AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS share the wonder of the first Christmas once more as the Austin Civic Orchestra revives the beloved Gian-Carlo Menotti opera about a young boy and his mother who play host to the three Magi as they make their way to Bethlehem to see the infant Christ. Daniel Long conducts. TWO PERFORMANCES ONLY! Nov 29 & 30, Sat & Sun, 8pm, at Scottish Rite Temple, 207 W. 18th. Tickets: $8 ($6 seniors & students, $3 children). 454-TIXS.
HMS PINAFORE embarks on a bouncy voyage of romance and comedy in one of the most popular and beloved works by Gilbert & Sullivan. The Violet Crown Players set sail in this durable G&S vehicle to end the company's inaugural season. Toni Bravo provides choreography and co-directs with Matthew Kaplan. FINAL WEEKEND! Through Nov 30, Fri, 8pm, Sat, 2 & 8pm, Sun, 2pm, at Scottish Rite Temple, 207 W. 18th (18th & Lavaca). 454-TIXS.
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 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. Through 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.
LA PASTORELA: A SHEPHERD'S STORY continues the grand Christmas tradition of the Hispanic and Native American communities with a new musical version of the 16th-century drama of the shepherds who travel to Bethlehem to welcome the Christ child. This version by La Peña incorporates a hand-written script used in Austin early in this century and music by the Pro Arts Gospel Choir to accompany the angels, funk rockers Blimpe to accompany the devils, and Los Innocentes to accompany the shepherds. The site for this year's performance is the future home of the Mexican-American Cultural Center. Dec 4-13, Thu-Sat, 8pm, at 600 River St. Tickets: $5 Thu ($2.50 seniors, children); $10 Fri/Sat ($5 seniors, children). 477-6007.
FRESHMAN YEAR SUCKS! is the cry of three friends - Ben, effeminate and awkward; Johnny, handsome and non-conformist; and George, overweight and underconfident - as they navigate the turbulent waters of parochial high school in 1981. It's the latest solo show by Rob Nash, and when it premiered this year, Chronicle reviewer Robi Polgar wrote: "Fans of approachable, generous comedian Rob Nash won't want to miss his latest nostalgic trip. He portrays characters with honesty and empathy, creating, in gestures and inflection, recognizable, fully wrought figures with complex needs and fears." Through Dec 14, Thu-Sun, 8pm, at Planet Theatre, 2307 Manor Rd. Tickets: $6.50 Thu; $12 Fri-Sun. 454-TIXS.
YULE BE REMEMBERED starts with a box that Leah Dee Hawkins has been asked to go through by her daughter Hailey and proceeds in song and story on a journey through Leah's life. This festive celebration of life and the season, written by Ruth Blair, Elizabeth Hodges, and Laura Freeman (Sentimental Journey), with contributions by Joni Topper and Gene Thompson, comes from Wild Flower Theater. Freeman, Hodges, and Topper, with Maurice Bishea, Casey Christensen, Joy Feuge, Gerry Matheny, Grover Mitchell, Bill Robinson, and Joan White, star. Nov 28-Dec 14, Fri & Sat, 8pm, Sun, 2pm, at Wild Flower Theatre, Hwy290 & Nugent, Johnson City. 830/868-9088.
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. HELD OVER! Through Dec 20, Sat, Nov 29, 7pm, then Fri & Sat in Dec, 7pm, at the Driskill Hotel, 604 Brazos. Tickets: $45. 474-5911, x5219.
AMERICAN ARCANA reads the state of the union at the edge of the millennium in the manner of the Tarot, using the revelatory nature of the cards to uncover meaning in late 20th-century American life. This apocalyptic comedy by Cyndi Williams receives its world premiere in a co-production by The Public Domain and Austin Script Works. Christi Moore directs. Through Dec 21, Thu-Sat, 8pm, Sun, 5pm, Dec 1, Mon, 8pm, at The Public Domain, 807 Congress. Tickets: $10 Thu/Sun/Mon; $12 Fri/Sat ($2 discounts seniors, students, ACoT). 454-TIXS.
JOE YORK'S HOLIDAY CABARET presents the gifted performer in a Yuletide mood, singing songs of the season along with selections from his forthcoming CD, No One Is Alone. Listening to York caress a standard with his lush, rolling voice is always a rich treat; at this time of year, it's like an extravagant gift for your ears. Preview performance benefits AIDS Services of Austin and Austin Circle of Theatres (Dec 4, Thu, 8pm; $30 advance/$35 at door. 454-TIXS). Beginning Dec 5, the cabaret plays in conjunction with A Christmas Memory, by Truman Capote. Dec 5-28, Fri & Sat, 9pm, Sun, 4pm, at Zachary Scott Theatre Center, Kleberg Stage, 1421 W. Riverside. Tickets: $10 Fri/Sun; $12 Sat ($2 discount for patrons seeing Christmas Memory and Holiday Cabaret on the same day). 476-0541.
FOREVER PLAID gives the Plaids - those hokey harmonizing heroes who suffered an untimely demise in a freak bus mishap - a chance to return to Earth for a final concert of Fifties pop. Grady Basler, Kevin Farr, Brian Gaston, and Paul Parkinson star in this revival of the hit revue from the Zachary Scott Theatre Center. Dave Steakley directs; Allen Robertson musical directs. The production plays in repertory with The Taffetas. Through Dec 31, Fri-Sun, 6pm, at ZSTC, Whisenhunt Arena Stage, 1510 Toomey. Tickets: $22 Thu/Sun; $24 Fri; $26 Sat. 476-0541.
THE TAFFETAS are pert princesses of pop from the heyday of hi-fis and Wonder Bread, who croon harmony hits of the era such as "Mr. Sandman," "Old Cape Cod," "Puppy Love," and "Lollipop." Rebecca Schoolar Jafari, Lisa Roberts, Meredith Robertson, Laura Powell, and Larissa Wolcott star in this revue from the Zachary Scott Theatre Center. Dave Steakley directs; Allen Robertson musical directs. The show plays in repertory with Forever Plaid. Through Jan 1, Thu & Fri, 8pm, Sat, 9pm, Sun, 2:30pm, at ZSTC, Whisenhunt Arena Stage, 1510 Toomey. Tickets: $22 Thu/Sun; $24 Fri; $26 Sat. 476-0541.
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 Theatre for Youth Seeks Administrative/Box Office Manager. Needed is an individual who is organized, enthusiastic, resourceful, and computer literate. Accounting experience, interest in theatre preferred. 20 hrs a wk. Send resumé and cover letter by Dec 8 to: Austin Theatre for Youth, PO Box 26794, Austin, TX 78755 or fax to 459-7451.
