OPENERS

Theat

Quitters. A frontier musical about the pioneer women of yesteryear who recorded their family’s history stitch by stitch while braving the challenges of their time, is present ed by the Piano Repertory Theater. Through April21 ; 8:15 p.m., Friday & Saturday; 2:15 p.m., Sunday; An Centre Theatre, 1028 15th PL, historic downtown Piano. Information: 422-7460.

The Bargain. In this retelling of Faust’s legend, a young, modern-day sculptor is tempted by an earthy, maternai incarnation of the devil; staged with a musical twist by the Extra Virgin Performance Cooperative. April 3-28; 8 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday; 2 p.m., Sunday; McKinney Avenue Contemporary, 3120 McKinney Ave. Information: 871-ARTS.

Lie of the Mind. Sam Shepherd’s play is about an abusive husband and his wile, suffering from brain damage, who retreat to their parents’ homes looking for a safe haven but find family bonds that strangle. April 9-14; 8 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; 2:15 p.m., Sunday; Margo Jones Theatre, Hillcrest and Binkley avenues, SMU campus. Tickets: 768-ARTS.

Guarded Territories. Through unex-pected revelations and lots of humor, this play about a 75-year-old woman who clings to the image of her middle-aged son as a 10-year-old explores adjustments in human relationships. April 11-27; 8 p.m., Thursday-Saturday; Bath House Cultural Center at White Rock Lake, between Garland Road and Northwest Highway off Buckner. Tickets: 328-7764.

Rumors. Neil Simon’s farce tells the talc of a politician and his friends who scramble to keep their lies straight and stay out of trouble. 8 p.m., April 11-13, 18-20 & 25-27; 2 p.m., April 20,27 & 28; Garland Performing Arts Center. 300 N. Fifth St., Garland. Information: 349-1331.

The Foreigner. A comedy set in a rural Georgia fishing lodge in which a young man witnesses developing conspiracies and overhears dark secrets only because no one thinks he understands English. April 11-May 11; 8 p.m., Thursday-Saturday; Richardson Theatre Centre, 718 Canyon Creek Sq., Richardson. Reservations: 699-1130.

Carnival. Lyric Stage presents the Broadway musical about a young French girl named Lili who discovers “Love Makes the World Go Round” as she finds herself amidst a cast of traveling carnival performers, 8 p.m., April 12,13, 18-20 & 25-27; 2:30 p.m., April 14,20,21 & 27; Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving. Information: 554-8534.

New Voices, New Visions. Three student-authored plays selected for excellence from among the students enrolled in the Meadows School of the Arts Playwright Program run in a rotating repertory. 8 p.m., April 16-20; 2:15 p.m., April 21; Greer Gar-son Theatre, Hillcrest and Binkley avenues, SMU campus. Information: 768-ARTS.

Travesties. TCU Theatre presents Tom Stoppard’s play as part of the ongoing Tandy Retrofest’96.8 p.m., April 24-27; 2 p.m., April 27-28. University Theatre, S. University at Cantey, TCU campus, Fort Worth. Information: 817-921-7626.

Picnic. The Pulitzer Prize-winning tale is about small-town Kansas life and two middle-aged women, deserted by their husbands, who meet a young man and become driven to distraction by his animal virility. The play is being staged by the Quad C Theater. 8 p.m., April 25-27; 2:15 p.m., April 28; Collin County Community College. 2800 E. Spring Creek Pkwy., Piano. Information: 881-5809.

Dance

The Parsons Dance Company, TITAS presents the “golden boy of American dance,” David Parsons, who combines energy, humor, and unique interpretations to classical and modern dances. 8 p.m., April 12 & 13; McFarlin Auditorium, Hillcrest Avenue and McFarlin Boulevard, SMU campus. In formation: 528-5576.

Ballet Dallas. The troupe brings their seventh season to a close with die James Clouser-choreo-graphed “Carmina Bin-ana.” 8 p.m., April 12 & 13; 2 p.m., April 14; The Majestic Theatre, 1925 Elm St. Information: 748-3930.

Fort Worth-Dallas Ballet. On the program is Tchaikovsky’s “Romeo and Juliet Overture-Fantasy” as well as Johannes Brahms’ waltzes played by pianist Shields-Collins Bray. The Hollywood-style finale “Who Cares?” is set to eight Gershwin songs. 8 p.m., April 19 & 20; Fail’ Park Music Hall. Fair Park. Information: i-800-377-9988; tickets at Dillard’s, 1-800-654-9545.

Pieces. Dance ensemble will present “Selected Pieces” including the premiere of a ballet by choreographer Jacquelyn Ralls Forcher. 8 p.m.. April 20; 2 & 8 p.m., April 21; Danse En L’air, 9205 Skillman St., Suite 104. Information: 601-9832.

SMU Spring Dance Concert. In addition to showcasing choreography from the 20th century, the concert will feature new dances from this year’s choreography graduate students. 8 p.m., April 23-27; 2:15 p.m., April 28; Bob Hope Theatre, Owens Arts Center, 6101 Bishop Blvd., SMU campus. Information: 768-ARTS.

New Works Concert. The Dance Consortium performs experimental and developmental works of dance in their final season performance. 8 p.m., April 25-27; The University of Texas at Dallas Theatre, 2601 N. Floyd Rd., Richardson. Tickets: 883-2915.

Music

Sammons Jazz. The Sammons Jazz concert series opens with the Randy Lee Trio and master guitarist Gene Bertoncini who specializes in Brazilian and jazz music. 7:30 p.m., April 3; Sammons Center for the Arts, 3630 Harry Hines Blvd. Information: 520-ARTS.

Trisha Yearwood. One of country music’s queens makes her Meyerson debut, singing her hit songs including “Lying to the Moon” and “Hard Promise to Keep” as part of the JCPenney SuperPops series. 8:15 p.m., April 5 & 6; Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. Information: 692-0203.

