Calendar

From fan favorites like “Polka ‘Til Ya Drop” on April 23 by the Alte Kameradan German Band (polka-wear is encouraged) to more edgy gigs like “Avant Fairfax” also on April 23, an evening of experimental underground music (we hear rocks are sometimes used as drums by this eclectic mix of up-and-coming musicians), the festival runs an impressive aesthetic gamut—and it does so with élan.

“I’ve been to events I’m quite sure I would have never gone to on my own,” says Ellen Brouwer, event co-chair with Kevin Murray of Theatre of the First Amendment, which will be performing “Live Wire” April 17 as part of the festival. And that’s the point says Brouwer, who is in her 26th year as part of the steering committee. This festival is all about trying something new like the evening of civil war-era music performed on antique whistles Brouwer attended last year at Historic Blenheim Civil War Interpretive Center. “There is much more going on with the arts in this area than people think,” says Brouwer. “We want people to know they don’t need to drive into D.C. for high-quality arts events.”

Participation in the festival is at an all-time high this year. A steering committee of 12 seeks out arts groups and fields applications (arts organizations do not pay to take part). How do they choose? “That’s why we have 50 events,” laughs Brouwer, “because we hate to turn anyone down!” An operating budget of $20,000—comprising contributions from individuals and the business community—funds the events, which take place both in historic buildings like Fairfax’s Old Town Hall, and in its newer facilities like the recently-opened Stacy C. Sherwood Community Center and George Mason University’s Center for the Arts. Many events are free, while others are reasonably priced.

Unoccupied commercial spaces have also been enlisted to host exhibits and performances. Adam Lister, whose eponymous gallery is located in what is known as “The Space”—an unused portion of a new development in Old Town Fairfax—will present an exhibit titled, “Super Specific” during this year’s festival (gallery reception on April 13). Says Lister: “This show highlights new approaches to site-specific working methods, offering a look at technology-based artworks and interactive modes of visual expression.”

Local businesses including The Auld Shebeen, an Irish pub, get in on the act too and host events: a bluegrass festival will take place there on April 17. Other events to look for include “Paint the City” on April 2, an opportunity to see the creative process in action as local artists set up easels throughout the City of Fairfax, “Spotlight on Virginians Concert” on April 16 by the City of Fairfax Band at the Fairfax High School Auditorium, and “Art in the Park” on April 30, presented by the Fairfax Art League and a joint exhibition presented by Fairfax Art League and Fairfax High School.