EVENTS CALENDAR **Admission is free unless otherwise noted. All information on event venues can be found on The Washington Diplomat Web site at www.washdiplomat.com. Times and locations are subject to change. Unless listed, please call venue for specific event times and hours of operation. ART Through Sept. 2 Photography by Dragana Rankovic The photography of Dragana Rankovic, who was born in Sweden to Serbian parents, is a sensitive study of the people and places she has encountered in her community and abroad. Visions Bar Noir Through Sept. 4 Giuseppe Maraniello: Opposites Attract Italian artist Giuseppe Maraniello presents selections of works from the 1970s to today that mirror the silent searching of oneís soul. Marninart Gallery Through Sept. 5 Aaron Siskind: New Relationships in Photography Aaron Siskindís striking photographs from the 1940s to the 1980s bring abstract images to vivid life. The Phillips Collection Through Sept. 5 August Sander: Photographs of the German Landscape August Sander, one of the greatest photographers of the 20th century, helped turn photography into an aesthetically independent means of expression in Germany with his sharply focused and objective images. The Phillips Collection Through Sept. 5 Focus on the Soul: The Photographs of Lotte Jacobi In the first major U.S. retrospective of German-American photographer Lotte Jacobi, more than 90 photographs depict the world of theater, dance and light and movement as vehicles for expression. National Museum of Women in the Arts Through Sept. 5 Kerry James Marshall: One True Thing, Meditations on Black Aesthetics Nationally acclaimed artist Kerry James Marshall uses his versatility and own experiences to address black history, identity and cultural tradition in more than 40 multimedia works. The Baltimore Museum of Art Through Sept. 5 Revelation: Georges Rouault at Work In this examination of paintings by 20th-century artist Georges Rouault, who specialized in Christian themes, the Phillips demonstrates how advancements in technology can help to illuminate the artistís creative process. The Phillips Collection Through Sept. 6 DirectionsóGabriel Orozco: Extension of Reflection Colorful photographs taken by Mexican-born, New York-based artist Gabriel Orozco reveal the artistís interest in familiar objects and images as symbols of social interaction. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Through Sept. 6 Mystical Rose, Star of the Sea The lively art of Oblate Brother Michael OíNeill McGrath offers a witty visual representation of the titles addressed to Mary in the Litany of Loreto. Pope John Paul II Cultural Center Through Sept. 7 Faith of Our Fathers and Mothers As part of the citywide celebration of the National WWII Memorial, examine the role that faith played in the Greatest Generation, from military chaplains to war heroes. Pope John Paul II Cultural Center Through Sept. 7 Sally Mann: What Remains Inspired by her own personal experiences, Sally Mann creates a haunting series of photographs that speak about the one subject that affects us allóthe loss of life. Corcoran Gallery of Art Sept. 8 to Oct. 3 Structured Impressions New Zealand-born artist Antonia Macedo captures impressions of old and ordinary man-made structures, transforming them into a vibrant display of shape, color and texture that blur the distinction between photography and painting. Touchstone Gallery Sept. 9 to Dec. 18 From Haven to Home: 350 Years of Jewish Life in America The Library of Congress opens its rich collection of materials that document the history and culture of Americaís Jewish community. Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building Through Sept. 10 Hortensia: Shape and Figure Austrian artist Hortensia Fussyís drawings and watercolors define the architecture of the human body in a style that is clear, tranquil and posed. Embassy of Austria Through Sept. 11 Humorís Edge: Cartoons by Ann Telnaes Some 60 original drawings demonstrate the striking wit of editorial cartoonist Ann Telnaes, whose pointed commentary on national and international issues earned her the Pulitzer Prize. Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building Through Sept. 12 Nordic Cool: Hot Women Designers From celebrated furniture and loom-woven fabrics to the latest in digital shorts and Web designs, the more than 200 objects in this exhibit are among the most beautiful and functional examples of Nordic design. National Museum of Women in the Arts Through Sept. 13 His, Hers and Theirs The Woodrow Wilson House showcases more than 50 monogrammed decorative pieces from the President Wilsonís private collection, including a rabbitís foot in a monogrammed gold setting and other items spanning 1890 to 1950. Woodrow Wilson House Through Sept. 13 In Search of Self: Paintings and Drawings by Anil Revri Local artist Anil Revri uses geometric abstractions to encourage introspection and spirituality by drawing the viewer into the "void" created by negative space. Corcoran Gallery of Art Sept. 14 to Nov. 24 The Dream of Earth: 21st-Century Tendencies in Mexican Sculpture Clay sculptures by six of Mexicoís most renowned contemporary artists stand as a testament to the richness and revival of clay sculpture in Mexico. Mexican Cultural Institute Sept. 16 to Oct. 21 Vietnam in Profile Images of Vietnam are captured through the lens of photographers Peter Steinhauer and Nguyen Hoi Linh. Embassy of France Sept. 16 to Oct. 29 Susanne Kessler: Patterns of Life Artist Susanne Kesslerís ephemeral constructions of steel wire convey both fragility and flexibility. Goethe-Institut Through Sept. 17 Marketa Jirouskova Award-winning photographer Marketa Jirouskova presents a portfolio of her travels throughout the world, using traditional photography mixed with digital manipulation. Czech Embassy Through Sept. 17 Riccardo Maranzana Art and Design Exhibit Riccardo Maranzana, who was born to a Swiss mother and Italian father, became a multifaceted architect whose portfolio included furniture design and art made of wood, glue and ink. Italian Cultural Institute Sept. 18 to March 20 Views of Chinese Art From the Indianapolis Museum of Art A series of exhibitions showcases outstanding Asian artwork from museums across the country, beginning with selections of Chinese art from the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Through Sept. 26 Hudson River School Visions: The Landscapes of Sanford R. Gifford This major retrospective features some 70 landscape paintings by Sanford R. Gifford, demonstrating the richness and variety of his distinctive style. National Gallery of Art Through Sept. 26 Perspectives: Do-Ho Suh Korean-born Do-Ho Suhís "clothings for space" installations feature diaphanous silk and nylon fabrics and are based on full-scale models of his homes in Korea and the United States. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Through Sept. 30 Sculpture in Four Dimensions This juried exhibition of 26 artists celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Washington Sculptors Group with entries that offer a different perspective on the reality we take for granted. Organization of American States Art Museum of the Americas Through Oct. 17 Caliphs and Kings: The Art and Influence of Islamic Spain Boldly painted ceramics, sumptuously patterned textiles, medieval maps, manuscripts, coins and other rarely exhibited objects illustrate the cultural legacy of Islamic Spainóknown as al-Andalus in Arabic. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Through Oct. 30 Voices for Tolerance in an Age of Persecution The Folgerís rich collections of 16th- and 17th-century books, manuscripts and works of art tell the story of those who struggled for tolerance in early modern Europe. Folger Shakespeare Library Through Nov. 12 The Indigenous Presence in Bolivian Folk Art Artistic and utilitarian objects reflect the popular creativity and influence of the indigenous traditions in Bolivian culture, from basket weaving to community celebrations. Inter-American Development Bank Cultural Center Through Nov. 15 Thinking Inside the Box: The Art of Andrew Krieger Printmaker and draftsman Andrew Krieger constructs small, enigmatic boxes featuring imaginary environments that suggest a distant era. Corcoran Gallery of Art Through Nov. 28 Insights Forty pieces of artófrom paintings to sculpture to lithographsóby nine contemporary African artists offer a thoughtful look inside the artistic process. National Museum of African Art Through Dec. 5 Aerospace Design: The Art of Engineering From NASAís Aeronautical Research "Aerospace Design" examines the history of aeronautically engineered forms and their relationship