Day-By-Day Events, Performance, Performance for Young People, Radio, Art/Photography, HIV Testing. Plus spotlight on Bunnies and Jungle.
March Day-By-Day • Planning Ahead • Performing Arts • Performing Arts for Young People • Radio • Art/Photography • HIV Testing
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Spotlight:
Weekend Warriors
For the party-minded, Easter weekend every year means a marathon of revels that are massive in size and powerfully effective in raising funds for the fight against AIDS and other GLBT causes. First comes Jungle (left, photo from the 2007 event), a weekend of circuit parties hosted by Bayou City Boys Club. The Jungle dance-fests raise money for HIV/AIDS service organizations, which this year includes Bering Omega Community Services. Over the past 15 years, BCBC has raked in more than $840,000 for the cause.
The long weekend of uninhibited dance and altruism takes place at Meteor, Warehouse Live, Next, and South Beach. March 20-23. Tickets: $50 in advance general admission ($60 at the door); $130-$230 weekend pass. Details, reservations: www.junglehouston.com.
Bunnies on the Bayou, which picks up on Easter Sunday afternoon, began in 1979 as a small gathering at a Montrose apartment complex. The huge afternoon cocktail party (photo from 2007, right) now takes place downtown on the outdoor plaza adjacent to Wortham Center. Beneficiary organizations for 2008 include Lazarus House. Bunnies has raised $550,000 for the community to date. March 23. Tickets: $25 general admission; $125 VIPeep. Details, reservations: www.bunniesonthebayou.org.
OutSmart is a media sponsor for Jungle 16 and Bunnies on the Bayou 29.
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March DAY BY DAY
(see also March Weekly and Monthly)
8 & 9 (Sat. & Sun.)
With Global Warming, Environmentalism Is Cool. The global warming documentary Everything’s Cool tracks a group of global-warming messengers on a high-stakes quest to finally create the political will to move the United States from its reliance on fossil fuels to the new clean energy economy. As part of an incentive to encourage alternative transportation methods, the first 50 patrons to each screening that bike, walk, carpool, or take public transit will receive complimentary gift bags with eco-friendly rewards from Whole Foods Market, Green Mountain Energy, Clif Bars, and Seventh Generation. $6. 8 pm Saturday and 3 pm Sunday at Aurora Picture Show, 800 Aurora St. Info/reservations: 713/868-2101 or www.aurorapictureshow.org.
9 (Sun.)
So Percussion. The entire family is invited to feel the rhythm (it is gonna get you anyway, after all) of this interactive percussion group. Young minds are introduced to percussion instruments via short classical and contemporary pieces and Q&A with the musicians. Free. 3 pm at The Jewish Community Center, 5601 Braeswood. More info: 713/524-5050 or www.dacamera.com.
9 (Sun.)
Arias from Messiah. Several Dancers Core presents an artistic collaboration between its dance company, CORE Performance Company, and Mercury Baroque. The melding of contemporary dance and Baroque music results in a reflective work particularly appropriate for the Easter season. A reception follows the performance where the audience will have a chance to have champagne/coffee and dessert with the artists. $25, $20 for students, seniors, and working artists. 7 pm at the Historic Magnolia Ballroom, 715 Franklin at Milam. Info/reservations: 713/862-5530 or www.severaldancerscore.org.
15 (Sat.)
Poesia Para Los Gentes. The Flamenco Poets Society presents The Poetry of Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz and Lucha Corpi , a reading in English and Spanish by Julietta Parra Ducote. Free. 4 pm at the Freed Montrose Public Library, 4100 Montrose Blvd. More info: 713/520-9364 or www.theflamencopoetssociety.org.
15 (and May 3) (Sat.)
Meals on Wheels. The Bayou City Outdoors’ Farmers Market Ride not only advocates a healthy lifestyle through cycling, but by also encouraging the purchase of fresh, locally grown produce. Grab your bike, snap on your helmet, strap on your backpack, roll with the gang to three or five area farmers markets, and stuff your rucksack with all sorts of goodies. The tour uses side streets, trails, and residential roads for this approximately 15-mile, three-hour ride including generous stops. Tour begins at 8 am with coffee at Onion Creek, 3106 White Oak Blvd. More info: 713/524-3567, [email protected], or www.BayouCityOutdoors.com.
