Friday, February 1

Get ready to rock out with Patti Smith, a famed punk-rock poet, as she performs tonight at 7:30 p.m. Smith performs spoken word, songs and readings inspired by the documents at the Smithsonian Archives of American Art. Using her background as an artist, musician and journalist, Smith’s tone changes throughout the performance, which keeps the show exciting and enticing.

Patti Smith’s performance is tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture. The museum is located at 8th and F St. NW. Admission to the show is $50. Call 202-633-8768 for tickets. Metro: Chinatown/Gallery Place (Red line).

Saturday. February 2

Even if you’ve got two left feet, you’ll still enjoy the 25th Annual Choreographers’ Showcase hosted by the University of Maryland. The showcase features a very eclectic mix of modern, classical, jazz and ballet. Many different choreographers will take on their favorite dance styles while still keeping true the dances’ roots. If you are any type of dance fan, this is the event to attend.

The 25th Annual Choreographers’ Showcase is taking place today at 2 and 8 p.m. at the University of Maryland’s Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, between University Boulevard and Stadium Drive. For more information call 301-405-2787. Tickets are only $7 for students. Metro: College Park-University of Maryland (Green line).

Sunday, February 3

You’ve all heard the story of Sleeping Beauty—the princess who can only be awakened from her sleep by her true love—whether you’ve read the Grimm brothers’ tale or seen the classic Disney movie. But now, at the Kennedy Center, the American Ballet Theater is performing the timeless tale on the stage through dance. The ballet, which closes tonight, features the Kennedy Center House Orchestra and is directed by Kevin McKenzie.

The American Ballet Theater will have its closing performance of The Sleeping Beauty Ballet today 1:30 p.m. Tickets cost $29-110 and are available by calling 202-467-4600. The John F. Kennedy Center is located at 2700 F St. NW. Metro: Foggy Bottom-GWU (Blue and Orange lines).

Monday, February 4

Ever wondered more about Pablo Picasso, the man behind the distorted faces you’ve undoubtedly seen since childhood? The artwork of Picasso has raised many questions and opened many new doors in the world of art. Today, John Richardson, a famed art historian and Picasso expert, will be discussing Picasso’s life and artwork and celebrating the release of the third volume of his Picasso biography.

John Richardson will have a discussion of Picasso’s life work at the Corcoran Gallery of Art tonight at 6:30 p.m. Tickets cost $25 and are available by calling 202-639-1700. Metro: Farragut North (Red line), Farragut West (Blue and Orange lines).

Tuesday, February 5

Laissez les bons temps rouler! Sin in style this Mardi Gras at the Clarendon Mardi Gras Parade in Arlington. You’ll feel like you’re in Louisiana at this parade, which will feature a multitude of colorful floats, New Orleans-inspired live music and of course, those infamous Mardi Gras beads. And unlike many real Mardi Gras’ celebrations, this one is for revelers of all ages.

The parade begins at 8 p.m. at the Court House Metro Station in Arlington, finishing at the Clarendon Metro Station. Admission is free. Call 703-812-8881 for more information. Metro: Court House (Orange line).

Wednesday, February 6

Acoustic Alchemy, an acoustic guitar-led group, will perform its many different types of music, including pop, jazz and classical. The band is a hit on the contemporary jazz charts with its many tempos of music that will have you alternately dancing or relaxing to the tunes.

Acoustic Alchemy is performing tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Birchmere Music Hall, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave. in Alexandria, Va. Tickets cost $35 and are available by calling 703-573-7328. Metro: Alexandria (Orange line).

Thursday, February 7

Ever wanted to spend a night out on the town in Spain? Well, tonight’s your chance. At The George Washington University, Sara Jerez-Marlow is teaching the basics of Flamenco and some of this Spanish dance’s sauciest moves. The event also features a reception with Spanish wines and cheeses. Bring a rose to clench in your teeth, wear a nice outfit and get ready to have the night of your life!

Flamenco Dance on Stage: Starring You, is tonight at the Lisner Auditorium with both 7 and 9 p.m. lessons. The 7 p.m. lesson is specifically for beginning dancers. A fee of $20 includes a one-hour lesson and 8 p.m. reception. For more information call 202-397-7328. Metro: Foggy Bottom-GWU (Blue and Orange lines).