EVENTS **Admission is free unless otherwise noted. All information on event venues can be found on The Washington Diplomat Web site. Times and locations are subject to change. Unless listed, please call venue for specific event times and hours of operation. ART Through Sept. 1 Sir Edmund Hillary: Everest and Beyond In this challenging interactive exhibit, learn more about the man who made the first successful ascent of Mount Everest and his many humanitarian achievements since that historic ascent. National Geographic Explorers Hall Through Sept. 3 Ancient Manuscripts From the Desert Libraries of Timbuktu A wide range of manuscripts from Mali provide important insights into the cultural heritage of Africaís largest nation in this exhibit presented in conjunction with the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Library of Congress Sept. 4 to Jan. 4, 2004 Canadian Counterpoint: Illustrations by Anita Kunz Fifteen paintings by the internationally recognized Canadian artist Anita Kunz reflect the thematic diversity of her 22-year career, with illustrations that range from political satire to social issues such as child abuse. Library of Congress Sept. 4 to Jan. 30, 2004 Visions and Vignettes: Paintings by Ibiyinka Olufemi Alao As Nigeriaís ìambassador of art,î Ibiyinka Olufemi Alao has traveled the world displaying his contemporary paintings to spread his message of peace and unity. World Bank Presidentís Gallery Through Sept. 7 Chinese Buddhist Sculpture in a New Light ìNew Lightî studies the long and complicated history of devotional objects created in China for Buddhist worship, which became so popular that they spawned the manufacture of forgeries bought by foreign collectors over time. Freer Gallery of Art Through Sept. 7 Gloria et Miseria In cooperation with the city gallery of Bratislava in the Slovak Republic, ìGloria et Miseriaî displays the versatility and mastery of Central European printers from the 16th and 17th centuries. Embassy of Slovakia Through Sept. 7 Isamu Noguchi and Modern Japanese Ceramics Best known for his abstract stone sculpture, public plazas, and lamp and furniture designs, Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi (1904-1988) also produced a radically original body of ceramic art during three visits to Japan, 43 of which are now on display. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Through Sept. 7 Jean-Antoine Houdon ( 1741-1828): Sculptor of the Enlightenment Houdon is universally recognized as the greatest European portrait sculptor of the last half the 18th century; however, despite his fame, this markís Houdonís first major monographic exhibit. National Gallery of Art Through Sept. 7 Mamluk Rugs From Egypt: Jewels of The Textile Museumís Collection The Textile Museum displays its prized collection of Mamluk rugs, extremely rare carpets that are considered to be among the finest in the world. The Textile Museum Through Sept. 7 Marsden Hartley The Phillips presents the first retrospective in 20 years of early American modernist Marsden Hartley, who belonged to a circle of artists promoted by photographer and gallery owner Alfred Stieglitz. The Phillips Collection Through Sept. 12 2003 American Institute of Architects Honor Awards This exhibit spotlights the 2003 AIA winners, the professionís highest recognition for excellence in architecture, interiors and urban design. American Institute of Architects Sept. 13 to Jan. 5, 2004 Beyond the Frame: Impressionism Revisited, the Sculptures of J. Seward Johnson Jr. J. Seward Johnson Jr. allows viewers to take a three-dimensional tour of sculptures inspired by masterpieces from the French Impressionist era, from Claude Monetís lush landscapes to Mary Cassattís romantic interiors. Corcoran Gallery of Art Through Sept. 14 Days of Danger Sculptor Carol Kreeger Davidsonís 1995 series ìDays of Dangerî depicts seven large, smooth metal figures that represent archetypal warrior goddesses in this thought-provoking expression of power and aggression. National Museum of Women in the Arts Through Sept. 14 Lesley Dill: A Ten-Year Survey Multifaceted artist Lesley Dill uses rich textures and layered meanings to explore the boundaries between mind, body and spirit and the importance of language in creating our identities. National Museum of Women in the Arts Sept. 14 to Jan. 4 The Art of Romare Bearden The Caribbean island of St. Martin, New Yorkís Harlem, jazz clubs, brothels, religious subjects and a multitude of other overlapping themes mark the powerful imagery of Romare Bearden in this first comprehensive exhibit of his work in more than a decade. National Gallery of Art Through Sept. 15 Karl-Heinz KolleróA Retrospective This retrospective examines how photographer Karl-Heinz Koller created simple, mesmerizing images using techniques such as