OPENERS

Theater

The Cocoanuts. Theatre Three presents a revival of the old Marx Brothers escapades as they attack the Florida Real Estate Boom in the 1920s and find Margaret Dumont, jewels, lovers, and contused hotel guests. Through September 10. Showtimes are Tuesday through Saturday, 8:15 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 2:30 p.m.; Sunday, 7:30 p.m. Theatre Three, 2800 Routh Street, Dallas. Tickets: 214-871-3300.

Murder on the Nile. The Richardson Theatre Centre presents the Agatha Christie tale of murder, intrigue, and the savvy know-how of the inscrutable French detective Hercule Poirot. Through October 7. Thursday through Saturday, 8 p.m. Richardson Theatre Centre, 718 Canyon Square, Richardson. Information: 214-699-1130.

Songs of Love. Naked Mirror Productions presents six short plays dealing with different aspects of love, from first love, through love of country, to the abiding love of a long-married older couple. All plays are the works of playwright Romulus Linney. Through September 2. Thursday through Saturday, 8:15 p.m. Swiss Avenue Theatre Center, 2700 Swiss Avenue, Dallas. Reservations: 214-680-4466.

The Class Menagerie. The Piano Repertory Theatre stages the Tennessee Williams classic. September 8 through October 1. ArtCentre Theatre, 1028 15th Place, Historic Downtown Piano. Tickets: 214-422-7460.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF SEPTEMBER 2 – 4

Pepsi Kid-Around



WHETHER THEY’RE 2 OR 10, ACTIVE OR ANALYTIC, YOUR KIDS ARE BOUND TO have fun at Pepsi KidAround, when Park Central in North Dallas morphs into an immense, imagination-inspiring backyard. Activities this year include: the city’s largest sandbox, giant mural paintings, booths where kids can make their own kites, noise-making horns, and pet butterflies that will perch on their shoulders. Send your sports lovers to the arena for basketball and soccer games or have them shed their shoes and head for the crazy colored sheet for a supersized game of Twister. Kids (and grown-ups) with a taste for technology will enjoy a ride on MicroSoft’s CD-ROM Magic Schoolbus. ? If you need to pause and put your feet up, do it in front of one of the three entertainment stages, but don’t count on your kids sitting back with you. Dallas’ energetic and amusing opera-singer turned Pied Piper, Eddie Coker, will have your kids dancing to island tunes and singing out the stories of Fred the Duck, Acappella Green the Hippo, and other classic Coker characters. Also appearing this year are Joanie Bartels, Hastey Pudding Puppet Company, Parachute Express, and other local and national stars, ? September 2-4, 9:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Park Central, LBJ and Coit. Tickets $7 at the door or $5 with advance purchase at Tom Thumb stores. All proceeds benefit The Family Place. For more information, call 214-559-2170.

The Price. Theatre Three stages Arthur Miller’s tale examining the rather-and-son relationship, as two brothers come back to settle their father’s estate and clash over the meaning of their father’s life. September 3 through October 22. Show-times are Tuesday through Saturday. 8:15 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 2:30 p.m.; Sunday. 7:30 p.m. Theatre Three, 2800 Routh Street, Dallas. Tickets: 214-871-3300.

The Phantom of the Opera. The Dallas Summer Musicals presents Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical version of the hideously deformed Phantom, who lurks beneath the stage of the Paris Opera terrorizing its occupants until he falls in love with a young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to nurturing her talents. Preview performances Saturday, September2,2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sunday, September 3,2 p.m. Opening night, September 3,8 p.m. Performances run September 5 through October 14. Tuesday through Saturday, 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m. Special matinee times for September 14 and October 11, 2 p.m.; special night performance October 9, S p.m. Music Hall, Fair Park, Dallas. Tickets: 214-373-8000 or 214-647-5700.

The Conquest of the South Pole. The New Theatre Company stages a black comedy about a group of vaudevillians contemplating suicide while searching for the perfect punch line. The group gets lost in the day’s laundry and emerges as heroes in this fanciful look at human imagination and determination. September 15 through October 7. Thursday through Saturday, 8 p.m. Swiss Avenue Theater Center, 2700 Swiss Avenue, Dallas. Tickets: 214-520-ARTS.

Guys and Dolls. The Garland Civic Theatre kicks up its heels in the musical table based on Damon Runyon’s writings of life along Broadway. September 14 through October 1. September 14-16, 22-23, 28-30, 8 p.m.; September 23, 30; October 1, 2 p.m. Garland Performing Arts Center, 300 North Fifth Street, Garland. Tickets: 214-349-1331 or 214-205-2790.

Dance

Dance Festival. The largest free dance extravaganza in North Texas features performances by the Dancers Unlimited Repertory Company. Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Ballet Dallas, Anita N. Martinez Ballet Folklorico, and student/faculty ensembles from Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Through September 3. 8:15 p.m. Artist Square, next to the Meyerson Symphony Center, downtown Arts District, Dallas. Information: 214-953-1985.

Fort Worth Dallas Ballet. The troupe’s season opener features the world premieres of artistic director Paul Mejia’s “Danzon Cubano” and “El Salon Mexico” as well as performances of “The Tempest” and George Balanchine’s “Serenade.” September 29 and 30. 8 p.m. JFK Theatre, Tarrant County Convention Center, Fort Worth. Information and tickets: 800-377-9988.



Music

Twilight’s Highlights. The Irving Parks and Recreation Department’s summer twilight concert finale features a repertoire of favorite music-voted upon by audience participation. Free. September 7, 7:30 p.m. Victoria Park, Northgate and Pleasant Run Roads, Irving. Information: 214-721-2501.