Emily Mitchell. The harpist and singer presents a concert of classical and modem compositions. 3 p.m., April 6; Horchow Auditorium, Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. Harwood St. Information: 922-1229.

Piano Chamber Orchestra. With guest violinist David Kim, the orchestra performs a repertoire including works from Beethoven, Paganini, and Halffter. Kim was die only American in 1986 to win Moscow’s International Tchaikovsky Competition. 8:15 p.m., April 13; Fellowship Bible Church North, 850 Lexington Ave., Piano. Information: 985-1983.

Richardson Symphony Orchestra. Featuring works from Schumann, Tchaikovsky, Barber, and Respeghi, the Richardson Symphony Orchestra accompanies guest violinist Elmar Oliveira in an evening of classical fare. 8 p.m., April 13; Performance Auditorium, Richardson High School, 1250 W. Belt Line Rd., Richardson. Information: 234-4195.

Rosewood and Co. Selections from the Renaissance to the present, with an emphasis on early music, played by an all-woman classical guitar ensemble. 3 p.m., April 14; auditorium, J. Erik Jonsson Library, 1515 Young St. Information: 670-1400.

Global Rhythms. Guest conga artist Poncho Sanchez joins University of North Texas students for an evening of percussion ensembles. 8 p.m., April 15; Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. Tickets: 817-565-3805 or any Dillard s Box Office.

Dallas Classic Guitar Society. Liona Boyd, “The First Lady of Guitar,” pays tribute to the genius of Brazilian guitarist Laurindo Almeida. 8 p.m., April 17; Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. Information: 528-3733.

Dallas Symphony Classical Series. Guest conductor Claus Peter Flor leads the Dallas Symphony Chorus in a program including Haydn’s “Symphony No. 22 in E-flat” and Cherubini’s “Requiem Mass in C minor.” 8:15 p.m., April 11 -13;2:30p.m., April 14. Guest conductor Flor will also lead the Beaux Ans Trio in a concert featuring Bruckner’s ” Symphony No. 1 in C minor” and “Beethoven’s Concerto for Violin, Cello, Piano, and Orchestra in C major, Opus 56, Triple Concerto.” 8:15 p.m., April 18-20; Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. Information: 692-0203.

The Musk Never Ends. The Vocal Majority, the award-winning men’s a cappella chorus, ends the concert season with renditions of Nat King Cole’s “Mona Lisa,” “Smile,” and “Unforgettable.” 8 p.m., April 19; 2 & 8 p.m., April 20; McFarlin Auditorium, Hillcrest Avenue and McFarlin Boulevard, SMU campus. Tickets; 526-8686.

Have Tape ..Will Tattle (or This Bug’s for You). The Press Club of Dallas’ annual Gridiron Show spoofs the year’s news with performances by Dallas media. Gov. George W. Bush will be honored as Headliner of the Year. Dress rehearsal (open to the public), 7 p.m., April 18 & 19; gala performance, reception, and dinner, 6 p.m., April 20; Stemmons Auditorium, Wyndham Anatole Hotel, 2201 Stemmons Fwy. Information: 740-9988.

Al Jarreau. TheJCPenney SuperPops series hosts die singer in an evening of his signature smooth jazz sound. 8:15 p.m., April 26 & 27; 2:30 p.m., April 28; Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. Information: 670-3600. Fine Arts Chamber Players. The expertise of Dallas Symphony horn player Gregory Hustis, Vancouver Symphony concertmaster Robert Davidovici, and SMU composer Simon Sargon will be combined in a performance of Brahms “Trio for Horn, Violin, and Piano” and a Sargon trio entitled “The Legacy.” 3 p.m., April 27; Horchow Auditorium, Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. Harwood St. Information: 922-1229.

Art & Artifacts

African American Museum. “Panoramas of Passage: Changing Landscapes of South Africa” (through April 21) showcases South African art that offers varied interpretations of the landscape and its political and cultural use throughout the country’s history. “Elizabeth Catlett: Works on Paper” (April 12-July 7) includes more than 73 works on paper spanning the artist’s career as a printmaker. Reflecting concepts from African, Mexican, and African-American cultures, the artist combines basic elements prevalent in all three cultures. “Connections: African Vision in African-American Art” (through July 28) explores, within the context of an American system of values and customs, the influence of the African belief system on African-American art depicting religion, social life, and other secular themes. Noon-5 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; 10a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday; 1-5 p.m., Sunday; 3536 Grand Ave., Fair Park. Information: 565-9026.

Anion Carter Museum. “Thomas Eakins and the Swimming Hole” (through May 5) shows the preliminary photos, oil studies, and portraits of the men depicted in Eakins’ best-known work. The exhibit illustrates the painter’s interest in human anatomy and movement, his use of photography as an artistic medium, and the modern reinier-pretation of classical ideas. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m., Sunday; 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth. Information: 817-738-1933.

Arlington Museum of Art. “Buttered Side Up” (April I3-June 14) features large-scale abstract and geometric paintings and sculptures by three Houston artists. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday; 201 W. Main St., Arlington. Information: 817-275-4600.

International Artists. ” Société Internationale Des Beaux Arts Exhibition” (April 1-April 20) showcases 80 works of the internationally acclaimed French and American members of Le Salon des Artistes Francais. 10a.m-4 p.m? Monday-Friday; Upper West Pavilion, Trammell Crow Center, 2001 Ross Ave. Information: 749-6753.

Dallas Historical Society. “Bound for Texas: The Lone Star Story from the Age of Exploration to the Civil War” (ongoing) tells the story of the cultural and economic forces that shaped the region prior to statehood through maps, letters, and photographs. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m., Sunday; Hall of State, Fair Park. Information: 421-4500.

