The Shakespeare Theatre Company, recipient of the 2012 Regional Theatre Tony Award®, presents its Annual Dinner and Mock Trial at Sidney Harman Hall(610 F Street NW) on Monday, May 11, 2015. This marks the 20th year that Shakespeare Theatre Company has put on the Mock Trial. The evening begins with dinner at 5:30 p.m. in the Forum, followed by the Trial at 7:30 p.m. in the theatre. A special session of the Supreme Court of La Mancha will review the decisions of the Family Court to declare Don Quixote mentally incompetent and his subsequent placement under the guardianship of his niece, Antonia.
Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg will preside and will be accompanied by Justice Stephen Breyer, as well as Chief Judge Merrick Garland and Judge Patricia Millett, both of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, and Judge Amy Berman Jackson of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. Tom Goldstein of Goldstein & Russell P.C. andCarter Phillips of Sidley Austin LLP will argue the case. The Trial will be moderated byAbbe D. Lowell of Chadbourne & Parke LLP, chair of the STC Bard Association and STC Board of Trustees member.
Michael Kahn, Artistic Director of Shakespeare Theatre Company says of Mock Trial, “As I’ve often said, Shakespeare doesn’t tell us what to think, he tells us what to think about. This is what Mock Trial does so stunningly, it uses these classic stories as lenses to look at seemingly old issues and bring them to our modern, and legal, world.”
Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Mock Trial is sponsored by the Bard Association, STC’s affinity group for Washington’s legal community.
Since 1994, the Shakespeare Theatre Company has hosted a Mock Trial based on a play from STC’s mainstage season. The fictional court case poses a legal question, or questions, and the audience must act as the jury to decide the fate of the characters. The Trial aims to examine the links between classic works and contemporary legal theory in a way that is both thought-provoking and entertaining. Past Mock Trials have explored whether Malvolio (Twelfth Night) was entitled to damages for wrongful imprisonment; Iago (Othello) was guilty of the murders of Desdemona and Othello; Hamlet (Hamlet) was insane when he murdered Polonius; and if Sir John Falstaff (Henry IV) should have been compensated for his services to Prince Hal and reinstated as a member of the royal court. Last year’s Mock Trial concentrated on the characters in William Shakespeare’s Measure for Measure and argued whether the Duke of Vienna should be held responsible for abuses of power perpetuated by his appointed representative, and debated issues of illegal secret surveillance, false imprisonment, negligent appointment of an unfit deputy, and disrespect of commitment to religious vows.
This season’s Mock Trial focuses on the characters in Dale Wasserman’s Man of La Mancha and asks the question: Did the Family Court commit reversible errors of law and fact in determining that Don Quixote was mentally incompetent, and should the Family Court have appointed Sancho Panza, Don Quixote’s loyal friend, as his guardian, rather than his niece Antonia?
SCENARIO
As word spread of Alonso Quixana’s (self-named and known to the world as Don Quixote) exhibited signs of mental illness or incompetence, his niece Antonia petitioned the Family Court to appoint her to be his guardian to protect his financial interests and to make medical decisions for him. In support of her petition, Antonia described Don Quixote’s hallucinations, his instigation of ill-conceived and ill-fated battles, his unwitting contribution to the brutal treatment of Aldonza, and his persistent inability to separate reality from illusion. Antonia stated that Don Quixote was unable to manage his assets, pay his medical expenses, or make financial decisions in his own best interests, and that he had been the victim of financial exploitation without even realizing others were taking advantage of him. Antonia’s fiancé, Dr. Carrasco, provided a petition of incompetency claiming to be Don Quixote’s treating physician and asserting that Don Quixote’s mental disability was permanent and that he had no ability to understand the nature of the proceedings or reasons for appointment of a guardian.
The Family Court heard extensive testimony about Don Quixote’s ill-fated escapades during his career as a knight errant, about his discussion of his “dreams,” his tendency to burst into song, and his claims of being a knight. His friends testified about Don Quixote’s idealism, courtesy, generosity, gallantry, and nobility. Sancho Panza said Don Quixote knew he was not really a knight, but simply liked to conceive of a nobler world inspired by courtesy and bravery. Don Quixote’s attorney argued that he did not need a guardian, but that if the Court disagreed, it should appoint Sancho Panza, not Antonia.
The Family Court appointed Antonia as Don Quixote’s guardian. On petition for review by the Supreme Court of La Mancha, Don Quixote has asked the Court to decide two questions:
1. Did the Family Court commit reversible errors of law and fact in determining that Don Quixote was mentally incompetent within the meaning of the laws governing appointment of guardians of property and persons?
