OCTOBER CALENDAR

Daily (Mon.-Fri.)

HIV Testing. HCHD Thomas Street Clinic is offering HIV testing free to the public, daily 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.

Daily (Mon.-Sun.)

HIV Testing. The Montrose Clinic offers free confidential HIV testing every day of the week at the following locations. Monday: Keys West (817 W. Dallas), 8 pm-midnight. Tuesday: The Club Houston (2205 Fannin), 8 pm-midnight. Wednesday: Mary's (1022 Westheimer), 4-8 pm; the Houston Lesbian & Gay Community Center (803 Hawthorne), 6-9 pm; Ripcord (715 Fairview), 9 pm-midnight; EJ's (2517 Ralph), 10 pm-1 am; and Midtowne Spa (3100 Fannin), 10 pm-1 am. Thursday: The Outpost (1419 Richmond), 4 pm-8 pm; Brazos River Bottom (2400 Brazos), 8 pm-midnight; Cousins (817 Fairview), 8 pm-midnight; and Toyz Disco (5322 Glenmont), 10 pm-1 am. Friday: The Meatrack (2915 San Jacinto), 10 pm-2 am; EJ's (2517 Ralph), 10 pm-1am; and Midtowne Spa (3100 Fannin), 10 pm-1 am. Saturday: Viviana's (5219 Washington), 11 pm-2 am. Sunday: Club Inergy (5750 Chimney Rock), 9 pm-midnight. The clinic offers classes for those newly diagnosed with HIV or Hepatitis C. Info: 713/830-3000.

2 (Wed.)

Forrest Church is the author of The American Creed, which explores the intersection of religious principles and secular strengths that have defined the United States throughout its history. Church will discuss America's heritage as a "living will" as expressed in the words of leaders from George Washington to Martin Luther King Jr. at 7 pm @ First Unitarian Universalist Church, 5200 Fannin. Info: 713-526-5200 or www.firstuu.org.

5 (Sat.)

An Evening of Art Songs & Arias, Bering Omega Community Services' annual operatic fundraiser benefiting those who are affected by AIDS and HIV, returns to Houston with eight renowned performers from around the U.S.: John McVeigh, tenor; Jennifer Samson & Deborah Domanski, mezzo-sopranos; Luis Ledesma & Brian Mulligan, baritones; Sarah Wolfson & Camille Zamora, sopranos; Michael Slattery, tenor; & Kenneth Merrill, pianist. 7:30 pm @ the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, 800 Bagby. Tickets $100-$200. A limited number of $35 tickets are available for students & young artists. For tickets/more info: 713/315-2525 or 713/524-9304.

5 (Sat.)

Janeane Garofalo's humor is wry & intelligent. Inspired by the hysterical comedy of Bill Murray, Albert Brooks, & David Letterman, Garofalo takes each of these styles & weaves them into her own genre of comedy. This show is part of Breast Cancer Awareness Weekend. 8 pm @ Verizon Wireless Theater. Tickets available at www.cc.com, the Verizon box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, or by phone at 713/629-3700.

6 (Sun.)

Decadent Dessert Extravaganza 2002. AssistHers presents its second annual party of sweet indulgence to raise money for their wonderful organization. Mark your calendar and be prepared to leave your will power at the door. This event will feature tables of decadent desserts for epicurean tastes prepared by The Ruggles Grill, Fabio's, Acadian Bakers, Don Carlos, Jim Benton Catering, Mo Mong's, Decapo's, Baba Yega's, Three Dog Bakery, Sweet Tooth Solutions, and Oscar's Creamery. 4-7 pm Meteor, 2306 Genesee. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $20 or at the door for $25. For advance tickets: 713/521-4628, option #1.

6 (Sun.)

Celebrating Night Prayer. Join the Men of Trinity Choir for this service of chanted evening prayer. 6 pm @ Trinity Episcopal Church, 1015 Holman at Main. More info: 713/528-4100.

6 & 13 (Sun.)

Being There. A feebleminded gardener (Peter Sellers), whose entire knowledge of life comes from watching TV, is set loose in the world when his employer dies. Equipped with his prized possession-his remote control-the gardener unwittingly stumbles into the world of politics and is welcomed as some sort of mysterious sage. Sellers spent seven years fighting to play the lead in this 1979 film, then virtually killed himself to do so (concealing a serious heart ailment during production). He was nominated for a Best Actor Oscar (he lost to Dustin Hoffman in Kramer vs. Kramer), and his costar Melvyn Douglas won a Best Supporting Oscar. Shirley MacLaine costarred in the film and is memorable, especially in one scene. Directed by Hal Ashby (now deceased). 7 pm @ the Museum of Fine Arts (Brown Auditorium), 1001 Bissonnet. Admission is $6 ($5 members, seniors, students w/valid ID). For more info : 713/639-7515 or www.mfah.org.

8 (Tue.)

Transgender Talk. Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church presents a program on what it means & doesn't mean to be transgender. There will be a panel presentation featuring Collier Cole, Ph.D., who is a clinical psychologist practicing at Galveston's Rosenberg Clinic. Cole has served the transgender community since the mid-'70s and has lectured extensively and published many articles in the area of human sexuality. Free and open to the public. 7-8:30 pm @ the church, 2025 West 11th at T.C. Jester. For more info: 713/861-9149, ext.103.