19 (Sun.)
Crush AIDS Underfoot. AIDS Foundation Houston (AFH), Inc. encourages you to lace up those kicks and hoof it at the 19th Annual AIDS Walk Houston. AFH hopes to raise $1 million at this year’s Walk. Check-in at 8 am, opening ceremonies at 9 am, and the walk begins at 10 am, all at Sam Houston Park, 1000 Bagby St. Info: 713/403-WALK (9255) or www.AIDSWalkHouston.org.
27 (Thur.)
Tux & Tennies. The Clutch City Foundation hosts its annual Tux & Tennies Charity Gala, benefiting the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation. Proceeds will help build Phase II of the Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire). Join members of the Rockets, coaches, and members of the executive management team in a night of fine dining, dancing, live and silent auction, and a tribute to 1960s Motown. 6:30 pm at the Toyota Center, 1510 Polk St. Information and reservations: 713/758-7302 or www.rockets.com.
28 (Fri.)
Modern Musical Pieces for Classic Peace. The Foundation for Modern Music (FMM) joins the Musicians’ Alliance for Peace in observation of Music for Peace weekend with a provocative evening of modern chamber music. Pianist and FMM artistic director Adam Tendler (who is openly gay) premieres his piece, “Autumn Lines” for amplified pianist, in which he recites the works of poet Li Po. Among the other composers is John Cage, who also led an intriguing gay life. Expect a night of deep reflection befitting of the Rothko Chapel’s minimalist design. Free. 7:30 pm at Rothko Chapel, 1406 Sul Ross at Yupon. More info: 713/524-9839 or www.rothkochapel.org.
29 (Sat.)
Rome If You Want to Rome Around the World. Ars Lyrica Houston presents “When in Rome,” the music of rarely heard 17th-century Roman composers in collaboration with the Moores School of Music Collegium Musicum. The evening features Giocomo Carissimi’s vivid oratorio on the story of Jonah and the whale. $25, $20 for seniors, $15 for students/groups. 7:30 pm at St. Philip Presbyterian Church. Info/reservations: www.arslyricahouston.org.
29 (Sat.)
An Evening With Leonard Pitts. If you are a regular reader of his column in the Houston Chronicle , you know that the three words “By Leonard Pitts” are invariably followed by some of the most thought-provoking commentary in modern journalism. In awarding him its 2004 Prize for Commentary, the Pulitzer Board said that “his fresh, vibrant columns speak, with both passion and compassion, to ordinary people on often diverse issues.” In addition to his syndicated column, Pitts is also the author of the bestselling book Becoming Dad: Black Men and the Journey to Fatherhood . 7 pm at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 5501 S. Main. Ticket info: www.firstuu.org or 713/526-5200.
29 (Sat.)
Assertive But Not Threatening? Licensed professional counselor/therapist Denise O’Doherty, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, RN, leads “Assert Yourself—Personal Boundaries and Effective Confrontation,” a two-hour workshop guiding you through effectively navigating your way through confrontations without feeling overly aggressive or manipulated. $30. 10 am–noon, at Unitarian Universalist Church, 1900 Bering Dr. Info/reservations: 713/529-4414 or www.llu.com.
29 & 30 (Sat. & Sun.)
Li’l Indiana Jones and His Wee Raiders of the Lost Ark. In 1981, three 12-year-old friends saw Raiders of the Lost Ark together. So moved by their cinematic experience, the three pals decided to reshoot it themselves, shot-for-shot. Six years later, they were done. What amazes viewers is their ability to do just that. The huge rolling boulder is there, live snakes writhe in one scene, characters refer to an actual 1936 copy of Life magazine, a truck is set ablaze…. Granted a puppy fills in for a monkey in one scene, but you get the idea. 6 pm Saturday and 3 pm Sunday at Aurora Picture Show, 800 Aurora St. Info/reservations: 713/868-2101 or www.aurorapictureshow.org.
Weekly (Mondays)
TG Support Group. The transgender support group, “HTGA,” is open to any transgender-identifying individual, friend, or family member. Free. 7-9 pm at the Haven’s Center, 1827 W. Alabama. More info: 713/526-0027 x 228 (ask for Cristan) or www.transhouston.com.
