Clear your calendar - It's going down! Schedule Blocks kicks off on May 20th, and you're invited to take part in the festivities. Splash HQ (122 W 26th St) is our meeting spot for a night of fun and excitement. Come one, come all, bring a guest, and hang loose. This is going to be epic!
The #EntertainDC Office is pleased to recognize Emma Mankey Hidem as the OCTFME January 2022 Filmmaker of the Month (FOTM).
Emma Mankey Hidem is an innovative storyteller and media expert with over a decade of experience in the industry, specializing in cutting edge visual media technologies such as virtual and augmented reality. After graduating from NYU's Film & Television program in 2007, Emma started her career in the documentary field and had the privilege of learning from high caliber filmmakers like Academy Award-winner Ross Kauffman (Born into Brothels), and Emmy-nominated Joe Fab (Paper Clips).
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and production came to a halt, Emma created The Game Show of Love: an interactive dating game show that took place over Zoom and included audience participation. The show was a local hit and has had two seasons during the pandemic. She plans to reconfigure the show post-COVID to do Season 3 as a live, in-person event in 2022.
“It is an honor to be recognized as OCTFME's Filmmaker of the Month," Emma says. "When I started my career, VR didn't even exist, so I never imagined I'd end up where I am, but it is through the vibrant media landscape of DC that I have found my true calling of using technology to tell stories and make the world a better place.”
Follow Emma's filmmaking journey on: Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Congratulations. Emma!
Clear your calendar - It's going down! Schedule Blocks kicks off on May 20th, and you're invited to take part in the festivities. Splash HQ (122 W 26th St) is our meeting spot for a night of fun and excitement. Come one, come all, bring a guest, and hang loose. This is going to be epic!
Clear your calendar - It's going down! The Emancipation Day festivities will take place on Saturday, April 13 and the parade will start at 2:00 PM at 10th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. The concert kicks off at 3:00 PM and will feature an all-star lineup of some of the best artists in the game! The concert at Freedom Plaza will also feature many of DC's own homegrown talent. Stay tuned for more updates and visit the "Save the Dates Section" for more information!
Summer is here and we're kicking off the season with so much to celebrate! The nomination round for the 37th Annual Mayor's Arts Awards will open June 8, 2022 at 9 am through June 29, 2022 at 5pm. The talent and creativity in the District are bursting at the seams and the Mayor’s Arts Awards showcases the explosion and infusion of creativity across all 8 Wards of DC! This year’s celebration will include dynamic showcases, local celebrities, your favorite creative and arts professionals, representing all 8 Wards, and some surprise guests. Visit DCMayorsArtsAwards.com to submit your nomination.
We invite our creative community to join us for the Business Over Brand (BOB) Hybrid Summit from June 28 to July 2, 2022. The five-day online and in person event features experiences focusing on creativity, entrepreneurship and moving beyond the hustle. Visit our Upcoming Events section to RSVP for BOB Summit today.
This month we celebrate Black Music and Juneteenth. Get ready for a summer filled with fun, sun and festivals highlighting music and culture.
June is also International LGBTQ Pride Month which is celebrated all over the world with street parties, community events, parades, rallies and more. Join Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs for the Annual Capitol Pride Parade Saturday, June 11, 2022 from 3pm-7pm. For more information visit www.captialpride.org.
The Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents 202Creates Residency Program continues to provide curriculum, mentorship pairing, office hours and guest speakers from leading business and industry professionals for many District creatives. Summer 2022 cohort applications will close on June 3, 2022 at 5pm.
Follow us on social media to keep up with our creative community
Facebook: Entertain DC, DCRadioHD, 202Creates
Instagram: Entertain_DC, 202Creates, DCRadioHD, CreativeAffairsDC
Twitter: Entertain_DC, 202Creates
Dr. Angie M. Gates
Director
DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment
Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the Encore Program through the DC Creative Affairs Office, Office of Cable, Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment, and the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development.
The purpose of the Encore program is to invest in local talent, event producers, entrepreneurs, creatives, content makers, and DC businesses!
Applications close Tuesday, May 24, 2022 at 5 pm. For more information, visit TheEncoreDC.com.
NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE CREATIVE TODAY! The Nominations round for Mayor Bowser Presents the 37th Annual Mayor's Arts Awards is open now through June 29, 2022 at 5pm!
Let your voice be heard and visit www.dcmayorsartsawards.com to nominate your favorite creatives today.
The Washington Mystics, DC Office of Cable, Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment, Creative Affairs Office and Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents 202Creates program are collaborating on the Mystic’s 2022 District of Change Artist Collection Series.
This month's selected artist is Keiona Clark, a visual artist that works with mediums spanning mural painting, ceramics, printmaking, and digital illustration. "My inspiration for this piece is to highlight the message of Pride, Love, and Equality. The purpose of the hands is to signify the union of two individuals expressing affection, comfort, warmth, safety, and empathy" says Keiona
To stay connected to Keiona , follow her on Instagram.
June is Black Music Month—and it’s all about the vibe as we celebrate the music that defines the culture and honor those who conceive it, create it and share it. “I Am Black Music” is a series of vignettes brought to you by international and local artists who share their meaning of the music and the power it holds.
Mayor Muriel Bowser brings Pharrell Williams' Something In The Water festival to the heart of D.C. Enjoy 3 full days of music, entertainment and family fun June 17-19, 2022. For more information visit somethinginthewater.com
Calling All District creatives! Tap the link below and learn more about our Summer 2022 Cohort for the 202Creates Residency Program where you are provided with a network, resources, and support to pursue your professional goals across many categories.
Previous graduates of our 8-week Program included entrepreneurs, comedians, filmmakers, photographers, musicians, authors, and podcasters.
The program provides, 1) Structured entrepreneurship curriculum, 2) Featured speakers and experts, 3) One-on-One business coaching office hours, 4) A cohort model so that you know you are never going at it alone, 5) Mentorship pairing and networking, 6) Access to an alumni network of local creative entrepreneurs.
Applications close on Friday, June 3, 2022 at 5 pm.
Check out the new Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents 202Creates Masterclass on our YouTube channel featuring guests José Alberto Uclés, DC Art Commissioner & Tom Noll, Children's Book Author
José Alberto Uclés and Tom Noll discuss their lives in the art world and share with us how they navigate their partnership as creatives living in their favorite city, Washington, DC, which they made home many years ago.
Subscribe to EntertainDC on YouTube for alerts on new programming.
The DC Creative Affairs Office launched the Care for Creatives Community Conversations series to support mental wellness in the District's creative community.
Join Dr. Mary DeRaedt, Director, Masters of School Counseling, The George Washington University and Gary Trey Taylor, LCSW, Owner, Uphold 31:8 for an important conversation about suicide prevention. Learn about warning signs, risk factors and resources including helpline numbers.
If you are in crisis please call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 for support.
Learn more at CreativeAffairsDC.com.
Business Over Brand: Hybrid Summit is a five day event featuring in-person and digital experiences focusing on creativity, entrepreneurship and moving beyond the hustle. This year’s hybrid Summit provides access to actionable information, education and support for the District’s creatives to better understand their why, build their business, and grow their brand.
Visit CreativeAffairsDC.comfor more information.
DC Radio kicks off Black Music Month with some brand new "Flava In Ya Ear", a 2-hour weekly music podcast hosted by world-renowned saxophonist Mike Phillips.
