February Events
Day-By-Day Events, Performance, Performance for Young People, Radio, Art/Photography, HIV Testing.
February Day-By-Day • Planning Ahead • Performing Arts • Performing Arts for Young People • Radio • Art/Photography • HIV Testing
_________________________________________
Spotlight:
Insult Comic — Not
Karen Williams gets funny for health
Sure, she does the Olivia cruise thing and the women’s festivals thing, and the Pride parties thing. She is even the first lesbian comedian to have her own HBO comedy special. But that’s not what sets Karen Williams apart.
She has based her comedic career in support of tolerance and dignity for all in her audiences—an unusual theme in a profession that exclusively thrives on sarcasm and ridicule. In other words, Don Rickles she’s not.
Creator of the Humor-at-Large Workshop Series, Williams also is the founder of the National Women’s Comedy Conference, past president of the Association of Women’s Music and Culture, and former board member of the AIDS, Medicine & Miracles program.
But don’t let all this shining résumé stuff mislead you. Despite the uplifting theme that runs through this mother and college professor’s material, she’s fall-out-of-your-chair funny with her commentary about exes, motherhood, and “orgasisms.”
A featured comic on the acclaimed Laughing Matters DVD series, Williams brings more to the table than just the laughs, and this month that table is at the annual Celebration of Love Dinner Dance hosted by Lesbian Health Initiative (LHI). Williams headlines the February 9 event at the Renaissance Houston Hotel in Greenway Plaza. Ticket: $75 with proceeds benefiting LHI. Reservations: 713/426-3356, www.lhihouston.org. — Nancy Ford
(Return to top)
_________________________________________
February DAY BY DAY
(see also February Weekly and Monthly)
2 (Sat.) Gendermyn, Start Your Engines. Gender performers Houston Gendermyn scintillate with “Cirque Du So Gay,” a flaming hot evening of gender bending. How can you lose with drag kings, queer juggling, and dancing bears (not of the ursine variety, wink, wink)? $10. 10 pm at Numbers, 300 Westheimer. 18 and over. More information: www.bayoucitygendermyn.com, www.myspace.com/bayoucitygendermyn.
8 (Fri.) The DiverseWorks 25th Anniversary Gala. DiverseWorks celebrates its silver anniversary, 25 years of “Getting Our Hands Dirty” in Houston’s arts community. At their annual gala, D-Werx asks: How dirty are you? Expose yourself. Come dressed as your dirty little secret and enjoy an evening of music, drinks, and a silent auction. 7:25 pm at The Crystal Ballroom at The Rice Hotel, 909 Texas. Info/reservations: 713/223-8346 or www.diverseworks.org.
8 (Fri.) Road Trip. Kings N Things, Austin’s premier drag king troupe, presents Love Is a Four-Letter Word: The Valentine Show, replete with performances of “religious passion, memorials to love lost, a little naughty Barbie action,” and special guest appearances by members of Houston’s own Gendermyn. The Elysium, 705 Red River in Austin. $10. Details: 512/478-2979, www.kingsnthings.org.
8–10 (Fri.–Sun.) Love and the Chanteuse. Ann Hampton Calloway sings a mélange of love songs to set the mood for you and yours. Ease into “Tenderly” and snuggle up in “Stormy Weather” underneath the “Blue Moon.” $28–$110. 8 pm Friday and Saturday, 7:30 Sunday, at Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana St. Info/reservations: 713/224-7575 or www.HoustonSymphony.org.
9 (Sat.) Second Honeymoon? Houston Pride Band continues its 30th anniversary season with Valentine’s Day-inspired concert, “Celebrating Relationships.” And if romantic music isn’t enough to woo you to this performance, maybe the chance to win a cruise for two, courtesy of Concierge Travel, will sweeten the pot. A silent auction benefits the band, and ticket proceeds benefit PFLAG Houston. 7 pm at Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church, 2025 W. 11th St. Details: 713/862-9491, www.houstonprideband.org.