Grab Yer Partner, Doh-Si-Doh. The rhythmically awkward are welcome here. Have some fun gittin’ fit with non-strenuous aerobic square dancing. No partner required. Casual dress. $5. 7-9 pm at Eldridge Park Community Center, 2511 Eldridge Rd., Sugar Land. Please call ahead to verify time and place: Jan, 281/498-5301. More info: [email protected].
Weekly (Thursdays)
TG Potluck Social. The “Transgender Potluck Social” offers friendship, support, fellowship, and a hot meal to transgender-identifying individuals, friends, and family. Please remember to bring food to share. Free. 7-9 pm, at the GLBT Community Center, 3400 Montrose, Ste. 207. More info: 713/526-0027 x 228 (ask for Cristan) or www.transhouston.com.
Depression & Bipolar Support Group. Don’t let depression or bipolar disorder dig its bleak claws into what little hope you’ve managed to hide from the shadows. Bering Support Network helps those in need to connect with others who are learning to cope. You are not alone and can benefit from the experience of others. Take a step away from the dark. GLBT friendly. Free. Groups meet at Bering Memorial United Methodist Church, 1440 Harold, Room 232, 7:15-8:30 pm. Info: 713/526-1018.
Weekly (Sun., Wed., Sat.)
Love and Rackets. Tennis players and enthusiasts of all levels are invited to join the Houston Tennis Club at Memorial Park tennis center. The club gathers Sundays from 9 am-noon, Wednesdays from 7:30-9 pm, and offers clinics every Saturday from 9-10:30 am. There are also social activities throughout the year. Annual membership $30, court fees $3 per session. More info: www.houstontennisclub.org
Semi-monthly (Wednesdays)
The D Word (Dinner). Come for a meal, stay for the camaraderie. The Lesbian Dinner Group welcomes womyn to build new friendships, enjoy conversation, network, and have a few laughs over an appetizing repast. Singles and couples welcome. The 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month, 7:30 pm, at Café Express, 1422 West Gray. More information: [email protected].
Monthly (Saturdays)
Second Saturdays at Winter St. Studios. It’s open-door policy at Winter St. Studios every second Saturday of the month (this month July 14). This is a great way to meet and hang with the varied artists working in many different media and styles in their studios. Participating artists have a large red dot on or near the door of their studio. All are welcome between 1 and 6 pm. At Winter St. Studios, 2101 Winter St. More information: 713/862-0082 or www.winterstreetstudios.net.
Monthly (Every 4th Saturday)
FTM TG Support Group. The Female-To-Male transgender support group, “STAG,” welcomes all female-to-male transgender-identifying individuals, friends, and family members. All new attendees must first contact Georges prior to attending. Free. 5-6 pm. More information (including location): 713/526-0027 x 228 (ask for Georges) or www.transhouston.com.
Monthly (Every 4th Saturday)
TG Support Group. The transsexual support group, “TATS,” welcomes all transsexual-identifying individuals, friends, and family members. All new attendees must first contact the Cristan prior to attending. Free. 4 to 5 pm. More information (including location): 713/526-0027 x 228 (ask for Cristan) or www.transhouston.com.
Monthly (Saturdays)
Danseparc. DJ’s Michael, Shoe, and Stacey (the latter two being openly gay) resolve to keep the grooves spinning in ’08 with an eclectic, exhilarating mix of punk and post-punk, electro-pop, new wave and indie, and more. 9:30 pm-2 am at Numbers, 300 Westheimer. $5, $3 until 11 pm. $1 draft beers and $2 wells all night. More information: www.myspace.com/danseparc.
Monthly (Saturdays)
Danseparc. DJ’s Michael, Shoe, and Stacey (the latter two being openly gay) resolve to keep the grooves spinning in ’08 with an eclectic, exhilarating mix of punk and post-punk, electro-pop, new wave and indie, and more. 9:30 pm-2 am at Numbers, 300 Westheimer. $5, $3 until 11 pm. $1 draft beers and $2 wells all night. More information: www.myspace.com/danseparc.
Monthly (Sundays)
Read On. Want to spend at least one afternoon each month sharing with other titillating women like yourself? The Exchange meets the first Sunday of each month, 2 p.m. at Baba Yega Restaurant. Bring your favorite nonfiction and/or fiction to this new book club to ruminate, and even cogitate, in public. Details: [email protected].
