Children's art on the walls of Inova

*Updated March 12, 2011*

On what has problably been the darkest day of my life so far, something provided a glimmer of hope.

As I walked through the halls to deal with a family tragedy, the artwork of Fairfax Public Schools students hung on the wall of Inova Fairfax Hospital for Children.


On Jan 17 of 2011, the hospital honored the artists whose work was displayed.

The hospital actually has a document on Art Therapy, specifically breaking it down to Art Therapy, Music Therapy, Dance Therapy and Imagery.

If you know me and what my family has been dealing with, you might wonder how there could've been any light on such a day, but whether I realized it or not, it was a reminder about healing, through the acts of creation and expression.

The healing power of creating or simply experiencing art addresses damage to the mind and spirit, which treating the body cannot do anything about most of the time.  And in the loss of a loved one, art can be one way to move forward. To process what has happened, to make sense of what you can, and expression frustration towards what you can't. But I digress...slightly.

Now granted art therapy is not the only tool, but at its core, the artwork shared by the young artists was (not intentionally, but maybe so) a reminder that no matter the hurt, the pain, the loss,...healing happens in many forms, day by day. And hopefully in time, my family would find that path to healing.

- J Street Jr


Related Links

• American Art Therapy Association (based in Alexandria)
• American Dance Therapy Association (based in Columbia)
• American Music Therapy Association (based in Silver Spring)
• Inova Health System - Care Pages | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube

Artists providing the "Hold" music for Broken Meters

I park and I luck out with a broken meter. Yes, it's illegal to park there UNLESS you call 202.541.6030 (in DC), and report it.  Once you give the operator the meter number, they'll provide you with a confirmation number you can leave on your dashboard and is good for the maximum amount of time of the space.

But this entry is actually just a side-note of this experience.  For whatever reason(s), when I was put on hold, there was music playing, naturally.

They came an announcement that the artist the caller is listening to is a grantee of the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities.  Good times!!

To any artists in the area, not only would I encourage you to apply for grants, but I ask you to consider serving as an advisory panelist. I've volunteered several times, and it is certainly an enriching experience, whatever part of the arts puzzle you deal with.

Anyway, just thought I'd share another experience showing how present the arts are in DC.

- J Street Jr



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Sulu DC One Year Anniversary Show

An amazing night!! Okay, first off, Sulu DC is a grassroots oriented network, aimed at providing Asian-American and Pacific Islander artists a home and a venue to present their work.

It was fashioned after the Sulu series in New York, which (after 5 years) had its final show this past September, which one of Sulu DC's founders, Simone Jacobson, blogged about for the Lantern Review.

Simone, incidentally, is a classmate, not just from my time in UMD's Dance program, but AU's Arts Management program as well.

I actually got to speak and present some of my own work (via DVD), at a Sulu DC event sometime this past spring, at U St Music Hall. Tonight, I was invited but had to turn down the spot. Instead, I offered to volunteer and ended up being Simone's Assistant Stage Manager.

For the One Year Anniversary show, Sulu DC returned to the Artisphere, where it had its October show, but which had also recently opened. While there's no official website, you can "like" the venue's Facebook Page.

Before the actual event even started, audience members were treated during the pre-show reception in the lobby, to beats dropped by The Pinstriped Rebel, and a performance by members of the Dhoonya Dance Performance Company.

As the audience made their ways to the seats, the Nen Daiko drummers welcomed them.

After this, our fabulous MC, Regie Cabico, spoken word poet and co-founder of Sulu DC & Sulu Series (NYC), entered, singing in true Filipino/karaoke form to Don't Rain on My Parade.

He welcomed the audience and introduced the next performance, Paige Hernandez, who presented excerpts from her one woman show, Paige in Full. You can actually catch the full piece as part of Intersections at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, in March (2011).

Awards were then presented, the Audience and Community Partner, followed by a high-energy performance by PaperDoll recently returned from a tour in China, which featured a performance at this year's World Expo, which closed out the first half of the evening.

After intermission, Phil Good Band kicked of the second act (you can check out their FB Page). The Artist of the Year award was then handed to Yellow Rage, who, as part of their acceptance, were then prompted to honor us with a performance, which was most excellent.

Gayle Isa, the guest speaker for the evening, and Founder & Executive Director of the Asian Arts Initiative took the stage to share some words and thanks, followed by an intense performance by slam poet Beau Sia.

The final pair of awards were handed out, for Arts Education of the Year, and Community Contribution.

Overall an excellent night, and an amazing one given that it's only been a year and I can remember attending the first Sulu DC event in a church basement. In addition Simone & Kuya Regie, props have to go to Jenny C. Lares, Alex Cena, & Brian Wang.

Looking forward to seeing what the next year brings!!

J Street Jr

WAISDEA Festival '10

So one of the highlights of being part of the dance department at the National Cathedral School for Girls, is the annual WAISDEA Festival, (WAISDEA standing for Washington Area Independent School Dance Education Association).

We hosted it last year, and this year, it took place at the Sandy Spring Friends School, which had a beautiful campus and fairly new Performing Arts Center (just 6 or so years old). Interestingly enough, I'd actually been here before, but for a wedding by a couple of friends from the performing arts scene, a dancer and a fight choreographer, actually.

Speaking of small worlds, the director of the Sandy Spring Friends dance program is Meredith Rabil, a dancer I met choreographing my first professional/paid piece, for the spring concert of Montgomery College's Dance program in '07, the year after I finished my undergrad.

Anyway, the festival is a day of classes and workshops, including Bollywood, Latin, Jazz, Modern, Partnering, & African. Teaching one of the modern classes was Helanius Wilkins, Founder & Artistic Director of Edgeworks Dance Theater.

Dana Tai Soon Burgess, Founding Artistic Director and Choreographer of Dana Tai Soon Burgess & Company closed out the festival by talking to the students about his choreographic process and then presenting excerpts of larger pieces, performed by company members Kelly Southall and Connie Fink. Connie actually had taught at NCS until the past year, so it was nice to see her. I'd actually gotten to work with Dana, when he choreographed The Secret Garden for Adventure Theatre, several years ago, and I was an ASM and Understudy.

The best part of the festival (out of many great moments), had to happen during lunch, when some students from our host school put on some music, and the kids gathered in a circle and just had an impromptu dance party.

Nothing like loving what you do for a living :-)

- J Street Jr

Dance Town Hall Meeting

Artists' Bloc & Dance/MetroDC joined to host a Dance Town Hall Meeting, to close out a week of Artists' Bloc events, in one of Woolly Mammoth Theatre's rehearsal rooms.

Peter DiMuro, Director of Dance/MetroDC, and one of three on my thesis committee kicked off the meeting with an open invite for attendees to wander around the rehearsal room and go to large sheets of paper against the well, addressed with different topics, to fill in what they knew, to ask questions about what they didn't know.

Overall, a very good crowd representing a veritable who's who of the local dance community.

