PROMOTIONS

September 2008 event listings for…

Arts & entertainment listings from our editors. [Last month]

Abilene

Museums/Galleries

FRONTIER TEXAS! Thru Sep 15: Casting the Cowboy: How Movie Makers Shaped An American Icon—how did the leathery loners that traveled the prairies and plains with their herds get replaced onscreen by singing, sharp-dressed fast-talkers? Explore this shift as you roam through film memorabilia and photographs in this exhibit and learn how moviemakers influenced cowboy heritage and vice versa. See costumes worn by Buck Taylor, original movie scripts, and vintage movie posters, and decide for yourself. Open Mon–Sat 9–6, Sun 1–5. Gen adm $8, senior citizens $6, children 3–12 $4, 2 & under free. frontiertexas.com 625 N. 1st (325-437-2800). [map] +

GRACE MUSEUM Thru Sep 7: Zero to 60—fill up your gas tank before prices hit $4 a gallon and drive to the museum to see the first-ever exhibit of artwork by members of the prestigious Automotive Fine Arts Society. Coupes, convertibles, woodies, roadsters, and other smooth riders make for eye-catching subjects, whether depicted in watercolor, clay, or wood. Open Tue & Wed 10–5, Thur 10–8, Fri & Sat 10–5. Gen adm $6; senior citizens, military & students with ID $4, children 4–12 $3, 3 & under and members free (Thur after 5 everybody free). thegracemuseum.org 102 Cypress (325-673-4587). [map] +

Points of Interest

ABILENE ZOO Zebras and jaguars and giraffes, oh my! More than 500 animals—representing some 200 species—make their home here, including two Black Rhinos, the newest residents. With fewer than 4,000 surviving today, the addition of these young males is a special treat, not to mention a humbling reminder of the devastating effects of poaching. Open Mon–Wed 9–5, Thur 9–9, Fri–Sun 9–5. Gen adm $4, senior citizens $3, children 3–12 $2, 2 & under free. abilenetx.com 2070 Zoo Ln (325-676-6085). [map] +

Albany

Museums/Galleries

OLD JAIL ART CENTER Housed in Shakelford County’s first permanent jail, the museum’s collection includes pre-Columbian and Asian art as well as modern American and European works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, Amedeo Modigliani, and Henry Moore. Thru Sep 14: Things Seen Anew: The Sculpture of J.C. Pace III—largely self-taught, Pace has honed his craftsmanship over the years and now focuses largely on more conceptual notions; from his early tree sculptures to his more recent “x-ray light boxes,” his passion for art remains unabated; also, West Texas Triangle: Barrington—sculptor Joe Barrington, of Throckmorton, has recently established a studio a few blocks from the OJAC. His monumental welded-metal work “Tex, the Roustabout” has been standing guard on the museum’s grounds since 2001, but this is the first time the OJAC has shown some of his smaller assemblage sculptures and a few works on paper. Open Tue–Sat 10–5, Sun 2–5. Free. theoldjailartcenter.org 201 S. 2nd (325-762-2269). [map] Variable.

Alpine

Music/Dance

RAILROAD BLUES Sep 5: Grupo de la Paz; $6. Sep 6: Jon Langford and the Far Forlorn; $8. Sep 12: Champagne With Friends; $6. Sep 13: Shelley King Band; $6. Sep 17 at 9: Doyle Bramhall Band; $15. Sep 19: The Cory Morrow Band; $20. Sep 20: Ruben V. Band; $8. Sep 26: Jesse Dayton Band; $7. Sep 27: El Loco; call for price. At 10 (except Sep 17 at 9). railroadblues.com 504 W. Holland (432-837-3103). [map] +

Amarillo

Points of Interest

WILDCAT BLUFF NATURE CENTER Named by early cowboys who happened upon a den of wildcats living under the bluff, this wilderness escape is just a few minutes from downtown Amarillo and features more than 600 acres of rolling grasslands threaded with nature trails aplenty. Run through wildflowers popping up through tall grasses, spy on lizards, hawks, quails, and many other species of wild life, and inspect the still-visible wagon ruts that date back to when the land was part of the historic Santa Fe Trail. Nature center open Tue–Sat 9–5. Trails open from sunrise to sunset. Gen adm $3, senior citizens & children 3–13 $2, 2 & under free. wildcatbluff.org 2301 N. Soncy Rd (806-352-6007). [map]

Arlington

Theater

THEATRE ARLINGTON Annie Get Your Gun—Annie Oakley’s gun-toting, sharp-shooting skills come to life in this musical as she joins Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, falls in love, and learns the classic “There’s No Business Like Show Business.” Sep 12–Oct 12. Thur at 7:30, Fri & Sat at 8, Sun at 2. $18–$20. theatrearlington.org 305 W. Main (817-261-9628). [map] +

Athens

Points of Interest

TEXAS FRESHWATER FISHERIES CENTER If your idea of paradise requires a rod, a reel, and a boat, then a trip to the fisheries center is a ticket to heaven. This 107-acre complex includes a visitor center, 300,000 gallons of aquaria, a freshwater fishery museum, a fishing Hall of Fame, a stocked casting pond where visitors can fish for free with tackle and bait furnished, a wetlands trail, and a production fish hatchery. Thru Oct 22: Nikon Small World Photo Exhibit—view twenty winning microphotographs (that is, images taken with a microscope) from the Small World Photo Competition and discover a world too small to be seen with just the naked eye. Open Tue–Sat 9–4, Sun 1–4. Gen adm $5.50, senior citizens $4.50, children 4–12 $3.50, 3 & under free. tpwd.state.tx.us 5550 FM 2495 (903-676-2277). [map]

Austin

Music/Dance

AUSTIN CITY LIMITS FESTIVAL Now in its sixth year, the ACL fest holds considerable clout, as 10,000 wristbanded concert-goers will testify after taking in more than 130 bands in 72 hours. Behold the lineup (or as much of it as we can fit here): Robert Plant and Allison Krauss, Beck, John Fogerty, the Foo Fighters, the Raconteurs, Ingrid Michaelson, Jenny Lewis, the Freddy Jones Band, Gnarls Barkley, the Mars Volta, David Byrne, Gillian Welch, Jakob Dylan, Man Man, Langhorne Slim, and many, many more. Sep 26-28. Three-day pass $170; single-day pass $80. aclfestival.com Zilker Park, 2100 Barton Springs Rd (888-512-7469). [map] +

AUSTIN SYMPHONY Sep 11: Dvorak: Symphony No 8 in G. Carter: Elegy for Strings. Bach-Stokowski: Sheep May Safely Graze (in memory of the victims of 9/11). Elgar: Cello Concerto in E. Yo-Yo Ma, cello. Peter Bay, conductor. At 8. $19-$48. Sep 19 & 20: Wagner: Prelude to Die Meistersinger. Beethoven: Violin Concerto in D Major. Theofanidis: Field of Infinite Forms. Stravinsky: Suite from The Firebird. Leila Josefowicz, violin. Peter Bay, conductor. At 8. $19-$48. austinsymphony.org The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W. Riverside Dr (512-476-6064). [map] +

ONE WORLD THEATRE Sep 12: Spyro Gyra—by combining elements of jazz, R&B, funk, and pop, this jazz-fusion band has become a major force in the development of smooth jazz. At 7 & 9:30. $36–$76. Sep 14: Strunz & Farrah—this duo presents colorful compositions influenced by Persian and Latin sounds that have been described as ethno jazz. At 6 & 8:30. $31–$71. Sep 21: Guitars & Saxes—now in its thirteenth year, this smash-hit tour adds legendary keyboardist and producer Jeff Lorber to its lineup. At 6 & 8:30. $36–$81. oneworldtheatre.org 7701 Bee Caves Rd (512-329-6753). [map] +

STUBB'S Sep 1 at 9: Rosewood Thieves; $8–$10. Sep 3 at 7: The Toadies with Lions; $25–$27. Sep 4 at 7: The Toadies with Riverboat Gamblers; $25–$27. Sep 11: Common; call for time & prices. Sep 12 at 7: Mogwai with the F–– Buttons ; $18–$20. Sep 14 at 9: Graham Colton; $13–$15. Sep 16 at 6: The Hives and Eagles of Death Metal with Willowz; $25. Sep 18 at 8: Stephen Kellogg & The Sixers with Erin McKeown; $14. Sep 20 at 7: Dark Star Orchestra; $21.50–$25. Sep 21 at 7: Ani DiFranco; $32–$34. stubbsaustin.com 801 Red River (512-389-0315). [map] +

Theater

LONG CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Austin's newest cultural gem—made up of the 2,400-seat Dell Hall and the 80-to-240-seat Rollins Studio Theater—presents its inaugural season. Sep 3–6: A Bronx Tale—fresh from a stint on Broadway, this classic coming-of-age story about a young boy’s rough childhood in the Bronx stars Chazz Palminteri. Wed–Fri at 8, Sat at 8 & 2. $14.50–$80. Sep 10–21: Macbeth—Austin Shakespeare presents the timeless tale of greed, power, betrayal, and self-destruction. Call for times & prices. Sep 21: Octo Tea Dance—the Octopus Club, a nonprofit offshoot of AIDS Services of Austin, plays host to this thirteenth annual benefit, which will feature music by deejays Roland Belmares and Seth Cooper, a raffle, and a silent auction, with profits going to the Paul Kirby Emergency Fund. From 3 to 9. $50 ($40 adv). octopusclub.org. For more performances, go to thelongcenter.org. 701 W. Riverside Dr (512-482-0800). [map] +

