J. KYLE KEENER
Welcome to
South Texas Visit Victoria and be prepared to discover that much more converges here than the three highways most commonly credited for our status as the South Texas Crossroads. Music, dance and theater come alive on our stages, thanks to a host of talented, dedicated performing artists in Victoria Ballet Theatre, the Victoria Symphony and Theatre Victoria. Our rich heritage, which traces back to the first settlement in Texas, is beautifully showcased at places such as the Museum of the Coastal Bend, Historic Hiller House and the Royston Nave Museum, and at historic sites such as Memorial Square. History and architecture buffs will also
delight in the carefully preserved homes that line the streets of Old Victoria. A calendar full of cultural and arts celebrations, including events like the Bach Festival, Jazz Fest, Noche en Old Victoria and the Victoria Czech Heritage Festival, awaits you. And our family-focused attractions, such as The Texas Zoo and the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Golden Crescent, have the power to inspire a child’s sense of wonder no matter your age. This is truly a place where past and present are perfect neighbors – friendly neighbors welcoming you to stay and explore.
Clockwise from Left: Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts; Victoria Symphony performance of Smetana’s String Quartet No. 1; Victoria Symphony’s Downtown Rhythms
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Where Past and Present Are Perfect Neighbors
Arts & Culture Music, dance and theatre come alive on stage
Victoria Symphony Discover the magic of classical music through a performance of the Victoria Symphony, a 36-year-old organization that has grown to include approximately 65 musicians from Victoria and surrounding cities and regularly features guest artists from around the world. Its season runs from September through April with inspirational programs that include a four-concert Family Series and a five-concert Master Series. These memorable performances are held in the Victoria College Auditorium, as well as at other venues throughout town. Downtown Rhythms is one of the symphony’s most popular events. Billed as an evening of food, families and fun, it includes a free concert, performances by school ensembles and activities for children.
Theatre Victoria Watch as new life is brought to old tales while age and wisdom are infused into new ones during performances at Theatre Victoria, the resident company of the Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts. Last year, more than 39,000 people attended its productions and events. The 2010 season features productions such as Side by Side by Sondheim and Neil Simon’s comedy, The Dinner Party.
Victoria Ballet Theatre Spectacular sets and costumes set the tone for the delightful dance interpretations of Victoria Ballet Theatre. The annual production of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker is a highlight, and the organization promises an entire Storybook Season for 2009-10 with local performances at Victoria College and the Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts. Spring Gala in March will showcase The Sleeping Beauty Act III, Aurora’s Wedding, and the children’s ballet, The Button, which is based on the Frog and Toad books.
Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts Operated by Theatre Victoria, the resident company, the Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts represents Victoria’s commitment to the arts. The Welder Center is named for a local rancher, businessman and philanthropist. The 476-seat theater hosts theatrical and musical performances.
Tickets and Info: Victoria Symphony 2112 N. Navarro (361) 576-4500 www.victoriasymphony.com
Victoria Ballet Theatre 2508 Mockingbird (361) 575-2313 www.victoriaballet.org
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Theatre Victoria 214 N. Main St. (361) 570-TKTS www.theatrevictoria.org
Visual Inspiration Museums, galleries showcase works of art Getting There Bridge Street Gallery/ Victoria Art League 905 S. Bridge (361) 572-0825 www.victoriaartleague.org McNamara-O’Connor Historical and Fine Arts Museum 502 N. Liberty (361) 575-8227 www.victoriaregionalmuseum.com Royston Nave Museum 306 W. Commercial (361) 575-8227 www.victoriaregionalmuseum.com Museum of the Coastal Bend Corner of East Red River and Ben Jordan (361) 582-2511 www.museumofthecoastalbend.org
Art League Bridge Street Gallery See the creative yield of local visual artists at the Bridge Street Gallery, home of the Victoria Art League. Founded in 1966, the league supports art education, creativity, art appreciation and exhibition of visual arts. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m.
McNamara-O’Connor Historical and Fine Arts Museum Investigate the social, economic and cultural lifestyle of middle class South Texans at the turn of the century at the McNamara-O’Connor Historical and Fine Arts Museum. Built in 1876 as the residence of Victoria businessman William J. McNamara, the house is open year round from 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children.
Royston Nave Museum View the permanent collection of Royston Nave paintings as well as rotating exhibits of visual arts at the Royston Nave Museum. The museum is open from 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and admission is $2 for adults and $1 for children.
