The Black Heritage Museum of Arlington
When: Open, as of July 9
Where: 3108 Columbia Pike, mezzanine floor, Arlington
The museum was closed during quarantine, but it reopened to the public on July 9. Pay a visit to learn more about our area’s rich and complex African-American history, from the Civil War and the era of Reconstruction to school desegregation, Civil Rights protests and the legacy of neighborhoods like Halls Hill and Queen City. Admission is free.
Contrast
When: Through July 31
Where: Gallery Underground, 2100 Crystal City Drive, Arlington
Through darkness, there is light. As we tentatively emerge from this period of dreary confinement, we now have a chance to see works of art—paintings, sculptures, ceramics and more—inspired by what happens when the two extremes collide. Gallery Underground, operating at 50% capacity, is open Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Masks are required. Admission is free.
The Decameron
When: Through July 30
Where: Online
Certain human emotions transcend time, including the impulse to connect in periods of isolation and despair. Synetic Theater recaptures that desire in this designed-for-digital adaptation of Giovanni Boccaccio’s famed novellas chronicling Italy’s outbreak of Bubonic plague from 1347-1351. Tune in beginning June 10 to experience individual performances by cast members, serially, over 10 days. Pay what you can to stream each play. The base price is $10.
Live Music at The Renegade
When: Multiple dates/times
Where: 3100 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington
Patrick Crump’s restaurant and music venue is keeping the music alive and showcasing local bands, while offering three different viewing options to suit your comfort level. You can rock out live with a view of the stage, listen from the patio, or stream the live shows from home. Upcoming artists include Half Pint Harry (July 16), Jared Stout Band (July 17), Billy Wilde Band (July 23), Delta Spur (July 31), Drunk After Midnight (Aug. 5), Keeton (Aug. 28) and many more. See website for the full lineup of summer shows. Folks watching from home can get 10% off takeout & delivery orders (look for the artist coupon code, shared on social media the day of the show) and The Renegade will donate an additional 10% to the band.
1st Stage Virtual Theater Classes
When: July 13-Aug. 23
Where: Online
Sadly, live theater performances are still in intermission, and we’ll have to wait one more year for the next iteration of the Tysons theater’s Logan Festival of Solo Performance. But then again, all the world’s a stage. Why not brush up on your own theatrical skills? 1st Stage Tysons is launching six theater education classes led by theater experts—from script analysis and playwriting to voice training and improv. Check website for course details and prices.