Washington Diplomat
  PO Box 1345
  Wheaton, MD 20915
  Tel: 301.933.3552
  Fax: 301.949.0065


Events, September, 2001

ART

Sept. 7 through Oct. 22
My American Symbols
The Cultural Service of the Embassy of France and La Maison Française present the opening of a new exhibition by French painter Franck Moeglen titled "My American Symbols." Moeglen pays particular attention to the quest for the identification of a personal sign. His reality comes out through recurrent symbols and here again the artist confirms the will and relates them to each other. The exhibit may be viewed by appointment only. Please call for more information.
Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
La Maison Française
Embassy of France
4101 Reservoir Rd., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 944-6091

Through Sept. 9
Worshiping the Ancestors: Chinese Commemorative Portraits
This large exhibition contains intricately detailed, brightly colored, nearly life-size portraits, as well as textiles, furniture and other Chinese objects created between 1451 and 1943. It is the first exhibition in the West in more than a half-century to focus on Chinese ancestor portraits. Call for more information.
Open daily, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
Smithsonian Institution
Jefferson Drive at 12th St., SW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 357-2700

Through Sept. 10
In the Presence of Spirits
Rare African masterpieces from an important European museum collection are on view at the National Museum of African Art. The exhibition examines an impressive group of more than 140 objects from Angola, Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau, among others that reflect the influences of the supernatural world in both public and private life throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Works range from small, exquisitely created dolls to awe-inspiring fiber and initiation masks, dating from around 1850 to the mid-20th century. Call for more information.
Open daily, 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
National Museum of African Art
950 Independence Ave., SW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 357-4600

Through Sept. 17
André Kertész and Theodore Fried: Away From Home
Hungarian expatriates Kertész (1894-1985) and Fried (1902-1980) met in Paris in 1925. There they became involved in the international arts community and developed friendships with other artists such as Constantin Brancusi, Alexander Calder, Marc Chagall, and Piet Mondrian. This exhibit will feature approximately photographs, paintings and drawings exchanged by the two friends. Set against the backdrop of rising political conflict, some works evoke the spirit of Paris during the tenuous years of the 1920s and 1930s. Admission is $5 for adults, $8 for families and $3 for seniors. Call for more information.
Wed.-Mon. (Closed Tue.) 10 a.m. – 5p.m.
The Corcoran Gallery of Art
500 17th St., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 639-1700

Through Sept. 20
Skiers
A unique exhibit by Czech artist Martin Velisek is on display at the Czech Embassy. Considered one of the most notorious and respected artists of the Czech Republic, Velisek’s selection of perceptively and humorously created images of mature nude characters on skis in a variety of circumstances is not an exhibit for ski aficionados only. Admission is free. Call for more information.
Mon.-Fri., 9 – 5 p.m.
Embassy of the Czech Republic
3900 Spring of Freedom St., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 274-9100

Through Sept. 25
Freedom/Aftermath
The Korean Cultural Service, Embassy of the Republic of Korea presents a new exhibit featuring 20 artists from around the Pacific Rim. The focus of this exhibit is to celebrate Liberation Day, the Korean national holiday commemorating Korea’s liberation from Japan and the 1948 establishment of the Republic of Korea. Admission is free. Call for more information.
Mon.-Fri., 9 - 5:30 p.m.
Korean Cultural Service
2370 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 797-6343

Through Oct. 14
The Architecture of R.M. Schi ndler
The most comprehensive exhibition to survey the work of architect Rudolph Michael Schindler (1887-1953). Schindler’s unique architectural identity mixed European modernism with the earthbound refinements of Frank Lloyd Wright. The exhibition will present Schindler’s evolving career from the late 1910s to the early 1950s through 110 original drawings, 14 scale models, approximately 90 photographs, and 12 select pieces of furniture, thoroughly illuminating his contribution to the history of modern architecture. Admission is free.
Call for more information.
Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sun., 12 - 5 p.m.
The National Building Museum
401 F St., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 272-3606

Through Oct. 28
Picasso: Portrait and Figure
The second installation in the new Etta Cone Wing of the Baltimore Museum of Art highlights Picasso’s drawings and prints, including a striking pen and ink self-portrait, a rare etching of his mistress, Fernande Olivier, and a remarkable gouache of Leo Stein. The Cone Collection includes 113 paintings, sculpture, drawings, prints, and illustrated books of Picasso. Admission is $7 adults, $5 seniors and students, and free for ages 18 and under. Free museum admission to all visitors on the first Thursday of every month. Call for more information.
Wed.-Fri., 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat. and Sun., 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Baltimore Museum of Art
Art Museum Drive at
Charles and 21st sts.
Baltimore, Md.
(410) 396-7100

