Local News

Calendar: September 2007

Day by day. Performing Arts. Performing Arts for Young People. Radio. Visual Arts/Photography. HIV Testing. Plus spotlight on Gloria Steinem and many more.

 

September Day-By-Day Planning AheadPerforming Arts Performing Arts for Young PeopleRadioArt/PhotographyHIV Testing

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Spotlight: ‘Show them the beauty they possess inside’
“We’ve begun to raise daughters more like sons…but few have the courage to raise our sons more like our daughters.”

GSteinem
Gloria Steinem

That’s just one of the many memorable quotes attributed to Gloria Steinem, founder of the iconographic Ms. magazine and considered by many the Grand Dame of the modern feminist movement. In a visit to Houston this month, Steinem discusses what the future might look like for those sons and daughters.

With the topic, The Progression of Feminism: Where Are We Going?, Steinem focuses her keen cultural compass specifically on gender roles, and how a better understanding of those roles might “foster a national spirit of cooperation for advancing the rights of all citizens, especially our children.”

The public event, sponsored by River Oaks Area Democratic Women, or ROADWomen, takes place September 17, 7:30 p.m. at the Wortham Center, preceded by a catered VIP reception with Steinem beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Steinem, now 73, is also credited with saying, “The truth will set you free. But first, it will piss you off.”

Expect to be pissed off. Details: www.progressiveforumhouston.org 832/251-0706. — Nancy Ford

Spotlight:  DOWNTOWN DIVAS  

RFoster
Ruthie Foster at the Houston Women's Festival.

Those who love the lovely Ginger Leigh get a bigger dose of the internationally touring talent at the Houston Women’s Festival next month. Leigh acts as emcee for this year’s marketplace, cultural, and music event. Ruthie Foster, Susan Gibson, Kellye Gray, Amy Speace and the Tearjerks, Trina Hamlin, Nini Camps, Paige Lewis, and Mary Cutrufello round out the powerhouse lineup at the all-day downtown party. October 20, noon-10 p.m. Jones Plaza, Texas @ Capitol. Details: www.hwfestival.org. — N.F.

Spotlight: NO, NOT THAT KIND OF RAINBOW  

Rather than the six-color banner that is the GLBT rainbow flag, Rainbow Art Show 2007: The World Is My Playground represents the various stripes of family histories, and the importance of sharing them now and in the future. The art is a collaboration of the youth who participated in local summer art programs. University Museum at Texas Southern University, 3100 Cleburne. Through September 2. Details: www.2007Fresharts.org. — N.F.

Spotlight: CATCH HER WHILE YOU CAN  

Renowned Houston poet and artist Donna Garrett will soon be returning to Taipei for more performances and workshops. But first she’ll host a special open mic poetry edition of the Women’s Group . “It is a chance for the ladies to poetically express themselves and for me to read my new work,” Garrett says. September 2, 10:45 a.m. Sojourner Truth Room, First Unitarian Universalist, 5200 Fannin. Details: 713/529-8571. — N.F.

Spotlight: ROAD TRIP  

Esperanza Peace and Justice Center winds up its summer-long ¡Que Queer! San Antonio, a celebration of the Alamo City’s GLBT, two-spirit, and queer communities “through art, artifacts, ephemera, & mementos.” In addition to displaying the work of more than a dozen queer-centric artists, the center highlights the celebration with comedian Marga Gomez in The Family Cómica . The play runs September 7 and 8; the exhibit is on view through the end of the month. Esperanza Peace and Justice Center, 922 San Pedro Ave. Details: 210/228-0201 or www.esperanzacenter.org. — N.F.

Spotlight: IT’S RAINING CHIPS,   HALLELUJAH !  

The incomparable Martha Wash revs up the stakes at the annual Queer Casino presented by Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church. The charitable event ($50) features dinner, a cash bar, silent auction, and standard faux gambling fare. But the special performance by the diva herself is gonna make you sweat, swear to God. Proceeds benefit Legacy Community Health Services, Montrose Counseling Center, and the church. September 8,   7-11 p.m. Edwin R. Hornberger Center, 2151 W. Holcombe Blvd. Details: www.resurrectionmcc.org. — N.F.

