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Out on the Town

By D Magazine |

EDITORS’ PICKS

TOP FIVE THINGS TO DO IN AUGUST



1 9TH ANNUAL CAESAR SALAD COMPETITION. August 27. Sponsored by the American Institute of Wine & Food, this popular contest has some of Dallas’ best chefs trying to out-toss one another to become the ruler of The Best Caesar Salad in Dallas. Garden Center at Fair Park. 214-696-2493.



2 16TH ANNUAL MORNING NEWS DANCE FESTIVAL Opens August 31. If you missed this Dallas dance showcase in years past, don’t make the same mistake again. The festival includes performances from the Dallas Black Dance Theatre, the SMU Meadows Dance Ensembles, and performances by dance professionals from around the country. It also features movement workshops for the kids and swing lessons. Annette Strauss Artist Square. 972-881-2914.



3 KRLD RESTAURANT WEEK. August 14-19. Great food at a great price for a great cause-that’s the agenda for this event. KRLD Radio and 68 of Dallas’ most prestigious restaurants have teamed up to benefit the North Texas Food Bank and the Tarrant Area Food Bank. It’s also a chance to experience fine dining for a fine price-$25 for a three-course meal. Participating restaurants include Chamberlain’s Steak & Chop House, Del Frisco’s, III Forks, and Texas de Brazil. Check www.krld.com or call 214-330-1396 for the full list of participating restaurants. Reservations are required and limited. Call the individual restaurants and request the 2000 KRLD Restaurant Weekend reservation.



4 VISIONS: THE WOMEN’S EXPO. August 26-27. The 2000 celebrity speaker at the Expo will be Dr. Phil McGraw, best-selling author of Relationship Rescue and a regular guest on Oprah. This annual event for women and their families provides shopping and information on topics such as Health & Wellness and Home, Garden & Design, with advice from local experts. Dallas Market Hall. 214-741-4404.

DEAD MEN DON’T DANCE DISCO-1976. Through August 26. Pull out your plaid bellbottoms for this one-a ’70s murder mystery for baby boomers. Brush up on those Saturday Night Fever dance moves hecause you’ll be shakin’ your groove thang while trying to track down a killer. The ’70s costume is optional, but a prize goes to the best one, as well as a prize for the cleverest sleuth. Pierre’s By The Lake, 3430 Shorecrest Dr. 972-263-5178.



ATTRACTIONS



Comin’ Through Cowtown. In this hands-on exhibit, visitors of all ages can learn what life was really like on the Chisholm Trail. After supper on a chuck wagon and tall tales by the fire, put on some chaps and boots and rope a calf. Mon-Wed, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thu-Sat, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun, noon-9 p.m. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History- ’501 Montgomery St., Fort Worth. 1-888-255-9300.

Dallas Zoo. Hop on the Monorail Safari, a mile-long, narrated tour located in the Wilds of Africa that travels through six African habitats. Also visit Zoo North, which includes the Exxon Endangered Tiger Habitat, the Bird & Reptile Building, and the Children’s Zoo with touchable animals for kids and adults alike. A definite must for anyone in Dallas. Open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 650 South R.L. Thornton Fwy. 214-670-5656.

Fort Worth Botanic Garden. You can’t help but encounter the bright seasonal flowers on display in the Leonard Courtyard. The Cactus Garden provides a close-up look at a desert landscape sure to please the eye. Peace and tranquility abound as you approach the Japanese Garden, while the Rose Ramp leads to the Oval Rose Garden where you can stop and. well, you know. Mon-Fri,10a.m.-9p.m.;Sat, !0a.m.-6p.m.; Sun. 1-6 p.m. 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., Fort Worth. 817-871-7686.