Summer Jam. Unplugged musicians and visitors gather in an open-air gazebo to the strummings and pickings of bluegrass, folk, Celtic, country, classical, and mountain music. Patrons may bring their own lawn chairs, and the children can entertain themselves on the playground and with the resident farm animals. Please no picnic baskets. September 23. 7 p.m.-11 p.m. Fairview Farms. Central Expressway at Parker, exit 30, Piano. Information: 214-424-2254.

Dallas Classic Guitar Society. A joint concert by Frank Koonce and Lily Afshar creates a marriage of music, poetry, and art accompanied by slides of Goya drawings that served as inspiration to the evening’s repertoire in honor of the Castelnuovo-Tedesco Centenary year. September 19. 8 p.m. Caruth Auditorium, SMU Campus, Dallas. Information: 214-528-3733.

Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Orchestra. TITAS presents the female conductor and her 16-piece jazz orchestra in their Dallas debut in an evening of jazz blended with classical and Oriental elements. September SU. 8 p.m. McFarlin Auditorium, SMU Campus. Dallas. Tickets: 214-528-5576.

Piano Chamber Orchestra. Under the direction of Conductor Hector Guzman, the Piano Chamber Orchestra trumpets the arrival of its 13th season, designated “Orchestral Fireworks-A Season of Spectacular Stars,” with a performance by Vladimir Viardo. A former Cliburn Competition gold-medalist winner, Viardo performs Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 2 along with a Mozart selection. September 16. 8:15 p.m. Fellowship Bible Church North, 850 Lexington, Piano. Information and tickets: 214-985-1983.

The Dallas Symphony Classic Series. Conductor Andrew Litton and pianist Emanuel A.\ perform selected works from Beethoven and Rachmaninoff. September 7-10; Violinist Cho-Liang Lin with Andrew Litton conducting presents a repertoire including Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, and Berlioz. September 14-17; Pianist Peter Donohoe with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra performs pieces from Glinka, Stravinsky, and Tchaikovsky. September 21-23. Thursday through Saturday, 8:15 p.m.; Sunday 2:30 p.m. Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora Street, Dallas. Tickets: 214-692-0203.

An American Fantasy. The music of Jerome Kern and Victor Herbert inaugurate the new season of the JCPenney SuperPops Concerts. Featuring such favorites as “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes,” “The Last Time 1 Saw Paris” and “The Way You Look Tonight,” the Dallas Pops Orchestra joins forces with John McGlinn. Sold out to season ticket holders. September 1 and 2. 8:15 p.m. Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora Street, Dallas. Tickets: 214-692-0203.

Cliburn Concert. Dame Maura Lympany, the doyenne of British pianists, performs numerous works including concertos by Beethoven and Rachmaninoff, September 19. 8 p.m. Ed Lan-dreth Auditorium, TCU Campus, Fort Worth. Information and tickets: 817-335-9000.

Art & Artifacts

African American Museum. Invoking the Spirit. A photographic essay exhibit compiled from the 25-year research of photojournalist Chester Higgins Jr. documenting the diversity of the global African religious experience. September 1 through October 31. Connections: African Vision In African American Art. Within the context of an American system of values and customs, religious, social, and various secular themes are presented in an exhibit exploring the influence of the African belief system on African-American art. Through July 28, 1996. Tuesday through Friday, noon-5 p.m.;Saturday, 10a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. African American Museum, 3536 Grand Avenue. Fair Park, Dallas. Information: 214-565-9026.

Amon Carter Museum. Nature Observed, Nature Interpreted: Nineteenth Century American Landscape Drawings and Watercolors. The exhibit features a survey of 19th century American landscape drawings, from summary-graphite sketches to vivid watercolors to full oil sketches. Through September 3. Wild River, Timeless Canyons: Balduin Mollhausen. Early Artists of the Colorado. A long-lost set of 47 watercolors by the Prussian artist who served as the illustrator for the 1857 Ives expedition that discovered the Grand Canyon and first documented the exploration of the Colorado River is on display for the first time. The exhibit chronicles the history of the expedition and is accompanied by maps and other supplemental materials. Canyonland Visions: A Photographic Perspective. A photographic display complementing the Mollhausen exhibit featuring the picturesque arches, isolated buttes, and weathered canyons of the Colorado River region photographed from the mid-19th century to the present. September 12 through November 12. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Amon Carter Museum. 3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth. Information: 817-738-1933.

Arlington Museum of Art. Digital Dramas. Texas artists create virtual masterpieces with computer-generated photographic art and interactive videos, Through October 21. Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Arlington Museum of Art,201 West Main Street, Arlington. Information: 817-275-4600.

Biblical Arts Center. Georges Roualt: Miserere Series. An exhibit organized by Christians in the Visual Arts featuring the early 20th century works of framed engravings, photographs of images from the Brooklyn Museum, and a colored aquatint from the Fleur de Mal Series. Through September 24. Millennium. Images of the Rapture, Revelations, and other last-day prophecies of the Bible. September 27 through November 26. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday. 1 p.m.-5 p.m. The Biblical Arts Center, 7500 Park Lane, Dallas. information: 214-691-4661.