Monthly (Sundays)
Liberal Bible 101. If you’ve had enough of biblical quotes hurled your way without any form of theological reply, this is the discussion group for you. Resident scholar Laura Emerson teaches biblical literacy from a liberal point of view. Each class addresses a singular point, covering the Old Testament this Fall and the New in the Spring. This month’s discussion: the three versions of the Ten Commandments. Third Sunday of each month (the 18th this month), 10-11 am, at Emerson Unitarian Universalist Church, 1900 Bering Dr. Info: 713/782-8250 or (for curriculum/suggested readings) www.emersonhouston.org/about/adultEd.html.
The Houston SPCA Pet Loss Support Group provides a professionally facilitated, supportive, and safe environment for people to grieve the loss of a beloved companion. Free. First Tuesday of the month, 7 pm, at the Houston SPCA, 900 Portway Dr. Info: 713/869-7722, ext. 127, or www.houstonspca.org.
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PLANNING AHEAD
April 2 (Wed.)
The High School for the Performing and Visual Arts Big Band. The workaday schedule of life can sometimes get the best of you. Battle the blahs of mundanity with a little musical inspiration, courtesy of Da Camera’s lunchtime performance series, A Little Day Music. Grab some lunch-to-go and observe Jazz Appreciation Month with HSPVA’s talented band. And stick around to win tix to an upcoming Da Camera concert. Free. Noon in the Grand Foyer, Wortham Theater Center, Texas at Smith. More info: 713/524-5050 or www.dacamera.com.
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PERFORMING ARTS
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Six young awkward pubescents and a group of childish adults learn that winning isn’t everything and that losing doesn’t mean you’re a loser. This Tony Award-winning musical comedy offers willing audience members the opportunity to become part of the action as on-stage spellers. $29–$93. March 25–April 6 at the Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. Info/reservations: 713/558-8887, 888/558-3882, or www.tuts.com.
Arias from Messiah. Several Dancers Core presents an artistic collaboration between its dance company, CORE Performance Company, and Mercury Baroque with George Frideric Handel’s master work to create an intimate and passionate performance. A reception follows where the audience may join the artists for champagne, coffee, and dessert. $25, $20 for students, seniors, and working artists. March 9, 7 pm, at the Historic Magnolia Ballroom, 715 Franklin at Milam. Info/reservations: 713/862-5530, 800/838-3006, or www.severaldancerscore.org.
Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park. Over 300 visual and performing artists transform the park into a world of art and beauty. Look for a pianist courtesy of Broadway Across America performing selections from Sweeney Todd and The Wedding Singer . And don’t forget to treat the kids to the on-site “Creative Zone,” an interactive area where kids and fams can participate in mask-making, face-painting, mini art-car building, and more. And then there are the endless refreshment stands. $10, free for children 12 and under. March 28–30, 10 am–6 pm at Memorial Park. Info: 713/521-0133 or www.bayoucityartfestival.com.
Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company. Dramatic lighting effects, spoken word, song, and, mainly, dance pervade Jones’ stunning recital. Three haunting stories are pieced together in this impassioned piece. March 28, 8 pm, at Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana St. Info/reservations: 713/227-4772 or www.spahouston.org. See interview with Jones on page 77.
Chris Botti. The trumpeter/composer fills downtown Houston with his sensual, atmospheric treatment of standards like “When I Fall in Love” and “Funny Valentine.” $28–$106. March 20–22, 8 pm, at Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana St. Info/reservations: 713/224-7575 or www.HoustonSymphony.org.
Cinderella. In Stanton Welch’s take on the classic, our beloved heroine is no underdog, but a strong-willed tomboy who takes no guff from her stepsisters and stepmother. And when she finds love, this tough broad holds on with both hands. Oh, and she dances, too. The production features lavish scenery and spectacular costumes by the New Zealand designer Kristian Fredrikson. March 6, 8, 14, and 15 at 7:30 pm and March 9, 15, and 16 at 2 pm at the Wortham’s Brown Theater, 501 Texas Ave. at Smith. Info/reservations: 713/227-2787, 800/828-2787, or www.houstonballet.org.
