THE HISTORY OF THE DEVIL recounts Satan's biography, from ancient Russia to England in the 19th century, as old Scratch petitions Heaven to let him back in. Master of modern horror Clive Barker authored this drama of darkness, and UT student group Rare Creations gives it a staged reading on the Devil's Night. Jeff Griffin (Water) stars. Mark G. Wheaton directs. ONE PERFORMANCE ONLY! Oct 31, Fri, 7:30pm, in Batts Auditorium, UT campus. Free!. 454-8172.
BLITHE SPIRIT examines that age-old problem of what to do when the ghost of your first wife shows up to bedevil your second marriage. Noel Coward's brittle comedy of love and the dearly departed is brought back from the dead by Travis High School's Behind the Curtain Production. Gavin Mundy directs. FINAL TWO PERFORMANCES! Oct 30 & 31, Thu & Fri, 7:30pm, at Travis High School Little Theatre, 1211 E. Oltorf.
AFTERLIVES carries on a conversation between the living and the dead, and for this Frontera@ Hyde Park Theatre reading of Deborah Hamilton-Lynne's script, director Shannon Mayer is using a spot with the right atmosphere: a cemetery. The reading stars Sandy Walper, Emily Cicchini, and Bruce Brown, and benefits FronteraFest. FINAL THREE PERFORMANCES! Oct 30-Nov 1, Thu-Sat, 6:30pm, at Austin Memorial Park Cemetery, 2800 Hancock. Tickets: $8 Thu; $10 Fri/Sat ($5/$8 seniors, students, ACoT). 454-TIXS.
AS YOU LIKE IT takes us to the Forest of Arden, where Rosalind pretends to be a man to teach the man she loves how to love a woman, Jacques muses on the "Seven Ages of Man," and old wrongs are righted. The Austin Free Shakespeare Society stages the Bard's comedy in the open air. FINAL TWO PERFORMANCES! Oct 31 & Nov 1, Fri & Sat, 7:30pm, in the courtyard between Batts and Mezes Halls, South Mall, UT campus. Performed outdoors; bring seating. Free.
EXIT THE KING proves it isn't always good to be king. In Ionesco's absurdist play, poor Berenger I sees his life and kingdom crumble around him. The Radiant Flux Theatre Company stages this revival. FINAL TWO PERFORMANCES! Oct 30 & Nov 1, Thu & Sat, 7pm, at Johnston High School, 1112 Arthur Stiles. $5 ($3 students). 414-5851.
ITALIAN AMERICAN RECONCILIATION Much to my grandmother's chagrin, I never dated Italian boys. I couldn't take all the pent-up passion, the smoldering intensity that seemed to lurk just behind their dark eyes where it could erupt with the strangest provocation. But the grand drama lives on in Subterranean Theatre Company's Italian American Reconciliation. Moonstruck writer John Patrick Shanley revisits that territory of an Italian love affair gone haywire, with equally histrionic results. As Huey Bonfigliano, a man trying to reconcile with his ex-wife Janice, the mighty Joe York gives a genuine, heartfelt performance. York's deft touch is matched by Ken Webster, who brings both warm and scuzzy nuances to the big-mouthed character of Aldo, Huey's best friend. Katherine Catmull strongly plays the angry Janice, a woman of high passion who killed Huey's dog to get her spouse's attention. The production feels as if it's moments from exploding into a glorious feast of high drama and fierce comedy, but there is some essential spark missing, perhaps a full commitment to these heightened, wonderful characters that allows you to get lost in the passion of their lives and loves, to fling yourself into the opera while retaining the skills to sing a glorious aria before you die of consumption. (Adrienne Martini) FINAL WEEKEND! Through Nov 1, Thu-Sat, 8pm, at Hyde Park Theatre, 511 W. 43rd. Tickets: Pay What You Wish on Thu; $10 Fri/Sat ($9 seniors, students, ACoT). Running time: 2 hrs. 454-TIXS.
HANSEL AND GRETEL are back in the woods, back at that gingerbread house which isn't as sweet as it looks. This time around, their fairy tale adventure - which certainly has its shares of tricks and treats - gets a Halloween revival from UT Opera Theatre. Naturally, this is an operatic version of the tale, the popular one by Engelbert Humperdinck. Head of the Opera Theatre Robert DeSimone directs. FINAL WEEKEND! Through Nov 2, Fri, 8pm, Sat, 2pm, Sun, 7pm, in the McCullough Theatre, UT campus. 471-1444.
J.B. recasts the tale of Job in a contemporary setting. Archibald MacLeish's modern morality play is revived by Concordia University. FOUR PERFORMANCES ONLY! Oct 30-Nov 2, Thu & Fri, 8pm, Sat, 8:30pm, Sun, 4pm, in the Schroeder Performance Hall, Louise T. Peter Center, Concordia University campus, 3400 N. I-35. Tickets: $7 ($5 students). 425-7662, x7529.
OVID'S MYTHS: THE ROMAN NOSE IN EXILE takes us into the company of a group of wild and funny barbarians with the Roman poet Ovid. He tries to teach them about life through tales from his Metamorphosis; they try to teach him what civilization is really about. Austin playwright Clay Nichols penned this comedy for youth; Zachary Scott Theatre Center's Project InterAct produces it. Judy Matetzschk directs. Recommended for ages 6 and older. FINAL TWO PERFORMANCES! Nov 1 & 2, Sat & Sun, 2pm, at ZSTC, Kleberg Stage, 1421 W. Riverside. Tickets: $5.50. 476-0541.
THE SPIRAL DANCE is a theatrical ritual carrying participants to the Isle of the Dead, where they can mourn, remember, and honor ones who have come before us, then celebrate new beginnings and rebirth with a spiral dance. Sponsored by the Tejas Web, a group cultivating a magical community in our area. ONE NIGHT ONLY! Nov 2, Sun, 7pm, at Planet Theatre, 2307 Manor. Tickets: $5 ($3 students). 478-LAVA.
I AM ANNIE MAE is the proud cry of an African-American Texas woman, the granddaughter of a slave who rose to personal triumph through her talent, strength, and perseverance. Author Ruthe Winegarten told the story of Annie Mae Hunt in a popular book, which served as the basis for this musical, featuring songs by Naomi Carrier. This 10th anniversary revival is part of UT's interdisciplinary series "Women Challenging the Arts." Houston singer and actress Belinda Simmons stars. Lindi Yeni directs. ONE PERFORMANCE ONLY! Nov 3, Mon, 7pm, at the Utopia Theatre, 1925 San Jacinto, UT campus. 471-5765.
DRACULA Some things just go together and gain their power by the pairing. Salt and pepper. Sick and tired. Siskel and Ebert. Sex and death. Bram Stoker knew this when he penned Dracula in 1897, capitalizing on the sexual restrictions of the era and the deathly allure of verboten desire. Steven Dietz's 1995 adaptation of Stoker's work, produced here by The Public Domain, examines Stoker's creation through a modern lens and refocuses the drama on the nature of secrets as well as the dichotomy of good vs. evil. Which is not to say that this staging is a dry, philosophical treatise on the intangibles of life. Far from it. This Dracula immerses you in a lush world from the get-go, thanks to the amazing sound design by Byron Tate and Chris Cortez and the scenic tricks of set designers Marco Noyola and Dave Seidlitz. Ehren Christian, Dawn Larned, Lenore Perry, and Dave Jarrott all give strong performances and Michael Miller is simply magnetic as the man who wants to bite the necks of those who can feed him. But despite this well-crafted work and the excitement of the first half-hour, the show eventually loses momentum. It wavers between high camp and deep thought, unsure of what it really wants to be. Even though director Robi Polgar saves some tricks for the rest of the show, they aren't enough to rebuild the excitement after it has been scattered by all the diffuse perspectives. (Adrienne Martini) HELD OVER! Through Nov 8, Thu-Sat, 8pm, Sun, 5pm, at The Public Domain, 807 Congress. Tickets: $5 Thu; $12 Fri/Sat ($10 seniors, students, ACoT); Pay What You Wish on Sun. Running time: 2 hrs, 45 min. 474-6202.
LOVE, JANIS is how Janis Joplin signed the letters that she wrote home to Port Arthur, Texas. Now her letters are the basis of a musical. Two actresses play the Texas singer: one the stage Janis; the other her private self. Denver Center Theatre's Randal Myler wrote and directs this Zachary Scott Theatre Center production, starring Aimee McCormick and acclaimed Janis channeler Andra Mitrovich. HELD OVER! Through Nov 8, Fri & Sat, 8pm, Sun, 6pm, at Zachary Scott Theatre Center, Kleberg Stage, 1421 W. Riverside. Tickets: $24 Sun; $27 Fri; $30 Sat. 476-0541.
THE CENCI: A RITUAL OF CRUELTY endeavors to give life to the oft-discussed but rarely staged work of Antonin Artaud, proponent of the "Theatre of Cruelty." This production takes us to 16th-century Italy, where the cruel Count Cenci torments his family and peers. Can they defeat his evil with good, or must evil be used to fight evil? Eric Love directs. Through Nov 9, Thu-Sun, 8pm, at Synergy Studio, 1501 W. Fifth. 292-1201.
