WEEKENDS ON WEDNESDAYS

WEEKENDS ON WEDNESDAYS

BSO: Respighi Pines of Rome

Jan 31-Feb 2, Baltimore & Bethesda: Respighi's Pines of Rome and the composer's lesser-known but infectiously brilliant gem, Brazilian Impressions, form the centerpiece of this program. Percussionist Colin Currie returns with a new concerto by Scottish composer Helen Grime.

Everything is Wonderful

Now-Feb 24, Baltimore: Everyman Theatre represents this compelling play about an Amish couple's two sons are killed in a car accident, the family struggles to maintain their faith and cling to their way of life. In an act of unfathomable forgiveness, they take in Eric, the wayward young driver of the car. But Eric's mistake cracks open the family's history and brings home their eldest daughter, Miri, who was excommunicated five years earlier. Miri returns to find her family in shambles, the man who killed her brothers living in the barn, and the man who drove her away intent upon marrying her younger sister. Without a way forward, this insular community must seek to heal the deep wounds of the past, forcing everyone into a new kind of reckoning.

United States Navy Concert Band

Feb 1, Annapolis: The United States Navy Concert Band, the premier wind ensemble of the U.S. Navy, presents a wide array of marches, patriotic selections, orchestral transcriptions and modern wind ensemble repertoire.  As the original ensemble of the Navy Band, the Concert Band has been performing public concerts and participating in high-profile events for over 85 years.

Bill Murray Film Festival

Feb 2-5, Havre de Grace: Groundhog Day, Caddyshack, Lost in Translation and Moonrise Kingdom

National Philharmonic: Chopin - Recollections of Home

Feb 2, Bethesda: Join pianist Brian Ganz and Polish mezzo-soprano Magdalena Wór for the 9th recital in Ganz's journey through the beloved Romantic composer's complete works!  Frédéric Chopin was without question the greatest Polish composer of all time. Although he spent only the first half of his life in Poland, much of his music reveals his deep love for- and connection to- his homeland. Mr. Ganz and Ms. Wór present works that give expression to this profound connection. Featured will be the Polish dances for solo piano that Chopin composed throughout his life, Polonaises and Mazurkas; the work he said he would first perform in an independent Poland, the rarely heard Allegro de Concert; and the songs he composed setting the work of the great Polish poets of his time. All of these pieces reveal how Chopin himself became the spirit of Poland.

Maple Sugaring Days

Every Thursday, Saturday and Sunday in February watch the whole maple sugaring process from start to finish. Join in the fun and learn something new at this family-friendly program at Brookside Gardens!

To Catch a Thief: Constellation Fights the Slave Trade

Month of February: Constellation's proudest service may have occurred during the three years immediately before the Civil War when, as flagship of the navy's African Squadron, she led this nation's fight against the trans-Atlantic trafficking of slaves.  Today, little is said or written about those times, and even less is known, but they and this ship were important parts of the struggle against slavery that would eventually overwhelm the nation and, ultimately, free a people. In honor of Black History Month, the To Catch a Thief tour will be held at 1:00 PM every Saturday and Sunday in February.  This presentation is open to all visitors and is included with regular admission. No reservations are required.

Baroque Masters Medley

Feb 3, Baltimore: Bach in Baltimore presents Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 1; Handel’s Water Music; Vivaldi’s Concerto for Violin, Bassoon, Oboe and Horn

Snow White

Feb 3, Owings Mills: A premiere performance by the Ballet Theatre of Maryland. Brothers Grimm fairytale Snow White comes to life at the Gordon, debuting nationally in celebration of Ballet Theatre of Maryland’s 40th anniversary. Snow White, the Evil Queen, and the Magic Mirror will light up the stage in this classic tale of romance, betrayal, and happily-ever-after.

Violin Extravaganza!

Feb 4, Baltimore: Sylvia Adalman Chamber Series and the Peabody Institute present a Violin Extravaganza that will appeal to all lovers of violins!