Salvage Vanguard Theater Seeks Marketing & Communications Director. Needed is an individual with an innate sense of "Generation X," someone who can think outside the box and work in a team. Macintosh word processing appreciation and design skills required. Send resumé to: Salvage Vanguard Theater, 2116 Guadalupe, #220, Austin, TX 78705. 912-0331.
Frontera@Hyde Park Theatre Seeks Production Personnel for FronteraFest `98 and its 1998 season. Needed are a Season Production Manager, Season Technical Director, six Stage Managers, 10 light board operators, and 10 sound board operators. Send resumé to: Vicky Boone, 511 W. 43rd, Austin, TX 78751. No calls.
Sam Bass Community Theatre Seeks Plays for production during its Directors' Workshop in the 1998-99 season. Plays should be 30-60 min. in length. Deadline: Apr 30. Send to: Sam Bass Theatre Association, Attn: Playwriting Contest Committee, PO Box 767, Round Rock, TX 78680.
Texas Young Playwrights Festival Seeks Scripts for its 1998 fest. All Texas youth under the age of 19 are invited to submit an original one-act play. Deadline: Jan 30. For guidelines or more info, call 397-1457.
FronteraFest '98 is accepting applications for slots, Jan 13-Feb 22 at Hyde Park Theatre, 511 W. 43rd. Applications available at the theatre or Frontera@Hyde Park Theatre offices, 3710 Cedar, Ste. 132. Deadline: Dec 1. 309-4933, x5.
Sharon Bridgforth leads the workshop Writing/Exploring the Process, to help writers understand the writing process and learn to use rhythm, structure, and language to tell stories and establish voice. Nov 29, Sat, 1-4pm. 448-1835.
Robi Polgar leads an acting workshop in preparation for The Public Domain's spring production of Galileo, by Bertolt Brecht. Creative people of all ages, colors, and philosophies - including actors, dancers, singers, jugglers, clowns, playground junkies, and circus hopefuls - encouraged to attend. Dec 13 & 14, Sat & Sun, 10am-2pm, at The Public Domain, 807 Congress. Cost: $2. 474-6202.
The Actor's Place offers a holiday workshop for presence and voice using the techniques of Rudolf Steiner, the German mystic who created a system relating sound to spiritual energy and the basic elements of air, water, earth, and fire. Sheila Gordon, currently training with Moscow Art Theatre, teaches. Dec 21, Sun, noon-3pm. NiaSpace, 2810 S. First. Cost: $50. Private coaching available. shegor@compuserve.com or 443-3013.
Playwriting I taught by Amparo Garcia is being offered by UT's University Extension program. Classes begin Jan 26. 471-2900.
Half-Price Tickets to many area performing arts events are available through AusTix, a half-price ticket service. Just drop by the big AusTix booth in Book People, 603 N. Lamar (11:30am-6:30pm, Wed-Sat) on the day of performance to see which shows have half-price tix for sale. 454-HALF.
The Box Office provides one-stop shopping for tickets to many area music, dance, and theatre productions. Just drop by the AusTix booth in BookPeople, 603 N. Lamar (11:30am-6:30pm, Wed-Sat) to purchase tickets or call 454-TIXS.
Beast on the Moon, a play by Richard Kalinoski: Dec 6, Sat, 10am, at the State Theatre, 719 Congress. Roles for one male, 20-30, to play an Armenian; one male, able to play 70s; one male, 13-15. (The female role has already been cast.) Auditions will consist of readings from the script. The production runs Feb 20-Mar 15 at the State Theatre. Produced by Live Oak Theatre. By appointment. 472-5143.
Latino Comedy Troupe: Dec 6, Sat, 10am-2pm, in Rm. A, Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd. Needed: energetic male and female performers for ensemble focusing on irreverent social and political satire and pop culture parody. Original writing ability a plus. Performers should bring a comedic monologue (3 min) and wear comfortable clothes. The troupe will be directed by Ruperto Reyes, Jr. (Petra's Pecado) and Adrian Villegas (Six Mexicans Named Gonzalez) and run in spring 1998. Sponsored by Teatro Humanidad Cansada. By appointment. 916-4842.
Macbeth, by William Shakespeare: Dec 6, Sat, at Planet Theatre, 2307 Manor. Actors of both sexes, all ages, colors, and experience levels needed for a variety of roles (some roles are pre-cast). Especially needed are several young men, ages 10-14. Actors should prepare a Shakespearean monologue (1-2 min.) and bring a resumé. Photo optional. The production is being directed by Barry Pineo (Julius Caesar) and will run in Mar and Apr at Planet Theatre. Produced by VORTEX Repertory Co. By appointment. 478-LAVA.
Rumpelstiltskin, a play by Moses Goldberg: Dec 6 & 7, Sat & Sun, 3-6pm; at the Auditorium on Waller Creek, 710 E. 41st. Roles available: three males & three females, 20-50. Actors should prepare one fun and colorful monologue (2 min) and come with an open heart. Photo & resumé requested. The production will be directed by C.K. McFarland and run Feb 21-Mar 8 at the Auditorium on Waller Creek. Actors will be compensated. Produced by Austin Theatre for Youth. By appointment. 459-7144.
Charlotte's Web, a play adapted from E. B. White's novel: Dec 7, Sun, 1pm, at Zachary Scott Theatre Center, 1510 Toomey. Needed are three ensemble members who are comfortable with puppetry and movement to play a variety of roles. Actors must be available weekday mornings and some weekend afternoons Dec-May. Actors should prepare one dramatic monologue (2 min) and wear clothes for moving. Auditions will consist of an improvisation and movement workshop. Photo & resumé required. Actors will be compensated. Produced by ZSTC's Project InterAct. 476-0594.
THE PERFORMANCE ART CHURCH dives headlong into the holidays - and all the neuroses they bring - with their next effort, Jangled. It's another calm and mellow celebration of art and life, of the kind we've come to expect from PeACh (yeah, right), this time with those rascally reindeer Olivia Aldin, Kerri Atwood, David Avery, Barbara Carr, Bryan Green, Darcy Harris, Cheryl Heckmann, Kim Hill, Tianna Hux, Harold Lehman, Richard Loranger, Lydia, Beth Miller, Amy Packer, Graham Reynolds, Luke Savisky, and Tara Vamos. ONE PERFORMANCE ONLY! Dec 4, Thu, 8pm, at Electric Lounge, 302 Bowie. Tickets: $4. 323-0748.
COMEDYSPORTZ PLAYHOUSE is home to the ComedySportz Players, 10-year veterans of improv comedy. Enjoy freshly created humor among Electrolux light fixtures and Dart Bowl tables, with a menu featuring stromboli, Italian sausage & pepper subs, barbecue chicken pizza, plus beer and wine. This week: The Sportzsters get in a holiday humor with "Humbug & Co. Dinner Theatre," a Yuletide comedy show with gourmet dinner from chef Greg Serres (Dec 4, Thu, 7:30pm). Fri & Sat, 7:30 & 10pm, at ComedySportz Playhouse, 2525 W. Anderson. Tickets: $6-$10. 266-3397.