PARAMOUNT THEATRE The Paramount transforms into a movie theater for the summer. Grab your popcorn and Twizzlers to watch some of the best films ever made. This month’s selection includes Rear Window, The Bridge on the River Kwai, Lawrence of Arabia, and more. $7 (films shown in 70mm $8). For schedule call or go to austintheatre.org. 713 Congress Ave (512-472-5470). [map] +

VORTEX REPERTORY COMPANY Pink Sun—this dynamic musical event, which boasts cybernetic movement, extraordinary objects, pink vinyl, lush lighting, pulsing beats, and lyrical songs, will transport you to another reality. Sep 13–28. Thur–Fri at 9, Sat at 9 & 11, Sun at 9. $10–$30. vortexrep.org 2307 Manor Rd (512-478-5282). [map] +

Museums/Galleries

ARTHOUSE AT THE JONES CENTER Sep 6–Nov 2: RESET/PLAY—explore contemporary art inspired by video games. Artists such as Cory Areangel, Guthrie Lonergan, Kristin Lucas, and Eddo Stern probe the history and political and art-historical implications of electronic games. Open Tue, Wed & Fri 11–7; Thur 11–9; Sat 10–5; Sun 1–5. Free. arthousetexas.org 700 Congress Ave (512-453-5312). [map] +

AUSTIN CHILDREN'S MUSEUM Sep 27–May 30: All Systems Go—with gas prices soaring and global warming a hot-button issue, it makes sense to teach the youngest among us about public transportation. Whether it’s by bus, train, bicycle, car, or on foot, get your family to the museum to learn all about getting around. Thru Sep 14: Play it by Ear—kids will learn how sound is produced, what makes music, and how we hear in this exhibit. They can also make their own sound art objects and interact with those created by local Austin artists. Open Tue–Sat 10–5, Sun noon–5. Gen adm $5.50, children 12–23 months $3.50, 11 months & under free (Wed 5–8 donate what you can; Sun 4–5 everybody free). austinkids.org Dell Discovery Center, 201 Colorado (512-472-2499). [map] +

AUSTIN MUSEUM OF ART Thru Nov 2: Modern Art, Modern Lives: 19th- and 20th-Century Art From Austin Collections—the merging of art and life is emphasized in this arrangement of paintings by some of the artists who guided modernism’s course. Reexamine the works of Paul Gauguin, Edouard Vuillard, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Henri Matisse, and Pablo Picasso, among others, and ponder where art ends and life begins; also, Where Are We Going?: Contemporary Artists Address the Issues of the 21st Century—a counterpart to Modern Art, Modern Lives, this exhibit features paintings, sculpture, photographs, prints, and videos (also culled from local collections) that probe the issues of our day. Thru Sep 27: Laguna Gloria Grounded—the twelve green acres of Laguna Gloria that overlook Lake Austin have inspired many to create art, and this exhibit has collected some of it; paintings, drawings, brass sculptures, watercolors, and photographs are on display in the villa of the recently renovated grounds (AMOA-Laguna Gloria, 3809 W. 35th; museum open Tue–Sun 10–4; grounds open Mon–Sat 9–5, Sun 10–5; free, but $3 donation suggested). Open Tue, Wed, Fri & Sat 10–6; Thur 10–8; Sun noon–5. Gen adm $5, senior citizens & students $4 (everybody $1 on Tue), children 12 & under free; first Sat pay what you wish. amoa.org 823 Congress Ave (512-495-9224). [map] +

BLANTON MUSEUM OF ART Sep 28–Jan 18: Reimagining Space: The Park Place Gallery Group in 1960’s New York—made up of five sculptors (Mark di Suvero, Peter Forakis, Robert Grosvenor, Anthony Magar, and Forrest Myers) and five painters (Dean Fleming, Tamara Melcher, David Novros, Edwin Ruda, and Leo Valledor), this group of artists made up a prominent cooperative gallery in sixties New York. But, because they worked outside the predominant movements and philosophies of their day, they’ve rarely been acknowledged since. This exhibit serves to reacquaint viewers with their unique treatment of space and their active involvement with contemporary cultural issues; also, The New York Graphic Workshop, 1965-1970—founded by three young Latin American artists in New York with the goal of redefining printmaking, the NYGW was a crucial episode in the history of the American and Latin American Conceptual movement of the sixties and seventies. This exhibit features more than a hundred prints, drawings, and mixed media works from the era. Thru Sep 21: Workspace: Fabián Bercic—the artist creates a contemporary reinterpretation of a traditional Zen garden in his site–specific installation. In a critique of consumerism, he recreates the sacred rock garden by replacing its natural elements with synthetic, Day–glo materials. Open Tue–Fri 10–5, Sat 11–5, Sun 1–5 (every third Thur 10–9). Gen adm $7, senior citizens $5, students with ID & youths 13–21 $3, children 12 & under, UT staff, faculty, and students free (Thur everybody free). blantonmuseum.org UT campus, Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd at Congress Ave (512-471-7324). [map] +

BOB BULLOCK TEXAS STATE HISTORY MUSEUM Thru Sep 14: Dallas: Power and Passion on Prime-Time TV—relive the summer of “Who shot J.R.?” with this ode to the show that spread Texas fever throughout the world. View props, artifacts loaned from actors ranging from Larry Hagman to Steve Kanaly, scripts, television clips, and recreated environments from the program's fourteen seasons. (Gen adm $7, senior citizens $6, youths 5–18 $4, 4 & under free.) Open Mon–Sat 9–6, Sun noon–6. Gen adm $5.50, senior citizens & military $4.50, youths 5–18 $3, 4 & under free. thestoryoftexas.com 1800 N. Congress Ave (512-936-8746). [map] +

LYNDON BAINES JOHNSON LIBRARY AND MUSEUM Thru Jul 20, 2009: To the Moon: The American Space Program in the 1960s—as Senate majority leader, LBJ co-sponsored the legislation that created NASA. This exhibit honors the centennial of LBJ’s birth and takes a deeper look at the era of the space race. Open daily 9–5. Free. lbjlib.utexas.edu 2313 Red River (512-721-0200). [map] +

ST. EDWARD’S UNIVERSITY FINE ARTS GALLERY Sep 19-Oct 8: Layer by Layer: Revelation of Process--Randall Reid’s sculptural paintings and studio practice are at the center of this collaborative project and exhibition. Reid collaborates with designer Michelle Hays to reveal the artist’s inspiration and working process. Free. stedwards.edu Open Mon-Fri 9-5. St. Edward’s University campus, Arts Building, 3001 S. Congress (512-492-3159). [map]

Other Events

FANTASTIC FEST This eight-day film festival , which is only the second U.S. festival to be admitted to the Melies Fantastic Film Festival Federation (try saying that five times fast), showcases more than a hundred films in the oft-ignored genres of sci-fi, horror, fantasy, and the just plain weird. Sep 18–25. Call for schedule & prices. alamodrafthouse.com & fantasticfest.com Alamo Drafthouse Cinema South Lamar, 1120 S. Lamar (512-476-1320). [map] +

Points of Interest

AUSTIN FARMERS’ MARKET This Sustainable Food Center project features fresh, locally grown produce and flowers, eco-friendly products, occasional chef demonstrations, children’s activities, and live music, now at two locations. Open Sat 9–1. Various locations (512-236-0074). +

FRENCH LEGATION Austin’s oldest building on its original site and the Republic of Texas’s only foreign diplomatic outpost, the legation was built in 1841 for French charge d’affaires Alphonse Dubois de Saligny. Open Tue–Sun 1–5 (last tour at 4). Gen adm $5, senior citizens $3, students & teachers $2. frenchlegationmuseum.org 802 San Marcos (512-472-8180). [map] +

LADY BIRD JOHNSON WILDFLOWER CENTER The center’s expansive grounds feature courtyards and landscaped gardens showcasing native Texas plants. Aug 30–Oct 12: Bruce Tinch Art & Photography Exhibit—Caddo Lake, Lady Bird Johnson’s childhood playground, comes alive in the renowned artist’s brushstrokes and photographic images. Open Tue–Sat 9–5:30, Sun noon–5:30. Gen adm $7; senior citizens & students $6; children 5–12 $3; 4 & under and Wildflower Center members free. wildflower.org 4801 La Crosse Ave (512-292-4200). [map] +

THE CAPITOL The statehouse, dedicated in 1888, was completely restored in 1994. Open Mon–Fri 7 a.m. –10 p.m., Sat & Sun 9–8. Free tours Mon–Fri 8:30–4:30, Sat 9:30–3:30, Sun noon–4 (call ahead for groups of 10 or more). 11th & Congress Ave (512-463-0063). [map] +

THE CAPITOL VISITORS CENTER The Capitol Visitors Center (11th & Brazos, 512-305-8400), located in the 1857 General Land Office Bldg, houses historical exhibits. Open Mon–Sat 9–5, Sun noon–5. Free. 11th & Brazos. Parking at 12th & San Jacinto (first 2 hours free) (512-305-8400). [map] +

