There are many advantages to being in Washington after the tourists have left. But tomorrow is a great chance to make the most of it BEFORE they arrive. The night before each major NSO concert at the Capitol, the stars run though a complete dress rehearsal. So Friday is your chance to see longtime host Jimmy Smitts, copacabana-icon Barry Manilow, pop star Natasha Bedington, jazz vocalist Michael Feinstein and the Muppets join the stage with the nation’s most storied military bands.
The concert is sponsored and broadcast by PBS on Saturday night….but what most viewers see is the action in the crowd on Friday night. It’s called the “biggest birthday party in the country” for good reason, and the fireworks are the best reason know to justify having a roof deck! The city expects more than 600,000 visitors in town this weekend.
Each year I pack a picnic for the pre-show, and invite friends who’s kids enjoy cartwheeling on lawn and catching lightening bugs as the sun goes down. A few years back, we were wowed when Stevie Wonder showed up to perform for a few hundred couples and families. This year one can only hope that Aretha Franklin will work her pipes Friday night. Perhaps she’ll give us a preview of her much anticipated headgear.
What’s your 4th of July tradition?
What time does the dress rehearsal start? I’ve always wanted to go but never seem to make the time – maybe this will be the year I finally make it!
8 p.m. — just like the televised version. Hope you go! Say hi to Barry for me!
I managed to convince my friends to go and had a great time! Thanks so much for the reminder, it was a great way to kick off the holiday weekend!
Yes, the dress rehearsal is the best kept secret. Thanks for reminding me for this year. Chito
What time does the lawn start to fill up? We have a number of families coming and want to have room for all. Thanks in advance.