Theatre & Performing Arts

**This talk has completely sold out in advance and no door tickets will be available.** [Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Mermaid Tales,”** a discussion of the enigmatic water spirits of East Slavic countries, with folklorist Philippa Rappoport of George Washington University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/profs-pints-dc-mermaid-tales](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/profs-pints-dc-mermaid-tales) .] Be careful out there. According to Slavic folklore, in the late spring the rusalki, an East Slavic version of mermaids, emerge from lakes and streams to water crops and to claim lives. They're mostly beautiful, with wild hair and blazing eyes, and they’re more than happy to drag smitten young men to watery graves. Join Philippa Rappoport, an expert on Slavic folklore and rituals, for a discussion of the water spirits of Ukraine, Belarus and Russia and the traditions centered around them. She'll describe how rusalki were both revered and feared by people who would sing songs in their honor while carrying protective charms. You'll learn how East Slavic mermaid lore permeated wedding rituals and parades, inspired the construction of effigies, and reflected beliefs about women that, throughout the world, have translated into a lot of concern over how women wear their hair and cover their heads. Philippa has wowed crowds with fascinating talks on East Slavic nature spirits and folktales related to the underworld and winter. Her accounts of mermaids promise to be equally entertaining. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Rusalki as painted by Andrey Shishkin in 2015 (Creative Commons).

Join us for [Muay Thai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muay_Thai) kickboxing at [OSMA in Herndon, VA](https://www.virginiabjj.com/): an energetic evening class focused on striking technique, conditioning, and controlled sparring. 🔥 This adult (16+) class combines **technical instruction, pad work, partner drills**, and **cardio training** to build real-world skill and endurance in a safe, structured setting. Beginners and experienced students alike will learn how to apply the principles of **Muay Thai: *The Art Of Eight Limbs***, through precise strikes, timing, and defense. Classes take place every **Tuesday** and **Thursday** at **7:00 PM**. The **drop-in fee is $20**, payable on-site, and note that we are located in **Suite #130**. Come train with us and see why so many in [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) choose One Spirit Martial Arts for top-tier martial-arts instruction. **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)** Q: Is this class suitable for someone interested in **boxing**? A: Yes! Muay Thai shares many of the same **striking fundamentals** as [boxing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxing), including **stance**, **timing**, and **defensive movement**. Students searching for boxing gyms in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) or Northern Virginia train at OSMA to develop **solid punching technique** along with **kicks**, **knees**, and **elbows**.

The final band at Brookside Gardens summer twilight concert series is The Sidleys. The husband and wife songwriting team of Annie and Steve Sidley create their finest music yet as indie rock and soul group, The Sidleys. Influenced by artists as diverse as Stevie Wonder and The Beatles, and powered by Annie's soulful voice, The Sidleys write songs that are memorable and modern, yet instantly classic. A family-based collective, they are frequently joined on both stage and record by their sons, Sean, Colin and Ian, three uniquely talented musicians in their own right. Bring a chair I will be working the election. Look for charlottes

Have you been thinking about trying self-defense training, but do not want a loud, aggressive, or overly competitive environment? This free intro class is a simple way to get started. Maryland Systema offers practical self-defense training for adults in Rockville with a focus on movement, awareness, breathing, posture, and calm under pressure. This class is designed for beginners and first-timers who want real-world self-defense training in a welcoming setting. You do not need experience. You do not need to be in top shape. You do not need a martial arts background. You just need to show up ready to learn. This is not a sport-based class built around winning points, memorizing routines, or trying to look impressive. It is a more practical approach to adult self-defense training that helps you stay balanced, aware, and functional when things feel uncertain. If you have been searching for self-defense classes in Rockville, beginner self-defense near you, or practical self-defense training for adults, this class is a good place to start. **What you will work on** * Breathing and staying calm under pressure * Movement that improves balance and mobility * Awareness and posture * Simple partner drills * Practical self-defense training for beginners **Who this class is for** * Adults new to self-defense training * Beginners looking for a low-pressure class * People who want practical self-defense instead of sport martial arts * Adults in Takoma Park, Silver Spring, Rockville, and nearby areas looking for realistic self-defense classes **What to wear** Please wear comfortable workout clothes. No uniform is required. **Why start with this class** This free intro class gives you a chance to experience the training, meet the group, and see whether Maryland Systema is the right fit for you before joining regular weekly classes. **RSVP** Reserve your spot and come try a beginner-friendly self-defense class in Rockville.