9 (Sat.) Love to Dance? Dance to Love! Danseparc continues its energetic amalgam of punk and post-punk, electro-pop, new wave and indie, and more. DJ’s Michael, Shoe, and Stacey (the latter two being openly gay) have themed February’s installment “danseparc est pour des amoureux” (danseparc is for lovers), a light French theme for those who love to love. Will there be electronica francaise? We can only hope. $5, $4 until 11 pm. 9:30 pm–2 am at Numbers, 300 Westheimer. $1.50 draft beers and $3.25 wells all night. More info: www.myspace.com/danseparc.
9 (Sat.) You’ve Come a Long Way, Baby! If your wee ones like to shake their Huggies, this is the afternoon they’ve been waiting for. Baby Loves Disco is an afternoon dance party wherein DJs spin a pram full of disco hits from the ‘70s and ‘80s. If baby has had enough dancing, the club offers myriad attractions to engage a short attention span: bubble machines, baskets of instruments, giveaways, a chill-out room (with tents, books, and puzzles), and a full spread of healthy snacks. And of course there are diaper-changing stations for those little emergencies. And the bar is open to relieve Mum and Dad once the emergency is over. $12. 2–5pm at Rich’s, 2401 San Jacinto St. Info/reservations: 713/759-9606, www.richshouston.com, www.babylovesdisco.com.
9 (Sat.) This Dude Blows. Tenor and soprano saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, the second son of John and Alice Coltrane, is at the forefront of new paths in jazz. See and hear what Downbeat magazine and the New York Times are talking about when he and his quartet swing through Houston. $26.50–$45. 8 pm, at Cullen Theater, Wortham Theater Center, 500 Texas at Smith. Info/reservations: 713/524-5050 or www.dacamera.com.
9 (Sat.) Sacred Hearts. Galveston Historical Foundation’s (GHF) annual Tour of Sacred Places takes you to 10 historic places of worship, a historic cemetery, and a meditative labyrinth. The event begins with a talk by Fran Gale on cemetery and monument restoration. Gale is a nationally known scholar and consultant on conservation of architectural materials, and director of the Architectural Conservation Laboratory at the Univ. of Texas School of Architecture. $7. Talk begins at 9 am, tour runs from 10 am–4:30 pm, at St. Joseph’s Church, 2202 Avenue K. Info/reservations: 409/762-3933
11, 18, & 25 (Mon.) Shake That Sass. Bayou City Concert Musicals Cabaret Theatre celebrates The Great American Songbook with “Champagne and Sass.” Featured are operetta composer Rudolf Friml (Rose-Marie, The Vagabond King) and the musical theater classics of lyricist Joseph McCarthy (Irene). $25. 7:30 pm at The Ensemble Theatre, 3535 Main St. Information/reservations: 713/465-6484 or www.bayoucityconcertmusicals.org.
15 & 16 (Fri. & Sat.) Big Girls Do Cry (and Perform). Last year’s DiverseWorks Developmental Residency recipient Jennylin Duany presents the debut of Cabaret Unkempt. The plus-size performer incorporates projected media, music, and poetry to explore her Cuban American background, her self-image, and her moving, often humorous, experiences as a performer of “size” in a culture that celebrates thinness and abhors corpulence. $15, $8 for students/seniors. 8pm at DiverseWorks, 1117 East Freeway. Info/reservations: 713/335-3445 or www.DiverseWorks.org.
15 & 16 (Fri. & Sat.) If the Heart Ain’t Baroque, Don’t Fix It. Mercury Baroque romances the audience with Vivaldi’s most moving and tender concertos in A Vivaldi Valentine. The program includes Concerto for Two Violins, RV 578, Concerto for Oboe in A minor, RV 463, Concerto for Violin in E major, RV 271 “L’amoroso, ” and Concerto for Two Cellos in G minor, RV 531. $22–$49. Feb. 15, 8 pm, at Cullen Theater, 501 Texas Ave. Feb. 16, 8 pm, at The Univ. of Houston, Clear Lake, 2700 Bay Area Blvd. Info/reservations: 832/251-0706 or visit www.MercuryBaroque.org. For tickets to Saturday’s performance: 281/283-2560.
