv comedians, storytellers, bands, acoustic performers, and hip-hop artists.
Tickets: capitalcityshowcase.com
Happy Buddha XVII: Springtime for Buddha
Pre-sale: $10, Door: $15 / $8 DCAC Members/Military/Student
Tickets: https://maybuddha.eventbrite.com/
For May, Happy Buddha Brings the May Funny with two nights of comedic delights, featuring Magnet Theater’s Rick Andrews playing along with your local favorites.
Fifty Shades of Black Mayonnaise
May 3, 2015
$20 General/ $15 for Members
Tickets: www.eventbrite.com
Lose yourself in the hilarious world of comedian Greg Stevens aka “Black Mayonnaise”! On Sunday, May 3rd he presents his unique and always creative thoughts on family, relationships, pop culture and everyday life. This will also be a live DVD taping! Hosted by Comedian Mike Brown, and featuring the hot upcoming comics Rue D and Adayalah Banks. This will not be an ordinary comedy show…it will be an experience! (Be early for surprise pre-show festivities!)
Tabla for Two Presents:
Under the Moon
May 1, 2017
$20 / $18 DCAC Members
Tickets: info@dcartscenter.org or call 202-462-7833
Tabla for Two is a musical duo consisting of Masood Omari and Abigail Adams Greenway. Masood has created original compositions drawing from rich musical traditions, blending classical Eastern beats with Western style to produce a powerful fusion for the tabla and harmonium. Many who have heard this music describe it as mesmerizing, energizing and transcendental. It is without a doubt unique! They will be joined by guest artists Sofya Savkina, dancer, and Helen Burns, singer.
Just Moxie
$10 / $8 DCAC Members
Tickets: info@dcartscenter.org or 202-462-7833
Join us for a night of long-form improv featuring local, independent troupes, hosted by Just Moxie!
In Your Ear
April 19, 2015
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition.
Curated by Buck Downs and Maureen Thorsen.
This month’s In Your Ear features Adam Chiles, Morgan Parker, Joshua Poteat, and Allison Titus.
More information: dcpoetry.com/iye
In Your Ear poetry series is generously sponsored by Bridge Street Books.
Chinese Menu
April 18, 2015
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Chinese Menu is back and we are mixing it up. For this show we will have some talented story tellers do their thing and then a collection of Menu players will improvise sets based on what they heard. Your story tellers for this event are the amazing Shawn Westfall and, returning from New York is former WIT player and coach, film maker and all around artist, Mark Pagan. Both of these performers will take part in improvising the other’s story.
Also joining the cast for this show is (so far):
Xavier Padin
Greg Tindale
Liz Sanders
Dan Miller
Pete Bergen
Chris Ulrich
Jaci Pulice
Greer Smith
(cast subject to change)
Tickets: http://aprilmenu.bpt.me
Naked Girls Reading Presents:
Music in the Buff
April 17, 2015
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
What does a Naked Girl love as much as a good book? A great piece of music. Even better, great lyrics, stories about great musicians and how they got there. Join us as we celebrate Naked Girl Readings DC’s, Wonder Twins, GiGi Holliday and Cherie Sweetbottom’s, birthday month, with Music in the Buff. Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to DCAC with the lovely GiGi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom and Alice Darling to entertain, seduce and even educate you.
Happy Buddha XVII: The Return
April 11, 2015
$12 (online) $15 (at the door)/ $10 DCAC Members
Featuring:
Improv from nationally-renowned improv duo: The Amie and Kristen/Kristen and Amie Show
Baltimore’s Gus
Pony! Poni! Pone!
Standup from some of the DC area’s finest!
They’re baaaaack! The Amie and Kristen Show returns to DC on April 11th, for some fabulous late night fun! Amie Roe and Kristen Schier, best friends, total babes, and awesome sauce improvisers have left local audiences in hysterics at both of the District Improv festivals and Happy Buddha, and they’re coming ’round again for what is sure to be an amazing show, and offering brand spanking new workshops for the people in the bargain!
Joining these amazing ladies are the splendiforous improvisational pride of Charm City, GUS, and two love-sexy laugh-inducing DC troupes, Pony Poni Pone (I happen to know for a fact that one of their members has been voted ‘Sexiest Buddha in the DMV’ five times running.) and Mount Lincoln’s Beard! Our host for the evening’s festivities is the hilarious Tim D. Miller!
Press Play Hump Days
Spring Cleaning
April 8, 2015
Presale: $10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
Press Play brings the comedic heat to your springtime goodness!
Come out for a fantastic night of comedy!
Michael Burgos(oneman play) Michael Burgos is an internationally acclaimed writer and performer. He holds a Diplôme from École Philippe Gaulier (Paris, France) and a B.A. in Theater from George Mason University, where he received the Chris Parsons Acting Award, the Greenspring Players Scholarship, and the Outstanding Achievement in the Major Award. In addition to studying with theater guru Philippe Gaulier, Michael trained with master teacher Dody DiSanto, a teaching protégé of the late Jacques Lecoq. Michael is a graduate of Washington Improv Theater’s Training Program and has studied at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in New York. While at George Mason University, he was one of the founding members of the university’s improv troupe, the Mason Improv Association. He has taught theater with Acting for Young People since 2010 and has written and directed over twenty short plays for children. Michael also holds a B.M. from Berklee College of Music and has toured with Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band.
Cake Bagel(improv) Cake Bagel is as whimsical as pink icing and as savory as smoked salmon. Or at least that’s what we tell ourselves to justify our pre-show carbo-loading. Formed in 2012, the troupe has logged more than two years’ worth of shows around the Washington, D.C. area, including featured appearances at Washington Improv Theater’s Seasonlal Disorder, Binge, Improvapalooza and Road Show runs. Cake Bagel has also brought its glutenous goodness to the North Carolina Comedy Arts Festival, the Chicago Improv Festival and the Del Close Marathon. Bold, character-driven and super-fun, a Cake Bagel show is like having your cake… and eating a bagel, too.
be E.A.S.Y dance(dance troupe)
Press Play(long-form improv) That’s us! One of DC’s longest-running improv teams and frequent festival performers brings the comedic heat! Well, comedic spring breeze. Comedic heat for our summer shows.
Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1071265
*DCAC member? Email info@dcartscenter.org for discount code
Molotov Theatre Presents:
The Margins
April 2 – 26, 2015
$25 / $20 DCAC Members
Fresh from its soldout, Helen Hayes Award nominated production of “Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe” comes Molotov’s chilling production of “The Margins” by David Skeele. Loosely based on the true story of The Philip Experiment in Toronto in the 1970s, five paranormal investigators and a skeptical reporter visit a haunted manor to create and raise a spirit as a psychic experiment – until that experiment goes horribly better than they imagined.
Tickets: www.molotovtheatre.org
Chinese Menu
March 21, 2015
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Simply the best improvisational comedy in DC.One of the best things about Menu shows is
that they allow for old friends to come back and visit. This month we welcome back three of
our favorites. Emlyn Mcfarlad, Mike McFarland and Taylor Durant will be in town for one night
to whoop it up with some old friends.
The cast is coming together nicely:
-Taylor
– Mike
– Emlyn
– Nick Murawski
– Rich Nyman
– Topher Bellavia
– Chris Ulrich
– Cara Hayes
– Catherine Deadman
– Pete Bergen
– Joe Uchno
– Kate Symes
Tickets: marchmenu.bpt.me/
IN YOUR EAR
March 15
Sunday at 3 PM
$5 General/ Free for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avantgarde tradition. Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
NAKED GIRLS READING PRESENTS:
FANTASY
March 13
Friday at 10 PM
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members and Presale
The Naked Girls of DC explore the mystical realms of fantasy in the month of March. Will we be the Mother’s of Dragons, The Queens of Fairy or rule a realm both Muggle and Wizard alike? Join us, faithful squires, through journeys far and wide starting at our home the DC Arts Center on an epic the Bards will sing for ages to come. Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to DCAC with the lovely GiGi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom and Alice Darling to entertain, seduce and even educate you.
Tickets: www.nakedgirlsreadingfantasy.bpt.me
Press Play Presents:
Hump Days: St. Patrick’s Day Edition
March 11
Wednesday at 7:30 PM
$10 General/ $8 for DCAC Members
All audience members get 15% off a workplace improv workshop from Mindhatch (www.mindhatchllc.com)! Not only is Press Play’s St. Patrick’s Day themed show featuring some of the best comedy, music, and storytelling in DC, but we’re also giving everyone attending the show a gift. What is that gift? The gift of laughter. Wait, there’s a second gift!
Everyone coming to the Wed. March 11 show gets a scratch-off lottery ticket. We’re going to scratch them off together all at once, creating a collective stew of hope, joy, and let’s be honest, probably mild disappointment. But mostly hope and joy.
Can we guarantee you’ll win money? No. But we can guarantee a fun time.
Our Luck-Filled Lineup:
DEREK HILLS is a storyteller from Washington, DC and performs regularly with local heavyweights SpeakeasyDC and Story League. His first solo show “No Sex, Please” debuted recently at the Capital Fringe Festival. He’s now working on a new one-act comedy called “Prison Break,” which satirizes America’s extreme sports culture and will premiere in Fall 2015.
ALEX ESPINOZA is a native DC stand up comic that has been doing comedy for 5 years. He’s also written for a local sketch comedy group, and thinks CVS receipts are ridiculously long.
UNTIL ONE DAY: Once upon a time a group of improvisers decided to start a troupe. Every two weeks they practiced narrative scenes and storytelling. Until one day they played with Press Play
FINLEY MARTIN is a Canadianborn singer songwriter whose songs blend his celtic roots with the DIY attitude of DC’s postpunk scene. You can learn more about him at www.finleymartinmusic.com.
PRESS PLAY (longform improv): That’s us! One of DC’s longestrunning improv teams and frequent festival performers brings the comedic heat! Well, comedic spring breeze. Comedic heat for our summer shows.
Tickets: www.pressplaydcac.brownpapertickets.com
HAPPY BUDDHA PRESENTS:
Birthday Buddha
March 6 - 7
Fridays and Saturday at 10 PM
$12 (online) $15 (at the door)/ $10 DCAC Members
Friday, March 6
*Cake Bagell (Jordana Mishory, Sophia Cai, Isabel Galbraith, Tim Hunt,J ulia Rocchi, Richie Pepio)
* Pony Poni Pone (Me, JJ Jackson, John Heiser, Deanna Price)
* New York City’s The Raving Jaynes - Amy Larimer & Jamie Graham
* Buddha Sings with Gabe Peyton of GSharp!
* Finley Martin
Saturday, March 7
* Ponies and Friends
* Buddha and Master Yoda (Jeff Jeff Hughes, Topher Bellavia)
* Baltimore’s Evan the Loyal
* Richmond’s Pack (Nick Leveski and Patrick Gantz)
* Cherie Sweetbottom
Tickets: https://birthdaybuddha.eventbrite.com/
Theatre du Jour Presents:
THE MAD: A FRACKING FAIRYTALE
March 6-21
Thursdays through Sundays at 7:30 pm
$20/$15 DCAC Members
It’s a tragedy for the future of humankind when big business and oil prospectors team up with a devious scheme to swindle Miss Amelia, the spinster proprietress of the Café Se Si Bon, out of her beloved café to get to the oil they believe is right under their feet. A believer in the beauty of life and the goodness of people, she is caught unaware of the very real possibility of oil derricks all around her. As her friends attempt to explain diagonal drilling and hydraulic fracturing to her she devises a plan to stop the culprits and punish them for their greed. But does she have the right to do it? Only a conference of her eccentric spinster friends can settle the matter for sure. Absurdity and hilarity ensue as this motley crew sets their sights to save humanity and punish the wicked.
Featuring Rachel Reed, Jerry Herbilla, Annetta Dexter Sawyer , Bettina Stap, Jonathan Frye,
Kathryn Winkler, Raffaela Perra O’Neill, Shawn Jain, Casey Leffue, and David Berkenbilt
Adapted and Directed by B. Stanley
Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1252961
Bare: A Pop Opera
February 19 – 22, February 26 – 28, March 1, 2015
$22 General/ $18 DCAC Members
Book by JON HARTMERE and DAMON INTRABARTOLO
Music by DAMON INTRABARTOLO
Lyrics by JON HARTMERE
Directed, Produced, Choreographed, and Designed By: Derek Critzer
Musical Direction By: Brandon Heishman
“Bare: a pop opera”, is a moving story about teens searching to find themselves, no matter what environments may oppress their individualities, and the consequences that can be involved when people are forced to be who they are not. Like Broadway’s Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winninghit “Doubt”, “bare” challenges religion and the values it instills.
In their senior year at St. Cecelia’s Catholic High School, several students seek to identify themselves and express their true personas despite their faiths and the social stigmas that surround them. Main characters Peter and Jason struggle to come to terms with opposing ideals of their own homosexual relationship in the views of their personal connections, but more importantly in the face of the Catholic Church, which ultimately serves as the play’s main antagonist. Meanwhile, other students are desperate to calm the tempests of their own situations—from rejection, to lost loves, to loneliness and confusion, “bare” seeks to exemplify all those who break the mold and do not fit the conventional standards of society.
Tickets: www.clandestinedc.com
5th Annual My Funny Valentine Comedy Show with Sampson McCormick
February 15, 2015
$20 General/ $15 for Members
Featuring:Sampson McCormick, Greg Stevens, Tommy Taylor, Jr., Mike “OlMikeB” Brown, Rue D., and your host, Adaylah Banks. A portion of the proceeds from this show will benefit MIRIAM’S KITCHEN.
Miriam’s Kitchen (MK), a non-profit organization located in Washington, DC, is committed to ending chronic homelessness in DC by creating meaningful connections with chronically homeless individuals, placing them in permanent supportive housing, and ensuring they have the necessary support to remain in housing. MK advocates for permanent supportive housing as a long-term solution, while meeting short-term needs by providing healthy meals and high-quality social services to more than 3,500 chronically homeless individuals each year. Please join us. We can’t end chronic homelessness in DC without you.
Tickets: http://adaylahbanks.com/mfv_tickets
In Your Ear
February 15, 2015
$5 General / FREE DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. This Sunday’s performance features Buck Downs, Heather Fuller, and Ryan Walker.
Curated by Meg Ronan and Tony Mancus.
More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
NAKED GIRLS READING PRESENTS:
EROTICA
Friday January 9 at 10 PM
At the door: $25 General/ $20 DCAC Members
Start the year with our annual New Year Tradition, Naked Girls Reading Presents for your aural and visual delight and assortment of Erotica to warm those chilly January bones. We invite you to join us at our home, the DC Arts Center, to kick off 2015 with sexiness. Naked Girls Reading Presents Erotica will showcase tales of kinky tricks, lustful yearnings and a salacious rendezvous or two, if you’re lucky. Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to DCAC with the lovely GiGi Holliday, Cheri Sweetbottom, and Alice Dalring to entertain, seduce and even educate you.
Tickets: www.nakedgirlsreadingerotica2015.bpt.me
Happy Buddha XIII: Buddha Brings Toys for Tots!
December 19
Friday at 7:30pm and 10pm
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
After two months away doing various cool things, Buddha’s back, and he’s got Trike with him! The Happy Buddha show returns to it’s Adams Morgan home at DCAC, and we’ve got an allstar line up for you featuring New York City’s premier improv duo, Trike. The New York Times has called them “consistently complex, imaginative, improv” that is “reliably one of the best improv performances in
the city.” Come see them as well as some of the best local improvisers and standup comedians, in what is sure to be a most fun and hilarious Happy Buddha night! About Trike: Peter McNerney and Nick Kanellis make up the two halves of New York City’s premier improv duo Trike. Trike has been blowing minds with their unique brand of seamless, highenergy, multicharacter improv shows since 2007. The New York Times calls Trike, “consistently complex, imaginative improv,” that is “reliably one of the best improv performances in the city.” Splitsider.com says that Trike’s “fantastic late night show is upbeat and impressively layered improv that is always worth checking out,” and in the “Splitsider Guide to NYC Comedy Scene”, Trike was named one of eight “Best Weekly Shows.” TimeOut New York declares Trike a “Critic’s Pick” that “melds playful
physical transformation and careful scene work in a weekly show that delivers an impressively quick and detailed overlap of events in its conclusion.”
Tickets: https://buddhashow.eventbrite.com
Improv with Just Moxie and Friends
December 5 and 12
Fridays at 10pm
$12 General/ $10 DCAC Members
Join us for a night of longform improv featuring local, independent troupes.
Hosted by Just Moxie.
Tickets: 2024627833 or info@dcartscenter.org
An Evening with Separate Beds
December 3
Wednesday at 7:30 PM
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Intimate but not intrusive. A shoulder to cry on, but not an arm wrapped tight around your waist. We’re the best relationship you’ve ever had.
Welcome to our bedroom — it’s a safe space. Separate Beds invites a local DC celebrity to an interview with them. After that Separate Beds performs a 45-minute improvised comedy show based on that interview.
One guest. One magical evening with Separate Beds.
In Your Ear
November 16
Sunday at 3 PM
$5 General/ Free for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Curated by Buck Downs. More information at: dcpoetry.com/iye
Tickets: call 202 462 7833 or email info@dcartscenter.org
Life and Times of Ol Mike B
October 19
Sunday at 7:30 PM
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Local stand-up comedian and radio host Mike Brown invites you to experience “The Life & Times of Ol Mike B” .
Featured guests include the cast of “The Open Mike” radio show
Washington Improv Theater presents HOWL
October 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 & 10 PM
$15 General/ $12 DCAC Members
Sweaty palms, accelerated heartbeats: this October, WIT is redefining “stage fright.” Every Washington Improv Theater show is a spontaneous, one-time-only event. There’s no telling what dangers will pop out of the dark, since none of the performers on stage have a script. This run features the improvised slasher film Die! Die! Die! and a witches brew of Halloween concoctions from WIT’s company ensembles and guest troupes from across the District.
Tickets: washingtonimprovtheater.com
In Your Ear
September 21, 2014
Sunday at 3 PM
$5 General/ Free DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Curated by Buck Downs. Jen Coleman’s book, “Psalms for Dogs and Sorcerers,” was released from Trembling Pillow Press in 2013. Previously from MN and then DC and then NYC, Jen now lives in Portland, OR. She co-curates the Spare Room reading collective. Sue Landers is the author of 248 mgs., a panic picnic (O Books, 2003); Covers (O Books, 2007); 15: A Poetic Engagement with the Chicago Manual of Style (Least Weasel, 2011); and What I Was Tweeting While You Were On Facebook (Perfect Lovers, 2013) . Her latest project, Franklinstein, is a collection of poems that draws from The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin and The Making of Americans to tell the story of one Philadelphia neighborhood. She blogs at susanlanders.tumblr.com. Betsy Andrews’s latest book of poetry is The Bottom (42 Miles Press). She is the Executive Editor of Saveur magazine (www.saveur.com). For more info, please visit dcpoetry.com/iye
Tickets: call (202) 462-7833 or email info@dcartscenter.org
Improv with Just Moxie & Friends
September 12 & 19
Friday at 10pm
$12 General/ $10 DCAC Members
Come join us for a night of longform improv featuring local, independent troupes, hosted by Just Moxie.
Tickets: (202) 462-7833 or email info@dcartscenter.org
Naked Girls Reading Presents: Our Funny Bone
July 25
Friday at 10pm
$25 General/ $20 DCAC Members
Love comedy clubs, standup specials and Pandora comedy? Then do we have a show for you. Get ready to laugh as your DC Naked Girls read their favorite memoirs, tales and funny stories by the world’s most memorable
Jokesters. Featuring Special Guest Clarie Voltaire from Portland!
Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
The Fuzz Ups
July 12
Saturday at 10pm
$10 at the door/ $7 online / $6 DCAC Members
The Fuzz Ups are DC’s only longform improv comedy troupe comprised entirely of puppets. Spend the
evening with Remy, Pete, and Gil for a night of unforgettable puppet prov. They’re joined by improv troupe, Barely Runicble, who were the Washington Improv Theater’s champions of the Fighting Improv Smackdown Tournament. The maestro for the evening will be one of Baltimore’s most talented standup comics, Josh Kuderna.
Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
Happy Buddha X: Philadelphia Freedom
July 11
Friday at 10pm
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Philly Improv Theater stalwart Alex Gross comes to DC with his duo Something Simple with Alex and Frank, and the riotous Demonikus Rex, and to teach a workshop. The Happy Buddha is pleased to host their July stop, and we’ve
added some local flavors to this comedic menu with Just Moxie and Schroeder! (Kate Symes, Jon Chesbro, Matt Berman) Plus a little music from singing-songwriting duo Evan and Ross.
Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
Happy Buddha IX: Improv from ‘Sconin
July 10
Thursday at 10pm
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Glassworks (glassworksimprov.com) are a trio that has been peforming together since grade school… This is before it was called “improv”, back when it was just called, “messing around” or “inventing games” or “using the limitless power of the imagination to create whole worlds and people and stories.” It was just what they did. In a lot of ways it is what they still do. They took workshops with some of the Second City bigwigs, shared the stage with touring rock bands, and even built a theater in their basement that now features not only other improv groups, but
touring bands as well. Like those bands, they’ve now gone out on tour; they’ll make stops in Minneapolis, Detroit, Boston, New York, Philly, Richmond, and, of course, DC, where they’ll be staging a very special Thursday night show!
Along with these three likely lads, local legends The Score will take the stage to make instantaneous comedy
magic from the songs on your mp3 player, the Buddha will lead the people in Dances for Candy, plus more comedic
delights from Hot Meat Sandwich.
Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
Happy Buddha
June 27 & 28
Friday & Saturday at 10pm
$5 advance/$10 door for Fri. 27th show
$10 advance/$15 door for Sat. 28th show
Friday: Improv from The Carmichaels, Aboulia!, Country Music All-Stars, and local legends Topher Bellavia and Dave Johnson! Plus, you’ll get to dance for candy with the Buddha! Saturday: Improv from Frederick MD’s Ponch and The Word of God, standup from Jamal Newman, music from singer-songwriters Brandon Walker and Margot MacDonald, and who knows what else?
Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
GAYLE Live
June 23 at 7:30 & 9:30 PM
$15 General/ $12 DCAC Members
GAYLE Live is a 2-person comedy show based on a web series that features a very strong subrurban woman named
Gayle Waters-Waters and her teenage daughter, Terry Gross Waters-Waters. Written by Chris Fleming and directed by Melissa Strype, the web series “Gayle” has been named one of the top 10 YouTubers by Buzzfeed. The Huffington Post boasts: “If you’re weird, you’ll fall in mad, deep love with GAYLE.” Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
Naked Girls Reading Presents: Neil Gaiman
June 21
Saturday at 10pm
$25 General/ $20 DCAC Members
Sandman, Neverwhere, Fragile Things, The Ocean at the End of the Lane. Do those words bring excitement to your very being? Then this is the show for you! Don’t know those titles yet? Then come and find out about this amazing literary and film sensation. We can never get enough of Neil Gaiman, so Naked Girls Reading dedicates the month of June to the winner of a multitude of literary awards, our erudite hearts and one of our favorite fathers, Neil Gaiman!
Tickets: nakedgirlsreadinggaiman.bpt.me
Happy Buddha Productions Presents:
Butt Kapinski, w/ Sketches from Ugly Hollywood
June 13 at 10pm
$15 General/ $12 DCAC Members
The director of international hit Red Bastard comes back swinging with Butt Kapinski. Think it’s a solo show? Think
again. Private eye Butt Kapinski invites you to co-star in a film noir fantasy. This funny, filthy, fully-interactive
ride is riddled with sex, sin, shadows, and subterfuge. Let’s kick reality to the curb and play in a world of dark
dreams and bad smiles. Plus, debut sketches from local sketch troupe Ugly Hollywood!
Killer Joe
June 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, & 26-29 at 7:30 PM
$15 General/ $8 DCAC Members
From the author of August: Osage County, Killer Joe derives its humor from the dark realism of white trash
stereotypes in this withering, rustic outlook on America’s disenfranchised. The Smith family hire Killer Joe to do away with mother for the insurance money. As a retainer against his final
payoff Killer Joe decides to bed the Smith’s young daughter, Dottie. Before it’s over nearly everyone is a bloody mess.
Tickets available at www.seenosun.com
In Your Ear
May 18th, 2014
Sunday at 3pm
$5 General/ Free for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features readings and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Featured at this month’s In Your Ear: Shanna Compton, poet whose book-length speculative poem The Seam is forthcoming from Bloof Books. Maureen Thorson, poet, publisher, and book designer living in Washington, D.C., author of My Resignation (Shearsman Books). Anselm Berrigan, author of Loading (Brooklyn Arts Press), a collaboration with painter Jonathan Allen.
Tickets: 202.462.7833 or email info@dcartscenter.org
Punctual Drunks present Aboulia!
Saturday April 26th at 5:00pm & 7:30pm
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
The Punctual Drunks are on time for most things, but not the cherry blossoms. Aboulia! welcomes the
one-night-only return of their DC-turned-New Yorker by hosting two improv comedy shows with the P.Drunks. The
night also will feature local improv troupes Pony Poni Pone, The Word of God, and more! Don’t be a late bloomer–
ask your crush to be your date and buy your tickets now!
Please call DC Arts Center to reserve your ticket 202.462.7833 or email info@dcartscenter.org
A Dose of Dupas presents Come on Son!
April 20
Sunday at 7:30pm
$20 General/ $18 DCAC Members
A four woman interactive poetry experience starring LOVE, the poet, Bria, Shelly Says So & Rebecca Dupas, four
amazing writers from Baltimore City. The premise of the show is embodied in the title. The phrase “come on son”
typically follows an idea or statement that is audacious in the mind of the speaker. The ladies of “Come on Son”
are using poetry, comedy and song to tackle ideas and statements that tend to box women in categories. The show
uses art to address stereotypes. Using four themes, that will alter in each city, the ladies of “Come on Son” tackle
perceptions & misconceptions of love, anger, strength, identity, sexuality, and more in a dialogue that is comical
yet thought-provoking.
Naked Girls Reading Presents: A Night at the Movies
March 22
Saturday at 10pm
$25 General/ $20 DCAC Member
Who doesn’t love a good movie? Your Naked Girls are no different. But we are far more fond of the tales, legends, graphics and novels that brought them into existence. Bring your popcorn and join Cherokee Rose, Cherie Sweetbottom, Gigi Holliday, and Alice Darling for a Night at the Movies, Naked Girls Reading style. Like any new film seating is limited get yours early!
Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
In Your Ear
March 13
$5 General/ Free for DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features readings and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avantgarde tradition.
Curated by Buck Downs and Maureen Thorson. For more info, visit dcpoetry.com/iye
Tickets: call 202 462 7833 or email info@dcartscenter.org
The Happy Buddha VII: Featuring the Amy and Kristen Show
March 7 & 8
Friday & Saturday at 10pm
$10 General/ $8 for DCAC Members
The Happy Buddha is extremely excited to announce his happiest and most buddhaesque show ever! In observance of Jeff Hughes’ (aka the Happy Buddha’s) 21st + 23rd birthday, because he lives to bring laughter to the people, he’s bringing the incredible Amie and Kristen/Kristen and Amie show back to DC! They brought the crowd to their feet at the inaugural District Improv Festival, and now they’re joining in on the Buddha fun! The ladies will be joined by ShawnMikael(s), The Score DC, Population: 6, Nox, and Press Play in what is sure to be an amazing weekend of comedy! You will NOT want to miss this! After the show, join us next door at Mellow Mushroom, come say hi to the funny, friendly ladies, and buy the Buddha a birthday round!
Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
Molotov Theatre presents:
Normal
March 6, 7, 8, 9
Thursday through Sunday at 7:30 PM
$25 General/ $20 for DCAC Members
“Normal,” by Anthony Neilson, is the true-life story of Peter Kurten, the “Dusseldorf Ripper” of the 1920s and 1930s. This vaudevillian fever dream and disturbing love triangle is told from the point of view of the attorney who represented Kurten in the trial that ended his horrific crime spree. Kurten’s life is said to be the inspiration for Fritz Lang’s movie “M.” Directed by Jay D. Brock with original score by composer Gregg Martin, “Normal” features Brian McDermott, Elizabeth Darby, and Alex Zavistovich.
Tickets: http://molotovtheatre.org/
Naked Girls Reading Presents: Love Bites
February 23
Sunday at 7:30pm
$25 General/ $20 DCAC member
Valentine’s Day didn’t go exactly as you planned? Who needs chocolate, flowers or mortals when you can have tall, dark and sexy vampire stories?DC’s official Naked Girls return to bring a new twist to the monotony of Valentine’s Day with Love Bites, a Vampire Valentine. As they say no one can truly love forever except a vampire. Naked Girls Return to the DCAC to show why a vampire apocalypse could be a good thing. Naked Girls Reading Presents Love Bites will showcase tales of mesmerizing eyes, rapid pulses and truly eternal love or heartbreak. Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to DCAC with the lovely Gigi Holliday and Cherie Sweetbottom to entertain, seduce and even educate you. Special
Guest Naked Girl to be announced!
Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
Just Moxie
February 14, 21, & 28
Friday at 10 PM
$12 General/ $10 for DCAC Members
The Olympics are back and so is Just Moxie with a lineup of medal-worthy improv! For three Fridays in a row, Just Moxie will be hosting 10 different local improv troupes at DC Arts Center. Come cheer everyone on as we all cross that finish line of awesome! Just Moxie is Amanda Barber, Steve Calamia, Laura Frese, Susie Gutierrez, Eric Krupski, and Marc Reber.
Tickets: (202) 462-7833 or email info@dcartscenter.org
The Bannermen Presents: Lost Love Letters
February 7 & 8
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 & 10 PM
$15 General/ $12 for DCAC Members
Did you ever have that special someone that got away? Or spied someone across a crowded party and fallen instantly in love, only not having the nerve to go up to them, so they disappear from your life as quickly as they appeared? They say that it is better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all. The Bannermen will look to bring a little more love into your lives this Valentine’s Day with Lost Love Letters. Bring us your most joyous or most heartbreaking idea for a play, and we will bring them to life right before your eyes. The Bannermen combine the spontaneity of improvisation with the glitz and glamour of scripted theater. Taking the title of a play never written from the audience, they perform a full one act play off the top of their heads, creating beautiful, rich, real characters, relationships, and environments that will leave you wondering just how much they wrote beforehand. The answer to that, is none. The Bannermen are Dave Barth, Megan Blaskovich, Sabahat Chaudary, Madeleine Findley, Chad Giron, Charles Lipper, Katie
Ozog, and Justin Schram. Directed by Justin Purvis.
God’s Country (A One Woman Show)
January 12
Sunday at 7:30pm
$20 General / $18 DCAC Members
“We live in a country where faith is a 9mm locked and loaded with God bullets. If when you were born you were told you were a God and not a lowly sinner what would you do? How would you move, breathe, think, love? If this is God’s Country, where the hell is God?” Michelle Antoinette Nelson aka LOVE the poet Michelle Antoinette Nelson, also known as LOVE the poet is a poet, actor, musician, host and prominent indie artist/author on the national performance and literary art scenes, and in the field of creative writing education. She has appeared on CNN as a speaker at the Jena 6 rally in Washington, D.C., authored the book “Black Marks on White Paper”, is the recipient of the 2011 Baker grant award, released multiple spoken word CDs, and has performed at the Smithsonian & college campuses nationwide. Michelle is also a Punany Poet (as seen on HBO), the playwright and star of “God’s
Country” her touring one woman play, the creator of Live Lyrics! Creative writing workshops, and the founder/host of BE FREE Fridays (monthly open mic series)
Capital City Showcase
January 11, May 18, June 14, September 6
10 PM
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
The Capital City Showcase is the variety show featuring the best comedians, musicians, and performing artists in the DMV! For over four years, The Showcase has featured some of DC’s best stand-up comedians, improv comedians, storytellers, bands, acoustic performers, and hip-hop artists.
Tickets: www.capitalcityshowcase.com
Naked Girls Reading: Erotica
January 10
Friday at 7:30 PM
$25 General/ $20 DCAC member
It was such a rousing good time last year we had to bring it back to ring in 2014. Join DC’s official Naked Girls for an aural assortment of Erotica to warm your *ahem* bones. As an extra special treat, we will be joined again by that “Porcelain Provocateur”, Lucy Flawless, from Chicago. We invite you to join us at our home, the DCAC, to kick off the New Year with sexiness. Naked Girls Reading Presents Erotica will showcase tales of naughty tricks, lustful yearnings and a salacious rendezvous or two, if you’re lucky. Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to DCAC with the lovely Gigi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom and special guest Lucy Flawless to entertain, seduce and even educate you.
Tickets: brownpapertickets.com
The Capital City Showcase Presents:
The Christmahanukwanzakah Special!
December 14, 2013
Saturday at 10pm
$20 General
The special features holiday performances from some of the DMV’s best performing artists. All of the proceeds from this amazing show will be donated to DC Central Kitchen (www.dccentralkitchen.org) See you at the Show!
Happy Buddha IV:
A Toy For Tots Benefit Show
December 7, 2013
Saturday at 7:30pm and 10pm
$10 General and for DCAC Members
Comedy for an awesome cause! Local comedian and producer Jeff Hughes of The Charlie Visconage Show , the District Improv Festival, and of course, the locally legendary Happy Buddha shows, has put together another great lineup of standup and improvisational comedians for your enjoyment, all for the benefit of his very favorite charity organization, Toys for Tots! On Saturday, December 7 th , Happy Buddha VI: A Toys For Tots Benefit Show comes to DCAC for two performances, featuring such proven providers of the funny as improv acts Aboulia! The Lodge, Big Birds, and The Score. Country Music AllStars, the Buddha’s very favorite local comedy act, takes the stage. The Buddha himself returns to performing with his troupe Pony! Pone! Poni! Soon to be absolutely massive local comedians Jamal Newman and Randolph Terrance host. Plus a special surprise from the North Pole at the late show! Shows at 7:30 and 10 pm. All proceeds will be donated to Toys for Tots.
Please bring a small, packaged toy. Bring a smile to both yourself and a child.
The Bannerman Presents:
Lesser Known Tales
November 22 & 23, 2013
Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm
$15 General/ $12 for DCAC Members
Lesser Known Tales is an entire one act play, completely improvised by the talented cast, based on a title given
by you, the audience. What these performers do will absolutely make you question whether or not they really are making it up on the spot. But The Bannermen guarantee you that they are!
The Capital City Showcase Presents:
Members of the Drunk Till We’re Funny Comedy Tour
November 15, 2013
Saturday at 7:30pm
$15 General/ $12 for DCAC Members
The Drink Till We’re Funny Comedy Tour has toured all over the country and consists of some of the best and most established comedians in the Baltimore area, and many more!
Jesus at Guantanamo
MAY 16, 17, & 18
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 7:30 PM
$18 General/ $15 Seniors and Students/ $12 DCAC members
Call DC Arts Center to reserve your tickets, 2024627833
or email info@dcartscenter.org
In Jesus at Guantanamo Matthew Vaky creates a hilarious and startling examination of US policy towards enemy
combatants. What would happen if Jesus, our Lord and Savior, came back to earth? What would happen if he were
picked up in the Middle East and whisked away to Guantanamo Bay? Water boarded, sleep deprived, no lawyer, no
food. Torture or not, Christ is talking. Torture or not?
A veteran of Minneapolis’ Guthrie Theatre, Matthew Vaky performed in Lee Blessing’s one man show Chesapeake at
the Bay Theatre, and was Galileo at Theatre of the First Amendment’s The Life of Galileo.
Naked Girls Reading: Erotica
Friday January 10, at 7:30 PM
$25 General/ $20 DCAC member
It was such a rousing good time last year we had to bring it back to ring in 2014. Join DC’s official Naked Girls for an aural assortment of Erotica to warm your *ahem* bones. As an extra special treat, we will be joined again by that “Porcelain Provocateur”, Lucy Flawless, from Chicago.
We invite you to join us at our home, the DCAC, to kick off the New Year with sexiness. Naked Girls Reading Presents Erotica will showcase tales of naughty tricks, lustful yearnings and a salacious rendezvous or two, if you’re lucky. Cherokee Rose is delighted to return to DCAC with the lovely Gigi Holliday, Cherie Sweetbottom and special guest Lucy Flawless to entertain, seduce and even educate you.
In your ear
ANNE BOYER, FANI PAPAGEORGIOU & BUCK DOWNS
Sunday, January 13, 2013 at 3 PM
$5 Admission/ FREE FOR DCAC MEMBERS
Please join the In Your Ear Reading Series for our first reading of 2013, featuring Anne Boyer, Fani Papageorgiou, and Buck Downs at 3 PM on Sunday, January 13, 2013. A visual artist and poet, ANNE BOYER is the author of The Romance of Happy Workers (Coffee House Press) and Anne Boyer’s Good Apocalypse (Effing Press). She teaches creative writing, aesthetics, and digital culture at Kansas City Art Institute.
FANI PAPAGEORGIOU was born in Athens in 1975. She studied Law and History of Science at Edinburgh University and Harvard. Her Greek novel, Zero and One (Athens: Kastaniotis, 2000) won the Maria Rally award for a first novel. Her poems have appeared in magazines and literary journals in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Her first book of poetry, When You Said No, Did You Mean Never? has just been released by Shearsman Books.
BUCK DOWNS is the author of *black peppermint*, YOU CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF WHAT YOU REALLY DON’T NEED, and the soontobereleased Always Materialized. Since the mid90s, he has distributed poems across the country and around the world through a series of monthly postcards.
The Capital City Showcase
January 12 at 10 PM
$10 online/$15 at the door for general admission
$8 online/$12 at the door for DCAC members.
DCAC members can purchase tickets in advance by e-mailing
ticketing@capitalcityshowcase.com.
Aboulia! Inaugural Ball
Friday, 1/18 7:30PM – Friday, 1/18 10:00PM
Saturday, 1/19 7:30PM – Saturday, 1/19 10:00PM
Tix: $10 | DCAC Members $8
Tickets: http://abouliainauguralball.brownpapertickets.com/
The first ever Aboulia! Inaugural Ball is sure to be a fabulous comedy event. The Ball showcases the talents of the DC improvisational comedy scene. The lineup features DC stalwarts like The Score and Sistine Robot, as well as new guys Jungle Fever, Thermal RunAway, and OverCommitted. And no need to run out and rent a tux (or, if you’re Shawn Westfall, take one out of your closet); black tie attire is not required. Oh, and it’s hosted by none other than the hilarious and lovable Mr. Jason Walther.
Don’t miss it! This kind of opportunity only comes around every four years.
Happy Buddha & Chinese Menu, Happy Fun Time!
Fridays and Saturdays
June 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22, 7:30 pm
To make your reservation please go to the website BELOW:
http://www.brownpapertickets.com
What happens when two of the giants in the indie improv scene join forces? You get three weekends of fun! Chinese Menu and happy Buddha join forces to bring you 6 amazing nights of comedy. Improv talent will be on display as well as local stand ups and a segment we like to call “Happy Fun Time.” Buy early and do not miss out!
For Immediate Release
NON SERVIAM: NEW DIRECTIONS IN GRAPHIC DESIGN OPENS SATURDAY, SEPT. 14
NON SERVIAM: NEW DIRECTIONS IN GRAPHIC DESIGN
Six contemporary DC area graphic designers bring their innovative artwork to DCAC. DC Arts Center (DCAC) is pleased to announce the opening of Non Serviam: New Directions in Graphic Design. The exhibition featuring six contemporary artists who are graphic designers; Benjamin Critton, Anther Kiley, the collaborative team of Keetra Dean Dixon and J.K. Keller, Martin Venezky and Carolyn V. Marsden; and is curated by Jessica K. Pavone and mentored by Professor and Artist Helen Frederick. The exhibit is presented in conjunction with DCAC’s Curatorial Initiative Program and continues through Sunday, Oct. 13.
These featured artists create works that blur the lines between traditional definitions of design and fine art. Their oeuvres move beyond functionality and the traditional client-designer relationship into the realms of individual and personal expression. As stated by curator Pavone, “They expand and radicalize their field, rebuking the strictures of functionality.”
The exhibition features compelling works that fuse typography and image in a variety of print media including “old school” letterpress, offset, lithograph, web, risograph, and 3-D printing.
The Artist Martin Venezky is the mastermind behind Appetite Engineers, a small international recognized design firm based in San Francisco. Benjamin Critton is an American designer and Art Director based in Brooklyn, NY, who works in both the fields of design and academia. The collaborative team of Keetra Dean Dixon and J.K. Keller received their undergraduate degrees from the Minneapolis College Art with MFAs from the Cranbrook Academy of Art. Ms. Dixon’s work is part of the Design collection at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and Mr. Keller’s video works have been exhibited nationally and internationally. Carolyn V. Marsden holds degrees from University of New Mexico and Dartmouth, and was a graphic designer for Boston Magazine. Anther Kiley, a native of Boston, is a graphic designer who teaches at the Rhode Island School of Design.
