User: dennisjackson@dentonrc.com Time: 03-24-2016
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00:08 Product: DRC_Tab PubDate: 03-24-2016 Zone: State Edition: 1 Page: DTIME_T02 Color: C K Y M
Denton Time
IN THE SPOTLIGHT THIS WEEK Denton City Contemporary Ballet, student dancers from Denton Dance Conservatory and groups from the region will perform in this weekend’s Collage 2016: Denton Dance Festival.
ON THE COVER FAITH-BASED FILM Christian movies are having a moment this Easter season. (iStock) Story on Page 8
Courtesy photo/Bruce Davis
FIND IT INSIDE MUSIC Concerts and nightclub schedules. Page 7
MOVIES Reviews and summaries. Page 12
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Collage of dance
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Festival joins local, regional companies
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MAIL IT TO: By Lucinda Breeding Features Editor cbreeding@dentonrc.com
leven companies join Denton City Contemporary Ballet this weekend for Collage 2016: Denton Dance Festival. The long-running festival has a simple format: Dance students share the stage with professional dancers in an evening that features modern dance, contemporary ballet and the occasional tap, jazz and hip-hop works. Denton City Contemporary Ballet is the resident company of Denton Dance Conservatory, and artistic director Lisa Racina said the festival gives her developing students a chance to see older and professional dancers perform. “They learn so much just from watching what the other companies do,” Racina said. “They get to see other dancers doing different choreography.” This year’s festival features
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Denton City Contemporary Ballet and the junior company, the Andrea Mychaels Dance Project, Arlington Heights Repertory Dance Company, Black Fox Players, CholoRock Dance Theatre, Denton Swing Dance Organization, Gaudium Dance Movement, Green Space Dance, Movers Unlimited, Simple Sparrow Dance, and Sue Collins and the University of North Texas. Guest companies said the Denton festival is a chance to bring their choreography — and the artists who perform it — to a new audience. Jessie Rosenberger, artistic director of Simple Sparrow Dance, is bringing The Swell Season to the festival. “We are always looking for performance opportunities in the community, so we are happy to be invited to perform in Collage,” she said. “I’ve taught at Denton Dance Conservatory in past years, so it’s always nice to see Lisa and support her and her
dancers.” The choreography Simple Sparrow will perform doesn’t tell a story in The Swell Season. “It’s more emotional and visual abstractions,” Rosenberger said. “I like to leave the interpretation open to the audience and enjoy hearing the different narratives that speak to them.” The company, which concentrates on modern dance, builds on Rosenberger’s choreography. “I choreographed most of the movement phrases, but I have a wonderful group of dancers that help me with formations, patterns, and offering suggestions on what does or does not feel organic — so it really is a collaborative effort,” she said. “It’s been about a year since we’ve been together to rehearse. It’s great to have a new piece to perform.” For Gina Lee, the artistic director of Gaudium Dance Movement, Collage is part of Holy Week, and an appropriate performance for the Christian dance company to take to the
stage with a number titled Gifts of Grace. The contemporary ballet-style piece was inspired by Lee’s faith. “I believe that since God gives us grace, we should in return give grace to others,” Lee said. “Grace is an undeserved gift. I’m sure we can think of those we feel have wronged us, but we know love can cover it and make peace.” Lee uses abstract choreography to suggest a reach for hope and light, and the piece is set to music by contemporary classical composer Peter Gregson. “I hope that the audience will be moved by the gestures and and serene mood of the work,” Lee said. “I hope they think of giving love to others when watching the work.” Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Campus Theatre, 214 W. Hickory St. Tickets cost $15. For reservations, call 940382-1915 or visit www.denton citycontemporaryballet.org.
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niversity of North Texas is celebrating its 125th anniversary with — what else? — a book and a band from its hallowed halls. The university is kicking off what’s been dubbed “Wingspan Week” with a book release party from 6 to 8 p.m. April 12 at the Willis Library Forum. The book, Independent, Original and Progressive: Celebrating 125 Years of UNT, encapsulates the university’s history, and two-time Grammy-winning polka band Brave Combo will perform. Carl Finch, the band’s co-founder, lead vocalist and guitarist, is an alumnus. The event will also include live readings and some short lectures on UNT culture and history. ■ Library Journal named Ryan High School librarian Colleen Graves to its 2016 list of “Movers & Shakers” — 54 people honored for excellent service and shaping the future of libraries. Graves was singled out for creating a maker space in the Ryan library. ■ Longtime Denton rabble-rouser and artist Richard Haskins dropped a new album through Real Rad Records last Thursday. Haskins’ antics often detract from his musical abilities, and Denton County Blues isn’t an exception. Real Rad released the album just a few days after Haskins was jailed for probation violations related to an attempted bank robbery in 2012. Even his arrest managed to be theatrical, with officers pouncing on him moments before his old high school band, the Wee-Beasties, was to take the stage for 35 Denton. The arrest was recorded on video and shared on social media. The record competently blends no-frills blues and folk with a punk ethos, and impressive guest artists appear on several tracks (Brave Combo’s Carl Finch, Denton accordion player Ginny Mac and the exemplary Damian Sisca on piano). The banter between songs is cringe-inducing,
though. It’s hard to hear Haskins brag about being above sacking groceries on a album that dropped the day before he told the Dallas Observer that his probation violations were all about being cash poor. Haskins has struggled mightily with mental illness and alcoholism, and he remains in the Denton County Jail. The album is available at http://realradrecords.bandcamp.com. ■ Speaking of audacious frontmen, the Riverboat Gamblers’ ever-intrepid Mike Wiebe took an ill-timed stage dive last weekend in Austin, into a crowd of fans too busy downing the drinks he’d just served them to catch him, in the middle of South by Southwest. Denton’s native son finished the band’s set because he’s nothing if not a consummate professional, and came to realize later he’d better get a checkup. Heal up, Wiebe, before you hit the big screen. The Gamblers appear, if fleetingly, in Richard Linklater’s Everybody Wants Some. ■ There’s a “For Sale” sign in front of Cathy McMullen’s home in northwestern Denton. McMullen, one of the most well-known faces and voices of 2014’s Frack Free Denton campaign, says she and her husband hope to move to the Gulf Coast town of Rockport soon. Another outspoken critic of fracking in neighborhoods, Maile Bush, and her family recently moved from their Denton home to Tennessee. ■ Snopes.com says that no, Justin Bieber isn’t moving to Roanoke. ■ Denton ISD graduate and one-time UNT student Daniel Garcia has been cast as a young Mickey Rooney in an upcoming St. George Living History Productions musical in New York City. Garcia is a voice actor from Dream Defenders on Cartoon Network, and has been picking up steady work since returning to the States from Hong Kong, where he worked for several years doing voice work. ■ Well, we feel properly chastened after the Dallas Observer published an interview with former Denton artist Josh Pearson, of the short-lived Denton band Lift to Experience. The artist told the alt-weekly that he hadn’t been back to Denton to play in so long be-
cause no one invited him. Pearson and Lift to Experience enjoy much larger followings in Europe than in the States. Lift made exactly one record, the critically acclaimed album Texas-Jerusalem Crossroads, 15 years ago. Locals still mention the album in respectful tones, and Pearson does have a knack for a Southwestern sort of Christo-gothic poetry. Pearson released his solo record, Last of the Country Gentlemen, in 2011. Maybe the Denton Convention & Visitors Bureau should keep charter planes on retainer and a stack of platinum-plated invitations at the ready? We’ve got a lot of musicians wandering the world who might be waiting for a homecoming gig at Dan’s Silverleaf. ■ Did you know that the Von Trapp Family was still in show business? After 15 years performing together around the world, the von Trapps — the great-grandchildren of the family depicted in The Sound of Music — announced they are packing up their music and pursuing their own personal dreams and interests outside of music. The musicians are Sofia, Melanie, Amanda and August. Their hometown is none other than Portland, Oregon. So long and farewell to the von Trapps. ■ Hershey’s Take5 hosted a swag swap during SXSW. The single most unwanted gift bag item? Sunglasses. (We suppose festivalgoers come prepared for the glare of the Austin sun.) The least-swapped item was stickers. ■ How’s that open-carry thing working for ya? Because Garden & Gun magazine selected Denton as one of 32 cities for its Best Southern College Towns Bracket. Too bad we lost out to Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Visit www.gardenandgun.com/article/best-southern-college-towns-bracket.