Flava In Ya Ear can be heard Sundays at 6pm on DC Radio 96.3HD4, DCRADIO.GOV, on the DC Radio app for iPhone and Android, Tunein.com and all major on-demand platforms.
Join Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs for the Annual District of Pride! This event will feature queer artists from across the District and showcase that DC is home to the nation’s best queer performance art. Tickets are free, but registration is required! The show is open to all ages but be advised there will be some adult content.
For more information visit CapitalPride.org
In addition to celebrating DC Radio's 5th Anniversary, Maxx Myrick will receive Radio & Record's Lifetime Achievement award.
The 2022 Radio & Records Awards Ceremony recognizes and honor Radio and Music Professionals as well as Community Leaders past and present for their contributions and many years dedicated to the Radio, Music and the Community as a whole.
The District of Columbia Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment is responsible for implementing, managing, and administering programs, initiatives, and services that support the District's creative economy. Sign up for our email list to receive monthly news & updates. Check out the latest eNewsletters.
The #EntertainDC Office is pleased to recognize Jarell Mique as the OCTFME June 2022 Filmmaker of the Month (FOTM).
OCTFME is proud to acknowledge the work and contributions of local director and producer Jarell Mique. In addition to his many independent production credits, Jarrell currently serves as a Co-Founder and Creative Director of the DC-based production agency and creative incubator Crate for Everything, previously DC’s only all-Asian-owned art/photo studio.
With a background in international broadcast journalism, Jarell’s interest in advocacy and storytelling has shined a light on the District’s shining talent and local artists. With a mission to uplift BIPOC artists, the programs produced by Jarell are specifically made to highlight and uplift by creating opportunities that are usually not accessible to locals. Jarell is currently producing a short documentary on the verbal history of the historical art building: 52 O St Artist Studios. His goal with this film is to showcase and memorialize the legacy of the DC art scene by documenting the stories of members of his community. Jarell is also producing the newest program for Crate, “International Artist,” through Mayor Bowser’s 202Creates creative entrepreneurship program. This program pairs artists with their respective embassy to represent local talent. The goal of the program is to empower artists by providing them an opportunity to exhibit on foreign soil, turning local artists into internationally exhibited artists. “My main focus right now is the newest program for my studio: International Arts Program. A program that uplifts artists by turning them into internationally exhibited artists. We have a network of engaged embassies that are excited to feature and exhibit artists in their spaces.”
"Creative Entrepreneurship is a lifestyle and there are many unique ways to be a career producer/filmmaker," says Jarell. "I'm thankful for OCTFME's recognition as Filmmaker of the Month because my journey has been a unique and fulfilling one.”
Connect with Jarell on Instagram to learn more about his work.
Congratulations Jarell!
The #EntertainDC Office is pleased to recognize Songbyrd Music House as the OCTFME June 2022 Location of the Month (LOTM).
Songbyrd Music House: "Songbyrd Music House (aka “Songbyrd”) is a 200-capacity live music venue, bar and restaurant in Washington, DC’s Union Market neighborhood and a member of the National Independent Venue Association (“NIVA”).
In addition to all the amazing live music, Songbyrd focuses on bringing intimate alternative music events and experiences to Washington D.C., such as album release events, listening parties, artists signings and meet & greets, music trivia nights and more.
"We are honored to be the featured as the [Location of the Month], "says Co-Owner Joe Lapan. Songbyrd has been a film location in the past and is excited to provide a location for media productions and creative outlets in the future."
For more information and to inquire about booking contact Joe Lapan at joe@songbyrddc.com or (202) 738-0680.
Lesley "Lady Clipper" Bryant
is The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment's DC Star
Each quarter, the District of Columbia Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME) highlights the achievements of a District of Columbia resident who exemplifies excellence in creativity, education, creative entrepreneurship, economic revitalization of creative business, social justice, or racial equity.
D.C. Native entrepreneur, Lesley Bryant has a true passion for precision, artistry, and people. Over the last 6 years, she has dedicated her love for being a Barber-Stylist to clientele throughout the Washington, DC community. She understands her clients and creates looks that embody clean construction and elegant lines. Her mission is to reveal the best of your style with a look that speaks for itself. In May 2017, Lesley proudly opened the doors to The Lady Clipper Barber Shop, where you can expect exceptional service in a lively environment. Bryant also uses her shop to host music events to highlight emerging artist as well as showcasing visuals artist and photographer's artwork on the shop's walls.
Congratulations Lesley !
Kicking off May 24, 2022, every Tuesday night through June 21, 2022 head to Marie Reed Field at 18th St NW and California St NW to enjoy the warm weather and a great movie.
Movies will kick off just after sunset. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets and pick up dinner from a neighborhood restaurant to enjoy during the film. Want to dine in? Visit one of the dozens of Adams Morgan restaurants serving global eats, affordable bites, or Michelin-starred meals!
For more information, visit ADMODC.org
Friendship Place is pleased to have served the DC region for the past 30 years. The organization provides housing, employment, and HOPE to over 30,000 people. To commemorate the progress made toward ending homelessness in the DC area, Friendship Place will host a gala at the French Embassy on June 16, 2022 at 6 pm.
For more information, visit FriendshipPlace.org
The District of Columbia Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment is responsible for implementing, managing, and administering programs, initiatives, and services that support the District's creative economy. Sign up for our email list to receive monthly news & updates. Check out the latest eNewsletters.
The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment is the regulatory agency that protects and advances the cable service-related interests of the District. At the #EntertainDC Office, our dedicated team is proud to consistently deliver world-class customer service in all aspects of our work. We readily supply information to meet the diverse needs of each constituent and make every effort to educate and inform. If you are a cable television customer, you have rights concerning billing practices, late charges, rate increases, disconnection or service interruption, and dispute resolution procedures. The #EntertainDC Office is here to assist.
Any questions? Ask MARCELLA!
Our mission is to produce and broadcast programming for the District of Columbia’s public, educational, and government access (PEG) cable channels and digital radio station; regulate the District of Columbia’s cable television service providers; provide customer service for cable subscribers; and support a sustainable creative economy and labor market the District of Columbia.
Each year, DC celebrates being the first city in the United States to free enslaved people. Join Mayor Muriel Bowser for this year’s DC Emancipation Day Celebration. Don't miss the parade that kicks off at 2:00 pm on 10th Street and Pennsylvania Ave NW and the DC Statehood Food Truck Palooza at Freedom Plaza. The celebration continues with a concert at 3:00 pm followed by an encore of fireworks and so much more.
Visit DCEmancipatonDay.com to RSVP and for more information.
For Black History Month, OCTFME's programming department is bringing viewers more exciting content in support of the creative industry. Urban BeautyCON, in partnership with Urban Beauty TV, is the first ever virtual CONvention of beautypreneurs, wellness experts and brand ambassadors who are setting the industry on fire with innovation, motivation, style and success. Urban Beauty TV (Season 1) on BET Her featured many of these creatives.
Also in February, we'll take you back to a night of legends as OCTFME partnered with Jeremy Beaver, the founder of DC's Hip Hop Museum Pop-Up Experience, for the Museum's Grand Induction Gala honoring Pete Rock, Kid Capri, Rakim, Nice & Smooth, Kool Moe Dee. The evening also included posthumous tributes to Biz Markie, Heavy D and DC's own Chucky Thompson.