Panel Discussion, Sunday, Sept. 22 at 5 pm Graphic Designers Keetra Deen Dixon, Anther Kiley and Javier Lopez will join writer, curator and graphic designer Ellen Lupton. Lupton heads Graphic Design at the Maryland Institute College of Art’s MFA program. Participants will discuss the changing role of their medium, including the notion of authorship, the need to move past “service” thinking and the importance the recent book The Designer as Author, Producer, Activist, Entrepreneur, Curator & Collaborator by Steven McCarthy.
Gallery hours: Wednesday through Sunday from 2-7PM, and later when there is a theater performance. For information call 202-462-7833 or go to www.dcartscenter.org.
For Immediate Release
FEAR STRIKES BACK Exhibition Opening Reception:
Friday, April 26, 2013 from 7 to 9 pm
Curated by Helen Frederick Apprentice Curator, Jessica Pavone
Curator Helen Frederick elicits the reactions of thirteen Baltimore-Washington DC based artists, who use various art mediums to question our current problematic conditions with regards to social issues and justice, in the exhibition FEAR STRIKES BACK.
This exhibition examines how we handle our fears and anxieties culturally, and how we build upon distortions of information fed to us by various types of media and social networking. One of the most urgent challenges facing society today is how we live with people who differ economically, racially, religiously, and ethnically. The thirteen artists selected were asked to present works that may transfigure suffering into other concepts, depending on their sensibilities. In this exhibition are the works of Shahla Arbabi, Ed Bisese, Colby Caldwell, David Carlson, Mei Mei Chang, Michele Colburn, Nick Collier, Anna U. Davis, Sam Holmes, David Page, Annette Polan, Joyce J. Scott, and Julia Kim Smith. All the artists in the exhibit are, in various ways, dedicated to community work and observing realities that affect their particular dilemmas and their unique positions in their communities, voicing their opinions without turning their backs. These major artists feature installations, new media, sculpture, video, sound, and two-dimensional works on paper and canvas.
The theme FEAR STRIKES BACK is derived from James Elkin’s book The Object Stares Back that supplies reasoning for how we see and how we don’t. The title also refers to how we too often “look back” in terms of concerns of social justice. The work in FEAR STRIKES BACK, allows us to observe our 21st century overexposure to the troubling, violent, and sometime staged images, which can lead us to mixed emotions – enjoying the spectacle of a horrible situation or sobering subject, while wanting it to stop or be stopped.
Susan Sontag professes in Regarding the Pain of Others that “the image as shock and the image as cliché are two aspects of the same presence.” Sontag also declares that there is not collective memory but collective instruction. In photography for example “The problem is not that people remember through photographs, but that they remember only the photographs….this…eclipses other forms of understanding, and remembering.” Sontag goes on; “At the beginning of modernity, it may have been easier to acknowledge that there exists an innate tropism toward the gruesome.” When we apply these concepts to the information that we are fed through our contemporary media and social networks, it is apparent that subversive influences are part of our lives.
FEAR STRIKES BACK will be open from Friday, April 26 to Sunday, June 2, 2013. Opening reception on Friday, April 26 from 7 to 9 pm. Artists talk on Sunday, June 2 at 5:00 pm. Gallery hours are Wednesdays through Sundays from 2 to 7 pm. All events are free and open to the public and are at DC Arts Center (DCAC), 2438 18th Street NW, Washington DC. For more information call 202-462-7833, email info@dcartscenter.org, or visit www.dcartscenter.org.
IN YOUR EAR PRESENTS: Jasper Bernes, Katy Bohnic, and Kimberly Anne Southwick
Sunday, February 17, 2013 at 3 PM
$5 Nonmembers/
FREE DCAC Members
Jasper Bernes is the author of a book of poems, Starsdown (ingirum, 2007) and two small chapbooks, Desequencer
(Taxt, 2009) and We Are Nothing and So Can You (Tenured Ninja, 2012). After spending many years in the Bay
Area, he now lives in North Carolina, where he is a postdoctoral fellow in the Literature Program at Duke University.
Recent poems of his have appeared in The Capilano Review, The American Reader and Everyday Genius.
Katy Bohinc is a poet and data scientist living in Washington DC. She coedits
COYDUP zine, a poetry pamphlet
dedicated to handtohand
distribution at and around Occupy Events. She received her MFA in poetry at the Black
Squirrel and Bridgestreet Books.
Kimberly Ann Southwick is the founder and editor in chief of the literary arts journal Gigantic Sequins. She lives in
Philadelphia and teaches grammar, writing, & literature to people in college
CHINESE MENU presented by Pete Bergen
Saturday, February 16, 2013 at 10 PM
$10 Nonmembers/$
8 DCAC Members
Pete Bergen’s Chinese Menu Comedy is back with another all star mash up of improv talent. These shows
always sell out. Come out and get in on the fun call the DCAC at 202 462 7833 to reserve a seat for the low
cost of $8 or pay $10 CASH at the door! We look forward to seeing you there.
Capital City Showcase!
Saturday, February 9th, 10PM
$10 online/$15 at the door for general admission
$8 online/$12 at the door for DCAC members.
DCAC members can purchase tickets in advance by emailingticketing@
capitalcityshowcase.com.
The Capital City Showcase is the variety show that brings you some of the best comedians, musicians, and performing artists in the DMV. Hosted by Christian Hunt, it has featured some of the DC area’s finest standup comedians, improv comics, rock bands, jazz bands, acoustic guitarists, and hiphop artists.
THIS MONTH’S CAPITAL CITY SHOWCASE FEATURES:
comedian Pete Bergen
musician Amber Dutton
comedian Courtney Fearrington
comedian Ruth Rasby
comedian Simone
If your purchase your tickets online, you pay the early bird price of $10. Tickets will be $15 at the door, so
don’t miss out!
Click here for tickets or call 2024627833.
EXTREMITIES
October 10 – November 3, 2013
Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 7:30 PM
$20 General/ 15 DCAC member
Extremities is a searing play about the aftermath of an attempted rape and its repercussions as the victim turns the tables on her
attacker. This gripping drama from Molotov Theatre Group raises difficult questions about acts of violence and the justifiable
rage they inspire. Adult language. May not be suitable for those under 13.
Please call DC Arts Center to reserve your ticket 202 462 7833
Capital City Showcase presents The Christmahanukwanzakah Special!!
Saturday, December 14th 10PM
Tickets for this special event are $15 if you buy online. They’re $20 at the door, so don’t miss out! For more information, visitwww.capitalcityshowcase.com or call 2024314704.
The Capital City Showcase (www.capitalcityshowcase.com) is proud to present its first annual Christmahanukwanzakah holiday special on Saturday, December 14th, at 10:00pm at The DC Arts Center in AdamsMorgan! The special features holiday performances from some of the DMV’s best performing artists. All of the proceeds from this amazing show will be donated to DC Central Kitchen (www.dccentralkitchen.org)
This fantastic show will feature:
comedian Andrew Bucket (www.twitter.com/andrewbucket)
musician Linsay Deming (www.linsaydeming.com)
comedian Jamel Johnson (www.twitter.com/NonProfitComic)
comedian Matty Litwack (www.mattylitwack.com)
comedian Reggie Melbrough (www.twitter.com/MelReg1)
comedian Romate Walters
rock band The Army of The Potomac
See you at the Show!
Happy Buddha VI: A Toys For Tots Benefit Show
December 7, 2013
Saturday at 7:30 pm and 10 pm
Members and NonMembers $10
Tickets: http://bpt.me/510796
Comedy for an awesome cause! Local comedian and producer Jeff Hughes of The Charlie Visconage Show , the District Improv Festival, and of course, the locally legendary Happy Buddha shows, has put together another great lineup of standup and improvisational comedians for your enjoyment, all for the benefit of his very favorite charity organization, Toys for Tots! On Saturday, December 7th, Happy Buddha VI: A Toys For Tots Benefit Show comes to DCAC for two performances, featuring such proven providers of the funny as improv acts Aboulia!
The Lodge, Big Birds, and The Score. Country Music AllStars, the Buddha’s very favorite local comedy act, takes the stage. The Buddha himself returns to performing with his troupe Pony! Pone! Poni! Soontobeabsolutelymassive local comedians Jamal Newman and Randolph Terrance host. Plus a special surprise from the North Pole at the late show! Shows at 7:30 and 10 pm. All proceeds will be donated to Toys for Tots.
Please bring a small, packaged toy. Bring a smile to both yourself and a child.
The Capital City Showcase presents the Members of the Drunk Till We’re Funny Comedy Tour
November 15, 2013
Saturday 7:30 PM
$15 General/ $12 DCAC member – online
Please visit : http:// www.drinktillwerefunnyshowcase.eventbrite.com
$20 General/ $15 DCAC member – at door
The Drink Till We’re Funny Comedy Tour has toured all over the country and consists of some of the best and most
established comedians in the Baltimore area, and many more!
BURLESQUE CLASSIQUE presents All Hallow’s Eve Shallow Grave Revue
October 18
Friday at 10 PM
$12 General/ 10 DCAC Members
Are you afraid of things that go bump-n-grind or va-va-voom in the night? Come join the gorgeous ghouls of Burlesque.
Classique and get your Halloween party started! The sultry performers bring their mad seductive skills back to the DCAC for a
night of devilish dancing, shocking striptease, and undead undulations.
Please call DC Arts Center to reserve your ticket 202 462 7833 or email info@dcartscenter.org
Idly Bent Theatre Company presents THE BIRTHDAY PARTY
Caleb Erikson, Paul Thomas Truitt, and Stefan DiFazio in Idly Bent’s take on Pinter’s ‘The Birthday Party.’
Photo by Rachel Couch of A Muse Photography.
January 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th & 13th at 7:30 PM
$12/$10 DCAC Members
It might be Stanley Webber’s Birthday. Meg, the voracious landlady of the seaside boarding house where Stanley hides, makes the preparations for his party. The first and only guests are a shadowy vaudeville duo, Goldberg and McCann, whose gift is a cocktail of fear and confusion, sucking Stanley deep into their party games of verbal violence. Pinter’s classic Comedy of Menace, The Birthday Party is a blackasthe night comedy, a blindman’s bluff of tectonic identity shifting that asks the simple, terrifying question, “Do you really know who you are?”
Check out Idly Bent’s facebook page for more information!
The bannermen
THE BANNERMEN presents Lesser known Tales
November 22 & 23
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 PM
$15 General/ 12 DCAC Members
Please call DC Arts Center to reserve your ticket 202 462 7833 or email info@dcartscenter.org
Lesser Known Tales is an entire one act play, completely improvised by the talented cast, based on a title given
by you, the audience.
What these performers do will absolutely make you question whether or not they really are making it up on the
spot. But The Bannermen guarantee you that they are!
Pete Bergen presents Chinese Menu
CHINESE MENU
Saturday, April 6, 2013
$10/ $8 DCAC MEMBERS
Chinese Menu is at it again! Pete Bergen’s Chinese Menu Comedy is back with another all star mash up of improv talent. These shows always sell out. Come out and get in on the fun. Call the DCAC at 202 462 7833 for reservations. We look forward to seeing you there.
Jive Turkey Presents
April 26 & 27
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 & 10 PM
$10 General/8 DCAC members
Buddha variety show series, has teamed up with local
improv mainstays Jive Turkey for what will most assuredly be a wild weekend of comedy! On Friday, April 26th, The
Jivers perform two shows along with the plucky young scamps of So Political, the gutbustinngly
funny Nox, the
surreal comedic stylists Sistine Robot, and legendary iPod improvisers The Score! We’re calling it Jive Turkey
Presents!
On Saturday April 27th, the fun comes in twos. The turkeys perform in a special 2x2x2 show along with two of the
other most dynamic duos of the local improv scene: Topher and Joe and Shawn Mikael(s).
Each show is sure to be great! The list of people to buy their Buddha Show tickets only to miss the fun is long, so
don’t be tat poor soul who has to see all the posts about what happened on Facebook! Buy your tickets today!
The Capital City Showcase
Saturday, April 18 10 PM
$10 online/$15 at the door for general admission
$8 online/$12 at the door for DCAC members. DCAC members can purchase tickets in advance by e-mailing ticketing@capitalcityshowcase.com.
The Capital City Showcase is the variety show that brings you some of the best comedians, musicians, and performing artists in the DMV. Hosted by Christian Hunt, it has featured some of the DC area’s finest stand-up comedians, improv comics, rock bands, jazz bands, acoustic guitarists, and hip-hop artists.
If your purchase your tickets online, you pay the early bird price of $10. Tickets will be $15 at the door, so don’t miss out!
Happy Buddha & Chinese Menu Present:
Happy Fun Time!
Jun 7 – 22, 2013
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm
What happens when two of the giants in the indie improv scene join forces? You get three weekends of fun! Chinese Menu and happy Buddha join forces to bring you 6 amazing nights of comedy. Improv talent will be on display as well as local stand ups and a segment we like to call “Happy Fun Time.” Buy early and do not miss out!
The Happy Buddha Presents:
Jive Turkey Presents!
April 26-27, 2013
Friday and Saturday 7:30pm and 10pm
$20 General/$8 DCAC Members
Jeff Hughes, creator and producer of the widly popular Happy Buddha variety show series, has teamed up with local
improv mainstays Jive Turkey for what will most assuredly be a wild weekend of comedy! On Friday, April 26th, The
Jivers perform two shows along with the plucky young scamps of So Political, the gutbustinngly
funny Nox, the surreal comedic stylists Sistine Robot, and legendary iPod improvisers The Score! We’re calling it Jive Turkey Presents!
On Saturday April 27th, the fun comes in twos. The turkeys perform in a special 2x2x2 show along with two of the
other most dynamic duos of the local improv scene: Topher and Joe and Shawn Mikael(s).
The Gimmick
April 12 & 13, 2013
Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm
FREE FOR ALL
This piece is about young Alexis finding refuge from the brutal reality of the streets among the library bookshelves, where she dreams of becoming an American writer in Paris like James Baldwin. I feel the need of telling this electrifying story to the community because sometimes we allow our surrounding defeat our big dreams. I am most thrilled to present this piece to the community because many lives will be beautifully impacted.
Peter Bergen Presents:
Chinese Menu
April 6, 2013
Saturday at 8pm
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Chinese Menu is at it again! Pete Bergen’s Chinese Menu Comedy is back with another all
star mash up of improv talent. These shows always sell out. Come out and get in on the fun.
Burlesque Classique presents:
The BURLESQUE of BROADWAY
March 16, 2013
Saturday at 10pm
$10 General/ $8 DCAC Members
Burlesque Classique presents The Burlesque of Broadway! Get ready for a sassy twist to some classic Broadway show tunes. Watch the costumes fall away and the sparkly skin emerge to songs from Damn Yankees to Rent some classic and some unexpected!
In Your Ear Presents:
Jasper Bernes, Katy Bohnic, and Kimberly Anne Southwick
February 17, 2013
Sunday at 3pm
$5 General/ FREE for DCAC Members
Jasper Bernes is the author of a book of poems, Starsdown (ingirum, 2007) and two small chapbooks, Desequencer (Taxt, 2009) and We Are Nothing and So Can You (Tenured Ninja, 2012). After spending many years in the Bay Area, he now lives in North Carolina, where he is a postdoctoral fellow in the Literature Program at Duke University. Recent poems of his have appeared in The Capilano Review, The American Reader and Everyday Genius. Katy Bohinc is a poet and data scientist living in Washington DC. She coedits COYDUP zine, a poetry pamphlet dedicated to handtohand distribution at and around Occupy Events. She received her MFA in poetry at the Black Squirrel and Bridgestreet Books. Kimberly Ann Southwick is the founder and editor in chief of the literary arts journal Gigantic Sequins. She lives in Philadelphia and teaches grammar, writing, & literature to people in college
The Capital City Showcase
January 12, February 9, March 23, April 18, May 18, October 19
Saturdays at 10pm
$10 General/ $8 for DCAC Members
The Capital City Showcase is the variety show that brings you some of the best comedians, musicians, and performing artists in the DMV. Hosted by Christian Hunt, it has featured some of the DC area’s finest standup comedians, improv comics, rock bands, jazz bands, acoustic guitarists, and hiphop artists.
Idly Bent Theatre Presents:
The Birthday Party
January 9-13, 2013
7:30pm
$12 General/$10 DCAC Members
It might be Stanley Webber’s Birthday. Meg, the voracious landlady of the seaside boarding house where
Stanley hides, makes the preparations for his party. The first and only guests are a shadowy vaudeville duo, Goldberg and McCann, whose gift is a cocktail of fear and confusion, sucking Stanley deep into their party games of verbal violence. Pinter’s classic Comedy of Menace, The Birthday Party is a blackasthe nightcomedy, a blindman’s bluff of tectonic identityshifting that asks the simple, terrifying question, “Do you really know who you are?”
IN YOUR EAR
ANNE BOYER, FANI PAPAGEORGIOU & BUCK DOWNS
Sunday, January 13, 2013 at 3 PM
$5 Admission/ FREE FOR DCAC MEMBERS
Please join the In Your Ear Reading Series for our first reading of 2013, featuring Anne Boyer, Fani
Papageorgiou, and Buck Downs at 3 PM on Sunday, January 13, 2013.
A visual artist and poet, ANNE BOYER is the author of The Romance of Happy Workers (Coffee House
Press) and Anne Boyer’s Good Apocalypse (Effing Press). She teaches creative writing, aesthetics, and
digital culture at Kansas City Art Institute.
FANI PAPAGEORGIOU was born in Athens in 1975. She studied Law and History of Science at Edinburgh
University and Harvard. Her Greek novel, Zero and One (Athens: Kastaniotis, 2000) won the Maria Rally
award for a first novel. Her poems have appeared in magazines and literary journals in both the United
Kingdom and the United States. Her first book of poetry, When You Said No, Did You Mean Never? has just
been released by Shearsman Books.BUCK DOWNS is the author of *black peppermint*, YOU CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF WHAT YOU REALLY DON’TNEED, and the soontobereleased Always Materialized. Since the mid90s,he has distributed poems across the country and around the world through a series of monthly postcards.
Chinese Menu
December 23, 2012
Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
This is what Chinese Menu is all about. People and communities getting together for fun and laughs. This show brings you improvisors from at least 4 cities. This Menu features the following: Menu Hall of Famer Katie Dufresne returns from Chicago, joining fellow hall of famer Shawn Westfall. Former WIT players Jordan and Amanda Hirsch are coming down from New York. Aparna Nancherla takes a break from writing for Totally Biased to return to the Menu, and Menu Alum Rachel Showalter returns from Charlottesville. Jordana Mishory and Brianna Lux grace the menu for the first time while Menu mainstays Justin Purvis, Sean Ellis and Karen Lange come back for more. We even get Melissa Rawat out of retirement!! The Menu is also proud to welcome Megan Johns for her first Menu appearance. Megan is an actor, improvisor and also teaches at Annoyance Theater in Chicago. You can listen to her interview with Kevin Mullaney on the IRC podcast if you click this link. So come out and enjoy the holidays with us!
Please call the DCAC at 2024627833 to reserve tickets.
NAKED GIRLS READING
Friday, December 21, 7 PM
$25/$20 DCAC Members
What better way to warm up those chilly bones and celebrate the holiday season than with a warm cup of mulled cider, a good book and a Naked Girl or Four? Naked Girls Reading DC return to the DCAC for their 3rd installment on December 21st. Naked Girls Reading DC Solstice will showcase DC’s official Naked Girls reading tales of Scrooges, Pumpkin Kings, and Reindeers that lead the way. Cherokee Rose, is delighted to return to DCAC with the lovely Roma Mafia, Gigi Holliday and Cherie
Sweetbottom to entertain, seduce and even educate you. The brain child of Michelle L’amour, Miss Exotic World Queen, Naked Girls Reading is a sensation across the United States from coast to coast and internationally. Naked Girls Reading is a group of beautiful ladies who love to read naked. That’s really it. There’s not a whole lot more to it. Should there be? For more information on this monthly show check out our site at http://nakedgirlsreading.com/dc/or Like us at
www.facebook.com/DC.NGR
BURLESQUE CLASSIQUE
December 15 & 16, 2012
Door: $12 General/$10 DCAC Members
Adding some sass to a holiday classic, Burlesque Classique presents Land of Sweets at DCAC. This be a classic burlesque show with a variety of dances and skits along the theme of the second half of The Nutcracker. Lola Rose is a classically trained dancer who uses her talent and technique to create delightfully fun burlesque routines. She has been seen dancing en pointe in a tutu, drunkenly kicking the Charleston around the bar room, and strip teasing to the Veggie Tales.The Nutcracker never looked so sexy or tasted so sweet!
