If you notice strange goings-on around Flora Street today, don’t worry. They’re just making way for the “triumphant journey” of Potter’s House pastor T.D. Jakes. He’s celebrating 35 years as a minister with a celebrity-infused black-tie affair at the Winspear Opera House tonight.
Friday
You could help Jakes celebrate if, you know, you have an extra $150+ tucked in your sock drawer for just such a gloomy day. If not, well, there are other anniversaries to fête tonight, albeit in slightly different style. Windmill Lounge, which we named the best dive in town last year, turns seven. No tux necessary. There’s all sorts of stuff going on–the Easy Slider truck arrives at 8 pm, and the first 100 sliders are on the house. Live entertainment from Corey Howe of the Dead Flowers follows, and then regular DJ Joel will spin all night. Best part: If you still have your VIP card from 2006, flash it, and co-owner/bartender Louise will buy you a drink.
For a change of pace, the one-woman play Warriors Don’t Cry, about the Little Rock Nine, continues its run at the African American Repertory Theater, which performs out in DeSoto. Honestly, it’s not that far, and this theater has upped the ante with a season of consistently strong, moving productions. According to our own Lance Lusk, this one is no exception. Read his FrontRow review before you go.
Saturday
When I was a kid, I would have loved the Dallas Museum of Art’s Booksmart Festival. Favorite children’s authors read stories, sign autographs, and generally inspire kids to read, read, read. It’ll last all day, and admission is free for everyone.
I talked a little about Cole Porter yesterday in super-tangential fashion, but I’ve still got the magical music man on the brain, thanks to the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Marvin Hamlisch, and Michael Feinstein. Feinstein and Hamlisch, who you might know as legendary interpreters of the American songbook, honor the late great Porter, who wrote classic tunes (like “Let’s Do It (Let’s Fall in Love),” the one I was singing yesterday) and a number of popular musicals, with a tribute concert. They’ll perform songs like “Anything Goes,” “Night and Day,” and “I Get a Kick Out of You.”
After reliving the Jazz Age, I highly recommend making your way to the Texas Theatre for another sort of flashback–Yesterday’s Gold, a reoccuring late-evening soft jazz and disco dance party. The Weekender over on FrontRow has the rundown, but Yesterday’s Gold usually features Tommyboy, a once local DJ who now resides in Austin, and DJ G. Tonight, however, they’re joined by special guest Paris Vidal in her debut DJ outing. Her identity is a little hush hush, but here’s what I can tell you: she’s a well-known fashion blogger with impeccable taste. You’re welcome. Don’t say I never gave you guys anything, and dress accordingly.
Sunday
Early birds who like to exercise might enjoy the Wounded Warrior Half Marathon, which starts bright and early at Williams Square, AKA the Mustangs, in Las Colinas. For those of us who uh, aren’t quite in shape, the event also offers a 10K and a one mile fun run. Once you’re through the finish line, there’s a huge pancake breakfast (healthy options, too, from My Fit Foods) and live entertainment. The great thing, of course, is that this event honors our military men and women and helps provide additional support for injured veterans.
In the afternoon, drop by One Arts for Paws on the Plaza. All five restaurants have expanded their patios so you can brunch with your favorite puppy in tow. Paws in the City will be on hand offering pet adoptions and information.
For more to do this weekend, go here.
