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February 26, 2012 JUBILEE VOICES AT SAINT MARTIN OF TOURS
 Celebrate Black History Month with the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices at this special free concert.
As part of St. Martin of Tours' Black History Month celebration, Washington Revels Jubilee Voices will share an interactive concert filled with stories, speeches and music from the Civil War era. Enjoy a wide variety of songs and spirituals, as well as readings and poetry by Paul Lawrence Dunbar, Frederick Douglass, Harriet Jacobs, and more.
Cost: Nothing!
Location: St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church, 1908 N. Capitol St., NW, Washington, DC <view map>
Date: Sunday, February 26 at 2:00pm
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March 9, 2012MARCUS-COLLINSON BENEFIT CONCERT
 An evening of rockin’ 21st Century British Roots Music, with all proceeds to Washington Revels!
Come join the newly celebrated British folk duo, Andrew Marcus and Glyn Collinson, for an energetic evening of folk music with attitude. Lively songs! Stompin’ tunes! You may know Andrew from his many appearances on the Christmas Revels stage in the “Lord of the Dance,” at May Revels, and with the Foggy Bottom Morris Men. Glyn is a recent arrival from Britain who brings with him a rich tradition of songs and tunes stretching back to his great-great-great grandfather, Joseph Taylor; some of Taylor’s songs will appear for the first time this evening in brand-new arrangements.
Come join the fun – kids welcome, too – and benefit Revels at the same time!
Order tickets online through TIX.COM (NO FEES for online orders)
Date/Time: Friday, March 9, 8:00-9:30pm (doors open at 7:30pm)
Where: Washington Revels Performance Space, 531 Dale Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20910. <view map/directions>
Tickets: Minimum donation (more gratefully appreciated!): $15
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Mark Your Calendars for More Washington Revels Events this Spring!
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PAST EVENTS
February 12, 2012HERITAGE VOICES AT FORD'S THEATRE
 As part of its Lincoln’s Birthday Open House, Ford's Theatre has invited the Washington Revels Heritage Voices to perform two 30-minute sets of Civil War-era music and spoken word on the Theatre stage.
The Heritage Voices appearances are part of a day-long celebration not only of Lincoln’s birthday but the grand opening of the new Center for Education & Leadership, scheduled for February 21.
The opening of the Center marks the completion of a multi-year expansion that has included the restoration and renovation of the Theatre (unveiled February 2009), a renovated Museum (July 2009), and the Lincoln Legacy Project, a five-year effort to create a dialogue around the issues of tolerance, equality and acceptance. The new Center focuses on the lasting effect of Lincoln’s presidency in many dimensions.
During the Open House, in addition to the Heritage Voices programs, the Theatre will offer ranger talks and One Destiny, a two-person play. You can also tour the Theatre Museum, preview the exhibits at the new Center, and participate in workshops and scavenger hunts!
Date/Time: Sunday, February 12 from 8:45am to approximately 5:00pm (Heritage Voices at 1:30pm and 2:30pm) Where: Ford's Theatre, 511 Tenth St, NW, Washington, DC
Events Web Site: http://fords.org/event/lincolns-birthday-open-house-2012
Tickets: Tickets are FREE and available at the box office beginning at 8:30 a.m. on February 12.
Groups of 20 or more may reserve in advance by contacting Group Sales via email or at (202) 638-2367.
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February 11, 2012JUBILEE VOICES CELEBRATE FREDERICK DOUGLASS
 Join Washington Revels Jubilee Voices at the Frederick Douglass 193rd Birthday Celebration.
Celebrate Frederick Douglass’ birthday through ceremony and song with Washington Revels Jubilee Voices as they perform music popular during Douglass’ life. Jubilee Voices will perform three different sets throughout the Opening Ceremonies, from 10am-11:30am. This year’s celebration is focused on Abolition: Historic and Present, with guest speaker, Luis CdeBaca, Ambassador-at-Large, Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. There will also be presentations, tours of the home, programs on the history of Anacostia, kids’ activities, and more.
Date/Time: Saturday, February 11 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
(Jubilee Voices will perform at various times from 10 am-11:30 am).
Where: Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, 1411 W Street SE, Washington, D.C. <view map & directions>
Event Web Site: http://www.nps.gov/frdo/
Tickets: This is a FREE event.
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February 4, 2012MARITIME VOICES "SING-ALONG" at FSGW MINI-FEST
 Washington Revels Maritime Voices will present a sing-along version of "Songs of Sea and Shore" at this year's FSGW Midwinter Festival.
Maritime Voices audiences are always invited to join in singing some of the refrains during a performance. This Saturday, however, they will be featured throughout the entire program of this sing-along version of the Maritime Voices’ ever-evolving program of nautical song, dance, and ritual. As an added bonus, both before and after their hour-long performance, the Maritime Voices will wander through the hallways singing to one and all. The annual FSGW Mini-Fest features Morris dancers dancing through the hallways (hopefully not colliding with our Maritime Voices), banjo pickers, contra dancers and fiddlers, balladeers and blues singers -- two all-day dance tracks, and seven workshop and performance sites, plus unscheduled hallway shenanigans. Even if it's cold outside, Mini-Fest'll be hot!!
Date/Time: Saturday, February 4, Noon-10:30pm (Maritime Voices perform 2-3 pm, in the Jams room, #184)
Cost: Tickets are available for half and full-day pricing (special pricing for families); discounts for FSGW members.