Parting Shot
“Sometimes people try to destroy you, precisely because they recognize your power — not because they don’t see it, but because they see it and they don’t want it to exist.” — Bell Hooks Denton Dammit is an old-fashioned gossip column about people, places and things in and around Denton. Send your submissions to Lucinda Breeding at cbreeding@dentonrc.com.
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EVENTS
EASTER EVENTS
THURSDAY 9:30 a.m. — Crafters’ Corner at Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St. Work on projects and learn new techniques. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.denton library.com. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. — Beginner’s knitting class at Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St. Free, but registration is required. Supplies provided. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com. 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. — Story Time at South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Lane. Stories, songs, puppets and more for children ages 1-5 and their caregivers. Free. Call 940-349-8752. 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Pilot Point Chamber of Commerce networking lunch at the PointBank Community Room, 200 S. U.S. Highway 377 in Pilot Point. Includes “7 Marathons, 7 Days, 7 Continents,” a talk by business owner and state Rep. Pat Fallon, and an update from Carol Kyer, executive director of Habitat for Humanity Denton County. Catered lunch costs $12; make reservations by emailing chamber@pilotpoint.org. 2 to 4 p.m. — Homeschool Coding Club for ages 8-17 at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Learn how to code and collaborate on projects at this primarily self-directed, weekly gathering. All skill levels and coding languages welcome. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.denton library.com. 3:30 p.m. — “Robots Everywhere!”, best for ages 5-8, at South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Lane. Learn about robots and build a toy robot. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com. 4 to 5:30 p.m. — Exploring Western Philosophy with Eva H. Cadwallader, professor emerita, at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com. 6:15 p.m. — Paper marbling class for ages 15 and older at Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St. Free, but registration is required. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www. dentonlibrary.com. 7 to 9 p.m. — Thursday Night Music at UNT on the Square, 109 N.
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Kids rush to grab Easter eggs and candy during last year’s Easter Eggstravaganza. Denton’s celebration is back at Quakertown Park on Saturday morning, and it’s free. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday — Rancho De La Roca’s Easter Bunny Picnic at the ranch, 2459 W. Blackjack Road in Aubrey. Kids ages 3-10 will take a hay ride to Mount Calvary to hear Mary tell the true story of Easter. Afterward, families enjoy lunch and games with Mrs. Bunny at the picnic patch. Bring your own lunch. Admission is $7 per person for ages 3 and older. Call Peace of the Rock Ministries at 940-365-7625 or visit www.peaceofthe rock.org. 10:30 a.m. Friday — Natural Grocers’ Eggcellent Adventure at 110 W. University Drive. Egg hunts take place at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. There will be a petting zoo from 10:30 a.m. to noon and cookie decorating from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Denton Fire Department staff will visit at 4 p.m. Free. 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday — Breakfast With the Bunny, hosted by the Argyle Lions Club, will offer families pancakes, bacon, coffee and a picture
made with the Easter Bunny from in the Argyle High School cafeteria, 191 S. U.S. Highway 377. Tickets are $5 per person or $15 per family. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday — Argyle’s community Easter egg hunt at Argyle High School, 191 S. U.S. Highway 377. Event includes egg hunts, food trucks, rock climbing and live music. 9 a.m. Saturday — Sanger’s Easter egg hunt at Porter Sports Complex, 2201 S. Stemmons Freeway. The Easter bunny will be available for pictures. Bring baskets for the egg hunt. 9:30 a.m. Saturday — Denton’s free Easter Eggstravaganza for toddlers through fifthgraders at the Denton Civic Center, 321 E. McKinney St. Events start at 9:30 a.m. with bounce houses, face painting, crafts and fun. A magic show follows at 10:45 a.m. Quakertown Park will be divided into color-coded age groups for egg hunts at 11:30 a.m. Call 940-349-7275 or visit www.dentonparks.com.
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday — Easter brunch at Wildhorse Clubhouse, 9501 Ed Robson Blvd. in Denton’s Robson Ranch area. Brunch includes breakfast and lunch items. A pianist will play during the meal. Price is $38 per person, $16 for ages 5-10. Reservations are required; call 940246-2000. 6 p.m. Sunday — Easter Messiah Sing with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3000 Old North Road in Denton. The broadcast performance of Handel’s Messiah features the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, the Orchestra at Temple Square, and soloists from the Metropolitan Opera and San Francisco Opera, with Mack Wilberg conducting. Bring your own score and join the choir in the chorus portions of the piece. Free, but donations of canned food will be collected for Our Daily Bread, Denton’s soup kitchen. For more information, call Carol Harlos at 940-566-6294.
DENTON PARKS & RECREATION Adult sport leagues are open for registration. All leagues include eight games and playoffs for competitive divisions. Sign up as a team or register as an individual. Leagues include coed flag football, basketball, and volleyball. For more information and to register, visit www.dentonparks. com or call 940-349-7275. Prices vary. ■ Twisted Bodies’ class launch is next week, March 28-31, at Denia Recreation Center, 1001 Parvin St.
There will be giveaways and door prizes. Participants can ask questions and opt to register after trying the series courses for free: ● Total Barre uses elements of Pilates, dance, cardio and strength training. Free class is 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday. ● Pound burns at least 400 calories per hour with a full body cardio jam session, combining light resistance and simulated drumming. Free class is 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday. ● Pilates Mat is a mixed-level Pilates
mat class that focuses on strength, precision and flow. Free class is 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday. ● Learn to articulate yoga poses in Twisted Bodies’ Essential Yoga. Free class is 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 31. ■ Creative Movement for ages 3 to 4 meets from 10:35 to 11:05 a.m. each Saturday, March 26 through April 6, at Denia Recreation Center, 1001 Parvin St. The class teaches dance and expression. Cost is $30. For more
information and to register, visit www.dentonparks.com or call 940349-7275. ■ Young Rembrandts art classes are offered for ages 3 to 12 on Mondays, March 28 through April 25, at North Lakes Recreation Center, 2001 W. Windsor Drive. Cost is $65 per student. Ages 3 to 6 meet from 4 to 4:45 p.m., and ages 6 1/2 to 12 meet from 5 to 6 p.m. For more information and to register, visit www.dentonparks.com
or call 940-349-7275. ■ Sports Sampler for ages 3 to 4 will meet from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays, March 26 to April 30, at North Lakes Recreation Center, 2001 W. Windsor Drive. The class will focus on soccer, T-ball and basketball. The $35 class fee includes a certificate and a prize. Parents are encouraged to stay and participate. For more information and to register, visit www.dentonparks.com or call 940349-7275.
