OPENERS

Theater



Tobacco Road. Theatre Three presents an adaptation of Erskine Caldwell’s play about impoverished life in Georgia during the Depression. Through February 11; 8:15 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; 2:30 & 8:15 p.m., Saturday; 2:30 Of 7:30 p.m., Sunday; Theatre Three, in the Quadrangle Courtyard, 2800 Routh St. Tickets: 214-871-3300.



The Sternheim Project: “The Unmentionables” and “The Snob.” The world premiere of an adaptation of two of German playwright Carl Sternheim’s racy comedies that describe the rise of an upwardly mobile family dedicated to life, liberty, and the pursuit of dinette sets and power lunches. Through February 4; 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday; 8 p.m., Friday; 2 & 8 p.m., Saturday; 2 & 7:30 p.m., Sunday; The Dallas Theater Center’s Kalita Hum-phrevs Theater, 3636 Turtle Creek Blvd. Tickets: 214-522-TIXX.



CATS. JFK Theatre starts its new year with the Tony Award-winning musical about felines singing and dancing through the alleyways of life. Through February 4; 8 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; 2 & 8 p.m., Saturday; 7:30 p.m.. Sunday; Tarrant County Convention Center, 1111 Houston St., Fort Worth. Information: 817-332-2272.



Marvin’s Room. Theatre Arlington brings to life the emotionally charged comedy of one woman’s commitment to loving others first as she faces her own mortality. Through February 11; 8:15 p.m., Thursday. Friday & Saturday; 2:15 p.m.. Sunday; 305 W. Main St., Arlington. Information: 817-261-9628.



The Mousetrap. The Garland Civic Theatre stapes the Agatha Christie whodunit set in a snow-bound boarding house, with a newlywed couple, a curious spinster, a retired Army major, a retired judge, and a policeman on skis all part of the mystery. February 8-25; 8 p.m., February 8-10,16-17,22-24;2p.m? February 17.24&25; ’Hie Garland Performing Arts Center, 300 N. Fifth St., Garland. Tickets: 214-205-2790.



Back to Bacharach & David. Lyric Stage presents the Southwest premiere of a nostalgic look at the ’60s when peace signs, flower people, and go-go boots were “groovy,” against a musical backdrop including Burt Bacharach and Hal David songs such as Til Never Fall in Love Again,” ” Alfie,” and “Promises, Promises.” 2:30 p.m., February 18 & 25; 8 p.m., February 16, 17, 22, 23, 29 & March 1; 2:30 & 8 p.m., February 24 & March 2; Dupree Theater, The Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving. Information: 214-252-ARTS.



Mother Courage and Her Children. The second production of the Margo Jones Theatre season is a new interpretation of the tragic anti-war play by Bertolt Brecht, particularly appropriate in light of die Balkan crisis. February 13-18; 8 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; 2:15 p.m., Sunday; Meadows School of the Arts, SMU campus, Hillcrest and Binkley avenues. Tickets: 214-768-ARTS.



Bram Stoker’s Dracula. The Quad C Theatre stages the classic Gothic talc of the mysterious Count Dracula and the ensuing race against time to save the lovely Lucy from the vampire’s blood-sucking clutches. Quad C Theatre cautions against young children seeing this nightmare-inducing story. February 15-25; 8 p.m., February 15-17, 22-24; 2:15 p.m., February 18 & 24; John Anthony Theatre, 2800 E. Spring Creek Pkwy., Piano. Information: 214-881-5809.



Romeo and Juliet. Director Rhonda Blair takes a nontraditional approach to Shakespeare’s tragic star-crossed teen love affair, applying today’s culture to the story of passion, violence, and deception. February 27-March 3; 8 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday: 2:15 p.m., Sunday; Greer Garson Theatre, Meadows School of the Arts, SMU campus, Hillcrest and Binkley avenues. Tickets: 214-768-ARTS.



Death of a Salesman. Casa Manana hosts Hal Holbrook in Arthur Miller’s Pulitzer Prize-winning story about Willy Loman,who chooses material success as his goal and belatedly discovers what is truly important in life. February 27-March 3; 8 p.m., Tuesday-Friday 2 & 8 p.m., Saturday; 2 & 7:30 p.m., Sunday; Will Rogers Auditorium, 3401 W. Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth. Information: 817-332-2272.



Behind the Broken Words. The Junior Black Academy ot Arts and Letters provides an evening of contemporary theater, featuring Roscoe Lee Brown and Anthony Zerbe exploring the seductive influence of the spoken word according to Ferlinghetti, Yeats, and Cummings. 8 p.m., February 2; 650 S. Griffin St. Information; 214-658-7147.



