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VOLUME IX / SEP 2017
Perspectives on Charlottesville Relief for hurricane victims Diez y Seis events District Days Celebration
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
Vida y Obra: 50 years of Art & Activism By Raúl Valdez Exhibit opening, 6-8 pm Sam Z. Coronado Gallery Guest Speakers
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
Open House & family activities at 4 pm Ceremonial Grand Opening at 6 pm Master of Ceremonies Ron Oliveira Food, Art, Community Booths, Music, Dance Danza Azteca Guadalupana Roy Lozano Ballet Folklorico 1-2-3 Andres with AISD Mariachi Players The Johnny Degollado Trio The Nansayapa Marimba Quartet from Mexico Oaxaca Arte en Movimiento - Ballet Folklórico
C E N T R O U R B A N O HABLA Austin
First Diva Con Awards planned The first annual Diva Con Awards Luncheon will be held on Thursday, Sept. 7, at the Frank Erwin Center from 12-2 p.m. The event celebrates women in business and professional women who are doing amazing things in their industries. Diva Con was founded by and will be hosted by Fran Harris, founder/CEO of Fran Harris Enterprises, LLC. Tickets start at $59, and are on sale at DivaCon.net PARD Veterans Park discussion Austin Parks and Recreation Department is hosting a community meeting to begin the planning process for Veterans Park. The purpose of this meeting is to present background, history and existing site conditions, and to gather community input on project goals and design of the space. Thursday, Sept. 14, 6:30 p.m. at American Legion, Travis Post 76, 404 Atlanta Street. MSVW free bilingual programs Mama Sana Vibrant Woman (MSVW) will be enrolling participants through September for three bilingual programs at various Travis County area locations: Pregnancy & Birth Circles, Childbirth Preparation Workshops, and monthly Wellness Clinics, all available to participants at no cost through Dec. 16. For more info go to www.msvwatx.org
Mama Sana Vibrant Woman programs
LGBTQ athletes’ inaugural workout OUTWOD, the largest international collective for bringing together LGBTQ athletes and their allies to sweat together in a safe, inclusive group fitness environment, is expanding for the first time to the Austin community. The inaugural workout and event will be hosted in conjunction with CrossFit Austin’s MULTICULTURAL media source for EIGHT YEARS • Find us at TODOAustin.com
South Lamar on Sept. 17. Doors open at 9:45 a.m. for the workout through 11:30 a.m. Register at www.outwod.com/events/outaustin17
Bond election and student needs AISD Board of Trustees has called for a $1.05B Bond Election this fall to bring 21st century learning spaces to students without increasing our tax rate. Early voting is Oct. 23–Nov. 3 and Election Day is Nov. 7. The 2017 Bond is designed to replace, improve, renovate and equip facilities for Austin’s approximately 83,000 students and 12,000 employees. The proposition calls for: modernization or construction of 16 campuses; improvements to address overcrowding and safety concerns; reinvention programs for 21st century learning; and new technology for teachers and students at every campus. ACC partners with Apple Austin Community College has launched a new app development program in partnership with Apple for students who want to pursue careers in the fast-growing app economy. The program features Swift curriculum, one of the world’s most popular programming languages. The App ACCelerator: Austin Can Code Program at ACC takes students with no programming experience and enables them to build fully-functional apps of their own design. Courses also are available for IT professionals looking to expand their skills with advanced development techniques. New roads relieve congestion In an effort to improve access and reduce congestion downtown, Austin Transportation Department has converted a one-way stretch of Fifth Street to twoway traffic. Reopened on Wednesday, Aug. 23, Fifth Street now consists of two eastbound lanes and one westbound lane between Brazos Street and the I-35 Southbound Frontage Road. Previously, road users could only use the three-lane street to travel eastbound. Sobriety Center Board member The Austin City Council seeks applications from qualified individuals to serve on the 11-member Sobriety Center Local Government Corporation Board of Directors. The opening is to fill an unexpired term that will run through Sep.30, 2018. The deadline for applications is Sept. 22.
Volume IX, Number 5 PUBLISHER/EDITOR // Gavin Lance Garcia info@todoaustin.com ART DIRECTOR // Dave McClinton dmdesigninc.com EDITOR //Lesly Reynaga // lesly@todoaustin.com MANAGING EDITOR // Meredith C. Cox meredith@todoaustin.com ASSOCIATE EDITORS // Liz Lopez, Monica Peña, Katie Walsh, Erica Stall Wiggins, Yvonne Lim Wilson
Austin responds to Hurricane Harvey
group led by residents, experienced organizations and advisors to ensure effective relief for families and communities impacted by disasters.
The City of Austin and Travis County encourage people interested in supporting flood survivors who have been impacted by Hurricane Harvey to make monetary donations to established, reputable organizations assisting in relief and recovery efforts.
The Red Cross is currently accepting monetary donations only at this time. Contact the Red Cross at 800-928-4271 or visit redcross.org for donation information. The Austin Disaster Relief Network is also accepting monetary and survivor item donations.
As reported by Community Impact, an emergency Austin City Council meeting was held on August 29, in which Mayor Steve Adler and council members reaffirmed the city’s commitment to helping those displaced by Harvey.
For frequently asked questions about Austin and Hurricane Harvey Disaster Assistance and Recovery information, go to: http://austintexas. gov/help.