[Book Your Ticket Here on our Website](https://crowndancestudio.com/group-classes/). This Class is for anyone who's taking some beginner classes and is considering leveling up. When?: Tuesday Level 2 Salsa Group Classes 7:00PM to 8:30PM. Do I need Partner? NO Is it a Series? No. But we review similar materials on the consistent basic. So having a good basic foundation in those dances will go a long way for you here. Cost: $25 Per Person for 90 minutes class Can I drop-in? Yes. Membership & Class pass available for your better growth and progress. www.crowndancestudio.com

Join us for **Youth [Muay Thai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muay_Thai) kickboxing** at the [Pedro Sauer Academy of Self-Defense](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/) (PSA) in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia): an energetic evening class focused on **striking techniques**, **conditioning**, and **controlled sparring**. 🔥 This youth class is appropriate for **kids 6 to 15 years of age** and combines **technical instruction, pad work, partner drills**, and **cardio training** to build real-world skill and endurance in a safe, structured setting. Beginners and experienced students alike will learn how to apply the principles of **Muay Thai: *The Art Of Eight Limbs***, through precise strikes, timing, and defense. Classes take place every **Tuesday** and **Thursday** starting at **5:10 PM** and ends at **6:00 PM**. A **free seven-day trial** is available for non-members.

[Writing Workshop Guide](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DwZnKJiIkfyJ_LrJvDCcCMWWCauWKR-LPJF3DwcKdlI/edit?usp=drivesdk) Please read the above Workshop Guide; it covers where to upload, how much to upload, and what to do with other people's uploads. This is a document based on what was discussed at the first meeting, but it can grow and change as needed. Feel free to let me know if you have any questions! We meet at Northside Social, but might consider other locations as needed. See you all there!

We invite you to *Parlor Varieté: A Burlesque Salon*, an evening that examines burlesque as an important American art form with a long, complicated, and interesting history – and provides ample demonstration of it! Performer and burlesque historian Bebe Bardeaux, ranked #19 on the Burlesque Top 50 in 2024, will deliver a brief lecture on the history and culture of burlesque from its beginnings in the 19th century up to today. A full show will follow, featuring some of the most engaging burlesque and variety performers in the DC area. After the show, attendees can participate in a talk-back conversation with Bebe Bardeaux, along with the show’s producers, award-winning performer Delilah Dentata and Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey alum Jim Dandy. Dress Code: Something you've been waiting for a reason to wear (that is, have fun with this!). ***Tickets include dinner, open bar, and dessert, and can be purchased [here](https://artsclubofwashington.org/events/details/?event_id=6722928). ***

Greetings! \*A Few Quick, Important Notes\*: 1. Tickets required at: **[https://thewashingtonforum.com/summer-social-2026/](https://thewashingtonforum.com/summer-social-2026/)** 2. A Free RSVP on Meetup is NOT a ticket for admission to this event. This is NOT a free event. Thanks! 3. Can't make this one, but interested in future events? Sign up here: **[https://forms.gle/4Pnws1HBn5M89Ro28](https://forms.gle/4Pnws1HBn5M89Ro28)** \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* You are cordially invited to a **SUMMER SOCIAL:** • A photo exhibition by **Sebastian Schuster** • The **Summer Social** will bring together people from across Washington for an evening of conversation, connection, and new introductions beyond the workday. From public service and nonprofits to business, media, culture, and the arts, the city is full of overlapping worlds that rarely come together in one room. This is a chance to change that—informally and in good company. Event details and registration: [https://thewashingtonforum.com/summer-social-2026/](https://thewashingtonforum.com/summer-social-2026/) Feel free to invite friends or colleagues who may be interested. I hope you can join us! Yours, **John Hanshaw** **Questions? Feel free to connect and reach out at:** [https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhanshaw](https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhanshaw/)

Artistic Artifacts hosts **Open Stitch sessions EVERY Thursday evenings** from 5:30 - 7:30 pm — join us! This is a drop-in, bring your own hand stitching project and the necessary supplies (or you can knit, crochet... whatever needle arts you like). There’s no fee to attend, no instruction nor agenda — just a time to spend with other creatives! Visit our website for all our class & event information: **[https://artisticartifacts.com/collections/wk](https://artisticartifacts.com/collections/wk)**

