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Culture Vulture

A compilation of interesting—and, most important, free—lectures, cultural events, and more throughout the week.

By Matt Carr   Published Monday, January 12, 2009

Monday, January 12:
Some of the world’s top scientists are gathering today at the Natural History Museum to debate the possible extinction of the rainforest. Cristián Samper, the museum’s director, and Wayne Clough, secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, will moderate the discussion from 1 to 6:30 in Baird Auditorium.

Tuesday, January 13:
The New Republic’s Clay Risen will read from his A Nation on Fire at Politics and Prose at 7. The book examines the 1968 assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., its violent repercussions, and the end of the 1960s civil-rights movement.

Wednesday, January 14:
The Anacostia Community Museum screens We Shall Overcome at 10:30. The film traces the origins of the civil-rights movement through the song “We Shall Overcome” and its performances by the SNCC Freedom Singers, Joan Baez, and Peter, Paul, and Mary.

Thursday, January 15:
The Brother Ray Band will perform a tribute to the great Ray Charles in the Kogod Courtyard of the American Art Museum from 5 to 8. Beverages and light fare will be available for purchase. Don’t worry about the cold—the courtyard’s enclosed.

Friday, January 16:
The Library of Congress screens the 1953 Fred Astaire classic The Band Wagon at 7:30 in Culpeper’s Mount Pony Theatre. The musical follows Astaire’s Tony Hunter as he makes a comeback to the stage with the help from some friends. Call 202-707-9994 for additional information.

Saturday, January 17:
The National Archives is screening the biopic Abraham Lincoln in honor of the President’s 200th birthday. The movie, starring Walter Huston, includes vignettes of Lincoln’s early life, his courtship of Mary Todd, the Lincoln-Douglas debates, and his time as president. It plays at noon in the William G. McGowan Theater.

Sunday, January 18:
Start your inauguration celebration with a free concert by Bruce Springsteen on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Just make sure you line up early, because we hear there’ll be a few people in town. If you can’t brave the cold, WTOP reports that HBO will be airing the concert. The concert's time has yet to be announced.

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