By Sarah Goodwin
So you’re registered for arts advocacy day, you’ve purchased your ticket for EALS (and just in case you haven’t click here to do so now!), and you’ve got your travel plans all booked up – now it’s time to take advantage of the incredible performing arts opportunities DC has to offer! Whether you’re into classical music, ballet, theater, or jazz there’s something here for you during your time in the nation’s capital. Don’t know where to start your search? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Below you’ll find a short list of some of the top events taking place the Thursday, Friday, and Saturday before EALS.
National Theater presents Finding Neverland
Thursday, Friday and Saturday (2/28-3/2) | The National Theater
Directed by visionary Tony®-winner Diane Paulus and based on the critically-acclaimed Academy Award® winning film, Finding Neverland tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. With a little pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes a monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever. The magic of Barrie’s classic tale springs spectacularly to life in this heartwarming theatrical event.
National Symphony Orchestra
Thursday, Friday and Saturday (2/28-3/2) | John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
This program contains Roussel’s symphonic fragments from The Spider’s Feast, Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5, and Stravinsky’s Petrushka and features world renowned violinist, Gil Shaham.
Arena Stage presents The Heiress, by Ruth & Augustus Goetz
Thursday, Friday and Saturday (2/28-3/2) | Fichandler Stage
Finding one’s voice is never easy. Socially awkward and plain Catherine Sloper has struggled her entire life under the disapproving and resentful gaze of her father. It is the unexpected visit from a suitor full of sincerity and instantaneous devotion that awakens Catherine’s long abandoned hopes of true love and the opportunity for a fresh start. A devastating betrayal forces the scorned Catherine to learn how to roar, realize her truth and take control of her destiny.
Washington Ballet presents The Sleeping Beauty
Thursday, Friday and Saturday (2/28-3/2) | John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
A quintessential classical ballet inspired by the timeless fairy tale of true love’s kiss and the triumph of good over evil.
KC Jazz Club presents The Brianna Thomas Group
Saturday, March 2 | John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Brianna Thomas "may be the best jazz singer of her generation," according to renowned music critic Will Friedwald of The Wall Street Journal. Thomas is a soulful young singer oozing with personality, and when it comes to the blues she is the definition of a “showstopper.” She has recently become quite an audience favorite at Jazz at Lincoln Center, having also performed Valentine’s Day at Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, the acclaimed Ladies Sing the Blues and Fabulous Dorsey Brothers shows in The Appel Room, and multiple concerts with rock legend Steve Miller in Rose Theater. For one night only, she brings jazz, blues, and funk to the Jazz Club with original arrangements and favorites from Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaugh, other music of the African Diaspora.