10 (Thu.)

William Wegman, the internationally celebrated photographer & video artist, is honored at the 2nd Annual Aurora Award Dinner. For more info: Aurora Picture Show, 800 Aurora St., 713/868-2101, or visit www.aurorapictureshow.org.

10 & 22 (Thu. & Tue.)

Family to Family Adoptions, Inc., a nonprofit licensed agency, is offering a free adoption seminar discussing how to adopt a child in less than one year. They currently have programs in the U.S., Guatemala, Bulgaria, Russia, & other countries. They work with single men, single women, & couples 25 to 65 years of age. Everyone will be given a free informational packet. On the 10th: 6:30-8:30 pm, Methodist Hospital, 16655 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land. On the 22nd: 1-4 pm @ Family to Family Adoptions, 1000 Austin St., Ste. B, Richmond, TX. For more info: call 713/249-5941; e-mail info@fam2fam.org or Fam2fam@aol.com; or visit www.fam2fam.org.

12 (Sat.)

Race for a Cure. The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Houston affiliate hosts this 12th annual race. The four categories are: Women's Competitive 5K Run (7:30 am,), Coed Noncompetitive 5K Run (7:45 am), Coed 5K Walk (7:55 am), and Coed 1-Mile Family Walk (8:05 am) to raise funds for breast cancer research, education, screening, & treatment. Galleria Uptown Houston area. Registration/info: 713/783-9188 or www.komen-houston.org.

12 (Sat.)

Healthy Bones! Muscle Mechanics teams up with Dr. Kenneth Lester of Kirby Health & Wellness (Lester is on the cover of this month's issue of OutSmart) to bring you a "hands on" educational seminar! Learn how to correct common causes of back and neck pain through proper exercise and posture techniques! Limited seating! 1-3 pm. To reserve your seat or for details/more info: John Aaron at 713/523-5330.

12 (Sat.)

People's Law School. "The contract reads 'as is' . . . am I out of luck?" "How can I get my husband to pay child support?" "Do I need a lease?" These are some of the legal questions that will be answered at this free program designed to help make the law "user friendly" to the lay person. Subjects covered: consumer law, wills, family law, finding the law, business law, landlord/tenant law, credit & debt collection, health insurance, and to work with an attorney. Local judges, attorneys, & professors serve as teachers for the event. 9 am-12:30 pm @ the University of Houston Law Center. Register on the web at www.peopleslawyer.net, or registration materials may be obtained by calling 713/743-2168.

12 (Sat.)

Reflections has been selected as the theme for the 2002 Houston Black Tie Dinner. Proceeds from the dinner go toward helping local nonprofit organizations continue the wonderful work that they do in service to the GLBT community. Now in its 11th year, the dinner will be held at the new Intercontinental Hotel at 610 West Loop South. Tickets and tables for this evening of entertainment can be purchased online. For more info: www.houstonblacktiedinner.org.

12 (Sat.)

Miss Angela's Country Dinner, hosted by The Diana Foundation, features food by Goode Company Barbecue, dancing to the music of Liz Talley and TNT Country Band, silent auction, & cash bar. Dinner cochairmen: Toby Salazar & Jerry Smith. The event benefits the Colt 45's AIDS Trouble Fund. 7-11 pm @ Houston Polo Club, 8552 Memorial Dr. Tickets are $40 and space is limited. Reservations recommended: 713/639-2000.

12 (Sat.)

A Streetcar Named Desire-the Ballet. Although choreographer Mark Diamond has added, enhanced, & dropped familiar storylines, this is still very much the tragic story of Blanche DuBois, suffused with the grace of Chopin & Cole Porter, roughened by the jazzy blues of Benny Golson & W.C. Handy. Tickets $18-$57. 8 pm @ Galveston's Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice, 800/821-1894.

12 & 13 (Sat. & Sun.)

Bayou City Art Festival Downtown. 300 artists from across the country have been accepted to this juried festival, which guarantees original artwork and meet the artists in person. There are 17 categories of artwork. Eclectic music, exceptional restaurants, wine cafes, beer taverns, & a kids' zone compliment this outdoor art gallery. 10 am-6 pm @ Tranquility Park & Hermann Square. Adults $7; children 12 & under free. More info: www.bayoucityartfestival.com.

13 & 19 (Sun. & Sat.)

Rainbow Fishing Club. On the 13th: It's a fishing trip aboard the New Buccaneer or the Cavalier out of Galveston. The boat supplies all the equipment you need. The boat also has a cook, a grill, and a large sundeck. Boarding begins at 6:30 am and sails at 7:30 am. The cost is $70, with a $20-deposit required to reserve your spot. Details: John at 713/523-6381. • On the 19th: It's a fishing trip that leaves South Padre Island at 7 am for a 10-hour deep sea adventure. Cost is $90. Poles & bait provided. Also included: breakfast, lunch, dinner, & a party at the New Upper Deck Bar. Accommodations may be arranged at the New Upper Deck Hotel at 956/761-5953 or e-mail spiup@aol.com to make your reservations.

17 (Thu.)

Radical Forgiveness Workshop by Rev. Ed and Marcia Jones. 7-10 pm @ Creative Life Spiritual Center, 5326 Spring Stuebner, 281/350-5157 or www.creativelife.org.