Through Jan. 23, 2002
Whistler in Venice: The First Set of Etchings
The Freer Gallery of Art presents the opening of an exhibit of etchings by expatriate American artist James McNeill Whistler (1834-1903). This exhibition explores Whistler’s response to Venice by bringing together the etchings he selected for inclusion in the first of his two portfolios of Venetian prints. Initially planning to stay for only a few months, Whistler remained in Venice for over a year. The Freer Gallery has 46 impressions of the 12 images in the first Venice Set, no two of them alike. Twenty-eight can be seen in this exhibition. Admission is free. Call for more information.
Open daily, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Freer Gallery of Art
Jefferson Dr. at 12th St., SW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 357-2700

DANCE

Sept.7 and 8
Swing!
The Robert Parilla Performing Arts Center on the Rockville Campus of Montgomery College presents an amazing performance of "Swing!" by the Troika Organization’s National Tour. This performance is a celebration of the music and dance phenomenon that swept the nation in the 1930s and 1940s and has returned to become one of today’s fastest growing trends. This presentation features a mix of new and classic songs and over 30 tour-de-force dance numbers. Admission is $20 general, $18 seniors and students. Reserved seating so please call.
Fri., 8 p.m.
Sat., 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Robert E. Parilla
Performing Arts Center
Montgomery College –
Rockville Campus
51 Mannakee St.,
Rockville, Md.
(301) 279-5301

Starting Sept. 10
Scottish Country Dance Society of Washington
Invites beginners and experienced dancers to join their dance group. Scottish country dance is an old but ever-evolving form of social dance combining physical and mental exercise with a great way to make new friends. Instruction for beginning and experienced dancers, social dances and balls are offered throughout the year. The society meets Mondays, starting Sept. 10 at 8 p.m. at the N.I.H. Fitness Center (Building T-39 off Center Drive) in Bethesda. $3 per session. For more information please call Betty Lee Barnes.
Mon., 8 p.m.
National Institutes of Health
Building T-39, Fitness Center
Bethesda, Md.
(202) 966-3595

Sept. 26
New Japanese Puppetry: Hiroshi Hori
As both dancer and puppeteer using his original life-size puppets, Japanese artist Hiroshi Hori performs excerpts from the "Tale of Genji" and a traditional No play, and he conducts a lecture-demonstration of his acclaimed artistry. The performance is co-presented with the Embassy of Japan, the Japan Foundation and the Japan-America society.
Wed., 7:30 p.m.
Meyer Auditorium
Freer Gallery of Art
Jefferson Drive at 12th St., SW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 357-2700

LECTURE

Sept. 9
Celebrate Caribbean Culture with Poetry, Art Music and Diplomacy
Ambassador Joseph Edmunds, former ambassador of St. Lucia to the UN, Organization of American States and the United States, will read selections from 40 years of poetry writing from his published book "Many Horizons" and his soon to be published "Many Voices." His readings are enhanced by slides of his works of art, which illustrate his compositions in different media and techniques. A scientist by training, Edmunds portrays in his art forms, a unique blend of science, art, and diplomacy. His presentations are accompanied by a background of classical Caribbean steel drums in a compelling admixture of voice, visual arts, and music. A reception will follow. Tickets are $10 for Corcoran members; $15 for non-members. Please call for more information
and to register.
Sun., 5 p.m.
Frances and Armand Hammer Auditorium
Corcoran Gallery of Art
500 17th St., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 639-1770

Sept. 11
Middle East Peace Forum
Moshe Fox, minister for public affairs at the Embassy of Israel, and Hasan Abdul Rahman, chief representative of the Palestine National Authority will engage in a frank and open dialogue on the critical issues surrounding the current Palestinian-Israeli crisis. Ambassador Edward Walker, President of the Middle East Institute and former U.S. ambassador to Israel and Egypt, will moderate the discussion. This is an event not to be missed by anyone with an interest in the Middle East. The event will include an interfaith prayer for Middle East peace with Christian, Jewish and Muslim blessings. For more information please call The Peace Commission.
Tues., 7:30 p.m.
St. Alban’s Episcopal Church
Washington National Cathedral
Wisconsin Ave., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 537-6546

Sept. 12
The New Modem Arts
On his death bed, Picasso said: "Painting remains to be invented." According to Artist Flora Iacchia, Modem Art allows artists and audiences to answer Picasso’s challenge. Iacchia, a pioneer in the field of digital painting, discusses how digital painting is a software product that allows the production of multiple versions, the customization and enhancement of colors and other features, and the management of changes to these paintings. She explains why such an approach provides unprecedented artistic freedom to painters, enriches the experiences of viewers, and e nables audiences to influence the contents of such digital works. Admission is $15 general, $10 members. Please call for more
information.
Wed., 7 p.m.
Frances and Armand Hammer Auditorium
Corcoran Gallery of Art
500 17th St., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 639-1770

