Day-By-Day Events, Performance, Performance for Young People, Radio, Art/Photography, HIV Testing. Spotlight on G. Leigh
By Sheri Taylor Bockelman
July Weekly & Monthly • July Day-By-Day • Planning Ahead • For the Summer • Performing Arts • Performing Arts for Young People • Radio • Art/Photography • HIV Testing
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SPOTLIGHT: Gee, It’s G. Leigh!
Before releasing her new acoustic CD, the hot rocker returns to Houston
Out international recording artist and Texas flower, Ginger Leigh, is back from her early 2008 European tour—Italy, precisely—and is once again hitting the road, much to the delight of her Houston fans. A long-time staple of the burgeoning “listening room” venue movement where she won over many of her devoted fan base, Leigh is currently a dominator of the weekly www.Famecast.com competition where she hopes to win gear, festival appearances, and other prizes.
“I could use the gear, since mine was stolen recently!” she adds.
Though based in Austin with her home mic plugged in at the “Love. On The Lawn” concert café, Leigh says the heart of her fan base is in Houston. “Remember, Houston, it was you who shot the videos at Mucky Duck that have been instrumental in my success on Famecast.com. It is you, Houston, who listens diligently at my shows and who interacts with me with utmost enthusiasm.”
Leigh adds that she plays more solo shows in Houston than anywhere else. “My acoustic show experiences in Houston are substantially meaningful, due to the fan support I receive. They have given me encouragement and confidence in my music and acoustic performance.”
That encouragement and confidence has resulted in the release of Leigh’s first acoustic CD, Rain Down. “After many requests by fans for an acoustic CD, I decided to go for it!” she says. “I pulled the reigns and chose to strip it back to the organic sound of vocals, guitar, and lyrics.”
Rain Down, as are Leigh’s six previous CDs, is available by pre-order on Leigh’s website, as well as at her July 19 concert at Mojo Rosin’ (1600 Shepherd Dr.). Details: www.gleigh.com. — Nancy Ford
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SPOTLIGHT:
That’s Uncanny
Red Bull brings its canned exhibition to Houston
Red Bull, the caffeinated energy drink, gives you more than wings (to echo the ad campaign for the product). The container is something of a canvas, as the traveling Red Bull Art of Can exhibition displays when it lands in Houston this month. The 47 objects crafted from recycled aluminum beverage cans in the show at the Galleria include Big Ass Boot, a piece (pictured) by local talents Christian Azul, co-owner of Aerosol Warfare Gallery & Boutique, and professional ice sculptor Reverend Butter. The four-foot footwear model incorporates 220 cans—it’s a “size 36,” Azul says. Another locally produced piece is Alteza, a soaring, mythology-inspired female figure (the title translates as “highness” in Spanish) made by John Fitzgerald Sanchez, a LaPorte stylist and University of Houston art student. Gallerist Wade Wilson (his self-named space is located at 4411 Montrose Blvd.) curated the Houston edition of the exhibition, the only 2008 U.S. stop in an ongoing art series sponsored by the Austrian beverage maker. An eight-person judge panel, which includes Houston Arts Alliance CEO Jonathon Glus, will select three winning pieces. The public can cast votes for a people’s-choice selection at the exhibition and online at the Red Bull site. Art of Can is on view at the Galleria (5085 Westheimer) from July 12 through July 25. For more information, visit www.redbullartofcan.com. — Tim Brookover
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July Weekly and Monthly, and DAY-BY-DAY
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: 713/526-0555 x 228 (ask for Cristan) or www.transhouston.com.
Weekly (Tuesdays)
Free Summer Band Concerts in Galveston. Bring the family to enjoy live band performances at the historic Sealy Gazebo on 24th Street and Avenue I across from Rosenberg Library. Now in its 81st year, the Island Beach Band, directed by Frank Incaprera, is as a part of Galveston summers as snow cones, flip flops, and trips to the beach. Performances start at 7:30 pm every Tuesday in July. Info: 409/621-3177.
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: 713/526-0555 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. GLBT friendly. Free. Groups meet at Bering Memorial United Methodist Church, 1440 Harold, Room 232, 7:15-8:30 pm. Info: 713/526-1018.