17-21 (Thu.-Mon.)

Texas Lesbian Conference (TLC) honors its 15th anniversary with its first-ever conference at sea. Attendees will board the Carnival ship "Celebration" in Galveston & cruise to Cozumel, Mexico, for 4 days of fun, entertainment, & conference activities. The conference theme, "What Lesbians Really Want," will examine the changing needs of lesbians in Texas and how TLC can continue to serve its community. Speakers & workshops will be offered on-board ship. Michele Balan, known as "da Comic Princess," will entertain. All-inclusive tickets (cruise & meals on board, entertainment, port taxes, & conference fees) begin at $439 per person (double occupancy). Reservations: Stan the Cruise Man, toll free, at 1-866-200-2086 or e-mail Stan@ CruisingWithPride.com. For more info on the conference: www.texaslesbianconference.org.

17-21 (Thu.-Mon.)

Bisexual/Men's Awareness Institute Conference. This three-day weekend in San Diego's Mission Valley is hosted by the American Institute of Bisexuality (AIB), an organization founded 10 years ago to educate the public about the subject of bisexuality. The AIB created this conference in 2000 expressly to allow bisexual and bi curious men to gather in a safe, supportive environment to dialogue on their issues of concern, including their feelings of invisibility & the societal pressures to remain closeted. This 3rd annual conference will offer approximately 12 workshops (covering themes including coming out, relationships, culture, spirituality, identity, health, & more) & numerous social events. There will be a Friday night no-host welcome reception, a Saturday evening banquet with live entertainment, as well as time to explore San Diego. Registration fees: $40-$120. Southwest Airlines is offering a special discount for conference attendees. More info:www.bisexual.org/pages/newconf/sdsandiego/. Workshop info: Alexei Guren at 206/709-8676 or Alexei_Guren@msn.com. Inquiries about AIB: Dr. Fritz Klein at 619/542-0088 or FritzKlein@aol.com.

18 (Fri.)

Patrice Vecchione: Booksigning and Inspirational Talk. According to Patrice Vecchione, it's only when we tap into our inner spirituality that we are able to find our true voice-the voice that allows the soul to speak. In Writing and the Spiritual Life, she presents clear processes and writing exercises to help you discover the strength and resonance of your inner voice. She shows where to find sources of spirit and creativity; how spiritual practice can be a form of introspective prayer and crafting of language all at once; how to capture that which is sacred and pull it into your writing; and how to gain a deeper understanding of your spiritual self. 7 pm @ Body, Mind and Soul, 4344 Westheimer at Mid Lane in the Westheimer Oaks Shopping Village. For more info: 713/993-0550 or www.bmsbooks.booksense.com.

19 (Sat.)

Whole Health & Psychic Expo. Free health demos. Free mini-lectures and samples. The biggest annual gathering of alternative healthcare physicians and providers offering aromatherapy, bodywork, Chinese herbs, chiropractics, feng shui, healing touch, iridology, magnets, massage, microdermabrasion, nutrition, reflexology, spinal screening, spray vitamins, arts & crafts, aura photos, handwriting analysis, unique jewelry, and more. Have fun with psychic readers. Enjoy live demos of tai chi, yoga, face reading, & acupressure. Bring the kids for face-painting, spirit portraits, drumming, & great snacks. 10 am-6 pm @ CenterPoint for Body, Mind & Spirit, 1920 Hollister. Donation $2. Info: 713/932-7224.

19 (Sat.)

Free Family Day in the Houston Museum District. Would you like to spend an entire day exploring the worlds of art, science, nature, & history-for free? Then don't miss this annual event. Enjoy the fascinating exhibitions, live music, & welcoming family atmosphere at 15 museums. Participating museums will waive their general admission fee from 10 am-5 pm, giving the community the opportunity to enjoy the district's diverse offerings and special activities. This year five exciting new member museums will join in the celebration: Buffalo Soldiers National Museum; Byzantine Fresco Chapel Museum; The Rothko Chapel; Houston Center for Contemporary Craft; and the Houston Center for Photography. Free METRO buses will transport visitors throughout the district. Plan to spend the day in the district to explore favorite museums and discover new destinations. To refresh yourself, plan a stop at the multitude of dining options throughout the district. For more details about Museum District Day: 713/790-1020 or www.houstonmuseumdistrict.org. Due to its recent privatization, The Houston Zoo will not offer free general admission to the public this year during Museum District Day. Admission to the zoo: adults (13-64) $5; children (3-12) $2; senior citizens (65+) $3; kids under 3 free.

19 (Sat.)

Grupo Vocal Desandann, based in central Cuba, performs popular and spiritual Haitian songs arranged and interpreted by the group's 10 multi-faceted singers and musicians. Together, they tell the story of the Haitian emigres who are longing for Haiti and are determined to keep their culture close to their heart. The songs are sacred and secular, songs of love and songs that invite the listener to join in the celebration. Presented by DiverseWorks at 8 pm @ Wilhelmina Cullen Robertson Auditorium at U of H Downtown, One Main St. Tickets $25 (members $20). Reservations: 713/335-3445.

19 & 20 (Sat. & Sun.)