Dallas Museum of Art. Across Continents and Cultures: the Art and Life of Henry Ossawa Tanner. A survey of the career of internationally renowned African-American artist Henry O. Tanner and how he portrayed his heritage through his art. September 7 through December 31. Selections From The Patsy R. and Raymond D. Nasher Collection. From the abstract visual form of an Aramaic chant to randomly shaped sculptures fabricated from painted aluminum, the exhibit features mixed media relief sculpture. geometric solid forms, prints by Jasper Johns, and work by Israeli artist Micha Ullman. Through December 31. American I looked Rugs. Tracing the evolution of rug hooking techniques and designs from the 19th and 20th centuries, this comprehensive collection features examples of architectural, geometric, animal, and floral patterns. Through December 31. Willard Watson, 1921-1995, In Memoriam: Lifecycle Drawings, 1985. Through October 31.Tuesday, Wednesday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Saturday. Sunday, and holidays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood, Dallas. Information; 214-922-1200 or 214-922-1355.

Dallas Museum of Natural History. Two Eagles/Dos Aguilas: A Natural History of the Mexican-U.S. Borderlands. A color photo exhib-it celebrating the diversity and beauty of the borderlands revealing a natural world obscured by political boundaries. September 16 through January 6, 1996. The museum is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Dallas Museum of Natural History, Fair Park. Dallas. Information: 214-421 -DINO.

Dallas Visual Arts Center. Mosaics Series. An exhibit highlighting the printmaking talents of Hispanic artist Eduardo Garcia. September 29 through November 10. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Dallas Visual Art Center, 2917 Swiss Avenue, Dallas. Information: 214-821-2522.

Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. Behind the Seams. A behind the scenes exhibit of the textile industry as influenced by technology. Displaying clothing from various fashion periods such as a Victorian-era wedding dress, a 1950s net petticoat, paper dresses from the 1960s, and bell bottom slacks with accompanying black vinyl Nehru jacket from the 1970s, the museum also offers visitors hands-on activities and interactive videos. Bring the kids for interactive exhibits the whole family will enjoy. Through September 4. Museum hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 9 a.m,-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday; noon-8 p.m. Sunday. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, 1501 Montgomery Street, Fort Worth. Information: 817-732-1631.

Kimbell Art Museum. The Art of Collecting: Thirty Years in Retrospect. Commemorating the founding of the Museum collection 30 years ago, the exhibit focuses on acquisitions in both European and Asian art as well as African, Mesoamerican, and ancient Mediterranean cultures. Specific paintings include works by Fra Angelico, El Greco, Rubens, Cezanne, Matisse, and, on long-term loan, Miro, Léger, and Picasso. Through September 3. Landscape in the Age of Rembrandt: Masterpieces from the Albertina. A Dutch collection of 17th century landscape drawings containing intimate scenes of everyday life captured by Rembrandt and his contemporaries. Through September 3. Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday, noon-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday noon-5 p.m. Kimbell Art Museum, 3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth. Information; 817-332-8451.

Kittrell/Riffkind Art Glass Inc. From stacked glass sculptures to fused glass and silver jewelry, this unique exhibit features works in glass by Mary Kay Simoni, Claire Maunsell, James Nowack, and Orly Lindsey. September 15 through October 8. Open daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Kittrell/Riffkind Art Glass Inc., Village on the Parkway, 5100 Belt Line Road, Suite 820, Dallas. Information: 214-239-7957.

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. The Studio Museum in Harlem: 25 Years of African-American Art. An exhibit organized in 1993 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Studio Museum in Harlem features nearly four dozen paintings, drawings, prints, and sculptures highlighting the important contributions made by African -American artists in the past 25 years. Through October 1. Museum hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10a.m.-5 p.m.;Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 1309 Montgomery Street, Fort Worth. Information: 817-738-9215.

5MU Meadows Museum Exhibition. From the Ends of the Earth: Judaic Treasures of the Library of Congress. In partnership with the Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas, the museum presents a collection representing diverse aspects of Jewish history and experience. From tributes to Yiddish theater and Jewish composers to displays detailing Jewish contributions in philosophy, law, and science, this exhibit shows the Jewish impact on the founding and early history of the United States of America. September 15 through November 12. Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Meadows Museum, SMU campus, Dallas. Information: 214-768-2516 weekdays; 214-768-2740 weekends.

SMU DeGolyer Library. Visionaries and Rebels: American Literature After the Atom Bomb. The Friends of the SMU Libraries celebrate their 25th anniversary with an exhibit featuring over 60 works from the Colophon Moderns Collection. The books, published from 1950 onward, include first editions by such notable 20th century American writers as Edward Albee, Saul Bellow, Allen Ginsberg, Norman Mailer, Larry McMurtry, Joyce Carol Oates, Kurt Vonnegut, Anne Waldman, and Thomas Wolfe. September 20 through November 17. Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. DeGolyer Library, SMU Campus, 6404 Hilltop Lane, Dallas. Free. Information: 214-768-3225.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF SEPTEMBER 8 – 10

Montage ’95

SUPPORTING THE ARTS OFTEN MEANS DONNING BLACK TIE AND EVENING GOWN (preferably not together), but shorts and tank tops are the order of the day at the 11th annual Montage arts festival. The street fair, a fundraising vehicle for the 500, Inc., showcases the work of some 150 artisans this year-painters, sculptors, workers in wood, glass, leather, and more, all of it very much for sale. Beneath the Montage tents is something for every artistic taste-and remember, one man’s kitsch is another’s Kandinsky. As for other appetites, vendors this year include Eureka!, Yegua Creek Brewing Co., Spasso Pizza and Pasta, and King Korn, purveyors of those Flintstone-sized turkey legs without which no street fair is complete. Add jugglers, interactive arts and crafts, karaoke (if you insist), and live music by Cafe Noir, Storyville, and others, and this year’s affair should live up to its theme: “A Feast for the Senses.” Those senses will remind you that, yes, it is blazing hot on the streets of the downtown Arts District, but Montage is good fun for a good cause, and what’s a little sweat between arts lovers? Nightly jazz concerts, September 8 and 9; festival, September 9 and 10. Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Downtown Dallas Arts District, along Flora Street between the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center and the Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas. Admission: $4 in advance, $5 at the gate. Information: 214-361-2011.

