ARTScreen celebrates the arts with a Free film series on Friday evenings in the City of Fairfax.

All screenings will be at the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center,
3740 Blenheim Boulevard (formerly Old Lee Hwy), Fairfax VA 22030

 Doors open at 6:30 p.m. • Film starts at 7:00 p.m. (NEW TIME!)

Masks and face coverings are optional for employees and visitors while inside Fairfax City facilities. We support social distancing and mask use for individuals who choose to continue to do so. Please be respectful of individual choices.

Best in Show

(2000) PG-13 - A mockumentary comedy film that parodies the world of dog shows and their eccentric owners and handlers.

Tim's Vermeer

(2013) PG-13 - Inventor Tim Jenison seeks to understand the painting techniques used by Dutch Master Johannes Vermeer.

(2001) PG - During her family's move to the suburbs, a sullen 10-year-old girl wanders into a world ruled by gods, witches and spirits, and where humans are changed into beasts. An anime film.

 Feb 21

Amazing Grace

(2018) G - A documentary presenting Aretha Franklin with choir at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Watts, Los Angeles in January 1972.

Field of Dreams

(1989) PG - Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella is inspired by a voice he can't ignore to pursue a dream he can hardly believe. Supported by his wife, Ray begins the quest by turning his ordinary cornfield into a place where dreams can come true.

Celebrating our 35th year! Performances begin at 8 p.m. from October through April. 

From October through December, performances will take place at Old Town Hall, 3999 University Dr., Fairfax. Seating is limited and unassigned, so plan to arrive early.

Beginning in January of 2025, unless otherwise noted, performances will take place at the Stacy C. Sherwood Center, 3740 Blenheim Blvd., Fairfax.   Doors will open at 7:30 p.m. Plenty of seating.

On March 28, our organ performance will take place at Truro Anglican Church in Fairfax City located at 10520 Main Street - only 1/3 of a mile away!  Plenty of seating.

Masks and face coverings are optional for employees and visitors while inside Fairfax City facilities. We support social distancing and mask use for individuals who choose to continue to do so. Please be respectful of individual choices.

