Nerd Nite at DC9, Saturday What better way to learn about Nerd Nite than to have a self-proclaimed nerd explain it?
“It’s an event or gathering of people with nerdy inclinations,” said Zaki Ghul, a member of the local chapter and one of the event organizers.
Essentially, Nerd Nite entails individuals giving PowerPoint presentations on subjects of their choosing, with a live band performing between and after the presentations. Most of the time the takes are humorous, and often include props. Previous topics tackled by local nerds include Buckminster Fuller and competitive Scrabble. This week, subjects to be discussed are the periodic table, chess and motorcycle racing.
Nerd Nite started with some friends of Ghul’s in Boston, and has spawned chapters in almost 20 cities, with the D.C. chapter established in December 2009. Ghul himself primarily works behind the scenes in booking the bands and helping with organizing the event, and has yet to present, though he’s considering it.
In the past, Nerd Nite has named a local charity to donate a portion of the proceeds to, but has not yet for this week.
Overall, Nerd Nite offers presenters and audience members to, well, nerd out a little on a Saturday night.
“We’re nerds and we’re proud of it,” Ghul said. “There’s a little bit of nerd in everyone.”
To get a taste of Nerd Nite, or for more details, visit dc.nerdnite.com.
Info: $10; dcnine.com
When: Doors at 6 p.m., starts at 6:30 p.m., Saturday
Misstallica at State Theatre, Friday
There’s Harptallica (a harp Metallica tribute) and Beatallica (a Beatles/Metallica tribute combo). Now check out Misstallica. This Philadelphia-based all-female tribute to the masters of metal rock the State Theatre on Friday. With D.C.’s own Disciples of Sabbath, the Black Sabbath tribute.
Info: $10 in advance, $12 at the door; thestatetheatre.com.
When: 8 p.m. doors, 9 p.m. show, Friday.
Abe Vigoda at the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hotel, Saturday
No, not the 89-year-old actor, but the California-based pop-punk band named after the aging actor. Abe Vigoda (band) has four albums to its name, including September’s “Crush,” and has generated some buzz lately. Abe Vigoda (actor), though beloved, has no albums to date. Wild Nothing headlines, locals Deleted Scenes open.
Info: $10 in advance, $12 at the door; rockandrollhoteldc.com.
When: 8:30 p.m. doors, 9:30 p.m. show, Saturday.
Meat-Free Week, through Sunday
Earlier this year, there was Meat Week, eight days of barbecue gloriousness throughout the metro area. Now, gear up for Meat-Free Week, which runs through Sunday. Presented by DC Vegan, Meat-Free Week celebrates meatless dining in the area. Visit the Web site for a list of participating restaurants.
Info: dcvegan.com.
When: Through Sunday.
‘Sunset Boulevard’ at Signature Theatre, through Sunday
Time is running out to catch this live production of the timeless “Sunset Boulevard,” starring Florence Lacey. Some classics, and classic lines, never get old: “I’m ready for my close-up.” Catch it at Shirlington’s Signature Theatre.
Info: $70 to $80; sig-online.org.
When: 8 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sunday.