Location: Takoma Park Middle School, 7611 Piney Branch Road, Takoma Park, MD <view map>.
Event website: http://fsgw.org/myorgnet/public.php (complete ticket information and schedule here).
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January 29, 2012PUB SING at McGINTY'S PUBLIC HOUSE
 Raise your glass and lift your voice for Washington Revels Pub Sing in Silver Spring, Maryland!
We gather for good food, good drink, good company, and, great singing! If this is your first time at a Revels Pub Sing, we will be the ones laughing and singing in the dining room, which is wheelchair accessible. Food and drinks may be ordered beginning at 6:00pm. Singing will begin at 7:00pm and formally end at 9:00pm, with a brief intermission. All songs will be SING-ALONGS, with songbooks and song leaders provided. Kids and teens are welcome -– there will be a few songs that celebrate the virtue of drink, but not many.
Additionally, we will have a mini-"Burns Supper," honoring the birthday of Scottish poet Robert Burns -- a shortened, 15-minute version of the traditional celebration, including a few songs, the entrance of (and "Address" to) the haggis, and bagpiper, ending with a rousing 'Auld Lang Syne' as written by Burns himself! If you would like to lead a song, email pubsing@revelsdc.org.
Admission may be available at the door, but we strongly recommend that you purchase your tickets in advance online (no fees!) because seating is limited. Tickets for Pub Sing regularly sell-out in advance. Ticket proceeds go entirely to Washington Revels; food and beverage may be ordered separately from the McGinty's regular menu at your expense.
Order tickets online through TIX.COM (NO FEES for online orders)
Date/Time: Sunday, January 29, 6:00-9:00pm (doors open at 6:00pm)
Where: McGinty's Public House, 911 Ellsworth Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Parking available in County Lots.
Tickets: [In advance] Adults: $20; Youth (ages 13 to 18): $15; Kids (12 and under): $10
[At the door] Adults: $23; Youth (ages 13 to 18): $18; Kids (12 and under): $13 -- space permitting!
January 13, 2012JUBILEE VOICES at TEMPLE SHALOM MLK SERVICE
 In honor of the life of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices will perform as part of the 4th Annual MLK Commemoration Service at Temple Shalom in Chevy Chase, Maryland.
 Jubilee Voices will join Cantor Lisa Levine, the Woodrow Wilson High School Chorus, the Kids Lead Teen Gospel Choir from the Girls and Boys Club of D.C., three Temple Shalom choirs and two temple-sponsored bands for this celebration of Dr. King’s life and work.
The Jubilee Voices, who appeared as guest artists on Cantor Lisa Levine’s CD, Soulful Shabbat Ruach, will perform songs from the recording and will also sing traditional African American spirituals from their own repertoire. The Jubilee Voices songs, and the music of the other groups will be interspersed throughout the 90-minute service. This free event will be followed by a reception to which everyone is invited.
This contemporary-style Shabbat celebration is part of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area activities leading up to Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on Monday, January 16. The event at Temple Shalom will be streamed live on jwash.net, but it will be even better in person!
Date/Time: Friday, January 13, from 7:30-9:00pm (followed by reception)
Where: Temple Shalom, 8401 Grubb Road, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 <view map>
Tickets: None needed – FREE to all!
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December 27, 2011WASHINGTON REVELS & OCEAN at THE BIRCHMERE
 Celebrate the holidays in Celtic/Andalusian style!
Celtic-rock bandleader Jennifer Cutting returns to the Birchmere with her OCEAN Orchestra to perform songs from their brand new holiday CD, Song of Solstice joined by performers from the Washington Revels. This eclectic mix of music, dance and drama will include arrangements of traditional and original winter songs, as well as a Hanukkah song, early Spanish folk carols, a boisterous Mummers Play, and many opportunities for audience participation. The Washington Revels children will add their own special charm, making it an ideal show for the whole family! The show will feature music in Hebrew, Arabic, Ladino, Spanish, Catalan, French and English. Other guest artists include Celtic harpist Sue Richards (Ensemble Galilei) and recorder player John Guillory (Musica Antiqua), as well as the Foggy Bottom Morris Men, who will debut their new dance to Jennifer’s original song “Green Man.” Those of you who remember the always-sold-out New St. George/Washington Revels holiday shows at The Birchmere will have some idea of the rollicking good time that’s in store… the rest of you will be bowled over by the sheer, boisterous merry-making of it all!
Date/Time: Tuesday, December 27 at 7:30pm (doors open at 6:00pm)
Where: The Birchmere Music Hall, 3701 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22305
Tickets: $25.00 (available from TicketMaster online in advance, or from The Birchmere Box Office)
December 3-4 and 9-11, 2011THE CHRISTMAS REVELS
 ANDALUSIAN TREASURES
Jewish, Arabic & Spanish Music, Dance & Drama
Two adventurers.
Three ancient cultures.
Four hundred years of riches.
Learn more about the show, the guest musicians,
the actors, and more...
» Visit the new Christmas Revels 2011 Web site!
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Novebmer 17, 2011SEPHARDIC JOURNEYS with TRIO SEFARDI
 Spend an intimate evening exploring the fascinating world of this year’s “Andalusian Treasures” with Trio Sefardi and special guest, Flory Jagoda.