Brighton Beach Memoirs. The Piano Repertory Theater stages Neil Simons autobiographical comedy, set in the late 1930s in a lower-middle-class Brooklyn neighborhood, that paints a nostalgic picture of youth and the Strength of family, February 2 25: ArtCentre Theatre. 1028 15th PI., historic downtown Piano. Information: 214-422-7460.



Dance

Choreographers Showcase. The Repertory Dance Ensemble of the Booker T Washington High School lor the Performing and Visual Arts struts its stuff in selected works from such artists as Luis Montera and Lynda Davis. 8 p.m., February 21-24; Dance Studio Theatre, 2501 Flora St. Information: 214-720-7313.



Fort Worth-Dallas Ballet. The ballet presents “Firebird.” the George Balanchine fairy tale of a prince who captures, releases, and then helps the mythical firebird who in turn helps the prince defeat a band of demons bent on preventing his wedding plans. Also on the program is a set of high-spirited, quick-moving dances to the music of Spanish composer Sarasate. February 23-24,8 p.m.; JFK Theatre, Tarrant County Convention Center, 1111 Houston St., Fort Worth. Information: 800-377-9988.



The Dance Consortium. Enjoy a program of five works:”La Mer,” portraying soft sea waves; “Beloved,” featuring dancers interacting with a giant parachute to represent the destructive side of a relationship; “The City,” taking a reflective look at 24 hours amid the bustle of a thriving metropolis; “Roadkill,” a side-splitting comedy, and “Giant’s Child’s,” a tribute to Henry Lambert, the artistic directors late father. 8 p.m., February 8-10; The University of Texas at Dallas Theatre, 2601 Floyd Rd., Richardson. Information: 214-883-2915.



Malashock Dance & Company. John Malashock founded his groundbreaking contemporary dance troupe in San Diego after a distinguished career with New York’s Twyla Tharp. 8 p.m., February 10; Ed Landreth Auditorium, TCU campus. South University Drive at Cantey, Fort Worth. Tickets: 817-335-9000.



Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Dance Company. TITAS hosts two evenings of dance tided “Still/Here” thai utilize video, dramatic lighting, and expressive movement to address the difficulties in coming to terms with loss, grief, and guilt. 8 p.m., February 16 & 17; McFarlin Auditorium. SMU campus, Hillcrest Avenue and McFarlin Boulevard. Information: 214-528-5576.



Music

Cuban Overture. The Irving Symphony Orchestra performs die works of Strauss, Griffes, Copland, and Smetana. 8 p.m., February 24; Carpenter Performance Hall, Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving. Information: 214-831-8818.



The Scotsman Concert. Entertainer Alex Beaton appears for his eighth annual winter concert benefiting the Texas Scottish Festival and Highland Games held in June. With his Scottish baritone voice, Beaton’s repertoire includes ballads, traditional tunes, and current Scottish/American favorites. Opening for Beaton are North Texas Highlanders Pipes and Drums, the bagpipe band hosting this year’s festival. 7:30 p.m., February 17; Arlington Community Center, Vandergriff Park, 2800 Center St., Arlington. Information: 817-654-2293.



II Trovatore. The Dallas Opera stages Giuseppe Verdi’s tragic tale about a young count’s search for his long-lost brother, which only leads him to fall head-over-heels in love with a woman who loves another. 7:30 p.m., February 16, 21,& 24; 2 p.m., February 18; Fair Park Music Hall, First and Parry avenues, Fair Park. Information: 214-443-1000.



Don Giovanni. Don Giovanni, belter known ils the Spanish lover Don Juan, realizes it’s better to be alive than to have loved many, in the Dallas Opera production of this classic tragicomedy with score by Mozart. February 20-28; 7:30 p.m., February 2O,2i,&28;2p.m.,February25;FairParkMusic Hal!, First and Parry avenues, Fair Park. Information: 214-443-1000.



Harvey Fierstein and Friends. The Turtle Creek Chorale salutes Valentine’s Day with a special appearance by the Tony Award-winning playwright and actor, who brings along pals Ann Hampton Callaway, cabaret artist, and Julie Halston, comedian and actress, for a performance intermingling comedy with music. 8 p.m., February 14; Morton H, Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. Tickets: 214-526-3214.



NEXUS. From Tibetan prayer stones to xylophones, the five-member master percussionists create a hypnotic recital with a global variety of unusual instruments. 8 p.m., February 3: McFarlin Auditorium, SMU campus, Hillcrest Avenue and McFarlin Boulevard. Information: 214-528-5576.