Film

Jack Kerouac’s Road. Archival film footage, interviews, photographs, and skillful reconstruction of events allow viewers to trace the life of gifted American writer Jack Kerouac as he traveled by car from one end of the United States to the other and turned his adventures into a romantic epic in this French film with English subtitles presented by the Friends of the SMU Library. September 28. 7:30 p.m. Greer Garson Theater Building, Meadows School of the Arts, SMU Campus, Dallas. Information: 214-768-3225.

Screenwriter Workshop. With Molly Moynahan in the CineMac. $25 tor DARE members, $45 for nonmembers. Presented by The Writer’s Garrett. The Mac, 3120 McKinney Ave., Suite 100.214-952-1212.

Gang Warfare. Video and film work by young visual artists including Douglas Gordon, Tracey Emin, Matthew Barney, Robert Downey, Susan Hiller, Georgina Starr, Henry Bond, et al. is presented by The MAC in conjunction with the Independent Art Space in London. Video monitors with accompanying artwork will be on display in both galleries. Curated by Michael Corliss, regular contributor to Artforum. September 8, 6-9 p.m. Through October 29. The Mac, 3120 McKinney Ave. Suite 100. 214-952-1212.

Omni Theater: Destiny in Space. Experience solitude, weightlessness, and magnificent views of earth from orbiting shuttle missions on a larger-than-life 80-foot screen. Ongoing. Film shown hourly on the half-hour: Monday, 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, l:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.; Friday, 1:30 p.m.-ll:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sunday, 12:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Fort Worth Museumof Science and History, 1501 Montgomery Street, Fort Worth. Information: 817-732-1631 or metro 817-654-1356.

First Monday Classics. The USA Film Festival’s First Monday Classics. September 4. 7:30 p.m. AMC Glen Lakes Theatres, 9450 North Central Expwy at Walnut Hill, Dallas. Information: 214-821-NEWS.

William S. Burroughs: Commissioner of the Sewers. In conjunction with the “Visionaries and Rebels: American Literature After the Atom Bomb” series, the Friends of the SMU Library present a 60-minute film on the written works, paintings, and films of the author who created Naked Lunch. September 28. 7:30 p.m. Greer Garson Theater Building, Meadows School of the Arts, SMU Campus, Dallas. Information: 214-768-3225.

Kerouac. The Friends of the SMU Libraries present a 73-minute docudrama about the king of the beat generation with rare footage of Allen Ginsberg, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, and William Burroughs and music by Duke Ellington and Zoot Sims. September 29. 7:30 p.m, Greer Garson Theater Building, Meadows School of the Arts, SMU Campus, Dallas. Information: 214-768-3225.

Lectures

Artist Talk. The McKinney Avenue Contemporary presents a series of 7 p.m. Wednesday talks by working Texas artists. September 6: Patricia Forrest (works in many media); September 1I: Sherry Owens (sculptor); September 20: Susan Kae Grant (photography/installation); September 20: A.M. Hudson (works in many media). The McKinney Avenue Contemporary, 3120 McKinney Ave., Suite 100.214-953-1212.

Texas Rangers Luncheon. The 1995 Dr Pep-per/Texas Rangers Luncheon Series talks baseball during a noontime buffet lunch in the Diamond Club followed by a speaker. September 22. Lunch 11:30 a.m.; program, 12:45 p.m. Diamond Club, The Ballpark in Arlington, Arlington. Tickets: 817-273-5207.

Photography’s Influential History. A series of six slide lectures is presented by Mitchell Byers through October 19. $35 for DARE members, $50 for non-DARE members, single lectures $12 for members and $15 for nonmembers. Rescheduled from June. September 14, 7-9 p.m. The MAC, 3120 McKinney Ave., Suite 100. 214-952-1212.

Original Sin. Reading series with Jeff Putnam and Bobbie Sue Nadel in the MAC’s theater. $2 for DARE members, $4 for nonmembers. Presented by The Writer’s Garret. September 14, 8 p.m. 3120 McKinney Ave.. Suite 100, 214-952-1212.

Reel/Real Writers. Videotaped reading by some of this century’s most compelling writers and poets. Following the readings are audience-participation discussions led by a local writer or poet. Presented by The Writer’s Garret. Rescheduled from May. Allen Ginsberg on video, with joe Stanco, September 24. 3 p.m. Free. The McKinney Avenue Contemporary, 3120 McKin-oey Ave., Suite 100, 214-952-1212.

The Kimbell Art Museum as a Work of Art. Curator of Architecture at the Kimbell Art Museum Dr. Patricia C. Loud. September 1, 12:30 p.m. Kimbell Art Museum. 3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth. Information: 817-332-8451.

Friday Night Poetry Series. The Fellows of the Dallas Institute of Himanities and Culture present a series of familiarization lectures on giants of 20th century poetry every Friday night through May’96. The series begins with Louise Cowans’ introductory session and thereafter considers one or two poets per session. September 15, 7-10 p.m. The Dallas Institute, 2719 Routh Street. 214-871-2440.

Meet the Artist. The Gateway Gallery in the Dallas Museum of Art hosts artist Harry Blackburn in an informal talk-slide presentation followed by a tour of the galleries where the artist’s work is displayed. Light refreshments and wine are offered after the tour. September 7, 7-9 p.m. Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood, Dallas. Advance registration: 214-922-1331.