15–17 (Fri.–Sun.) We All HADA Great Time Antiquing This Weekend. Houston Antiques Dealers Association (HADA) holds its 44th Semi-Annual HADA Antiques Show and Sale for antiques aficionados and those who love to shop. Pieces range from the 1750s through Art Deco and Mid-Century Modernism with over 150 dealers. $10 (good for all three days). Friday from 1–6 pm, Saturday from 11 am–6 pm, and Sunday from 11 am–5 pm at the George R. Brown Convention Center, Hall A, 1001 Avenida de las Americas. More info: www.HadaAntiques.com.
16 (Sat.) Tomlin Returns. Houston must need a laugh. Or maybe she just loves us. Either way, Lily Tomlin returns to the Bayou City for the second time in less than six months. This time the acclaimed actor/comedian (“Classic Lily,” September 2007 OutSmart) appears at the behest of the Houston chapter of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure for the breast cancer-fighting group’s third annual Pink Tie Gala. KPRC-TV anchor Khambrell Marshall emcees the event, which honors restaurateurs Lucia and Michael Cordúa, and includes a cocktail reception, dinner, and silent and live auctions. 6:30 p.m. InterContinental Hotel, 2222 W. Loop South. Tickets: $350. Details: www.komen-houston.org, 713/783-9188.
16 (Sat.) Diamonds on the Soles of Their Shoes. Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s a cappella melding of Zulu harmony with gospel and reggae never ceases to inspire and entertain. Their music and synchronized dancing makes for an unforgettable evening. 8 pm, at Jones Hall, 500 Texas Ave. Info/reservations: 713/227-4772 or www.spahouston.org.
19 (Tues.) ¡Una Noche Deliciosa! Jade Esteban Estrada sets the night deliciously ablaze with ¡Tortilla Heaven!, an evening of entertainment benefiting GCAM and Gallo. $15 for show, $20 for dinner and show. Fajita dinner 6:30 pm, show 7:45 pm, at Bethel UCC Church, 1107 Shepherd at Center St. Info/reservations: 713/692-8735, www.gcam.org, or www.getjaded.com/TortillaHeaven.htm.
23 (Sat.) Oodles of Noodles. The fifth annual all-you-can-eat pasta supper and silent auction benefits Bering Support Network, providing support groups and counseling to individuals infected or affected by HIV/AIDS, and to the GLBT community. $5. 5–8 pm at Bering Memorial UMC, 1440 Harold St. More info: 713/526-1017 x 211.
23 (Sat.) Practically Purrfect in Every Way. Save the pussy jokes: This pageant is serious as a kitty heart attack. The 1st Annual Ms. Purrfect Drag Competition benefiting the Spay-Neuter Assistance Program aims to help HIV-positive people care for their furry friends. 7 pm at Tony’s Corner Pocket, 817 Dallas. Want to compete for the title? Call Paul Hidalgo, 713/862-3863.
23 (Sat.) Goin’ to the Chapel. Stop, Look, and Listen!, a series of family-friendly performances combine a visit to the museum with an interactive and informative concert. The Houston Chamber Choir Quartet performs the program, “Music of Elizabethan England and Renaissance Italy,” inside The Byzantine Fresco Chapel Museum. Free. Seating is limited. For ages 10 and up. 3, 3:30, and 4 pm at the Byzantine Fresco Chapel Museum, 4011 Yupon at Branard. More information: 713/524-5050, [email protected], or www.dacamera.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 (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 (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)
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.
(Return to top)
____________________________
PLANNING AHEAD
March 2 (Sun.)