ZILKER BOTANICAL GARDEN Sep 6–Nov 30: DinoLand—watch something big is coming to Austin. Visitors are invited to come face to face with thirty life-like dinos of every shape and size, from the 33-foot-long Daspletosaur (a cousin to the T.rex) to a herd of tiny Compsognathus carnivores, all created by Guy Darrough, a paleontologist who runs Lost World Studios. These formidable creatures will take up temporary residence in the Hartman Prehistoric Gardens, a two-acre habitat filled with cretaceous plants, gar-filled streams, live reptiles, dragonflies, and butterflies that was created after dinosaur tracks were discovered on the site in 2002. Open daily from 10 to 5. Gen adm $5, children 3–13 $3, 2 & under free. zilkergarden.org Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Rd (512-477-8672). [map]

Bastrop

Other Events

NATUREFEST Reconnect with the great outdoors at this family-oriented festival as the hot season starts to taper off at . The kids can learn about conservation and preservation of the Earth and her resources through a number of educational activities and demonstrations, including a snake and lizard show, a native plant presentation, and other environmentally-focused programs. Also participate in, or just catch a peek of, the fortieth annual USCA Aluminum Race Nationals, which will take place on the newly opened 14-mile stretch of the lower Colorado River that’s been dubbed the Wilbarger Creek Paddling Trail (Sep 26–28). Sep 27 from 9 to 4 (restaurant and live music crawl 4–8). Free. visitbastrop.org. Fisherman’s Park,Farm & Willow (512-303-0904). [map]

Beaumont

Museums/Galleries

ART MUSEUM OF SOUTHEAST TEXAS Thru Oct 5: Things with Wings—every summer, the museum examines portions of its permanent collection by highlighting different points of view. This year’s theme explores how artists use things with wings in their works of art, which have been divided here into six categories: the bird as main subject, birds with people, the crow, winged creatures in decorative arts, birds in Surrealism, and winged things as metaphors. Thru Nov 2: Out of the Darkness—ten paintings by the artist Calvin Carter make their debut at AMSET. His artworks, which largely focus on Southern symbolism, reflect ongrowing up with a Catholic father and Baptist mother who raised him non-denominationally and stressed Christian morals and beliefs. Ongoing: Somethin’ Out of Nothin’: Felix “Fox” Harris—for more than twenty years, the self-taught artist from Beaumont crafted totem-like sculptures made of recycled materials that he displayed in his yard. His original home site is recreated here with this permanent installation of 26 of his totems and two mural-sized photos by renowned photographer Keith Carter. Open Mon–Fri 9–5, Sat 10–5, Sun noon–5. Free; $2 donation suggested. amset.org 500 Main (409-832-3432). [map] +

TEXAS ENERGY MUSEUM The oil industry is integral to the life, business, history, and myth of Texas, and this museum tells the state’s unique story of having access to ample petroleum and other energy sources through interactive exhibits and special events. Thru Sep 7: Brainteasers—wrack your brain with this traveling collection of mental challenges ranging from mathematical conundrums to mind-boggling block puzzles. Open Tue–Sat 9–5, Sun 1–5. Gen adm $2, senior citizens & children 6–12 $1, 5 & under free. texasenergymuseum.org 600 Main (409-833-5100). [map] +

Sports

CHRISTUS PRO/CELEBRITY CLASSIC Some of the world’s greatest tennis champions show off their talent: The legendary Martina Navratilova goes up against Chanda Rubin, and Robby Ginepri faces Mardy Fish. Sep 13 at 7. $25.50 & $35.50. fordparktx.com Ford Park, 5115 I-102 (409-833-7747). [map] +

Belton

Museums/Galleries

BELL COUNTY MUSEUM Thru Oct 18: Edward S. Curtis: Plains Indians—while compiling one of the most profound collections of American Indian culture ever amassed, the artist studied more than eighty Indian tribes living west of the Mississippi River. A hundred of the pieces, which depict the intricacies of American Indian life, are on view in this exhibit. Open Tue–Sat noon–5. Free. bellcountymuseum.org 201 N. Main (254-933-5243). [map]

Boerne

Points of Interest

CIBOLO NATURE CENTER Roam the trails of this 100-acre preserve and observe four distinct ecosystems (riparian forest, live oak savannah, tall-grass prairie, and spring-fed marsh). Nature Center open Mon–Fri 9–5, Sat 9–1. Trails open daily 8 a.m. to dusk. Free. cibolo.org 140 City Park (830-249-4616). [map] +

Buffalo Gap

Sports

BUFFALO GAP HISTORIC VILLAGE Vintage Base Ball—playing the game as it was meant to be played (wearing nineteenth-century-style knickers and using 1860’s rules), Texas teams go head-to-head. Sep 7 & 21. Call for times. Free. buffalogap.com & vbbtexas.org 133 N. Williams (325-572-3365). [map]

Burnet

Points of Interest

LONGHORN CAVERN STATE PARK The deep limestone recesses of this show cave (one of seven in the state), which were etched out by underground streams millions of years ago, aren’t too claustrophobic and are a sublime 68 degrees or so year-round. Learn all about the cavern’s natural formations on the ninety-minute daily tour, or—if you’re brave enough—reserve a spot for the more exclusive Wild Cave Tour. And don’t miss the Simple Sounds concert series, which fills the hollows with the unplugged acoustics of Texas-based musicians (Sep 13: Steve Hopkins. Sep 20: Steve Brooks). For tour schedule & prices go to longhorncaverns.com. Six miles west of U.S. 281 on Park Road 4 (877-441-2283). [map]

Canton

Other Events

FIRST MONDAY TRADE DAYS The town’s population can swell from 3,500 to an estimated 300,000 when more than 5,000 dealers migrate to Canton to hawk their wares, which range from vintage postcards to jars of pickled figs to exquisite antique brooches. Though "Monday" has evolved into a misnomer over the bazaar’s 150-year history—once held on Monday, it’s now held from Thursday through Sunday—the methods of the savviest shoppers have always remained the same: go early, wear sensible shoes, bring cash, and learn how to bargain! Free; parking $3. Held the Thur–Sun preceding the first Monday of every month from 8 to 6. firstmondaycanton.com From I-20, take exit 526, travel south on FM 859 for 1.5 miles, and turn left at the West Gate entrance (903-567-6556). [map] +

Canyon

Museums/Galleries

PANHANDLE-PLAINS HISTORICAL MUSEUM Sep 27–Feb: 75th Anniversary Exhibition—this special showcase highlights past exhibits, examines how artifacts connect people to the environment around them, and honors the role the PPHM has played in providing this connection. Sep 29–Jan 4: Studer and Johnston: Treasures of the Panhandle—both C. Stewart Johnston and Floyd Studer helped to further the field of archeology; Johnston made many significant finds in the Panhandle, and Studer, an amateur archeologist who was a charter member of the PPHM, donated his noteworthy collection to the museum. Thru Sep 1: Samuel Colt: Arms, Art, and Invention—more than a hundred firearms (including several pre-Colt artifacts, like a fifteenth-century Chinese hand cannon) are on view here in this extensive exhibit of the Connecticut native’s life, legacy, and million-dollar-idea, the revolver. Open Mon–Sat 9–5, Sun 1–6. Gen adm $10, senior citizens $9, children 4–12 $5, 3 & under free. panhandleplains.org West Texas A&M campus, 2503 4th Ave (806-651-2244). [map] +

Canyon Lake

Points of Interest

CANYON LAKE GORGE What was once a nondescript valley filled with mesquite and oak trees is now a stunning mile-and-a-half-long gorge. Carved out by a powerful surge during the 2002 flood, the insta-gorge is one of the state’s hottest ecotourism destinations and is now open to the public via weekly guided expeditions. But there’s a waiting list for the three-hour jaunt, so sign up now. Tours every Saturday; reservations required. $10. canyongorge.org Tours begin at the top of the Canyon Reservoir Spillway; from South Access Road, turn onto Engineer Road and go all the way to the end (830-964-5424). [map]

College Station

Museums/Galleries

GEORGE BUSH PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM The refurbished core exhibit, which focuses on George H. W. Bush’s biography and presidential legacy, includes audio tours, a replica of the White House Situation Room with a special exhibit on the Gulf War, and a mock-up of the Oval Office where visitors can have their photos taken while seated behind the president’s desk. Sep 19–Aug 23: Beyond the Moon: NASA’s Continuing Mission—from mankind’s early fascination with the heavens to the first walk on the moon, the museum, in partnership with the Johnson Space Center and Space Center Houston, continues the story with large-scale models of Apollo, the Skylab, a space shuttle, and the International Space Station, as well as a shuttle simulator, original shuttle equipment, and interactive programs. Open Mon–Sat 9:30–5, Sun noon–5. Gen adm $7, senior citizens & military $6, youths 6–17 & college students with ID $3, TAMU and Blinn students free with ID, children 5 & under free. bushlibrary.tamu.edu 1000 George Bush Dr West (979-691-4000). [map] +