2. Assuming Don Quixote was not fully competent to manage his affairs or make decisions about his medical treatment, should the Family Court have rejected Antonia’s petition as motivated by fraud and self-interest, and instead have appointed Sancho Panza, Don Quixote’s loyal friend, as his guardian?
TICKET INFORMATION
Interested in Premium Seating and Dining with the Participants before the Trial?Tickets to the Dinner and Trial ($350) are available now. To purchase tickets please call 202.547.3230 ext. 2330 or contact MockTrial@ShakespeareTheatre.
Trial-only Ticket Prices
A Price: $75
B Price: $50 (limited availability)
Student: $20 (valid student ID required when picking up tickets)
Tickets on sale for STC donors and season subscribers on March 18 at noon.
Tickets for the general public on sale March 23 at noon.
For more information please contact MockTrial@ShakespeareTheatre.
Treat yourself to some of the best cuisine available from over 100 of the area’s finest restaurants and wineries, while contributing to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo’s conservation and education programs. Food aficionados are invited to unleash their taste buds and sample delicious dishes from the area’s finest restaurants and vintners. The event, hosted by Friends of the National Zoo (FONZ), will take place on Thursday, May 14, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
In addition to extraordinary food and fine wines, ZooFari also offers a night of unforgettable entertainment. Throughout the evening guests will be surrounded by live music, exotic animal encounters, a silent auction, and new this year, Battle of the Bartenders where local bartenders will compete to create the best tasting original signature cocktail using a mystery ingredient from the Zoo’s Animal Kitchen. Celebrity chef’s Todd Gray (Equinox), Bart Vandaele (Belga Cafe), and Haidar Karoum (Proof) will be in attendance and joining in on the festivities throughout the evening.
Tickets for this annual fundraiser are available on the Zoo’s website at http://nationalzoo.si.edu/activitiesandevents/celebrations/zoofari/. Prices are $160 for FONZ members and $200 for nonmembers.
Exclusive VIP group packages also are available. These packages offer all-access tickets to the Premier Pavilion, valet parking passes, an exclusive VIP pre-party and the LivingSocial Lion Lounge, as well as behind-the-scenes animal tours.
The ZooFari online auction offers a lively way to support the Zoo’s programs. Bidding will be live on Sunday, April 26 through the online site Bidding For Good. Vacation getaways, private Zoo tours, cooking lessons with top area chefs, and animal art are just a few of the hundreds of items available in the auction. Proceeds benefit the National Zoo’s animal care, science, education, and conservation programs.
ZooFari is presented by GEICO® and sponsored by 94.7 Fresh FM, Big Bus Tours, Capital One Bank®, The Coca-Cola Company, Comcast, Manhattan Auto of Bethesda, MD, Rosenthal Jaguar/Land Rover, LivingSocial, NBC4, Washingtonian Magazine, The Washington Post, Widmer Brothers, WTOP and WTOP.com.
ROCK ME AMADEUS!
SUSPICIOUS PACKAGE @ Embassy of Austria
Friday, May 15, 2015
7:00 PM
3524 International Ct. NW
Washington, DC 20008
Austria Rocks! Join the party to celebrate Austrian – US friendship with an evening of rock music and dancing, featuring Suspicious Package, three-time winner of theJournopalooza battle of the DC media bands. Suspicious Package may also be Washington’s only rock band containing three Pulitzer prizes. Welcoming remarks by Ambassador Hans Peter Manz, followed by cocktail reception with Austrian specialties and live concert.
Reserve Free Tickets http://acfdc.org/upcoming-events
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rock-concert-i-suspicious-package-austria-rocks-tickets-16323289398
The contents of Suspicious Package are:
Tim Burger * Bryan Greene * Josh Meyer* Christina Sevilla * Tom Toles
www.facebook.com/SusPackage @ SusPackage
Twenty-three single-passenger electric vehicles built by high school students from the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia will compete in the 2015 Washington DC Electric Vehicle Grand Prix (EV Grand Prix) at the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium Fairgrounds on Saturday May 16, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The District Department of the Environment (DDOE) and Pepco are co-sponsors of this year’s event, which is organized by Global EEE (Education, Energy, and Environment). DDOE is hosting the competition in Washington, DC in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy (USDOE) and the District of Columbia Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU). Local high school competitors include Dunbar, Friendship Collegiate Academy, Friendship Tech Prep Academy, McKinley Tech, Phelps, Roosevelt, School Without Walls, Sidwell Friends School, and Wilson in the District along with Wheaton, Clarksburg, Sandy Spring Friends, and High Point high schools in suburban Maryland. Hereford High School, Chesapeake High School, and Perry Hall from Baltimore County will be in the race, as will schools from Virginia.
