As the Director of the DC Office of Cable, Television, Film, Music & Entertainment (OCTFME) I am thrilled to share with you some exciting upcoming events for April 2024 that are sure to blossom your creativity and make your April an unforgettable one.
There is simply no place like home! We are thrilled to announce that Mayor Bowser, DC Council, and Monumental have reached an agreement to transform Capital One Arena to #BeDowntown through 2025. The $515 million allocated towards this catalytic project underscores the District’s commitment to the complete renovation of the arena and the transformation of Downtown DC. Ensuring the arena’s continued prominence as a premier destination for sports, concerts, and events will anchor Gallery Place/Chinatown as a world-class entertainment district in Downtown DC.
We are excited to see this project come to life and contribute to the growth and vibrancy of our community. In addition to the arena's transformation, we are excited to announce the opening of the new STK restaurant. This world-class establishment is sure to provide exceptional cuisine, service, and an unforgettable dining experience. Be sure to make a reservation and experience it for yourself. We are proud to share that Nicki Minaj sold out Capital One Arena, including appearances by 50 Cent and Monica on April 1st. This is a testament to the arena's continued success and its ability to attract world-class talent.
This year is the 162nd Anniversary of the DC Compensated Emancipation Act of 1862, the only act that stands as an example of compensation by the federal government to freed slaves. On January 4, 2005, DC Mayor Anthony Williams signed legislation making Emancipation Day an official public holiday to be commemorated annually on April 16TH. This year marks the 19th Anniversary of the official DC Emancipation Day holiday and boy, was it a party with a purpose! Local and National talents from various genres of Gospel to Go-Go packed-out Freedom Plaza. DC’s very own Ginuwine closed out the celebration with fireworks.
Springtime in Washington, DC is a wonderful time to explore the city and immerse yourself in its rich culture and community spirit. One of the highlights of this season is the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the friendship between the United States and Japan. The festival offered a diverse range of programming, including traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community events, that were primarily free and open to the public.
Another exciting outing to catch this spring is baseball season, with the Nationals playing at Navy Yard Ball Park. So come out and support your favorite team as they take on their rivals this season!
We hope that you enjoy all that April has to offer and that you have a wonderful spring season.
Stay safe and enjoy all the entertainment that downtown has to offer.
The sunny day began with a parade , which featured a group of 51 young volunteers, symbolically representing the 50 states and the District of Columbia, in support of DC Statehood. The parade was a sight to behold, with enthusiastic and energetic volunteers dressed in vibrant colors, dancing and singing to the beats of drums and music.
Following the parade, the celebration kept going with a concert on Freedom Plaza that featured a star-studded line-up of local and national artists, including DC's own Ginuwine, Kelly Price, Ricky Dillard & New Generation, EU featuring Sugar Bear, Go-Go fusion band Black Alley, and Marcus Johnson.
The concert was a celebration of African American culture, with performances spanning different genres, from Go-Go to Gospel music. The artists dazzled the crowds with their electrifying performances, and the atmosphere was filled with excitement and joy.
The night concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, which lit up the sky in vibrant colors, marking the end of the day's festivities. Thanks to our Sponsors, residents and visitors, the event was a huge success, with thousands of people turning up to celebrate Emancipation Day and honor the legacy of the African American community. It was a day filled with fun, music, and camaraderie, reminding us of the importance of celebrating our history and culture.
For more information visit: www.dcemancipationday.com
What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin now spans four weeks throughout Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. Residents and visitors celebrated all that spring in Washington, DC has to offer — from exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches.
The National Hip-Hop Museum’s Induction Ceremony honoring KRS-One, Kurtis Blow, Roxanne Shante, The Fat Boys and other iconic rappers at the Recording Industry Association
It's time to give a shoutout to some hip-hop legends who were honored at the National Hip-Hop Museum in D.C. The museum recently inducted a new Hall of Fame class, featuring Kurtis Blow, The Fat Boys, Roxanne Shanté, and many more. The ceremony was held at the headquarters of the Recording Industry Association of America in and was lit with the presence of DJ Hurricane, Queen Lisa Lee, MC Sha Rock, and The B-Boys, who were also inducted. The inductees were presented with a custom trophy, a custom Hip-Hop Museum jacket, and a commemorative cassette necklace.
