Season at a Glance, 2007-2008
Comedy? Drama? Contemporary? Musicals? Classics? Theatre for Kids?
Washington Area Theatres have something for everyone!
(updated January 15, 2008)
Brief information about the current seasons of the members of the League of Washington Theatres. Please contact the theatres directly for show times, location, directions, and other information. Note: Plays and dates are subject to change. Click here for Season at a Glance arranged by opening date.
Index: A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
September 7 -
October 6
Ah, Wilderness! by Eugene
O'Neill
A
teenage boy learns
about life in the greatest
American tragedian's only comedy.
January 4 - 26
Cops by Terry Curtis Fox
An urban
police station house becomes a battle
zone in the gritty drama that inspired Hill Street Blues.
March 7 - 29
Happy Birthday, Wanda June by
Kurt Vonnegut
The
satiric novelist brings his loopy characters
to the stage in a riotous fantasy/comedy.
April 4 - 26
Eccentricities of a Nightengale
by Tennessee Williams
Ruinous
romance unfolds with the fascination of
a car wreck in the playwright's re-imagined Summer and Smoke.
July 18- August 16
The Titans by Robert McElwaine
Only the
humanity of John F. Kennedy and Nikita
Khrushchev stands between a desperate peace and thermonuclear war;
Starring
Paul Morella as JFK.
33 Variations
written and directed by Moisés Kaufman
In 1819, fledgling publisher
Anton Diabelli
commissioned 50
composers to write a variation on a waltz he had created. Beethoven
rejected
the invitation, dismissing Diabelli’s waltz as ordinary. He then
obsessively
created 33 variations on Diabelli’s theme. Why? Kaufman’s play weaves
Beethoven’s artistic journey together with that of Katherine, a
contemporary
musicologist wrestling to pin down the source of his inexplicable
fascination
with such an insignificant piece of music. Deciphering clues left
behind in
Beethoven’s notebooks and letters, Katherine delves into his
compositional
process and daily life – finding even greater insight into her own
obsession
with genius. Co-production
with Tectonic Theater Project.
September 14 -
October 14
Well by Lisa Kron
Mother
knows best in a hilarious and moving Tony
Award-nominated comedy about childhood and family. As she talks about
growing
up in a household full of allergies and social activism, Lisa, our
heroine,
loses control of her own autobiography .
Things spin into riotously comic territory as her mom
continually
interrupts the proceedings to set the record straight. Other actors,
employed
by Lisa to help tell her tale, stage a comedic coup d’état,
ultimately siding
with her mom’s version of events. Even a bully from Lisa's elementary
school
days barges into the narrative.
October 19 -
December 9
The Women of Brewster Place
music, lyrics and book by Tm Acito,based on the novel by Gloria
Naylor (World Premiere)
December 28 -
February 24
Ella book by Jeffrey Hatcher,
conceived by Rob Ruggiero & Dyke Garrison based on an original play
by Dyke Garrison
This Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece was hailed by The New York Times as "one of the finest dramas in the whole range of the American theater." Exhibiting Miller’s skill as a storyteller and social commentator, it has lost none of its potency or relevance as it examines our national obsession with wealth and success. In the iconic figures of Linda and Willy Loman, Miller created two of the most remarkable characters ever seen on a stage. Willy has made his living riding on a smile and a shoeshine. While chasing his elusive American Dream, he has put unrelenting pressure on his sons to achieve at all costs. Faced with the end of his career, he’s haunted by missed opportunities and a troubled past. As the truth unravels, Linda struggles to help her increasingly desperate husband. Presented at Arena Stage in Crystal City, 1800 South Bell Street, Arlington, VA
March 21 - May 18 Like Death of a Salesman, this
passionate drama
about
Italian-American immigrant life in the 1950's also examines the promise
and
failure of the American Dream.
June 6 - Junly 13
The Mystey of
Irma Vep by Charles Busch
Charles Ludlam’s hilarious Obie Award-winner gleefully ransacks literary, cinematic and pop culture as it satirizes everything from Hitchcock’s Rebecca and Victorian Melodrama to The Mummy's Curse, the Brontës and Shakespeare. On a "dark and stormy night,” Lady Enid (newly married to the controversial Lord Edgar) arrives at an estate under the spell of his deceased first wife and haunted by something that’s prowling the moors. She quickly encounters a werewolf, a vampire, an Egyptian princess and the mystery of Irma Vep, whose portrait hangs over the fireplace. With dozens of lightning-fast changes, Brad Oscar (Tony-nominated on Broadway for The Producers) and J. Fred Shiffman (She Loves Me, Cabaret) portray all the characters men, women and monsters – in a gender-bending tour-de-farce. Presented at Arena Stage in Crystal City, 1800 South Bell Street, Arlington, VA
202-462-6386
Performance space: Capitol Hill Arts
Workshop,
Producing plays that reflect
a moment of
remarkable
change in the world view of the culture from which they were written.