“We are not checking immigration status at shelters,” Adler said. “Our priority is your safety, and we want to make you feel at home regardless of where you come from. That is the character of this community and is the kind of hospitality that we’re going to show.” The Federal Emergency Management Agency has identified the need for shelters to hold 30,000 people across the state of Texas. On Aug. 29, the city’s shelter capacity was 7,000 people. As the City stated in a press release, monetary contributions allow relief organizations the greatest flexibility in meeting the needs of flood survivors quickly. Monetary donations also reduce the labor and expense of sorting, packing and distributing donated goods. No donations are being accepted for clothing, food, or other supplies and materials. To make a monetary donation, go to Central Texas Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster at centraltxvoad.com/about/members, or Texas Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster at txvoad.communityos.org. Central Texas and Texas VOAD consists of local, regional, and national nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and governmental partners that coordinate disaster relief, response and recovery. An extensive list of VOAD members is provided with information about how to donate to each. Travis Austin Recovery Group (targroup. wordpress.com/mission) is a long-term recovery CONTRIBUTING STAFF // Rose Di Grazia, Callie Langford, César E. López Linares, Genoveva Rodriguez, Diana Sanchez PRODUCTION SERVICES // Anthony Garcia CONTRIBUTORS // Alka Bhanot, Roy Casagranda, Cat Cardenas, Matthew Chester, Cindy Casares, Evelyn C. Castillo, Lobo Corona, Nora De LaRosa, Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, Mark Guerra, Mari Hernandez, Yadira Izquierdo, Chaille Jolink, Ryan Jordan, Ali Khataw, Ramey Ko, Harish Kotecha, Sonia Kotecha, Julia Lee, Isabel Lopez-Aguilar, Cristina Parker, Rian Rendon, Carola Rivera, Paul Saldaña, Marion Sanchez, Sameer Shah, Blake Shanley, Dani Slabaugh, Corey Tabor, Rama Tiru, Blanca Valencia, Lesley Varghese, Lichen Zhen ONLINE EDITION // TODOAustin.com
An ongoing list of events planned by folks in the Austin music scene to provide Hurricane Harvey relief is being updated by the Austin AmericanStatesman’s Deborah Sengupta Stith and Peter Blackstock as events pass and as more events are announced is at music.blog.austin360.com. In response to a request from the City of Victoria, Texas, the City of Austin Transportation Department dispatched supplies, signal and sign technicians on Aug. 31 to help Victoria recover from Hurricane Harvey. While in Victoria, the crews will help replace roadway signage and restore traffic signals to proper working condition. “Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by Hurricane Harvey. It has been difficult to see the devastation,” said Austin Police Chief Brian Manley. “However, it has been uplifting to see everyone come together working as one to save lives. Our Austin Police Association is helping the first responders in the Rockport area. I have been in touch with Houston Police Chief and friend, Art Acevedo about what the needs are. The recovery of this significant event is going to take time. When appropriate the Austin Police Department will send resources as needed to assist in any way possible. We stand by our colleagues and the community in the Houston and Rockport area.” COVER // Artwork by Dave McClinton TODO Austin // Multicultural Media for All of Austin. TODO Austin is a free print and online journal for all of Austin highlighting our multicultural heritage and promoting the concept of community in an ethnically diverse city. Circulation throughout Austin, from the Westside’s Pennybacker Bridge to the Eastside’s Montopolis Bridge. TODO Austin is published by Spark Awakened Publishing. © 2017 Spark Awakened Publishing. All rights reserved. The views expressed here are the authors and should not be taken to represent those of Spark Awakened Publishing or of any of its associates or partners. ADVERTISING/SUBMISSIONS/EDITORIAL: info@todoaustin.com, 512.538.4115 TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 03
We must support more ‘Charlottesvilles’ in the future By King Davis
The City of Charlottesville resembles the best of a rural college town despite its problems. Economically, the town depends on balancing the relationships and interests of students with its residents. Historically, issues of racism, opportunity, class, crime and politics have embroiled the city and the campus of the University of Virginia as deeply as the recently revealed DNA connections between Thomas Jefferson and the enslaved Sally Hemings. These truths about Charlottesville always have been known yet all too painful to acknowledge publicly, at least until recently.
Incidents like these other Charlottesvilles have raised similar public consciousness to reexamine old truths, overt contradictions and widespread discrepancies. The white men who came from near and far to Charlottesville sought to reverse the city’s introspection and reimpose policies of male dominance and privilege. They sought to use confrontation, weaponry, intimidation, threats of violence and worn-out symbols to maintain an environment marked by anti-Semitism, racism, sexism and fear. They believe that the current national mood favors a return to a period in which any recognizable difference in people — whether it be color, language, religion, immigration status or sexual orientation — disqualifies one as American. And that is precisely the problem. What is beneath their public armor and outrage is
their anxiety, suspicion and fear that removal of Confederate statues foretells not only the decline of their ability to define who is and who is not an American, but predicts their own removal. The nation is certainly in flux, but there is no plan, process, policy, or procedure to discriminate against, segregate, or eliminate white men. The American promise is sufficiently grand to accommodate each of us as citizens, contributors and participants. Violence as a means of controlling the rights of one’s fellow citizens is anathema to the principles of democracy found in our Constitution. Those who have used violence, exploitation and control in support of an illegitimate cause often fear retribution using the same methods they have employed. We must identify and support more Charlottesvilles in the future, in which difference is acceptable and not debated. We must use their bravery as a spur to re-create the nation
one Charlottesville at a time. It means we must reinforce that the nation’s law declares the Ku Klux Klan a domestic terror organization and ban it once and for all. At the same time, we cannot ignore the need for more open dialogue about the long-term deepening suspicion that underlies the current national mood and willingness on the part of some to secede rather than compromise, cooperate, share, and find common ground. We can and must address this historical male survival anxiety that lies hidden underneath so much of the behavior that we saw recently in Charlottesville and many other U.S. cities before that. Otherwise, the next violence will arise at a not too distant place and time to our own peril. King Davis is a professor emeritus of African and African diaspora studies at The University of Texas at Austin.
