On the Town

Attractions

Dallas Aquarium. More than 320 aquatic species are featured, including sharks, a 125-pound snapping turtle, piranhas, and a 4-foot electric eel. Exhibits include the Amazon Flooded Forest, a California kelp forest, a living coral reef, and the World of Aquatic Diversity, which explores unusual survival adaptations. 9 a,m.-4:30 p.m.. daily; First Avenue and Martin Luther King Boulevard. Fair Park. Information: 6708443.



Dallai Public Library. “Dallas Theater Center: The Early Years, 1955-:! 982” (through January 1997) displays never-before-seen documents, photographs, sets, and costume designs from the Dallas Theater Center archives; the collection describes the years Paul Baker was managing direc-tor of the only Frank Lloyd Wright-designed theater. 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 9a.m.-5p.m., Fridays Saturday; 1-5 p.m.. Sunday; 1515 Young St. information: 670-1400 or 670-1700.



Dallas World Aquarium. One of the many attractions in the West End. the Dallas World Aquarium features 12 saltwater tanks replicating underwater environments around the world. If your walk around the aquarium gets you hungry, head over to eighteen-O-one, the restaurant inside the aquarium that serves up everything from snapper vera cruz to grilled cheese for the kids. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., daily; 1801 N. Griffin St. Information: 720-2224.



Dallas Zoo. More than 2,000 animals can be seen In natural disolays including The Wilds of Africa, 25 acres of desert and bush habitats. Other exhibits feature forest, mountain, and river habitats. One of two walk-through aviaries includes a waterfall, and children love the Reptile Discovery Center. The zoo is undergoing renovations, but is still open to the public. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., daily; 621 E. Clarendon Dr. (Ewing exit off I-35E). Information: 670-5656.



Fair Park. Built in the 1930s to celebrate the Texas centennial. Fair Park’s 227 acres feature art deco buildings, an aquarium, Dallas’ Museum of Natural History, The Science Place, the Age of Steam Museum, the African American Museum, the Civic Garden Center, the Starplex Amphitheater, the Hall of State, the Dallas Horticultural Center, 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. A current exhibit In the Hall of State, “Sound for Texas: The Lone Star Story from the Age of Exploration to the Civil War,” 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). Walking tours around the park are available by appointment. Open daily, year- round. 1300 Robert B. Cullum Blvd. at Grand Avenue. Information: 670-8400 or 426-3400.



Fort 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-thro ugh 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. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.. Saturday & Sunday; 1989 Colonial Pkwy., Fort Worth. Information: 817-871-7050.



Movie Studios at Las Colinas. These studios, where scenes of RoboCop, Leap of Faith, and JFK were filmed. are oper for tours, in addition to screening rooms, sets, costumes, and special effects production, the studios house the National Museum of Communication and the Hollywood Company Store. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.. daily; 6301 N. O’Connor Blvd., Las Colinas. Information: 869-F1LM.



Old City Park. An outdoor museum that’s a complete turn-of-the-century village right under the modern skyline of Dallas. Houses, a church, a school, and a variety of stores were moved from their original locations to the park and restored, so that a tour through the village offers a glimpse into the life of early North Texans. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.. Tuesday-Saturday: noon-4 p.m.. Sunday: 1717 Gano. Information: 421-5141.



Southfork Ranch. Seen weekly on the TV show “Dallas,” this ranch, with its bip, white house and miles of fencing, became an early 1980s symbol of the city. Even though “Dallas” has been in reruns for more than 10 years. Southfork remains a top tourist attraction and “event/conference facility’-such a big attraction, in fact, that Gray Line offers a Southfork tour. Go figure. What’s here: Visitors can tour the Ewing Mansion, explore the ranch grounds by tram, and walk through the “Dallas” Museum with memorabilia from the show. There’s also a western wear store and the Front Porch Cafe. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.. daily; 3700 Hogge Rd., Parker. Information: 442-7800.

Dance

Contemporary Dance/Fort Worth. “A Choreographer’s Showcase” highlights local and national choreographers; the evening will include a question-and-answer session with the choreographers. July 12-14; 8 p.m., Friday & Saturday: 2 p.m., Sunday; Orchestra Hall, 4401 Trail Lake Dr., Fort Worth. Information: 817-335-9000.

Fairs & Fiestas

Kaboom Town, The town of Addison lights the (use on area Fourth of July festivals with their Independence Day Eve celebration. After a fly-by from the Cavanaugh Flight Museum’s vintage planes and a 30-minute laser light show, the night explodes with a fireworks extravaganza choreographed to music and simulcast live on KVIL-FM 103.7. The Show can be seen from any site in Addison and some restaurants set up tables outside so you can catch the show. 9:15 p.m.. July 3. Addison, information: 1-600-ADDISON.

Celebrate Freedom 1996. The sixth annual outdoor family celebration sponsored by KLTY-FM 94.1, touted as one of the largest Christian music festivals in the nation, takes over Southfork Ranch this year with attractions, arts and crafts, food, daylong concerts, and. of course, fireworks. Noon-10 p.m., July 4; Southfork Ranch, 3700 Hogge Rd., Parker. Information: 263-4080.