Life in Downtown Dallas. Peter Katz, executive director of the Congress for the New Urbanism and Ray Gindroz, A.I.A., urban design principal with UDA Architects of Philadelphia, conduct an all-day conference on the re-creation of a vibrant city life in downtown Dallas. $100 including lunch. September 22, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Dallas Institute, 2719 Routh Street, 214-871-2440.

Decherd Turner. As part of the opening reception of the exhibit Visionaries and Rebels: American Literature After the Atom Bomb sponsored by The Friends of SMU Libraries, Decherd Turner speaks about “My Literary Dilemma: Too Young to be Lost, Too Old to be Beat.” September 20, 6:30. DeGolyer Library, 6404 Hilltop Lane. SMU Campus, Dallas. Information: 214-768-3225.

Dallas Urbanism and Architecture Seminar. Rick Brettell, art historian and museum consultant, considers the history of Dallas urbanism and architecture from World War 1 to the present, focusing on the public imagery of corporate or private monuments, the complex internationalism of the public buildings of Dallas, and the creation of elaborate private retreats that deny the very nature of the city in which they are placed. $100 including lunch. September 30, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The Dallas Institute, 2719 Routh Street. 214 -871-2440.

Home & Garden

Dallas Fall Home and Garden Show. From designer gardens to the newest trends in home and garden decorating and remodeling, this annual fail event showcases products and services for the personal environment. Hundreds of exhibitors are on hand displaying items, supplies, and services such as tools for the garden, home appliances, building and remodeling contractors, windows and doors, and security systems. September 8-10. Friday, 2 p.m.-9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Market Hall. Dallas Market Center, 2200 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas. Information: 214-680-9995.

Kidstuff

Gateway Gallery. Artist Demonstration: Families meet with artist Martin Delabano and through an interactive session watch how he gathers inspiration to create his pieces of art in honor of the Mexican celebration Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), September 10. 1:30-3:30 p.m, Drop-In Art. Free children’s art activities focusing on Dia de los Muertos. Saturdays beginning September 23. 1 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Gateway Gallery, Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood, Dallas. Information: 214 922-1200.

The Science Place. “How did they do that, anyway?” If you’ve ever asked yourself that while watching a film, you’ll want to see a behind-the-scenes tour of how the special effects in movies are accomplished. The Science Place hosts “SFX2: The An and Science of Movie Magic” including robots, models, and animation from such movie hits as Batman, Wizard of Oz, Return of the Jedi, and Mrs Doubtfire. Through September 4. Monday through Sunday 9:30 a.m.-5;30 p.m. Fair Park, Dallas. Information: 214-428-5555, extension 343 or 344.

Author Appearance. The Enchanted Forest- Books for Children hosts Jan Brett, author/illustrator of such books as Berlioz the Bear, Town Mouse Country Mouse, and Armadillo Rodeo in an afternoon autograph session. September 16, 3 p.m.-5 p.m. The Enchanted Forest-Books for Children, 6333 East Mockingbird Lane Suite 231, at Abrams, Dallas. Information: 214-827-2234.

World Day. The Dallas Zoo hosts a special event celebrating Dallas’ cultural diversity with entertainment from a variety of ethnic music and dance groups such as Tejano and North African music, talks by zoo keepers about the animals tram the countries being highlighted, and chil-dren’s craft activities from around the world. September 30. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Zoo hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Dallas Zoo. 621 East Clarendon, Dallas. Information: 214-946-5154.

Pepsi KidAround. Benefiting The Family Place, this fourth annual event strives to provide high-quality children’s entertainment through music, storytelling, puppet theater presentations, and performances by various church and school groups as well as popular children’s entertainers such as Parachute Express, Eddie Coker, child actress Raven-Symone, and the Hasty Pudding Puppet Company. September 2-4. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Park Central in Dallas, LB| and Coir Road. Information and tickets: 214-559-2170.

NHL Breakout ’95. As part of a cross-country grass-roots hockey festival tour, kids ages 6-11 are eligible for a special NIKE/Sports Illustrated for Kids Rookie Camp where they will learn hockey basics and have the opportunity to interact with NHL players. September 9-10. 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Incredible Universe, 12710 Executive Drive, Dallas. Information: 214-991-2670.

Family Fun Festival. The Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary hosts the 18th annual get-together featuring a nature activity trail, a kiddie train, pony rides, hay ride tours of the wildlife area, entertainment, live birds of prey, face painting, water ink tattoos, games, prizes, food, and fun. September 9. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Heard Museum, One Nature Place, McKinney. Information: 214-562-5566.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF SEPTEMBER 14-17

Oktoberfest in Addison

FROM THE TOWN THAT SHOOTS ITS FIREWORKS ON THE 3RD OF JULY COMES Oktoberfest-in September. But if you can’t get to Bavaria, or even make a run down to Frediicksbuig, ilien Addison’s Oktoberfest Celebration may be your best chance to experience this prototvpically Teutonic revel. You won’t encounter flocks of jolly burghers in ledcrhosen, but even with the sedate suburban crowd, it’s a good party. ? The main attraction is of course beer. The test features custom-brewed German beer accompanied by bratwurst (and the entire wurst sausage family), sauerkraut, pretzels, and strudel. Those concerned over the authenticity of the food will be reassured by-knowing that the Frankfurt-owned Grand Kempinski will be among those preparing German specialties. ? Inside the same giant tent with the chow and brew is dancing. You’ll get traditional oompah music to your heart’s content, as well as some more eclectic fare, like the “nuclear polka” of local hipsters Brave Combo. And if the kids tire of the man with the big funny horn and of watching mom and dad do the chicken dance, there’s always the kids’ tent with its own petting zoo. ? And about the September date. As town officials are quick to point out, Addison’s Oktoberfest coincides with the opening of the grandpappy of all the beer-and-wurst blowouts, the one in Munich. ? September 14-17. Thursday-Friday, 5 p.rn.-midnight; Saturday, 11 a.m.-midnight; Sunday, noon-6 p.m. Addison Conference and Theatre Centre, Quorum Drive, Addison. Information: 1-800-ADDISON.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF SEPTEMBER 22-24

