Day-By-Day Events, Performance, Performance for Young People, Radio, Art/Photography, HIV Testing. Plus lots of hot tickets: Miss Mint Julep, fireworks at Eleanor Tinsley, Lez Zepplin, and more…
By Eric A.T. Dieckman
Day-By-Day • Planning Ahead • Performing Arts • Performing Arts for Young People • Radio • Art/Photography • HIV Testing
_________________________________________
HOT TICKET: PUCKER UP
Two mints in one—a fundraiser to crown 2007’s Mr. Mint Julep and Miss Mint Julep
Contestants vying for the title of Mr. and Miss Mint Julep 2007, an annual drag
fundraiser for Legacy Community Health Services, have been raising money to snag the title since mid-June. Top fundraiser and Miss Mint Julep 2006 Aurora Briar, left, is pictured here with her predecessor Miss Mint Julep 2005 Marsha Mink, and J.P. Gill, Mr. Mint Julep 2006. Eric Roland and Shy Anne co-emcee this year’s event on Sunday, July 15, 3 p.m., at Rich’s. • “The community has embraced this event with such enthusiasm that we are looking forward to an even bigger and better event this year,” says Shy Anne, reigning empress of the Empire of the Royal Sovereign and Imperial Court of the Single Star. “This event is a fun way to spend a hot, summer Sunday afternoon and a great way to help raise money for such a worthy community organization.” • Details: www.legacycommunityhealth.org. — Nancy Ford
_________________________________________
HOT TICKET: EVERYTHING’S BIGGER IN TEXAS
Including our bangs. Did you know our city’s annual Fourth of July celebration features the largest land-based fireworks show in the nation? Shell Oil presents the fireworks for the festivities, and the whole party is sponsored by Chevy. Country Music Association award-winning artists Montgomery Gentry headline the downtown event. A statewide sand volleyball championship, plenty of live music on four stages, and more complete the scene at Eleanor Tinsley Park. Bring sunscreen. Details: www.chevysfreedomovertexas.com.
Speaking of Independence Day, Controller Annise Parker hosts a Fourth of July fundraiser for the Houston GLBT Political Caucus at her home in Montrose. Following the 3–6 p.m. event, guests can walk to Allen Parkway to view the fireworks. $50. Details: 713/521-1000, www.hglbtpc.org. — N.F.
_________________________________________
HOT TICKET: WHOLE LOTTA GIRL LOVE
Famed all-female Led Zeppelin tribute band, Lez Zeppelin, bring their power rock sounds to Houston with an Independence Day special appearance. Dubbed “the most powerful all-female band in rock history” by Spin Magazine, the band plays at Warehouse LIVE. $10. Details: 832/443-4239. — N.F.
_________________________________________
HOT TICKET: IS THIS THING ON?
He’s been on radio way before Don Imus started commenting on coiffure. On July 14, Jimmy Carper hosts the KPFT 90.1-FM fundraising gala, beginning at 8:30 p.m. at E/J’s Bar & Grill. KPFT is home to Carper’s long-running After Hours program, which airs in Sunday morning’s wee hours. That GLBT-centric show, as well as Monday night’s Queer Voices has provided Houston with coverage of local, national, and international homo goings-on for more years than Carper likely cares to admit. James Crawford co-hosts the Pacifica extravaganza, which features our community’s most dedicated performers. Details: www.kpft.org. — N.F.
_________________________________________
HOT TICKET: HAPPY HILLY BIRTHDAY
It’s not all about Montrose, you know. Take a trip to visit the gang at Ranch Hill Saloon. On July 28, they’re celebrating their second anniversary at the 24704 I-45 North location with a free barbecue dinner, 6–8 p.m., followed by the live sounds of the Bayou Roux band at 9 p.m. And don’t forget to enjoy the volleyball, horseshoes, and full bar out back. Details: 281/298-9035, www.ranchhill.com. — N.F.
(Return to top)
_________________________________________
July DAY BY DAY
(see also JULY Weekly and Monthly)
14 (Sat.)
Every Dog Has His or Her Day. The Bow-Wow Luau benefits the Homeless Pet Placement League. The HPPL mission: to rehabilitate, provide foster care, spay/neuter abandoned dogs and cats and find them permanent homes. Enter a raffle for a custom-framed original watercolor painting of “Bow-Wow Luau” donated by Jim Tweedy (prints available as well). Suggested dress: Hawaiian shirts and grass skirts. Raffle tickets: $5 each, six for $25. 5–9 pm at Hollywood Frame Gallery, 2427 Bissonnet. More info: 713/942-8885, www.hollywoodframegallery.com.
18-22 (Wed.-Sun.)