	October 18 The Raman Kalyan Trio
Accompanied by world class musicians on sitar and tabla, flute virtuoso Raman Kalyan performs South Indian Carnatic Music, enchanting audiences around the world.  Seating is limited to 110; plan to arrive early.  Doors open at 7:30 pm
	November 8 Harp & Piano Duo
Enjoy the soothing musical combination of piano and harp as performed by this accomplished husband-and-wife duo. Works performed this evening will include those by Tchaikovsky, Ravel, Gershwin, and ending with the hauntingly beautiful classic, Swan, by Camille Saint-Saens.
	November 22 Main Street Chamber Players Strings & Piano Chamber Music with Guest Artist, Harold Levin
The Main Street Chamber Players is a mixed instrumental chamber ensemble whose collective experience spans more than 30 years and is comprised of members of Main Street Music Studios and various guest artists. Concerts by MSCP have included performances at the John Kendall Recital Hall in Takoma Park, Maryland and The Lyceum in Alexandria, Virginia as well as several other venues in the Northern Virginia area and in Washington D.C.
	December 13 Doc Nix
Please check back soon!
	January 10** Harbor String Quartet
The Harbor String Quartet was founded in 1997 by members of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. The group consists of classically trained musicians who perform with the Virginia Symphony, Virginia Opera, Virginia Musical Theater and Broadway on Tour.  Each member has had extensive quartet experience over the years as part of HSQ.  Their diverse repertoire listing incudes music genres such as classical, jazz standards, Latin, Broadway songs and contemporary pop hits. Members have performed with such groups as Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Johnny Mathis, Idina Menzel, Disturbed, Josh Groban and Mannheim Steamroller.  This project was supported, in part, by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, which receives support from the Virginia General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.
	January 24** US Army Wind Quintet
Founded in 1996, the U.S. Army Band Woodwind Quintet is one of the Army's premier chamber ensembles. An element of the United States Army Band "Pershing's Own", the quintet is frequently called upon in support of high-level military and civilian events at the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Pentagon, and other locations around Washington, D.C.
Bootsie & The Groove is a dynamic music collective that breathes new life into your favorite songs. While we cover popular hits, our signature style infuses every performance with improvisational solos that turn each listening experience into something truly unique. With deep roots in soul and jazz, we take familiar tracks from icons like Stevie Wonder and John Mayer and transform them into unexpected sonic journeys. Our genre-bending approach invites you to hear these classics in a fresh way, as we blend soulful rhythms with captivating melodies, creating an electric atmosphere that keeps audiences coming back for more.	January 31** Bootsie & The Groove [Part of the Chocolate Lovers Festival]
Please check back soon!
	February 14** The Cathedral Brass
The Cathedral Brass is a music ensemble comprised of accomplished brass and percussion performers - including professionals, retired military musicians, and talented community players - dedicated to the high-quality performance of unique brass music for the enjoyment of greater Washington, D.C. audiences.  While the Cathedral Brass performs traditional brass favorites, our programs also include selections from a broad range of styles and sources, including jazz, Latin, rock and roll, funk, and other popular music traditions. The Cathedral Brass performs with a 22-person brass choir ensemble. a trombone quartet, a brass quintet, and a jazz combo.  Our performance for the Bonita Latina Series will feature the full range of our ensembles. We will also feature soloist, Phil Franke, former principal euphonium performer with the United States Marine Band "The President's Own."
	February 28** Mason Jazz Vocal Night
Please check back soon!
March 14** Baltimore Composers Forum   The Baltimore Composers Forum is dedicated to supporting local composers by presenting concerts of their original works. promoting and facilitating interaction by local composers with other artists, performers and arts organizations, and educating the community about new music.     March 28  Dr. John J. "JJ" Mitchell performing at Truro Anglican Church Get ready for a spellbinding, colorful concert that will leave you saying "Wow, I never knew an organ could do that!" A member of Diapason Magazine's Class of 20 under 30 (2021), Dr. John J. "JJ" Mitchell will give a pipe organ concert lasting approximately one hour. The repertoire will feature standard works by familiar composers as well as gems by underrepresented composers.  We'll be at Truro Anglican Church, 10520 Main Street, Fairfax City, for this special presentation!              Please check back soon! Join us tonight for an evening of music and a champagne reception as we celebrate the 2025 recipients of the John Mason Arts Achievement Award, The Business in the Arts award, and the Language Arts 123 Literary Contest Awards.    April 11** Bobby J & The Hot Lanes with special guest - Kristen Lee Sergeant Awards & Champagne Reception

** These performances will take place at the Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center,
3740 Blenheim Boulevard (formerly Old Lee Hwy), Fairfax, VA 22030

All events are sponsored by City of Fairfax Commission on the Arts

Enjoy family programming on Mondays, beginning Monday, September 9.

  Funday Monday is geared towards children of preschool age but is open to children of all ages!  On any given day, there will be music, movement, storytelling, performances, crafts, and more!  

All performances and programs begin at 10:30 a.m. and — unless otherwise noted — are held at Old Town Hall, 3999 University Drive, Fairfax. You can find ample parking in Old Town Fairfax, and stroller access is available at the rear of Old Town Hall (on Route 236/Main Street).

Masks and face coverings are optional for employees and visitors while inside Fairfax City facilities. We support social distancing and mask use for individuals who choose to continue to do so. Please be respectful of individual choices.

Questions? Please click here to email Megan DuBois.

Upcoming Funday Mondays - 10:30 - 11: 15

SUMMER of '24 - FUNDAY MONDAY @ Old Town Hall

August 26    Storytime with Fairfax Library - "Ice Cream" theme

FALL/WINTER '24 - Funday Monday @ Old Town Hall

(unless otherwise noted*)

September 9       Music Together Sing and Groove
September 16*   My Gym (at the Stacy C. Sherwood Center) 
September 23    Mr. Gabe - Singalong 
September 30    Library "Storytime" and Craft - "Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month"

October 7              Music Together Sing and Groove    
October 14           HOLIDAY - NO PROGRAM
October 21*         My Gym (at the Stacy C. Sherwood Center)
October 28          Time for Magic with Drew Blue Shoes!