FUR In Migdalia Cruz's twisted riff on Beauty and the Beast, love is a hunt, a sport in which the object of one's affections is watched for, stalked, lured into one's lap, captured. Michael finds his dream mate in Citrona - a feral female whose head, face, and back are thick with masses of midnight black hair - and confines her in a cage, where he tries to make her love him. But Citrona loves Nena, the woman hired by Michael to bring her food. Nena, though, has eyes only for Michael. All are certain they can conquer the heart of the one they prize and so give chase. VORTEX Repertory Theatre stages Cruz's play with perverse glee, thrusting its sensationalistic bits - nudity, autoeroticism, sick jokes - in our faces, unflinchingly and with relish. Director Barry Pineo orchestrates the impact of every jolt and jab so that they always serve the story and keep our eyes locked on the scene, unable to look away from this thing that is horrific and hilarious. Martin Burke's Michael is a GQ Jack Frost, projecting a cool charisma you could watch all day. Elaine Williams' Nena is a wide-eyed naïf who knows how to use her ripe feminine form to captivate her prey. And as Citrona, Stephanie Swenson dances merrily on the line between beast and human. Her work here is big, gutsy, original, full; it's impressive. The same is true of the show overall. (Robert Faires) HELD OVER! Through Nov 9, Thu-Sat, 8pm, Nov 9, Sun, 8pm, at Planet Theatre, 2307 Manor. Tickets: $6.50 Thu; $12 Fri & Sat. Running time: 1 hr, 50 min. 454-TIXS.
THE KING STAG follows the efforts of a monarch to find the most honest woman in his kingdom to be his bride and the characters - a power-hungry prime minister, two young lovers, some country characters, and a curious parrot - who figure into his search. Susan Dillard adapted Carlo Gozzi's commedia classic for Second Youth Repertory Family Theatre and stages it in a swirl of puppets, masks, music, and magic. Recommended for ages 7 and older. Through Nov 9, Thu-Sat, 8pm, Sun, 3pm, at the Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd. 454-TIXS.
THE WELL OF THE SAINTS Wondrous things can happen at a crossroads. Folks can fall in love. Theatre can be reborn on its old stomping grounds. The blind could be made to see. Where two paths intersect, new options are created and anything can occur. This production of The Well of the Saints is one such intersection. The space that was Capitol City Playhouse is now Fadó Irish Pub, which could've ignored the character of the place that came before. But it let Rick Perkins put this John M. Synge play on its back porch, and there couldn't have been a better path to take, given the quality and energy of this charming production. Perkins deftly edited the script to capture both its story of a blind couple blessed by a saint and its deeper layers about the deceptiveness of appearances. Paul Mitchell Wright gives a stellar performance as half of the bickering blind couple and Bernadette Nason is his equal, matching him dig for dig and acting riff for acting riff. Producing theatre above the real-life intersection at Fourth & Colorado results in some problems, but something wondrous emerges from this journey: a new space well utilized by Perkins and company and the chance to see how amusing and touching good Irish drama can be. (Adrienne Martini) HELD OVER! Nov 4 & 11, Tue, 8pm, at Fadó Pub, 214 W. Fourth. Tickets: $5. Running time: 1hr, 20 min. 457-0172.
ALICE is a character known for traveling through a curious land and meeting many odd figures, but in Lindsay Doleshal's new funky, futuristic take on Lewis Carroll's heroine and her journey, Alice has to contend with a Wonderland that's stranger - urban and dirty (in more ways than one) - and figures even more outrageous than in Carroll's original. Doleshal directs this bawdy adventure. Nov 6-15, Thu-Sat, 8pm, at the Victory Grill, 1104 E. 11th. Tickets: $8. 454-TIXS.
A DELICATE BALANCE is what Agnes and Tobias are trying to maintain in life, but it isn't easy for this pair, what with the sudden intrusion of their friends who want to move in - for good. This Edward Albee Pulitzer Prize winner is hot again, and Live Oak Theatre at the State mounts it with Woody Skaggs, Marlene May, Janelle Buchanan, Thomas Parker, Cyndi Williams, and Demp Toney. Don Toner directs. (Review in this issue's "Exhibitionism" arts review page.) Through Nov 16, Wed-Sat, 8pm, Sun, 6pm, at the State Theatre, 719 Congress. Tickets: $15 Wed/Thu/Sun; $17 Fri/Sat. 472-5143.
THIS PRESENT DARKNESS brings an epic battle of good and evil from the page to the stage. Frank Peretti's Christian thriller of a small town beset by forces of darkness has been adapted for the theatre by Rich Peterson. A new company, Stage Central, provides the work's world premiere. Oct 31-Nov 9, & Nov 21-23, Fri & Sat, 7:30pm, Sun, 6:30pm, at Central Assembly of God, 183 & 290E. Admission is free. 926-2387.
THE RITES OF ELEUSIS are mystery plays celebrating the human and divine archetypes of the original astrological planets: Sol, Luna, Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Venus, and Mercury. Written by Aleister Crowley in 1910, these pieces of ritual theatre are revived for the third year in a row by Scarlet Woman Lodge, Ordo Templi Orientis. The lodge presents the rites over a 30-day period, staging each play once, a new one every five days. Two rites have been presented so far; the next rite is: The Rite of Mars, Nov 4, Tue. All rites at 8pm at Bodhi Yoga Center, 1710 Houston. Tickets: $5. 443-7382.
JUNO AND THE PAYCOCK don't exactly have Dublin's smoothest marriage. She works herself to the bone struggling to provide for their family, while he whiles away the hours carousing with Joxer Daly. What happens when it the Paycock appears to be in line for an inheritance? Different Stages tells you in its revival of Sean O'Casey's masterpiece. Wilson Wade, Bobbie Owens, and Henry Fitzgerald star. Karen Carver-Sneed directs. Preview performance Nov 6, Thu, 8pm (Pay What You Can). Nov 6-Dec 6, Thu-Sat, 8pm, Nov 30, Sun, 6pm, at The Acting Studio, 5811 Burnet. Tickets: Pay What You Can on Thu; $12 Fri/Sat. 454-TIXS.
GHOSTLY DREAD AT THE DRISKILL sets a comedy whodunit among the haunted halls of the historic hotel. Over a four-course dinner, watch Mary Astor-Turf try to contact dead ancestor Colonel Jack and help solve a crime. The Capital City Mystery Players revive their most popular show for a limited run. Through Nov 29, Sat, 7pm, Oct 31, Fri, 7pm, at the Driskill Hotel, 604 Brazos. Tickets: $45. 474-5911, x5219.
LATER AT LIVE OAK CABARET offers uptown musical entertainment in the lobby of the State, courtesy of Live Oak Theatre. This week: a double shot of smooth music, courtesy of Julie Slim and Donna Lipman. Sat, 10:30pm, at the State Theatre, 719 Congress. $10 (includes your first drink). 472-5143.
THE QUACK'S VARIETY SHOW is a new weekly showcase for musicians, actors, dancers, comics, writers, and poets. Through Dec, Thu, 7pm, at Captain Quackenbush's Espresso Cafe & Bakery, 2120 Guadalupe. No cover. 397-7507.
Austin Access Arts Seeks Volunteers to describe visual aspects of dance and theatre performances or museum exhibits not accessible to a person who is visually impaired. Once-a-year training to be held Nov 7-9 at the Austin Groups for the Elderly Bldg., 3710 Cedar. 454-9912.
ComedySportz-Austin offers instruction in improvisation: Level 1 (Zachary Scott Theatre Center); and Level 2 (ComedySportz Playhouse, 2525 W. Anderson Ln, Ste 630). 266-3697.
Acting Classes With C.K. McFarland offer performers, writers, and the creatively curious an approach to exploring new creative territory and reclaiming artistic self-esteem. Two eight-week classes: Nov 3-Dec 15, Mon, 7-9:30pm; Nov 4-Dec 16, Tue, 7-9:30pm. $170. 441-3738.
Miss Evers' Boys, a drama by David Feldshuh: Nov 1 & 2, Sat & Sun. Roles available: five African-American males, 20-60; one African-American female, 20-35; one Caucasian male, 30-50. The production will run in February at Planet Theatre. Produced by First Stage Productions. 491-7383.
Student Film. Needed: one man, one woman, 18-30, to play "Jehovah's Witness" types; one man, 25-50, to play a "Hank Hill" type. 836-5770.
COMEDYSPORTZ PLAYHOUSE is home to the ComedySportz Players, 10-year veterans of improvisational comedy. Enjoy improv among real Electrolux light fixtures and Dart Bowl tables every Fri & Sat, with a menu featuring stromboli, Italian sausage & pepper subs, barbecue chicken pizza, and beer and wine. This week, enjoy a Halloween show at 7:30pm full of safe treats for the entire family and a 10pm show with more adult moonlight madness (Oct 31, Fri only). Fri & Sat, 7:30 & 10pm, at ComedySportz Playhouse, 2525 W. Anderson. Tickets: $6-$10. 266-3397.