MUSIC

Sept. 2
Myra Merritt, Soprano, with Lora Ferguson, Clarinetist, and Francis Conlon, Pianist
The Church of the Annunciation is pleased to present a concert of these esteemed artists. The program includes pieces by Paer, Schubert, Debussy, Rachmaninoff and others. Myra Merritt has sung in opera houses throughout the world and has performed with many of the world’s leading orchestras and conductors. Lora Ferguson plays in the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra and is a founding member of the Capitol Woodwind Quintet. Francis Conlon has played concerts in many different cities throughout the world. A donation of $10 is suggested but is not mandatory. For more information please call.
Sun., 5 p.m.
Church of the Annunciation
3810 Massachusetts Ave., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 332-3133

Sept. 7 and 8
Siouw Lee-Chin, Virtuoso Violinist
The Embassy of Singapore and Embassy Series present two special engagements by renowned violinist Siow Lee-Chin. A seasoned performer, Lee-Chin has performed in over 20 countries on four continents. A frequent guest of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, her upcoming engagements include a London debut with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Her program will include Schumann’s "Fantasiestück," R. Strauss’s "Sonata," Schönberg’s "Fantasy," Dvorák’s "Four Romantic Pieces" and Ravel’s "Tsigane." Please call for reservations and more information.
Fri. and Sat., 8 p.m.
Embassy of Singapore
3501 International Place, NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 625-2361

Sept. 13
Uzbekistan Presents Two Music Groups
Anor, a four member pop group, has released three albums in Uzbekistan and recently won second place in the national talent competition. This summer they won a NIKHOL, an Uzbek Grammy. Abbos, the second group, specializes in traditional Uzbek music. Please call for more information.
Thurs., 12 noon
Woodrow Wilson Plaza
Ronald Reagan Building
1300 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 312-1300

Sept. 16
John Eaton Plays His Favorite Tunes
John Eaton, Washington’s preeminent cabaret musician, draws on a wide range of musical styles and performs his personal favorites. Eaton plays such diverse selections as Jerome Kern’s "Showboat," the piano stylings of Fats Waller, and the great songs of Cole Porter among others. Admission is $20 general, $15 members. Please call for more information.
Sun., 5:30 p.m.
Frances and Armand Hammer Auditorium
Corcoran Gallery of Art
500 17th St., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 639-1770

Sept. 17
Jazz: Martial Solal
La Maison Française presents Algerian-born, Paris-based pianist Martial Solal. An exceptionally versatile stylist, his mastery of a broad range of jazz piano styles has allowed him to build one of the most interesting discographies in jazz. He has played with many of the most prominent jazzmen but is probably best known as the man behind the jazzy score of Jean-Luc Godard’s 1960 New Wave epic "Breathless." This concert is not to be missed, prepare to be astonished by the greatest living European jazz pianist. Wine reception to follow. General admission is $20, seniors and students $15. For information and to register please call.
Mon., 8 p.m.
La Maison Française
Embassy of France
4101 Reservoir Rd., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 944-6091

Sept. 21
Indian Classical Music: Subra Guha
Subra Guha is the preeminent female vocalist in the esteemed Agra style, a largely male-dominated tradition of Indian classical music known for its extensive introductory improvisations. She is accompanied by Samar Saha on tabla and Rames Mishra on "sarangi," a bowed string instrument rarely heard in American concerts of Indian vocal music. This event is free. Please call for more information.
Fri., 7:30 p.m.
Meyer Auditorium
Freer Gallery of Art
Jefferson Drive at 12th St., SW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 357-2700

THEATER

Sept. 7 through 23
The Race of the Ark Tattoo
The Studio Theatre presents this tour-de-force, one-man performance starring Matthew Maher and written by W. David Hancock. Maher portrays a man with a mysterious past peddling his wares at a neighborhood flea market. Maher transforms with each item for sale, telling the stories of his treasure. Maher will leave audiences trying to distinguish between the performer and the character. See the show that sold out continuously at New York’s premiere performance art space, P.S. 122. Tickets range between $29.50 and $39.50. Please call for tickets, showtimes and more information. You may also visit
www.studiotheatre.org
The Studio Theatre
1333 P St., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 332-3300

Sept. 8 through Oct. 5
The Tales of Hoffmann by Jacques Offenbach
The Washington Opera’s season opens with Offenbach’s greatest masterpiece, in a new production conceived and directed by Marta Domingo. Unfinished at the composer’s death, the opera is a blend of fantasy and reality where a poet—perhaps drunk, or mad, or simply exercising poetic license—regales his comrades in a Nuremberg tavern with tales of the three extraordinary women he has loved and lost. In French with subtitles. For ticket information please call.
Sept. 8, 6:30 p.m.
Sept. 12, 14, 20, 26, 8 p.m.
Sept. 16, 23, 2 p.m.
The Washington Opera
Kennedy Center Opera House
Washington, D.C.
(202) 295-2400

