Friday, February 15

Stay in D.C. this weekend, but go back in time and visit Ella Fitzgerald. Tonight, you’ll be able to listen to some of the female jazz artist’s most famous songs in a production that chronicles the famous period in her career. Maybe we can’t see the real Fitzgerald who frequently preformed in D.C. in what was called “Black Broadway” on U Street, but we can certainly watch as Tina Fabrique stunningly portrays Ms. Fitzgerald in “Ella.”

“Ella” is being performed at the Arena Stage at 8 p.m. tonight in Crystal City. For adults under 30, tickets cost $12 online at www.arenastage.org. For more information, call (202) 554-9066. Metro: Crystal City (Blue and Yellow lines).

Saturday, February 16

Shakespeare did not intend for one of his most famous plays to be performed like this — in silence. You’ve read it, you’ve seen it, now experience Romeo and Juliet in a whole new way as it is performed not with words, but with dance and music. A long way from London and its classic stage, this English class staple is presented with a new, interesting perspective.

“Romeo and Juliet” is performing tonight at the Rosslyn Spectrum Theatre. Tickets are $35. For more information, visit synetictheater.org or call (703) 824-8060. The theater is located right across the Key Bridge, two blocks away from the Rosslyn Metro (Blue and Orange lines).

Sunday, February 17

Looking for a good laugh this weekend? Take advantage of the long weekend and head down to DC Improv to see Christian Finnegan, featured on Comedy Central’s “Chappelle’s Show” and VH1’s “Best Week Ever.” Make sure to also enjoy dinner at the comedy club/restaurant while you’re in between laughs.

Christian Finnegan will be performing tonight at DC Improv at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15. For more information, visit dcimprov.com or call (202) 296-7008. Metro: Farragut North (Red line).

Monday, February 18

Valentine’s Day may be over, but make sure to celebrate President’s Day (and a day off from classes) by treating yourself to the harmonious songs of Howie Day. You know him best for his hit “Collide,” but come see the singer/songwriter perform some of his newer music. While you’re swaying to Howie’s melodies, enjoy Iota’s full bistro menu for a true night out on the town.

Howie Day is performing tonight at Iota Club and Café at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $15. For more information call (703) 522-8340. Metro: Clarendon (Orange line).

Tuesday, February 19

Deep down you’ve always wanted to break out that Sherlock Holmes side of yourself and solve murder mysteries, right? Now you can as “Shear Madness” enters its 20th year, making it the second longest running non-musical play in U.S. history. This comedy has been adapted for its D.C. audience; it is set in a Georgetown beauty salon, and the audience takes part in solving the mystery.

Shear Madness is being performed at the Kennedy Center Theatre Lab tonight at 8 p.m. Tickets are $40. For more information, call (202) 467-4600. Metro: Foggy Bottom/GWU (Blue and Orange lines).

Wednesday, February 20

Try something different while you’re in D.C. – try something free. Visit the Black Cat and view a screening of Capitol of Punk: Places and Stories of Hardcore in DC. The documentary chronicles some of D.C.’s hot music spots when punk was revolutionizing the music scene. See which of your favorite hangouts in the city were pivotal in punk.

Capitol of Punk is playing at the Black Cat tonight at 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. Tickets are free. For more information, call (202) 667-7960. Metro: U St./Cardozo (Green line).

Thursday, February 21

Never get to take advantage of all the free museums in Washington? Tonight is a great night to start by visiting the Smithsonian American Art Museum for Take Five! Every month the museum opens its doors for jazz performers and patrons to enjoy the museum in a different way. Tonight, Potomac Jazz Project will strut their stuff while food and beverages are served.

Take Five! features the Potomac Jazz Project at the Smithsonian American Art Museum at 5 p.m. The event is free. For more information, call (202) 633-1000. Metro: Gallery Place-Chinatown (Red, Yellow and Green lines).