Dallas Museum of Art. “Hot Cars, High Fashion, Cool Stuff: Designs of the 20th Century” (March 31 -July 14) features “I Love Lucy” reruns, Pucci fashions, rock V roll memorabilia, and vintage cars in an exhibit chronicling the history of 20th-century American design. “The Heart That Sings, the Spirit That Soars” {through April 28) displays works in a variety of media by five African-American artists: Mr. Imagination, Anita Knox, Vicki Meek, David Philpot, and Jean Lacy. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Thursday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday & Sunday; 1717 N. Harwood St. Information: 922-1200 or 9224355.

Dallas Museum of Natural History. “Monarca: Butterfly Beyond Boundaries” (through June 2) teaches visitors about butterflies through trilingual (Spanish, French, and English) interactive multimedia exhibits and live butterfly displays. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Sunday; 3535 Grand Ave., Fair Park. Information: 421-DINO.

Dallas Public Library. “Dallas Theater Center: The Early Years, 1955-1982” (opens April 9) is a never-before-seen collection of thousands of documents, photographs, blueprints, sets, costumes, records, and correspondence from the archives during the years that Paul Baker was managing director of the only standing theater in the United States designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday & Saturday; 1-5 p.m.,Sunday; 1515 Young St. Information: 670-1400.

Kimbell Art Museum. “Severini Futurista: 1912-1917” (through April 7) presents Italian artist Gino Severini’s vision, in both abstract and realism, of a future filled with noise, light, energy, and speed. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday; noon-8 p.m., Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday; rtoon-5 p.m., Sunday; 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth. Information: 817-332-8451.

McKinney Avenue Contemporary. “Solo Exhibit” (April 20-June 9) will feature a collection of contemporary sculptures by artist Daniel Wiener. “Untitled” (April 20-June 9} will showcase artist Jeanne Silverthorne’s cast-rubber chandelier. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m., Sunday; 3120 McKinney Ave. Information: 953-1212.

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. “Howard Hodgkin: Paintings 1975-1995” (through July 14) shows Hodgkin’s colorful, evocative paintings that are considered representational by some, abstract by others. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday; noon-5 p.m., Sunday; 1309 Montgomery St., Fort Worth. Information: 817-738-9215.

The Modern at Sundance Square. “Ruckus Rodeo” (through April 211 was reinstalled for January’s 100th anniversary of the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. Red Grooms’ huge piece, not seen in Fort Worth since 1992, recreates the interior of a rodeo arena, complete with Brahman bull and bareback bronco riding, steer wrestling, rodeo clowns, and an audience. The permanent collection includes contemporary works by David Hockney, Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Frank Stella. Local artists featured are Randy Twaddle, Joe Guy, and Richard Thompson. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Wednesday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Thursday-Saturday; 1 -5 p.m., Sunday; 410 Houston St., Fort Worth. Information: 817-335-9215.

The University of Dallas. “American Indian Realism” (April 12-May 11) documents through photographs the reset-dement and changes forced on the late 19th-century Plains Indians. 10a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m., Sunday; Haggar Gallery, 1845 E. Northgate Dr., Irving. Information: 721-5319.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF APRIL 5-7

“Dallas in Wonderland” and Easter Egg Hunt at the Arboretum

ALICE HAD TO FALL DOWN A RABBIT hole to get to her wonderland, but local children have only to walk amid the 66 acres of blooming azaleas, tulips, and daffodils at the Dallas Arboretum to play croquet with the Queen of Hearts or partake in a Mad Tea Party.

The grand finale of the annual Dallas Blooms event showcasing the arboretum’s spring foliage is also the final weekend of the “Dallas in Wonderland” exhibit, featuring topiary shapes of well-known Alice in Wonderland characters, including the Chesire Cat, the King and Queen of Hearts, the March Hare, and of course Alice, all around the lawns.

For family fun, there’s an Easter Sunday egg hunt (actually, two hunts, each divided into three age groups}. While searching for more than 25,000 colorful, candy- and gift-filled eggs, kids can see Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny hopping about the grounds with Tom, the Tom Thumb mascot.

Gather the family for an Easter photo in front of full blooms of the nation’s largest public azalea collection. There will be children’s art activities and a garden hunt, and mom and dad can attend a variety of horticultural and cooking demonstrations hosted by plant experts and gurus from Whole Foods Market. Live music and animal exhibits round out the event.

Discount coupons are available at Tom Thumb food stores. All visitors are encouraged to arrive at least one hour before scheduled egg hunts and use the free off-site shuttle service. The Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd.. is open daily from 10 a,m.-6 p.m. Admission: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, and S3 for children ages 6 to 12. On-site parking is $2. Group rates are available. For information on the event or off-site shuttle parking, call 327-8263.

Film

USA Film Festival. The 26th annual festival will span eight days and highlight the best new independent short and feature films. Discussions with filmmakers from around the world as well as the National Short Film and Video Competition will be a pan of the activities. April 18-25. AMC Glen Lakes Theatres, 9450 N. Central Expwy. Information and schedule: 821-6300 or 821-6397.