ESTHER'S FOLLIES plows into fall with a fresh harvest of the musical satire that's been its speciality for 20 years. Enjoy the latest in illusions from master of magic Ray Anderson, and watch the Esther's crew play "Cowboys and Aliens," spoofing gun-totin' Coach Switzer and his Hole in the Dorm Wall Gang as well as the extraterrestrials of the entertainment industry, from The Twilight Zone to the Men in Black, and more! Thu, 8pm, Fri & Sat, 8 & 10pm, at Esther's Pool, 525 E. Sixth. Tickets: $12 Thu; $14 Fri & Sat. 320-0553.
THE VELVEETA ROOM hosts a variety of comic fun every week. Thursday, Monks' Night Out offers an energized mix of sketch comedy and improv (see "Ongoing"). Thu, 9:30pm (through Nov 1). $5. After the Monks, Comedy Open Mike lets comics go wild with new material. Thu, 11pm. $3 (free for Monks' & Esther's patrons). Weekends offer the Monks again (Fri & Sat, 9:30pm, through Nov 1) and this week, the long-awaited return of the fast and furious Reno, performing her new solo show, Reno: Chicken or Egg? Nature or Nurture? (Review in this issue's "Exhibitionism" arts review page.) Through Nov 1, Thu-Sat, 8pm. 521 E. Sixth. 469-9116.
Monks' Night Out offers sketches and improv weekly at the Velveeta Room. This week, the troupe's schedule will be adjusted for Reno's run. Oct 30-Nov 1, the Monks can be seen Thu-Sat, 9:30pm, at the Velveeta Room, 521 E. Sixth. Tickets: $5 Thu, $7 Fri & Sat. 453-MONK.
THE LONG BEAUTIFUL LINES DANCE WEEKEND provides a feast of traditional dance and live music, with a dance on Friday, a full day of dancing Saturday and concert Saturday night, a late-night party after, and still more dancing Sunday afternoon. The Rodney Miller Band, with Rodney Miller on fiddle, Bill Meyer on guitar, and David Cahn on bass, play all weekend; Cis Hinkle calls the dances. Oct 31-Nov 2, Fri-Sun, at Texas Federation of Women's Clubs, San Gabriel & W. 24th. Admission: $50 ($5 discount for members of Austin Friends of Traditional Music). 260-1457.
LES ENFANTS TERRIBLES (CHILDREN OF THE GAME) evokes the imagination and fire of Jean Cocteau in a new dance opera co-created by composer Philip Glass and choreographer Susan Marshall. The work takes Cocteau's strange, tragic story of a brother and sister bound together in a world of their own making and adapts it to the stage using movement and music as entwined as the protagonists. Each character is portrayed by multiple performers, with the company filled out by four singers, seven musicians, and three keyboardists. ONE PERFORMANCE ONLY! Nov 4, Tue, 8pm, Bass Concert Hall, UT campus. Tickets: $14-$31. 471-1444.
KATHY DUNN HAMRICK provides the coziest and most elegant look at her choreography ever in the new program Close Ups. In a program of works set in the intimacy of the Cafe Dance studio, Dunn Hamrick reveals how she has refined her dance's designs, the weight, the energy, the breath, to provide simple, beautiful movement that connects audiences emotionally and kinesthetically with the pulse of the dance. Performing are Kate Warren, Cari Kerkhoff, Gaye Greever, Nancy Lazarczyk, Nicole Wesley, and Lisa Bowers. Nov 1-16, Sat, 8pm, Sun, 2pm, at Cafe Dance, 3307-B Hancock. Tickets: $7. 451-8066.
Austin International Folk Dancers meets weekly to learn dances from all over the world. First time free, $2 after. Sat, 7:30-11pm, at Hancock Recreation Center, 811 E. 41st. 462-0651.
Mirage Bellydance Troupe presents an hour of bellydance every other week at UT. Next date: Oct 30, featuring guests Robin Byers, Sajaha, and Almaazah's class. No cover. Thu, 7:30pm, Texas Union Showroom. 252-2333.
Wednesday Contra Dance offers traditional dances to live music. Austin Barn Dancers host. Wed, 7:30pm, Hancock Recreation Center, 811 E. 41st. $3 donation. 453-4225.
The Body `s Eloquence: A Training in Human Movement Analysis is a workshop providing a framework for seeing, perceiving, and understanding movement through the body's relationship to space, weight, and time. LPC & MSW ceu credit. Nov 1 & 2, Sat & Sun, 9am-5pm. Kalila Homann, licensed counselor and dance therapist, is the instructor. 441-8334, x2.
Andrea Ariel is teaching Contemporary Forms/Dance Technique, Beg I/II (Nov 3-Dec 17, Mon & Wed, 6-7:30pm). Synergy Studio, 1501 W. Fifth. Cost: $84; drop-in rates available. 458-4258.
Hula Dance Classes are available evenings and weekends from Tropical Productions. Live drums. 2104 S. Lamar, Ste. 101. 440-7171.
Contemporary Cloggers offer ongoing classes in the beloved Appalachian folk dance. Mon, 7:30-9:30pm, at Tapestry Studio, 507-B Pressler. No partner required. 292-1030.
Bobbye Dee's "Kiss the Sands" Productions offers ongoing group and private classes in bellydance, all levels, Mon/Tue/Wed/Sat, and country & western dancing. 331-6545.
Austin World Dance Studio offers classes in Middle Eastern Ethnic Dance (Wed, 7:30-9pm), taught by Mila; int. bellydance (Tue, 5:30-7pm) and beg. bellydance (Tue, 7:15-8:15pm), taught by Pat Taylor, and more. 2105 Justin Ln, #113. patmike@tab.com or 452-3190.
Dance Meditation combines breath-based slow movement, bellydance, stretching, whirling, and chanting. Michael Moscoso is the teacher. Mon, 7:30-9pm, at Yoga Studios, by Whole Foods, Sixth & Lamar; and Fri, 10-11:30am, at NiaSpace, 2810 S. First. Cost: $10/class. 444-0078.
Acia Gray teaches an ongoing class in the fundamentals of musical theatre choreography and basic dance technique. No experience needed. Tue, 6:30-7:30pm, at Tapestry, 507-B Pressler. Cost: $40 mo/$10 walk-in ($8 ACoT). 4-RHYTHM.
Authentic Latin Dance Lessons are taught by Alvaro Gomez, master dance instructor from Cali, Colombia, Wed, 5:30-8:30pm, & Thu, 6-9pm, at Club Calle Ocho, 706 Congress. Each class starts with basic steps. Cost: $5. 250-5451.
Weekly Women's Movement Therapy Group is a safe place for women to explore life issues via movement therapy. Kalila Homann, registered movement therapist, leads. 441-8334.
AZTLAN FOLK DANCE COMPANY 1998 SEASON: Nov 1-30, at Santa Cruz Center for Culture, 1805 E. Seventh. Dancers must be 15-35 years of age, should be familiar with folk dance, and be disciplined and committed. Dancers will be compensated. 478-9717.
THE AUSTIN CHORAL UNION will present "Choral Masters of the 19th Century" at University Presbyterian Church, 2203 San Antonio. Tickets are $12 general, $10 students and seniors. Under the direction of Morris J. Beachy, the choral group will perform works by Schubert, Mendelssohn, Schumann, Brahms, and more. (The ACU will also perform the same program at the Festival Haill at Round Top the following day, Sat, Nov 8, at 3pm. Call 409/249-3086 if you're up for a day trip!) Sat, Nov 7, 8pm. 454-TIXS.
THE AUSTIN CHAMBER ENSEMBLE will present "Chamber Music Goes to the Movies," at the First Unitarian Church, 4700 Grover. The program will feature music by film composers Bernard Herrmann, Erich Horngold, Franz Waxman, Jerome Moross, and others. A silent auction will be held preceeding the performance, with proceeds benefiting the ensemble. Tickets are $12 general, $10 seniosr and students, children under 18 are free (when accompanied by an adult). Fri, Nov 7, 8pm (silent auction at 7:30pm). 345-3399.
THE AUSTIN CIVIC WIND ENSEMBLE is currently looking for capable musicians. The group rehearses weekly at the Austin School for the Blind, 45th & Burnet. E-mail: WRG@tenet.edu. Tuesdays, 7:30-9:30pm. 228-3029.
THE NOONDAY CONCERT SERIES is held weekly at noon at Central Presbyterian Church, Eighth & Brazos. Free, followed by lunch (at 12:30pm, $3). Thu, Nov 20: The Arundel Trio. Thursdays, noon. 472-2445.
SOUTHWEST TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC For upcoming events: 512/245-2651.
SAN ANTONIO SYMPHONY hosts events for their '97-'98 season. 210/554-1000.
UT SCHOOL OF MUSIC Call at any time for recorded listings of upcoming events: 471-5401.