Piano Balloon Fest



THERE ARE, ONE HOPES, AT LEAST A FEW EVENTS IN LIFE THAT ARE WORTH DRAGGING oneself out of bed on a sleepy weekend morning. Converts know that the Piano Balloon Festival is one of these. Each September on a Saturday or Sunday morning, they gather their blankets, their thermoses of hot coffee, their children, and even their dogs and head to the dew-graced grasses of Bob Woodruff Park for the 7:30 a.m. launchings of 75 or so splendid hot-air balloons, mirrored and multiplied by the waters of the park’s lake. ? At the heart of this three-day festival are these quiet morning launches and their perhaps less serene but equally evocative echoes at 5 each evening. But the launchings are just the beginning: the spirit of the festival soars all day long. Browse or buy ceramics, jewelry, and folk art at artists’ booths, located in a pleasantly shady spot of the park. Take the kids by the art tent to create some take-home treasures. Enjoy demonstrations by local community groups, such as the police department and S.P.C.A. Then, grab a soft drink and a snack and settle down near the performing arts stage, where high-school dancers, musical groups, and other local entertainers trumpet their talents. Thrill seekers will especially enjoy the RE/MAX parachute team’s performance on Friday afternoon, ? Over the past 15 years, the Piano Balloon Fest, which attracts weekend crowds in excess of 300,000 people, has become a proven family event and raised tens of thousands of dollars for over 30 nonprofit organizations through community involvement in the festival. It’s Texas’ largest balloon festival. ? September 22-24. Balloon launches are at 7: 30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Friday, 4 p.m.-dark; Saturday, 6:30 a.m.-dark; Sunday, 6:30 a.m.-dark. Bob Woodruff Park, 2601 San Gabriel, Piano. Information: 214-867-7566.

Fairs & Fiestas

1995 State Fair of Texas. “Riding High” is the theme for this year’s annual 24-day extravaganza featuring such old faithfuls as Big Tex, The Texas Star (North America’s largest Ferris wheel), corny dogs, turkey legs, the new car show, the midway, and nightly fireworks choreographed to patriotic music. This year’s new attractions include a salute to the equestrians of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, who will present the traditional “Musical Ride” each evening, a model horse show, veggie an contest, miniature donkeys, and Frisbee-catching dogs. September 29 through October 22. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fair Park, Dallas. Information: 214-421-8716.

Bravo ’95. A community arts celebration along the Mandalay Canal featuring gourmet wine tasting, artist booths and exhibits, an autumn fashion show, performing artists, local celebrities, and tours aboard the water taxis along the canal. September 9. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mandalay Canal, just across the street from the Mustangs at Williams Square, Las Colinas. Information: 214-252-ARTS.

Wiggie-Waggie Walkathon. The SPCA of Texas sponsors its fourth annual fund-raiser, in which walkers and their dogs collect pledges from friends and corporate sponsors before taking to the course at the Mandalay Canal in Las Colinas. Also on site will be the Dallas Agility Working Dog Group performing dog-defying feats as well as various contests to showcase Fido’s best trick or most creative costume. Beverages and edibles are available for both humans and canines. September 30.<10a.rn.-2> p.m. Mandalay Canal, Las Colinas, Irving, Registration/Pledge forms: 214-651-9611, ext. 1.

33rd Indian Powwow. Traders Village salutes Native American heritage with a three-day powwow bringing together dozens of tribes from across the country to compete in over 11 categories of championship dance competition, in addition to Indian arts and crafts, a Powwow tepee contest, a cultural heritage area featuring storytelling, dance costume explanations, flute playing, and dance exhibitions as well as Indian food booths. September 8-10. Friday, 6 p.m.-midnight; Saturday, 10 a.m.-midnight; Sunday. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Traders Village. 2602 Mayfield Road. Grand Prairie. Information: 214-647-2331.

Grapefest. The largest wine festival in the state celebrates the town of Grapevine and the Texas wine industry. From wine seminars and a Sunday champagne brunch to a kids’ carnival, ans and crafts booths, and nonstop entertainment, there is something for everyone. September S-I0. Friday, 6 p.m.-ll p.m.: Saturday, 10 a.m.-ll p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Main Street Historic District, off Highway 114, two exits west of the north entrance to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. Grapevine. Information: 800-457-6338,

Addison’s Oktoberfest Achtung! Wir haben ein Party! An authentic German festival spanning four days of 30 hours of continuous “oompah” music, folk dancing, sing-alongs, German entertainers, clowns, a full-scale carnival and midway, arts and crafts, a traditional Bier Garten, a children’s area with a petting zoo, German sausage, sauerkraut, and Laugenpretzels (giant pretzels). September 14-17. Thursday and Friday, 5 p.m.-midnight; Saturday. 11 a.m.-midnight; Sunday, noon-6 p.m. Addison Conference and Theatre Centre, on Quorum Drive under the Addison water rower, Addison. Information: 1-800-ADDISON.