The Capital City Showcase
December 15, 2012
$10 online/$15 at the door for general admission
$8 online/$12 at the door for DCAC members.
This edition of Capital City Showcase will feature: comedian Sara Armour, comedian Ralph Cooper, musician Linsay Deming, comedian Brian Fishbach, musician Jacob Panic, and storyteller S.M. Shrake. Local. Live. DC. If your purchase your tickets online, you pay the early bird price of $10. Tickets will be $15 at the door, so don’t miss out!
Click here for tickets or call 2024627833.
OVER COMMITTED
December 14 7:30 PM
$10/$8 DCAC Members
The DC Improv troupe, Over Committed, is bringing you a second helping of their “Over Stuffed” improv show at the DCAC. The night will feature 4 different improv troupes, plus a stand up host, including That Was Awkward and other exciting guests! A holiday showcase not to be missed!
OPEN LATE
Friday, December 7, 10 PM
$15/10 DCAC Members
Another Topher & Joe’s Open Late event has snuck up on you.
Open Late returns with an exciting show featuring That’s So Political and the iPod wrangling style of The Score DC. Join these purveyors of fine improv comedy the first Friday of every month. The improvised gauntlet has been left on a table that will probably be walked through.
Call 2024627833 for reservations.
THE BANNERMEN presents Lesser known Tales
November 22 & 23
Friday & Saturday at 7:30 PM
$15 General/ 12 DCAC Members
Please call DC Arts Center to reserve your ticket 202 462 7833 or email info@dcartscenter.org
Lesser Known Tales is an entire one act play, completely improvised by the talented cast, based on a title given by you, the audience.
What these performers do will absolutely make you question whether or not they really are making it up on the spot. But The Bannermen guarantee you that they are!
Naked Girls Reading: FAIRYTALES
November 16, 7:30 PM
$25/$20 DCAC MEMBERS
The brain child of Michelle L’amour, Miss Exotic World Queen, Naked Girls Reading is a sensation across the United States from coast to coast and internationally. Naked Girls Reading is a group of beautiful ladies who love to read naked. That’s really it. There’s not a whole lot more to it. Should there be?
Let it be known throughout the lands, the second performance of Naked Girls Reading, The Fairytale Edition, is coming to DC on November 16th. According to the esteemed Magic Mirror the production will showcase DC’s official Naked Girls reading stories of whimsical delight, fairy dust, and evil Queens. The Good Witch, Cherokee Rose, is delighted to return to DCAC with her magical sirens Roma Mafia, Gigi Holliday and Cherie Sweetbottom to entertain,seduce and even educate you.
Ticketing Link: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/291266
Second Edition of The Happy Buddha Brings Peace and Laughter
October 26th and 27th at 10 PM.
Tickets $8 prior to show for DCAC Members; $10 at the door..
After playing to capacity crowds in August, The Happy Buddha returns with another succulent feast of
comedic delights prepared for your pleasure! Jeff Hughes, part of the production team behind The
Charlie Visconage Show, has assembled another phenomenal lineup of standup comedians, storytellers, and improvisers for a second edition of The Happy Buddha Brings Peace and Laughter. Catch rising standup talents such as Funniest Fed finalist Nate ohnson and Tyler Richardson! Hear hilarious tales from storytellers Mike Kane and Andrew Bucket! Experience improvisational amazement from some of DC’s very funniest troupes including Hot and Sweaty, Big and new kids on the improv block Angry Zen! Plus a special from Jennifer Tress of You’re not Pretty Enough, and more! Don’t miss this wonderful weekend of comedy!
The Establishment Sketch Comedy Show
Saturday, September 29, 10PM & 11PM
$5/$3 DCAC Members
The Establishment is a fresh new sketch comedy group, based in the Washington, DC area. They write. They perform. They laugh. And they do other stuff like eating and burping. Unlike the other sketch comedy groups out there, They’re not in rush to sell our souls to Beelzebub. They’re all about providing gutbusting comedy to the fine folks inside the Beltway & beyond. Watch out for them! They’re dangerous!
http://www.facebook.com/theestablishmentdc
The Establishment Sketch Comedy Show
September 29th, 2012
Saturday 10pm & 11pm
Pre-Sale: $5 / $3 DCAC Members
The Establishment is a fresh new sketch comedy group, based in the Washington, DC area. They write. They perform. They laugh. And they do other stuff like eating and burping. Unlike the other sketch comedy groups out there, They’re not in rush to sell our souls to Beelzebub. They’re all about providing gutbusting comedy to the fine folks inside the Beltway & beyond. Watch out for them! They’re dangerous!
In Your Ear
AVANT GARDE POETRY
Sunday, September 16 at 3PM
$5 General/FREE DCAC Members
Please join the In Your Ear Reading Series this month for readings by Mark Lamoureux, Dan
Gutstein, and Doritt, Carroll. Each month In Your Ear features readings and performances by
different sets of poets who draw on an avant-garde tradition. Curated by Buck downs and Maureen
Thorson.
MARK LAMOUREUX lives in Astoria, NY. He is the author of four full-length collections of poetry:
Spectre(Black Radish Books 2010), Astrometry Orgonon (BlazeVOX Books 2008), 29 Cheeseburgers
/ 39 Years(Pressed Wafer, forthcoming 2012) and Devotion (Desperanto, forthcoming 2013). His work
has been published in print and online in Fence, miPoesias, Jubilat, Denver Quarterly, Conduit, Jacket,
Fourteen Hills and many others. In 2006 he started Cy Gist Press, a micropress focusing on ekphrastic
poetry. He holds an MFA from the New School and teaches in the CUNY system.
DAN GUTSTEIN is the author of non/fiction (stories, Edge Books, 2010) and Bloodcoal & Honey
(poems, Washington Writers’ Publishing House, 2011). His writing has appeared in more than 70
publications, including Ploughshares, Prairie Schooner, American Scholar, The Iowa Review, Colorado
Review, The Penguin Book of the Sonnet, and Best American Poetry. He directs the Writing Studio and
Learning Resource Center at Maryland Institute College of Art, and teaches creative writing at the
Writer’s Center, in Bethesda, Md., and at George Washington University. He has received grants and
awards from the Maryland State Arts Council, Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County
(Md.), and University of Michigan, among others. In past lives, he has worked as an international
economist, theatre arts educator, editor-in-chief, tae kwon do instructor, and farm hand.
DORITT CARROLL is (unfortunately) a lawyer and (fortunately) the mother of two daughters. She
received her undergraduate and law degrees from Georgetown University. Her collection In Caves
was published in 2010 by Brickhouse Books. Her poems have appeared in Coal City Review, Poet
Lore, Nimrod, Slipstream, Rattle, Plainsongs, Poetry Depth Quarterly, Maryland Poetry Review,
Explorations, Negative Capability, Poet’s Canvas, Illuminations, The Baltimore Review, Journal of
Formal Poetry,and Harlequin Creature. Her poem motherlove recently was accepted for publication in
the Fuck Poems anthology by Lavender Ink.
Pearl Bailey by Request
presented by Roz White
Saturday, September 8 at 7:30 pm
$20 / $17 DCAC Members
If you enjoy live R&B/ Jazz and are looking for an entertaining musical evening out this is it!Pearl Bailey . . .By Request is set in a nightclub and is based upon a 1950s album of Pearl Bailey’s most requested songs from her Columbia Records era.$20 / $17 DCAC Members
This production of Pearl Bailey By Request will serve as a fundraiser for art supplies to ensure a productive start to the student’s school year.
Open Late
Friday, September 7 at 10 pm
Topher & Joe are purveyors of fine improv comedy and advocates of breakfast any time. This Friday, Open
Late returns with an exciting line up featuring the revival of Matt Berman’s brainchild Ken Burns Presents as well as the hilarious King Bee performing the brain baby of Del Close. Topher & Joe try out their new deatomizers to close out the night.
Tickets:http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/271409
Extermination Machine
July 19-22, 2012
Door: $15 General/$17 DCAC Members
On May 21st, 1961, former Adolf Eichmann is captured by Israeli Agents in Argentina. Nine days after he is taken to Israel and detained in a secret prison where Captain Avner Less interrogates him in preparation for his trial.Eichmann minimizes his participation in the mass murder of millions as Captain Less tries to expose the role played by this “ordinary” SS Colonel who made the trains run on time to the death camps of the Third Reich. Inspired by the transcripts from the Israeli Police archives this drama explores the brutal machinations of the Final Solution’s implementation.
The Extermination Machine is a new play written and directed by Michael Wright, the founding Artistic Director of See No Sun on Stage. See No Sun on Stage is an underground theatre company in Washington, D.C. whose mission is to produce dark, compelling theatre with a disturbing twist.
Extermination Machine
Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
July 19, 20, 21, and 22 at 7:30pm
$17 DCAC Members / $15
On May 21st, 1961, former Adolf Eichmann is captured by Israeli Agents in Argentina. Nine days after he is taken to Israel and detained in a secret prison where Captain Avner Less interrogates him in preparation for his trial. Eichmann minimizes his participation in the mass murder of millions as Captain Less tries to expose the role played by this “ordinary” SS Colonel who made the trains run on time to the death camps of the Third Reich. Inspired by the transcripts from the Israeli Police archives this drama explores the brutal machinations of the Final Solution’s implementation.
Nightmerica
Tuesday and Wednesday July 17 and 18, at 7:30 PM
Friday and Saturday July 20 and 21 at 10 PM
Sunday July 22 at 5PM
$17/$15 DCAC Members
Nightmerica is Theatre Du Jour’s latest multimedia theatrical spectacle. What has the American Dream turned into? Are we just pawns in a neverending barrage of unquestioning patriotism? Funny, poignant, satirical, and real, this is the performance that asks not what you can do for your country, buy what has your country done to you? Directed by B. Stanley and presented by Theatre du Jour.
WANDERLAND
Jul 14, 15, and 20 at 3:00 PM
Jul 21 at 5:00 PM
Alice’s adventures whimsically and wickedly reconceived as a modern coming of age story:
an in aspiring young professional finds herself (or tries to) in a manhattan-esque
Wonderland populated by philosopher taxi-drivers, crazed yoga-instructors, Wall Street
fratters and corporate queens.
WANDERLAND
July 14, 15, and 20 at 3:00 PM
July 21 at 5:00 PM
Alice’s adventures whimsically and wickedly reconceived as a modern coming of age story:
an in aspiring young professional finds herself (or tries to) in a manhattan-esque
Wonderland populated by philosopher taxi-drivers, crazed yoga-instructors, Wall Street
fratters and corporate queens.
Head Doctor: Boy Meets Girls
Presented by Jessica Holter
June 30, 2012
Saturday at 7:30 PM
Fall in love again and join Jessica Holter for an intimate and interactive evening of Sex Education Theater forlovers and friends presented by The Punany Poets. The Head Doctor takes the audience on an emotional roller coaster ride of fantasy and pleasure that explores lesbian love, girl on girl sex tips, and female empowerment and coming out to your friends and family through conversation and theatrics. This show is humorous, witty, sexy, wise, and unforgettable. For reservations call 18882772207 or click here for tickets.
PLEASE DON’T BEAT ME UP
June 24, 2012
Sunday at 7:30 PM
Come see awardwinning comedian and storyteller Adam Ruben share true tales of a class election gone
awry and a stuffed animal smuggled into summer camp. Also included in Ruben’s one man show are embarrassing excerpts from his fifthgrade diary (in which he mathematically calculates his odds with the girl he likes and somehow still loses) and a manifesto of selfpity written while sitting at home dateless during his tenthgrade Homecoming dance. Complete with laughably naive video and audio clips, this oneman show, named one of the top five solo shows of 2011 by Maryland Theater Guide, has delighted crowds with the horrors of surviving puberty in a sea of wellintentioned but useless antibullying advice.
THE PUNCTUAL DRUNKS
June 21 at 10:00 PM
$12 DCAC Members/ $15 General Admission
Local Improv Troupe “The Punctual Drunks” bring their unique style to the DCAC Stage with a few of their friends! The Punctual Drunks will be headlining a group of three troupes who will be performing long form improvisational comedy. They will be creating a string of scenes, completely made up on the spot, based on the audience’s suggestions. Special guests include Subsidized Corn, Sistine Robot, Jive Turkey, and The Punctual Drunks. You do not want to miss this event. For reservations call 202 462 7833.
THE PUNCTUAL DRUNKS
Thursday at 10:00 PM, June 21
$12 DCAC Members/ $15 General Admission
Local Improv Troupe “The Punctual Drunks” bring their unique style to the DCAC Stage with a few of their friends! The Punctual Drunks will be headlining a group of three troupes who will be performing long form improvisational comedy. They will be creating a string of scenes, completely made up on the spot, based on the audience’s suggestions. Special guests include Subsidized Corn, Sistine Robot, Jive Turkey, and The Punctual Drunks.
You do not want to miss this event. For reservations call 202 462 7833.
IN YOUR EAR
June 17, Sunday at 3:00 PM
FREE for DCAC Members/ $5 General Admission
Please join the In Your Ear Reading series this month for readings by local and national authors. Each month In Your Ear features reading and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avantgarde tradition.Curated by Buck Downs and Maureen Thorson. For reservations call 202 462 7833.
DADA RETURNS
Presented by Legitimate Stage / Fraudulent Productions
May 31, June 1, 2, 7, 9, 2012
Door:$15 General/$10 DCAC Members
Don’t miss the 20th Anniversary Production of “DADA Return” featuring two plays for less than the price of one! “Handkerchief of Cloud” by Tristan Tzara, and “Manifestival” by the Dadaists. Both shows promise to be whatever is necessary to get you in the door, take your money, kick you in the ass, and make you like it. For reservations call 202 462 7833.
Aaron Thompson Live
May 27, 2012
Sunday at 7:00 PM
$8 DCAC Members/ $10 General Admission
Washington D.C. native, Aaron Thompson, will be performing with a full band for an intimate performance with both acoustic and electric instruments this Sunday. Born into a military family, Aaron grew up traveling around America’s east coast, and his music is influenced by the cities and landscapes he has seen along the way. His music has recently been featured in the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s audio tour, and his songs have been used on CNN, MTV, and the Discovery Network.
Tickets are going fast! For reservations call 202 462 7833.
Jesus at Guantanamo
MAY 16, 17, & 18
Thursday, Friday, & Saturday at 7:30 PM
$18 General/ $15 Seniors and Students/ $12 DCAC members
Call DC Arts Center to reserve your tickets, 2024627833
or email info@dcartscenter.org
In Jesus at Guantanamo Matthew Vaky creates a hilarious and startling examination of US policy towards enemy combatants. What would happen if Jesus, our Lord and Savior, came back to earth? What would happen if he were picked up in the Middle East and whisked away to Guantanamo Bay? Water boarded, sleep deprived, no lawyer, no food. Torture or not, Christ is talking. Torture or not?
A veteran of Minneapolis’ Guthrie Theatre, Matthew Vaky performed in Lee Blessing’s one man show Chesapeake at the Bay Theatre, and was Galileo at Theatre of the First Amendment’s The Life of Galileo.
SARANUTA
Presented by Sara Armour and Laura Spadanuta
May 12, 2012
Saturday 10:00 PM
$8 DCAC Members/ $10 General Admission
This Saturday at 10 PM come see this hilarious two woman sketch comedy duo! Sara Armour and Laura
Spadanuta have produced sketch shows at the Source Theater in Washington, D.C and perform comedy throughout the area. No topic is safe from Saranuta, not even your mom. But their moms are, or else they would be grounded!
For reservations call 202 462 7833.
In Your Ear
April 21, 2012
Door: $5 General/ FREE DCAC members
Each month IN YOUR EAR features readings and performances by different sets of poets who draw on an avantgarde tradition. Curated by Buck Downs and Mareen Thorson.
SPIDERMUSICAL
Presented by Landless Theatre Company
photo courtesy of Amanda Williams
April 5 — April 29
Thursdays — Sundays, 7:30 PM
$22 DCAC Members/ $25 General Admission
Spidermusical subverts the superhero genre by posing the question: what really happens when nerds get bitten by radioactive spiders? The answer is a low budget spectacle of rock n roll, and musical comedy. Presented by Landless Theatre company and based on the book by Randy Blair and Timothy Michael Drucker creators of Perez Hilton Saves the Universe. This production gets 5 stars from the DC Metro Theater Arts; read the review here.
Book tickets now at www.LandlessTheatre.com.
SPIDERMUSICAL
Presented by Landless Theatre Company
April 5 — April 29
Thursdays — Sundays, 7:30 PM
$22 DCAC Members/ $25 General Admission
radioactive spiders? The answer is a low budget spectacle of rock n roll, and musical comedy. Presented by Landless Theatre company and based on the book by Randy Blair and Timothy Michael Drucker creators of Perez Hilton Saves the Universe. This production gets 5 stars from the DC Metro Theater Arts; read the review here.
Book tickets now at www.LandlessTheatre.com.
SPIDERMUSICAL
Presented by Landless Theatre Company
April 5 — April 29
Thursdays — Sundays, 7:30 PM
$22 DCAC Members/ $25 General Admission
Spidermusical subverts the superhero genre by posing the question: what really happens when nerds get bitten by radioactive spiders? The answer is a low budget spectacle of rock n roll, and musical comedy. Presented by Landless Theatre company and based on the book by Randy Blair and Timothy Michael Drucker creators of Perez Hilton Saves the Universe. This production gets 5 stars from the DC Metro Theater Arts; read the review here. Book tickets
BLACKBIRD
March 2 — March 18
Fridays — Sundays; 7:30 PM
Door: $16 General/$12 DCAC Members
Barrelhouse Theatre presents Blackbird by Adam Rapp: a ferocious modern love-story between two troubled individuals who are caught in a continuing loop of bad luck and bad choices. Julie Roundtree plays Froggy, an ex-stripper and amateur prostitute with a penchant for heroin and is recently diagnosed with hepatitis. She is living with Baylis (played by Tony Bullock), an incontinent, impotent, and ill-tempered Gulf War veteran. Together they can get through anything. For Reservation call 202-462-7833.
IN YOUR EAR
CATHY EISENHOWER, THEODORA DANYLEVICH & STEPHANIE BARBER
Sunday, March 17, 2013 at 3PM
$5/ FREE ADMISSION FOR DCAC MEMBERS
Please join the In Your Ear Reading Series MARCH 17th, 3 PM on Sunday.
CATHY EISENHOWER lives in Washington, DC, and is the author of the poetry collections Language of the
Dogheads (chapbookPhylum Press), clearing without reversal (Edge Books), and would with and (Roof Books).She is cotranslating the selected poems of Argentine poet Diana Bellessi. Her work has recently appeared in The Recluse, Aufgabe, West Wind Review, The Brooklyn Rail, and Fence. THEODORA (DORA) DANYLEVICH is a PhD candidate in American Literature and Culture at the George Washington University. She has a few other degrees from other places, and currently teaches writing at the GW Business School, which she enjoys far more than she usually lets on. Her dissertation explores [sic]/k feminist poetics and postoedipal triangles as far as your imagination can take them, or translate them.
STEPHANIE BARBER is an American writer and artist. Her film and video work has been screened at MoMA, NY, The Whitney Museum of American Art, The Paris Cinematheque, The Tate Modern, London and other art and cinema spaces around the world. Her chapbook poems was published by Bronze Skull Press in 2006 and her book these here separated to see how they standing alone or the soundtrack to six films by stephanie barber was published in May 2008 and reprinted in 2010 by Publishing Genius Press. Her most recent book Night Moves is currently available from Publishing Genius Press as well. She is currently living in Baltimore, Maryland where she is a Resident Artist at the Mt. Royal Graduate School for Multidisciplinary Arts at MICA. More can be learned at her
website http://www.stephaniebarber.com/
MATEO AND SITALI
Sunday February 12, 7:30 PM
Admission $10 General Admission/ $8 DCAC Members
Escape Pod Productions proudly presents a double feature transmission of
harmonious vibrations from the bright minds and big hearts of Mateo Monk and
Sitali Siyolwe. Mateo will be performing on the guitar and flute, making use of a looper
pedal to explore rhythms and textures from around the world. Sitali will performing all
original music on the acoustic guitar accompanied by strings
DEVIL BOYS FROM BEYOND
February 2-26, 2012
Door:$25 General/ $22 DCAC Members
Flying saucers! Backstabbing bitches! Muscle hunks and men in pumps! INVASION
OF THE BODYSNATCHERS meets HIS GIRL FRIDAY. In this outrageously hilarious
comedy Landless Theatre presents Devil Boys from Beyond, a tribute to low-grade sci-fi films of the 1950s. Originally presented at the 2009 New York International Fringe Festival.