October 3 – November 3
The Trial by Franz Kafka adapted and directed by Christopher Gallu
Hilarious and horrifying, The Trial is the tale of Joseph K., a man arrested and put on trial before a mysterious court that never discloses his alleged crime. Adapted and directed by Catalyst’s Producing Artistic Director and 2007 Helen Hayes nominee Christopher Gallu, this production promises to bring Kafka’s horrifying tale to the stage in Catalyst’s unique and intimate style.
Feb 6 – Mar 8, 2008
Swimming in the Shallows by Adam Bock
In this quirky comedy Barb finds out that Buddhist monks only own eight things -- and wonders if that is all she wants. Donna wants Carla Carla to marry her, but Carla Carla doesn't like that Donna smokes. Nick falls for a shark at the and tries not to sleep him too fast. Plus dream sequences. Plus a wedding.
May 7 – June 7
Crumble (Lay Me Down Justin Timberlake) by Sheila Callaghan
Crumble is the story of a young,
lonely girl who fantasizes
about Justin Timberlake, her widowed mother, who fantasizes about
Harrison
Ford, and their underappreciated apartment, which fantasizes about the
days it
was better cared for. Crumble
is a bittersweet, utterly original work
that is sure to enthrall audiences.
January 11 – February 2
F.U. (Forgive Us – what’d you think we meant…?) by Keith Bridges
A bitter little comedy about facing up to your fears… and getting spanked by them.
Ahhh, the Magic of Theatre… Join us as we watch Karl implode from the pressures of his rotten job, his crappy marriage, and the sheer weight of his weasely personality. Can Karl turn his pathetic life around? Find out in this brand spankin’ new, ridiculous, offensive, dark comedy from Charter’s Artistic Director, Keith Bridges.
April 11 – May 3
Am I Black Enough Yet? by Cinton Johnston
A touching, thoughtful, and hysterically funny
look at the
state of Blackness in
"Can you feel it? Can you see it? When do you
wanna be
it and when break free of it? And after all, what is it? Where does it
start
... and where does it end?" No matter who you are or where you're from,
for one night at Charter Theatre, you get to be African American.
Playwright
Clinton Johnston takes you on a touching, thoughtful, and hysterically
funny tour
of the state of Blackness in
New Plays for
Young Audiences
January 19, 26, February 2 @ 11:00am
The Wakeness Monster by Jessica North Macie
A brand new musical for kids, grown-ups, or anyone who ever stayed up too late on a school night. Jessie is a model student, a model daughter, and has never missed the school bus in the morning. But when she discovers that there really are friendly monsters who live under the bed, and they love to play all night with the owners of the pillows above, her world is turned topsy-turvey. Will she ever get back to her normal routine? Find out in The Wakeness Monster, a brand new musical for kids and grown-up kids, and for anyone who ever stayed up too late on a school night.
April 19, 26, and May 3 @ 11:00am
The Chicken of the Family book, lyrics and music by Mary Amato and Richard Washer
<>A toe-tapping, wing-flapping new musical for kids and maybe chickens too. Being the youngest in the family is tough enough, but when little Henrietta’s older sisters tell her she’s really a chicken and not a person, life gets harder. What’s a girl to do when it looks like they might be right? Come find out in this toe-tapping, wing-flapping musical, based on the new picture book by award-winning children’s book author Mary Amato.Discovery Theater
The Smithsonian Associates
1100 Jefferson Drive, SW
Washington, DC 20078-0401
202-357-1500 (box office)
202-357-2588 (fax)
Performance space: In the Smithsonian
Institution's Ripley Center
(unless otherwise specified)
The Smithsonian Institution's Performing Arts venue
for children,
presenting
an outstanding variety of live theater performances including
commissioned
works and world premieres, for young people in pre-school through high
school,
their parents and teachers.
January 17-18
Let Your Motto Be Resistance: African American Portraits
Hear the past come alive through dramatic portrayal of first-person journal entries of African American artists, musicians, historical figures, and heroes. After the show, see documentary images of the featured writers and their ancestry in the gallery’s stunning exhibition of African American portraits. McEvoy Auditorium, National Portrait Gallery. Ages 7-14
January 24-25
Bessie Coleman Flyin’ Free
In this one woman show with power point, the hopes
and
dreams of
a young sharecropper's daughter of African American and Cherokee
heritage,
shows us that the sky’s the limit. Share her accomplishments and
adventures as
the first African American women pilot trains in
February 1 & 8
Tricky Old Buh Rabbit: Gullah Tales and Tunes
‘Play and sing along with the stories and songs of
the
Gullah people from the Georgia Sea Islands. This cultural program from
the new
February 7
Negro Gato:
Jogo
Capoeira!
