To Do Today: NSO in Your Neighborhood, The Critic, and The Real Inspector Hound

Leave your formalwear in the closet and your evening gloves in the box. If you’re planning to see the National Symphony Orchestra this week, you can do so in an atmosphere much more casual than the Kennedy Center’s Concert Hall. For its fifth annual “NSO In Your Neighborhood” series, small groups of orchestra members will perform at venues throughout Penn Quarter and downtown. For its kickoff at The Hamilton, violinists, violists, cellists, and bassists will join percussionists for a lively introduction to chamber music. Read more >>> The National Symphony Orchestra performs at 8 p.m. at The Hamilton, 600 14th St. NW. Free. (202) 787-1000. thehamiltondc.com. (Caroline Jones)

EAT THIS

The Passenger‘s Tom Brown officially opens his latest cocktail bar, Left Door, today. Located off 14th Street NW, the new spot aims to have a sophisticated, “adult” vibe. Brown has amassed many rare spirits and high-end Champagnes that he will showcase in cocktails. In fact, some cocktails, like a Sazerac, will be offered in various tiers using different types of brandy at different price points. The cocktail menu will have about 10 classics and 10 original recipes. Light snacks, like olives and cheese, will also be offered. Read more about Left Door on Young & Hungry. Left Door, 1345 S St. NW. leftdoordc.com. (Jessica Sidman)

OH AND ALSO

Learn more about Zionism from the perspectives of Israelis, Palestinians, Jews, and Arabs from the documentary Colliding Dreams, screening tonight at the D.C. Jewish Community Center. 7:30 p.m. at 1529 16th St. NW. $13.

The Shakespeare Theatre Company premieres two shows in one evening tonight; Richard Brinsley Sheridan‘s The Critic opens the night and Tom Stoppard‘s The Real Inspector Hound follows. 7:30 p.m. at 450 7th St. NW. $20–$108.

If your New Year’s resolution was to learn how to move better, head to the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage, where instructor Adriane Whalen will lead participants in a belly dancing class. 6 p.m. at 2700 F St. NW. Free.

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