Art at the Center Classes
Evening Drawing. Wednesdays, 7-8:30 p.m. Focus on improving drawing skills through fun activities that explore seeing and drawing from observation.
Art in the Afternoon. Wednesdays or Thursdays, 1:15-2:30 p.m. Fridays 4-5:15 p.m. This studio class is designed for artists age 4-6 and includes an introduction to paint, clay, collage and drawing.
After School Studio. Wednesdays or Thursdays, 4:15-5:45 p.m. This studio class is designed for artists ages 7-12 and includes instruction and studio work in paint, clay, collage and drawing.
Art at the Center is located at 2804 Sherwood Hall Lane. Visit www.artatthecenter.org or call 703-201-1250.
Thursday/Oct. 25
Ghosts and Folklore. 7 p.m. Alexandria is one of the most haunted cities in the country. Michael Lee Pope (author of Ghosts of Alexandria) and JJ Smith (author of Haunted Alexandria and Northern Virginia) join Betty Ward of Footsteps to the Past to share stories of the Female Stranger, Swope House and Ramsay House. A coffee and dessert reception follows the stories. Those who dare may take a short ghost walk at the end of this event. Admission $10. The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Call 703-548-0035.
Thursday-Saturday/Oct. 25-27
Steel Magnolias. Group Therapy Productions presents Robert Harling’s comedy-drama Steel Magnolias at the Convergence Sanctuary 1801 N. Quaker Ln. All proceeds from the show will benefit Empowered Women International. Hours are 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 25 & 26, 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Oct. 27. Tickets/suggested donations are $20. Tickets may be purchased by emailing gt.productions9@gmail.com.
Oct. 25-28
Fall Haul Extended Hours Sale. Twig Thrift Shop located at 106 North Columbus St. holds its Fall Haul Extended Hours Sale. In addition to regular store hours from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the shop will be open extended evening hours on Thursday, Oct. 25, and Friday, Oct. 26, from 5-8 p.m., regular Saturday hours 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and extended hours on Sunday, Oct. 28, from 1-4 p.m.. All proceeds benefit Inova Alexandria Hospital. Call 703-683-5544 or visit www.thetwig.org.
Friday/Oct. 26
Autumn Carnival. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Fort Hunt Elementary School's PTA will be hosting the Autumn Carnival. The event will feature free carnival games/bingo, crafts and other surprises. Food will be available for purchase and costumes can be worn. Parents, staff and middle/high school students will be serving as volunteers for this community event. The PTA is providing a bus for the Creekside Community. Contact Liz Maurer at elm.1028@gmail.com.
Oct. 26-27
T.C. Williams Drama Department Presents "The Island of Dr. Moreau." 7:30 p.m. Adapted by Robert Kauzlaric, based on the novel by H.G. Wells, The play follows a shipwrecked Londoner who lands on the island of a scientist whose animal experiments create human-like beasts. The play confronts not only the ethical issues, but the very nature of humanity. Tickets available at the door and are $5 for ACPS students/employees and senior citizens; $10 for adults.
Saturday/Oct. 27
Choreographers Collaboration Project Fall Concert. 7 p.m. Admission: $10 adults, $5 kids 12-17, kids under 12 free. "Standing Room Only" is a modern dance concert created specifically for the Athenaeum gallery space to allow the audience to see the dances and Athenaeum artwork from multiple perspectives. 201 Prince St. Call 703-683-2070.
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. Special guests for Tom Paxton’s 75th birthday celebration show to include Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxers, Debi Smith, Robin Bullock and more. Visit http://www.cathymarcy.com or http://debismith.com/ or http://www.robinbullock.com/ At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave.
Spooky Saturdays at the Athenaeum. 1-2 p.m. Eerie Origami. Free. Recommended for children 6-9 years old. The Athenaeum is located at 201 Prince St. Visit www.nvfaa.org.
Trick or Treat with the Boo-tiques. 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. Ghouls and goblins, witches and wizards of all ages will be trick or treating with the Old Town Boutique District this Halloween. 35 member stores will be handing out treats — and maybe some tricks.
Funeral & Ghost Tour. 6-9 p.m. Step back in time and be a part of this historic funeral and learn about mourning practices in early America. Admission is $15 including a ghost tour of Old Town, during which participants will visit the candlelit Carlyle House to view the coffin and pay respects to surviving family members. At 9 p.m., return to Carlyle House to escort John Carlyle’s body to the Old Presbyterian Meeting House and visit his lantern-lit grave. Call 703-683-3451 to purchase ticket. Reservations are recommended. Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax St.
Book Signing. 2-4 p.m. Lela Lane, a resident of Alexandria, will be available to sign copies of her book, Bloodlines: The Ancestry, at Grounded Coffee Shop, 6919 Telegraph Rd.