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
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): 713/526-0555 x 228 (ask for Georges) or www.transhouston.com.
Monthly (Every 4th Saturday)
TG Support Group. TS 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): 713/526-0555 x 228 (ask for Cristan) or www.transhouston.com.
Monthly (Saturdays)
Second Saturdays at Winter St. Studios. It’s open-door policy at Winter St. Studios every second Saturday of the month. 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. Winter St. Studios, 2101 Winter St. More info: 713/862-0082 or www.winterstreetstudios.net.
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].
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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JULY DAY-BY-DAY
4 (Fri.)
Blood and Oil. Documentary based on the work of Nation magazine defense correspondent Michael T. Klare, dispels the notion that it is nonsense or mere conspiracy that oil motivates America’s military engagements in the Middle East, and points out that concerns about oil have been at the core of American foreign policy for more than 60 years. $5 in advance, $7 at the door. The Strand Theatre, 2317 Ship’s Mechanic Row, Galveston. Info/tickets: www.bravenewtheatres.com or 409/457-4914.
6 (Sun.)
Before Stonewall is the third film in Creative Life Center’s six-week series, “ 100 Years of Gay History.” Includes group discussion and guest speaker, popcorn, and drinks. $7. 2–5 pm. Space limited, reservations: 617/480-2004. Info: www.the
creativelifecenter.org.
Houston Symphony for $1. The Houston Chronicle Dollar Concert features László Mezo-Arruda on cello, Gold Medalist, 2008 Ima Hogg Young Artist Competition. Programs are Brahms Academic Festival Overture, Lalo’s Cello Concerto, and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6, Pastoral. $1. 7:30 pm at Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana St., www.houstonsymphony.org or 713.224-7575.
Bringing Up Baby... free movie day at MFAH. Katharine Hepburn and Cary Grant are superb in this screwball comedy with a plot that could have been hatched in a mental institution, and one of director Howard Hawks´ most inspired lampoons of the battle between the sexes. 2 pm. Museum of Fine Arts, 1001 Bissonnet St. Info: www.mfah.org or 713/639-7300.
10 (Thurs.)
The Real (Art) World Residents. What happens when four artists are selected to share a studio and have their creative process documented for a year? Come meet the talented four selected to take part in DiverseWorks’ third consecutive summer of The Real (Art) World Visual Arts Residency Program. Provided a large space, a stipend, and supplies to create new work in a pressure-free environment, this year’s residents are Maria Guzman, Tina Kotrla, Kia Neill, and Eric Zapata. Free. 6–8 pm. DiverseWorks, 1117 East Freeway. Info: www.diverseworks.org or 713/223-8346.
11 (Fri.)
Thunder Within the Earth is a drawing exhibition featuring the works of Jack Livingston, Philip Maysles, Matthew Sontheimer, Marco Villegas, and Liz Ward. Selected Houston artists whose collections create symbolic imagery radiate an amazing quietude but powerful force. Curator and artist talk, 6:15 pm. Reception, 6–8 pm. Art League Houston, 1953 Montrose Blvd. Info: www.artleaguehouston.org or 713/523-9530.
11-12 (Fri. & Sat.)
The Music of Pink Floyd. The Houston Symphony, a full rock band, and Zebra’s lead singer Randy Jackson perform quintessential hits like “Money,” “Learning to Fly,” and “Comfortably Numb.” Charts by conductor/arranger Brent Havens capture the essence of Pink Floyd’s ethereal flow of music while lavish lighting effects take fans back to the feel of the Pink Floyd’s live shows. Tickets start at $25. 7:30 pm. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. Info: www.houstonsymphony.org or 713/224-7575.
12 (Sat.)
ArtHouston 2008 Summer Event opens today at 35 galleries along Colquitt, in the Museum District, downtown, and the Heights. Artists and exhibitions range in works from realist to abstract, sculpture, mixed media, drawings and paintings, and photography—from local and regional talents to established names. Many galleries participating represent the GLBT community including Devin Borden Hiram Butler, Wade Wilson Art, and others. Free and open to the public. Galleries, hours, and info: www.arthouston.com or 713/520-7767.
