It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day, and September is coming in hot!
Dive into all things DMV this weekend, including multisensory storytelling and Broadway debuts.
Plus, cultural celebrations, jazz festivals, and something fun for the Virgos.
For more fun, take a sneak peek at what the Washington Informer Calendar has to offer.
Thursday, Sept. 10
Whiskey & History: Black Broadway
7 p.m. | $65.30
Hard Rock Cafe Washington DC, 999 E Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20463
Step into an immersive evening of history, cuisine, and storytelling, where guests will explore the people, events, and moments that have shaped the nation and its capital.
With vivid storytelling, curated pairings, and interactive discussion, this multi-sensory experience features a three-course dinner paired with an expertly guided tasting experience and live historical narration, centered on the evening’s featured topic.
Whether examining influential figures, cultural movements, political scandals, local legends, or pivotal moments in history, guests will gain a unique opportunity to connect with history memorably and engagingly.
ONE CALL World Premiere | Mental Health Awareness Film Screening
7 p.m. | Free
Miracle Theatre, 535 8th Street SE, Washington, D.C., 20003
Join KOGA Faith Foundation and the Light of the Mind Project for the free world premiere of “ONE CALL,” a mental-health awareness short film written and directed by Jehoshua Otuya.
Presented on World Suicide Prevention Day, the screening will be followed by an expert panel and facilitated community conversation exploring depression, PTSD, generational trauma, suicide prevention and pathways to healing.
Featured panelists include: Dr. Erikk D. Bonner, assistant state superintendent and director for the Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS); Gbenga Ogunjimi, founder and executive director of the Nigerian Center; Todd Clark of Television, Internet & Video Association of DC (TIVA-DC); PrimeMed Academy founder and CEO, Dr. Damien Myers; and Otuya.
Friday, Sept. 11
Something Wonderful: Broadway’s Leading Ladies
8 p.m. | $61
Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
“Everything’s Coming Up Roses” as chanteuse Tracy Lynn Olivera toasts the transcendent leading ladies from the Golden Age of Broadway.
Tracy’s delightful wit and gorgeous voice transport such classics as “Til There Was You,” “I Have Confidence,” and “The Party’s Over” in a captivating tribute.
From Ethel Merman to Julie Andrews, Mary Martin, Barbara Cook, Judy Holliday and more –– don’t miss out.
The Grand Ethiopian New Year Celebration
8 p.m. | $64.63
Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 820 L Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20001
One New Year Grand Ethiopian Celebration in D.C. brings together the Ethiopian and East African community for a major New Year celebration.
The night will feature special guests and live music, including Ethiopian rapper Lij Mic, plus more cultural performances, fashion, vendors and the SEBAT Ethiopian Diaspora Excellence Awards –– all leading to the traditional midnight Ethiopian New Year countdown.
Saturday, Sept. 12
3 p.m. | Free
Veterans Plaza, 1 Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring, MD 20910
Get ready to groove at one of the region’s most beloved music festivals.
The Silver Spring Jazz Festival returns this fall with an unforgettable lineup of world-class talent, local favorites, and community vibes that can’t be beat.
Known for his Afro-Cuban funk style, Cimafunk serves as this year’s headliner, mixing Afro-Caribbean and Cuban music with hip-hop, funk, jazz, soul, and R&B.
Additional event highlights include: food trucks, local vendors, pop-up experiences, and live performances by national jazz greats and hometown stars.
8 p.m. | $28.52+
Shark Bar And Seafood House, 2056 Crain Highway, Waldorf, MD 20601
For those born between Aug. 23 and Sept. 22, this one’s for you!
Shark Bar presents: Virgo’s Night Out Crank Addition, with live performances from Junkyard Band and Red Carpet Affair Band..
Open until 2 a.m., the evening affair promises an electric night with good food, good vibes, and lots of fun. Bring your dancing shoes!
Sunday, Sept. 13
The R&B Club Celebrates 50 Years of ‘Songs in the Key of Life’
Noon – 2 p.m. | $19.32
Songbyrd, 540 Penn Street NE, Washington, D.C., 20002
Stevie Wonder checks all of The R&B Club’s boxes: songwriter, producer, and, as arguably one of the greatest artists of all time, the owner of a deep and exceptional catalog.
On Sept. 13, the hot topic is his 18th studio album “Songs in the Key of Life,” in honor of its 50th anniversary.
Released Sept. 28, 1976, the timeless album that holds “As,” “Sir Duke,” and “Isn’t She Lovely” came close to never existing. Through this session, transport back in time and dive deeper into the artistry that never goes old.
Panel Discussion: 25 Years Since 9/11 and Still No Justice. Here’s Why
5 p.m. | Free
Busboys and Poets- 14th & V, 2021 14th St NW, Washington, D.C. 20009
Twenty-five years after Sept. 11, the 9/11 military commissions system has failed to move past pre-trial proceedings. At this event, Busboys and Poets hosts legal journalist John Ryan (America’s Trial) and legal scholar Lisa Hajjar (The War in Court) discuss the Guantánamo military tribunals, CIA interrogations, and the broader implications for human rights and judicial accountability.
Ryan is a co-founder of Lawdragon Inc. and has been one of just two reporters in the world to regularly cover the military tribunals from Guantanamo Bay, earning three New York Press Club Awards for his work.
Lisa Hajjar, a professor of sociology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, focuses on the relationship between law and conflict, including in her 2013 book, “Courting Conflict and Torture: A Sociology of Violence and Human Rights.”