We have great programming celebrating Black History Month on DCN and on DCE, streaming on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, iPhone or Android. You can visit dcenetwork.com and download the app to the device of your choice.
March 17-27, the Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital (DCEFF) will celebrate its 30th Anniversary. Started in 1993 by Flo Stone, the Festival has been one of the area’s leading cultural events for three decades.
Since 2020, the Festival’s programming has been entirely online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This has allowed DCEFF to share important films and thought-provoking conversations with audiences across the globe.
For more information or to obtain updates about the Festival’s film lineup, schedule, special guests, and more, visit dceff.org
The Grammy Award for Best Regional Roots Music highlights regionally based traditional American music and since 1958, it included the Haiwaiian, Native American, polka, zydeco and Cajun genres of music.
This year, the category includes DC's GoGo music genre to be considered for this award. A huge shoutout goes to DC based rapper Kokayi who championed the addition of GoGo music to this category. He suggested the addition of GoGo in April 2021 and now GoGo artists are in the running to win Grammys for Best Regional Roots Music.
"This initiative to give go-go a home in the Grammy categories has been happening for over a decade. I was fortunate to have the opportunity and honestly felt it my duty to bring the discussion forward." - Kokayi
Tune into the Grammy Awards Sunday, April 3 on CBS.
The Washington Area Lawyers For The Arts (WALA) offers workshops to help navigate the complex convergence of arts and law.
WALA offers The Basics Courses – workshops on copyright, trademarks, licensing, and forming a 501(c)(3) organization. These workshops are free to WALA members.
The series comprises of six sessions to be held on consecutive Tuesdays, through Tuesday, April 5, 2022 from 11:00am – 1:00pm.
Click here to learn more and register for the series.
The 11th Street Bridge Park and the National Park Service present the eighth annual Anacostia River Festival on April 10th from 1:00-4:00 PM. Join us as we celebrate Anacostia Park through live music.
Visit BridgePark.org/ARF to register and to plan your day at the #DCRiverFest.
The DC Web Fest is a home for all creators, innovators, social change agents, and pioneers who dare to venture beyond the average. The festival highlights creatives who are willing to trail blaze with unorthodox, purely authentic works which keep in rhythm with the heartbeat of storytelling.
Tune in for the 10th annual festival April 8 through April 10 at DCWebfest.org
Calling all DC event creators/producers and organizations! The DC Creative Affairs Office, The Office of Cable, Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment, and the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development are launching the Encore Program on January _____ 2022!
The Encore program supports the District's creative community by getting them back to work doing what they do best, hiring Washington, DC talent, and creating events and activities that contribute to the vibrancy of our great city. The program will assist in the event production for venues in each quadrant.
Learn more about the Encore Program and how to apply at creativeaffairsdc.com.
Keep the Beat Week is February 14 - February 19! OCTFME will celebrate Go-Go music history and DC culture, recognizing the second anniversary of the signing of the "Go-Go Official Music of the District of Columbia Designation Act of 2019” bill.
Enjoy the video of Art to Go-Go which offers the community and visitors an opportunity to explore murals around Ward 8 via a scooter. The Anacostia Business Improvement District, with its Art, Culture, Entertainment, and Education (ACEE) Council teamed up with the DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME), Project Create, Lyft and the DC Department of Transportation on this cultural initiative.
Join our celebration by following us on our social media platforms and sharing your love for Go-Go music using the hashtag #KeepTheBeatGoing.
Go-Go, the official music of Washington, DC, is now a regional roots GRAMMY category! When members of the Recording Academy convened via Zoom last April, Kokayi, a District-raised rapper and an awards and nominations committee member, suggested that Go-Go be added.
The screening criteria for the 64th Annual GRAMMYs was expanded and now "recognizes recordings of regional roots styles of music, including Cajun, Hawaiian, Native American, Second Line Brass band, Polka, Zydeco, Go-Go, Swamp Pop and others, with production and sensibilities distinctly different from a pop approach.”
Tune in to the 2022 GRAMMYs Awards show on Monday, January 31!
November is Hip-Hop History Month. Congress passed Resolution 311, the bill that officially designates November as National Hip-Hop History Month. OCTFME is proud to celebrate the contributions fo Hip-Hop Music to American culture.
Hip-Hop is both a transcendental musical genre and an important American cultural export. Born on the streets of New York in the 70's Hip-Hop music and culture have influenced music, film, style, speech, fashion, sports, language and culture, not just in the United States but around the world.
Congratulations to the 2021 Grand Inductees:
Kid Capri, Kool Moe Dee, Nice & Smooth, Pete Rock, Rakim and posthumously Heavy D and DC's own Chucky Thompson.
Check out our 202Creates Masterclass series on our YouTube channel,
starting with our newest installment with Chinedu Felix Osuchukwu.
Subscribe to @Entertain_DC on YouTube to receive alerts for our monthly conversations.
The Care for Creatives program is accepting new creatives! The partnership between the DC Creative Affairs Office and the George Washington University Community Counseling Services Center provides pay-what-you-can mental health services to DC creatives. To receive care, email CCSCFoggyBottom@gwu.edu and the Care for Creatives team will follow up with more information. You will be asked a couple of questions and then paired with a clinician for support.
The DC Creative Affairs Office launched the Care for Creatives Community Conversations series to support mental wellness within the District's creative community. Check out the series on our YouTube channel including with the latest conversation about "Managing Change".
The DC COVID Alert Notice (DC CAN) is the official COVID-19 exposure notification system for DC. Using Bluetooth technology, the system lets you know if you’ve come into contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. To learn more, visit coronavirus.dc.gov/dccan.
Congratulations to all of this year's nominees (listed in alphabetical order.)
RSVP at DCMayorsArtsAwards.com to join us in celebrating our creative community.
Check out some of the highlights from this year's celebration.
Follow us on @Entertain_DC for more highlights from 202Creates Month.
Photos by: Annika Young, Dr. Rita D. Lewis & Antonio Hernandez
Check out some of the highlights from this year's celebration.
Follow us on @Entertain_DC for more.
Photos by: Annika Young
Check out some of the highlights from this year's celebration.
Follow us on @Entertain_DC for more.
Photos by: Annika Young
The 36th Annual Mayor’s Arts Awards is coming! The awards are the most prestigious honor conferred by the city to individual artists, arts educators, nonprofit organizations, the creative community, and patrons of the arts.
The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME) in conjunction with the DC Creative Affairs Office, will produce the 36th Annual Mayor’s Arts Awards where creatives, artists and organizations will be recognized across fourteen categories, celebrating everything from visual arts, fashion, beauty, and the humanities.
Visit DCMayorsArtsAwards.com for more information!
November is Hip-Hop History Month. Congress passed Resolution 311, hte bill that officially designates November as National Hip-Hop History Month. OCTFME is proud to celebrate the contributions fo Hip-Hop Music to American culture.
Hip-Hop is both a transcendental musical genre and an important American cultural export. Born on the streets of New York in the 70's Hip-Hop music and culture have influenced music, film, style, speech, fashion, sports, language and culture, not just in the United States but around the world.
#EntertainDC congratulates local fashion designer and sustainability activist Nikki Hendricks on successfully completing her Down to Earth artist residency. The Down to Earth program (a Capital Fringe, Friends of Kenilworth Gardens, and Caandor Labs partnership) provides DC-based artists the opportunity to create artwork based on the Kenilworth neighborhood and Gardens past, present, and future, with a sharp focus on the climate emergency and its intersectionality with systemic racism.