The 7th Annual Eastwood Historic Home Tour, sponsored by the Eastwood Historical Commission, features five homes dating from 1915 to 1932 and Lantrip Elementary School. 4447 Rusk St.: a large one-story craftsman bungalow built in 1919; 4413 Rusk St.: this year's work-in-progress; 4344 Clay St.: built in 1925 as a duplex, this two-story brick & wood-siding building was converted into a 2,500+ sq.-ft. single-family residence in 2000; 1102 Wyatt St.: a 1932 renovated Mediterranean-style bricksmith-glazed red tile roof ; 4932 Stimson St.: vintage 1930 brick & limestone cottage with pitched roof & French-paned windows; Dora Lantrip Elementary School, 100 Telephone Rd.: built in 1916, it is the oldest in-use school in the HISD system. Eastwood, one of Houston's first master-planned subdivisions, was designed & developed in 1911 by William A, Wilson. Eastwood's tree-lined streets are now home to people who appreciate the vintage craftsman, four-square, mission, and arts & crafts-style homes and the proximity to downtown, Montrose, U of H, & the Medical Center. Noon-5 pm. Tickets ($10) can be purchased at Dora B. Lantrip Elementary on tour days. Info: 713/926-6722 or e-mail Easthc@aol.com.

20 (Sun.)

MAD PAC Fun Fundraiser. Two-hour show featuring internationally-renowned cabaret singer Deborah Boily and award-winning Houston poet Mark Doty, plus a few words from local elected officials and candidates. Benefits state & local candidates for judicial & legislative office through Montrose Area Democrats Political Action Committee. Sonoma's, 1415 California. Advance reservations ($49) recommended. Info: www.madtimes.org/pac or 713/942-0494.

20 (Sun.)

Victorian Houston Home Tour. Houston's oldest intact neighborhood, the Old Sixth Ward, invites you to see modern-day living in homes over a century old. While Houston's preservation ordinance minimally covers the exterior of homes, residents are free to decorate the interior as they wish. This contrast of old & new, rough & silky, is often beautifully stunning. Tour attendees will see a mix of interior décor styles, while exteriors are historically accurate. 1-5 pm @ Old Sixth Ward, bound by Washington Ave, Houston Ave., Memorial Dr., & Glenwood Cemetery, just west of downtown & the Municipal Courts. Tickets $10 at 1900 Kane the day of the event. For more info: 713/869-8309 or www.old6ward.org.

21 (Mon.)

Listen Up. Leading Chicana writer, author of the bestseller The House on Mango Street and Woman Hollering Creek, Sandra Cisneros will be reading from her long-awaited new novel Caramelo. She is part of Inprint's 2002-2003 Margarett Root Brown Houston Reading Series. 7:30 pm (doors open at 6:45) @ the Alley Theatre, 615 Texas Ave. Suggested donation is $5 (students/senior citizens free). For more info: 713/521-2026 or www.inprint-inc.org.

24-26 (Thu.-Sat.)

LGBT Medical Conference. Gay and Lesbian Medical Association (GLMA) is holding its 20th annual conference in Toronto. The conference is designed for physicians & other healthcare professionals and provides both Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits and Continuing Education Units (CEU) to attendees through dozens of workshops & seminars that relate to LGBT health. The 3-day program will focus on primary care & biopsychosocial issues, as well as policy & advocacy. The conference will take place at the Fairmont's Royal York Hotel in Toronto, Canada. More info & early-bird registration discounts are available at the GLMA website www.glma.org.

25-27 (Fri.-Sun.)

Texas Tap Ensemble presents "An Evening of Ellington," which is part of the Free Concert Series. The evening will reveal the evolution of two of America's art forms: tap dancing & jazz music, showcasing the musical talents of Duke Ellington. Act 1 will feature such numbers as "Satin Doll" & "Mood Indigo." Act 2 will feature Duke Ellington's version of the "Nutcracker" set in the early 1940s. 8 pm @ Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park. Info: 713/686-9184.

25-27 (Fri.-Sun.)

The 7th Annual Fall Texas Home & Garden Show features under one roof: home improvement; new home building; energy-efficiency experts, products, & services; lasagna gardening; fully functional mobile kitchen & laundry room; live auctions; cool pools; soothing spas; garden accessories; gourmet cooking shows; vacation, leisure, & outdoor pavilion; and more. Friday 2-8 pm; Saturday 10 am-8 pm; Sunday 11 am-6 pm, @ Reliant Center, Hall A. Tickets $8 (children under 14 free). Info: www.TexasHomeandGarden.com or 713/529-1616.

25-27 (Fri.-Sun.)

GLBT People and Jerry Falwell. Hundreds of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender (GLBT), and allied Soulforce volunteers from across the nation will gather in Lynchburg, Virginia, on these dates. This will mark the three-year anniversary of the initial Soulforce event in Lynchburg when 200 Soulforce volunteers met with 200 members of Jerry Falwell's Thomas Road Baptist Church. Plans include a march for equality around Lynchburg; a display of untruths uttered by Falwell answered by truths from mental health professionals, scientists, and Bible scholars; and trainings in nonviolent civil disobedience. Soulforce, Inc., is an interfaith movement committed to ending spiritual violence perpetuated by religious policies and teachings against GLBT people. For more info:www.soulforce.org.