📍 Arlington Central Library Auditorium 📅 Select 4th Wednesdays \| Launching June 24th at 5:30 P\.M\. 🙌🏻 Volunteer: [resonanceimprov.org/volunteer-portal](http://resonanceimprov.org/volunteer-portal) 🎟️ RSVP: [sillygander.eventbrite.com](https://sillygander.eventbrite.com) Join Resonance Improv Alliance for the launch of Sillygander, a high-energy, community-driven improv series! This gathering combines accessible learning with a collaborative live comedy performance. Our mission at Resonance is to inspire and empower individuals to build connections through the principles of improv. Sillygander is our community sandbox—a warm, supportive environment built for absolute beginners, performance fans, and veteran players alike. **Improvisers:** Please volunteer as a workshop leader or jam EMCEE! These sessions can only be held when a member of our community steps in. Thank you! [resonanceimprov.org/volunteer-portal](http://resonanceimprov.org/volunteer-portal) **THE SCHEDULE:** * 5:30 PM - Welcoming Intro Workshop: Designed for absolute beginners. Try out classic improv games, build creative confidence, and laugh with new friends in a supportive, guilt-free environment. * **6:10 PM - Playtime Jam:** Watch local performers and workshop players put together custom, unscripted comedy sets right before your eyes. It is an incredibly connecting, collaborative experience where neighbors support neighbors. **ATTENDANCE & ACCESSIBILITY:** Sillygander features an Open-Door Policy—no tickets, registrations, or confirmation codes are needed. Just show up as you are! *Because content is unscripted, it is highly unpredictable and ranges structurally between a PG-13 and R-rated baseline (intended for ages 16+).* *Notice: This event is not sponsored by Arlington Public Library.* *Media Consent Notice: By attending Sillygander, you enter an area where photography, audio, and video recording may occur by Resonance Improv Alliance for community and promotional use. However, we value your privacy and comfort above all else. If you do not wish to be photographed or have your media shared, please inform an organizer on-site or contact us at contact@resonanceimprov.org to opt out completely.*

**Advance reservations REQUIRED. Tickets/Info:** [https://www.internationalclubdc.com/Events/EventDetails.aspx?EventID=C7C36023-8CB4-4634-BA38-D0D06EC3CB09](https://www.internationalclubdc.com/Events/EventDetails.aspx?EventID=C7C36023-8CB4-4634-BA38-D0D06EC3CB09) Step into a festive and refined atmosphere where black-tie style meets a hint of spirited country flair, and enjoy a memorable night of music, dancing, and conversation with a welcoming group of internationally minded professionals, diplomats, and guests from across Washington. Join us on your own or with friends for an evening of conversation, music, and dancing in a warm and inviting setting. **Advance reservations REQUIRED. Tickets/Info:** [https://www.internationalclubdc.com/Events/EventDetails.aspx?EventID=C7C36023-8CB4-4634-BA38-D0D06EC3CB09](https://www.internationalclubdc.com/Events/EventDetails.aspx?EventID=C7C36023-8CB4-4634-BA38-D0D06EC3CB09) Ticket availability is limited and ticket prices are subject to increase so reserve your tickets early! Enjoy light fare along with drinks available for purchase at the cash bar. Kindly note that this is a cocktail-style evening rather than a seated dinner. **Advance reservations REQUIRED. Tickets/Info:** [https://www.internationalclubdc.com/Events/EventDetails.aspx?EventID=C7C36023-8CB4-4634-BA38-D0D06EC3CB09](https://www.internationalclubdc.com/Events/EventDetails.aspx?EventID=C7C36023-8CB4-4634-BA38-D0D06EC3CB09)

Join us as we get together for a CAPA Summer Movie event to see the romantic, funny, heartwarming, feel-good classic, PRETTY WOMAN! Julia Roberts and Richard Gere star in this modern-day fairy-tale romance! Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: A wealthy corporate raider hires a Hollywood escort as his date for a week of high-society business events. But what starts as a business transaction blossoms into genuine love, challenging both of their lives and leading to an unexpected romance. The film is directed by Garry Marshall and stars Richard Gere, Julia Roberts, Héctor Elizondo, Ralph Bellamy (in his final performance), Laura San Giacomo and Jason Alexander. MINI TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-JghOdhAwc](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-JghOdhAwc) SHORT BONUS CLIP #1 - DIRECTOR GARRY MARSHALL Recalls Famous Scenes from the Film: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpIMOzieGPs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpIMOzieGPs) SHORT BONUS CLIP #2 - RICHARD GERE on the Film’s Impact all these years later: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0T3O94dAA8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0T3O94dAA8) SHORT BONUS CLIP #3 - JULIA ROBERTS Remembers a Gift from Director Garry Marshall: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJ4AZSjbMsA](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJ4AZSjbMsA) BUZZ & ACCLAIM: A huge box office hit at the time of its release, PRETTY WOMAN has since gone on to become a modern-day classic! The film catapulted Julia Roberts to superstardom and earned her a Golden Globe for Best Actress and her first Oscar nomination! Critics praise Julia Roberts’ star-making performance, the undeniable chemistry between her and Richard Gere, and its warm, funny feel-good story about kindness, self-worth and transformation! The film’s “intelligence and wit,” “first-class performances” and “sharp, funny script” have made Pretty Woman a classic and truly “something special!” THE OHIO THEATRE: The Ohio Theatre is located at 39 E. State Street, between 3rd and High Streets, across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. From classical music to modern dance, yearly family traditions to hot concerts, the world’s best artists come to the 2,791-seat, historic Ohio Theatre. The breathtaking details (including the 21-foot-high chandelier!) of its opulent, Spanish-Baroque architecture make any night at the Ohio Theater an event to remember! PRE-SHOW ENTERTAINMENT: Now celebrating his 33rd year as featured organist for the CAPA Summer Movie Series, Clark Wilson will again provide pre-show entertainment at the keyboards and controls of the Ohio Theatre’s treasured “Mighty Morton” theatre organ 30 minutes prior to each screening. PARKING: Parking is available at Columbus Commons Parking Garage off 3rd or Rich Streets or in Statehouse Parking Garage off 3rd Street. You can find out more about parking in Downtown Columbus by visiting the Downtown Columbus website. PLAN: Purchase your ticket for the 7:30pm showing and we’ll meet outside the theater between 6:50 and 7:00pm. We’ll head in at 7pm to get good seats and enjoy the pre-show organ music! TICKETS: Tickets just $6 adult / $5 senior! Parking is available under the Capital building, in the nearby garage, or on the nearby streets. You can purchase your ticket at the box office on the day of the event or online here: [https://www.capa.com/capa-summer-movie-series/](https://www.capa.com/capa-summer-movie-series/) Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