The Fort Worth Fourth. Citywide events include a free musical concert by Lee Roy Partiel I, a children’s village downtown along the banks of the Trinity River, family-oriented activities at the Stockyards, a Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra performance, and a grand finale fireworks show. July 4; downtown festivities begin at 5 p.m.; Stockyards activities last throughout the day; the fireworks show begins at 9:15 p.m. and can be seen from downtown or the Stockyards: Tandy parking lot, off Hwy. 199, downtown Fort Worth. Information: 817-870-1692.

Old-Fashioned Fourth. Old City Park invites visitors to bring a picnic to the park and enjoy entertainment by square dancers and doggers, games for children, walking tours of the grounds, carriage rides, and craft-making demonstrations of everything from log kitchen-cooking to candle-making. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., July 4: Old City Park, 1717 Gano St. Information: 421-5141.

Star-Spangled Fourth. The city of Garland honors the nation’s birthday with an outdoor street festival featuring arts and crafts, a food court, a midway, children’s activities, the largest electric locomotive in the worid. the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, and entertainment featuring Three Dog Night and the customary fireworks-dtsplay choreographed to music and video. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.. July 4-6; historic downtown Garland, Sixth and Main streets. Garland, Information: 205-2749.

Deep Ellum Summer Arts Festival. Touted as an alternative Fourth of July celebration, this avant-garde party has no kiddie stuff, but showcases the area’s cutting^dge artists, graffiti muralists. slam poets, street performers, and musicians. July 5-7; 7 p.m.-midnight. Friday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Saturday: 1-9 p.m., Sunday: Deep Ellum, Main Street. Information: 832-1881.

Taste of Dallas. The West End’s annual three-day feeding frenzy features more than 30 of Dallas’ finest eateries offering dishes as exotic as ostrich burgers and grilled lobster tails or as simple as burgers and Tex-Mex. Also: strolling street performers, a special kid’s area, and music including the 15-member female jazz gioup, DIVA, performing on Sunday, July 12-14; 5-11 p.m., Friday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Saturday: noon-9 p.m., Sunday: The West End. Market and Lamar. Information: 720-7717 or 720-7107.

National Scrabble Championship. This bi-annual contest pits competitors from across the United States in an intense five-day test of vocabulary prowess, with prizes totaling $80,000. Spectators are welcome to stand on the sidelines and watch as this Olympic-level, board-game competition determines the next national champion. Call ahead for tournament playing times. July 21-25; Hyatt Regency Hotel of Dallas. The Ballroom, 300 Reunion Blvd. Information: 651-1234.

Mesquite Balloon Festival. The skies over Mesquite will be filled with more than 50 hot air balloons, from grinning cats to rainbow-colored globes. More down-to-earth entertainment includes an on-site carnival, food and refreshment booths, an arts and crafts lair, and a country-western concert. July 26-28: 4-9:30 p.m.. Friday; 6:30 a.m,-9:30 p.m., Saturday: 6:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m., Sunday; balloon flights are at: 7 p.m., Friday: 7 a.m. & 7 p.m.,Saturday: 7 a.m., Sunday; Paschall Park, New Market Road, Mesquite. information: 285-0211.

Home & Garden

Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Visitors can stroll along the walks and enjoy more than 200.000 flowering bulbs. more than 2,500 azalea varieties, cultivated gardens, and a spectacular view of White Rock Lake with downtown buildings in the distance, The DeGolyer and Camp homes provide the architectural beauty. A waterway, a pond, and a fern dell, kept 20 degrees below the norm, are popular places to escape in the summer. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., daily: 8525 Garland Rd. Information; 327-8263.

Fort Worth Botanic Gardens. The 110-acre tree-shaded complex includes a Rose Garden, a conservatory, and Japanese Gardens that have been called the most authentic outside of Japan. Within the Japanese Gardens are a Meditation Garden and pools filled with carp that visitors can feed. 8 a.m.-dusk (9 a.m.-6 p.m., Japanese Gardens), daily; 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd.. Fort Worth. Information; 817-871-7686.

Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary. Located in a 274-acre wildlife sanctuary, the museum features rocks, minerals, seashells, and natural science and history exhibits, including hands-on activities for children. Regular canoe trips and nature walks on the wildflower trails are offered; the sanctuary is a permanent breeding site for 60 species. The sanctuary is in the middle of Project MUSEUM 2000; so far a 2.5-acre native plant garden has been completed and a new museum lobby will open in July. After another Si million is raised, the sanctuary will build a “Walk Through Time” exhibit looking at Collin County from 100 million years ago through the late 19th century. Several nature groups, including the Junior Naturalists, the Collin County Archaeology Society, and the Heard Nature Photographers Club, meet here. Sanctuary hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m., Sunday; One Nature Place [exit 38 off Central Expressway, follow the brown and white signs), McKinney. Information; 562-5566.