Lectures

Arts & Letters Live. The fifth annual literary series lauding Texas writers and Lone Star works hosts 17 Dallas events as well as new versions of the “Texas Bound” and “Distinguished Writers” series. Six other programs will combine literature with the performing and visual arts. “Texas Bound” shows are: 6:30& 8:30p.m., April 1, New York’s Symphony Space Theater marks its fifth annual appearance with these selected shorts: Kate Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour” read by Mia Dillon, Melissa Banks’ “The Best Possible Light” read by Christina Pickles, and Robertson Davies’ “The Cat That Went to Trinity” read by Isaiah Sheffer; 6:30 & 8:30 p.m., April 15: Robert Olen Butler’s “Jealous Husband Returns in Form of Parrot” read by Octavio Solis, Charlie McMurtry’s “Keeping the Myth Alive” read by Nick Stahl, Violette Newton’s “To Make Talk” read by Lisa Lee Schmidt, and Jan Epton Seale’s “The Noise Expert” read by Raphael Parry. The Distinguished Writers productions are: 7:30 p.m., April 11, memoir writer Mary Karr; and 8 p.m., April 19, detective fiction writer Tony Hil-lerman, Horchow Auditorium, Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. Harwood St. The Literary Cafe features are: 8:30 p.m., April 17, Adults Only is the theme for an evening of fun, risqué readings by Tom Doyal, C.W. Smith, Barbara Renaud Gonzalez, Tina Parker, and Katherine Owens. ClubDaDa,2720ElmSt. Poets and Photography will feature: 5 p.m., April 28, prize-winning poets Naomi Shihab Nye, Heather McHugh, Richard Howard, and Edward Hirsch reflecring on images by photographer Robert Capa, Nadar, Tina Modotti, and others. The McKinney Avenue Contemporary, 3120 McKinney Ave. Tickets: 922-1219 or 922-1220.

Women and Heart Health Luncheon. Speaker Kathleen Passaniai will talk about critical health issues for women, and the relationship between humor and health. Benefits the American Heart Association. Il:30a.m., April 10; Wyndham Anatole Hotel,2201 Stemmons Fwy. Information: 748-7212.

The Black Lists. Legendary folk singer Pete Seeger, known for his songs “Where Have All the Flowers Gone” and “If I Had a Hammer,” and his former bandmate and local writer Millard Lampell will compare present-day events to those of the turbulent ’60s, including the creation of the Hollywood Black List spawned by the McCarthy witch hunts of the ’50s. 7:30 p.m., April 11; Hughes-Trigg Ballroom, Hughes Trigg Student Center, off Dyer Street on the SMU campus. Information: 960-4253.

Juanita Miller. Julia Sweeney’s Tuesday Talk series hosts Dallas’ major arts supporter in a talk enti-ded “How to Start an Opera, Found a Theater, and Save a Symphony.” Making introductions will be Val Imm Bashour, former society editor of the Dallas Times Herald. April 16; 11:45 a.m., registration; noon, talk; 1 p.m., lunch; Dallas Country Club, 4100 Beverly Dr. Reservations: 520-02O6.

Music and the Mystical Experience. Yoga and meditation teacher and composer J. Donald Walters will share his experiences channeling spiritual inspiration through music. 7:30 p.m., April 18; Unity Church, 6525 Forest Ln. Information: 437-3056.

Jane Goodall. The noted anthropologist and researcher leaves her African dwellings to participate in the SMU Godbey Lecture Series. 8 p.m., April 24; McFarlin Auditorium, Hillcrest Avenue and McFarlin Boulevard, SMU campus. Tickets: 373-8000.

The Women’s Forum. The American College of Radiology holds a public question-and-answer session concerning breast cancer with the nation s leading medical experts and patient advocates. 7:30 p.m., April 29; Wyndham Anatole Hotel, 2201 Stemmons Fwy. Information: 1-800-227-5463.

Jane Roberts Wood. The Friends of the Richardson Public Library hosts the West Texas-bred author of such popular books as The Train to Estelline, A Place Called Sweet Shrub, and Dance a Little Longer. 8 p.m., April 30; Richardson Civic Center, 411 W. Arapaho Rd., Richardson. Information: 238-4000.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF APRIL 12-14

Fort Worth’s Main Street Arts Festival

NINE CITY BLOCKS IN DOWNTOWN Fort Worth, ranging from glass skyscrapers to the red-brick renovations of Sundance Square, serve as the site each spring for the Southwest’s largest free visual arts and entertainment festival. The four-day event features 400 entertainers, from ethnic and classical dance to theater to music, both local acts and top-name concert draws. More than 200 artists show their work, some at booths for sale, some as part of the invitational fine arts competition. Food vendors and the city’s restaurants serve an array of food, and there will be hands-on arts and crafts for children, as well as a family area with inventions and computer-related activities. Best of all, did we mention admission is free? 11 a.m.-midnight, Thursday; 10 a.m.-midnight, Friday & Saturday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Sunday; Main Street, downtown Fort Worth. Information: 817-332-9966.

Home & Garden

Primavera Galleria. For those who can’t decide whether to shop or stop and smell the spring blossoms, the Dallas Galleria makes the decision moot with their 11th annual in-mall greenhouse. Showcasing the top trends in home gardening, Primavera Galleria hosts more than a dozen of die area’s noted landscapers who create lavish gardens featuring ponds, waterfalls, and stone sculptures. Through April 7; 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday-Saturday; noon-6 p.m., Sunday. 13350 N. Dallas Pkwy. Information: 702-7100.

Native Plant Festival. The Heard Museum sponsors the seventh annual event featuring more than 10,000 plants from 125 species of shade trees, perennials, shrubs, vines, ground coverings, wild-flowers, and grasses. 4-7 p.m., April 12; 9 a.m.-6 p.m., April 13; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., April 14; Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, One Nature Place, McKinney. Information: 562-5566.

Northwood Women’s Club Home Tour. The 21st annual North Dallas private home tour benefiting various Dallas charities such as Bryan’s House, the Alzheimer’s Association, and the Deaf Action Center features a lunch, bazaar, bake sale, and plant sale along with the tour. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., April 19; luncheon, bazaar, and sales take place at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Hillcrest Avenue and Alpha Road. Tickets: 233-1176.

Fort Worth’s Spring Tour of New Homes. More than 200 homes in six Tarrant County communities are leaving their front doors unlocked as part of the fifth annual event showcasing area builders. The free tour kicks off the Second Annual New Home Show to be held April 26-28 at the Tarrant County Convention Center. Patrons can pick up a map at the Home Show or look for one in the April 27th issue of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. The tours will be offered April 26-May 12 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Information: 817-429-3474.