ESTHER'S FOLLIES heads toward the holidays with a fresh harvest of musical satire. Enjoy the Esther's crew testing everything from fen phen to melatonin in search of a diet that works, then relish them skewering today's headline makers, from those cranky Republic of Texas militiamen to that tumblin' stock market, and savor another exciting installment in the Ukranian Family Story, with Rula sending off for a Mail Order Magic Kit. Thu, 8pm, Fri & Sat, 8 & 10pm, at Esther's Pool, 525 E. Sixth. Tickets: $12 Thu; $14 Fri & Sat ($4 discount for students w/ID). 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, 9pm. $5. After the Monks, Comedy Open Mike lets comics go wild. Thu, 10:30pm. $3 (free for patrons of Monks' & Esther's). Weekends give you another chance to catch the Monks again - Fri, 9:30pm. $7 - or the debut of comedy troupe Code Blue, starring 10 of Austin's top comedic actors in a feast of humorous sketches and improv. Sat, 8pm. $7 (seniors, students, ACoT). Also Fri & Sat, catch the tops in stand-up talent. This week, laugh off those overstuffed post-holiday blahs with Jim Patterson. Fri, 11:30pm, Sat, 9:30 & 11:30pm. 521 E. Sixth. Tickets: $5. 469-9116.
Monks' Night Out offers sketches and improv twice weekly at the Velveeta Room. Thu, 9pm; Fri, 9:30pm, at the Velveeta Room, 521 E. Sixth. Tickets: $5 Thu, $7 Fri. 453-MONK.
TONI BRAVO & KINESIS DANCE THEATRE work to raise funds for their next step forward as a company - going professional - with a novel benefit project: Over four days, company members will conduct 20 hour-long workshops in dance - covering ballet to funk, jazz to jitterbug, and hip-hop to modern, plus conditioning and improv classes - and present a formal performance and an informal one. It's dancers gaining support by doing what they do best and giving you a chance to get in on the fun they have. The workshops span Dec 4-7, Thu-Sun. The formal performance on Saturday also features a silent auction and reception with hors d'oeuvres. The informal performance Sunday features a reception. FOUR DAYS ONLY! Dec 4-7, workshops: Thu & Fri, 4:30-9:30pm, Sat, 9am-3pm, Sun, 1-5pm; performances Sat, call for time, Sun, 7pm, all events at Synergy Studio, 1501 W. Fifth. Fees: $10 class/$40 day/$75 all. 345-0370, 374-9723.
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: Dec 4, featuring the Night of Rising Stars. 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.
Swing Dancing Lessons are offered weekly by Execudance: Beginner Jitterbug-Swing (Tue, 8pm) at Speakeasy, 412 Congress; East Coast Swing (Fri, 8pm) and Lindy Hop (Fri, 9:15pm) at Skylight Gallery, 307 E. Fifth. Cost: $5/class. 477-8564.
Matt's Four-on-the-Floor offers weekly classes in: Beginning Swing (Wed, 7:15pm); Intermediate Swing (Wed, 8:30pm); and Advanced Swing (Wed, 9:30pm), at Carousel Lounge, Cameron Rd. & 52nd; and the Lindy Hop (Thu, 8pm) at Skylight Gallery, 307 E. Fifth. Cost: $6/class. 453-3889.
A Parent/Child Creative Movement Class teaches movement through use of the imagination. Tue, 10-11am. Cost: $6 class. South Austin Recreation Center, 1100 Cumberland. 444-6601.
Beginning Salsa Classes are offered weekly at the South Austin Recreation Center. Learn how to improvise while learning the basic steps. Sun, 3-4:30pm. Cost: $8 class/$15 couple. 441-3688.
Scottish Country Dance Classes are offered year-round by the Austin Scottish Country Dancers. Tuesdays, 7pm. Murchison Middle School, 3700 North Hills. ascds@aol.com or 327-2869.
Tapestry Dance Company Academy offers classes for children and adults in Rhythm Tap and Jazz, Ballet, Modern, Yoga, Stomp, and Irish Step Dance, all levels. 507-B Pressler (near Sixth & N. Lamar). dance@tapestry.org or 4-RHYTHM.
ORGANIST PATRICK MCCRELESS will perform at All Saints' Episcopal Church, 209 W. 27th. Complimentary beverages will be served after the program (feel free to bring a brown bag lunch). Tue, Dec 2, 12:05pm (noon). 476-3589.
FLUTE AND HARP DUO CHASKI will perform a program of South American folk music as part of the St. Cecilia Music Series at the First Presbyterian Church, 8001 Mesa Dr. Admission is a $6 suggested donation. Fri, Dec 5, 8pm. 345-8866.
VIOLINIST NADJA SALERNO-SONNENBERG will perform with the Austin Symphony at the Bass Concert Hall on the UT campus. Born in Rome, Sonnenberg emigrated to the United States at the age of eight to study at the Curtis Institute of Music, and later studied at the Julliard School. She is the recipient of the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant and winner of the Walter W. Naumburg 1981 International Violin Competition. In Austin, Sonnenberg will perform Tchaikovsky's Violin Concert with the symphony. Also on the program are works by Berlioz and Stravinsky. Tickets range from $12-26. Fri & Sat, Dec 5 & 6, 8pm. 476-6064 or 888/4-MAESTRO.
THE CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY CHOIR and instrumentalists will present the annual Concordia Christmas Concert, held at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 3501 Red River. The concert features the University Choir, Wind Ensemble, Early Music Consort, handbell choir, organists, and a classical guitarist. A highlight of the event will be Daniel Pinkham's Christmas Cantata, performed by the University Choir. Admission is free. Fri & Sat, Dec 5 & 6, 7:30pm. 486-1166.
CAPITAL CITY MEN'S CHORUS will present the first in a three-concert series, "Season 9: Coming Together," to be held at the First Unitarian Church, 4700 Grover. Highlights include selections from the Messiah, CCMC's salute to Santa, and an animated blast from your television past. Tickets are $10 advance, $12 at the door. Sat, Dec 6, 8pm & Sun, Dec 7, 4pm. 454-TIXS.
THE NOONDAY CONCERT SERIES is held weekly at noon at Central Presbyterian Church, Eighth & Brazos. Free, followed by lunch (at 12:30pm, $3). Dec 4: "Christmas Bells Are Ringing," a program by the Hyde Park Baptist Church Masterringers. 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.