Names I caught included Carla Perlo Founder & Director of Dance Place; Sarah Levitt, old classmate from UMD's Dance Program and Company member with Liz Lerman Dance Exchange; Aysha Upchurch, Founder and Director of life, rhythm, move project; Nancy Havlik with her Nancy Havlik Performance Group; Sylvana Sandoz, member of the Glade Dance Collective; and Kate Jordan, one of the cofounders of the Eureka Dance Festival, who (incidentally) just joined the teacher roster with me at the National Cathedral School for Girls.

Other organizations present (represented by individuals whose names I did not catch) included Clancy Works, Dissonance Dance Theatre (whose Founder/Artistic Director, Shawn Short, I met while he was at Howard University, taking a choreography class at UMD), and the various board and committee members from Dance/MetroDC as well as Dance/USA.

I won't attempt to recap EVERYTHING that was discussed, but it was energizing to see the discussion happening.

One of the other exciting things that was highlighted, included a new partnership between Dance/MetroDC and Dance Place, which will move DMDC from its offices on 14th St, to across the street from Dance Place, pretty much the hub of Dance in DC, with programming just about every weekend of the year. And then joining the neighborhood will be a whole slew of artists, moving into the Brookland Artspace Lofts opening in June.

The Town Hall Meeting really emphasized for me how sometimes half of the battle is just showing up. The other half, particularly with regard to Dance/MetroDC as a service organization, is that as artists, we have to be engaged, meaning we have to be involved and vocal. Otherwise how do we expect an organization like Dance/MetroDC to effectively support us, in our art, and in the business of our art.

That being said, I thought the Town Hall was a great success and I'm looking forward to seeing what we make happen :-)

Arts Management Fall Colloquium: "The Future is Now" with Sandra Gibson

This afternoon, I left work early to attend the annual Fall Colloquium, which AU's Arts Management program organizes.

The event was held in the Katzen Museum, and this year, the speaker was Sandra Gibson, President & CEO of the Association of Performing Arts Presenters.

I had originally met Sandra a couple of years ago, when she was one of a number of speakers for the annual Emerging Arts Leaders Symposium, prior to Arts Advocacy Day that year. I believe it was my first year at AU.

Anyway, Sandra addressed trends in presenting, which addressed funding, audience development, advocacy, and just about every other factor that is affecting all of the arts sector.

I didn't see too many current second years from the program, but met several first years, which was nice. One of my goals is to try and help with giving students and graduates of the arts management program at AU a sense of continuity and cohesiveness, as that was one thing my class felt like it was missing.

Fortunately, I'm in a work environment that supports attending functions like this.

J Street Jr

Arena Stage's Homecoming Grand Opening Celebration

After many years, Arena Stage kicks off its return to SW DC, (two blocks south of the house I grew up and currently reside in, incidentally), with a Homecoming Grand Opening Celebration.

More than anything, it was wonderful to see an arts organization that is continuing to move forward despite these economic times.

With performances and workshops all over the place, like any good theatre, Arena's volunteer staff adhered to strict seating times. Unfortunately this means that I was late for Synetic Theater's showing of excerpts from The Master & Margarita and couldn't be seated.

I stayed, though, to check out Liz Lerman Dance Exchange right after. In addition to wanting to support one of the few dance companies participating in the grand opening, I also wanted to support a fellow UMD Dance graduate, Sarah Levitt. We both graduated about the same time, and she is actually a company member with the Dance Exchange.

Among the familiar faces included Mark Bishop, technical theatre director at St. Albans School, brother school of NCS where I am mainly employed, but they have multiple joint programs, so I kind of teach at STA, as well, like when working on the musical or the annual dance concert. I also graduated from STA in '99, which was the last year Mark was there before leaving to move up north for a while. He had recently moved back in the past couple of years, but I can honestly say that (although I didn't realize it at the while), he really instilled a sense of professionalism and love of the theatre and the process. It was weird at first, but awesome working alongside him, now.

With regard to Arena Stage, I hope that whatever energy was there for the opening, continues to be there in the years to come. But if the level of engagement displayed at this homecoming, with audiences and artists, is any indication, then the precedent Molly Smith and the Arena family have set is one that I believe is already paving the way forward.

J Street Jr

2010 Montgomery County Executive's Awards for Excellence in the Arts & Humanities

So, it's been a while, and life's been crazy, but I thoughtpick back up with the entries, with a bit of a focus on the thriving artistic and cultural scenes in the DC area.

Over the past several months, since the summer, I produced a show for the 5th Annual Capital Fringe Festival, finalized my thesis for the Arts Management program at American University, and performed in a production of King Arthur with Synetic Theater, as well as started a full-time job with Class Acts Arts, as their Arts Outreach Assistant, and started teaching Dance again, at the National Cathedral School for Girls, for the school year.

All that being said, the event that kind of got me raring to blog again, was this year's Montgomery County Executive's Awards for Excellence in the Arts & Humanities. The Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County works with the County Executive and other individuals and groups, to put on this award ceremony, which was held at the Strathmore Center for Performing Arts, which is just a beautiful venue if you haven't been and have the opportunity.

In addition to recognizing grantees for this fiscal year, awards that are given include the Lifetime Impact Award, Education Award, & Volunteer Award, amongst others. Because of my new found Class Acts Arts Family, I was going to support a couple of the artists on this year's roster, who were receiving awards, Shizumi Shigeto Manale (Outstanding Artist or Scholar) and Michael Bobbitt (Emerging Leader).

Shizumi, a Japanese performing artist, has two companies, Shizumi Dance Theatre and Shizumi Kodomo Dance Troupe (a group for youth, which you can learn more about at their FB Page).

Michael Bobbitt has a been a mentor of mine, whom I met in 2002 when he choreographed one of the two musicals Montgomery College put on through their Summer Dinner Theatre program, that year. He has been the Artistic Director of Adventure Theatre, where he asked me to come on as Production Manager, which was an awesome year which lead me applying to AU's Arts Management program. He also recently became the president of the League of Washington Theatres. I haven't even touched upon what he manages to do in his free time, in addition to family life, but needless to say, I believe that the award was well-deserved.

But the Class Acts Arts connection didn't stop there. As part of the ceremony, a number of performers provided some engaging moments, two of which were on CAA's roster: the first I mentioned earlier, the Shizumi Kodomo Dance Troupe, and the second was Lesole's Dance Project.

And there were some other familiar names and faces with whom I had crossed paths with in previous lives. One was a grantee, Adrienne Clancy, with her group, ClancyWorks Dance Company. I took her class fall and spring semester of my final year of grad school, through AU's Dance department.

The other face was Suzanne Richard, who received the Community Award and is the Artistic Director of Open Circle Theatre. Although I'd known of her and seen her on stage for a little while now, I finally met her two summers ago at the Capital Fringe festival.

Some other blasts from the past included two of Lesole's dancers, who I went to undergrad with, at UMD's Dance program, as well as one of the dancers with Urban Artistry (also on CAA's roster), whom I initially met in the underground/EDM dance scene in the area.

Anyway, that's it for now. It was a fun night, although (for a free event, and on a Monday night) I was kinda hoping more of the younger professional arts crowd would've been in attendance.

Until next time,

J Street Jr

Photos are from Creative MoCo's FB Photo Album.

D.C. allows diagonal crossing at Chinatown intersection

D.C. allows diagonal crossing at Chinatown intersection

It's been a little while, and I'll catch up soon. But at this high-traffic intersection in Chinatown, at 7th & H St NW, there's a new dance.