International Guitar Night

Feb 2, Owings Mills: Each year, International Guitar Night’s founder Brian Gore invites a new cast of guitar luminaries from around the world for special concert tours of North America highlighting the diversity of the acoustic guitar. For International Guitar Night’s 19th year of touring, Brian has assembled another incredible, dynamic quartet: Guest host Luca Stricagnoli, Italy’s explosive contemporary showman, returns by popular demand, joined by two of France’s acclaimed young prodigies, Swing guitarist Antoine Boyer and Flamenco guitarist Samuelito, and the ground-breaking Turkish fretless guitarist Cenk Erdogan.

And Then There Were None

Now-Feb 10, Baltimore: Ten seeming strangers with suspicious pasts are brought together on a remote island that turns into a deathtrap where an unknown assassin executes them one by one. The Queen of Mystery (whose The Mousetrap thrilled Vagabond Players’ audiences five seasons ago) once again delivers a compelling puzzle with enough twists and turns to keep you gripped in your seat until the very, very end.

A Long, Long Way: Race and Film, 1989-2019

Feb 1-2, DC: Head to the Washington National Cathedral and join filmmakers, critics, theologians, scholars, teachers, clergy, policymakers and others interested in the intersecton of film and culture, and in the work of racial reconciliation and justice.

Wizards vs. Milwaukee Bucks

Feb 2, DC: The Wizards will celebrate Black History Month with special promotions and their exclusive Statement Jerseys in this Saturday night matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, one of the NBA’s best teams. Bradley Beal and the Wiz will look to take down their Eastern Conference rival, a team led by one of the most exciting players in the world, forward Giannis Antetokounmpo.

I Am A Man

Feb 2, DC: On the day before his assassination in 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stood alongside the striking sanitation workers of Memphis who carried signs declaring “I AM A MAN.” Ron Miles, “one of the finest trumpeters in jazz today”, makes his most compelling artistic statement to date with a night of music from his new project, a record titled after this simple, powerful phrase that challenged centuries of discrimination. The Kennedy Center presents the group’s virtuosic camaraderie animates I AM A MAN’s expansive themes, building an album of and for today from the spiritual foundations of black American music.

12th College Improv Tournament East Region

Feb 2, Baltimore: BIG is excited to host the College Improv Tournament's East Regional. CIT is a celebration of collegiate improv disguised as a competition that encompasses 12 regionals and ultimately culminates with a Nationals competition in Chicago, IL. This year's competing East Regional teams: The Loaf - Shenandoah University Running AMok - Virginia Commonwealth University AU Improv - American University The Buttered Niblets - Johns Hopkins University The Bureau - University of Maryland, College Park Loyola Improv Team - Loyola University Maryland.

Special Olympics Polar Plunge 2019

Feb 2, DC: The Polar Plunge and ICE YARDS will be joining forces this year to take the frozen fun to another level! The event will include an ice bar, live music, interactive ice activities, food vendors from neighborhood favorites and so much more! Too chicken to plunge? You can still make a donation to show your support of Special Olympics DC athletes, or fundraise to sponsor an athlete's plunge! Your involvement is critical in helping our athletes achieve their goals and in showing that our community embraces acceptance and inclusion. Your fundraising makes a real impact in the lives of Special Olympics DC athletes, helping them lead healthier lives and develop valuable life skills. Thank you again for your help!

Amy Schumer

Feb 2, Baltimore: Catch the Emmy-Award winning comedian in Amy Schumer's Fall Tour. Amy Schumer is a standup comedian, actress, writer, producer and director. Schumer is the creator, star, writer and executive producer of the award winning "Inside Amy Schumer," the popular Comedy Central television series, which premiered in April 2013 to the network's highest season premiere ratings of that year.

National Law Enforcement Museum's Family Fun Day

Feb 2, DC: Explore the world of working K9s during a first Free Family Fun Day. Put your matching skills to the test and flex your smell power at our Activity Cart. See how creative you can be at our Maker Station in the Dupont Gallery. Work as a team to complete our scavenger hunt while exploring all the amazing exhibits we have to offer. Family members of all ages are welcome!