THE 9TH ANNUAL GEORGE WEST STORYFEST features storytellers Gay Ducey, Finley Stewart, James Ford, Loralee Cooley, and Tom McDermott as well as cowboy poet Johnny Campbell plus several musical and dance groups. It's the "Storytelling Capital of Texas," folks, so head on out. Craig Cameron will also demonstrate horse whisperin' the real way. Sat, Nov 1, 10:30am to 1am around the Live Oak County Courthouse Square in downtown George West. 449-2481.
1997 TEXAS BOOK FESTIVAL has several events planned in the Capitol and Capitol Extension this weekend, Nov 1 and 2, 9am-5pm and 11am-5pm, respectively. Events include readings, panel discussions, signings, as well as children's events and musical entertainment. Featured writers include: Sandra Brown, Elmer Kelton, Larry McMurtry, Willie Morris, Joan Lowery Nixon, Bud Shrake, Bruce Sterling, Tommy Tune, Mary Willis Walker, and Janice Woods Windle. The opening is Sat, Nov 1, 10:30am in the Senate Chamber of the Capitol with Larry McMurtry and Diana Ossana. The Big Event of the festival will feature Carlos Fuentes, Jim Lehrer, and Naomi Shihab Nye reading from their works at a black-tie dinner emcee'd by Larry L. King on Sat, Nov 1, 7-10pm in the Marriott at the Capitol. Proceeds from these events are used to help Texas public libraries. 477-4055.
JIM HIGHTOWER, famous ex-Agriculture Commissioner of Texas and radio commentator and all-around populist gadfly, will be signing copies of his There's Nothing in the Middle of the Road but Yellow Stripes and Dead Armadillos at Barnes & Noble in the Arboretum on Mon, Nov 3, 7:30. 477-5588.
MAIDENWORKS presents "Take One," a showcase featuring works by Austin writers Pat Fiske, T. Francis, G. Mears, V. Rentz, M. Shapiro, P. Thornton, K. Wilt, and Suzanne Vance. $6 at the door. Sun, Nov 9, 7pm at Hyde Park Theatre, 511 W 43rd. 491-0695.
JOSEPH SKIBELL, a Texas Center for Writers alumnus, will read from his recently published first novel, A Blessing on the Moon, the story of the after-life experiences of a Holocaust victim. Free and open to the public and highly recommended. Tues, Nov 11, 7:30pm, fourth floor auditorium of the HRC, 21st & Guadalupe. 471-8444.
GLOSSO BABEL is joined by Albert Huffstickler, David Jewell, and Marlys West for what sounds like a highlight of the poetic season with David and Marlys joining with GB for a few musical numbers. Always recommended. Check out GB's website: http://www.athens.net/~summi/babel Wed, Nov 12, 8-10pm in Hyde Park Theatre, 511 W. 43rd. 452-1663.
AUSTIN'S LITERA CITY, dedicated to the international promotion of Austin poets and writers (http://www.literacity.com) is up and running. Call 244-0311 or e-mail: webmaster@evilspacealiens.com (Not associated with this column.)
THE AUSTIN INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL is looking for two volunteers to coordinate the 1998 festival. A volunteer coordinator is needed to interview prospective volunteers and assist in placing them in roles within the organization. They are also asked to maintain volunteer forms, publicize for openings, and assist with volunteer appreciation. Also needed is a poet correspondent which entails maintaining mailings for some 300 poets, invitations to read, registration, and release forms, etc. Email a must for both positions. Other volunteers needed include publicity, membership, and festival volunteer staffing. Christina Sergeyevna at 918-AIPF.
WRITING FOR MOTION PICTURES/Movies of the Week is taught by screenwriter Kathleene Orillion. Limited to 15 participants. Submit writing samples by Jan 5. College credit or not. Begin Jan 20 on Tuesdays 6-9pm. University Extension. 471-2900.
GEMINI INK of San Antonio has dozens of workshops this fall and you can find out all about them at http://www.onr.com/user/reichert/GeminiInk.htm or call 210/826-6559.
NERVE COWBOY CHAPBOOK CONTEST Submit between 24 and 40 pages of work, cover letter (with name, address, biographical note, title of manuscript, and acknowledgments of previously published poems), and SASE with adequate postage for manuscript return. Poetry, short fiction, or a combo of those will be considered. First prize is $100 and 50 copies of published chapbook. Second prize is $50 and 30 copies of published chapbook. Third prize is a lifetime subscription to Nerve Cowboy (but no chapbook). Deadline: Jan 15, 1998. $10. Winning manuscripts chosen in April 1998, published in spring and summer of '98. All entrants will receive a copy of the winning chap and a discounted price on the second prize winning chap. Send to: Nerve Cowboy, PO Box 4973, Austin, TX 78765.
TV HOLE (http://www.tvhole.com) seeks submissions from freelance writers, graphic artists, and programmers. They are looking for a unique take on sports, art, movies, music, news, and web culture. Funny is good; edgy graphics good too. This is about glory folks, not the big moolah, eh? Doug, 452-7708.
CONVERSATIONS WITH JOHN HERNDON, now an established talk radio program (past guests include Gary Snyder, Bill Paxton, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Kerry Awn, Marion Winik, Jo Carol Pierce, Peggy Kelley Sue Littleton, and John Cutaia), airs Sundays from noon-2pm on KJFK-FM 98.9. Poet, journalist, and teacher, John's show will focus on books and authors, the arts, ideas, and culture. Send books, CDs, schedules, and other material to: John Herndon, 3616 Far West Blvd. #101-145, Austin, TX 78731-3074.
PATCHWORK POEMS changed its pricing policy, but it is still producing monthly so it must have worked. It costs $10 a year if you are currently on the mailing list and $12 if you are not. If you are published in Patchwork you'll get three months of issues. Single copies are $1. Send your poetry submissions and or checks to: Jeannine Harrell, 1528 W. Contour Dr., San Antonio, TX 78212.
BOOKPEOPLE has many writers signing and/or reading this month, so go to Book People and check their schedule or get on their mailing list. 603 N. Lamar. 472-5050 or 459-8081. BookPeople's Reading Group's discussions take place 7pm-8:30pm in the Community Room, third floor. Rena Korb leads the discussion group 371-1910 or Renakorb@flash.net. 603 N. Lamar. 459-8081.
WORDS NIGHT AT THE BLUE PEARL is a poetry/prose reading with featured readers and an open-mike session following the featured reader. Beginning and professional writers are welcome. Next event: Nov 2. Every other Sun, 7pm, 129 E. Hopkins on the Square in San Marcos. 396-1689.
AIR SALON is still the current poetry and theatre radio show from KVRX-FM, with hosts Caitlin Wood and Phil West. Tue, 7-7:30pm. Send submissions: Air Salon c/o KVRX-FM, UT, PO Box D, Austin, TX 78713.
TEXAS NAFAS, the excellent off-again/on-again poetry show, is in its "on" mode and running Sat and Sun at 9pm on Cable Channel 10. Sunday shows are repeats of Sat. Nov 8 and 9 features Suzanne Vance and Nov 15 and 16 features John Herndon with Ken Fontenot and Farid Mohammadi. Catch it while you can. It's worth it. Honest. Right, Farid? Farid? Do we share reliability genes or is it a conditional response of the poetically inflected? Glad you're back.
THE AUSTIN TOASTMASTERS meet to promote and improve public speaking skills. Tuesdays at 5:45pm, 21st floor, 100 Congress. 458-9427.
AUSTIN INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL planning meetings and readings are held every Monday, 7pm in Quackenbush's, 2120 Guadalupe. Readings begin at 8pm. The first Monday of every month features the festival directors' choice of poets and the remaining Mondays are an open mike. Minalushe@aol.com
SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE POETRY at Quackenbush's. Austin Poets at Large meets at 6pm to plan activities. Open mike poetry sign up at 7pm. They say they don't bite too hard in Quackenbush's, 2120 Guadalupe. John Hawk hosts. No cover! 371-1254.
LAUGHING AT THE SUN ART GALLERY invites artists, poets, writers, and musicians to create, perform, and meet one another. Sundays, noon-5pm, 2209 S. First St. 326-4410.
SABERTOOTH SALOON is an open mike venue featuring poetry, prose, rants, chants, songs, and incantations or any other orally transmitted dreams, hosted by Hunter. Wed 8:30-10pm, signup 8:15, Rio Grande Coffeehaus, 2222 Rio Grande. 322-0922.
BORDERS hosts literary discussion groups every Wednesday at 7:30pm. Borders discussion groups: The Literary Discussion Group meets the 1st Wed of each month; the Mystery Group meets the second Wed; the SF folks meet the third Wed of the month; the Non-fiction meets the fourth Wed of the month. Wed, 7:30pm, Borders Books & Music, 10225 Research. 795-8410. Free poetry readings with special guests are featured monthly. Hosted by Barbara Carr. A short round robin open mike with a suggested Halloween theme follows the featured poets. The fourth Wed of each month, 7:30pm. 795-9553 (Borders) or 343-7940 (Carr).