Director Latoya Foster presided over the induction ceremony of MC Sha Rock into the Hip Hop Hall of Fame.
The National Hip-Hop Museum is not just about music, it also hosts seminars and workshops that focus on everything from social justice to financial literacy.
For more information about the museum, click here.
Director LaToya Foster from the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME) extends her heartfelt thanks for attending the inaugural “Conversations with Women in Media & Entertainment” on March 26. Your presence highlighted the significance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women in media and entertainment. We hope the discussions provided you with insightful perspectives and encouraged a renewed sense of inspiration in your professional journey.
We also encourage you to stay connected with OCTFME and our vibrant community of extraordinary women from “Conversations with Women in Media & Entertainment.”
By fostering this supportive network, we can maintain the momentum from #WomensHERstoryMonth and work towards a more inclusive and equitable industry for all:
CEO & PUBLISHER , THE WASHINGTON INFORMER
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DC NEWS NOW ANCHOR
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Mayor Muriel Bowser, OCTFME & CAO
Announced the 202Creates Residency Program
Winter 2024 Cohort Graduates
“The diverse talents and achievements of our Winter 2024 cohort underscore the vibrancy and immense potential of Washington, DC’s creative economy," stated Mayor Bowser. "The 202Creates Residency Program continues to empower and elevate our local creatives, contributing to the city's cultural richness and economic growth. We are incredibly proud of each graduate and look forward to their future successes.”
Angela Franco, President and CEO of the DC Chamber of Commerce, inspired and challenged graduates during her keynote address.
Congratulations to The 2024 Winter Cohort Graduates:
Kia Kelliebrew founder of Kelliebrew’s World Art, Kia is a traditional painter and graphic designer, whose art celebrates Black culture and legacy.
Heru Peacock known as “Mozart Noir,” Heru is a professional violinist and guitarist, blending classical music with contemporary genres, and a community leader in youth development.
Erin Shirley is the creative mind behind Asters & Tulips Enamel Pin Co., specializing in plant-inspired enamel pins, merging her passions for animals, Nora Blake Smith is an entertainment journalist, on-air personality, and social media influencer, Nora is set to launch her own Podcast & Video Show “My Home Girl Blake” this year.
Darvincia Warren is CEO and Founder of DW Tax Prep, Darvincia is a financial expert dedicated to empowering underprivileged communities and advocating for financial education.
Tony Bush & Danyele Brown a DJ and LGBT community leader, and Danyele, a contemporary set-maker and researcher, work together at DMV Kiki Nights Inc., fostering community engagement through the arts.
Dameka Mack founder of Sarea-Flo Productions, Dameka is a Creative Visionary, Producer, and Writer, with a focus on empowering women in the arts.
Quanice Walters owner of Kreative Ice Dessert Shop, Quanice offers vegan and allergy-friendly Italian Ice and Gelato, showcasing a successful Black woman-owned business.
Dameece Neal is founder of Synergy & Serenity, Dameece is an advocate for holistic wellness and environmental well-being, dedicated to integrating creative arts in therapeutic practices.
John Gerard Healy is screenwriter, filmmaker, and actor from Ireland, John is deeply involved in using arts to inspire creativity in work and community.
Joy Moreland is a host of "Coffee with Joy," Joy is a renowned figure in media and fashion, known for her empowering and stylish presence.
Brian Bailey is an abstract artist and 2023 Mayor's Arts Award winner. Brian is instrumental in fostering community artistic expression in DC.
Christopher MacNeil is an entrepreneur and digital artist. Chris founded Nyala Events and DMVDIGITAL.art, promoting digital arts in the DMV area.
Rouane Itani is a multimedia producer, editor, and consultant, Rouane specializes in international development, health, and education projects.
Ramzi Gharbi is a filmmaker and writer, Ramzi excels in creating impactful visual and written narratives, blending emotional depth with captivating storytelling.
Colin Cool is a Systems Engineering graduate, is a technical consultant by day and a music enthusiast and DJ by night, deeply influenced by his diverse, global upbringing.