This innovative, hands-on educational program teaches students to apply engineering, science, mathematics, and strategy as they construct and race their battery-powered electric cars. EV Grand Prix cars are specifically designed and must meet stringent safety regulations. The single-person, lightweight, aerodynamic, high-efficiency vehicles are coming to test their mettle in an hour-long race, on a challenging formula-style race course, using only energy stored in their batteries.
“We are thrilled to host the third annual DC EV Grand Prix,” said District Department of the Environment Director, Tommy Wells. “This program exposes students to energy conservation and technology and provides important educational and training opportunities. The DC EV Grand Prix engages our youth in the innovation economy, preparing them for the future by providing a green pathway to the middle class.”
“We are proud to support the District’s students in this regional competition that requires skill and creativity—attributes essential to their success in Saturday’s race and in the future,” said Ted Trabue, DCSEU Managing Director.
“As students are making informed decisions about higher education and future opportunities, it’s important that we support the efforts of the local schools and families we serve,” said Donna Cooper, Pepco Region President. “These young engineers and scientists will use the competition to test and refine their creations, and the results of their experiments will help determine future applications of renewable energy. We appreciate the opportunity to give back to the communities we serve.”
“This high school competition is in its third year, and we are already beginning to see the positive impact it is having on local students in their career decisions and college placements,” said Dr. Nabih Bedewi, Managing Director of Global EEE and the competition director. “We are pleased to partner with DDOE, DCSEU, USDOE, and Pepco this year and look forward to a successful and exciting race at RFK Stadium.”
For more information on the 2015 Washington DC EV Grand Prix, visit http://ddoe.dc.gov/event/dc-electric-vehicle-grand-prix-2015
The Navy Safe Harbor Foundation (NSHF) presents the first annual Fashion for Fighters Gala Saturday, May 16 at The Army Navy Club. The event, held from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. is being held to raise critically needed funds for wounded, ill and injured U.S. Navy, Coast Guardsmen and their families. NSHF is dedicated to supporting the recovery of these service men and women by assisting them with resources not currently provided by government or through their general community.
The chicest black tie (dress uniform optional) event of the season, Fashion for Fighters is a night for comradery, support and giving back. Guests will enjoy fashion shows by four local women’s and menswear designers, all American-made and run brands, including: Christopher Schafer, Kim Elleen and Sophie Blake Jewelry.
VIP tickets are available, which include an exclusive pre-event fashion presentation starting at 6:00 p.m., open bar, passed hors d’oeuvres, and treated to a swag bag full of products from gala sponsors. General admission ticket holders are welcome to partake in passed hors d’oeuvres and cash bar beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Inspired by the growing needs of the military community, Navy Safe Harbor Foundation (NSHF) was created to efficiently identify and meet the needs of wounded, ill and injured Sailors, Coast Guardsmen, Marines and their families. NSHF fills in the gaps of current non-medical provisions through collaboration with federal and civic resources. Through its efforts, every service member is given an opportunity for full recovery by providing financial assistance, respite care, special equipment, transportation, recreational opportunities, and other services.
The Navy Safe Harbor Foundation (NSHF) is an IRS recognized 501(c)3 tax-exempt non-profit organization and is not affiliated with the United States Navy, Coast Guard or Department of Defense.
WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 2015 | 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
WHERE: The Army and Navy Club | 901 17th St NW | Washington, DC 20006
RSVP: Tickets must be purchased in advance – media passes are available. Click here to register.
Navy Safe Harbor Foundation is fortunate to have the support of families, friends, military members, and community. The organization asks that we as Americans, all do our part to help the seriously wounded, ill, and injured Sailors, Coast Guardsmen, and their families by volunteering, participating in a fundraising event, or making a donation . . . your support is greatly appreciated!
WHEN: Sunday, May 17, 2015 11:30AM – 3:00PM
WHERE: Shinola Washington, DC
1534 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
MORE: About Shinola | In 2011, Shinola, a Bedrock Manufacturing Company, LLC brand, was conceived with the belief that products should be built to last, and they should be built in America. As makers of modern, handcrafted watches, bicycles, leather goods, journals and pet accessories, we are proud to be based in Detroit, a community-minded city with a strong manufacturing legacy. We built our watch and leather factories within the College for Creative Studies in the former Argonaut building. As a new company with a storied name, we stand for skill at scale, the preservation of craft and the beauty of industry.
