May Calendar of Events

Ongoing Events
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May 1

The Magic School Bus Kicks up a Storm
Children's Museum of Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/8/08-5/11/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The Magic School Bus Kicks up a Storm teaches kids about weather phenomena through a variety of hands-on activities such as interpreting live weather data over the internet and creating a weather report in a mock TV studio. Visitors learn about lightning and thunder, tornadoes, hurricanes, seasons, and more. Bring a camera for photo opportunities with costumed characters Ms. Frizzle and Liz the Lizard from the popular book series. 713.522.1138; www.cmhouston.org Ages: 0-12
 

Leonardo da Vinci: Man, Inventor, Genius
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/7/08-9/1/08
Cost: Adults $15; Seniors, Students, & Children (3-11) $12


The special exhibit features more than 50 custom-built wooden models of Leonardo's most innovative designs and inventions, including a hang glider, helicopter, military tank, and elegant bridge structures produced in vivid detail from his original drawings. Several models are interactive and hands-on, encouraging guests to push, pull, and crank for a greater understanding of their purpose and operation. Tickets include admission to the permanent exhibit halls. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org

  Peace Piece
Jewish Community Center of Houston
Time: 7pm
Cost: $11


Hope Stone presents its Kid's Play Ensemble and boys band YouthSound in the premier of Peace Piece, a modern dance production about why peace is so important. 713.526.1907 www.hopestoneinc.org
  Mahler's Resurrection Symphony
Jones Hall
Time: Thu, Sat 8pm; Sun 2:30pm; Sun, Thu, Sat 5/1/08-5/4/08
Cost: $26-$103

The Houston Symphony performs Mahler's Resurrection symphony. [713.224.7575; http://www.houstonsymphony.org]
Ages: 7 and up
  The Children of Theresienstadt
Holocaust Museum Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 2/22/08-8/31/08
Cost: Free


Escaping Their Boundaries: The Children of Theresienstadt features more than 40 collages, drawings, diaries, magazines, games, and marionettes created by children in the Theresienstadt ghetto during the Nazis' occupation of Czechoslovakia. An interactive section invites visitors, both young and old, to reflect on the exhibit and create a continuation of the children's story by writing, drawing, or using magnetic poetry in a room decorated with hundreds of handmade butterflies from all over the world. 713.942.8000; www.hmh.org
Ages: 10 and up


May 2

A Little Day Music: HSPVA Big Band
Wortham Theater Center
Time: 12n
Cost: Free


In celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month, Da Camera presents a free noontime concert featuring High School for the Performing and Visual Arts' big band in the Wortham's grand foyer. 713.524.5050; www.dacamera.com

  Ritmo Latino
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Time: 8pm
Cost: Free


Society for the Performing Arts presents the Houston premiere of the Spanish Harlem Orchestra, a Grammy Award-winning, 13-member salsa and Latin music ensemble. Free reserved tickets for covered seating are available at the box office 11:30am-1pm on the day of the performance; remaining tickets are released one hour before curtain. Open lawn seating is plentiful. 281.FREE.FUN www.milleroutdoortheatre.com
 

Summer Concert Series - Russell Ray
Time: 7-9pm

Open-air concert with kids’ playground and Splash Pad, conveniently located near Hwy 288.  Food vendor on site or bring your own food and drink – no glass bottles, please.  Southdown Park.  Pearland.  www.pearlandparks.com  281-652-1673

  Petticoats and Slide Rules
Sam Houston Park and Heritage Society
Time: During museum hours; Daily except Mon 4/1/08-5/4/08
Cost: Free


The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Houston Area is hosting the national exhibit, Petticoats and Slide Rules: A History of Women Engineers, which pays tribute to women trailblazers in the engineering profession. The exhibit features photos, videos, interviews, and artifacts. 713.655.1912 www.heritagesociety.org
  Cinco de Mayo Ballet
MECA
Time: 8pm
Cost: $6 in advance; $10 at the door


MECA Artist-in-Residence Alejandro Vela is joined by pianist Terrence Wilson to perform works by Dvorak and other composers. The evening also includes the world premiere of Robert Avalon's ballet, Cinco de Mayo. 713.802.9370 www.meca-houston.org
Ages: 6 and up
  Rock Mine
Houston Museum of Natural Science; The Woodlands Xploration Station
Time: During museum hours; Ongoing Daily; check with location for exceptions.
Cost: Free with paid admission


Xploration Station's Rock Mine features minerals that glow in bright, iridescent colors under black light. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org
  Special Olympics Texas Gulf Coast Area Spring Games
Clear Creak High School - Off FM 518 in League City
May 2nd and 3rd

Volunteers Needed.