November 4         Music Together Sing and Groove
November 11        HOLIDAY - NO PROGRAM      
November 18*     My Gym (at the Stacy C. Sherwood Center)
November 25      Oh Susannah! Music & Song

December 2         Music Together Sing and Groove   
December 9*       My Gym (Stacy C. Sherwood Center)
December 16       Library "Storytime" and Craft - "Winter Solstice"

 

 

All events are sponsored by City of Fairfax Commission on the Arts

 Mason Arts in Fairfax!

Artist in Conversation: Latin Social Dance Workshop with Ballet Hispánico

Friday, October 4   7:00 pm
Location: Stacy C. Sherwood Center

Co-presented by the City of Fairfax and the Center for the Arts at George Mason University

This Hispanic Heritage Month event celebrates the ever growing and multifaceted Hispanic diasporas, featuring an interactive social dance workshop led by the “smashingly theatrical” dance company (Chicago Sun-Times) Ballet Hispánico. Move to the rhythms of salsa, merengue, cha cha and more! Founded by dance luminary Tina Ramirez on the principle that everyone deserves dance, quality dance training, and innovative performances, Artistic Director & CEO Eduardo Vilaro has built the company to uplift the intersection of Hispanic cultures, pioneeringly breaking down boundaries and stereotypes. 

This complimentary event is an open-to-the-public presentation of the Friends of the Center for the Arts Artists in Conversation Series and is offered in conjunction with Mason Artist-in-Residence Ballet Hispánico’s Oct. 5 performance at the Center for the Arts at George Mason University. 

FREE, but registration required.

Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center
3740 Blenheim Boulevard, Fairfax, VA 22030

Approximately 90 minutes

Mason Opera at Old Town Hall

Mason Opera Scenes Fall 2024

Monday, October 21   8:00 pm
Location: Old Town Hall 

Co-presented by the City of Fairfax and the Center for the Arts at George Mason University.

MASON OPERA opens its 2024-25 season with an exciting Showcase of Opera Scenes!

Save the date and bring your family and friends to enjoy scenes and ensembles from the world’s most beloved operas!

FREE

Old Town Hall
3999 University Dr., Fairfax, VA 22030

"Shakespeare in the Park"

presented by the
Fairfax * Robinson * Woodson
High School Theatre Companies

Monday, November 4
2 - 5 p.m.
Van Dyck Park, 3720 Blenheim Blvd.

Free Admission!

Feel free to come and go as you like for a taste of "Shakespeare in the Park" to include selections from Lear, A Midsummer Night's Dream and Much Ado About Nothing!

 Better Said Than Done presents the
2025 Women's Storytelling Festival

Women’s Stories Shared – In-person and online

The 2025 Women's Storytelling Festival 2025 storytellers are:
Laura Deal, Swapna Deshpande, Linda Gorham, Jennifer Hillery, Tobey Ishli Anderson, Andrea Kamens, Amanda Lawrence, Carol Moore, Miriam Nadel, Ingrid Nixon, Laura Packer, Jessica Robinson, Aimee Snow and Sarah Snyder.  Karin Amano, Sarah Brady, Sarah Beth Nelson, Shani Womack, and Janel Woodland will be performing in a virtual-only concert, premiering March 20, 2025, and available to everyone who buys a ticket.

The Women's Storytelling Festival, produced annually in March by Better Said Than Done, is a festival celebrating all women and gender nonconforming, spoken-word performing artists.  The festival debuted in March 2020 in Fairfax City, VA. The Women's Storytelling Festival is performed live, in-person, as well as live-streamed and available to online viewers for one month after the live-stream.

The Women's Storytelling Festival is intended for a mature audience.

Visit our site for more details and ticket information!

Save the Date!

6th Annual National Dance Day Celebration!