to architecture and design. The Octagon Museum Through Dec. 12 Playful Performers This groundbreaking exhibit is the first to look at the immense creativity of African children as they explore the world of masquerade performance. National Museum of African Art Through Dec. 31 Tradition in Transition: Russian Icons in the Age of the Romanovs More than 40 icons and two books beautifully illustrate the impact of Western culture on the evolution of Russian religious painting from the seventh to the 20th centuries. Hillwood Museum and Gardens Through Jan. 2 Over One, Under One, and Much More A diverse mix of textiles from Asia to the Americas illustrates the array of patterning possibilities by using the plain-weaving technique within different cultural and artistic contexts. The Textile Museum Through Jan. 17 Work and Commerce: Scenes of Everyday Life in Chinese Painting More than 30 illustrations of daily life among commoners in Chinese figure painting provide moral exemplars of proper societal behavior and deliver subtle lessons about the benevolence of the state. Freer Gallery of Art Through Jan. 30 American Masters From Bingham to Eakins: The John Wilmerding Collection More than 50 paintings by 26 American artists showcase one of the most important collections of 19th-century American art. National Gallery of Art Through Feb. 6 Arts of Mughal India Some 30 works of art, including intricately detailed manuscript paintings and jade and lacquered wood objects, offer a glimpse into the conceptually and technically innovative tradition of Mughal painting. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Through Feb. 6 Floral Perspectives in Carpet Design Floral motifs are explored from three perspectivesóspiritual, cultural and artisticóas rendered in the designs of 17th- to 19th-century Indian, Chinese, Central Asian, Persian and Turkish carpets. The Textile Museum Through Feb. 6 Life and Leisure: Everyday Life in Japanese Painting Colorful scenes of everyday life depicted on Japanese paintings and screens during the Edo period (1615-1868) complement a related exhibit on work and commerce in Chinese art. Freer Gallery of Art Through Feb. 6 Palace and Mosque: Islamic Art From the Victoria and Albert Museum More than 100 works from Londonís esteemed Victoria and Albert Museum convey the richness of Islamic art on a scale and quality hard to find in any collection outside the Middle East. National Gallery of Art Through March 13 Young Whistler: Early Prints and the French Set Beautiful early prints by expatriate American artist James McNeill Whistler reinforce the painterís widely acknowledged reputation as a great printmaker. Freer Gallery of Art Through May 2005 The Enemy Within: Terror in Americaó1776 to Today "The Enemy Within" reveals nine major events in U.S. history when Americans were threatened by enemies within their borders, depicting the response of the public and counterterrorism agencies and examining the challenge of national security versus civil liberties. International Spy Museum Through June 26 Luxury and Luminosity: Visual Culture and the Ming Court Imperially commissioned Ming Dynasty porcelains are placed in the broader context of other major court arts of the period, including lacquers, gold vessels and silk tapestries. Freer Gallery of Art DANCE Sept. 15 to 16 Andanza A relative newcomer on the Puerto Rican contemporary dance scene, Andanza debuted in San Juan in 1998 and has since made a splash at several international festivals in Spain, Mexico, Martinique and Cuba. Tickets are $25. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater DISCUSSIONS Thu., Sept. 2, 7 p.m. The Insider Embassy Night Series Learn about Sri Lankaís unique history, culture and Jewish life with officials from the Embassy of Sri Lanka, followed by a wine reception. Tickets are $25 or $15 for DCJCC members and can be purchased by calling (202) 777-3269. Embassy of Sri Lanka Tue., Sept. 7, 6:30 p.m. Man Vs. Machine: How Poland Cracked the Enigma Learn how a trio of young Polish mathematicians was able to do what no other country could when they cracked the Germanís sophisticated cipher machine. Tickets are $20 or $16 for Spy Museum members; advance registration is required. International Spy Museum Thu., Sept. 9, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. A Strategy for