Back to Grandma’s Attic. Artisans and craftsmen display quilts, ceramics, and furnlture. July 20-21; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m.. Sunday; Richardson Civic Center. 411 W. Arapaho Rd., Richardson. Information: 238-9434.

North Texas Pond Tour. Private water-garden hideaways divulge their secrets during a two-day. self-guided tour that takes visitors to backyard sites of water lily ponds and koi-filled pools. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., July 20-21, Maps for the tour are available at Water Gardens Galore, 4715 W. Lovers Ln., 956-7382; North Haven Gardens, 7700 Northaven Rd.. 363-5316: and Creative Water Gardens. 901 Millspring Dr., (only open 6-8 p.m.. Monday-Friday. 10a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday & Sunday), 864-1405.



Kidstuff

Whale Watch. Your family can whale-watch without ever leaving landlocked Dallas. “Dinamation” replicas of the giants of the deep sea, Including a 25-foot orca whale, a humpback whale, a baby gray whale, an Atlantic white-side dolphin, and more will be swimming into Collin Creek Mall, complete with movement and sound. Through July 14; 10 a.m.-9 p.m.. Monday-Saturday: noon-6 p.m., Sunday; Collin Creek Mall, 811 N. Centra) Expwy., Piano. Information 424-7691.

The Great Constellation Hunt. An interactive show in which participants learn where in the heavens to search for the star patterns that have guided us throughout the ages. Audience members will receive sky charts to take home, Trekkies note: A “Star Trek” film is included. Through July 31; 2 p.m., Monday-Friday; 1 & 2 p.m., Saturday; The Science Place Planetarium. 1620 Ftrst Ave.. Fair Park. Information: 428-5555.

Six Legs Over Texas-A Live Insect Collection. Creepy crawly creatures aren’t so creepy after seeing them up close in this Dallas Museum of Natural History exhibit that allows kids to examine insects, their habits, and their habitats. Kids can also pose questions to insect experts and explore an interactive educational arts and crafts area. Through Aug. 11; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., dairy: Dallas Museum of Natural History, 3535 Grand Ave., Fair Park. Information: 421-DINO.

Invention Adventure. A traveling educational exhibit from LEGO Systems celebrates the process of invention; through three interactive categories kids can create a car and race it down a ramp, build an earthquake-proof building and test it on a vibrating table, or help direct Interplanetary robots navigating an alien landscape. Through Aug. 18: 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: 8:17-6541356.

Ultimate Tree House. An exhibit of originally designed tree houses in styles ranging from naturalistic to futuristic. Accompanying the exhibit will be a complete program of interactive children’s activities, including an activity book, display environments, and hands-on discovery stations. Through Sept. 2: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily: The Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd. Information; 327-8263.



Pawnee Bill’s Wild West Show. Trick ropers, riders, and shooters, a bull-whip artist, authentic wagons, a stagecoach holdup, and more than 70 animals recreate the days of the wild West. Through Sept. 28: 2, 4:30 & 8 p.m. followed by a rodeo, every Saturday: Cowtown Coliseum, Stockyards National Historic District, 121 E. Exchange Ave,. Fort Worth, Information: 817-625-1025.



The Little Engine That Could. CATS (Creative Arts Theatre and School) revs up the steam for a production that features a cast of spirited trains and anxious toys who are eager to get to the children in the City Over the Mountain. July 9-12; 10 a.m., Tuesday-Thursday; 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.. Friday; CATS. 1100 W, Randol Mill Rd., Arlington. Information: 817-861-CATS.



Texas Rangers Camp. Kids can eat, sleep, and dream about the Rangers taking the pennant at The Ballpark in Arlington’s summer camps. Children in third through fifth grades can tour the Ballpark, including the Clubhouse and Legends of the Game Museum, watch movies, and eat great junk food before curling up in their sleeping bags, July 12 & 26; Ballpark Way at Randol Mill, Arlington, Registration {metro) 817-273-5087.



Snow White. The Dallas Children’s Theatre recounts the classic tale of the beautiful young princess who flees deep into the woods to escape the jealous rage of her evil stepmother, and finds a host of new friends as well as her Prince Charming. July 12-28; 7:30 p.m., Friday; 1:30 p.m.. Saturday; 1:30 & 4 p.m.. Sunday; El Centro College Theater, Market and Main streets. Information: 978-0110.



Night Life at Wolf Creek Ranch. A private ranch hitches back the gates to let families experience an evening on the wide-open range. Sprawled around picnic dinners and a crackling camphre, families can relax while listening to the staff of the Dallas Museum of Natural History talk about beavers, bugs, and bison. 7-10 p.m., July 13. For information contact the Dallas Museum of Natural History, 3535 Grand Ave., Fair Park, 421-DINO.



Reptile Day. Kids who wear green in honor of their favorite reptiles can slither for free into the Dallas Museum of Natural History to learn more about their scaly friends from films, demonstrations, arts and crafts, and reptile experts known as herpetologists. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., July 13; Dallas Museum of Natural History, 3535 Grand Ave., Fair Park. Information; 421-DINO.