Through Sept. 9
Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance
The Interact Theatre Company and the Folger Theater continue their summer tradition of Gilbert and Sullivan productions with the classic story of the rollicking pirates who turn up in King George III’s British colony of America, invading Washington with aplomb and panache and shocking the other "George" – who just happens to be the major general residing in Mount Vernon. The Helen Hayes Award-winning company ships you to the swamplands of the Potomac River with a fresh and lively topsy-turvy interpretation of a popular favorite. Tickets are $35 to $45 with additional discounts for students, seniors and groups. Call for tickets and info.
Wed. and Thurs., 7:30 p.m.
Fri. and Sat., 8 p.m.
Sat. and Sun., 2 p.m.
The Folger Theatre
201 Capitol S t., SE
Washington, D.C.
(703) 218-6500 (Box Office)
(703) 760-9863 (Group/Info)

Sept. 13 through 30
Cosí Fan Tutte by Mozart
One of Mozart’s great comedies of love and manners, and ensemble opera without peer. When two young soldiers wager a cynical old friend that their fiancées will remain ever faithful, no matter the temptation, a complicated game of hearts begins, complete with disguise and deception. In Italian with surtitles. For ticket information, please call.
Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 15, 17, 22, 7 p.m.
Sept. 25, 28, 8 p.m.
The Washington Opera
Kennedy Center Opera House
Washington, D.C.
(202) 295-2400

TOURS

Sept. 9
Inside Embassy Row
Washington’s Embassy Row, long home to diplomats, statesmen, writers, artists, and former presidents will greet visitors for the 17th annual Kalorama House and Embassy Tour, sponsored by the Friends of the Woodrow Wilson House, Washington’s only presidential museum. The tour is a rare opportunity to actually visit sites of diplomatic entertaining and private homes in Washington’s Embassy Row. New offerings this year include the Royal Danish Embassy, Harvard University’s Center for Hellenic Studies and the newly renovated residence of the ambassador of Venezuela. Offered again this year will be the popular pre-tour Brunch and lecture at the elegant Women’s National Democratic Club. Individual cost for this package is $43. Tickets just for the tour are $18 in advance or $20 on the day of the tour. Please call Marie Danch for group rate discounts and more information.
Sun., 12 – 5 p.m.
Woodrow Wilson House
2340 S St., NW
Washington, D.C.
(202) 387-4062, ext. 18

I’ve Got a Secret
Every Tuesday and Thursday, learn secrets about America’s capital city. This walk is perfect for every smarty-pants suffering from the delusion of omniscience about Washington as well as those looking for little-known facts with which to impress friends. The following tidbits are offered: a tree house on the Mall, a ghost in a castle, a brothel, a canal, and the severed leg of a Civil War general. The tour meets at Smithsonian Station (Independence Avenue exit). The guide will be wearing a Washington Walks badge. No reservations necessary. Tickets cost $10 per person. Children 12 and under, $5. Cash only.
Tue., 8:30 a.m.
Thurs., 4:30 p.m.
Washington Walks
(202) 484-1565
www.washingtonwalks.com

Embassy Row
Every Thursday, this walk down Washington’s grandest boulevard features the most impressive turn-of-the-century residences in the city, many designed in the French beaux-arts style. In addition to viewing sumptuous architecture, you’ll hear stories about the families who once resided in these stately palaces. Fabulous wealth, extravagant parties, scandals—even the curse of the Hope Diamond—are mixed with a glimpse of the life led by Washington’s diplomatic community today. The tour meets at Dupont Circle Station (Q Street exit). The guide will be wearing a Washington Walks badge. No reservations necessary. Tickets cost $10 per person. Children 12 and under, $5. Cash only.
Thurs., 5 p.m.
Washington Walks
(202) 484-1565
www.washingtonwalks.com

Capital Hauntings
No other part of the city claims a more mysterious, macabre history than Lafayette Square, the park north of the White House. The restless ghosts of presidents, a first lady, assassins and military officers roam the hallways of old homes, a theater and even the White House. As the day draws to a close, you’ll creep through the park and adjoining streets past these haunted sights. The guide will relay the ghost stories associated with each person or place. Every Friday, the tour meets at McPherson Square Station (White House exit). The guide will be wearing a Washington Walks badge. No reservations necessary. Tickets cost $10 per person. Children 12 and under, $5 Cash only.
Fri., 7:30 p.m.
Washington Walks
(202) 484-1565
www.washingtonwalks.com