August 2008
HistoricAlexandriaALIVE
Join us on the streets of Alexandria as history comes to life! Each Sunday, learn, participate, engage, and enjoy with performers and costumed interpreters from noon to 5 p.m. Find performers at Market Square, along King Street between Market Square and the waterfront, and on the waterfront behind the Torpedo Factory. Free! Check it out!-
Drawings by William Lydston, Jr.
April 1 - December 31
Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site
4301 W. Braddock Road
Alexandria, VA 22304
www.fortward.org 703/838-4848
Original Civil War drawings by soldier, artist and musician William Lydston, Jr. Exhibit coincides with a statewide celebration of Virginia's musical heritage. Fort Ward pairs drawings from Lydston's wartime experiences with musical instruments and related objects from the Museum's collection. Free. Tuesday-Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays, noon to 5 p.m.
Free!
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"Living Legends of Alexandria"
April 24 - September 8
The Lyceum: Alexandria's History Museum
201 S. Washington Street
Alexandria , VA 22314
www.alexandriahistory.org 703/838-4994
This photo-documentary exhibition, featuring the work of Nina Tisara, identifies and honors individuals whose vision and dedication have made a tangible difference to the quality of life in Alexandria. Of the 50 individuals nominated in 2006, all of whom are included in this exhibit, 12 were featured in articles published by the Alexandria Gazette Packet.Free!
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Summer Lantern Tours
June 6 - August 29
Gadsby's Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.gadsbystavern.org 703/838-4242
Friday Evening Lantern Tours After happy hour or dinner in Old Town, see the 18th century in a whole new light! On Friday evenings from June through August, tour by candlelight with a costumed guide the historic tavern (c.1785) and City Hotel built in 1792 and see how guests experienced the site before the advent of electricity. Tour times are 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. $5 per person, ages 5 and up. Museum may be closed on some occasions, so please call ahead to verify tour dates at 703.838.4242.
$ Entrance Fee
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Julie Camarata: Slick
July 23 - August 24
Target Gallery
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/target_current.htm 703/838-4565
Target Gallery is opening its doors to installation artist Julie Camarata to completely transform the space into oilrig platforms and piping.The artist is addressing timely issues surrounding the necessity, dangers, and beauty of oil. The artist will be on site building this installation for two weeks at which time the gallery will be open to the public to learn more about her process.
Free!
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"1776"
July 26 - August 23
The Little Theatre of Alexandria
600 Wolfe Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.thelittletheatre.com 703/683-0496
Take a front-row seat to history-making theater as LTA launches its 75th Season with our signature show, the 1969 Tony Award-winning musical “1776”. Often humorous, frequently touching, and always entertaining, the public events and personal struggles that lead the Continental Congress to forge a new nation are recreated, making you a witness to history. 8 p.m. Wed.-Sat. and 3 p.m. Sun.$ Entrance Fee
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Exotic Asymmetries
July 28 - August 24
Scope Gallery, Studio 19
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/scope.htm 703/838-4565
The Kiln Club alters the round, square, and cylindrical forms to create pleasingly graceful and stylish pieces of pottery.
Free!
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14th Annual Friendship Firehouse Festival
August 2
Friendship Firehouse
107 S. Alfred St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
703/838-3891
Celebrate the founding of the Friendship Fire Company in 1774. Activities include craft and food vendors, displaying their wares in the 100 block of S. Alfred Street, right in front of the Firehouse. A live band plays contemporary music and kids of all ages come to see the firehouse, fire trucks clowns, and have a good time. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Free!
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Tavern Day at Gadsby's
August 2
Gadsby's Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street
Alexandria , VA 22314
www.gadsbystavern.org 703/838-4242
Want to learn to dance like George Washington? Ever heard of a learned pig? Tours led by costumed guides, period music and light refreshments at Gadsby's Tavern annual open house.
Free!