Saturday & Sunday/Oct. 27 & 28
Fall Harvest Family Days. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mount Vernon welcomes the autumn season with Fall Harvest Family Days. The entire family will enjoy autumn activities including horse-drawn wagon rides, wheat treading in the 16-sided barn, a straw bale maze, early-American games and demonstrations. In addition to meeting “George Washington,” visitors can also learn 18th-century dance steps! Potomac River sightseeing cruises are half-price while supplies last. Fall Harvest Family Days is included with admission to the estate this weekend: $15 adults; $14 seniors; $7 children 6-11; free for children under 5. Visit www.MountVernon.org.
Sunday/Oct. 28
QuinTango Cabaret. 5-8 p.m. Admission: $25 + $25 dinner. Proceeds from this event support QuinTango's work in Alexandria Public Schools, with StringTango classes for 5th graders and dance workshops for all ages. Carlyle Club, 411 John Carlyle St. Call 703- 548-6811
“Carmina Burana and Choral Dances.” 4 p.m. At the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on the Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community College, 3001 North Beauregard St. Visit www.newdominion.org. Prices are $30 (general admission), $25 for seniors, and $5 for students and children.
Time Capsule Tour. Thomas Dolby’s first U.S. full-band tour since the release of his critically hailed A Map of the Floating City. At the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit http://www.birchmere.com/
“Carmina Burana and Choral Dances.” 4 p.m. at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on the Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community College, 3001 North Beauregard St. Tickets are available at www.newdominion.org or at the door. $30 (general admission), $25 for seniors, and $5 for students and children.
Mad Science. 2-3:40 p.m. Come to the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum (located at 107 South Fairfax St.) to explore where real science and mad science collide. Tours start every 20 minutes, featuring historic medicines with surprising side effects. Admission is $6 per person ages 5 and up. Reservations recommended at www.apothecarymuseum.org. Girl Scout and Boy Scout groups are welcome (program completes the Brownie Home Scientist badge). Come in costume-mad scientist/sci-fi encouraged-and receive a special take-home goodie. Call 703-746-3852.
Annual Halloween Dog Walk. 1 p.m. The Dog Park shop on King Street is organizing the popular Halloween Dog Walk. Trick-or-treating dogs and their humans are invited to stop by the Dog Park for a map and bag and then visit participating businesses for more treats. Free. The Dog Park, 705 King St. Call 703-888-2818.
Concert. 5 p.m. Words&Music, Inc. presents A Celebration of All Hallow's Eve featuring Schumann's Spanisches Liederspiel and other musical treats for Halloween. The concert will take place at The Lyceum, 201 S. Washington St. Ticket prices are $25 for adult and $18 for students and seniors. 20 percent discount will be offered for members of the military and their families. Visit alexandriava.gov/Lyceum.
Through Oct. 28
Homage. Free exhibition including “In the Garden” by Luisa Mesa, Target Gallery’s “Homage: Past Influences.” At Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Visit www.torpedofactory.org or call 703-838-4565.
Play: "And Then There Were None." 8 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27 and 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 21 and 28. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for children and seniors. Tickets and information are available online at www.acctonline.org. Call 703-660-2611 Aldersgate, United Methodist Church, 1301 Collingwood Rd.
2nd Annual “Taste of Fair Trade.” Ten Thousand Villages, located at 915 King St., will celebrate Fair Trade month with its second annual “Taste of Fair Trade.” Call 703-684-1435 or visit www.alexandria.tenthousandvillages.com
Scheduled Tastings:
- Oct. 20-21: Iced tea, lemonade and other refreshing beverages.
- Oct. 27-28: Sample wines from South America and South Africa.
Oct. 29 through Nov. 4
Art Exhibition. Día de los Muertos: The Art of Remembrance - Exhibition & Celebration. There will be a Costume and Dance Party on Friday, Nov. 2, 8-11 p.m.. Tickets: $15 in advance, $20 at door, or two for $35. Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Visit
www.torpedofactory.org/dayofthedead.
Tuesday/Oct. 30
Poetry Presentation. 10:30 a.m. Join the “Tuesdays at Two” writing group showcasing talented local writers and poets. Free and open to the public. Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Rd. Call 703-765-4573 to reserve a seat.
Doggie Happy Howl-o-ween Costume Contest. Registration 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.; contest begins at 6 p.m. Jackson 20 and Kimpton’s Hotel Monaco Alexandria host their annual Doggie Happy Howl-o-ween Costume Contest. Local pets and their human companions can model their Halloween finest while competing for prizes in a contest in the outdoor courtyard. Open to the public. Prizes will be awarded. Registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis, for a limited number of entries. Spectators are welcome. Event will be held in the restaurant’s courtyard; use the Royal Street entrance. Admission is TBD. At Jackson 20 Restaurant, 480 King St. Call 703-842-2790.