Adventures on Land and Sea. Together the Dallas Aquarium and the Dallas Zoo are offering four week-long summer camps for children ages 5-10. From July 15-19, children will become zookeepers and get an insider’s look at caring for animals. That same week, the “Shark Club” will look at marine and freshwater ecosystems. From July 29-Aug. 2, children will learn about aquatic creatures and have an underwater experience through the eyes of a fish. In “Discovery Quest.” also July 29-Aug. 2. hands-on projects teach children about mammals, birds, and reptiles. Dallas Zoo, 621 E. Clarendon Dr. or Dallas Aquarium, First Street and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. Camps run from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: children must register at least two weeks prior to the camp date. Information: 670-7531.



Free Day, July 16. The Dallas Zoo is offering free admission all day as well as musical entertainment and touchaole animals. The Dallas Parks and Recreation Department will set up information booths throughout the zoo. 9 a.m,-5 p.m., July 16; 621 E. Clarendon Dr. Information: 670-5656.



The Dancing Princesses. The Richardson Children’s Theatre stages its own version of Hans Christian Andersen’s well-known fairy tale by setting it to varied styles of music and dance, from rock ’n’ roll to classical. July 19-21; 10 a.m.. 7:30 p.m., Friday; 2 & 7:30 p.m.. Saturday; 2 p.m., Sunday: University of Texas at Dallas Theatre, Floyd and Campbell. Richardson. Information: 690-5029.



Eddie Coker. Jewish Community Center Children’s Dinner Theater presents the popular Dallas children’s entertainer in concert; optional hotdog dinner follows. 6 p.m., July 28: Zale Auditorium, Jewish Community Center. 7900 Northaven Rd. Information: 739-2737. ext. 215.



Literary Events & Lectures

Readers for Life Literacy Reception. More than 100 romance authors, from newly published locals to New York Times bestsellers, will be in town for the annual Romance Writers of America conference and will autograph their books in a fundraiser for adult literacy. Books will be donated by publishers and 50 percent of proceeds go to Dallas adult literacy efforts. 5-8 p.m., July 11; Wyndham Anatole Hotel. 2201 Stemmons Fwy, Information: 713-440-6885.

Museums & Galleries

African American Museum. “What Is It: African American Folk Art from the Regenia A. Perry Collection” (through Aug. 31) is the first large private collection devoted exclusively to African American folk art by an African American. The approximately 240 two- and three-dimensional works were collected over 25 years and include such unique pieces as a chewing gum sculpture, bone sculptures, a submarine, and a geometric quilt. “Caribbean Visions: Contemporary Painting and Sculpture’ (through Dec. 151 features 92 works by 56 native painters and sculptors that explore the cultural traditions of the Caribbean. Noon-5 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.. Saturday: 1-5 p.m., Sunday; 3536 Grand Ave., Fair Park. Information: 565-9026.



Amon Carter Museum. The museum’s permanent collection includes American photographs, as well as 350 paintings. 500 watercoiors and drawings, and more than 5,000 prints. Two galleries are filled with the museum’s original collection of paintings and sculpture by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, given to the museum by former Fort Worth Star-Telegram publisher Amon G. Carter. Note: The museum will be closed through Sept. 6 for renovations. 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. “Picturing Asia America: Communities. Culture, Difference” (through Aug. 10) is an exhibit of photographs by Asian-American artists that depict their dualities. 10a.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday: 201 W. Main St., Arlington. Information: 817-275-4600.

C.B. Smith Museum. Aviation museum dedicated to the memory of American Airlines’ CEO from 1934-1968 features exhibits that trace the development of the airline. Also at the museum are contemporary aviation displays and a 14-minute film that looks behind the scenes at the workings of American Airlines. Visitors can also learn about the science of flight through computer games, video, and audio. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.. Tuesday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Sunday; Hwy. 360 and FAA Road, Irving. Information: (metro) 817-967-1560.



Conspiracy Museum. The museum’s exhibits provide information on assassinations since 1835. including those of Abraham Lincoln. James Garfield, William McKinley, John F. Kennedy, and Martin Luther King, Jr. The crash of Right 007 In Korea is also examined. 10 a.m.-6 p.m.. Monday-Sunday; first floor, Katy Building, 110 S. Market St. Information: 741-3040.



Dallas Museum of Art. “Hot Cars. High Fashion, Cool Stuff: Designs of the 20th Century” (through July 14; features “I Love Lucy” reruns, Pucci fashions, rock ’n’ roll memorabilia, and vintage cars in an exhibit chronicling the history of 20th-century American design. “Views of Windsor by Thomas and Paul Sandby from the Collection of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II” (July 14-Sept. 29) is a collection of watercolors done between circa 1750 and 1800 by the two brothers, who lived in Windsor. The paintings depict the Windsor Castle and a nearby town and park. ’Many of the works were collected by Sir Joseph Banks and sold at Christie’s in 1876. With the opening of “The Arts of Africa. Asia, and the Pacific,” a new permanent installation of non-Western art that includes works from Egypt, China, Japan, and sub-Saharan Africa, the museum’s entire collection is on display. The museum’s holdings of contemporary art include works of abstract expressionism, pop art, and one of the largest collections of post-1945 art in the Southwest. “Art of the Americas” displays stone sculptures, gold objects, ceramics, and other artifacts from lost civilizations like the Aztecs, and paintings by 20th-century American artists. “The Art of Europe” is a collection of impressionist and post-impressionist works, as well as Greek and Roman antiquities. In the Reves collection, visitors can see Chinese porcelain and English silver along with a collection of works by Renoir, van Gogh, Cezanne, and other painters in a French Riviera-villa setting. 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 922-1355.