17-18 (Thurs. & Fri.)
Not the Messiah (He’s a Very Naughty Boy). Inspired by Monty Python’s hilarious Life of Brian, this zany oratorio is a tragi-comic tale of a man mistaken for the Messiah. Eric Idle and John Du Prez crafted this comic parody for chorus, soloists, bagpipers and a lone sheep—along with the Houston Symphony. As John Du Prez leads this merry troupe on a musical journey to the bright side of life, Idle sings (in a manner of speaking), reprising some of his best-loved characters from Life of Brian. From the team that created Spamalot. Tickets start at $35. 7:30 pm at Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. Info: www.houstonsymphony.org or 713/224-7575.
19 (Sat.)
Galveston Island Bicycle Day. Family fun for all ages, including a bicycle show and contests, safety demonstrations, booths, and a bicycle parade. To participate, you must register and bring your bike to the event. Prizes awarded in several categories; all kids 12 and under will receive a ribbon for decorating their bikes. Early registration available at T.F. Hippie’s, Island Cycle Repair, Island Bicycle Company, and Mod Coffee House. Early registrants can get an official Bicycle Day T-shirt for $5 (T-shirts will be $10 the day of event and will be limited). Participation is free and open to the public. 10 am–4 pm. Saengerfest Park at The Strand, Galveston. Info: www.downtowngalveston.org or 409/762-1969.
Hear the von Trapp Children Sing. The great-grandchildren of that gruff captain-turned-family-man by the winsome charms of Fräulein Maria revives memories of the original musical, with songs from The Sound of Music by Rodgers and Hammerstein. Includes “My Favorite Things,” “So Long, Farewell,” plus American classics such as “Amazing Grace.” Tickets start at $25. 7:30 pm. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. Info: www.houstonsymphony.org or 713/224-7575.
24 (Thurs.)
ACTOUT at the Alley : Agatha Christie’s The Unexpected Guest. GLBT theater fans and friends are invited to celebrate the Alley Theatre’s production of this classic “who done it,” which first debuted in 1958. Free pre-curtain event features music by DJ Mike Bell and Six Degrees Mercury, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and beverages, plus a specialty drink. 6:15–7:15 pm; curtain at 7:30 pm. Tickets $21–$35. Alley Theatre, 615 Texas Ave. Tickets/info: use/mention promotion code “ACT OUT” at www.alleytheatre.org or 713/220-5700, enter 1.
27 (Sun.)
100 Years of Gay History continues with After Stonewall, Creative Life Center’s fourth film in the series focusing on human rights and its historical evolution as it relates to the gay community. Guest speaker, group discussion, and refreshments served. $7. 2–5 pm. Space limited, reservations: 617/480-2004. Info: www.thecreativelifecenter.org.
30 (Wed.)
California Dreaming: Building a Better World for Old Lesbians begins today in Los Angeles at the Hacienda Hotel. This four-day gathering, hosted by Old Lesbians Organizing for Change (OLOC) includes dynamic and well-known keynote speakers, all over 60: award-winning author Jewelle Gomez; community activist and former California State Assembly member Jackie Goldberg; and blues singer, founding member of Saffire and lifelong lesbian activist Gaye Adegbalola (who will also perform). Entertainment features singer, writer, & raconteur Alix Dobkin; comedian and activist Robin Tyler; Mothertongue Feminist Readers Theater; and the Los Angeles Women’s Community Chorus reunion, plus the OLOC chorus, both conducted by Sue Fink. Lesbians over 60 include the generations who came out in eras of great discrimination, as well as women who built the lesbian feminist movement in the ‘70s. Info: www.oloc.org.