REGISTRATION has begun for poets interested in reading at the 6th Austin International Poetry Festival to be held in April. A $10 application fee guarantees a reading time and a $1 per poem (3 poem max) fee to be considered for inclusion in the festival anthology, di-verse-city. 494- 0290 or 918-AIPF or e-mail AIPF98@aol.com
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. A volunteer coordinator is needed to interview prospective volunteers and assist in placing them in roles. 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. E-mail a must for both positions. Other volunteers needed include publicity, membership, and festival volunteer staffing. Christina Sergeyevna at 918-AIPF.
THE OLD SCHOOL is looking for enthusiastic young people ages 8-13 who are interested in writing poetry to participate in a select group to perform in the Austin International Poetry Festival this spring. This is a free project. 477-8819.
AUSTIN INTERNATIONAL POETRY Festival open mike poetry follows the '98 AIPF organizing meetings the second Monday of each month. 8pm signup in Quackenbush's, 2120 Guadalupe. John Hawk 371-1254.
JOIN GENEVIEVE VAUGHAN, author of For-Giving: A Feminist Criticism of Exchange, in an ongoing discussion group of her work and other culturally pressing concerns. For women only. Every Sunday, 5:30-7pm at WEBB, 107 B Johanna. 262-2300.
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. Book People's Reading Group's discussions take place 7pm-8:30pm in the Community Room, 3rd floor. Book People Book Group topic for Nov and Dec is Immigrant Voices. Dec 10 is Christina Garcia's Dreaming in Cuban; Dec 21 is Maxine Hong Kingston's The Woman Warrior. By signing up at customer service, participants receive a 10% discount on all featured titles. 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 30. 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 ONLY on Sun at 9pm on Cable Channel 10. (NOTE CHANGE.) Nov 30 features John Herndon with Ken Fontenot and Farid Mohammadi.
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 features an APAL open mike hosted by John Hawk. Beginning Nov 29, the new time is 3-5pm. Quackenbush's, 2120 Guadalupe. 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.
BORDERS hosts literary discussion groups every Wednesday at 7:30pm. Borders discussion groups: The Literary Discussion Group meets the first 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. 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 INTERNATIONAL POETRY FESTIVAL organizing committee meets the second Monday of each month, 7pm in Quackenbush's, 2120 Guadalupe. 918-AIPF.
* 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: The reading group meets the last Sun of the month, 2pm in Convenience Office Supply, 2600 Longhorn Blvd. (north of 183 off Burnet). This month's selection is Anne Perry's The Hyde Park Headsman. 345-7431.
*BARNES & NOBLE at the Arboretum, 10000 Research. The store sponsors poetry the second Thursday of every month 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 Westlake: Sat, Nov 29, 2pm join author Beverly Guhl, author of Cats Are Smarter Than Men; Sun, Nov 30, 3pm Donna Howell-Sickles discusses her art in Cowgirl Rising; Tue, Dec 2, 7pm join Andy Samson, director of Texas Parks & Wildlife, for a signing and discussion of Texas Past; Wed, Dec 3, 7pm join Thad Sitton in a discussion of his book about cotton farming in the 1920s, From Can See to Can't; Thu, Dec 4, 7pm UT professor emeritus Ruth Lehman signs copies of her Blessed Bastard: A Novel of Sir Galahad. 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 in December (4th), 7:30-10pm. Host is Herman Nelson. Feature poet still to be announced. Open mike follows. 928-0619 or 837-8693. Children's Storytime events: Fridays 7pm, Wednesdays 11am, and Saturdays 11am. Sat, Nov 29, 11am features Janell Cannon's Verdi. Times subject to change, so always call 328-3155.
More poetry. We know so much and so little. The most advanced physicists tell us the stuff of the universe is the stuff that dreams are made of. We are timeless and of no discernible substance yet we clearly are here, now; enfleshed soul suffering and glorying in our surprising Being. What a miracle that we are at all, surrounded by such stunning beauty, such unspeakable power; that we are possessed of such beauty and power. And it is a dream. We pass so quickly into dream, the knowledge beyond our ken. Embrace that failure of knowledge; embrace that dream-like power or it will own you and love will fall away in fulfilling that ever-hungry, owning desire. No one can own a dream. Rather empty your heart again and again in embrace for it is the knowledge beyond ken that feeds love and being timeless and of no discernible substance it is therefore infinite. Knowing so little we have so much to give. Vaya con dios.
"When you look back on
your life, does it look planned?"
"It looks planned and unplanned."
"And was any of it important?"
"Just the people," McSwyne said,
"what they did, what they were
trying to do - good and bad -
how beautiful they were sometimes."
- Albert Huffstickler, "15." (an excerpt)
LA MENAGERIE, 2210 S. First, Studio E, 326-4090. "Agnes: A New Body of Work," an exhibit of black-and-white photography by Casey McKee, is on view through Dec 10. The show explores the "woman" - mysterious, vulnerable, mortal, and strong. Opening: Fri, Nov 28, 6-10pm.
LAUGHING AT THE SUN, 2209 S. First, 326-4410. "The Christmas Show," an exhibition of artwork by a variety of selected local artists, is on view through Dec. Opening: Thu & Fri, Dec 4 & 5, 5-10pm. Live entertainment, catered food, and beverages will be featured.
MEXIC-ARTE, 419 Congress, 480-9373. "Divine Art," the museum's fourth annual show of traditional and contemporary artist-made retablos and ex-votos, will be on display through Jan 3. Also on view through Jan 3 is "Artesanías," a display of contemporary ceramic artworks and other fine craft items. In the back gallery space, "Nesting Places and Spaces," works by Cathy Cunningham, is featured through Jan 3. Opening for all three exhibitions: Fri, Dec 5, 6-10pm.
ALTERNATE CURRENT ART SPACE, 2209 S. First, 443-9674. The Homeless Artists Guild is sponsoring an exhibit of artworks by homeless individuals throughout Austin. The show features a variety of media, ranging from politically controversial paintings by twenty-something street kids to crayon drawings by young children in shelters.
ARTISANS, 10000 Research, Suite 258, 345-3001. "The Art Jewelry of '97," works by favorite artists and artists new to the gallery, is featured through December. Jewelry in 14K and 24K gold, sterling silver, semiprecious and precious stones, glass beads, and more will be highlighted.
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. Works by Austin artist Julie Waranch Fleschman are on display through November. Original, contemporary works of gouache on paper are featured.
AUSTIN GALLERIES, 1219 W. Sixth, 495-9363. Through November, the gallery is featuring a major exhibition of over 70 new works by artists Borja Fernandez, Bartolome Sastre, Pep Suari, and Julian Petrie. Landscapes, portraits, and cityscapes were created by the artists using plein-air and impressionistic techniques.
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 exhibit focusing on 10 painters working in Texas who have devoted their work to abstraction, is on view through Jan 25. The 19 works in the show are relatively large in scale, allowing the artist to emphasize formal elements and/or brushwork techniques.