Fort Worth Zoo, Drop by and see Rasha, the 23-year-old female Asian elephant who is one of the world’s few painting pachyderms. Then pay a visit to her baby girl bom in 1998, making history as the first elephant bom in the zoo’s 90-year history. Also make the rounds to the zoo’s Herpetarium, which houses one of the five largest reptile and amphibian collections in the nation. Stop by Koala Outback. Texas’ only permanent koala exhibit. Open daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 1989 Colonial Pkwy., Fort Worth. 817-871-7055.

NRH20 Family Water Park. Complete with a wave pool and three awesome waterslides, this water park is a surefire way to beat the summer heat. Try The Green Extreme, the world’s largest gravity-defying uphill roller coaster- its 7-story height and 1.161 feet of twists and turns are sure to make this park a family favorite. Dates and times max vary. 9001 Grapevine Hwy.. N. Richland Hills. 817-127-6500.

The World of William Joyce. Everyone in the family can enjoy this tribute to the world of children’s books author and illustrator. William Joyce. The display includes original artwork from Joyce’s books Bently & Egg, George Shrinks, Dinosaur Bob, and Santa Calls. Through Aug 6. Mon-Fri,9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun, 1-5 p.m. Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving. 972-252-7558.

EVENTS

5th Annual Jewish Arts Fast of Dallas. Make it out to the Meyerson for a celebration of the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of Jewish culture. The lobby will be transformed into a marketplace showcasing arts and crafts from the United States and Israel. Local performers include folk dancers. Flamenco dancer Karen Heller, and singer Mark Kreditor.Aug20.10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St. 214-739-2737.



Festival of Trains. This one is perfect for the whole family. Learn about the famous steam engines that used to roll through Dallas, such as the Texas Chief, Texas Special, Sunbeam, and the Katy Flyer. Aug 12 & 13. Wed-Sun, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Age of Steam Railroad Museum, 1105 Washington St. 214-428-0101.



Finding Strength for living. If you are a woman living with cancer, or you know a woman living with cancer, you must attend this event. Hosted by Saturday Night Live alum Julia Sweeney, Finding Strength for Living is a free educational program designed to help women living with cancer cope with side effects of chemotherapy. It features advice from nutritionists on how to combat fatigue through diet and exercise. Aug 8. Call for times. Fairmont Hotel. 1717 N. Akard St. 214-720-2020.



Guy Gourmet: A Hands-on Series with Ben Helms. Guys, become a Master of the Kitchen: learn to cook an amazing meal sure to dazzle a date and Mom. Lei Ben Helms teach you to prepare tarragon chicken stuffed with goat cheese, duck breast with orange bourbon glaze, apple/fennel cole slaw, and blueberry-peach cobbler for dessert. And this time, when you say you prepared the meal, you’ll actually be telling the truth. Aug 2.6:30 p.m. Sur La Table, 4527 Travis St., Suite A. 214-219-4404.

FILM

Cirque du Soleil: Journey of Man. Celebrate the human spirit with this visual extravaganza that combines the power of large format film and the artistry of Cirque du Soleil. The film itself chronicles the life of man in six stages, from the birth to maturity. The Cirque du Soleil performers introduce each stage and represents different experiences throughout each stage of man’s life. Through October, Times may vary. Cinemark IMAX Theatre. 11819 Webb Chapel Rd. 972-888-2629.

Island Adventure. Visit some of the world’s most exotic island paradises, such as the Pacifie Ocean island of Le Reunion, Hawaii, and France in this IMAX presentation. The Rim tells the story of a young professor chas-ing a beautiful woman named Jade-who may or may not be an illusion. Throughout the chase, the professor and two guides explore the hypnotic, dreamy island worlds filled with strange things. Through Sept. 28. Daily, 2 p.m. The Science Place, 1318 2nd Ave. 214-428-5555.

KID STUFF

Debusk Parks/KidsQuest. This is perhaps one of the area’s best-kept secrets: a 12,000 square-foot oasis of adventure featuring a wooden pirate ship.arubber tightrope walk, tube tunnels, slides, swings, fireman poles, and even a wooden Batmobile. For parents, the park features comfortable benches to wait for the little ones. Two pavilions and picnic tables also outfit this playground mecca. Open daily, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 1625 Gross Rd., Mesquite. 972-216-6260.

