Emily Springer’s sewn tapestries create a space for reflection and conversation about cultural identity, resilience, and the power of storytelling through art. The pieces depict compositions highlighting the generational bonds between Black women. Through their intricate craftsmanship, they are an ode to the historical practice of quilting and its significance to Black culture.
* This exhibition runs Jan. 14–Mar. 1, with a public reception on Fri., Feb. 20. *
Celebrate Black History Month with Montpelier Arts Center! This annual exhibition shows the diverse talents of regional artists. Featured artwork will highlight African Americans’ lives, stories, and experiences through painting, drawing, photography, and more.
* This exhibition runs Jan. 19–Mar. 8, with a public reception on Thu., Jan. 29. *
American Dreaming is a poignant exploration of the complex interplay between pursuing financial freedom and the Black experience in America. This series delves into the nuanced relationship between aspiration and the systemic barriers that persist within our society, particularly emphasizing the American lottery system as a symbol of hope in the Black community.
This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from January 19-March 8, 2026, and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.
* This exhibition runs Jan. 20–Mar. 14, with a public reception on Sat., Jan. 24 and an artist and curator talk on Sat., Feb. 21. *
Curated by Asha Elana Casey in honor of Black History Month, Genuine celebrates the depth, resilience, and authenticity of Black artistic expression. Featuring works by Lionel Frazier White III, Khaleelah Harris, Jessica Valoris, and Desmond Beach, this exhibition explores themes of identity, heritage, and truth through a range of materials and perspectives. Genuine highlights the power of storytelling and cultural reflection, offering a compelling tribute to the legacy and future of Black artistry.
In Glimpses of Heaven, Mame Ndiaye invites viewers into a dazzling world of mixed media works that sparkle with vibrancy and imagination. Using glitter as a central medium, Ndiaye creates otherworldly pieces that evoke a sense of transcendence and wonder. Each artwork is a luminous exploration of light, color, and texture, offering fleeting moments of beauty that transport viewers into a dreamlike space. Through Glimpses of Heaven, Ndiaye captures the ephemeral nature of joy and the magic found in the simplest, most radiant elements of life.
* This exhibition runs Jan. 26–Mar. 7, with a public reception on Sun., Feb. 1. *
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission Black History Program returns to Harmony Hall Arts Center with its annual exhibition. For close to 45 years, the Black History Program has worked to preserve, honor, and celebrate Prince George’s County’s rich African American Heritage. The annual exhibition is part of this tradition. Explore stories from our county’s past that highlight the challenges and triumphs of the African American community.
* This exhibition runs Jan. 31–Mar. 8, with a public reception on Fri., Feb. 20. *
Primarily an oil painter, Patricia Phillips Bowden discovered a renewed interest in exploring paper, collage, and mixed media during the pandemic. She finds beauty in the old, the worn, and the rusty, and hopes to capture that elegance in her work. As an artist, she strives to maintain a childlike sense of wonder and curiosity toward this fascinating place we call Earth.
* This exhibition runs Jan. 31–Mar. 7, with a public reception on Sun., Feb. 1. *
Qrcky’s artistic endeavors delve into the interplay between the sensibilities of the Black diaspora and the urban landscapes they inhabit. While the artist draws inspiration from esteemed artists such as Kara Walker and Jean-Michel Basquiat, Qrcky also profoundly influences the surrounding world. Qrcky is captivated by the sensations of movement, the deconstruction and reassembly of surfaces, and the intricate processes of forgetting and remembering that shape our collective consciousness. The artist’s creations profoundly reflect his identity, heritage, and the encompassing tapestry of culture that envelops him.
This performance is part of our Education on Stage Series and is recommended for Grades 1-6. Race to the finish line with two black Olympians who changed history in this original musical play from Discovery Theater! Soaring music and the exhilaration of world-class sports inspire us all to greatness in this vivid portrayal of the lives of Jesse Owens and Wilma Rudolph. Watch them overcome childhood illness, infirmity, and poverty to become the world’s fastest man and fastest woman, winning the greatest honor in athletics: the Olympic Gold medal. The John Cornelius II score speaks to the heart and soul of the winner in all of us. Please note, everyone must have a ticket to enter, regardless of age.
This performance is part of our Education on Stage Series and is recommended for Grades 1-6. Race to the finish line with two black Olympians who changed history in this original musical play from Discovery Theater! Soaring music and the exhilaration of world-class sports inspire us all to greatness in this vivid portrayal of the lives of Jesse Owens and Wilma Rudolph. Watch them overcome childhood illness, infirmity, and poverty to become the world’s fastest man and fastest woman, winning the greatest honor in athletics: the Olympic Gold medal. The John Cornelius II score speaks to the heart and soul of the winner in all of us. Please note, everyone must have a ticket to enter, regardless of age.