Spotlight: HIGH SCHOOL WAS NEVER THIS MUCH FUN  

The Empire of the Royal Sovereign, Imperial Court of the Single Star takes its shows on the road this month. Imperial Prince Royale XXIII Falcon and Imperial Princess Royale XXIII Kimberly O’Neil host High School Memories, warming up with “Homecoming,” September 21, 7 p.m., at George, 617 Fairview. The group heads to Galveston for “Senior Trip” on September 22, noon-5 p.m., for a pool party and barbecue at Robert’s Lafitte’s, 2501 Avenue Q, followed by “Luau,” September 22, 7 p.m., at The UnderCurrent, 2409 Market. The extravaganza finales back in Houston, September 23, 6 p.m., with “Prom” at Brazos River Bottom, 2400 Brazos. Proceeds from the entire weekend benefit Legacy Community Health Services. Details: www.ersicss.org. — N.F.

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September DAY BY DAY
(see also SEPTEMBER Weekly and Monthly)

6-9 (Thur.-Sun.)

The Secret Garden. Based on the classic novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, the orphaned Mary Lennox is sent to live with her uncle. She stumbles across a closely guarded mystery in the dusty corridors of the mansion. With the help of her newfound friends, she discovers a new world around her and within. The production features a 24-piece orchestra conducted by Dominique Røyem. $25 and $35. Showtimes vary at the Heinen Theatre in Midtown, 3517 Austin at Holman, located on the Houston Community College Central Campus. Info/reservations: 713/465-6484 or www.bayoucityconcertmusicals.org.

8 & 9 (Sat. & Sun.)

The MS Walk. Take a step in the fight against multiple sclerosis (MS). Choose your location: Katy, Kemah, The Woodlands, or downtown Houston. The walks benefit the National MS Society, Lone Star Chapter. More than just mile and 5K walks, myriad family-friendly festivities are in store for strutters and supporters alike. Saturday, September 8 MS Walks: Katy at Katy Mills Mall, Kemah at the Kemah Boardwalk, and the Woodlands at the Panther Creek Shopping Center. Sunday, September 9 MS Walk in downtown Houston at Sam Houston Park. Registration 7 am, walk 8 am. Registration/info: 1-800-FIGHT MS or www.mswalklonestar.org.

13 (Thur.)

No Doubt We’re OUT. Relax with a night of theater. The Alley offers a special ActOUT showing of Doubt . GLBT theatergoers and friends meet up for a pre-show mixer. Have some nibbles from Hunan Downtown, sip some drinks from Budweiser, groove to the spinnings of DJ Mike Bell, and meet some cast members. Catch the show afterward. Free with ticket. 6-7:30 pm at The Alley Theatre, 615 Texas Ave. Info/reservations: 713/228-8421 or www.alleytheatre.org.   

14 & 15 (Fri. & Sat.)

Class Clownz. ComedySportz, Houston’s longest-running improv show, presents two “Back-to-School Blues Buster” shows to ease that academia-mania. C-Sptz guarantees there’s no exam at the end but points out that participation is a must. $14, $10 w/student or teacher ID. 8 pm, ComedySportz Arena, 901 Town & Country Blvd. (I-10 West and the Beltway). Info/reservations: 713-868-1444.

15 (Sat.)

Give Peace (and Dance) a Chance. Earth Dance, the Global Dance and Cultural Festival for Peace, is the world’s largest multi-cultural synchronized global dance and prayer for peace on Earth, with 360 cities participating in 60 countries. A synchronized link-up and song will be played across the world at exactly 6 pm central time, with a special blessing for the waters called H2Om. Free, with donations appreciated (suggested $10-30). 5-9 pm (6 pm Global Prayer for Peace) at Gauranga Hall, 1320 W. 34th St. More info: 281/748-8080, www.earthdance.org/houston, www.myspace.com/earthdancehouston, www.myspace.com/ecstaticdancehouston, or www.ecstaticdancehouston.com.