the Second Wave: Learning From Indiaís Experience with HIV/AIDS This panel discussion is led by Indian authorities and American specialists, as well as a keynote speech by Asia Society President Vishakha Desai. For more information, please call (202) 775-3184. Location TBA Fri., Sept. 10, 6:30 p.m., Sat., Sept. 11, 10 a.m. Al-Andalus: The Art and Influence of Islamic Spain This intensive seminar explores the history, art, and architecture of al-Andalus and the lasting legacy of Islamic culture in Spain in conjunction with the exhibition "Caliphs and Kings: The Art and Influence of Islamic Spain." Tickets are $125 or $80 for Smithsonian members and can be purchased by calling (202) 357-3030. S. Dillon Ripley Center Sat., Sept. 11, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Espionage and Empire: The Roman Empire and the New World Order This all-day seminar focuses on one of the elements critical to any empireís survival: intelligence about its enemies. Tickets are $123 or $78 for Smithsonian members and can be purchased by calling (202) 357-3030. S. Dillon Ripley Center Mon., Sept. 13, 7 p.m. Cirque du Soleil: Journey of Man This giant-screen film is a musical celebration featuring the unique performers and artistry of Cirque du Soleil, the world-renowned performance troupe that has reinvented the circus. Tickets are $13 or $10 for Smithsonian members and can be purchased by calling (202) 357-3030. Natural History Museum Mon., Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Does Genocide Exist in Darfur? - Implications of the Recent Divergent Findings on the Sudanese Crisis Although various groups have repeatedly warned of genocide in Darfur, governments and intergovernmental bodies have taken different views on the conflict. The U.S. Congress has found genocide exists, but the European Union has not, and neither the African Union nor the Arab League has issued a finding of genocide. The YPIC Human Rights and International Law Committees and the Phi Alpha Delta International Law Fraternity of Georgetown University Law jointly invite you to a panel discussion. Entrance is free. Our events fill up fast, so be sure to RSVP at rsvp@unanca.org with "Sudanese Crisis" in the subject line. Georgetown University Law School Gewirz Student Center on the 12th Floor Tue., Sept 14, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Town Hall Meeting on U.S.-Islamic Relations Panelists address the steps the U.S. and Islamic world can take to avoid a clash of civilizations. The George Washington University Elliott School of International Affairs Wed., Sept. 15, 6:30 p.m. Reporters on Reporting In this informal panel discussion, European radio reporters in Washington compare notes with American reporters in Europe about conveying realities on the other side of the Atlantic. Reservations can be made by calling (202) 289-1200 ext. 168. Goethe-Institut Thu., Sept. 16, 7 p.m. The Serpent and the Moon: Two Rivals for the Love of a Renaissance King Princess Michael of Kent examines a saga of love, war, intrigue and betrayal with her new book that outlines the love triangle of Henri II, his wife Catherine de Medici and his mistress. Tickets are $20 or $15 for Corcoran members. Corcoran Gallery of Art Sat., Sept. 18, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Ancient Egypt Unwrapped! Hear outstanding scholars and researchers from the famed Oriental Institute present their latest archaeological and historical findings on ancient Egypt. Tickets are $130 or $85 for Smithsonian members and can be purchased by calling (202) 357-3030. S. Dillon Ripley Center Sat., Sept. 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stalin and His Era Alexander Nikolaevich Yakovlev, former head of the communist partyís propaganda machine and the leading intellectual architect of glasnost and perestroika at Gorbachevís side, helps to put Stalinís place in history into perspective. Tickets are $130 or $85 for Smithsonian members and can be purchased by calling (202) 357-3030. Location TBA Mon., Sept. 20, 7 p.m. Presenting Lynda Benglis Greek contemporary artist Lynda Benglis, widely known for her use of metaphorical, biomorphic shapes and subversive feminist themes, explains how she balances controversy with critical interest. Tickets are $20 or $15 for Corcoran members. Corcoran Gallery of Art