Establishments: TangySweet

Before catching a movie in Chinatown, (one I'd recommend actually, How to Train Your Dragon), had some time to stop at TangySweet.

Weather's getting perfect for frozen yogurt.

Essentials: National Aquarium

I'm driving to Reagan National Airport, and pass by one of DC's worst secrets.

Off of 14th Street, the National Aquarium actually has a venue right there.

Establishments: Pitango Gelato

To cap off a wonderful excursion, decided to stop by Pitango Gelato.

Got a great combo of Pistachio & Chocolate (w/ chocolate chip).

Encounters: Javier

Of course I shouldn't have been surprised to run into someone else on U Street, but I hadn't seen Javier in a while.

I actually met him while I was doing my undergrad at UMD. My first semester there, I was one of multiple dancers in Dan Singh's Thesis. He now is Artistic Director of his own dance company, Dakshina.

Javier was one of the social dancers he pulled in for the piece (geez, this was almost 7 years ago). And it was a cool thesis because the audience sat in the round and the evening alternated with social dance to dance pieces, so the audience alternatively participated and became performers themselves (if they so chose).

Was good seeing him.

Establishments: Greater Goods & Smith Farm Center

After getting a neat birthday present (thanks Ravi!!) we keep walking down U Street and walk into Greater Goods.

Pretty neat store, would like to spend more time checking out its goods. And next door to it was the Smith Farm Center for the Healing and the Arts.

Again, just one of those moments were I actually got to know more about places I've driven by more than I can count.

Events - Opening Reception @ Rckndy, May 7

Whilst at Caramel, Sarah let us know about another similar store, which has an art opening coming up this week, May 7, Rckcndy.

Establishments: Caramel

So Ravi and I are walking around, we've checked out a couple of places, but I enter Caramel and like it from the get-go.

There are pieces hanging up on the wall, and the store is very simple straight forward. Nothing to elaborate, open lighting, and fun shirts (one that I'm wearing now).

While Ravi's looking for things (and he was nice enough to buy me a shirt as a belated birthday present, I got to talking to Sarah, whom I presume is the store's owner.

It was really neat hearing about how the exhibiting component of the store came to evolve over the couple of years.

Definitely would like to go back.

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Establishments: The DC Center

So Ravi and I are walking up 14th St and I see a sign for the DC Center.

It is Metro DC's GLBT Community Center.

Didn't realize it was right there.

Encounters: Tony

Went to the Logan Caribou (which you can follow on Twitter, except they haven't tweeted in several months) with my friend Ravi, and saw a bar friend, Tony, doing work there.

Apparently he's in grad school too, but completing an online program.

Hadn't seen him in a while (as with most of the people I seem to have been running into lately)

Encounters: Rayne & Roland

So I'm waiting outside CVS as I'm taking Sam to the airport. He actually had to run in and get a wedding card and as I was parked, I see a familiar face.

It's Rayne, this party kid who I used to see all the time at Buzz (when it was at Nation). And she was with another PK, Roland.

Anyway, can't remember the last time I saw them, but it's really interesting seeing club kids out...in natural light

Establishments: Sitar Arts Center

After getting some food to fix for dinner, I was walking down Kalorama and passed the Sitar Arts Center.

It was one of those times were it was an organization I'd heard of for a while, but it's like right in the middle of a neighborhood I thought I was familiar with.

One my classmates from AU's Arts Management program actually has a full time job there.

Some kids also were a part of a joint program with the Capital Fringe Festival, and presented a bit of a cabaret last year.

Establishments: Love Cafe

So I was a bit hungry and couldn't wait until dinner to eat.

Ended up stopping by Love Cafe on U St for a couple of cupcakes, with a glass of milk. One cupcake was banana split flavored, the other was chocolate with strawberry frosting.

They were good

Essentials: Meridian Hill Park

Ended up walking up to Meridian Hill Park.

Last time I walked through here, it was still a bit chilly. But now that it was warmer, the fountains were on and running.

Now I just need to make it here on a Sunday the drumming circle.

Encounters: Adam

Going for a walk 17th & U St, I ran into Adam, who works at the Historical Society of Washington.

I've gotta admit, I'd never even stepped into the building until I went around to try to get them on board to advertise with the Capital Fringe Festival.

Right south of the Convention Center, it's probably one of the most unassuming buildings in DC I've ever come across.

Anyway, was nice running into him in a non-karaoke setting for once :-)

Essentials: Washington Monument

I guess this wouldn't be a blog about DC if I didn't mention more about the monuments, particularly the Washington Monument.

Yes, I can rant and rave about how there's a local side to this city that's beyond politics, but part of the federal and national side are the monuments that people from around the country and around the globe come to see.

Not to sound spoiled, but you kinda forget about that when these memorials are a part of your daily commute.

However, every now and then (like today), I took some time to turn my head and really appreciate the various sites that truly make DC the nation's city.

Encounters: Tyler W.

I'm leaving my dentist and see a mother walking into the building with her (looks-like) high school age sun.

It's Tyler, one of my colleagues from Adventure Theatre, taking her boy in for a dental check-up at the same place I go to.

I can't even remember the last time I saw her. She did visual/graphic design work during her time there and was part of an old guard that passed on the banner as Adventure Theatre transitioned to less of a working model and one with more paid staff.

By the way, Adventure Theatre just opened "The Red Balloon", yes based on the french short film. One of the first films I remember ever seeing. I'm definitely going to try and catch it, and you should too :-)

Experiences: Meeting Greg Urda

So I'm hanging out a friend's place and meet this artist, Greg Urda.

He basically had these pieces which he crafted by putting various, from lack of a better word, tubes together, then slicing them like sushi.

The pieces are put together in ways that can be worn as earrings, necklaces, etc.

Pretty neat. If you're on FB, check out his album at:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=66551&id=529283615

Experiences: RuPaul's Drag Race

Decided to go to 30 Degrees/Cobalt to check out the 2nd Season Finale of RuPaul's Drag Race. They were supposed to be showing it live, and, despite some technical difficulties, managed to display it on their screen on the bottom level.

Tatiana, who made it to the final four, made an

appearance. She was a lot taller than I expected

First Real World DC, then this appearance, Real Housewives coming up next...is DC slowly becoming a reality tv destination?

Encounters: Mark G.

I'm in the Columbia Heights Harris Teeter, and run into Mark in the produce aisle.

Mark was one of the movers and shakers when Buzz was still at Nation, and is still actively involved with them.

Encounters: Rachel A.

So I'm walking around the National Cathedral (the site was down as of the time of this posting), and there are some limos on the side, and a wedding party.

The sidewalk's not that wide and as the bride and groom are about to pass by, I look up and do a double take. The bride is Rachel, an NCS alumna who graduated a year after I finished at STA.

I said hi, we hugged, and I wish her well and congratulations.

Small world, right?

Events: Corcoran All-Senior Exhibition, May 8-23

Was just driving by the Corcoran, and they have their senior shows coming up, May 8-23.