May
3

The Magic School Bus Kicks up a Storm
Children's Museum of Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/8/08-5/11/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The Magic School Bus Kicks up a Storm teaches kids about weather phenomena through a variety of hands-on activities such as interpreting live weather data over the internet and creating a weather report in a mock TV studio. Visitors learn about lightning and thunder, tornadoes, hurricanes, seasons, and more. Bring a camera for photo opportunities with costumed characters Ms. Frizzle and Liz the Lizard from the popular book series. 713.522.1138 www.cmhouston.org Ages: 0-12
  After Einstein: Music and the Relativity of Time
Wortham Theater Center
Time: 8pm
Cost: $22-$38


Da Camera presents works by Einstein's favorite composer, Mozart, alongside Quartet for the End of Time by one of the century's greatest musical figures, Olivier Messiaen. 713.524.5050 www.dacamera.com Ages: 7 and up
  Summer Nature Camp Registration
Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center
Time: Begins Saturday, May 3 at 8 am
Cost: FREE


Summer NatureCamp is a highlight of the summer for many families. Children ages 5 to 12 are invited to participate in “Nature Olympics” at Jones Park. Registration for this four-day educational program begins Saturday, May 3 at 8 a.m. Registration must be made in person by a parent or legal guardian, and priority is given to Harris County residents. For more information on the park or any of its programs, call (281) 446-8588 or visit the Jones Park Web site atwww.hcp4.net/jones.
 

Annual Photo Contest Awards Presentation
Time: Saturday, May 3 at 1 p.m.

The photos continue to roll in to Jones Park for the annual photo contest, so don’t miss the Wednesday, April 30 deadline to submit your entry! Those wishing to see all of the entries, and learn some interesting nature photography tips and techniques from the experts should make plans to attend Jones Park’s Annual Photo Contest Awards Presentation. Kingwood Photo Club will present the awards, plus they will offer hints for capturing great nature scenes on film. For more information on the park or any of its programs, call (281) 446-8588 or visit the Jones Park Web site atwww.hcp4.net/jones.
  James and The Giant Peach
Main Street Theater, 4617 Montrose Blvd.
Time: Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Family Performances: April 19, 26, May 3
School Performances: April 15 - May 23
Cost: $9 for children and students; $11 for adults; group rates (10 or more) available. No children under 3 allowed in the theater (including sleeping babies)

James and The Giant Peach based on the book by Roald Dahl, After his parents' tragic death by rhinoceros, James is sent to live with his horrible aunts, Spiker and Sponge. The contents of a magic bag transform an old peach tree into a portal to adventure, and James is able to escape his miserable existence. For more information please call 713.524.6706 or visit www.mainstreettheater.com
  Special Olympics Texas Gulf Coast Area Spring Games
Clear Creak High School - Off FM 518 in League City
May 2nd and 3rd

Volunteers Needed.
 

Genome: The Secret of How Life Works
The Health Museum
Time: During museum hours; Daily except Mon 2/2/08-5/4/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


Genome: The Secret of How Life Works features well over a dozen hands-on activities that answer common questions and correct frequently-held misconceptions about the human genome. 713.521.1515; www.thehealthmuseum.org Ages: 0-12

 

Texas Renaissance Festival Auditions
Where: City of Shenandoah Meeting Center - 29955 I-45 North, Shenandoah, TX 77381
Time: 8:30 am - 5 pm by appointment only

Performance Company Auditions for the 34th annual Texas Renaissance Festival. For more information please visit us at www.texrenfest.com or call our office at 800-458-3435.


May
4

Revealing Character
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During museum hours; Daily 2/16/08-5/4/08
Cost: Free with paid admission

Revealing Character: Robb Kendrick's Texas Tintypes features 66 original tintypes of cowboys taken throughout Texas. A tintype involves a 19th-century method of producing a photo on a thin metal plate. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org
  Chamber Orchestra at Bayou Bend
Bayou Bend
Time: 6:30pm
Cost: Adults $25; Students $10


The River Oaks Chamber Orchestra performs an outdoor concert narrated by National Public Radio show host John Lienhard. 713.665.2700 http://www.rocohouston.org
  Sundays in the Park: Da Camera Jazz Ensemble
Discovery Green
Time: 1pm-3pm
Cost: Free


The Da Camera Jazz Ensemble - featuring Latin jazz pianist Jose-Miguel Yamal - performs for park visitors. 713.400.7336 www.discoverygreen.com
  Petticoats and Slide Rules
Sam Houston Park and Heritage Society
Time: During museum hours; Daily except Mon 4/1/08-5/4/08
Cost: Free


The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) Houston Area is hosting the national exhibit, Petticoats and Slide Rules: A History of Women Engineers, which pays tribute to women trailblazers in the engineering profession. The exhibit features photos, videos, interviews, and artifacts. 713.655.1912 www.heritagesociety.org
  Mahler's Resurrection Symphony
Jones Hall
Time: Thu, Sat 8pm; Sun 2:30pm; Sun, Thu, Sat 5/1/08-5/4/08
Cost: $26-$103


The Houston Symphony performs Mahler's Resurrection symphony. 713.224.7575 http://www.houstonsymphony.org
Ages: 7 and up