Charlottesville became a dangerous and symbolic meeting place for white male outrage masquerading as resistance to the removal of a confederate statue. But it could easily have been one of the other “Charlottesvilles” in the U.S. — Richmond, New Orleans, Lexington, Charleston or Austin to name just a few where Confederate statues still exist, and time-delayed questions about our racial, gender, ethnic and religious symbols have evoked emotional dialogue if not outright change. Take, for example, the killings at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, two years ago, which, later on, did more than bring down a Confederate flag whose presence above the courthouse had weathered efforts to remove it for decades. It erased a century of doubt that the racial status quo could not change.
Art, not hate, has many sides | By Lise Ragbir When simmering hate erupted in Charlottesville, when protesters and counterprotesters clashed, when armed demonstrators could have been mistaken for the glaringly absent law enforcement, there were two sides: those who stood for hate, and those who didn’t. Because, contrary to what some believe, hate doesn’t have many sides. Hate doesn’t offer the space for different perspectives — it only leaves room for violence. As a director of art galleries at The University of Texas at Austin, I explore the intersection of social justice and creative expression. I’m part of a team that provides access to many sides, or rather, a range of perspectives. In the galleries, artwork provides a platform to unpack complicated ideas — equipping visitors with opportunities for discovery while offering a window to recognize ourselves in others’ stories. 04 TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
From curators to artists to students, our team builds points of entry for sometimes difficult conversations that hinge on contradiction. But the galleries allow frictions to be explored and for progress to occur. In such a space, where curiosity and respect are key and no one is threatened — many sides can be heard.
of its complexities, is a closer approximation to truth. Consider a Myers-Briggs report suggesting 81 percent of workplace conflicts lead to positive outcomes. And a Massachusetts Institute of Technology study suggesting that the experience of being heard can lead to meaningful conflict resolution.
that the word is inspired by the Latin root of the word, “curare” meaning to take care. But she points out that curare is also a plant once used to poison arrows, or if ingested in the right amount, actually has healing attributes. Both valid, yet contradictory, co-existing truths.
As a first-generation Canadian of Trinidadian descent living in Texas, I confront my many sides daily. In some contexts, I’m Trinidadian; in others I’m Canadian. In some contexts, I’m black; in others I’m mixed. But in an age when there is a fear of immigration and as I prepare my daughter to answer the inevitable question of “what are you?” I tell her: There isn’t always a correct, or a single, answer. And I know that these answers can co-exist, because one truth doesn’t threaten the other.
In other words, the space for conflict or contradiction can ultimately provide means for conflict resolution. And sometimes, conflict leads to progress for all. The 1973 Endangered Species Act, the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act, and the more recent Workforce Investment Act are all products of bipartisan success. In the wake of Charlottesville’s horror, let’s imagine what might come of the bipartisan condemnation of the “alt-right.”
At a time when the media allow conflicting truths to invade our lives, instead of resisting contradiction, more of us ought to consider how art spaces explore friction, without threat. And consider how this ethos of discovery can exist beyond the gallery walls.
As evidenced by the Charlottesville tragedy, it’s true: Multiple truths can lead to conflict. But under the right circumstances, conflict isn’t always a bad thing. In fact, in some instances, conflict, with all
In art, conflicting truths often serve as a basis for discovery. When Carla Acevedo-Yates, assistant curator of the Broad Art Museum at Michigan State University, discusses the responsibilities and challenges of curating in her research, she notes
With hate on the rise, art spaces can be a model for discovery and self-affirmation — for many sides. Because touting the responsibilities of many sides is a privilege only earned when all sides show up with a shared intent. Lise Ragbir is director of the Warfield Center Galleries at The University of Texas at Austin.
Saturday, Sep. 2, 12 p.m. Our First Saturday is a free event that celebrates a range of themes each month. Activities, music, vendors, discussions, and more. The September theme celebrates Social Justice Organizations around the Austin Metro area. Plenty of food and beverages will be served and there will be live entertainment for the entire family. Friday, Sep. 8, 6:30 p.m. That’s My Face is a young adult film series. September’s film is Hidden Figures Directed by Theodore Melfi. The story of a team of female AfricanAmerican mathematicians who served a vital role in NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program. Saturday, Sep. 9, 12 p.m to Sunday, Sep. 10, 7 p.m. The Texas Music Museum invites you to attend the 2017 Texas Music Museum 7th International Music Festival at the Vance Boyde Theater. Performances will include distinctive traditional instruments and promotes appreciation of the music from many cultures that are now part of the Austin and Texas ethnic fabric, including Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe, the Indian sub-continent, Latin/Central/South Americans, and the Middle East. There is no cost to attend the festival, but a $10 donation per person is suggested and appreciated.