This special salon offers a wonderful mix of performance, stories, demonstration, and a chance to interact with our guest artists for this year's Christmas Revels. Bringing a vibrant past into the present, musicians Howard Bass, Tina Chancey and Susan Gaeta are joined by “living legend” and National Heritage Fellow, Flory Jagoda, in beautiful, joyful, and plaintive songs from the centuries old tradition of the Sephardim, the Jews of Spain. Come, learn and enjoy! The event begins at 7:30pm at Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church in Bethesda, MD.
For more information and to purchase tickets:
Visit the Christmas Revels 2011 Web site
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November 6, 2011PUB SING at IRELAND'S FOUR PROVINCES (Virginia)
Raise your glass and lift your voice at the second annual Washington Revels Pub Sing in Northern Virginia!
We gather at Ireland’s Four Provinces in Falls Church for good food, good drink, good company, and, of course, good singing! If this is your first time at a Revels Pub Sing, we will be the ones laughing and singing in the dining room, which is wheelchair accessible. Food and drinks may be ordered beginning at 6:00pm. Singing will begin at 7:00pm and formally end at 9:00pm, with a brief intermission. All songs will be SING-ALONGS, with songbooks and song leaders provided. Kids and teens are welcome -– there will be a few songs that celebrate the virtue of drink, but not many.
If you would like to lead a song, email pubsing@revelsdc.org. Admission may be available at the door, but we strongly recommend that you purchase your tickets in advance online (no fees!) because seating is limited to 100 people. Last year’s Pub Sing sold out in advance. Ticket proceeds go entirely to Washington Revels; food and beverage may be ordered separately from the Four Provinces’ regular menu at your expense.
Order tickets online through TIX.COM (NO FEES for online orders)
Date/Time: Sunday, November 6, 6:00-9:00pm
Cost: [In advance] Adults - $16.50; Youth (18 and under) - $11.50
[At the door] Adults - $20; Youth (18 and under) - $15 -- space permitting!
Location: Ireland’s Four Provinces, 105 West Broad Street, Falls Church, VA, (703) 534-8999 [View Map] Ample parking is available in a covered lot adjacent to the 4Ps.
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November 5, 2011MARYLAND EMANCIPATION DAY CELEBRATION
Celebrate Maryland's Emancipation Day at the historic Oakley Cabin with the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices.
This year marks the 15th anniversary celebration of this FREE special event. Activities include: guided cabin tours; living history demonstrations; hands-on crafts Michael Twitty, Afro-American Foodways Historian and old-fashioned games for children; music by the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices and blues by The Treatment; an archaeology dig by the Parks Archaeology department; and, refreshments. For more information, contact 301-650-4373.
Cost: FREE!
Date/Time: Saturday, November 5, 12:00-4:00 pm
(Jubilee Voices perform 15-minute sets at 1:10pm and 2:30pm)
Location: Oakley Cabin, Map, directions and event details
Parking: Available only at the Longwood Local Park, 19300 Georgia Avenue, Olney. Shuttle vans will provide on-going transporation from the Longwood Park to Oakley Cabin from 12-4.
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October 29, 2011ANDALUSIAN NIGHTS with LAYALI EL ANDALUS
 Spend an intimate evening exploring the fascinating world of this year’s “Andalusian Treasures” with Layali El Andalus.
This special salon offers a wonderful mix of performance, stories, demonstration, and a chance to interact with our guest artists for this year's Christmas Revels. Reviving the golden age of a mythical Andalusia, musicians Rachid Halihal and Daphna Mor draw inspiration from the confluence of Arab and Western cultures of early Spain. Master dancer, Yasser Darwish, will perform the Egyptian saidi and “whirling dervish” dances. Come, learn and enjoy! The event begins at 7:30pm at Convergence in Alexandria, VA.
For more information and to purchase tickets:
Visit the Christmas Revels 2011 Web site
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October 15, 2011PEIRCE MILL RE-OPENING & HARVEST FESTIVAL
 Join Washington Revels Heritage Voices as they celebrate the re-opening of historic Pierce Mill.
Besides daylight tours and candlelight evening walks in the mill, this event includes demonstrations of 19th century trades such as blacksmithing, window glazing, and dry stone wall construction. Washington Revels will provide Civil War era music, along with Karen Ashbrook, and Doug Jimerson. Bring the the whole family to enjoy baking demos, games and crafts throughout the day. The water-powered mill will grind corn and wheat, with souvenir bags of flour available for purchase by the public.
Date/Time: Saturday, October 15, 10am-8pm
Heritage Voices performs at 3:00pm (after the ribbon-cutting)
Cost: Nothing!
Location: Beach Drive at Tilden Street, NW, Washington, DC
Event Web site: http://www.peircemill-friends.org/
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September 24, 2011AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE DAY AT ACCOKEEK
Join the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices at the Accokeek Foundation’s 11th annual African American Heritage Day.
The day will be rich with great music, tales of great military battles, exciting hands-on activities for the entire family, and the best soul food this side of the Mason-Dixon! Jubilee Voices will perform songs, and share stories and poems about the struggle for freedom and the triumph of the human spirit.
Date/Time: Saturday, September 24, 11:00am-4:00pm
Jubilee Voices perform from 1:15-2:00pm
Cost: $5 (Accokeek Found. members/children under 2, free)
Location: 3400 Bryan Point Road, Accokeek, MD, 20607
Event Web site: http://accokeekfoundation.org/african-american-heritage-day/
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REGISTRATION STILL OPEN for FALL AFTER-SCHOOL WORKSHOPS
 Play Through the Ages!