May
5

Amazon Voyage: Vicious Fishes and Other Riches
Space Center Houston
Time: During regular hours; Daily 3/15/08-5/5/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The exhibit showcases the Amazon's complex ecosystem that includes close to 3,000 species of freshwater fish, and spotlights the serious environmental and economic issues currently facing the Amazon. 281.244.2100; http://www.spacecenter.org Ages: 2 and up
  Sleeping Beauty
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Time: 11am; 5/5/08-5/9/08
Cost: Free


Houston Grand Opera brings the classic fairy tale to life in an operatic version designed especially for young audiences. 281.FREE.FUN www.milleroutdoortheatre.com
  Children's Safety Seminar
The Motherhood Center
Time: 4pm-5pm
Cost: $30


Instructor Samuel Biggs - who has over 30 years of martial arts training - helps boys and girls focus on what to do when approached by a stranger, safety awareness, risk reduction, and avoidance. Register in advance. 713.963.8880 www.motherhoodcenter.com
Ages: 5 and up
  Farm Life
Armand Bayou Nature Center
Time: 1pm-4pm, Sun, Sat 1/5/08-5/31/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


Observe life as it once was at the nature center's 19th-century Martyn farm, as knowledgeable volunteers demonstrate activities common to daily life on a farm in southeast Texas. Demonstrations vary from butter and cheese-making to carpentry and blacksmithing. 281.474.2551; www.abnc.org



May
6

Morena Moderna: Virgin de Guadalupe
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During museum hours; Daily 10/20/07-4/23/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


Morena Moderna: Virgin de Guadalupe explores the origins and cultural influence of the Virgin of Guadalupe through a comprehensive collection of 25 photographs complemented by a film and integrated with performance art. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org

  Sleeping Beauty
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Time: 11am; 5/5/08-5/9/08
Cost: Free


Houston Grand Opera brings the classic fairy tale to life in an operatic version designed especially for young audiences. 281.FREE.FUN www.milleroutdoortheatre.com


May
7

Making the Unfamiliar Familiar
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 1/19/08-6/29/08
Cost: Free with paid admission

Making the Unfamiliar Familiar: A Program for High School Students features the works of 20 area students who made a series of visits to MFAH during the 2006-07 school year. Participating students worked in a studio space at the museum. 713.639.7300; www.mfah.org

  A Little Day Music: Fischer Duo
Wortham Theater Center
Time: 12n
Cost: Free


In celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month, Da Camera presents a free noontime concert featuring the Fischer Duo comprised of cellist Norman Fischer and pianist Jeanne Kierman Fischer in the Wortham's grand foyer. 713.524.5050 http://www.dacamera.com
  Sleeping Beauty
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Time: 11am; 5/5/08-5/9/08
Cost: Free


Houston Grand Opera brings the classic fairy tale to life in an operatic version designed especially for young audiences. 281.FREE.FUN www.milleroutdoortheatre.com

 

May 8

The Magic School Bus Kicks up a Storm
Children's Museum of Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/8/08-5/11/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The Magic School Bus Kicks up a Storm teaches kids about weather phenomena through a variety of hands-on activities such as interpreting live weather data over the internet and creating a weather report in a mock TV studio. Visitors learn about lightning and thunder, tornadoes, hurricanes, seasons, and more. Bring a camera for photo opportunities with costumed characters Ms. Frizzle and Liz the Lizard from the popular book series. 713.522.1138; www.cmhouston.org Ages: 0-12
  Disney's High School Musical 2, on Stage!
The Woodlands High School
Time: 7pm; Additional show Sat, 5/10 at 2pm; Each Thu-Sat 5/8/08-5/16/08
Cost: $15


The Woodlands High School Theatre Department and Class Act Productions have been selected as one of only four groups in the nation for this initial run of Disney's High School Musical 2 live on stage. 936.273.3395; www.classactproductions.org Ages: 3 and up


May
9

KidzPlanet
Time: 9:30am; Ongoing Each Sun; check with location for exceptions.
Cost: Free


KidzPlanet is a weekly zany and creative children's theatre production, which uses music and drama to teach kids about important life values like honesty, respect, and trust. Performances are each Sunday morning at the Country Playhouse. 713.344.1323; www.kidzplanet.org Ages: 4-11

 

Summer Concert Series - Ezra Charles
Time: 7-9pm

Open-air concert with kids’ playground and Splash Pad, conveniently located near Hwy 288.  Food vendor on site or bring your own food and drink – no glass bottles, please.  Southdown Park.  Pearland.  www.pearlandparks.com  281-652-1673

  The Jungle Book
InterActive Theater Company
Time: 9:30am & 11:15am; Each Tue-Fri 4/8/08-5/16/08
Cost: $7


A live stage adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's classic story. Reservations are required; call box office for tickets. A special two-for-one ticket offer is available at one Tuesday night show on Apr 29 and one Saturday matinee is scheduled for May 3. 713.862.7112; www.interactivetheater.org Ages: 3-11

May 10

Stop, Look, and Listen!
The Menil Collection
Time: 3 pm
Cost: Free


Da Camera presents a free family concert featuring Strike 3 Percussion, a dynamic trio of percussionists who perform with education in mind. 713.524.5050; www.dacamera.com

 

Father/Child Class: Mother's Day Craft
Time: 10 am

Kids ages 5 and up are invited to bring their father or grandfather to build a homemade wooden craft for their mom’s Mother’s Day gift. One craft/gift per family; reservations are required and can be made by calling the nature center beginning, Wednesday, April 30. For more information on the park or any of its programs, call (281) 446-8588 or visit the Jones Park Web site at www.hcp4.net/jones.