EVENTS Continued from Page 4 Elm St. Brian Horton will perform “Blues, Ballads and Bossa Novas” at 7 p.m., followed by the Pepe Valdez Quintet (Afro-Peruvian with jazz elements) at 8 p.m. Free. Call 940369-8257 or visit http://unton thesquare.unt.edu. 7:30 p.m. — UNT Department of Dance and Theatre presents Stage Kiss by Sarah Ruhl in the University Theatre, at the Radio, TV, Film and Performing Arts Building, 1179 Union Circle. Tickets cost $7.50-$10. Call 940-565-2428, or visit http://dance andtheatre.unt.edu. 7:30 p.m. — UNT Symphonic Band in Winspear Hall at the Murchi-
David Minton/DRC file photo
Hungry patrons line up for the Taste of North Texas last year at the UNT Coliseum. This year’s tasting event, which raises money for the Denton Kiwanis Children’s Clinic, is next week.
Eating for a reason Loosen your belt and chow down for children’s clinic
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weets, deli meats, pizza and Tex-Mex. All of the above and more will be served up at the Texas of North Texas, the annual fundraiser for the Denton Kiwanis Children’s Clinic, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. March 31 at the University of North Texas Coliseum, 600 Ave. D. Longtime local favorites are participating. Beth Marie’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor, Davis Purity Bakery, Candy Haven and Kolache Haven are among the local bakeries and sweet shops that will have sweet finishes for ticket holders to sample. If your tastes run toward Italy (or New York, or Chicago) Mellow Mushroom and Palio’s Pizza will have just the pies you crave. Other savory hankerings can be sated by Rudy’s Bar-B-Q, Freebirds World Burrito and Hooters, which will bring the spiced meat and wings. Patrons will have their pick of
Kristen Watson/DRC file photo
Jackie Thames feeds her grandson Henry Selby his first ice cream cone at last year’s event. local taps for a tall cool one, too, thanks to Miller of Denton, Drunken Donkey, Oak Street Drafthouse and East Side Denton. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $10 for children age 7 and older. Children 6 and younger get in free.
The Kiwanis children’s clinic isn’t a physical clinic, but a network of health care providers who offer affordable care to lowincome families. For more information or to buy tickets online, visit www. tasteofnorthtexas.org. — Lucinda Breeding
son Performing Arts Center, on the north side of I-35E at North Texas Boulevard. Tickets cost $8-$10. Call 940-369-7802 or visit www.the mpac.com.
FRIDAY 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. — Finish It Fridays at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Bring a craft project for this come-and-go program and visit with other crafters. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.denton library.com. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. — Learn to crochet granny squares with Mary Cresson at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Must know
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EVENTS Continued from Page 5 how to chain, single crochet, slip stitch and double crochet. Bring crochet hook and yarn. Free, but registration is required. Call 940-3498752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com. 9:30 a.m. — Mother Goose Time at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Stories and activities for infants (birth to 18 months) and their caregivers. Free. Call 940-349-8752. 10 a.m. — UNT Executive + Scholar Lecture Series presents Fidelity Investments Vice President G. Michael Slovak, in Room 80 at the UNT Business Leadership Building, 1307 W. Highland St. Free. Visit www.cob.unt.edu/dls. 11 a.m. — Story Time at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Stories, songs, puppets and more for children ages 1-5 and their caregivers. Free. Call 940-349-8752. 6 p.m. — Denton Matters and Earthworks host a town hall-style meeting with a panel of energy experts in Room 130 at UNT’s Environmental Education, Science and Technology Building, 1704 W. Mulberry St. Panel includes Mark Z. Jacobson, a renewable energy expert at Stanford University; Robert Howarth, a climate change expert at Cornell University; and Dr. Anne Epstein, an expert on health and the environment. 7:30 p.m. — UNT Department of Dance and Theatre presents Stage Kiss by Sarah Ruhl in the University Theatre, at the Radio, TV, Film and Performing Arts Building, 1179 Union Circle. Tickets cost $7.50-$10. Call 940-565-2428, or visit http://dance andtheatre.unt.edu. 7:30 p.m. — Collage 2016: Denton Dance Festival at the Campus Theatre, 214 W. Hickory St. Dallas, Fort Worth and Denton dance companies join forces to perform new work by established and emerging choreographers. Tickets cost $15. For tickets, call 940-382-1915 or visit http://bit.ly/1YtjZnG.
SATURDAY 9 a.m. to noon — Denton Organic Society field trip to Soul Honey’s beehives in Northlake. Meet at TLC Landscapes, 2601 Fort Worth Drive (directly across from Meador Nursery). Free. Release forms required. Call Mike Mizell at 940-382-8641 or visit www.dentonorganicsociety.org. 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Volunteer Income Tax Assistance for low- to moderate-income families at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. To qualify, annual income must be $50,000 or less. Free. Call 940-5662688. 9:30 a.m. — STAAR Wars: Reading comprehension activities at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. This program series is designed to strengthen reading skills covered on the STAAR assessment for grades 3-5. Free, but registration is required. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www. dentonlibrary.com.
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April’s First Friday foolery
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Courtesy photo/Junebug Clark
ounty Rexford, a Celtic quartet specializing in drinking songs, ballads, fiddle tunes and originals, will perform during the Artists Enclave of Denton County and A Creative Art Studio’s April Fool’s Day First Friday Celebration. The evening of art, music and performances will run from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. April 1 at A Creative Art Studio, on West Oak Street just off the Square. County Rexford has been the house band at Denton’s Abbey Inn since 2008. Shay “Pono” McAnally, who attended the University of North Texas for his undergraduate studies, will be the featured visual artist. Tejas Storytelling Association members will recite tall tales, and UNT’s Juggling & Flow Arts will present a sidewalk sideshow. The event is free and open to all ages.
Dance floor-ready
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os Angeles electronic duo High Functioning Flesh plays Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studios on Sunday night. The evening is a House of Tinnitus showcase, with Body of Light, Better Education, Ranik Apt and Filth on the bill as well. High Functioning Flesh just dropped a Devo-like single, “Human Remains,” which shows the band’s shift from aggressive industrial structures to dance-floor stuff. The vocals stay pretty much on one note, but the accompaniment is both busy and intricate. The beats hit hard, and the mood stays up. Doors open at 9 p.m. The club is located at 411 E. Sycamore St. Cover is $5-$7. — Lucinda Breeding Courtesy photo/Dais Records
EVENTS Continued from Page 6 10 a.m. — Story Time at South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Lane. Stories, songs, puppets and more for children ages 1-5 and their caregivers. Free. Call 940-349-8752. 10 to 11:30 a.m. — “Spring Organic Gardening,” a free workshop led by Rachel Weaver, at Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center, 3310 Collins Road. Call 940-349-8152 or visit www.clearcreekdenton.com. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Free Magazine Day at Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St. A variety of youth and adult magazines will be available. Bring old magazines, and browse or take others. All leftover magazines will be recycled. Call 940-349-8774 or email dawn.terrizzi @cityofdenton.com. 2 to 3:30 p.m. — Pokemon Club for ages 8-15 at South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Lane. Free. Call 940349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary. com. 2 p.m. — UNT Department of Dance and Theatre presents Stage Kiss by Sarah Ruhl in the University Theatre, at the Radio, TV, Film and Performing Arts Building, 1179 Union Circle. Tickets cost $7.50-$10. Call 940-565-2428, or visit http://dance andtheatre.unt.edu. 7:30 p.m. — Collage 2016: Denton Dance Festival at the Campus Theatre, 214 W. Hickory St. Dallas, Fort Worth and Denton dance companies join forces to perform new work by established and emerging choreographers. Tickets cost $15. For tickets, call 940-382-1915 or visit http://bit.ly/1YtjZnG.
