Just how long can popular music stay popular? Two musical events occurring in Southwest DC in May feature music that has long since proven that the answer might be “forever.” It’s hard to imagine American pop music without “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Stand by Me,” and “Love Potion #9.” What would American music have been like without the litany of hundreds of performers of Leiber-Stoller songs, starting with Elvis Presley.
Smokey Joe’s Café  celebrates the golden age of rock, rhythm, and blues.  The Grammy Award-winning tribute to the songwriting duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, which  topped 2,000 performances on Broadway, now comes to Arena Stage. Tony Award winner Levi Kreis and  Helen Hayes Award winners E. Faye Butler and Nova Y. Payton head up the cast in this classic revue.
Smokey Joe’s Café – The Songs of Leiber and Stoller will be at Arena Stage from April 25 until June 8. Southwest night will be Tuesday, May 27, at 7:30pm. Southwest DC residents may buy discounted tickets for specially designated performances of each production. Tickets are $35 for musicals and $25 for non-musicals, plus fees. Proof of Southwest DC residency or employment for each member of the party must be presented at the time of purchase. Tickets are limited to four per person and are based on availability. Sales Office at 1101 6th St SW.

Smokey Joe’s special events include:

WHAT: Mother’s Day Brunch & Matinee
WHEN: Sunday, May 11 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.drama
This brunch and a matinee performance  of Smokey Joe’s Café  starts off with a delicious spread including golden brown frittatas, savory smoked salmon, and petite french pastries. 
COST: $42 per person includes unlimited buffet and two beverages. To make a brunch reservation visit arenastage.org/shows-tickets/the-season/productions/smokey-joes-cafe/events/.
WHAT: Piano Bar—Wednesday, May 21 following the 7:30 p.m. performance & Friday, June 6 following the 8:00 p.m. performance
COST:  free, no ticket necessary during the run of Smokey Joe’s Café. Grab a drink and gather ‘round the piano for show tunes hosted by Joshua Morgan with special guests in the Grand Lobby. 
WHAT:  Post-Show Conversations with artists and staff on May 7, 13 & 14 following the noon matinee; May 15 following the 8:00 p.m. performance; and May 20 following the 7:30 p.m. performance.
By: Sheila Wickouski

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