 

Second Saturday Settlers: Woodworking Shop
Time: 1 pm - 3 pm

Woodworkers demonstrate how Texas settlers’ woodworking skills shaped early furnishings. Residents are invited to the homestead workshop that will be abuzz with activity as volunteers demonstrate the draw knife, foot adze, shaving horse, plus many other woodworking tools. Other daily activities of early Texas settlers will also be demonstrated at the Redbud Hill Homestead. For more information on the park or any of its programs, call (281) 446-8588 or visit the Jones Park Web site at www.hcp4.net/jones.

  Madame Butterfly
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Time: 8pm; 5/9/08-5/11/08
Cost: Free


Houston Ballet presents an adaptation of the classical ballet about the tragic love story between a geisha and an American lieutenant. Free reserved tickets for covered seating are available at the box office 11:30am-1pm on the day of the performance; remaining tickets are released one hour before curtain. Open lawn seating is plentiful. 281.FREE.FUN; www.milleroutdoortheatre.com
 

Texas Renaissance Festival Auditions
Where: At the festival site at 21778 FM 1774, Plantersville, TX 77316
Time: 8:30 am - 5 pm by appointment only

Performance Company Auditions for the 34th annual Texas Renaissance Festival. For more information please visit us at www.texrenfest.com or call our office at 800-458-3435.

May 11

Second Sunday Pickers
Jesse H. Jones Park and Nature Center
Time: 2 pm - 4 pm

Bring mom to enjoy a concert as the Second Sunday Pickers take center stage for an afternoon of folk music played on a variety of old-fashioned instruments. Visitors of all ages are invited to listen, to sing along, or bring an instrument and join in the fun. For more information on the park or any of its programs, call 281.446.8588 or visit the Jones Park Web site at www.hcp4.net/jones.

 

May 12

Cockrell Butterfly Center & Hall of Entomology
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During museum hours; Ongoing Daily; check with location for exceptions.
Cost: Adults $8; Seniors and children (3-11) $6, (under 3) free


The butterfly exhibit is a three-story glass structure that showcases hundreds of live butterflies in a naturalistic rainforest setting, where butterflies flutter among - and occasionally land on - visitors strolling the paths or relaxing on benches. The Brown Hall of Entomology contains several live insects from around the world, as well as interactive displays. A children's room provides a nice quiet spot for parents to sit and for kids to use their imaginations - on hand are books, puzzles, games, tables and chairs, soft benches, insect puppets, and a giant beehive for kids to crawl through and clamber upon. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org
  The Children of Theresienstadt
Holocaust Museum Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 2/22/08-8/31/08
Cost: Free


Escaping Their Boundaries: The Children of Theresienstadt features more than 40 collages, drawings, diaries, magazines, games, and marionettes created by children in the Theresienstadt ghetto during the Nazis' occupation of Czechoslovakia. An interactive section invites visitors, both young and old, to reflect on the exhibit and create a continuation of the children's story by writing, drawing, or using magnetic poetry in a room decorated with hundreds of handmade butterflies from all over the world. 713.942.8000; www.hmh.org
Ages: 10 and up

May 13

KidzPlanet
Time: 9:30am; Ongoing Each Sun; check with location for exceptions.
Cost: Free


KidzPlanet is a weekly zany and creative children's theatre production, which uses music and drama to teach kids about important life values like honesty, respect, and trust. Performances are each Sunday morning at the Country Playhouse. 713.344.1323; www.kidzplanet.org Ages: 4-11

  Frogs!
The Woodlands Xploration Station
Time: During museum hours; Ongoing Daily; check with location for exceptions.
Cost: Free with paid admission


Frogs! features dozens of colorful, exotic frogs including poison dart frogs, clown frogs, Oriental fire-belly toads, African burrowing frogs, and many more - all showcased in their natural environments. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org
  Eye on Third Ward
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily except Mon 2/10/08-5/26/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The annual Eye on Third Ward exhibit features photographs of Houston's historic Third Ward taken by Yates High School students. For the first time, this year's exhibit includes photographs from the teens' personal lives as well. 713.639.7300; www.mfah.org