Establishments: Jack's Cafe

Had the urge to do brunch in Old Town Alexandria. It was raining lightly, but not too bad to walk around. After we couldn't find the place we originally wanted to head to (or remember where it was), we were wandering and came upon another place that had come to our attention via Yelp, Jack's Cafe.

It was a very neat, intimate establishment.

Priced very moderately, pleasant people at the counter/grill, and delicious food, well at least it's breakfast fare.

I got french toast, egg, and bacon and had no complaints. Will definitely go back to check out the rest of the menu.

Establishments: Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center

I'd actually spent a year at MC's Rockville campus, and performed in several productions in the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center during my stint there. Even after transferring to UMD, I continued to perform occasionally. After graduating, I actually got a chance to Assistant Direct a couple of musicals, and choreograph a dance for the department's annual Spring Dance Concert, which is what Sam & I saw after dinner.

The neat thing about the PAC is that they constantly have programming, from 5 different series they host at the center.

Establishments: Indique

Sam & I grabbed a bite to eat an Indique before heading to Montgomery College for a show. I'd never eaten there before, and they had limited balcony seating at tables for two.

The weather was perfect and the food was delicious.

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Encounters: Ted S.

Ran into Ted, walking from the Greenberg back to Katzen, where we were spacing pieces to show for our informal dance showcase for the semester.

I haven't seen Ted since the beginning of the semester. He just started.

I actually met him back when I used to hang out a little more at Soho (near dupont). At one point, he actually was roomies with a classmate of mine from STA.

Establishments: Katzen Arts Center & Greenberg Theatre

So as I'm wrapping up my time at AU, in its Arts Management program, I realize how awesome the facilities we have are, for the arts

There's the Katzen Arts Center, and the Greenberg Theatre.

Extras: Skip the Bag, Save the River

Beginning this year, DC started a Skip the Bag, Save the River campaign.

Basically any business that sells food or alcohol charges $0.05 for each plastic bag.

Great article in the Washington Post from the end of March about some of the outcomes so far.

Establishments: The Brown Bag

Grabbed a great sandwich at the Brown Bag on 14th st.

Not much else to say

Extras: Broken Meter

This might be random, but if you drive in DC you should know about this.

I don't use this often, but I'm glad I have the number in my phone when needed. Although, every parking meter also has this number: 202.541.6030

You're actually allowed to park at a broken meter, but only after calling it in, and receiving a confirmation number to display on your dashboard.

If you do this, you can only park for the maximum amount of time on the meter.

I forgot where I first read this, probably Dr. Gridlock's column, but definitely something to keep in mind.

Events: Europe in DC on May 8

I'm driving to work for one of the final rehearsals of the school year, and I pass by an embassy with a banner advertising an upcoming event, Europe in DC.

On May 8, embassies of countries in the European Union will have an open house.

Check out the site for more info

Establishments: Waterfront Safeway

Again, another entry I have mixed feelings about.

Safeway isn't exactly a unique establishment...but it's makeover in SW is somewhat of note.

The new store is quite a change from the retro look the older one had, probably due to the fact that it was built decades ago.

Right next to the metro and blocks away from Arena Stage 2.0, it'll be interesting to see what effect this neighborhood facelift brings.

In addition to a new look, it also opened 4th street to pass through the development.

Too bad none of the development related websites, i.e. Waterfront Station and the Southwest Waterfront, seem to have been updated recently.

Good thing there's the Southwest Neighborhood Assembly.

Establishments: The Diner

There aren't too many places in DC that are open late night on a regular basis.

The Diner is one of them (it's actually open 24/7), and it's one of my faves.

It is also one of several establishments which make up quite a neat triumvirate, all with different atmospheres, depending on what you're in the mood for, and when.

The other two are Tryst (which is right up the street from it), and Open City.

Anyway, I ordered the mac & cheese with mixed greens on the side...well worth it.

Encounters: Jason D., Helanius W., Alvin M., Melissa L., & Dana T.

So I'm actually a little conflicted about this entry. I was (and still am) debating about people I run into at performing arts events. Part of the reason is because it is such a small community, that blogging about encounters at a show doesn't seem to be as happenstance as just running into people out on the street.

But I guess I'll just try it out for now and see how it goes.

Tonight was definitely a who's who of the people in my dance world, teachers and choreographers I've had the pleasure of working with in some fashion or another.

Jason D., I actually almost performed with for one of the Dance is the Answer flash mobs. By the way, Dance is the Answer is still going on until May 2nd.

Helanius W., several years ago, I was actually a sound board operator for a performance his company, Edgeworks Dance Theater, had out in Rockville, MD, at the American Dance Institute.

Alvin M., was one of my professors in the program at UMD.

Melissa L., I actually teach with at NCS. She's also one of the company members for Dakshina.

And Dana B., I worked with several years ago when he choreographed movement for a show at Adventure Theatre. He has his own company in the area and is also the head of GWU's department of Theatre & Dance.

Establishments: Dance Place

After running into Holly B. I ventured over to Dance Place with my friend Jerry. Deborah Riley Dance Projects, one of the resident companies performed a piece examining our relationship and perceptions regarding food and nutrition.

It was neat because Jerry's a chef, so having that perspective made for some particularly insightful dialogue after the performance.

Speaking of chef's, Peter DiMuro, director of Dance/MetroDC, played one in the piece with some monologues which provided some thoughtful transitions between sections of the evening length piece.

Anyway, Dance Place is just an amazing example of community and engagement. They've got performance virtually every weekend of the year by local, national, and international dancers.

And it's very metro accessible, barely a 10 minute walk from the Brookland-CUA metro station.

Encounters: Holly B.

I meet up with my friend Jerry, before this performance at Dance Place, and as we're getting ready to go inside, I experience a bike-by encounter with Holly B.

She's one of those working professionals/artists that makes me wonder if I'm actually doing all I could with my time.

She's multidisciplinary, with skills ranging from moving her body through space, to moving the pen on paper, and overall just a wonderfully nice person.

Establishments: Torpedo Factory

So NCS decided to have prom at the Torpedo Factory, this year. They also asked me to DJ it after finding out that I've spent some time on the 1's & 2's as a hobby.

I also got a neat mixing program for my MacBook, Traktor, and a midi DJ mixer from M-Audio (the X-Session Pro), so I was set.

My initial reaction (as well as other's) was: "huh?" An art gallery/space/etc.?

Well, turns out it's one of the things they offer regularly, so it wasn't weird for them.

And it actually kinda made sense, especially from an Arts Administrator point of view.

Aside from renting their space, they're quite an impressive arts center. Just the number of visual artists who have space to work and display their work...it's just amazing.

In the end, prom was pretty neat, the girls had fun, and I'd love to check out renting it out for any events I might throw in the future.

Encounters: Aysha U. & Meredith R.

Today NCS hosted the annual WAISDEA Festival. In case you don't know (and it actually took me a year or two until I remembered it right), that stands for Washington Area Independent School Dance Education Association.

It's a day of dance master classes and choreography workshops. There were a bunch of faces that were familiar, and I expected to see, one of which was Aysha U. teaching a master class. She's an awesome dancer in the area who teaches and has her own company.

I didn't expect to see Meredith R., who was actually with one of the member schools, Sandy Spring Friends School, participating in the day's events.

