Smithsonian Events Week of 4/13-17: A Little Jazz, a Glass of Wine and a House of Gorillas
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Monday, April 13: Easter Monday: Celebrating the African American Family
Easter Monday has been a long standing multicultural tradition in Washington, DC—and why not celebrate at the National Zoo? The day is rife with food and activities, which include an Easter egg hunt, crafts, live musical entertainment, and of course, lots of opportunities to get to know the animals a little better. See the Zoo website for a full schedule of events. This event will take place come rain or come shine. Free. National Zoo, 10:00 A.M.-4:00 PM
Tuesday, April 14: Jazz Masters Pizzarelli and Wilder in Concert and Conversation
Come chill at the American History museum and enjoy the vibes of Bucky Pizarelli (who was a member of the house band on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and has performed at the White House) and Joe Wilder (who has played in Count Basie's orchestra as well as with the New York Philharmonic). Tickets required. Rates are: $20 general admission; $18 for members. Call 202-633-3030 to reserve your seat today. American History Museum, 7:30 PM
Wednesday, April 15: Duke Ellington and Paris Blues: Reel Portraits
Two American girls go sightseeing in Paris where they each strike up a romance with Jazz musicians. (You'd think their mothers would have taught them better!) So perhaps the idea of romance in France isn't entirely original to the 1961 film Paris Blues—but oh buddy, the score sure is! Composed by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn, the music of Paris Blues scored an Oscar nod. And the acting talents of Sidney Poitier, Paul Newman and Diahann Carroll are nothing to thumb your nose at either. Free. National Portrait Gallery, 7:00 PM
Thursday, April 16: Grapes with the Apes
This event invites you to spend an evening of wine tasting and live music paired with elegant ambiance of the National Zoo's Great Ape House. (And sorry, as far as my sources can tell, the Great Grape Ape will not be making an appearance.) Must be 21 years old or older to attend. Tickets are required. Rates are: $30 FONZ members; $40 nonmembers; $15 for sober drivers. National Zoo, 6-9:00 PM
Friday, April 17: Take Five!
Enjoy an evening of live jazz. Tonight, it's the Thad Wilson Jazz Orchestra, a 12-piece big band that is sure to bring the house down. Free. Light refreshments will be available for purchase. American Art Museum, 5-8:00 PM