Crossroads. Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show’s train derails just outside a sleepy Texas town. Wake up and smell the wackiness in this new musical. Through March 23 at Clear Creek Community Theatre, 18091 Upper Bay Rd. in the Nassau Bay Shopping Village. Reservations/info: 281/335-5228 or www.ClearCreekCountryTheatre.org.
Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Block-Head. Whatever became of Charlie Brown after Snoopy died? Did Peppermint Patty really grow up lesbian? Is Linus controlled by OCD? This irreverent look at the classic Peanuts characters envisions the gang as young adults. $20. Through March 22 at Silver House Theatre, 1107 Chartres St. Info/reservations: 281/312-9379 or www.u-p.org.
Exiles in Paris, Part 2: Les Noces and Ballet Mécanique. The follow-up to February’s La Belle Epoque , at Zilkha Hall, the second part of this two-part mini-fete celebrates the melding of media, music, literature, and art as contributed by the many talented artists who took residence in Paris from 1900–1939. Among the brilliant minds celebrated in this production is the turn-of-the-century lesbian author/poet Gertrude Stein. Works on the roster include Les Noces (scored for four pianos, chorus, and percussion), Ballet Mécanique , which puts sirens, airplane propellers, and electric bells on stage with pianos and percussion instruments, and Stravinksy’s Four Russian Peasant Songs and Concerto for two pianos. $22, $32, and $38. March 14, 8 pm, at Cullen Theater, 500 Texas at Smith. Info/reservations: 713/524-5050 or www.dacamera.com.
Hello, Dolly! It’s so nice to have this musical back where it belongs. Leslie Uggams stars as Dolly. $29–$93. Through March 9 at the Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. Info/reservations: 713/558-8887, 888/558-3882, or www.tuts.com. Go to “Hello Randy!” for an OutSmart WEB SPECIAL interview with openly gay Randy Slovacek, Hello, Dolly‘s choreographer.
Jigu—Thunder Drums of China. These propulsive drummers, percussionists, and musicians from the Shanxi Province of China meld traditional and modern musical and visual elements with high-tech lighting and stunning special effects. Free. March 22, 7:30 pm, at Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park, 100 Concert Dr. More info: www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.
Last Acts (A Musical Play in Three Parts). Putting the fun back in dysfunctional, an actress and mother named Madeline struggles to figure out and love her two grown children. Through March 15, 8 pm (March 2 and 9 at 2:30 pm) at the Cullen Theater, 500 Texas Ave. Info/reservations: 713/228-6737 or www.houstongrandopera.org.
McCoy Tyner Trio. The legendary pianist McCoy Tyner has released nearly 80 albums under his name, earned four Grammy Awards and was awarded Jazz Master from the National Endowment for the Arts in 2002. A member of John Coltrane’s great 1960s quartet, McCoy Tyner’s blues-based piano style, replete with sophisticated chords and an explosively percussive left hand, has transcended conventional styles to become one of the most identifiable sounds in improvised music. His harmonic contributions and dramatic rhythmic devices form the vocabulary of a majority of jazz pianists. $26.50–$45. March 29, 8 pm, at Cullen Theater, 500 Texas at Smith. Info/reservations: 713/524-5050 or www.dacamera.com.
Missa Commemorationis U.S. premiere performed by Mercury Baroque. In celebration of the Easter season, Mercury Baroque hosts Matthew White and Canadian singing group Les Voix Baroques for the U.S. premiere of Caldara’s Missa Commemorationis . The evening begins with early Baroque masters Monteverdi, Cavalli, and Schütz and works its way to the title piece. $22–$49. March 28, 8 pm, at the Cullen Theater, 501 Texas Ave. Info/reservations: 832/251-0706 or www.mercurybaroque.org.
The Musical of Musicals (The Musical!). A hilarious musical love-letter to musicals, a single story takes form in five distinctive musical incarnations. The plot is simple: A charming ingénue can’t pay her rent. Menaced by an evil landlord, her only hope lies with a dashing young suitor she believes will come to her rescue and with a helpful older friend who offers her advice and wisdom along the way. The styles in which it is told are Rodgers and Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim, Jerry Herman, Andrew Lloyd Webber, and Kander and Ebb. Parody has never been so tuneful. $25, $20 for students/seniors. Through March 15 at East-end theatre, 2001 Postoffice Street, Galveston. Info/reservations: 409/762-3556 or 877/762-3556.
