202Creates Showcases D.C.’s Creative Economy
By • August 26, 2019 0 1159
Founded in 2016, 202Creates, a D.C. government initiative to showcase the District’s creative economy, will soon be back in full swing. The project is the brainchild of Mayor Muriel Bowser. Led by Angie Gates, director of the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment, 202Creates involves a supporting cast of government employees. September is the designated month of celebration, but there are ongoing programs to support local creatives.
“It’s not just an initiative,” says Gates, “it’s a movement.”
Riffing off Washington’s area code for its name, the month of special events launches at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 29, at Eaton DC, 1201 K St. NW, with an evening of art, fashion, food and performances by local musicians and dancers.
The kickoff’s lineup includes Black Alley, a self-described “hood rock” band that fuses hip hop and hard rock to form “a unique musical elixir”; DJ Pedro Night, known for his blending of Latino and jazz jams; and DJ Biggs, who has spun for parties all over the country.
CreativeJunkFood, LLC, will represent D.C.’s visual arts contingent through “art theory, storytelling and technology.”
The free party will have dancers jamming to the sounds of the DJs in unusual spaces and places throughout the venue. The event is free and open to the public, but attendees are encouraged to RSVP at 202creates.com.
Meanwhile, the 202Creates calendar for September is growing, with events at the Lincoln Theatre, the Kennedy Center and Union Market. Art All Night is Sept. 14 from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. The H Street Festival and the Fiesta D.C. Parade will follow on Sept. 21. Wrapping up the salute to hometown creativity on Sept. 28 will be the Anacostia Family & Fun Festival and an event at the Anacostia Busboys & Poets.
Visit 202creates.com for the complete schedule.