Corpus Christi

Music/Dance

BAY JAMMIN' CONCERT SERIES Take in a film on the beach while waves roll in and out under the Texas sky. Sep 5: Cheaper By the Dozen. Sep 12: Dr. Doolittle. Sep 19: Patton. Sep 26: Pink Floyd, live at Pompeii. Fri at sundown. Free. cctexas.com Cole Park, Anderson Amphitheater, Ocean Dr at Del Mar (361-880-3474 or 361-884-7275). [map] +

Theater

HARBOR PLAYHOUSE The Pajama Game—a feisty union leader (who was immortalized in the 1957 film version by Doris Day) goes head-to-head with her handsome new boss, but unexpectedly finds herself mixing business with pleasure. Sep 5–28. Fri & Sat at 8 (Sep 21 & 28 at 2). Gen adm $16, senior citizens & military $13, children $6. harborplayhouse.com 1 Bayfront Park (361-888-7469). [map] +

Museums/Galleries

ART MUSEUM OF SOUTH TEXAS Sep 17–Nov 15: Ansel Adams: The Man Who Captured the Earth’s Beauty—perhaps no other photographer is as synonymous with nature as Adams is. His images have captured the unbridled freedom and limitlessness of the wilderness, which you can see in the 25 black and white, richly detailed framed photographs assembled here. Thru Sep 14: Revealing Character: Robb Kendrick’s Tintypes—Kendrick’s rugged tintypes of modern-day cowboys and cowgirls started out as an ad project for Frost Bank and has expanded into a coffee table book (of the same name) and this traveling exhibit. Thru Dec 31: The Mary Grace and Frank Horlock Collection of American Western Art—fifty-five paintings and sculptures of Western and wildlife subjects from the couple’s collection have been assembled here. Open Tue–Sat 10–5, Sun 1–5. Gen adm $6, senior citizens & active military $4, students $2, children 12 & under free. stia.org 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd (361-825-3500). [map] +

CORPUS CHRISTI MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY In almost fifty years the CCM has accumulated more than 87,000 artifacts and 40,000 photographs with a unique focus on the cultural and natural history of South Texas. Open Tue–Sat 10–5, Sun noon–5. Gen adm $11.50, senior citizens & military with ID $9, children 5–12 $6, 4 & under free (Sat children 12 & under free until noon). ccmuseum.com 1900 N. Chaparral (361-826-4650). [map] +

TEXAS SURF MUSEUM Thru Oct 31: Texas Women, Texas Waves—all too often cast aside or labeled as “bikini chicks,” female surfers are the focus of this exhibit. Open Mon–Thur 10–7, Fri & Sat 10–10, Sun 11–5. Free. texassurfmuseum.com 300 Water (361-882-2364). [map] +

Other Events

AMERICAN BANK CENTER Sep 5 & 6: Monster Jam—watch the mechanical food chain in motion as big cars polish off smaller ones and as the world-renowned purple and green wrecking machine and the world champion Gravedigger take on some of the biggest and baddest monster trucks around. At 7:30. Gen adm $17.50, children 2-12 $6, 1 & under free. Sep 15 & 16: Tuna Does Vegas--is there anything those crazy Tuna guys won’t do? Catch their first new show in ten years and watch as they take on Sin City. At 7:30. $26.50-$46.50. americanbankcenter.com 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd (361-826-4100 or 361-881-8499). [map] +

VETERANS AND MILITARY SUMMIT Vets, active duty military, and their families are invited to attend this free event, which will feature workshops led by VA representatives, a job fair, health screenings, and exhibits on various services (everything from employment to housing). Organized by congressman Solomon P. Ortiz, the summit is meant to be a “one-stop shop” for local service members. Sep 13 from 9 to 3. Free. American Bank Center, 1901 N. Shoreline (361-883-5868). [map] +

Points of Interest

SOUTH TEXAS BOTANICAL GARDENS & NATURE CENTER The 180-acre center features nine floral exhibits plus trails, birding overlooks, and boardwalks that will take you through vast areas of protected natural wetland and native habitat. Open Tue–Sun 9–5. Gen adm $5; senior citizens, military & students with ID $4; children 5–12 $2; 4 & under and members free. stxbot.org 8545 S. Staples (361-852-2100). [map] +

TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM Visitors can view two Atlantic bottlenose dolphins housed in a 400,000-gallon lagoon plus river otters, stingrays, and anacondas. And now you can watch as hawks, owls, falcons, and parrots swoop and soar in the newly opened Hawn Wild Flight Theater. The aquarium also presents Tortuga Cay, a brand-new, naturalistic lagoon and sanctuary for sea turtles. Watch rare species, including Kemp’s ridley, hawksbill, and green turtles, through viewing areas both above and below the water. Open daily 9–6. Gen adm $14.95, senior citizens & military $13.50, children 3–12 $9.95, 2 & under free. Parking $3.50. texasstateaquarium.org 2710 N. Shoreline Blvd (361-881-1200 or 800-477-4853). [map] +

Cypress

Other Events

NATURE FEST Come celebrate the grand opening of the first 1.5 miles of the Cypress Creek Nature Trail at this two-day festival, which is billed as "one wild adventure." Take part in a slew of nature-friendly activities, including a ladybug release, a birds of prey educational program, a fishing clinic, pony rides, and a petting zoo. And don't forget to stroll along the new trail, which features wildlife observation points and picturesque views of Cypress Lake. Sept 27 & 28. Sat 10–6, Sun noon–6. Free. bridgeland.com (281-304-5588). [map] + Variable.

Dallas

Music/Dance

DALLAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA New music director Jaap van Zweden, who hails from the Netherlands, makes his official debut with the DSO when the season begins this month. For full write-up see In the Chute. Aug 31 & Sep 1: The Gipsy Kings—the best-selling French act has been making its danceable style of rumba flamenca music for more than two decades. At 8. $40–$140. Sep 3: Julio Iglesias—the legendary Spaniard with a voice of gold is set to perform favorites from the sixties, seventies, and eighties as well as new hits. At 8. $50–$80. Sep 4: Huey Lewis & The News—a heart of rock and roll is still beating in this eighties idol. At 8. $45–$95. Sep 5–7: The Beach Boys—hop in your little deuce coupe and head out to see Mike Love and crew perform their harmonic hits. Fri & Sat at 8, Sun at 2:30. $22–$105. Sep 11–14: Mozart and Mahler. Mahler: Symphony No 5. Mozart: Piano Concerto No 25. Emanuel Ax, piano. Jaap van Zweden, conductor. Thur-Sat at 8, Sun at 2:30. $22-$111. Sep 18-21: Steven Stucky: August 4, 1964—hear this spellbinding work honoring the life of Lyndon B. Johnson by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Steven Stucky. Laquita Mitchell, soprano. Kelly O’Connor, mezzo. Vale Rideout, tenor. Robert Orth, baritone. Dallas Symphony Chorus. David R. Davidson, chorus director. Jaap van Zweden, conductor. Thur-Sat at 8, Sun at 2:30. $26-$106. Sep 25-27: Beethoven: Piano Concerto No 5, Emperor. Tchaikovsky: Capriccio Italien. Shostakovich: Symphony No 5. Horacaio Gutiérrez, piano. Jaap van Zweden, conductor. Thur-Sat at 8. $17-$110. dallassymphony.com Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora (214-692-0203). [map] +

GRANADA THEATER Sep 4 at 8: Bruce Robinson and Josh Grider. Sep 5 at 8: Mudhoney, Record Hop, and Melba Toast. Sep 9 at 8: Why? and Mount Eerie. Sep 11 at 8: Avett Brothers. Sep 12 at 8: Umphrey’s McGee. Sep 13 at 9: Mogwai and the F–– Buttons. Sep 16 at 8: Ratatat. Sep 17 at 8: New Monsoon and Green Mountain Grass. Sep 18 at 8: The New Year and A Weather. Sep 19 at 8: Ani DiFranco. Sep 20 at 8: Amos Lee. Sep 24 at 8: Rev. Payton’s Big Damn Band. Sep 25 at 9: Del the Funky Homosapien, Bukue One, and Tee Double. Sep 26 at 9: The Black Keys and Jessica Lea Mayfield. Sep 27 at 8: Neko Case and Giant Sand. Sep 29 at 8: Sunset Rubdown. Sep 30 at 8: Cut Copy and The Presets. For prices call or go to granadatheater.com. 3524 Greenville Ave (214-824-9933). [map] +

HOUSE OF BLUES DALLAS Sep 2: LUDO with The Feds and Likely Story. Sep 2: Dave Stewart and His 30-Piece Rock Fabulous Orchestra. Sep 3: Peter Frampton with Roger Clyde and The Peacemakers. Sep 5: The Anrica Experience. Sep 6: Squeeze with Fastball. Sep 6: Del Castillo. Sep 11: Justin Moore with The Wailers. Sep 12: Street Dogs with Time Again, and Damage Case . Sep 12: DJ Flex. Sep 13: Three 6 Mafia. Sep 15: dan le sac Vs. Scroobius Pip. Sep 16: Children of Bodom with Between the Buried And Me and The Black Dahlia Murder. Sep 17: The Hives with Eagles of Death Metal and The Willowz. Sep 18: Finch & Scary Kids Scaring Kids with Tickle Me Pink and Our Last Night. Sep 19: Rhett Miller. Sep 19: Dark Star Orchestra. Sep 20: The Robert Cray Band with Guy Forsyth. Sep 20: Stephen Kellogg and The Sixers with Erin McKeown. Sep 21: Hanson. Sep 24: Flogging Molly. Sep 25: Drive By Truckers with Shooter Jennings. Sep 25: Ben Kweller. Sep 26: Joe Bonamassa with Back Door Slam. Sep 26: City and Colour. Sep 28: 5 The Fratellis with The Airborne Toxic Event and Electric Tough. Sep 29: Kenny Loggins. For times & prices call or go to hob.com/dallas. 2200 N. Lamar (214-978-2583). [map] +