Tue., Sept. 21, 6:30 p.m. The Hittites: Superpower of the Ancient Near East Historian Trevor Bryce presents recent archaeological finds from the Hittite capital of Hattusa and new information that sheds new light on Hittite history and civilization. Tickets are $35 or $30 for Smithsonian members and can be purchased by calling (202) 357-3030. S. Dillon Ripley Center Tue., Sept. 21, 6:30 p.m. Secrets and Survival: World War II Switzerland, Intelligence Center Three experts try to decipher the truth about Switzerlandís Intelligence Service and its connection to Nazi Germany, Allied intelligence operations, and the activities of Allen Dulles, a future director of the CIA. Tickets are $20 or $16 for Spy Museum members; advance registration is required. International Spy Museum Wed., Sept. 22, 6 p.m. Understanding the Jewish Holidays Through Their Stories In an engaging evening, author Diane Wolkstein recounts the stories that are a part of the holiday cycle and reveal the heart of Judaism. Tickets are $20 or $15 for Smithsonian members and can be purchased by calling (202) 357-3030. Location TBA Thu., Sept. 23, 12 p.m. Youíre Stepping on My Cloak and Dagger Roger Hall shares his classic memoir of his adventures as a U.S. Army officer assigned to the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) during World War II. International Spy Museum Thu., Sept. 23, 6 p.m. The Korea-U.S. Alliance: Today and Tomorrow Korean Ambassador Han Sung Joo speaks about on the relationship between his country and the United States. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (202) 994-4876. The Lindner Family Commons Thu., Sept. 23, 8 p.m. Embedded: The Journalistís Perspective Rem Rieder, editor and senior vice president of American Journalism Review, moderates this discussion between journalists who have been embedded in Iraq and experts on the impact of embedding journalists with the military. Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center Mon., Sept. 27, 7 p.m. Behind the Scenes at the Washington National Opera With Placido Domingo In this exciting evening, learn about the complex elements that go into planning a season and putting an opera on the stage. Tickets are $166 or $155 for Smithsonian members and can be purchased by calling (202) 357-3030. Warner Theater Tue., Sept. 28, 2:30 p.m. Securing Peace in Mindanao: Resolving the Roots of Conflict Philippine Ambassador Albert F. del Rosario and other experts discuss the situation in Mindanao. Reservations can be made by calling (202) 833-2742. Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars Thu., Sept. 30, 8 p.m. Charlotte Blake Alston: Storytelling Song in the Griot Tradition Take a trek into Africa with Charlotte Blake Alston as your griot, the keeper of African culture and traditions. Tickets are $20 or $7 for students and children. Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center FESTIVALS Through Sept. 19 Live! On Woodrow Wilson Plaza Enjoy the best of Washington entertainment with this season of free activities ranging from musical concerts to petting zoos to the hottest salsa in town. Septemberís highlights include the Latin Jazz All Stars (Sept. 9), Footworks Percussive Dance Ensemble (Sept. 5) and D.C. blues legend Whop Frazier (Sept. 12). All performances are from 12 to 1:30 p.m. For more information, please call (202) 312-1300 or visit www.itcdc.com. Woodrow Wilson Plaza MUSIC Tue., Sept. 14, 8 p.m. Danilo PÈrez Trio Enjoy the rhythms of pianist and composer Danilo PÈrez as he creates fresh interpretations to spice up classic jazz repertoire. Tickets are $30 or $7 for students. Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center Sun., Sept. 19, 8 p.m. Orquesta SinfÛnica de Puerto Rico Discover why the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra, which for nearly 50 years has played a principal role in the islandís musical tradition, has become one of the most important musical influences in Central Ameri ca and the Caribbean. Tickets are $20 to $40. Kennedy Center Concert Hall Mon., Sept. 20, 8 p.m. Kathleen Battle, Soprano Kathleen Battle lends her lauded voice to an exploration of spirituals, folksongs and Latin American jazz. Tickets are $35 to $90. Kennedy Center Concert Hall Tue., Sept. 21, 6:30 p.m. Bolivian Flutist Juan L·zaro MÈndolas A virtuoso of the quena, the South