Nikki is a DC native who grew up creating her own fashion magazines and got her first sewing machine at the age of 12. She is MICA (Maryland Institute College of Art) graduate, whose collections have been seen at New York, Paris, and Milan fashion weeks. Nikki was the Designer in Residence at the DC Fashion Foundation Incubator program at Macy’s.
Nikki draws inspiration from the futurism genre and emphasizes underlying content about race, religion, gender, and sexuality. During the Down to Earth spring season, DC fashion designer Nikki Hendricks created a fashion design collection based on the Kenilworth area's plant life out of sustainable materials. You can learn more about Nikki and view her work at NikkiHendricks.com and an introduction to Nikki profile on YouTube.
Reggie Van Lee now serves as the Chair of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, appointed by Mayor Muriel Bowser. He previously served for 32 years as an executive at Booz Allen Hamilton. He also served on the boards of local arts organizations such as The Washington Ballet, Washington Performing Arts, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Reggie is currently on the Board of Washington National Philanthropies and Coalition For African Americans on the Performing Arts.
'It truly is an honor to be appointed chairperson of the arts commission by Mayor Bowser,' said Chairperson Van Lee. 'Every DC resident should have the opportunity to access the full spectrum of arts and cultural offerings available in the District, and I look forward to helping the Commission continue its work to make that a reality.'
Congratulations Reggie!
On "DC Radio: Four & More", 30-year radio industry veteran and general manager of DCRadio96.3HD4, Maxx Myrick, looks back on this milestone and the achievements over the last four years.
He reflects on DC Radio's growth and expansion, making it a unique voice in national and local information and entertainment. Maxx also shares his singular perspective on the unique partnership between DC Radio and urban radio powerhouse, WHUR. He shares his hope for the future of the station, Maxx will also take viewers back to the very special, exciting night that launched DC Radio featuring comments from Mayor Bowser and Director Gates and highlighting some of the amazing programming that aligns with their vision to support and expand access for District creatives.
"DC Radio: Four & More" aired on September 19 on DKN, DCE and DC Radio 96.3HD4.
#EntertainDC's own Director of Programming, Karen Tolson, was recently re-elected to serve another two-year term on the Board of the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA).
NATOA's mission is to support and serve the communications interests and needs of local governments. First elected to the Board in 2019, Karen's responsibilities include supporting the organization's budgeting, determining the organization’s stance on various telecommunication legislation, planning for the national conference, identifying sources of revenue, and serving on committees. She is currently the co-chair of the video production committee and serves on the Government Programming Awards (GPA) committee.
Congratulations Karen!
The Telly Awards annually showcases the best work created within television and video. Receiving over 12,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents, Telly Award winners represent work from some of the most respected advertising agencies, television stations, production companies and publishers from around the world.
Tune into DCN and DKN to check out some of the #EntertainDC Office's Telly award-winning programming. Congratulations OCTFME!
Check out these new series' launching this month on the District Knowledge Network.
From April 12 to 16, tune into DCN Channel 16 at 7 pm for a new installment of Road to Representation. Tap the images below to learn more about each episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel to receive premiere notifications to watch on-demand.
Tap the images below for each woman's full biography. Follow us @entertainDC to learn more about the District's support of the creative community.
Muriel Bower is the Mayor of Washington DC. As DC’s Mayor, she is its chief executive and also functions as governor and county executive. Mayor Bowser became the first female two term mayor of Washington, DC and the first mayor to earn a second term in 16 years. Since taking office, the Mayor has taken bold steps to reset DC’s global and national competitiveness, speed up affordable housing production, diversify the DC economy, increase satisfaction in city services, and invest in programs and policies that allow more families to live and thrive in DC. Mayor Bowser has been a strong advocate of DC becoming the 51st State and its residents having full access to “our” nations democracy.
Dr. Nesbitt currently serves as the Director of the DC Department of Health. Dr. Nesbitt is a board-certified family physician with over a decade of experience leading population health initiatives in governmental public health agencies. Under Mayor Bowser she is leading the District’s charge on crushing COVID -19 and keeping DC residents healthy. As a physician leader, Dr. Nesbitt mobilizes organizations and communities to implement innovative solutions that promote health and wellness, and achieve health equity. In addition to her role as Health Director, Dr. Nesbitt is a published author and served as an executive editor of Population Health: Management, Policy, and Technology.
Angie M. Gates serves as the Director of the DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment. In her role, she also serves as the DC Film Commissioner and leads the DC Creative Affairs Office. Emmy Award-winning Executive Producer Gates, made history when the District of Columbia Government won its first Emmy Award at the 60th Emmy Awards. She also led the efforts in the historic launch of DC Radio 96.3HD4. Gates plays a pivotal role in Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents 202Creates initiative which highlights, educates and promotes the diverse and vibrant creative community in the District of Columbia.
Cathy Hughes is the Founder and Chairperson of Urban One, Inc. (formerly known as Radio One, Inc), the largest African-American owned and operated, broadcast company in the nation, Cathy Hughes’ unprecedented career has spawned a multi-media conglomerate that generates original content across the spectrums of radio, television and digital media. Her humble beginnings in Omaha, Nebraska, were not a deterrent to her success but rather part of the catalyst that fueled her ambition to empower African Americans with information and to tell stories from their perspective.
The nation’s capitol has a hometown hero that spins, scratches and blends music while staunchly staying true to her roots. Known as the DJ for the Wizards and world-champion Mystics, this sonic savant went from working as a Mystics ball girl to entertaining the crowd at Capital One Arena 20 years after her first gig. She is also the creator of “The Rap Up Show” podcast and “My First Album” web series, all whilst promoting her new single “City Girls’” featuring Styme & Reece P.
Andrene is using visual storytelling to decolonize the African continent and liberate the diaspora. She says, "Africa and its diaspora, has had its story told for it. And, while there have been many advancements for the culture, and more Black visual storytellers are telling Black stories, there is still need for more." Currently, Andrene is working on a project in partnership with Kenyatta University, where she designed a hybrid online and in-person platform on creativity. The aim is to provide creatives with the space and time to hone their creative skills.
With more than 25 years of community engagement experience in museums and higher education, Melanie Adams is dedicated to bringing stakeholders together to address relevant community issues. After the museum shut its doors in March 2020, she worked with staff to create virtual programs and opportunities for people to share their experiences through the digital initiative Moments of Resilience. The museum staff quickly pivoted to place exhibits outside of its walls. The first exhibit, Men of Change: Taking it to the Streets, opened in the Deanwood community on February 1st to kick off Black History month. The second exhibit will open on the museum’s plaza in early April and focuses on food insecurity in the DC region.
"Thanks to the Go-Go community's 'Don't Mute DC' movement, the magnification of the voices of thousands of marginalized and displaced Washingtonians resulted in Go-Go being designated as DC's official music. As curator of the Go-Go Archive, the naming greatly motivates me to continue to work with the many 'griots' of Go-Go to ensure that this narrative is well-documented, preserved, and made accessible."
"Go-Go music being the official music of DC means so much to me. As a DC Native and a product of DC Public Schools (LaSalle Elementary, Bertie Backus JHS, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, and Howard University), I have listened to and loved Go-Go music my entire life. Believe it or not, I always thought that Go-Go was already DC's music, however, to have it "official" is very important and necessary for our culture."