A live tribute to American singer and songwriter Frankie Beverly. He was best known for his recordings with the soul and funk band Maze and was a consistent hitmaker on the R&B charts for almost 50 years. His music is known for its authenticity and emotional depth. This concert highlights the early years of Maze and the transition to Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. We Are One X-Perience performs all the hit songs that everyone knows and loves, including: “Back in Stride,” “Too Many Games,” “Can’t Get Over You,” “Before I Let Go, Running Away,” and many more. They pride themselves on giving the audience an incredibly high-energy performance each time they take the stage.
Author, historian, and professor, Dr. Richard Bell, will discuss his book, The American Revolution and the Fate of the World which offers a fresh look at the impact of the American Revolution by focusing on disenfranchised people and minorities in the colonies, including free and enslaved Black people.
Jewelry is more than adornment—it’s a reflection of history, culture, and identity. This hands-on workshop invites participants to explore the artistry of jewelry-making while connecting with the rich traditions of the Basotho people in Southern Africa. Attendees will gain hands-on experience in crafting unique pieces, while also exploring the historical and cultural significance behind various jewelry designs and materials.
Celebrate Women’s History Month and Mardi Gras with D.C.’s Queen of Blues. Join seven-time WAMMIE Award nominee Carly Harvey for a powerful afternoon of music, history, and soul! Known as “D.C.’s Queen of Blues,” Carly blends blues, jazz, soul, and Americana, channeling legends like Etta James, Bonnie Raitt, and Nina Simone. As an African American and Native American artist, she explores the deep connections between blues and Indigenous music, bringing a fresh and dynamic perspective to the stage. Don’t miss this electrifying celebration of culture, heritage, and the spirit of Mardi Gras!
* This exhibition runs Mar. 7–Apr. 12, with a public reception and awards ceremony on Sat., Mar. 21. *
Montpelier Arts Center strives to foster a positive, creative environment where young and emerging artists realize their full potential. Now in its 14th year, this annual exhibition spotlights the talents of visual artists ages 13-19 from the Washington, D.C., area. The juror awards prizes based on artistic excellence, with cash prizes for first, second, and third place. Beginning in winter 2025, interested teens may submit work online for consideration at MontpelierArtsCenter.submittable.com.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 12–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 14. *
Amanda Spaid was inspired during the pandemic to focus on hyper-local subjects, creating detailed drawings of birds in the D.C. area. She hopes that slowing down and examining what’s happening to the planet, not just on a global level, but literally in our backyards, will inspire people to make decisions that benefit all locals — humans and birds alike.
One of the most visually striking, profoundly moving American moviemaking debuts in years, Raven Jackson’s All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt is an arresting immersion into a young woman’s inner world, filmed and edited with an extraordinary tactility and attention to the tiniest detail. This impressionistic journey skips through decades to tell the story of Mack, whose upbringing in rural Mississippi is touched by grace, dotted with heartbreak, and always carried aloft by the surrounding natural beauty. It’s a haunting and richly layered portrait, a beautiful ode to the generations of people and places that shape us.
Rated PG | Run time: 1h 32m
Legendary musician and Washington, D.C., native Ignatius is an artist, songwriter, vocalist, music producer, and renowned drummer whose musical journey spans five decades — and counting! The former lead vocalist of the internationally known funk band Heatwave has also performed with The Stylistics, The Delfonics, RCA recording group Destiny, and The Voices Tribute to Motown.
Grammy nominee Jazzmeia Horn released her fourth album, Messages, in 2024. The New York Times raves, “Horn is among the most exciting young vocalists in jazz, with a proud traditionalism that keeps her tightly linked to the sound of classic figures like Nancy Wilson and Betty Carter, but a vivacity of spirit and conviction that places her firmly in the present.”
A percussionist, hip-hop artist, and actor from D.C., Jabari Exum worked on the film Black Panther as a movement coach and lead djembe player. In his Percussion Theater concept, he fuses music, theater, and storytelling.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 14–Apr. 12, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 14. *
With pottery, there is a repetition to the craft, whether through the process, with the result, or both. In the work for this exhibition, Chris Kirages will explore and build two-dimensional imagery through the repetition of handmade clay objects arranged near others of similar size but varying in color, value, and tone, to create a ceramic wall painting.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 12–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 14. *
Amanda Spaid was inspired during the pandemic to focus on hyper-local subjects, creating detailed drawings of birds in the D.C. area. She hopes that slowing down and examining what’s happening to the planet, not just on a global level, but literally in our backyards, will inspire people to make decisions that benefit all locals — humans and birds alike.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 14–Apr. 12, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 14. *
With pottery, there is a repetition to the craft, whether through the process, with the result, or both. In the work for this exhibition, Chris Kirages will explore and build two-dimensional imagery through the repetition of handmade clay objects arranged near others of similar size but varying in color, value, and tone, to create a ceramic wall painting.