As a country of laws, the U.S. must ensure immigration courts operate properly By Denise Gilman
A common refrain dominates immigration discussions – “They broke the law and should be deported.” The message holds power, because it suggests that allowing immigrants cast as lawbreakers to remain in the country weakens the rule of law. But there are multiple problems with this sweeping justification for deportations that treats immigrants as offenders. Many immigrants have not broken any criminal laws, and most cannot simply “get right” with immigration laws that are astonishingly complex and irrational. More fundamentally, the deportation system itself verges on lawlessness. The rule of law requires that functioning tribunals arbitrate disputes fairly, efficiently and accurately. The immigration court system, which decides who will be deported and who may remain in the U.S, fails this test. The government has taken an aggressive
Saturday, Sep. 2, 4 p.m. Come enjoy traditional food and our vendor fair at Centroamericanto Fest 2017. Show begins at 7 p.m. featuring “Ensamble Esperanza” world music from Costa Rica, Central American dances, Mister Meli from Nicaragua, Mauricio Callejas from El Salvador, Esteban Alvarez, Jeana and Juan Carlos Ureña from Costa Rica. There is limited seating; tickets are $20 plus. cacfest.com or (512) 387-0903. Saturday, Sep. 9, 10 a.m. Join us at Sábados En Familia for a day filled with FREE arts and wellness classes. We will offer a variety of classes throughout the day, each geared toward either Pre-K, youth (5-12), and teens/adults so the whole family can spend the day in an enriching cultural experience! Classes will be offered at 10 & 11 a.m. Free lunch will be provided at noon. Sunday, Sep. 10, 5 p.m. Come groove with the sounds and dig deep into the roots of Chicanx music and culture by joining us every Sunday, starting at 5 p.m. Dust off your instruments from the shelves and take part in building your community’s Bronze Band. Led by seasoned musician and music activist Robert Ojeda, you are sure to find communidad, latinx soul and rhythm!
Monday - Thursday | 9am - 9pm; Friday & Saturday | 9am - 5pm. “Prayer Phone,” a handmade altar with a disconnected phone, is an invitation to the public to “call” their deceased loved ones while giving offerings and prayers. This project reflects a common custom of many Asian traditions: commemorating ancestors and venerating the spirit world. Zen Garden. Monday - Saturday through September 23. “Waves of Hope: Asian American History in Austin” is home to many Asian Americans along with their rich history, culture, and traditions that are preserved and passed on to future generations by their families and communities. This exhibit showcases some of the history that is lesser known but nevertheless important to document and remember. Foyer and Hallways. “Asian American Civil Rights” accents some of the major struggles Asian Americans faced since their first arrival in America in the 1700s—such as immigration and citizenship rights—within the broader overlay of labor and civil rights movements within the mid-1900s. Grace Lee Boggs, Yuri Kochiyama, Larry Itliong and Ram Bagai are four individuals who inspirited activism that reached beyond their distinct Asian American roots to their communal desire for equality, acknowledgement and understanding.
stance on immigration enforcement, detaining and seeking to deport in large numbers. Yet it has failed to provide adequate resources for adjudication of the resulting cases by the immigration courts, even though these courts must decide complicated issues, including legitimate claims to legal status. The proposed budget for 2018 reflects this pattern with the immigration courts receiving only a small fraction of the $1.5 billion promised to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for increased detention and deportations. This imbalance has led to a bottleneck of more than 600,000 pending cases before the immigration courts and a state of chaos that negatively impacts all involved. Courts are unable to docket cases promptly, and there is wild unpredictability in the scheduling of hearings. Because information about a case only becomes available after docketing, individuals in immigration court proceedings cannot easily learn when or where hearings will be held. There is no right to government-appointed counsel in immigration cases, so most migrants are unrepresented and struggle to navigate the proceedings alone. Given the backlog, many hearings are scheduled out for four to five years. At the same time, detained individuals may have a final hearing within just a few months, and shifting priorities have resulted in accelerated adjudication of
on matters already underway in courts with unfamiliar procedures and binding law. Parties have difficulty learning who will preside over their hearings and have been forced repeatedly to begin anew in presenting cases to rotating judges. For video cases, detained persons face extreme difficulties offering evidence and testimony to judges thousands of miles away.