NOKIA THEATRE AT GRAND PRAIRIE Sep 10 at 8: Enrique Iglesias with Aventura; $55–$125. Sep 15 at 8: John Hiatt with Joan Osborne; $39.50–$59.50. Sep 20 at 7: Carlos Mencia; $42.75. Sep 26 at 8: The Temptations with The Four Tops; $50.25 & $60.25. nokiatheatredfw.com 1001 Performance Place, 1/4 mile north of I-30 on Belt Line Rd, Grand Prairie (972-854-5111). [map] +

Theater

DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse—the feisty and impulsive “Queen of Everything” is back with more amazing exploits. Sep 19–Oct 26. Call for times. $12–$22. dct.org Rosewood Center for Family Arts, 5938 Skillman (214-740-0051). [map] +

DALLAS SUMMER MUSICALS The Color Purple—the musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize–winning novel tells the story of Celie and her unforgettable and inspiring journey to triumph over adversity as set to the soothing and soulful sounds of gospel, jazz, pop, and the blues. For full write-up see In the Chute. Sep 30-Oct 19. $25–$77. dallassummermusicals.org and colorpurple.com Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 1st Ave (214-421-5678 or 214-565-1116). [map] +

UNDERMAIN THEATRE Neil Young’s Greendale—following in the grand tradition of the rock opera, Neil Young released Greendale in 2003; now Undermain Theatre presents its stage adaptation, performed with a live band and sung by an ensemble cast. If you’re expecting the over-the-top psychedelic themes in Tommy, The Wall, or the infamous Kilroy Was Here, you might want to stay at home with your Netflix queue. Young refers to his most recent opus as more of a “musical novel,” which follows the lives of three generations of the Green family as they explore themes ranging from mass-media consolidation to environmentalism. Sep 10-Oct 4. Wed & Thur at 7:30, Fri & Sat at 8:15. Wed & Thur $15, Fri $20, Sat $25. undermain.org 3200 Main (214-747-5515). [map] +

Museums/Galleries

DAHLIA WOODS GALLERY Sep 12–Oct 18: Art As Essence—Lakewood artist Terrie Meider is featured in this exhibit that examines her hand-drawn mandalas, which she creates while seated at a portable nineteenth-century artist’s desk. Open Thur–Sat 11–4, Tue & Wed by appt. Free. dahliawoodsgallery.com 600 Cantegral (214-827-0924). [map]

DALLAS ART DEALERS ASSOCIATION FALL GALLERY WALK Thirty galleries and nonprofit art spaces will be offering free looks at their exhibits. You’ll need to drive, not walk, to most of them, so plan your itinerary ahead of time. Sep 13 from 2 to 8. Free. dallasartdealers.org Various locations (214-943-1099). [map] Call ahead.

DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART Sep 14–May 17: Harry Burton Photographs—the blockbuster Tutankhamen exhibit doesn’t open till next month, but you can get a sneak peek at forty of Burton’s photographs, which chronicle the discovery of King Tut’s untouched tomb. Thru Sep 14: Making It New: The Art and Style of Sara and Gerald Murphy—friends of Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Pablo Picasso, Igor Stravinsky, Cole Porter, Dorothy Parker, Alfred Hitchcock, and Fernand Léger, this influential couple, who moved in fashionable circles in Paris and the Riviera in the twenties and thirties, were well-versed in the art of living well. The DMA is lucky enough to have two of Gerald Murphy’s paintings—Razor (1924) and Watch (1925)—in its own permanent collection; also, Lone Star Legacy II: The Barrett Collection of Contemporary Texas Art—in January the DMA and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston received more than 200 works from the outstanding personal collection of Dallasites Nona and Richard Barrett. This is the first public showing of these pieces, which date from the seventies to the present. Although the bequest includes works from twenty artists already represented in the DMA collection, you’ll also see selections from eleven artists who are new to the museum’s galleries, including Jesse Amado, Sharon Kopriva, Al Souza, and Judy Youngblood. Open Tue & Wed 11–5, Thur 11–9, Fri–Sun 11–5. Gen adm $10, senior citizens $7, students with ID $5, children 11 & under free (Thur 5–9 & first Tue of every month everybody free). dallasmuseumofart.org 1717 N. Harwood Rd (214-922-1200). [map] +

DECORAZON GALLERY Sep 4–Oct 5: Shine + Burn—inspired by each other’s work, Jennifer Chenoweth and Todd Campbell (who are a couple) have pooled their talents to present this exhibition of their collaborative works. Her paintings, which reveal hard-to-pin down concepts of the spiritual and sensual, complement his contemporary metalwork and sculpture pieces. Opening reception September 5 from 6 to 9. Open Thur–Sat 11–3 & 6–9, Sun noon–4. Free. decorazongallery.com 417 N. Bishop Ave (214-946-1003). [map] +

MCKINNEY AVENUE CONTEMPORARY Sep 6–Oct 10: Laray Polk: Gaza Zoo—originally designed as a book, Polk’s Zoo has been ten years in the making. Forty large-scale digital prints of the original pages, which feature politically charged text and images influenced by current events, will be installed here; also, Simeen Ishaque: Words Without Voices, Forms Without Bodies—this Pakistani artist combines poems written in Urdu with female forms created with scarves and veils to reveal Westerners’ simplified perspectives of her native culture ; also, Sasha Dela: Natural Commodity—using sculpture, installation, video, and digital photography, Dela draws visitors into an intimate space and challenges them to question the ecological impact of social and urban development. Open Wed–Sat 11–9. Free. the-mac.org 3120 McKinney Ave (214-953-1212). [map] +

MEADOWS MUSEUM Thru Sep 21: Jack Kilby: The Eye of Genius—Photographs by the Inventor of the Microchip—a scientific genius, the late inventor was best known for creating the microchip and, subsequently, receiving numerous awards and honorary degrees including the Nobel Prize and the National Medal of Science. But Kilby identified equally as an artist, creating unique compositions displaying the human condition, cityscapes, industrial landscapes, and abstraction experimentation with photographic processes. Open Tue–Sat 10–5, Thur 10–8, Sun noon–5. Gen adm $8, SMU students, faculty & staff, and children 12 & under free (Thur 5–8 everybody free). meadowsmuseumdallas.org SMU campus, 5900 Bishop Blvd (214-768-2516). [map] +

MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE Thru Sep 1: Eyes On Earth—did you know that a satellite can track weather, monitor pollution, create maps, and more? This exhibit uncovers the mystery behind NASA’s primary satellite mission, the Earth Observing System (EOS), and explains how scientists use its relayed information to predict storms, monitor forest fires, and study the holes in the ozone layer. Open Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun noon-5. Gen adm $8.75; youths 12–18, students & senior citizens $7.75; children 3-11 $5.50; 2 & under free. natureandscience.org 3535 Grand Ave & 1318 S. 2nd Ave (214-428-5555). [map] +

NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER Sep 20–Jan 4: In Pursuit of the Masters: Stories From the Raymond and Patsy Nasher Collection—to mark the center’s fifth anniversary and to honor its late patrons, the Nasher presents this comprehensive exhibit of the couple’s collecting philosophy, which features several of their never-before-seen masterpieces. For full write-up see In the Chute. Thru Sep 7: Jacques Lipchitz: A Gift from the Artist’s Estate—five terracotta and plaster sculptures from Lipchitz’s estate, which span four decades of his career, have been generously donated. Open Tue & Wed 11–5, Thur 11–9, Fri–Sun 11–5. Gen adm $10, senior citizens $7, students $5, children 12 & under and museum members free. nashersculpturecenter.org 2001 Flora (214-242-5100). [map] +

PANAMERICAN ARTPROJECTS Sep 6–Oct 11: Ronald Morán—the El Salvadorian artist will be creating a site-specific installation for this solo show of his paintings, which often depict domestic objects or objects of violence sheathed in a white nebulous material he also uses for his installations. Open Tue–Sat 10–5:30. Free. panamericanart.com 1615 Dragon (214-522-3303). [map]

THE GOSS-MICHAEL FOUNDATION Thru Sep 30: Tim Noble and Sue Webster—a tribute to the artistic duo’s often erotically charged works, this showcase features some of their most iconic pieces (taken from the private collection of Kenny Goss and George Michael) as well as a documentary about their lives and artistic process. Open Tue–Fri 10–6, Sat 11–4. Free. gossmichaelfoundation.org 2500 Cedar Springs Rd (214-696-0555). [map] +