HYDE PARK UNPLUGGED features poetry and/or music with hosts Glen Alyn and Steve Brooks. Thu, 7-9pm, New World Deli, 41st and Guadalupe. 451-7170.
RUTA MAYA, recently voted best place to hear poetry in the Chronicle's Best of Austin readers poll, presents APAL open readings with Laura Moliter hosting every Tue, 6:30-7:30pm, 218 W. Fourth (the corner of Fourth and Lavaca). John Hawk. 371-1254.
* AUSTIN POETRY SOCIETY invites visitors and guests to their meeting the third Saturday of the month through May at 10pm in the Howson Branch Library, 2500 Exposition. 458-1485.
*SISTERS IN CRIME NEWS: Austin book collector Sam Waring will share his tips on collecting mysteries and locating out-of-print books at the monthly meeting held Sun, Nov 9, 2pm at the offices of Holt, Rinehart, & Winston, 1120 S. Capitol of Texas Highway. A $2 donation is requested from non-members. 928-3316. The reading group meets the last Sun of the month, 2pm in Convenience Office Supply, 2600 Longhorn Blvd. (north of 183 off Burnet). 345-7224.
*BARNES & NOBLE at the Arboretum, 10,000 Research. The store sponsors poetry the second Thursday of every month (Nov 13) with host Herman Nelson, 7:30-10pm. Guest poet is John Hawk. A round-robin open mike follows. 928-0619 or 837-8693. The third Thursday of each month (Nov 20) from 7:30 to 10pm AWL and the Texas Commission on the Arts sponsors a Poetry Workshop at the B&N shop at the Arboretum led by Jill Timmons. Bring 10 or more copies of any one page original poem. 335-7078. Other events: Their Children's Storytimes are Wed, 10am & 11:30am; Fri, 7pm; and Sat, 11am. The Fiction Book Discussion Group meets the last Monday of the month at 7:30pm. 918-9636. The Women's Book Discussion Group meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7pm. 218-8199.
*BARNES & NOBLE at Westlake: The usual last-Thursday-of-the-month poetry reading sponsored by the Texas Commission on the Arts and the Austin Writers' League will take place the first Thursday, 7:30-10pm, in November and December. The next reading is Nov 6. Host is John Berry. Feature poet still to be announced. Open mike follows. 928-0619 or 837-8693. The Poetry Workshop held on the first Thursday of each month has been canceled due to lack of interest in the Westlake area. This is the first and last notice that the workshop is canceled until further notice. Thanx for the run, Barbara Carr. Children's Storytime events: Fridays 7pm, Wednesdays 11am, and Saturdays 11am. Times subject to change so be sure to call. 328-3155.
More poetry! How complex to both love and despise the same person, yet how normal. Acknowledging those contradictory feelings can lead to healing and to a healthy ambivalence, a calm place where you more readily can see and establish boundaries and recognize which incursions are acceptable and which not. Breathe and love. Breathe and love yourself. We all have our limits and perhaps you are ready to acknowledge one and maybe you can breathe easier. Perhaps you'll never be who you think you should be, but if you're really lucky you can be who you are with a grace you never thought possible. Vaya con dios.
when cigars float smoking into my mind
I think of bowler-hatted sigmund freud
saying sometimes a cigar is just a cigar
and how he died of cancer of the jaw
of how everything is always just what it is
- rex rains "cigars au fond"
JULIA C. BUTRIDGE GALLERY, Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd, 397-1455. "Seven - TCU Graduate Exhibition," featuring works by seven grad students from Texas Christian University, is on view through Nov 26. Opening: Tue, Nov 4, 6-8pm.
EEKA-BEEKA, 2213 S. First, 448-9744. A selection of older works by acclaimed Austin artist Steve Bruniak are on display and priced to move,. Opening: Fri, Oct 31, 8-11pm. Music provided by Chuck Roe (and reception-goers are encouraged to show up in costume!).
HOLY 8 BALL STUDIOS, 2206 E. Seventh, 474-2570. "Brain Piercings and Psychic Tattoos," an exhibition of new works by Austin artists E. Vedrine and Bart Farar, is featured at the studios through November (by appointment only). Opening: Sat, Nov 1, 8pm (open to the public).
MANUEL'S DOWNTOWN RESTAURANT, 310 Congress, 472-7555. Masks and paintings by artist Lee Cunnigham are featured through November, presented in honor of Dia de los Muertos. Cunningham's narrative, spritual paintings deal with mystery and myth; her masks are tribal, urban art pieces. Opening: Thu, Oct 30, 6-7pm. Music by the Texas Rhythm Rangers will be featured, and appetizers provided.
THE FIRST INVISIBLE UT ART FACULTY SHOW will be held through November, featuring "invisible works" by 40 University faculty artists. The public is invited to attend the opening reception astrally by thinking about the idea on Thu, Oct 30, 5-8pm. Food will be invisible as well. Think about it.
ALTERNATE CURRENT ART SPACE, 2209 S. First, 443-9674. New works in a variety of media by members of the Creative Alternative Temple Co-op (CATCOOP) are featured through Nov 3.
ARTIST'S COVE, 303 W. Fifth, 320-0603. Oil paintings by world-renowned artist Marlinde Von Ruhs are on display, as well as award-winning photographs by Antonio Varela Ilda and individually signed and numbered painted ceramic sculpture by Alexander Flores.
ARTWORKS, 1214 W. Sixth, 472-1550. "The Dreaming," Aboriginal art from Australia, is on view through Nov 2. A wide range of original paintings and crafts will be highlighted.
AUSTIN GALLERIES, 1219 W. Sixth, 495-9363. Artworks by Julian Petrie, Borja Frenanez, Pep Suari, and Bartolome Sastre are currently on view through Nov 8. The show features over 70 new works, including landscapes, portraits, and cityscapes.
AUSTIN MUSEUM OF ART, DOWNTOWN, 823 Congress, 495-9224. "Michael Ray Charles, 1989-1997: An American Artist's Work" is on view through Dec 14. Organized by the Blaffer Gallery (at the University of Houston), the exhibition is the first major solo show of this critically acclaimed young artist and faculty member at UT Austin. Hailed world-wide as one of the most important emerging artists of his generation, Charles has had recent exhibitions in New York, Paris, and Düsseldorf.
"Committed to Abstraction: Ten in Texas," an exhibition focusing on the work of 10 painters working in Texas who have devoted their work to abstraction, is on view through Jan 25, 1998. The 19 works in the show are relatively large in scale, allowing the artist to emphasize formal elements and/or brushwork techniques.
BLUE ROAD STUDIO, 2210 S. First, 326-8909. The fine art studio of Joyce DiBona welcomes visitors to view unique conceptual mannequins, robotics, and oil paintings. Adult and children's classes are also offered.
RUTH BORINSTEIN GALLERY, 3300 Bee Caves, Suite 700, 306-8848. Rare James McNeill Whistler etchings (1859-1899) are on view through November, as well as newly acquired pieces by 19th-century masters Mary Cassatt, Renoir, Kandinksy, Homer, and more.
JULIA C. BUTRIDGE GALLERY, Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd, 397-1455. "Seven - TCU Graduate Exhibition," featuring works by seven grad students from Texas Christian University, is on view through Nov 26. Artworks in a variety of media will be displayed by artists Diane Cannon, Shelley Gipson, Sally Packard, Mary Foster, Ericha Ahlschier, Rachel Bounds, and Michel Roch. Opening: Tue, Nov 4, 6-8pm.
CLAYWAYS POTTERY STUDIO, 5442 Burnet, 459-6445. The studio features the work of local potters, including Catherine Sherwood, Don Bebout, Diana Seidel, Cap Brooks, and more.
EEKA-BEEKA, 2213 S. First, 448-9744. A selection of older works by acclaimed Austin artist Steve Bruniak are on display and priced to move, featured at the gallery through November. Opening: Fri, Oct 31, 8-11pm. Music provided by Chuck Roe (and reception-goers are encouraged to show up in costume!).
FIRE ISLAND HOT GLASS STUDIO, 3401 E. Fourth, 389-1100. The gallery shows hand-blown perfume bottles, paperweights, glassware, oil lamps, and more. Reach them on the Web at http://www.citysearch.com/aus/fireisland. Visitors are welcome to watch the alchemy in person on Saturdays, 9am-noon.
FLATBED PRESS GALLERY, 912 W. Third, 477-9328. An exhibition of etchings by Australian artist Anelia Pavlova is on view through Nov 26. Pavlova's intaglio-technique etchings are brightly colored, painterly prints that have a keen relationship to illustration.
GALERIA SIN FRONTERAS, 1701 Guadalupe, 478-9448. "Heritage of El Taller de Grafico Popular: Chicago Portfolios," an exhibition of limited edition prints from the workshops of Tony Galigo, is on view through Nov 6.
