FRIDAY:
Anyone in need of a little funk infusion tonight would do well to check out Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings at Black Cat. The DCist staff list today was full of sentiments like “I’ve heard great things about these guys,” and Jones’ background suggests she probably has more than a passing understanding of the world of soul: She was born in Augusta, Georgia (hometown of James Brown) and spent her teens in Brooklyn, NY. They’ll be playing with fellow Daptone artists The Budos Band, and The Ambitions. $12, 9:30 p.m.
Comedian, civil rights activist and outspoken vegetarian Dick Gregory survived a tree falling on his car, cancer, and coming to the defense of Michael Jackson, so we’re guessing he’s probably got a few stories to share. He’ll be performing two shows tonight with fellow comedian Paul Mooney, who was Richard Pryor’s main collaborator through the 1980s. 6:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. at the 9:30 Club. $35.
SATURDAY:
The geeks are coming, the geeks are coming! The Omni Shoreham hotel will be getting a complete vibe makeover this weekend. Gone are the CPACers of a week ago, and here come the Katsuconers, otherwise known as hardcore Japanese anime, manga and video game fans. Looks like there will even be plenty for the anime porn fans out there, with a whole range of offerings after midnight labeled “Adults Only.” Katsucon runs Feb. 17-19 and registration fees range from $20 for Sunday only to $50 for all three days. Just be sure not to fall asleep in one of the Video rooms, and no summoning of Elder Gods allowed.
A sweet little local music line-up is at Velvet Lounge featuring Three Stars alums Hello Tokyo, plus Dance Party and Supercade. Cover charge and start time of show was not available from Velvet Lounge, so give them a call if you need to know before you head over: (202) 462-3213.
SUNDAY:
In the proud tradition of Sing-along Sound of Music, the JCCGW is hosting a Sing-along Fiddler on the Roof this Sunday afternoon, and they’re encouraging people of all faiths to show up dressed as their favorite characters from the popular film. At the Kreeger Auditorium of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington on Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for students. Tradition!
Still haven’t visited Mt. Vernon? Well this President’s Day weekend is as good a reason as any to check out George Washington’s episode of Cribs. Festivities will include the chance to sample General Washington’s favorite meal (Sat. & Sun. from 9 to noon, though no idea exactly what that meal is), America’s Smallest Hometown Parade (at 1:30 p.m. Sat., Sun. & Mon.) and performances by the U.S. Army Old Guard Fife & Drum Corps and the Commander-in-Chief’s Guard on Monday (along with free admission on Mon.).
