Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Africa Underground

I went to Africa Underground at the Smithsonian's National Museum of African Art on Friday night. 

If you're like me, and a little jaded about Black D.C. nightlife, this might be up your alley.  I highly recommend attending at least one of the "Underground" events during the year.  My experience:

  • The crowd was mostly young (25-40), good-looking and well-attired.  Sexy sundress season is officially in full swing.
  • This installment's theme was West Africa and the Caribbean.  There was a DJ spinning modern African and Caribbean hits on one of the lower levels, African drumming, a head-wrapping demonstration, and Caribbean bands outside.
  • Friday's balmy weather made it a perfect night for gabbing, dancing and people-watching in the museum's courtyard.
  • It was a little crowded in the DJ/drumming area on the lower level, but you could rotate to the other floors to see the museum's current exhibits.
  • The food and drinks were the low points of the evening.  You are provided a drink ticket with admission, but know that it's "Wal-Mart" quality wine (I don't drink beer, can't really comment on those offerings).  Folks trying the rum punch weren't too enthused about it, either.  If you must, get your drink on beforehand.
  • The event supports the museum, and for this reason alone, I'd say it was worth the cost of admission.  Bring your man or a good group of girlfriends along.

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