GALLERY AT CONCORDIA, Louise T. Peter Center, Luther Lane & N. I-35, 452-7661. "Accession," an exhibition spotlighting the work of UT art professor Dan Sutherland and eight of his students, is on display through Nov 21. "Mask and Mirror," an exhibit of paintings, drawings, and masks by Austin artist Paul Pfeiffer, explores how people look at and present themsevles. The show is also on view through Nov 21.
GALLERY AT SHOAL CREEK, 1500 W. 34th, 454-6671. Inspired by a recent spring visit to Paris, paintings by Carroll Collier will be on view through Nov 10.
HOLY 8 BALL STUDIOS, 2206 E. Seventh, 474-2570. "Brain Piercings and Psychic Tattoos," an exhibition of new works by Austin artists E. Vedrine and Bart Farar, is featured at the studios through November (by appointment only). French artist E. Vedrine's oil paintings are bodly graphic depictions of the inside of the human body (guts and all); and Farar describes his work as the "diary entries of the bastard son of Francisco Goya and a junk yard dog." Sounds interesting, as are all of the Holy 8 Ball shows! Opening: Sat, Nov 1, 8pm (open to the public).
HOUSE OF WACKS, 701 E. 53rd. Artworks by Andy Fuertsch are currently on display. Web address: http://ccwf.cc.utexas.edu/~tower/androp.html
IRONWOOD INDUSTRIES, 5120 Burnet Rd., 450-1933. Through November, the space is currently featuring works by Gabel Karsten (monotypes); Nancy Webber (folk art); Suzanne Benton (industrial milagors); Wells Mason (furniture); Tommy Jackson (furniture); Jennifer Lyon Chenevert (jewelry); Paul Meyer (charcoal); and Eileen Crowe (furniture).
L'ANTILLAISE GALLERY, 1800 W. Koenig, 206-3101. In celebration of the gallery's first anniversary, an exhibition of works by Haitian artists Edouard and Marcel Wah, French artist L.L. Vendeville, Panamanian artist Victor Bruce, and many local artists will be on view through November.
LAUGHING AT THE SUN, 2209 S. First, 326-4410. "The Figurative Show," an exhibition celebrating the human figure as seen through a variety of artists' interpretations, is on view through November 29. The exhibit exposes the human body in stages of grace, seduction, innocence, and rage, using a variety of media to express these states.
MAYFAIR & SPICEWOOD GALLERIES, 1206 W. 38th, 458-6575. Currently featured is a one-person show of works by landscape artist Nancy Bandy. Spicewood is featuring a one-person show of paintings by Herb Rather.
MEXIC-ARTE, 419 Congress, 480-9373. An exhibition of works by renowned artist Mario Orozco Rivera is on view through Nov 15. Rivera's works are found in private and museum collections across the globe, including Mexico, the U.S., Argentina, Cuba, Uruguay, Chile, England, France, Germany, and more. "20 Cuban Women," an exhibition of original photography by Christine Galida, is on view in the back gallery space, also through Nov 15. "The Hyphenated Hybrid," an exhibition by three San Antonio artists, will open in the back gallery space in conjuction with the Museum's Dia de los Muertos Celebration, Sat, Nov 1, 7-10pm. Artists include Bernice B. Appelin-Williams, Mark Barnes, Sr., and David A. García. The show will remain on view through Nov.
PABLO TABOADA CAMUS STUDIO/ GALLERY, 1100-B E. Sixth, 457-0171. Works by Chilean born painter Pablo Taboada Camus are currently featured.
POCKET GALLERY, 2209 S. First, 444-1188. "Abstractions," an exhibit of abstract acrylics by Austin artist Gary Vaughn, is on view through Nov 21.
POSITIVE IMAGES, 1118 W. Sixth, 472-1831. One-of-a-kind, limited edition works in jewelry by Syndy Lynch are featured through Nov 5. The gallery offers a wide selection of contemporary crafts in all media.
PRO-JEX GALLERY, 109 E. Fifth, 472-7707. "Cimetiére du Pére Lachaise...," an exhibition of photographs by three Texas photographers, is on view through Dec 23. Michelle Campbell, Alex Labry, and Sybil Miller will show images that were taken over the years in the Pére Lachaise cemetery in Paris, France - a site rich in history, details, and lumnious light. Artists reception: Sat, Nov 8, 6-8pm.
RAIN DOG STUDIO, 2210-G S. First, 288-3107. The studio currently features stone and steel sculpture by Colly Kreidler; oil paintings by Jean Lee; stone and bronze sculpture by John Michael Whitman.
RAMIREZ GALLERY, 3010 W. Anderson, Suite F, 302-0770. A show of new paintings by Linda Dumont are on display through November.
SCANLAN ART GALLERY, St. Stephen's School, 2900 Bunny Run, 327-1213. "Old Friends, New Directions," a St. Stephen's Alumni show of works-on-paper by Elizabeth Osborne and clay works by Jim Romberg, is featured through Nov 1.
SCARBOROUGH-PHILLIPS GALLERY, St. Edward's University, 3001 S. Congress. "Belong to Memory," recent photographs by Mark Goodman, is on display through Nov 9.
SKYLIGHT GALLERY, 307 E. Fifth, 474-9005. Paintings by local artist/singer Stephanie Bradley are featured.
SLUGFEST GALLERY, 1906 Miriam Ave., 477-7204. "Hooked," an exhibit of works by Mike Monteiro, is on view through Nov 21. The show features 7ft.-by-7ft. hooked rugs created over the last three years.
TARRYTOWN GALLERY, 2414 Exposition Blvd, 473-2552. "Strange Companions," new artwork by sculptor James Tisdale and painter Jere Allen, is on view through Nov 20. Tisdale crafts unique and powerful figurative creations in kiln-fired ceramics; Allen uses the figure as well in a series of swirling, sometimes chaotic, painted works.
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS Huntington Art Gallery, 23rd & San Jacinto and 21st & Guadalupe, 471-7324. With more than 12,500 works of art, the Huntington is one of the top 10 university art museums in the U.S. The permanent collection features Western European and American Art.
The gallery is now open late on Thursdays until 9pm. Evenings of Art, featuring exciting events ranging from films to gallery talks to music, will be held Thursdays, through Nov 20 at various times. 471-9207 for details.
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center, 21st & Guadalupe, 471-8944. http://www.lib.utexas. edu/Libs/HRC/HRHRC/. "Modern American Book Arts," an exhibition highlighting the creative and varied interplay of artists and designers with the book, is on view through Nov 15. "Living and Legendary Authors at the University of Texas," an exhibition focusing on the writings of such figures as J. Frank Dobie, Roy Bedichek, Walter Prescott Webb, Américo Paredes, and Rolando Hinojosa-Smith, is featured through Nov 15.
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS LBJ Library, 2313 Red River, 916-5137, ext. 296. "Los Tejanos: Sus Huellas en la Tierra (The Texas Mexicans: Footprints on the Land)," an exhibition depicting the diversity, fierce spirit, and vigor of Texans of Mexican ancestry, is on view through Sept 8, 1998. The show includes photos, oral histories, artifacts, and historical documents from the 1700s to the present.
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS Texas Memorial Museum, 2400 Trinity, 471-1604. "Craftsmen to the Kings: Rural Maya Stone Technology at Colha, Belize," an exhibition of photographs, site maps, stone tools of the an-cient Mayan peoples, is on view through Jan 4. Also featured through Jan 4 is "Mexican Toymakers in Transition," an exhibition of over 100 figures which illustrate three generations of continuity and change in the traditional papier-maché toymaking community of Celaya, Guanajuato in Mexico. Skeletons and miniature skull ratlles for All Souls's Day and giant effigy figures used during Easter Week are highlighted.
WESTBANK GALLERY, 4201 Bee Caves, 329-8514. Currently on view is contemporary art by Pamela Johnson; photography by Randy Ehrlich; wildlife bronzes by Paul Bond; Texas landscapes by LaJuana Westerfield; Austin scenes by Baron Wilson; and paintings of Texas towns by Judy Taylor.
WOMEN & THEIR WORK GALLERY, 1710 Lavaca, 477-1064. An exhibition of recent paintings by Austin-based artist Naomi Schlinke is on view through Nov 8. Schlinke's earth-toned and richly layered paintings often break down into "architectonic subdivision of rectangular and oval spaces." Also on view through Nov 8 is "Suzan Pitt: Cartoon Wilderness," an exhibition of preparatory paintings, original animation cels, and painted animation backgrounds from Pitt's new animation work Joy Street.
YARD DOG, 1510 S. Congress, 912-1613. A collection of drawings from the late 1980s by folk artist R.A. Miller are featured through Nov 15. Formerly a Free Will Baptist minister, Miller retired and began creating a variety of artworks, including fanciful animals, devils, and angels made of cut out tin, that were then made into windmill blades (for the windmills near his home).
EMPANADA PARLOR, 400 E. Fourth, 480-8902. Manipulated photographs by Jasper are on view through Nov 14. The artist burns and paints over his images in a Burroughs experimental style.