26 (Sat.)

Menopause. Making Wise Decisions on Hormone Therapy in Menopause is a seminar by Nellie Grose, M.D. Want to be heard, informed, & empowered to make choices in your health? Concerned about risks with Premarin & Prempro? Want to know more about natural hormone therapy? This seminar is for you, menopause or not. Learn that hot flashes are not a sympton of estrogen deficiency; that PMS is not a symptom of Prozac deficiency; that your own unique biochemistry holds the key to estrogen metabolism; what you can do naturally; and more. Includes special presentations of therapeutic stretching, herbology, acupuncture & traditional Chinese medicine, and compounding hormones. Register 9 am, seminar 9:30 am-1 pm @ Fitness and Therapy Center at the Women's Hospital of Texas, 7400 Fannin, Ste. 100. Cost $45 ($40 if prepaid by Oct. 11). For more info: Judith at 713/660-6620.

26 & 27 (Sat. & Sun.)

Willie Nelson. Country fans familiar with the classic renditions of Nelson's standards know that his world is permeated by music that touches the heart. His songs blend African-American, Mexican, & gospel music with jazz & country-western swing into a rendition uniquely his own. Tickets $39-$87. Saturday at 8 pm, Sunday at 7 pm, @ Galveston's Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice, 800/821-1894.

27 (Sun.)

The Human Race is a noncompetitive 5K run/walk for adults and 1K for children promoting the concept of mutual respect & dignity for all people. This 3rd annual race is expected to draw more than 8,000 participants who will be educated about Houston's diverse population along the race course by viewing "diversity fact boards" and "trivia markers" while also enjoying multi-cultural entertainment. The race will be held on the University of Houston Main Campus (Holman at Cullen), starting at 2 pm. For more info: 713/942-8000, ext. 106, or www.hmh.org.

30 (Wed.)

Workshop by Alan Cohen, author of The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore and 16 other books including Why Your Life Sucks and the soon-to-be-released Looking In for Number One. 7-10 pm @ Creative Life Spiritual Center, 5326 Spring-Stuebner, 281/350-5157 or www.creativelife.org.

PLANNING AHEAD FOR NOVEMBER

November 1 (Fri.)

From Russia with Love: No More Cold War Classics is presented by OrchestraX in collaboration with the Asia Society of Texas. John Axelrod conducts Serge Prokofiev's "War and Peace Overture," Sergei Rachmaninoff's "Piano Concerto #2," & Dmitri Shostakovich's "Symphony #5." 7:30 pm @ www.orchestrax.org or 713/225-6729.

November 1 & 2 (Fri. & Sat.)

The Presidents. Rich Little portrays the last 8 American presidents (Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush, & Clinton) in this two-act historical journey which revisits the greatest challenges & greatest triumphs of the last 40 years. The play addresses how actions by the most powerful man on the planet have affected the average American, and vice versa, and how the events altered this nation, some leaving scars. Tickets $18.50-$67. Friday at 8 pm, Saturday at 3 & 8 pm @ Galveston's Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice, 800/821-1894.

November 2 & 3 (Sat. & Sun.)

The Woodlands ArtFest is a juried fine arts show & competition promoting original artwork from more than 100 regional & national professional artists. It will also showcase student artists & student performers. All artwork shown will be available for purchase, & all events will take place under cover. Admission is $5 ($2 for children ages six & under). Sat. 10 am-6 pm, Sun. noon-5 pm. On the grounds of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, 2002 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands. For more info: www.TheWoodlandsArtFest.org or 281/364-3010.

November 2-9 (Sat.-Sat.)

Gay Games VI "Under New Skies." INTA-Aussie South Pacific, one of Australia's leading tour operators, has selected Concierge Travel as a preferred supplier to the games. Currently, Concierge Travel has participants registered to compete in ballroom dancing, marathon, & bodybuilding. For more info: Kim Gustavsson, Concierge Travel, 713/661-2117.

November 2-9 (Sat.-Sat.)

2002 Sydney Gay Games. The Houston Montrose Athletic Association with Mark Hoyer of American Express Travel will be the resource contact for the Houston contingent that will be going to the games. Hoyer has worked out a travel package that includes discounted hotel and flight rates. Visit the 2002 Sydney Gay Games website at www.sydney2002.org.au for more information about the events and registration. For reservations, call Mark at 713/365-6266 (reservation cost $210).

November 8 (Fri.)

GoGirlsMusicFest "Get Hip to Hep C" Concert Tour raises awareness of Hepatitis C and benefits the American Liver Foundation. Features Cowboy's Nightmare (TX), Carol Plunk (TN), Elizabeth White (TX), Mandy G. Smith (TX), & Kelly's Lot (CA). It will be a night of great music & fun and benefiting a great cause. The first 75 people in the door will receive a free GoGirlsMusicFest CD featuring Carol Plunk and Kelly's Lot. Tickets $10. Doors open at 8 pm @ The Rhythm Room, 1815 Washington Ave. More info: www.GoGirlsMusicFest.com.

November 9 (Sat.)