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FOR THE SUMMER
Houston Arboretum’s Day Camps for Kids. The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center offers two weeklong day camps for boys and girls ages 5–12. • City Critters is focused on ecology with an urban twist. Learn about the creatures who manage to live close to humans while still staying wild. 9 am–3 pm, July 14–18. • Nature Rangers to the Rescue! Campers learn the skills real rangers use to protect and improve ecosystems through experiments, games, and hands-on activities. 9 am–3 pm, July 7–11 or Aug. 11–15. Fees for each camp: $230 members; $270 non-members. Half-day mornings, 9 am–noon, $120 members; $150 non-members. Pre-registration required. 4501 Woodway Dr. Info: www.houstonarboretum.org or 713/681-8433.
Hike Amid Botanicals and Wildlife. The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center offers five miles of trees, botanicals, and native wildlife along walking trails. Located in Memorial Park, 4501 Woodway Dr. Arboretum grounds open to the public, 7 am–7 pm; Nature Center hours 9 am–5 pm; The Discovery Room houses interactive educational exhibits such as aquariums, touch screens, a 15-ft. model learning tree, and microscopes with video monitor displays, open 10 am–4 pm. Free admission. Info: www.houstonarboretum.org or 713/681-8433.
Camp Xplorations Summer Science Adventures. Weekly camps for ages 5–12, through August 15, at The Houston Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle Drive. Satellite locations: Woodlands Xplorations Station, The Woodlands Mall, 1201 Lake Woodland Dr., near Barnes & Noble on the lower level; in Fort Bend County at Christ United Methodist Church, 3300 Austin Parkway, Sugar Land. Register online at www.hmns.org. Info: [email protected] or 713/639-4629.
The Houston Museum of Natural Science, host to world-class and ever-changing touring exhibitions, features the Wortham IMAX Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center, Burke Baker Planetarium, and George Observatory. One Hermann Circle Drive. Info: www.hmns.org or 713/639-4629.
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PERFORMING ARTS
Agatha Christie’s The Unexpected Guest. In dense fog near the South Welsh coastline, a stranger runs his car into a ditch and arrives at a nearby house. Inside, he finds the murdered body of a former big-game hunter. The dead man’s wife is near the body with a gun in her hand. Is she guilty or is she protecting someone? Appearances are sure to deceive in this twisty mystery. Tickets $21–$35. July 11–Aug. 3. Alley Theatre, 615 Texas Ave. Info: www.alleytheatre.org or 713/220-5700.
Electile Dysfunction. Laugh out loud at what is, and is not, presidential “hopefuls” in this zany look at national politics, in the land of Precious Trees (Houston’s most planned planned community). When Spy Eye News turns the divided family into local celebrities, and a popular Houston minister gets involved, things spin even more hilariously out of control. $22. Through Nov. 15. Radio Music Theatre, 2623 Colquitt. Info: www.radiomusictheatre.com or 713/522-7722.
Galveston’s Curt Miller Magic & Comedy Show. A dazzling Las Vegas-style show that captures all ages with a mesmerizing mixture of large-scale illusions and comedic flair. You’ll be left amazed and laughing out loud as Miller makes audience participants disappear, levitate, and break up into different pieces. Tickets $11–$25 adults; $9–$16 children. July 2–13. Moody Gardens Convention Center, Seven Hope Boulevard. Tickets/info: www.moodytickets.com or 888/939-8680.
Galveston Island Musicals. The 2008 season continues with Country Roads, as John Denver’s character takes you on a patriotic journey, focusing on what’s right with America today. July 2–20. Meridith Wilson’s The Music Man follows a fast-talking traveling salesman who works his way into the hearts of River City, Iowa, citizens—and eventually is transformed by its librarian. July 25–Aug. 3. • Tickets $25–$35. 7:30 pm Tues.–Sat.; matinee 2:30 pm Thurs.–Sun. Galveston Island Musicals, Moody Garden Convention Center, Seven Hope Blvd. Info/tickets: www.galveston musicals.com or 409/316-0346 or (800)54-SHOWS.
