Rufus WainwrightÂ
Where: The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria
When: Aug. 22, 7:30 p.m.
Yes, he recorded stellar covers of both “Hallelujah” and “Across the Universe,” but Rufus Wainwright is perhaps most enthralling when performing his own lyrically dense material. See the singer-songwriter and composer (hello, Prima Donna) up close and personal at The Birchmere. $89.50.
Italian Bred
Where: The State Theatre, 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church
When: Aug. 24, 8 p.m.
The Italian Store presents a comedy celebrating the intricacies of life in an Italian family that includes virtual cameos from Mario Cantone (Sex and the City) and Steve Schirripa (The Sopranos). $30.
The Alarm/Modern English/Gene Loves Jezebel
Where: The State Theatre, 220 N. Washington St., Falls Church
When: Aug. 25, 8 p.m.
It’s been covered ad nauseam but somehow the best version of “I Melt With You” is still the original. Hear it live when British post-punk outfit Modern English plays The State Theatre in a lineup with fellow UK groups The Alarm and Gene Loves Jezebel. $33-$38.
Sting
Where: Filene Center at Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Road, Vienna
When: Aug. 26-28
UK pop-rock great and onetime Police frontman Sting (who has been performing with reggae artist Shaggy of late) takes over Wolf Trap for a trio of shows that promise many of his hits, from “Every Breath You Take” to “Shape of My Heart.” $55+.