February 2009
HistoricAlexandriaALIVE
Join us on the streets of Alexandria as history comes to life! Each Sunday, learn, participate, engage, and enjoy with performers and costumed interpreters from noon to 5 p.m. Find performers at Market Square, along King Street between Market Square and the waterfront, and on the waterfront behind the Torpedo Factory. Free! Check it out!-
18th-Century Dance Lessons
January 29 - February 12
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
134 North Royal Street
Alexandria , VA 22314
www.gadsbystavern.org 703/838-4242
In preparation for the Birthnight Ball on February 14, learn 18th-century English country dancing from expert dance instructors. 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. $12 per class; $30 for the series of three. Reservations recommended.
$ Entrance Fee
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Birthnight Banquet and Ball
February 14
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
134 North Royal Street
Alexandria , VA 22314
www.gadsbystavern.org 703/838-4242
Set in the year 1799, you are invited to the re-creation of this famous celebration of George Washington's Birthday. The evening includes an 18th-century banquet, English country dancing, dessert collation, character re-enactors, and General and Mrs. Washington. Period costume optional, “after-five” attire encouraged. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. and cost is $100 per ticket for banquet and ball. For ball only, event begins at 9 p.m. and ticket costs $50.
$ Entrance Fee
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"O' Lovers' Voice"
February 14-15
Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center
3001 N. Beauregard St.
Alexandria, VA 22311
www.alexsym.org 703/548-0885
The Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, in conjunction with Opera Theatre of Northern Virginia, presents “O’ Lovers’ Voice” as the lovers’ voice is expressed in some of the greatest love stories ever told. Featuring: Ravel’s “L’heure espagnole (The Spanish Hour)”; and Puccini’s Love Duets from “La bohème” and “Madama Butterfly.” 8 p.m. Sat.; 3 p.m. Sun.
Tickets are $20-$80. Sunday Matinee youth tickets (ages 8-18) are only $5!$ Entrance Fee
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Meet the President
February 16
The Lyceum
201 South Washington Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.alexandriahistory.org 703/838-4994
In honor of Presidents Day, a living history interpreter portraying a U.S. President will discuss issues of his day and answer questions from the audience. Free! 11 a.m.
Free!
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Open House at Friendship Firehouse
February 16
Friendship Firehouse Museum
107 South Alfred Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
703/838-3891
Established in 1774, the Friendship Fire Company now is housed in a firehouse that was built in 1871. As part of the city-wide celebration of George Washingto, come view the exhibitions and historic firefighting equipment! Free! 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Free!
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Swordsmen’s Rendezvous
February 21
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
134 North Royal Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
www.gadsbystaverrn.org 703/838-4242
En garde! Experience this unique living history program as you learn a skill all 18th century must know – swordplay! The program includes re-enactment of 18th-century swordplay and a display of 18th-century weapons. This popular family event is suitable for all ages and will include some audience participation as you practice your new-found talents. Price is $5 per person, ages 5 and up. Tours are from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and reservations are required.
$ Entrance Fee | Reservations Required
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Railroad Days
February 28 - March 1
The Lyceum
201 S. Washington Street
alexandria, VA 22314
www.alexandriahistory.org 703/838-4994
All aboard! The Potomac Division of the National Model Railroad Association returns with working HO gauge trains and a state-of-the-art digital command system. Parents and little ones will love the hands-on Thomas the Tank Engine area for especially toddlers. Also climbing on board for Railroad Days are Whistle Stop Hobbies to discuss the fun of miniature trains and Operation Lifesaver, a national railroad safety program headquartered in Alexandria. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Free!Free!