LAS MANITAS CAFE, 211 Congress, 477-6007. La Peña and ALLGO/Informe SIDA present an exhibition of visual art titled "La Muerte de Affirmative Action" or "The Death of Affirmative Action," on display through Nov 24. Drawing almost exclusively on the influence of Mexican engraver and artist Joe Guadalupe Posada, a variety of acclaimed local artists have used Dia de los Muertos imagery to lampoon politicians and lambaste social policies.
LITTLE CITY ESPRESSO BAR, 3401 Guadalupe, 467-2326. Black-and-white photographs by Vincent G. Escalante are featured through Nov 2.
MAGNOLIA CAFE, 2304 Lake Austin Blvd., 478-8645. "Coney Island, Brooklyn N.Y., and Other Work" an exhibition of photographs by Dana Lirosi, is featured through Nov 3.
QUACKENBUSH'S, 2120 Guadalupe, 397-7507. "Glimpses from UFOs and Related Data," paintings by artist Bill Holloway, is on view, as well as poster art by Jason Austin.
MANUEL'S DOWNTOWN RESTAURANT, 310 Congress, 472-7555. Masks and paintings by artist Lee Cunnigham are featured through November, presented in honor of Dia de los Muertos. Cunningham's narrative, spritual paintings deal with mystery and myth; her masks are tribal, urban art pieces. Opening: Thu, Oct 30, 6-7pm. Music by the Texas Rhythm Rangers will be featured, and appetizers provided.
AUSTIN HISTORY CENTER, 801 Guadalupe, 499-7397. "Feather Hats & Fingerless Gloves," an exhibition exploring women's style in formal photographic portraiture of the 1880s, is on view through Nov 23.
EL INTERIOR, 1009 West Lynn, 474-8680. In celebration of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), the shop will display a traditional-style Mexican Zapotec Indian ofrenda (altar), filled with food, flowers, and candles. In conjunction with the exhibit, the famous short film Day of the Dead, by designers Ray and Charles Eams, will be shown continously. The exhibit and movie will be featured through Nov 4, 10am-6pm (Mon-Sat) and noon-5pm (Sun).
ESTILO VALDEZ SALON, 3700 Jefferson, 454-7500. "Mystic Light," surreal landscapes by local artist Alex Ludden, is on display through January, 1998. Ludden's art has been shown extensively across the U.S. and he recently won the Kal Jorgenson Award.
HILL COUNTRY CELLARS, 1700 N. Bell, Cedar Park, 259-2000. Original oil paintings and charcoal prints by local artist Steve Hayes are currently on view.
VITALI SALON, 1511 W. Sixth, 474-8261. "...On The Line," an exhibit of mixed media works by local artist Amy Bell, is currently on display.
AUSTIN FILM ALLIANCE and Laughing at the Sun Gallery are hosting a juried art show for visual artists working/involved in the film industry. The show will be a city-wide exhibition featuring several different venues. Submissions are currently being taken on Fridays at Laughing at the Sun Gallery, 2209 S. First. Call for an appointment. 326-4410.
THE FIRST INVISIBLE UT ART FACULTY SHOW will be held through November, featuring "invisible works" by 40 University faculty artists. The public is invited to attend the opening reception astrally by thinking about the idea on Thu, Oct 30, 5-8pm. Food will be invisible as well. Think about it.
RUTA MAYA MERCADO DE ARTESANOS is a monthly artisan market sponsored and held on the first Sunday of every month at Ruta Maya Coffee House, 218 W. Fourth. A variety of locally-made arts and crafts will be featured, and admission is free. As well, local artisans are invited to participate in the marked. Ten spaces are available on a first-come, first served basis. Interested vendors should bring a $5, non-refundable reservation fee to Ruta Maya on Sun, Nov 2, by 10:30am. Sun, Nov 2, 11am-8pm. 472-9637.
AUSTIN PRINTMAKERS' WORKSHOP meets weekly at Mexic-Arte Museum, open to all artists interesting in learning linocut and woodcut printmaking processes. The workshop offers an open studio and technical support for print-makers, and a variety of master printmakers will share their experience and technique with participants. Cost is $5. The museum is located at 419 Congress. Saturdays, 11am-1pm. 480-9373.
OPEN LIFE DRAWING is offered weekly by the Artists' Coalition of Austin at the ACA Gallery @ ArtPlex, 1705 Guadalupe. All levels are welcome and sessions are only $4 each. Thursdays, 9am-noon & Tuesdays, 7-10pm. Additionally a 3-D oriented session will begin Sun, Nov 2, and meet every Sunday, 6-9pm. 474-7799.
LAUGHING AT THE SUN GALLERY holds free, weekly gatherings for artists and the community-at-large to come play and create works in papier mâché. The gallery is located at 2209 S. First. Sundays, noon-5pm. 326-4410.
AUSTIN PRESCHOOL MOTHERS' CLUB will hold their monthly meeting at the Church of the Savior, 3402 Little Elm Tr. The topic will be "Teaching Manners to Children." Wed, Nov 5, 9:30am (social hour); 10-11:30am (meeting). 306-1530 or 918-2869.
CHILDREN & TEENS' T'AI CHI is offered weekly for youth ages 9-15 at Tom Gohring's School of T'ai Chi. The classes are designed to increase focus, develop coordination and improve self-confidence and self-discipline. Website: http://www.taichitom.com. 452-8664.
DOUGHERTY ARTS SCHOOL offers a variety of activities for youth and their parents at the Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd. Activities include Family Art Nights, Youth Art Nights... Parents Night Off, and more. The school is also currently taking registration for their fall classes, which include clay creations, kaleidoscope collage, acting for youth, looney lyrics, arts alive, animation, metal works, and more. Call for a complete schedule. 397-1458.
CHILDREN'S KARATE is offered weekly at Sun Dragon Women's Martial Arts, 203 E. Riverside. Classes, for girls and boys ages 6-13, feature instruction in self-defense, alternatives to violence, and self-discipline. Wed, 6pm; Sat, 10am; Tue & Thu, 3:30pm. 416-9735.
THE AUSTIN NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER, located in Zilker Park, provides exhibits and educational programs for children of all ages. Free. Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun, noon-5pm. Call for a complete schedule of events. 327-8181.
NATIONAL WILDFLOWER RESEARCH CTR., 4801 LaCrosse. Saturdays feature activities for the whole family, including nature walks, planting, leaf-printing, stories, etc. The center is currently featuring an exhibit of gigantic "bugs," sculptures created by David Rogers. On view through Nov. 292-4200.
PIONEER FARM, 11418 Sprinkle Cut Off Rd., demonstrates how pioneers settled and farmed the land. Visitors can see farm animals, take part in daily chores, and tour historic homes and barns. Oct 31: Special Halloween Programs at the Farm will feature ghostly ghouls, the mad scientist Dr. Bot, storytelling, refreshments, a haunted barn, fortune telling, and more. Cost is $4 adults/$2 kids. A special haunted hayride is offered at an additional $2. Sun, Nov 2: From Field to Food - Sausage and Sauerkraut. Join the farm staff in preparing these central Texas German favorites. Admission is $3 adults/$2 children 3-12. 837-1215.
FREE TRAVEL-RELATED PROGRAMS are offered weekly at REI, 9901 Capital of Texas Hwy. North. Oct 30: "Alpine Mountaineering: an Outwardbound Experience"; Nov 6: "Everest to Gokyo: Trekking in the Khumbu Region of Nepal." Thursdays, 7pm. 343-5550.
RED VOICES, a conference on American Indian arts, literature, and lifestyles, will be held at the Holiday Inn South, 3401 S. I-35. The one-day event features a keynote address, over 20 speakers, and more. Cost is $65; register now. Fri, Oct 31, 8am-8pm. 459-7244.
INTERNET 101 will be offered by C.I.D. Internet Services, featuring an introduction to the Internet, Netscape, and e-mail. Sat, Nov 1, 7-9pm. 926-3999.
THE SCHOOL OF MASSAGE THERAPY at the Texas Healing Arts Institute will offer a variety of classes in November at their location, 2704 Rio Grande, Suite 11. A Partners Massage Therapy Class will be held Sat, Nov 1 & Wed, Nov 5. 236-8424.
SLUGFEST PRINTMAKING STUDIOS will offer a special workshop titled "Visual Books 1: Printing an Accordion Book," held at their location, 1906 Mirian Ave. The class will explore printmaking techniques and simple binding. Nov 1-2 & 8-9. 477-7204.
WHOLISTIC TRAINING FOR HORSES AND RIDERS is a one-day TTEAM clinic to be held at Kali-Kate Farm, located near Buda, Texas. Led by Penny Stone, the class will focus on bodywork, ground work, mounted work, and more. $60 per person. Sun, Nov 2. 916-0293.
THE JUNG SOCIETY OF AUSTIN is currently taking registration for late fall classes and workshop, including "The Power and Limitation of Parents," "Reinventing Work," and "Forgiveness for Women." Classes begin Nov 2. 458-1108.
