On tap this week is a party with reality television hunks, films that explore the extremities of the world, a chili cook-off that benefits kids in crisis, a risky classical music concert and a foodie feud that warms the soul.
"Party Your Heart Out" with The Bachelorette's Zak Waddell, Ben Scott and Drew Keeney benefiting the American Heart Association
Remember these hotties from Desiree Hartsock's season of Bachelorette? Who cares if they weren't her pick of the hard-bodied litter. Some, like Ben Scott, were made to look like evil asses, but, let's face it, nothing that happens in reality television is real. At this event benefiting the American Heart Association, the guys are showing what they are truly made of by showing love for cardiovascular health.
Ladies, bring cash because there will be a kissing booth. Enough said.
The skinny: Friday, 7 p.m.; Proof Rooftop Lounge; $10 donation at the door.
Mountainfilm on Tour
The essence of Telluride arrives in Houston courtesy of Mountainfilm on Tour, a screening of a collection of indie shorts that delves deep into unexplored parts of the world. Through stunningly beautiful imagery, be prepared for these films to blow your mind with strong messages of social responsibility and environmental advocacy.
Casa de Esperanza's Young Professionals Fourth Annual Chili Cook-off
With mild temperatures in the 70s expected this weekend, it's possible that, once again, the Casa de Esperanza's Young Professionals will rouse quite a turnout for this event that was attended by more than 500 peeps last year. At the end of the foodie fun, more than $60,000 was raised for the nonprofit's mission of giving hope to kids in crisis.
Chairs Brad Dinerstein, Jaclyn Martin, Tim Neuhaus and Bruce Wallace are in it to break that fundraising record. The social pits more than 30 chili teams against one another in an ambiance that includes food, drinks, raffles and music.
The skinny: Saturday, 2-5 p.m.; Cottonwood Bar; $35 general admission, $25 for YP members.
River Oaks Chamber Orchestra presents "Conductorless: ROCO Celebrates Austria"
Look Ma' — no hands. The River Oaks Chamber Orchestra going "conductorless" is a bit like letting go of your bike's handle bars for the first time. It may feel scary initially, but the freedom, despite possible risks, is addicting.
I doubt that ROCO will crash and burn during Mozart's Serenata notturna, Haydn's Symphony No. 103 "Drum Roll" or Schoenberg's Chamber Symphony No. 2 as these musicians know what they are doing. Although with the stakes higher than usual, expect more energy from an ensemble that makes serious classical music fun for everyone.
The skinny: Saturday, 5 p.m.; The Church of St. John the Divine; $25. Encore concert on Sunday, 6:30 p.m.; Sugar Land Auditorium; $25.
Chicken Soup Cookoff
Dare I saw that chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food? With just about every cuisine having its own version, discussions about favorite recipes can turn friends into frenemies and adversaries into soul mates.
Guests will taste more than 40 creations from Houston area restaurants. A panel of judges will crown winners in various categories while tasters vote for the People's Choice Award. That warm tummy feeling? Know that this food challenge benefits the Houston Food Bank and Congregation Emanu El.
The skinny: Sunday, 11 a.m.; Congregation Emanu El; $12 adults, $5 children.
Drew Keeney, one the heartthrobs in The Bachelorette, will make an appearance at "Party Your Heart Out."
