How the Anacostia gas explosion has affected the ‘Morning After Grace’ performances and how you can help.
On Thursday, January 18, a massive gas explosion occurred at 1223 Marion Barry Avenue, SE, in the heart of the Anacostia Arts District. Thankfully, no lives were lost due to the quick action of the daycare workers and first responders to evacuate the block. We are grateful for the heroic actions of so many that day.
Immediately following the explosion and fire, the entire block was inaccessible as gas and power were out, and the investigation was underway. That included the closure of the Anacostia Arts Center (a former ARCH project), where we were undergoing rehearsals and preparations for the upcoming Morning After Grace performances.
The shows were produced by Valley Place Arts Collaborative, a Ward 8 nonprofit (and a project of ARCH) founded by four Anacostia residents and creatives. Much work, talent, and funding have gone into presenting this hilarious and heartfelt comedic performance to the east of the river and DC arts scene.
However, the closure of the Anacostia Arts Center's Black Box Theater negatively affected our production schedule. So once again, here's a sentence we never hoped to repeat: Opening night is postponed for a week until Thursday, February 1. And while our initial plan was for ten performances, we will likely only be able to run for five until Sunday, February 4.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Our budget has been dealt a severe blow with only half as many performances. But we want you to see this fantastic show! So please take a moment and buy your tickets now. And buy some for friends; you can even purchase tickets to be donated to local nonprofits and service providers, such as the Calvary Women's Shelter located next door to the explosion (and thankfully was not significantly damaged). Morning After Grace is a thrilling comedy about baby boomers. It would be an entertaining experience for adults and seniors - provided they are okay with brief rear nudity and simulated marijuana smoking!
Tickets are $20*. Click a date to purchase or visit bit.ly/Feb1MAG
*Purchase a block of five or more tickets and receive a discount! Email valleyplacearts@gmail.com for details.
You can also help us bridge our funding gap by donating to our DC nonprofit, Valley Place Arts Collaborative, at bit.ly/DonateVPAC. No donation is too small.
It's been a tough few days, but we can bring much-needed joy and laughter to the community with your support.
P.S. Make a day (or night) of it!
In addition to the Anacostia Arts Center, the 1200 block of Marion Barry Avenue, SE, has several arts and culture venues to enjoy and with free admission!
Honfleur Gallery (1241) is open Thursday - Saturday, 12pm - 5pm. See the current exhibit, 'You Can't Unring The Bell' by Terence Nicholson.
Craig Kraft Studio (1239) is open Monday - Friday, 10am - 5pm.
Anacostia Arts Center (1231) opens Tuesday - Saturday at 12pm. Home to several retailers and a cafe!
Busboys and Poets Anacostia (2204 MLK, Jr. Ave, SE) for delicious drinks and yummy eats, then head back to the Anacostia Arts Center to see the show!
On behalf of the Morning After Grace team, Valley Place Arts Collaborative, ARCH, and the Anacostia & DC arts community, thank you for your support.
