This weekend, you can become an expert in Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar,” a Flip Cup World Series champion and a National Gallery of Art-certified artist.

Well, you better get started.

Thursday

Brews & Banter at Folger Theatre: What motivated Shakespeare to write “Julius Caesar?” Why is it important? And what in the world is the “Ides of March?” Find out at Folger Theatre’s new series, “Brews & Banter,” a pre-show discussion where patrons get a behind-the-scenes look at current plays on the Folger stage. Thursday’s discussion will center on the theater’s production of Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” over beer and snacks (goblet not included). Helen Hayes Award-winning actor Louis Butelli, who plays the role of Cassius, will lead the discussion, so have your questions about the famous political tragedy ready.
Folger Theatre, 201 East Capitol St. SE. 6:30 p.m. $15

Wayward Broads: Art Show and Opening Night Party: “Wayward Broads” presents 18 art screen prints based on literary, historical and mythological depictions of women, which will be displayed at the Adams Morgan coffeehouse Tryst for one month beginning Nov. 4. The works are by local artist Heidi Phelps, who uses evocative, intricate prints to highlight the ways women like Joan of Arc have been both praised and condemned for acting against the status quo. Stop by the reception Thursday for drink specials and complimentary hors d’oeuvres while you contemplate Phelp’s newest creations.
Tryst, 2459 18th St. NW. 7 p.m. Free.

Friday

FOTOWEEKDC Opening Party: The seventh annual FOTOWEEKDC kicks off Friday with an opening party featuring everything you ever really wanted in an art show: Live entertainment by Haerts and Pleasure Curses, an open bar, photobooths, bites from Farmers Fishers Bakers and GRK and the latest and greatest in photography, from the White House News Photographers Association’s “The Eyes of History” to this year’s FotoWeek contest winners. Oh, and you’ll also be donating to the nonprofit FotoWeekDC.
FotoWeekCentral at The Former Spanish Ambassador’s Residence, 2801 16th St. NW. 7:30 to 11 p.m. Tickets $55 week of, $65 day of. This is a 21+ event.

Guerrilla Queer Bar: Once a month, The Welcoming Committee brings together hundreds of members of the LGBT community to take over a traditionally straight bar for one night, and aptly calls the event “Guerrilla Queer Bar.” Their mission? To support the LGBT community in the area and use “takeovers” to experience the entire city, and not feel restricted to gay bars.
Venue will be announced the day before the event. 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. $5. This is a 21+ event.

Saturday

Drawing Salon at the National Gallery of Art: Perfect your sketching skills at the National Gallery of Art’s monthly workshop, where practicing artists and museum educators lead a discussion and sketching session based on works from the museum’s collection. This month’s topic is Venetian painter Titian, known for his portraits. The session is free, and all art materials are provided. Make sure to complete the required registration online.
National Gallery of Art, Sixth Street and Constitution Avenue NW. 1 to 3:30 p.m. Free, registration required.

World Series of Flip Cup: It might not come as a surprise that the ninth annual World Series of Flip Cup tournament will be held at Foggy Bottom bar McFadden’s. But did you know players get unlimited beer with registration? Register your team of six to eight players ($40 per player) online and face off against other self-proclaimed champs of America’s favorite drinking game. If you want to join a team but skip the alcohol, don’t worry – participants are encouraged to use water during the game.
McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon, 2401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. 1 to 5 p.m. $40 per player. This is a 21+ event.

Sunday

Mansions on the Moon at The Hamilton: Emerging songwriting trio Mansions on the Moon fuses electronic, indie pop and ambient rock sounds, creating a unique blend of influences. Since forming three years ago, the group has toured with artists like Mac Miller and Wiz Khalifa, released a mixtape with Diplo and produced Mac Miller’s chart-topping track “PA Nights.” Catch the group, which released a self-titled album just last month, at The Hamilton. The Walking Sticks will open.
The Hamilton Live, 600 14th St. NW. 6:30 p.m. doors, 7:30 p.m. show. Tickets $14 to $17.

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Rusko at U Street Music Hall: Ambient rock not your style? Head to U Street Music Hall to hear dubstep artist Rusko’s upbeat, raunchy sounds. The English artist, known for tracks with bass-heavy beats and stabs of synth like “Cockney Thug” and “Woo Boost,” recently released his latest EP, “!” Smalltown DJs and Mathias will open.
U Street Music Hall, 1115 U St. NW. 10:15 p.m. $20.

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