"Go-Go being the official music of DC means that the music and sound of Go-Go will be around for the long haul as the city changes. There is a better sense of respect and feeling of something that is "OURS" as a native Washingtonian. In the words told [to] me by Chuck Brown 'Don't Let Our Music Die' and Go-Go being the official music of DC affords the opportunity to stay alive."
"Go-Go music being the official music of DC means so much to me because I represent the DC dance culture of beat ya feet. Go-Go belongs to chocolate city just like the style of beat ya feet. Making it official just stamps and promotes how we present culture nationally and internationally. It's the ownership for me. We as a culture own something that can't be taken away from us no matter how much the look of our city changes. 'WE rep DC, WE are DC, GO-GO music 4 Lyfe'"
"For Rare Essence, Go-Go music being the official music of DC is an incredible feeling. We are honored to be one of the founding bands and to have been a part of this scene since before it was called Go-Go. As a result the entire genre has been energized to develop and release new music and this will hopefully ensure that our "homegrown sound" will be around for at least another 50 years."
"The naming of Go-Go as the official music of Washington, D.C. speaks to the influence and importance of this locally grown and supported art form out of the Black DC cultural and social experience. Go-Go comes from a long tradition of musical genius that transforms and grows with each new generation of musicians."
"In the Go-Go tradition, recognition means so much. A shout out from the stage, knowing that everyone can identify your crew, or the satisfaction felt when someone from outside of the community can identify that go-go beat. This recognition of go-go as the official music of DC feels like the city is finally calling back a loving response to the gifts that Go-Go has been offering over the years. Official recognition ji' cranks."
The #EntertainDC Office has curated a special YouTube playlist of Go-Go hits from the 80s to present day that will be sure to have you busting loose. Tell us what you think on social media by using the hashtag #KeepTheBeatGoing
April is Jazz Appreciation month. "From classic jazz to bebop to smooth and contemporary jazz, DC Radio will be airing special jazz episodes of it's jazz episodes of it's popular podcasts.
Wit & Reason with Dr. Alexis Moreno airs weekdays at 11:30am. The podcast provides smart and practical explanations for human behavior. Dr. Moreno interviews diverse health experts regarding today’s ever-evolving life and culture and asks questions on anything from love to hardships. Listen in and bring a little bit of positive mental health to your day.
OPC Radio Connect airs weekdays at 7am and is hosted by Sandra Mattavous-Frye, Director of the Office of the People’s Counsel. The show tells listeners about the services and programs of the Office of the People’s Counsel for the District of Columbia, the independent DC government agency that represents the interests of electric, natural gas, water and local phone consumers.
Putumayo World Music Hour airs weekdays at 10pm and is hosted by Rosalie Howarth. The show takes listeners on a journey through the music of many different cultures. Shows include well-known names like Bob Marley, Sting, Loreena McKennitt, and Santana, along with exceptional, underexposed international artists.
Suffrage. Race. Power. (S.R.P.) airs weekdays at 7:30am. This show is an initiative launched by Black women that uniquely seeks to redefine suffrage beyond the singular act of voting. It aims to elevate Black and Brown women as a force for democratic change before, during and after Election Day. The first season is hosted by Denise Rolark Barnes.
From June 28 through July 2, join us for conversations about mental health, the relationship between money and music, how to collaborate with District government and what it takes to run a successful partnership. There will also be writing rooms and offering one-on-one support with coaches.
RSVP now to save your spot.
The Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) brought back its most prestigious event of the year, bigger and better than ever!
The annual RAMMYs Gala is a celebration of the gastronomic genius of the food industry in Washington, D.C., that honors restaurant owners, chefs, managers, bartenders, servers and kitchen staff.
Look for this exciting event on DCN, October 10, 2021 at 8:00pm.
In honor of Black History Month, DCN presents special programs that aim to educate, inspire and entertain viewers by telling stories. Some stories are familiar, some are not, and others are well known. What they all share is a celebration of the vivid past, the vibrant present and the rich culture that is Black history. This very special slate of programs will begin airing on Monday, February 1 through the end of the month, weeknights from 7pm to 11pm and weekends (Saturday and Sunday) from 12pm until 12am on DCN.
The documentary film, "A Legacy of Mies and King," follows architect Francine Houben as she investigates the past and present in order to design a world-class library of the future. Francine delves into the archives, meets contemporaries of Mies and King, speaks to current visitors of the library, and participates in a Martin Luther King Jr. Day march.
The Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) have a long history of promoting gender equality, spearheading initiatives to support inclusion and highlighting women’s stories. The Nordic embassies in the United States, Women in Film and Television International, and Women in Film & Video Washington, DC are proud to present a digital screening series of Nordic cinema. For five consecutive weeks, every Tuesday-Thursday from February 2 to March 3, audiences will have the chance to watch contemporary Nordic films followed by intimate panel discussions with groundbreaking female Nordic and American filmmakers.
Visit WIFTI.net for more information
That’s right, we're getting ready to jingle those holiday bells! In 2020, DC Radio’s host of “Raiding the Crates”, John Avery, lifted everyone's "Holiday Spirit" by raiding the DCN holiday performances vault and putting together the greatest sounds of the season from some of the best recording artists around the DMV and beyond. It was such a huge hit, we're going to do it again -- and you can be part of this holiday extravaganza!
We're looking for great holiday music performances to include in this year’s "Holiday Spirit" special. All submissions must be original compositions or public domain holiday songs. Our favorite musical elf, John Avery, will once again produce and host the special.
So whatever the genre, however you celebrate the season, get in the holiday spirit now by sending your video submissions to john.avery@dc.gov by July 1, 2021.
The District of Columbia Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment is responsible for implementing, managing, and administering programs, initiatives, and services that support the District's creative economy. Sign up for our email list to receive monthly news & updates. Check out the latest eNewsletters.
The #EntertainDC Office is pleased to recognize Emma Mankey Hidem as the OCTFME January 2022 Filmmaker of the Month (FOTM).
Emma Mankey Hidem is an innovative storyteller and media expert with over a decade of experience in the industry, specializing in cutting edge visual media technologies such as virtual and augmented reality. After graduating from NYU's Film & Television program in 2007, Emma started her career in the documentary field and had the privilege of learning from high caliber filmmakers like Academy Award-winner Ross Kauffman (Born into Brothels), and Emmy-nominated Joe Fab (Paper Clips).
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and production came to a halt, Emma created The Game Show of Love: an interactive dating game show that took place over Zoom and included audience participation. The show was a local hit and has had two seasons during the pandemic. She plans to reconfigure the show post-COVID to do Season 3 as a live, in-person event in 2022.
“It is an honor to be recognized as OCTFME's Filmmaker of the Month," Emma says. "When I started my career, VR didn't even exist, so I never imagined I'd end up where I am, but it is through the vibrant media landscape of DC that I have found my true calling of using technology to tell stories and make the world a better place.”
Follow Emma's filmmaking journey on: Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Congratulations. Emma!
The #EntertainDC Office is pleased to recognize Emma Mankey Hidem as the OCTFME January 2022 Filmmaker of the Month (FOTM).
Emma Mankey Hidem is an innovative storyteller and media expert with over a decade of experience in the industry, specializing in cutting edge visual media technologies such as virtual and augmented reality. After graduating from NYU's Film & Television program in 2007, Emma started her career in the documentary field and had the privilege of learning from high caliber filmmakers like Academy Award-winner Ross Kauffman (Born into Brothels), and Emmy-nominated Joe Fab (Paper Clips).
