Grounded - Kennedy Center - Washington DC
This week I attended the world premiere of Grounded at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC. Grounded was an avant-garde, modern opera about the military and its psychological impact on a female fighter/drone pilot. I found it was quite provocative and not for everyone. However, the Kennedy Center was spectacular and I can’t wait to return for another performance.
Quality of Entertainment
On my visit to the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington DC I attended a Sunday matinee of the world premiere of the opera Grounded. I learned that it was the new operatic adaptation of a play. It followed the life and psychology of a female pilot in the US Air Force. She goes through several terms of duty as well as having a child and struggling mentally with the weight of her work as well as her family. It touches on the topics of PTSD, feminism, motherhood, and war, among others.
I enjoyed the unusual modern set the production used. It involved three massive LED screens: one on the floor, ceiling, and background. They surrounded the performers and were able to produce interesting effects and nearly instantaneous set changes. Additionally, I thought the performers were quite skilled. I enjoyed seeing how the changes in the leading lady’s psychology were artistically translated into the sets and extras.
On the other hand, I thought it was a very strange production. I do not think it is for everyone. The juxtaposition of the military with its foul language, gruff manners, and utilitarian attire onto the mediums of opera and choreography was quite provocative. Though I appreciated it for being unique and interesting, I can’t say I liked it. Additionally, none of the songs stood out to me as a show stopper that I would love to hear again afterward. They seemed to blend together.
Overall, I think it was a high-quality performance with a wonderful and innovative set. It was definitely a unique an avant-garde production. I think people who are interested in military history, psychology, etc. may have a greater appreciation for it. However, I do not recommend Grounded to the average person and definitely not children.
Who Goes Here?
There were a variety of adults and elders at the opera. For a Sunday matinee opera people seemed to be dressed business causal, or in their Sunday best.
Venue
The Kennedy Center is a monumental concert venue in Washington DC. The enormous building houses three full sized venues: Opera House, Concert Hall, and Eisenhower Theater. Between each venue are vast corridors that house the ticket offices, gift shops, refreshment sales, lobby space, and art exhibits. There is a massive parking garage underneath the Kennedy center available for parking. Additionally, there is a huge outdoor balcony spanning the building which includes green spaces and overlooks a stunning view of the Potomac River.
Organization & Cleanliness
The Kennedy Center is immaculate. Everything is clean and perfectly shined. The red velvet upholstery seemingly coating the theater was well cared for and looked brand new. Staff were available throughout all the floors to provide security and help guests find their seats. It was well organized. Though I think they could have used some additional signage indicating where the ticket office was considering there are multiple halls and it was a bit confusing.
Refreshments
The Kennedy Center does offer refreshments for guests. There a refreshment stands in lobby outside of the theater which offer snacks, light meals such as salads and sandwiches, and a full bar. Drinks are served in a sealable sippy cup to prevent spills in the theater. Additionally, there is a fine dining restaurant available on the rooftop of the Kennedy Center. Reservations are recommended and it is quite pricy.
Venue Overall
Overall, I found the Kennedy Center is a splendid building. The décor and overall condition of the building is opulent and pristine. The halls are so incredibly massive that nothing feels crowded and everything feels airy and the halls are awe inspiring. I found the parking garage was clean, well lit, and felt safe. I like that it is part of the building so it has safe direct access to the theaters. Also, the view is spectacular. The combination of the splendor of the building and the well organized staff create an experience that feels safe, comfortable, and sophisticated.
Location
The Kennedy Center is located in downtown Washington DC. Because of this, it is a bit challenging to navigate the tight roads and traffic to get to it. However, once you arrive, the location is stunning. It overlooks a bend in the Potomac River. The Kennedy center offers a very nice parking garage at $25 per visit. Though the center offers refreshments and a restaurant within it walls, there are not any restaurants directly around it. However, there is a very nice walking trail along the river which you can take to walk 5-10 min down the street to the Georgetown area. Georgetown offers a wide variety of very nice restaurants, though they are on the pricier end.
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Summary
Overall, I had a great afternoon seeing Grounded at the Kennedy Center. I do not think I recommend Grounded for the average person. However, an avid theater goer or a military enthusiast may enjoy it. However, I would recommend going to a production at the Kennedy Center to anyone. It is a spectacular building with safe parking, ample refreshments, beautiful views, and stunning theaters.