Tuesday-Wednesday/Oct. 30-31
Roaring 20s Halloween Soiree. 5:30-8 p.m. Party like the Fitzgeralds at this Roaring 20s-themed Halloween Soiree at historic Two-Nineteen Restaurant and Basin Street Lounge. Attendees are encouraged to arrive in 20s inspired dress to enjoy popular 1920s gourmet cuisine by Chef Ryan Ross and specialty cocktails. Live blues music, premium cigars, and a charity underground poker tournament are also featured at this event (proceeds to benefit the D.C. Central Kitchen). Visit http://www.eventbrite.com/org/2778794346.
Through Oct. 31
“SKYSCAPE.” Paintings of the sky landscape, by Maremi Hooff Andreozzi runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Tuesdays at Huntley Meadows Park Visitor Center, 3701 Lockheed Boulevard, call 703-768-2525. Visit www.maremi.com.
Thursday/Nov. 1
6th Annual Alexandria Film Festival. The festival brings high-quality short and feature length films, documentaries, filmmaker panels and arts presentations to Alexandria. Presented by the Alexandria Commission for the Arts and the City of Alexandria Office of the Arts from Nov. 1-4. Call 703-746-5592
Friday/Nov. 2
Día de los Muertos Costume & Dance Party. 8-11 p.m. Presentation of the 4th annual Day of the Dead extravaganza featuring an exhibition of artist-made altars and a festive Costume & Dance Party. Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Call 703-838-4565.
Drumathon. 4 p.m. Join Good Shepherd Housing and the Hollin Hall Senior Center to help raise funds and awareness for the homeless. Each drumbeat can help Good Shepherd Housing reach the goal of 4,000 participants in Help the Homeless events, earning a bonus of $50,000 for our work in preventing and ending homelessness. The event will take place at Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Rd.
Audition. 6-9 p.m. Aldersgate Church Community Theater will be holding auditions for "Disney's The Little Mermaid Jr." Children ages 8-18. Visit www.acctonline.org.
Fridays & Saturdays/Nov. 2 through Nov. 17
Port City Playhouse. 8 p.m. Alexandria’s award-winning theatre company continues its 2012-13 season with the regional community theatre premiere of The Soul Collector. There will be a performance on Tuesday, Nov. 13 too. Saturday matinees will be available on Nov. 10 & 17 at 2 p.m. Port City Playhouse performs at The Lab at Convergence, located at 1819 N. Quaker Ln. General admission tickets are $14-18. Visit portcityplayhouse.org.
Through Nov. 2
Death Comes to Carlyle House. To commemorate the 232nd anniversary of the death of John Carlyle, Carlyle House presents an exhibit on the mourning practices of 18th-century Virginia through the experience of the Carlyle household. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. from Tuesday through Saturday, noon-4 p.m on Sunday. Admission: $5/adults, $3/children, Free for members. Carlyle House, 121 N. Fairfax St. Call 703-549-2997.
Nov. 2-25
Photography exhibition: “Telling Images.” Opening reception is Nov. 2, 7-10 p.m. See photographic techniques and interpretations that tell a story without words. Call 703-960-3873, email jldtifft@cox.net or visit www.TheDelRayArtisans.org.
Nov. 2 through Jan. 24
Watercolors and Collagraph Prints: African Encounters: Coast to Coast. The Alexandria Black History Museum will open an exhibition of watercolors and collagraph prints entitled African Encounters: Coast to Coast. Artist Kathleen Stafford explores the landscape, architecture, and people of Africa, providing a kaleidoscope of variety and color for the eye. Free and open to the public. The Alexandria Black History Museum is located at 902 Wythe St. and is open from Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit www.alexblackhistory.org.
Saturday/Nov. 3
Church-wide Yard Sale. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. The public is welcome to come and shop. Baked goods and lunch also available for sale. At Cameron United Methodist Church located at 3130 Franconia Rd. Rain or Shine. If you want to be a seller, contact Marilyn by Oct.22 at 703-765-6817 to purchase a table for $20.
Movie: Courageous. 3 p.m. The movie will be shown in the fellowship hall of Plymouth Haven Baptist Church, 8600 Plymouth Dr. Refreshments will be served.
Audition. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Aldersgate Church Community Theater will be holding auditions for "Disney's The Little Mermaid Jr." Children ages 8-18. Visit www.acctonline.org.
