Jun
7
Sat
Opera Ball @ Japanese Ambassador's Official Residence
Jun 7 @ 10:00 PM – Jun 8 @ 3:59 AM

The 2014 Opera Ball will be hosted by His Excellency the Ambassador of Japan and Mrs. Kenichiro Sasae

at their official residence on Nebraska Avenue, N.W., one of the most prestigious diplomatic

residences in the city. The Opera Ball will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2014 and is a highlight of

the city’s cultural, philanthropic, and social season.

Dr. Sachiko Kuno and Phebe N. Novakovic will be the Co-Chairmen of this season’s

Opera Ball. Dr. Kuno, a prominent scientist and biomedical researcher, is a longtime supporter of

Washington National Opera and the co-founder of the S&R Foundation, which recognizes

talented young scientists and artists for their distinguished work in fields of science and fine arts,

especially those who contribute to U.S.-Japanese understanding. Ms. Novakovic is Chairman and

Chief Executive Officer of General Dynamics Corporation, a leading aerospace and defense

company based in Falls Church, Virginia. General Dynamics is a longstanding supporter of WNO

and is currently a major sponsor of its 2013-2014 season.

Constance Milstein de La Haye St. Hilaire, who chaired last season’s Opera Ball at the

Embassy of Italy’s Villa Firenze, will serve as this season’s Honorary Chair.

“We are very proud to host the 2014 Opera Ball at our residence,” said Ambassador

Sasae. “With WNO’s new production of The Magic Flute designed by the Japanese artist Jun

Kaneko and with Opera Ball at our home, we look forward to seeing the Opera take on a

decidedly Japanese flavor next spring.”

As in previous years, the elegant black-tie event will include intimate dinners hosted by

many ambassadors at their embassies or residences throughout the city. Following these private

dinners, guests will gather at the residence of Ambassador and Mrs. Sasae for a festive evening

of dancing, dessert, and music that will highlight the Japanese tradition of hospitality.

The Opera Ball is WNO’s largest fundraiser and one of Washington’s most anticipated

events of the year. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the Opera Ball support the Opera’s

award-winning artistic, educational, and outreach programs. Recent Opera Balls have been

hosted by the embassies of Italy (2013), the United Arab Emirates (2012), the People’s Republic

of China (2011), the Russian Federation (2010), Germany (2009), and France (2008). Japan last

hosted the Opera Ball in 2000.

TICKET INFORMATION:

Reservations for embassy dinners and the 2014 Opera Ball will be available in the coming

months. For more information about attending the Opera Ball, or to receive an invitation, guests

should contact the Special Events office at (202) 416-8496 or operaball@kennedy-center.org.

 

visit www.kennedy-center.org/operaball.

Asia After Dark: Bollywood and Beyond @ Sackler Gallery
Jun 7 @ 8:00 PM – 11:59 PM

The Smithsonian’s Arthur M. Sackler Gallery will host “Asia After Dark: Bollywood and Beyond,” the 10th in its series of popular afterhours parties, on Saturday, June 7, featuring the sights and sounds of classic Bollywood films, ancient Indian artwork and modern Indian American culture. The event, which highlights the contemporary art exhibition “Perspectives: Rina Banerjee” at the Sackler and “Beyond Bollywood: Indian Americans Shape the Nation” at the National Museum of Natural History, will celebrate Indian culture while following the Asia After Dark mantra: “Art, Drink, and Be Happy.”

From 8 p.m. to midnight, the subterranean Sackler Gallery will transform

into a dance floor for beats by world-renowned Basement Bhangra pioneer DJ Rekha and live dance performances by the South Asian Performing Arts Network and Institute. Guests can mingle while enjoying lessons in Bharata Natyam and Bollywood dance and creating amusing photo booth memories with Booth-o-Rama. Inspired by the tiara of Miss America 2014, Indian American Nina Davuluri, and embellished figures from ancient Indian art, guests can create and adorn themselves with hand-made crowns. Throughout the evening, Bollywood-themed refreshments by Ping Pong Dim Sum and delicious bites from food trucks will be available for purchase.

Contemporary art curator Carol Huh will also lead talks of the site-specific installation “A World Lost” by Indian American artist Rina Banerjee in its final weekend on view, and associate curator of South and Southeast Asian will be on hand to explore the Sackler’s collections of South Asian and Himalayan Art.