WEEKENDS ON WEDNESDAYS

NSO Pops: An Evening with Brandy

Jan 25-26, DC: In her first collaboration with a live orchestra, the multi-platinum, Grammy-winning singer/actress will perform favorites from her iconic career, from her R&B chart-topper "The Boy Is Mine" to songs from her Broadway turn as Roxie Hart in Chicago. She'll also put a twist on classics made famous by Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Sam Cooke, and more.

Music for Young Audiences: Banda Magda

Jan 26-27, DC: This award-winning band combines South American rhythms with jazz improvisation, sung in six languages for a globetrotting adventure. Banda Magda returns with a lively performance showcasing its new album Tigre, featuring Uruguayan candombe to Greek folklore to Brazilian samba beats. With plenty of audience participation and irresistible rhythms led by accordionist and composer Magda Giannikou, Banda Magda will get the whole family moving.

Washington Improv Theatre: WIT Road Show

Now-Jan 27, DC: Spontaneous. Unpredictable. Joyous. Washington Improv Theater brings supremely creative improv programming to Atlas in this special Road Show production.

Fun Home

Now-Jan 24, Baltimore: Center Stage presents this poignant tale which harnesses every facet of music and theater to explore and unravel the mysteries of childhood and the surprising secrets that shape a life. Winner of the 2015 Tony Award for Best Musical, from the composer of Caroline, or Change and the writer of 2.5 Minute Ride.

Rodgers and Hammerstein

Now-Jan 27, Bethesda and Baltimore: Jack Everly leads Broadway stars and the BSO in some of the greatest Rodgers and Hammerstein hits, including memorable songs from The King and I, South Pacific, The Sound of Music, Oklahoma! and more.

Baltimore Boat Show

Now-Jan 27, Baltimore: Enjoy four days of boating fun at Maryland's longest-running boat show!

Find the boat of your dreams and everything to go with it at Maryland’s longest-running indoor boating sales event. The Baltimore Convention Center will be packed with more boats, more exhibits, and more family fun than ever before. See and board boats for every lifestyle, activity and budget. Browse booths showcasing the latest in engines, marine electronics, accessories fishing tackle and gear, too. There's something for everyone, including educational seminars and kid-friendly activities.

And Then There Were None

Now-Feb 10, Baltimore: Ten seeming strangers with suspicious pasts are brought together on a remote island that turns into a deathtrap where an unknown assassin executes them one by one. The Queen of Mystery (whose The Mousetrap thrilled Vagabond Players’ audiences five seasons ago) once again delivers a compelling puzzle with enough twists and turns to keep you gripped in your seat until the very, very end.

Orioles Fan Fast

Jan 26, Baltimore: Summer in Birdland begins on Saturday, January 26, with Orioles FanFest, presented by Visit Sarasota. Join O's fans at the Baltimore Convention Center for a day-long baseball celebration with player appearances, Kids' Press Conferences, Q&A sessions, games, autographs, one-of-a-kind memorabilia, and more.

Howard County Restaurant Week

Now-Feb 4, HoCo: Kick it up a notch this winter! Over twenty-five restaurants in and around Howard County are offering fifteen days of warm and hearty chefs’ of multi-course, specialty plates. Restaurants across Howard County are serving up warm and hearty plates at prices diners will love. Participating restaurants are offering fixed-price, multi-coursed, chef’s menus (beverages, tax, gratuity not included, promotions and menus vary.) Over 25 restaurants are participating, so there is sure to be something for every taste and budget.

Lone Star Championship Rodeo

Jan 25-26, Salisbury: The Rodeo returns to the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center Friday, with a full rodeo lineup, including bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, cowgirls' breakaway roping, steer wrestling, team roping, cowgirls' barrel racing and - of course - bull riding. The rodeo is co-sanctioned with the American Professional Rodeo Association and features professional and amateur cowboys and cowgirls from all over the region. Specialty acts include Mike Wentworth, two-time Barrelman of the Year, and Lindsey Wentworth, trick roper, whip cracker and gunslinger extraordinaire.