Nov. 3 through Dec. 2
Free Art Exhibition. This juried photography exhibition — open to all artists nationally and internationally—explores the theme of upheaval in our personal lives and throughout the world. A reception on Nov. 8, from 6-8 p.m. occurs during 2nd Thursday Art Night and features a talk by juror Brie Castell at 7 p.m. Target Gallery (Studio 2), 105 North Union St. Call 703-838-4565, x4 or visit www.torpedofactory.org/target.
Through Nov. 4
Pulse4Artists – “4 Ways Of Color” 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Gallery West, 1213 King St. The opening reception will be Saturday, Oct. 13 from 5-7 p.m. Call 703-549-6006 Visit www.Pulse4Artists.com.
Exhibition of 2D and 3D Artwork. Featuring ceramic artist Daiva Balkus and photographer Ruth Ann Lowery. At Gallery West, located at 1213 King St. Visit www.gallery-west.info.
Tuesday/Nov. 6
Election Day Dinner. Jackson 20 Chef Brian McPherson has created a three-course, Andrew Jackson-inspired menu, available for $20 on Election Day for those wearing an “I Voted” sticker. The restaurant is located at 480 King St. For reservations and more information call 703-842-2790 or visit www.jackson20.com or www.facebook.com/Jackson20.
Nov. 6, 12, 19 & 27 and Dec. 4, 10 & 18
Community Singers Wanted. The West Potomac choirs invite alumni, parents, and community to rehearse and perform Part I (Christmas section) of Handel’s Messiah. We rehearse 6:30-8:30 p.m. through Nov. 19; 6:30-9 p.m. through Dec. 18 with orchestra. At West Potomac High School in the Springbank Auditorium. Visit information is at http://westpotomacchoirs.org.
Wednesday/Nov. 7
Author Series. 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Alma Katsu will talk about The Reckoning, second book of the Taker Trilogy at the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Call 703-746-1702.
Uncorked - An Evening of Wine and Cheese Pairing. 7-9 p.m. Wine, cheese, and chocolates catered by The Curious Grape and light hors d'oeuvre provided by the Symphony Orchestra League of Alexandria. Also, there will be a silent auction. At the home of Stevie and Gardner Gillespie, 2414 Ridge Road Dr. Contact Susan Yonts-Shepard at seysrls@verizon.net or call 703-823-4020.
Thursday/Nov. 8
War at the Birchmere. $49.50. Visit http://war.com or www.Birchmere.com.
Art Night at the Torpedo Factory 6-9 p.m. Free. Browse open studios and galleries, interact with artists, and enjoy refreshments at this free event held on the second Thursday of each month. Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St. Call 703-838-4565.
Slavery Discussion. 6:30-8:30 p.m. The National Park Service and the Office of Historic Alexandria co-sponsor a program called Refugees from Slavery: Contrabands in Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia at the Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St. Prof. Chandra Manning of Georgetown University will explain the history of the Contrabands, men and women who escaped slavery during the Civil War. Afterward, there will be further discussion about who the Contrabands were and how they can be remembered by a panel consisting of researchers, descendants, rangers, and local historians from across the region. Free and open to the public. Seating may be limited. RSVP by calling 703-746-4356.
Nov. 8 through Dec. 3
Free Photography Exhibition. Andrew Zimmermann: Cold River. This solo exhibition of large-format black and white photographs captures the “character of blankness.” The opening reception takes place on Nov. 8 from 6:30-8 p.m., during 2nd Thursday Art Night. The Art League Gallery, 105 North Union St. Call 703-683-1780 or visit www.theartleague.org.
Nov. 8-25
Free Exhibition: Blurring the Line. To complement the FotoWeek panel discussion on Nov. 15 surrounding the issues of fine art vs. commercial photography, this exhibition features artwork by the photographers serving on the panel. Site 2 & 3 Galleries, 105 North Union St. Call 703-838-4565, x 4 or visit www.torpedofactory.org/target.
Friday/Nov. 9
Fashion Show. 10:30 a.m. The Board of Lady Managers of Inova Alexandria Hospital will celebrate its 140th anniversary at their Annual Fashion Show, Luncheon and Silent Auction at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center. Physicians, nurses and staff from the hospital will model fashions from Lord & Taylor. Proceeds benefit Inova Alexandria Hospital surgical services. Tickets are $45-$140. Contact Lynda West at 703-836-8853
Friday/Nov. 9-11
Alexandria Antiques Show & Sale. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission is $12, $10 with ad. The Alexandria Antiques Show will feature 31 selected National and International prominent antiques dealers who will offer an extensive assortment of 18th- and 19th-century furniture from around the world, objects d'art, and worldly treasures including fine art, decorative art, accessories, silver, antique jewelry much more, from the exceptional to the extraordinary. George Washington Masonic Memorial, 101 Callahan Dr. Call 973-927-2794.