16 (Sun.)

¡Historias de Tejas! Casa Ramirez Folk Art Gallery and the Flamenco Poets Society present “Stories from Tejas,” an afternoon of talented, local storytellers. Artists include Larry Russell, Melissa Galvez, Elsie C. Martinez, and students from Pancho Claus Art and Education Project. Free. 3 pm at the Casa Ramirez Folk Art Gallery, 241 West 19th St. More info: 713/880-2420 or www.theflamencopoetssociety.org.

20-23 (Thur.-Sun.)

AbFabFashion. Can’t make Fashion Week in NYC? The Cadillac Fall Fabulous brings fall fashions to the forefront in Houston. Fashion shows, hair and beauty tips, in-store events, and discounts throughout the four-day fashionista-fiesta. Free. Kick-off fashion show Thursday, 7:30 pm, viewable from common area around the ice rink at The Galleria, 5075 Westheimer. Info: 713/622-0663.

23 (Sun.)

Get Trashed. Shake your groove thing for a good cause. The Krewe of Olympus hosts a “Trash Disco” party to raise money for its three charities this year: PFLAG/HATCH Scholarship Fund, Colt 45’s Assistance Fund, and Legacy’s “Next Step” program. $5 donation at the door. 4-7 pm at Rich’s, 2401 San Jacinto. More info: www.mardigrastexas.com.

23 (Sun.)

Fantasy Getaway to Beautiful Beaumont. Let Eyeopener Tours turn you on to everything you didn’t know about Beaumont. Hit the historic Jefferson Theater, the art of Felix “Fox” Harris, and have lunch within a secret treasure-trove. $75, $60 for members (price includes lunch). 9 am-7 pm, traveling on a luxury bus. Info/reservations: 713/926-6368 or www.orangeshow.org.

29 (Sat.)

Refine Your Opticks Through Art. Spacetaker hosts its Opticks Gala to support its ongoing efforts to promote the arts in Houston, to fund operations and the Artist Resource Lab. The gala will premiere commissioned works by local artists including Amy Ell, Audio Telepathy, the Brazosport L’il Players, Daniel Adame, The Defenestration Unit, Keith Reynolds, and the Medicine Show. $75 tickets, $50 artist tickets (artist must be in the registry). 7 pm-midnight, at Winter Street Studios, 2101 Winter St. Tickets: www.spacetaker.org/gala/2007/. Info: David Brown at [email protected].

29 (Sat.)

‘Roid Rage. Violence has never been this funny. Doomsday Wrestling returns to the bayou, bloated with performance-enhancing comedy. The gladiators have all submitted pee-filled cups to the meddling Dr. Beasley, and the outcome looks bleak. Is the conniving Mexican wrestling manager Dirty Sanchez (played by OutSmart ‘s own Eric Dieckman) juicing his fighters with steroids? Will the tag team, The Masked Mormons, have a chance against Your Worst Nightmare? And how is over-the-hill Bill “The Thrill” Korczynski (also Dieckman) still “gunnin’ fer the gold” after a dozen heart attacks and a baker’s dozen strokes? $12 advance, $15 at the door. 9 pm at The Meridian, 1503 Chartres St. Info/reservations: www.MeridianHouston.com or www.DoomsdayWrestling.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 CafÈ Express, 1422 West Gray. More information: [email protected].

Monthly (Saturdays)

Second Saturdays at Winter St. Studios. It’s open-door policy at Winter St. Studios every second Saturday of the month (this month July 14). This is a great way to meet and hang with the varied artists working in many different media and styles in their studios. Participating artists have a large red dot on or near the door of their studio. All are welcome between 1 and 6 pm. At Winter St. Studios, 2101 Winter St. More information: 713/862-0082 or www.winterstreetstudios.net.