Named “black cat” after its dynamic
founder, this mesmerizing dance and music ensemble sways, kicks, sings
and
jogos “plays” its way through a captivating performance of Capoeira:
the
Brazilian dance, game and martial art. This dazzling show is sure to
both
educate and delight audiences in the beauty and depth of Afro-Brazilian
culture. Baird
Auditorium,
February 5-6, 12-13, 19-22
Lions of Industry, Mothers of Invention
Written by playwright Jacqueline E. Lawton,
Discovery
Theater’s all new Black History Month show explores the intrigue and
genius of
African American inventors and entrepreneurs like hair product
innovator Madame
C.J. Walker, agricultural chemist George Washington Carver, and even
George
Crum, inventor of the potato chip. In this compelling show about the
brilliance
and innovation of
February 15
Listen to the Drumbeat! The Art Speaks.
Kofi Dennis, one half of DT favorites
Anansegromma, leads
audiences on a joyous celebration of pattern and communication in
drumming and
the visual art of
March 5-6
March 14
Pete Moss and the Bog Ban
Kick up your heels at this fun-fueled celebration
of the
music and dance of
March 18-19
Jus’ Folks:
Folk Art
Alive!
What defines folk art? Find out in this fusion of
words,
poetry, and interactive exercises that introduce children to the
imagination
and freedom of
March 21
Annual Bunny Party and Spring Fling!
Join in all the bunny fun as we take a loving look
at
bunnies and their integral role in one of our favorite seasons. From
the tales
of Peter Rabbit to rabbits in Native American stories to the origin of
Easter
bunnies, we’ll sing, listen, and play our way through this delightful
bunny
fest with our host, Discovery Theater’s own Lucretia Anderson. Dress
for spring
and hop on over. Every child gets a sweet treat!
March 25-28
Galapagos George with Barefoot Puppets
This fabulous show is inspired by the true story
of Lonesome
George, a giant tortoise discovered in the Galapagos, where his species
was
thought to be extinct. It features sea lion, lizard, bird, and tortoise
puppets
in a rousing musical performance about species survival. Learn
invaluable
lessons about man’s impact on the environment.
April 2-3
That’s Not Magic, It’s Science!
“Mad scientist” and Presidential Award winner Mike
Offutt’s
experiments are bigger, bolder, and better than ever before. Now in a
larger
venue, our favorite rock ‘n’ roll science guy demonstrates the basic
tenets of
science while making us ask, “Hey, how’d he do that?” You can’t help
but laugh
and learn. Baird Auditorium,
April 4
Munching Along the Asia Trail
Find out what tempts the appetites of your
favorite Asia
Trail residents. Join Chef FONZ as he whips up the animals’ favorite
dishes,
like fruit and flower salad, juicy steak, and a few snacks that will
certainly
surprise you. Then, follow the trail to find a special animal in need
of a
treat.
April 8-25
Seasons of Life
The companion performance to December ’s Seasons
of Light,
this joyous interactive multicultural show examines the global
celebrations of
spring and the earth’s rebirth. Delight in the traditions of May Day
(the
audience dances a festive Maypole Dance), Easter (Oestre), Passover,
Persian
New Year (Norouz), and Buddha’s birthday as we sing, dance, and explore
our way
around the world and learn its customs.
April 17-19
Ecosystems Alive!
Jennifer Pennington, expert from Reptiles Alive!,
captivates
and educates with this exciting live animal and video show. Meet a
black rat
snake, a bearded dragon, a snapping turtle, and a boa constrictor. Find
out how
these creatures all thrive and survive in their environments. Learn
some
earth-friendly lessons about the impact of pollution, the necessity of
conservation, and the importance of our planet’s ecosystems.
May 2
Kodomono Hi: Children’s Day
Celebrate Japanese Children’s Day and the promise of youth with a return performance by the Kodomo Dance Theater, a troupe of talented young dancers in traditional kimono dress led by Director/Choreographer Shizumi Shigeto Manale. Each child receives a hand-made origami crane from one of the dancers. Then, visit the galleries to examine intricate images of Japanese art. Docent facilitators on hand and gallery guides provided. Meyer Auditorium, Freer Gallery of Art. Ages 6-10.
May 6-16
American Rice
In this original play for Discovery Theater,
written by
young Asian-Americans, three Asian kids yearn to find their voice and
their
place in the talent show at school—and in their American lives. Meet a
savvy
urban music lover, a hyper-intelligent overachiever, and a shy newcomer
who
draws like a dream. Through creativity, perseverance, and honesty,
these kids
show us how to embrace our roots and showcase our strengths, while
reclaiming
our individuality and pride. Issues of shyness, group identity vs.
individualism in the classroom, and the struggle to be both Asian and
American
are brought to life in this funny, thought-provoking, brilliantly
performed
play. This imaginative story of triumph—blending hip-hop, art,
language, and
audience participation—speaks to all new Americans finding their way in
today’s
world.