Dallas Museum of Natural History. Permanent exhibits include The Hall of Prehistoric Texas, with giant fossils and intriguing specimens: the paleontology lab, where visitors can watch scientists and volunteers work on real fossils and ask them questions; City Safari, a hands-on discovery center in a backyard setting with microscopes, live animals, x-rays, and more; and wildlife dioramas, four halls of realistic Texas habitats, undergoing renovations this summer, that will feature interactive kiosks, sound, videos, and a walk-through cave and buffalo “stampede.” 10 a.m.-5 p.m.. daily; 3535 Grand Ave. in Fair Park. Information: 421-DINO.



Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. Exhibits explore Texas’ natural history, and present science from dinosaurs to computers in a kid-friendly way. The Omni Theater shows 70mm films in a dome theater; current show is The Living Sea. Also at the museum is the Noble Planetarium. 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: 1501 Montgomery St., Fort Worth. Information; (metro) 817-654-1356.



Frontiers of Flight Museum. In the main lobby of the Love Field terminal (above Southwest Airline’s main ticket counter), this museum contains historical artifacts and informative displays on the earliest attempts at manned flight through the modern space age. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m., Sunday; Love Field Terminal Lobby, second floor. Cedar Springs Road and Mockingbird Lane. Information: 350-3600.



Kimball Art Museum. “Affinities of Form: Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas” (July 14-0ct. 13) showcases ritual and domestic artifacts from Mali, Zaire, and South Africa and Polynesian art made from shells, whale ivory, and human teeth. Free. “The Path to Enlightenment: Masterpieces of Asian Sculpture from the Musée Guimet” (through Sept. 1) shows Asian art icons-more than 70 figures crafted from stone, terra cotta. wood, bronze, and precious metal-that trace the development of Buddhist art over the course of 1,000 years. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday & Saturday; noon-8 p.m., Friday; noon-5 p.m.. Sunday; 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd.. fort Worth. Information: 817-332-8451.



Meadows Museum. “The Meadows Collection: Masterpieces of Spanish Art for Texas” (through July 7) showcases the museum’s extensive collection of Spanish paintings, prints, and sculptures by such artists as Goya, Picasso, Miro, and Murillo. The museum’s permanent holdings include one of the most comprehensive collections of Spanish art outside of Spain, including paintings, works on paper, and sculptures in the Elizabeth Meadows Sculpture Garden. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Friday 6 Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Thursday; 1-5 p.m., Sunday; SMU campus, corner of Bishop Boulevard and Binkley Avenue. Information: 768-2516.



McKinney Avenue Contemporary. “Books, Boxes. Texts, Videos” (through Aug. 18), by El Paso artist James Magee, features framed wall reliefs, sketchbooks, and videos. 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. “Richard Long: Here and There” (through July 7) showcases works of mud, blue-gray slate stones, and wood that reflect the artist’s fascination with nature, “Howard Hodgkin: Paintings 1975-1995” (through July 14) shows Hodgkin’s colorful, evocative paintings, considered representational by some, abstract by others. A small survey of German artist Gerhard Richter’s work is on display in the Foyer Gallery (through July 14), including Richter’s photoreal works as well as his abstract paintings. The Modern’s permanent collection includes works by Picasso, Roy Lichtenstein, James Surls, and Clyfford Still, and Texas artists including Melissa Miller. 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 Science Place. The IMAX Theater is now open with its 79-foot dome screen. The surround-sound system will take the audience on an adrenaline-pumping adventure. The opening film, To The Limit, explores athletic prowess in Olympic runner Carl Lewis, champion skier Maria Walliser, prima ballerina Nina Ananiashvili, and rock climber Tony Yaniro, and also includes footage from the first endoscopic (inner body) cinematography ever used in IMAX filming. Another film being shown is an 11-mmute, 3-D animated short. We Are Bom of Stars, which presents an in-your-face-action recounting of the history of the universe. The Science Place is an interactive children’s science center featuring permanent and traveling exhibits. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., daily: Fair Park. Information: 428-5555.



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. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.. daily; Dallas County Administration Building, 411 Elm St. Information: 653-6666.



Temple Emanu-EI. The architecturally acclaimed Temple Emanu-EI building has on display several liturgical and non-liturgical works, such as textiles, mosaics, and lithographs, by artists such as Anni Albers, Ben Shahn, Octavio Medellin of Dallas, and Charles Williams of Fort Worth. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Mon day-Friday; 8500 Hillcrest Ave. Information: 922-1220.