blurring definition, mingling negatives, and shooting multiple exposures of circular, interweaving structures. Embassy of Austria Sept. 17 to Jan. 11, 2004 Haunting Visions of Poe: Illustrations by Manet, Matisse and Gauguin Twenty prints and drawings by modern French artists translate Edgar Allen Poeís dark genius into the realm of visual art. Baltimore Museum of Art Through Sept. 19 Dreams and Reality The Smithsonian has prepared a rare exhibit of works by 18 Korean-American artists reflecting the confluence of both cultures on the centennial of Korean immigration to the United States. S. Dillon Ripley Center Sept. 19 to Jan. 9, 2004 Schematics: Paintings by James Heron More than 20 colorful, richly textured paintings by San Francisco-based architect James Heron offer an undiluted visual celebration of architectural form and imagery. The Octagon Museum Through Sept. 21 The Fabric of Moroccan Life This landmark exhibit showcases 67 rare, brightly colored Moroccan textiles to paint a picture of the countryís diverse cultures and traditions over the past three centuries. National Museum of African Art Sept. 25 to Jan. 4, 2004 DirectionsóDan Steinhilber Local artist Dan Steinhilber reconfigures everyday objects into whimsical creations using everything from clothes hangers to garbage bags. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Sept. 26 to Feb. 8, 2004 Jewels and Gems The innovative jewelry designs in ìJewels and Gemsî highlight the spirit and wit of American studio jewelry artists. Renwick Gallery Through Sept. 28 Small Wonders: Dutch Still Lifes by Adriaen Coorte This exhibit marks the first U.S. presentation of works by Adriaen Coorte, a remarkable but largely unrecognized still-life painter who lived in the Netherlands during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. National Gallery of Art Through Sept. 29 Coming of Age: Marjorie Merriweather Post and Fashion at the Turn of the 20th Century In recognition of the 100th anniversary of Hillwood founder Marjorie Merriweather Postís societal debut, the museum revisits the fashion sense and sensibilities of America at the turn of the century. Hillwood Museum and Gardens Through Oct. 5 Ethiopian Icons: Faith and Science Reflecting two voicesócurator and conservatoróìEthiopian Iconsî explores the potent imagery of icons using the museumís own collection, which recently underwent a technical analysis and conservation treatment. National Museum of African Art Through Oct. 5 Ethiopian Passages: Dialogues in the Diaspora Commemorating the centennial anniversary of U.S.-Ethiopian diplomatic relations, this is the first major exhibition devoted to the contemporary visual arts of the Ethiopian Diaspora. National Museum of African Art Through Oct. 6 Census 03: New Art From DC Borrowing its title from the federal population survey, ìCensus 03î showcases the continually evolving Washington art scene with a diverse batch of local artists. Corcoran Gallery of Art Through Oct. 12 In Pursuit of Heavenly Harmony Paintings and calligraphy works by Bada Shanren (1626ñ1705), one of the most renowned and influential individualist painters and calligraphers of the early Qing dynasty, make for a graceful centerpiece to this Freer exhibit. Freer Gallery of Art Through Oct. 12 Whistler and Cassatt: Americans Abroad Spectacular views of Venice, London and Paris by U.S. expatriate artists James McNeill Whistler and Mary Cassatt recall the romance of Europe in nearly 100 prints and drawings from the BMAís collection. Baltimore Museum of Art Through Oct. 17 Our Voices, Our Images This exhibit commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month brings together a diverse group of winners from an art and literature competition exploring the Hispanic experience in America. Inter-American Development Bank Cultural Center Through Oct. 19 Visual Arts of the Americas: Canada and the United States Prints, paintings, drawings and photographs by a multit ude of Canadian and U.S. artists are the centerpiece of this internationally eclectic collection. Georgetown University Lauinger Library Through Oct. 24 Selected Photographs by Antonia M. Macedo New Zealander Antonia M. Macedo displays photographs of man-made structures designed to evoke mystery and beauty, which are shown alongside paintings of extreme weather conditions by Amy Marx. The American Association for the Advancement of Science Through Nov. 29 Rivers, Edens, Empires: Lewis and Clark and the Revealing of America The highlight of this Lewis and Clark exhibit is the only known copy of Martin Waldseem¸kkerís 1507 world map, an ambitious project originally undertaken in France that gave the name ìAmericaî to the lands explored by Columbus and Vespucci. Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building Through Nov. 30 Insomnia: Landscapes of the Night From peaceful dreams to the dark catacombs of nightmares, 30 artists probe the effects of nightfall on an artistís perception and imagination. National Museum of Women in the Arts Through Nov. 30 Journeys and Destinations: African Artists on the Move ìJourneys and Destinationsî examines the migration of the African Diaspora in Europe and America and how these artists have negotiated their changing cultural and personal identities. National Museum of African Art Through Dec. 31 Myths of St. Petersburg: Impressions of the City From the Hillwood Collection To honor the 300th anniversary of the founding of St. Petersburg, the Hillwood Museum has compiled more than 50 objects that examine the famed cityís symbolic meaning and its place in Russian history. Hillwood Museum and Gardens Through Jan. 3, 2004 Fakes, Forgeries, Facsimiles The Folgerís curators display some deceptive collection items to help viewers learn more about forgeries, how to product them and how to detect them. Folger Shakespeare Library Through Jan. 4, 2004 Gyroscope To celebrate its 30th anniversary, the Hirshhorn launches a museum-wide exhibition that showcases its collection of modern and contemporary art. Encompassing nearly 40 thematic installations, ìGyroscopeî encourages visitors to experience art from a variety of perspectives, each designed to provoke curiosity, discovery and revelation. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Through Jan. 4, 2004 Tales and Legends in Japanese Art Japanese paintings and objects that use imagery to weave intricate tales and legends reveal the countryís rich narrative traditions. Freer Gallery of Art Through Jan. 4, 2004 Tea Utensils Under Wraps In Japan, where tea ceremony vessels are treasured as works of art, tea connoisseurs have devised some creative and decorative storage solutions for protecting their utensils while theyíre not in use. Freer Gallery of Art Through Jan. 5, 2004 The Art of Resist Dyeing Representing an assortment of cultures, 25 objects demonstrate the various methods of resist dyeing, a method of textile patterning and decoration. The Textile Museum Through Jan. 11, 2004 The Mountain of the Lord Five detailed models of the temples built on the ancient Temple Mount in Jerusalem give visitors the chance to explore these sacred sites firsthand. Pope John Paul II Cultural Center Through Feb. 1, 2004 Whistlerís Greatest Etchings: The 1889 Amsterdam Set Thirteen exquisitely detailed etchings from James McNeill Whistlerís visit to Amsterdamówidely considered to be his greatest achievementóare the focus of this engrossing exhibit. Freer Gallery of Art Through Feb. 22, 2004 Love and Yearning: Mystical and Moral Themes in Persian Poetry and Painting For centuries, the evocative imagery of lyrical Iranian poetry has offered painters a wealth of pictorial possibilities, as seen in this beautifully illustrated exhibit. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Through April 2004 The Impressionist Tradition in America The Corcoran uses its collection of Impressionist works by Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Mary Cassatt and others with ties to Europe to illustrate the evolution of American Impression, complementing a related exhibit, ìBeyond the Frame: Impressionism Revisited, the Sculptures of J. Seward Johnson Jr.,î which runs concurrently with ìImpressionist Tradition.î Corcoran Gallery of Art Through June 1, 2004 The East Building: Celebrating 25 Years This special installation highlights the history of the East Building, its construction and its ever-growing collection of modern art through architectural drawings and other archival material. National Gallery of Art BENEFITS Fri., Sat., Sept. 12, 13, 10 a.m. McLean AAUW Book Sale The Mclean, Va., branch of the American Association of University Women will sell used books, records, CDs, videos and software to benefit scholarships or women. McLean Community Center DANCE Tue., Sept. 2, 6 p.m. Hemispheres: World Music and Dance Parties On this evening, Swedenís Hoven Droven dazzles with a powerful blend of traditional folk and hard rock tunes. Other ìHemispheresî programs feature Grammy-winning polka band Brave Combo (Sept. 3) and the contemporary Scottish group Old Blind Dogs (Sept. 16). Dance lessons for all the programs begin at 5:30 p.m. Kennedy Center Millennium Stage Sept. 19, 20, 21 Elementos Lola Greco, the former principal dancer of the Spanish National Ballet, performs with distinguished Spanish Gypsy guitarist Pedro CortÈs in this breathtaking production by The Spanish Dance Theatre. Please call (703) 757-0199 for ticket information. George Washington Masonic National Memorial Theater DISCUSSIONS Tue., Sept. 23, 7:30 p.m. Folger Poetry: A Tribute to Henry Taylor Friends of Henry Taylor, a Pulitzer Prize-winning local poet, mark the end of his 32-year career at American University with a reading of his works. Tickets are $10. Folger Shakespeare Library Thu., Fri., Sept. 25, 26, 8 p.m. Film Studies Focus: Indian Action Films This film clip-illustrated lecture examines Indian action films and the impact of politics on a developing friendship, with discussions on both evenings moderated by the Smithsonianís Manjula Kumar. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Mon., Sept. 29, 7:30 p.m. A Spectacular Evening With Steve Martin Beloved comedian Steve Martin is also an avid art collector of f igurative art from around the world, as he describes during this rare interview. Tickets are $30 or $25 for Corcoran members. Corcoran Gallery of Art GALAS Thu., Sept. 18, 6 p.m. The Womenís Edge Coalition Fifth Anniversary Gala Celebration The Womenís Edge Coalition, made up of 70 organizations that advocate international economic and human rights policies to support women worldwide, celebrates its fifth anniversary in grand style with live music, a celebrity emcee, silent auction and dinner. Tickets are $150. Sewall-Belmont House MUSIC Fri., Sept. 5, 8 and 10 p.m. Prelude Etcetera Featuring Cyro Baptistaís Beat the Donkey Brazilian musical spectacle Cyro Baptistaís Beat the Donkey melds African, Indonesian and American rock, hip hop, funk and jazz for a unique fusion of sounds. Tickets are $20. Kennedy Center Film Theater Sat., Sept. 6, 7 p.m. DJ Spooky: Rebirth of a Nation Washington, D.C., native Paul D. Miller, a.k.a. DJ Spooky that Subliminal Kid, uses a wide variety of digitally created music as a form of post-modern sculpture. Tickets are $14. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Tue., Sept. 9, 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Fiddlers on the Roof Featuring Les Yeux Noirs Les Yeux Noirs is a Paris-based ensemble founded by a team of brother fiddlers whose music draws on the traditions of Eastern European gypsies and Jews. Tickets are $22.50. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Sat., Sept. 13, 8 and 10 p.m. Prelude Etcetera Featuring Oi-Va-Voi Six disparate musicians from London come together in ìOi-Va-Voi,î a street-savvy group that explores dub, funk and traditional Eastern European and Jewish music. Tickets are $20. Kennedy Center Film Theater Sat., Sept. 13, 8 p.m. Special Acoustic Performance With Youssou NíDour A world music superstar, this Senegalese singer creates an intriguing blend of Western and African sounds. Tickets are $20 to $40. Kennedy Center Concert Hall Fri., Sept. 19, 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. KC Jazz Club Featuring Storms/Nocturnes British saxophonist Tim Garland joins in this exuberant and riveting chamber jazz trio performance. Tickets are $25. Kennedy Center Terrace Gallery Sat., Sept. 20, 2 p.m. Hayes Piano Series: Yundi Li Yundi Li, who became an overnight sensation after being the youngest contestant to win the Frederic Chopin Piano Competition, makes his debut at the Kennedy Center. Tickets are $30. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Sat., Sept. 20, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. The Sound of Music: The Troika Organizationís National Tour The Troika Organization presents Rodgers and Hammersteinís enchanting story about a spirited young girl who, unsure of her true calling, leaves her monastic life to become a governess. Tickets are $22 or $20 for students and seniors. Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center Sun., Sept. 21, 7:30 p.m. Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra With Wynton Marsalis Led by famed trumpeter and conductor Wynton Marsalis, the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra is sure to dazzle with its energetic renditions of American jazz repertoire. Tickets are $25 to $75. Kennedy Center Concert Hall Mon., Sept. 22, 7 p.m. Across a Crowded Room: An Evening of Love Songs With Anna Bergman Songstress Anna Bergman returns to the Corcoran for a new show featuring love songs from Porter to Puccini, Berlin to Bernstein and Rodgers to Romberg. Tickets are $22 or $18 for Corcoran members. Corcoran Gallery of Art Tue., Sept. 23, 7:30 p.m. Yo-Yo Ma and The Assads Renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma returns to Washington for this international performance with Brazilian guitarist duo SÈrgio and Odair Assad. Tickets are $30 to $95. Kennedy Center Concert Hall Wed., Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m. Jean-Bernard Pommier, Piano Critically acclaimed French pianist Jean-Bernard Pommier is noted for his sublime renditions of Beethoven and Mozartís complete sonatas. Tickets are $30. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Thu., Sept. 25, 7:30 p.m. Eric Cutler, Tenor Join Eric Cutler, already regarded as one of the most important young American tenors today, along with pianist Bradley Moore for this electrifying performance inaugurating the Vocal Arts Societyís new season. Tickets are $30. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Through Sept. 26 Jazz in the Garden Enjoy the last of Washingtonís warm weather every Friday evening from 5 to 8 p.m. with a mix of local jazz bands as they perform in front of the Pavilion CafÈ, next to the grand reflecting pool and fountain. National Gallery of Art Tue., Sept. 30, 7 p.m. Spanish Piano Concert/Reception Acclaimed Spanish pianist Javier Rovira performs a lovely concert of de Falla, Brahms, Chopin, Scarlatti, Rodrigo and Abeniz. Tickets are $20 or $15 for Corcoran members. Corcoran Gallery of Art THEATER Sept. 3 to Oct. 19 Topdog/Underdog Two brothers get caught up in a card hustle game and discover their past in this Pulitzer prize-winning work, which examines race, family and the weight of Americaís collective history. Tickets are $25 to $45. The Studio Theatre Sept. 5 to Oct. 19 Shakespeare in Hollywood Inspired by the magic of movies and one of the worldís wittiest romances, Shakespeareís ìA Midsummer Nightís Dream,î this world premiere comedy proves that the course of true love never runs smoothly. Tickets are $35 to $53. Arena Stage Sept. 6, 9, 11, 13, 15 and 17 Die Fledermaus The start of The Washington Operaís 18th season kicks off with this combination of French farce and Viennese dance music, in which a Hungarian prince at a masquerade ball unsuspectingly woos his wife in this mischievous tale of mixed-up identities. The Opening Night Gala Performance will be broadcast by WETA-TV. Tickets are $41 to $285. DAR Constitution Hall Sept. 10 to Oct. 12 The Drawer Boy This deftly written play from Canada centers on two farmers who rely on each other after a World War II accident leaves one with amnesia. Please call for ticket information. Round House Theatre Bethesda Sept. 12 to 27 The Elephant Man A young physician rescues the severely deformed John Merrick from a degrading world of freak shows, elevating him into the prize of high societ y. Tickets are $12 or $10 for seniors and students. Port City Playhouse Through Sept. 14 Nijinskyís Last Dance This one-man play by Norman Allen, winner of four Helen Hayes Awards, tells the story of the legendary yet ill-fated dancer through a well-choreographed monologue that describes his life in a series of flashbacks. Tickets are $25 to $30. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Through Sept. 21 Anna Karenina A stolen glance across a crowded train station ignites a love affair between Anna Karenina and Count Vronsky in this timeless tale of passion, scandal and betrayal. Tickets are $25 to $35. Olney Theatre Center Sept. 25 to 28 Mistero Buffo Nobel laureate Dario Fo is famous for lampooning authority and championing the downtrodden, and ìMistero Buffo,î one of Foís best-loved works, is no exception, exploring sacred themes through a refreshingly novel and irreverent lens. Please call for ticket information. Stanislavsky Theater Studio Through Oct. 19 The Rivals Richard Brinsley Sheridanís comedy of mistaken identities and misconceptions of love satirizes the trappings of marriage and wealth with a flair that has kept this work fresh for more than two centuries. Tickets are $16 to $66. The Shakespeare Theatre TOURS Sun., Sept. 7, 21, 28, 3 p.m. D.C. Architectural Treasures: Photo Safaris Photographer E. David Luria demonstrates how to photograph capital city highlights, from the Canadian Embassy to National Airport. Tickets are $55 or $50 for Corcoran members for a single session; pre-registration is required. Corcoran Gallery of Art Sun., Sept. 14, 12 p.m. Nineteenth Annual Kalorama House and Embassy Tour This yearís tour of the diplomatic homes that make up Washingtonís Embassy Row features visits to the French ambassadorís Renaissance-inspired mansion, the Egyptian ambassadorís newly renovated residence, the Italian country villa-like residence of Zambiaís first female ambassador, and the Beaux-Arts residence of the Thai ambassador. Tickets are $18 in advance or $20 the day of the tour. Tickets for the pre-tour brunch and lecture at the Womenís National Democratic Club mansion are $48 and include the tour price. The tour begins at the Woodrow Wilson House. For more information, please call (202) 387-4062 ext. 18. Woodrow Wilson House Wed., Sept. 17, 10:30 a.m. 16th Street Embassy Walking Tour Visit the embassies of Lithuania and Poland, the residence of the Spanish ambassador, and the Mexican Cultural Institute for a luncheon for this fascinating look into some of Washingtonís international landmarks. Tickets are $75 or $60 for Corcoran members. Please call for location information. Corcoran Gallery of Art