Back to the Future Concert. The Richardson Symphony Orchestra honors the winners of the Young Artists Competition in a performance featuring the selected works of Brahms and DeFalla. 8 p.m., February 17; performance auditorium of Richardson High School, 1250 W Belt Line Rd., Richardson. Information: 2.14-234-4195.



Bagels to Beethoven. The music of Mozart. Beethoven, and Dvorak by guest musicians from the Dallas Symphony and the Hubbard Chamber Music Ensemble will accompany bagels and coffee lor patrons of the Piano Chamber Orchestra’s afternoon tête-à-tête. 2 p.m., February 4; Resurrection Lutheran Church, 1919 Independence Pkwv, Piano. Information: 214-985-1983.



Cliburn Concert. Lieder lovers will enjoy this recital by Austrian baritone, Wolfgang Holzmair, called “one of the greatest lieder singers of all time.” 8 p.m., February 7; Ed Landreth Auditorium, TCU campus. South University at Cantey, Fort Worth. Information: 817-335-9000.



The Golden Age of Cabaret. As pari of Retrofest, a celebration by various Fort Worth ans organizations of the decade 1911 -1920, the Van Cliburn Foundation presents an evening of cabaret, with performances by prize-winning American composer William Bolcom and singer/spouse Joan Morris, soprano Angelina Reaux, and English actors Andre DeShields and Jeremy Geidt. 8 p.m., February 23 & 24; 2 p.m., February 25; Caravan of Dreams, 312 Houston St., Fort Worth. Information: 817-335-9000.



Meryl P. Levy Concert. The Dallas Museum of Art hosts the Viklarko Chamber Ensemble of Los Angeles, one of the most bold chamber ensembles emerging on the contemporary classical music scene. 3 p.m.. February 4; Horchow Auditorium, Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. Harwood St, Information: 214-922-1229.



Royal Concertgebou Orchestra. Conductor Riccardo Chailly leads the Dutch orchestra in a program featuring such works as Tchaikovsky and Wagner. 8:15 p.m., February 21; Morton II. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. Information: 214-692-0203.



Louise Mandrell. The middle sister of the singing Mandrells joins the Dallas Pops Orchestra in a solo performance that showcases her singing, dancing, and musical abilities. February 23-25: 8:15 p.m., Friday & Saturday: 2:30 p.m., Sunday; Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. Information: 214-692-0203.



Favorite Bach Cantatas. The Texas Baroque Ensemble undertakes a program of cantatas including The Wedding and Jesu, der du meine Seele, striving to preserve the 17th- and 18th-cen-tury music by using original instruments of the period. 7:30p.m, February 11; Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, 14115 Hillcrest Rd. Information: 214-520-ARTS.



Chamber Symphony of the Metrocrest. Classical guitarist Carlo Pezzimenti accompanies the Chamber Symphony of the Metrocrest in a concert including the works of Ponce. Williams, and Locatelli. 8 p.m., February 3; Plaza Theatre. 1115 Fourth Ave., Carroll ton. Information: 214-417-0745.



Dallas Classic Guitar Society. The American premiere of a new guitar concerto featuring solo guitarist Pepe Romero. 8 p.m., February 10; Majestic Theater, 1925 Elm St. Information: 214-528-3733.



Scott Joplin & Ragtime America. The Junior Black Academy of Arts and Letters showcases the évolution of ragtime in a storytelling musical production filled with the tunes of Scott Joplin. performed by the Jan Rosemond Trio. 10 a.m., February 14; 650 S. Griffin St. Information: 214-658-7147.



Art & Artifacts

African American Museum. “Contained and Uncontained” (through March 17) is an exhibition showing the progression of clay sculpture from start to finish in the creative process. The works of Syd Carpenter, Magdalene Odundo, James Watkins, and Martha Jackson-Jarvis will be on display. “Panoramas of Passage: Changing Landscapes of South Africa” (February 24 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. “’Connections: African Vision In African American Art” (through July 28). Within the context of an American system of values and customs, this exhibit explores 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; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday; 1-5 p.m., Sunday; 3536 Grand Ave., Fair Park. Information: 214-565-9026.



Amon Carter Museum. “The Ties That Bind: Views of Community on the American Frontier, 1855-1900” (through February 11) is an exhibit featuring more than 60 lithographs and photographs documenting the rise of the American frontier. “Masterworks of the Photography Collection” (through March 24) celebrates the Fort Worth Stock Show’s centennial with prints of cowboys herding, ranching, and rodeoing from the 1870s to the present, “Thomas Eakins and ’The Swimming Hole’ “{February 10-May 5) shows the preliminary photos, oil studies, and portraits of the men depicted in Eakins’ best-known work, and illustrating the painters’ interest in the human anatomy and movement, his use of photography as an artistic medium, and the modem reinterpretation 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. “Retro 1996” {through February 10) is an invitational fund-raising exhibit composed of 30 artists’ interpretations of the 1920s and ’30s, culminates with an auction of the displayed works. “Youth Art Encounters” (February 24-March 30) features works by students from the Arlington Independent School District. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday; 201 W Main St., Arlington. Information: 817-275-4600.