May 15
Kahurangi:
Maori
Dance Theater of
Experience the culture and history of the Maori,
migrants of
the Hawaiki and the
May 20-21
Wild Zappers!
Come under the spell of this all-male, all-deaf
dance group
with impeccable rhythm—can you feel the beat with them? See their
high-energy
performance of hip-hop, disco, and other dance styles as they groove to
the
good vibrations. Good thing the Wild Zappers teach you how to applaud
for deaf
people—once you start, you won’t stop.
Folger
Theatre
201 East Capitol Street, SE
Washington, DC 200003
202-544-7977 (box office)
202-544-7077 (administration)
202-544-7520 (fax)
Producing a 3-play season featuring house
playwright William
Shakespeare
as well as contemporary adaptations of the Bard and other classics in a
250
replica of the innyard theatres popular in
Shakespeare's
time.
October17 – November 25
As You Like It by William Shakespeare
Banished Rosalind finds
February
28 - April 6
Macbeth by William Shakespeare
Incited by the witches'
prophecy and his ambitious
wife,
Macbeth journeys into the heart of darkness in a quest for the throne.
Menace
and magic surround Shakespeare's chilling Scottish tragedy. With magic
designed by Teller (of Penn & Teller). Co-produced with
Two River Theater Company, Red Bank,
May 7 – June 15
The School for Scandal by Richard
Brinsley Sheridan
True loves and true characters
are revealed amid
gossip,
clever pretenses, and ostensibly compromising situations. It's all
Surface and
Candour in this witty comedy of very bad manners and irresistible folly.
Ford's Theatre
Information: (202) 347-4833
Tickets: (202) 397-7328 or (800) 551-7328
Producing new musicals and plays that center on
the lives of
cherished
Americans, and works that celebrate the American experience in an
historic
19th century setting.
December
A Christmas
Carol:
A
Ghost Story of Christmas by
Charles Dickens created by Matt August;
adaptation by Michael
Wilson.
This perennial favorite is the quintessential story
of how isolation
and
selfish self-interest withers the soul – a journey that can only be
reversed
and redeemed by embracing and contributing to the sea of humanity that
surrounds us. Presented at the
Lansburgh Theatre, 450 Seventh Street, NW.
GALA Hispanic Theatre
202-234-7174 (administration/box office)
202-332-1247 (fax)
Performance space: GALA at Tivoli, 14th and
Park
Road NW.
GALA was founded to preserve and promote
Hispanic
culture in the
September 20-October 14
Cita a Ciegas
by Mario Diament
On his daily visits to a
park bench, a blind writer hears and becomes part of the stories of
seemingly unrelated
people who are strangely connected. Is it circumstance or destiny? This
intriguing new play, a recent box office hit in
January 31- February 24
Tu Ternura
Molotov / Your Molotov Kisses by Gustavo Ott (
An uproarious look at a professional urban couple
and their meticulously
planned program to have a baby. In the midst of the procedures, a
“bomb”
arrives. A new hit from the author of the hilarious Divorciadas,
evangélicas, y
egetarianas. In
Spanish with English surtitles.
April 3-27
Bodas de
Sangre/Blood Wedding by Federico García Lorca (
Medrano’s love-affair with García Lorca comes
full circle with this long
awaited production of the most famous play in the tragic trilogy.
Incorporating song, chant, poetry, music, and visual symbolism,
this
masterpiece takes deeply rooted Andalusian traditions into the
realm of
contemporary culture. In
Spanish with English surtitles.
June 5-29
Solamente Lara: A Love Song For Lara
conceived by Abel Lopez
An original musical on the life and songs of
Agustín Lara, Mexico’s legendary
composer-poet who played the world’s heartstrings with his classic
romantic
melodies and boleros. A renowned Don Juan and habitué of the
nightclub scene,
Lara’s marriage to Mexican screen goddess Maria Felix left an indelible
mark. In Spanish with English
surtitles.
Horizons Theatre
3700 South Four Mile Run Drive
Arlington, VA 22206
703 578-1100 (admin/box office)
703 228-1851 (fax)
Producing theatre from a woman's perspective,
with interest in
producing
women playwrights and creating opportunities for women theatre artists.
Season TBA
September 29 – November 4
The Jungle Book based on the stories by Rudyard Kipling, adapted for the stage by April Dawn Gladu, music and lyrics by Daniel Levy (Washington Premiere)
A lively new musical adaptation
of Rudyard Kipling’s classic
story about a boy who is adopted by the wolves and brought up in the
forest and
taught by Baloo, the bear, and Bagheera, the jaguar. Mowgli is preyed
upon by
the evil tiger, Shere Kahn. He is plagued by the dreadful jokesters,
the
monkeys. And when his life is in jeopardy, he must draw upon both his
knowledge
of the animal and human worlds in order to survive—and triumph. Get in
the act
with lots of audience participation.