Discover the inner workings of the modular music world in Patch CV: Controlling Voltage, which explores the intricate technology and passionate community behind the creation of modular synths. This film takes a deep dive into the artistry and technicality that powers modular sound creation.
Active service members and veterans of all eras are invited to join this free, monthly small group reading and discussion dinner series centered around books which relate to military experiences or offer a veteran’s perspective. Veterans Book Group is coordinated statewide by Maryland Humanities and presented locally in partnership with Montpelier Arts Center. Discussions are led by Dr. Karen Arnold, former poet-in-residence at the Arts Center and discussion moderator for multiple literature groups in Baltimore. Dinner and reading materials are provided. Call 301-377-7800 for more information and to register. Spaces are limited; registration is required by Jan. 6, 2026.
In honor of Women’s History Month, please join ensemble Con Brio! on a musical journey through compositions of these and other women composers. We hope you will enjoy this opportunity to celebrate the significant impact women composers have on popular and classical music.
Brentwood Arts Exchange is excited to host ongoing jam sessions featuring a unique, original synth and modular music style. Drop-in musicians of every genre are invited to join and contribute. Bring your instrument, plug in, and be part of the sound!
* This exhibition runs Mar. 7–Apr. 12, with a public reception and awards ceremony on Sat., Mar. 21. *
Montpelier Arts Center strives to foster a positive, creative environment where young and emerging artists realize their full potential. Now in its 14th year, this annual exhibition spotlights the talents of visual artists ages 13-19 from the Washington, D.C., area. The juror awards prizes based on artistic excellence, with cash prizes for first, second, and third place. Beginning in winter 2025, interested teens may submit work online for consideration at MontpelierArtsCenter.submittable.com.
Calling all teen vocalists! Register today to audition for the Teen Vocal Showcase 2026. This vocal performance opportunity is for Prince George’s County pre-teens ages 10 to 12 and teens 13-18. Selected participants will have a chance to perform and complete in a showcase at the historic Public Playhouse for prizes ranging from $500 to $1,000!
* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 17, with a public reception on Thu., Apr. 2. *
Roxana is a collage artist fascinated by the art of collage. She uses snippets of magazine paper, fabric, photographs, pencil drawings, raw pigments, and anything that enriches the texture and color of her images. Her goal is for each of her art pieces to awaken feelings in the viewer. Consolation, love, festivity, protection, happiness, innocence, and solitude are words that she has heard others use to describe her collages.
This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from March 23-May 17, 2026, and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 28. *
South Korean artist Ju Yun navigates the tension between two contrasting worlds. Transitioning from traditional Korean art to fully contemporary subjects and techniques, Yun embraces the space in between. Through layered compositions of polymer clay and found objects, their mask projects explore themes of hybrid identity—transforming existing forms into something new, reshaping meaning, and influencing others.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 28. *
Kimberly Margioni’s work explores the delicate balance between nature, emotion, and cultural heritage. Drawing inspiration from the world around her—the vibrant landscapes or the quiet beauty of everyday moments—she seeks to capture the essence of life in its raw, unfiltered form. Her creative process is rooted in the belief that art has the power to transcend boundaries and speak directly to the soul. Each piece reflects her travel journey, an invitation to feel deeply and connect with the universal experience of love, resilience, and transformation. As a current naval officer and mechanical engineer, she brings a unique perspective to her art, breaking from the rigidity of her day-to-day to dive into her abstract, fluid, imperfect approach with emotional depth. This creates both structured and fluid works, grounded yet ever evolving.
This performance is part of our Tiny Tots Series and is recommended for PreK-Grade 2. Based on the true story of Lonesome George, this uplifting eco-fable tells the tale of a truly one-of-a-kind tortoise from the Galapagos Islands. Watch George, a GIANT tortoise, grow up among sea turtles, lizards, hungry goats, sea lions, and dancing birds with blue feet. As you visit his island, you hear the story of the last tortoise found on Pinta Island in the Galapagos archipelago. Fall in love with these islands – and this not-so-little tortoise – while learning an important lesson about man’s impact on the environment. Please note, everyone must have a ticket to enter, regardless of age.