Galveston’s Strand Theatre. Documentaries that speak to what’s going on in America and the world today–opening up minds and conversations with viewpoints and images. • Blood and Oil, based on the critically acclaimed work of Nation magazine defense correspondent Michael T. Klare, unearths declassified documents and highlights forgotten passages in prominent presidential doctrines to show how concerns about oil have been at the core of American foreign policy for more than 60 years. July 4, 8 pm. • Freedom to Fascism, Aaron Russo’s incendiary political documentary which exposes many of the governmental organizations and entities that have abridged the freedoms of U.S. citizens had its international premiere at Cannes and won a standing ovation. July 11, 8 pm. • Iraq for Sale: The War Profiteers is the story of what happens to everyday Americans when corporations go to war. Acclaimed director Robert Greenwald takes you inside the lives of soldiers, truck drivers, widows, and children who have been changed forever as a result of corporate greed in the reconstruction of Iraq. July 18, 8 pm. • 9/11: The Birth of Treason : This stunning new documentary features in-depth interviews with Dr. Steven Jones and Kevin Ryan of Scholars for 9/11 Truth and Justice. July 25, 8 pm. • Admission to each film, $5 in advance, $7 at the door. The Strand Theatre, 2317 Ship’s Mechanic Row, Galveston. Info/tickets: www.bravenewtheatres.com or 409/457-4914.
Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Yeomen of the Guard… or the Merry Man and His Maid. The classic Shakespearean-England love story takes place in the Tower of London, where dashing Colonel Fairfax, a man of science, is unjustly doomed to be executed for sorcery. Phoebe Meryll, daughter of the sergeant who leads the Tower guards, is secretly in love with the colonel but is pursued by the odious head jailer, Wilfred Shadbolt. Enter strolling jester, Jack Point, and charming singer Elsie Maynard… will the evil cousin inherit the Colonel’s estate, or will Elsie agree to help thwart his plot? Music by Sir Arthur Sullivan, book by Sir W.S. Gilbert. $19–$41. Pre-show lecture 45 minutes before curtain. 8 pm, Fri., July 18 & 25, Sat., July 19 & 26; matinee 2:30 pm, Sun., July 20 & 27. Wortham Center Cullen Theater, 500 Texas St. Info: www.gilbertandsullivan.org.
Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park. One-hour daytime performances specially geared toward children offer an excellent opportunity to expose youngsters to the delights of performing arts. 11 am. No tickets necessary; seating first come, first served. Evening shows are family-friendly. Admission is free for all performances, but this evening show requires reserved tickets for covered seating, available only on day of performance, 11:30 am–1 pm at the Miller Theatre box office; any remaining tickets released one hour before curtain. Maximum four tickets per person. Disney’s When You Wish... over 71 years of Disney favorites come to life in song and dance presented by TUTS. Many of the most memorable and loved songs from popular Disney films including The Lion King, The Jungle Book, and The Little Mermaid, among others. 8:15 pm, July 15–20. Info: www.milleroutdoortheatre.com or 281/373-3386.
Oklahoma! From the legendary team of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II comes this classic musical story of love in Claremore, Oklahoma, at the turn of the century. $25 adults/$12 children under 10. Fri.–Sat., July 11–26, 8 pm; Sun., July 20, 2 pm; Thurs., July 24, 7:30 pm. Country Playhouse, 12802 Queensbury Lane. Info: www.countryplayhouse.org or 713/467-4497.
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PERFORMING ARTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
Beauty and the Beast. Completely revamped in the folkloric setting of Mexico, Beauty has an important lesson to learn from the beasts of the forest. Father comes face to face with a creature from the legends of his childhood. What hides behind the horrible face of the Beast? Can Beauty overcome her past and learn the meaning of true beauty? The classic story of friendship and kindness unfolds in a colorful musical adaptation presented in English and Spanish. $5. 11 am, Fri., July 11, 18, and 25; 2 pm, Sat., July 12 and 19. Express Theatre, 446 Northwest Mall, www.expresstheatre.com or 713/682-5044.
If You Give a Moose a Muffin is the hysterical sequel to If You Give a Mouse a Cookie. In this comical adventure, a hungry moose is the unexpected guest, and when the little boy gives him a muffin, well, he wants blackberry jam, and then he wants more. $8. July 19–31, Mon.–Thurs, 11:30 am; Sat., 1 and 4 pm. Main Street Theater, Chelsea Market, 4617 Montrose Blvd. Children under 3 not permitted in theater. Advance tickets at the Main Street Theater Box Office at Rice Village, 2540 Times Blvd. Info/tickets: www.mainstreettheater.com or 713/524-6706.