Into the Woods, Jr. This summer musical is perfect for the kids. It combines Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, and Jack (you know, “Fee, fi, fo, fum…”) in a stage play tailored for young audiences. And, not only will kids get to enjoy a play meant for them, but parents can also show the little ones that kids can be important, too: Everyone involved in the production, from actors to technicians, are aged 8 through 18. Aug. 4-5, 11-13, 2 & 7:30 p.m. Garland Civic Theatre, 300 N. 5th St., Garland. 972-205-2790.

Winnie the Pooh’s Birthday Party. What better way to spend a Saturday afternoon than at Winnie the Pooh’s birthday party? Children ages 2 to 8 are invited to help their favorite resident of the 100-Acre Wood celebrate his birthday-complete with a cake. Story time features “Pooh’s Stuck in Rabbit’s House.” The guest of honor himself will drop in. Aug 12, 11 a.m.-noon. Enchanted Forest Books for Children, 6333 E. Mockingbird Ln. 214-827-2234.



MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

African American Museum. Experience the vital African-American culture. This permanent collection of African art includes masks, sculptures, and textiles, as well as contemporary African-American art pieces by local artists, The museum also offers African-American history courses, summer youth camps, and a lecture series. Tue-Fri, noon-5 p.m.; Sat, 10 a,m .-5 p.m.; Sun. 1-5 p.m. 3536 Grand Ave. 214-565-9026.

Biblical Arts Center. Whether your visit is religiously or aesthetically motivated, your senses will be stirred by the exhibits here. The works on display will certainly bring to life the events of the Bible. View pieces such as “Rebekah at the Well” and ?’Madonna and Child,” as well as ancient archeological artifacts and contemporary art that transcend religious boundaries. Tue-Sat, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 1-5 p.m. 7500 Park Ln. 214-691-4661.

Conspiracy Museum. JFK. RFK, MLK-the Conspiracy Museum analyzes each of these world-changing assassinations based on the premise that something fishy happened. The Museum backs up its claims with documents, photographs, and film footage of each assassination. If nothing else, the Conspiracy museum will make you think. Tours available Sat & Sun. Open daily, 10 a.m.-6p.m.H0S.MarketSt.214-741-3040.

Nie Nicosia: Real Pictures, 1980-1999. See the first survey exhibition of work by this Dallas-based artist. Nicosia’s “photographic fictions.” which manipulate the techniques of fine art, advertising, TV, and film, are featured. Also included are selections from nine of Nicosia’s photographic series, as well as four current works in film and video. Through Aug 27. Tue-Sun, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thu, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Closed Mondays. Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 Harwood St. 214-922-1247.



Science in Toyland. Warm up your child’s thinking cap just in time for school. Stops in Toyland include Domino Challenge, where kids can trigger chain reactions, and Kids’ Construction Company, where they can build a house. The showcase also features Tournament of Tops, Block City, and Food Web. Opens Aug 22. Tue, Wed & Fri, II a.m.-5;30p.m,;Thu, 11 a.m.-9p.m.;Sat & Sun, 1-5 p.m. Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, 1501 Montgomery St., Fort Worth. 817-255-9300.



Sixth Floor Museum. Whether we like it or not, Dallas is famous for President Kennedy’s assassination, which makes a visit to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza a must. The museum takes you through everything surrounding the event, from the turmoil of the 1960s to the legacy the assassination left behind. You are transported back in time by film footage of Kennedy’s trip to Texas, the motorcade, the funeral, and the investigation. Open daily. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 411 Elm St. 214-747-6660.



