Staycations are a fantastic way to enjoy time off while avoiding the hassle of travel, and this summer is packed with exciting performances in the performing arts sector.
In Vienna, Virginia, Wolf Trap’s summer lineup is vibrant with song, dance, and comedy.
Those quick to act can catch David Sedaris, the acerbic gay humorist, performing his one-night show, “An Evening with David Sedaris,” on July 19.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Pink Martini will grace Wolf Trap with its unique orchestral sound on July 29.
The ensemble boasts talents such as vocalists China Forbes and Storm Large, alongside special guest Ari Shapiro, a radio journalist known for his engaging insights.
Wolf Trap also features Broadway stars Sutton Foster and Kelli O’Hara, who will perform with the National Symphony Orchestra on August 1.
This special event promises show-stopping numbers from iconic composers, including Rodgers and Hammerstein, Sondheim, Cole Porter, Jason Robert Brown, and Joni Mitchell.
For those seeking to engage with theater in a more relaxed setting, Studio Theatre is showing “Wipeout” through July 27.
Written by Aurora Real de Asua, this summer comedy revolves around Claudia, portrayed by Naomi Jacobson, who treats her friends to surf lessons as she approaches her birthday.
The story unfolds under the guidance of Blaze, a charismatic surf instructor played by Alec Ludacka, combining humor with heartfelt moments.
Olney Theatre is amplifying the summer experience with a slate of queer-friendly performances at its Root Family Stage, open from July 31 through August 24.
Highlights include a concert with the delightful Tituss Burgess on August 7 and the U.S. Premiere Concert presentation of “To Wong Foo: The Musical” on August 21.
Additionally, the stage will host “Just Arts: From Stonewall to RuPaul Drag Extravaganza” on August 24.
For indoor entertainment, the Synetic Theater offers a captivating wordless interpretation of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” through August 10.
Director Paata Tsikurishvili brings a fresh perspective to the classic tale, featuring whimsical fairies and love-struck characters.
Families with younger children can delight in “Dory Fantasmagory” at Bethesda’s Imagination Stage, running until August 3.
This lively performance, based on Abby Hanlon’s beloved children’s book, showcases the adventures of Dory as she contends with familial dynamics and her vibrant imagination.
Encouraging creativity, young audience members are invited to dress in wacky outfits reflecting Dory’s whimsical world, and pajama Saturdays are also in the mix.
Adventure Theatre in Glen Echo Park presents “The Lightning Thief” through August 17, bringing to life the epic story of Percy Jackson, who discovers he is a demigod on a quest to retrieve Zeus’ missing lightning bolt.
This adaptation of Rick Riordan’s popular novel features energetic music and was mounted on Broadway in 2019.
At Signature Theatre, “Sailing: Yacht Rock” runs from July 22 to August 10, delivering a laid-back cabaret experience featuring hits from classic artists like Christopher Cross and the Doobie Brothers.
Washington National Opera will host Opera in the Outfield at Nationals Park on August 23, where theater enthusiasts can enjoy a free outdoor screening of Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess,” starting at 6:30 p.m.
The Kennedy Center will wrap up the summer season with the acclaimed 2023 Broadway revival of “Parade,” which runs from August 19 to September 7.
This powerful musical tells the true story of Leo Frank, a Jewish man wrongfully accused of murder in 1913 Atlanta, and includes contributions from notable figures like director Michael Arden and lyricist Jason Robert Brown.
For those seeking a slightly different experience, the Contemporary American Theater Festival, running through August 3 in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, offers a lineup of intriguing new works.
Freelance costume designer Christopher Vergara, known for his contributions to major productions, is highlighting his skills in the world premiere of “Magdalene,” which explores the relationship between Peter and Mary Magdalene.
Vergara employs a visual dramaturgy approach, aiming to capture the spirit of the characters within their distinct worlds without strict historical accuracy.
The festival also showcases “Happy Fall: A Queer Stunt Spectacular,” where playwright Lisa Sanaye Dring portrays queer Hollywood stuntmen navigating the complexities of love amidst dangerous careers.
The festival will feature a variety of other compelling narratives, including Kevin Kling’s reflections on disability in “Unraveled” and Lisa Loomer’s poignant exploration of psychiatry in “Side Effects May Include….”
Returning to the D.C. area, Arena Stage is presenting the world premiere musical adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle’s “A Wrinkle in Time,” featuring Taylor Iman Jones as 13-year-old Meg Murry.
This beloved literary figure embarks on a profound journey to find her missing father, confronting adventure and evil along the way.
Jones, who has a rich background in theater, expresses how playing Meg allows her to reconnect with raw emotions, emphasizing the significance of female-driven narratives in contemporary theater.
As summer unfolds, numerous performances and events provide ample opportunities for engagement in the pursuit of art and community.
Whether it’s indulging in profound narratives, uplifting musicals, or heartwarming tales for children, this summer’s performing arts scene is abundant with opportunities to celebrate creativity and connection.
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