Through traditional music, dance, stories and games, our teaching artists guide youth in grades K-5 to discover the joys of seasonal celebrations, cultural heritage, and collaboration. Registration now open for the 2011 Fall term (September 12 - November 11) on a first-come, first-served basis.
 Learn more about our educational philosophy and teaching artists
Read course descriptions and learn how to register
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September 17, 2011WASHINGTON REVELS HERITAGE VOICES
 Celebrate the 21st anniversary of this wonderful community tradition.
The Washington Revels Heritage Voices will perform songs of the Civil War era outside of The John Poole House -- the oldest building in Poolesville. The log structure was built in 1793 by John Poole, Jr. served as a trading post for traveling merchants, and families from the surrounding farms and plantations, and was the U. S. Post Office “Poole’s Store, Maryland” from 1810.
Date & Time: Saturday, September 17, 3:00-3:30pm
Cost: FREE!
Location: John Poole House, 19923 Fisher Ave., Poolesville, MD 20837
Event website: Poolesville Day Annual Festival and Celebration
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September 9-11, 2011 TEEN & CHILDREN'S AUDITIONS
 Strong performers sought for 2011 Christmas Revels production.
For our 29th annual Christmas Revels in Washington, DC, we’ll visit "Old Spain" with music and dance from the Sephardic, Moorish and Iberian diaspora. Audition appointment required -- call NOW to schedule an appointment.
Learn more about auditions »
Children’s Auditions: We seek strong performers entering grades 3-5 this Fall. Auditions take place on Friday, September 9 (late afternoon/evening) and Saturday, September 10 (morning). Callbacks are Sunday, September 11 (afternoon).
Teen Auditions: We seek strong singers and dancers entering grades 9-12 this Fall. Auditions take place on Saturday, September 10 in the afternoon.
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September 11, 2011MARITIME VOICES at TAKOMA PARK FOLK FESTIVAL
Washington Revels Maritime Voices will present Songs of Sea and Shore at this 34th annual community celebration
This program of nautical song, dance, and ritual celebrates the men who manned the great sailing ships and the women who sustained the life of the seafaring communities ashore, highlighting the role of maritime music and tradition in life aboard ship and in the ports. This fully-costumed performance includes demonstrations of how sea chanteys were used to enhance the working of the ships.
Takoma Park Folk Festival offers music and dance from around the world on seven stages, plus kids’ activities, crafts, food, and community booths.
Date/Time: Sunday, September 11, 10:30-6:30, rain or shine (Maritime Voices perform 11-12, Abbott Stage)
Cost: Nothing!
Location: Takoma Park Middle School, 7611 Piney Branch Road, Takoma Park, MD <view map>.
It is advisable to use public transportation because parking is scarce. Free shuttle buses run from the Takoma Metro Station directly to the Festival throughout the day.
Event website: http://www.tpff.org
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September 5, 2011KENSINGTON LABOR DAY PARADE
Adults and kids of all ages... come march (and sing, for those who wish) with Washington Revels!
Our hardy band of Revelers – adults, teens, and children – will dress in white bedecked with multi-colored sashes, arm ribbons and flower garlands (supplied by Revels). We will be accompanied by the Hobby Horse, Snap the Dragon, bright banners and ribbon sticks, and more! You may sing along (songsheets provided) or simply march – we also need adults to pass out flyers and children to help pass out candy. To participate, please send an email to parade@revelsdc.org with your name and the name(s) of anyone coming with you (plus the ages of anyone 18 and under), and we will email you the details.
Date/Time: Monday, September 5; parade begins at 10am, and we will gather beforehand to practice the songs
Cost: Nothing!
Location: Kensington, MD
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August 31, 2011MARITIME VOICES at FRIENDSHIP HEIGHTS
Washington Revels Maritime Voices will present a selection of traditional chanteys and sea songs at the Village of Friendship Heights outdoor summer concert series.
This program of nautical song, dance, and ritual celebrates the men who manned the great sailing ships and the women who sustained the life of the seafaring communities ashore, highlighting the role of maritime music and tradition in life aboard ship and in the ports.
Date: Wednesday, August 31, 7-8 PM, rain or shine
Cost: Nothing!
Location: Village of Friendship Heights – Hubert Humphrey Park, in front of the Village Center (in the event of inclement weather, moved indoors to Huntley Hall); 4433 South Park Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 <view map/directions>
You are advised to use Metro, since parking is scarce. The site is within two blocks of the Friendship Heights station.
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August 27, 2011BACK-TO-SCHOOL with JUBILEE VOICES
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED DUE TO ANTICIPATED WEATHER CONDITIONS
Meet President Abraham Lincoln and enjoy a history lesson in song by Washington Revels' Jubilee Voices at the Montgomery County Back-to-School Fair. This fourth annual fair is a great opportunity for parents and family members to ask MCPS experts questions about the school system, pick up information and resources, and learn more about community services. The whole family will enjoy live music, entertainment, and snacks. Kids can participate in learning activities, storytelling, a moon bounce and other children’s activities. Backpacks and school supplies are available for students who need them.
Date/Time: Saturday, August 27, Noon-3:00pm -- CANCELED
Cost: Everything at the fair is FREE and open to all MCPS families.
Location: the grounds at the Carver Educational Services Center, 850 Hungerford Drive in Rockville.
Event Web site: http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/familycommunity/fair/
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July 31, 2011COMMUNITY SING in SILVER SPRING
 Come and join in the singing at Dale Drive Neighborhood Park!