Marilyn Manson and Twiggy Ramirez, Reunited. Yes, the duo that broke new ground—then salted it so nothing can ever grow in its place—are together again. Manson and Ramirez co-penned the albums Antichrist Superstar, Mechanical Animals, and Holywood. Joining them onstage for the U.S. leg of the “Rape of the World” Tour are Chris Vrenna, Rob Holliday, and Ginger Fish. (Tim Skold took off, but is on good terms with Manson. Pheeeeew!) At press time, Manson and Ramirez were scheduled to appear at 8pm at Verizon Wireless Theater, 520 Texas. Info/reservations: 713/629-3700 or www.TicketMaster.com.
March 5 (Wed.)
A Little Day Music. Bring a lunch and take a break from the day-to-day deign with a performance by Strike 3 Percussion. Stick around for a drawing to win tickets for an upcoming Da Camera concert. The noontime concerts are presented on the first Wednesday of every month through May. Free. Noon in the Grand Foyer of the Wortham Theater Center, Texas at Smith. More info: 713/524-5050 or www.dacamera.com.
March 5 (Wed.)
Vito Acconci. Renowned artist and architect Vito Acconci leads a schedule of dynamic public programs held in conjunction with the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston’s presentation of Design Life Now: National Design Triennial. Acconci’s career has evolved from poet to controversial performance and installation artist to head of an innovative architecture studio. Free. Acconci speaks at 7 pm at The Museum of Fine Arts Brown Auditorium, 1001 Bissonnet. Exhibit on view through April 20 at the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, 5216 Montrose Blvd. More info: 713/284-8250 or www.camh.org.
March 6–16 (Thur.–Sun.)
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, she clamps on with both hands. Oh, and she dances, too. March 6, 8, 14, 15 at 7:30 pm and March 9, 15, 16 at 2 pm at the Wortham’s Brown Theater, 501 Texas at Smith. Info/reservations: 713/227-2787, 800/828-2787, or www.houstonballet.org.
March 8 (Sat.)
Building Confidence and Self-Esteem. Licensed professional counselor/therapist Denise O’Doherty leads this workshop exploring methods of overcoming issues detrimental to one’s feelings of self-worth. Learn to identify incidents that block self-esteem and replace them with ideas, tools, and coping skills that create confidence and lead to success and personal well-being. $30. 10 am–noon at Unitarian Universalist Church, 1900 Bering Dr. Info/reservations: 713/529-4414 or www.llu.com.
(Return to top)
____________________________
PERFORMING ARTS
La Belle Epoque. From 1900 to 1939, Paris was center of the European cultural universe as expatriate writers, painters, composers, dancers, and adventurers met and commingled there. This two-part mini-fete celebrates the melding of media, music, literature, and art. Among the works are French composer Pascal Dusapin’s Two Walking which features text by Gertrude Stein. U of H musicologist and author Howard Pollack gives a pre-concert talk at 7 pm in the Founder’s Club at the Hobby Center. $22–$38. Feb. 29, 8 pm at Zilkha Hall, 800 Bagby. Info/reservations: 713/524-5050 or www.dacamera.com.
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. Feb. 29–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.
Frozen. Three lives intertwine: a murderer, his psychologist, and the mother of one of his victims. Just how much can one learn remorse, forgiveness, and change? The limits are tested in playwright Byony Lavery’s tale set in England. Through Feb. 9, 8 pm at Theater LaB, 1706 Alamo. Info/reservations: 713/868-7516 or www.TheaterLabHouston.com.
Gershwin Glam. A trio of recitals makes up this compelling range of light-hearted comedy to riveting drama. From New York in the ‘40s to a prisoner interrogation, the evening includes ballet, tap, contemporary, and music hall dance. $17–$125. Feb. 21–March 2, at the Wortham’s Brown Theater, 501 Texas Ave. at Smith St. Info/reservations: 713/227-2787, 800/828-2787, or www.houstonballet.org.