Noche Caliente. The Diaz Music Institute ushers in this evening of sizzling Latin sounds, featuring Jimmy Bosch, trombonist and musical director for Marc Anthony, and leading exponent of “salsa dura” (hard salsa). Free. March 29, 8 pm, at Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park, 100 Concert Dr. More info: www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.
Othello. Two of Shakespeare’s most complex characters, Othello and Iago, inhabit this tale of suspicion and envy. Not for the faint of heart, this staging involves violence and sexual situations. Tickets start at $21. March 7–30 at the Alley Theatre’s Hubbard Stage, 615 Texas Ave. Info/reservations: 713/220-5700 or www.alleytheatre.org.
The Rat Pack—Live at the Sands. Travel back in time to an audience in the early 1960s, where The Rat Pack legend was born when Frank and Dean spontaneously joined Sammy on stage and, to the surprise and delight of the audience, playfully interrupted his act. On subsequent nights, the three of them were on stage together. There were hi-jinks and horseplay. They crooned, they quipped, and they rolled out the gags right along with their on-stage liquor cart. Swing it with old faves like “My Kinda Town,” “Everybody Loves Somebody Sometime,” and “New York, New York.” $27–$73. March 11–23 at the Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. Info/reservations: 713/629-3700, 888/451-5986, [email protected], www.BroadwayAcross America.com, or www.TheRatPackLiveFromLasVegas.com.
Regrets Only. Paul Rudnick’s comedy, fresh from its New York debut at the Manhattan Theatre Club, asks what might happen if a good friend was asked to help President Bush write a constitutional amendment against gay marriages. It also comically postulates the conditions of a New York City without any gays (would that be like Clute, Texas?). Through March 15, 8 pm, March 2 at 3 pm, at Theatre Southwest, 8944 Clarkcrest. Info/reservations: 713/661-9505.
Spring Soiree: An Intimate House Concert. The Mukuru “Arts for AIDS” Series showcases world-class performances and art to raise funds and awareness for this critical health issue. All proceeds will be matched by the National AIDS Fund benefiting HIV education programs in Houston. This month, Kenneth Gayle, tenor, sings to the accompaniment of Rodney Waters, piano. $75 in advance, $85 at the door. March 14, 6:30 pm, at the home of Lester Sorsby. Info/directions/reservations: 713/623-6796, ext. 278 or www.mukuru.org.
Suicide Kings: In Spite of Everything. It’s the day after a school shooting somewhere in America. Police and school administrators ask themselves, “What went wrong?” Welcome to the latest entry into the emerging genre of hip-hop theater, the dynamic spoken word collective known as Suicide Kings. $15, $10 students, $8 seniors. March 14–15, 8 pm, at DiverseWorks, 1117 East Fwy. Info/reservations: 713/335-3445 or www.diverseworks.org.
Tosca. In Puccini’s popular thriller opera, Tosca is faced with a choice, submit to the overbearing Scarpia, or kill him and kill him good. Oh, those dramatic Italians. $31–$45, $28 for seniors on Thursday and Fridays. March 27–April 5, 7:30 pm, at Opera in the Heights, 1703 Heights Blvd. Info/reservations: 713/861-5303 or www.operaintheheights.org.
Translations. Set in 1833 in a rural community in Ireland, a detachment of the Royal Engineers working on the first British maps of the area are recording the local Gaelic place names and rendering them into English. This simple bureaucratic action of the colonizers has far-reaching personal and cultural effects on the locals. $10–$35. Through March 23 at Main Street Theater–Rice Village, 2540 Times Blvd. Info/reservations: 713/524-6706, www.mainstreettheater.com, or www.ticketweb.com.
Young and Fertle. A class reunion sends members of the Fertle family reminiscing through their favorite moments of the ‘70s. $22. Through May 10 at Radio Music Theatre, 2623 Colquitt. More info: 713/522-7722 or www.radiomusictheatre.com.
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PERFORMING ARTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Dan Zanes and Friends. Dan and his pals step off the screen of Playhouse Disney and fill the stage with their grown-up friendly mix of sea shanties, Broadway tunes, and West Indian folk music. March 8, 11 am and 2 pm, at Cullen Theater, 500 Texas Ave. Info/reservations: 713/227-4772 or www.spahouston.org.