AUSTIN MUSEUM OF ART @ LAGUNA GLORIA, 3809 W. 35th, 458-8191. "From the Ground Up: Selections From the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts & Contemporary Clay in Texas" is on view through Jan 4, 1998. The show is a two-part exhibition that includes over 60 contemporary ceramic objects and installations, ranging from works expressed in traditional techniques and forms to those that present invigorating new sculptural images.
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.
STEPHEN L. CLARK GALLERY, 1101 W. Sixth, 477-0828. New work by Keith Carter is on view through Dec 29 - don't miss it!
CLARKSVILLE POTTERY & GALLERIES, 9772 Great Hills Tr, 794-8580 and 4001 N. Lamar, 454-9079. "Soothing Sounds of Water," fountains by Juana Peña, Wolfgang Vaatz, Adams and Adkins, Rosemary Taylor, and Tom Torrens, is currently featured at both galleries. New glass jewelry by Bridget Vagedes, Rupama and Murray Schwarts, and Jackie Cohen is also highlighted. Both shops will hold an open house, Fri-Sun, Nov 28-30, titled "Wood for All Seasons." A variety of items will be available, including humidors, puzzle boxes, jewelry boxes, and games.
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.
GALERIA SIN FRONTERAS, 1701 Guadalupe, 478-9448. "Passion and Healing," paintings and prints by George Yepes, is on display through Jan 15. As one of the most versatile and talented artists to emerge from the Los Angeles mural movement, Yepes has earned widespread acclaim as an emotionally powerful painter.
GALLERY LOMBARDI, 920 W. Third, 481-1088. "Outer Limits," works by local Georgetown artist Lucas Adams, is on display at the gallery through November. The show features a wide variety of subject matter and media, ranging from classic bronzes, welded steel, oil pastels, and more.
GALLERY OF THE HILLS, 7739-H Northcross Dr., 452-2794. "Journey of a Texas Artist: An Exhibition of Original Art," works by Ira Kennedy, is on view through Dec 12. Kennedy has been exhibiting his work since 1966 - with such luminaries as Andy Warhol, Larry Rivers, and other internationally recognized artists - and currently writes and publishes Enchanted Rock Magazine.
HEARTLAND GALLERY, 4101 Guadalupe, 323-9446. The gallery has announced the opening of its new space in the historic Hyde Park Marketplace, and is currently exhibiting new works by local and national gallery artists, as well as showing quilts produced in the 1930s and 40s.
HOUSE OF WACKS, 701 E. 53rd. Artworks by Andy Fuertsch are currently on display. Website: http://ccwf.cc.utexas.edu/~tower/androp.html
INSUA BROCCA GALLERY, 1103 E. Sixth, 320-8881. "The Different Strokes," works by Pablo Tabada, Augusto Brocca, and Alberto Insúa, is currently on display.
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. An exhibition of works by Haitian artists Edouard and Marcel Wah, French artist L.L. Vendeville, Panamanian artist Victor Bruce, and many local artists is on view through Nov.
LA MENAGERIE, 2210 S. First, Studio E, 326-4090. "Agnes: A New Body of Work," an exhibition of black-and-white photography by Casey McKee, is on view through Dec 10. The show explores the "woman" - mysterious, vulnerable, mortal, and strong. Opening: Fri, Nov 28, 6-10pm.
LAUGHING AT THE SUN, 2209 S. First, 326-4410. "The Christmas Show," an exhibition of artwork by a variety of selected local artists, is on view through Dec. Opening: Thu & Fri, Dec 4 & 5, 5-10pm. Live entertainment, catered food, and beverages will be featured.
LITTLE GALLERY, Heritage House, 810 E. 13th, 477-9438. Artworks by Austin artist Barbara Timko are featured through Dec 14.
LYONS MATRIX GALLERY, 1712 Lavaca, 479-0068. New paintings and drawings by Salley Chandler are featured through Dec 8, as well as woven glass vessels by Susan Plum.
MAYFAIR & SPICEWOOD GALLERIES, 1206 W. 38th, 458-6575. Through November, a one-person show of works by watercolorist J.U. Salvant is on display.
METROPOLITAN GALLERY, 903 S. Lamar, 326-1611. New contemporary works, including monoprints, small edition etchings, fiber, collages, and original photographs, are featured.
MEXIC-ARTE, 419 Congress, 480-9373. "Divine Art," the museum's fourth annual show of traditional and contemporary artist-made retablos and ex-votos, will be on display Dec 1-Jan 3. The works, by more than 100 artists, will be auctioned on Dec 5, 6-10pm, with proceeds going to support the Museum's 1998 Art Education programs. The terms "retablos" and "ex-votos" are used more or less interchangeably to indicate a votive painting on a sheet of tin. However, there are some differences - retablos are stylized paintings of saints, Christ, or the Virgin that are placed in homes on altars; an ex-voto is a painting which is hung on a church wall or placed near the image of a saint to acknowledge a miracle performed by the saint. Also on view through Jan 3 is "Artesanías," a display of contemporary ceramic artworks and other fine craft items. In the back gallery space, "Nesting Places and Spaces," works by Cathy Cunningham, is featured through Jan 3. Opening for all three exhibitions: Fri, Dec 5, 6-10pm.
MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, AUSTIN, 2525 W. Anderson in Northcross Mall, 206-0261. Traditional Chinese paintings of nature and landscape by Chinese artist Su Yan Bo are featured through January 10.
R. PEEPLES JR. GALLERY, 1708 Guadalupe, 457-1052. "Alternative Medicine (A Creative Competition)," a group show of 16 acclaimed furniture artists from around the country, is on view through November.
POSITIVE IMAGES, 1118 W. Sixth, 472-1831. An exhibition of 18K gold and platinum jewelry is currently featured, along with the gallery's usual fine collection 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.
RAIN DOG STUDIO, 2210-G S. First, 288-3107. The studio currently features watercolors by Doris Evans; ceramics by Nancy Guariguata; stone and steel sculpture by Colly Kreidler; oil paintings by Jean Lee; and 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. The Second Faculty Biennial, an exhibition of new works by the four visual arts faculty members of St. Stephen's School, is on view through Dec 19. Artists include Cap Brooks, Randy Ehrlich, Katy Graham, and Randy Howard.
SKAGEN BRAKHAGE STUDIOS, S. First & Annie, 443-7045. "Austin Poster Art of the Seventies," an exhibition of poster art by Austin's legendary poster artists, is on view through Dec 21. One hundred of the defining music posters from Austin's "Golden Age" are featured, including works by Kerry Awn, Ken Featherston, Jim Franklin, Danny Garrett, Henry Gonzales, Guy Juke, Bill Narum, Micael Priest, Dale Wilkins, and Sam Yeates.
