On the agenda this week is a witty play about a tragic queen, a family gathering in Houston's favorite urban waterway, wine in a beautiful fall backdrop, a program about the inextinguishable impulse of the human creative spirit and a brunch throwdown that challenges chefs to think big, but spend small.
Stages Repertory Theatre presents Marie Antoinette
This modern David Adjmi adaptation that centers on the life of the ill-fated 18th century French queen adds spice to the story of a young woman who was faced with circumstances that she didn't choose for herself. And that's what makes her so likeable and relatable, especially with language du jour that includes valley speak and colloquialisms in an effort to connect with contemporary-minded audiences.
The deets: Running through Nov. 2; Stages Repertory Theatre; tickets start at $19.
Eighth Annual KBR Kids Day on Buffalo Bayou
Guilty as charged: I used to be one of those people who took this urban waterway for granted — why should we care? Because the ongoing transformation has been remarkable, because it's going to become an active destination and because it holds historical significance for the evolution of Houston. The weather is going to be idyllic for this al fresco family-friendly gathering that includes boat tours, entertainers, kayaking demos, face painters, balloon artists and hands-on activities.
Bonus CultureMap points if you stick around for Skatestock III "Skate, Rock & Honor" next door at the Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark from 1 to 5 p.m. The music, skateboard and art fest plays host to bad ass skateboarding legends as they bitch slap and blunt slide to impress visitors in an event that benefits the Morgan Moss Foundation.
The deets: Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sabine Promenade; free event.
Houston Arboretum and Nature Center Class: Introduction to Wines
Let's be honest here. There's nothing about the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center that says, "Hey, you can learn about wines with us." Yet this event in partnership with the Texas Wine School is appealing because of the gorgeous fall backdrop in which to learn the basics of wine. An instructor will help you understand how to taste and evaluate wine, the skinny on wine glasses and how to pair different varietals with bites and nibbles.
If you're a lightweight, why don't you do society a favor and use Uber as transportation?
Holocaust Museum Houston presents "Regeneration: The Triumph of Music and Art" with the River Oaks Chamber Orchestra
Lesson learned: You can't stifle the impulse of the human creative spirit. This Holocaust Museum Houston program, in collaboration with a trio comprising musicians from the River Oaks Chamber Orchestra — oboist Alecia Lawyer, clarinetist Maiko Sasaki and bassoonist Daniel Chrisman — is a discussion-cum-concert that delves into the lives of degenerate artists in the genres of film, art, theater, fashion and music.
The deets: Sunday, 5:30 p.m.; Holocaust Museum Houston; tickets start at $40.
Staff writer and resident gourmand Eric Sandler's pick: "Schoolyard Throwdown: Brunch Edition"
Eric says, "Ten of Houston's hottest chefs will gather for a culinary competition with a twist: They're only allowed to spend $1.55 per serving, which is the amount of money schools spend on low-income students enrolled in a federal program that provides free breakfasts.
"Participating restaurants include the Cordua Group, Nara, Uchi and El Big Bad. A group of media judges (including me) will pick a winner, and attendees will get to award People's Choice. Proceeds benefit Children At Risk, a nonprofit that works to improve the lives of children through research, education and public policy."
The deets: Sunday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Boheme Cafe and Wine Bar; $50.
What makes David Adjmi's modern take on Marie Antoinette so convincing is that we can all relate to a person who's dealing with unfamiliar circumstances.