Nov. 9-18
Oklahoma! Mount Vernon Community Children’s Theatre, now in its 32nd season, presents Oklahoma, featuring a cast of 43 children and teenagers, ages 8-18. Performances will be held at Bryant Alternative School, 2709 Popkins Ln. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. To purchase online visit www.mvcct.org.
FotoWeekDC at the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Free. In conjunction with the 5th annual FotoWeekDC Festival, celebrating photographic excellence in the DC metro area, the Torpedo Factory Art Center is offering a series of free, photography-themed exhibitions and special programming throughout the month of November. The complete schedule is online at www.torpedofactory.org/fotoweek. Torpedo Factory Art Center is located at 105 North Union St.
Saturday/Nov.10
Vegan Beauty Workshop. 2-3 p.m. Learn about making cuticle cream, a purse-size winter relief pod, a jar gloss and a lip stick at the Beatley Central Library, 5005 Duke St. Call 703-746-1743 to sign up.
Fort Hunt Preschool Play EXPO and Family Fall Festival. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Family Play EXPO and Family Fall Festival will feature lego engineering, yo-yo experts, an obstacle course, nature games, storytelling, and live music. Programs at FHP—a parent cooperative—encourage children to discover, engage, and explore the world around them through vibrant play. Free. At Fort Hunt Preschool grounds, 1909 Windmill Ln. Email alumni@forthuntpreschool.com, or visit http://www.forthuntpreschool.com.
Fundraiser. 4 p.m. Poetry and tea are on the menu at the annual fundraiser for Project Discovery at the Alexandria Black History Museum, 902 Wythe St. Donations are welcome at the event or can be mailed to the Office of Youth Services, 2525 Mt. Vernon Ave. Make checks or money orders payable to Project Discovery Alexandria. All donations are tax deductible. Donations of $500 or more should be made by Nov. 1 to ensure inclusion in the Annual Special Recognition Legacy Program. Contact Ron Frazier at 703-746-5967 or ron.frazier@alexandriava.gov.
Concert. 8 p.m. Featuring Kim Allen Kluge, conductor; Yefim Bronfman, piano; Hovhaness: Symphony No. 2, “Mysterious Mountain;” I. Andante con moto Mussorgsky/Ravel: Pictures at an Exhibition; Newman: Little Women (1994); Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 in E Flat Major, “Emperor,” Op. 73.” At Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall & Arts Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St.Tickets start at $40 adult, $35 senior, $15 students and $5 for all youth (18 & under). Purchase online at alexsym.org or call 703-548-0885. Free pre-concert chat one hour prior to each performance.
Photography Lecture. 1 p.m. Free. Photographer Andrew Zimmermann reveals his inspiration and techniques for creating the black and white imagery appearing concurrently in his solo show, Cold River. The Art League Gallery, 105 North Union St. Call 703-683-1780 or visit www.theartleague.org.
Sunday/Nov. 11
Kids Takeover Gadsby's Tavern Museum. 2-3:30 p.m. Visitors touring Gadsby's Tavern Museum will meet 18th century characters bringing to life the people who visited and worked in a tavern. This event’s planned by a team of 5th through 7th grade volunteers as part of the Museum's Kids Take Over the Museum challenge. In honor of Veteran's Day and the American Legion Post # 24's support of the Museum, the students invite all veterans and active duty military and their families to attend for free. Admission is $5 per adult and $3 per child (ages 5 through 12). Visit www.gadsbystavernrestaurant.com.
Symposium: “A Lifetime of Learning through Play.” 3-5 p.m. Fort Hunt Preschool is celebrating 50 years of learning through play with a symposium on learning through play across a lifetime. Engage with a panel of experts to examine the critical places of play and discovery in the journey of learning. A panel discussion on the importance of play for all ages. Free. Hollin Meadows Elementary School, 2310 Nordok Place. Email alumni@forthuntpreschool.com or visit http://www.forthuntpreschool.com.
Birchmere Show. 7:30 p.m. London-based singer/songwriter Lianne La Havas, who recently was nominated for the UK's Mercury Prize, will be performing at the Birchmere Theatre located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Concert. 3 p.m. Featuring Kim Allen Kluge, conductor; Yefim Bronfman, piano; Hovhaness: Symphony No. 2, “Mysterious Mountain;” I. Andante con moto Mussorgsky/Ravel: Pictures at an Exhibition; Newman: Little Women (1994); Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 5 in E Flat Major, “Emperor,” Op. 73.” At Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall & Arts Center, 3001 N. Beauregard St.Tickets start at $40 adult, $35 senior, $15 students and $5 for all youth (18 & under). Purchase online at alexsym.org or call 703-548-0885. Free pre-concert chat one hour prior to each performance.