SLUGFEST GALLERY, 1906 Miriam Ave., 477-7204. This year, the gallery's Annual Holiday Open House will feature invited artists, as well as all of the members of the Slugfest studios, offering a variety of art items for sale - including prints, ceramics, books, and crafts. The open house will be held Sat & Sun, Nov 29 & 30, 1-6pm. Remaining items will be on sale through Dec 20.
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 Huntington Art Gallery is one of only two U.S. venues to present the extraordinary touring exhibition "From Minimal to Conceptual Art: Works From the Dorothy and Herbert Vogel Collection," on view through Dec 14. Sol LeWitt's transitory wall drawings, John Cage's musical sketches, and Christo's wrapped objects are among the 78 works selected to travel from the collection, which includes drawings, sketches, paintings, sculpture, and photographs.
UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center, 21st & Guadalupe, 471-8944. http://www.lib.utexas. edu/Libs/HRC/HRHRC/. Now located on the center's first floor, the 1826 heliograph made by Frenchman Joseph Nicépce, which is commonly recognized as the world's first photograph, is permanently on view. The gallery is currently featuring an online exhibition titled, "Gone With The Wind," featuring QuickTime video of screen tests, transcriptions of actual memos and letters, dozens of photographs, and other material from the center's massive David O. Selznick Archive (the late Hollywood producer). Website: http://www.lib.utexas. edu/Libs/HRC/HRHRC/DOS/GWTW/GWTW.html. "Modern American Book Design," an exhibition highlighting the creative and varied interplay of artists and designers with the book, is on view through Jan 30, 1998. "The Critical Difference," an exhibition exploring the influence of critics upon theatre artists and their work, is on view through Jan 30. "The Mary and Emmett Hudspeth Collection of Works by Elizabeth Olds," an exhibition featuring the paintings, drawings, lithographs, silk screens, and books by Olds, is on view through Dec 19.
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 Sid Richardson Hall, 2.101, 495-4515. "Natchez on the Mississippi, 1870-1910," an exhibition of more than 100 images by photographer Henry Norman, is on view through May 31, 1998. Norman documented daily life in the historic river port town of Natchez in the last decades of the 19th century.
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, and stone tools of the ancient 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-mâché toymaking community of Celaya, Guanajuato in Mexico. Skeletons and miniature skull rattles for All Souls's Day and giant effigy figures used during Easter Week are highlighted. A unique exhibit of two preserved skulls of the world's oldest known dinosaurs - the Herrerasauraus and Eoraptor - will be on view through Dec 7.
WESTBANK GALLERY, 4201 Bee Caves, 329-8514. Currently on view is contemporary art by Pamela Johnson; photography by Randy Ehrlich; and Texas landscapes by LaJuana Westerfield.
WOMEN & THEIR WORK GALLERY, 1710 Lavaca, 477-1064. "The Visceral Intellect," a juried exhibition featuring Women & Their Work members, is on view through Dec 24. Juried by Sue Graze, senior curator at the Miami Art Museum, the show highlights the artwork of 19 artists, including works on paper, paintings, sculpture, ceramics, and photography.
WILD ABOUT MUSIC, 721 Congress, 708-1700. The gallery has taken the summer off to move to their new location, and now they're back in business featuring "Telefishin," an exhibition of aquarium radio and TV sculpture by Larry Piltz. The sculptor's works were recently featured at Nieman Marcus and on the television program The Texas Country Reporter. The gallery also features ongoing shows of original art and gifts, all with a musical motif.
YARD DOG, 1510 S. Congress, 912-1613. The gallery will host an exhibition of works by Southern memory painters Clemetine Hunter and Bernice Sims, on view through January 4. Hunter (1887-1988) is widely regarded as one of the most important black American folk artists of the 20th century, and her work was largely inspired by plantation life and religion; Sims (b. 1926) of Brewton, Alabama, also paints scenes from her life in a rural, Southern community.
EDGE CITY CAFE, 10000 Research, Ste. 139, 342-2239. Artworks by Andy Fuertsch are currently on display. Web address: http://ccwf.cc. utexas.edu/~tower/androp.html
HYDE PARK BAR & GRILL, 4206 Duval, 442-3308. "Women Around Us," watercolors by Helen Haudley, is on view through Jan 11.
MANUEL'S DOWNTOWN RESTAURANT, 310 Congress, 472-7555. Photographs by Blake Justice are on display through January, focusing on natural landscapes.
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.
SHAGGY'S CARRIBEAN BAR & GRILL, 1600 S. Congress, 447-5375. Surreal blenders by sculptor John Mergili are on display through December.
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.
FROST BANK, 816 Congress, 477-3434. "Continuing the Tradition: Austin Families in Business," an exhibition of photographs of two or more generations of families doing business in the Austin area, is on view through Dec 5.
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.
MOJO'S DAILY GRIND, 2714 Guadalupe, 477-6656. "Traditional Transitional Paintings for a Super Psycho Planet," new oil paintings by Sarah M. Hudgins, is on view through Dec 1. Hudgins' work is often described as figurative/organic/abstract, and she blends different styles of surrealism with her own vision of the bonds between human experience and their environment.
POWER YOGA ART SPACE, 1017 E. Sixth, 457-8760. A show of kinetic sculpture, furniture, and paintings by young artists Karen Harvey, Edward Gemar, and John Richter is currently on display.
RIO GRANDE COFFEEHAUS, 2222 Rio Grande, 322-0922. Through Nov, a series of black-and-white images by photographer John Davis is on display. These emotionally charged pieces are from Davis' work-in-progress as well as photographs shot in collaboration with Kim Hewitt's recent publication Mutilating the Body: Identity in Blood and Ink.
RUTA MAYA COFFEE HOUSE, 218 W. Fourth, 472-9637. "Faces of Voices of Austin's Homeless," a photographic exhibition about homelessness in Austin, is on view through Dec. The show features both portraits and interviews with (and by) Austin-area homeless persons. Proceeds from the sale prints from the show will be used to support the Cold Weather Shelter effort for the Homeless.
SALON AVA, 4207 Medical Parkway, 467-6977. New works in pastel by Lizanne Geneser Thate are featured through Jan 1, 1998.
TEXAS FRENCH BREAD, 3213 Red River, 477-1796. Ink drawings on paper and screen prints by Austin artist Lance Meyers are featured through December.
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.
A HOLIDAY MUSEUM MARKET will be held at the Texas Memorial Museum on the UT campus. Save 20% on all jewelry, folk art, T-shirts, books, toys, and more. Proceeds will benefit museum programs and research. Thu, Dec 4, 4-9pm. 471-1604.