Kidstuff

Little Women. The Dallas Children’s Theater presents the classic love-laughter- and mischief-filled saga of the March sisters’ coming of age, Through April 21; 7:30 p.m., Friday; 1:30 p.m., Saturday; 1:30 &4 p.m., Sunday. El Centro College Theater, Market and Main streets. Tickets: 978-0110.

Busytown. Richard Scarry’s storybook town and characters come to life in an exhibit encouraging young visitors to express themselves. Through May 5; 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday-Sunday; 1318 Second Ave., Fair Park, Information: 428-5555.

Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bate. The Fort Worth Zoo (through May 29.1 introduces these mysterious, nocturnal creatures to visitors through hands-on exhibits and displays featuring the zoo s collection of Indian and Egyptian fruit bats. On April 6 at 8:30 a.m. ($15 with breakfast) and April 11 at 6:30 p.m. (S30 with craft activities), families can enjoy special classes in which the zoo staff will provide detailed information on bats and how they live. Entrance to the Masters of the Night exhibit costs $2.50 in addition to regular zoo admission: $5.50 for adults, $3 for children 3-12, $2.50 for seniors. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., daily; 1989 Colonial Pkwy., Fort Worth. Information: 817-871-7050.

Whodunit? The Science of Solving Crime. How did the great Sherlock Holmes solve crimes? How do our own police detectives do it? Elementary, Watson. In this returning hands-on exhibit, children learn the craft of solving crimes through exploration, data collection, hypothesis testing, and decision making. Through May 19; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday; 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday; 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday & Saturday; noon-8 p.m., Sunday. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, 1501 Montgomery St., Fort Worth. Information: 817-654-1356.

Lone Star Dinosaurs. McKinney’s Heard Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary digs up real fossils, a cluster of dinosaur eggs, and specimens of a pterosaur, a Tyrannosaurus rex, and other giant reptiles in a 25,000-square-foot exhibit. SMU paleontologist Dr. Louis Jacobs, author of Lone Star Dinosaurs, will be available to answer questions. Also on display will be the original paintings Texas wildlife artist Karen Carr created for Dr. Jacob’s book. Kids can enjoy interactive exhibits. April 3-28; 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m., Sunday; Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, One Nature Place, McKinney. Information: 562-5566.

The Adventures of Peter Rabbit. The adventures of Peter, Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cottontail, adapted from stories by Beatrix Potter. 7:30 p.m., April 5; 2 p.m., April 6; Casa Mariana Children’s Playhouse, 3101 W. Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth. Information: 817-332-2272.

Pepsi Jazzoo. The Dallas Zoo livens things up for animals and visitors alike with entertainment by various jazz groups, face painting, kid’s crafts and activities, presentations by zoo keepers, and a petting zoo. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., April 6; The Dallas Zoo, 621 E. Clarendon Dr. Information: 670-5656.

Tuck Everlasting. The Dallas Children’s Theater brings to life die award-winning mystery about young Winnie Foster who ventures beyond her front gate and uncovers the Tuck family secret. For ages 7 and older. Tickets are $11 for adults, $9 for children. April 12-May 19; 7:30 p.m., Friday; 1:30 & 4:30 p.m., Saturday & Sunday; Dallas Crescent Theater, 2215 Cedar Springs Rd. Tickets: 978-0110.

Faces. Families can join visiting artists from Houston for free hands-on art activities at the Arlington Museum of Art. 1-3 p.m., April 13; 201 W. Main St., Arlington. Information; 817-275-4600.

JASON Project VII: Adapting to a Sea of Change. Students from around the world, including Bermuda, Mexico, and the United Kingdom will be electronically linked to a U.S. Navy submarine, the NR-1, and the National Undersea Research Center’s underwater habitat AQUARIUS to explore Florida’s shallow waterways. The children will watch and assist Dr. Robert Ballard and a team of scientists as they try to better understand man’s impact on the fragile coastal environment. April 15-26; 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m. & 3 p.m., daily satellite broadcasts. Tickets are 58 for adults and $5 for children 3 -12 and include entrance to The Science Place. Science Place members will pay $2. Broadcasts can be viewed in the Daniel “Chappie” Tames Learning Center, 1718 Robert B. Cullum Blvd. For more information or group tickets, call 428-5555.

Tom Sawyer, The Musical. The Richardson Children’s Theatre presents the lyrical version of Mark Twain’s mischievous character and the adventures he shares with his pals along the Mississippi River. 2 & 7:30 p.m., April 19-21; University of Texas at Dallas, Floyd and Campbell roads, Richardson. Tickets: 690-5029.

Pet Rock Show & Circus. The Dallas Museum of Natural History invites families to bring their trained and talented pet rocks to display and compete in several contests. All pet rocks must be able to “play dead, roll over, and stay!” Competing in the beauty category, two lucky pet rocks have the chance of going home with the tide of either Sharon “Stone” or “Rock” Hudson. Rocks may come in costume or in casual or formal dress, and they may bring whatever props needed to make an impression on the judges. Museum curators, geologists, and mineral experts will be available to certify a pet rock’s pedigree, whether pure or mixed breed. The Museum will grant free admission to any child accompanied by their pet rock. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., April 20; 3535 Grand Aye., Fair Park. Information: 421-DINO.

Fairs & Fiestas

Deep Ellum Spring Arts Festival. The eclectic art and music haven hosts the first in a series of three street parties displaying the diverse talents of metal-welding musicians, chalk poets, body-painting muralists, and live music by local bands. 7 p.m.-midnight, April 5; 11 a.m.-midnight, April 6; 1 -9p.m., April7; Deep Ellum. Information: 748-4332.

Mesquite Rodeo and Parada. The rodeo opens its 39th season of bronco riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, and barrel racing with a parade through Old Town Square in Mesquite. NASA astronaut Jim Reilly, a Mesquite native, will serve as the grand marshal. The parade begins at the intersection of Belt Line Road and Agnew Street. 10 a.m., April 13. Information: 285-0211. Rodeo competitions, as well as a children’s barnyard petting zoo and a barbecue dinner, are held every Friday and Saturday night. April 5-Oct. 5; 6:30 p.m., gates open; 8 p.m., rodeo begins; Mesquite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Dr. (Military Parkway exit of LBJ Freeway), Mesquite. Information: 222- BULL or 285-8777.

Dallas Auto Show. More than 700 sports cars, luxury sedans, mini- vans, and 4x4s will fill the Dallas Convention Center in honor of the 100th anniversary of the American automobile. Also included will be an exhibit featuring classic vehicles as well as popu lar concept cars of the future, a trade show, and a children’s area. 4-10 p.m., April 10 & 11; 11 a.m.-11 p.m., April 12; 10 a.m.-11 p.m., April 13; noon-8 p.m., April 14; Dallas Convention Center, 650 S. Griffin St. Information: 637-0531.

Kennedy Center Imagination Celebration. This free event brings together music, dance, storytelling, theater, and visual ans in hands-on workshops, exhibits, and demonstrations for families to express (heir creativity. The national event, started by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in 1977, is celebrating its 10th anniversary in Dallas. 11 a.m.-5 p.m., April 13; grounds of the Dallas Museum of Art and adjacent streets, 1717 N. Harwood St. Information: 823-7601.

Bluebonnet Trails. Armed with free maps, visitors can follow the 40-plus mile trail in and around Ennis blooming with bluebonnets throughout the month. There will be two weekends of activities featuring an arts and crafts show, an art show, children’s activities, Czech pastries, souvenirs and refreshments, and an on-site horticulturist. The weekend activities are from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., April 13 & 14 and 20 & 21; Pierce Park, Ennis Avenue and Main Street, Ennis. Information: 878-4748.

Wildflower & Music Festival. Come to the heart of Richardson’s Telecom Corridor, but leave high-tech behind for awhile to stop and smell the surrounding wildflowers. A Taste of Richardson will feature food from more than 40 restaurants, and the event also features arts and crafts booths, educational programs, three stages of live music, a children’s area, an International Pavilion with cultural exhibits and ethnic entertainment, a laser light show, and an outdoor symphony concert. 6:30-10:30 p.m., April 25 (A Taste of Richardson); 6-11 p.m., April 26 (Battle of the Bands); 10 a.m.- 10 p.m., April 27 (concert with laser light show); 11 a.m.-9 p.m., April 28 (The Sounds of Freedom concert by the Richardson Symphony Orchestra); Greenway Office Park, Central Expressway and Campbell Road, Richardson. Information: 680-7943.

The Mandalay Festival of Arts The canals of Las Colinas provide the backdrop for a European-style festival featuring more than 150 juried decorative artists along with street performers, poets, live entertainers, and a video arts exhibition. The national touring exhibit Imagemakers Rock ’n’ Roll Art Expo will showcase 150 oils, water-colors, drawings, silk-screens, and lithographs by rock artists such as Jerry Garcia, Michael Jackson, and John Lennon. There will also be a children’s area, interactive arts exhibits, and an international assortment of culinary specialties. 7 p.m.-midnight, April 26; 11 a.m.-midnight, April 27; 11 a.m.-9 p.m., April 28; Las Colinas Urban Center, Williams Square, Irving. Information: 831-1881.

PigFest. The whole nation has been going hog-wild over Babe, the Oscar-nominated talking pig. Now, Coppell is holding its first-ever PigFest, with events including pig races, a pot-bellied pig fashion show, a parade, a petting zoo, and a pig-nic and pork cook-off. Trout Fishing in America will perform “Prom Night in Pig Town ” among other songs in a special concert. Tickets are $2 in advance (at city hall and banks and grocery stores in Coppell) or $3 at the door. Children under 3 are admitted free. 6-10 p.m., April 26; 10 a.m.-10 p.m., April 27; 11 a.m.-5 p.m., April 28; Andy Brown Park West, 363 N. Denton Tap Rd., Coppell. Information: 393-2923.

Scarborough Renaissance Faire. Step back to the time of King Henry VIII as the 16th annual festival transforms Waxahachie into a 16th-century English village replete with jousting matches, court jesters, jugglers, period arts and crafts, a mud pit, authentically dressed wenches, noblemen and commoners, and food such as turkey tegs and rogue sandwiches. April 27-June 16; 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday & Sunday; exit 399A off I-35S, near Waxahachie. Information: 938-3247.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF APRIL 19.21

Angels and the Unusual: Dallas Theater Center’s Big D Festival of the Unexpected, and Angels in America: Millennium Approaches

EARLIER IN THE YEAR THAN USUAL, THE Dallas Theater Center’s Melissa Cooper will produce the fourth annual Big D Festival of the Unexpected, an innovative series of theater productions, cabaret performances, solo works, vaudeville, musical theater, and works-in-progress by local and national artists. Performances are scheduled April 12 through 21 for all hours of night and day, including lunchtime shows and late-night cabarets.

While the festival takes over DTC’s pocket theaters-Bryant Hall and Franks Place-the theater’s main stage production of Angels in America: Millennium Approaches will continue at the Kalita Humphreys Theater. This Pulitzer Prize-and Tony Award-winning epic play by Tony Kushner examines the political, spiritual, and sexual landscape of contemporary America.

Anchoring the Big D Festival of the Unexpected is the cabaret show Little Mahagonny by Threepenny Opera creators Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill, whose story of the mythical “pleasure city” Mahagonny caused riots during its first performances in the 1920s. Also on the schedule is playwright Len Jenkin’s work-in-progress. Like I Say; Meditations In An Emergency, an evening of three short Noh plays by Naomi Iiszuka, Frank O’Hara, and Matthew Wilder; and Entrevista 187, a comic political nightmare by Gil Kofman.