Goodnight Moon. Published in 1947, Goodnight Moon is the classic bedtime story that has become part of our common vernacular (“…cow jumping over the moon.”). See part of the collective unconscious come to life on the stage with this visually stunning production. $11, $9 for children/students. March 8–April 5 at Main Street Theater–Chelsea Market, 4617 Montrose. Info/reservations: 713/524-6706, www.mainstreettheater.com, or www.ticketweb.com.
The Merchant of Venice. Main Street Theater’s Youth Theater Program stages this contemporary version of Shakespeare’s tale of Portia, Bassanio, and the infamous, scheming Shylock. $20, $16 for students/seniors. Through April 11 at Main Street Theater–Rice Village, 2540 Times Blvd. Info/reservations: 713/524-6706, www.mainstreettheater.com, or www.ticketweb.com.
Peter and the Wolf. A.D. Players presents a new musical-theater version of the classic fairy tale with an eclectic score inspired by the famous Prokofiev symphony. Free. March 26–27, 11 am, at Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park, 100 Concert Dr. More info: www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.
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RADIO
After Hours. Sunday mornings, 1-4 am. Featuring the QMZ (Queer Music Zone) with Jimmy Carper. KPFT 90.1 FM, 713/526-5738.
Queer Voices. Mondays, 8-10 pm. Features, news, music, interviews, reviews, and commentary. KPFT 90.1 FM, 713/526-4000.
Reach Out in the Darkness. Houston’s only transgender radio host and her partner present selected music from the ’60s, played like it was in the ’60s, exclusively from vinyl pressings. Every Wednesday morning, 3-6 am, KPFT Pacifica radio (90.1 FM).
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ART/PHOTOGRAPHY
Design Life Now: National Design Triennial. This exhibit presents innovative American designs in a variety of fields, including product design, architecture, furniture, film, graphics, new technologies, animation, science, medicine, and fashion. Through April 20 at the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, 5216 Montrose Blvd. More info: 713/284-8257, 713/284-8250, or www.camh.org.
Form, Color, Illumination: Suzan Frecon Painting. Approximately 10 oil paintings and 30 watercolors ranging from the ’90s to now demonstrate the prowess of this oft-overlooked artist. March 7–May 11 at the Menil Collection, 1515 Sul Ross. More info: 713/525-9400 or www.menil.org.
Lucy’s Legacy: The Hidden Treasures of Ethiopia. Meet Lucy, or at least what’s left of her. The original fossilized remains of this 3.2 million-year-old hominid visit Houston. With 40 percent of her skeleton intact, Lucy’s remains remain the oldest and most complete adult human ancestor fully retrieved from African soil. Over 100 artifacts illuminate the rich heritage of Lucy’s homeland, including fossils, historical manuscripts, and implements of daily use to name a few. $20 adults; $12 kids (3–11)/seniors (62+)/college students. Through April 20 at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle. More info: 713/639-4629 or www.hmns.org.
Making the Unfamiliar Familiar: A Program for High School Students. Twenty students who participated in an ongoing education program at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, are now featured artists themselves. The participating students worked in a studio space at the MFAH. Dominating the exhibition are canine portraits inspired by Best in Show: The Dog in Art and geometric compositions inspired by the work of Brazilian artist Helio Oiticica. $7, $3.50 for kids 6–18/students/seniors. Through June 29 at the Audrey Jones Beck Building of the Museum of Fine Arts, 5601 Main St. Info/reservations: 713/639-7300, ( en español:) 713/639-7379, (TDD/TYY for the hearing impaired) 713/639-7390, or www.mfah.org.
Morena Moderna: Virgin de Guadalupe. Practically everyone knows her image. Some have seen it in person, most have seen it on clothing, tattoos, art, and the tailgates of pickups. Through a comprehensive collection of photographic images, see the reverence, expression, and emotion she evokes in so many people. $9 adults; $7 kids 3–11, seniors, and college students. Through April 23 at Houston Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle. Info: 713/639-4629 or www.hmns.org.
The Poetry of Process: A Celebration of Drawing. Some of the greatest drawings at the Menil commingle with a selection of exceptional works from private collections. Look for works from the likes of Jasper Johns, Mark Rothko, Cy Twombly, Georgia O’Keefe, among others. Through May 25 at the Menil Collection, 1515 Sul Ross. Info: 713/525-9400 or www.menil.org.
