FRIDAY
>> Proving once again that country legends, unlike most rock stars, actually can age well, Wanda Jackson (pictured right) makes an appearance on the Black Cat mainstage tonight, where she will no doubt trot out classic hits like “Big Iron Skillet” and “Let’s Have A Party.” But with over 50 albums worth of songs to choose from, including some backed up by the Oak Ridge Boys, let’s hope she performs a few obscure numbers from her songbook. DCist is hoping for “Please Don’t Sell My Daddy No Wine.” With Rosie Flores. Doors at 9 p.m.; $18 adv., $20 at the door.
>> The Freer Gallery kicks-off the 10th Annual Made in Hong Kong Film Fest tonight at 7 p.m. with a free screening of Throw Down, Johnnie To’s comic tribute to Akira Kurosawa. Apparently all that Chinese/Japanese friction doesn’t apply to the hardcore action film world. The festival continues through August.
SATURDAY
>> Dischord darlings Verbal take the stage at DC 9 along with Middle Distance Runner and Carol Bui. If nifty web page design can be a barometer for good music (and frankly, we believe it can), then this show should be worth your $8.
>> If you missed out on celebrating the birth of our nation last weekend, simply cross the Potomac and enjoy this birthday party as the City of Alexandria celebrates its 256th year of playing second fiddle to the District. So roll on down to Oronoco Bay Park anytime after 6 p.m., enjoy a picnic and wait with bated breath for such stunning entertainment programming as indicated on the invitation:
The Park and Recreation Commission’s Award presentation is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. followed by the cutting of birthday cakes by City Council members.
Whoop it up, Alexandria! Well, okay, there will also be some live swing music. And fireworks. And they’re going to fire some cannons to the 1812 Overture. We admit it. Could be fun.
SUNDAY
>> Rolin Jones’ buzzed-about new play The Intelligent Design of Jenny Chow opens this weekend at the Studio Theatre’s Secondstage, and based on how excited important theater people seem to be about it, we’d suggest running, not walking, to get your tickets.