Three one-person performances will examine the trials and tribulations of homosexuals, immigrants, and women: The Bible Belt and Other Accessories, written and performed by Paul Bonin-Rodriguez; Nostalgia Maldita: 1-900-MEXICO, written and performed by Yareli Arizmendi, who co-starred in the film Like Water for Chocolate; and I Used to Be One Hot Number: Ramonalogues about the Body, Desire, Transcendence, and the Ugly Truth About Snow White, written and performed by Rhonda Blair, chair of SMU’s theatre division.

The Flaming Idiots, an Austin-based trio of contemporary vaudevillians and a festival tradition, return to the festival for a third year. The festival will close April 21 with a jazz concert featuring Dallas musicians.

Festival passes good for a single admission to each event are $20; single-event tickets are $7. With a ticket stub, festival-goers receive 10 percent off on tickets for Angels In America, which will be performed through April 28 at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday & Sunday; 8 p.m., Friday; 2 & 8 p.m., Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. For a festival schedule, information, and tickets, call 522-TFXX.

Sights & Scenes

Conspiracy Museum. The museum displays information on assassinations since 1835, including those of Abraham Lincoln, Garfield McKinley, John F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King, Jr. The crash of Flight 007 in Korea is also examined. Tickets are $7 for adults, $6 for students and seniors, $3 for children 8-12. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Sunday; first floor, Katy Building, 110 S. Market St. Information: 741-3040.

Dallas Aquarium. More than 320 aquatic species live in the tanks of the aquarium, including sharks, a 125-pound snapping turtle, sea horses, piranhas, and a 4-foot electric eel. Some of the newer exhibits include the Amazon Flooded Forest, a California kelp forest, a living coral reef, and the World of Aquatic Diversity featuring unusual survival adaptations. Public feedings of the piranhas are held at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday; shark feedings are at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Friday & Sunday. Tickets are 52 for adults, $ 1 for children 3-11.9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., daily; First Avenue and Martin Luther King Boulevard, Fair Park. Information: 670-8443.

Dallas World Aquarium. One of the newest additions to the attractions in the West End, the Dallas World Aquarium features 12 saltwater tanks replicating the underwater environments around the world. Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for children and seniors; group rate for 10 or more is S3 per person. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., daily; 1801 N. Griffin St. Information: 720-2224.

Dallas Zoo. Visitors can see more than 2,000 animals in a variety of natural displays, including The Wilds of Africa, 25 acres where the animals roam free in desert, forest, mountain, woodland, river, and bush habitats. One of the two walk-through aviaries includes a waterfall, and children love the Reptile Discovery Center. Tickets are $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $2.50 for children 3-11. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily; 621 E. Clarendon Dr. (Ewing exit of 1-35). Information: 670-5656.

Fair Park. Built in the 1930s to celebrate the Texas centennial, Fair Parks 227 acres feature art deco buildings, an aquarium, Dallas’ Museum of Natural History, The Science Place, the Age of Steam Museum, the Civic Garden Center, the Starplex Amphitheater, the Hall of State, and picnic areas. The Friends of Fair Park and the City of Dallas run the Visitors Center (9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday) in the Magnolia Lounge and show a 10-minute film about the park. Walking tours are available by appointment. Open daily, year round. 1300 Robert B. Cullum Blvd. at Grand Avenue. Information: 670-8400 or 426-3400.

Fori Worth Zoo. In one of the nation’s most acclaimed zoos, more than 4,000 exotic and native animals wander the exhibits, which include Flamingo Bay, Raptor Canyon, a walk-through Birds of Prey Aviary, Asian Rhino Ridge, the World of Primates, and Asian Falls with Sumatran tigers and Malayan bears playing around a 40-foot waterfall. Don’t forget to get a look at the zoo’s rare rhinoceroses and its white tiger or see die Portraits of the Wild Art Gallery (extra$1 admission). Tickets are$5.50for adults, $3 for children 3-12, $2.50 for seniors. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., daily; 1989 Colonial Pkwy., Fort Worth. Information 817-871-7050.

Sixth Floor Museum.

This intelligent and moving exhibit in the former Texas School Book Depository, where Lee Harvard Oswald allegedly fired the shot that killed President John F Kennedy, explores the many facets of the assassination as well as Kennedy’s life through photos, film clips, and interpretative information. Tickets are $4 for adults, $3 for seniors, $2 for children 6-18. Audio tours are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for children. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., daily; Dallas County Administration Building, 411 Elm St. Information: 653-6666.

Movie Studio at Las Colinas. Dallas and Fort Worth have become popular places for filming movies and television shows. The studios, where scenes of RoboCop, Leap of Faith, and J’FK were filmed, are open for tours to the public. In addition to seeing screening rooms, sets, costumes, and special effects production, the studios house the National Museum of Communication and the Hollywood Company Store. Tickets are$I 1.95 for adults, $6.95 forchil-dren. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., daily; 6301 N. O’Connor Blvd., Las Colinas. Information: 869-FILM.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF APRIL 26-28

Tommy Tune’s GREASE! at the Fair Park Music Hall

LEATHER JACKETS, POODLE SKIRTS, AND hot rods are back in style (for a week, anyway) as a Broadway smash swaggers into Dallas. GREASE!, a production by favorite son Tommy Tune, will play a limited run at Fair Park’s Music Hall as part of the Dallas Summer Musicals.