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and production came to a halt, Emma created The Game Show of Love: an interactive dating game show that took place over Zoom and included audience participation. The show was a local hit and has had two seasons during the pandemic. She plans to reconfigure the show post-COVID to do Season 3 as a live, in-person event in 2022.
“It is an honor to be recognized as OCTFME's Filmmaker of the Month," Emma says. "When I started my career, VR didn't even exist, so I never imagined I'd end up where I am, but it is through the vibrant media landscape of DC that I have found my true calling of using technology to tell stories and make the world a better place.”
Follow Emma's filmmaking journey on: Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Congratulations. Emma!
The DC Shorts International Film Festival, also known as DC Shorts, is a hybrid film festival screening 95 short films of all genres in 18 showcases online, available in North America for the duration of the festival, and screening five in-person showcases in partnership with Edlavitch JCC’s JxJ Theater including the audience favorite “Animation Domination” Showcase and “Cinema 10% LGBTQ” Showcase.
Two additional in-person screenings were held at the Goethe-Institut Washington. This year’s films were selected from more than 900 submissions, with the 95 final Official Selections including four World Premieres.
On Wednesday, September 15, Mayor Bowser will kick off the 4th Annual National Maternal & Infant Health Summit. The two-day event will bring together residents, healthcare officials, healthcare professionals, service providers, and more to explore, strategize, and share solutions to improve maternal and infant health outcomes in the District and beyond.
To learn more about the Summit and to RSVP, visit dcmaternalhealth.com.
DC Art All Night will take place from 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM the following morning on two nights—September 24 and 25. The festival will take place in sixteen (16) neighborhoods with different activations on each night. Art All Night brings visual and performing arts, including painting, photography, sculpture, crafts, fashion, music, dance, theater, film, and poetry, to indoor and outdoor public and private spaces, including local businesses and restaurants.
Visit DCArtAllNight.org for more information.
The March on Washington Film Festival will be comprised of virtual and in-person events based primarily at Union Market and Eaton Workshop in Washington, D.C. The theme, “A Single Garment of Destiny: Civil Rights and Environmental Justice” spotlights the ongoing climate crisis and its disproportionate impact on communities of color.
The March on Washington Film Festival kicks off its 9th annual festival September 30 and runs through October 4, 2021.
WORKING IN DC is a public celebration of the working class through the lens of history, labor, justice, and the arts.
With a celebratory performance at BLM Plaza, Working In DC brought the spirit of the legendary Studs Terkel to life for the Washington, DC community. Proudly presented in collaboration with Labor Heritage Foundation, this project uplifts during our pivotal time of racial justice reckoning, COVID-19, and political unrest.
For more information, visit WorkingInDC.org
The 2021 AFI DOCS brought the best in documentary filmmaking online and in-person at the AFI Silver Theater June 22 – 27, 2021.
This year, 3 films were showcased at AFI DOCS that told DC-centric stories or were produced by DC-based filmmakers:
Congratulations to these great films!
Filmfest DC celebrated its 35th annual festival June 4 – 13, 2021. During the 9-day festival last month, Filmfest DC presented the 4th edition of its DC4Reel Film Series.
The film series showcased the works from DMV-based filmmakers, honoring and highlighting the incredible talents and creativity of the filmmaking community here in the District.
Congratulations to all the DC4Reel films and filmmakers, and thank you Filmfest DC for another incredible year showcasing the best films from around the world!
Women in Film & Video produces more than 90 events per year, ranging from community outreach programs to professional development to pure networking. The programs, ranging from the technical to the theoretical, enable members to network, share knowledge and exchange ideas. Check out some of this month's programming.
The District of Columbia Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment is responsible for implementing, managing, and administering programs, initiatives, and services that support the District's creative economy. Sign up for our email list to receive monthly news & updates. Check out the latest eNewsletters.
The 202Creates Residency Program provides DC creative & artistic entrepreneurs with the resources and support to start and scale their businesses. Applications are currently being accepted until 11:59 pm on March 18, 2021.
Visit 202Creates.com to apply, learn more about the Residency Program and meet our residency classes.
Join us for a new Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents 202Creates Masterclass. Meet DC’s favorite DJ, in a conversation focused on her experiences and how she navigated the changing music landscape. Mark your calendars to join us, June 17 at 12:30PM to listen in.
Subscribe to @Entertain_DC on YouTube to receive alerts and check out the rest of the Masterclass series.
OCTFME will highlight the achievements of District of Columbia residents who exemplify excellence in the area of creativity, education, creative entrepreneurship, economic revitalization of creative businesses, social justice, or racial equity.
DC Native and saxophonist extraordinaire, Herb Scott is a rising star on the Washington, DC. Jazz scene. While studying at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts under the award-winning educator Davey Yarborough, he performed with renowned trumpeter Wynton Marsalis and Jazz pianist Herbie Hancock. Herb studied Jazz Studies at Michigan State University under Jazz legend Rodney Whitaker and Professor Diego Rivera and toured with the MSU Jazz Band.
Congratulations Herb!
On April 11, celebrate the Past, Present, & Future of Anacostia Park with a virtual experience. This year's festival will share the history of GoGo, feature a live band performance from Pure Elegance and much more. The Anacostia River Festival is a collaboration between the 11th Street Bridge Park, the National Park Service and the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
Visit the festival's website for more information.
The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) is administered by The Small Business Administration (SBA) and provides $15 billion in GRANTS. The grants will be available to live performance venues, promoters, theatrical producers, or live performing arts organization operators, museum operators, motion picture theatre operators, and talent representatives.
For more information sign up on CAO's SVOG page and visit the SBA website.
OCTFME continues to highlight the achievements of District of Columbia residents who exemplify excellence in the area of creativity, education, creative entrepreneurship, economic revitalization of creative businesses, social justice, or racial equity.
OCTFME is delighted to recognize Princess Mhoon as the newest OCTFME Star. Princess Mhoon is the Founder and CEO of The Princess Mhoon Dance Institute, an acclaimed dance institute located in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area. Having served thousands of families through in-studio and off-site programs, PMDI’s mission is to educate, unite, transform and heal our community through the power of dance.
Congratulations Princess Mhoon!
The DC Creative Affairs Office will be celebrating DC's creative entrepreneurs during Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW), November 16-20, 2020. This week will be a celebration of innovators who dream big and launch startups that bring ideas to life. Each November, GEW reaches millions of people of all ages and backgrounds through local, national and global events and activities. Check out the lineup below:
Monday, November 16 - Care for Creatives Community Conversation: Mental Health Equity
Tuesday, November 17 - BUILDing our Future Entrepreneurs: A Conversation on Youth Entrepreneurship
Wednesday, November 18 - Policy and the People: A Conversation on How Advocacy Leads to Policy Change
Thursday, November 19 - DSLBD District Connect: Live Conversation on Mental Health and Small Business
Visit CreativeAffairsDC.com/gew for more information and to sign up!
Amidst a rising pandemic, a global dialogue on race equality and an unprecedented election, Robert Young’s Unmask Fear makes a timely appearance on the signature wall of DC’s famed Union Market.
Check out the mural on the 6th Street side of Union Market and visit RobertYoungIam.com for more information.
