TOP 5 PICKS FOR FRIDAY, MAY 4
1.) E. L. James Signs "Fifty Shades of Grey" at Bethesda's Barnes and Noble
Because you know your mom will want a signed copy of her favorite new BDSM erotica for the Mother's Day. What started as "Twilight" fan fiction is now the next big thing in literature. A new printing and multi-million dollar film deal make this event guaranteed to be packed. 7 p.m., all ages, no cover
2.) Loretta Lynn At Ocean City Inlet
See Loretta Lynn now. She's had to cancel some shows in the last few years due to health reasons. She delivers an excellent show, traversing through her large catalogue, always with a smile on her face. 8 p.m., all ages, sold out, tickets found on Craigslist for $40
3.) The DC Latino Collective Art Show At The Fridge
In a town that has some of the best, free art museums in the world, it's easy to overlook home-grown talent. Spaces like The Fridge help highlight what the local scene has to offer. 7 p.m., all ages, no cover
4.) "The 39 Steps" at Artisphere
Part of their celebration of Alfred Hitchcock's early works, this screening of "The 39 Steps" on the giant dome screen should please both fans of the recent Broadway musical, black and white mysteries and film buffs eager to track the growth of a man that would become a master film maker. 8 p.m., all ages, $8
5.) Star Wars Day
Nerds and non-nerds the world over will say, "May the fourth be with you!" and most people will say, "Heh, yeah. It's May 4," and other will say, "Huh?" It's cute and fun and harmless. Celebrate by viewing on demand the new Morgan Spurlock documentary "Comic-Con: Episode IV - A Fan's Hope."
TOP 5 FOR THE NEXT 5 DAYS
Saturday, May 5
Ball on the Mall on the National Mall
The public's perception of Washington D.C. and the Mall is that it's in excellent condition, the lawn is manicured and there's never things like pesky construction. Residents know that's not exactly the case. This Ball, while keeping with the public's perception of D.C., is actually for a good cause. How can someone not love the Mall?
Sunday, May 6
Literary Hill BookFest at Eastern Market
Book fests are always a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. The book fests D.C. produces are better than most for location-based reasons. In addition to supporting local bookstores, the Literary Hill BookFest is able to bring in more than 20 writers to speak about their craft.
Monday, May 7
Tim Hetherington and the Changing Face of Photojournalism at Corcoran
A companion to Tim Hetherington: Sleeping Soldiers, on view at the Corcoran through May 20, this panel discussion featuring photographer Susan Meiselas (Magnum Photos), photographer and journalist Michael Kamber (The New York Times), and scholar Stephen Mayes (VII Photo Agency) discussing the role of photojournalism in war. These three were all friends and colleagues of the late Hetherington.
Tuesday, May 8
Colin Quinn at DC Improv
The blunt, to the point, comic's comic is coming to the Improv for two nights. The former "S.N.L." Weekend Update anchor thrived on "Tough Crowd," playing the role of mediator of hot button issues. A veteran stand up, there isn't a crowd Quinn can't turn around.
Wednesday, May 9
Mastadon at Fillmore Silver Spring
The future of metal has become its mainstream. Five years ago they were one of the only metal bands on indie rock summer fests. Now, they're one of many. The time has finally come for Black Sabbath influenced metal. Intricate stoner rock riffs, mystical lyrics and long hair have returned to its rightful place on the metal stage.