Reserve tickets through http://landlesstheatrecompany.org
DEVIL BOYS FROM BEYOND
February 2 — February 26
Thursdays — Sundays, 7:30 PM
Admission $25 General Admission/ $22 DCAC Members
Flying saucers! Backstabbing bitches! Muscle hunks and men in pumps! INVASION
OF THE BODYSNATCHERS meets HIS GIRL FRIDAY. In this outrageously hilarious
comedy Landless Theatre presents Devil Boys from Beyond, a tribute to low-grade sci-fi
films of the 1950s. Originally presented at the 2009 New York International Fringe Festival.
Reserve tickets through http://landlesstheatrecompany.org
LANDLESS THEATRE’S MASH-UP FESTIVAL
Fridays and Saturdays, January 20 — January 28, 7:30 & 10 PM $25
General Admission/$22 DCAC Members
Landless Theatre’s Mash-Up festival is back! For the second year in a row, Mash-Up Festival breaks down the idea of conventional theater in this combination of original plays across various genres, all by local playwrights.
Buy tickets at www.landlesstheatrecompany.org theatrecompany.org
THE CHARLIE VISCONAGE SHOW
January 19-March 22, 2012
Doors: $15 General Admission/ $10 DCAC Members
The Charlie Visconage show is tonight– call and book your tickets! The Charlie
Visconage show is a live, weekly late-night talk show with artists that will occur every Thursday for the next two months at DCAC. The show features interviews and performances by musicians, painters, dancers, poets, film makers, writers, and actors from the classical to the cutting edge. The show aims to connect new audiences to DC’s thriving art scene with laugh-out-loud nights of interactive entertainment. Tonight’s featured guests are Jon Gann, Festival Director of DC Shorts Film Festival; SM Shrake, Leader of Story League; and a musical performance by Paperhaus. For reservations call 202 462 7833.
CANNIBAL THE MUSICAL
January 6 & 14, 2012
Door: $25 General/$22 DCAC Members
Landless Theatre’s Cannibal! The Musical has been extended for two more
weekends! written by South Park’s Trey Parker, Cannibal! The Musical is the story of Alferd Packer, a man convicted of cannibalism. In this musical, he tells his side of the harrowing tale to news reporter Polly Pry while he awaits his execution. If you’re hungry for a toe-tapping story of flesh-eating, a western about gold-mining gone wrong, a show that will leave you in stitches, this is it!
Buy tickets at www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
The Capital City Showcase
Saturday, December 17, 2011, 10 PM
$12 General Admission/$10 DCAC Members
Please join us for The Capital City Showcase, a DC-themed variety show that features any and all things DC, including local musicians, comedians, and artists, as well as interviews with local athletes and politicians. Led by performer Christian Hunt, the showcase has featured such talents as Seaton Smith, Hampton Yount and e-dubble.
Holiday Buffet
Fridays December 16, 2011 10 PM
$10 Non-members/$8 DCAC Members
Orbit Chef’s ‘Holiday Buffet’ is a rollicking multi-form smorgasbord of laugh-out-loud holiday fun! The show– part sketch-comedy, part stand-up and storytelling– is an absurd take on the traditions and symbols that define the Season. See what happens when Santa turns his workshop into a full-time coal plant and an office gift exchange gets a little too personal… Find out who killed Rudolph and how to deal with party-pooping holiday naysayers! With performances from humorists plucked from DC’s vibrant stand-up and spoken-word communities. Orbit Chef is a sketch-comedy troupe founded in 2011. They recently completed their first season as a featured act in The Comedy Spot’s (Arlington, VA) Tiger’s Blood Theater show, a bi-monthly mash-up of improv, stand-up, and sketchcomedy performers. The ensemble includes Matt Fogarty, Derek Hills, Kate Schuler, Stephanie Svec, and Amelia Vogel, all graduates of the Washington Improv Theater’s improv training and sketch-writing curricula and veteran members of DC’s theater, storytelling, and comedy communities. Call DCAC at 202-462-7833 to reserve tickets.
IN YOUR EAR
Sunday, December 11, 2011 3 PM
Admission $5 General Admission/ FREE DCAC Members
Please join the In Your Ear Reading Series for a reading by Erica Kaufman, Cathy Eisenhower, and Ken Jacobs. Erica Kaufman is author of censory impulse (Factory School 2009) as well as several chapbooks most recently, selections from INSTANT CLASSIC (Least Weasel 2011). Kaufman is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the CUNY Graduate Center in Composition & Rhetoric, and teaches at Baruch College and Bard College’s Institute for Writing & Thinking and Institute for Language & Thinking. Cathy Eisenhower lives in Washington, DC, and is the author of the poetry collections Language of the Dogheads (chapbookPhylum Press), clearing without reversal (Edge Books), and would with and (Roof Books). She is cotranslating the selected poems of Argentine poet Diana Bellessi. Her poems have recently appeared in The Recluse, Aufgabe, West Wind Review, The Brooklyn Rail, and are forthcoming in Fence. Ken Jacobs has lived in and about Washington D.C. for more than thirty years. His chapbook, Sooner, from Phylum Press was released in December 2009. Jacobs has also published poems in ‘The Portable Boog Reader′, the online journal ‘Everyday Genius’ and forthcoming at ‘Sentence’ and ‘Wheelhouse Magazine’. Jacobs has also designed, produced and wrote the software for the collaborative digital poetry project Relegy (http://deegeep.com/relegymain.html) with M. Magnus and Cathy Eisenhower performed in the Spring of
2011.
CANNIBAL THE MUSICAL
November 25 – December 23, 7:30 PM
$25 General Admission/$22 DCAC Members
Landless Theatre presents Cannibal! The Musical, written by South Park’s Trey Parker. Cannibal! The Musical is the story of Alferd Packer, a man convicted of cannibalism. In this musical, he tells his side of the harrowing tale to news reporter Polly Pry while he awaits his execution. If you’re hungry for a toe-tapping story of flesh-eating, a western about gold-mining gone wrong, a show that will leave you in stitches, this is it!
Buy tickets at www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
IN YOUR EAR
Sunday, November 20, 3 PM
Admission $5 General Admission/ FREE DCAC Members
Each month In Your Ear features readings and performances by a different set of poets who draw on an avantgarde tradition. Curated by Buck Downs and Maureen Thorson, this month will feature Aaron McCollough and Jesse Seldess.
Aaron McCollough is the author of five books of poetry. His fourth, NO GRAVE CAN HOLD MY BODY DOWN, was just released by Ahsahta Press in September, and his fifth, UNDERLIGHT, is forthcoming next fall from Ugly Duckling Presse. His other books include LITTLE EASE, DOUBLE VENUS, and WELKIN.
Jesse Seldess is the author of two books, Who Opens (Kenning Editions, 2006) and Left Having (Kenning Editions, 2011), as well as chapbooks on Hand Held Editions, Instance Press, Answer Tag Press, and the Chicago Poetry Project Press. His work has recently appeared in the journals The Recluse, EOAGH, Jacket, Little Red Leaves, and out of nothing. Since 2001, he has edited and published Antennae, a journal of experimental writing, language based performance and music scores.
Call us at 202-462-7833 to reserve.
DC SOLO PERFORMANCE SHOWCASE
Thursday, November 17, 7:30 PM
$10 General Admission/$5 DCAC Members
DC Solo Performance Lab– a one-person play showcase! True Stories About Married Sex, Famous People at AA, Intellectuals Who Can’t Get Laid, and The True Reasons We Go To War. Tonight will be a night of amazing stories showcasing the culmination of an 8-week solo performance workshop. Short excerpts will be presented from four one-person plays featuring Marietta Hedges, Kurt Nemes, Roy Potter, and a preview of Laura Zam’s newest commission from Theater J.
Reserve tickets at
http://sololabshowcase.eventbrite.com.
CHINESE MENU
November 12, 10 PM
$10/$8 for DCAC Members
Pete Bergen gathers some of DC’s best improvisational talents for a night of comedy.
The Capital City Showcase
Sunday, November 19, 10 PM
$12 General Admission/$10 DCAC Member
Please join us for The Capital City Showcase, a DC themed variety show that features any and all things DC, including local musicians, comedians, and artists, as well as interviews with local athletes and politicians. Led by performer Christian Hunt, the showcase has featured such talents as Seaton Smith, Hampton Yount and edubble.
NEW RELEASES PERFORMANCE
Sunday, November 6, 7:30 PM
$10 General Admission/$8 DCAC Members
D.C. Arts Center Presents: NEW RELEASES PERFORMANCES BY D.C. ARTISTS!
Hosted by performer and author, Dee Snyder and featuring Pilsesar, Eric Hendrixson, Russ Henry and J.D. Smith. All proceeds from this show go to DCAC in our continuing mission to support emerging and established visual and performing artists.
BURLESQUE AND BELLY LAUGHS
Admission $10/ $8 DCAC Members
Justin Purvis and friends bring a night of enticing comedy to DCAC Burlesque shows of the 1930s featured both sultry sirens and stand-up comedians. In this spirit, Justin Purvis and friends bring two weekends of sexy, hilarious fun. With tantalizing burlesque performers and titillating improvisers from all over DC this show will knock your socks off. The show will be hosted by the charismatic Rock Tender and his lovely assistant Wendy Whiskysour. Call us at 202-462-7833 to reserve tickets.
NEW WORK BY MEMBERS OF SPARKPLUG
JUNE 17, 2011
WASHINGTON, DC – After a year of working, talking, and being together as a collective, the seven current members of DCAC’s Sparkplug present riveting new work in their second exhibit at theDC Arts Center in Adams Morgan. The group exhibit, Something Other Than The Presentexplores the desire for non-existent places, unreachable times, and unattainable states of being. Working in the media of photography, painting, video, assemblage and textiles these artists draw from one another’s experience and process in this exhibition meticulously curated by Blair Murphy. In Something Other Than The Present the Sparkplug collective presents work that both reflects and comments on the common human longing for places, times, and states that are, ultimately, unattainable. Sparkplug is currently Chajana denHarder, Todd Gardner, Joseph Hale, Chandi Kelley, Matt Smith, and Dafna Steinberg with Blair Murphy participating as curator and writer.
ROCK-N-ROLL HALLOWEEN
A benefit concert for DCAC
Saturday, October 29, 7:30 PM Admission $15
The Ubangis at DC Arts Center!
Legendary punk bank The Ubangis is coming to DCAC this Saturday for a DCAC benefit concert!
Only 60 tickets available. Call us at 202-462-7833 to reserve.
Paint Mix by five dc/va painters
February 11 – march 13
Opening reception: February 11, 7-9 pm
Artist talk: march 13, 5 pm
Featuring work by:
Emily Do
Christopher Dolan
Mike Dowley
Brian Kelley
Joren Lindholm
curated by Rebecca Kallem
“Paint Mix: Five DC/VA Painters” highlights the work of four emerging painters who live and work in Virginia and Washington, DC. Curator Becca Kallem invites Emily Do, Christopher Dolan, Mike Dowley, Brian Kelley, and Joren Lindholm to show their work. As a group, the paintings play with the slippery boundaries between abstraction, representation, and nonobjective art. Whether showing us a recognizable landscape or a cluster of shapes, each artist makes a beautiful mix of colors, marks, feelings, and ideas.
The District of Columbia Arts Center, founded in 1989, is a nonprofit arts space dedicated to promoting the freshest, most under-recognized artists in the Washington metropolitan area. Located in the heart of Adams Morgan, DCAC is comprised of a 750 square foot gallery and a 50 seat black box theater. Over the years, DCAC has received local, national and international reviews of its over 100 visual arts exhibitions and 500 performance events. We encourage an ongoing dialogue between new artists and the greater arts community, assisting artists in both the business and craft of art. As DCAC continues to draw poets, painters, actors, storytellers, sculptors, and performance artists from around the corner to around the world; the Center remains a mainstay of the Washington, DC arts community.
LET’S GET PERSONAL; a performance by Annika B. Lewis
October 14, 15, 21, and 22
Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 pm
General Admission $15/ $12 DCAC members
Acclaimed Danish/Swedish performance artist performs as part of Danish Arts
Council-funded residency in Washington DC
Annika Lewis, in her Danish Arts Council-funded Kassandra Production LET’S GET
PERSONAL, utilizes humor, absurdity and the self-help culture to deliver a provocative
performance about the role of personal branding in attaining professional success. Lewis,
who is known for merging technology, theatre and dance, delivers this parody in the form of
a motivational lecture and workshop on how to successfully use blunders on Facebook and
official public apologies for personal optimization. In twisting the entire milieu of
motivational speaking she acidly comments on the roles of collective bedazzlement, radical
political positioning, and the arts in a society increasingly driven by the experience
economy.
Annika Lewis
Choreographer/director/artist Annika B. Lewis studied at Larssons Theatre Academy in
Gothenburg/Sweden and at the Istituto di Arte Scenica (Institute for Scenic Art) in
Pontremoli/Italy from 1987 to 1990. She went on to complete her post-graduate studies in
theatre in 2002 at Scut/Gitis, the state theatre school of Moscow, Russia. Additionally
Lewis has studied various forms of dance and choreography. In 1998, Lewis founded
Kassandra Production through which she has created work characterized by a conceptually
strong interdisciplinary approach, mixing the trivial with the philosophical to examine
modern humanity in a challenging and entertaining way. Lewis has toured Denmark,
Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Portugal, Germany, Russia, Latvia, Belgium, Brazil, the United
Kingdom and now the United States with her performances, installations and interventions.
Her acting credits include: Year accountancies (2010), Let’s Get Personal (2010), Body
Box#1 (2009), TWIST cabaret (2009), eXtasy (2009), Full Body Treatment (2008), Life
Hacking (2008), XpositionREVERSE: Aarhus-Gothenburg (2006), Dancin’ Madly
Backwards (2006), Life Is Fabulous (2005), Displacement (2005), XpositionLAB (2004), My
Heart Is Yours (2004), Aurora Borealis: Aarhus-Reykjavik (2003), Delusion (2003), The
Experiment of Choice/Limbo.03 (2003), Symposium X (2002), Real Time Open Door
(2000), Real Time Lab (1999), A Thorn in the Eye (1998).
LET’S GET PERSONAL
A performance by Annika B. Lewis
October 14, 15, 21, and 22
Fridays and Saturdays, 7:30 pm
General Admission $15/ $12 DCAC members
Acclaimed Danish/Swedish performance artist performs as part of Danish Arts Council-funded residency in Washington DC
Annika Lewis, in her Danish Arts Council-funded Kassandra Production LET’S GET PERSONAL, utilizes humor, absurdity and the self-help culture to deliver a provocative performance about the role of personal branding in attaining professional success. Lewis, who is known for merging technology, theatre and dance, delivers this parody in the form of a motivational lecture and workshop on how to successfully use blunders on Facebook and official public apologies for personal optimization. In twisting the entire milieu of motivational speaking she acidly comments on the roles of collective bedazzlement, radical political positioning, and the arts in a society increasingly driven by the experience economy.
Annika Lewis
Choreographer/director/artist Annika B. Lewis studied at Larssons Theatre Academy in
Gothenburg/Sweden and at the Istituto di Arte Scenica (Institute for Scenic Art) in
Pontremoli/Italy from 1987 to 1990. She went on to complete her post-graduate studies in
theatre in 2002 at Scut/Gitis, the state theatre school of Moscow, Russia. Additionally
Lewis has studied various forms of dance and choreography. In 1998, Lewis founded
Kassandra Production through which she has created work characterized by a conceptually
strong interdisciplinary approach, mixing the trivial with the philosophical to examine
modern humanity in a challenging and entertaining way. Lewis has toured Denmark,
Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Portugal, Germany, Russia, Latvia, Belgium, Brazil, the United
Kingdom and now the United States with her performances, installations and interventions.
Her acting credits include: Year accountancies (2010), Let’s Get Personal (2010), Body
Box#1 (2009), TWIST cabaret (2009), eXtasy (2009), Full Body Treatment (2008), Life
Hacking (2008), XpositionREVERSE: Aarhus-Gothenburg (2006), Dancin’ Madly
Backwards (2006), Life Is Fabulous (2005), Displacement (2005), XpositionLAB (2004), My
Heart Is Yours (2004), Aurora Borealis: Aarhus-Reykjavik (2003), Delusion (2003), The
Experiment of Choice/Limbo.03 (2003), Symposium X (2002), Real Time Open Door
(2000), Real Time Lab (1999), A Thorn in the Eye (1998).
Vincent
September 22 – October 8, 2011
Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 7:30pm
General Admission $25/ 15 DCAC members
Back by popular demand! This performance is a reprise of Stanley’s critically acclaimed sold-out run during the 2009 Capitol Fringe Festival.
At the time of his death many of Vincent van Gogh’s contemporaries, including Paul
Gaugin, had written the painter off as an insane fool. In this moving one-person
performance Theo van Gogh is determined to rescue his brother’s legacy, attempting to
transform him from a madman into a beloved brother and misunderstood genius. Set in
Paris 1890 one week after Vincent’s dramatic suicide, Theo exposes the turbulent life of
his brother and brings personal revelation into the tormented world of the artist.
Using the hundreds of letters Theo and Vincent exchanged during their lives, Leonard
Nimoy (most widely known as Spock on TV’s Star Trek) wrote “Vincent” in 1979 and
performed it himself all over the country, as well as in a special PBS broadcast. Over 100
of van Gogh’s paintings are projected in the background as Theo recreates the world of
the misunderstood genius in a poignant and intimate meditation on the life of the gifted
painter. This critically acclaimed performance provokes laughter and tears and gives
insight into van Gogh’s passion and suffering, while considering the meaning of art and
artistry in a world where success is measured by sales and money.
B. Stanley
Actor/director/pedagogue/puppeteer B. Stanley is Executive/Artistic Director of DCAC,
and founder and director of Theatre du Jour, an experimental group with an actor-based
approach to creating works. In 1983, Stanley opened the Java Rama, a performance
coffee house next door to Theatre du Jour. From 1989-1993, he trained under Ingemar
Lindh at the Instituto di Arte Scenica (Institute for Scenic Art) in Pontremoli, Italy. In
addition to Theatre du Jour, Stanley has performed with The Living Theatre, The Puppet
Company, and Guillermo Gomez Pena. His acting credits include: Kenneth, What Is The
Frequency?, Bluebeard, The Shadow, Pygmalion, Dangerous Border Games, Purlie
Victorious, and Ubu Cuckolded. His directing credits include: There is No More
FIrmament, Last Minute, Ritual Play, Poor Oedipus, World War Zero, I’m Scared of
Myself, The Return of Uncle Silvana, and The Shadow. As director of DCAC, Stanley
encourages the development of cutting edge work by new and emerging theater groups
in Washington, DC. He conducts workshops on acting, directing and theater production
and regularly participates in conferences and seminars abroad. In 2000, he was
awarded the Tony Taylor Award by the Cultural Alliance of Greater Washington for his
years of work encouraging and nurturing artists in Washington, DC.
Leonard Nimoy
American actor, film director, poet, photographer and musician Leonard Nimoy wrote and
originally performed the one-man play Vincent. Though his incredibly diverse career has
been largely eclipsed by his three-year role as Spock on the television series Star Trek,
he has won much acclaim for his theater performances. He has acted in such plays as
Fiddler on the Roof, The Man in the Glass Booth, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and
The Twelfth Night. In addition to acting, Nimoy has authored two autobiographies,
several volumes of poetry and the photography book Shekhina, in which he explores the
feminine counterpart of God as described in Kabbalah scripture. He is also a musician,
and has released five albums of vocal recordings, which include coveres of popular
songs.
Vincent and Theo van Gogh
Born in 1853 in Zundert, The Netherlands, Vincent van Gogh worked as an art dealer, a
preacher and missionary before he decided to pursue his career as an artist at the age of
27. He was largely encouraged by his brother, Theo, an art dealer who successfully
pushed the popularity of Impressionist artists Degas and Monet. Although Theo never
sold any of van Gogh’s works, he provided emotional and financial support and remained
throughout the troubled artist’s life one of the few who understood him. The hundreds of
surviving letters of their frequent correspondence have been published into books and
provide much insight into the turbulent life of Vincent van Gogh and the close
relationship between the two brothers.