Through Nov. 11
Wax Works. The exhibition will feature six artists whose work begins at the definition of ‘encaustic’ and explores the application, functionality and versatility of wax as a medium. Free. The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Visit www.nvfaa.org.
Birchmere Show: Lianne La Havas. $20. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Tuesday/Nov. 13
Fundraising. 12:30-2:30 p.m. Mount Vernon Quilters Unlimited will hold its annual fundraising event to support its educational projects. Completed quilts, wall hangings, table covers, totes, fabric, quilting projects and gift items will be sold at Silent, Live, and Other Auctions, as well as a fixed-price table. The event also features a bake sale. A lunch will be available for $5. Admission free. Everyone welcome. At Hollin Hall Senior Center, 1500 Shenandoah Rd.
Swing Dance Lesson. 8:30-10:30 p.m. A drop-in beginners’ swing dance lesson with America’s top instructors, Tom & Debra. $10. Clarinetist Halley Shoenberg will be featured all night on the music of Benny Goodman. The swank setting includes tiered seating for a great view, large dance floor, classic deco bar, and fantastic light fare. The Carlyle Club is at 411 John Carlyle St. Call 703-548-8899.
Free Photoshop for Artists. 1-4 p.m. Photographer John Burgess lectures and demonstrates how to create CDs for digital entries and size images for digital submissions. Call 703-683-1780 or email gallery@theartleague.org to register. The Art League Gallery, 105 North Union St. Call 703-683-1780 or visit www.theartleague.org.
Wednesday/Nov. 14
History Presentation. 7:30 p.m. Join the Friends of Dyke Marsh to hear Matthew Virta, cultural resources program manager at the U.S. National Park Service, examine Dyke Marsh’s colorful history, from Native American Indian times to the present. The presentation will be held at the Huntley Meadows Park Visitor Center, 3701 Lockheed Blvd. Call 703-768-2525 or visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.
Free Workshop: Exhibition Prints. 1-4 p.m. Join photographer John Burgess for his popular workshop on how to calibrate monitors and printers to create accurate color photographic prints. Call 703-683-1780 or email gallery@theartleague.org to register. The Art League Gallery, 105 North Union St.
Nov. 14 & 15
Birchmere Show. 7:30 p.m. Striking Matches to open for John Hiatt & The Combo. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Thursday/Nov. 15
Annual NOVA Jazz Night. 7:30 p.m. Featuring the NOVA Alexandria Jazz Ensemble and NOVA Jazz Combo At the Carlyle Club located at 411 John Carlyle St. Call 703-548-8899. No cover charge, donations requested.
Blurring the Line: Fine Art vs. Commercial Photography. 7pm. Free. The Art League and Target Gallery present a panel discussion examining the similarities and differences between fine art and commercial photography. Moderated by Torpedo Factory artist Craig Sterling, panelists include Allen Beland, Jesse Cohen, Lindsay Harris, Greg Knott, and Pamela Viola. Torpedo Factory Art Center’s Main Hall, 105 North Union St. Call 703-838-4565 or visit www.torpedofactory.org.
Nov. 15 through Dec. 23
"A Broadway Christmas Carol" A cross between the classic Charles Dickens tale and uproarious song parodies of favorite Broadway show tunes. From Thursday through Sunday. 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday; 3 and 8 p.m. on Saturday; 3 and 7 p.m. on Sunday. At MetroStage, 1201 N. Royal St. Call 703-548-9044 or visit www.metrostage.org.
Nov. 15 through Jan. 6, 2013
Net Worked: Horjus, Lister, and Pearson. Opening reception is on Sunday, Nov. 18, from 4 to 6 p.m. Free. At the Athenaeum, 201 Prince St. Visit www.nvfaa.org.
Saturday/Nov. 17
Cider Assembly Ball 8-11 p.m. Reservations required. This evening in the 1780s will feature a variety of English country dances in the ballroom, live music, cash bar showcasing Virginia ciders and seasonal dessert collation. Period costume optional, “after-five” attire encouraged. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St. Call 703-746-4242
Run for Shelter 5K/10K + Fun Run. 8 a.m. Carpenter’s Shelter and Pacers are hosting their second annual Run for Shelter 5K/10K + Fun Run. Musicians from the Del Ray School of Music will be performing along the course route. All proceeds benefit Carpenter’s Shelter and its work on behalf of homeless individuals, children, and families. It is an out and back course, starting at the USPTO Madison Building on Eisenhower Avenue. 5K/10K registration is $35 and Fun Run registration is $30. On-site registration will be available for $40 beginning at 7 a.m. Free parking is available in the USPTO East Parking Garage located on John Carlye Street. Visit www.runforshelter10k.com or tweet @Run4Shelter10k.