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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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ARTS/PHOTOGRAPHY
Blaffer Gallery’s 2008 Houston Area Exhibition. Sixteen artists were chosen through careful portfolio review and a series of on-site studio visits to exhibit their work in this exhibition, held only once every four years. Designed to introduce artists who are young or new to the Houston community and offer more seasoned artists the opportunity to develop new work and to be seen in a fresh light, the Houston Area Exhibition has been a part of Blaffer since the museum’s inception. Free. Through Aug. 2. Blaffer Gallery, 120 Fine Arts Bldg, University of Houston, Entrance 16 off Cullen Blvd.
Charles ‘Teenie’ Harris: Rhapsody in Black and White. The world’s largest known collection of photographs depicting urban African-American life, Harris’ work captures the spirit of the African-American community in Pittsburgh from 1936–1975. His photographs range from images of everyday people in the city to those of soldiers, jazz legends, baseball teams, and pivotal events in the city’s civil rights movement. Free. Through Aug. 2 at Blaffer Gallery, 120 Fine Arts Bldg, University of Houston, Entrance 16 off Cullen Blvd. Info: www.mitchellcenterforarts.org.
Folklore Art: The Old, Weird America. The first museum exhibition to explore the widespread resurgence of folk imagery and mythic history in recent art from the U.S. features 18 artists who explore native, idiomatic, and communal subjects from America’s past. From the first Thanksgiving in 1621 to the beginning of the Space Age in 1957, colorful storytelling works illustrate the creative composition of fact and myth. Through July 20. Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, 5216 Montrose Blvd. Info: www.camh.org or 713/284-8250.
Geopalooza! A Hard Rock Anthology. Featuring “greatest hits” of Earth’s natural treasures, this interactive exhibition is built to draw visitors into all of the fascinating facets of mineralogy. From trilobite fossils to sparkling amethyst, crystallized petrified wood and massive geodes, the collection is nothing short of spectacular. Experiences include touching the metallic surface of a meteorite that has traveled millions of miles, and panning for gold. $15 adults; $10 children (3–11), seniors(62+), and college students w/valid ID; $7 museum members. Through Aug. 24. Houston Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle Drive. Info: www.hmns.org or 713/639-4629.
George Washington: A Landmark Portrait. Gilbert Stuart, known as the image-maker of George Washington, painted this portrait for a wealthy merchant who commissioned the work for Alexander Hamilton. Traveling exhibit for a limited time, since the New York Public Library sold the famous painting last year to Crystal Bridges, a new museum of American art scheduled to open in Bentonville, Arkansas, in 2009. Through July 31 at the Audrey Jones Beck Building, Museum of Fine Arts, 1001 Bissonnet St. Info: www.mfah.org or 713/639-7300.
Lucy’s Legacy: The Hidden Treasures of Ethiopia has been extended in Houston through Sept. 1. She’s the most fascinating exhibition ever, original fossilized remains of the 3.2-million-year-old hominid known as Lucy. With 40 percent of her skeleton intact, Lucy remains the oldest and most complete adult human ancestor fully retrieved from African soil. Learn more at www.lucyexhibition.com. Tickets: $22 adults; $15 children (3–11), seniors (62+), college students w/valid ID; $9 museum members. Houston Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle Drive. Info: www.hmns.org or 713/639-4629.
Max Neuhaus: Circumscription Drawings. A pioneer in the use of sound in the visual arts, Neuhaus invented the term “sound installation” to describe his practice based on the creation of unique sounds for specific locations. As opposed to the temporal experience of hearing a piece of music, his work presents sound as a continuous material used to engage our perception of the physical space around us. Through Aug. 10 at The Menil Collection, 1515 Sul Ross. Info: www.menil.org or 713/525-9400.