Dallas Historical Society. “Bound for Texas: The Lone Star Story from the Age of Exploration to theCivil War” (ongoing) tells the story of the cultural and economic forces that shaped the region prior to statehood through maps, letters, and photographs. “Passages and Traditions: Women in Dallas Society 1890-1930” (through March26) documents the milestones of a woman’s life from childhood to widowhood through the use of historical garments, newspaper accounts, and advertisements. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m., Sunday; Hall of State, 3939 Grand Ave., Fair Park. Information: 214-421-4500.



Dallas. Museum of Art. “Women in Classical Greece: Pandora’s Box” (February 4-March 31 > shows how the Greeks viewed women in works such as marble sculptures, bronze statuettes, and terra cotta figurines dating from the 5th century B.C. “The Heart That Sings, the Spirit That Soars” (February 6-April 28) displays works from a variety of media by five African-American artists such as Mr. Imagination, Anita Knox, and Vicki Meek. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.,Tuesday, Wednesday 6 Friday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Thursday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Sunday, & holidays; 1717 N. Harwood St. Information: 214-922-1200 or214- 922-1355.



Dallas Museum of Natural History. “Monarca: Butterfly Beyond Boundaries” (through June 2) teaches about butterflies via 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: 214^21-DINO.



Dallas Visual Art Center. ” A Gantz Retrospective” (through February 16.) showcases celebrated Dallas artist Ann Cushing Gantz with approximately 80 works from her 40-year career that range from painterly realism to spatial abstraction. “Saba Rasheed” (through February 16) displays more than 30 of the: warercolorist’s con temporary paintings of large sculpturesque races that infuse the influences of European architecture with her fashion illustrating background. 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday; noon-4 p.m., Saturday; 2917 Swiss Ave. Information: 214-821-2522.



Junior Black Academy of Arts and Letters. “The Dallas-Fort Worth Black Living Legends” (throughMarch 16) celebrates African- American history month with a photographic exhibit highlighting area African-Americans who have made their mark in areas ranging from politics to community involvement. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; noon-4 p.m.. Saturday; James E. Kemp Gallery, 650 S. Griffin St. Information: 214-658-7144.



Kimbell Art Museum. “Severini futurista: 1.912-1917” (through April 7) presents Italian artist Gino Severini’s vision, both abstract and realism, of a future rilled with noise, light, energy, and speed. 10a.m.-5 p,tn.,Tuesday-Thursday;noon* 8 p.m., Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday; noon-5 p.m.. Sunday; 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd.. Fort Worth. Information: 817-332-8451.



Kittrell/Riffkind Art Glass. “Third Annual Scent-Bottle Invitational* (February 9-March 3 ) has on view more than 50 contemporary designs by glass artisans. Opening reception, 5:30-8:30 p.m., February 9. Exhibit: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Wednesday & Saturday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Thursday; 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday; Village on the Parkway, 5100 Belt Line Rd., Suite 820. Information: 214-239-7957.



Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. “Arshile Gorky: The Breakthrough Years” (through March 17) is an in-depth presentation of 1940s paintings and drawings featuring the artist’s mature works and some of his most innovative drawings. 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.



McKinney Avenue Contemporary (MAC). “Texas Abstract Painting” (through March 24) features interpretations of Texas by 14 painters from around the state. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m.. Sunday; 3120 McKinney Ave. Information: 214-953-1212.



The Modern at Sundance Square. ” Ruckus Rodeo” (through April 21) has been reinstalled for the 100th anniversary of the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. Red Grooms* huge piece, not seen in Fori Worth since 1992, recreates the interior of a rodeo arena, complete with Brahma bull and bareback bronc riding, steer wrestling, rodeo clowns, and an audience. 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.



Film



Omni Theater. “Yellowstone” (through February I 29). From geysers to bison, this him explores the flora, fauna, and geologic wonders of the national park with zoom shots, fly-over panoramic views, and a never-bet ore-seen inside look down the mouth of Old Faithful. Film shown on the half-hour: 1:30-4:30 p.m., Monday; 1:30-8:30 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday; 1:30-9:3O p.m., Friday; 10:50 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Saturday; 12:30-8:30 p.m., Sunday; Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, 1501 Montgomery St., Fort Worth. Information: 817-732-1631 or metro 817-654-1356.



