Bikes and Lights is back! Enjoy the unique experience of riding your bike through the Winter Festival of Lights. Experience dazzling scenes celebrating the magic of the holiday season! For safety, bike lights and helmets are required. Vehicles are not allowed on the festival roads during this event. Space is limited for this popular event. Register today! FREE for children riding on a tagalong/bike seat/trailer.

Get On Up is a biographical film that chronicles the life of James Brown, the Godfather of Soul. The movie explores his childhood and his evolution into one of the most influential musicians in history. The film stars an ensemble cast, featuring Chadwick Boseman as Brown, Nelsan Ellis as Bobby Byrd, Dan Aykroyd as Ben Bart, Viola Davis as Susie Brown, Craig Robinson as Maceo Parker, and Octavia Spencer as Aunt Honey.

* This exhibition runs Jan. 19–Mar. 8, with a public reception on Thu., Jan. 29. *

American Dreaming is a poignant exploration of the complex interplay between pursuing financial freedom and the Black experience in America. This series delves into the nuanced relationship between aspiration and the systemic barriers that persist within our society, particularly emphasizing the American lottery system as a symbol of hope in the Black community.

This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from January 19-March 8, 2026, and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.

* This exhibition runs Jan. 26–Mar. 7, with a public reception on Sun., Feb. 1. *

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission Black History Program returns to Harmony Hall Arts Center with its annual exhibition. For close to 45 years, the Black History Program has worked to preserve, honor, and celebrate Prince George’s County’s rich African American Heritage. The annual exhibition is part of this tradition. Explore stories from our county’s past that highlight the challenges and triumphs of the African American community.

* This exhibition runs Jan. 31–Mar. 7, with a public reception on Sun., Feb. 1. *

Qrcky’s artistic endeavors delve into the interplay between the sensibilities of the Black diaspora and the urban landscapes they inhabit. While the artist draws inspiration from esteemed artists such as Kara Walker and Jean-Michel Basquiat, Qrcky also profoundly influences the surrounding world. Qrcky is captivated by the sensations of movement, the deconstruction and reassembly of surfaces, and the intricate processes of forgetting and remembering that shape our collective consciousness. The artist’s creations profoundly reflect his identity, heritage, and the encompassing tapestry of culture that envelops him.

Join us for a two-part book discussion and film screening featuring Percival Everett’s satirical 2001 novel Erasure and its 2023 film adaptation, the Best Picture-nominated dark comedy American Fiction, starring Jeffrey Wright. The book and film examine (and skewer) the use of Black stereotypes in fiction and the anti-Black stance of the publishing industry.

Message is not your typical concert series. It is an oasis where local artists find their voice and share their stories. Here, music transcends mere entertainment–it becomes personal. Local talent takes center stage. These are the musicians who play at the neighborhood cafes, scribble lyrics on napkins, and dream big. They’re not chasing fame, they’re chasing connection. From soulful ballads to introspective rap, their performances resonate with authenticity. Every Message event is unrepeatable, no two shows are alike; each carries a unique message. The audience sits close enough to see the artist’s fingertips on the strings and feel the raw emotion in every lyric. This is an event for anyone seeking refuge from the noise, who craves more than a passive concert experience.

Explore diverse revenue opportunities beyond traditional sales, including licensing, commissions, teaching, digital platforms, and passive income strategies.

Celebrate Black History Month with an unforgettable music matinee featuring award-winning saxophonist Brent Birckhead and his sextet. Hailed by The New York Times as “one of the most riveting young improvisers in New York,” Birckhead blends tradition and innovation, drawing from jazz, soul, and activism. A Howard University alumnus, he has performed with legends like Lauryn Hill, Nas, and George Duke. Experience his powerful sound and storytelling, showcasing the depth of African American musical heritage. Don’t miss this special tribute—an afternoon of history, culture, and soul-stirring jazz!

“Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin assembled a choir at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Watts, Los Angeles, in 1972 to record her live album, Amazing Grace. Footage of this remarkable gospel concert was shelved for decades over technical and legal issues; it was finally edited and released to critical acclaim in 2018. This is a must-see documentary for Aretha Franklin fans.

This multi-week class builds upon foundational acting skills, focusing on in-depth exploration of techniques, character development, and performance styles; often including scene work, improvisation, and analysis of dramatic texts. Participants should have a basic understanding of acting techniques and principles that the class will focus on refining and expanding.

This class will run from February 17 – March 24, 2026 on Tuesday evenings, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Registration will open in mid-November, 2025. Participants must register for the entire class session; there are no drop in rates.

Becoming Thurgood: America’s Social Architect traces Thurgood Marshall’s life and career from his birth in Baltimore in 1908, through his years at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Lincoln University and Howard University School of Law, and on to his groundbreaking career as a lawyer championing civil rights. After launching his legal career in Baltimore in 1935, Marshall went on to win 29 of the 32 cases he argued before the U.S. Supreme Court, most notably the landmark 1954 Brown v. Board of Education case, which invalidated the “separate but equal” doctrine and ended racial segregation in public schools. In 1967, Marshall became the first African American appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court, where he served until his retirement in 1991. Becoming Thurgood: America’s Social Architect includes exclusive interviews with family members, leading historians and authors, and legal experts who offer fresh insights into the life and extraordinary influence of the man who became known as “Mr. Civil Rights.”

Executive produced by Emmy Award-winning and Oscar-nominated filmmaker Stanley Nelson and MPT Senior Vice President and Chief Content Officer Travis Mitchell, the film is produced and directed by Alexis Aggrey, with music by two-time Grammy Award-winning composer Derrick Hodge. “For the first time, audiences will hear Thurgood Marshall tell his own story – in his own words,” said director and producer Alexis Aggrey. “This film is the first to center Marshall’s own voice, drawn from a rare eight-hour oral history. It’s not just a documentary; it’s a conversation with a man whose legal mind reshaped the nation and whose legacy still echoes through our justice system today.”

Note: reservations strongly recommended due to limited seating.
This film is not yet rated; Run Time: 1 hour

This documentary celebrates the trailblazing women who revolutionized electronic music. Featuring legends like Wendy Carlos and Suzanne Ciani, Sisters With Transistors showcases how these women shaped the soundscape of the 20th century using modular synthesizers.

Through art making and storytelling, this workshop aims to redefine shelter as a space of security, warmth, safe space, and family, fostering empathy and understanding. Resident artist Nikki Brooks will lead participants in guided meditation, an art activity, and open conversations about home, neighborhood dynamics, gentrification, and family tradition, sparking deep reflections and meaningful exchanges.

This riveting, narrated recital takes audience members back to America’s colonial period to explore the music, instruments, voices, and lives of enslaved Africans and forgotten patriots. The music will include period instruments, traditional folk songs, patriotic selections, and Negro spirituals performed by Black musicians. Produced by the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts (CAAPA).

A live tribute to American singer and songwriter Frankie Beverly. He was best known for his recordings with the soul and funk band Maze and was a consistent hitmaker on the R&B charts for almost 50 years. His music is known for its authenticity and emotional depth. This concert highlights the early years of Maze and the transition to Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. We Are One X-Perience performs all the hit songs that everyone knows and loves, including: “Back in Stride,” “Too Many Games,” “Can’t Get Over You,” “Before I Let Go, Running Away,” and many more. They pride themselves on giving the audience an incredibly high-energy performance each time they take the stage.

Jewelry is more than adornment—it’s a reflection of history, culture, and identity. This hands-on workshop invites participants to explore the artistry of jewelry-making while connecting with the rich traditions of the Basotho people in Southern Africa. Attendees will gain hands-on experience in crafting unique pieces, while also exploring the historical and cultural significance behind various jewelry designs and materials.

