C.A.T.S., Capitol Area Troubadour Society
a film by Adrian Salsgiver (a work in progress)




Starring Raycurt L. Johnson, Founder
of the Capitol Area Troubadour Society, (C.A.T.S.)

This film will document the struggles of musicians who play in the subway
(Metrorail System) in Washington, DC and the life and times of the
Founder of the Capitol Area Troubadour Society, Raycurt Lemuel Johnson.




The star of C.A.T.S. is Raycurt, violinist, violist and vocalist.
Raycurt is classically trained, internationally traveled and a native
of the Nation's Capital, Washington, DC.


Raycurt in Germany, 2005

The film will feature various performances by Mr. Johnson, including AM and PM
rush hours in Washington, DC in and around the Metrorail System.
These performances will include duets, trios, etc., with local musicians.
Also, C.A.T.S. will showcase Mr. Johnson in non-Metrorail performances.
This is to establish that Raycurt Johnson is a very talented artist.

The District of Columbia City Council has prohibited certain acts within the confines
of a Metrorail station. The playing of any musical instrument (whether for the purpose
of soliciting donations or otherwise) in a Metrorail station is a violation of D.C. Code
Sec. 35-251(b)(5) (2001 ed.). The statute defines a Metrorail station to include the
fare-paid areas and any roofed areas of rail transit stations.

Musicians who play in and around the Washington, DC Metrorail are often chased away
by Station Managers, ticketed by police and face various other hazards.
Some people see them as a nuisance on the level of homeless alcoholic beggars.
But these musicians are not beggars.

These musicians bring live music to weary and hurried commuters who gratefully and
often generously tip. In C.A.T.S., these commuters will voice their opinions and
tell what they like and don’t like and why.

Interviews will include commuters, musicians, members of the Metro Board and
various city officials, among others.


Can unfair, unconstitutional, unreasonable and inhuman laws be changed?

C.A.T.S. will explore the possibilities and document the current situation.

C.A.T.S. Discussion and Information Group:
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/dctroubadours/