May 14

The Magic School Bus Kicks up a Storm
Children's Museum of Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/8/08-5/11/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The Magic School Bus Kicks up a Storm teaches kids about weather phenomena through a variety of hands-on activities such as interpreting live weather data over the internet and creating a weather report in a mock TV studio. Visitors learn about lightning and thunder, tornadoes, hurricanes, seasons, and more. Bring a camera for photo opportunities with costumed characters Ms. Frizzle and Liz the Lizard from the popular book series. 713.522.1138; www.cmhouston.org Ages: 0-12
  Houston Ballet at Discovery Green
Discovery Green
Time: 7:30pm
Cost: Free

Houston Ballet II performs at the park's Anheuser-Busch Stage and Fondren Performance Space. 713.400.7336
www.discoverygreen.com Ages: 2 and up
 

Leonardo da Vinci: Man, Inventor, Genius
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/7/08-9/1/08
Cost: Adults $15; Seniors, Students, & Children (3-11) $12


The special exhibit features more than 50 custom-built wooden models of Leonardo's most innovative designs and inventions, including a hang glider, helicopter, military tank, and elegant bridge structures produced in vivid detail from his original drawings. Several models are interactive and hands-on, encouraging guests to push, pull, and crank for a greater understanding of their purpose and operation. Tickets include admission to the permanent exhibit halls. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org


May 15

John Alexander: A Retrospective
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily except Mon 4/13/08-6/22/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The exhibit features 61 oil paintings and 36 works on paper from the late-1970s through 2007 by American painter John Alexander, whose works are informed by the Texas of his boyhood. 713.639.7300; www.mfah.org

  Rodrigo's Guitar Concerto
Jones Hall
Time: Thu, Sat 8pm; Sun 2:30pm; Sun, Thu, Sat 5/15/08-5/18/08
Cost: $26-$103


The Houston Symphony performs the sounds of Spain, featuring works by composers Rodrigo and Falla. 713.224.7575 www.houstonsymphony.org Ages: 7 and up

May 16

Designed by Architects
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/15/08-8/3/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The exhibit showcases metalwork from around the world that was designed by prominent architects between the late-19th and 21st centuries. 713.639.7300; www.mfah.org

  Summer Concert Series - Sound Advice
Time: 7-9pm

Open-air concert with kids’ playground and Splash Pad, conveniently located near Hwy 288.  Food vendor on site or bring your own food and drink – no glass bottles, please.  Southdown Park.  Pearland.  www.pearlandparks.com  281-652-1673
  Spanish Nights
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Time: 8pm
Cost: Reserved seats $10-$15; Lawn seating free


The Houston Symphony performs a concert of romantic and passionate Spanish works, including Manuel de Falla's El amor brujo Love, the Magician and other works. Classical guitarist Eliot Fisk joins the symphony on Joaquin Rodrigo's Concierto de Aranjuez. 281.363.3300 www.woodlandscenter.org Ages: 6 and up

May 17

Designed by Architects
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/15/08-8/3/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The exhibit showcases metalwork from around the world that was designed by prominent architects between the late-19th and 21st centuries. 713.639.7300; www.mfah.org

  American Baby Faire
Houston Reliant Center
Time: 10 am - 5 pm
Cost: Adults $8, Grandparents and children under 12 FREE


American Baby Faire is the nation's largest expo for expectant and new families presented by Babies"R"Us. It's the best place to see, buy and learn about all the products and services needed for baby. Collect free product samples and money-saving coupons from over 100 exhibitors. Representatives from your area will be on hand to answer your questions, conduct product demonstrations and host educational seminars. $3.00 OFF admission coupons available at area Babies "R" Us stores. For more information call 1-877-959-BABY or go to www.americanbabyfaire.com.
  Eye on Third Ward
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily except Mon 2/10/08-5/26/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The annual Eye on Third Ward exhibit features photographs of Houston's historic Third Ward taken by Yates High School students. For the first time, this year's exhibit includes photographs from the teens' personal lives as well. 713.639.7300; www.mfah.org

May 18

Dido and Aeneas
Bayou Theater
Time: 2pm
Cost: $10 in advance; $12 at the door; discounts available with UHCL ID Dido and Aeneas

Mercury Baroque presents a concert version of Purcell's only opera, Dido and Aeneas. A complimentary reception follows the performance. 281.283.2560; www.uhcl.edu/culturalarts Ages: 8 and up

  American Baby Faire
Houston Reliant Center
Time: 11 am - 5 pm
Cost: Adults $8, Grandparents and children under 12 FREE


American Baby Faire is the nation's largest expo for expectant and new families presented by Babies"R"Us. It's the best place to see, buy and learn about all the products and services needed for baby. Collect free product samples and money-saving coupons from over 100 exhibitors. Representatives from your area will be on hand to answer your questions, conduct product demonstrations and host educational seminars. $3.00 OFF admission coupons available at area Babies "R" Us stores. For more information call 1-877-959-BABY or go to www.americanbabyfaire.com.
  Country Roots Music Festival
Traders Village Marketplace
Time: 12n-4pm; 5/17/08-5/18/08
Cost: Free; Parking $3