The Good Woman of Setzuan. Two Star Symphony presents a world premiere production of one of Bertolt Brecht’s less-produced plays, with an original score per the playwright’s request. This collaboration marks the first time Two Star has set their music to written lyrics and is also UH’s most ambitious live staging to date, with a three-story set, original live score, and the highest budget the school has ever committed to a theatrical production. Feb. 15, 16, 22, 23, 8 pm, Feb. 24 at 1:30 pm, at the Univ. of Houston’s School of Theater and Dance, UH campus, 133 CWM. Info, ticket prices, reservations: www.twostarsymphony.org and www.myspace.com/twostarsymphony.
Hello, Dolly! It’s so nice to have this musical back where it belongs. Leslie Uggams stars as Dolly. $29–$93. Feb. 26–March 9 at the Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. Info/reservations: 713/558-8887, 888/558-3882, or www.tuts.com. Go to www.OutSmart
Magazine.com for an interview with openly gay Randy Slovacek, Hello, Dolly ‘s choreographer.
Jersey Boys. Openly gay actor Jonathan Hadley plays a key role in this production of Jersey Boys. Hadley also performed in Jersey Boys on Broadway. In addition to numerous appearances on and off the Great White Way, he has lit up the small screen on episodes of Another World and Sex and the City. In the production here in town, look for Hadley as Bob Crew, producer/lyricist for Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. $35.35–$88.65. Through Feb. 9 at the Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. Info/reservations: 713/629-3700, www.broadwayacrossamerica.com, www.jerseyboysinfo.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. Feb. 29–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.
Late Nite Catechism 2: Sometimes We Feel Guilty Because We Are Guilty. The success of long-running hits Late Nite Catechism and Sister’s Christmas Catechism was just too much to bear, without a sequel. Part interactive catechism class and part stand-up comedy, Maripat Donovan’s follow-up to her popular series offers a hysterical trip toward salvation, with some wickedly fun stops while just barely eschewing damnation. $30. Through March 2 at Stages, 3201 Allen Pkwy. near Waugh Dr. Info/reservations: 713/527-0123 or www.stagestheatre.com.
The Lieutenant of Inishmore. This Olivier Award-winning dark comedy centers on a splinter group of the IRA and their brutal, cat-loving leader. When his cat is found dead while the leader is away on a spree of violence, his terrorist disciples must find a way to conceal the death. Savage hilarity ensues. Through Feb. 24 at the Alley Theatre’s Neuhaus Stage, 615 Texas Ave. Info/reservations: 713/220-5700 or www.alleytheatre.org.
Love, Janis. Recommended for mature audiences, this musical portrait of ’60s singer Janis Joplin examines her life from ’66 to her demise in ’70. Fans of the Port Arthur chanteuse can expect such classics as “Piece of My Heart,” “Me and Bobby McGee,” and “Ball and Chain.” Through Feb. 10 at the Alley Theatre’s Hubbard Stage, 615 Texas Ave. Info/reservations: 713/220-5700 or www.alleytheatre.org.
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?). Feb. 22–March 15, 8 pm, March 2 at 3 pm, at Theatre Southwest, 8944 Clarkcrest. Info/reservations: 713/661-9505.
The Scarlet Pimpernel. As the French Revolution comes to a boil, Sir Percival Blakenely persuades his compatriots to join his cause against the tyrannical French government. Can Blakenely and his secret regime evade the French soldier Chauvelin as he schemes to track them down? Tickets: $25–$45 ($15–$35 for students/seniors). Feb. 15, 16, 22, and 23 at 8 pm, Feb. 24 at 2 pm at Zilkha Hall, 800 Bagby. Info/reservations: 713/861-7045 or www.masqueradetheatre.com.
Translations. Set in 1833 in a rural community in County Donegal, 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. Feb. 28–March 23 at Main Street Theater–Rice Village, 2540 Times Blvd. Info/reservations: 713/524-6706, www.mainstreettheater.com, or www.ticketweb.com.