Monthly (Tuesdays)

The Houston SPCA Pet Loss Support Group provides a professionally facilitated, supportive, and safe environment for people to grieve the loss of a beloved companion. Free. First Tuesday of the month, 7 pm, at the Houston SPCA, 900 Portway Dr. Info: 713/869-7722, ext. 127, or www.houstonspca.org.

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PLANNING AHEAD

October 3 (Wed.)

A Little Day Music. Da Camera of Houston’s free lunchtime performance series continues with a performance by the Sam Dinkins III Quartet. Along with a complimentary recital are drawings for tickets to Da Camera’s upcoming events. Free. Noon in the Grand Foyer of the Wortham Theater Center, Texas at Smith. More info: 713/524-5050 or www.dacamera.com.

October 5 (Fri.)

Main Street Theater Autumn Follies Gala. Local celebrities, drinks, and hors d’ouevres highlight the pageantry tonight, featuring the specially-created musical theater piece The Best Little Icehouse in Texas . The IT-item of the live auction: the blue satin gown worn by Carlin Glynn as “Miss Mona” in the original Broadway and London productions of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas . Benefits the theater’s youth and outreach programs. $150-$15,000. Reception with heavy hors d’oeuvre stations, open bar, and silent auction at 6:30 pm; live auction and program at 8:30 pm at Main Street Theater-Chelsea Market, 4617 Montrose Blvd. Info/reservations: 713/524-3622 or www.mainstreettheater.com.

October 6 (Sat.)

The One-and-Only Lily Tomlin. Society for the Performing Arts (SPA) presents “An Evening of Classic Lily,” an evening in which Lily Tomlin journeys back in time re-creating more than a dozen of her famous characters including Ernestine the irascible telephone operator and the devilish 6-year-old Edith Ann. 8 pm at Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. Tickets ($20-$100) can be purchased online at www.spahouston.org, by phone at 713/227-4SPA, or at the courtyard level ticket office at Jones Hall. See interview with Tomlin on page 40 of this issue of OutSmart magazine.

October 6 (Sat.)

Happy Birthday, Da Camera! Celebrate Da Camera’s 20th anniversary season with a medley of highlights from artistic director Sarah Rothenberg’s original, “trend-setting” ( Time Out New York ) productions. Contributing artists include Elmar Oliveira (violin), Houston Grand Opera Studio vocal quartet, and of course Rothenberg herself. $27-$43 includes a champagne and dessert reception (half off for students and senior citizens). 7:30 pm at Cullen Theater, 500 Texas at Smith. Info/reservations: 713/524-5050 or www.dacamera.com.

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PERFORMING ARTS

The Best Man. Gore Vidal’s satire of presidential politics takes place over two days at the nominating convention of an unnamed political party as two candidates seek the endorsement of a dying former President. One leads a clean public life, yet hides a seamy private life. The other is a diametric opposite. When one threatens to expose the other’s weaknesses, the other must decide whether or not to sling some similar mud. Through September 16 at Main Street Theater-Chelsea Market, 4617 Montrose Blvd. $10-$35 ($10 with student ID). Info/reservations: 713/524.6706, www.mainstreet
theater.com or www.ticketweb.com.

The Busy World Is Hushed. Hannah, an Episcopal priest and scholar, hires a skeptic to help her write a book on a newly discovered gospel. Through the research and writing process, family and faith are tested and eventually strengthened. $10-$35. September 22-October 21, show times vary, at Main Street Theater-Rice Village, 2540 Times Blvd. Info/reservations: 713/524-6706, www.mainstreettheater.com, or www.ticketweb.com.