(Ages 4 and up)
November 23 - January 13
Twice Upon a
Time:
Dr.
Seuss’ The Lorax and The Emperor’s New Clothes two musicals by
Lynn Ahrens and
Stephen Flaherty
The talented creators of Seussical take on two
favorite tales in a sparkling
new musical making its East Coast debut at Imagination Stage! Rising to
the
role of emperor at age 14 proves too much for bookish Marcus, the hero
of our
tale. While he yearns to make a friend and play like
February 2 - March 9
Lost &
Foundling by Eric R. Pfeffinger (
An epic journey across a very big store! As a baby,
Pryce was found at the Mega
Price-Mart and raised there by doting sales associates. When she hears
that
there is a Lost and Found at the far end of the store, she sets off on
a quest
with all the elements of a modern fairytale or “fair retail!” She
survives the
Free Samples Lady and the Demanding Customer, endures the Neverending
Line, and
much, much more. Finally, she makes the unexpected and timeless
discovery that
is her happy ending. (Ages 6 and up)
April 15 - June 8
Looking for Roberto Clemente book & lyrics by Karen Zacarías, music by Deborah Wicks La Puma (World Premiere)
The year: 1972. The place:
June 28-August 10
The Neverending
Story by David S. Craig, from the novel by
Michael Ende (East coast premiere)
A thrilling drama in the epic spirit of The Lord of
the Rings, The Neverending
Story begins with Bastian, a lonely boy who sneaks up to his school’s
attic in
order to read. There, he discovers the
November 9 - 18
Noël &
Cole
A cabaret tribute to Noël Coward and Cole
Porter. At Gala Theatre at the
November 11 - 17
Of Love and War
Passionate staged poetry by Garcia Lorca and
Whitman, framed by music &
dance. At
Gala Theatre at the
January 19 - 27
Opera Triptych
Monteverdi's The Combat, Mozart's The Impresario and Holst's Savitri. With full
orchestra. At the Atlas Performing
January 25 - 26
GI Jive!
SingCo Rhythm Orchestra in a swinging tribute to our
WWII troops. At the Atlas Performing
March 7 - 9
Mujeres
Folk music group Cantaré & Friends
perform exquisite Latino songs and
poetry. At
March 28 - April 6
¡Viva
Zarzuela!
Light-opera combo:
May 17 - 31
From
Cabaret of vintage songs linking DC's
June 14 - 15
¡Fin de
Fiesta!
Master-pianist Carlos Rodríguez & Friends
in a blockbuster recital. At the
Atlas
Performing
The Keegan Theatre
703-892-0202
703-536-4090 (fax)
Presenting diverse productions and theatrical
experiences including
at
least one work by an Irish playwright each season and establishing
relationships
with local playwrights to identify and stage original new productions.
November 9 - December 8
Glengarry Glen
Ross by David Mamet
Glengarry Glen Ross explores the cutthroat world of selling and its ruthless inhabitants. Once named "the bard of immorality," David Mamet pits five real estate salesmen in a ferocious battle for their lives as they ricochet from the exhilaration of success to the degradation of failure. Presented at Church Street Theatre,
November 15 - December 15
Alone It Stands
by John Breen (American Premiere)
Alone It Stands tells the tale of Munster Rugby Team’s legendary victory over
February 21 - March 29
The Hostage
by Brendan Behan
The IRA takes an innocent British soldier hostage
in a bawdy
Irish bar - he is to be shot if the British go through with the
execution of an
IRA youth. What follows, though, is a truly comic approach to both life
and
art; this is a circus of flamboyant colors and theatre styles. Presented at Church
Street Theatre,
April 18 - May 17
A brilliant work of historical fiction, Translations explores the dilemma of traditions and national identity juxtaposed with colonialism and changing times in the politically charged landscape of early 1800s
A run-down pub/hotel in
The Kennedy Center Theater for Young Audiences
2700
202-467-4600
Producing new works and a year-long series of
performances for young
people and their families.
Oct 19 - Nov 3
Nobody’s Perfect
Adapted from Marlee Matlin and Doug Cooney's children's book, this world premiere follows Megan, who is deaf and learns that nobody's perfect. Co-commissioned and co-produced with VSA arts. (Ages 9 and up)
Nov 16 - Dec 16
The
Phantom
Tollbooth
This world-premiere musical, adapted from Norton
Juster's classic children's
book with lyrics by 3-time Tony winner Sheldon Harnick, tells the story
of
Milo, who comes to realize that life is more exciting than his wildest
dreams. (Ages
9 and up)
Feb 7 - 10
Up
in the
Air: The Story of Boonah, the Tree-Climbing Frog
Mar 8 – 16
Chasing
George Washington: A White House Adventure
In this special project with the White House
Historical Association, the
Apr 4 – 12
Kite
on the
Wind: A Tale of Pakistan
Combining the talents of American and Pakistani
artists, this world-premiere
play is an inspiring depiction of growing up in a metropolis bursting
with rich
tradition. (Ages 9 and up)
Kennedy
Center
Presentations
Oct 28
NSO
Family
Concert: More Spooky Sounds and Scary Tales
Get a head start on Halloween and come dressed in
your spookiest costume for
this "spirited" Sunday afternoon concert event led by NSO Associate
Conductor Emil de Cou.