Forever Yours – Tribute To The O’Jays has quickly become one of today’s most outstanding tribute groups. The O’Jays have acknowledged them as a group worthy of carrying on their legacy. The group comprises some of the DMV’s most talented singers. Their renditions of such great hits as “Back Stabbers,” “Love Train,” “For The Love of Money,” and others will take you back to the days of your youth. They have graced the stages of popular local venues such as The Birchmere and Bethesda Blues and Jazz. Come out and get on the “Love Train” with Forever Yours – Tribute To The O’Jays.

A live tribute to American singer and songwriter Frankie Beverly. He was best known for his recordings with the soul and funk band Maze and was a consistent hitmaker on the R&B charts for almost 50 years. His music is known for its authenticity and emotional depth. This concert highlights the early years of Maze and the transition to Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. We Are One X-Perience performs all the hit songs that everyone knows and loves, including: “Back in Stride,” “Too Many Games,” “Can’t Get Over You,” “Before I Let Go, Running Away,” and many more. They pride themselves on giving the audience an incredibly high-energy performance each time they take the stage.

One of the most visually striking, profoundly moving American moviemaking debuts in years, Raven Jackson’s All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt is an arresting immersion into a young woman’s inner world, filmed and edited with an extraordinary tactility and attention to the tiniest detail. This impressionistic journey skips through decades to tell the story of Mack, whose upbringing in rural Mississippi is touched by grace, dotted with heartbreak, and always carried aloft by the surrounding natural beauty. It’s a haunting and richly layered portrait, a beautiful ode to the generations of people and places that shape us.
Rated PG | Run time: 1h 32m

* This exhibition runs Mar. 12–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 14. *

Amanda Spaid was inspired during the pandemic to focus on hyper-local subjects, creating detailed drawings of birds in the D.C. area. She hopes that slowing down and examining what’s happening to the planet, not just on a global level, but literally in our backyards, will inspire people to make decisions that benefit all locals — humans and birds alike.

* This exhibition runs Mar. 14–Apr. 12, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 14. *

With pottery, there is a repetition to the craft, whether through the process, with the result, or both. In the work for this exhibition, Chris Kirages will explore and build two-dimensional imagery through the repetition of handmade clay objects arranged near others of similar size but varying in color, value, and tone, to create a ceramic wall painting.

* This exhibition runs Mar. 7–Apr. 12, with a public reception and awards ceremony on Sat., Mar. 21. *

Montpelier Arts Center strives to foster a positive, creative environment where young and emerging artists realize their full potential. Now in its 14th year, this annual exhibition spotlights the talents of visual artists ages 13-19 from the Washington, D.C., area. The juror awards prizes based on artistic excellence, with cash prizes for first, second, and third place. Beginning in winter 2025, interested teens may submit work online for consideration at MontpelierArtsCenter.submittable.com.

* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 17, with a public reception on Thu., Apr. 2. *

Roxana is a collage artist fascinated by the art of collage. She uses snippets of magazine paper, fabric, photographs, pencil drawings, raw pigments, and anything that enriches the texture and color of her images. Her goal is for each of her art pieces to awaken feelings in the viewer. Consolation, love, festivity, protection, happiness, innocence, and solitude are words that she has heard others use to describe her collages.

This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from March 23-May 17, 2026, and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.

* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 28. *

South Korean artist Ju Yun navigates the tension between two contrasting worlds. Transitioning from traditional Korean art to fully contemporary subjects and techniques, Yun embraces the space in between. Through layered compositions of polymer clay and found objects, their mask projects explore themes of hybrid identity—transforming existing forms into something new, reshaping meaning, and influencing others.

* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 28. *

Kimberly Margioni’s work explores the delicate balance between nature, emotion, and cultural heritage. Drawing inspiration from the world around her—the vibrant landscapes or the quiet beauty of everyday moments—she seeks to capture the essence of life in its raw, unfiltered form. Her creative process is rooted in the belief that art has the power to transcend boundaries and speak directly to the soul. Each piece reflects her travel journey, an invitation to feel deeply and connect with the universal experience of love, resilience, and transformation. As a current naval officer and mechanical engineer, she brings a unique perspective to her art, breaking from the rigidity of her day-to-day to dive into her abstract, fluid, imperfect approach with emotional depth. This creates both structured and fluid works, grounded yet ever evolving.

* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 28. *

Kimberly Margioni’s work explores the delicate balance between nature, emotion, and cultural heritage. Drawing inspiration from the world around her—the vibrant landscapes or the quiet beauty of everyday moments—she seeks to capture the essence of life in its raw, unfiltered form. Her creative process is rooted in the belief that art has the power to transcend boundaries and speak directly to the soul. Each piece reflects her travel journey, an invitation to feel deeply and connect with the universal experience of love, resilience, and transformation. As a current naval officer and mechanical engineer, she brings a unique perspective to her art, breaking from the rigidity of her day-to-day to dive into her abstract, fluid, imperfect approach with emotional depth. This creates both structured and fluid works, grounded yet ever evolving.

The Chuck Brown Band honors the “Godfather of Go-Go” by continuing his legacy, touring with his classics and new material from the band. Led by Chuck’s son, Wiley, and featuring his daughter, KK, they embody the “Family Affair” vibe. Don’t miss this uplifting, non-stop performance that blends jazz, funk, and soul while engaging the audience. The Godfather may be gone, but his legacy continues as The Chuck Brown Band carries his funky groove forward without missing a B-E-A-T. Wind Us Up, Chuck!

The Supreme Divas – Tribute To The Supremes comprises some of the DMV’s most talented artists. They flawlessly bring to life the music of one of the most successful female groups in American history, The Supremes. With twelve number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100, The Supremes set the standard for female vocal groups during the ’60s and ’70s. Their chart-busting hits included “Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love,” “Come See About Me,” “Stop! In The Name of Love,” and many others. They will take you back to when the Motown sound was supreme.

Message is not your typical concert series. It is an oasis where local artists find their voice and share their stories. Here, music transcends mere entertainment – it becomes personal. Local talent takes center stage. These are the musicians who play at the neighborhood cafes, scribble lyrics on napkins, and dream big. They’re not chasing fame, they’re chasing connection. From soulful ballads to introspective rap, their performances resonate with authenticity. Every Message event is unrepeatable, no two shows are alike; each carries a unique message. The audience sits close enough to see the artist’s fingertips on the strings and feel the raw emotion in every lyric. This is an event for anyone seeking refuge from the noise, who craves more than a passive concert experience.

Young Stars Live: A Showcase of Rising Talent! Get ready for an electrifying night of music, theater, and dance as the Young Stars take the stage. This dynamic showcase features incredible teen performers who have honed their talents through our artist development program, bringing creativity, passion, and high-energy performances to the spotlight. From powerful vocals to stunning choreography and captivating drama, this is a show you don’t want to miss. Come cheer on the next generation of stars and experience the magic of live performance. One night only—don’t miss it!

Dive into the electrifying journey of Prince’s early career with groundbreaking albums like Prince, Dirty Mind, and Controversy, where he masterfully blended religious and sexual themes. Experience the magic of his rise to superstardom with iconic albums 1999 and Purple Rain, featuring chart-topping hits like “When Doves Cry” and “Let’s Go Crazy.” Join us for an unforgettable evening as we honor the music of this legendary artist. Gather your friends, secure your tickets, and immerse yourself in the timeless sounds of Prince!

Jump into spring with a little cosplay costume and some animated magic! Join us at the Publick Playhouse for our annual Family Dress-up & Movie Day. Dress as your favorite royal character and capture memorable photos with our special guest, a real-life princess. Enjoy craft activities for kids and then settle in to watch the film Snow White (2025). Please note, this event is recommended for ages 3-12, however, everyone must have a ticket to enter.