SUNDAY 1:30 p.m. — TechMill Workshop Series in the Forge at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Join Denton’s tech startup community and boost your skills. Free. Visit www.meetup.com/TechmillDenton. 7:30 p.m. — Dan’s Silverscreen and film critic Chase Whale present a free screening of the 1988 comedy Tapeheads (rated R, 93 minutes) at Dan’s Silverleaf, 103 Industrial St. Free popcorn. 6 p.m. — Community Messiah Sing at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3000 Old North Road in Denton. See the Mormon Tabernacle Choir perform Handel’s Messiah in a prerecorded broadcast, and sing along with choruses. Free, but canned food donations will be accepted for Our Daily Bread.
MONDAY 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. — Carson & Barnes Circus at Diamond T Arena, 6900 E. Sherman Drive. Tickets cost $6-$22. Visit www.carsonbarnes circus.com. 6 to 8:45 p.m. — Chess Night at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Players of all ages and skill levels welcome. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com. 6:30 p.m. — Honeybee talk and demonstration for all ages with the
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Easy camping
enton’s parks department has a plan to let local families get away, but without traveling too far. An overnight family campout will start 7 p.m. Saturday, April 16, near Eureka 2 playground in South Lakes Park, located off Hobson Lane. The family campout will include scavenger hunt, stories and a marshmallow roast. The weekend includes a Saturday night dinner and a breakfast snack on Sunday morning. The campout costs $15 per person. Families can bring their own gear, or reserve a tent and two sleeping bags for $10, though supplies are limited. All campers have to register by April 14. To register and reserve tents and sleeping bags, visit www.dentonparks.com or call 940-349-7275.
Collin County Hobby Beekeepers Association at Sanger Public Library, 501 Bolivar St. Free. Call 940-4583257 or visit www.sangerlibrary.org. 7 to 9 p.m. — Arduino meetup at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com.
TUESDAY 9:30 a.m. — Mother Goose Time at South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Lane. Stories and activities for infants (birth to 18 months) and their caregivers. Free. Call 940-349-8752. 10:30 a.m. — Toddler Time at South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Lane. Stories, puppets and activities for toddlers (12-36 months) and their caregivers. Free. Call 940-349-8752. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. — Carson & Barnes Circus at Diamond T Arena, 6900 E. Sherman Drive. Tickets cost $6-$22. Visit www.carsonbarnes circus.com. 5 to 7:30 p.m. — Volunteer Income Tax Assistance for low- to moderate-income families at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. To qualify, annual income must be $50,000 or less. Free. Call 940-5662688. 6 to 8 p.m. — Washcloth pillows workshop led by Gail Anders at Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St. Learn how to make pillows using only washcloths and yarn. For adults 18 and older. Free. Register at www.dentonlibrary.com or call 940-349-8752. 7 p.m. — Pajama Story Time and Stuffed Animal Sleepover at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. For children ages 1-5 and their
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Of course, a marshmallow roast will be part of the Denton parks department’s family campout next month at South Lakes Park.
caregivers. Stuffed animal friends can stay for a sleepover at the library. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com.
WEDNESDAY 9:30 a.m. — Toddler Time at Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St. Stories, puppets and activities for toddlers (12-36 months) and their caregivers. Free. Call 940349-8752. 11 a.m. — Story Time at Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St. Stories, songs, puppets and more for children age 1-5 and their caregivers. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com. 1 to 3 p.m. — Homeschool Teen Gaming Club for ages 11-17 at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com. 2 p.m. — Advocating for Children Workshop at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Victoria Calvin with CASA of Denton County will teach how to recognize signs of abuse and neglect, build relationships with youths and become an advocate. Free. Call 940-349-8752. 4 p.m. — Animal Hunts at the Library: “Giant Anteater,” best for ages 5-9, at South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Lane. Author Deborah Johnston leads an imaginary journey to read and learn about animals. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www. dentonlibrary.com. 4:30 p.m. — Teen STEM Lab for ages 8-14 at North Branch Library, 3020 N. Locust St. Learn about science and engineering with the Brain STEMs from the UNT Society of
Women Engineers. Free. Call 940349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary. com. 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. — Carson & Barnes Circus at Diamond T Arena, 6900 E. Sherman Drive. Tickets cost $6-$22. Visit www.carsonbarnes circus.com. 7 p.m. — Baby and Toddler Story Time for children 3 and younger at North Branch Library, 3020 Locust St. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com. 8 p.m. — UNT Mariachi Aguilas in Winspear Hall at the Murchison Performing Arts Center, on the north side of I-35E at North Texas Boulevard. Tickets cost $8-$10. Call 940-369-7802 or visit www.the mpac.com. 9 p.m. — UNT Three O’clock and Two O’clock Lab Bands play in the Syndicate at the UNT Union, 1155 Union Circle. Directed by Tanya Darby and Rodney Booth. Free.
MUSIC The Abbey Inn Restaurant & Pub Each Wed, County Rexford, 7-9pm, free. 101 W. Hickory St. 940-5665483. The Abbey Underground Thurs: Basically Basie Big Band. Fri: Starparty, In Spite of Madness, Purl Snap Shirts. Wed: Song Swap. March 31: Madaline, Comic Review Showcase, Reggae News. Weekly events: Each Sat, “’80s and ’90s Retro Dance Party”; each Sun, open mic hosted by Bone Doggie, sign-up at 7:30pm; each Mon, karaoke. 100 W. Walnut St. www.abbeyunderground.com. A Creative Art Studio 227 W. Oak St., Suite 101. 940-442-1251. www.a-
creativeartstudio.com. American Legion Post 550 Each Fri, free karaoke at 9pm; each Tues, free pool. Live band on the last Sat of the month, free. 905 Foundation St., Pilot Point. 940-686-9901. Andy’s Bar Each Thurs, “The Rotation” (jazz, blues, funk, fusion); each Mon, open mic, sign-up at 9 pm; each Wed, karaoke. 122 N. Locust St. 940-565-5400. http://andys.bar. Audacity Brew House Sat: Caleb Coonrod, 4pm; Droo, 7pm. Tues: Artist Gathering, 7pm. April 2: Tori Sloan, 4pm. Each Thurs, open mic with host Caleb Coonrod, 7-10pm, sign-up at 6:45pm. Each Sat, live music. Each Sun, yoga at 10am, $5. 1012 Shady Oaks Drive. 940-218-1987. www.audacitybrewhouse.com. The Chestnut Tree Each Sat, Jazz Brunch at 10am. Dan’s Silverleaf Thurs: Aaron Einhouse, 9pm, $7. Fri: Max Stalling, Curtis McMurtry, 9pm, $10. Sat: Chris Watson, 9pm, $10. Sun: Screening of Tapeheads, 7:30pm, free. Tues: Brave Combo (tribute to the Talking Heads’ True Stories), 8pm. Wed: Jimi Tunnell Group, 8pm, free. March 31: Jonathan Kreisberg Trio, 7:30pm, $15. April 1: Mike and the Moonpies, 7pm, $10; Ghost-Note, 10pm, $15-$18. April 2: Crawfish Expo with Jay-B and the Zydeco Posse, 4pm, $20; Hares on the Mountain, Isaac Hoskins and the Glass Mountain Orchestra, 9pm, $5. April 7: Charlie Parr, 9pm, $8-$10. 103 Industrial St. 940-320-2000. www.danssilverleaf.com. The Greenhouse Mon: Devin Eddleman and Brian Horton (performing Cannonball and Coltrane). April 4: Julian Sutherland. April 11: Terence Bradford Quaratet. April 18: Howard Dietz. April 25: Trevor Lund. Each Mon, live jazz at 10pm, free. 600 N. Locust St. 940-484-1349. www.green houserestaurantdenton.com. Harvest House Fri: Reinventing Jude, 9pm, $2. Sat: Consider the Source, 9pm, $10. April 1: Starmother, 9pm, free. April 2: IdolJob, 9pm. April 9: Gravity Feed, 9pm. April 10: Rebel Craft Rumble, a fundraiser for SCRAP Denton, 2-6pm. 331 E. Hickory St. 214-578-7499. www.denton harvesthouse.com. Jack’s Tavern Fri: Shaun Outen, 8:30pm. Sat: In by Ten Band, 8:30pm. Wed: Byron Dowd, 9pm. April 2: Matt Caldwell Band, 8:30pm. April 6: Phil Hamilton, 8:30pm. April 13: Jackie Darlene, 8:30pm. 508 S. Elm St. 940-808-0502. www.jacks denton.com. J&J’s Pizza Fri: With Teeth, Daggers, Salt TX, Loose Grip, Drive Thru Society, Purple Metal, Yung Sativa, Praying for Science, 7pm. March 31: The Tron Collective’s “Music and Murals” with the Monkberries, KIND Beats, Dreamtime and DJ L0fty, 9pm, $3. April 2: Animal Bar, Ion, Sun City, I, the Ghost, 7pm. 118 W. Oak St. 940382-7769. www.jandjpizzadenton. com. The LABB 218 W. Oak St. 940-2934240. www.thelabbdenton.com. Lone Star Attitude Burger Co. Fri: Bryan Grenvall. Sat: Chuck Ligon. Each Tues, Real Texas Radio live broadcast, 7pm. Shows on the upstairs patio, 7-10pm, no cover. 113 W.
