Saturday, March 17, 2007

ON STAGE Russell Peters: Bringing You an Indo Perspective . . . and a Hurting The hilarious Canadian comic, who is of Anglo-Indian descent, might not be a household name. But his goofy, fratboyesque observations on the life of immigrants and their offspring, which he delivers with accents and all -- reminding us of Margaret Cho -- is super-popular with the South Asian set. And it's clearly catching on (Peters's camp even contends that he was the first South Asian to headline and sell out New York's Apollo Theater). On tour just as his new DVD, "Outsourced," is released, he's playing two dates at the Lisner next month. $42.75. April 21-22, 8 p.m. 730 21st St. NW. 301-808-6900.

LITERATURE How Do We Love Thee, Jimi Hendrix? Let Us Count the Ways The editor and authors behind "Kiss the Sky: Fiction and Poetry Starring Jimi Hendrix" will read from the new anthology and celebrate the memory and mystique of the late superstar guitarist. After the reading, there will be a reception, book signing and raffle. Free. March 24, 7:30 p.m. The Writer's Center, 4508 Walsh St., Bethesda. 301-654-8664 or http://www.writer.org to register.

THE SCENE Who Said the Colonies Didn't Know How to Get Down? Gadsby's Tavern Museum will throw its third annual Great Rum Punch Challenge, a bash that celebrates the drink common 200 years ago, when the rum flowed more freely than beer and wine simply because it was cheaper. It's a competition, with local distilleries and restaurants producing six punches; you sip liberally, then vote for your faves. Heavy hors d'oeuvres are served, and there will also be a silent auction. $50 (or $100 for patron admission, which includes a goody bag). 7-9:30 p.m. March 24. Gadsby's Tavern Museum, 134 N. Royal St., Alexandria. Reservations are required; call 703-838-4242.

THE SCENE Pups and Prada The Washington Humane Society hosts its first fundraising fashion show -- complete with dogs and Washington's somewhat illustrious set modeling clothes -- April 14 at the French Embassy. With models including Philippe Cousteau and "The Apprentice" participant Aaron Altscher, it's kind of cheesy, but for a good cause: the society's plan to find homes for 100 percent of animals entering the shelter by 2010. $55. 7 p.m. 4101 Reservoir Rd. NW. 202-723-5730, Ext. 204.