THE 11TH ANNUAL ART SHOW & SALE featuring recent works by seven central Texas artists will be held at the Carillon Building, 2630 Exposition. Featured this year are Finn Alban, Deborah Groover, Marian Haigh, Randolph Howard, Ann Matlock, Fred Muegge, and Barbara Samuelson. These fine artists will present handmade jewelry pottery, oil painting, weaving, watercolor, ceramic sculpture, and wood furniture. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Austin Museum of Art. Sat, Dec 6, 10am-6pm. 477-6112.
THE SOUTH FIRST STREET ART TOUR will be presented to highlight the increasing presence and activity of various galleries, artists, and arts-related businesses and venues along the South First Street corridor. The corridor is home to several art galleries, artists' studios, a bookstore, and coffee houses, as well as restaurants that feature live music and art. Maps showing the locations of participating galleries, businesses, and studios are available at Alternate Current Arts Space, 2209 S. First; Eeka Beeka Art Gallery, 2213 S. First; Laughing at the Sun Art Gallery, 2209 S. First; Suffola, 2209 S. First; and other participating locations. Sat, Dec 6, noon-8pm. 326-4410 or 443-9674.
A CHRISTMAS BAZAAR will be hosted by SKAM Productions at El Sol y la Luna Restaurant, 1224 S. Congress on Sun, Dec 7. Fine artists and craft persons interested in participating should call for more information. Deadline for submission is Tue, Dec 2. 469-0045 or 888/412-3263.
RUTA MAYA'S 2ND ANNUAL XMAS ARTISANS' BIZARRE has a few spaces left for local artisans who specialize in unique handcrafted works. The bizarre, scheduled for Dec 12-14, features live music, food, and beverages in a unique holiday market environment. A vendor fee of $50 is required to participate. 481-1477.
THE VISUAL ARTS SLIDE REGISTRY of the Austin Art in Public Places Program is open to visual artists working in any media who wish to be considered for upcoming public art projects. Artists must submit 5-20 labeled slides of work completed during the past 3 years, a resumé, and a completed Slide Registry form in order to be included. There is no entry fee. Artists may join the registry at any time; however, artists are encouraged to submit slides as soon as possible to be considered for public art projects for 1998. Slide Registry forms are available at the front desk of the Dougherty Arts Center at 1110 Barton Springs Rd. 397-1455.
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 printmak-ers, 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. 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.
THE AUSTIN PRESCHOOL MOTHERS' CLUB, Far Northwest Chapter, will hold their next monthly meeting at the Church of the Savior, 3402 Little Elm Tr. The meeting will feature a silent auction with crafts, baked goods, gift certificates, and more. Wed, Dec 3, 9:30am. 306-1530 or 918-2869.
HALF PRICE BOOKS' ANNUAL BOOKMARK DRIVE asks children to give the gift of reading by drawing a picture of his or her favorite literary character on a Bookworm bookmark. For every bookmark returned to Half Price Books, one book will be donated to a local literacy program. The bookmarks are available in all 58 Half Price Books locations and will be collected through December 31. Call any Half Price Books location or 214/360-0833.
CHILDREN'S HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS will be offered in December at The Art School at Laguna Gloria, 3809 W. 35th St. Parents should register their youngsters as soon as possible, since the classes usually fill up quickly. 323-6380.
RONDA'S MONTESSORI GARDEN is currently holding a fall transplant sale. Four-inch containers of various herbs and vegetables suitable for fall and winter growing will be available. Proceeds go toward building a greenhouse for the students. The school is located at 4300 Mt. Vernon. Saturdays, 9am-1pm. 707-8635.
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. 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. Admission is $3 adults/$2 children 3-12. The farm is currently taking reservations for their popular Christmas Candlelight Tour, slated for Dec 12-13 & 19-22. The tour features a hayride, a reading of 19th-century holiday stories, carols sung around an old pump organ, fresh baked gingerbread, and a traditional 19th-century dance in the loft of the big barn with music. 837-1215.
A FREE HOMEBUYING CLASS AND ORIENTATION will be offered by the nonprofit group Central Texas Homeward Bound, held at the Omni Southpark Hotel, E. Ben White & S. I-35. CTHB is a homebuyer's resource whose mission is to increase home ownership opportunities through education, counseling, financing, and community partnerships. Mon, Dec 1, 6:30-8pm. 707-7553.
JAPANESE LANGUAGE STUDY GROUP provides weekly instruction at the beginning and intermediate levels in a small information setting. First class is free, only $5 thereafter (per class). No charge for Japan-America Society of Austin members. Begins Dec 2. 302-6732.
THE ALLIANCE FOR DEMOCRACY and Public Citizen will present a public forum concerning the Multilateral Agreement on Investment (MAI) at the AFL-CIO Building at 11th & Lavaca. Speakers include Texas Observer founding editor Ronnie Dugger and trade policy analyst James Scott of the Public Citizen Texas Office. Wed, Dec 3, 7pm. 477-1155 or 453-0777.
THE AUSTIN SOFTWARE COUNCIL will present a workshop to assist human resource and benefit professionals on how to effectively use the World Wide Web to simplify HR and benefits activities. The class will be held at the Austin Technology Incubator Strategy Center, Braker & Mopac. Cost is $75. Wed, Dec 3, 8am-noon. 305-0032.
THE ROSICRUCIAN ORDER, AMORC, presents an open house at Sa Ankh Pronaos, 311 W. Seventh. A casual conversation and group discussion about the Rosicrucian teachings will be featured. Admission is free. Wed, Dec 3, 7pm. 467-2588.
THE UT CENTER FOR ASIAN STUDIES will present two lectures this week, including a Japan Seminar titled "Of Mothers and Dead Children: The Ritual Connection," and a South Asia Seminar titled "Physical and Life Sciences in India..." The seminars will be held in the Meyerson Conference Room (WCH 4.118) on the UT campus. Mon, Dec 1, 3-5pm (Japan Seminar) and Thu, Dec 4, 3-5pm (South Asia Seminar). 471-5811.
FREE TRAVEL-RELATED PROGRAMS are offered weekly at REI, 9901 Capital of Texas Hwy. N. Dec 4 features "Big Bend," and Dec 11 features "Ski Racing." Thursdays, 7pm. 343-5550.
SUFI WORKSHOPS with dancing and meditative drumming by Adnan Sarhan will be held at Casa de Luz, 1701 Toomey. Sarhan, a Sufi Master and member of five Sufi Orders, will lead participants in a wide variety of Sufi techniques, including exercise, movement, drumming, dancing, meditation, chanting, whirling, and belly dancing. $10 Fri; $80 Sat & Sun. Fri, Dec 5, 7-9:30pm; Sat & Sun, Dec 11am-7pm. 474-1039.