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Orrantia, of ‘God’s Not Dead 2,’ to be in Highland Village Highland Village native Hayley Orrantia will return to her hometown for a meet-and-greet from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Shops at Highland Village, 1701 Shoal Creek in Highland Village. She’ll sign autographs and pose for photos in the community shed at the shopping center, located in the Central Park Courtyard between Patrizio and Chico’s storefronts. Orrantia is a singer-songwriter and actress who appears as Erica Goldberg on ABC’s The Goldbergs, and as Brook Thawley in God’s Not Dead 2, opening in Denton on April 1. Orrantia will accept donations on behalf of the Denton County nonprofit Christian Community Action, which serves families in need. Shoppers can enter to win one of three pairs of passes to a local screening of God’s Not Dead 2, which takes place after the meet-and-greet on Wednesday at AMC Highland Village. Guests can enter to win by “checking in” at The Shops at
EVENTS Continued from Page 7 Hickory St. 940-383-1022. Paschall Bar Each Sun, Suit & Tie Sunday Jazz, 9pm. Upstairs at 122 N. Locust St. Rockin’ Rodeo Fri: Shane Smith & the Saints, Flatland Cavalry, 8:30pm, $5-$10. March 31: ILoveMakonnen, Crichy Crich, Prismo, 9pm, $25. April 1: Zac Wilkerson, Grady Spencer & the Work, 8:30pm, $10-$12. April 8: Roger Creager, Micky and the Motorcars, 8:30pm, $12-$15. April 15: Jason Boland and the Stragglers, 8:30pm, $15-$18. 1009 Ave. C. 940-565-6611. www.rockinrodeodenton.com. Rubber Gloves Rehearsal Studios Thurs: “Acoustics and Antics” open mic with host Joe Coffee, 6pm, free-$2; Astronautalis, Bird Peterson, AV the Great, 8pm, $20. Fri: Wild Bill, Gloat Ent, T. Lindsey, Ace Young’n, Alsace Carcione, Maxa Milli, Kilo Da Don, King Pap, Alexander McCoy and more, 9pm, $7-$10. Sun: High-Functioning Flesh, Body of Light, Better Education, Ranik Apt, Filth, Teen Slut, 9pm, $5-$7. April 1: Swimming With Bears, Fun Button, 9pm, $7-$9. April 2: Peelander-Z, 8pm, $10-$12. April 5:
Faith-based films are seeing box-office boosts, but will it last? By Lucinda Breeding | Features Editor
H
cbreeding@dentonrc.com
oly Week in North Texas has made its way out of the church and into the movie house. Today — Maundy Thursday, a Christian holy day commemorating the Last Supper — Denton residents have three Christian films to choose from at local cinemas: Risen, The Young Messiah and Miracles From Heaven.
Evan Agostini, Invision/AP file photo
Actress and singer Hayley Orrantia will appear at a meet-andgreet Wednesday in Highland Village, her hometown. Highland Village on Facebook or Instagram — mention what you’re shopping for, and where you’re shopping and dining. The
winners will be announced Tuesday afternoon. For more information, visit www.theshops athighlandvillage.com.
TV Girl, Children of Pop, 9pm, $8-$10. 411 E. Sycamore St. 940-387-7781. www.rubberglovesdentontx.com. Sweetwater Grill & Tavern Tues: Texas Blues Crew, 7pm. April 5: Le Not So Hot Klub du Denton, 7pm. Shows on the patio, no cover. 115 S. Elm St. 940-484-2888. www.sweetwatergrillandtavern.com. UNT on the Square Thurs: Brian Horton, 7pm; Afro-Peruvian improv jazz, 8pm. March 31: American songbook, voice studio of Carol Wilson. 109 N. Elm St. 940-369-8257. http://untonthesquare.unt.edu.
dentonarts.com. ● “Materials: Hard & Soft,” the Greater Denton Arts Council’s 29th annual national contemporary craft competition, through April 1 in the Meadows Gallery. $5 admission; free for GDAC members, children 11 and younger, and students with valid ID. ● Youth Art Month, art by Denton ISD elementary students, through Saturday in the Gough Gallery. Free. ● Arts Open Call, through April 16, in Festival Hall. Free. PointBank Black Box Theatre Denton Community Theatre’s black box performance space. Mon & Wed 1-4pm, Fri 10:30am-1pm, and during performances. 318 E. Hickory St. ● Work by Isabel Cano, through April 8. UNT Art Gallery in the UNT Art Building, 1201 W. Mulberry St. at Welch. Tues noon-5pm, Wed-Thurs 9:30am-8pm, Fri-Sat noon-5pm. Free. 940-565-4316. http://gallery.unt.edu. ● “Blue Like Me,” an exhibit by Siona Benjamin, through April 2. UNT Cora Stafford Gallery In UNT’s Oak Street Hall, 1120 W. Oak St. Wed-Sat 1-5pm or by appointment. 940-565-4005. ● “Impressionable Minds: Work from Advanced Printmaking Studio,” through Saturday.
VISUAL ARTS A Creative Art Studio Gallery, classes and workshops. 227 W. Oak St., Suite 101. Mon-Sat 12-6pm, Sun by appointment only. 940-442-1251. www.acreativeartstudio.com. The DIME Store Denton Independent Maker Exchange’s store carrying local art, crafts and vintage items, plus workshop/gallery space. TuesSat 10-6. 510 S. Locust St. 940-3812324. www.dimehandmade.com. Patterson-Appleton Arts Center Greater Denton Arts Council’s galleries, meeting space and offices. 400 E. Hickory St. Tues-Fri 11am-5pm, SatSun 1-5pm. 940-382-2787. www.
