Set in present-day Georgetown, Shear Madness engages locals and visitors alike as armchair detectives to help solve the scissor-stabbing murder of a famed concert pianist who lives above the Shear Madness unisex hairstyling salon. The show combines up-to-the-minute improvisational humor and a mixture of audience sleuthing to deliver a unique performance each night.

See your magic. Tell your story.

It’s not easy to take those first steps into a place where nobody really knows you yet…but somehow you do it. And that new place opens itself up to make some space for you. This world premiere commissioned musical is based on one of Kennedy Center Education Artist-in-Residence Jacqueline Woodson’s most popular picture books, a #1 New York Times bestseller illustrated by Rafael López. Adapted by Woodson with music and lyrics by Toshi Reagon, direction by Charlotte Brathwaite, and puppetry design and direction by Emma Wiseman, The Day You Begin is a poignant and heartening musical about finding courage to make new friends, hear new stories, and see your own magic in the world.

This production is suitable for all ages—children, teens, and adults alike—but best suited for ages 7–12. However, you know your kids best! We trust your discretion when attending Kennedy Center shows.