Events

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.

Join us for an unforgettable evening as the BRENCORE Allstars, featuring the incredible Tia Lydawn and Ameya Taylor, honor the legendary ladies of soul. If you’re a fan of Stephanie Mills, Aretha Franklin, Teena Marie, and other iconic artists, gather your friends, grab your tickets, and immerse yourself in the soulful sounds and timeless hits that have shaped music history. Don’t miss this spectacular tribute to the queens of soul!

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.

In honor of Black History Month, musician, author, and lecturer Daryl Davis will present a concert of the Roots of American Popular Music consisting of Blues, Boogie Woogie, Jazz, and Rock’n’Roll composed by Black musicians as performed by The Daryl Davis Trio.

A D.C.-based reggae group that maintains the authentic sound of Rasta Roots Reggae while spreading messages of social consciousness and spiritual wisdom.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day by making Shrinky Dink charms and keepsakes! Watch your designs magically shrink into mini masterpieces—perfect for jewelry, keychains, or heartfelt gifts.

Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am is an artful and intimate meditation on the legendary Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning author that examines her life, her works, and the powerful themes she has confronted throughout her literary career. The documentary collects written and graphic work from the history of Black life in America, seeking to fill in the gaps in the master narrative of American history.