Washington Revels will hold our annual Community Sing on Sunday, July 31 at the Dale Drive Neighborhood Park! Bring your picnic supper and blanket and join us for group singing (with leaders and songbooks provided) and a dance or two! Community sings are fun for the whole family – younger children will even learn and perform a song or two of their own. No reservations are required – just come and enjoy! Please, no pets – you can teach them the songs when you get home! Interested in leading a song or two? Please email Betsy Miller at communitysing@revelsdc.org, before July 29, with your selection(s).
Cost: Nothing!
Location: 125 Dale Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20910 <view map>
Date: Sunday, July 31, 2011 from 5:00 to 8:00pm
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July 18, 2011AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY DIALOGUE in OXON HILL
 Hear the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices as part of this special program at the Oxon Hill Branch Library.
In celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the start of the
U.S. Civil War, Harold Blackford of Toastmasters
International, Stars of Constellation chapter, and members
of the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices will share
stories, speeches and songs from this era. Enjoy excerpts
from President Lincoln’s inaugural speech and the history
of African American landowner Enoch George Howard of
Maryland. Audience participation welcome.
Cost: Nothing!
Location: Oxon Hill Branch Library (PG County Public Library System) 6200 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill MD 20745 <view map>
Date: Monday, July 18 at 7:00pm
Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request.
Please contact the branch at least two weeks in advance. Join our email list for
programs & services updates at www.pgcmls.info (301-839-2400; or TTY 301-808-2061 PS 7/11)
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July 4, 2011TAKOMA PARK 4th of JULY PARADE
 Come join Washington Revels (or cheer from the curbs) as we march in the 122st annual Takoma Park Independence Day Parade!
Spectators at this event number in the thousands, so it is great exposure for Revels, and it’s a lot of fun. Our hardy band of Revelers – adults, teens, and children – dress in white. Revels supplies multi-colored sashes, wreaths and flower garlands. We will be accompanied by the Green Man, Hobby Horse, bright banners and ribbon sticks, and more! Kids are welcome and will help hand out candy and flyers to spectators. We need some adult flyer-hander-outers, too, so non-singers are very welcome! Also, if you play an instrument that can be easily carried and you would like to be in the band, let us know that as well. If you would like to march with us, please send an email by July 1st to parade@revelsdc.org with your name and the name(s) of anyone coming with you (plus the ages of anyone 13 and under), and we will email you the details (including a song sheet with words and links to the music).
Cost: Nothing!
Location: Takoma Park, Maryland
Event Web Site: http://www.takomapark4th.org/sitecode.fol/pages.fol/tpidcwhenandwhere.aspx
Date/Time: Monday, July 4th, 2011, 9am-11:45am
(parade begins at 10am)
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June 25 & 26, 2001WASHINGTON REVELS ENSEMBLES at HERITAGE DAYS
 Heritage Montgomery hosts its annual Heritage Days celebration featuring Washington Revels
Washington Revels Heritage Voices, Jubilee Voices, Maritime Voices and String Band perform at various historic sites over this two-day, free-of charge, county-wide festival. At many sites, you will even have a chance to "meet" many of the inspiring people of the Civil War era, including Abraham Lincoln. Heritage Days offers visitors an opportunity to sample numerous sites representing the history, culture, and natural beauty of Montgomery County.
» View the full schedule of Washington Revels performances at Heritage Days
Cost: Nothing!
Date & Time: Saturday, June 25 and Sunday, June 26, 2011
Location: Various heritage sites in Montgomery County
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June 19, 2011WASHINGTON REVELS SUNFEST in SILVER SPRING!
 Washington Revels SunFest is FREE and fun for all ages!
Washington Revels is pleased to present the second annual SunFest, a vibrant, multicultural celebration of summer! This festival will feature traditional music and dance from around the world. Ellsworth Street will be closed to vehicular traffic and we’ll party in Silver Plaza. Washington Revels will lead a parade and a “Raising the Sun” ceremony, joined by other performing arts groups on two stages. There will be artisan handicrafts, world cuisine, and activities for kids. We need volunteers to make this wonderful event a success. There are many jobs available throughout the day, and all volunteers get a free t-shirt! Can you help?
Sunday, June 19, 1:00-5:00pm in Downtown Silver Spring (Ellsworth Street, between Georgia and Fenton). For more details, visit http://revelsdc.org/sunfest
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June 18, 2011AFRICAN HERITAGE CULTURAL FESTIVAL
The City of Alexandria is hosting their annual street festival with performing arts, crafts, exhibits, a film festival, and food. This year’s theme is “Reaching Back Moving Forward,” highlighting the African-American experience from the Civil War era to the celebration of Juneteenth and current events in Alexandria. Washington Revels Jubilee Voices will open the festival, with a performance expression of the journey and folklore of the African American tradition.
Cost: Nothing!
Date & Time: Saturday, June 18, noon-6:00pm (Washington Revels Jubilee Voices will sing from 12:15-1:15pm)
Location: Charles Houston Recreation Center, 901 Wythe St., Alexandria, VA (View Map)
Event website: http://alexandriava.gov/recreation/info/default.aspx?id=47948
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June 5, 2011MARITIME VOICES at WASHINGTON FOLK FESTIVAL
Washington Revels Maritime Voices will present a selection of traditional chanteys and sea songs.