TRAMMELL AND MARGARET CROW COLLECTION OF ASIAN ART Thru Sep 28: Texas Collects Asia: China—pulled from private collections across the state, these delicate pieces—jade carvings, bronze vessels, porcelains, wooden carvings, and paintings—demonstrate the range of artistic achievements from imperial China; also, Documenting China: Contemporary Photography and Social Change—through the stirring work of seven Chinese photographers, visitors will experience an insider’s perspective of the mainland as well as the ongoing battle between modernization and long-held traditions. Thru Jan 4: Big! Himalayan Art—as the title suggests, the art included here isn’t small. The sixteen large-scale paintings, appliqué textiles, tangkas (paintings or textile works on cloth), and ritual objects are indicative of art displayed at temples and community festivals in the Himalayas. Open Tue, Wed & Fri–Sun 10–5; Thur 10–9. Free. crowcollection.org 2010 Flora (214-979-6430). [map] +

Other Events

GREEK FOOD FESTIVAL The sights, sounds, and tastes of Greece are the focus of this 52nd annual event, which features traditional music and dancing, a smorgasbord of Greek treats—baklava, anyone?—and a tour of the beautiful Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Sep 26–28. Fri 4–10:30, Sat 11–10:30, Sun 11–6. Gen adm $5, children 12 & under $3. greekfestivalofdallas.com Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 13555 Hillcrest Rd at Alpha Rd (972-233-4880 or 972-991-1166). [map] +

STATE FAIR OF TEXAS In between gawking at Big Tex and chowing down on a Fletcher’s corny dog, don’t miss the following: thrill rides at the Midway, butter sculptures and award-winning quilts in the creative arts building, the Texas–OU football game at the Cotton Bowl, the epically huge auto show, and live music from headliners Lady Antebellum, Demi Lovato, Jessica Simpson, Rodney Atkins, Kellie Pickler, A.B. Quintanilla, and much more. Sep 26–Oct 19. From 10 to 10. Gen adm $14, senior citizens and children 3 to 48-inches-tall $10; 2 & under free; season pass $29.95; parking $10. For schedule & prices call or go to bigtex.com. Fair Park, Robert B Cullum Blvd between Parry & Fitzhugh (214-565-9931). [map] +

Points of Interest

CEDAR HILL STATE PARK Located halfway between Dallas and Fort Worth, the 1,826-acre lakeside park offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the Metroplex. Set up camp at one of 355 sites, launch your boat on the 7,500-acre Joe Pool Reservoir, take a 90-minute guided hike, peruse the Penn Farm Agricultural History Center, or bike 15 miles of trails. And don’t miss the 800-foot limestone escarpment that abuts the blackland prairie: It’s one of the highest points in North Texas. Open daily 8–10. Gen adm $5, children 12 & under free. cedarhillstatepark.org Four miles southeast of Grand Prairie, 1570 FM 1382, Cedar Hill (972-291-3900). [map]

DALLAS ARBORETUM AND BOTANICAL GARDEN The 66-acre site, with its dozens of themed gardens, sits on the southeast shore of White Rock Lake. Sep 20–Nov 2: The Great Pumpkin Festival—take in the first signs of fall at this festival, which is set amid more than 20,000 vibrant, fall-blooming flowers. Visit the Tom Thumb pumpkin patch that’s filled with more than 20,000 pumpkins and gourds, get a glimpse of the house made entirely out of pumpkins and adorned with ornamental chilies, ogle the 15-foot pumpkin topiary covered in orange impatiens, and challenge yourself to complete the zig-zag hay bale maze. Come on the weekend for pumpkin carving contests, horse-drawn carriage rides, arts and crafts, and live music performed throughout the garden. Open daily 9–5. Gen adm $8, senior citizens $7, children 3–12 $5, 2 & under free. Parking $5. dallasarboretum.org 8525 Garland (214-515-6500). [map] +

DALLAS ZOO More than 2,000 animals, including many rare and endangered species, make their home on the 95 acres of the Dallas Zoo. The Wilds of Africa attraction is considered one of the best exhibits of its kind and the two-acre Lacerte Family Children’s Zoo lets kids peek at naked mole rats, pet farm animals, and ride ponies. Open daily 9–5. Gen adm $8.75, senior citizens $5, children 3–11 $5.75, 2 & under free. Parking $5. dallaszoo.com 650 S. RL Thornton Fwy (214-670-6826). [map] +

El Paso

TUNA DOES VEGAS Joe Sears and Jaston Williams have reunited, this time to take a rambling romp through Sin City. Sep 26 & 27. Fri at 8, Sat at 2 & 8. Call for prices. Plaza Theatre, 125 Pioneer Plaza (915-534-0600 or 915-231-1111). [map] +

Music/Dance

BECK Has it really been 14 years since Beck sprang onto the scene with Loser, the slacker anthem that defined a generation? The Grammy Award winner, who’s nearing forty, has just released his latest album, Modern Guilt, which proves he’s still the king of making distressing lyrics sound like melancholy masterpieces. Sep 25 at 7:30. $38. Abraham Chavez Theatre, 1 Civic Center Plaza (915-532-4661 or 915-544-8444). [map]

EL PASO CHOPIN MUSIC FESTIVAL Talent from around the world converges on El Paso every year to pay tribute to the universal appeal of Frederic Chopin, and this year is no exception with special guest pianists Howard Na, who hails from Taiwan; Misha Dacic, who was born in the former Yugoslavia; and El Paso’s own Lucy Scarbrough, who is a powerful soloist as well as the director of the festival. Because these free concerts are almost always standing room only, you’re advised to come early to snag a seat. Sep 6 & 20 and Oct 4. At 8. Free. elpaso-chopin.com Various locations (915-584-1595 or 915-533-0348).

EL PASO OPERA Il Trovatore—Verdi’s four-act tearjerker is staged here with tenor Raul Melo as Manrico the troubadour and soprano Hope Briggs as the beautiful Leonora. Raymond Harvey, conductor. Sep 11 & 13. At 7:30. Gen adm $15–$90, senior citizens, military & students $13.50–$81. epopera.org Abraham Chavez Theatre, 1 Civic Center Plaza (915-581-5534). [map] +

EL PASO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Sep 19 & 20: Spectacular Beginnings. Shostakovich: Festive Overture. Beethoven: Concerto No 5 for Piano in E-flat Major, “Emperor.” Sibelius: Symphony No 2. Lukas Vondracek, piano. Sarah Ioannides, conductor. epso.org Plaza Theatre, 125 Pioneer Plaza (915-532-3776). [map] +

JULIO IGLESIAS The suave Spaniard, who’s been named one of the top ten Living Sex Legends, is celebrating four decades in the biz with yet another world tour. Sep 5 at 8. $49.50–$79.50. theplazatheatre.org Plaza Theatre, 125 Pioneer Plaza (915-534-0600 or 915-231-1100). [map] +

SANTANA When he’s not busy designing women’s footwear and handbags (no lie!), Carlos Santana still finds time to prove he’s one of the all-time guitar greats. Sep 26 at 7:30. $47–$67. UTEP campus, Don Haskins Center, N. Mesa & E. Baltimore Dr (915-747-5265 or 915-747-5234). [map]

Theater

EL PASO PLAYHOUSE Jake’s Women—the protagonist of this Neil Simon play, a writer struggling to save his marriage, tries to make sense of his psychosis and resolve the issues that have led to a serious case of writer’s block. Sep 5–27. Fri & Sat at 8, Sun at 2. Gen adm $10, senior citizens $8, students & military $7. elpasoplayhouse.com 2501 Montana (915-532-1317). [map] +

Museums/Galleries

EL PASO MUSEUM OF ARCHEOLOGY Located at the base of the Franklin Mountains, the EPMOA presents artifacts from the Southwest, with a focus on the prehistory and culture of the El Paso area. The grounds also include 15 acres of nature trails, outdoor exhibits, and a desert garden with more than 250 varieties of native plants. Thru Oct 25: Woody Crumbo: American Indian Artist and Activist—this Creek-Potawatomi Indian artist from Oklahoma specialized in American Indian figures and animal paintings and was instrumental in helping the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo Indians regain their tribal status with the federal government. Open Tue–Sat 9–5, Sun noon-5. Free. elpasotexas.gov 4301 Transmountain Rd (915-755-4332). [map] +

EL PASO MUSEUM OF ART Sep 7–Nov 30: A Portrait of the Artist, 1525-1825: Prints from the Collection of the Sarah Campbell Blaffer Foundation—with more than 80 engravings, etchings, woodcuts, mezzotints, and lithographs, this collection of Renaissance and Baroque art features the work of Rembrandt van Rijn, Claude Lorrain, Adriaen van Ostade, Salvator Rosa, Francisco Goya, William Hogarth, and many other European masters. Thru Nov 9: Untitled and the Minimalist Aesthetic—artists including Donald Judd, Andrea Rosenberg, Margo Sawyer, Joe Mancuso, and Connie Goldman are featured in this exhibit on the movement that emerged in the late sixties and is best known for paintings and sculpture "made with an extreme economy of means." Thru Mar 8: Karel Appel: Cats—this portfolio of prints from 1978 details the artist’s interest in exploring the line between abstraction and meaning. Appel was a Dutch member of the avant-garde group CoBrA, which was created in recognition of the cities where its members lived (Copenhagen, Brussels, and Amsterdam). Thru Mar 12: Contemporary Prints from the Permanent Collection—the C2 Gallery presents prints by American and Mexican contemporary artists from the permanent collection. Open Tue & Wed 9–5, Thur 9–9, Fri & Sat 9–5, Sun noon–5. Free. elpasoartmuseum.org 1 Arts Festival Plaza (915-532-1707). [map] +