The first two films draw from Christian history, with a Roman soldier beginning to believe that the executed Jesus might indeed be divine in Risen, and Jesus’ childhood imagined in Young Messiah. Miracles From Heaven, starring Jennifer Garner, is based on the real-life story of a Burleson family in crisis when their chronically ill daughter suffers a catastrophic fall. Another film, the evangelical God’s Not Dead 2, will open in Denton theaters on April 1. Filmmaker and professor Danny Carrales said the market for faith-based films is growing. “There are more Christian films than ever before,” said Carrales, who owns DRC Films (the acronym comes from his initials) and teaches cinematic arts at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. “There used to be a handful of us making Christian movies, and now, unfortunately, there are hundreds — if not thousands — of people making Christian films.” Carrales, whose evangelical films urge nonChristians to convert, said the burgeoning market has meant viewers aren’t always getting a well-made film, even when they buy one from a Christian bookstore. “It’s a growing market, and now that Hollywood wants a taste, they are putting more money into it,” he said. “Distributors are buying bad stuff, slapping a nice cover on it, and people are buying a product that isn’t very good.” Chris Hansen, the chairman of the Baylor University film and digital media program, said Christian film tends to fall into two categories: evangelical films like God’s Not Dead, which are made to invite audiences to become Christians, and films for broader audiences that touch on religious or Christian themes or characters, like The Revenant or The Passion of the Christ. Hansen said the recent surge in Christian films is related to box office, DVD and digital sales. “There are two sides to this,” Hansen said. “The movie industry is very interested in what’s making money, and they’ll always follow the dollars. But that’s not necessarily the place where these movies are coming from. I don’t want to say there aren’t
Th of
An audience vie
people of faith wh that’s obviously no low-budget movie seen the industry kinds of movies.” American cine Bible as a source. by putting biblica special effects and Denton residents Mille’s classic The Heston, the star o play another disaf 1965, The Greates the life of Jesus, m Hansen said th making started w ants and 2008’s F Alex and Stephen made War Room,
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COVER STORY
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he church f celluloid The Muskegon Chronicle/AP file photo
ews “The Passion of the Christ” in 2004. Mel Gibson’s Aramaic-language film was a game-changer for faith-based filmmaking.
ho want to see these films, because ot true. But only since the spike in es that have made money have we wanting to put money into these
ema has never shied away from the Cecil B. DeMille made his name al stories on the big screen with d lots of action. On Wednesday, could see two screenings of Dee Ten Commandments. Charlton of Ten Commandments, went on to ffected Hebrew in Ben-Hur. In st Story Ever Told, a movie about made $20 million at the box office. he recent uptick in Christian filmwith the 2006 film Facing the GiFireproof. Both films were made by n Kendrick. The directors also , the 2015 runaway success. The
low-budget movie made $67 million at the box office. “The Kendrick brothers’ model has been lowbudget, supported by their church and very Gospeloriented,” Hansen said. “There is an audience that wants to see those movies, clearly. I think the film industry sees that as proof of concept, and they now want to make more of those films.” He said Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ (2004) was a game-changer for bigger-budget films about faith. “We forget that it was a huge gamble to make that movie,” said Hansen. “No one knew who Jim Caviezel was. He was in films, but he wasn’t a huge star. None of the other actors in it were well-known. It was in a foreign language — and Mel Gibson wasn’t going to subtitle it at first. There weren’t any other known films like The Passion. No one knew if it was going to work, and then it made almost $400 million.”
Jim Mann, senior pastor at New Life Church in Sanger, is a movie fan himself. The pastor said film — both secular and faith-based — can get people talking and thinking about big-picture things. Mann said stories speak to the heart in a way lectures can’t. “God’s an artist — just drive through the Hill Country in spring and you’ll see that,” Mann said. “The Apostle Paul calls the Earth God’s masterpiece — poiema, our word ‘poem,’ comes from this, in Romans 1:20. Since humans are created in his image, we have a love, need and appreciation for art. So when we are experiencing good art, there is a sense of connection between our character and God’s character — barriers we might normally have with God tend to disappear.” It helps that films tells stories through characters. Viewers often find it easier to consider the
See FAITH on 11
PASTOR PICKS The Rev. Dr. Jim Mann shares his favorite films: The Lion King — I love The Lion King. It is apocalyptic in genre (like Revelations). A beautiful world, destroyed through sin and avarice, a Messiah-figure comes to the rescue, the world is restored. Loved talking to my little kids about this. The Revenant — My college-aged son and I love this great story of sin, betrayal and redemption. Mad Max: Fury Road — Believe it or not, Mad Max: Fury Road had the same apocalyptic plot as The Lion King. Les Miserables — My wife and I love this story of grace and redemption.
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FUTURE BOOKINGS 5:30 to 8 p.m. March 31 — Taste of North Texas, benefiting the Denton Kiwanis Club Children’s Clinic, at the UNT Coliseum, at North Texas Boulevard and Highland Street. Event includes samples from dozens of restaurants, caterers and other vendors. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $10 for students ages 7 and older, free for children 6 and younger. For tickets, visit www.tasteofnt.com. March 31 through April 2 — UNT Media Arts Festival, showcasing students’ films, screenplays and audio work. Festival starts at 6:30 p.m. March 31, at the Radio, TV, Film and Performing Arts Building with film screenings, a mix-and-mingle session and a Q&A with artists. At 6 p.m. Friday, April 1, UNT on the Square hosts a panel discussion, a staged reading of the festival’s winning screenplay, and an exhibition of experimental works. More screenings and an awards ceremony start at 5 p.m. April 2 in the Lyceum at the University Union. Free. Visit http:// mediaarts.unt.edu. 6 p.m. April 1 to 6 a.m. April 2 — Arts All Night at the PattersonAppleton Arts Center, 400 E. Hickory St. Greater Denton Arts Council’s all-night event includes music by Brave Combo and Jessie Frye, performances, artist demos, family art activities, flashlight tours, films, storytelling, karaoke, food trucks and more. Admission is $10 for the public, free for GDAC members and children younger than 12. Visit www.denton arts.com. 6:30 p.m. April 1 — The Steel Magnolias, a Southern gospel singing group from San Marcos, performs at First Rock Fellowship, 201 N. Cherry St. in Aubrey. Free. Call 940-365-2445. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. April 1 — April Fool’s Day First Friday Celebration at A Creative Art Studio, 227 W. Oak St., Suite 101. The Artists Enclave of Denton County and the studio present an evening of art, music and performances. Free. Call 940-4421251 or visit www.acreativeartstudio. com. 7:30 p.m. April 1-2 and 2 p.m. April 3 — Denton Community Theatre presents Glengarry Glen Ross by David Mamet at the PointBank Black Box Theatre, 318 E. Hickory St. Tickets cost $15. Call 940-3821915 or visit www.dentoncommunity theatre.com. 10 a.m. April 2 — Free iPad, iPhone and Android photography workshop at Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St. Bring your device. Led by Ed Sanders of Silver Surfer Education. Call 940-3498752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com. 1 p.m. April 2 — Saturday Jazz Duet, a one-hour concert with trumpeter Stuart Mack and pianist Gabriel Evans, at Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St. Free. Call 940-3498752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com. 1 to 5 p.m. April 2 — Coloring With a Twist fundraiser at Harvest House, 331 E. Hickory St. TWU social work students host a free adult coloring meet-up. Proceeds from drink sales and a silent auction will go
Screen stars on stage
Donn Jones, Invision/AP file photo
S
am Palladio and Clare Bowen rehearse a scene for ABC’s Nashville in 2012. The series’ stars are taking their show on the road. Cast members and country music artists Bowen (Scarlett O’Connor), Chris Carmack (Will Lexington) and Charles Esten (Deacon Claybourne) will perform original music and songs from the show on U.S. dates, with Palladio (Gunnar Scott) joining them on international dates. Cast members Will Chase (Luke Wheeler), Jonathan Jackson (Avery Barkley) and Aubrey Peebles (Layla Grant) will join the tour in select cities. The “Nashville in Concert” tour stops at the Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie for a show at 8 p.m. April 23. Tickets range from $39.50 to $150. For tickets, visit www.axs.com/events/308327/abc-s-nashville-in-concert-tickets.
