Watch Now on NETFLIX
èßäAVpresents the 25th annual Mark Twain Prize for American Humor to Kevin Hart. Meet the new recipient and watch performances, interviews, and other highlights from past events.
Tragedy + Time:
Nonfiction Tragicomedy Writing with Elissa Bassist
The editor, humor writer, teacher, and author teaches us about “traumedy”—that is, how to make readers laugh while punching them in the heart.
Please note: Recommended for mature audiences.
Genre
Comedy
Part of Series
Elissa Bassist is an editor, humor writer, teacher, speaker, and author of the book HYSTERICAL. As a writer, she spins the toughest parts of her life into hilarious essays. In this class, Bassist will teach us about “traumedy”—that is, how to make readers laugh while punching them in the heart.
About Tragedy + Time
Referencing Mark Twain’s quote that “comedy equals tragedy plus time,” this series of classes, discussions, and shows focuses on grief through the lens of comedy. Tragedy + Time is part of the Center’s Arts & Wellbeing programming.
èßäAVis a non-profit institution, and your tax-deductible gift helps expand our arts and education offerings throughout the country.
All events and artists subject to change without prior notice.
All ticket prices are subject to change based on demand. Purchase early to lock in prices and the best seats!
Watch Now on NETFLIX
èßäAVpresents the 25th annual Mark Twain Prize for American Humor to Kevin Hart. Meet the new recipient and watch performances, interviews, and other highlights from past events.
A Jazz New Year’s Eve | SuperBlue: Kurt Elling & Charlie Hunter with Nate Smith
Tue. Dec. 31, 2024
Make it an unforgettable evening at D.C.’s hottest New Year’s Eve show! Grammy-winning jazz vocalist Kurt Elling and visionary hybrid guitarist Charlie Hunter reignite their funk, soul, and fusion–inspired partnership in SuperBlue—a fierce collection of new songs and surprising covers. They’re joined by dynamic jazz/R&B/funk drummer Nate Smith and the high-energy Huntertones Horns.
National Symphony Orchestra
Carlos Miguel Prieto conducts Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances | Jorge Federico Osorio plays Beethoven
Jan. 16 - 18, 2025
Outstanding Mexican artists treat the audience to timeless classics and stirring new music. Jorge Federico Osorio, hailed as “an imaginative interpreter with a powerful technique” (New York Times), takes on Beethoven’s intensely energetic Piano Concerto No. 3. Rachmaninoff’s lush and lively Symphonic Dances comes alive under the baton of Carlos Miguel Prieto—who returns following his “high-octane” 2018 NSO debut (Washington Classical Review).
National Symphony Orchestra
NSO Music for Young Audiences:
Old MacDonald’s Symphony
Jan. 18 - 19, 2025
The whole farmyard is getting ready for a hoedown—but it needs your help! Presented in collaboration with Teller Productions and developed specifically for toddlers, this immersive show features puppets, storytellers, and a string quartet from the National Symphony Orchestra.