Immersion Day

Jan 26, Annapolis: Immerse yourself in London Town, circa 1770. Chat with tailors, shoemakers, teachers, cooks, servants, enslaved people, and merchants who sleep in the cold and huddle over the fire. They eat only period dishes and live as close to the eighteenth century style as possible.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Now-Jan 27, Baltimore: This acclaimed musical is set to tour the States from September 2018, following its transfer from London's West End, where it premiered in 2013. Proving to be a monster hit with audiences, it set the record for the highest weekly gross in West End history. It also garnered two Olivier Awards for its lush costumes and creative lighting design. So step into a candy wonderland with this spectacular adaptation of Roald Dahl's classic.

WEEKENDS ON WEDNESDAYS

Metro Washington Restaurant Week

Jan 14-20, Metro DC: Presented by the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington, the most anticipated regional food-related promotion in the region, the Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week, has 250 participating restaurants spread out all over the DMV.

School of Rock, the Musical

Jan 16-27, DC: The National Theatre presents A New York Times Critics’ Pick. Based on the hit film, this hilarious new musical follows Dewey Finn, a wannabe rock star posing as a substitute teacher who turns a class of straight-A students into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band. This high-octane smash features 14 new songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber, all the original songs from the movie and musical theater’s first-ever kids rock band playing their instruments live on stage.

Official Spin DC Grand Opening

Jan 17, DC: You’re invited to the grand opening celebration of SPIN . Enjoy a festive evening featuring Olympic ping pong champions, imaginative cocktails and our newly launched  menu. A $10 donation grants you unlimited ping pong access and all proceeds are donated to our friends at 826DC. SPIN is your new offline social network, a place to disconnect and connect over the simple game of ping pong. Partake in our weekly programming, happy hour specials, team building activities or just come and enjoy the game of ping pong.

Kleptocracy

Jan 18-Feb 24, DC: It is one of the most pivotal moments in history — the Soviet Union has collapsed. In the ensuing rampage of hyper-capitalism, the Oligarchs, a new class of robber barons, plunge Russia into a terrifying dark age of chaos and corruption. When the richest and most ruthless Oligarch attempts to reform and open Russian markets to the world, he’s confronted by a young Vladimir Putin who is charting his own path to power. This world-premiere drama by Kenneth Lin (House of Cards) turns the spotlight on U.S.-Russia relations when crude oil is the language of diplomacy and events that dominate today’s headlines are first set in motion.

Dr. MLK Weekend at Eastern State Penitentiary

Jan 19-21, Philadelphia: Eastern State Penitentiary commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his 1963 "Letter from Birmingham Jail" with special readings from the landmark text and opportunities for visitors to respond to its relevance today. Why did the civil rights leaders of the 1960s choose jail time to demonstrate their plight? How did Dr. King’s letter, written in the margins of a newspaper and smuggled out of Birmingham Jail, create a pivotal moment in the American civil rights movement? If Dr. King were alive today, what issues would his letter address?

Mathmati-con

Jan 19, Baltimore: Participate in a day-long series of free events open to the public as part of the Joint Mathematics Meetings. Participate in a contest or cheer on a contestant. See a mathematical art exhibition, be part of a math circle, hear a public talk and take away fun memories!

Sibelius Violin Concerto

Jan 19-20, Baltimore and Bethesda: Principal Guest Conductor Markus Stenz conducts an eclectic program including the beautiful Siegfried Idyllthat Richard Wagner wrote for his wife, Cosima. In response to failing his violin audition with the Vienna Philharmonic, Sibelius composed one of the most technically challenging violin concertos ever written, performed here by Latvian violinist Baiba Skride. Haydn’s "London" Symphony is the composer's most regal symphony, filled with the sounds of trumpets and timpani.