Marco Galaviz Luna | PHOTO
other cases. Last-minute changes are common because of the courts’ challenges in finding enough interpreters and malfunctions in the video equipment used in hearings for detained individuals. Rather than recognize and address the incredible pressure placed on immigration courts by the exploding docket, the Trump administration has adopted measures that make a bad situation worse. The administration started by shuffling the courts, sending judges from around the country to courts in border areas or assigning them to video hearings in remote detention centers. Judges have fallen behind on their own dockets to take
Recently, the administration revealed specific plans to expand the use of “expedited removal” and bypass the immigration courts altogether, allowing frontline enforcement officials to deport. Impeding access to a full adjudication will certainly not promote more fair and accurate results, and the plan does nothing to address the existing backlog in the immigration courts. Nor does the proposal slow docket growth, because individuals in expedited removal can seek court intervention to present asylum claims and will probably do so if otherwise faced with immediate deportation. Immigration adjudication is in a state of crisis that must be addressed. The system should operate as a means of sorting out cases under the law, granting the right to remain where merited, rather than simply being part of a deportation machine. Denise Gilman is a clinical professor of law and director of the Immigration Clinic at The University of Texas at Austin. TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 05
District Days celebrates the history and vibrancy of Austin’s black culture
This Labor Day weekend, Six Square invites cultural enthusiasts, foodies and those just looking to have a fun and relaxing time to the third District Days Celebration. The event is a two-day celebration of the African American culture and history of East Austin and includes a free, family-friendly festival and the inaugural East Austin Stroll. Each event illustrates a unique aspect of East Austin’s story by mixing history and contemporary expressions of Black culture. The sites contain stories that organizers say deserve to be told, and Six Square invites the public to keep the history of the neighborhood alive against the backdrop of its constant and inevitable change. Six Square, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and celebration of African American culture. Founded in 2013, Six Square develops programs to celebrate the history of the first black cultural district in Texas, located in a sixsquare mile area just east of downtown Austin.
ESB-MACC celebrates 10 years of bringing together Latino diversity in its current facility By César E. López Linares
On September 15, 2007, after several years of a master plan development, the long-awaited dream of the Latino, Chicano and MexicanAmerican artistic community became reality: a brand new contemporary-style building on 600 River St., in the heart of the Historic District of Rainey Street, was inaugurated. The construction was created to host the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, an institution that would work to preserve the Mexican American arts and cultural heritage in the city. Few years before that, the previously called Center for Mexican American Cultural Arts had gone from being a nonprofit dedicated to promote Chicano and Latino cultures and their artistic expressions to becoming an entity managed by the City of Austin’s Parks and Recreation Department, as it 06 TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
“Our work is two-fold: it is essential that we preserve stories of the people, places and traditions that contributed to the dynamic story that is Austin’s story,” said Nefertitti Jackmon, executive director of Six Square. “We also work to celebrate the great cultural expressions of African American life.” On Saturday, Sept. 2, Six Square hosts a community festival at the historic Downs Field, located at 2816 E. 12th St. from 4-9 p.m. Performers are Ogden Payne, Chris Omenihu, DJ Kay Cali, Bandan Koro: Dallas African Drum & Dance Ensemble, Tree G, CJ Edwards and the Funk Fellowship and Riders Against the Storm. There’s also local food and retail vendors, kid’s activities and much more free of charge. On Sunday, Sept. 3, from 1-6:30 p.m., the public can take the inaugural East Austin Stroll and be immersed into six uniquely curated experiences reflective of the rich traditions that gave birth to the uniqueness of the African American legacy in Central East Austin. Sites included in the East Austin Stroll are Six Square Art Gallery, E. 12th Street Business Corridor, Carver Museum and Cultural Center, Oakwood Cemetery, African American Heritage Plaza, and Huston-Tillotson University. “We are really excited to bring this cultural experience to Austin,” adds Jackmon. “The East Austin Stroll allows us to highlight the cultural
Six Square Austin’s Black Cultural District
gems that remain in the District, and it allows others to share in the effort to celebrate and preserve the cultural traditions of Black Austin’s past and present.” Six culturally significant destinations are brought to life through artistic performances (Spectrum Theater), art exhibits (curated by the Austin History Center), silent parties, multimedia displays (Elizabeth from the Internets, Fum Fum Ko, Chris Omenihu and Beth Araya’s new trailer for We Are Here), music (Tje Austin) and much more. Enjoy and sample food from the African Diaspora, including Soul, Creole and Caribbean cuisines. The night ends on the extravagant lawn of Austin’s oldest college, Huston-Tillotson University, with
performances by Tresa Jerell (Houston) and the Boss Street Brass Band. The six sites included in the East Austin Stroll are: Six Square, the George Washington Carver Museum, Oakwood Cemetery, the African American Heritage Facility, Huston-Tillotson University and the E. 12th Street Business Corridor. General admission tickets are $35 (includes samples of alcoholic beverages and food, and entertainment); VIP Access tickets are $49 (includes samples of alcoholic beverages and food, entertainment, a guided tour of the district and reserved seating at the final event). Purchase your tickets at www.sixsquare.org or call 512-505-8738. This is a 21+ event.
stands until now. On the second day, September 16, there will be family activities and tours beginning at 4 p.m. The anniversary events will close with the big Mexican Dia de la Independencia celebration, which includes live music by bands like The Johnny Degollado Trio, Street People, and traditional ballet folklórico performances.
One decade after its inauguration, the building-designed by a team of architects led by the late prominent architect from Mexico Teodoro González de León--has provided the local Latino arts community with a space for the widespread display of their artistic expressions, with regional, national and international significance.
“There’s a marimba group from Mexico; Lourdes Pérez comes with a special band. There will also be the dance group Danza Azteca Guadalupana,” added ESB-MACC’s Media, Marketing & Event Coordinator Linda Crockett. “The celebrations will be similar to the traditional MACC’s Dia de la Independencia celebration, but within a much more special atmosphere”.