This performance is part of our Tiny Tots Series and is recommended for PreK-Grade 2. Based on the true story of Lonesome George, this uplifting eco-fable tells the tale of a truly one-of-a-kind tortoise from the Galapagos Islands. Watch George, a GIANT tortoise, grow up among sea turtles, lizards, hungry goats, sea lions, and dancing birds with blue feet. As you visit his island, you hear the story of the last tortoise found on Pinta Island in the Galapagos archipelago. Fall in love with these islands – and this not-so-little tortoise – while learning an important lesson about man’s impact on the environment. Please note, everyone must have a ticket to enter, regardless of age.
Jazz artist Halley Shoenberg has been a dynamic presence in the D.C. area for decades, composing, arranging, and performing on saxophone and clarinet. This captivating concert features Shoenberg’s compositions and original arrangements of standards covering 100 years of jazz. The sounds of Chick Corea, Weather Report, Pat Metheny, and Branford Marsalis influence several of her originals.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 28. *
South Korean artist Ju Yun navigates the tension between two contrasting worlds. Transitioning from traditional Korean art to fully contemporary subjects and techniques, Yun embraces the space in between. Through layered compositions of polymer clay and found objects, their mask projects explore themes of hybrid identity—transforming existing forms into something new, reshaping meaning, and influencing others.
* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 2, with a public reception on Sat., Mar. 28. *
Kimberly Margioni’s work explores the delicate balance between nature, emotion, and cultural heritage. Drawing inspiration from the world around her—the vibrant landscapes or the quiet beauty of everyday moments—she seeks to capture the essence of life in its raw, unfiltered form. Her creative process is rooted in the belief that art has the power to transcend boundaries and speak directly to the soul. Each piece reflects her travel journey, an invitation to feel deeply and connect with the universal experience of love, resilience, and transformation. As a current naval officer and mechanical engineer, she brings a unique perspective to her art, breaking from the rigidity of her day-to-day to dive into her abstract, fluid, imperfect approach with emotional depth. This creates both structured and fluid works, grounded yet ever evolving.
Born in China to an artistic family, emerging lyric soprano Sitong Liu recently earned her Doctor of Musical Arts in Voice Performance from the University of Michigan. Her operatic roles have included Pamina in Die Zauberflöte, Donna Anna in Don Giovanni (multiple productions), Micaëla in Carmen, and Barbarina in Le nozze di Figaro. She completed her Master of Music Studies at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
Get ready for an afternoon of electrifying music as Kevin Levi takes the stage, blending hip-hop, R&B, neo-soul, and ballads with his signature rich and melodic saxophone sound. With over two decades as one of the most sought-after musicians on both coasts, Kevin brings an unforgettable performance that moves the soul and ignites the spirit. Now touring with his groundbreaking new album, ATONE, Kevin pushes creative boundaries with a fresh, rhythmically rooted sound, inspiring a new generation of saxophonists. Don’t miss your chance to witness this masterful musician live—feel the rhythm, embrace the soul, and experience the magic of Kevin Levi!
* This exhibition runs Mar. 23–May 17, with a public reception on Thu., Apr. 2. *
Roxana is a collage artist fascinated by the art of collage. She uses snippets of magazine paper, fabric, photographs, pencil drawings, raw pigments, and anything that enriches the texture and color of her images. Her goal is for each of her art pieces to awaken feelings in the viewer. Consolation, love, festivity, protection, happiness, innocence, and solitude are words that she has heard others use to describe her collages.
This exhibit will be on display at the Publick Playhouse from March 23-May 17, 2026, and can be viewed during regular facility hours (M-F, 9 am-5 pm). Please note that exhibits cannot be viewed when a performance or event is in progress. Before viewing an exhibit, please call the Box Office at 301-277-1710 to check the performance schedule.
Message is not your typical concert series. It is an oasis where local artists find their voice and share their stories. Here, music transcends mere entertainment – it becomes personal. Local talent takes center stage. These are the musicians who play at the neighborhood cafes, scribble lyrics on napkins, and dream big. They’re not chasing fame, they’re chasing connection. From soulful ballads to introspective rap, their performances resonate with authenticity. Every Message event is unrepeatable, no two shows are alike; each carries a unique message. The audience sits close enough to see the artist’s fingertips on the strings and feel the raw emotion in every lyric. This is an event for anyone seeking refuge from the noise, who craves more than a passive concert experience.
Join us for an egg-citing afternoon of Easter egg dyeing! Experiment with colors, patterns, and fun techniques to create one-of-a-kind eggs for your spring celebrations.