Shinola’s Washington, DC Flagship will open at 1361 14th Street NW in 2015.
About the Washington Humane Society | The Washington Humane Society cultivates a community of people and animals inspired by compassion, where all animals can enjoy safe and happy homes.
The Cathedral Choral Society will present the final concert of its 2014/15 season, Great Opera Choruses, on Sunday, May 17 at 4:00 p.m. The program of well-loved opera arias and choruses includes works by Wagner, Bellini, Gounod, Verdi, Puccini, Mascagni, and Boito. The Cathedral Choral Society, conducted by Music Director J. Reilly Lewis, will be joined by Jessica Julin, soprano; Ben Wager, bass; and the Washington National Opera Children’s Chorus.
“This concert will feature magnificent opera music, sacred and profane, perfect for the Cathedral,” said J. Reilly Lewis. “This is my first time programming opera for this chorus, and these gorgeous works capture all the emotions of great opera.”
Selections will be performed from Wagner, Die Meistersinger; Bellini, Norma; Gounod, Faust; Verdi, Nabucco; Puccini, Tosca; Mascagni, Cavalleria Rusticana; Puccini, Manon Lescaut; and Boito, Mefistofele.
“We are thrilled to be performing opera in the Cathedral for the first time,” said Genevieve Twomey, Executive Director of the Cathedral Choral Society. “This music is rich, exciting, dramatic, and engaging – and to experience this in such a grand space will be a unique and memorable experience.”
The Cathedral Choral Society is pleased to feature soloists Jessica Julin, soprano and Ben Wager, bass, and to welcome the Washington National Opera Children’s Chorus as guest choir on Boito’s Mefistofele. Jessica Julin, soprano has been praised for her “commanding voice,” and is a 2009 Grand Finalist in the Metropolitan Opera National Council Grand Auditions. She received her masters from Indiana University, studied at the Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia, and currently resides in Maryland. She won first prize awards in the J.P. Parkinson Competition, Lois Alba Aria Competition, and the Giagiari Bel Canto Competition.
Ben Wager, bass is a 2009 graduate of the Academy of Vocal Arts in Philadelphia. This season, he debuted in Oslo with Den Norske Opera as Escamillo in Carmen and performed two roles with the Lyric Opera of Kansas City. Previous engagements include with the Nashville Opera, Deutsche Opera Berlin, Minnesota Opera, and Los Angeles Philharmonic. In 2012, The Washington Times praised him for his “perfect balance of graciousness [and] forthrightness” in a concert opera performance.
The Washington National Opera Children’s Chorus is comprised of many of the finest young singers, ages 8-14, from Washington, DC; Virginia; and Maryland. They appear frequently in WNO productions at the Kennedy Center. Recent performances include the world premiere of Jeanine Tesori’s The Lion, The Unicorn, and Me (2013) and the WNO premier of Rachel Portman’s The Little Prince (2014). They are directed by Will Breytspraak, Children’s Chorus Master, who is the Chair of Performing Arts at Maret School in Washington, DC.
A pre-concert talk by Peter Russell will be presented at 3:00 p.m. in Perry Auditorium (in the Cathedral tower). Peter Russell is a leading figure in the DC opera scene, having served as General Director of the Wolf Trap Opera Company and founding Washington Concert Opera before later taking on his current role as General Director of Vocal Arts DC.
About the Cathedral Choral Society: The Cathedral Choral Society is the resident symphonic chorus of Washington National Cathedral. Now in its 73rd season, the 140-voice chorus presents an inspiring concert season at the Cathedral and shares the joy of choral singing throughout the Greater Washington, DC Area through its community engagement programs. Its 2015/16 season will be announced the week of May 17.
For Tickets: Regularly priced tickets begin at $25. Tickets for children and students with valid ID under the age of 25 are $15. Seniors, veteran, and military may receive 10% off (excludes Premium Nave). Complimentary parking is included with ticket purchase in the Cathedral’s underground parking garage courtesy of the Cathedral Choral Society. To purchase tickets, or for additional information, please call (202) 537-2228 | (877) 537-2228 or visit the website, www.cathedralchoralsociety.org
A mentoring relationship is a powerful one, and if both parties clearly define their goals, tangible success can be achieved.
Hosted by Living Vicky and Pivot Point Communications, this unique and interactive workshop is designed for leaders and future leaders alike. After all, women with mentors are more likely to achieve higher paying roles with more responsibilities, and become mentors in turn.
What: Mentoring Success Workshop
Where: The Agency 950 – 950 N Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314
When: 5:00 pm-7:00 pm
Cost: $25, includes appetizers and drinks
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/