NeoHooDoo: Art for a Forgotten Faith brings together an intergenerational group of artists who address ritual in the artistic process and the wider implications of spirituality in contemporary art. The term “HooDoo,” which originated in 19th-century America, refers to folk traditions derived from the Haitian religion of Vodun, itself preceded by the religion and culture of the Yoruba people of present-day Nigeria. The artists in the exhibition frequently use everyday objects that resonate both within the confines of a gallery or museum and among members of their own local audiences. While the emphasis of the exhibition is on sculpture and the three-dimensional experience of walking around art, there are photographic works addressing themes such as slavery and colonization. Through Sept. 21 at The Menil Collection, 1515 Sul Ross. Info: www.menil.org or 713/525-9400.
Perspectives 161: Tim Lee. This imaginative Vancouver-based artist uses video, photography, and performance to insert himself into cultural events and icons. Lee plays the role of Sunday philosopher, anthropologist, and ethnomusicologist, dissecting and re-envisioning revealing aspects of popular culture, film, and music. Using low-tech photography to develop self-portraits, he becomes hockey player Bobby Orr scoring a winning goal, or rocker Neil Young playing a famous concert. In high-tech videos, he simulates playing Bach’s intricate piano compositions. He inputs humor into art, as his illusionist craft works to create unique imagery. Through July 13. Zilkha Gallery, Contemporary Arts Museum, 5216 Montrose Blvd. Info: www.camh.org or 713/284-8250.
Pink Ladies and Crimson Gents highlights photographer Don Glentzer’s ability to bring roses to life in a rich melding of horticulture and human culture. Viewed through 40 large-scale photographs, and drawn from the new book of the same title, the exhibition pays homage to old-fashioned roses that, through their names, bring an evocative sense of history, humanity, and gentility to the garden. Rather than focus strictly on the botanical, Glentzer puts characterization to his images. General admission: $10 adults; $7 kids (3-11)/seniors (62+)/college students; free for museum members. Through Sept. 1. Houston Museum of Natural Science, One Hermann Circle Drive. Info: www.hmns.org or 713/639-4629.
The Road to the Promised Land: Martin Luther King Jr. & the Civil Rights Movement. Twenty black-and-white panels feature photographs, reproductions of landmark documents, and quotations by Dr. King and others engaged in the struggle for civil rights in 20th-century America. Organized by Humanities Texas, this inspiring exhibit displays a wide range of subjects including environmental racism; the Lorraine Motel, site where Dr. King was murdered 40 years ago reinvented as a museum; and trailblazers like Rosa Parks and Texas’ own Barbara Jordon. Free. Through July 27 at The Heritage Society Museum, 1100 Bagby St. Info: www.heritagesociety.org or 713/655-1912.
Sterne and Steinberg: Critics Within. Romanian-born artists Saul Steinberg (1914–1999) and Hedda Sterne (b. 1910) met in New York City in 1943 after the Nazi occupation forced them to flee Europe, became U.S. citizens, and married in 1944. The couple exhibited at the same gallery, yet as artists had little aesthetic ground in common, but each questioned the ability of an artist’s personal aesthetic style to communicate a stable identity. By placing a small number of works by Sterne and Steinberg in dialogue with one another, this exhibition amplifies the artists’ joint (and unique) position as critics within their artistic milieu. Through Sept. 7 at The Menil Collection, 1515 Sul Ross. Info: www.menil.org or 713/525-9400.
Thunder Within The Earth —featuring the works of Jack Livingston, Philip Maysles, Matthew Sontheimer, Marco Villegas, and Liz Ward—specifically refers to the hexagram “Fu” (Return or the Turning Point) and conjures up an image of a quiet but powerful force. July 11–Aug. 22, Art League Houston, 1953 Montrose Blvd. Info: www.artleaguehouston.org or 713/523-9530.
Yale Street Arts Market. This fabulous Heights arts festival lets local artists display and sell original works of art. Local musicians also entertain: Danielle Reich Trio kicks off the Summer Evening Series. The Yale Street Arts Market is held every month on the 1st Saturday at 548 West 19th at Wind Water Gallery’s parking lot. Free. July 5, 6–10 pm. Info: www.YaleStreetMarket.com. Stop by 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.
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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.
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