Can't Miss Summer Events in the Bethesda Area

Garbage Critters and Trash Tapestries

July 15-Aug. 21

Eric Celarier’s show Trash at VisArts features curious and whimsical creatures from his “Alternative Evolution” series. The Silver Spring artist assembles these strange yet somewhat familiar looking “life forms” from pieces of garbage, such as broken remote controls, discarded lamps and old razors. The idea is to portray imaginary creatures who have adapted to and evolved from a world irrevocably changed and shaped by human interaction. Also on display will be items from his “Wasteland” series, in which he sews
together used circuit boards and innards of old electronics to create tapestries. There will be an opening reception from
7 to 9 p.m. on July 22. The artist will hold a workshop for participants of all ages to make their own creations out of trash at 2 p.m. on July 31 ($10, registration required).

VisArts at Rockville, free, www.visartsatrockville.org

Summer Screenings

July 26-30, Aug. 20-22

Outdoor movies have become a seasonal tradition. In July, the Bethesda Urban Partnership presents five nights of films alfresco during its Bethesda Outdoor Movies series. This summer’s films are Pretty in Pink, Manhattan Murder Mystery, Brooklyn, My Big Fat Greek Wedding and Creed. In August, the Comcast Xfinity Outdoor Film Festival features Star Wars: Episode V—The Empire Strikes Back, Minions and The Wizard of Oz. The festival has changed locations several times, but returns to Strathmore this year.

Bethesda Outdoor Movies, 9 p.m., July 26-30, corner of Norfolk and Auburn avenues, free, www.bethesda.org

Comcast Xfinity Outdoor Film Festival, gates open at 7:30 p.m., films start at 9 p.m., Aug. 20-22, Gudelsky Gazebo at Strathmore, free, www.strathmore.org

Uptown Funk

July 29

Much like the seemingly endless percussive beat of the music he created, Chuck Brown’s legacy as the Washington, D.C., godfather of go-go continues on and on. The musician credited with founding the District’s homegrown dance music, born of funk and soul, died in 2012, but his band is still playing, keeping the music and the memory with us. Led by vocalist and guitarist Frank Sirius, The Chuck Brown Band includes several of the performers who toured with Brown. They strive to keep Brown’s music relevant by playing old favorites and new songs.

8 p.m. at Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club, $25, www.bethesdabluesandjazz.com

Reggae Reunion

Aug. 19

British pop-reggae group UB40 was famous in the 1980s and ’90s for its Jamaican-influenced covers of “Red Red Wine” and “(I Can’t Help) Falling in Love With You.” The band lasted with its original lineup from 1979 to 2008. Founding members Ali Campbell, Astro and Mickey Virtue reunited a few years ago, and for their 2014 album, Silhouette, they returned to their tried-and-true formula of reggaefied covers—such as a version of the Beatles’ “Any Time At All”—and originals. Expect a mix of new tunes and old songs that hearken back to the band’s heyday.

8 p.m. at The Music Center at Strathmore, $30-$75, www.strathmore.org

Paying Tribute

Tribute bands are not the real thing, but they often come close. This summer offers lots of acts honoring musical gian