Ten Under $10: Fun on a Budget

Learn improv, catch up on Oscar movies, or rock out on the cheap By Mollie Reilly

Comments () | Published February 23, 2011

There’s a benefit for Fashion for Paws, an offshoot of the Washington Humane Society, at L2 Lounge in Georgetown this Thursday. Standup comics Karen Lange and Jessica Brodkin are performing and giving improv lessons, and there will be refreshments. 8 to midnight; $10 suggested donation.

Baltimore trio Double Dagger heads to the District this Thursday, where they’re playing at the Black Cat along with Imperial China and Tiny Bombs. 8:30 PM; $8.

This weekend is your last chance to get caught up on the year’s best films before Sunday’s Oscar ceremonies. Catch best-picture nominee Winter’s Bone at Arlington Cinema ’N’ Drafthouse on Thursday night. 9:50 PM; $5.50.

See another Oscar nominee at the National Archives on Friday, where best-documentary nominee Restrepo, which chronicles a US platoon’s deployment in Afghanistan, screens at 7. Free.

Have a cheap laugh at Wonderland Ballroom on Friday, when local comics including Rob Maher, Mike James, Mariya Alexander, and others perform in the comedy show “Don’t Block the Box.” 7 PM; $3.

Saturday is the National Museum of Natural History’s Orchid Family Day, celebrating the museum’s live-orchid exhibit. Try your hand at calligraphy, learn how to plant an orchid at home, and make your own stamp art. 11 to 3; free.

Michael Showalter—you may recognize him from Wet Hot American Summer or the comedy group the State—reads from his new book, Mr. Funny Pants, at Sixth & I Historic Synagogue on Saturday evening. Buy tickets ($8) from Ticketfly. They’re also available for $10 at the door. 7:30 PM.

Northern Virginia’s own Ash Lovelies celebrate the release of their new CD, Ode to Arlington, at Artisphere on Saturday night. They’ll play a set and are encouraging audience members to bring their own rhythm instruments (think maracas, tambourines, etc.) and join in with the band afterward. 7 PM; free.

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with old gift cards and plastic Snapple bottles, look no further than the eco-art jewelry class at Capitol Hill Arts Workshop this Saturday. You’ll learn how to turn plastic trash in to stylish—and sustainable—accessories. Call 202-547-6839 to reserve a spot. 10 AM; free.

The Bliss dance party, hosted by local DJ Will Eastman, returns to U Street Music Hall on Saturday with a seven-hour set. 9 PM; $10.