Museum of the Coastal Bend Explore the region’s heritage at the Museum of the Coastal Bend. Permanent exhibits detail the Coastal Bend’s rich history, showcasing regionally relevant collections focused on colonialism, the maritime industry, the local ranching industry and more. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is $3.50 for adults; $2 for children; and $2.50 for seniors.
J. KYLE KEENER
Above: Royston Nave Museum Right: Exhibit at Museum of the Coastal Bend; The Victoria Art League Center JEFF ADKINS
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Where Past and Present Are Perfect Neighbors
Rich in History and Charm Home of the original Six Flags Over Texas, museums and beautiful architecture Seeking a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped Texas? Make Victoria your first stop. As the only county where all six flags over Texas have flown and as the state’s second oldest incorporated city, we are a logical starting point for exploring the region’s history. Founded in 1824 by Don Martin DeLeon and named for the first president of Mexico, Victoria offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy impressive historic architecture including our beautiful 1892 Romanesque Revival-style courthouse; St. Mary’s Catholic Church, circa 1898, one of the most beautiful neo-Gothic structures in Texas; the 1895 O’Connor-Proctor Building and many more historic structures. J. KYLE KEENER
Victoria Historic Homes Tour Put on your walking shoes. Thanks to the 30 years of work by Victoria Preservation Inc., more than 100 historically significant structures await your examination and appreciation. By the end of the Civil War, Victoria’s splendid architecture made it one of the most beautiful cities in the state, and visitors can still see some of the best examples of that golden era today. The Victoria Historic Homes Tour endures as one of the city’s most popular attractions in April of each year. Self-guided and guided walking and driving tours also are available yearround. Printed guides are available at Victoria Preservation Inc., or the Victoria Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Hiller House Just north of the original town site of Victoria near Evergreen Cemetery, you can peer into the windows of life as an early settler at the historic Hiller House, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. German immigrants Friedrich and Margaretha Beck Hiller built the house after arriving in Texas in 1852 and making the challenging journey from the old port of Indianola to put down roots here. A living history re-enactment, held the second Sunday in October, portrays the family’s story and educates people about the area’s German culture. The home, located at 3003 N. Vine St., is the headquarters of Keep Victoria Beautiful. w w w.visitvictoriatexas.com
Festivals & Events Top: Jazz Fest. Above: Kolaches are Czech Fest treats. The Victoria Bach Festival is a premier musical event.
Jazz Fest Enjoy all that jazz each October during the Jazz Fest, a celebration presented by the Victoria Fine Arts Association. Music fills local venues; school jazz bands compete; and a concert draws big-name regional performers. For more information, see www.victoriajazzitup.com.
Noche en Old Victoria Energy fills the air each May during Noche en Old Victoria, a celebration of Hispanic culture that features live music, traditional dance performances, a car show,
a kiddie carnival, scores of vendors and contests including best-dressed chihuahua and a jalapeno-eating face-off. See www.victoriachamber.org for more information.
Victoria Bach Festival An entire week of innovative and engaging musical experiences unfold during the Victoria Bach Festival, held each June. Named a Texas Treasure by National Public Radio, the festival is a mix of intimate concerts by outstanding soloists and chamber groups; blockbuster oratorio and symphonic performances; and fun, informal family and outdoor concerts. w w w.visitvictoriatexas.com
For more information, see www.victoriabachfestival.org.
Czech Heritage Festival Enjoy the sounds, sights and tastes each September during the Czech Heritage Festival. It begins with a Czech-English Mass celebrated at Our Lady of Victory Cathedral. Then, attendees may enjoy traditional Czech music, foods, children’s games, cultural demonstrations, exhibits, the popular Homemade Beer and Wine Show, and much more. Admission is $6 and is free for those younger than 15. Learn more at www.victoriaczechs.org.
Where Past and Present Are Perfect Neighbors
Just Kidding Around
Children’s Discovery Museum of the Golden Crescent A day at the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Golden Crescent packs in so much adventure that your kids won’t even realize it’s educational, too. Even those who are just kids at heart are likely to learn something at this interactive museum, which is located at 204 N. Main St. in downtown Victoria. Permanent exhibits include Triple B Ranch, El Mercado, Enchanted Theatre, Art Palooza, and Discovery Clinic. The museum welcomes individual visitors and school groups throughout the region and is open Tuesday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Sunday 1-4 p.m. The museum extends its hours during the summer, winter and spring school breaks. Admission is $3 per person, with children younger than age 2 and museum members admitted free. For more information, see www.cdmgoldencrescent.com.