EL PASO MUSEUM OF HISTORY Having languished on the east side of town since 1974, the museum opened its expanded site last summer with new, high-tech climate controls to better preserve its collections, which include everything from tools to nineteenth- and twentieth-century clothing. The hope is that the new digs will attract donors and traveling exhibitions. For now, two of the museum’s permanent collections ("El Paso A to Z" and "The Changing Pass," which highlight the city’s history and geography, respectively) are open, and a third will soon follow. Thru Jan: The Butterfield Trail—in honor of the sesquicentennial of the Butterfield Overland Mail’s southern route which passed through El Paso, the museum presents an exhibit featuring a full-size stagecoach, clothing, tools, weapons from the 1850’s, maps of historic routes, and photographs. Open Tue–Sat 10–5, Sun noon–5. Free. elpasotexas.gov/history 510 N. Santa Fe (915-351-3588). [map] +

Other Events

EL PASO WINE AND JAZZ FESTIVAL What goes equally well with a deep merlot or a dry chardonnay? A mellow jazz concert. The El Paso Friends of Jazz Society has corralled talents such as the Carolyn Durant Quintet, the Latin Jazz Exchange, Cross Town Trio, Brown Betty, Billy Townes, Modern Session, Mike Middleton, Noteworks, and others to perform over the Labor Day weekend. Aug 30–Sep 1. Sat 2–10, Sun 2–11, Mon 2–8. Gen adm $15, youths 20 & under $10. elpasofriendsofjazz.org and elpasogracegardens.com Grace Gardens, 6701 Westside Dr (915-877-2745). [map] +

Points of Interest

EL PASO ZOO This 18-acre zoo is home to more than 250 animal species from across the globe, including endangered Mexican wolves, Indochinese tigers, and rare leopards from the Amur River region in Russia and China. Open Sun–Fri 9:30–4, Sat 9:30–5. Gen adm $5, senior citizens & active-duty military with ID $4, children 3–12 $3, 2 & under and Zoological Society members free. elpasozoo.org 4001 E. Paisano (915-521-1850). [map] +

HUECO TANKS STATE HISTORIC SITE This area, composed of natural rock basins, is known for its Native American pictographs and challenging rock climbing. Guides take visitors on a tour of the pictographs and share information on spots to go climbing, bouldering, and birding; reservations required, call for schedule (915-849-6684). Camp sites available; $12–$16. Open daily 8–6. Park adm $4, children 12 & under free. Hueco Tanks State Historic Site, 6900 Hueco Tanks Rd 1 (915-857-1135). [map]

KEYSTONE HERITAGE PARK Bring your binoculars: The Audubon Society has documented no less than 199 bird species in the wetlands of this 52-acre park. Visitors also come to see the Middle Archaic ruins, which are between 3,600 and 4,800 years old, as well as the desert botanical garden. Open Sat & Sun 11–5. Call for prices. keystoneheritagepark.org 4220 Doniphan Dr (915-584-0563). [map]

Fort Davis

Points of Interest

MCDONALD OBSERVATORY The University of Texas at Austin houses a number of high-powered telescopes including the world’s largest and most powerful, the Hobby Eberly. Take one of the 90-minute guided tours for the full experience. For schedule & prices go to mcdonaldobservatory.org. Take TX Hwy 118 north about 16 miles to Spur 78 (432-426-3640 or 877-984-7827). [map] +

Fort Worth

Music/Dance

BASS PERFORMANCE HALL Sep 4: Del McCoury Band—prepare for a bluegrass jamboree with banjo, mandolin, and acoustic-guitar galore. At 7:30. $20–$100. Sep 5: Billy Joe Shaver—with songs that helped Waylon Jennings, Bobby Bare, and Willie Nelson shape the "outlaw country" movement of the seventies, this legendary singer-songwriter is not to be missed. At 8. $35. Sep 6: beatlegras—this string trio performs covers of the Fab Four's greatest hits with a bluegrass and classical twist. At 8. $23. (McDavid Studio, 301 E. 5th.) Sep 19: Ramblin' Jack Elliott—as one of the most important figures in American folk music, Elliot befriended Bob Dylan, was a musical companion of Woody Guthrie's, and was an influence for Pete Seeger, the Rolling Stones, and the Grateful Dead. At 8. $25. Sep 26: An Evening with Sara Hickman—since this Texas singer-songwriter started out on her musical trail, she has twice been a guest on NBC's Tonight Show, hosted her own VH1 show, and produced an independent video. At 8. $25. (McDavid Studio, 301 E. 5th.) basshall.com 4th & Calhoun (817-212-4280 or 877-212-4280). [map] +

BILLY BOB’S TEXAS Sep 5: Charlie Robinson; $10 (res $15). Sep 6: Andy Griggs; $12. Sep 12: Jason Boland; $12 (res $15). Sep 13: Jimmy Wayne; $12. Sep 19: The Bellamy Brothers; $10 (res $14). Sep 20: Three Dog Night; $12 (res $25). Sep 26: Brandon Rhyder; $10 (res $14). Sep 27: Bret Michaels; $18 (res $38). At 10:30. billybobstexas.com The Stockyards, 2520 Rodeo Plaza (817-624-7117). [map] +

FORT WORTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Sep 5–7: Pop Goes Vegas!—visit Vegas without losing your pension with this Sin City musical extravaganza. Bop to favorites like “Luck Be a Lady,” “Hey Big Spender,” “Viva Las Vegas,” “My Way” and more while stars from Broadway and the Vegas strip provide dancing delights; even see Mr. Showmanship himself, Martin Preston, as the legendary Liberace. Fri & Sat at 8, Sun at 2. $26–$78. Sep 19–21: Beethoven: Overture to The Consecration of the House. Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No 2 in C Minor. Jimmy Lopez: FIESTA! Respighi: The Pines of Rome. André Watts, piano. Miguel Harth-Bedoya, conductor. Fri at 7:30, Sat at 8, Sun at 2. $10–$78. Sep 27: Bernadette Peters—the Tony Award–winning singer with the China doll looks and the childlike voice sings legendary Broadway tunes. At 8. $29–$99. fwsymphony.org Bass Performance Hall, 4th & Calhoun (817-665-6000). [map] +

Theater

CASA MAÑANA Mama Mia!—you saw the movie, now catch the real deal as one girl’s quest to find her birth father turns into an ABBA love fest. Sep 9–14. Tue–Thur at 7:30, Sat at 2, Sun at 2 & 7. $30–$88. casamanana.org 3101 W. Lancaster (817-332-2272). [map] +

CIRCLE THEATRE Dex and Julie Sittin’ in a Tree—two past lovers unexpectedly reconnect in this play created for anyone who has ever wondered what if. Sep 18–Oct 18. Thur at 7:30, Fri at 8, Sat at 3 & 8. $20–$30. circletheatre.com 230 W. 4th (817-877-3040). [map] +

Museums/Galleries

AMON CARTER MUSEUM Sep 20–Jan 11: Sentimental Journey: The Art of Alfred Jacob Miller—the first American artist to journey into the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this exhibit shows his artistic depictions of the Lakota, Shoshone, and Nez Perces American Indians he encountered, as well as the last of the true fur trappers and traders of the nineteenth-century American West. Thru Oct 12: Revisualizing Westward Expansion: A Century of Conflict, 1800–1900—where do we fit into the history of the West? Find out with the help of this exhibit featuring seventeen rare nineteenth-century maps that reveal how cartography helped us find our way as a country. Thru Oct 26: Nell Dorr: From Everlasting to Everlasting—one of the most spiritual and empathetic photographic artists of the twentieth century, Dorr is best known for her work photographing mothers and their children. Open Sun noon–5, Tue & Wed 10–5, Thur 10–8, Fri & Sat 10–5. Free. cartermuseum.org 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd (817-738-1933). [map] +

FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY The museum is currently closed to make way for a new facility, which is scheduled to open in the fall of 2009; until then you can find many of your favorite Museum of Science and History exhibits on the lower level of the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame (1720 Gendy). fortworthmuseum.org 1501 Montgomery (817-255-9300 or 888-255-9300). [map] +

KIMBELL ART MUSEUM Thru Nov 2: The Impressionists: Master Paintings From the Art Institute of Chicago—sure to knock previously set attendance records into the history books, this “exclusive” and “unprecedented” loan—of about ninety tours de force in need of a home while the AIC is revamped—offers the chance to see some of the movement’s most famous subjects: Degas’ preening ballerinas, Monet’s serene pond plants, and Van Gogh’s bedroom in Arles, among others. (Gen adm $16, senior citizens & students with ID $14, children 6–11 $12, 5 & under and museum members free; Tue & Fri 5–8 everybody half price.) Open Tue 10–8, Wed & Thur 10–5, Fri noon–8, Sat 10–5, Sun noon–5. Free. kimbellart.org 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd (817-332-8451). [map] +