Sports and the Nation. Calling all sports fans: This one’s for you. This sports lover’s dream features artifacts from 13 sports, including auto racing, baseball. football, golf, and soccer. Get close to greatness just by being in the same room as Muhammad Ali ’s robe and Bob Cousy’s Boston Celtics uniform. Also view memorabilia from the 1980 U.S. hockey team, plus a painting of Nolan Ryan. Through October. Times vary. Legends of the Game Museum, 1000 Ballpark Way. Arlington, 817-273-5059.



Valley House Sculpture Garden. If you’ve never seen this spectacle-more than four wooded acres in North Dallas decorated with sculptures-you’ve missed quite a sight. The lush greenery serves as the perfect backdrop for beautifully crafted sculptures and a few surprises. The Sculpture Garden is currently displaying pieces by Charles Williams, David Hayes,Mike Cunningham, and others. Mon-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 6616 Spring Valley Rd. 972-239-2441.

MUSIC

Mary J. Blige. The newly crowned “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul” brings her sultry vocals and cover-girl good looks to the Smirnoff. This concert is sure to make a hot, Texas summer night even hotter. Aug. 19. Time to be announced. Smirnoff Music Center. 1818 1st Ave.. Fair Park. 214-373-8000.



The Dixie Chicks. The trio finally saunters back home this month, bringing their beguiling combination of class, flash, and good ol’ Texas sass with them. Aug II. Time to be announced. Reunion Arena, 777 Sports St. 214-373-8000.



An Evening with Sting. Fresh from his double Grammy Award win. Best Pop Vocal Performance for “Brand New Day” and Best Pop Album for Brand New Day, Sting will play a special show this month presented by 94.5 KDGE. Get a blanket and a date because this may be the only time in history that “Every breath you take/every move you make/I’ll be watching you” won’t be creepy. Aug 25,8 p.m. Smirnoff Music Center. 1818 1st Ave., Fair Park. 214-373-8000.



The Who. Out promoting the release of their new album The Blues to the Bush, the legendary icons of rock V roll make Dallas one of the stops on their 20-city North American tour. In addition to performing material from the new album, The Who will also perform old favorites including “Pinball Wizard” and “My Generation.” Aug 27 & 29, 7:30 p.m. Reunion Arena.777SportsSt.2l4-373-8000.



SPORTS

Dallas Cowboys vs. Oakland Raiders. If you’re desperate for football, take heart. The Boys are back (minus Deion). Be among the first to guess how the Dallas Cowboys of the new millennium will shape up (or ship out). But keep in mind we’re talking Texas Stadium in the middle of August. At least the drinks will be cool. Aug 13,6 p.m. Texas Stadium, 2401 E.AirportFwy.,Irving. 214-373-8000.



Tai Chi Chaun. If you like yoga, you’ll love Tai Chi. This ancient Chinese art can be practiced as a low-impact exercise to promote the health of the body through movements designed to increase flexibility. You can also practice Tai Chi as a way to relax your mind. Learn the art in its original form from Johnny Chang. Every Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Huffines Recreation Center. 1500 Apollo Rd., Richardson. 972-783-8881.

Twin Wells Ladies Golf Association. Ladies, improve your game or try it for the first time here. This Irving group sponsors play every week on Sunday and Tuesday. Spend a Sunday playing 18 holes for $24. Or take a break during the week to play nine holes for $14 on Tuesday. The Association offers a monthly tournament. Sun, 1:30 p.m.; Tue, 5:30 p.m. Twin Wells Golf Course, 2000 E. Shady Grove Dr., Irving. 972-790-1179.



THEATER

Annie Warbucks. Take the kids to see this musical thill picks up where Annie left off. This time, child welfare commissioner Harriet Doyle arrives to inform Daddy Warbucks that he must marry within 60 days because Annie needs a proper mother.The whirlwind search for a fitting bride uncovers Harriet Doyle’s ulterior motive and Daddy Warbucks’ true feelings about Grace Farrell. Through Aug 6. Thu-Sat, 2 & 8 p.m.; Sun, 2 p.m.Granbury Opera House, 133 E. Pearl St.. Granbury. 817-573-9191.