Stargazer 2002. This movie & autograph show, which is the largest in Texas, will include tables of modern & vintage autographs, posters, stills, books, magazines, cartoon & comic art, old TV/movies on video, and drawings for door prizes throughout the day. 10 am-8 pm @ the recently remodeled Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, 7787 Katy Frwy near I-10 & Antoine. Admission $5 (children under 12 free). Room reservations: 713/681-5000. Info: Robert Cullen at 713/365-0266 (after 6 pm).

PERFORMING ARTS

Bedroom Farce. Three bedrooms on stage display all the chaotic hilarity during one night in which a couple's attempts to deal with their marriage ruffle not only beds, but tempers, marriages, & the domestic harmony of three other couples. Tickets $12. Fridays & Saturdays, 8 pm, Oct. 11-Nov. 16 @ The Company Onstage, 536 Westbury Square, 713/726-1219.

Blood Wedding/Bodas de Sangre. On the barren landscape of rural Spain, two lovers-driven by their insatiable desire for each other-abandon their families and surrender to their all-consuming passion. The hope of two households is drowned in their wake, as they fulfill a tragic prophecy of revenge. The first of Federico Garcia Lorca's three "rural tragedies," Blood Wedding is based on the true story of a bride who ran away with her lover on her wedding night, and is credited with restoring tragic poetry to the Spanish stage. Tickets $32-$42. Through Oct. 13 @ Stages Repertory Theatre, 3201 Allen Parkway, 713/527-0123, www.stagestheatre.com. Performed in English & Spanish-call Stages for details.

Checkmates. Two generations: 35-year "veterans" of marriage and a young professional couple making all the right moves in career and all the wrong moves in marriage. Checkmates! Tickets $20-$35. Through Oct. 13 @ The Ensemble Theatre, 3535 Main Street. More info: 713/520-0055.

The Crime of the Assistant Master Butler is the premiere of Bobbindoctrin Puppet Theatre's new work. The story unfolds a murder mystery involving one master, the master butler, the assistant master butler, and the assistant to the assistant master butler. But don't be fooled by the title-there are three butlers & three crimes, one of which is such a betrayal of humanity & justice that no word befits the evil. Oct. 10-26 @ DiverseWorks, 1117 East Freeway. Tickets $15 ($10 members). For more info: 713/335-3445 or www.diverseworks.org.

Floyd Collins. The story of the first genuine media circus, Floyd Collins is a musical that tells the true story of a Kentucky man who gets trapped in a cave while chasing a dream of fame & fortune. Reporters & gawkers from across the country descend on the property, manipulating the nation into holding its collective breath. This tale portrays how a tragedy can affect a family and how the media can abuse their power to exploit such a tragedy. Thursdays-Sundays, through Oct. 19 @ The Masquerade Theatre, 1537 Shepherd Dr. Tickets $15-$25. Reservations/more info: 713/861-7045 or www.masqueradetheatre.com.

Frame 312, Keith Reddin's latest work, takes its name from a crucial frame of the Zapruder film that captured John F. Kennedy's assassination in Dallas. In 1963, a Life magazine secretary is one of only three people to view the historic 22-second film in its entirety. Forty years later, as the only surviving witness, she grapples with a haunting secret and whether to reveal it to her family. Oct. 25-Nov. 24 @ the Alley Theatre, 615 Texas Ave. For ticket info: 713/228-8421 or www.alleytheatre.org.

The General from America. Corin Redgrave (who received a Tony nomination for his performance in the Alley's Not About Nightingales) plays Benedict Arnold in this historical drama about the circumstances surrounding the general's decision to defect to the British during the American Revolution. Richard Nelson (a Tony Award-winning playwright) directs the play. Oct. 11-Nov. 9 @ the Alley Theatre, 615 Texas Ave. Tickets to preview performances: $20-$40; tickets after the Oct. 16 opening: $35-$50. Tickets can purchased at www.alleytheatre.org, at the Alley box office, or by calling 713/228-8421.

Houston Grand Opera opens its 48th season with Puccini's La Bohème, a timeless story of friends' camaraderie & of lost love. This new production moves the tale of struggling Parisian artists to the start of World War I. With bodies returning from the front, our young Bohemian heroes lose both their innocence & idealism. Oct. 25-Nov. 16 @ Wortham Center's Brown Theater, Texas Ave. at Smith St. Tickets ($15-$250) available at www.houstongrandopera.org, 713/228-OPERA, or in the Wortham Center's lobby.

Houston Grand Opera's national radio broadcasts over National Public Radio's "World of Opera" begin this month and continue through Nov. (all on Sat-urdays). Oct 12: Giuseppe Verdi's Rigoletto. Oct. 19: Richard Wagner's Tannhœuser. Oct. 26: Peter Ilytch Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin. Nov. 2: Carlisle Floyd's Of Mice and Men. For a free radio guide, call 1-888-463-6103, e-mail radio@houstongrandopera.org, or mail your name & address to Opera Cues 2002 Radio Guide, Houston Grand Opera, 510 Preston, Houston, TX 77002.