Using paint, collage, papercuts, and other media, Yemonja’s intricate and colorful mixed-media works emphasize self-care. She aims to create new forms through focused examination and deconstruction while reassembling tenderly, even elements of broken spirit.

Dancers learn praise choreography from the professionals of Dallas Black Dance Theatre. Spaces are limited; advanced registration is recommended.

Dancers learn a mixture of regional dances of Africa from the professionals of Dallas Black Dance Theatre. Women/girls can wear a lappa (2 yards of African print fabric to be wrapped around the waist). Spaces are limited; advanced registration is recommended.

Experience the transformative power of Hawaiian hula. We invite older adults to engage with this Polynesian art form and connect with Hawaii’s rich heritage through graceful movements, music, and captivating storytelling. With gentle exercise benefits, cognitive stimulation, and social connection, hula nourishes both body and soul.

Hailed as one of the greatest songstresses of our time, GRAMMY Award-winning Roberta Flack remains unparalleled in her ability to tell a story through her music. Her songs bring insight into our lives, love, culture, and politics, while effortlessly traversing a broad musical landscape from pop to soul to folk to jazz. Following her passing in February 2025, this tribute concert will honor her life and legacy by showcasing some of her most cherished music, thoughtfully curated by musical director and Roberta Flack band alumnus Daryl L.A. Hunt.

Hailed as one of the greatest songstresses of our time, GRAMMY Award-winning Roberta Flack remains unparalleled in her ability to tell a story through her music. Her songs bring insight into our lives, love, culture, and politics, while effortlessly traversing a broad musical landscape from pop to soul to folk to jazz. Following her passing in February 2025, this tribute concert will honor her life and legacy by showcasing some of her most cherished music, thoughtfully curated by musical director and Roberta Flack band alumnus Daryl L.A. Hunt.

Dancers representing countries from across the globe get together to showcase their talent in this interactive and immersive dance experience. Enjoy a live DJ spinning the latest international dance tracks and learning a few new moves to celebrate diversity in our community.

Belly Dance for Fitness Month: Embrace the Rhythm of Health and Wellness! Join us this month to celebrate the mesmerizing art of belly dance as a powerful fitness routine. Discover the enchanting fusion of cultural expression and physical movement that tones muscles, improves flexibility, and boosts confidence. Experience the joy of dance while reaping the benefits of a full-body workout. Let music guide you on a journey towards strength, grace, and vitality. Unleash your inner dancer this Fitness Month with the ancient art of belly dancing!

With intriguing soundscapes and dazzling visuals, Sonic Frontiers curates eclectic, improvisatory experiences with live electronic music and projection art. With a focus on community engagement, The DC Modular Collective members will host fall and spring mini-electronic music festivals at Brentwood Arts Exchange, presenting featured headliners, inviting drop-in performances, and offering hands-on education, demonstrations, and insight into this unique art form.

Hailed as bright, energetic, absolutely captivating, and outrageously funny, Miss Gayle will keep an audience in stitches. She is an explosively talented individual who lights up the stage for sold-out audiences nationwide. Since the age of six, people have demanded amusement from the comedienne, actress, and entertainer who successfully lifted their spirits. Miss Gayle can put life in perspective through her down-home humor.

* This exhibition runs Jun. 8–Jul. 26, with a public reception on Thu., Jun. 18. *

Rosana is an Argentinian artist that explores Surrealism. She sees the universe as a powerful, vivid place of continual transformation, and her works attempt to capture glimpses of it. Every brushstroke, color, and shape gives insight into her heart and is a window to her soul.

This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from June 8-July 26, 2026, and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.

* This exhibition runs Jun. 8–Jul. 26, with a public reception on Thu., Jun. 18. *

Rosana is an Argentinian artist that explores Surrealism. She sees the universe as a powerful, vivid place of continual transformation, and her works attempt to capture glimpses of it. Every brushstroke, color, and shape gives insight into her heart and is a window to her soul.

This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from June 8-July 26, 2026, and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.