Booze, Glorious Booze. There’s a saying: It’s 5 o’clock (happy hour) somewhere. Imagine a happy hour that last most of the week, in a part of the world known best for its inebriating elixirs. Pack the aspirin and get ready for a month-long hangover. The “Tales of the Cocktail” festival introduces both connoisseur and amateur to the cocktail culture of New Orleans and the world. Enjoy spirited dinners, seminars, cocktail hour, cocktail luncheons, walking tours of the French Quarter, and classic and contemporary cocktail parties—all led by the country’s top chefs, authors, bartenders, and cocktail experts. Events at various times, in New Orleans. Info/reservations: www.TalesoftheCocktail.com.
Weekly (Mondays)
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)
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.
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 (Tuesdays)
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.
(Return to top)
____________________________
PLANNING AHEAD
August 4 (Sat.)
White Linen Night in the Heights. Art, entertainment, shopping, signature drinks and recipes, white linen fashion, dining, and eclectic bars come together for a titillating, trendy New Orleans-style evening. White Linen banners identify participating retailers and galleries offering entertainment, shopping, dining, artist receptions, and white linen fashion. Suggested dress: white linen. 6–10 pm in the Houston Heights (19th Street, Studewood, White Oak, Heights Blvd, Washington, and Yale). More information: 713/703-0520 or www.WhiteLinenNightHeights.com.
August 9 & 11 (Thurs. & Sat.)
15th Annual Sunshine Kids Celebrity Golf Classic. Houston Astro Craig Biggio and his wife Patty return as celebrity hosts of the celebration and auction. The Sunshine Kids Foundation is dedicated to providing positive group activities, free of charge, for children with cancer. Celebrity Golf Classic: Thurs., Aug. 9, 7:30 am, at the Wildcat Golf Club, 12000 Almeda Rd. Gala/Auction: Sat., Aug. 11, 6:30 pm, at the Hornberger Conference Center, 2151 W. Holcombe. To sponsor or support: 832/295-4122 or [email protected]. Info: visit www.GaryGreene.com/sunshine.
(Return to top)
____________________________
PERFORMING ARTS
All in the Timing. Six one-act comedies by David Ivies celebrate life, love, Trotsky, monkeys, and more. $14 ($12 seniors, $10 students). Through Aug. 4, 8 pm, at Company OnStage, 536 Westbury Square. Info/reservations: 713/726-1219, www.companyonstage.org.
American Homefront. When Dana and Rob learn their son’s military unit has been kidnapped in Iraq, their hearts are broken. But the devastating news is accompanied by a shocking revelation. $10–$20. Through July 21, 8 pm (Sundays 3 pm) at Silver House Theatre, 1107 Chartres. Information/reservations: 713/547-0126 or www.u-p.org.
Beehive, The 60s Musical. Theatre Under The Stars urges you to pile that ‘do high, spray it down, and dance the night away to this rockin’ musical, featuring more than 35 hits from girl groups and female singers of the era. Free. July 13–18 (captioned for the hearing impaired on the 13th), 8:15 pm, at Miller Outdoor Theatre, 100 Concert Drive in Hermann Park. More info: www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.
Big River. A musical with a title about a river, staged by a seawall with a gulf for a backdrop. Expect songs about water. July 24–Aug. 5, 7:30 pm, matinees at 2:30 pm, at the Galveston Island Convention Center at The San Luis Resort, 5600 Seawall Blvd. Info/reservations: 409/316-0346 or 800/547-4697.
Forever Hold Your Peace. It’s a Fertle family wedding. The sacrament of matrimony doesn’t know what’s about to hit it. $20. Through Sept. 1, Thursdays and Fridays at 8:30 pm, Saturdays at 8 and 10:30 pm, at Radio Music Theatre, 2623 Colquitt. Info/reservations: 713/522-7722 or www.radiomusictheatre.com.
Late Nite Catechism. This one-woman show is part interactive catechism class, part stand-up comedy. Catholics and “heathens” alike learn and laugh as the incorrigible nun leads and misleads her class—the audience—rewarding good students with glow-in-the-dark rosaries and assorted kitschy prizes while giving naughty students a taste of “what-for.” $30. July 11–Sept. 30 at Stages, 3201 Allen Pkwy. Info/reservations: 713/527-0123 or www.stagestheatre.com.
Romeo & Juliet. The Houston Shakespeare Festival presents the most well-known love story ever told. Two hostile families, one undying love. Free. July 28–Aug. 11, 8:30 pm, at Miller Outdoor Theatre, 100 Concert Drive in Hermann Park. More info: www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.
Ruddygore is a classic English comic opera from the clever pens of W.S. Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan, creators of The Mikado, HMS Pinafore, and The Pirates of Penzance. Presented by the Gilbert & Sullivan Society of Houston from July 20–29 at the Wortham Center’s Cullen Theater. Fridays & Saturdays at 8 pm, Sundays at 2:30 pm. $19–$41. Info: 713/627-3570 or www.gilbertandsullivan.net.