The Soap Myth

Jan 20, Owings Mills: Did the Nazis make soap from the bodies of murdered Jews? In this dramatic play reading a cast of four, including the legendary Ed Asner and Tovah Feldshuh, examines the conflict between those who would honor the memory of the Holocaust and those who would deny it. This is the story of the friendship that develops between a young journalist and a cantankerous Holocaust survivor on a crusade to have the Nazi atrocity of "soap" included in Holocaust Memorial museums. Along the way, the young journalist encounters a pernicious and charismatic Holocaust denier. The play addresses provocative questions such as: How does a survivor survive surviving? Who has the right to write history? Rabbi Joshua Gruenberg will facilitate a talk-back with the cast and playwright Jeff Cohen, a Baltimore native.

Baltimore County Restaurant Week

Jan 17-Feb 2, various locations: Good news for the hungry but budget-minded: Baltimore County Restaurant Week, offering reduced-price meals at more than 60 restaurants, begins Friday. The week (which actually runs 16 days) features fixed-price lunch, brunch and dinner menus, priced at $15-$35. The restaurants are scattered throughout the county, from Dimitri’s International Grille in Catonsville to Jimmy’s Famous Seafood in Dundalk, The Melting Pot in Towson to Kooper’s in Jacksonville.

Washington Wizards vs. Detroit Pistons

Jan 21, DC: The Wizards’ Martin Luther King, Jr. Day game is a holiday tradition, presenting a great opportunity to enjoy some matinee basketball inside Capital One Arena. John Wall, Bradley Beal and the rest of the Wiz will take on stars Blake Griffin, Andre Drummond and the Detroit Pistons. Each team is battling for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, making for an exciting afternoon matchup.

NSO: Renee Fleming sings Schubert

Jan 18-20, DC: At the mention of Renée Fleming's name, many of us can recall the first time we heard her interpret the great opera, classical, and contemporary repertoire. In a thrilling all-Schubert program, the internationally celebrated soprano joins NSO Music Director Gianandrea Noseda to perform at the Kennedy Center.

MLK Holiday Weekend, DC

Jan 21, DC: The D.C. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Parade was conceived in 1977 by the late Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, founder of The Washington Informer and co-founder of the United Black Fund, along with his wife, the late Ward 8 Councilmember Wilhelmina J. Rolark, Esq., and the late Ralph “Petey” Greene, a community activist and radio personality. Thanks to these three renowned civic leaders, the District of Columbia was one of the first jurisdictions in the nation to hold a parade honoring Dr. King following his untimely death on April 4, 1968. It helped in the effort to establish a national holiday in Dr. King’s honor and today it reinforces the work being done by government agencies, community non-profit organizations and private citizens to promote peace and non-violence locally and around the world.

Havre de Grace Ice Festival

Jan 19-20, Havre de Grace: Over 30+ Ice sculptures, Prince & Princess parade, Chili Cook-Off with our local restaurants, Photo Ops, Kids’ stations, Ice/Cornhole game, Contests, Movies, Food Trucks, Fire Pits, Marshamallow Toasting, Demonstrations, Restaurant Specials, Store Promotions, Live Performances at Elsa’s House (aka Santa Land).

Ballet Tales of Peter Rabbit and Friends

Jan 20, Gaithersburg: A quirky and fun dance interpretation of Beatrix Potter's beloved stories! Characters like Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, Jemima Puddle-Duck, and Tom Kitten come to life and help teach important lessons through dance. The Metropolitan Ballet Ensemble is MBT's professional ensemble that seeks to complement and expand the existing outreach and production programs. These professionals prepare an annual repertoire of pieces for regional outreach, and mentor our Academy students during productions and as guest or year-long faculty members.

Step AFRIKA!

Jan 20, Bethesda: Step Afrika!, the first professional company dedicated to the tradition of stepping, launches its 25th anniversary season at Strathmore with a retrospective performance of the company’s best-loved works including Wade, Passing 25, and Nxt/Stp: Hip Hop. Featuring the critically acclaimed artists of Step Afrika!, the company celebrates 25 years of stepping while paying homage to the company’s deep connections to South African dance, music, and culture.