“The ESB-MACC brought together a wide diversity of community groups who were passionate about Latino arts and culture,” said Laura Esparza, manager for the Museums and Cultural Programs division of the Parks and Recreation department. “It has the largest visitor base of any of the cultural centers in Austin.” To celebrate its history, achievements and the 10th anniversary of their current headquarters, the ESB-MACC will host two days of festivities within the framework of its traditional annual Mexican Día de la Independencia celebration, on September 15 and 16. The festivities, called “Celebrating The Past, Illuminating The Future,” will begin on September 15 at 6 p.m. with the opening of the exhibit “Vida y Obra: 50 Years of Art & Activism by Raúl Valdez,” featuring the work of the Texas-born muralist and human rights defender. “It was important to have Raúl Valdez as part
of our 10th year anniversary because his work represents our past and future,” said Herlinda Zamora, culture and arts education manager at the ESB-MACC. “He has a long history of community-based mural work creating several murals around Austin about each community.” The opening ceremony will feature activist and East Austin expert Gilbert Rivera and artist and close ESB-MACC collaborator Roén Salinas as guest speakers.
More exciting news surround the ESB-MACC: The center is planning to renew its original foundational plan to adapt it to the new necessities of the Hispanic community. The reality of the Hispanic community in Austin 10 years ago differs from the reality now, making this an important step forward. The plan includes a renovation of the center’s premises. “So much has changed! And so much that the public would like to see at the ESB-MACC is limited because we don’t have the room,” Esparza continued. “We hope to better serve the Latino community in Austin with a larger and more flexible venue.”
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September 2017
Museum Day Featured Events:
September 17th, 12-3pm Brush Square Museums O.Henry’s 155th Birthday Celebration with Guest Readings & refreshments “Myth, Memory, and Message” Exhibit *museum open for tours from 12-5pm
409 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701 More information at: austintexas.gov/o-henry-museum
September 17th, 12-4pm Elisabet Ney Museum Food trucks, Live music, Caricature drawing *museum open for tours from 12-5pm
304 East 44th Street Austin, Texas 78751 More information at: austintexas.gov/Elisabetney
LEAVE
NO TRACE
September 17th, 12-4pm Dougherty Arts Center Gary Anderson Installation, Midnight Butterfly performance, Pop-Up Maker Space
1110 Barton Springs Rd. Austin, Texas 78704 More information at: austintexas.gov/dac
Visit our Facebook page for all upcoming events! facebook.com/ArtsInParks The City of Austin is proud to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require assistance for participation in our programs or use of our facilities, please call 512-974-3914.
Diez y Seis 2017
El Grito
By Liz Lopez
Area Diez y Seis celebrates Mexico’s independence from Spain and welcome in Hispanic Heritage Month in September. The 69th annual St. Johns Catholic Church Jamaica features AJ Castillo (6 p.m.) on Sept. 2 and Ricky Naranjo y los Gamblers (8 p.m.) Sept. 3, 624 E. Hopkins in San Marcos. For more information, visit the artists and church Facebook pages. The Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic ChurchAustin offers family fun and food booths. Live entertainment all day, including Ballet Folklorico MariCruz (3 p.m.); Canonazo (5:15 p.m.); Bidi Bidi Banda (6:45 p.m.) and La Diferenzia (8:30 p.m.). Sunday, Sept. 3, from 12-10 p.m. at 1206 E 9th St. The Diez y seis Fiesta will be hosted by the Greater Caldwell County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Marcos Orozco is scheduled for Sept. 15 at 9 p.m. as the headliner and the music continues into Saturday, Sept. 16 in Downtown Lockhart. The 39th annual Hispanic Heritage Fest presented by Fiestas Patrias of Austin will be a fun filled day of music, song and
dance. Featured artists are Big Band Tejano, Marcos. For more information, call 512-938Canonazo, Devin Banda, Son de Rey and 9095 and visit Facebook pages for Slick Vargas Grupo Rumores, among others on Saturday and Yoli Romo. Sept. 16 at Fiesta Gardens. Dolores Catholic Church will host the Our The San Marcos Diez y seis Fiesta will begin Lady of Sorrows Festival which features a with a parade downtown at 10am. The music music lineup of Grupo Massore, Angeles De entertainment features DJ Doh Boi, Nikki Lopez, La Kumbia, Grupo Preztigio, KIGS and B Santa Conjunto Romo, Conjunto Cats, Conjunto Ana. Sunday, Sept. 17. Free admission and Animo and Broken Arrow, among others. Sept. parking. Visit the Dolores Catholic Church 16, 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m. 3516 Hunter Road, San Facebook page for updates and information.
The 2017 Jamaica features food, games, family fun, a Lowrider Bike Show and live music, featuring Hugo Guerrero, Trampia, Maria y Cien Grados, Preztigio, Seto Vargas y sus Calentannos, Cinco Doce, LB Norteno, El Sol y Tierra Caliente, Rio Azul, Gato Negro, Gilbert Alba & the Super City Band, Sam “Fat Kat” Charlez, DJ Dnice - DJ Poppa G. and Michael Salgado. Saturday, Sept. 23 from 10 a.m.-11 p.m. at Sta. Julia Catholic Church, 3010 Lyons Rd. (Austin), 512-926-4186. The Buda Area Chamber of Commerce presents the 4th Annual Fajita Fiesta blending food, music and culture. Grill masters and pit masters compete for cash payouts and trophies. This free event offers activities for all ages. If you are interested in being a cook-off contestant or a vendor contact (512) 295-9999 or info@budachamber.com. Featured artists are Ashley Borrero, Rick Trevino, Amanda Solis, mariachi bands and more. Sept 29-30 Buda City Park 204 San Antonio St. St. Anthony’s Fiesta has a call for volunteers for two hour shifts to help as needed at game and some food booths at their 108th annual Fiesta! What a lineup with scheduled artists David Farias, Ram Herrera, Michael Salgado as headliners, plus other bands. Mark your calendars for Oct 20-21 and find more info St.AnthonyFiesta.org
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¡Viva México!