Killer Karaoke and Come Up and Slay Me Sometime are presented by Mystery Café, home of Comedy Murder Mystery Dinner Theater. • Killer Karaoke: The Gulf Coast Regional Semi-Final Three Steps Before National Silver Microphone Karaoke Competition will continue, despite an "accidental" fire and a crazed karaoke serial killer stalking the contestants. Anybody who's actually listened to karaoke will probably side with the killer, if they can figure out his or her identity. Come Up and Slay Me Sometime: Bathtub gin isn't the only illegal thing going on in this 1920s floating speakeasy-there's a dead body lying around, and nobody can call the cops. Featuring special appearances by Mae West, Charles Lindbergh, and Abraham Lincoln. • Killer Karaoke plays Fridays; Come Up and Slay Me Sometime plays Saturdays. Both shows are presented at 8 pm @ Marriott West Loop, 1750 West Loop South at San Felipe. Reservations required: 713/944-2583 or www.mysterycafehouston.com.

Kingdom of Earth. Houston's dAdA (diverse Artists dedicated Action) Productions brings this Tennessee Williams' work to the stage for the first production of their inaugural season. Set in the Mississippi Delta amidst the dangers of rising flood waters, Kingdom centers on a fiery dispute about a family farm between Lot, a tubercular recluse, and his half brother Chicken, a handsome, caramel-toned brute of a man. Tempers flare & tension mounts as Lot's wife Myrtle, a desperate ex-burlesque queen, finds herself sandwiched between the two brothers in a struggle to the death. Fridays & Saturdays at 8 pm, Oct. 9-Nov. 2 @ Theatre LaB Houston, 1706 Alamo. Tickets $20 in advance, $22 at the door. To reserve tickets: 713/868-7516.

The Last Night of Ballyhoo. From the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Driving Miss Daisy comes a love story full of Southern humor. It's Christmas, 1939. Gone with the Wind storms the silver screen, and the cream of Atlanta's Jewish crop are preparing for Ballyhoo, the Jewish social event of the year, and Lala needs a date. Fri.-Sun., through Oct. 13 @ Galveston's Strand Theatre, 2317 Ship's Mechanic Row. Reser-vations/more info: toll free 1-877-787-2639.

The Laws of Storms. Two months following the Galveston hurricane of 1900, the life of every Galvestonian was changed forever. Those who died left nothing but their memories scattered into a thousand pieces among the island's debris. Those who lived attempted to take those memories and move on, leaving behind those laws that cannot be answered. Now someone in Galveston believes he understands the laws of storms, and he is ready to confront its wrath. In The Laws of Storms, Thomas Meloncon explores the physical & emotional damage of the hurricane on the city's African-American community. Through Oct. 13 @ Main Street Theater in Rice Village, 2540 Times Blvd. Tickets are $20-$30. For more info: 713/524-6706 or www.mainstreet theater.com.

Lips. Chris Jimmerson, Unhinged Productions' managing artistic director, says that "Lips presents another kind of 'W' in the White House-a Woman with a brain. A play about the first woman elected president who actually tries to do the right thing for gays and lesbians is of great interest in current times. This character is truly moral and ethical as opposed to those who are screaming morality while trying to create a theocracy in America." In Lips, the new president has been elected on a platform that includes equal rights for lesbians and gays. Facing a recalcitrant Congress, she takes unusual action to try to get her way. Her tactics elicit rumors that she is lesbian, and the repercussions force her to re-evaluate her principles. • "Audiences will delight in these eccentric, often humorous characters while being challenged to re-examine gender and sexuality definitions," Jimmerson says. Asked for more specifics about the play, Jimmerson laughs and says, "Democrats good. Republicans bad. Read our Lips. Or, better yet-see it!" • Through Oct. 27 (Fridays & Saturdays at 8 pm, Sundays at 5 pm) @ Atomic Café, 1320 Nance (north of downtown). $15 (student/senior tickets $12; all Sunday tickets $10). Reservations/info: 713/547-0440 (or www.u-p.org or e-mail unhinged@u-p.org).

The Man Who Came to Dinner, written by Moss Hart & George S. Kaufman, tells the story of Sheridan Whiteside, critic, lecturer, wit, radio orator, & intimate friend of the great & near great. Having dined at the home of the prominent Stanley family in a small Ohio town, Whiteside slips on their doorstep and injures his hip. A tumultuous six weeks of confinement follow, during which the Stanley living room is monopolized by the famous & irascible invalid. Before it's over, the outrageous has become commonplace. Tickets $15 (students/seniors $13). Through Oct. 12 (weekends only) at 8 pm (one Sunday matinee on Oct. 6 at 2 pm) @ The Country Playhouse, 12802 Queensbury, 713/467-4497 (between 9:30 am & 1 pm).

Phaedra's Love. The Infernal Bridegroom season begins with this regional premiere by Sarah Kane. Widely considered to be one of the most controversial, important playwrights of her generation, her work has never been produced in Texas. Phaedra's Love is loosely based on Seneca's version of the classic, incestuous story, in which Phaedra, a queen, falls in obsessive love with her stepson, the prince Hippolytus. In Kane's version, Hippolytus is a promiscuous, bisexual, binge-eating, atheist brute. The play is as uncompromising as its (anti)heroes. Explicit violence which occurred offstage in previous versions is presented here in gory detail. An unrelenting stream of sexual, emotional, & psychic abuse dominates the action. This production comes with the strongest of warning labels; it is not intended for the faint of heart or weak of stomach. 8 pm, Thursdays-Saturdays, through Oct. 12 @ The Axiom, 2524 McKinney. Tickets $10-$15. More info: 713/522-8443 or www.infernalbridegroom.com.