South Pacific. OK, we get it. Water, water everywhere and so many songs to sing. The popular ocean-going musical is appropriately set at a prime waterfront location. July 4–22, 7:30 pm, matinees at 2:30 pm, at The Galveston Island Convention Center, 5600 Seawall Blvd. Info/reservations: 409/316-0346 or 800/547-4697.
Sweet Charity. If your friends could see you seeing this musical now! Paige Davis stars as Charity Hope Valentine in Neil Simon’s classic musical. $29–$92. Through July 8 at Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. Info/reservations: 713/558-8887 or www.tuts.com.
(Return to top)
____________________________
PERFORMING ARTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Charlotte’s Web. Some pig. Some play. $7. Through Aug. 4, 11 am and 1:30 pm, at the Company OnStage, 536 Westbury Square. Info/reservations: 713/726-1219 or www.companyonstage.org.
Go, Diego, Go Live! The Great Jaguar Rescue. Nickelodeon brings the TV show to life. Follow Diego, his sister Alicia, and cousin Dora on a mission to get Baby Jaguar’s growl back from the Bobos. Navigate through the rainforest and splash through a giant waterfall to get to the Animal Carnivale. $16–$40. July 13–15 at the Hobby Center, 800 Bagby (showtimes vary). Info/reservations: 713/629-3700, www.BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com, or www.NickJr.com.
Into the Woods Junior. In this musical from Stephen Sondheim, a baker and his wife learn they’ve been cursed with childlessness by the witch next door. To break the spell, the couple goes in search of magical items that must be sneaked away from fairy-tale luminaries such as Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and Jack (y’know, the beanstalk guy). This program showcases the talented singers and actors of Main Street’s Kids On Stage program. $15. July 19–29, showtimes vary, at Main Street Theater—Chelsea Market, 4617 Montrose Blvd. Info/reservations: 713/524-6706, www.mainstreettheater.com, or www.ticketweb.com
Joshua and the Ta Ra Ta Raa Ta Raaa. A. D. Players Children’s Theater presents this children’s musical based on the biblical account of Joshua’s famous march across the Jordan River and the battle of Jericho. Through July 28 (showtimes vary) on the Rotunda Theater stage at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 3471 Westheimer. Info/reservations: 713/526-2721 or www.adplayers.org.
The King’s New Robes. Express Children’s Theatre presents this take on the classic tale of pretense. When it’s time for the great Palace Ball, a new tailor claims he can stitch the most spectacular outfit anyone has ever seen. $8. July 13–21, Fridays at 10 am, Saturdays at 2 pm, at Express Theatre, 446 Northwest Mall. Info/reservations: 713/682-5044 or www.expresstheatre.com.
(Return to top)
____________________________
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).
(Return to top)
____________________________
ART/PHOTOGRAPHY
Forgers, Frauds and Pirates: Faking the Book. Exposing the dark side of the literary world, this exhibit gathers some infamous examples of published deception over the past 400 years. Look for copies of the Texas Declaration of Independence, a newspaper account of the death of George Washington, “personal” diaries and autobiographies of Adolf Hitler, Howard Hughes, and Charles I of England, allegedly written on the eve of his execution in 1649. (If you missed the headline, they’re all fakes.) Learn the stories behind them. Free. Through Sept. 30 at the Museum of Printing History, 1324 West Clay St. More info: 713/522-4652 or www.printingmuseum.org.
Frogs. We’re all familiar with movie sequels, but a museum sequel? The NatSci museum has created this fun follow-up to Frogs! A Chorus of Colors. In addition to pre-existing colorful live amphibians like the poison dart frogs, meet fascinating new additions. Also, look for the Matamata, a bizarre aquatic turtle (a natural predator to some frogs) that looks like something from a Godzilla movie. $15 for adults; $12 for children (3–11), seniors, and college students. Through Sept. 3 at the Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle Dr. More info: 713/639-4629 or www.hmns.org.
The Great Wall of China: Photographs by Chen Changfen. The first U.S. exhibition of work by this Chinese photographer who devoted 30 years of his life to exploring and photographing the Great Wall is reminiscent of the long-term projects undertaken by Ansel Adams in Yosemite and Alfred Stieglitz at Lake George. $7, $3.50 for kids 6–18. Through Aug. 12 at the Museum of Fine Arts, 5601 Main St. Info: 713/639-7300 or www.mfah.org (en Español: 713/639-7379, TDD/TYY for the hearing impaired: call 713/639-7390).
