February guide to the Arts

Mount Vernon remembers

Beginning Feb. 1, Mount Vernon commemorates Black History Month by remembering the many slaves who built and operated the estate. Each day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., interpreters at the slave quarters will educate visitors on the slaves’ contributions. A wreath-laying and presentation at the Slave Memorial on the grounds will take place every day at noon. The commemoration runs through Feb. 28. South end of George Washington Memorial Parkway. Admission ranges from $6 to $13; children under 5 are admitted free. 703/780-2000.

South American ballet

The Washington Ballet travels to Latin and South America for its newest production, “Noche Latina!” which hits the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater next Wednesday and runs through Feb. 4. The work pays tribute to Artistic Director Septime Webre’s native Cuba and also explores Argentinean tango, Brazilian samba and bossa nova and Mexican folk music and banda. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 and 2, 2:30 and 8 p.m. Feb. 3 and 2:30 p.m. Feb. 4. Tickets range from $19 to $115. F Street and New Hampshire Avenue Northwest. 202/467-4600.

JT’s night

After his breakout solo debut, “Justified,” Justin Timberlake is ruling the airwaves once again with hits from his second release. “Future Sex/Love Sounds.” The one-time boy-band star brings his nationwide tour, which comes complete with a full band, multiple stages and dancing, to the Verizon Center on Feb. 2. Tickets range from $56 to $95. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. 601 F St., NW. 202/397-SEAT.

Circus with a twist

Cirque Eloize blends traditional gymnastics, high-flying circus acts, theatrical lighting and a soulful soundtrack for its new production “Rain,” which plays three shows at the George Mason University Center for the Arts on Feb. 2 and 3. The Quebec-based company has performed to sold-out audiences around the world, and this year’s production promises no less. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Feb. 2, and 2 and 8 p.m Feb. 3. Tickets are $22 to $44. 4400 University Drive, Fairfax. 888/945-2468.

Korans illuminated

The Walters Museum sheds light on Islam’s holy book, the Koran, with its new exhibit, “Speaking the Word of God: Illuminated Korans from the Walters Art Museum,” which opens on Feb. 3. The show features 22 Korans dating from the ninth to the 19th century. It will run through April 29. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, with extended hours to 8 p.m. on Friday. Admission is free. 600 North Charles St., Baltimore. 410/547-9000.

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