Talley's Folley is a masterful duet written by Lanford Wilson, one of America's leading playwrights. The second play written in the trilogy that chronicles the life of the Talley family, Talley's Folly earned Wilson the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, as well as a New York Drama Critics Circle Award. For an hour and a half we are transported to early evening on a summer night in 1944 in an old Victorian boathouse on the Talley farm in Lebanon, Missouri. Matt Friedman & Sally Talley, two people grieving for want of love, begin a courtship that triumphs over political upheaval & religious persecution in the world surrounding their boathouse refuge. In what has been called the most human of his works, Matt & Sally find romance through Wilson's heartbreakingly tender & astute dialogue. Leave the theater smiling with this equally romantic, dramatic, & comedic "feel good" masterpiece that really is a "love poem for an apple and an orange" (New York Post). Fridays & Saturdays at 8 pm, Sundays at 2 pm, through Oct. 26 @ the Ensemble Theatre, 3535 Main St. in the Midtown area. Tickets: $15 adults ($10 students/senior citizens). Info/reservations: Chris Wilson's Actors Theatre of Houston's box office at 713/529-6606.

What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? Based on the 1960 novel, which also served as the basis for the Bette Davis/Joan Crawford film, What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? chronicles the story of one-time child vaudeville star & her wheelchair-bound sister, now a former MGM musical star. Original author Henry Farrell, together with noted pop, film, & Broadway lyricist Hal Hackaday, have created a show that combines thrilling suspense, dark comedy, & the glamour of a bygone era of vaudeville & Hollywood. Stage, screen, & TV star Millicent Martin portrays Jane. (Click here for an interview with Martin.) Oct. 9-27 @ Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, 800 Bagby. Tickets ($25-$68) available at 713/558-8887, TUTS box office, any Ticketmaster outlet, or online at www.tuts.com.

PERFORMING ARTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse. Lilly wants to be a surgeon or an ambulance driver or a diva-until she meets her new teacher Mr. Slinger. Now she wants to be just like him-until she brings her new purple plastic purse with the three shiny quarters and the movie star sunglasses to show the class. Join Lilly, Chester, & Wilson as they become friends, learn to speak in a secret language, and tackle school. School bookings: through Oct. 25, M-F, 9:30 am, 11 am, & 12:30 pm. School booking reservations: 713/524-7998. Family performances: Oct. 5, 12, & 19, 1, 3, & 5 pm. Box office/reservations: 713/524-6706. Adults: $10; students/seniors $8. For more info: www.mainstreet theater.com.

The Sorcerer's Other Apprentice. Chip wants to be a real wizard, not just an apprentice. Merwyn, a wise sorcerer, sends Chip on a quest where he meets an independent princess & a fiercely funny dragon, and discovers that he is a real wizard after all. Tickets $6. Sat., 11 am & 1:30 pm, through Nov. 9 @ the Company Onstage, 536 Westbury, 713/726-1219.

RADIO

After Hours. Saturdays, midnight to 3 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.

ART/PHOTOGRAPHY

Channeling. Tracie Brownlee's rich, juicy paintings present an intimate view of television's voyeuristic world. Images of people & situations taken from "reality TV" cop shows & 24-hour news channels are painted with great skill & complete abandon, using closed-captioning to illuminate the soap opera-like narratives. Through Oct. 12 @ DiverseWorks' Project Gallery, 1117 East Frwy, 713/335-3445, www.diverseworks.org.

Elevations Transcendsualistic is a dynamic, site-specific wall mural installation configured in response to DiverseWorks' Main Gallery. Approaching architectural space as a blank canvas and using vibrant color & sound, artist Paul Henry Ramirez transforms the gallery into a dynamic backdrop for this latest series of sensuous, surreal, & meticulously crafted paintings. Through Oct. 12 @ DiverseWorks' Main Gallery, 1117 East Freeway, 713/335-3445, www.diverseworks.org.

Patrick Palmer. This fall studio show is Oct. 11 & 12 from 5-8 pm @ 1118 Milford St. (near Montrose & Bissonnet & Bell Park).

Ready to Wear. A show of artist-made wearable art from purses made of saran wrap to evening wraps made of silk, Ready to Wear will present work by contemporary craft artists who are producing functional fashion items. Oct. 7-Nov. 3 @ Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, 4848 Main St., 713/529-4848.

"See America First": The Prints of H.C. Wester-man includes over 45 lithographs, linoleum cuts, & woodblock prints, along with selected working drawings, related finished drawings, color proof variations, alternate print states, and selected linocut & wood blocks that will be shown alongside the editioned prints. Oct. 4-Nov. 17 @ the Contemporary Arts Museum, 5216 Montrose Blvd., 713/284-8250.

Watercolors by Richard Byrd are still-life paintings inspired by contemporary urban life. Some of his subject matter includes Asian-inspired floral arrangements, martinis, & other home accessories. Byrd, a native Houstonian, has had his work displayed in numerous exhibitions and is a member of the Watercolor Art Society of Houston and Art League, Houston. Oct. 25-Nov. 22 @ Loft & Home Essentials, 1009 Missouri St. at Montrose, 713/522-5638.