Live performances feature classic country music reminiscent of the old honky tonk days. All of the marketplace's other attractions are open during these concerts, including kiddie rides and food booths. 281.890.5500 www.tradersvillage.com


May
19

Frogs!
The Woodlands Xploration Station
Time: During museum hours; Ongoing Daily; check with location for exceptions.
Cost: Free with paid admission


Frogs! features dozens of colorful, exotic frogs including poison dart frogs, clown frogs, Oriental fire-belly toads, African burrowing frogs, and many more - all showcased in their natural environments. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org

  Cockrell Butterfly Center & Hall of Entomology
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During museum hours; Ongoing Daily; check with location for exceptions.
Cost: Adults $8; Seniors and children (3-11) $6, (under 3) free


The butterfly exhibit is a three-story glass structure that showcases hundreds of live butterflies in a naturalistic rainforest setting, where butterflies flutter among - and occasionally land on - visitors strolling the paths or relaxing on benches. The Brown Hall of Entomology contains several live insects from around the world, as well as interactive displays. A children's room provides a nice quiet spot for parents to sit and for kids to use their imaginations - on hand are books, puzzles, games, tables and chairs, soft benches, insect puppets, and a giant beehive for kids to crawl through and clamber upon. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org


May
20

Gem Vault
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During Museum hours
Cost: Free with paid admission to the permanent exhibition halls


The Lester and Sue Smith Gem Vault, a new permanent exhibit hall, features cut and polished jewels, including dazzling examples of diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, aquamarine, and more. The centerpiece is a 1,869-carat natural emerald crystal, the largest ever recovered in North America. Ages: 4 and up 713.639.4629 www.hmns.org
  Eye on Third Ward
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily except Mon 2/10/08-5/26/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The annual Eye on Third Ward exhibit features photographs of Houston's historic Third Ward taken by Yates High School students. For the first time, this year's exhibit includes photographs from the teens' personal lives as well. 713.639.7300; www.mfah.org


May
22

Dancin' in the Street
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Time: 8:15pm; 5/22/08-5/25/08
Cost: Free


Dancin' in the Street is a soul music revue featuring classic Motown tunes. Free reserved tickets for covered seating are available at the box office 11:30am-1pm on the day of the performance; remaining tickets are released one hour before curtain. Open lawn seating is plentiful. 281.FREE.FUN; www.milleroutdoortheatre.com

  Eye on Third Ward
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily except Mon 2/10/08-5/26/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The annual Eye on Third Ward exhibit features photographs of Houston's historic Third Ward taken by Yates High School students. For the first time, this year's exhibit includes photographs from the teens' personal lives as well. 713.639.7300; www.mfah.org

May 23

Three Classics, Five Tangos
Wortham Theater Center
Time: Thu-Sat 7:30pm; Sun 2pm; Each Thu-Sun 5/22/08-6/1/08
Cost: $17-$144


Houston Ballet presents pieces by three internationally acclaimed choreographers. Note: no performances on Fri, May 23 or Thu, May 29. 713.227.2787; www.houstonballet.org Ages: 6 and up

  You'll Grow Soon, Alex
Katy Visual and Performing Arts Center
Time: 7pm
Cost: Free


KVPAC's Books Alive! series continues with a live stage adaptation of Andrea Shavick's children's book, You'll Grow Soon, Alex, featuring actors ages five to eight. Tickets are free but are required, and can be picked up beginning one week prior to the show. 281.829.2787 http://www.kvpac.org Ages: 4-10
  Dancin' in the Street
Miller Outdoor Theatre
Time: 8:15pm; 5/22/08-5/25/08
Cost: Free


Dancin' in the Street is a soul music revue featuring classic Motown tunes. Free reserved tickets for covered seating are available at the box office 11:30am-1pm on the day of the performance; remaining tickets are released one hour before curtain. Open lawn seating is plentiful. 281.FREE.FUN; http://www.milleroutdoortheatre.com
  Astros vs Phillies: Fireworks/Mini-Helmet Giveaway
Minute Maid Park
Time: 7pm
Cost: $7-$50

The Houston Astros take on the Philadelphia Phillies. Every Friday night home game is followed by a fireworks show. The first 10,000 fans in attendance also get a free Craig Biggio mini-helmet. 713.259.8000 http://www.astros.com
 

Summer Concert Series - Texas Unlimited Band
Time: 7-9pm

Open-air concert with kids’ playground and Splash Pad, conveniently located near Hwy 288.  Food vendor on site or bring your own food and drink – no glass bottles, please.  Southdown Park.  Pearland.  www.pearlandparks.com  281-652-1673

 

May 24

Cockrell Butterfly Center & Hall of Entomology
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During museum hours; Ongoing Daily; check with location for exceptions.
Cost: Adults $8; Seniors and children (3-11) $6, (under 3) free


