This season’s unmissable and Instagram-able arts events:
SigWorks: Gun and Powder
Sept. 2
In this public reading, based on a true story and staged as part of Signature Theatre’s selective workshop for new musicals, African-American twins Mary and Martha Clarke pass as white and become outlaws of the West. // Signature Theatre: 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington
Fairfax Jubilee
Sept. 16
Celebrate two birthdays in one at this season-opening concert with a world-premiere piece by GMU composer and professor Mark Camphouse, written as a tribute to Fairfax County’s 275th anniversary and FSO’s 60th season. // George Mason University’s Center for the Arts: 4373 Mason Pond Drive, Fairfax
Festival of South African Dance
Sept. 30
You may burn a few calories just by attending this fast-paced showcase of South African street dance, featuring two dance companies that address social ills through movement. // George Mason University’s Center for the Arts: 4373 Mason Pond Drive, Fairfax
Are You Now, or Have You Ever Been …
Oct. 5-Nov. 5
In 1953, lauded Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes was questioned by the Joseph McCarthy-led Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations regarding his views on communism. This MetroStage production weaves poetry and music into this fictionalized version of Hughes’ inner turmoil at the time. // MetroStage: 1201 N. Royal St., Alexandria
1776, The Musical
Oct. 6-22
FCT launches its 40th season with Tony Award-winning 1776, a musical rendition of events surrounding the genesis of the Declaration of Independence. // Fauquier Community Theatre: 4225 Aiken Drive, Warrenton
Ella at 100 Celebration
Oct. 7
L’Tanya Marí, a Virginia Commission for the Arts touring artist, interprets the catalog of legendary jazz vocalist Ella Fitzgerald in honor of her 100th birthday. // Franklin Park Arts Center: 36441 Blueridge View Lane, Purcellville
Spirit of Argentina
Oct. 13
Take in the seduction and intensity of tango at this entrancing dance show performed by Argentina’s own Tango Buenos Aires. // Hylton Performing Arts Center: 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas
The Adventures of Peter Pan
Oct. 18-Nov. 19
Synetic Theater livens up this classic story with daring and dynamic movement. The show is intended for viewers 7 and up, as some scenes may be frightening. // Synetic Theater: 1800 S. Bell St., Arlington
(September 2017 Fall Arts Preview)