The Texas Zoo Located in Riverside Park, The Texas Zoo is a wildly popular attraction for families and a great place to learn about the state’s biodiversity. The Texas House and Senate passed a resolution in 1984 that made the zoo the National Zoo of Texas. Visitors can see more than 150 animals native to the state including the alligators of the Texas marshes and the sleepyeyed pelicans of the windy coast. The animals live in natural settings situated across 6 acres and within the Texas Animal Kingdom building. Expect to see 23 species of mammals, including two rare species of cats, margays and jaguarundis. And when it comes to the greatest diversity of bird species in the U.S., Texas rules the roost with 540. So, it’s no surprise the zoo has 23 species of them to welcome you. The Texas Zoo is located at 110 Memorial Drive and is open every day 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the winter. The cost of admission is $6, with children age 12 and younger admitted for $4, toddlers age 2 and younger admitted free. Seniors receive a discounted admission of $3.50. See www.texaszoo.org for more information.
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Discover Victoria 2010 Schedule of Events Thru January 24 Texas Mid Century Modernists From the collection of Carl R. McQueary Nave Museum Thru January 30 Wings Over Victoria WWII in photography and memories Museum of the Coastal Bend
March 26 – May 9 Brad Braune, artist Nave Museum
October Texas Kickin’ Bullride Victoria Community Center
March 27 Polo Match Fundraiser To benefit Victoria Regional Museum Association McFaddin Ranch
October Jazz Fest
January 12-30 A Photographic Journal of Foster Field Bob Roberts, artist Museum of the Coastal Bend
April 10-11 Victoria Preservation’s Historic Homes Tour
January 15 Harlem Gospel Choir Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts
April 24 Victoria Symphony Master Series 5 The Victoria College Auditorium
January 30 Victoria Symphony Master Series 3 Featuring Texas Sweetheart Kelly Willis Victoria College Auditorium February 5 – March 14 A World of Glass Susan Plum, artist Nave Museum February 11 Murder Mystery Theatre Featuring an excerpt from Gary Hall’s book, Murder and Malice Museum of the Coastal Bend February 13 Black History Festival Victoria Community Center
April 22 Victoria Symphony’s Downtown Rhythms
April 30 – May 2 & 6-8 The Dinner Party Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts May Noche en Old Victoria Riverside Park May 21 – July 3 Traffic Report Photography by Maurice Roberts Nave Museum June 7-12 Victoria Bach Festival Various locations July 16 – August 29 John Palmer and Chris Silkwood Nave Museum
February 13-15 & 19-21 Side by Side by Sondheim Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts
July 23-25 & 29-31 Summer Performance – TBA Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts
February 27 Victoria Symphony Master Series 4 The Victoria College Auditorium
September 3 – October 10 Bronze Rave at the Nave Kerry Cannon, artist Nave Museum
March 4 – January 31 Where Texas History Began Museum of the Coastal Bend March 6 Victoria Ballet Theatre’s Spring Gala Aurora’s Wedding Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts March 25 & 26 Always Patsy Cline Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts
September 18 Victoria Symphony Master Series 1 The Victoria College Auditorium September 24-26 & 30-October 2 Fall Play (TBA) Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts September 26 Czech Heritage Festival The Victoria Community Center
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October 7 Victoria Symphony Party in the Park October 14 Victoria Symphony Symphonic Spooktakular The Victoria College Auditorium October 16 Victoria Symphony Master Series Concert 2 The Victoria College Auditorium October 16-17 Victoria Garden Tours October 22 – November 28 A Celebration Dia de los Muertos 2010 Nave Museum October 29-30 Victoria Preservation’s Annual Cemetery Tour November 12-14 & 18-20 Winter Play (TBA) Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts December 2 Victoria Bach Festival’s Conspirare Christmas at the Carillon Concert December 10 – January 16 All That I Can’t Leave Behind Lea Barton, artist Nave Museum December The Nutcracker Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts This special section is published for Victoria Convention and Visitor’s Bureau by Journal Communications Inc.
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For more information, contact: Victoria Convention and Visitor’s Bureau 3404 North Ben Wilson • Victoria, TX 77901 Phone: (361)582-4285, www.visitvictoriatexas.com ©Copyright 2009 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. No portion of this special advertising section may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.