September 20, 2025

More information to come!  Start honing your moves!

Write On, Fairfax!

Genre: TBD 

Location: City of Fairfax Regional Library

CHECK BACK SOON for our upcoming presentations in 2025!

            Spotlight on the Arts 2024 Festival!    April 25 -  April 28

OPENING RECEPTION at OLD TOWN HALL - April 26, 7 pm

Fairfax is brimming with artists in every genre and, in 2024, Spotlight on the Arts will showcase their incredible talent over one arts-filled, extended 4-day weekend!

This year, Spotlight on the Arts is once again proud to present a wide variety of music, theatre, dance, visual, and literary art performances at beautiful venues throughout the city! Why not catch a City of Fairfax Theatre Company cabaret at Old Town Hall, hula dancing at Old Town Square, author Chris Bohjalian at The Sherwood Center, an Open Jam Night at Earp’s Ordinary, or Anastasia: The Musical at Fairfax High School? Our schedule of events is ever-expanding so be sure to check back often and mark your calendars! Home - Spotlight on the Arts (fairfaxspotlight.org) 

New to Spotlight this year is our Spotlight Art Contest sponsored by Capital One Hall!  All artists are welcome to submit and there is no entry fee! Attendees of our Opening Reception will be able to vote for the top three submissions whose artists will each receive a cash award. Check out the contest rules, entry form and more information by clicking here!  Entry deadline is 4 pm on April 1. 

How important to you is a thriving art community in Fairfax City?  A great way to show your support is by attending Spotlight events!   See you there!    April 25 - 28

"Jingle Bronze Christmas" with Bronze Unlimited & the C.G. Woodson HS Vocal Ensemble - a Holiday Handbell Concert!

Saturday, December 7 @ 8 p.m.

Stacy C. Sherwood Center 
3740 Blenheim Blvd., Fairfax

$15 General Admission
Tickets available online and at the door. Buy your tickets here! 

Enjoy an evening of holiday spirit and Christmas handbell music with Music to Free’s Handbell Ensemble, Bronze Unlimited!

Musical presentations of both familiar Christmas music with a twist, such as Jingle Bell Boogie, and holiday music from other countries including Alla baja Jesuchristo. The evening also includes a one-night-only joint performance with C.G. Woodson’s Vocal Ensemble.

Come hear these wonderful students join Bronze Unlimited and combine their voices with our handbells.

Kidz Korner @Old Town Square

Thank you for joining us this summer at Kidz Korner!! We look forward to seeing you again in the summer of 2025! 

F662  Literacy in Virginia

Thursdays, 2:15—3:40, Nov. 2—Nov. 9

Two sessions

Old Town Hall, 3999 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030

Instructors: Chris Barbuschak, Suzanne La Pierre, S. Dianne Coan, Patricia O’Connell

Nov. 2: Literacy in Northern Virginia: Challenges and Changes

Join Fairfax County Public Library librarians Suzanne LaPierre and Chris Barbuschak as they speak about their new book Desegregation in Northern Virginia Libraries. Learn about the major civil rights activists who successfully desegregated local public libraries during the Jim Crow era. Copies of the book will be available for sale and signing. Chris Barbuschak, Virginia Room Archivist/Librarian/County of Fairfax. Suzanne Lapierre, Virginia Specialist Librarian/County of Fairfax.

Nov. 9: How Virginia Libraries Support Literacy Choices

• Hear how collection development policies, principles of book selection, and core tenets of librarianship come together to form the foundation for ensuring choices for Virginia readers and a bulwark of intellectual freedom. S. Dianne Coan, Division Director, Technical Operations, Fairfax County Public Library.
• From her book We Are Your Children Too: Black Students, White Supremacists, and the Battle for America's Schools in Prince Edward County, Virginia, the author discusses the county's five-year closure of all public schools in massive resistance to the Supreme Court's ruling in Brown v. Board of Education, and the resulting lack of literacy opportunities for most Black and some White children there. Patricia O’Connell Pearson.

Book signing to follow.

Register here!