David Bowie was born on January 8 (and so was Elvis). He died on January 10. Why don't you do yourself a solid and listen to some Bowie this weekend? May we suggest Young Americans, his 1975 "plastic soul" album, where he went to Philadelphia and got together with a bunch of musicians (including a young Luther Vandross) and made an album full of blue-eyed soul.
And while you're listening to that, check out these events:
Thursday, January 9
100 Boats at Landmark River Oaks
In 100 Boats, which will have its premiere this weekend, director Syed Hasan captured the integrity of the Houston community during its time of crisis in 2017 as Hurricane Harvey devastated the city. As everyday heroes came to the rescue of those in despair, the city became “Houston Strong.” This movie was developed to pay homage to the incredible generosity of the individuals from near and far whose contributions made the difference between life and death. 7 pm.
Hamlet at Main Street Theater
We didn't know there was a partnership between the Main Street Theater and the Prague Shakespeare Company. But, since both parties will be giving us one heck of a production this weekend, we're glad they're in bed together. In his tour-de-force one-man presentation, PSC artistic director Guy Roberts presents unique insights, using only the Bard's words in a conflated text that incorporates the First Folio, into the mind of Shakespeare’s greatest and most famous creation. Runs through January 19. 7:30 pm.
Friday, January 10
Rainbow on Ice at Discovery Green
Anybody looking to get their ice-skate on may want to swing over to Discovery Green this weekend, as this Houston-themed LGBTQ celebration/ultimate dance party returns for the ninth time. The evening features music by DJ Joe Ross and a performance by H-Town’s R&B Princess JaeRene. Also featured: electrifying drag performances such as Blackberri as Lizzo and a fashion show with designs by Yahaira DeHill. Admission is free, but skating fees may apply. 7-10 pm.
Varda by Agnes at The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston
Before she passed away in March of last year at the age of 90, French New Wave filmmaker Agnes Varda rounded up all the footage she shot to give an on-camera masterclass in filmmaking. She unspools clips from her filmography: Cleo from 5 to 7, Vagabond, The Gleaners and I, her most recent, Oscar-nominated Faces Places. More importantly, Varda lets everyone know that if you’re going to create cinema that you know will either challenge or infuriate viewers, you better have a good time while doing it. 7 pm (5 pm Sunday).
Saturday, January 11
4th Annual Hops N' Hot Sauce Festival at SpindleTap Brewery
Things will get spicy as hell at this festival, which will feature samples from over 65 vendors of hot sauces, salsas, jams and jellies, seasonings, jerky, spicy pickles and more. Don't forget about the 4th Annual Hot Pepper Eating Contest and the 2nd Annual Pizza de Muerte Eating Challenge with Mikey V and Texzas - Wood Fired Pizza. The indoor, kid-friendly event will also feature bounce houses and games — and it's all benefitting Addi’s Faith Foundation. 11 am.
Fried Chicken and Chicken Fried Steak Pop-Up at Killen's
We're not sure when Ronnie Killen's long-awaited, new restaurant in The Heights will officially open up. But, until that happens, Killen will be holding some pop-ups before it happens. Get a taste of what he'll be serving with the pop-up going on this weekend. There will be buckets of fried chicken and rolls, chicken fried steak, brisket, sides, bread pudding, and free Lone Star Beer. 11 am-3 pm.
Houston Lion Kings at AMC Metropark Square 10
The Metropark Square lawn will host the Houston Lion Kings, a group of performers that dance and play as lions and dragons to the beating of drums, cymbals, and gongs. The performance will celebrate the Chinese New Year and will serve as the kickoff to Metropark Square's monthly events. The Kings perform traditional Chinese Dragon and Lion dances during the Lunar New Year season to bring good luck, happiness, and prosperity for all. Children will enjoy dancing with dragons and lions during this performance. Noon.
Sunday, January 12
Fern Bernstein at Evelyn Rubinstein Jewish Community Center
Have you ever wanted to know more about mahjong, the game older women from any race, nationality, or color can just get down and play? You might wanna check out this appearance from Fern Bernstein, who will be promoting her debut memoir For the Love of Mah Jongg. Bernstein will take the audience on her personal journey around her Mah Jongg table, where she found support, strength and formed enduring friendships. Following the presentation, guests can enjoy brunch, sip on a mimosa, and play — yes! — mahjong. 11 am.
Booze Can Sundays at Riel
This will be the latest installment of a monthly event where food, art and cocktails collide — with guest chef Scott Vivian and live art by local artist Tyler Kay. Vivian, whose Toronto restaurant Beast is famous for its biscuit sandwiches, was on the the 2019 season of Iron Chef Canada and featured in a 2012 episode of Anthony Bourdain's The Layover. Taking place on the second Sunday of every month, this is named after the Canadian slang for a nightclub or bar. 3 pm.