I don't think I've seen her since she was in a piece I choreographed at MC, the first piece I actually choreographed professionally within a year of graduating from UMD. It's still one of my favorites, and it was to Rusted Root's "Send Me On My Way".

Anyway, it was cool seeing her there. Small world, right??

Entities: Team DC

Earlier this school year, through the encouragement of some friends, I started a GLBTA climbing group.

I did this with the advice and counsel of some of the guys at Team DC, the Washington area's "gay sports connection".

This evening, I manned a table for the group, at an event at Town. Had a number of guys who were interested in participating. Now I just need to follow up with 'em (in addition to finding the time...and the money).

Events: Spring Greek Festival

I'm driving home from a monthly get-together/dinner with some STA/NCS folks, and am passing by Saint Sophia's.

I'm stoke because on its grounds was a banner announcing its upcoming annual Spring Greek Festival, May 14-16.

Events: Dance is the Answer

Okay, so remember how I ran into Lala last Saturday?

It was to rehearse for one of multiple flash mobs

which would be taking place over the several weeks or so, as part of the fourth annual Dance is the Answer event, organized by Dance/MetroDC.

Dance/MetroDC is a local branch of Dance/USA, a service organization for the dance world.

While I'm not as involved as I'd like to be, I'm definitely going to try and jump in a little more once I finish grad school. Incidentally, I had met the director of Dance/MetroDC, Peter DiMuro (who's just a wonderful person), and in crossing paths with him and grabbing coffee, actually asked him to be one of the two non AU panel members for my thesis.

Very grateful he accepted, despite what I could only imagine having a hectic schedule.

I'm probably just going to wait until Dance is the Answer is over to catch up with him about meeting again :-)

Events: Jordan-U.S. Investment & Trade Forum

So via Sam, I've learned about an upcoming event that probably would not have ever come across my radar, the Jordan-U.S. Investment & Trade Forum.

As local as I've been, outside of my mom and the Philippine connection (she's Filipino), I'm still realizing just how much of a presence the international/global community has here, with its embassies, and other international NGO's.

It's probably something that not too many cities in DC can replicate as far as the concentration of activity, events, and...well, power.

So hearing the details of an event like this forum is really interesting to see how that can really spark new development, partnerships, or any other outcomes.

Events: WATTAGE

Wednesday kicks off WATTAGE, a Capital Fringe Festival productions outside the annual 3-week summer shindig which has happened for the past 4 years.

With this offering, Capital Fringe adds producer to the many hats all involved wear.

Three new works are being presented until May 9th, "new theater illuminating tradition and survival".

I was actually involved with Capital Fringe last year as their marketing intern, and it was quite an adventure. Being a part of an organization that has larger institutional memory from Fringe Festivals around the world, yet gets to create itself and grow as it deems fit to be able to serve not just the audiences, but the artists of the DC area...well, it was just very inspiring and reaffirming, especially with where I was (and kinda still am) in my life.

This year, I'll actually be producing a show myself, but until then, definitely intend on catching at least one show at WATTAGE.

Events: Nuclear Summit

The Nuclear Summit just ended...you can click here for google news results.

Not much to say about it. Just had one experience where my commute was halted to make way for a motorcade (and that was a li'l after 8pm this past Monday), but fortunately most of my commuting lets me use the outskirts of the city, driving along the Potomac from the Tidal Basin, past the Kennedy Center, and then into Rock Creek, and back again.

That is if I happen to be going the right way during rush hours, or if I'm not driving during rush hour at all (which is usually the case).

Extras: DC Circulator

I haven't used it much lately, but the DC Circulator is a great resource for getting around downtown DC.

It's cheaper than the buses that run on the regular routes, and a little roomier in my opinion.

This isn't to say that they have less riders, but the layout of the seats leaves more of an open space in the interior. That might just be me, though...

Establishments: Publick Playhouse

So one of an assortment of part time jobs I have, is as a theatre technician at the Publick Playhouse, in Cheverly, MD.

I'm ashamed to say, it's another one of the areas treasures which I had only discovered myself in the past several years.

This weekend, we had the African American Dance Ensemble gracing our stage.

Outside of local, community oriented events, from my time there, the Playhouse seems to function mostly as a roadhouse for touring productions.

It's interesting, as I actually came across this position through someone who had worked there, and whom I work with as a stagehand at the Patriot Center.

I guess if you do good work, then work is good to you :-)

Establishments: Howard Theatre

I'm on my way to work in Cheverly, and drive by the Howard Theatre.

Apparently it was built in 1910, but I hadn't even known it existed until the past several years.

According to the website, its on the verge of a revitalization project.

Looking forward to see how this moves forward in the coming years.

Events: Dupont Farmers Market

Another institution I hadn't patronized until recently, I've developed a fondness for items from one particular vendor at the Dupont Farmers Market.

Their booth/tent is set up on the Mass Ave side of the market, and they have these delicious pastries. Both times I enjoyed a ham & cheese croissant. Last time, that was followed by an almond croissant, this time by a...raisin croissant.

Definitely would love to eventually somewhere near there or any other Farmers Market as I start thinking about location to live after I finish grad school in the next several months...

Establishments: Firehook

On the way to the Dupont Farmers Market to grab a bite to eat for a light brunch, I actually stopped at Firehook to get some orange juice.

I've gotten more substantial items there...in fact, I think the past two times I got a soup and sandwich combo. Vegetarian Panini...and I forget what kind of soup.

Anyway, it's a neat little place, the people are nice. Definitely wondering why I'd never really gone there before. I think the first time was only this year.

Encounters: Lala

I'm walking to the entrance of the FDR Memorial. At this point I think I've walked in this park as much over the past week as I have over the past year...maybe more.

Anyway, I'm about to reach the entrance (after walking through the memorial from the exit...if you haven't been, you need to go to understand) and I see a familiar figure standing there talking to two people I assume must be related, if not parents.

It's Lala (a nickname, but I didn't give it), another student taking dance at AU. I think she might even be a Dance Minor. She's a beautiful mover, who's got very strong technique from her ballet training, but it doesn't get in the way of incorporating modern aesthetics, patterns, and style in movement...I say this because from my own personal observations, this is a rare thing with someone of her background. But it speaks to her being a particularly exceptional dancer.

So I got to meet her parents. And in general, it was just nice seeing her outside of AU. It reminds me of just how...now I don't want to say "small" as I feel it has a negative connotation..well, it makes me remember how "intimate" DC can be, for a city.

Encounters: Keenan O.

I'm out with a friend for his birthday this evening, and the music on the lower level of 30 Degrees/Cobalt is really good. Sometimes they just pump what's playing upstairs to this floor, but I guess on the weekend, they want to have a more club-y feeling.

Anyway, I shouldn't be surprised, though, because as I pass the DJ both I see DJ Keenan on the 1's & 2's. Last time I was out and he was spinning, might've been at Marvin, months ago.

I actually don't even know when or how Keenan and I met originally. I'm sure it was probably on the dance floor, and I was trying to pick my jaw up off the floor, because he dances the was he djs, just grooving and having fun.

If you ever get a chance to, if there's a party he's spinning at, I recommend you go.

