Riot Act Comedy Theater Opening Weekend featuring Charles Fleischer, through Saturday The comedy scene in Washington just got bigger.
This weekend marks the opening of the new Riot Act Comedy Theater at 8th and E in the Gallery Place neighborhood. The new venue joins the well-known D.C. Improv as a go-to place for live stand-up.
Comedian Charles Fleischer headlines the opening weekend.
“I definitely think so,” said Riot Act co-owner John Xereas on if there’s room for multiple laugh centers in the District. “Most major cities have at least two comedy clubs.”
Xereas is a former owner of the Improv, and a comedy event promoter. Geoff Dawson and Marjorie Heiss of Bedrock Management are also partners in the new venture.
Xereas wants to emphasize a local feel at Riot Act. The first few weeks of the theater’s opening features local comedians, or those with local ties such as Rob Cantrell, as well as a comedy school. Xereas hopes to foster a place that nurtures new comedians, and points out that the likes of Dave Chappelle and Wanda Sykes came out of the area.
“We’re really trying to be a D.C. club,” he said. “There’s so many talented people.”
At 13,000 square feet with two bars, food service and seating for upwards of 350 people, Xereas sees Riot Act being a venue for not only comedy, but other events such as film festivals.
“We’re really excited,” he said. ” It’s going to be good night out.”
Info: $20, riotactcomedy.com
When: 8 and 10:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday.
Truckeroo 3, Friday
Once a month through October, food trucks from the area congregate across from the Navy Yard Metro Station to team up and offer a whole array of scrumptious culinary treats. On Friday, check out Truckeroo 3 and select anything from epanadas to lobster, pizza to mac ‘n’ cheese. More than 20 in all. Yummers!
Info: Half & M St., SE D.C.; truckeroodc.com
When: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday.
O.A.R. At Merriweather, Saturday
This is a homecoming for O.A.R., as the band originated in Rockville, so one can imagine that the group has quite the following locally. O.A.R. is best know for it’s college-friendly rock, made perfect for an outdoor summer concert. Two bands out of the Commonwealth open the show – SOJA and Virginia Coalition. Makes for a feel good local vibe.
Info: $35-$35, merriweathermusic.com
When: 5:30 p.m. doors, Saturday
Cryfest Dance Party at the Black Cat, Saturday
The Smiths and the Cure don’t get as much love as they should. Get back in touch with your more emotional side through songs like “Pictures of You” and “Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now” at the Cryfest Dance Party.
Info: $10, blackcatdc.com
When: 9 p.m. doors, Saturday
Steve Earle at the Birchmere, Sunday
Country-meets-rock singer-songwriter Steve Earle pays a visit to the Birchmere this weekend. The Saturday show was sold out, but at press time tickets were still available for the Sunday performance. If all you know about Earle is his role on “The Wire” as Bubbles’ sponsor, we suggest you check out his music.
Info: $59.50; birchmere.com
When: 7:30 p.m., Sunday
