If you’ve resolved to see more live theater this year but worry that your attention span isn’t up to the task, Sharp Stick Productions’ Red High Heels may be just the warm-up you need before committing to darker, more dramatic works by Shakespeare or Shaw. In its first stint at the Anacostia Playhouse, the emerging theater company presents three short works by Northern Virginia-based playwright Harrison Murphy that ask life’s big questions in a lively, witty way. Read more >>> The play runs Jan. 15 to Jan. 24 at Anacostia Playhouse, 2020 Shannon Place SE. $15–$20. (202) 290-2328. anacostiaplayhouse.com. (Diana Metzger)

EAT THIS

Chef Dennis Friedman has replaced Newton’s Table with Bethesda Barbecue Company. The restaurant offers a range of sandwiches and platters, including pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and rotisserie chicken. There’s also snacks like bacon pops and cheese puffs. Cocktails were created by and named after local bartenders to pair with smoked meats. Read more on Young & Hungry. Bethesda Barbecue Company, 4917 Elm St., Bethesda. (301) 718-0550. bethesdabbq.com. (Jessica Sidman)

OH AND ALSO

Violet Says 5 frontman Ethan Spalding is venturing out on his own (albeit with some help from a dancing panda) and performs tonight at Rock & Roll Hotel. 8 p.m. at 1353 H St. NE. $12.

Poet Terrance Hayes discusses his work and describes the impact poetry has had on his life at the Library of Congress’ Thomas Jefferson Building. Noon at 10 First St. SE. Free.

Electronic musician Lia Ices plays DC9 with Seoul, a pop group from Montreal. 9 p.m. at 1940 9th St. NW. $12.

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