Two Classics and a Three-ring Circus. Houston Chamber Orchestra presents a night of circus-inspired compositions. Franz Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 46 in B Major, Felix Mendelssohn’s Concerto for Violin, Piano and String Orchestra, and Charles Fitts’ Circus Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra make up part of the program. Feb. 25, 7:30 pm, at Zilkha Hall, 800 Bagby. Info/reservations: 713/315-2525, www.UniquelyHouston.org, or www.HoustonChamberOrchestra.org.
(Return to top)
____________________________
PERFORMING ARTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Robin Hood. Under the rule of the self-centered Prince John, the people of England are starving and impoverished. Robin Hood and his merry men (and women) to the rescue! $5. Feb. 15–17, Fri. and Sat. at 7:30 pm, Sun. at 3:30 pm, at Main Street Theater–Chelsea Market, 4617 Montrose Blvd. Info/reservations: 713/524-6706, www.mainstreettheater.com, or www.ticketweb.com.
The Watsons Go to Birmingham–1963. It’s 1963, and the Watsons, an African-American family in Flint, Michigan, travel to Birmingham, Alabama. Hopefully, Grandmother Sands will straighten out their juvenile delinquent son, Byron. But their efforts to heal their family lands them in one of the darkest moments in America’s racial history, the infamous 1963 16th Street Baptist Church bombing. $9 for kids and students, $11 for grown-ups. Feb. 2, 9, and 16 at 1 and 4 pm (through Feb. 22 for school groups) at Main Street Theater–Chelsea Market, 4617 Montrose Blvd. Info/reservations: 713/524-6706, www.mainstreettheater.com, or www.ticketweb.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
Analyzing While Waiting: Contemporary Art in Tehran. In collaboration with the Iranian Film Festival, presented by the Museum of Fine Arts, Rice Cinema, and Voices Breaking Boundaries, Aurora Picture Show presents a selection of videos by Iranian artists, who shed light on contemporary and emerging art in Tehran. Featured artists include Iman Afsarian, Samira Eskandarfar, and Sadegh Tirafkan. $6. Feb. 9, 8 pm, and Feb. 10, 3 pm, at Aurora Picture Show, 800 Aurora St. Info/reservations: 713/868-2101 or www.aurorapictureshow.org.
Agustina Nuñez: Little Polymorphous. In her first exhibit in the U.S., Argentine artist Agustina Nuñez’ site-specific installation incorporates an animated cast of larger-than-life characters. But her playful, colorful critters also possess a menacing quality. Expect to be amused and a little disturbed. Through Feb. 23 at DiverseWorks, 1117 East Fwy. Info/reservations: 713/223-8346 or www.diverseworks.org.
Black Box, an Installation by Phi Phi Oahn. Oahn’s first installation in her native Houston, the artist utilizes raw materials and basic utilitarian art forms traditionally found in Asia, such as lacquer coffers, coffins, and chests. From there, Oahn created a series of 16 oversized boxes whose proportions echo those of a burial casket. Rich paintings adorn the lids, combining sensual abstraction with precise figuration. Through Feb. 22 at Art League Houston, 1953 Montrose Blvd. More info: 713/523-9530, [email protected], or www.artleaguehouston.org.
Contemporary Conversations: Robert Ryman, 1976 focuses on a single year in the work of this minimalist painter. Using only square frames and white paint since 1958, Ryman turned to the way a painting exists in space and the materials used in placing a work on a wall. Through Feb. 17 at the Menil Collection, 1515 Sul Ross. Info: 713/525-9400 or www.menil.org.
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.
Emotional Realism and Video by Duke and Battersby. Saturday looks at videos that examine honesty in filmmaking and instilling empathy in an audience. Sunday brings a selection of experimental works by Duke and Battersby. Feb. 23, Sat., 8 pm, and Sun. the 24th at 7 pm, at Aurora Picture Show, 800 Aurora St. More info: 713/868-2101 or www.aurorapictureshow.org.