Doubt. In 1964 at a Catholic school, a strong-willed woman finds herself confused about the actions of the liberal Father Flynn. Is she sure of what has happened, or is her imagination playing tricks on her? Uncertainty, ambiguity, and church politics complicate her decision as to whether or not she should speak up. (Adult content, sexual situations.) Through September 23 at The Alley Theatre’s Hubbard Stage, 615 Texas Ave. September 13 offers a special ActOUT showing, wherein GLBT theater fans and their friends gather for a pre-show mixer, enjoy appetizers from Hunan Downtown, bevs from Budweiser, music from DJ Mike Bell, and mingle with cast members (free with ticket). Info/reservations: 713/228-8421 or www.alleytheatre.org.

Festival De Independencia: El Grito. Comité Patriótico Mexicano produced this Mexican celebration featuring artists from Mexico, mariachis, folkloric dances, and more. Free. September 15, festival at 3 pm, show at 5 pm, at Miller Outdoor Theatre, 100 Concert Dr., in Hermann Park. Info: www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.

Forever Hold Your Peace. It’s a Fertle family wedding. The sacrament of matrimony doesn’t know what’s about to hit it. $20. Through Sept. 1, Thursdays and Fridays at 8:30 pm, Saturdays at 8 and 10:30 pm, at Radio Music Theatre, 2623 Colquitt. Info/reservations: 713/522-7722 or www.radiomusictheatre.com.

The Four Seasons. The world premiere of this large-scale ballet is inspired by Vivaldi’s composition and features choreography that extends the boundaries of classical ballet with attitude and charged sexuality. $17-$125. September 20-30 at the Brown Theater in the Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. Info/reservations: 713/227-2787, 800/828-ARTS, or www.houstonballet.org.

Late Nite Catechism. This one-woman show is part interactive catechism class, part stand-up comedy. Catholics and “heathens” alike learn and laugh as the incorrigible nun leads and misleads her class — the audience — rewarding good students with glow-in-the-dark rosaries and assorted kitschy prizes while giving naughty students a taste of “what-for.” $30. Through Sept. 30 at Stages, 3201 Allen Pkwy. Info/reservations: 713/527-0123 or www.stagestheatre.com.

Mamma Mia! Inspired by the music of ABBA, Catherine Johnson wrote this musical about family and friendship on a Greek island. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. Songs include “Dancing Queen,” “The Winner Takes It All,” and “Take a Chance on Me.” September 25-30, in Sarofim Hall at the Hobby Center. 800 Bagby at Walker. Info/reservations: 713/693-2692, 800/889-8457, or [email protected].

The Merry Widow. Houston Ballet opens the season with Ronald Hynd’s comic love story. Set in turn-of-the-century Paris, an unlikely couple, separated in their youth, rekindles their lost romance. $17-$125. September 6-16 at the Brown Theater in the Wortham Theater Center, 501 Texas Ave. Info/reservations: 713/227-2787, 1-800-828-ARTS, or www.houstonballet.org.

Sordid Lives. Unhinged Productions presents this comedy by (openly gay) Del Shores. The upright Peggy trips on her lover’s wooden legs in a motel room. She hits her head on the sink and bleeds to death. When the news breaks, chaos ensues. Note to self: either learn to be graceful or stop dating amputees. September 21-October 20 at Silver House Theatre, 1107 Chartres St. Info/reservations: www.u-p.org.

Whistle Down The Wind. A Louisiana girl wanders over to a barn and finds a man in hiding. When asked his identity, his answer is simple: Jesus Christ. While she and her friends protect him from the outside world, the townsfolk search for an escaped fugitive. $29-$93. September 9-22 at the Hobby Center, 800 Bagby at Walker. Info/reservations: 713/558-8887, 888/558-3882, or www.tuts.com.

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PERFORMING ARTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

The Velveteen Rabbit. Society for the Performing Arts presents dance company ODC/San Francisco’s rendition of the children’s classic. Brian Wildsmith, an established children’s author and illustrator, brings his lush color sense to the set designs. The ballet portrays the transformative power of love and devotion. $20-$45. Saturday, September 29, 2 pm, in Wortham Center’s Cullen Theater, 500 Texas at Smith. Info/reservations: 713/227-4SPA or www.spahouston.org.

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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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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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