Despite his aversion to formal training, Vincent studied in Brussels at the Royal Academy
of Art and in Antwerp at the Academy of Fine Arts. Soon after, he moved to Paris, where
he encountered Impressionist works, met fellow students Émile Bernard and Henri de
Toulouse-Lautrec and befriended Paul Gauguin, who lived with him for a period in Arles.
In 1888, Van Gogh moved to Arles, where he took up landscape painting and painted
outdoors with Gauguin until their excessive quarreling and van Gogh’s infamous
severing of his own ear lobe drove Gauguin away. In 1889, van Gogh committed himself
to a mental asylum in Saint-Remy, where the clinic and its surrounding landscape of
cypresses, vineyards and olive trees provided subject matter for his painting. He also
developed his famous swirling brushstrokes, which gave form to one of his most popular
works to date, The Starry Night.During this time, he began to receive acclaim for his
work. The French critic Albert Aurier praised his work and Monet declared his work best
in show at the Artistes Indépendants group exhibit in Paris.
Van Gogh went to Auvers-sur-Oise to be closer to his brother Theo and to seek help
from the physician Paul Gachet, whom van Gogh depicted in two portrait paintings. He
spent the final months of his life in Auvers and was incredibly prolific, painting 70
canvases in 70 days. At age 37, van Gogh walked into a field of wheat and shot himself
in the chest. He returned home where he died two days later in the arms of his
brother. His dying words were “La tristesse durera toujours”: “The sadness will last
forever.” Ailing from syphilis and unable to overcome the grief of his brother’s death,
Theo died six months later., A Thorn in the Eye (1998).
The Capital City Showcase
September 3, 10 PM
$12/$10 for DCAC Members
The Capital City Showcase is a variety show, hosted by Christian Hunt, that features some of the best comedians, musicians, and performing artists in the DC area.
For reservations call 202-462-7833
DON’T SAY THE “P” WORD
September 2, 10 PM and September 3, 7:30 PM
$20/$15 for DCAC Members
Riveting… Raw… Unapologetic. A bold exposition by a sexy smart alec about all kinds of P words that will probably
piss you off…
The Paradox of Sexuality, Hypocrisy: Playing the Part of a Christian, Prostitution & The Perils of Free Punany,
Prisons & Plantations, Passion below the Poverty Level.
For tickets go to www.punanytickets.com
CHINESE MENU
AUGUST 27, 7:30 PM
$10/$8 for DCAC Members
Big laughs are being served up as Chinese Menu Comedy comes back to DCAC. Pete Bergen gathers some of the best improv and stand up talent from DC and beyond. Get your tickets early…this show will sell out!
For Reservations: 2024627833
Capital City Showcase
AUGUST 13 and 27, 2011, 10 PM
$12/$10 for DCAC Members
The Capital City Showcase is a variety show, hosted by Christian Hunt, that features some of the best comedians, musicians, and performing artists in the DC area.
For tickets go to www.capitalcityshowcase.com
BRICK PENGUIN SKETCH SHOW
August 5 & 6, 10 pm
$10/$8 for DCAC Members
Brick Penguin, DC’s premier sketch comedy group, crash lands in Adams Morgan to deliver you and unforgettable
hour of brand new material…and also some regurgitated krill. You don’t want to miss it!
For tickets and information, go to www.brickpenguinsketch.com
SUMMER IMPROV EXPLOSION
July 29, 10 pm
$10/$8 for DCAC Members
Guys in plaid shirts host 2 of DC’s premier long form improv teams: Jive Turkey and the Score. This comedy improv show will sell out, so get your tickets now!!! For Reservations call 202-462-7833
THE CAPITAL CITY SHOWCASE
July 16 & 30
$12/ $10 DCAC Members
The Capital City Showcase is a variety show, hosted by Christian Hunt, that features some of the best comedians,
musicians, and performing artists in the DC area.
ROCK BOTTOM
July 14 – August 7
Thurs. – Sun., 7:30 pm
$25
A new original rock musical from the team that produced Diamond Dead and President Harding Is A Rock Star, to be presented as part of the 2011 Capital Fringe Festival. Spinal Tap mets Boogie Nights in the story of the final day in the life of a rock band that is going down in flames. Based on the novel by Michael Shilling. Directed by Melissa Baughman
For tickets go to http://rockbottommusical.com/rockbottommusical.com/Home.html
MY DAD IS NOW READY FOR HIS SPONGE BATH
July 8 and 9, 8 PM
$17/$15 for DCAC Members
Approximately 219,000 people annually in the United States are diagnosed with lung cancer. Even if one of them is your dad, it can be funnier than you think. The perfect show for anyone who has, or ever had, a father.
Shawn Mikael’s Theater
June 24 and 25, 10 PM
Shawn Mikael’s Theater is a night a sketch comedy featuring improv and standup
comedic talents Mikael Johnson,
Shawn Westfall, and Pete Bergen, who will be performing along with some of the District’s newer talents.
$10/$8 for DCAC Members. Reservations: 2024627833
THE CAPITAL CITY SHOWCASE
June 18 at 10 PM
$12/ $10 DCAC Members
The Capital City Showcase is a variety show, hosted by Christian Hunt, that features some of the best comedians,
musicians, and performing artists in the DC area.
Cult of the Stage Monkey presents:
MICROCOSM
June 16 at 7:30 PM
June 17 at 10 pm
$12/$10 for DCAC Members
MicroCOSM performs improvised theater based on audience suggestion. These pieces are performed without a script, and constructed on-the-fly from audience suggestion. As such, each performance is a unique, never-before-seen, never-to-be-seen-again piece. As a troupe, MicroCOSM seeks to imitate a slice of life, and to explore the possibilities of a world without restraint.
For reservations call 202-462-7833
Yes, I’m From DC
$10/$5 for DCAC Members
A one woman show about a biracial
native Washingtonian woman conveyed through original songs, poems, and
monologue.
For tickets email cherie.latson@gmail.com or call 301-917-4267
Landless Theater Company Presents: THE BTEAM
May 20 – June 19
The BTeam is a dark comedy that follows a crew of secondstring
terrorists from Buffalo, new york a leader with a thumbs paralyzed in the up position, a militant homophobe, a bombmaker seduced by capitalism and a Jew who really hates his mother on their quest for love, approval, McNuggets, and martyrdom. By Dave Holstein, Directed by Bob Bartlett
For tickets go to www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
The Trojan Women
May 13, 14, 20 at 10 PM and May 21 at 3 PM
Late night show for adults only.
$15/$12 for DCAC Members
Euripedes’ ‘Trojan Women’ meets ‘The Vagina Monologues’ and ‘Lilith Fair’ in Charles Mee’s warped, gorgeously lyrical open source project.
It’s stylish black box bohemian goodness, experimental theater you can watch over a glass of wine or two. It’s immediate immersion; the theater you’re in is a shelled out holding pen for female prisoners, in the aftermath of the war. The city outside is in ruins; a dirty bomb codenamed ‘Trojan Horse’ turned it into a nuclear wasteland four days ago. And there’s a chance, if you sit up front, that you might just become part of the show…
The Trojan Women
May 13, 14, 20 at 10 PM and May 21 at 3 PM
Late night show for adults only.
$15/$12 for DCAC Members
Euripedes’ ‘Trojan Women’ meets ‘The Vagina Monologues’ and ‘Lilith Fair’ in Charles Mee’s warped, gorgeously lyrical open source project.
It’s stylish black box bohemian goodness, experimental theater you can watch over a glass of wine or two. It’s immediate immersion; the theater you’re in is a shelled out holding pen for female prisoners, in the aftermath of the war. The city outside is in ruins; a dirty bomb code named ‘Trojan Horse’ turned it into a nuclear wasteland four days ago. And there’s a chance, if you sit up front, that you might just become part of the show…
DCPS
May 12, 13, 14 at 7:30 PM and May 14 at 3 PM
$15/$12 for DCAC Members
In this moving drama, students and teachers at a fictitious DC Public High School start the lunch period like any
normal day. But, the nature of these interweaving relationships and the complexities of attending an urban institution
turn this particular day upside down. The play’s intense dialogue and moments of thought-provoking reflection will
have audiences glued to their seats, anxious for what’s next.
For tickets go to: http://dcpstheplay.eventbrite.com
THE CAPITAL CITY SHOWCASE
May 7, 10pm
$12/ $10 DCAC Members
The Capital City Showcase is a variety show, hosted by Christian Hunt, that features some of the best comedians, musicians, and performing artists in the DC area.
For tickets go to www.capitalcityshowcase.com
China: The Whole Enchilada
April 24, 7:30 PM
Three white men sing, dance, and irreverently march their way through four thousand years of Chinese history, daring to tackle racism, human rights, genocide, and the birth of the fortune cookie. This production will reunite the team of Landless’ Gutenberg! The Musical!, directed by John Sadowski. Written by Mark Brown. Music arrangements by Paul Mirkovitch. Winner of the 2008 New York Fringe Outstanding Musical!
For tickets go to www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
Etouffe New Orleans Rhythm Band
April 11 at 7:30
$10/ $8 DCAC Members
A genuine New Orleans style rhythm band, with a heavy touch of Dixiland horn and some real Delta Blues. We entertain you, enlighten you and edify you. Who Dat?!
Call DCAC at 202-462-7833 for reservations.
Capital City Showcase
April 2, 2011, 10:00 PM
$10/$8 for DCAC Members
The Capital City Showcase is a DC-themed variety show that will feature any and all things DC, including local musicians, comedians and artists as well as interviews with local athletes and politicians. Along with the various performers, there will also be skits and videos performed by the Capital City Players. It will provide a live venue to showcase the wide array of talent that DC has to offer.
THE DISTRICT MONOLOGUE SLAM
March 27, 3:00 PM
$10/$8 for DCAC Members
The District Monologue Slam is a competition designed to showcase Washington’s most dynamic actors for recognition and prizes.
Prior to the show, each willing participant will place their name on a sign in sheet for 16 slots that will be available on a first come basis. There will be a 60 second limit for each performance. The Audience will pick eight performers that will go on to the Championship.
For Reservations call 202-462-7833
IN YOUR EAR
Sunday, March 20, 3:00 PM
Admission – $5
Please join the In Your Ear Reading Series for a reading by Susan Tichy, Justin Sirois, and Jeremy Schmall at 3:00 PM this Sunday.
Susan Tichy’s most recent book, Gallowglass (Ahsahta, 2010), takes its title from an Angelized form of the Gaelic gal-‘oglac, a foreign soldier of mercenary. Her 2007 book, Bone Pagoda, is an extended meditation on Vietnam. Tichy’s first book, The Hands of Exile (Random House, 1983), centered on time spent working on the Golan Heights, was selected for the National Poetry Series and also received the Eugene Kayden award for Poetry. Her second book, A Smell of Burning Starts the Day (Wesleyan University Press, 1988), resulted from research into human rights abuse in the Phillippines. Her poems have appeared widely in the US and Britain, and have been recognized by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and numerous other awards. Since 1988 she has taught in the Graduate Writing Program at George Mason University. When not teaching she lives ina ghost town in the Colorado Rockies.
Justin Sirois is a writer living in Baltimore, Maryland. His books include Secondary Sound (BlazeVOX, 2008), MLKNG SCKLS (Publishing Genius) and the novel Falcons on the Floor (forthcoming, Pub G.) written with Iraqi refugee haneen Alshujairy. He also runs the Understanding Campaign with Haneen and co-directs Narrow House. Justin has received several individual Maryland State Art Council grants and a Baker “b” grant in 2010.
Jeremy Schmall is the founder and co-editor of Agriculture Reader, and author of the book of poems, Jeremy Schmall & The Cult of Comfort (X-ing). His work has been published in PEN America, Columbia Poetry Review, The Laurel Review, Washington Square, and Forklift, Ohio. He lives in New York City.
Landless Theatre Presents:
Loser Josh Improv
March 11 & 12, 2011 10pm
$8/$5 for DCAC Members
Loser Josh Rides Again! One of DC’s veteran improv troupes preforms, joined by some very special guests. Oh, and this time let’s pray to GOD that no one gets hurt.
For Reservations call 202-462-7833
Landless Theatre Company presents:
Dr. Horrible’s SingAlongBlog
March 3-27, 2011 7:30 PM
The internet sensation comes to the stage…Landless style!
By Joss Whedon, Jed Whedon, Zack Whedon, and Maurissa Tancharoen. Directed by Andrew Lloyd Baughman.
For tickets go to www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
Landless Theatre Company presents:
MASHUP FEST
February 4-26, 2011 7:30 (All ages), 10 PM (Adults only)
Four local playwrights present four original mashup parodies: All That Jaws (Kerri Sheehan, Nights at St. Januarius at CapFringe ’10), TARZANADU (Chris Griffin, Cherry Red Productions and Hope Operas), Gleam (Andrew Baughman, Landless Theatre) and PeeWee’s Big Poseidon Adventure (Jon Gann, DC Shorts and Pepe! The Mail Order Monkey Musical at CapFringe ’09)
For tickets go to www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
Shawn Mikael’s Theater
January 21, 28, and 29 at 10 PM
$10/$8 for DCAC Members. For Reservations Call DCAC at 202-462-7833
Shawn Mikael’s Theater is a night a sketch comedy featuring standup comedic talents Mikael Johnson, Shawn Westfall, and Pete Bergen, who will be performing along with some of the District’s newer talents.
RagnaROCK
January 14 & 15, 10 PM $10
“RagnaROCK” is an amazing night of comedy, music, and theater!
Washington DC native band, City Limits will perform and Christopher Brooks and Moe Lowe will bring their eclectic music style to the masses. Washington DC veteran comedians Evan Valentine, Tyler Sonnichsen, and Jake Young will bring down the house with their comedy stylings. As if all this were not enough, the night will be capped off with “THOR!!! The musical,” a tale of a god of thunder attempting to fit into the world of humans by getting a job at a fast food restaurant. The night will be hosted by time traveler, Archibald F. Trousers
Bright Alchemy Theater presents
A Cre@tion Story for Naomi
January 13 29, 7:30 pm
A Cre@tion Story for Naomi is the story of a teenage girl whose search for direction and purpose in her life leads her
deep into the realms of cyberspace in an exploration of the stories that mankind has created in order to explain itself.
$15/$10 for DCAC Members. For Reservations Call DCAC at 2024627833
Saturday, November 20, 7 PM
$10 and up suggested donation, all for DCAC!
Two performances of plays that were written as episodic comedies for the Hope Opera fundraising program inOctober. This is the only chance to see two of the five presented in their fullness! And as a teaser, in one of themyour own B. Stanley has a cameo as an aging super hero. How can you miss that?
Facts and Fictions
June 18 – July 18
Opening Reception: June 18, 7-9pm
Artists Talk: July 18, 5pm
Featuring work by the seven new members of DCAC’s Sparkplug artist collective, Facts and Fictions highlights the tension between the real and the constructed, between the production of elaborate fictions and the documentation of a seemingly concrete reality. Working in painting, photography and mixed media, the artists in the exhibition blur the boundaries between documentation and creation. Fictional narratives and imagined characters inhabit fantastical worlds that nonetheless speak to everyday experiences and anxieties. In other instances, work created with an eye towards everyday human experience transforms otherwise ordinary moments into unfamiliar and surprising visions.
About Sparkplug
Through Sparkplug, DCAC brings together local emerging artists and curators without gallery representation or institutional employ and provides them with support, meeting space, legal and technical resources and exhibition opportunities. Members of the collective meet monthly to discuss their work, pursue exhibition opportunities, plan studio visits and explore common interests and challenges. Because the intention of the program is to foster the growth of emerging and early-career artists, the collective itself will persist as new members join and others leave. After the successful first three years of the program, DCAC is excited to welcome seven new members to the group. Rob Chester, Chajana denHarder, Todd Gardener, Joseph Hale, Chandi Kelley, Matt Smith and Dafna Steinberg were all invited to join after responding to an open call released in March of 2010. The seven new members, along with one continuing member, curator Blair Murphy, will carry the program forward for the next two years.
The State of Matter
Elements: The State of Matter September 10-October 10
Opening Reception: September 10, 7-9 pm
Artists Talk: October 10, 5pm Curated by Pam Rogers Mentor Curator: Trudi Van Dyke
This exhibition presents the work of 6 contemporary artists in a variety of media exploring the elements with abstract presentations. Artist included in this exhibition are Jessica Beels, Graham Boyle, Katie Cassidy, Vincent Colvin, Suzanne Izzo, and Stu Searles. This is the concluding exhibition for the 2010 DCAC Curatorial Initiative, where the DC Arts Center pairs an experienced curator with someone who has a strong interest in curating.
Black
Friday, November 20 – Sunday, January 10,
Opening Reception: Friday, November 20, 7:00 pm-9:00 pm Artists Talks/Closing Reception: Sunday, January 10, 5:00 pm-7:00 pm
Jurors: Renee Stout, Blake Kimbrough, and Marvin Bowser
Curator: Amber Robles-Gordon
Co-Curator: Daniel T. Brooking
Judges: Teresia Bush and Eugene R. Vango
We want to reveal Black, as it has never been seen before.
Black asks artists to think introspectively about the emotional and theoretical, the spiritual and cultural, the intellectual and physical aspects of their personal percpetions of blackness. Each artist’s objective was to move beyond black as an absence of color and into the predominance of black as a physical and conceptual part of their creations. Artists were able to claim, adorn, redefine and enfold the black experience in and throughout their work. Audiences will be able to relish in black: it’s elegance, depth, and sensation of infinity.
The show’s artists have captured the emotional impact of the joy, passion and spiritual response audiences experience to the blues, gospel, jazz and hip-hop. The energy, elegance, and spiritual nature of the black preacher, politician, academic, actor, and activist is communicated in each individuals interpretion of the color and the concept of Black.
The exhibiting artists are: Valentine Andaya, Akili Ron Anderson, Cedric Baker, Deidra Bell, Anne Bouie, Daniel T. Brooking, James Brown, Jr., Adjoa Burrowes, Sonya Clark, John Cooper,T.H. Gomillion, Amber Robles-Gordon, Kristen Hayes, Claudia Gibson-Hunter, Gloria C. Kirk, Serinity Knight, Viola Leak, Jacqueline Lee, Harlee Little, Bruce McNeil, Arcmanoro Niles, Michael Platt, James Porter, Alec Simpson, Stanley Squirewell, Willard Taylor, Carlton Wilkinson, Anne Marie Williams and Prelli Williams.
Abstract Realities
May 14 – June 13
Opening Reception: May 14, 7-9pm
Artists Talk: June 13, 5pm
Curated by Trudi Van Dyke
Apprentice Curator: Pam Rogers
Featuring work by Allen Levy, Ann Elizabeth Gedicks, Zoé Hathaway, Cherie M. Redlinger, Felisa Federman and Damian Yanessa
6 contemporary artists in a variety of media explore reality with abstract presentations.
Eight by Ella Hickson
August 5 – 14
Thursday and Friday at 7:30pm
Saturday at 7:30pm and 10:00pm
$15/ $10 DCAC Members
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833.
Eight is a Washington Post “Editors’ Pick” at the 2010 Capital Fringe Festival and will have a second run at DCAC.
Eight, by young English playwright Ella Hickson, is a series of eight thematically connected monologues about young people struggling to find identity in a culture wracked by war, plagued by terrorism and on the brink of economic collapse. Far from dark and depressing, each of Eight’sdiverse stories are united in their humanity, humor and sensuality.
Eight is a theater experience that combines brilliant, exciting writing, tourdeforce performance and an experimental
form that challenges and engages both audience and cast. Before each performance, the audience is given the
opportunity to vote on which of the eight monologues they would like to see, based on a menu that includes photos,
character names, and a telling line of dialogue from the script. Of the eight monologues, only the top four audience
picks of the night are presented. This allows the audience, cast and characters to share the same experience of
having great expectations and desires that may or may not be met. All involved may come to find that not getting
what they want is the most rewarding experience they could ask for.
Don’t Make Me Take Off My Earrings
Friday, August 27 at 10pm
$15/ $10 DCAC Members
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833.
Don’t Make Me Take Off My Earrings, a standup comedy show featuring Sampson, probes life, politics, society and
equal rights from a liberal, African American, openly gay man’s perspective. Proceeds from the show will benefit local
LGBT organizations. It’s sure to be full of fun, laughs, and entertainment!