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Housewarming 1753: “It’s a fine beginning”
August 2
Carlyle House Historic Park
121 N. Fairfax Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.nvrpa.org/parks/carlylehouse/index.php 703/549-2997
On August 1, 1753, John and Sarah Carlyle finally moved into their new stone house in Alexandria, Virginia. Begun in 1751, the house was the grandest residence in the growing port. Later that same day, Sarah gave birth to a son, William Carlyle. As John penned in a letter home to England “It’s A fine beginning.” More than 250 years later, as part of the museum’s Day in the Life series of programs, visitors will experience firsthand this important day in Carlyle House history. Noon-4 p.m.
Free!
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Irish Festival
August 2
Waterfront Park
1A Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.alexandriava.gov 703/838-4844
A celebration of all things great and Gaelic in the region with non-stop entertainment, including pipe bands and dancers. Plus arts and crafts and Irish food, including Guiness.
Noon-7 p.m. (No coolers allowed.)Free!
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Railroad Days
August 2-3
The Lyceum, Alexandria's History Museum
201 South Washington Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.alexandriahistory.org 703/838-4994
All aboard! The Potomac Division of the National Model Railroad Association returns with working HO gauge trains and a state-of-the-art digital command system. New this year is a hands-on Thomas the Tank Engine area for toddlers. Also climbing on board for Railroad Days are Whistle Stop Hobbies to discuss the fun of miniature trains and Operation Lifesaver, a national railroad safety program headquartered in Alexandria. Free! Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Free!
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All Fired Up
August 5 - September 1
Enamelists Gallery, Studio 28
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/enamelists.htm 703/838-4565
Enthusiasm, exuberance and energy characterize these works by member artists. Look for red and movement in this show.
Free!
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"Where in the World is…"
August 5 - September 7
Potomac Craftsmen Fiber Gallery, Studio 18
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/potomac_crafts.htm 703/838-4565
Interpretations of maps and the places they lead us.
Free!
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Purple Heart Ceremony at Mount Vernon
August 7
Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
South end of the GW Parkway
3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy
Mount Vernon, VA 22121
www.MountVernon.org 703/780-2000
Mount Vernon honors all recipients of the Purple Heart with this commemoration at the Purple Heart Memorial located just outside Mount Vernon’s Main Gate. The Memorial marks the beginning of the Purple Heart Trail, which runs through Virginia and will ultimately extend to all other states. This event is free and all Purple Heart recipients and their families are encouraged to attend in addition to the public.
Free!
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1st Thursday Preview of the Del Ray Artisans Board Walk: An Art and Technology Journey
August 7
The Gallery at Del Ray Artisans
Nicholas Colasanto Center
2704 Mount Vernon Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301
www.thedelrayartisans.org/index.htm
Celebrate the art of creating by taking an interactive walk and journey for a Del Ray Artisans’ first and one-of-a-kind event, as art and technology merge at its upcoming August art show – Board Walk: An Art and Technology Journey. The show Preview’s during Del Ray’s FIRST THURSDAY activities, from 6-9 p.m. Featuring the talents and artwork of David A. Kosar, Rob Rudick, Jamee Telford, Monica Wise, and Roy Wright, this exhibition covers painting, photography, and technology, ranging from realism to abstract to technological innovation. A highlight of the show, through the technological wizardry of Roy Wright, is sure to be The Exquisite Box, a live, video production in which you, the visitor, are the actor. If you have a flair for the theatrical, you definitely won’t want to miss this opportunity to perform during the show’s four-weekend run. The show is open on weekends from August 8-31 and includes an artwork silent auction. EXTENDED Summer Hours in the gallery continue in August and September Thursdays: Noon-4 p.m. Fridays: Noon- 9 p.m. Saturdays: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sundays: Noon-4 p.m.
Free!
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Del Ray Artisans Board Walk: An Art and Technology Journey
August 8-31
The Gallery at Del Ray Artisans
Nicholas Colasanto Center
2704 Mount Vernon Avenue
Alexandria (Del Ray), VA 22301
www.thedelrayartisans.org/index.htm
Celebrate the art of making by taking an interactive walk as art and technology merge at the Del Ray Artisans August show, including painting, photography and technology, ranging from realism to abstract. A highlight of the show, through the technological wizardry of Roy Wright, is the Exquisite Box, a live, video production in which you, the visitor, are the actor. Open 6-9 p.m. August 7 as part of First Thursday, with opening reception 7-10 p.m. August 8. Gallery hours are Thursday noon-4 p.m.; Friday noon- 9 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday noon-4 p.m. (Gallery closed August 1-3.)Free!