Capital Fringe is offering four paid artists’ residencies under the theme Down to Earth to provide an outlet for DC, Maryland, and Virginia artists and creatives. The experience will provide an opportunity to create artwork or experiences that examine our ability and fortitude as human beings to tackle the climate emergency and systemic racism. Projects developed through the residency will engage the landscape and wildlife of the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, utilizing them for inspiration or as a metaphorical or literal canvas.
The DC Creative Affairs Office has launched Care for Creatives Community Conversations, a webinar series that highlights mental wellness within the District's creative community. Visit CreativeAffairsDC.com/partnerships to watch the conversations on-demand.
The Care for Creatives program is available to help all creatives, artists and entrepreneurs! This partnership between the DC Creative Affairs Office and the George Washington University, Community Counseling Services Center (CCSC) provides pay-what-you-can mental health services to area creatives.
To receive care, email CCSCFoggyBottom@gwu.edu and the Care for Creatives team will follow up with more information. You will be asked a couple of questions and then paired with a clinician for support.
The Wammie Awards is The MusicianShip's 33-year-old awards show aimed at recognizing DC, MD & VA area artists and musicians for their artistic works and impact across the metropolitan region each year.
The 2021 Virtual Wammie Awards will feature a Pre-Show, Red Carpet (Sponsored by OCTFME), Awards Show, and After Party! Hosted by WKYS' Chey Parker & DJ Mim, you'll catch interviews with the 2021 Finalists, 2021 Award Winners and musical performances throughout the night!
Visit WammiesDC.org for more information.
Visit the 202Creates Month Calendar for more event information.
The District of Columbia Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment is responsible for implementing, managing, and administering programs, initiatives, and services that support the District's creative economy. Sign up for our email list to receive monthly news & updates. Check out the latest eNewsletters.
Check out the recordings of our incredible sessions on Facebook.
Strategies for Launch: Equipment, Tools, and Techniques with Selcuk Karaoglan
Digital Strategies to Grow Your Reach with Andrew Nguyen
Content is King: Tips for Creating Powerful Scripts and Interviews with Demetria Lucas
Getting to the Money: Monetizing Your Podcast with Gary Coichy
Watch industry leaders for a conversation on the future of music on YouTube.
DC Radio 96.3 HD4 is turning 3 years old on September 19th! The radio station, operated by OCTFME, is the District of Columbia’s first and official government radio station, in partnership with Howard University’s WHUR. The station's programming enhances the quality-of-life for District residents by broadcasting vital information, sharing programming on emergency and non-emergency services and alerts, and providing community and government affairs programming. In addition, DC Radio 96.3 HD4 provides a media literacy training platform for DC residents and students.
Stay tuned to @DCRadioHD for more updates on its 3rd year anniversary celebration.
Women In Film & Video presents ScriptDC, the premier conference for Mid-Atlantic filmmakers including writers, directors, producers, editors, and talent to connect with accomplished teachers, consultants and industry professionals. WIFV is currently working to bring the amazing workshops to a virtual platform that will provide the high-quality information and presenters. The organization will be taking over Tuesday evenings for several months to share 20 or so workshops in a format that is engaging and empowering.
See the October workshops in the Upcoming Events section. For more information visit the WIFV website
xemiyulu Manibusan Tapepechul, aka Xemi the Two-Spirit, is a Salvadoran Nawat Non-Binary Trans Womxn writer, actor, and coach. She is the Artistic Director of Nelwat Ishkamewe, a multilingual theatre company for the Spanish-speaking and English-speaking Native American/Indígena Diaspora communities. Xemiyulu is always educating the public about Indigenous issues, and provides dire emotional labor for the growth of our mainstream communities. She leads community workshops that center healing through art, and help hone the artistic talents of our community members.
Marco Kay Photography - "Rather than call myself a photographer or what I do photography, I like to consider it as "Inspiring the moment!" This simply means capturing life as it is being inspired by the feelings, emotions, and all other attributes that creates the compositions of life. With my camera, whether it's a glamorous photoshoot, a fun day shoot in the city, or their special day, I give my clients their inspirational moments to relive every day and share with others." -Demarcus Davis
Opened to the public September 7, 2019, The REACH at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is more than a physical expansion of the nation’s cultural center: It’s a new way of imagining the intersection between audiences and art. Envisioned as a complement to, and extension of, the Kennedy Center’s mission, the REACH supports both artistic and educational programming, with a strong emphasis on supporting artists, new works, and artistic development for artists at all levels.
Katie Burk is currently a Senior Graphic Designer at the marketing agency Nobody in Washington, D.C. She was previously a graphic designer at NPR headquarters from 2008 to early 2014 in their Marketing, Branding, and Communications department. Katie was also the graphic designer on the live events team at The Atlantic from 2014 to early 2015. She is a Louisiana native and LSU graduate, a bass clarinetist, a ceramicist, and handy with a hammer.
Ian Callender is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Culture House DC (formerly Blind Whino), an organization dedicated to providing a functional, organic art space for all to enjoy at no cost and learn more about the arts culture through various exhibits, events, live performances and artist workshops. The building embraces all things creative with all of its being. As an art object itself, with the exterior, fully painted, it serves as a pillar for creativity in our Nation’s Capital.
Models Inc. is a performing and model agency founded in March of 2006 in the Nation’s Capital, Washington, DC. Models Inc. was built from the bottom up with dedication, determination and hard work. The company is led by CEO Iran “Bang“ Paylor and Aaron Handy. Models Inc. is a place where our models can grow and learn from others, in areas such as dance. runway, print and editorial modeling. The performance group have graced countless national and local stages including the grand opening of The REACH at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Founded by teacher Julie Kennedy at Marie Reed Elementary School, DC Scores creates neighborhood teams that give kids in need the confidence and skills to succeed on the playing field, in the classroom, and in life. The program quickly expanded throughout DC, and in 1999, Kennedy began sites in Boston and Chicago, thus creating America SCORES, headquarters to 12 programs across the United States and Canada: Bay Area, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, New York, Portland, St. Louis, Seattle, Vancouver, and Washington, DC.
Vernard R. Gray, East River Jazz curator/director is a native Washingtonian whose career, from the mid-60s to the present day has included documentary photography and videography, art gallery curating and management, wearable art designing, oral history recording, and jazz culture curation. Gray’s Miya Gallery project founded 1976, in downtown DC, led the Black Arts Movement of the 1970s through the 2000s. He has presented more than 300 jazz performances in the Washington-Baltimore region since 2008.
The Content Farm is disrupting business as usual in the media industry, with dozens of projects in development and production, and a unique distribution model no other company can offer. The Content Farm is a one-stop-shop for the development, production, marketing, and representation of media content. Michael Holstein and Annika Young are the creative forces behind Content Farm. The two have partnered on several media projects including "Live at 9:30", an award-winning documentary shot at the District’s internationally-famed 9:30 Club. The dynamic duo also produced "The Perfect Venue, a House Hunters-style television show that follows recently engaged couples on their search for the ideal wedding venue.
Herta B. Feely is the author of numerous short stories and memoir, published in literary journals and anthologies. She received two fellowships for a novel in progress – the James Jones First Novel Fellowship and an Artist in Literature from the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities – and an American Independent Writing Prize in Personal Essay. Now an editor, writing coach and ghostwriter at Chrysalis Editorial, a company she founded, Herta has worked with hundreds of writers helping them to transform and perfect their writing and find agents and publishers for their work.