The butterfly exhibit is a three-story glass structure that showcases hundreds of live butterflies in a naturalistic rainforest setting, where butterflies flutter among - and occasionally land on - visitors strolling the paths or relaxing on benches. The Brown Hall of Entomology contains several live insects from around the world, as well as interactive displays. A children's room provides a nice quiet spot for parents to sit and for kids to use their imaginations - on hand are books, puzzles, games, tables and chairs, soft benches, insect puppets, and a giant beehive for kids to crawl through and clamber upon. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org
  Developing Houston
San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Park
Time: During museum hours
Cost: Free with paid admission


Developing Houston: Photographic Treasures from the Cecil Thomson Collection features more than 200 photographs and artifacts from 1885 to 1945 capturing Houston's character during a period of change and growth. 281.479.2421; www.sanjacinto-museum.org
Ongoing Daily; check with location for exceptions.
  Scavenger Hunt
Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center, 20634 Kenswick Drive in Humble 
Time: 10 am
Cost: Free


Young nature lovers and scout groups are invited to join Jones Park staff for a Scavenger Hunt Saturday, May 24 at 10 a.m. This nature discovery outing tests the nature skills of children ages 5 to 16; parents must accompany their children at this event. Reservations are required and may be made beginning Wednesday, May 10. For more information on the park or any of its programs, call (281) 446-8588 or visit the Jones Park Web site at www.hcp4.net/jones.
  Bamboo Symposium and Plant Sale
Sponsored by The Mercer Society
Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens - 22306 Aldine Westfield Road, one mile north of FM 1960

Time: 8 am - 5 pm ; May 24th & 25th
Cost: Free


Guided Tours of Mercer’s Clumping Bamboo Collection
Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m.

Participating vendors with bamboo-related products will be located in the courtyard adjacent to the Visitor’s Center, and The Mercer Society volunteers will be grilling hamburgers and offering cold drinks for sale. Lectures will be held inside the Visitor Center.

SATURDAY: LECTURES
Richard A. Waters - 1 p.m.
This bamboo expert and artist will discuss growing, harvesting, collecting, curing, and preserving bamboo for craft projects. Visit Richard’s Web site at www.richardawaters.com

James Bonner - 3:30 p.m.
Owner and propagator of the Bamboo Plantation in Brookhaven, Mississippi, Mr. Bonner will discuss the differences between running and clumping bamboo. Bamboo is often mislabeled, and Mr. Bonner will show participants how to identify the two species by looking at the culms.

(281) 443-8731, or on the Web at www.hcp4.net/mercer/index.htm

May 25

Designed by Architects
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/15/08-8/3/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The exhibit showcases metalwork from around the world that was designed by prominent architects between the late-19th and 21st centuries. 713.639.7300; www.mfah.org
  Leonardo da Vinci: Man, Inventor, Genius
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/7/08-9/1/08
Cost: Adults $15; Seniors, Students, & Children (3-11) $12


The special exhibit features more than 50 custom-built wooden models of Leonardo's most innovative designs and inventions, including a hang glider, helicopter, military tank, and elegant bridge structures produced in vivid detail from his original drawings. Several models are interactive and hands-on, encouraging guests to push, pull, and crank for a greater understanding of their purpose and operation. Tickets include admission to the permanent exhibit halls. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org
  Tea Time with Mrs. Potts
Masquerade Theatre
Time: 2 pm - 4 pm
Cost: $20

Where: Landry's Downtown Aquarium (410 Bagby Street @ Memorial)
What: Meet, play games, receive gifts from and take pictures with Mrs. Potts, Chip and their enchanted friends from the Beast's castle!

Everyone's favorite enchanted teapot wants to celebrate tea with you! Mrs. Potts and Chip invite you to a delightful and magical afternoon with them and their friends! For tickets or more information call the theatre at 713-861-7045.

  Bamboo Symposium and Plant Sale
Sponsored by The Mercer Society
Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens - 22306 Aldine Westfield Road, one mile north of FM 1960

Time: 8 am - 5 pm ; May 24th & 25th
Cost: Free


Guided Tours of Mercer’s Clumping Bamboo Collection
Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m.

Participating vendors with bamboo-related products will be located in the courtyard adjacent to the Visitor’s Center, and The Mercer Society volunteers will be grilling hamburgers and offering cold drinks for sale. Lectures will be held inside the Visitor Center.

SUNDAY: RARE PLANT AUCTION & LECTURE
Auction - 1 p.m.
Rare bamboo not offered for sale to the public will be auctioned off to the highest bidder.

Steve Carter - 3:30 p.m.
This owner and propagator of Carter Bamboo of Brazoria, Texas, will teach participants how to divide and propagate bamboo. Using the techniques recommended by Steve, gardeners can extend their privacy screens by dividing one plant into three.