Nov 4
NSO
Children's
Concert with Iván Fischer
NSO Principal Guest Conductor Iván Fischer
introduces kids to the world of
classical music through short, carefully selected works performed by
NSO
ensembles.
Dec 22
The Choral Arts Society of Washington: Family Christmas Concert
Dec 27 – 31
Leo
Lionni's Swimmy,
Frederick, and Inch by Inch
Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia returns with three
charming stories by beloved
author Leo Lionni told through puppetry, innovative stage techniques,
and
original music. (Ages 4 and up)
Jan 5
NSO
Teddy
Bear Concert: The Imagination Duo
During Teddy Bear concerts, inspired by a popular
family concert tradition in
Europe, children ages three to five bring their favorite stuffed animal
to
interactive musical programs featuring members of the NSO.
Jan 6
NSO Ensemble
Concert: Connections: MORE Math and Music
In NSO Ensemble Concerts, members of the NSO connect
music with various school
subjects such as science and math.
Jan 13
NSO
Kinderkonzert: Strings and Stories
NSO Kinderkonzerts introduce children and their
families to orchestral
instruments.
Jan 19 – 20
Pacífico
Dance Company
Los Angeles–based folklorico dance ensemble
Pacífico Dance Company entertains
and educates audiences with its Mexican folk dance and innovative
choreography.
(Ages 7 and up)
Jan 26 - 27
Step
Afrika!
Step to the music--again! In the return of this
high-energy DC-based company,
Step Afrika! members use their bodies to create rhythmically and
visually
stunning dances. (Ages 7 and up)
Mar 2
NSO
Family
Concert: Peter and the Wolf
The Magic Circle Mime Company returns to perform
their popular production of Peter
and the Wolf in this NSO Family Concert led by NSO Associate Conductor
Emil de
Cou.
May 3 – 10
NSO
Teddy
Bear Concert: More Tunes 'n' (Pig) Tales!
During Teddy Bear concerts, inspired by a popular
family concert tradition in
May 18
NSO
Family
Concert: All in the Musical Family
Music Director Leonard Slatkin leads the Orchestra
in the world premiere of TROYJAM,
a new work by Michael Daugherty, commissioned especially for
families by
the National Symphony Orchestra.
Three
Sistahs by
story by JAnet Pryce, book and lyrics by Thomas W. Jones II, music by
William Hubbard..
An elegant intimate musical which embrace th lives
of three "sistahs" as they reunite, reveal and reconcile thier past and
present, while sharing the promise of thier future. A
soul-shaking eveneing of gospel, rhythm & blues, funk and folk.
Ocotber 4 -
November 25
Jonathan is a promising young composer on the eve of this 30th birthday...his girlfriend wants to get married and move out of the city (tick)...his best friend is making big bucks on Madison Avenue (tick)...and he’s still waiting tables and trying to write the great American musical before time, and, unbeknownst to him, life pass him by (BOOM!).
January 17 -
March 9
Cookin' by
Marion J. Caffrey, musical arrangements by Danny Holgate.
A hot new musical revue featuring the songs of award-winning composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz. Celebrate the work of one of Broadway’s most acclaimed writers with Wicked new musical arrangements from Broadway and regional favorites Pippin, Godspell, Children of Eden, and The Baker’s Wife, the award-winning films Prince of Egypt, Pocahontas and more. There is 'magic to do' in our little 'corner of the sky'...'when you believe' you will 'defy gravity'...all at MetroStage this spring!
The
National Theatre
202-628-6161 (general information)
202-783-3372 (Saturday/Monday outreach)
October 23 – November 4
The 25th Annual
Putnam County Spelling Bee
In this Tony Award winning new musical comedy six young people in the throes of puberty, overseen by grown-ups who barely escaped childhood themselves, learn that winning isn’t everything and that losing doesn’t necessarily make you a loser. Spelling Bee has been hailed by The Wall Street Journal as “perfect in every possible way – that rarity of rarities, a super-smart musical which is also a crowd-pleaser.” This tuneful, off-beat and at times heartwarming show offers audience members the opportunity (strictly voluntary) to become part of the action as on-stage spellers.