Establishments: Solas Nua

This is awful...last semester, as part of a "Fundamentals of Fundraising for Arts Organizations" class assignment, we had to do what amounted to a case study on a local organization.

The one my partner and I focused on was Solas Nua, "the only organization in the United States dedicated exclusively to contemporary Irish arts", and based in DC.

To do part of the research regarding our case for support, Linda Murray, the organization's Artistic Director, was kind enough to lend us their by laws and minutes.

Here's where the awful part comes in...this was back in the fall, and I was just getting it back to her. I mean, there had be no pressing need or else I certainly would've expedited its return, but at the same time, there was no good reason not to do so when the Fall semester ended.

Anyway, I actually had the pleasure of meeting Linda during last summer's Capital Fringe Festival. I guess I made a good impression and seemed trustworthy.

And, again, just another great case of the diverse and thriving arts scene we have in DC. Solas Nua, while known for their theatre productions, also has an annual book drive, a film festival, monthly screenings, regular readings, and music and visual arts programs as well.

Extras: Smart Bike DC

I'm on my morning drive to AU, and I see an ad for something I've already seen on an increasing number of sidewalks around the city, Smartbike DC.

Until I get a bike, I'm certainly looking to move to a place where I can ditch the care and use another set of wheels, if not peddle powered, than at least public.

It bills itself as "America's first full-service public bike rental program of its kind" and is a service that is provided by an interesting partnership (but not surprising), Clear Channel Outdoor (didn't even know they had an outdoor component) and the District Department of Transportation.

It'll be interesting, in general, to see how DC adapts its roads to more bike lanes, revamped bus lanes, and a streetcar system in the upcoming future.

Events: The Helen Hayes Awards

So this is the first time in the past four years that I have not attended the Helen Hayes Awards ceremony & celebration.

Last year I attended because the Synetic Theater's production of Carmen received a nomination for Outstanding ensemble. As a nominee, you get tickets :-)

In case you don't know, the Helen Hayes Awards are the DMV area's equivalent of the Tony's.

It was named after an actress who was also a native Washingtonian, Helen Hayes.

This year I didn't have the time or the money...but isn't that what it usually comes to??

*sigh*

next year...

*interesting note: although the actress Helen Hayes passed away, there is a dancer named Helen Hayes in the area (who also went to my alma mater (UMD) as a dance major). The name often causes confusion (at least for me), when my dance and theatre worlds collide...

Encounters: Caleen J. & Kenyatta R.

As I'm leaving the theatre mentioned in my last entry, I run into two fellow artists in the area, who are also role models for me.

The first is Caleen Jennings, co-chair of the Department of Performing Arts at AU. The second is KenYatta Rogers, an assistant professor in the Theatre department at Montgomery College, and a wonderful actor/director/person as well. Last time I saw him on stage was actually at Woolly Mammoth, less than a year ago, in their production of Fever/Dream.

Anyway, it was nice seeing them out and about from the normal academic setting. I believe it's just as important, if not more so, when you're teaching in higher education, that you are still active in and aware of what's going on outside of your institution. It keeps you grounded, gives you perspective, and (I believe) ultimately makes you a well-rounded teacher and mentor.

Events: Clybourne Park at Woolly Mammoth

Tonight I caught Woolly Mammoth's production of Clybourne Park by Bruce Norris.

And I thought for sure we'd be on time...if only the show started at 7:30pm like I thought, and not 7pm.

Although we missed some, we still caught enough to make sense of the whole piece.

In a nutshell, it looked at a suburb of Chicago deals with...integration (also known as gentrification or revitalization depending on your point of view), and what was BRILLIANT about the play was that it managed to deal with it from multiple points of view (i.e. cultural, class, racial, generational, etc.) without being heavy handed about it.

It was well written, designed, directed, and acted. I'm thinking next year I'll buy season tickets to Woolly Mammoth. It's not that I'm never disappointed...I'm rarely that critical and hardheaded about experiencing a piece. But I usually leave Woolly Mammoth thrilled to experience something that I feel is relevant to me and the world I live in.

Events: Adams Morgan Farmers Market

I really couldn't find much about this online, but after getting our bubble tea fix from Kogibow, our meandering path took us through the Adams Morgan Farmers Market (despite some of the controversy/drama about Yelp, I still think it's a fairly trustworthy and objective resource, so I linked it).

If we hadn't just eaten and weren't currently carrying a drink in our hand, we probably would've bought something else to eat.

Establishments: Kogibow

After patronizing L'enfant Cafe, Sam and I walked up to visit one of his friends (and pick up his bike), and on the way there, stopped by Kogibo for some bubble[boba] tea. But they're actually known for their cakes.

Mr. Manh opened his business back in 1993...wow, I was just finishing up my first year at STA.

So I got a pina colada flavored bubble tea...and it wasn't some premade/powder mix. There were genuine pineapple chunks and coconut flakes blended in.

Can't wait to try their cake

Encounters: Becca G. and a student

As I'm sitting at L'enfant Cafe, from my previous entry, I run into two people.

The first is Becca G. whom I actually know from AU's Arts Management program we both started the same year, and are both...taking our time finishing. She's also involved with a really neat...well, from lack of a better description, cultural entity, the Pink Line Project.

It's a neat...presence in DC, headed by Philippa P.B. Hughes. You can check out more about her in this Washington Post article from the past couple of years, Remaking the Scene. I've had the pleasure of meeting her, and subsequently running into her. Always cordial, with a great energy, she's another person who is living proof that DC is much more than the rest of the country give it credit for.

Anyway, Becca's cool too!! Also one of the few other majors in the program with a dance background.

So she passed by on the sidewalk. And not too much after that I hear someone yelling from across the street. Well, actually the person was yelling from the middle of the street, from a taxi that was stopped, and she was in the back seat leaning forward and screaming in front of her mom.

It was one of my students from NCS. A phenomenal dancer, with great energy, she had just moved and was only a freshman. She's already became a pillar in the dance program, and I hope she stays just as involved if not more so in future years.

Anyway, that was it...this time

Establishments: L'enfant Cafe

In looking for places to eat in that intersection of U St, Adams Morgan, and Dupont Circle, it was decided to check out L'enfant Cafe.

This is just another example of how, despite being in this city my whole life, I 'm still getting to know it all over again.

I had a wonderful breakfast crêpe accompanied by a mimosa. The weather was beautiful, and the price reasonable. Definitely looking forward to checking it out again!!

Explorations: Hains Point

So, Hains Point (as I mentioned in my most recent encounter) is in my neck of the woods of DC...that being SW.

It's actually where my mom took me to learn how to drive (her minivan).

And they used to have a really neat statue at the southern tip called The Awakening. It was actually 5 pieces which (assembled in the right relation to each other) made it look as if a giant were caught in the earth.

It was interesting because some people (without knowing the title) imagined he had fallen from the skies. Others, that he was rising from the ground.

This statue was here for 27 years (almost as long as I've been alive), and was relocated to the National Harbor as of a couple of years ago. This had been the first time I'd been to that area of the island since it was removed. I didn't even bother to go to the tip this time...