Flicker Fusion. Since 1914 when the first animated film was made, artists across the globe have opened our eyes to worlds that exist solely in the imagination. For this exhibition, D-Werx’ main gallery becomes an international nickelodeon of both technologically driven animation and conventional, hand-drawn styles. Through Feb. 23 at DiverseWorks, 1117 East Fwy. Info/reservations: 713/223-8346 or www.diverseworks.org.
In My Mind, You’re Inflatable. The whimsical paintings of native Houstonian Howard Sherman are featured. Sherman’s kinetic splashes of vivid color—and comical titles—create a sense of action and urgency. (FYI: the gallery’s website has a function wherein one can send e-postcards of Sherman’s pieces.) Through Feb. 16 at McMurtrey Gallery, 3508 Lake St. More info: www.McMurtreyGallery.com or www.howardsherman.com.
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.
Mambo Jambo: Cabinet of the Cosmos. Charlie Roberts was commissioned for this new installation, obsessively detailed paintings referred to as “psychological museums.” Each work is filled with portraits, logos, book covers, renditions of works from art history, and more. These are works that necessitate getting up close. Through March 2 at Rice Gallery, Sewall Hall off Campus Entrance 1 at Main and Sunset Blvd. More info: 713/348-6069 or www.ricegallery.org.
The Modest Minotaur. Half bull, half man—what’s not to love? Bering & James presents The Modest Minotaur, featuring self-taught mixed-media artist Renea Menzies. Artists Ali Cavanaugh, Stanley Bermudez, Elizabeth Smith, Diana Atchetee, and Emilie Duval also display works. Opens Feb. 7, 6 p.m. 805 Rhode Place #500. Details: www.beringandjames.com, 713/524-0101.
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.
Perspectives 159: Superconscious, Automatisms Now. This group exhibition presents contemporary artists whose methods include free association or “stream of consciousness.” Pieces include sculpture and photography by Rachel Harrison, paintings by Sean Landers, a film by Oliver Payne and Nick Relph, and works on paper by Danica Phelps. Through March 9 at the Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, 5216 Montrose Blvd. More info: 713/284-8257, 713/284-8250, or www.camh.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. Feb. 15–May 25 at the Menil Collection, 1515 Sul Ross. Info: 713/525-9400 or www.menil.org.
The Spirit in Nature. Former Houston Arts Alliance grantees Michael Golden and Keith Hollingsworth investigate connections between humanity and elements of our world. Golden incorporates images of animals to reflect his belief in the oneness and interconnectedness of all living things. Hollingsworth’s paintings encourage viewers to see images in different lights and different perspectives, with the hope of inspiring spiritual realizations. Free. Through Feb. 21 at Houston Arts Alliance, 3201 Allen Pkwy. More info: 713/527-9330 or www.haatx.com.
Through the Eye of the Needle: Fabric Art of Esther Nisenthal Krinitz. While many Holocaust survivors have chosen to write their survival stories, at age 50, Esther Nisenthal Krinitz chose a unique medium — sewing. Trained as a dressmaker but untrained in art, Krinitz created 36 fabric pictures. Meticulously stitched words beneath the pictures provide a narrative, and vivid colors and detailed images bring a fascinating sense of realism to the cloth. Free. Through Feb. 10 at Holocaust Museum Houston, 5401 Caroline. More info: 713/942-8000 or www.hmh.org.
Verdura: The Life and Work of a Master Jeweler. This first-ever exhibition demonstrates why Verdura-designed jewelry has been coveted by royalty, Hollywood, and high society for nearly 70 years. Jewels dating from the 1930s with original design sketches from the Sicilian Duke Fulco di Verdura are on display. His pieces were inspired by classical patterns and natural forms, brightened with intense colors, and infused with a sophisticated wit. $9 for adults, $7 for kids 3–11, students, and seniors. Through Feb. 17 at the Lester and Sue Smith Gem Vault at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle Dr. Info/reservations: 713/639-4629 or www.hmns.org.
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.
____________________________
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