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1412 S. Congress Avenue • Austin, Texas 78704 Open Weekdays 11am-11pm; Weekends 8am-11pm
OUTDOOR SHOWS ARE “WEATHER PERMITTING” -----------------------------------------------------------------------THU 9/1 LOS FLAMES @ 6:30 FRI 9/2 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 9/3 AMANDA CEVALLOS@ 2:30 / EL TULE’ @ 6:30 SUN 9/4 HOODIE & THE WOLVES @ 12:00 / THE RECUPERATORS @ 3:00 WED 9/7 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 9/8 BEYOND THERAPY @ 6:30 FRI 9/9 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 9/10 THE TEXAS TYCOONS @ 2:30 / MIKE MILLIGAN@ 6:30 SUN 9/11 THE DEBRA WATSON BAND @ 12:00 / BLUE MIST @ 3:00 WED 9/14 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 9/15 GLEN COLLINS & THE ALIBIES @ 6:30 FRI 9/16 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 9/17 JIM STRINGER @ 2:30 / AUSTIN HEAT @ 6:30 SUN 9/18 PAULA RUSSELL @ 12:00 / MITCH WEBB Y LOS SWINDLES @ 3:00 WED 9/21 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 9/22 AL DRESSEN SWING REVUE @ 6:30 FRI 9/23 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 -----------------------------------------------------------------------SAT 9/24 THE SARAH BURTON BAND @ 2:30 / TRIO 4MAS @ 6:30 SUN 9/25 TRIO MUSICAL @ 12:00 / MICHAEL GUERRA @ 3:00 WED 9/28 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:30 THU 9/29 TEX THOMAS @ 6:30 FRI 9/30 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30
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Our office is always open and ready to help you with any city issue. Have a happy and safe Diez y Seis de Septiembre - Council Member Pio Renteria 512.978.2103 or District3@AustinTexas.gov www.austintexas.gov/district-3
Staying Committed to the Community Committed to building and strengthening relationships between our office and residents so that we can better serve the needs of our community
SGT. TONYA NIXON Travis County Constable Precinct One 4717 Heflin Ln Ste 127 Austin, TX 78721 512-854-7510
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Farthest - Voyager In Space
Vietnam War
Launched in 1977, NASA’s epic Voyager missions revolutionized our understanding of the planets.
Ken Burns and Lynn Novick’s ten-part, 18-hour documentary series tells the epic story of one of the most consequential events in US history. klru.org/vietnam
Wednesday, Sept. 13th at 9 pm
Sept. 17-21 and 24-28 at 7 pm
Willie Velasquez: Your Vote Is Your Voice Willie Velasquez began a grassroots movement that changed the nation’s political landscape.
Wednesday, Sept 27th at 9 pm
KLRU-TV, Austin PBS is community supported. More than 85% of our funding comes from the public. PLEASE CONSIDER INVESTING IN KLRU.
To Do Música BROWN SOUND NEWS
| By Liz Lopez
Leti Garza (formerly known as Leticia Rodriguez Garza) has announced a new album, “El Unico Para Mi” and will be celebrating the release joined by Austin world music favorites, Atash, Maracatu Texas and other surprise guests. The album and event seeks to build bridges in a time when others are calling for walls.” The CD release party is Thursday, Sept. 14, 7 p.m. at One-2-One Bar. Ticket information at holdmyticket.com. “The Legends of Tejano Music: Highlights from the Ramón Hernández Archives” is currently on exhibit at the Wittliff Collections at Texas State University. Legends of Tejano Music takes visitors on a musical journey of nearly a century, using historic photographs, one-ofa-kind stage outfits, vintage concert posters, rare recordings, artifacts and instruments from legendary stars like Lydia Mendoza, Laura Canales, Freddy Fender, Little Joe Hernández, Sunny Ozuna, Selena, and many more. Through Dec. 20 2017. Ady Hernandez has been living and working in the Nashville area recently and according
to his Facebook posts, the 80Hproject starts tracking for a new CD on Sept 4-7 at the famous Blackbird Studio. He’ll be back to perform in Austin Sept. 9 at 10 p.m. at the One-2-One Bar Flamingo Cantina is hosting free Latin music showcases every Thursday evening. The ongoing Latin Vibes Night series with doors open at 9 p.m., no cover, 21+ only with a valid ID. Following the Chicha Summit 2017 tour with Dos Santos Antibeat Orquesta, Money Chicha will have a BIG homecoming show in Austin. They will be joined by Superfónicos and Third Root who will be celebrating their “Libertad” physical CD release. Friday, Sept. 15, 9 p.m. at Antone’s. Devin Banda released her debut CD “Unstoppable” earlier this year and has released three singles, and the fourth one, “Tu Me Facinas,” also has a music video filmed in Corpus Christi this summer. The music video has a “Fun Fact Pop Up” with an 80’s retro feel.