Encounters: Tom B., Andrea L., Heather L. & one more

So I'm walking towards the Tidal Basin with Sam, because it's real close to my place.

We decide not to actually walk around it, though, and after passing by the Jefferson Memorial, we instead walk along the river towards the Hains Point area of West Potomac Park.

Before we turn away from the basin, I spy a familiar redhead walking towards me. Andrea and I went to school together at Montgomery College, and were both involved in the dance program.

When I actually came back after I graduated from UMD as a Dance Major I went back to MC to work on a show and to choreograph a dance, which I was lucky enough to have Andrea in. She was a beautiful mover who I really looked up to as far as dancing ability, aesthetics, and technique.

Anyway, she was out with her bf, sister, and her sister's bf/husband (? I can't remember). It was cool seeing her.

Sam and I start making our way towards the tip of Hains Point when I see someone on a bike. They yell "Hi JR", and while I said hi back, I didn't catch enough of a glimpse to put a name to the face...

That's actually one of the things that really frustrates me...I'm awful with names. I believe it's someone I've done a production with...that's usually a safe bet.

We continue to walk, and a couple of joggers approach. This time I make the connection first and say "Hi Tom" as he and a friend jog by. He says hi back. Tom is another acquaintance/friend I met during my brief stint singing with GMCW. DC's men's chorus is actually one of the largest (if not THE largest) glbta choruses in the country. At any given time, there are about a couple of hundred active singers, and it makes for getting to know everyone...well, a challenge. Tom was one of the other chorus members I got to know and become acquainted with.

So we make it to the tip of the point and start to head back. The weather's beautiful and there are so many people out, especially families with little kids.

One mother starts walking with her daughter in her stroller and I look at her because, well, it's a familiar face. It's Heather, and we most recently worked on the last show I was on stage for, Seussical, the Musical at KAT 2nd Stage. This was back in August/September. Heather and I actually also performed together, geez, several years ago now, in a Washington Savoyards production of The Merry Widow.

Seussical did so well, they're actually in the process of remounting it for May. Unfortunately I'm unable to rejoin the cast for this iteration of the show.

Anyway, those were my encounters this morning. It's nice to see how the weather just brings everyone (me included) out of the woodworks.

Events: Everybody Love Music presents Mark Farina

I hadn't heard House music like this in a LONG time!!

Not just that, a lot of the party kids I grew up on the dance floor with over the past decade, I haven't seen gathered at the same venue in a cypher (with regards to dancing/breaking) since Buzzlife was through a weekly party at Nation.

Everybody Loves Music threw a kick-ass party at Layla Lounge with Mark Farina headlining.

The security and bar staff were also very cordial, and even looked like they were enjoying themselves at times :-)

Also, like icing on the cake, one of my favorite Baltimore DJ's, Lovegrove, was on the turntables before Mark Farina came on.

He's contributed to some of the best sets I've ever heard at Starscape, an annual...festival.

Encounters: Steve P.

We're sitting having dinner at Straits of Malaya, and Steve walks by.

Didn't get to chat long enough to see what he'd been up to, and it'd really been a while since we've actually hung out.

I'd even forgotten how long he'd been back in the states after being abroad for some years.

But he was one of my first friends of choice, in high school.

Don't get me wrong, it's not to say that I didn't choose who my friends were, but half the reason we were friends was because we went to the same school. That says nothing and doesn't affect the value of the friendship though.

It's just Steve was really one of the first people my age that I hung out with outside of school. Socially, I was a bit of a late bloomer, and honestly I'm still figuring things out. But I'll always be grateful for having Steve as a friend at that point in my life.

Establishments: Straits of Malaysia

Had dinner at Straits of Malaya with Sam. It was delicious!!

View Larger Map

Not being a foodie, though, I'll see if Sam might be interested in sharing his thoughts :-)

Encounters: Dean B. and Joey S.

Parking around Dupont Circle/Adams Morgan just isn't easy normally (much less on a Friday night), but I lucked out and had barely driven around the block more than a couple of times before finding parking on 17th St.

It's a couple of blocks from Sam's place and as I'm walking north on 17th and see a gaggle of guys walking east on, what was it...must've been R St.

The first I see is Dean, who I met singing with GMCW a couple of years ago. I asked him what he was up to, if he was still singing/dancing with 'em, and he'll be in the upcoming GMCW Pride concert in June, DIVAS.

As the rest of the group catches up, I see another performer friend (one I have yet to have the pleasure of sharing the stage with). This one isn't part of the theatre scene which previous encounters have belonged to. Joey Salinas is actually a singer/dancer primarily. As busy as I get, I run into and catch up with Joey and he makes me feel like I'm not trying hard enough, sometimes. I do say that mostly tongue in cheek, but it's admirable to see what he's done and exciting to see where he's going :-)

Encounters: Ben G. and Jennie L.

This semester, on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays I take 2 1/2 hours of dance classes between 10am & 2pm, at AU.

I exit the dance studio at the Katzen Arts Center and who do I run into? First I run into Jennie L. who I actually last saw in a production of Rent, by Kensington Arts Theatre, sometime last month. However the first time I met (and actually got to perform with her as well!!) was in a production of Footloose at Montgomery College, back in...2004?

Geez...how time flies...

Anyway, apparently she was coming to speak to a musical theatre class about auditioning.

I walked with her to the class room (which was in the Katzen's black box), and get ready to wish her farewell, when I see another stage professional/performing friend, Ben G., also brought into class for the same purpose. I got to share the stage with him when we were both part of the "studio audience" for Studio Theatre's production of Jerry Springer: the Opera, summer of '08.

That was intense, as you could probably imagine. Ben also shares a connection to AU as he is an alumnus of its Theatre/Musical Theatre program. Unfortunately, I haven't seen him in anything lately.

Just one of the frustrating things about working in the arts. You have very limited time and resources to support your fellow artists...

Establishments: The Java Shack

I'm walking around with a friend of mine, around Arlington, and we end up getting coffee at the Java Shack, which I'd never patronized before.

Even before we walked in, it seemed like a pretty chill space, with people sitting outside in the gorgeous weather, some in good company, others on their laptops.

And the baristas were pretty chill and engaged in pseudo-witty banter while my friend and I were trying to make up our minds.

Coffee outside, just the energy of the place was neat. This was reinforced by their business partners, Rainforest Alliance, Fair Trade, the Specialty Coffee Association, the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, USDA Organic, and the Lexington Coffee Roasters.

Even though it's been around for over a decade, it seems like this level of engagement and partnership is still something that seems to be catching on, rather than an essential part of best practices, for endeavors, whether they be businesses, non-profits, or whatever.

Anyway, although it was my first time, it will definitely not be my last. Anybody have any experiences at the Java Shack they'd like to share.

Encounters: A student of mine

So I'm walking around the Tidal Basin, making my across the bridge which allows Independence Ave to span the north portion of the body of water, and I pass by a familiar face.

It's one of the high school students I indirectly worked with on a production of Annie, where I teach. I mean I technically teach dance at NCS, but because they have a joint performing arts program with St. Albans (where I went to high school myself, class of '99), I end up working with the boys at STA on musicals and the annual dance concert. Now when I run into students of mine, I'll simply refer to them as such until they graduate; this is partially because most of them are minors, and also to respect their families and the schools, with regards to privacy.