Hurricane on the Bayou. Narrated by Meryl Streep and driven by a rousing jazz, blues, and gospel-fueled soundtrack, this IMAX doc is both a disconcerting record of Katrina’s human effects and a call to restore Louisiana’s wetlands, rebuild New Orleans, and honor the place where America’s most vibrant homegrown culture was born. After seeing Hurricane on the Bayou, check out Vanishing Wetlands: Two Views, opening June 15. This exhibition displays the scientific and social impact of this environmental loss. $9 for adults; $7 for children (3–11), seniors, and college students. Houston Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle Dr. Info: 713/639-4629 or www.hmns.org.
Imperial Rome. What began as a small village on the Tiber River grew into an enormous empire that dominated the politics, economy, and culture of the known world from 27 B.C. to the middle of the fourth century A.D. Meet the emperors, visit the homes, shudder at their once-fearful military. $15. Through July 29 at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle Dr. More info: 713/639-4629 or www.hmns.org (en Español: 713/639-4603).
Mike Stilkey: When the Animals Rebel. Los Angeles artist Stilkey created the fifth installation as part of Rice Gallery’s Summer Window series. (The work can be viewed through the gallery’s front glass wall while the gallery is closed for the summer.) Stilkey’s installation involves a cityscape constructed of books, and features people and animals involved in the day-to-day mundane activities of city life. Free. Through Aug. 31 at the Rice Gallery, Sewall Hall, ground floor, off Campus Entrance 1 at Main and Sunset. Info: 713/348-6169 or www.ricegallery.org.
Of Gold and Grass: Nomads of Kazakhstan. Don’t believe Borat’s hype. Kazakhstan is an enormous country with a sophisticated ancient culture. The exhibit’s tour is the first time these artifacts have been seen in the U.S. The Scytho-Sakian culture of Kazakhstan developed a synthesis of foreign and indigenous design, now known as the “Wild Animal Style.” Sounds kinda sexy and hip-hop for a country Sacha Cohen claims can only boast of its potassium export. $14 adults, $12 kids 3–11/seniors/college students, free for museum members. Through Sept. 9 at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle Dr. More info: 713/639-4629 or www.hmns.org.
Perspectives 156: Impulse! Works from Houston-area teens explore the idea of excitation through work in a variety of media by 26 area high school students. Through July 15 at the Contemporary Arts Museum, 5216 Montrose Blvd. More information: 713-284-8257 or www.camh.org.
RED HOT: Asian Art Today. Drawn from the extraordinary holdings of Asian contemporary art of Houston collectors Robert, Jereann, and Holland Chaney, many of these works have not been seen outside of their home countries. The exhibit is augmented by a variety of award-winning, Asian-related films and three anime classics. July 22–Oct. 21 (films screen through August) at the Museum of Fine Arts’ Beck Building (as well as public spaces around the museum campus), 5601 Main St. More info: 713/639-7300 or www.mfah.org (en Español: 713/639-7379).
Red Velvet. A direct reference to the 1986 film Blue Velvet by David Lynch, the artists in this exhibition explore the peculiarities of contemporary domestic life in an ironic and lighthearted manner. Artists include Matthew Bourbon, Donna Huanca, and Kelly Klaasmeyer. Through Aug. 18 at Vine Street Studios, 1113 Vine St. More information: 713/224-6262.
Revenge of Luck of the Draw VI. DiverseWorks’ Summer Auction fundraiser features more than 200 artworks by the nation’s most talked about artists. World-infamous Cuban drag queen Venezuela Maria Concepcion de los Angeles Valdez Valejo Gonzales officiates the auction with verve and sass. $25 to enjoy the night, $100 to get in on the auction. July 12, preview at 6:30 pm, auction at 8 pm, at DiverseWorks, 1117 East Fwy. More information (including a list of participating artists): 713/223-8346 or www.diverseworks.org.
Shanghai: A Refuge During the Holocaust. Forced to flee their homeland during the Nazi regime, many Jews became “stateless refugees,” denied entry into most countries. Shanghai was one of the few places that stateless Jews could disembark without passports or visas. As a result, Shanghai became a refuge to thousands of Jews. The exhibit presents the complex Jewish community in Shanghai that resulted from this emigration. Free. Through July 22 at Holocaust Museum Houston’s Central Gallery, 5401 Caroline. Info: 713/942-8000 or www.hmh.org.
Things in Which We Believe: Menil Gifts to European and American Museums. The title says it all. The Menils have donated works to some very important collections, including the MOMA and the Centre Georges Pompidou. This exhibit is part of the Menil Collection’s 20th anniversary. Through Sept. 16 at the Menil Collection, 1515 Sul Ross. Information: 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 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.
____________________________
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.
____________________________
Have an event to submit? [email protected].
Info needed for your event listing: a few lines of info about your event; date/time; cost; location/address; organization name; and two phone numbers—one for OutSmart to reach you for questions and one for OutSmart readers to get more info on your event (can be the same number). Mail info to: OutSmart Magazine, 3406 Audubon Place, Houston 77006.
Comments