Photo courtesy of Allee574

FILM: Motown 25—Yesterday, Today, and Forever screens for free at the Library of Congress at 7 p.m. Made in 1983, the film features “Michael Jackson’s ‘moon-walking’ version of ‘Billie Jean’ and a Jackson Five reunion; Marvin Gaye’s final television appearance; Stevie Wonder; the original Four Tops and the Temptations in a ‘battle of the bands’; Linda Ronstadt; Smokey Robinson; the Miracles (including Claudette), and the controversial performance by the Supremes.”

Or head to the American Art Museum to see Soul of a People for free at 7 p.m. The film is about the The Federal Writers’ Project, a New Deal program which employed thousands of out-of work
journalists, novelists, poets, and ordinary citizens. David Taylor, co-producer and author of the accompanying book, will be on hand to sign the book, along with Andrea Kalin, director and co-producer of the film.

ROCK: See The Federal Reserve Collection at Iota for a mellow, yet stylishly crafted way to start your week, $5, 8 p.m.

JAZZ: One Common Unity, a community group under the direction of local artist and activist, Hawah, hosts the Common Folk Awards tonight at the 14th Street Busboys & Poets. The event honors community organizers, and features several local performers, including Three Stars alum Christylez, the Young Women’s Drumming Empowerment Project, The Cornel West Theory, and others. 8 p.m. $10.

READING: The Gala Hispanic Theatre – Tivoli host the Young Playwrights’ Theatre’s Playing with Fire, a series of student plays performed in a staged reading by professional actors, followed by an open discussion. A free reception starts at 6:15 before the free performance at 7 p.m.