Artisphere First Birthday Celebration, Saturday and Sunday Believe it or not, Artisphere in Arlington turns a year old this weekend. In October 2010, the art space and venue in Rosslyn opened, and will celebrate with a party on Saturday evening followed by an open house on Sunday.
“It’s quite an enormous task of magnitude to open a venue of this size,” said Annalisa Meyer, Artisphere communications and marketing director.
Over the course of the last 12 months, Artisphere has hosted a wide range of artistic endeavors, including but not limited to film, music, theater, dancing and new media. WSC Avant Bard (formerly the Washington Shakespeare Company) has found a home at Artisphere, as has the Spooky Movie International Film Festival next weekend. That variety distinguishes Artisphere from other venues in the region.
“That’s something that sets us apart,” Meyer said.
The Saturday evening party includes a commissioned, interactive exhibit; music; new installations; a live variety show; and more. Sunday is a free, family-oriented open house.
While Artisphere has given area artists an outlet to create, it has also played a role in the growing evolution of Rosslyn as a destination.
“We’re changing the makeup of Rosslyn,” Meyer said.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday
Info: $15 to $20 Saturday, free Sunday; artisphere.com
The Lemonheads at the Black Cat, Friday
The Lemonheads, the indie rockers that found their greatest success in the 1990s and fronted by Evan Dando, are back on the road. This time around, the band is playing the 1992 classic “It’s a Shame About Ray” in its entirety. Thanks for the memories.
When: Doors 9 p.m. Friday
Info: $15; blackcatdc.com
Chris Tucker at DAR Constitution Hall, Friday
Can’t wait for a possible “Rush Hour 4”? Catch Chris Tucker live at DAR on Friday, as the comedian makes a return to his standup career.
When: 7:30 and 10:30 p.m. Friday
Info: $44 to $123.50; dar.org
Mid-Atlantic Oktoberfest Beer Festival, Saturday
This 12th annual event has become one of the best beer festivals on the East Coast. Presented by Capitol City Brewing Co., more than 100 beers will flow in the streets of Shirlington. Take public transportation, or grab a designated driver, and enjoy.
When: Noon to 7 p.m. Saturday
Info: $25 for 10 drink tickets; capcitybrew.com
DJ Pauly D at Fur Nightclub, Saturday
A little piece of “Jersey Shore” comes to the Potomac shore this weekend. DJ Pauly D brings his shining reality show star to Fur, presented by Club Glow.
When: 9 p.m. Saturday
Info: $25; furnightclub.com