KIMBELL ART MUSEUM Sep 14–Jan 4: No Room to Answer: Teresa Hubbard and Alexander Birchler—see photographs and videos by this collaborative artistic team that span from their earliest endeavors in 1991 to their present-day efforts. Their first major survey in an American museum, this exhibit should bring special attention to their longtime interest in the early histories of photography and cinema. Thru Oct 19: Kara Walker: My Complement, My Enemy, My Oppressor, My Love—race, gender, sexuality, and violence play out in Walker’s complex pieces, namely, her room-size tableaux of black cut-paper silhouettes depicting historical narratives fraught with the oppression of stereotype. More than a hundred works on paper as well as film animations round out Walker’s first full-scale American museum survey. Open Tue–Sat 10–5, Sun 11–5. Gen adm $10, senior citizens & students with ID $4, children 12 & under and members free (Wed & first Sun of every month everybody free). themodern.org 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd (817-332-8451). [map] +

Sports

TEXAS RANGERS Major League Baseball. Sep 1–3: Seattle Mariners. Sep 5–7: Boston Red Sox. Sep 15–17: Detroit Tigers. Sep 19–21: Las Angeles Angels. Sep 22–24:Oakland Athletics. At 7:05 (except Sep 7 & 21 at 2:05 and Sep 3 & 24 at 1:05). $6–$125. texasrangers.com Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, 1000 Ballpark Way (817-273-5100). [map] +

Other Events

ZESTFEST Remember the rule for cooling off a tongue blazing from capsaicin-heavy peppers: Water doesn’t work! So bring a quart of milk and prepare yourself to sample the spiciest, zestiest food around. There will be celebrity chefs on hand to demonstrate red-hot recipes, plus live music, interactive contests and games, and the annual Fiery Foods Challenge, with entrants vying for the coveted Golden Chile award in more than eighty categories. Sep 5-7. Fri 3-7, Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4. Call for prices. zestfest2008.com Rogers Memorial Center, 3401 W. Lancaster (817-392-7469). [map] +

Points of Interest

FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDEN The grounds feature rose, perennial, and fragrance gardens, as well as a Japanese garden designed after the Ryoanji Temple Garden in Kyoto. Grounds open daily from dawn to sundown; free. Conservatory open Mon–Sat 10–6, Sun 1–6; gen adm $1, senior citizens & children 4–12 50 cents, 3 & under free. Japanese Garden open daily 9 a.m.–7 p.m.; gen adm $3 (Mon–Fri), $3.50 (Sat & Sun); senior citizens $2.50 & $3; children 4–12 $ 2; 3 & under free. fwbg.org 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd (817-871-7686). [map] +

FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER & REFUGE This 3,600-acre preserve—with bison, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, coyotes, and numerous species of birds—includes picnic facilities, 25 miles of hiking trails, and a 900-foot boardwalk along Lotus Marsh. For a list of events call or go to fwnaturecenter.org. Open Mon-Fri 8-7, Sat & Sun 7-7. Hardwicke Interpretive Center open Mon-Sat 9-4:30, Sun noon–4:30. Gen adm $4, senior citizens $3, youths 3–17 $2, 2 & under free. 9601 Fossil Ridge Rd; take TX Hwy 199 northwest, exit Confederate Park, about 2 miles past Lake Worth Bridge (817-237-1111). [map] +

TEXAS COWBOY HALL OF FAME More than seventy of the top cowboys and cowgirls in Texas are honored in this converted barn in the Stockyards. Exhibits feature Hall of Famers Ty Murray, Tuff Hedeman, and Charmayne James; the site is also home to the Sterquell Wagon Collection and the John Justin Trail of Fame. Before you leave, check out the Western Gift Shop and the Jersey Lilly Photo Parlor. Open Fri & Sat 10–7, Sun 11–5. Gen adm $5, senior citizens & students with ID $4, children 3–12 $3, 2 & under free. texascowboyhalloffame.com 128 E. Exchange (817-626-7131). [map] +

Fredericksburg

Theater

ROCKBOX THEATER Forget Vegas: Fredericksburg is the new place to catch the best impersonators of your favorite musicians. With a resident cast of professional entertainers and musicians, Rockbox is committed to bringing back the golden era of rock and roll with music from the fifties through the eighties, complete with the costumes, choreography, and comedy. Performances weekly: Fri at 8, Sat at 4:30 & 8, Sun at 1:30. Gen adm $28–$40, youths 17 & under $15. rockboxtheater.com 109 N. Llano (866-349-6688). [map]

Galveston

Theater

THE GRAND 1894 OPERA HOUSE Sep 13: Steve Tyrell—the Grammy Award–winning crooner (and Houston native) will perform classic pop standards with the jazz-style vocals he’s famous for. At 8. $20-$85. Sep 20: Dyana Dafova—joined by ballet dancers, musicians, and other vocalists, theEuropean star headlines a spectacular show that spans several cultures and languages. At 8. $35–$75. Sep 26: An Evening with Tony Bennett—the octogenarian crooner pours out his soulful, swinging pop. At 8. $76–$186. thegrand.com 2020 Postoffice (800-821-1894). [map] +

Museums/Galleries

GALVESTON ARTS CENTER Thru Oct 5: Helen Altman: Flora/Fauna and Other Natural Concerns—a survey of ten years of sculpture, works on paper, and quilts by this Fort Worth artist is on view. Open Tue–Sat 11–5, Sun noon–5. Free. galvestonartscenter.org 2127 Strand (409-763-2403). [map]

LONE STAR FLIGHT MUSEUM AND TEXAS AVIATION HALL OF FAME The museum houses dozens of World War II aircraft, and the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame contains exhibits and aircrafts that document the state’s rich aviation history. Open daily 9–5. Gen adm $8, senior citizens & youths 5–17 $5, 4 & under free. lsfm.org Galveston International Airport, 2002 Terminal Dr (409-740-7722). [map] +

OCEAN STAR OFFSHORE DRILLING RIG AND MUSEUM Located in an out-of-service rig, this triple-decker museum contains exhibits relating to offshore oil drilling. Open daily 10-5. Gen adm $6, senior citizens $5, youths 7-18 $4, children 6 & under free. oceanstaroec.com Harborside Dr & 20th (409-766-7827). [map] +

Sports

GULF GREYHOUND PARK Year-round greyhound races and pari-mutuel wagering with simulcasts of horse and greyhound races daily (doors open for simulcasts at 11 a.m.). Live races Wed at noon, Thur & Fri at 7, Sat at 1:30 & 7, Sun at 1:30. Gen adm $2, clubhouse $3. gulfgreyhound.com 1000 FM 2004, La Marque; take exit 15 off I-45 and go 1 block west on FM 2004 (409-986-9500 or 800-275-2946). [map] +

MOODY GARDENS GOLF COURSE If you fancy yourself the next Tiger Woods (and have the patience to swing at that small white ball over and over again), head to this 6,900-yard, par-72 course, which opened to the public in June. Formerly the Galveston Municipal Golf Course, these seaside links have been upgraded with a larger driving range, a new golf cart fleet, and a completely remodeled clubhouse, pro shop, and grill. Call for tee times & prices. moodygardensgolf.com 1700 Sydnor Lane (409-683-4653). [map] +

Points of Interest

MOODY GARDENS This futuristic complex surrounded by botanical gardens includes the 10-story glass Rainforest Pyramid, which contains a lush forest; the pink Discovery Pyramid, which houses interactive science exhibits; and the Aquarium Pyramid at Moody Gardens which features creatures from four regions of the world’s oceans. Open Sun–Fri 10–6, Sat 10–8. Aquarium: gen adm $15.95, senior citizens $10.95, children 4–12 $9.95, 3 & under free; Discovery Museum: gen adm $11.95, senior citizens $10.95, children 4-12 $7.95, 3 & under free; Rainforest Pyramid: gen adm $9.95, senior citizens $8.95, children 4–12 $7.95, 3 & under free; 1-day pass $46.95, 2-day pass $54.95. moodygardens.com 1 Hope Blvd (409-744-4673 or 800-582-4673). [map] +

Grapevine

Other Events

GRAPEFEST This celebration of Texas wines boasts that it is the largest wine festival in the Southwest, and rightfully so; our state is the fifth largest wine-producer in the nation. Four days of entertainment and culinary delights are planned for the 22nd annual celebration: wine tastings, cooking demonstrations, live music in the wine garden, the GrapeFest Tennis Classic, and live music. Don’t miss the Grape Stomp competition, where participants vie for the coveted Purple Foot award. Sep 11-14. $8. For schedule call or go to grapevinetexasusa.com. Along Main (800-457-6338). + Variable.

Points of Interest

GRAPEVINE VINTAGE RAILROAD GRAPEVINE VINTAGE RAILROAD A fully restored antique steam train runs along the 21 miles of the historic Cotton Belt Line from Grapevine to the Fort Worth Stockyards; once in Cowtown, take a shorter ride from the Stockyards to 8th Avenue on the Trinity River Run. For schedule & prices call or go to gvrr.com. 709 S. Main (817-410-3123). [map] 709 S. Main (817-410-3123). [