TRADITIONAL SHOTOKAN KARATE is offered at the Austin Recreation Center, 12th & Shoal Creek. Beginning, intermediate, and advanced classes are available. A six week session is only $30. Nov 2-Dec 10. 476-5662.
THE NATALE INSTITUTE presents, "Assertiveness: The Right to Be Yourself in Relationships," a lecture by Wilbert Alix to be held at 608 Blanco. $10 advance or $15 at the door. Mon, Nov 3, 7:30pm. 708-8888
THE AUSTIN SIERRA CLUB will hold their monthly meeting at the LCRA Hancock Board Room, 3701 Lake Austin Blvd. The program features "Bats, Parks and Air Quality." Website: http://www.moontower.com/sierra. Tue, Nov 4, 6:30pm. 305-6296.
STONE CARVING CLASSES are offered at Rain Dog Studio, 2210-G S. First. Topics to be covered include: basic hand tools, carving techniques, finishing techniques, cutting letters, and more. A six-week session begins Wed, Nov 5, 9am-1pm. 416-9245.
THE CAPITAL AREA PROGRESSIVE DEMOCRATS will hold their monthly meeting at the Austin History Center, O. Henry Rm., 810 Guadalupe. Wed, Nov 5, 5:30pm. 453-2212.
AN ALLERGY ELIMINATION DEMONSTRATION will be offered by Dr. Ted Bartnett on the first Wednesday of every month, with free allergy testing available as well. Bartnett uses the Nambudripad Allergy Elimination Technique, which has proved to be effective in 95% of cases. Free. Wed, Nov 5, 7pm. 206-0662.
A PARENTING WORKSHOP titled "Raising Your One and Only!" will be offered this week by For Kids' Sake. The class will discuss the wonders and the pitfalls of raising an only child. Cost is $25. Thu, Nov 6, 7-9pm. 476-9490.
THE THIRD ANNUAL JAZZ SERIES & MASTER CLASS will be held at St. James Episcopal Church, 3701 E. MLK. The class is free of charge, and will be led by David "Fathead" Newman. Sat, Nov 8, 10am. 258-6947 or 926-6339.
"FINALLY... A BETTER WAY TO DATE" is a class/support group for those fed up with the anxiety and trauma associated with dating. A six- week session will be offered by Jordana Raiskin, LMSW-ACP. $150. Register now! Begins Mon, Nov 10, 7-8:30pm. 445-1975.
TRINITY YOGA with Tara O'Neill, RN, focuses on yoga postures and flows, connecting the mind, body, and spirit through the breath. Offered weekly at Casa de Luz, 1701 Toomey Rd. Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm. 888/TRI-YOGA.
LAUGHING AT THE SUN GALLERY offers a variety of classes, including "Power With Color," children's oil painting classes, a Spirituality and Art workshop, non-ferrous metal sculpture, oil painting for adults, basketweaving, life drawing, and more. Call for a complete schedule and fees. Classes are held weekly. 326-4410.
A COMMUNITY FOR CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICE holds a weekly Zen-informed sitting group at the Friends Meeting House, 3014 Washington Sq. Childcare is available. Thursdays, 7:30-9:30pm. 445-2081.
The Promises Group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets weekly, 477-3671
Anorexia, Bulimia Support Group, Mondays, 5:45-7:45pm, 469-7678
Austin HELP, Herpes Support Group, free; 419-4449
Austin Newcomers Club, 314-5100
AWARE/Women's Counseling & Resource Center, groups for women`s issues, 326-1222
Battered Lesbians Support Group, sponsored by the Center for Battered Women, 385-5181
Bisexual Women's Support Group meets the third Tuesday of every month. Free, 370-9573
Gay, Lesbian, and Transgendered African-American support groups, 472-5575
Fibromyalgia Support, first Thursday of each month (Nov 6), 458-5572
Hospice Austin offers several free grief support groups for anyone who has lost a loved one due to death. Pre-registration required, 342-4700
Incest Survivors Group, 800/554-2323
National Depressive/Manic-Depressive Association, 251-0679
Project Transitions offers bereavement groups for those who have lost someone to AIDS, 454-8646
Schizoids/Avoidants Anonymous group is currently forming, 349-5422
THE FOURTH ANNUAL ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW of St. Ignatius Catholic Church will be held at their location, 120 W. Oltorf. Vendors from all over Central Texas will be selling their own handmade crafts and collectibles. Free. Sat, Nov 1, 10am-4pm. 442-3602 or 442-5065.
A REVIVAL EVENT for gay and lesbian Baptists will be held at the University Baptist Church of Austin, 2130 Guadalupe St. The event will feature a presentation, a workshop, a pot-luck dinner, and a gospel concert. All programs are free. Sat, Nov 1, 2-9pm. 478-8559.
"MERRY MEET ME IN THE HEART OF TEXAS" is an event sponsored by the Texas Pagan Student Alliance to create awareness about the cause of religious tolerance and to promote healing and tolerance. The program will begin with a clean-up of Waller Creek, continue with a march beginning at the South Mall on the UT campus to the State Capitol, and end up with music and an open Wiccan ritual followed by a drumming circle. A food and clothing drive will be held during the entire event to benefit local charities. Sat, Nov 1, 10am-11pm. 912-1025.
THE 2ND ANNUAL GARAGE SALE of Action for Animals will be held this weekend at 400 W. Alpine. A variety of items will be available for purchase. Sat, Nov 1, 8am. 479-4180.
A TASTE OF SUN HARVEST, a day-long taste fair featuring free culinary samples, prizes, and fun, will be held at all Sun Harvest locations (2917 W. Anderson & 4006 S. Lamar). Sat, Nov 1, 11am-5pm. 451-0669 or 444-6313.
THE ROUND TOP ARTS FESTIVAL will be held on Henkel Square in Round Top, Texas, home to the International Festival-Institute and nearby Shakespeare at Winedale. This year's festival will feature over 75 juried artists, as well as pioneer arts demonstrations, music, and food. $5. Sat & Sun, Nov 1 & 2. 409/249-3308.
PRENATAL EDUCATOR VOLUNTEERS are need at the CEDEN Family Resource Center, 1208 E. Seventh. Volunteers will share information and provide one-on-one support to pregnant teens and women. The next training begins Tue, Nov 4. 477-1130.
WEEKLY OPEN HOUSES will be offered at The Austin Life Center for Attitudinal Healing, a not-for-profit organization which offers free support groups for adults and school students who are coping with emotional pain or who are seeking spiritual support. The free sessions will be held at Casa de Luz Restaurant, 1701 Toomey Rd. Nov 4, 11 & 18, 6:30-7:30pm. 327-1961.
SINGLE PROFESSIONALS OF AUSTIN will sponsor social mixers at On the Border restaurant, 10000 Research Blvd. (at the Arboretum). Members must be single and have at least a four-year degree. Thu, Nov 6, 5:30-7pm. 451-2363 or 990-2258.
ACCESS AUSTIN ARTS is in search of glib, quick, witty, and articulate persons who like theatre/dance/museums and who would like to serve the blind and visually-impaired community by becoming an audio describer. Free training session will be offered Nov 7-9. 454-9912.
A HOLIDAY COLLECTIBLES ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR will be held at the Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church, 7127 Bee Cave Rd. Featured items include jewelry, toys, gifts, crafts, Christmas decorations, and more. Admission is free. Fri & Sat, Nov 7 & 8. 327-8704.
THE TEXAS RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL opens its 23rd season of medieval merriment, offering festival-goers a spectrum of arts, crafts, culinary delights, pageantry, and adventurous entertainment. This year's festival unveils the new "Royal Rose Garden" and the "Taverna di Vino," an historical replica of a 16th-century Italian wine garden. There are numerous entertainment stages and dozens of rides and games. General admission is $14.95 adults, $6.95 children 5-12, and free for children four and under. The festival is located along FM 1774, between Plantersville and Magnolia, about 50 miles northwest of Houston. Web address: http://www.texrenfest.com. Saturdays & Sundays, through Nov 16, 9am-dusk. 800/458-3435.
THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY needs volunteers to assist cancer patients, including helping to educate patients and families about prevention and early detection methods, advocating strong public health policies, and raising money to support the work of the Society. Call to register for the next volunteer training session. 928-1144.
THE SOCIETY FOR CREATIVE ANACHRONISM, INC. (SCA) meets weekly (weather permitting) at Patterson Park. E-mail: macdj@onr.com. Tuesdays, 7-10pm. 990-7306.
A SENIOR SOFTBALL LEAGUE for players ages 50 years and up is sponsored by the Austin Parks and Recreation Dept, with games held weekly at Krieg field #7, 517 S. Pleasant Valley Rd. Mon/Fri, 9am-noon. 918-2507 or 869-7537.
EXCHANGE PARK TOASTMASTERS meet weekly at the North Village Public Library, 2139 W. Anderson Ln. Learn the art of public speaking with a friendly, accepting group. Thursdays, noon-1pm. 604-6774.
THE DUTCH CLUB, a social organization for Dutch natives, gets together once a month for dinner, movies, happy hour, etc. 447-8980.