Tickets can be purchased at asia.si.edu/asiaafterdark, and are $15 in advance, $25 at the door, or free for members of the Silk Road Society — the galleries’ dynamic membership group for young professionals. Guests can upgrade for an additional $10 to skip the entrance lines, enjoy a VIP-only bartender and get an invite to an exclusive future Silk Road Society tour of “Beyond Bollywood” and curator meet-and-greet.

Guests must be 21 years old with valid photo ID to attend.

“Asia After Dark: Bollywood and Beyond” is presented in conjunction with the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center. For a full listing of the Freer and Sackler galleries’ programs for young professionals, visit asia.si.edu/youngvisionary.

 

The Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, located at 1050 Independence Avenue S.W., and the adjacent Freer Gallery of Art, located at 12th Street and Independence Avenue S.W., are on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day (closed Dec. 25), and admission is free. The galleries are located near the Smithsonian Metrorail station on the Blue and Orange lines. For more information about the Freer and Sackler galleries and their exhibitions, programs and other public events, visit www.asia.si.edu. For general Smithsonian information, call (202) 633-1000.
Jun
15
Sun
World premiere screening of documentary film, Resilient Hearts @ AFI Silver Theater and Cultural Center
Jun 15 @ 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM
World premiere screening of documentary film, Resilient Hearts @ AFI Silver Theater and Cultural Center | Silver Spring | Maryland | United States

Claudine Oriol, Haitian-American actress, director and producer, today announced the world premier screening of her documentary film, Resilient Hearts. The film, an official AFI selection of the 2014 DC Caribbean Film Festival, reveals Haiti’s unique culture, rich history and conveys the resiliency of the Haitian spirit. The screening takes places at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 15, at AFI Silver Theater and Cultural Center, located at 8633 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD. Questions and answers with the director will take place immediately following the screening.

“It’s been an incredible and moving journey to work on Resilient Hearts during the past few years,” stated Claudine Oriol, director. “I’m humbled by the support and praise the film has received from friends, associates, world leaders and dignitaries. I can’t imagine a more fitting backdrop for its world premier than in our nation’s capital.”

The trailer for Resilient Hearts can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HGhV-rhekM&feature=youtu.be

In her directorial debut, Claudine, who left Port-au-Prince one hour before the earthquake, tells her story to the world through the eyes and lives of the Haitian people – giving the voiceless a voice. This project is not only an ode to her fellow Haitians, but to everyone across the globe who was impacted by this natural disaster people, or who have experienced loss and triumphed in the face of defeat.

 

WHO: Claudine Oriol and DC Caribbean Film Fest

WHAT: World premiere screening of documentary film, Resilient Hearts

Questions & Answers with the director

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, June 15

All guests and attendees must be seated 15 minutes in advance and are encouraged to arrive no later than 7 p.m.

WHERE: AFI Silver Theater and Cultural Center, 8633 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD

 

Jun
18
Wed
The New York Idea @ Dumbarton House
Jun 18 @ 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

The Picnic Theatre Company and Dumbarton House Present

Langdon Mitchell’s
THE NEW YORK IDEA

Wednesday June 18

Thursday June 19

Friday June 20 2014

 

Dumbarton House

2715 Q Street, NW

Georgetown-Washington DC

 

A summer garden performance at one of DC’s most beautiful historic homes

6:00 p.m. – Grounds open

7:00 p.m. – Performance

(Rain or Shine- Belle Vue Ballroom if rain)

 

Directed by Karim C. Chrobo

Cast:   Nurith Aizenman, Nova Daly, Daniela Kelley, Charles Kovatch, John Plumb, Omar Popal, Sandrine Rastello, Christina Sevilla, Matt Stoller

 

General Admission: $12 advance tickets ($15 at the door)

Tickets:  <http://www.newyorkideadumbartonhouse.eventbrite.com>

 

This is picnic- style theatre, bring blankets to sit and enjoy the performance (Please note: chairs will not be provided by the museum.  Lawn chairs may be set up at the back of the audience.)  Refreshments and crepes by Café Bonaparte available for sale on site, cash only. Please no pets.