First Monday Classics. “Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?” The USA Film Festival presents a monthly series of classic films on the big screen. 7:30 p.m., February 5; AMC Glen Lakes Theatres, 9450 N. Central Expy. at Walnut Hill Lane. Information: 214-821-NEWS.



Lectures

Artists Talk. Texas artists skilled in various mediums conduct weekly talks at the McKinney Avenue Contemporary. February 7, Robert Jessup, painter; February 14, Celia Eberle, painter; February 21, Linda Ridgway, sculptor. AU lectures begin at 7 p.m. The McKinney Avenue Contemporary, 3120 McKinney Ave. Information: 214-953-1212.



Atef Mankarios. Introduced by Dallas socialite, (proline Rose Hunt, the guest of honor shares his observations, experiences, and insights of the rich and beautiful as observed through his career as President of Rosewood I Hotels and Resorts and a former managing director of The Mansion on TurtleCreek. February 1I; registration, 11:45 a.m.; lunch, noon; talk, 1 p.m.; Dallas Country Club, 4100 Beverly Dr. Reservations; 214-520-0206.

Parent Council. The Enchanted Forest bookstore hosts Carolyn Henebry, review editor for the Parent Council, an educational materials review group, in a discussion on what criteria parents should use when choosing books, CD-ROMs, software, and videos for their children. 7 p.m.. February 27; The Enchanted Forest, 6333 E. Mockingbird Ln. Information; 214-827-2234.



Cosmos and Consciousness. John McMurphy unites the insights of mystics and quantum physicists in a program linking the relationship between the mind and the universe itself. 7-9:30 p.m., February 5; The Cathedral of Light, 2040 N. Denton Dr.. Carrollton. Information: 214-245-6520.



Bob St. John. The Friends of the Richardson Library host the Dallas Morning News columnist, known for his conversational style of writing, for a talk about South Padre Island. 8 p.m.. February 8; Richardson Civic Center, 411 W. Arapaho Rd., Richardson. Information: 214-238-4000.



Marshall Loeb. Editor-at-large for Fortune magazine speaks at a luncheon hosted by the Edwin L. Cox School of Business Management Briefing. Noon, February 29; Fairmont Hotel, Ross Avenue and Akard Street. Information: 214-768-3008.



Nutrition and the Family. The Far North Dallas Early Childhood PTA invites Cooper Clinic’s Patty Kirk to share nutritional tips and guidelines tor parents to be aware of when cooking up family meals. 7 p.m., February 20; Mitchell Elementary School, 4223 Briargrove Ln. Information: 214-964-3670.



Home & Garden

Unifying Plants and Place. The Dallas Arboretum hosts vice-president Thomas J. Brinda in a lecture/workshop on basic landscape design principles during which participants will design a small-scale site on their own. Lecture, 10 a.m.-noon; workshop, 1 4 p.m.; February 3; 8525 Garland Rd. Reservations: 214-327-8263.



Blue Ribbon Perennials and Native Plants. Bonnie Reese, owner of Beautiful Landscapes, shares her expertise on native plants and perennials and discusses how each can add to the landscaped back yard. 7-9p.m.,February 8; The Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd. Reservations: 214-327-8263.



Vintage Valentine Tea. The Irving Heritage Society recreates a housewarming party of 1914 with the original decorations and a copied menu; set in the 1912 historic Heritage House, still adorned with antiques of die day. 2-4 p.m., February 11; Irving Heritage House, 303 S. O’Connor Rd., Irving. Information: 214-570-7294.



Summer with a Flourish. For those who want a showcase garden during the scorching summer, Kay Haines, of bulb company ABBOTT IPCO Inc., divulges which bulbs bloom throughout the hottest part of the year. 7-9 p.m., February 8; The Dallas Arboretum. 8525 Garland Rd. Reservations: 214-327-8263.



X -Rated Herbs: Xeriscaping with Water-Shy Herbs. Dallas County master gardener Marian Buchanan will rate herbs that are best for water-thrifty landscapes. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.. February 17; The Dallas Arboretum 8525 Garland Rd. Reservations: 214-327-8263.

An Asian Plant for a Texas Landscape. Say “hosta manana” to hosta, the popular large-leafed Asian hybrid. Brice Creelman, manager of the Tawakoni Plant Farm, explains how to cultivate these exotic plants. 10 a.m.-12 p.m., February 24; The Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd. Reservations: 214-327-8263.