GREASE.’ tells the 1950s love story of Danny Zuko, king of the Burger Palace Boys, and Sandy Dumbrowski, the wholesome, naive transfer student whose life is changed forever with a little help from the tough yet vulnerable Rizzo, leader of the Pink Ladies gang. Sally Struthers will play the role of Mrs. Lynch, the pesky administrator who seems to have it in for Danny and his clan. MacKenzie Phillips, who starred in American Graffiti and the television show “One Day at Time” and sang with the Manias and Papas, will play Rizzo. Adrian Zmed, who performed in the original Broadway production of GREASE!, is Danny. In addition to starring in many Broadway shows, Zmed sang on the soud-tracks of Bachelor Party and Eating Raoul.

The show will run from April 23-28. Performances are 8 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; 2 & 8 p.m., Saturday; 2 & 7 p.m., Sunday. Ticket prices range from $12 to $46 and can be purchased at TicketMaster outlets. Discount rates are available for groups of 20 or more. Call 1-800-889-8457 or 647-5700,

Sports

Texas Rangers. Home games:

April 1 Boston 3:05 p.m.

April 3 Boston 7:35 p.m.

April 4 Boston 7:35 p.m.

April 5 New York 7:35 p.m.

April 6 New York 7:35 p.m.

April 7 New York 7:05 p.m.

April 15 Oakland 7:35 p.m.

April 16 Oakland 7:35 p.m.

April 17 Oakland 7:35 p.m.

April 19 Baltimore 7:35 p.m.

April 20 Baltimore 7:35 p.m.

April 21 Baltimore 2:05 p.m.

April 22 Chicago 7:35 p,m.

April 23 Chicago 1:05 p.m.

April 30 Seattle 7:35 p.m.

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

Dallas Mavericks. Home games:

April 2 Sacramento 7:30 p.m.

April 6 L.A. Clippers 7:30 p.m.

April 16 L.A. Lakers 7:30 p.m.

April 18 Denver 7:30 p.m.

Reunion Arena, 777 Sports St. Ticket information: 939-2800.

Dallas Stars. Home games:

April 5 Chicago 7:30 p.m.

April 7 Colorado 2 p.m.

April 14 Detroit 2 p.m.

Reunion Arena, 777 Sports St. Ticket infor mation: GO-STARS.

Dallas Burn. Home games: April 14 San Jose Clash 3 p.m. April 18 Kansas City Wiz 7:30 p.m.

Cotton Bowl, Fair Park. Tickets: 373-8000.

American Airlines Dallas Cup Soccer Tournament. Youth soccer tournament featuring teams from 26 countries and 22 states, with more than 300 games at soccer complexes across the Dallas area, including Breckenridge Park in Richardson, Richland College in Dallas, Winters Park in Garland, and High Point Complex in Piano. Lake Highlands Stadium, Skillman and Church Road in Garland, will be the site of 20 games. March 31-April 7. Information: 739-3636.

Fort Worth’s Race tor the Cure. The annual 5K run/walk and 1-mile fun run/walk benefiting breast cancer education and screening projects for die medically underserved of Tarrant County routes its way through downtown Fort Worth. Entry forms are available at all Fort Worth-area JCPenney and Pier 1 Imports stores. April 13; 6:15-7:45 a.m., registration/packet pick-up; 8 a.m., start; on Houston Street between 2nd and 3rd avenues, Fort Worth. Information: 817-923-2179 or 817-732-1800.

Collector Car Swap. From fully restored vintage cars to antique toys to motor and body parts, the Dallas event is a treasure trove of finds for those classic car enthusiasts. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., April 13; 8 a.m.-4 p.m., April 14; The Ballpark in Arlington, 1-30 and Nolan Ryan Parkway, Arlington. Information: 817-751-7958.

Bank One SuperCities Walk. This 9.3 -mile course through the Park Cities for runners, walkers, and in-line skaters is part of a nationwide fund-raiser for multiple sclerosis reasearch. Snacks, fruit, and drinks and even courtesy foot massages are provided at rest stops along die course. April 14; 7:30 a.m. check-in; 8:50 a.m., inline skate; 8:55 a.m., run; 9 a.m., walk; race begins and ends at Bank One Preston Center, Preston Road and Northwest Highway. Information: 373-1400.

Nuns on the Run-II.

The target: health awareness. Participants can either run or walk 10K or 5K courses, or do a 1-mile fun run. Proceeds will benefit “Brendan’s Children,” a St. Paul Medical Center program for children with cancer. A Health Fair and Fitness Expo will be open during and after the races. April 20; 7-11 a.m., registration and races; 7 a.m.-3 p.m., St. Paul Health Fair & Fitness Expo; races begin at Prestonwood Mall, the Health Fair will be set up throughout the mall; Prestonwood Mall, 5301 Belt Line Rd. Information: 688-4110

Sports, Health, and Fitness Show. This exhibition for health nuts will feature sports products and equipment, aerobics, nutritional suppliers, exercise equipment, health foods, and athletic apparel. Health guru Larry North and various members of the Dallas Cowboys, Dallas Mavericks, and Dallas Stars will appear, and educational seminars will be presented every hour. All proceeds benefit Happy Hills Farms and Special Olympics. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., April 20; 11 a.m.-6 p.m., April 21; Dallas Market Hall, 2200 Stemmons Fwy. Information: 357-9800.

Dallas Cares About Children Run. The Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center League hosts the fifth annual 5K run/ walk benefiting the Advocacy Center helping abused children. Featuring a Kiddie K/Baby Brigade, a Corporate Team Challenge, and a School Team Challenge, winners will receive prizes during an awards ceremony. There will be a special “Light Up the Night for Children” contest with all participants encouraged to decorate their outfits with glitter, neon, and glow-in-the-dark paint. Race packets are available at NorthPark Center from April 20-24. April 25; 6:30 p.m., aerobic warm-up; 7 p.m.. Kiddie K/Baby Brigade and 5K run/walk; 8 p.m., Light Up the Night Contest; race and activities take place at NorthPark Center, Loop 12 and Central Expressway. Information: 823-7240.