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Jane Austen Ball
August 9
Gadsby's Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.gadsbystavern.org 703/838-4242
Step back to the time of Jane Austen at this late 1790s era ball. The evening will feature a variety of English Country dances in the historic ballroom, live music, and “iced refreshments.” Period costume optional, “after-five” attire encouraged. Times are 8 – 11 p.m. Cost is $45 in advance, $50 at the door (if tickets are available). Reservations are required.
$ Entrance Fee | Reservations Required
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Whiskey Rebellion at George Washington's Distillery
August 9-10
George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill
5514 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy.
Alexandria , VA 22309
www.MountVernon.org 703/799-5203
The Whiskey Rebellion controversy comes to Historic Mount Vernon for the first time with dramatic performances, a military encampment, militia drilling, music, open-hearth cooking, and costumed demonstrations at George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill. On August 9-10, two days after George Washington issued a proclamation that called out the militia to enforce the law and quell the rebellion in Pennsylvania, visitors will see young men debating at the Gristmill whether to take up arms.
$ Entrance Fee
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NEW! King Street Gardens Farmers Market
August 13 - October 29
King Street Gardens
King and Diagonal streets
Alexandria, VA 22314
703/683-1696
Locally grown produce plus dairy and baked goods at the region's newest farmers market. Held every Wednesday, 3 to 7 p.m. in the award-winning King Street Gardens, just steps from the King Street Metro.
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Second Thursday Art Night, Sultry Summer Nights
August 14
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/thursday.htm 703/838-4565
Browse open studios, interact with the artists, and enjoy refreshments at this free event. Visit The Art League Gallery from 6:30–8pm for the reception for the show Scapes. Watch the UMW Breakers turn up the heat with a breakdancing demonstration. Be sure to visit the Torpedo Factory’s Beach Party on August 22 to see the full show! The night is on fire with fun activities including a free prize drawing and scavenger hunt. 6-9 p.m.Free!
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Second Thursday with Furnace Mountain
August 14
The Athenaeum
201 Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.nvfaa.org 703/548-0035
The music of Furnace Mountain is at times lively and raucous, with spirited fiddle melodies weaving in and around the powerful rhythms of the bass and bouzouki. It is at other times poignant and poetic, with sublime vocal harmonies beautifully interpreting some of the oldest songs ever written. Admission is $10 at the door or online.$ Entrance Fee
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Family Dig Day
August 16
Grounds of the George Washington Masonic Memorial
101 Callahan Drive
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.alexandriaarchaeology.org 703/838-4399
Help City archaeologists and trained volunteers screen excavated soil for artifacts from a real "dig" located on the grounds of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial. Wear comfortable clothes, protect yourself from the sun, and bring a water bottle. Please, no sandals. All necessary equipment will be supplied. Children under 16 must be accompanied by a participating adult. 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. $5 per person. Reservations required. E-mail archaeology@alexandriava.gov or call 703.838.4399 to save your spot!
$ Entrance Fee
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TXT MSG
August 16 - September 21
The Athenaeum
201 Prince Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.nvfaa.org 703/548-0035
Two installations - “Four Letter Words” by John James Anderson and “Song for Europe” by Mark Cameron Boyd – explore the subtleties of language and the affect on society. Anderson’s work explores the subtleties our language possesses: homophones, homonyms and onomatopoeia. Boyd’s work is a participatory, with viewers invited to attempt to decipher the bisected sentences and participate with the provided chalk. Opening reception 5-7 p.m. August 16.Free!
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1776 - Free Performance!
