January is shaping up to be a busy month in Houston, and this weekend is no different. Eclectic happenings include breathtaking breakdancing, several concerts, wine tasting from the Basque region of Spain, and a Southern Sunday Supper.
Here are 11 of the top events happenings around the city this weekend, but you can check out the full list of events on your CultureMap Events Calendar.
Thursday, January 19
Camerata presents ¡TXOTX! Basque Weekend
This weekend-long event celebrates the ciders and wines that are native to the Basque region of Spain with a pouring competition and educational seminars Wine lovers will also enjoy the opportunity to sample wines paired with traditional small snacks (pintxos) from Camerata. The celebration continues at Public Services and 13º Celsius.
Mildred's Umbrella Theater Company's production of Mary Bonnett's play offers an eye-opening look at human trafficking and its continuing prevalence in today’s society. The locale has been change from the Chicago area to The Woodlands, but the theme remains topical as since Houston has one of the highest rates of sex trafficking in the nation. The play continues on weekends through February 4.
In response to the President-elect’s repeated threats on human rights, comedians in over 20 cities are coordinating shows to raise money for the ACLU on Inauguration Day Weekend with the What a Joke Comedy Fest, organized and produced by New York comedians Jenn Welch and Emily Winter.
Friday, January 20
The Flying Steps take over The Hobby Center this weekend to perform to a genre-bending mix of classical, hip hop and electronic music as they bring their internationally successful tour stateside for an extended run of dates across the country. Their theatrical modern adaptation of Johannes Sebastian Bach's "Well-Tempered Clavier" combines classical musical with break dance.
Yaga's Chili Quest & Beer Fest
The Galveston Strand is ground central for the 8th Annual Yaga's Chili Quest & Beer Fest this weekend. A night party on Friday kicks off the celebration at Yaga's Cafe. It continues on Saturday with live music, a cook off, a 5k run, and many more fun activities. The Ronald McDonald House of Galveston is the beneficiary.
Art enthusiasts and fans of the Brazilian neo-pop artist, painter, serigrapher, and sculptor will delight in the opportunity to see and acquire collections of his work on exhibit at Off the Wall Gallery. Britto combines elements of cubism, pop art and graffiti painting in his work, using vibrant colors and bold patterns as a visual expression of hope and happiness. The exhibit also features a series of live artist appearances throughout the weekend.
Houston's largest underground art show features more than 100 emerging local artists, live body painting, a free pancake bar, live audio performances, and live art battles. The event at Warehouse Live is only for those 18 and over.
Saturday, January 21
The 23-year-old country music singer, who shot to fame thanks to videos on social media, stops by the House of Blues as a part of his Ain't No Stopping Us Now Tour. Brown will perform songs from his self-titled debut album, including "Thunder in the Rain" and "Hometown."
The life and music of gospel singer Mahalia Jackson is celebrated in this regional premiere from the Ensemble Theatre. Standing at the side of her close friend, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jackson became the musical voice of the civil rights movement. This harmonious tribute includes music by various gospel composers as well as hymns and spirituals made famous by Jackson. The production continues through February 26.
Sunday, January 22
YouTube sensation-turned-Netflix star Colleen (Haters Back oFF) Ballinger brings her comedy tour, "Miranda Sings Live...You're Welcome," to Cullen Performance Hall at the University of Houston. The 80-minute show features Ballinger’s signature blend of live comedy, songs, and countless applications of her signature lipstick.
Southern Sunday Supper at Lucille's
Celebrate National Southern Food Day at Lucille's for a Southern Sunday Supper featuring off-the-menu items such as a whole Cajachina roasted local hog, paired with classic Southern cocktails. This family-style dinner benefits the Recipe for Success Foundation.
Red Bull Flying Bach takes over The Hobby Center this weekend.