Fort Worth Home & Garden Show. Garden enthusiasts and home do-it-yourselfers can ready their tool sheds and to-do lists with a visit to this year’s 16th annual event, featuring exhibits on home improvement, furnishings, gardening, and landscape products. February 2-4; 2-9 p.m., Friday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday; Tarrant County Convention Center, 1111 Houston St., Fort Worth. Information: 214-680-9995.



Kidstuff

Goldilocks and The Three Bears. The Richardson Children’s Theatre gives a comedic twist to the well-known children’s tale of three bears who return home to find a stranger in the house. 7:30 p.m., February 16; 2 & 7:30 p.m., February 17; 2 p.m., February 18; University of Texas at Dallas Theatre, Floyd and Campbell roads, Richardson. Tickets: 214-690-5029.



The Science Place. Busytown. Richard Scarry’s storybook town and characters come to life in an exhibit for young visitors. February 1-May 5; 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday-Sunday; 1318 Second Ave., Fair Park. Information: 214-428-5555, extension 343 or 344.

Raggedy Ann and Andy. Casa Mariana Children’s Playhouse presents the timeless adventures of the red-headed brother-sister doll duo. February 9-17; 7:30 p.m., Friday; 2 p.m., Saturday; 3101 W. Lancaster Ave., Fort Worth. Informadon: 817-332-2272.



A Woman Called Truth. The Dallas Children’s Theater reincarnates the tale of Sojourner Truth, who wasn’t afraid to speak out against the evils of slavery and for the rights of freedom for everyone. February 2-18; 7:30 p.m., Friday; 1:30 &4:30 p.m., Saturday & Sunday; The Crescent Theater, 2215 Cedar Springs Rd. Information: 214-978-0110.



Whodunit? The Science of Solving Crime. How did Sherlock Holmes solve crimes? How do our own police detectives do it? In this returning hands-on exhibit, children learn the craft of solving crimes through exploration, data collection, hypothesis testing and decision making. Through May 31; 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.



The Jack Sprat Low-Fat World Tour. The Jewish Community Center’s FamiliArts series hosts “Jack Sprat,” the tour guide of a nutritional awareness safari. 2 p.m., February 4; Zale Auditorium, 7900 Northaven Rd. Information: 214-739-2737.



Family Concert. Children of all ages are introduced to the different musical members of the Piano Chamber Orchestra, from oboes to cellos, learning how each sound contribute;) to the grand concert. Alice Demske and Eugene Hwang, teenage pianists, share the stage in this lively program. 4:30 p.m., February 17; Fellowship Bible Church North, 850 Lexington Ave., Piano. Information: 214-985-1983.



Junior Naturalists. Kids get hands-on experience learning about rocks, mammals, reptiles, and birds of prey as they follow the experts into the sanctuary grounds and museum corridors of the Heard Museum. Ages 6-8 meet from 9:30-11 a.m.; ages9-12 meet from 1-3 p.m., February 10; The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, One Nature Place, Mc-Kinney. Reservations: 214-562-5566.



Fairs & Fiestas

The Last Great Gunfight. In an era (faintly reminiscent of today) when differences were settled from the end of a gun barrel, there was an infamous shoot-out in 1887 between Luke Short and T.I. “Longhaired Jim” Courtright. It was the last such showdown tolerated in Fort Worth’s Cowtown. In observance of the anniversary, Cowtown’s White Elephant Saloon will restage die event preceded by a free outdoor concert of cowboy ballads and followed with a slide show. Concert, 7 p.m.; gunfight, 7:30 p.m.; slide show, 8 p.m., February 8; The White Elephant Saloon, 106 E Exchange Ave., Fort Worth. Information: 817-624-9712.



Vietnamese New Year’s Celebration. “The Year of the Rat” debuts amid colorful, traditional Vietnamese regional dancing, food, and music. Sponsored by the Vietnamese National Community, the day-long observance showcases the differences in the country’s customs and dress as dancers take to the floor performing dances in native costumes. 9 a.m.-6 p.m., February 17; Creative Arts Building, 1327 Nimitz, Fair Park. Information: 214-783-6646.



African American History and Heritage Tour. To acquaint Dallasites with the rich African-American history of the city. Old City Park is sponsoring an arts, culture, and education tour and a churches and cemeteries tour throughout the city highlighting the contributions and experiences of African-Americans in Dallas. Participants of the culture tour will visit Deep Ellum, Flora Street, Oakland Avenue, the Junior Black Academy, and the African American Museum, while those on the churches tour will visit Freedman’s Cemetery and various churches in South Dallas and Oak Cliff. February 3,10,7 & 24; tours leave at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Old City Park. 17l7GanoSt. Information: 214-421-5141.