Sunday/Nov. 18
New Birchmere shows will go on sale. Noon through Ticketmaster.com. or call 800-745-3000. The Birchmere Box Office is open from 5-9 p.m. any night of a show. An evening with Sam Bush & Del McCoury, two old.
Needlework Workshop. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Learn about 18th-century samplers, participate in a workshop and begin needlework project. After the workshop, participants can walk over to Carlyle House for a tour of the 1753 home of John Carlyle, a merchant and town founder of Alexandria. For beginners and intermediate. Reservations are required. Call 703-549-2997 to register. Admission is $20 (includes materials). At The Athenaeum located at 201 Prince St.
Through Nov. 18
Free Art Exhibition. Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery announces the opening of the juried show “Black and White.” Black and white may be expressed as color, value, feelings, politics and/or mood. Jewelry, sculpture, clothing, and wall pieces are some of the items that will be exhibited. The gallery is located in Studio 18 of the Torpedo Factory Art Center at 105 N. Union St. Visit www.torpedofactory.org.
Tuesday/Nov. 20
Chrisette Michele & Alex Boyd. 7:30 p.m. $59.50. Visit www.alexboydmusic.com/ or http://thisischrisettemichele.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Call 703-549-7500 or visit www.birchmere.com.
Friday/Nov. 23 through Nov. 24
THE SELDOM SCENE & DRY BRANCH FIRE SQUAD at the Birchmere. $35.00. Visit www.seldomscene.com, www.drybranchfiresquad.com or www.Birchmere.com.
Sunday/Nov. 25
Duncan Sheik. 7:30 p.m. $29.50. Visit www.duncansheik.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Monday/Nov. 26
James Fortune & Jessica Reedy 'Celebrate Christmas.' 7:30 p.m. $29.50. Visit jessicareedymusic.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Tuesday/Nov. 27
Graham Parker & The Rumour Reunion. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. $35. Visit http://www.grahamparker.net. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Thursday & Friday/Nov. 29 & 30
WILL DOWNING. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $69.50. Visit www.willdowning.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Through Nov. 30
Art Exhibition. The Gallery at Convergence presents “pitture e parole” (“Paintings and Words”), a solo exhibition from artist, Lynne Elizabeth Heiser. A portion of all sales benefit Convergence programs including Artist's Way, Convergence Shared Artists Studios, and the Lab All Ages. Opening reception on Oct. 6 from 7-9 p.m. Email Lynne@in2itCreative.com or call 703-915-0917 to RSVP. Call 703-998-6260 or visit www.convergenceccf.net.
Friday-Sunday/Nov. 30-Dec. 2
Del Ray Artisans’ 17th annual Holiday Market. Handmade work from local artists plus bake sale. Reception is on Friday, from 6-9 p.m. The hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m.on Saturday and noon-4 p.m. on Sunday. Visit TheDelRayArtisans.org/HolidayMarket.
Saturday/Dec. 1
New Birchmere shows will go on sale. Noon through Ticketmaster.com. or call 800-745-3000. The Birchmere Box Office is open from 5-9 p.m. any night of a show. Chris Smither with Andy Friedman.
Tuesday/Dec. 4
Birchmere Shows. The Brian Setzer Orchestra. Extravaganza 2012 US Tour. 8 p.m. Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Ln. Tickets on sale through www.Strathmore.org or call 301-581-5100
Thursday/Dec. 6
White Christmas with Peter White, Mindi Abair, & special guest TBA at the Birchmere. $49.50 Visit www.peterwhite.com/ or www.mindiabair.com/
*On Sale Fri. July 13 at noon. www.Birchmere.com
Friday-Sunday/Dec. 7-9
Del Ray Artisans’ 17th annual Holiday Market. Handmade work from local artists plus bake sale. Reception is on Friday, from 6 to 9 p.m. The hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m.on Saturday and noon-4 p.m. on Sunday. Visit TheDelRayArtisans.org/HolidayMarket.
Sunday/Dec. 9
Christmas Music. 9:45 a.m. The Plymouth Haven Baptist Church Children’s Choir will present their Christmas music presentation in the Fellowship Hall, 8600 Plymouth Dr. Open to the public.
Monday/Dec. 10
A John Waters Christmas 'Command Performance!' at the Birchmere. $49.50 (John will be signing copies of books purchased at the show!) Visit www.dreamlandnews.com/ or
www.Birchmere.com. On Sale Fri. July 27 at noon.
Friday/Dec. 14 and 15
Four Bitchin’ Babes 'Jingle Babes!' featuring Sally Fingerett, Debi Smith, Deidre Flint, Marcy Marxer at the Birchmere $35.00 Visit www.fourbitchinbabes.com/ or www.Birchmere.com. On Sale Fri. July 20 at noon.