Anzion Tate aka 2Dollar is a local artist, activist and community leader from Southwest DC. With idea to make positive music, he has made a big impact in DC's music and culture through his solo projects as a rapper, in the GoGo industry as the leader of the band he founded, N2L, and is also a hands-on inspiration to young people through his non-profit organization.
Rodrick Smith aka Ric Lanksy works with local DMV talent, helping them to realize their musical dreams. From recording music, making videos and booking shows, Rick Lansky is passionate about music and making dreams come true.
Bryant (Niko) Centeno-Monroy is a creative artist with a background in percussion and education, is working towards founding his record label and serves as a Social Emotional Arts Facilitator.
D'Angela Moore is a passionate food lover, combines storytelling and visual media to explore and share diverse cultural food experiences.
Brandon Dozier is a multi-talented artist, has received acclaim in film and stage production, known for his detail-oriented work and creative versatility.
Charlie Gardner is transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship, Charlie co-founded The Experience Band & Show, LLC, aiming to create cultural hubs for creatives and musicians.
Claritza Jimenez is a media entrepreneur and journalist, founded InColorStock.com and has a rich background in media strategy, production, and entrepreneurship.
Zahra Ahmed crafts unique stories and works at Cortina Productions, producing educational media, and is adapting her grandmother's oral history into a children’s book.
Marcus Isaiah is a multifaceted artist, Marcus excels in movement art, creative direction, interior design, and brand consulting, focusing on luxury lifestyle experiences and community engagement.
Miya May is rooted in Washington, DC. She integrates creative arts into mental health practices, promoting resilience and healing within the community.
For more information about the 202Creates Residency Program and upcoming events, please visit:
The District of Columbia Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment is responsible for implementing, managing, and administering programs, initiatives, and services that support the District's creative economy. Sign up for our email list to receive monthly news & updates.
"For What It's Worth", written by LaJill Hunt, is a poignant and thought-provoking drama that explores important themes such as family dynamics, redemption, and the pressing need for mental health support within the Black community. The film is now available for streaming on BET+, and has been awarded funding from the DC rebate film fund.
The film stars Patrice Covington (Genius), Leslie Black (Chicago Med), Kevin Savage (Game of Deceit), and Jared Wofford (The Final Say), and is exclusively available on BET+. The screenplay was written by LaJill Hunt, directed by Courtney Arlet and produced by A Bold Move Media.
For What It’s Worth follows Naomi Samuels, a successful physician who finds herself publicly humiliated and suddenly unemployed. Naomi reluctantly returns to her hometown to reconnect with the foster care siblings she's neglected for years. Hopeful to regain control of her life, Naomi and her siblings face a challenge that takes them all over the edge.
The film also stars Angelo Diaz (ATL Homicide), Jermel Howard (Luke Cage), Ashley Sam Ramsey (The Detour), CJ Williams (Law & Order), gospel artist Pastor Mike, Jr., and more.
Tanya Upshur's unique perspective and creative approach have earned her recognition and awards in the film industry. Her short documentary film Birth Place received the 2019 Black Women Cinema Week “Storyteller Award” and was included in The Living Altar exhibition presented by Soil and Shadow, Kalliopeia Foundation, and MoCADA in 2022. Her latest project, Blue Supper, is a short, silent narrative that aims to de-stigmatize mental illness. She is currently in pre-production for her short live-action fantasy film, Dogged, which will be filmed in DC.
For Tanya's Filmmaker of the Month Press Release CLICK HERE.
With over 3,000 square feet of space and a capacity for up to 200 guests, Canvas has been purpose-built with various users in mind. The space boasts both indoor and outdoor areas, with a terrace overlooking 14th Street and 24’ ceilings inside that provide a dramatic effect to enhance any special occasion. Canvas can be purposed as an exclusive art gallery, used as a media launch space, a film shoot location, or for hosting a special occasion. The space is both intimate and spacious, and with an electronically operated garage door, it can be both an indoor and outdoor venue.
For Canvas' Location of the Month Press Release CLICK HERE.