November 27 - December 9
Avenue Q by Robert Lopez, Jeff Marx, and Jeff Whitty
Avenue Q is set on a fictional
February 5-17
High School Musical
A new stage musical based on the Disney Channel original movie
June 24-July 13
Mamma Mia!
Mamma Mia! Is the global phenomenon based n the songs of ABBA. Timeless songs such as "Dancing Queen", "I Have a Dream, Voulez-Vous", and "Take a Chance on Me", are ingeniously woven into an enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter's quest to discover the identity of her father brings 3 men from her mother's past back to the Greek island paradise they last visited 20 years ago.
Olney Theatre Center for the Arts
2001 Olney-Sandy Spring Road
Olney, MD 20832
301-924-4485 (administration)
301-924-3400 (box office)
www.olneytheatre.org
Producing a diverse theatre season: Main stage
season for general
audiences;
National Players, a classical touring company for young adults; free
Summer
Shakespeare Festival and Potomac Theatre Project, alternative theatre
in
residence (see separate listing).
September 26 – October 21
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
This American classic is the stage adaptation of John Steinbeck’s best-known novel about a devoted friendship. Of Mice and Men follows the lives of Lennie, a strong man with the mind of a child, and George, a smaller man with quick wit, as they struggle to find work and make a life for themselves. Follow their story as they dream of a simple place to call their own, and struggle to understand their place in the world.
October 4 - November 11
Late Nite Catechism by Vicki Quade and Maripat Donovan
This interactive one-nun show is part catechism class and part stand-up comedy routine. Each performance is unique! Funny for all (religious or not), you, the audience member, are part of Sister’s class. She’ll take you back to the days of the Latin Mass, meatless Fridays, and remind you about that good old ruler across the knuckles! The show will make you laugh your sins off!
November 14 – December 30
Fiddler on the Roof book by Joseph Stein, music by Jerry Bock, lyrics by Sheldon Harnick
This musical favorite about
family and tradition comes just
in time for the holiday season! Fiddler on the Roof, one of the most
famous
stage and film musicals, centers on patriarch Tevye and his attempt to
honor
and maintain ancestral and religious customs while adapting to new
pressures in
tsarist Russia. The score includes such outstanding songs as “If I Were
a Rich
Man;” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker;” “
February 12 -
March 9
Doubt: A Parable by John
Patrick Shanley
What do you do when you're not sure? Set in a Bronx Catholic school during the sixties, a rule-loving nun does not approve of teachers offering friendship over discipline. When she suspects a new priest of inappropriate conduct with a student, she is faced with the prospect of charging him with unproven allegations that would possibly destroy his career as well as her own. Winner of the 2005 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 2005 Tony Award for Best Play.
March 11 - April 20
Bad Dates by Theresa Rebeck
Come walk a mile in Haley Walker’s shoes, all 600 pairs. Join the Texan waitress as she reenters the dating scene after a long hiatus. A terrible string of dates and the Romanian Mafia all get in the way of finding the perfect man, but with her mountain of shoes, she is sure to find Mr. Right.
April 8 - May 11
1776 book by: Peter Stone,music
and lyrics by: Sherman Edwards
Finally, a history lesson you
won’t sleep through! 1776 is a
light hearted look at John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas
Jefferson as
they grapple with the problems of the continental congress and
independence
from
June 3 - 29
The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie
A young couple, a man running from his past, an army major, a spinster, a foreigner, and a policeman are stuck in a hotel during a snow storm. Unfortunately a murderer is afoot and no one is above suspicion. You’ll be on the edge of you seat throughout this classic whodunit by Agatha Christie.
June 17 - July 27
Stuff Happens by David Hare
Mixing verbatim recreations of real speeches/meetings and fictionalized versions of private meetings, Stuff Happens follows George Bush, Tony Blair, Condoleezza Rice, Colin Powell and other world figures in the decisions that lead up to the Iraq War. Join this dark comedy through a historical narrative full of human drama
July 15 - August 3
Rabbit Hole by David Lindsay-Abaire
Becca and Howie Corbett are
ordinary people living in an
upscale suburban neighborhood. It seems they have everything; but a
life-shattering accident turns their world upside down and leaves the
couple
drifting perilously apart. With honesty and humor, Rabbit Hole is about
searching for hope, comfort, and forgiveness in the darkest moments of
our
lives. Winner of the 2007 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
adapted by Steve Martin from a
play by Carl
Sternheim
September 23 - October 19
The Underpants
No one wants to be caught with their pants
down. However,
Theo and his young wife, Louise, are at the center of a public scandal
when her
bloomers innocently fall down during a parade for the king. Steve
Martin brings
his comic genius to this outrageous look at feminism, sex, and
politics.
