Studio Theatre creates a feeling of intimacy with its small-scale, realist plays and teeny stages. The audience’s proximity to the actors builds a sense of involvement in even the most uncomfortable moments. For Choir Boy, that means you’re front row for playwright and MacArthur “genius” grantee Tarell Alvin McCraney’s (pictured) tale set at a prestigious black prep school that’s fallen on tough times. The protagonist is a young man in line to be the next leader of the award-winning gospel choir, who must decide whether to go along to get along or advocate for his own beliefs about equality. Read more >>> The play runs Jan. 7 to Feb. 22 at Studio Theatre, 1501 14th St. NW. $20–$88. (202) 332-3300. studiotheatre.org. (Rachel Kurzius)
EAT THIS
Here’s an antidote to the freezing temperatures: Dino’s Grotto in Shaw will offer a free mug of hot borlotti bean, kale, and barley soup with the purchase of any pasta or entrée tonight. Plus, it’s happy hour all night long, so you can warm up with a glass of wine or cocktail. Dino’s Grotto, 1914 9th St. NW. (202) 686-2966. dinoinshaw.com. (Jessica Sidman)
OH AND ALSO
Gypsy Sally’s welcomes Nashville singer Doug Seegers, a formerly homeless musician who found success in Sweden and is now touring in support of his first album, Going Down to the River. 8:30 p.m. at 3401 K St. NW. $15.
Afropop artist and Côte d’Ivoire native Dobet Gnahoré performs a solo show at the Barns at Wolf Trap. 8 p.m. at 1635 Trap Road, Vienna. $25–$30.
Arlington-based experimental cassette label FoundTapes hosts a showcase at Union Arts; label head Tony Risotto performs with multi-instrumentalist Jimmy Kreutzer, Insect Factory, and IGM. Find more details on Facebook. 8 p.m. at 411 New York Ave. NE. $5 suggested donation.
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