The Book of Job. Follow Job on the journey that questions his faith in this production of the Biblical tale. See what happens when an ordinary man has to struggle to keep control of his own soul despite the powerful forces determined to impede him. Through Aug 20. Fri, 8:15 p.m.; Sat & Sun, 3:15 & 8: 15 p.m. Jubilee Theatre, 507 Main St., Fort Worth. 817-338-4411.



Copacabana. “Her name was Lo-la. She was a showgirl,.. .”Who can forget those famous opening lines? This summer, see the musical inspired by the hit song. With more original songs by Barry Manilow, dazzling costumes, and sensational choreography. Copacabana will whisk you away to another world where “music and passion were always in fashion.” Aug 8-20. Tue-Fri, 8 p.m.; Sat & Sun. 2 & 8 p.m. Music Hall at Fair Park. 909 1st Ave. 214-373-8000.



The Dead President’s Club. Combining humor and sharp political insight. The Dead Prèsident’s Club is certainly something new. The “Club” consists of four presidents-Calvin Coolidge, Lyndon Johnson, Harry Truman. and Richard Nixon-who are “on hold” in purgatory. Through Aug 26. Circle Theatre. 230 W. 4th St.. Fort Worth. 817-877-3040.



How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. Follow J. Pierrepont Finch from lowly window washer to high-powered executive in the musical from the authors of Guys and Dolls. Using a little handbook called “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” Finch does just that-and stumbles upon true love along the way. Aug 10-20. Tue-Sat, 7 p.m.; Sun, 2 p,m. Denton Community Theatre, 214 W, Hickory St., Denton. 940-382-1915.



PUNCH DRUnK. The cast of the cult comedy cable shown. PUNCH DRUnK tv gives you a high-energy, alternative comedy experience, Ages 18 and up only, please-it’s not mandatory, but anyone younger won’t find it funny. And. yes there is a stage. Hint: Go farther. Thu, 9 p.m. Ozona Grill, 4615 Greenville Ave. 214-265-9105.



Ragtime. Don’t let the title of this impressive musical fool you. Ragtime isn’t just jaunty jazz from America’s Gilded Age. If you catch the contrast between the lively music and the sobering events of the day. you’ll take a lot more from Ragtime than just a tune. Aug 8-13.Tue-Fri, 8 p.m.; Sat. 2 & 8 p.m.; Sun, 2 & 7:30 p.m. Bass Performance Hall, 4th St. @ Calhoun St.. Fort Worth. 214-373-8000.



Smokey Joe’s Cafe. Here’s your chance to see the longest running Broadway revue in history. Learn the story of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. the unlikely grandfathers of 1950s rock ’n’ roll. Journey back to the ’50s for the first time or take a stroll down memory lane. Either way. make Smokey Joe’s Cafe your first stop. Aug 22-27. Tue-Fri, 8 p.m.; Sat & Sun, 2 & 8 p.m. Music Hall at Fair Park, 909 1st Ave. 214-373-8000.



gallery of the month

Dallas Visual Art Center presents an exhibition of the work of Brazilian-born painter and SMU grad Juvenal Reis. The artist’s expressive paintings are the result of an encaustic technique that involves the heating of colored wax to achieve a thick, textural surface. Reis’ work will be on display through Aug. 11. 2801 Swiss Ave., Ste. 100. 214-821-2522.



hot spot of the month

A classic Irish setting melds the tastes of the Emerald Isle with classic American fare. Live music ranges from Celtic to blues Wednesday through Sunday. Park near the rich cherry wood bar-imported piece by piece from Ireland-for pints of Guinness. Coming soon: a rooftop patio where you can watch the ever-improving construction on McKinney Avenue.-Valerie Douglas

O’Dowd’s, 2614 McKinney Ave. 214-3981-9)00.

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