I asked him how school had been treating him and what he was working on. He let me know he'd be doing tech for the Spring play, The Laramie Project.

Events: Cherry Blossom Festival

Now I'm fortunate with my commute to school and work in that most often the quickest way from Southwest to the Cathedral area of DC involves driving around the Tidal Basin.

By foot, I'm only a 15 minute walk away...and that's what I decided to do today. I grabbed my phone (just in case, and it's not a smart phone...although I have issues with the implication of that term, but we'll talk about that next time), my camera, and my keys and headed out the door to check out the Cherry Blossom Festival.

I tweeted for

the first time from my phone, but I don't think it's going to become a habit, not yet anyway.

The cherry blossoms are supposed to hit peak bloom Friday and Saturday, but if today is any indication, I'm kinda glad I made time to go today because I'm sure it'll be much more crowded.

I kind of felt sorry for NPS, though, because despite clear signs and concrete barriers, not to mention a perfectly good gravel path that might've added no more

than a couple of minutes to one's walk, scores of people chose to walk across the green in places, probably not realizing that their very efforts to appreciate the trees was contributing to more compact soil which, over time, would actually harm the trees.

But I digress...personal path choices aside, it was really inspiring and comforting to see the array of people brought together by this gift from a Mayor in Tokyo, a gift that will see its first centennial in a couple of years. After taking this course at AU called Art, Community, and Diversity, I can't help but think of events like those and how they cultivate and redefine visitors sense of community, awareness of diversity, and all that jazz (thanks, Ali ;-) ). Kudos to our professor for that class, Suzan Jenkins, the Chief Executive Officer of the Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County, for really providing a space to explore what those meant and how they intersected for us. It's not exactly a class where you can give right answers, but rather a way to ask the right questions.

Politics, religion, class, culture, all the things

that I believe actually makes us stronger as a nation and as people in general, but unfortunately are often used to divide us, were momentarily put on hold as people went on a simple walk around, enjoying the cherry blossom trees.

Gotta love it :-)

Establishments: Arena Stage 2.0

I actually got enough sleep to go for a walk this morning. I woke up a little after 7:30am, heated up a little breakfast, and then walked around my neighborhood in Southwest.

Now I've been blessed to have parents which have let me stay with them as I've try to figure out what I'm doing with my life, from finishing at UMD, to taking on grad school. We're actually in the house I grew up in, and my dad let me move into the basement unit, with a separate entrance and kitchen.

The house is also a couple of blocks away from Arena Stage, which has been living vicariously in Crystal City and on U St while they've had their main space renovated and prepped for their 60th season.

Now, just in case you don't know, Arena Stage received a Tony in 1976, which was awarded to regional theatres for theatrical excellence. It was only the second outside of New York to receive it, and the first in the Washington, DC area. The only other theatre in the area to do so has been Signature Theatre in Arlington, and that was only last year, in 2009.

So this fall, Arena Stage's Mead Center for American Theater will open.

Should be interesting.

Encounters: Melinda E., Jeri M., & Aaron R.

I'm trying to leave this Artists' Bloc event we have at Woolly Mammoth (I'm Membership Director, for the former organization, not the latter) as the audience for Woolly's main stage production, Clybourne Park, is leaving; and I run into three theatre professionals/friends whom I've worked with over the years in various capacities, Malinda Ellerman, Jeri Marshall, & Aaron Reeder.

I say I'm trying to leave because I had been saying goodbye's for the previous 10 minutes and finally. But I shouldn't be surprised running into them, I suppose...I mean, that's how much of a community there is in DC, when you've worked in the area for any number of years.

Malinda...I think we might've actually met doing Summer Dinner Theatre at Montgomery College about 7 or 8 years ago. Our paths crossed again in the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, when I transferred to UMD as a Dance major; she was a Theatre major.

UMD is also where I happened to meet Jeri, who I worked with a couple of years ago at the Smithsonian's Discovery Theater, which produces and presents "live performances for young audiences" in the DC area. I was Assistant Director for a show she was cast in, Going the Distance, a piece about Jesse Owens and Wilma Glodean Rudolph.

Aaron...I'm not actually sure how we met initially, but we got to work together on what was my last professional theatre gig before I started grad school, Jerry Springer: The Opera, at Studio Theatre, summer of '08.

Aaron has been performing with the Washington National Opera, for a number of season and is currently in their production of Porgy & Bess, which closes this weekend. Jeri is working on something with the Maryland Shakespeare Festival (I believe); and Malinda is performing with the St. Mark's Players in a production of Oliver! coming up in May, where she is playing Nancy.

That's the awesome but sometimes frustrating thing about all the awesome work that's being done in and around this area. There's a lot of it, but only so much time and money one has to go out and support it, particularly the friends and professional acquaintances you make over the years. Can't hurt to try and catch 'em all, though, right?!

(And yes, if you picked up on a Pokemon reference, that was intentional...I'm so ashamed...)

Experiences: Art & Community Advocacy in Dupont

So I'm walking through Dupont Circle w/ Sam and this guy has a digital camera on a tripod set up opposite from this easel, and has a cardboard sign underneath the canvas simply saying "Please Paint".

We had just grabbed some food from Firehook and decided to sit outside and eat in the circle when we came across this...work in progress.

Let me add a little context...I'm currently working on my M.A. in Arts Management, from American University. And even though my focus is in the performing arts, particularly dance, I can rarely observe art now without looking at it through this additional lens, a metaphor I've come to incorporate into my own vernacular courtesy of various teachers in the program over the past couple of years.

So I'm watching this guy and his easel and his cardboard sign, and observing the people coming up. At first, Sam and I actually where wondering who the artist was, which should have been a sign how neat this art/social experiment was.

It didn't click until I heard some of the people annotate their contributions with comments about how they have little to no artistic skill whatsoever. It reminded me of comments friends and acquaintances of mine make when they're out on the dance floor with me and almost seem to disregard their own ability to groove in my presence, simply because I do it for "a living".

What was great was while they were disvaluing their own creative abilities, they were simultaneously indulging in and cultivating it.

While eating our Firehook fare, we hadn't really been in view of the canvas. As we got up to leave the circle and continue on with our day, we got a good view, and Sam got some pictures, of it.

Now I realize I'm probably over-analyzing it, but not only had this work been cultivating the creativity of pedestrians who happened to pass through the circle, but the piece in and of itself was a bit of a historical document at the same time, capturing the contributions of people who might not have ever met, and possibly never will, except by way of their amateur contributions, painting on this canvas an artist set up, a painting he might not have ever touched himself.

What a great way to cultivate creativity in people who constantly see art exported to "professionals" on and exploited by reality shows. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate the way So You Think You Can Dance and America's Best Dance Crew advocate for dance to audiences that might not ever experience it, but at the same time they contribute to the artist-audience divide which negates the artistic potential everyone has to express themselves.

And in a world where the years between generations is getting shorter, and people are defining themselves more and more by communities of choice rather than of fate, what a neat anomaly that just makes you think about it all, how we relate to each other and the intersection of the individual and the group, for a moment.