November 18 - January 4
Peter Pan book by: J.M. Barrie,
music by: Mark Charlap with additional music by
Jule Styne, yrics by: Carolyn Leigh with additional lyrics by Betty
Comden and
Adolph Green
Take a magical adventure this holiday season. Fly to
Neverland with the Darling
children, mischievous Lost Boys, Tiger Lily, swashbuckling pirates, a
spunky
fairy, and of course Peter Pan himself. This musical stage adaptation
of J.M.
Barrie’s children's classic is sure to delight audiences of all ages,
so it’s
ok if you want to grow up!
Quotidian
Theatre Company
5705 Brewer House Circle #202
North Bethesda, Maryland 20852
(301) 816-1023 (administration/box office)
October 19– November 18
The Carpetbagger’s Children by Horton Foote
An encore presentation of
Foote’s heart-warming tale of
three sisters in 1940s
April 4 – May 4
The Mollusc by Hubert Henry
Davies
An Edwardian comedy of ill
manners. The title character,
Dulcie Baxter, has an unusual yet hilarious affliction in this
delightful farce
which first hit the
July 11 – August 10
Long Day’s Journey into Night by Eugene O’Neill
O’Neill’s autobiographical masterpiece recounts the lives of the Tyrone family with a power unmatched on the American stage.
Rep Stage
10901 Little Patuxent Parkway
Howard Community College
Columbia, MD 21044
410-772-4267 (administration)
410-772-4900 (box office)
410-772-4040 (fax)
August 22 - September 23
Mrs. Farnsworth
by A. R. Gurney (Washington/Baltimore Premiere)
How does an individaul change history? IN
2004, a college writing
class provides the setting when a wealthy woman joins the group to tell
her story of her past with an influential man in power in
Washington. When her husband shows up, debate and folly ensue. Mrs. Farnsworth examines the
power of the individaul in our contemporary political landscape from a
unique and humorous perspective.
October 3 – November 4
A Shayna Maidel
by Barbara Lebow
Political history is personal history. A
family decides to
separate--a father and daughter escape to New York City; a mother and
daughter remain to face life, the war, and the moments of truth in the
everyday. Set in Brooklyn in 1946, accented by memories of life
before escape, A Shayna Maidel
reveals the transcendent and sustaining power of family as Mordechai
and his daughters accept, adjust and heal as they reunite and face the
unknown aftermath of the Holocaust.
December 5 - 23
The Santaland
Diaries by David Sedaris
What have you done that you want to erase from your
memory? Back
by popular demand, Bruce Nelson recounts again the humorous and acerbic
tale of working as an elf at Macy's during the holiday season.
The play has become an "anti-holiday' cult classic..
January 23 - February 24
Mrs. Warren's
Profession by George Bernard Shaw
A daughter's discvoery of a morther's history brings to light the clash of ideals and economies of womanhood. This sotry turns on the relationship between Mrs. Warren, a "genial and fairly presentable old blackguard of a woman" (who happened to earn her money as a prostitute) and her "prudish" CAmbridge-educated daughter, Vivie.
March 26 – April 13
Thom Pain Based
on Nothing
May 28 - June 29
In the Heart of
America by Naomi Wallace (
(202) 265-5057
Performance space: Casa Del Pueblo/Calvary
Methodist
Church,
Seeking
to lure audiences
beyond
the limits of ordinary theatrical experiences so that they may discover
new
elements of their own humanity through uncommon uses of environment and
intimate
passionate performances.
November
Kit Marlowe by David Grimm
Hungry for adventure and a way
to make his mark,
Christopher
Marlowe becomes a spy for a dark wing of the British government. Set in
the
seedy underworld of Elizabethan England, the story charts the meteoric
rise and
fall of Kit Marlowe—playwright, poet, spy and sexual outlaw. Rorschach
delves
into a world of intrigue and espionage, where spies are betrayed by the
very
government they serve. Part of
the
February
The Skin of Our Teeth by Thorton Wilder
The Antrobus Family has seen it all: war, plague, ice age, flood and even more war. This three act classic written by the same author who revolutionized American Theater with Our Town, shows the resiliency of the human race as it faces over and over again disasters both natural and man made. Rorschach Theatre brings to life Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize winning comedy about the end of the world.
April - June
Dream Sailors
by Randy Baker (
Four friends, drawn together by their uniquely powerful ability to lucid dream, awaken to make a grim discovery in their basement. Their worlds turned upside down, they must return to the dark landscape of their dreams for answers. But what lurks there might destroy them all. The play will unfold “episodically” in four parts, with a new hour-long play premiering every three weeks.
July - August
This Storm Is What We Call Progress by Jason Grote (World Premiere)
A young man
stumbles into a dusty old recording
studio haunted by ghosts and run by a sinister old woman and her
beautiful
assistant. In this ancient and powerful place he is drawn into a world
of
Jewish mysticism and kabalistic ritual and discovers that he may be
more than
he thought, quite possibly even the Messiah.
Round House Theatre
4545 East-West Highway,