Pompeii: Tales from an Eruption. In their final terrifying hours on August 24 and 25, A.D. 79, residents of Pompeii and the nearby coastal resort towns of Herculaneum, Oplontis, and Terzigno in southern Italy gathered objects precious to them and tried to escape the fury of Mount Vesuvius. The thriving, prosperous communities lay buried—silenced and forgotten for 1,700 years. The exhibit’s bronze and marble sculptures, large-scale frescoes, jewelry, tools, table silver, armor, coins, skeletons, and plaster casts of the bodies of the victims now tell the stories of life at the Bay of Naples in the days of the early Roman Empire. March 2 – June 22 at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston’s Caroline Wiess Law Building, 1001 Bissonnet St. Information: 713/639-7300 or www.mfah.org (en Español: 713/639-7379, TDD/TYY for the hearing impaired, call 713/639-7390).
Strange and New. Strange Loops by Bart Exposito and New Works by Stuart Allen and Rebecca Niederlander—the paintings, photography, and sculpture of these three artists fill the walls and space of this gallery. Through April 5 at Finesilver Gallery, 3913 Main St. More info: 713/524-3733, [email protected], or www.finesilver.com.
Vivid Vernacular: Walker Evans, William Christenberry, and William Eggleston. These three pioneers of the medium of fine art photography transformed ordinary places along the American landscape into entrancing imagery. Through April 20 at the Menil Collection, 1515 Sul Ross. More info: 713/525-9400 or www.menil.org.
Yale Street Arts Market is an exciting Heights market created for local artists to display and sell original works of art. Local musicians entertain all day. It’s a mini art festival in the Heights! Every month on the 1st Saturday at 548 West 19th at Wind Water Gallery’s parking lot. Info: www.YaleStreetMarket.com. Be sure to visit The Artful Corner at 3423 White Oak Blvd., 713/426-4ART.
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HIV TESTING
Thomas Street Clinic is offering HIV testing free to the public, Mon.-Fri. 9 am-1 pm. There is no need to establish eligibility (“gold-card”), no donation will be asked of the person seeking testing, and the test is free. Thomas Street Clinic, 2015 Thomas, 713/873-4157 or 713/873-4026.
The Montrose Clinic offers free confidential HIV testing at these locations:
Decades, 1205 Richmond, 713/521-2224, Mon. 6-10pm (Dennis)
EJ’s, 2517 Ralph, 713/527-9071, Wed. & Fri. 10pm-1am (Rhonda & Lourdes)
Mary’s, Naturally, 1022 Westheimer, 713/527-9669, Wed. 4-8pm (Jack)
Midtown Spa, 3100 Fannin, 713/522-2379, Tues. 9pm-1am (Carlos), Wed. 10pm-1am (Juan), Fri. 10pm-1am (Quincy)
Ripcord, 715 Fairview, 713/521-2792, Wed. 9pm-12am (Matthew)
Inergy/Mango Lounge, 5750 Chimney Rock, 713/660-7310, Mon. 9pm-12am (Carlos)
1415 Bar & Grill, 1415 California, 713/522-7066, Thurs. 9pm-12am (Carlos)
611 Hyde Park Pub, 611 Hyde Park, 713/526-7070, Tues. 3-7pm & Sun. 2-6pm (Matthew)
All Star News and Video Emporium, 3415 Katy Freeway & Studewood, 713/869-7878, Mon. & Thurs. 4-8pm (Jack)
Brazos River Bottom, 2400 Brazos, 713/528-9192, Thurs. 8pm-12am (Matthew)
Cousin’s, 817 Fairview, 713/528-9204, Thurs. 8pm-12am (Jack)
Club Houston, 2205 Fannin, 713/659-4998, Tues. 8pm-12am (Dennis). For more info: 713/830-3000.
Planned Parenthood offers free anonymous or confidential testing at clinic locations throughout the area. To speak with an HIV counselor: 1-800-230-PLAN, Dickinson: 281/337-7725, Fannin: 713/831-6543, FM1960: 281/587-8081, Greenspoint: 281/445-4553, Huntsville: 936/295-6396, Lufkin: 936/634-8446 x223, Rosenberg: 281/342-3950, Stafford: 281/494-9848.