DEBTORS ANONYMOUS is sponsoring a workshop titled "Holiday in DA," coping with money and spending around the holidays, to be held at the Christ Lutheran Church, 300 E. Monroe. Suggested donation is $5, but no one will be turned away for lack of ability to pay. Sat, Dec 6, 10am-3:30pm. 452-7835 or 454-9419.
CLAYWAYS POTTERY STUDIO, 5442 Burnet Rd., offers a variety of workshops for both children and adults, including wheel throwing, handbuilding, tilemaking, and more. A class on Making Christmas Ornaments will be held Sat, Dec 6, 1-4pm. Cost is $35. 459-6445.
LIVING WELL, an exploration of what a healthy/happy life is, will be led by Michael Glicker, a graduate of the Barbara Brennan School of Healing, and assisted by Patrice Sullivan. Cost is $190 ($150 if paid by Nov 30). Register now. Dec 12-14. 474-7171.
UNIVERSITY EXTENSION offers courses in music and creative writing, for college credit or just for fun. http://www.utexas.edu/dce/univext. Register soon. 471-2900.
THE VEDANTA CENTER sponsors weekly classes titled " A Search in Ancient India and Tantric Tibet" taught by Kristal Mahdu, Himalayan traveler and teacher at the Daila Lama University in India. Mondays, 7:30pm. 892-1945.
INFORMAL DISCUSSIONS on the ideas of G.I. Gurdjieff are offered weekly at various locations around Austin. Wednesdays, 7pm. 257-8307.
LAUGHING AT THE SUN GALLERY offers a variety of classes just in time for the holidays, including metal sculpting, painting, life drawing, basketweaving, jewelry, and a variety of children's classes. Courses are taught by professional, full-time artists. Call for a complete schedule and fees. Ongoing. 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 CAPITAL AREA JOB CLUB hosts weekly career-related programs at no charge in the first-floor conference room at The Echelon I, 9430 Research Blvd. Tuesdays, 6pm. 338-9144.
AFTERNOON AND WEEKEND YOGA CLASSES are offered by Jennifer Biggers at the Power Yoga Space, 1017 E. Sixth. Beginners are welcome. 457-8760 or 306-8576.
AN INTRO TO POWER YOGA LITE, a blend of urban, astanga, and other styles of yoga, will be offered by Colleen Keegan at the Power Yoga Space, 1017 E. Sixth. Mon/Wed, 6:30pm; Sat, 4:30pm. 306-8576 or 457-8760.
KUNDALINI YOGA is offered weekly by Hari Amrit at Casa de Luz, 1701 Toomey. Current sessions focus on taking care of yourself during the holidays. Saturdays, 9-10:30am. 472-3530.
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, 458-5572
Holiday Eating Support Group, held Dec 9-11, 347-0999
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
Women's Movement Therapy Group, 441-8334, ext. 2
Ye Ye Social and Support Group for Gay Black Wy'mn, 444-1672
THE COUNTRY PEDDLER SHOW will be held at the Gillespie County Fairgrounds in Fredericksburg. The original folk art and decorator show features a selection of personal apparel, furnishings, carvings, pottery, paintings, jewelry, dolls, and more. Admission is $4 adults, $2 seniors, free for children under 12. Fri-Sun, Nov 28-30. 830/997-0453.
THE 7TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CRAFTS BAZAAR will be held this weekend at the Wells Branch Homestead in Wells Branch. A wide selection of handmade crafts - including quilts, angels, santas, ornaments, food, and gift items - will be available. Sat, Nov 29, 9am-5pm & Sun, Nov 30, noon-4:30pm. 459-HOME.
THE SOCIETY OF TECHNICAL COMMUNICATIONS will hold their monthly meeting and Christmas party at the LCRA Building on Lake Austin Blvd. The topic of discussion will be "The Changing Role of the Technical Communicator or Technical Communications as Theater." E-mail: julie@haystack.com. Thu, Dec 4, 7:30pm (networking 6:30-7:30pm). 212/918-3555.
SINGLE PROFESSIONALS OF AUSTIN will sponsor a social mixer at Flores Mexican Restaurant, 2700 W. Anderson Ln. Members must be single and have at least a four-year degree. Thu, Dec 4, 5:30-7pm. 990-2258.
THE 1997 HOLIDAY SWING FUNDRAISER, benefiting Project Transitions, will be held at the Ben Hur Shrine Ballroom, 4300 Westbank Dr. The event will feature live music by SwingTime, Dance lessons by the QuickSilver Dancers, a cash bar, a silent auction, holiday hors d'oeuvres, and more. Tickets are $30 advance, $35 at the door. Sat, Dec 6, 8pm-12:30am (dance lessons, 7-8pm). 454-8646.
ST. NICK'S NIGHT OUT CAMPOUT will be held at Rancho Richey Refuge, about an hour south of Austin in Belmont, TX. The campout will feature kids' activities, stew for supper and pancakes for breakfast, music campfires, nature and heritage tales, guided hikes through the ranch, and more. Cost is only $20 per car advance; $25 at the gate (make your reservations now). Website: http://www.io.com/~zow/gogo.htm. Sat & Sun, Dec 6 & 7. 444-4550.
THE 11TH ANNUAL COATS FOR KIDS coat drive, sponsored by the Junior League of Austin, is currently underway at all Norwest Bank and Jack Brown Cleaners locations. The league is asking for donations of new or gently used coats for infants, children, or teens. Volunteers will distribute the coats to eligible children on Sat, Dec 13 at City Coliseum. Donations will be taken Now through Dec 12. 467-8982, ext. 279.
FREE HIV TESTING is available throughout Austin through the Austin-Travis County Health and Human Services Department. Testing may be anonymous or confidential. Call for a list of locations and/or an appointment. Ongoing. 708-3500.
THE ROCK ART FOUNDATION offers weekly guided tours of its White Shaman Preserve, located on Highway 90 West and the Pecos River (40 miles west of Del Rio). In addition to the famous White Shaman pictograph, visitor can learn about the early peoples who lived in the lower Pecos of West Texas some 4,000 years ago. Tours are $10 per person. Wed-Sun, 10am-5pm. 888/525-9907.
A SENIOR LUNCHEON is held five days a week for seniors 50 and up at the Alamo Recreation Center, 2100 Alamo St. Free. Mon-Fri, 10am-1pm. 474-2810.
AMERICORPS IS RECRUITING members to participate in the American Institute for Learning's Casa Verde Builders or Environmental Corps programs. Participants, who must be 17-25 years old, can earn a GED, earn money for college (or to pay off student loans), receive free health and child care, and a living stipend. 472-3395.
WILD BASIN WILDERNESS PRESERVE offers a variety of activities each week, including Wild Basin Walks, stories and slide talks, Train Maintenance Days, classes, and more. The preserve is located at 805 N. Capital of Texas Hwy. Call for a complete schedule of events. 327-7622.
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.