August 21
Fort Ward Park
4301 West Braddock Road
Alexandria, VA 22304
www.thelittletheatre.com 703/683-0496
Take a front-row seat to history-making theater as LTA launches its 75th Season with our signature show, the 1969 Tony Award-winning musical "1776". Often humorous, frequently touching, and always entertaining, the public events and personal struggles that lead the Continental Congress to forge a new nation are recreated, making you a witness to history. A perfect start for our Diamond Jubilee Season!
7 p.m.Free!
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Homeschool Day
August 21
Gadsby's Tavern Museum
134 N. Royal Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.gadsbystavern.org 703/838-4242
Explore the City of Alexandria from the Colonial period to the present! The program begins at Gadsby's Tavern Museum and includes a tour and hands-on activities. Then head out for a short walking tour of Old Town and visit Friendship Firehouse and the Lyceum, Alexandria’s History Museum. Tour times between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Registration is $5 per child (ages 4 and up) and parents are free! Call 703.838.4242 to reserve your tour time.
$ Entrance Fee | Reservations Required
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Capital Dance Sport Championships
August 21-23
Hilton Alexandria Mark Center
5000 Seminary Road
Alexandria, VA 22331
www.capitaldancesport.net 866/634-5515
Three days of the best competitive ballroom dancing showcased in the Washington Metropolitan area. Dancers from across the United States come to the Capital Dancesport Championships in preparation for the U.S. Championships. Spectators can enjoy all fours styles of dancing: American Smooth, American Rhythm, International Standard and International Latin. You will laugh, cry, be excited and moved as skilled amateurs and professionals make the music their own.
Times: 8 a.m. – midnight. Tickets: matinees $25; evening performance $45.$ Entrance Fee
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Beach Party
August 22
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org 703/838-4565
Celebrate the carefree days of summer with food, fun, and games at the only air-conditioned beach party around! Unleash your inner rockstar with Guitar Hero, practice your moves with the hula hoop, or just kick back and wiggle your toes in the sand. Check out an exciting performance by local breakdancers. Enjoy special summertime treats from Hard Times Café and cool down with a glass of lemonade from Alex’s Lemonade Stand. This free event will take place 6-9 p.mFree!
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War of 1812 Re-enactment: Alexandria 1814 - A City Occupied
August 23
Carlyle House Historic Park
121 N. Fairfax Street
Alexandria , VA 22314
www.carlylehouse.org 703/549-2997
During the War of 1812, Alexandria surrendered to a British naval force, paying a ransom of rum,tobacco, flour, cotton and sugar. Learn why at Carlyle House. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with early 19th-century weapon demonstrations,civilian demonstrations and historic house tour.
$ Entrance Fee
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Cambodian Festival
August 24
Ben Brenman Park
4800 Brenman Park Drive
Alexandria, VA 22304
www.alexandriava.gov 703/883-4686
Food, arts & crafts and entertainment - one in the city's Ethnic Festival Series. Noon-6 p.m.
Free!
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Ellen Pickering Memorial Walk
August 24
Walk leaves from The Athanaeum
201 Prince Street
Alexandria , VA 22314
703/519-4707
Learn how community activist Ellen Pickering rallied the community to preserve the Alexandria waterfront as it is today, creating Founders Park and the Mount Vernon Bike Trail. Guest speaker is Bob Montague, who also worked on behalf of the cause.4-6 p.m.Free!
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Before and After
August 25 - September 21
Scope Gallery, Studio 19
Torpedo Factory Art Center
105 N. Union Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.torpedofactory.org/galleries/scope.htm 703/838-4565
The Kiln Club shows the process of pottery making, from raw clay to finished pieces using different firing techniques.
Free!
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Joe Enroughty And His Royal Virginians
August 29
The Carlyle Club
411 John Carlyle Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.thecarlyleclub.com 703/548-5953
This 12-piece big band from Richmond, is performing for your dancing pleasure with vocalists Lydia Ooghe and Danny Willis singing standards such as "Exactly Like You," "As Time Goes By," "They Can't Take That Away From Me," and more. If you like the sounds of Guy Lombardo and other ballroom bands, come out and enjoy the show.
$ Entrance Fee | Reservations Required