 

Proceeds benefits dropinthebucket.org and Dumbarton House

 

Jun
19
Thu
The New York Idea @ Dumbarton House
Jun 19 @ 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

The Picnic Theatre Company and Dumbarton House Present

Langdon Mitchell’s
THE NEW YORK IDEA

Wednesday June 18

Thursday June 19

Friday June 20 2014

 

Dumbarton House

2715 Q Street, NW

Georgetown-Washington DC

 

A summer garden performance at one of DC’s most beautiful historic homes

6:00 p.m. – Grounds open

7:00 p.m. – Performance

(Rain or Shine- Belle Vue Ballroom if rain)

 

Directed by Karim C. Chrobo

Cast:   Nurith Aizenman, Nova Daly, Daniela Kelley, Charles Kovatch, John Plumb, Omar Popal, Sandrine Rastello, Christina Sevilla, Matt Stoller

 

General Admission: $12 advance tickets ($15 at the door)

Tickets:  <http://www.newyorkideadumbartonhouse.eventbrite.com>

 

This is picnic- style theatre, bring blankets to sit and enjoy the performance (Please note: chairs will not be provided by the museum.  Lawn chairs may be set up at the back of the audience.)  Refreshments and crepes by Café Bonaparte available for sale on site, cash only. Please no pets.

 

Proceeds benefits dropinthebucket.org and Dumbarton House

 

Jun
20
Fri
The New York Idea @ Dumbarton House
Jun 20 @ 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

The Picnic Theatre Company and Dumbarton House Present

Langdon Mitchell’s
THE NEW YORK IDEA

Wednesday June 18

Thursday June 19

Friday June 20 2014

 

Dumbarton House

2715 Q Street, NW

Georgetown-Washington DC

 

A summer garden performance at one of DC’s most beautiful historic homes

6:00 p.m. – Grounds open

7:00 p.m. – Performance

(Rain or Shine- Belle Vue Ballroom if rain)

 

Directed by Karim C. Chrobo

Cast:   Nurith Aizenman, Nova Daly, Daniela Kelley, Charles Kovatch, John Plumb, Omar Popal, Sandrine Rastello, Christina Sevilla, Matt Stoller

 

General Admission: $12 advance tickets ($15 at the door)

Tickets:  <http://www.newyorkideadumbartonhouse.eventbrite.com>

 

This is picnic- style theatre, bring blankets to sit and enjoy the performance (Please note: chairs will not be provided by the museum.  Lawn chairs may be set up at the back of the audience.)  Refreshments and crepes by Café Bonaparte available for sale on site, cash only. Please no pets.

 

Proceeds benefits dropinthebucket.org and Dumbarton House

 

Jul
16
Wed
Corcoran Uncorked @ Corcoran Gallery of Art
Jul 16 @ 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

WHAT: Rock out at Corcoran Uncorked: Heavy Metal! Experience the Corcoran’s latest exhibition, American Metal: The Art of Albert Paley (opening June 28, 2014), and see how this master metalsmith pushes the limits of what can be done with steel, iron, and bronze. Grab some drinks and check out a welding demonstration as your favorite heavy metal classics play throughout the night.

American Metal is a retrospective survey of the art of Albert Paley, one of the world’s most distinguished metalsmiths. With dozens of objects in a variety of media, from clay, paper, and cardboard, to steel, glass, and bronze, exhibition visitors will see how Paley’s art has evolved over his innovative 50-year career. For more information about the exhibition, visithttp://www.corcoran.org/exhibitions/american-metal-art-albert-paley.

ABOUT UNCORKED: On the third Wednesday of every month, Corcoran Uncorked brings you a themed evening full of creative art making activities, playful and enlightening gallery talks, tours & games, lively music, a cash bar, and much more. For more information, visit www.corcoran.org/corcoran-uncorked.

WHEN:          Wednesday, July 16; 5-9 p.m.

WHERE:        Corcoran Gallery of Art
500 Seventeenth Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20006

TICKETS:      Admission to Corcoran Uncorked is $12 and includes museum admission; pre-registration is recommended. Corcoran Members receive free entry and special offers each month. More details and online registration are available at www.corcoran.org/events/corcoran-uncorked-heavy-metal.

Jul
18
Fri
Smithsonian After 8 @ Enid A. Haupt Garden at the Smithsonian Castle
Jul 18 @ 8:00 PM – 11:59 PM

WHAT:  SMITHSONIAN at 8- The Smithsonian’s premier 21+ after-hours event series—a unique mix of culture, art, history, and science, including music, a cash bar, and special access to Smithsonian exhibits, collections, and experts.