Neil Sperry’s All Garden Show. KRLDgarden guru Neil Sperty tends to the sixth annual garden show, which will feature a seminar series with garden authorities, informative programs, personal consultations with master gardeners, and aisles filled will) more than 250 exhibitor booths. February 23-25; 3-8 p.m., Friday; 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday; 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday; Arlington Convention Center, 1200 Ballpark Way, Arlington. Information: 214-562-5050.



Dallas Autorama. Chief Auto Parts sponsors the 36th annual car extravaganza where customs, classics, hot rods, and trucks not only share the same floor space but compete for prices. “A Tribute to Harley-Davidson” rounds out the attractions, which include a junior dragster competition, a model car contest, and a Harley-Davidson fashion show. February 16-18; 5-!i p.m.. Friday; II a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday; 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sunday; Dallas Market Hall, 2200 Stemmons Fwy, Information: 214-732-6100.



Sports

Fort Worth Cowtown Marathon and 10K Run. Ranked as one of the top ten multi-race events in the country, this year’s marathon also features a three-member marathon relay. The relay will be run in three legs of 10 miles. 8 miles.and 8.2 miles. In addition to the tests of endurance, there will be special guest appearances by former Olympian runners Frank Shorter. Bill Rodgers,John Treacy, and Gwyn Cooper. February’ 24; 8:30 a.m., marathon and marathon relay; 9 a.m., 10K. Registration ami packet pickup, 8 a.m.-7 p.m., February 19-23, Cowtown Marathon office, 3515 W. 7th Ave., Fort Worth. Race site is on Main Street, north of Exchange Avenue, historic Fort Worth Stockyards. Information: 817-735-2033.



Dallas Stars. Home games:

February 2 Vancouver 7:30 p.m.

February 7 Montreal 7:30 p.m.

February 10 St, Louis 2 p.m.

February 11 Hartford 2 p.m.

February 16 Edmonton 7:30 p.m.

February 22 Ottawa 7:30 p.m.

February 28 Philadelphia 7:30 p.m.

Reunion Arena, 777 Sports St. Ticket Information: 214-GO-STARS.



Dallas Mavericks. Home games:

February 1 Seattle 7:30 p.m.

February 3 Minnesota 7:30 p.m.

February 8 Utah 7:30 p.m.

February 19 Golden State 7:30 p.m.

February 21 Sacramento 7:30 p.m.

February 23 L.A. Lakers 7 p.m.

February 25 Toronto 7 p.m.

February 27 Philadelphia 7:30 p.m.

Reunion Arena, 777 Sports St. Ticket Information: 214-939-2800.



Pre-Davtona AM A Motorcycle Race. Professional motorcycle racers harness 80- to 120-horse-power Harley-Davidsons, taking them for a spin around the dirt track to prepare for the Daytona national races.2 p.m., February25: Devils Bowl Speedway, Lawson Rd., between Highway 80 and 1-20, Mesquite. Information: 214-216-5520.



Openers lists selected events of interest to D readers. Organizations wishing to submit information about upcoming events should send a lull description to: D Magazine, Openers. 1700 Commerce, 18th floor, Dallas, Texas 75201. The deadline is the first Friday of the month two months before publication. Information must include the event s title, address, phone number, date(s), hours, admission fees.a description, plus the phone number of the person to be contacted for additional derails. No information will be taken over die phone.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF FEBRUARY 2-4



Texas Rangers 9th Annual Winter Carnival



LAST YEAR AT THIS TIME THE BASEBALL strike cast a dark uncertain shadow over the new Ball park in Arlington and the 1995 baseball season. In contrast, the 1996 season looks much brighter, and to celebrate the opening of the pre-season, the Texas Rangers are holding their Ninth Annual Winter Carnival on February 3 and 4. If you haven’t taken your family out to the new ballpark yet, here’s your chance. With free admission to The Ballpark in Arlington and the Dr Pepper Youth Ballpark, visitors can run the bases and catch pop-ups in organized activities on the field or play various carnival, adventure, and skill games on the concourse. Home-run derbys will be held throughout the weekend, as will question-and-answer sessions with some of the players. The Rangers clubhouse, batting cages, and press box will also be open to the public.

After playing in the stadium, head to the Legends of the Game Museum and Learning Center, where you and your family can relive baseball history. Memorabilia can be purchased at the Grand Slam Gift Shop, or you can stop by the Super Star XXVIII Sports Collectors Show (February 2-4) at the nearby Arlington Convention Center, which is being held in conjunction with the carnival. Admission to the collectors show is $4.50. and many Rangers and other sports figures will be on hand to sign free autographs. Yes, you read that right: free autographs. Maybe this game can be saved.