(281) 443-8731, or on the Web at www.hcp4.net/mercer/index.htm


May
26


Dinosaurs 3D
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: Showtimes varies weekly; call or visit website
Cost: Adults $10; Seniors, Students, & Children (3-11) $8 Dinosaurs 3D; Daily 3/14/08-8/21/08


The museum's IMAX Theatre goes extra-big with Dinosaurs 3D: Giants of Patagonia, featuring computer-generated creatures, animation, and an exploration of paleontological discoveries in the Patagonia region of Argentina. The film is narrated by Donald Sutherland. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org Ages: 5 and up

 

May 27

Cockrell Butterfly Center & Hall of Entomology
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During museum hours Daily, check with location for exceptions.
Cost: Adults $8; Seniors and children (3-11) $6, (under 3) free


The butterfly exhibit is a three-story glass structure that showcases hundreds of live butterflies in a naturalistic rainforest setting, where butterflies flutter among - and occasionally land on - visitors strolling the paths or relaxing on benches. The Brown Hall of Entomology contains several live insects from around the world, as well as interactive displays. A children's room provides a nice quiet spot for parents to sit and for kids to use their imaginations - on hand are books, puzzles, games, tables and chairs, soft benches, insect puppets, and a giant beehive for kids to crawl through and clamber upon. 713.639.4629 www.hmns.org

 

Making the Unfamiliar Familiar
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 1/19/08-6/29/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


Making the Unfamiliar Familiar: A Program for High School Students features the works of 20 area students who made a series of visits to MFAH during the 2006-07 school year. Participating students worked in a studio space at the museum. 713.639.7300; www.mfah.org


May
28

Gem Vault
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During Museum hours
Cost: Free with paid admission to the permanent exhibition halls


The Lester and Sue Smith Gem Vault, a new permanent exhibit hall, features cut and polished jewels, including dazzling examples of diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, aquamarine, and more. The centerpiece is a 1,869-carat natural emerald crystal, the largest ever recovered in North America. Ages: 4 and up 713.639.4629 www.hmns.org

 

May 29

Leonardo da Vinci: Man, Inventor, Genius
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/7/08-9/1/08
Cost: Adults $15; Seniors, Students, & Children (3-11) $12


The special exhibit features more than 50 custom-built wooden models of Leonardo's most innovative designs and inventions, including a hang glider, helicopter, military tank, and elegant bridge structures produced in vivid detail from his original drawings. Several models are interactive and hands-on, encouraging guests to push, pull, and crank for a greater understanding of their purpose and operation. Tickets include admission to the permanent exhibit halls. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org


May
30

Designed by Architects
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Time: During museum hours; Daily 3/15/08-8/3/08
Cost: Free with paid admission


The exhibit showcases metalwork from around the world that was designed by prominent architects between the late-19th and 21st centuries. 713.639.7300; www.mfah.org
 

Beauty & the Beast
Masquerade Theatre, 800 Bagby Street THE HOBBY CENTER
Time: Fridays & Saturdays at 8 pm/ Sundays at 2 pm
Performance Dates: May 30,31 June 6, 7, 8.
Cost: $30-50

The Broadway hit comes to Houston! Beautiful, intelligent Belle dreams of a romantic life like she's read about in books... but she never imagined being forced to dwell in an enchanted castle by a Beast, whom only true love can free! Watch them win each other's hearts in a "Tale As Old As Time"! For tickets or more information please call the theatre at 713-861-7045 or check out our website at http://www.masqueradetheatre.com.

 

Summer Concert Series - Kelly McGuire
Time: 7-9pm

Open-air concert with kids’ playground and Splash Pad, conveniently located near Hwy 288.  Food vendor on site or bring your own food and drink – no glass bottles, please.  Southdown Park.  Pearland.  www.pearlandparks.com  281-652-1673

CSI: The Experience
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Time: During museum hours
Cost: Adults $15; Seniors, Students, & Children (3-11) $12


CSI: The Experience is a hands-on, multi-media exhibit featuring mock crime scenes in which visitors experience what it is like to solve a crime using the latest techniques in forensic science. Tickets include admission to the permanent exhibit halls. 713.639.4629; www.hmns.org
Daily 2/1/08-4/30/08


May
31

Beauty & the Beast
Masquerade Theatre, 800 Bagby Street THE HOBBY CENTER
Time: Fridays & Saturdays at 8 pm/ Sundays at 2 pm
Performance Dates: May 30,31 June 6, 7, 8.
Cost: $30-50

The Broadway hit comes to Houston! Beautiful, intelligent Belle dreams of a romantic life like she's read about in books... but she never imagined being forced to dwell in an enchanted castle by a Beast, whom only true love can free! Watch them win each other's hearts in a "Tale As Old As Time"! For tickets or more information please call the theatre at 713-861-7045 or check out our website at http://www.masqueradetheatre.com.

Common Invertebrates of Jones Park
Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center, 20634 Kenswick Drive in Humble
Time: 10 am
Cost: FREE

The forest is alive with bugs! Visitors of all ages can learn about common creepy crawlers during an informative nature center presentation. Following the presentation participants will take a walk into the woods to get an up close and personal look at some of the insects that inhabit the area. For more information on the park or any of its programs, call (281) 446-8588 or visit the Jones Park Web site at www.hcp4.net/jones.