Piano’s Balloon Festival. Over 75 colorful hot-air balloons in all shapes and sizes ascend over Bob Woodruff Park during a three-day festival that includes an arts and crafts fair, demonstrations of death-defying jumps from the RE/MAX parachute team, a free kids’ art tent, continuous entertainment, and food. September 22-24. Balloon launches are at 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. each day of the event. Friday, 4 p.m.-dark; Saturday, 6:30 a.m.-dark; Sunday, 6:30 a.m.-dark. Bob Woodruff Park, 2601 San Gabriel, Piano. Information: 214-867-7566.

The Dallas Airshow. An array of military and private aircraft highlight a two-day event benefiting the Frontiers of Flight Museum. Also featured are aerial demonstrations including formation flying, the deployment of the US Army parachute team “The Golden Knights,” acrobatie flying, and the Harrier jump jet. September 16-17. 9 a.m.-5 9at.tn.-5 p.m. Dallas Love Field, Cedar Springs at Mockingbird, Dallas. Information: 214-350-1651.

Montage ’95. The 11th annual street festival, touting this year’s theme “A Feast for the Senses” benefiting the Dallas cultural arts scene, includes six stages of continuous music, dance, and theater, street performers, an interactive arts area with free arts and crafts activities, an art auction, 150 booths showcasing art in all media, an international food court featuring Dallas area restaurants, and nightly smooth jazz concerts. Nightly jazz concerts, September 8 and 9; Festival. September 9 and 10. Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Downtown Dallas Arts District, along Flora Street between the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center and the Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas. Information: 214-361-2011.

Celebrate Piano ’95: An International Arts Festival. A 10-day celebration of music, dance, theatre, film, poetry, visual arts, exhibits, concerts, street dances, and arts and crafts with workshops available in jazz, rhythm and blues, lyric writing, composing, dancing, theatre, and poetry along with a hands-on opportunity to create works of art. Allison Krauss in concert October 7, 8 p.m. September 29 through October 8. The events take place in various areas of Piano during the run of the festival. Call 214-520-ARTS.

General Granbury Civil War Reenactment. Relive the battles and skirmishes in the career of Granbury’s namesake through living history demonstrations, Blue and Gray encampments, shops, saloons, an 1860s fashion show, a Civil War-era ball, arts and crafts, entertainment, and Civil War-era games for children. September 23-24. Saturday, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday. 8:45 a.m.-3 p.m. Cheyne Farm, Highway 51 South, four miles south of Granbury Historic District, Granbury. Information and tickets: 800-950-2212 or 817-573-5548.

Bedford Blues Festival and Arts Fair. Local, regional, and national blues performers provide nonstop entertainment on two stages in addition to the display and selling of distinctive an works related to the blues phenomenon. Food, beverages, and life-style exhibits are also available. September 22-24. Friday, 4 p.m.-l1 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. On 27 acres off Central Drive and south of Highway 183, Bedford. Information: 214-831-1881.

Cultural Fest. In conjunction with the Volunteer Center of Dallas, this day-long festival highlights Dallas’ ethnic groups through entertainment, food, and arts and crafts. Also on site are a children’s area and various volunteer agency booths. September 16, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Artists Square, Arts District, downtown Dallas. Information: 214-828-2212.

39th Annual Greek Food Festival. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church continues the tasty tradition of serving up Dolma. baklava, kouram-biedes, Greek salad, and other native dishes during this 4-day celebration of the motherland. In addition to the great food, the Agora (market place) will be opened, featuring such items as Greek vases, jewelry, Greek music videos, dolls, and a “Greek Travel and Cultural Booth.” Greek music and folk dancing will be showcased by performers of all ages. September 21-24. Thursday, 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4 p.m. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Hillcrest and Alpha Roads,Dallas. Information:214-991-1166.

Western Week Country Fair and Parade. Old Town Lewisville hosts a full day of fun and activities for the entire family with a morning parade followed by a country fair replete with carnival rides, contests, arts and crafts booths, business expo, a children’s area with a petting zoo, three stages with entertainment, cowboy poetry, and rood and drinks. August 26-September 2. Parade September 2. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Parade begins at 10 a.m. at Huffines Drive and Mill Street. Old Town Lewisville, Main and Mill Street, Lewisville. Information: 214-436-9571.

Harvestfest. The historic square in downtown McKinney serves as the site for this year’s festivities, which include artisans and crafters, all-day entertainment, children s activities, food, and scarecrow contests. September 16. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Downtown McKinney, McKinney. Information: 214-242-8599.

Fort Worth’s Pioneer Days. Commemorating the early days when the pioneers settled on the banks of the Trinity River, this three-day family festival celebrates with pioneer reenactments, Wild West action, gunfighters, European, Mexican, and pioneer heritage villages, children’s entertainment and activities, a carnival, arts and crafts, a barbecue cook-off, and a Western parade. September 22-24. Friday, 6 p.m.-l a.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-l a.m.; Sunday, noon-6 p.m. Stockyards National Historic District, 100-200 Block of Exchange Avenue, Fort Worth. Information: 817-625-9839.

The Great Fountain Plaza Festival. The City of Richardson presents the annual community affair where events ranging from wacky games, a watermelon seed spitting contest, fountain fishing, and the Wacky Game Olympics round out a day including nonstop entertainment, food, children’s entertainment, and a Safety Fair. September 9. 11 a.m. to dark. Civic Center Fountain Plaza and Lawn, southwest corner of Central Expressway and Arapaho Road, Richardson. Information: 214-238-4021.