Call Mr. Robeson – A Life With Songs
Thursdays – Sundays at 7:30
$20/ $15 DCAC Members
For tickets: www.brownpapertickets.com
Paul Robeson is a great and famous actor, singer and civil rights campaigner.When over the years he gets progressively too radical and outspoken for the establishment’s liking, he is branded a traitor to his country, harassed and denied opportunities to perform or travel. Just as physical, emotional and mental stress threaten to push him over the fine line between genius and madness, he is summoned to appear before the House Un-American Activities Committee, to give the most difficult and important performance of his career. The play is a roller coaster journey through Robeson’s remarkable and eventful life, and highlights how his radical activism caused him to be disowned and disremembered, even by the leaders and descendants of the civil rights movement. It features some of his famous songs and speeches, including a dramatic rendition of Ol’ Man River.
Read more about Tayo Aluko in the Washington Post
Beyond Therapy by Christopher Durang
July 16 & 17 at 9:30
$15
Tickets available starting June 21 at capfringe.org
The lives of Prudence and Bruce, two Manhattanites seeking happiness or at least contentment, collide with absurd
and farcical results. Acting on the suggestion of their therapists, both characters place personal ads which result in an
initial meeting and instant dislike. When Charlotte places a second ad, only to attract Bruce again, they decide they
might actually like each other. At the same time, both cope with therapists who often seem more troubled than their
patients. With witty writing and references that range from Dostoyevsky to People magazine, Beyond Therapy, constructs comedy out of the everyday angst of life in contemporary America.
The Capital City Showcase
Saturday, August 28 at 10pm
$10/ $8 DCAC Members
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833.
The Capital City Showcase is a DCthemed variety show that will feature any and all things DC, including local
musicians, comedians and artists as well as interviews with local athletes and politicians. Along with the various
performers, there will also be skits and videos performed by the Capital City Players. It will provide a love venue to
showcase the wide array of talent that DC has to offer.
An Evening with Sara Benincasa
August 21
Saturday at 7:30pm
$10/ $8 DCAC Members
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833.
Sara Benincasa’s onewoman show combines the sharp hilarity that’s made her a hit on the web with the nutty magnetism that’s made her a rising star in the New York alternative comedy scene. A surprisingly poignant celebration of weirdness and quirks emotional and psychological Sara’s stories will inspire, delight, and occasionally terrify you.
Crazy has never been this much fun!
1460 Wall Mountables
July 23 – August 29
Installation: July 21, 3–8pm; July 22, 3–8pm; July 23, 3–6pm Opening Reception: July 23, 7–9pm De-installation: September 1–5, 2–7pm
Washington, DC–The District of Columbia Arts Center (DCAC) is pleased to announce the return of 1460 Wall Mountables, DCAC’s annual open exhibition. On Wednesday, July 21 DCAC will open its doors at 3pm, beginning a three-day installation process during which artists can purchase up to four 2′ x 2′ spaces to hang their work.
Since the first Wall Mountables in 1990, the exhibition has become a celebrated summer tradition at DCAC. One of the center’s most important fundraising events, the open exhibition runs fromJuly 23–August 29.
Spaces sell on a first-come, first-serve basis. It’s not unusual to see returning participants lined up outside DCAC’s door by 2:30pm, patiently waiting for installation to begin with an eye towards grabbing the galleries prime wall space. All work is accepted from a wide range of media created by artists at various stages in their careers.
The exhibition provides a great opportunity for experimentation, as artists challenge themselves to make the most out of such limited space. The coveted $100 “Best Use of Space” prize is presented during the opening reception to the artist who makes the most innovative use of their 2’ x 2’ squares. Whether Wall Mountables is an artist’s first show, 59th show, or an opportunity to pull out canvases from their attic, 1460 Wall Mountables has spots ready to be filled.
General Guidelines • Each 2′ x 2′ space is $15 for non-members (maximum 4 spaces) • DCAC members receive one free space. Additional spaces are available for $10 each (maximum 4 spaces) • Become a DCAC member at the event and receive four spaces for free! (regular membership starts at $30) • Each piece must be 2′ x 2′ or smaller. Spaces may not be combined to accommodate larger pieces (larger pieces can be divided and placed in adjacent squares) • All art must be wall mountable • No painting or writing directly onto the wall • No adhesive materials can be used for hanging (i.e.- spraymount, adhesive velcro, 2-sided tape or wallpaper glue) • Artists must bring their own materials for hanging their work (hammer, nails, screws, wire)
Present Interval / Intervalo en el Presente
A video installation project by Alberto Roblest
Friday, November 5, 2010 (Opening Reception at 8 PM)
Saturday, November 6, 2010 (After Dark)
Video artist Alberto Roblest brings his latest public art project to the heart of Adams Morgan for two nights only. “Present Interval / Intervalo en el Presente” is a temporary video installation that will transform a triangle of redbrick and asphalt at the intersection of 18th Street and Columbia Road NW into a museum experience without the museum or even a roof. It will be a cultural experience that you can stroll through, under a starry sky.
By Leonard Nimoy , Directed by B. Stanley and Theatre Du Jour, Performed by B. Stanley
Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 7:30 pm
$20, $15 for DCAC membersFor Reservations: Call DCAC at 2024627833
One of the most beloved artists of the past century, it is largely forgotten that van Gogh’s legacy was notalways that of an artistic genius. In the oneman play “Vincent”, Theo van Gogh revisits the turbulent life ofhis brother, offering insight into the world of the tormented artist. Set in Paris 1890, only a week after hisbrother’s dramatic death, Theo appeals to an audience of van Gogh’s contemporaries who have written thepainter off as an insane fool. The result is a moving effort to rescue his brother’s legacy, transforming himfrom a madman into a beloved brother and misunderstood talent.
Based on the play “Van Gogh” by Phillip Stevens, Leonard Nimoy wrote “Vincent” using the hundreds ofletters Theo and Vincent exchanged during their lives. B. Stanley, as Theo, recreates the world of themisunderstood genius in a poignant and intimate meditation on the life of the gifted painter. The show offersan evening of laughter, tears and insight into van Gogh’s passion and suffering, while considering themeaning of art and artistry in a world where success is judged in terms of sales, by which measure vanGogh fell short during his lifetime.
June 5 -July 5, schedule: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30
admission: $18/ $15 DCAC Members (at the door)
reservations: www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
The final performance of the students from Laura Zam’s sixweek Creating a OnePersonPlay class
admission: $12/ $10 DCAC Members (at the door)
reservations: www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
schedule: Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00
A naughty radio play by Philadelphia playwright Randy Gross. Dorothy meets Star Warsmeets burlesque. The winner of Landless Theatre’s “So Bad It’s Good” Play
Collaterally DamagedJuly 15, 7:30pm
$20 suggested donation
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833 COLLATERALLY DAMAGED: A provocative comedy about art and genocide.
This performance will be filmed for an upcoming documentary. Laura Zam’s groundbreaking play COLLATERALLY DAMAGED brilliantly explores the function of art to heal personaland social wounds. In this tale, Zam, the daughter of a Holocaust survivor, travels throughout Europe to retrace hermother’s persecution during the war. Her goal is Herculean: to write a play about this past atrocity that will endgenocide in today’s world.
COLLATERALLY DAMAGED, the movie, will intercut Zam’s live performance with footage of her travels through Poland and Germany (Tomaszow Mazowiecki, Brzeziny, Lodz, Auschwitz, Neustadt in Holstein, among others). Thefilm will also feature testimonials from contemporary genocide survivors throughout the world, some of whom willspeak after the play.
Sunday, December 13 at 7:30 pm
$10/ $8 DCAC Members
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833
A comedy show and fundraiser for local LGBT organizations, T.H.E Wanda Alston House and DC Coalition, Don’tMake Me Take Off My Earrings features local, awardwinning standup comedian Sampson, with special guests Keith“The Comedian” and the fabulous Ms. Freddi Vernell. Come enjoy an unforgettable evening of fun and giggles, all tosupport two fantastic local organizations.
July 17 -August 30, Installation: July 15 3-8pm, July 16 3-8pm, July 17 3-6pm, Opening Reception: July 17, 7-9pm Deinstallation;September 2 -6, 2-7pm
Washington, DC -District of Columbia Arts Center is pleased to announce 1460 Wallmountables, 2009. Various artists from across the DC metro area have the opportunity to hang their work in DCAC’s annual open show from July 17 through August 30. Since the original 1460 Wallmountables in 1990, when 1,460 ft of wall space was available, the event has become a celebrated tradition and one of DCAC’s most important fundraising events. Though the space is smaller, Wallmountables continues to grow. WhenArt in Americacredited DCAC with running “a steady program of new local culture”, they were referring to such events as 1460 Wallmountables
When DCAC opens its doors at 3pm on July 15, artists will find the gallery divided into 2′ x 2′ spaces. During the three-day installation process, artists will purchase up to four spaces andhang their work. We distribute the spaces on a first-come, first-serve basis. Artists know to get there early: last year there was a line down the street when the doors on the first day of installation. By the second day, we were sold out. The show alwaysfeatures work in a wide range of mediums from many different artists at various stages in their careers. From well-known names to exciting newcomers, all work is accepted. Past notables who have participated include Mary Coble, Luis Silva, Jose Ruiz, Kelly Towles and Manon Cleary. The coveted Best Use of Space prize of $100 is presented during the Opening Reception on July 17th. For more information on 1460 Wallmountables see the General Regulations listed below or go towww.dcartscenter.orgGeneral Regulations for 1460 Wall Mountables
•Each 2′ x 2′ space is $15 for non-members (maximum 4)
•DCAC members receive one free space. Additional spaces are available for $10 (maximum 4)
•Become a DCAC member at the event and receive three free spaces for a total of 4! (regular membership starts at $30)
•Each artist can purchase up to four spaces.
•Each piece must be 2′ x 2′ or smaller. Spaces may not be combined to accommodatelarger pieces (larger pieces can be divided and placed in adjacent squares)
•All art must be wall mountable.
•No painting or writing directly onto the wall
•No adhesive materials can be used for hanging (i.e.-spraymount, adhesive velcro, 2-sided tape or wallpaper glue)
•Artists must bring their own materials for hanging their work (hammer, nails etc.)
Become a DCAC member at the event and receive three free spaces for a total of 4! (regular membership starts at $30)
•Each artist can purchase up to four spaces.
•Each piece must be 2′ x 2′ or smaller. Spaces may not be combined to accommodatelarger pieces (larger pieces can be divided and placed in adjacent squares)
•All art must be wall mountable.
•No painting or writing directly onto the wall
•No adhesive materials can be used for hanging (i.e.-spraymount, adhesive velcro, 2-sided tape or wallpaper glue)
•Artists must bring their own materials for hanging their work (hammer, nails etc.)
Artists must bring their own materials for hanging their work (hammer, nails etc.)
Landless Theatre Company Presents Evil Dead: The Musical October 8 -November 1
$25/ $20 DCAC Members (at the door)
For tickets: www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
Keep your chainsaw handy this October as Landless Theatre Company brings the off-Broadway adaptation of Sam Raimi’s cult hit movie series to the stage for its Washington premiere! When five vacationing college students break into a secluded cabin for some innocent hanky-panky and instead discover a flesh bound book of blood-inked spells with the power to summon the demons, mayhem and show tunes commence. In what the Associated Press calls a “wickedly campy good time”, the meek-hearted Ash accidentally unleashes evil spirits and must fight for his life until dawn. 1 / 1
The Electric Possible; March 11 and April 8 at 7:30pm
$5 / $3 DCAC Members
The Electric Possible concert series is DC’s mad monthly laboratory for promethean soundexperiments. Over the past fiveand a half years, the series has been at the center of DC’s growing experimental musiccommunity, providing opportunities formusicians to explore unusual ideas and projects that incorporate new technology, new spirit,new energy, and new combinationsof instruments and musicians to create expanded definitions of music. The series encouragesmusicians to collaborate with eachother and with dancers, poets and other disciplines, forming new projects that may be difficultto place in other venues dueto their experimental, unclassifiable, or temporary nature. More info about the series isavailable at www.electricpossible.org.
December 5 at 7:30 and 10:00
$10/ $8 DCAC Members
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833
Chaos, disconnect, liberation and deconstruction. Oh, and not oppression. Occurrences following emergence fromthe silos. Ten DC artists take 6 weeks to collaborate across mediums and genres to bring you creative ruminations onthe theme of freedom. District Calling: Freedom dissolves traditional artistic categorizations by encouraging amingling of diverse styles of expression. Free Five Dollars from the confines of your pocket. Let yourself out of mentalprison for 60 minutes. We’d like you to get deep with us. Not too deep. Just deep enough.Gratefully Sponsored by the District of Columbia Commission of the Arts and Humanities andMassey Media.
Inspired by Lewis Hyde’s classic 1979 bookThe Gift,Gift Exchangepresents the work of six accomplished Washington D.C. artists paired with six works by associated artists received in exchange. Relationships between artists such as teacher-student, mentor-acolyte, and collaborators are conveyedin the stories of these exchanges. The notion of art as a gift rather than a commodity, but also a gift as talent, as inspiration, and as catalyst for change, underlies the exhibit.
about the Curatorial Initiative; Gift Exchangeis the first of two exhibitions that will be held at DC Arts Center as part of the 2009 Curatorial Initiative. Through the Curatorial Initiative, DC Arts Center pairs an experienced curator with someone who has a strong interest in curating. The apprentice curator assists the experienced curator with an exhibition, before taking charge of the planning for a second exhibition later in the year. The program provides an opportunity for an emerging curator to gain experience with the process of planning and mounting an exhibition and reflects DCAC’s commitment to curatorial practice as an integral part of the organization’s mission of supporting emerging artists.By nurturing new curators, DCAC hopes to bring fresh blood into our own programming, while assisting a new generation of curators who will take the knowledge they learn through the Initiative out into the arts community and beyond. DC Arts Center is honored to welcome Curatorial Mentor Laura Roulet and Curatorial Apprentice Landria Shack for the 2009 Curatorial Initiative
Poetics of Material Work by Kate Carr, David D’Orio and Lisa Hill
September 11 -October 11, Opening Reception: September 11, 7-9pm, Curator: Landria Shack, Curatorial Mentor: Laura Roulet
The Poetics of Material explores the role of materiality in contemporary sculpture, featuring three artists who explore and exploit a variety of materials and processes. The resulting work marries the conceptual with striking formalism, drawing from and expanding on the legacy of post-minimalism.
Pat Goslee: FlowMixed media works by Pat Goslee, November 21 -January 4. Opening Reception: November 21, 7-9pm
Pat Goslee: Flow”Flow” represents the most recent work by Washington, DC’s Pat Goslee, an intuitive artist whose paintings seek to part the curtain that, according to Kabbalah, separates the physical world from the spiritual. The work raises the questions: How do we store information, emotional baggage, and awareness? What do we absorb and what do we filter out? What layers need to be removed, or rearranged, in order to achieve change? The most obvious unifying element in Goslee’s mixed media work is pattern: layers of color and form operate as a visual metaphor for layers of awareness. The results achieved often depict isolated moments, visualizations of energetic states rather than representations of the physical world. The work in “Flow” is, to a large degree, about not knowing. Goslee elicits the intellectual courage required to face questions not easily answered. These inquiries straddle the line between belief and science, question the nature of existence, and ultimately tap into what Jung called the “collective unconscious.” There is a freedom in the unknown which comes through intuition, and you might find that the separation between the physical and the spiritual, the personal and the universal, dissolve into a freely-flowing energy.
about the artist; Pat Goslee lives and works in Washington, DC. She received a BFA in graphic design from the University of Georgia and an MFA in painting from Catholic University. She has been awarded a Visual Artist Fellowship grant for 2008-2009 from the DC Commission on the Artsand Humanitites, an agency supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. Her work is included in the permanent collections of the US Embassy in Nepal, the Wilson Building (DC City Hall), the Washington Post, DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, the University of Georgia as well as in many private collections.Gosleehas served on the Board of Directors for the Washington Arts Museum (WAM) and the DC Arts Center (DCAC), and the Advisory Committee for International Arts & Artists’ Hillyer Art Space.She has also been a visiting lecturer at local institutions including American University and the CorcoranCollege of Art + Design.
David Hartwell Broad Street Pilgrimage, Richmond, VA
January 9 -February 8, Opening Reception: January 9, 7-9pm, Curated by Bridget Sue Lambert
On a sunny day in October 2007, David Hartwell took a long walk.He hiked 16.82 miles on U.S. Highway 250 in his hometown of Richmond, Virginia, counting the steps as he went. The highway—named Broad Street—is home to urban, suburban and rural environments. During his journey he stopped at 14 specific sites to take photographs, collect objects, and record data.Broad Street Pilgrimage, Richmond, VApresents the images that document his journey, his memories, and the souvenirs collected at each site. The memories associated with the sites are not those of high impact, traumatic, formative, or atypical events.They are, in fact, quite ordinary. David’s work examines memory and its relationship with personal history and location.
15375 Steps, 12:58pm, Broad Street and West End Drive,“I’ve seen countless movies at the West Tower theater…When Home Alone was new…it was always sold out. When we finally did get tickets, a fire in the popcorn maker set off the theater’s smoke alarm…I was so disappointed.”
about the artist; David Hartwell grew up in Richmond, VA, and was a resident of Washington DC for five years.In the fall of 2008, he moved to San Francisco, CA to pursue his MFA degree at California College of the Arts.In 2003, David received a BA from Stanford University and was awarded the Louis Sudler Prize in the Performing and Creative Arts.This is David’s first solo exhibition.
GENETIC DRIFT Gretchen Schermerhorn; February 13 –March 22. Opening Reception: February 13, 7-9pm, Curated by Anita Walsh
In this exhibition Gretchen Schermerhorn continues to explore her fascination with science and psychology in her artistic practice. Inspired by English physicist and novelist C.P. Snow’s call for a “third culture,” Schermerhorn works to bridge the gap between art and science through both her creative process and visual references to biology and animal behavior. Pattern and sequencing in her work also references communication systems like computer punch cards and DNA coding.
With paper as her medium, Schermerhorn creates prints and sculptures using repetition and pattern in an organic way. More specifically, she shows what happens when small elements within a pattern become disrupted or changed and how this affects the overall structure. Genetic drift is theaccumulation of random changes in a gene pool. The individual changes are miniscule and gradual—and the drift is often very slow—but over time these changes cause big alterations to the gene pool. Ultimately, variants of a gene can disappear completely orevolve as in natural selection. Schermerhorn’s installations, which contrast natural patterning with decorative wallpaper, vary in much the same way—adapting to a specific time and space.
about the artist;Gretchen Schermerhorn is a printmaker and hand papermaker. Her work often combines the two media and explores the relationships between humans, science, politics and/or psychology. Gretchen is currently the Director of the Papermill and Artistic Collaborations at Pyramid Atlantic Art Center in Silver Spring, Maryland. She received her MFA in Printmaking from Arizona State University in 2004. She has completed artist residencies at Columbia College Center for Book and Paper and California State University. Her prints, books and paper works have been exhibited nationally and internationally in such places as Northern Ireland, New York, Boston and Santa Fe. Her work is in public and permanent collections including the Janet Turner Print Collection and Amity Art Foundation.
Sparkplug presents FINDINGS October 16 -November 15Artists Talk: November 8, 3pmFeaturing work by Deborah Carroll Anzinger, Peter Gordon, Michael Matason, Lisa McCarty, Kathryn McDonnell, Karen Joan Topping and Jenny Walton
Curated by Lea-Ann Bigelow and Blair Murphy
images from left to right: detail, Deborah M. Carroll Anzinger,
Tourists, Oil, resin, acrylic and sharpie on canvas, 36″ x 60″, 2009,
detail, Jenny Walton, Opposing Forces, monotype, 30″ x 42″, 2009
detail, Michael Matason, August 8th,
Ultrachrome inkjet print, 24”x 24”, 2009
detail, Kathryn McDonnell, Hemera, oil on canvas, 54”x76”. 2009
On Sunday November 8th at 3pm, join the members of Sparkplug, DC Arts Center’s resident collective, for an artists talk and take the opportunity to seeFindings, their current exhibition in the DCAC Gallery. Findings brings together diverse work from the collective’s seven members and considers the artistic process as a mode of inquiry, a domain characterized by sustained research and vigorous experimentation, yet focused less on the production of definitive answers than on the discovery and negotiation of contradictory truths.While the exhibition demonstrates the diverse concerns and creative tactics of the nine Sparkplug members, it also reflects the purposeful development of Sparkplug as a collective over the group’s first two years of working together.
