The best plays, musical performances and exhibits in Texas are being enjoyed by record number crowds, according to our cultural adventurer Claire-Lise Greve who shares our favorite recommendations from across the state in this issue.
AUSTIN
BROADWAY, MEET FRANCE
Coming to UT’s Bass Concert Hall in September, the Tony Award®-winning musical Les Misérables brings to life Victor Hugo’s classic story of human rights, class conflict and justice. This production took inspiration from the paintings of Victor Hugo to create a new, reimagined scenic design that captivates audiences. September 10—15. At Austin.Broadway.com
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of Les Miserables US Tour
LET’S MIX IT UP
The Modernist Networks exhibition drawn from Annette Campbell-White’s collection of Modernist writers and artists, features manuscripts, books, letters, photographs, and illustrations that chart creative influences across generations, disciplines, and continents. Campbell-White’s memoir, published in conjunction with the exhibition, offers a compelling backstory to this selection of highlights from her collection. Through January 5. At HRC.utexas.edu
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of the Harry Ransom Center
TEXAS-SIZED AMBITION
ANN offers a glimpse into the complex and passionate life of Ann Richards, the colorful 45th Governor of Texas. This hilarious, yet captivating play provides an intimate setting to tell the story of one of the most impressive women in modern day politics.
Through September 8. At ZachTheatre.org
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of ZACH Theatre
DALLAS / FORT WORTH
WHO’S REALLY THE FAIREST ONE OF THEM ALL?
Texas Ballet Theatre presents Sleeping Beauty, a story of fate, curses, and love. Performed at the Winspear Opera House, this ballet showcases stunning costumes, dazzling scenery, and wonderful music, making it perfect for the whole family.
September 6—8. At TexasBalletTheater.org
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of Texas Ballet Theater
WILL ROBOTS TAKE OVER?
The Psychedelic Robot show hosts a variety of interactive, multimedia installations from local and International artists including fashion, sculpture, painting, photography, video, music, costuming, performance and more in a 13,000 square foot venue at the Crescent Court. Through September 29. At PsychedelicRobot.com
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of Psychedelic Robot
MUSIC OF ANGELS
This sensational production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera returns to tell the story of a young ingénue who becomes entranced by her “Angel of Music” through breathtaking choreography, dazzling costumes and powerful vocals. Sept. 24—Oct. 5. At BassHall.com
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of The Phantom of the Opera Touring Company
HOUSTON
WHAT A CUT-UP
The Printing Museum’s newest installation, Paper Couture, features origami artist, Joan Son’s take on retro-inspired fashion. Son created a variety of full-sized gowns through numerous techniques he learned throughout his career as a contemporary origami artist. Through December 22. At PrintingMuseum.org
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of Printing Museum
RAZZLE DAZZLE
TUTS kicks off their 51st season with one of Broadway’s most iconic musicals at the Hobby Center. Telling the story of underpaid and overworked actors, A Chorus Line explores the timeless lives of Broadway chorus dancers. September 10—22. At Houston-Theater.com.
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of the Touring Company of A Chorus Line
LOVE, THEN DECEPTION
Houston Ballet presents Giselle, a wonderful example of a 19th-century ballet that tells the story of a peasant girl who is tricked by an aristocrat pretending to be a commoner. Featuring themes of redemption, love, and betrayal, Giselle is one of the most stunning ballets ever produced. September 6-15. At HoustonBallet.org
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of the Houston Ballet
SAN ANTONIO
KNIGHT & DAY
For the Tobin Center’s anniversary gala 10-time Grammy winner Gladys Knight will entertain in her inimitable way. A seated dinner, silent auction and after party will make this a can’t-miss event. October 24.
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of the Tobin Center
PAINTING FOR PERFORMANCE
Painting for Performance features designs of five different artists who have delved into the world of theatrical performance. The McNay museum’s new exhibit offers a glimpse into the technical skill that goes into creating the costumes and backdrops for many stage productions. September 12—December 8.
At McnayArt.org
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of the McNay Art Museum
LIVING FOR THE ART
Puccini’s tragic opera Tosca tells the story of an actress who truly lived for her art before sadly falling victim to the head of the secret police. Opera San Antonio uses the marvelous sets from the esteemed Seattle Opera’s rendition to create a visually stunning production. September 12 and 14. At OperaSA.org
IMAGE: Photo courtesy of Opera San Antonio