Music

Damn Yankees. Jerry Lewis stars as Applegate, the devil, who strikes a bargain with Joe Boyd, a middle-aged fan of the hapless Washington Senators. In exchange for-well, you know-he will become star outfielder Joe Hardy, a power-hitting messiah who will lead the Senators out of the cellar and past the arrogant New York Yankees to a championship. Features songs like “You Gotta Have Heart” and “Whatever Lola Wants.” Of local note: The mediocre Washington Senators moved to Arlington in the 1970s, became the Texas Rangers, and have still never won a pennant. July 1-7; 2 p.m., Thursday, Saturday & Sunday: Music Hall, Fair Park. Information: 691-7200.

Barry White, Gladys Knight, Chaka Khan. It’s a midnight love train to Georgia with this 1970s r&b-disco lineup. 7:30 p.m., July 3, Starplex Amphitheater, Fair Park. Tickets: 373-8000.



Jaizy Fourth Concert. The Irving Symphony teams up with local jazz performers for a Fourth of July musical salute blending jazz and traditional flag-waving orchestral compositions. A grand finale fireworks display follows the concert, July 4; 6-8:30 p.m., jazz entertainment; 8:30 p.m., symphony concert; Williams Square, Las Colinas. Irving. Information: 831-8818.



The Monkees. The ’60s’ made-for-TV. bubble-gum group reunites three of its original American fab four (missing: Dallasite Mike Nesmith) in what might be dubbed “The Last Train to AARPsville.” 8 p.m., July 4. Music Mill Amphitheater, 5ix Flags Over Texas. Hwy. 360 at 1-30, Arlington. Information: 817-530-6000.



Sousa Spectacular. The Dallas Wind Symphony celebrates the nation’s birthday with a salute to everything red, white, and blue. 1 & 4 p.m., July 4; Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. Information: 528-5576.



Doyle Bramhall. Well-known Austin blues artist makes a direct connection from Antone’s to Deep Ellum. 9 p.m., July 5. Sons of Hermann Hall, 3414 Elm St at Exposition. Information: 828-9246.



Emilio. Tejano singing star performs. 10:30 p.m., July 5, Billy Bob’s Texas. 2520 Rodeo Plaza. Fort Worth. Information: 817-589-1711.

KISS. All four original members of this band-We first rock band to explore the possibilities of full-body make-up-are on the reunion tour. Trie tour promotes a new ’unplugged-CD, but the band itself will be plugged into their make-up for the first time since 1982, reportedly. 8 p.m., July 5; Reunion Arena, 777 Sports St. Tickets: 373-8000.

International Summer Music Festival. The Dallas Symphony Orchestra festival series focuses on Mozart’s music. On July 5 4 6. Andrew Litton will not only conduct but play the piano as Marvis Martin sings soprano. One of the concert highlights will be Mozart’s “Overture” to The Magic Flute. On July 12 & 13, early birds will be treated to a pre-concert performance of Chopin and Mozart selections by a wind and piano ensemble. A concert featuring Alicia De Larrocha on piano and Wendy Warner on cello will follow featuring works by Tchaikovsky and Mozart. AH concerts will begin at 8:15 p.m. Meyerson Symphony Center. 2301 Flora St. Tickets: 692-0203.

Willie Nelson. Willie used to play every year at the Sportatorium on Industrial Boulevard as a favor to the owner, but apparently trial debt’s been paid because now the only places you ever see him are at Billy Bob’s and Six Rags, more’s the pity. His live shows are fast-paced, fine, and reliable-“Whiskey River” always flows. 8 p.m.. July 6, Six Flags Music Mill Amphitheater. Hwy. 360 at 1-30. Arlington, Information: (metro) 817-530-6000.

Syd Straw and The Skeletons. Hamell on Trial. The punk folk songstress is touring with Trie Skeletons; Ed Hamell. late of Austin and now of New York, opens with his band; 9 p.m., July 6. Sons of Hermann Hall, 3414 Elm St. at Exposition. Information: 828-9246.

Trisha Yearwood. The country diva will sing her hits, like “Xs and Os (An American Girl)” and ’She’s In Love With the Boy.” 10:30 p.m., July 6; Billy Bob’s Texas, 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth. Information: 317-589-1711.

Basically Beethoven Festival. The Fine Arts Chamber Players pays tribute to Beethoven in a series of free afternoon concerts against a backdrop of trie lush foliage of the Dallas Horticulture Center. July 7: Yuri Anshelevich, associate principal cellist of the Dallas Symphony and the Dallas Opera Winds, will perform the music of Chabrier, Beethoven, and Schumann; July 14: Stravinsky Octet and music for brass will be performed by members of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra: July 21: musicians from trie Dallas Symphony Orchestra will perform Mozart and Beethoven; July 28: musicians from Fort Worth Symphony will perform music for strings and winds. All shows 3 p.m.: Dallas Horticulture Center. Fair Park. Information: 520-2219.