Friday-Sunday/Dec. 14-16
Del Ray Artisans’ 17th annual Holiday Market. Handmade work from local artists plus bake sale. Reception is on Friday, from 6-9 p.m. The hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m.on Saturday and noon-4 p.m. on Sunday. Visit TheDelRayArtisans.org/HolidayMarket.
Thursday/Dec. 20
CARBON LEAF at the Birchmere. $27.50 Visit http://carbonleaf.com/
Friday/Dec. 21
Pieces Of A Dream at the Birchmere $35.00 Visit www.piecesofadream.net/ or www.Birchmere.com
Saturday/Dec. 22
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Bill Kirchen’s Honky Tonk Holiday Show. $29.5 Visit http://billkirchen.com/.
Sunday/Dec. 23
Christine Lavin & Uncle Bonsai 'Just One Angel' at the Birchmere. $25.00 Visit www.christinelavin.com/ or www.unclebonsai.com/ or www.Birchmere.com
Sunday/Jan. 6
An Evening of Musical/Political Humor with Mark Russell. 7:30 p.m. $49.50. Visit www.markrussell.net/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Thursday/Jan. 24, 2013
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Jeffrey Osborne. $65. Visit http://www.jeffreyosborne.com/
Saturday/Feb. 2
Charles Ross One Man Star Wars Trilogy. 7:30 p.m. $35. Visit www.onemanstarwars.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Sunday/Feb. 10
10,000 Maniacs. 7:30 p.m. $35. Visit www.maniacs.com/ The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Saturday/Feb. 23
Harmony Sweepstakes 2013 'Mid Atlantic Regional.' 7:30 p.m. $29.50. Visit www.harmony-sweepstakes.com/. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Thursday/Feb. 28
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. $45. Visit http://www.nittygritty.com/
Mar. 1-3
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. The Bacon Brothers. $39.5. Visit http://baconbros.com/
Mar. 15-16
Birchmere Shows. 7:30 p.m. At the Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. The Average White Band. $35. Visit http://www.averagewhiteband.com/
Open Through 2012
The Marshall House Incident Exhibition:This exhibit at Fort Ward features objects from the museum collection to tell the notable story about the event that launched the Civil War in Alexandria. Fort Ward Museum (4301 West Braddock Rd.) is open Tuesday - Saturday, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Sunday, from noon - 5 p.m. Visit www.fortward.org or call 703-746-4848.
SPECIAL COLLECTIONS / Local History & Genealogy
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St.
Tel: 703-746-1703, Fax: 703-746-1708
Mon 1 p.m.-9 p.m.; Tues 2 p.m.-9 p.m.; Wed 10 a.m.-7p.m.; Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m-5 p.m.
SPECIAL COLLECTIONS NEW HOURS. Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library, 717 Queen St. Alexandria Library is pleased to extend the operating hours of its Special Collections branch, which will now be open every Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
TALKING BOOK SERVICE - For Blind and Physically Handicapped
5005 Duke St. (Second Floor), 22304
Tel: 703-746-1760 Fax: 703-746-1738 TTY (Hearing Impaired): 703-746-1790
Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Saturday/Nov. 10
Stephanie Mills. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $69.50. Visit www.stephaniemillsmusic.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Sunday/Nov. 11
IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF DJANGO featuring Lulo Reinhardt's Latin Swing Ensemble, Les Doigts de l'Homme and Norig Gadji & Sebastien Giniaux. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $35.00. Visit www.herschelfreemanagency.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Friday/Nov. 16
MICHAEL FRANKS. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $45.00. visit http://michaelfranks.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Saturday/Nov. 17
PAULA POUNDSTONE. 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $39.50. Visit www.paulapoundstone.com. The Birchmere Music Hall is located at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave. Visit www.birchmere.com or call 703-549-7500.
Friday/Jan. 18, 2013
The Northern Virginia Fine Arts Society (NVFAA) is pleased to announce the next four scheduled SLAM ALEXANDRIA spoken word poetry events at the Athenaeum in Old Town. Admission is free for all, but attendees interested in competing in the poetry slam can pay an entry fee of $10 for a chance to win a $100 cash prize. Featuring live music, scheduled artists, and an open mic, SLAM ALEXANDRIA is hosted by Shelly Bell and co-sponsored by the NVFAA and Shelly B. Arts. The event starts at 7 p.m. and is located at The Athenaeum, 201 Prince St.
Through Sept. 2013
Life in Civil War Alexandria Exhibition. Daily exhibit traces life in Alexandria following Virginia's decision to secede from the Union in May 1861. At The Lyceum, Alexandria's History Museum, 201 South Washington St. Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Suggested admission $2. Visit www.alexandriahistory.org or call 703-746-4994.