Artsy fun awaits you this coming weekend with events such as a witty play about holiday magic, a musical performance crowned by royalty, a dark spiral into the sinful world of Dante, a shopping fete with plenty of local goods and an island fun run that will help you stay in tip top shape.
Stark Naked Theatre Company presents Ho Ho Humbug
You can call yourself a certified party pooper if you don't come out from seeing this Star Naked Theatre Company play with a renewed belief in the magic of the holiday season. While the adult content adds a modern twist to an otherwise charming story of a disillusioned artist who finds peace while working as an elf-turned-Santa at a big box retailer, the plot is such that we can all find something relatable in it.
Playwright Scott Burkell's characters in this world premiere are downright delightful, including the sassy gay elf who christens himself as "Blue Balls."
Houston Symphony presents Handel's Messiah
Alongside the The Nutcracker, Handel's Messiah is perhaps the single most performed classical score during the holidays — and rightfully so, thematically speaking. But if you are Messiah-ed out, the Houston Symphony layers a bit of originality on this English-language oratorio by bringing in British violinist and conductor Christopher Warren-Green, the preferred maestro of the royal family.
Fitting given that the magnum opus was written while George was living in England.
The skinny: Through Sunday; Jones Hall; tickets start at $29.
Two Star Symphony and 14 Pews present Seven Deadly Sins
Perhaps you prefer your holidays with a healthy dose of sardonic irony? Then consider the musicians of the Two Star Symphony and creative friends your news besties. The eight musicians, who will perform on 15 instruments, mount this new multimedia performance that includes live dance, projections and original art to interpret these cardinal sins individually.
Among the collaborators are contemporary belly dancer Ms. Yet, animator Atton Paul and visual artists Greg Higgins, Jose Barron Antonio, Darcy Rosenberger, Katie Jackson, Jo Bird, The Hexachord, Katsola, Studio 155 and The Barking Bunny.
The skinny: Through Dec. 21; 14 Pews; $15 general admission, Dec. 21 is pay-what-you-can.
Maker Market Holiday Bash
Avoid the mayhem that's last minute holiday shopping at more traditional destinations — aka, the mall. Instead, heed my advice and try shopping at the Houston Makerspace pop up market, hosted by Paper and Space Collective, which gathers a number of excellent local merchants, designers and nonprofits to take care of your retail issues.
Featured vendors include Brass Copper, Blue Crown Vintage, Molly Block Finds, Second Suitcase, Proof + Theory, Urban Izzy, Forgotten Art Clothing and many, many more.
The skinny: Saturday, noon-9 p.m.; Houston Makerspace; free admission.
Third Annual Santa Hustle Half-Marathon and 5K Texas
Is that little black dress feeling a little tight from indulging in too many parties, happy hours and late night soirées? We know you've been hitting the holiday "buffat" with a heavy hand — we all do it. But enough is enough. Channel your inner Kris Kringle and shake off those cookies at the third annual Santa Hustle in Galveston.
Because I know what's good for you.
The skinny: Sunday, 8 a.m.; Saengerfest Park; entry fee starts at $45.
The Houston Symphony brings in British violinist and conductor Christopher Warren-Green for Handel's Messiah.
