TOP 5 PICKS FOR MONDAY, MAY 21
1. Reggie Watts at 9:30 Club
The comedian just released his newest album/DVD, recorded live in Central Park. He doesn't go up with a set list so this performance, in addition to all the other ones on his tour supporting "Reggie Watts: A Live At Central Park," are guaranteed to be different. An ambitious performer with a hectic schedule, this tour precedes some high profile Bonnaroo appearances and heavy involvement on the upcoming "Comedy Bang-Bang" television show. Perfect for the person that wishes Weird Al were a little more Brian Eno and Brian Eno a little more fun. 7 p.m., all ages, $25
2. Polyphonic Spree At Sixth And I
This 20+ member rock and roll chorus has been doing their looks like-a-cult-but-isn't-a-cult thing for more than 10 years. The sound is overwhelming and your chest will heave with positivity. A steller concert for the soul that needs a pick me up. 8 p.m., all ages, $31.50
3. "The Yellow Ticket" With New Score By Alicia Svigals At Washington D.C. Jewish Community Center
A new score for a 1918 silent film about Jewish discrimination in Imperial Russia. Nearly 100 years later, there's still reason to be excited new/old cinema. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $15
4. The Alliance Francaise Presents French Hip-Hop TUM At Busboys And Poets
Unless you're an expert in French hip-hop, there's a lot to learn at this discussion. 6 p.m., all ages, $5
5. Ellen Cherry At Millennium Stage
Folk artist Ellen Cherry is a Strathmore Artist in Residence, advancing her singer songwriter stylings. This Kennedy Center show is pleasant way to begin the working week. 6 p.m., all ages, no cover
TOP 5 FOR THE NEXT 5 DAYS
Tuesday, May 22
Shark Week at Black Cat
Besides having one of the best band names, Shark Week is also a very good psychadelic art rock three, sometimes four, piece. For fans of Brian Jonestown Massacre and Pavement, if Pavement had a little more fun.
Wednesday, May 23
Washington National Opera Season Preview Concert at Kennedy Center Opera House
If indie rock isn't for you but still want to enjoy the finer sounds of life, this opera preview is an excellent starting point. Think of it as a highlight reel of what you could learn to love.
Thursday, May 24
"Nashville" at Portrait Gallery
One of the late, great director Robert Altman's finest films, "Nashville" is a truly American movie. Set in and about the country and gospel scenes of Music City USA, "Nashville" ambitiously weaves multiple story lines about ambition culminating at a Replacement party candidate's rally.
Friday, May 25
A Prairie Home Companion at Wolf Trap
Garrison Keillor is bringing his long running storytelling variety show near D.C. Witness a live taping of the NPR show that's inspired "This American Life" and all the other radio shows that go on the road. See this live event close to home. It's a lot easier than heading to Minnesota.
Saturday, May 26
Zou Bisou Bisou at the French Embassy
D.C.'s premier party folks Brightest Young Things are staging this after-hours embassy party. A variety show, outdoor music, DJs, multiple full bars, a wonderfully stupid amount of lights and enough hipster hate to fuel Twitter for multiple nights. It's easy to dislike B.Y.T. events from a distance but they're the best at what they do, large-scale events for all walks of cool folks.