On Sunday November 8th at 3pm, join the members of Sparkplug, DC Arts Center’s resident collective, for an artists talk and take the opportunity to seeFindings, their current exhibition in the DCAC Gallery. Findings brings together diverse work from the collective’s seven members and considers the artistic process as a mode of inquiry, a domain characterized by sustained research and vigorous experimentation, yet focused less on the production of definitive answers than on the discovery and negotiation of contradictory truths.While the exhibition demonstrates the diverse concerns and creative tactics of the nine Sparkplug members, it also reflects the purposeful development of Sparkplug as a collective over the group’s first two years of working together.
Positing art as an ideal vehicle for navigating seemingly irreconcilable ideas and inspirations, and raising questions about the nature of new knowledge and the Artist’s Work, FINDINGSbrings themes cultivated during collective meetings and studio visits into the gallery space.In this way, the audience is invited to engage in active conversation with individual artists, and with Sparkplug as an organic and multifarious whole.
About Sparkplug;Currently composed of nine DC area artists and curators, the Sparkplug collective meets regularly to discuss their work, explore common concerns, grow their community and dream up creative engagements both in DC and around the world.Through its support of Sparkplug, DC Arts Center provides meeting space, legal and technical resources and exhibition opportunities to emerging artists, curators and arts writers without current gallery representation or institutional employ.Via a continuing dialogue encompassing the theoretical and the practical, the group’s members share experiences, perspectives, preoccupations, challenges, and topics informing their ongoing artistic practice.
Sparkplug: New WorkIn the Jenkins Community Gallery at Arlington Arts Center
June 19 -August 22. Opening Reception: June 19, 6-9pm. Artists Talk: July22, 7-9pm
DC Arts Center’s resident arts collective Sparkplug is, at present, a spirited gathering of ten artists and curators who meet twice a month to discuss their work, explore the arts in the nation’s capital, grow their community, and dream up creative engagements in DC and around the globe. In the context of this closely-focused show, Sparkplug’s mission will be to testify to its own mutable now: the now of its production, the now of its collective exchanges, the now of individual stances outside of the collective, the now that will inevitably be then soon. For a collective whose very existence is based on a charter of becoming, of sharing, of transitions, of emergence, of change…the privileging of a specific Sparkplug moment presents a persistent (albeit purposeful) challenge.
Created by Lea-Ann Bigelow and Blair Murphy, the show will highlight painting, drawing, video, photography, and mixtures thereof by: Deborah Carroll-Anzinger, Peter Gordon, Lisa McCarty, Kathryn McDonnell, Michael Matason, Mark Planisek, Karen Joan Topping and Jenny Walton
schedule: August 9 at 7:30pm
admission: $10/ $7 DCAC Members
reservations: Call DCAC at 202.462.7833
A benefit concert for the Sunbeam Foundation, the show will feature various musical actscoming together to fight cancer. Featured bands include Anchorage and My Friend Autumn.
Suspicious Activities Paintings and Works on Paper by Aziza Claudia Gibson-HunterCurated by Michael Platt
October 17 –November 16Opening Reception: October 17, 7-9pm
Suspicious Activities:Depicting parallels between the local, national and international use of militarized language and the contradictions in our country’s foreign and domestic conduct
Rather than accusing the individual of “suspicious activities,” Gibson-Hunter turns the phrase on its head in this collection of paintings and works on paper, exposing the corruption of language and meaning that pervades our current political climate. The suspicious activities shared in her works are building blocks for a dangerous Orwellian world. The work examines language from a variety of recent and ongoing crises and conflicts, including the Iraq war, Hurricane Katrina, the numerous unsolved murders of African Americans in Washington D.C, and the ongoing crisis in Darfur, exposing parallels between the local, national and international use of political language and the covert activities they conceal. The work was created to encourage the public to acknowledge and confront the contradictions of our era.
about the artist“Aziza” Claudia Gibson-Hunter was born in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. She attended Tyler College of Art, graduated from Temple University with a BS in art education and later attended graduateschool at Howard University. After completing her MFA in printmaking, Ms. Gibson-Hunter further pursued her art, taking a class in Bob Blackburn’s Printmaking Studio and before receiving a fellowship from the Bronx Museum of Art.
Ms. Gibson-Hunter was an active member of“Where We At “, a Black women’s artists group in New York City and co-founded Black Artists of DC, to aid in developing a community of Black Artists in the DC metro area. She has also taught undergraduate and graduate printmaking courses at Howard University and, in 2007, was awarded an Artist Fellowship Program Grant from the DC Commission of the Arts and Humanities. She has exhibited in Washington DC, Maryland, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Florida, and Great Britain and represented Black Artists of DC during Art Basel Miami in 2007
March 27 -May 3
Opening Reception: March 27, 7-9pm
Artist Talk: May 3, Curated by Billy Colbert Essay by Jefferson Pinder
Ellington Robinson’s new paintings and mixed media works are inspired by the wisdom of Lao Tsu’s poems, “Tao Te Ching.” They appropriate the geometric forms of records, Dan, and Dogon masks used to initiate youth into adulthood and draw on the seascapes of St. Thomas —which are, for the artist, spiritual locations where introspection and reflection take place. Using the elemental hierarchy of shape and color, Robinson hopes to evoke a sense of solitude through interior and exterior spaces and reconnect people with a sense of “nothingness.”
“In the role of artist-philosopher, Robinson uses his works to illuminate the world around him. There is a wonderful intention in each stroke that goes beyond any formal elements that he employs in his painting.His calculated spontaneity informs and delights, while constantly being grounded in his own definition of reality.” —Jefferson Pinder
June 22 – July 22
In the game of American football eleven players take the field. For those familiar with football colloquialisms, the phraseThe Twelfth Manrefers to the collectivity of the crowd and the fans’ emotional investment in the action. In the context of this art exhibition, the titleThe Twelfth Mancarries connotations of spectatorship and serves as an introduction into the artistic reconsideration of fandom, achievement, play, and new-age masculinity presented by Kenny George and Patrick McDonough. Seen together in this installation, the selected works challenge the marginalization of the individual fan, and re-establish recreationaloutlet as a valuable and creative, albeit problematic, social act. Utilizing model cars, super-soakers, pogo-sticks, stilts and video games as instruments of artistic expression, George and McDonough address alternative mythologies of play and maleness through varying degrees of agency that offer compelling recapitulations of boyhood informed by the development of a virtual, cyber world, as well as humorous respite from the mundane obstacles of adult life.
The Twelfth Manmarks George and McDonough’s first public collaboration. Before crossing paths as students in the MFA program at The George Washington University, George and McDonough completed BA’s at the University of Akron, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, respectively. George currently works in several mediums, including photography, lenticular flip animation, interactive video, and video games, while McDonough’s craft is much more hands-on, often employing embroidery, collage and painting within a single object. Although each artist’s work appears disparate in medium, scale and material, the confrontation of unnecessary obstacles—the essence of any game—links the two in intention. What do these pieces tell us about the status of play in our society? Is art play? Can play be art? As the visibility of a global community of spectators grows with the unprecedented interactivity of the Internet, and leisure activities become more and more coveted during this period of economic downturn, such questioning of achievement and play conceivably identifiesthe real salience of George and McDonough’s art and the tropes displayed withinThe Twelfth Man.
Kenny Georgecurrently teaches photography and graphic design in Washington, DC. Faye Gleisserworks in the education department at the National Gallery of Art and is an independent curator with a masters degree in Art History from The George Washington University.
Landless Theatre Company Presents Headscarf and the Angry Bitch
October 9, 10, 16 and 17 at 11pm
$15/ $12 DCAC Members (at the door)
For tickets: www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
If you missed the hit of of the 2009 Capital Fringe Festival, you can catch it again at a 4night only special late nightperformance at the DCAC! Join ZED HEADSCARF, ‘The Muslim Weird Al,’ on a folkrock mock exploration of faith,love, sex and what it means to grow up Muslim in America. This beef ain’t halal!
September 18, 19, 25 and 26 at 10pm
$10/ $8 DCAC Members
reservations call DCAC at 2024627833
Four nights of onthespot comedy with new and established longform improv troupes from across the District.Different troupes will perform each night with microCosm performing improv’s longform darling, The Harold, a 3actplay devised on the fly from a single audience suggestion
Saturday, June 20 at 10:00pm
$3, $1 DCAC Members
For Reservations: Call DCAC at 2024627833
A simple good deed for a customer at a local funeral home opened the doors for him to thefederal workforce. Joey’s show chronicles his life from being born a “Beltway Baby,” to a naivecollege intern, to an experienced midlevel management position. Thanks to the boredom ofliving out the suburbanite family dream while managing to deal with the ups and downs ofdaily life as a federal worker, a birthday wish for an exciting life gives him much more than hebargained for.After landing an opportunity of a lifetime director’s position a break that was intended for hisboss’s mistress, Joey must do everything he can to survive his probationary period. ThroughJoey’s stage presence and charisma, his story unfolds into an epic “good versus evil” battlethat will keep audiences mesmerized until the very end.
June 19 at 10p
$6 / $5 DCAC Members
For Reservations: Call DCAC at 2024627833
Performance poet Henry Mills appears in Helicopters and Vultures, an exploration of what itmeans to be a product of refugees, a survivor of their history and the fallout of the 20thcentury. Mills bares witness to the human struggle in an age of deportations and police raids;the children of war; hyphenated identity and undocumented love through a mix of poetry,hiphop, LatinAmerican folk and jazz with a live score by DJ Fleg
July 3, 24, 31 and August 7 at 10:00pm
$8 / $5 DCAC Members
For Reservations: Call DCAC at 2024627833A special late night improv show with Peter Bergen!
September 30 at 7:30
$15/ $10 DCAC Members
For tickets: www.brownpapertickets.com
Bill Hicks Spirit Award winning comedian and best selling author Jeff Kreisler proves that, in these times, there’s onlyone proven path to ridiculous amounts of money: Cheating. There’s been cheating for wealth ever since God createdthe heavens and Earth in six days, then submitted an invoice for seven. Everyone’s doing it from sleazy CEOs tojuicedup athletes, siliconeenhanced movie stars, and expensereport enhancing MPs Why Not You?Based on his Boston Globe bestseller (from HarperCollins), Jeff Kreisler presents Get Rich Cheating, a satiricalhowto, exploring the real life scams that brought the world to its knees, and got so many people so very rich.
September 26 at 7:30pm
$10/ $8 DCAC Members
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833
Comedian Chris White (Last Comic Standing, XM Radio, HBO Comedy Festival) combines trivia, videos, standupand a grandfinale in one of the most eclectic, originial and entertaining shows you’ll ever see. Since 2006, he’s beentaking “requests” from friends, family and strangers any subject they wanted to hear jokes about. Sometimes it’seasy (cars, hair), sometimes it’s almost impossible (quadratic equations, Newton’s third law) and once it was PhilCollins. But now they’re all rolled into 90 minutes of awesome, for just $10.
Wednesday, December 16, 7:30pm
$10/ $8 DCAC Members
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833
The Dinner Party is an ongoing monthly alternative venue for experimental dance, music, and performance artproduced by Ilana Silverstein. For the December installment of Fieldwork for Mixed Disciplines, six artists will performworks in progress that they have been creating over the fall. Following the performance there will be a feedbacksession between the artists and the audience.
March 16 + April 20 at 3:00pm. Third Sunday of every month at 3:00, September, May
admission: $3/DCAC members free
The best in alternative, avant garde, experimental, innovative and/or nonmainstream poetryfrom DC and around the country.For info on the readers visit www.dcpoetry.com.
Written and performed by Jay Nachman
July 10, 9:15 p.m and Saturday, July 11, 9:15 p.m. $15For tickets: Capital Fringe Festival Box Office
“I’ve described “I’m Not Oedipus” as a play about death, family relationships and religion. With jokes. The shortversion is that after my mom died, my dad began dating very quickly and the family got … dysfunctional. “I’m NotOedipus” follows the path I took following my mom’s death, with detours along the way for topics like sex and rock &roll. As I’ve said previously, I think it’s the perfect show for anyone who has, or ever had, a mother. I hope you’llcheck it out. I know some of the other Fringe Festival acts have much bigger names than mine; some with 1617,even 20 letters, and mine is only a mere 10, so I truly appreciate your attendance and interest. And I hope you enjoythe play.” Jay Nachman
Saturday May 23 at 7:30pm, Sunday May 24 at 3:00 and 7:30
$10, $8 for DCAC members (at the door)
For Reservations: Call DCAC at 2024627833
Proof, written by David Auburn, is a contemporary drama about a young woman withunrecognized genius. After the death of her brilliant but insane father, for whom she sacrificeda normal life and formal education, she reveals a groundbreaking mathematical proof. Theother character’s disbelief that an uneducated girl could produce such a piece and her fear offollowing in her father’s footsteps mentally as well as mathematically strains her relationships
November 6, 7, 13 and 14 at 10pm
$10/ $8 DCAC Members
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833
Four nights of onthespot comedy with new and established longform improv troupes from across the District.Different troupes will perform each night with microCosm performing improv’s longform darling, The Harold, a 3actplay devised on the fly from a single audience suggestion.
December 11 January 3
Featuring A Christmas Twist OPENS TOMORROW!
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30
$25/ $20 DCAC Members (at the door)For tickets go to www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
OLIVER TWIST meets A CHRISTMAS CAROL in a twisted holiday tale from The Illegitimate Players of Chicago,featuring the Baughman brothers of Gutenberg! The Musical!. Rated NICE: Ok for the Whole Family.
AndCarrie Potter at the New Moon PromOPENS TOMORROW!
Fridays and Saturdays at 10pm
15/ $10 DCAC Members (at the door)For tickets go to www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
Young witch Carrie Potter battles catty schoolmates, a demanding mother and the seductive power of Jesus Christ inthis punk musical from the creators of Frozty The Abominable Snowman, featuring Lucrezia Blozia. But will that sexyvampire escort her to the New Moon Prom??!!! Rated NAUGHTY: For Immature Adults Only!
November 22nd 3:00
$5/ DCAC Members Free
The best in alternative, avant garde, experimental, innovative and/or nonmainstream poetry from DC and around thecountry. Featuring poets Kate Greenstreet and Karen Anderson. For more information about In Your Ear visitwww.dcpoetry.com.
February 9 & 10 at 7:30pm
ADMISSION: $15 / $13
DCAC members RESERVATIONS: www.rudemechanicals.com or call (301)3177964
The atrical conventions of Shakespeare’s day necessitated an extremely interesting deception: a unisex cast, playing both male and female roles. In seventeenth century England, boys would have played women’s roles; today, we have the chance to turn the tables in that “merry war.” The Rudes’ Much Ado is set in 1943, in the midst of World War II. The men are all off to war, and the woman are left behind, to put on a play in their absence. An all-female cast assumes a host of roles traditionally played by men, adding one more layer of illusion to the mix
December 6 at 3:00
$5/ $3 DCAC Members
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833
A screening of Slingshot HipHop, a documentary about Palestinian Rap Groups in Israel, the West Bank and Gaze,sponsored by Left Turn magazine
Third Sunday of every month at 3:00, September, May
$3/ DCAC Members Free
The best in alternative, avant garde, experimental, innovative and/or nonmainstream poetry from DC and around thecountry. For info on the readers visit www.dcpoetry.com
Self-Accusation by Peter Handke, directed by B Stanley, assisted by Rachel Reed
schedule: Thursdays Saturdays at 7:30pm
admission: $15/ $12 DCAC Members
reservations: call DCAC at 202.462.7833
Who are you? Are you what you should have been? How did you become who you are? Can you face your inaction, your culpability, your own judgment? Theatre DuJour presents an aural spectacle that invades your awareness and permeates your experience. “A spectacle without pictures, in as much as they give no picture of the world, ”as described by the Austrian author, who wrote this “Speak-in” in 1966. The words of this spectacle take us from birth to the present, from awareness of self to awareness of action, from duty to demands, from expression to language, and from what we thought to what we became. Featuring Jerry Herbilia and Kris Roth. Sound design by Nate Taylor. Back by popular demand following a successful short run in November in the 10:00pm time slot. Don’t miss this chance to see Self Accusation before the production heads off to Edinburgh, Scotland as a part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the largest theatre festival in the world.
Chinese Menu Improv Comedy
September 25 at 7:30pm, October 2 at 10:00pm
$8 / $5 DCAC Members
For Reservations: Call DCAC at 2024627833
A special late night improv show with Peter Bergen!
SCHEDULE: Feb 8, 11 & 14 at 7:30pm, Feb 9 & 10 at 10pm, Feb 11 at 3pm
ADMISSION: $15 / $10 DCAC members.
For reservations call DCAC at (202) 4627833.
The Journey is a two-person comedy in which Kamau and Imani meet in a mall in Washington,DC. Imani is a paralegal who just passed the bar, is visiting from Idaho and it is her last day in town. She meets Kamau who is a different type of professional clown, but they hit it off right away, so they decide to spend the rest of the day together. She gives him her number but he loses it, which launched into a journey across the country to try and find her.
October 3 at 7:30pm
For reservations call DCAC at 2024627833
The Young Women’s Drumming Empowerment Project (YWDEP) showcase their talent in this masterful collection of spoken word poetry, West African rhythms, songs and dances, along with original music and movementchoreography. Themes include breaking stereotypes, finding strength through trauma and setting positive examplesfor today’s children and youth.For more upcoming YWDEP performances go to Youngwomendrum.orgRead more on YWDEP in this recent dcist.com profile
Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm
$18/ $14 DCAC Members (at the door)For Reservations: www.landlesstheatrecompany.org
An irreverent parody of Saturday morning cartoons – for adults only. The TeenAge Mystery Gang will confront theirown burgeoning sexual desires, tasty dog treats with unexpected side effects, and a surprise penchant for busting amove. SPOOKY DOG uncovers hilarious, hidden subtext with razorsharp wit and affectionate homage. You’ll neversee Saturday morning the same way again!
schedule: March 29 at 10:00
admission: $12 / $10 DCAC membersreservations: call DCAC at 202.462.7833
The8thAnnualVisionsinFeminismArtNight!ABenefitforHelpingIndividualProstitutesSurvive(HIPS).Pleasejoinusafterour8thannualconferenceforacelebrationincludingBelly Dancers, Burlesque, Spoken word poetry, and Local DC musicians Equinox.
Saheli 2 Saheli presents Yoni Ki Baat DC (Talks of the Vagina)
June 27 at 3:00pm, June 28 at 3:00pm and 7:30pm
$10/ $8 DCAC Members For Reservations: Call DCAC at 2024627833
DC area women if your vagina could speak what would it say? Yoni Ki Baat (talk of the vagina) is a South Asian American interpretation of the VaginaMonologues. This show was initially performed by the South Asian Sisters in Berkeley,California. The show has been produced at the University of Michigan, Rutgers, Chicago, andin other cities. Saheli 2 Saheli would like to bring to you a completely original show. Webelieve that DC women are ready to speak out about their bodies, sexualities, and yes, theiryonis. (yoni= vagina in Sanskrit)We would like to thank the Asian/Pacific Islander Domestic Violence Resource Project(DVRP) for their generous support! Proceeds from our show will benefit DVRP in theWashington, D.C. area
Will She Love Me When I’m 64?
Thursday, December 17 at 7:30pm
$5/ $3 DCAC MembersFor reservations call DCAC at 2024627833
Upon hearing about the retirement of his idol, DC based emcee Jazz reevaluates his own career and questions if hisstruggles in the music industry will ever pay off. At the same time, Jazz’s manager Schooley, usually sketchy with hisconnects, may have finally found an opportunity that will take Jazz to the next level. Meanwhile Jazz, Jazz has beentrying to steer his best friend and homie Mo off the streets. Mo has just completed serving time in DC central cell afterhis cousin Derrick was murdered last summer. Mo has several side hustles and is a selfproclaimed “streetcounselor”. Jazz’s father was never sold on his son pursuing hip hop as a career. Will She Love Me When I’m 64 is amultimedia production that follows Jazz as he tries to figure out where he fits in an industry that boasts youthfulswagger, streets tales and fast turnover. The production touches on the themes of ageism, the jail system,educational system, youth violence and fatherhood.
Landless Theatre Company presents Walmartopia!
Thursday Saturday, 7:30pm, Sunday at 3:00pm
$25/ $18 DCAC Members (at the door)For Reservations: www.landlesstheatrecompany.orgThis OffBroadway hit tells the hilarious and timely tale of a single mom andWalMart employee who speaks out against her company’s working conditionsand finds herself and her young daughter jettisoned to 2036, into a futurewhere WalMart dominates the entire world. Yes, the musical features thesinging head of WalMart founder Sam Walton.