The 31st Annual Washington Folk Festival showcases the diversity of traditional music in the Washington area. All musicians, storytellers, dancers, and craftspeople live in the the greater Washington metropolitan area and volunteer their talents to put on a first class festival of national renown.
Cost: Free!
Date & Time: Sunday, June 5 (performance at 1:00pm, Potomac Palisades Stage)
Location: Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD
Event Web Site: Washington Folk Festival 2011
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June 4, 2011SANDY SPRING MUSEUM STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
Come listen to the incomparable music of Washington Revels Heritage Voices and meet Abraham Lincoln and his secretary, John Nicolay
Visit the Washington Revels "encampment" for hourly presentations (10:45 & 11:45am; 12:45 & 1:45pm) highlighting music of the American Civil War era -- including folk songs, spirituals, patriotic music, and readings. Enjoy traditional fiddle and banjo tunes on a hay ride while you chat with Johanna Plummer, local Quaker woman from 1797. In the Blacksmith shop, meet Philip Johnson, from Dr. Stephen White's household, and hear about slave life and farming in 1861. Hear collected "Letters from Home," highlighting the women's view of the Civil War read by a fine lady of the South.
Held the first Saturday of June each year, this event is a widely anticipated highlight of the community calendar, drawing 4000-5000 people. The Strawberry Festival celebrates rural heritage with crafts, animals, live music, fresh food, and great camaraderie.
Cost: Nothing!
Date & Time: June 4. 2011, 10:00am-5:00pm (Heritage Voices performs at 10:45, 11:45, 12:45 and 1:45)
Location: 17901 Bentley Road, Sandy Spring, Maryland 20860
Event Web Site: http://www.sandyspringmuseum.org/museum/events/strawberry.html
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May 21, 2011HERITAGE VOICES in HISTORIC ALEXANDRIA, VA
 Washington Revels Heritage Voices perform as part of Life in Civil War Alexandria: A 150th Commemorative Event.
Discover how Alexandria was transformed by the Civil War at this extensive living history event on the weekend of the 150th anniversary of Alexandria's occupation by Union troops. This kick-off to Alexandria's Civil War Commemoration features an opening ceremony, music by the Federal City Brass Band and Washington Revels, Robert E. Lee, a Civil War photographer, an army surgeon, a U.S. Military Railroad portrayal, the Victorian Dance Ensemble, Union and Confederate soldiers, African American civilian impressions, and more!
Cost: Nothing!
Date & Time: May 21, 2011, 2:00-5:00pm
Location: Market Square, 301 King Street, Alexandria, VA
Event Web Site: http://alexandriava.gov/historic/info/default.aspx?id=46974
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May 20-21, 2011ADULT CHORUS AUDITIONS
 for The Christmas Revels 2011 production and for the 2011-2012 season of Jubilee Voices, an a capella ensemble performing African-American music of the Civil War-era.
Washington Revels is holding its annual auditions for adults on Friday, May 20 and Saturday, May 21. If you are interested in auditioning, please go to the general audition page and read that information. Then, follow the link at the top of that page to read specific information about this year's audition requirements and process.
>> More information on auditions
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May 18, 2011VOICES OF THE CIVIL WAR at LINCOLN COTTAGE
 President Lincoln's Cottage will host the Washington Revels Heritage Voices in this special outdoor summer program.
A special visit from President Abraham Lincoln and his secretary, John Nicolay, highlights a program of American folk songs, spirituals, patriotic music, and readings. Great for all ages! Bring a blanket and picnic on the south lawn of the Cottage (Lawn chairs permitted / Alcohol prohibited).*Rain location: Stanley Chapel, adjacent to the Cottage, no food allowed
Cost: Nothing! (but reservations are strongly recommended:
lincoln_cottage@nthp.org or (202) 829-0436 x31228
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 18 at 6:00pm
Location: South Lawn of Lincoln Cottage (entrance at Rock Creek Church Road NW and Upshur Street NW, 20011) Map and Directions | Download PDF Flyer |
May 15, 2011REVELS FESTIVAL DAY AT RACHEL CARSON MEADOW
 Picnic and perform with Washington Revels!
We gather, rehearse, and perform a “mini-Revels” all in one day – no auditions or experience necessary! Come by yourself, with a friend, or bring the whole family – all ages welcome. Register by May 11 to select your performance or production activity. Everyone 13 and older can choose to sing in the chorus, dance English country-style, act in the Mummer’s play, play in the band, craft props and decorations, help with setup/sign-in/organization, serve as photographers/videographers, or lend a hand with schlepping/assembling large props, etc. Children ages 6-12 may either learn and perform their own set, or work on props and decorations. A parent must accompany children ages 6-7 during activities, and parents are responsible for supervising children ages 5 and under. We hope to be able to accommodate all who register, but space is limited, particularly for those who want to dance.
At 1:00pm, all learn 2-3 songs that everyone may sing. We then separate into activity groups to prepare. After a snack break, we review everything and put it all together. At 4:00pm, we have the Grand Procession and perform our mini-Revels. Can’t come for the full afternoon? Then join the audience at 4:00pm, when we share our performance with local residents at the Rachel Carson Meadow Festival.
Cost: Nothing! Register by May 11: Register using our online form
Time: 1:00-5:00pm (informal picnic at noon; public performance at 4:00pm)
Event Web Site: Rachel Carson Meadow Festival
Location: North Four Corners Park, 211 Southwood Avenue, Silver Spring, MD <view map>
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May 14, 2011MARITIME VOICES at the NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
 Come join in an interactive session with the Maritime Voices at the Sant Ocean Hall in the National Museum of Natural History.