Adam Sandler. The ’Saturday Night Live” alum will morph into his cast of wacky characters, like Opera Man. 8 p.m., July 7, Starplex Amphitheater. Fair Park. Tickets: 373-8000. Music of the Night- Celebrating the musical genius of Andrew Lloyd Webber, the Dallas Summer Musicals hosts the U.S. premier tour of a theatrical concert saluting the composer, with an ensemble of Broadway singers and dancers performing music from Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar. Sunset Boulevard, and other shows. July 9-21; 8 p.m.. Tuesday-Sunday; 2 p.m. Saturday & Sunday of first week; 2 p.m.. Thursday, Saturday & Sunday of the second week; Music Hall, Fair Park. Tickets: 691-7200.

Wade Hayes. This country singer Is a Bethel Acres, Okla., native who’s “Old Enough to Know Better.’ 10:30 p.m., July 12; Billy Bob’s Texas. 2520 Rodeo Plaza. Fort Worth. Information: 817-589-1711.

Pant era, White Zombie. Pantera’s a local rock band gone gold, still playing the hometown. 7:30 p.m., July 13: Starplex Amphitheater, Fair Park. Tickets: 373-8000.

Placido Domingo. World-famous tenor performs a concert benefiting the St, Paul Medical Center Residency Training Program. 8 p.m., July 16; Reunion Arena, 777 Sports St. Tickets: Dillard’s ticket outlets. 800-654-8545.

H.O.R.D.E. Tour. Horizons Of Rock Developing Everywhere (and you thought that acronym was meaningless!) wanders to trie Texas Motorplex in Ennis with a lineup including Blues Traveler, Dave Matthews Band. Lenny Kravitz. Rusted Root, and more that all promise to get your Tevas tappin’. This year Lollapalooza gets no closer to Dallas than Bryan, so for aIternative rock group gigs, this is it. 3 p.m., July 19; Texas Motorplex, Hwy. 287 between 1-35 and 1-45 . Tickets: 373-8000.

Gloria Estefan. With her band Miami Sound Machine, she helped push a crossover Latin sound to the top of the charts in the ’80s and is still going strong. 8 p.m., July 24; Starplex Amphitheater. Fair Park. Tickets: 373-8000.

Contemporary Christian Concerts. A full weekend’s lineup at Six Hags, including DC Talk on July 25, Michael W. Smith on July 25, and the Newsboys on July 27; all shows at 8 p.m.. Six Rags Music Mill Amphitheater, Hwy. 360 at 1-30. Arlington. Information: (metro) 817 530-6000.

Hal Ketchum. Singer-songwriter and former Austin cabinetmaker hit big on the country charts and still turns out songs a little more finely crafted ana left of center than most country music. 10:30 p.m. July 27; Billy Bob’s Texas, 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth. Information: 817-589-1711.

Sports

Legends of the Game Baseball Museum. Exhibit of photographs and artifacts (through Aug. 15) celebrating the centennial of the birth of legendary Texas player Rogers Hornsby highlights his 48-year career, from signing with the Dallas Steers in 1914 to coaching the Mets in 1962; also on display: more than 100 items from the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Last tickets are sold one hour before closing. 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday: noon-5 p.m.. Sunday. The Ballpark in Arlington, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington. Information: 817-273-5600.

Lone Star Park. Come watch races at the Post Time Pavilion inthe315-acre, $96 million horse-racing park. Sports fans will be able to watch and wager on races from top tracks across the country in the specially designed pavilion with 175 televisions. Belt Line Road, a half mile north of 1-30, Grand Prairie. For race times and information; 263-RACE.

Stockyards Championship Rodeo. Fort Worth’s historic Cowtown Coliseum is the site for this year’s championship rodeo featuring bull riding, team roping, barrel racing, and Western entertainment. Through September. 8 p.m., each Saturday night. Cowtown Coiseum, Stockyards National Historic District. Fort Worth, information: 817-654-1148.

Mesquite Rodeo. The 39th season of bronco riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, and barrel racing in the 5,500-seat Mesquite Arena; family activities include pony rides, a petting zoo, and an all-you-can-eat barbecue buffet dinner. Through Oct. 5; 6:30 p.m.. gates open; 8 p.m., rodeo begins: Mesquite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Dr., Mesquite. Information: 285-BULL

Dallas Summer Boat Show. From 40-foot cruisers to pontoon party boats, here’s your chance to get a year-end discount price on the boat of you’ dreams, then peruse booths offering the latest in boating accessories. July 16-21; 3-10 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; 10 a.m.-10 p.m.. Saturday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m.. Sunday; Dallas Market Hall, 2100 Stemmons Fwy. Information: 749-5491.

Theater

Much Ado About Nothing, fort Worth’s Shakespeare in the Park marks Its 19th summer festival with the comedy whose theme is the madcap twists and misconceptions of romance, jealousy, conspiracy, and betrayal. Through July 7 (no Show on July 4); 6:45 p.m.. gates Open; 8:15 p.m. show starts: Tuesday-Sunday; Trinity Park Playhouse, cor ner of Seventh Street and Trinity Boulevard. Fort Worth. Tickets: 817-923-6698.