toward the Denton County Veterans Coalition. Coloring pages and basic coloring pencils will be provided. To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/ qjr22ugc. 7 p.m. April 2 — Denton County NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet at Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center, 1300 Wilson St. Keynote speaker Noble Crawford Jr., cofounder of Hope Farm Inc., gives a talk titled “The Impact of Absentee Fathers on Youth in Urban Communities.” Tickets cost $45 each, or $350 per table. Email diane.castro@ hudspethim.com. 8 p.m. April 2 — UNT African Cultural Festival, “The Africans Are Coming,” in Voertman Hall at the UNT Music Building, at Avenue C and Chestnut Street. Performers include Afrikania Cultural Troupe from Ghana, professor Gideon Alorwoyie and Afro-Cuban, South Indian and West African music ensembles. Free. Call 940-565-2791 or visit www.music. unt.edu. 2 to 4 p.m. April 3 and April 10 — Free chess classes at Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St. Chess classes are taught by coaches from Texas Academy of Mathematics and Sciences at UNT. Coaches are available for all levels. Call 940-3498774 or email dawn.terrizzi@cityof
denton.com. 11 a.m. April 5 — Guest Chef Day at UNT’s Club at Gateway Center restaurant, inside Gateway Center, 801 North Texas Blvd. Guest chef is Blythe Beck of Pink Magnolia in Dallas’ Oak Cliff. Cost is $10 per person. For reservations, call 940565-4144. 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. April 5 — Colm Tóibín, author of Brooklyn, will appear UNT as part of the Visiting Writers Series. A Q&A session will be at 4 p.m. April 5 in the Willis Library Forum, 1516 W. Highland St., followed by a book reading at 8 p.m. in Room 180 at the Business Leadership Building, 1307 W. Highland St. Noon April 6 — Nita Thurman discusses her book John B. Denton, in the Commissioners Courtroom at the Courthouse on the Square, 110 W. Hickory St. Free. Call 940-349-2850 or visit www.dentoncounty.com/ chos. 1 p.m. April 6 — P.R.I.N.T. Core Talk lecture with printmakers Linda Ridgway and Katherine Brimberry in Room 116 at Sage Hall, 1167 Union Circle. Free. 2 p.m. April 6 and April 8 — “Getting Started With Microsoft PowerPoint 2013,” a free two-part class at South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Lane. Free. Call 940-349-
8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary.com. 8 p.m. April 6 — Bill Nye, scientist, engineer, comedian, author and inventor, speaks at the UNT Coliseum, 600 Ave. D. Part of UNT’s Distinguished Lecture Series. Tickets cost $20 for the general public, $10 for UNT staff, faculty and alumni, free for UNT students. Visit http://studentaffairs.unt.edu/dls. 8:45 a.m. April 7 — “Big Data and the Merchant of the Future,” UNT’s 12th annual Consumer Experience Symposium in Rooms 314A and B in the University Union, 1155 Union Circle. Registration fee is $50 for members of the public, $25 for non-UNT students and free for UNT students. Call 940-369-7051 or email lisa.wallace@unt.edu. 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. April 7 — Intermediate sock knitting class on Thursdays in April at Emily Fowler Central Library, 502 Oakland St. Free, but registration is required. Free. Call 940-349-8752 or visit www.denton library.com. 4 to 6 p.m. April 7 — Artists’ residency open house with printmakers Linda Ridgway and Katherine Brimberry at the P.R.I.N.T Oak Street Hall Annex, 1110 W. Oak St. Free. 7 p.m. April 7 — Visual Arts Society of Texas meeting features Toby Grauberger, founder of
Creatures for Kids, presenting “Critter Creation: Bringing Art Toys to Life, From Concept to Completion” at the Patterson-Appleton Arts Center, 400 E. Hickory St. Free for VAST members, $3 for non-members and guests. Visit www.vastarts.org. 6 p.m. April 8 — North Texas Book Fair opens with its annual Book Trails Dinner at the PattersonAppleton Center, 400 E. Hickory St. Cost is $25 for book fair members, $30 for non-members. For reservations, email ntbf@verizon.net. April 8-17 — Denton Community Theatre presents Mary Poppins at the Campus Theatre, 214 W. Hickory St. Tickets cost $22 for adults, $18 for seniors, $15 for students with ID, $10 for children 12 and younger. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. April 8-9 and April 14-16, and 2 p.m. April 10 and 17. Call 940-382-1915 or visit www.denton communitytheatre.com. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 9 — North Texas Book Festival brings authors, books and readers together at the Patterson-Appleton Arts Center, 400 E. Hickory St. Visit www.ntbf.org. April 9 — 27th annual TWU Science Fair, for all students in public, private and home schools in grades K-9. Registration is underway through March 31. Entry fee is $10 per student. Visit www.twu.edu/artssciences/science-fair.asp or contact Anna Ryan at 940-898-3325 or aryan1@twu.edu. April 9-18 — “Scrappy” exhibit of UNT’s historical mascot uniforms at the UNT Union Art Gallery, 1155 Union Circle. Hours are 7 a.m. to midnight Monday through Saturday and noon to midnight Sunday. UNT Talons will answer questions about the mascot and hand out “Scrappy” ice cream from 1 to 4 p.m. April 14. 7 p.m. April 13 — Professor’s Corner presents “Revisionist Mythmaking in U.S. Poetry,” a discussion led by TWU professor AnaLouise Keating, at South Branch Library, 3228 Teasley Lane. Free. Call 940349-8752 or visit www.dentonlibrary. com. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 16 — Amazing Race Denton County, benefiting Denton County Friends of the Family, is a 5K obstacle course for teams of two or three, at Unity Park, 2200 Briarhill Blvd. in Highland Village. 5K race at 8 a.m. is for runners who do not want to participate in the obstacle course; $20 registration. Obstacle course event starts at 10:30 a.m.; $35 for individuals, $30 per person for groups of seven or more, $10 for children. Register at www.amazingracedentoncounty. eventbrite.com. 6:30 p.m. April 16 — Denton County Democratic Party’s LBJ Obama Dinner at the Denton Country Club, 1213 Country Club Road in Argyle. Tickets cost $60 each, or $480 for a table of eight; price includes valet parking. For reservations, make checks payable to the Denton County Democratic Party and mail to 1710 W. University Drive, Suite 110, Denton, TX 76201. Deadline is April 9. Call 940-566-1165 or visit www.dentondemocrats.org.
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Jennifer Garner, Martin Henderson and Kelly Collins Lintz pray for a rescue in “Miracles From Heaven.” The movie, based on the story of a Burleson family, is now in theaters.