Join our sailors as they sing traditional sea chanteys while working their sailing ship. and our women of the ports as they sing of their joys and sorrows. You might even take a turn yourself at the pump or the capstan!
Cost: Free
Date & Time: Saturday, May 14 (Multiple presentations from 1:00-3:00pm)
Location: Smithsonian NMNH, 10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20560
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May 12, 2011MARITIME VOICES at SILVER SPRING PLAZA
The Washington Revels Maritime Voices will present a selection of songs from their repertoire of “Songs of Sea & Shore.”
Enjoy a relaxed evening of nautical entertainment on the Plaza!
Cost: Nothing!
Date & Time: Thursday, May 12, 7:30
Location: Silver Plaza, Ellsworth Drive, Downtown Silver Spring
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May 4, 2011GALLERY VOICES at HAPPENINGS AT THE HARMAN
 Celebrate
La Dolce DC with the Washington Revels Gallery Voices
 The Washington Revels Gallery Voices present a program of Italian madrigals, part songs, solos and duets. Bring your lunch and join us at this FREE
noontime event!
Cost: Nothing!
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 4, 12:00 Noon
Event Web Site: Happenings at the Harman
Location: Sidney Harman Hall, 610 F St. NW, Washington, D.C. <view directions/map>
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May 1, 2011MAY REVELS at the AUDUBON NATURE FAIR
 Celebrate
May Day with Washington Revels!
We will once again bring in the May as part of the annual Nature Fair at the Audubon Society’s beautiful Woodend Sanctuary in Chevy Chase, MD. Both of our 45-minute shows will celebrate Spring with song, dance, and other traditional activities. And of course, both will have lots of opportunities for audience participation. Our first show (at 1:30) will include the crowning of the May Queen, children’s singing games, a mummer’s play, and Morris dancing. Our second show (at 3:15) will feature a process with the Padstow May ‘Oss and an audience-participation May Pole dance!
Cost: Kids Free! Adults $5 (Fair Hours: 11:00am - 5:00pm)
Event Web Site: Audubon Nature Fair
Location: 8940 Jones Mill Road,
Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815 <view directions>
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April 30, 2011MADRIGALS
and MAYPOLE
 Celebrate
Spring at the Friends of the National Arboretum (FONA) Garden Fair
and Plant Sale
The Washington Revels Gallery Voices will entertain with madrigals and
some traditional Revels songs, for a day of merriment. We will dance
the Maypole several times throughout the day and invite fairgoers
to come and join us in more Maypole dancing. While you are there,
pick up some wonderful green stuff for your garden. View some great photos from last year's Garden Fair!
Cost: Nothing!
Date & Time: Saturday, April 30, various times throughout the day
Event Web Site: FONA Annual Garden Fair and Plant Sale
Location: 3501 New York Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20002 <view directions>
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REGISTRATION OPEN for 2011 AFTER-SCHOOL WORKSHOPS
Play Through the Ages!
Through traditional music, dance, stories and games, our teaching artists guide youth in grades K-6 to discover the joys of seasonal celebrations, cultural heritage, and collaboration. Registration now open for the 2011 Spring term (April 4-June 10) on a first-come, first-served basis.
Learn more about our educational philosophy and teaching artists
Read course descriptions and learn how to register
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SUNFEST DESIGN CONTEST FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES K-12
Win Fame, Cash, and Prizes for Your T-Shirt Design!
Students are invited to submit an original t-shirt design celebrating sun, summer, and multi-cultural performing arts. The winning design will become the official t-shirt for the 2nd Annual Washington Revels SunFest.
The winning artist will receive $100 cash, a SunFest t-shirt, and special recognition on stage at SunFest 2011. Best entries in each grade category -- K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12 -- will be awarded a $15 iTunes card, a SunFest t-shirt, and on-stage recognition. ALL entries will be displayed at SunFest 2011 on Sunday, June 19!
How to Enter: View/Download Contest Instructions [PDF]
Deadline: Submit your entry by Friday, April 18
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April 10, 2011SPRING FLING & SING
 Washington Revels 2011 Auction Benefit to support year-round educational and outreach programs.
An enticing silent auction of great items and an exciting live auction for your place on stage in our 2011 Christmas Revels. Please join us for an alluring array of desserts, savory treats, beer and wine and some appearances by the Revels Heritage Ensembles along with traditional sing-along songs for everyone to enjoy! To donate items to the online auction, go to www.biddingforgood.com/revelsdc.
Date: Sunday, April 10, 7:00-10:00pm
Cost: $50 (tickets purchased in advance); $60 (tickets at the door, if available)
Purchase Tickets Online: http://washingtonrevels.tix.com
Location: Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church, Bethesda, MD [view map]
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April 9, 2011MARITIME VOICES at the NAVY MEMORIAL
Pay tribute to maritime heritage at 20th Annual Blessing of the Fleets ceremony – and more!
The United States Navy Memorial hosts its annual Blessing of the Fleets ceremony each spring at the beautiful and majestic Memorial Plaza. Passed down through generations of sailors, fishermen, merchant mariners and navies around the world, the centuries-old “Blessing of the Fleets” ceremony is intended to safeguard fishing crews and ships from the danger of the seas through a traditional blessing given at the water's edge. In this version of the ceremony, waters brought in from the world’s seven seas and Great Lakes are poured into and mingled with the waters of the fountains on the Plaza.