Sports

Mesquite Championship Rodeo. Bucking bulls, daredevil clowns, high-flying broncos, steer wrestlers, barrel racers, and professional cowboys take center stage in the 37th championship season. The Mesquite arena also sports a children’s petting zoo, pony rides, and an all-you-can-eat barbecue buffet as well. (Be warned: there’s no air conditioning here, so if it’s a hot night, dress appropriately.) Through September 30. Friday and Saturday evenings. Gates open at 6:30p.m.; rodeo begins at 8p.m. Mesquite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Drive, Mesquite. Information: 214-285-8777.

Terry Fox Run. The 1 lth annual run commemorating the life and courage of Canadian athlete Terry Fox, who in the prime of his youth lost his leg to cancer, features a 10K, 5K, 10K race/walk, and a Kiddie Kilometer. Registration forms for the runs are available at Luke’s stores in Dallas and in the Sports Club at the Four Seasons Resort in Irving. September 30. 7:45 a.m.-11 a.m. Four Seasons Resort and Club, 4150 North MacArthur Boulevard, Irving. Information: 214-717-2441.

Oktoberfest Run. Tom Thumb’s Run for the Children at Oktoberfest, benefiting A Weekend to Wipe Out Cancer, sponsors a 5K, 10K, and one-mile fun run to benefit cancer research at Children’s Medical Center of Dallas. This run is part of Addison’s annual Oktoberfest celebration (see page 45 for a full description of the event). September 16, 7:45 a.m. Addison Conference and Theatre Center, 15650 Addison Road, Addison. Registration: 214-640-8380.

Grand Prix Bike Tour. The Grand Prairie Chamber of Commerce’s eighth annual wheel competition offers bicycle and rollerblade enthusiasts a choice of courses, with mountain bike competition held at Cedar Hill State Park and the remainder of the competition at Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake. All participants are treated to a catered pasta lunch after the races. Skaters and riders can choose among 8 a.m. 100K. 8:15 a.m. 75K, 8:30 a.m. 50K, 8:40 a.m. 25K road courses; a 9:30 a.m. 10K “in-the-park” family fun ride; a 10 a.m., 10K rollerblade course; an 8 a.m., 7.5-mile Mountain Bike course; or an 8:20 a.m., 2.5-mile mountain bike course. September 16. Early packet pick-up will be September 14-15 at The Palace of Wax/Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! in Grand Prairie. Same-day registration begins at 6 a.m. Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake; from I-30 take Hwy. 360 south to I-12 east, exit Great Southwest Parkway from I-20. Turn right on Great Southwest Parkway, which becomes Lake Ridge Parkway to Lynn Creek Park, Grand Prairie. Information: 800-288-8FUN.

NHL Breakout ’95. Trading the ice for the asphalt, a traveling off-ice hockey tournament arrives in Dallas in a weekend summer festival. The tournament is part of a cross-country grass-roots festival featuring hockey-themed activities and entertainment, skills clinics, interactive events, music, food, contests, and celebrity players. A special section is set aside for junior hockey enthusiasts. September 9-10. 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Incredible Universe, 12710 Executive Drive, Dallas. Information: 214-991-2670.

Texas Rangers. The Texas Rangers play ball in their second season at their new home. Home games:

September 1 Kansas City 7:05 p.m.

September 2 Kansas City 7:05 p.m.

September 3 Kansas City 7:05 p.m.

September 4 Chicago 7:05 p.m.

September 5 Chicago 7:05 p.m.

September 6 Chicago 7:05 p.m.

September 7 Chicago 7:05 p.m.

September 22 California 7:05 p.m.

September 23 California 7:05 p.m.

September 24 California 2:05 p.m.

September 26 Oakland 7:05 p.m.

September 27 Oakland 7:05 p.m.

September 28 Seattle 7:05 p.m.

September 29 Seattle 7:05 p.m.

September 30 Seattle 7:05 p.m.

The Ballpark in Arlington, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington. Information: 817-273-5100.

Dallas Cowboys. Dallas’ own football machine begins another season at Texas Stadium. Home games:

September 10 Denver 3 p.m.

September 24 Arizona 3 p.m.

October 8 Green Bay noon

Texas Stadium, 2401 East Airport Freeway, Irving. Information: 579-5000.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF SEPT. 29 – OCT.1

The State Fair of Texas

THE HISTORY IS RICH: THE STATE’S FIRST STATE FAIR WAS HELD HERE IN 1886; THE 1936 Texas Centennial Exposition, which really put the city on the map, ran for six months and attracted six million visitors. As for bragging points, well, yes, it is the largest State Fair in the country, drawing more than 3 million people last year; the 212-foot tall Texas Star is the largest Ferris wheel in North America; and if Big Tex is not the world’s tallest slooooow-talking denim-clad landmark at which to meet your lost buddies, then just who is? Beyond all that, beyond the puppet shows, petting farms, crock pot and chili cooking contests, Cowboys of Color rodeo, the corn dogs formerly known as Fletcher’s, The Phantom of the Opera, the auto show, the Texas-OU game, the Wild Mouse or whatever they’re calling it this year, vibrating barcaloungers, pot-bellied pigs, and the still beautiful if shamefully neglected Art Deco buildings (watch out for falling plaster)-the Fair is lovable because it calls us back to a simpler way of life tooted in the land and its bounty Cows, at least for an afternoon, seem as important as computers. September 29 through October 22. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Fair Park, Dallas. Admission; $8 for adults, $4 for children under 48″ tall and seniors over age 60; free for children under 2. Information: 214-421-8716.