WHEN: A Garden of Wonders

WHERE: Enid A. Haupt Garden at the Smithsonian Castle, Independence Ave., SW

Alice would feel right at home at this madcap party that transforms the Victorian-style Enid A. Haupt Garden into a landscape of delights. As sunset slips into night, the magical setting comes alive with music and dancing, outdoor games (moonlight croquet, anyone?), craft activities, and plenty of surprises.

Find your style inspiration in period garden-party attire or your favorite Alice in Wonderland character. You might not meet a white rabbit, but you can sip specialty cocktails designed by Arlington’s Tortoise & Hare as you wander through the lantern-decked grounds. And speaking of wonders, meet Todd McGrain, whose fantastic large-scale bird sculptures now anchor the corners of the Haupt Garden’s ornately planted lawn.

Capture your evening in Wonderland with EventShare, Washington’s most innovative photo booth, and edit and share your pics instantly on the large HD touchscreen. Make sure your pocket watch is wound: You don’t want to be late for this one-of-a-kind adventure.

SPECIAL FEATURES FOR VIP TICKET-HOLDERS: Enjoy a private bar, two complimentary drinks, and dessert in the Queen of Hearts’ castle (known by day as the Smithsonian Castle).

Cash bar. Must be over 21; valid ID required.

In case of rain, the party moves inside the Smithsonian Castle.

General Admission $15 in advance, $20 at the door, if available. VIP admission tickets $35 in advance, $40 at the door, if available.

Jul
19
Sat
Corcoran’s “Ultimate Urban Safari” @ Corcoran Gallery of Art
Jul 19 @ 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

WHAT: With the heat, humidity, and influx of tourists and visiting interns, navigating D.C.’s concrete jungle during the summer months can be a daunting task. On Saturday, July 19, let the Corcoran serve as your tour guide and join us for the Ultimate Urban Safari! Perfect for families and kids of all ages, this wild summer day will be dedicated to the animal kingdom. Discover and be inspired by creatures big and small through workshop activities and book readings. Participants will also have the chance to get involved and make a lasting difference by volunteering in an animal welfare community service project that day. All ages welcome!

The Ultimate Urban Safari is inspired by the Corcoran’s summer exhibition, American Metal: The Art of Albert Paley. American Metal, on view June 28-September 28, is a retrospective survey of Albert Paley, one of the world’s most distinguished metalsmiths. Over his innovative 50-year career, Paley has often taken inspiration from animals and nature, perhaps most notably for his 2006 portal gates for the St. Louis Zoo, Animals Always.

July 19 is also opening day for Mark Tribe: Plein Air, an exhibition that explores the aesthetic of landscape photography through the virtual lens of computer simulation. The images alter our perceptions, presenting landscapes from a “drone’s eye view,” a machinic perspective that is playing an increasingly important role in contemporary culture. Don’t miss your opportunity to view the exhibition for FREE on opening day!

WHEN: Saturday, July 19; 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

WHERE: Corcoran Gallery of Art

500 Seventeenth Street NW

Washington, D.C. 20006

ADMISSION: This event is free as part of the Corcoran’s Free Summer Saturdays promotion. No registration is required. More information about The Ultimate Urban Safari is available at www.corcoran.org/pride. To see a list of activities taking place during Free Summer Saturdays, visit http://www.corcoran.org/freesummersaturdays.

Jul
20
Sun
Monty Python LIVE (Mostly) @ Various Theatres
Jul 20 @ 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM

WHAT:            On Sunday, July 20, audiences across the U.S. will be able to experience a LIVE broadcast from the final performance of Monty Python’s last stage show together.

Fathom Events and Picturehouse Entertainment invite fans to experience comedy legends Monty Python’s long-awaited reunion when Monty Python Live (mostly) is broadcast LIVE to cinemas nationwide on Sunday, July 20 with rebroadcasts on Wednesday, July 23 and Thursday, July 24.

For the first time in over three decades, comedy legends Monty Python will be performing live on stage together at London’s famed O2 Arena. At a combined age of just 361, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Palin will once again perform some of their greatest hits, with modern, topical, Python-esque twists.

 

WHEN:            Sunday, July 20 at 2:30 p.m. ET / 1:30 p.m. CT / 12:30 p.m. MT / 11:30 a.m. PT

                      Encore performances on Wednesday, July 23 and Thursday July 24