Artist, activist and restaurateur, Andy Shallal is the founder and owner of Busboys and Poets, a community gathering place. There are 7 locations throughout the Washington DC metro area, including its flagship location near the U Street Corridor, Federal Triangle, Takoma, Brookland and its newest location in the historic Anacostia neighborhood. The venues are embraced by the community across all 8 Wards. Busboys' clientele has included Barack Obama, Howard Zinn, Alice Walker, Cornel West, Naomi Klein, Ben Jealous, Michael Eric Dyson, Nikki Giovanni, Junot Diaz, Common, Moby, Larry King, Melissa Harris Perry, Angela Davis, Brittney Griner, Cory Booker, Maxine Waters, Solange, Esperanza Spalding, Howard Dean, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Danny Glover, and others.
Eileen Chong Is A Visual And Literary Storyteller. Upon Graduating From The University Of Notre Dame With A Bachelor Of Arts In English And Film, Chong Moved To Korea And Traveled Extensively. Her Current Project Combines Her Work In Spoken Word And Video To Create Visual Poems Exploring Identity Within The Legacy Of Familial Relationships And Inherited Trauma.
Tommy McFly has been named “local Ryan Seacrest” by The Washington Post and is a well-known host, emcee, and commentator in the DMV area. During their 202Creates residency, Tommy and Kelly Collis are looking to build strategic partnerships in the creative community for their new independent, internet-streaming morning broadcast, "The Tommy Show: Starring Kelly Collis and Tommy McFly," through their new Tommy Show app.
Loriane Icibaci Holds A Ph.D. In Environmental Technology And Design, And In Design For Sustainability From The Technical University Of Delft In The Netherlands. As Head Of Forma-I, She Focuses On Circular Economy, Life Cycle Thinking, Socioeconomic And Technological Analysis In Waste Prevention, System Dynamics, Urban Metabolism, Industrial Ecology, And Retrospective Bottom-Up Stock Analysis.
Aziyrah ThePoet Is A Mother And Active
Arti-Vist Who Uses Her Art To Actively Impact The Community Through Mental Health Awareness And Poetry. Impacting The Youth Through Poetry And Spoken Word, AziyrahThePoet Has Performed At The Howard Theater, The United States Capitol, And Freedom Plaza’s “Moechella.” Aziyrah Also Mixes Activism With Her Artistry To Educate The Youth On The Importance Of Voting And Sharing Their Voice.
The District of Columbia Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment is responsible for implementing, managing, and administering programs, initiatives, and services that support the District's creative economy. Sign up for our email list to receive monthly news & updates. Check out the latest eNewsletters.
The Kennedy Center’s One Woman One Vote Festival kicks off with a special screening of Ava DuVernay’s Oscar®-nominated documentary 13th, with Jason Moran’s powerful score performed live for the first time. Named for the 13th Amendment—which abolished slavery but permitted involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime—13th is an in-depth investigation of the U.S. prison system’s role in our nation's history of racial injustice.
To learn more, please visit the "Save the Dates" section!
Founded in 2013 by DC filmmaker, author, professor, and technologist Otessa Ghadar, the DC Web Fest highlights the intersection of entertainment and technology, featuring the best of the indie spirit in digital content, (Series, Games, VR/AR, Apps, Podcasts, etc.) The mission of the festival is to entertain, educate, and promote these new and innovative forms of modern art. Be sure to join DC Web Fest April 3rd - April 4th!
To learn more, please visit the "Save the Dates" section!
The 11th Street Bridge Park and the National Park Service present the sixth annual Anacostia River Festival, a premier event and official closing of the 2020 National Cherry Blossom Festival. This FREE event aims to encourage District residents and tourists alike to explore communities and parks east of the Anacostia River. In 2020, the Festival will celebrate Anacostia River, Park & Neighborhood, featuring special performances and activities including: boating, fishing workshops, hands-on art projects, musical performances, bike parades, and other unique programs engaging families with the river, its history and ecology.
To learn more, please visit the "Save the Dates" section!
"OPC Radio Connect" Podcast hosted by Sandra Mattavous-Frye, Director of the Office of the People’s Counsel, directs listeners to the services and programs of the Office of the People’s Counsel for the District of Columbia. "OPC Radio Connect" will also provide information on a variety of utility and energy-related issues and how they relate to the daily living of District residents. This podcast will also share how they plan to carry out their mission to advocate, educate and protect DC utility consumers. "OPC Radio Connect" will begin airing weekdays at 7 AM in March. Be sure to tune in!
Stay connected with DC Radio by visiting dcradio.gov
"Making Money in the Music Business" Podcast hosted by Dr. William E. Smith and Kenya McGuire Johnson will share insightful views on a variety of topics in the music industry that can help artists make more money from their music business. Making Money in the Music Business airs weekdays at 4 PM. Be sure to tune in!
Stay connected with DC Radio by visiting dcradio.gov
DC Radio has completed it's studio upgrade project including noise reduction, new lighting, microphone windscreens and cameras. These upgrades will take the quality of DC Radio Podcast recordings to a new level and make DC Radio's programming available for District Residents on all popular platforms including SoundCloud, Apple Podcasts, GooglePlay Music, Spotify, IHeart Radio, TuneIn.com,YouTube, on the DC Radio App for iPhones and Android, Alexa, Facebook and Instagram.
Stay connected with DC Radio by visiting dcradio.gov
Calling all District residents - SKATING IN DC IS BACK ! You’re invited to the DC Armory for the first Capital Skate Fest!
Roller skating is a culturally rich social sport and its past, present, and future should be celebrated and showcased. We look forward to welcoming you to the Capital Skate Fest! Ready to get your skate on?! The "Save the Dates" section on this page has all the answers!
The Mayor’s Arts Awards celebrates the extraordinary individuals and organizations that play such an important role in making Washington the best place to live and work.” - Mayor Bowser.
The Mayor's Arts Awards are the most prestigious honors conferred by the city on individual artists, teachers, entrepreneurs, and creative organizations. We are excited to celebrate everyone that has an impact on the District's creative economy at this year's 34th Annual Mayor's Arts Awards! Visit the "Save the Dates" section for more!
The District of Fashion Runway Show is DowntownDC’s premier fashion event. It serves as a unique platform for designers, buyers, fashion press, stylists, and other fashion creatives to conduct world-class business in Washington, DC. District of Fashion events serve as a kickoff to New York Fashion Week. The DowntownDC Business Improvement Corporation (BID) is working to establish the District as a thriving fashion capital and to create awareness about DC’s local, innovative and inclusive fashion industry. The event seeks to solidify DC’s status alongside thriving industry destinations such as New York, L.A, Paris and Milan.
The Creative Economy Career Access Program (CECAP) provides underserved District of Columbia residents access to entry level media skills training and a paid on-the-job training placement with a local media employer-mentor. The goal of the program is to offer the training and marketable experience required to establish sustainable careers in the creative economy and a pathway to the middle class. In FY20 the CECAP program will provide 6 District residents a 3-week creative production training module provided by DCTV followed by an 11-month paid on-the-job training placement with a local media industry employer-mentor.
The District of Columbia Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment is responsible for implementing, managing, and administering programs, initiatives, and services that support the District's creative economy. Sign up for our email list to receive monthly news & updates. Check out the latest eNewsletters.