The Big Knife. This play, written in the style of a 1930s soap opera, shows a famous movie star caught up in a whirlwind of alcohol, abuse, infidelity, and the media. Through July 27; 8 p.m., Thursday-Saturday; Richardson Theatre Centre, 718 Canyon Creek Square, Richardson. Reservations: 699-1130.



Shakespeare Festival of Dallas. For the 25th anniversary season, the festival stages the tale of jealous obsession. Othello, and the more lighthearted love-gone-wrong romp. A Midsummer’s Night Dream. Through July 28; 7 p.m., gates open for members; 7:30 p.m. for non-members; 8 p.m., show starts: Othello plays Wednesday-Friday, Midsummer Tuesday. Saturday & Sunday: Samuell-Grand Park. 6200 E. Grand Ave. Information: 559-2778.

Are We Having Fun Yet? Following the popular run of “Dallas Got Run Over by a Reindeer,” the Grassy Knoll Players are back at it with this new play about vacation and recreation and parenting and growing up. Produced by Judy Truesdell. An all-you-can-eat buffet is also available before the show. July 5 & 6; 6:30 p.m., dinner seating; 8 p.m.. show time; Dallas Grand Hotel, 1914 Commerce St. Reservations and information: 255-7306.



Disgraceful One-Acts. Theatre Three stages two irreverent one-act comedies-the Tennessee Williams spoof “For Whom the Southern Bell Tolls,” and the worldly wisdom of convent-bound nuns in “Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All.” July 6-Aug. 4; 8:15 p.m., Thursday-Saturday; 2:30 p.m., Sunday. Theatre Three, 2800 Routh St. Information: 871-3300.

Camelot. The story of King Arthur, Guinevere, and the Knights of the Round Table come to life through songs like ’ If Ever I Would Leave You” and “How to Handle a Woman.” The production stars Noel Harrison. July 9-21; 8 p.m., Tuesday-Friday: 2&8p.m., Saturday; 2 p.m., Sunday; Casa Manana Theatre. 3101 W. Lancaster, Fort Worth. Information: 817-332-2272.



Porcelain. Kitchen Dog Theater opens its sixth season in Dallas with Chay Yew’s play about a gay Chinese-English man who is driven to murder his lover; “Porcelain” won two London Fringe Awards, including best play. July 11-Aug. 4, 8 p.m.. Thursday-Saturday; 2 p.m., Sunday; The McKinney Avenue Contemporary, 3120 McKinney Ave. Information: 953-1055.



Directors Choice. A selection of seven short plays, many which premiered at the Actor’s Theatre of Louisville in Kentucky, is presented in one evening by Windmill Productions. The Dallas show will feature scenes of the upcoming production of “Hay Fever” by Neil Coward. 2 p.m., July 14; Dallas Public Library, Young and St. Paul streets. Information: 941-7330.



Bye Bye Birdie. This musical will take you back to a time when teenagers at least seemed innocent enough to get worfced up into a frenzy over the prospect of kissing a rock ’n’ roll heartthrob like Conrad Birdie, who was obviously modeled on Elvis. July 19-28: 8 p.m., Friday & Saturday; 2 p.m., Sunday; Garland Center for the Performing Arts, 5th & Austin, Garland. Information: 205-2790.



The Miss Firecracker Contest. The Piano Repertory Theatre presents Pulitzer prize-winning playwright and SMU grad Beth Henley’s comedy about the lives of a group of smalltown Southerners who try to cope with their unhappy pasts and look forward to the future. July 19-Aug. 11; 8:15 p.m.. Friday & Saturday: 2:15 p.m., Sunday: ArtCentre Theatre, 1028 15th Place, historic downtown Piano. Information: 422-7460.



I Hate Hamlet. Theatre Arlington stages the Paul Rudnick comedy about a small-screen actor who is unenthusiastic about performing Shakespeare until he meets the ghost of the most famous actor to portray Hamlet, John Barrymore. July 19-Aug. 18; 8:15 p.m., Thursday-Saturday; 2:15 p.m., Sunday; Theatre Arlington, 305 W. Main St.. Arlington. Information: 817-275-7661.



The Unsinkable Molly Brown. Former gymnast Cathy Rigby vaults into this Casa Manana production of the backwoods girl, Molly Brown, who rises from rags to riches only to be snubbed by Denver high society until she emerges as a heroine after surviving the sinking of the Titanic. July 23-Aug. 4; 8 p.m., Tuesday-Friday; 2 & 8 p.m.. Saturday; 2 p.m., Sunday; Casa Mariana Theatre. 3101 W. Lancaster, Fort Worth. Information: 817-332-2272.



West Side Story. The Dallas Summer Musicals offers the classic tale of Romeo and Juliet set against the backdrop of the gritty New York streets with gang warfare exploding on the stage in song, dance,and high drama. July 23-Aug. 4; 8 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday: 2 p.m. Saturday & Sunday of first week; 2 p.m., Thursday, Saturday & Sunday of the second week; Music Hall, Fair Park. Tickets: 691-7200.