Texas Rangers Winter Carnival, February 3-4; 9 a.m.-6 p.m.. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday. Admittance into The Ballpark in Arlington is free. The Ballpark in Arlington, 1000 Ballpark Way. Arlington. Information: 817-273-5222. For information on the Spoils Collectors Show call 817 -483-1080.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF FEBRUARY 9-11



Lyle the Crocodile



CHILDREN ADORE BERNARD WaBER’S stories about caviar-eating Lyle the Crocodile, and now the charismatic reptile has conquered the theater. The Dallas Children’s Theater opens its 19% season with “Lyle the Crocodile,” in which young Joshua Primm. newly moved to New-York City, discovers a crocodile splashing around in his new bathtub! Lyle sings, dances, and leads Joshua and his parents on a roller coaster of fun through the city, parading down 5th Avenue, playing hide-and-seek, performing tricks, and going on a shopping spree in a New York department store. ’Die show is based on the books Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile ma The House of 88th Street by Bernard Waber, and is appropriate for children ages 3 and up. This is the last weekend of the performance.

The show runs through February 11; 7:30p.m.,Friday; 1:30p.m..Saturday; 1:30 & 4 p,m,, Sunday at the El Centro College Theater, Market and Main streets. Tickets are SI 1 for adults and $9 lor children. Discount rates are available tor groups of 10 or more. Call 214-978-0110.

BEST BET FOR THE WEEKEND OF FEBRUARY 16-18



Tri-Delta Charity Antiques Show



NOW 21 YEARS OLD, THE TRI-DELTA Charity Antiques Show remains one of a handful of big, top-quality antiques shows in the country, attracting more than 50 internationally known art, antiques, and collectibles dealers.

Formal early American furnishings, charming Southern provincial pieces, 19th-century landscape paintings, textiles, rare books, Staffordshire dogs, Blue Willow platters, and silver serving spoons are laid out in room-like settings that make a connoisseur dizzy with desire.

But don’t pass on this show just because you think you’re out of your league, checkbook-wise. Dealers always bring along smaller-ticket items for young collectors. And because it attracts the high-quality dealers, the Tri-Delta show provides excellent opportunities to train your eye for antiques and collectibles. Many dealers are happy to help educate a future client.

In addition to dealers’ booths, you can also explore a loan exhibit of dining tables from the Dallas Museum of Art’s Bybee Collection. Other special events include a Wednesday preview party, a lecture on ceramics and glass by curators from Delaware’s Winterthur Museum, and a lecture on dining traditions and customs by Patrick Dunne, owner of Lucullus.

During its 21 years, the Tri-Delta Antiques Show has raised more than $2.6 million, This year’s beneficiaries include the Sammons Cancer Center and the Children’s Medical Center.

Tri-Delta Charity Antiques Show, February 14-18; preview party, 6:30-10 p.m., Wednesday (reservation only); Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets are $7 in advance, $8 at the door. West Hall, Dallas Convention Center, 650 S. Griffin St. For information call 691-9306 or 658-8802.

BEST BET FOR THE weekend OF FEBRUARY 23-25



“Rocks” at the Heard Museum



WE ALL KNOW KIDS LOVE TO PLAY IN the dirt. The Heard Museum’s “Rocks” extravaganza is a chance for them to find out just what they can learn from the rocks they find on the ground. For an entire weekend, families can discover how ordinary-looking rocks hide beautiful secrets within. Lapidary demonstrations will show visitors how rocks become sparkling gems. Kids can learn how to identify the rocks that hold more than just dirt during a children’s workshop entitled “A Trip Down Rocky Road,” and then go on their own expedition in the “MineralCave,” where they can dig for rocks and keep what they find. Local dinosaur fossil hunter and SMU paleontologist, Dr. Louis Jacobs, will be on site to autograph copies of his book Lone Star Dinosaurs, and representatives of local paleontology, archaeology, and gem and mineral clubs will answer questions and offer information on special field trips and other geology activities in the Dallas area.

In its second year, the weekend exhibit is part of an effort by the Heard Museum to provide an educational geology outreach program. Rock and gem donations will be accepted and either sold to help finance the program or saved to be used in specimen and fossil kits provided to teachers for use in their classrooms. Rocks in all shapes and sizes-minerals, crystals, cut stones, jewelry, and fossils-will be on sale.

“Rocks,”February24-25;9a.m.-5p.m., Saturday; 1-5 p.m., Sunday at The Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary, One Nature Place, McKinney. Take Central Expressway north to exit 38 and follow the signs to the museum. Free; reservations and fee required for the “Trip Down Rocky Road” workshop, which will be held Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. To make a reservation for the workshop or for more information call 214-562-5566.