American flute, Bolivian flutist and composer Juan L·zaro MÈndolas performs original jazz compositions based on ethnic Andean and contemporary music. Inter-American Development Bank AndrÈs Bello Auditorium Tue., Sept. 21, 7 p.m. Lydia Caruana, Soprano To celebrate Maltaís accession into the European Union and the Maltese Independence Day, the Embassy Series presents soprano Lydia Caruana with Marco Rivoltini on piano. Tickets are $100; space is limited. Please call (202) 625-2361 for more information. Residence of the Maltese Ambassador Thu., Sept. 23, 8 p.m. Tres Voces: Chucho Avellanet, Lucecita BenÌtez, y Danny Rivera Donít miss this celebration of three sensational vocalists who emerged in the 1960s and have since become regarded as the national voices of Puerto Rico. Tickets are $24 to $45. Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater Sat., Sept. 25, 2 p.m. Mikhail Simonyan, Violin Teenager Mikhail Simonyan brings his mature sound and precocious skill to this Washington, D.C., debut recital. Tickets are $27. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Sun., Sept. 26, 2 p.m. Nathaniel Webster, Baritone A graduate of the Royal Scottish Academy of Music in Glasgow, New York native Nathaniel Webster specializes in both operatic and concert stage performances with his deep baritone range. Tickets are $35. Kennedy Center Terrace Theater Mon., Sept. 27, 7 p.m. Guity Adjoodani: Journey to Iran Acclaimed pianist Guity Adjoodani captures the sights and sounds of her homeland with her repertoire of Iranian folk tunes. Tickets are $18 or $14 for Corcoran members. Corcoran Gallery of Art RECEPTIONS Tue., Sept. 14, 6:30 p.m. Private Dinner at Le Paradou Celebrate chef Yannick Camís return to the Washington restaurant scene with a private four-course dinner in the striking ambience of Le Paradou. Tickets are $150 or $126 for Corcoran members and can be purchased by calling (202) 639-1770. Le Paradou Mon., Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m. Beginnings Benefit Gala In honor of the 25th anniversary of the PEN/Faulkner Award, join an array of leading authors as they recite readings followed by a black-tie dinner. Tickets are $400 and can be purchased by calling (202) 636-8743. Folger Shakespeare Library THEATER Sept. 3 to Oct. 17 M. Butterfly A deep and complex love affair is shattered when powerful secrets are exposed in Pucciniís classic opera. Tickets are $47 to $66. Arena Stage Sept. 8 to Oct. 10 Living Out This darkly comic tale sheds a harsh light on the modern demands of motherhood through two startlingly similar women from different races and classes. Please call for ticket information. Round House Theatre Sept. 8 to Oct. 17 The Russian National Postal Service In this inventive and bittersweet play from acclaimed contemporary Russian playwright Oleg Bogaev, the widower of a former postal worker passes the time writing letters an array of characters from Queen Elizabeth II to Lenin. Tickets are $25 to $45. The Studio Theater Sept. 11 to Oct. 2 Andrea ChÈnier Mariusz Trelinskiówho made his debut here with "Madama Butterfly"ódirects Umberto Giordanoís vivid portrayal of revolutionary France and its doomed lovers. Tickets are $42 to $285. Kennedy Center Opera House Sept. 24 to Oct. 24 The Matchmaker Thornton Wilderís riotous romantic American farce, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, follows the scheming matchmaker Dolly as she plots to marry the wealthy Horace Vandergelder. Tickets are $25 to $48. Fordís Theatre Through Sept. 26 Venus Lured by hucksters from her South African home, a young woman embarks on a harrowing life journey after she becomes a freak in a London circus sideshow. Tickets are $15 to $36. Olney Theatre Center Through Oct. 24 Macbeth Storms rage, fires burn and night blankets the earth in this profound study of evil that traces the fall of the once-noble Macbeth and his ambitious lady. Tickets are $16 to $66. The Shakespeare Theatre TOURS Sun., Sept. 12, 12 p.m. Celebrate KaloramaóWashingtonís Beautiful View to the World Take a tour of the KaloramaóGreek for "beautiful view"óneighborhood with visits to the residences of the Chilean, Romanian and Bolivian ambassadors, with a pre-tour brunch and lecture at the Womenís National Democratic Club. Tickets are $22 in advance or $25 the day of the tour. Woodrow Wilson House