**What is a send-off?** Before we head to St. Louis for the Barbershop Harmony Society International Convention, The Alliance opens its doors to the community for a **free** preview of our competition set. This gives us the opportunity to perform in front of an audience before we take the international stage. We would love to see you there!

**Join us for an afternoon of community art and craft time!** Whether you are looking to carve out dedicated creative time, wanting to get a lingering project across the finish line, or just looking to chat with fellow local makers—this is the space for you. 🧵 **What to Bring** Bring any art or craft project you are currently working on, as long as it is portable and quiet. Think: * **Yarn & Thread:** Knitting, crochet, embroidery, cross-stitch, hand-sewing, mending. * **Paper & Sketching:** Sketchbooks, adult coloring books, watercolors, bullet journaling. * **Digital:** Tablets, iPad drawing, laptop writing/design. * *Please note: Because we are meeting in a shared public space, no power tools, sewing machines, or high-odor materials (like strong solvents or spray glues), please!* **📍 Where to Find Us** * We will be meeting at **Columbus Metropolitan Library - Hilltop Branch** in **Meeting Room 4**. Room is reserved under **CBUS Maker Meetup.** **⏱️ Timeline** * **1:00 PM:** Arrive, grab a seat, get settled, and do a quick round of introductions so we can see what everyone is working on. * **1:15 PM - 3:00 PM:** Open maker time! Chat, craft, relax, and swap creative ideas. **⚠️ A Note on RSVPs** The RSVP count for this event is strictly limited to 10 spots. If your plans change and you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" as soon as possible so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot. Please try to give at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel, allowing folks on the waitlist time to check their schedule. *** **We can't wait to meet you and see what you're making! All skill levels welcome.**

Join us for a Discount Tuesday / Choose Your Movie event to see your choice of the A24 thriller THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD or the latest animated adventure in the always great series, TOY STORY 5! Should be a winner either way! Here are details, trailers and our plan for this event: THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD: This thriller from A24 is being called a dark adaptation of the 17th-century ballad Robin Hood's Death. It follows an aged Robin Hood in the hands of a mysterious woman after being critically injured as he grapples with his past life of crime and murder. The film is written / directed by Michael Sarnoski and stars Hugh Jackman, Jodie Comer, Bill Skarsgård, Murray Bartlett and Noah Jupe. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlSDDuWxO_0&t=1s TOY STORY 5: The fifth installment of what is quite possibly the best animated series ever! With something for everyone, this animated adventure faces a new crisis as 8-year old Bonnie has become enamored with the new favorite plaything, a frog-like tablet named Lilypad! The film stars returning cast members Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, Tony Hale, John Ratzenberger, Wallace Shawn, Annie Potts, Bonnie Hunt, Keanu Reeves, and Melissa Villaseñor, along with newcomers Greta Lee, Conan O'Brien, Craig Robinson, Matty Matheson, Jeff Bergman, Anna Vocino and Ernie Hudson. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c51ND9Hdbw0 PLAN: For those seeing TOY STORY 5, please purchase your ticket for the 7:00pm showing and meet in the bar area starting at 6:30pm! For those seeing THE DEATH OF ROBIN HOOD, please purchase your ticket for the 7:10pm showing and meet in the bar area starting at 6:30pm! Discount Tuesday ticket prices are $6 for ROBIN HOOD and $8 for TS5 (because it’s on their Ultra Screen) when you join Marcus Rewards and use the app. Marcus Rewards is FREE and also includes a FREE popcorn on Discount Tuesday showings. Tickets moving FAST so advance ticket purchase as soon as possible is advised! Once you have yours, please list your movie of choice and seat number in the Comments section of this event. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan