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THURSDAY

In Bali, music is usually performed outdoors, and an August evening in Washington is often a good approximation of the island’s sultry climate: Just add a few tiny lizards and the illusion would be complete. So far, however, this summer has been curiously unequatorial. Tonight, listeners may have to transport themselves to Bali purely via the music and dance of Gamelan Mitra Kusuma. Led by Balinese composer Nyoman Suadin but peopled mostly by American-born enthusiasts, the local troupe plays its drums, gongs, and tuned metallophones in the style known as gong kebyar, which means to flare up suddenly. The style is shimmering and serene, but also features intricate, speedy passages that will speak to Feelies fans. At 6:30 p.m. at the Freer Gallery of Art steps, 12th and Jefferson Drive SW. Free. (202) 357-2700. (MJ)