Tom Felton, left, plays Lucius and Joseph Fiennes stars as Clavius in the recently released “Risen.” Columbia Pictures
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Faith frailties of a character than to meditate on their own. It can be easier to think objectively about broken relationships in fiction than those under our own roof. “Difficult, or even philosophical topics, are much easier to contemplate when taken out of a lecture [or] debate format and woven into a good story,” Mann said. “That’s exactly what the Bible does.” Hansen and Carrales said the future of faith-based films is dependent on consumers voting with their wallets. “The industry is changing really rapidly,” Hansen said. “I think people are trying to figure out how this will all go. I think that the low-budget model seems to be where things are happening. But the question is whether the streaming model — Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime — will be good for those movies. Hollywood is not making low-budget or even mid-budget movies. They’re willing to buy something someone else has already made.” Carrales said that so far,
streaming platforms aren’t good for filmmakers working on micro-budgets. “What’s happening now, not just with Christian filmmakers, is that it’s harder to get people to buy DVDs. People are streaming movies, which gives the filmmaker pennies on the dollar,” he said. “People don’t understand that. They think if they stream things on Netflix that the producers are getting paid, and that’s not the case. Sony can make a better deal than I can.” Carrales said that viewers who want to see more faithbased movies should see the films in the theater, buy DVDs, and, when possible, buy them from the producers. Hansen said he’s telling his filmmaking students that being a director might not be a profession that pays the bills. “I think people make films because they are passionate about the stories and the message,” Hansen said. “And more and more, directors might have to look elsewhere to pay the bills, and make their movies using a different model. We’re all talking about it.” LUCINDA BREEDING can be reached at 940-566-6877 and via Twitter at @LBreedingDRC.
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Cinemark Denton 2825 Wind River Lane off I-35E. 940-535-2654. www. cinemark.com. Movie Tavern 916 W. University Drive. 940-566-FILM (3456). www.movietavern.com. Carmike Hickory Creek 16 8380 S. I-35E, Hickory Creek. 940-3212788. www.carmike.com. Silver Cinemas Inside Golden Triangle Mall, 2201 S. I-35E. 940-3871957. www.silvercinemasinc.com.
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OPENING FRIDAY My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2
DMN file photos/Avenue Entertainment
Ivan Alexeev (John Cusack, left) and Josh Tager (Tim Robbins) aim to get rich and famous by making music videos in “Tapeheads.” The 1988 comedy screens Sunday at Dan’s Silverleaf.
Dan’s rewinds ‘Tapeheads’ Film writer brings out 1988 flick for Sunday screening A Denton-based film critic will launch what he hopes to make a regular film series on Sunday night. Chase Whale, who got his start with the film website Gordon and the Whale, will host a screening of the 1988 comedy Tapeheads at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at Dan’s Silverleaf, 103 Industrial St. Whale said that while he and Dan’s Silverleaf are still looking at regular dates, the plan is to bring arthouse, underground, exploitation and both old and new cult movies released on Blu-ray and DVD. Tapeheads stars John Cusack and Tim Robbins as a pair of wannabe executives — Ivan and Josh — who wash out of their security guard jobs and start a music video business. Some minor-league scheming results in major-league headaches for the best friends. Cameos abound in the movie. The free screening includes popcorn. — Lucinda Breeding
Artist Belinda Mart (Kathy Boyer) moves in on video director Josh Tager (Tim Robbins) in "Tapeheads."
(★★) Overstuffed, underachieving sequel that took more than a decade to come to the screen. We begin in snowy Chicago, where Toula (Nia
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Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice Rated PG-13, 153 minutes. Opens Friday.
of Steel, director Zack Snyder again evokes the imagery of 9/11 to compose a powerful sequence. However, he sabotages his own momentum by following the harrowing destruction with another opening at a desert location where Superman (Henry Cavill) kicks up the sand while rescuing Lois Lane (Amy Adams). From there, we jump to the discovery of a mysterious, alienlike stone on a remote island in the Indian Ocean (it might come in handy later), before finally landing with a thud back in the greater Metropolis-Gotham area, which apparently is DC Comics’ version of the Bos-Wash Corridor.
If this sequence sounds overwrought and exhausting, it’s because it is. The rest of the movie is no smoother, clunking along for its entire two-and-a-halfhour length. Each scene collides with the next, with no cohesive current to tie the plot together. Logic is virtually nonexistent here. For instance, Batman suffers from creature-filled dream sequences apropos of nothing. By the third such occurrence, you’ll be completely lost with no idea of what’s going on, so just give up and watch the pretty images. Maybe these sequences will make sense down the line when we have more movies to fill in the holes, but for now,
they’re just holes. The character motivations are little better than their plots, however. Batman apparently has a grudge against Superman because of his ignorant acts of destruction, but that doesn’t stop Batman from taking another battle into the heart of the city in similarly cavalier fashion. Lex Luthor (an over-the-top Jesse Eisenberg) doesn’t like Supes much more, and with just as little justification. He may rant about his father and his lack of virtue, but it’s all outsized talk with little characterization to back it up. Snyder’s action sequences are disappointing as well. One scene where Batman is chasing some bad guys in his Batmobile should have been a no-brainer in the thrills department. It sure got some fans salivating in the theater, but excitement quickly faded as the CGI constructions outweighed the practical effects. However, not all is sour with Batman v Superman. There’s Wonder Woman (an underused Gal Gadot), who turns on the light in this dark and tedious movie. While our titular superheroes duke it out, Wonder Woman shows up and wields a confident grin along with her slick shield. She’s undoubtedly the star of this film and deserves a movie of her own. Overly ambitious and far too long, Batman v Superman misuses its classic characters, undercuts its battle scenes and disrespects the audience that’s been waiting to see this epic showdown for years. PRESTON BARTA is a member of the Dallas-Fort Worth Film Critics Association. Read his work on FreshFiction.tv.
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(camera work and thunderous musical score), and, well, that’s it. Rated PG-13, 121 minutes. — Preston Barta Miracles From Heaven (★★★★1⁄2 ) 10-year-old Anna is diagnosed with an incurable digestive disease, which leaves her family
struggling to hold on to hope. When a freak accident sends Anna plummeting three stories inside an old, hollow tree, she visits heaven — and her disease is later found to be cured. Rated PG, 109 minutes. — Theresa Westbrook
Warner Bros. Pictures
Batman (Ben Affleck) and Superman (Henry Cavill) have some scores to settle in “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.”
Yawn of justice
Batman dukes it out with Superman, and audience loses By Preston Barta Film Critic
Do you remember the thrill of watching the Joker speed down Gotham City’s tunnels during his campaign against the Caped Crusader in The Dark Knight? The characters of Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy had a palpable presence about them: You cared. Amid an ever-increasing tide of superhero movies each year, every new installment needs to
MOVIES Continued from Page 12 Vardalos) and Ian (John Corbett), now a principal, are raising their daughter,
work even harder to stand out. Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice tries to accomplish too much by jumping for greatness instead of building toward it. Set 18 months after the tragedy that struck Metropolis in Man of Steel, we begin with a stuttered, disjointed quadruple opening. First is the beginning of Ben Affleck’s Batman, the expected back-story of Bruce Wayne losing his folks. Then, we flash forward many years later to see Man of Steel’s climax from Batman’s perspective. Buildings come crashing, lives are lost, and in the familiar footsteps of countless 21st-century action movies including Man Paris (Elena Kampouris). Given the title, there’s got to be ... a wedding, right? Family patriarch Gus (Michael Constantine) discovers his marriage license to Maria (Lainie Kazan) was never signed. Rated PG-13, 94 minutes. — The Associated Press
The Divergent Series: Allegiant (★★) The Divergent series does have some alluring qualities — Miles Teller as comic relief, good aesthetics
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