A refreshing, sunny “Singin’ in the Rain”
NextStop Theatre Company in Herndon, Virginia, is putting a fun spin on the musical comedy Singin’ in the Rain, now through June 23. Because the 1952 film starring Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor and Debbie Reynolds is such a beloved classic, live theaters might shy away from producing the musical. Not NextStop, whose actors and productions have been nominated for — and have recently won... READ MORE
Mother and daughter artists share exhibit
Baltimore sculptor, printmaker, performance artist, bead-worker and jewelry maker Joyce J. Scott, 70, said one of the greatest influences on her art was her mother, quilter Elizabeth Talford Scott, who died in 2011 at age 95. Some of the younger Scott’s work is currently being displayed next to her mother’s in a new exhibition, “Hitching Their Dreams to Untamed Stars,” which... READ MORE
New book helps women find true selves
When you were eight years old, what did you want to be when you grew up? A fireman, a baseball player, a zookeeper? Later in life, those unrealistic childhood ambitions can become valuable, according to Columbia career coach Janet Ruck, author of You Anew: A Guide for the Woman Who Is Ready to Create Her Best Life, published in May. “If you wanted to be a ballerina and you’re 70... READ MORE
Honoring Maryland’s veterans
While waiting for a flight at BWI Airport, passengers hear an announcement: “Ladies and gentlemen, please join us at gate seven for a special Honor Flight. Please welcome our veterans of World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.” A crowd forms, and people crane their necks, waiting for the plane’s passengers to disembark. A thin man in a dark blue military veteran cap rolls ... READ MORE
Gold Star families get guidebook for grief
On Memorial Day, most Americans will fire up the grill, invite their neighbors over for picnics or attend a Main Street parade. But for families who have lost an adult child during military service, Memorial Day can be a piercing reminder of loss — as painful as their loved one’s birthday or anniversary of their death. “The very images that are symbols of our country are very... READ MORE
Native bees are important pollinators
What’s the buzz about pollinators? Pollination is a symbiotic relationship between an animal pollinator and a flowering plant. The pollinator receives a nectar or pollen reward and, at the same time, inadvertently transfers pollen from flower to flower or, in some plants, within the flower from the male stamen to the female stigma. Bees, who spend most of their lives collecting pollen, ... READ MORE
Fashion reflects personality for all ages
In the fashion world, the only constant is change. As society and popular culture evolve, so do our garments. Regardless of what styles have been in vogue throughout history, one thing remains the same: fashion is a high priority in American society, both for teenagers and older adults. First, let’s clarify the difference between “fashion” and “style.” While the two words... READ MORE
Highlighting outdoor destinations nearby
The Bibliophile As the mild weather beckons, thoughts turn to the great outdoors. Getting advice on where to venture out, and information about the destinations you’re considering, can make the planning easier and your trip more pleasurable. Here are some good options: Waterfalls of Virginia & West Virginia: 174 Falls in the Old Dominion and the Mountain State, by Randall... READ MORE
Club helps students prepare for prom
‘Tis the season for corsages, tuxedos and taffeta dresses. But not every student in Washington, D.C. can afford all the trimmings to attend their high school prom. That’s where the women of the D.C. Seniors Cameo Club come in. This spring, former Ms. Senior D.C. Pageant participants (who make up the Cameo Club) have fanned out all over the metro area, asking local boutiques to donate ... READ MORE
She’s not one to shy from controversy
Christy Coleman’s office inside one of Richmond’s riverfront Tredegar Iron Works buildings is typical of a chief executive officer. It’s filled with framed photographs of family members, plaques with accolades, newspaper articles and books. Three items on her bookcase stand out, however. One is a small copy of the U.S. Constitution from James Madison’s plantation, Montpelier.... READ MORE