 The Navy Memorial Foundation has invited the Washington Revels Maritime Voices to close the ceremony (following the Navy Band) with two iconic songs: the poignant “Seamen’s Hymn” and powerful “Navy Hymn.” Attendees will then be invited to the adjacent Navy Memorial Center for a sampling of navy bean soup – what else! – followed at 2:15 by a full performance of “Songs of the Sea and Shore” by the Maritime Voices in the Center’s Burke Theater. This hour-long presentation portrays the old life at sea and back home, including sailors' use of sea chanteys and the joys and hardships of the women ashore.
Come and make a day of it! The annual Cherry Blossom Parade starts one block away at 10am. The Navy Band performs a concert at Noon on the Plaza. Stay on for the Blessing of the Fleets and “Songs of Sea and Shore”!
Date: Saturday, April 9, ceremony at 1:00pm, performance 2:15-3:15pm
Cost:
Free and open to the public
Event Web Site: 20th Annual Blessing of the Fleets
Location: United States Navy Memorial, 701 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, Washington, DC [view map]
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April 9, 2011JUBILEE VOICES at OAKLEY CABIN
 Season opening of the Oakley Cabin African American Museum & Park
A 19th-century historic site, Oakley Cabin African American Museum & Park is the center of a roadside community from emancipation well into the 20th century–now operated as a living history museum. Washington Revels Jubilee Voices will sing stories of the African American tradition to celebrate the season opening of the cabin.
Date: Saturday, April 9 (Park Hours: Noon–4:00 pm; Performances: 1:00–3:00 pm)
Cost: Free and open to the public
Location: Oakley Cabin African American Museum and Park, 3610 Brookeville Road, Olney, MD
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AUCTION ACTION – Donate NOW, Bid Later
Donate Items to Benefit Education and Outreach Programs
We are in need of quality items and services to add to this year’s auction catalog. If you have something you would like to donate – collectibles, personal or business services, unique experiences – now is the time to make your contribution. Your auction donations – and bids – provide invaluable support for our performances and community events, as well as for our many outreach endeavors. Join us for the silent auction at the Spring Fling & Sing on Sunday, April 10. The auction action picks up online April 11-26.
Make your donation and preview biddable items at our Auction Site.
Encourage friends, colleagues, and businesses you frequent to donate to the
auction, using this Donation Request Packet [PDF]
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March 16, 2011DOCUMENTARY PREMIERE of "Life in a War Zone"
In conjunction with the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, Heritage Montgomery has produced a 60-minute documentary film on the history of the Civil War in Montgomery County. Our very own Greg Lewis is the on-screen narrator for the documentary, Life in a War Zone: Montgomery County during the Civil War. Historic and contemporary images of local heritage sites, video of Civil War re-enactors, and panoramas of unchanged rural landscapes all help tell the fascinating story of the role our county played in the conflict. With a beautiful soundtrack -- designed by our own music directors, Elizabeth Miller and Andrea Blackford and mastered by sound engineer Charlie Pilzer -- featuring performances by Washington Revels Heritage Ensembles, with pianist Jacqueline Schwab, fiddler Bruce Molsky, and more, the video is as entertaining as it is educational.
A companion CD by Washington Revels will also be released that evening -- Hard Times Come Again No More: American Music of the Civil War Era. Selections from the documentary film and CD will be performed at this special evening event.
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 16 (reception at 7:00pm; premiere at 7:30pm)
RSVP: heritagemontgomery@gmail.com
Location: Conference Center Auditorium (Building 1), University of Maryland, Shady Grove Campus, 9640 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, MD 20850 [View Map]
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February 28, 2011JUBILEE VOICES at Bishop McNamara High School
Washington Revels Jubilee Voices will present songs of the African American tradition, followed by a question & answer session.
Date & Time: Monday, February 28, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Bishop McNamara High School, 6800 Marlboro Pike, Forestville, MD
View maps and directions
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February 12, 2011JUBILEE VOICES at Frederick Douglass House
Celebrate the 193rd birthday of Frederick Douglass commemorating his belief in the power of literacy.
Frederick Douglass’ birthday will be celebrated with a ceremony, including a performance by Washington Revels Jubilee Voices, sharing music popular during Douglass’ life. There will also be presentations, tours of his home, programs on the history of Anacostia, kids’ activities, and lots of talk about the books he wrote, the books he read, and how reading and writing can change the world.
Born into slavery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore in 1818, Frederick Douglass recognized the power of knowledge and taught himself to read and write. After reading about freedom, twenty-year-old Douglass escaped to the North. He found safe harbor in New Bedford, Massachusetts, where he joined the anti-slavery movement. Soon he became an internationally famous orator and writer. In 1847, he moved to Rochester, in upstate New York, in order to carry on the fight against slavery and publish his newspaper, The North Star. After the Civil War, he moved to Washington, DC, where he met with Presidents and members of Congress and held several federal positions, including U.S. Marshall, Recorder of Deeds for the District of Columbia, and U.S. Minister to Haiti. A reformer to the end, he continued the battle for female equality and racial justice to the end of his life.
Date & Time: Saturday, Feb. 12 from 10:00a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Jubilee Voices performs between 9:30 and noon)
Cost: The event is free and open to the public
Location: 1411 W Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020 [View Directions]
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