It is important to acknowledge the need for mental health support, particularly for those in the creative community. Care for Creatives is a partnership between the DC Creative Affairs Office and the George Washington University, Community Counseling Services Center (CCSC) to provide pay-what-you-can mental health services to area creatives. The program offers confidential and accessible therapy sessions that are provided via telehealth and are focused on a solution-oriented approach. If you are a creative in need of support, please consider reaching out to the CCSC by emailing CCSCFoggyBottom@gwu.edu. The Care for Creatives team will follow up with more information and match you with a clinical intern who can provide the necessary assistance. Additionally, Care for Creatives Community Conversations offers an on-demand series of conversations that are focused on supporting mental health. Let's prioritize our mental health and seek the support we need during Mental Health Awareness Month and beyond!
Mayor Muriel Bowser and the DC Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) kicked off Small Business Week by showcasing small and local businesses along the Rhode Island Avenue Main Street. While touring local businesses, Mayor Bowser joined the ribbon cutting of Bandura Designs, a woman-owned interior design firm and Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) and announced the recipients of the latest round of Robust Retail grants.
For more information, visit:
Get ready to lace up your dancing shoes and join us Friday, May 3, 2024 at 6:00 PM for the 2nd Annual Cinco De Mayo Line Dance Fiesta 2024 at Kenilworth Recreation Center, 4321 Ord Street, NW. We're thrilled to invite you back for an unforgettable evening of dance, laughter, and community spirit.
This year let's make the dance floor sizzle! Dress in your vibrant red, white, and green attire and show off your best moves.
For more information, visit:
Join us for an exciting game of Ultimate Frisbee during the #ForTheDistrict Night. The DC Breeze, a top-performing professional Ultimate Frisbee team representing the District of Columbia and National Capital region, will be playing against the Boston Glory. Established in 2013, the Breeze has earned a playoff berth in eight of their 10 seasons and consistently ranked as a top-five team since 2021. Don't miss this thrilling game and come cheer for the DC Breeze as they launch their 11th Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA) season. We hope to see you there!
For more information, visit:
MET FEST is a gaming festival promoting STEM education for young adults in DC and beyond. It includes amateur and pro-am esports tournaments, open game play, and activations around popular video games. Attendees can learn about college scholarships and other opportunities. The event will be live-streamed on Twitch and DCE global streaming network.
For more information, visit:
www.MetFest.com.
Come out for the electrifying kickoff of the Home Rule Music Festival on June 22, 2024, at The Parks at Walter Reed!
Brace yourself for an unforgettable day of music, culture, and community as we bring together an incredible lineup of performers to ignite the stage. Get ready to groove to the rhythms of The Malcolm X Drummers & Dancers, be captivated by the soulful melodies of the DuPont Brass Band, and experience the mesmerizing sounds of Idris Ackamoor & The Pyramids.
Join us in celebrating the legendary jazz saxophonist Gary Bartz, alongside the dynamic performances of Black Alley and the legendary Rare Essence.
For more information, visit:
The Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) announced Finalists for the 2024 RAMMY Awards. Finalists will be recognized again and winners announced Sunday, July 21, 2024 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center at the 42nd Annual RAMMYS Awards Gala, which honors excellence in the local restaurant and foodservice industry across a range of categories celebrating culinary concepts, service, and individuals. The voting public will decide the winners in five categories: Best Bar, Best Brunch, Favorite Fast Bites, Favorite Gathering Place, and Hottest Sandwich Shop of the Year. Public votes for these categories open online at nbcwashington.com/RAMMYS, through 5:00 pm, Wednesday, May 31, 2024.
We are excited to announce that the Broccoli City Festival will be back this year with a new venue and an amazing lineup of top-tier talent, including Megan Thee Stallion, Gunna, and Lil Yachty. The event promises to be an immersive experience that transcends boundaries and fosters community, with interactive art installations, culinary delights, and live experiences featuring Issa Rae, comedians Desi Banks and Funny Marco, and more. Join us at Audi Field in Washington, DC’s Capitol Riverfront for an unforgettable celebration of music, culture, and unity.
For more information, visit:
Our mission is to produce and broadcast programming for the District of Columbia’s public, educational, and government access (PEG) cable channels and digital radio station; regulate the District of Columbia’s cable television service providers; provide customer service for cable subscribers; and support a sustainable creative economy and labor market the District of Columbia.