Legends of Tejano Music exhibit at Texas State
Devin Banda & the band will perform Sept. 2 in Round Rock; 9th – Buda; 16th – Austin and the 23rd in Taylor.
RECOMMENDED SHOWS Luna Llena events, a collaboration between Las Ofrendas, Cool Beans and Spider House Cafe and Ballroom, celebrates all aspects of Austin’s diverse culturas. Sept. 3 sees DJ Chorizo Funk of Peligrosa and Chulita Vinyl Club. The event with an on-site silent auction benefits Casa Marianella, JOLT Texas and Cool Beans Eatery. There will be an afterparty. Upcoming shows are Nov. 3 (DDLM pachanga) and Dec. 2-3 (special Holiday 2-day Mercado.) Javier Jara announced via Facebook that he is offering individual private music lessons (guitar and/or voice) for students age 7 and up for in the ATX area. If requested, both the subject matter and the instruction can be in Spanish exclusively/partially. He will use Latin American folk songs in order to further enhance the bilingual/bicultural learning experience. For details, contact him via Inbox on Facebook. Hondo Presents is Austin’s Live Music Competition with cash prizes for the Open Mic Night Winner and Runner Up. This is for musicians 21 and up only. Winners will be determined by the guest judges and will be judged in four categories. Sunday, Sept. 17, sign up at 6:45 p.m. The fundraiser for Doctors Without Borders/ Médecins Sans Frontières has an amazing lineup including Atash and Omar Souleyman, Sept. 4, 6 p.m. at the Empire Control Room & Garage. Mia Garcia, a 10-year-old Austin based artist, performed recently in the “Caminito a la escuela” back to school program and for some Harvey evacuees in late August. She will have more performances coming soon as well
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as receive an honorary day from the City of Austin in early October.
Peligrosa will be hosting a show with special guests Siete Catorce (MX) and Nurry Dog on Friday, Sept. 15, 9 p.m. at Empire Control Room Southpark Live at the Grove inside Southpark Meadows is back with four free shows that are family-friendly with a play area and restaurant patios with a view. Take your lawn chairs and blankets. Concerts are each Saturday in Sept. 7-9 p.m. with: (9th) Migrant Kids; (16th) Money Chicha; (23rd) The Peterson Brothers and (30th) Barfield the Tyrant of Texas Funk. Austin Friends of Traditional Music will host their monthly 2nd Sunday Jam Sunday, Sept. 10, 2 p.m. at Sam’s Town Point The Jonas Alvarez Band performs at Guero’s Sept. 1, The Hills of Lakeway Country Club Sept. 8, Table 620, Lakeway Sept. 17 and Central Market North Sept. 17 The wonderful Paula Maya Burle-de Niemeyer will be performing at the Milonga Room in Austin on Thursday, Sept. 7 Don’t forget that El Tule hosts their First Saturday shows each month from 6-9:30 p.m. at Guero’s Taco Bar. The Checho Flores performance from August has been rescheduled (Harvey rains) to Sept. 24. See Rancho Alegre Radio for updates. PALMAS A night of Tropical Vibes, Digital Cumbia, Dancehall and more featuring DJs: Cuyo Dj Cez (Wabi Sabi); B the Beat; Orión García (Discos Peligrosa) is Friday Sept. 29 atThe North Door.
Fantastic Fest 2017 features Arabic genre films
than is usually highlighted,” Ersoy added. “I want to point out the similarities between the genre audiences both in U.S.A. and in places like Egypt, Lebanon and Iraq. I also hope that our audience will see how film is a universal language, and especially how well genre travels and reflects the anxieties and interests of a society as a whole, in a way that is immediately accessible to an American audience which highlight concerns about society and government that will absolutely resonate.”
By Meredith C. Cox
One of the Austin’s pivotal film festivals, Fantastic Fest, is set to return for its thirteenth year on September 21-28, with a new theme, new films, new events, and new experiences for film fans. “This year at Fantastic Fest we’re focusing on Arabic genre films,” says Evrim Ersoy, the creative director for Fantastic Fest. “This came about through a confluence of fortuitous spark of curiosity, subsequent fascination bordering on obsession, and a journey of discovery through research and countless illuminating conversations with brilliant experts in the subject material met along the way. When we build a theme for the festival, we try to find one which is multi-faceted and open to exploration from almost a multi-sensory vantage point. All the things that surround and are a part of film culture-we look to create an atmosphere of reverence and awe for our audience, echoing the joy and deepening appreciation experienced during our own curatorial journey.” Fantastic Fest remains the largest genre film festival in the U.S., specializing in horror, fantasy,
sci-fi, action, and films that are just plain weird. Ersoy first developed his love of genre film growing up in Turkey, when a military coup coincided with an explosion of culture. The new government was keen to develop a close relationship with the U.S. and one of the results was new and sudden access to foreign media, including VHS tapes of American movies available pretty much everywhere. Ersoy loved what he saw so much he eventually became a film critic, which turned into something more. “[I was] inspired to create and develop my own film projects and to cofound and curate a popular film club in London,” he states. “Further curating and programming opportunities came my way as
Exhibit “Mexico Modern” reveals dynamic network of cultural exchange between Mexico and the U.S.
“I’m very keen to give our audience an opportunity to view these countries through a different lens
This Mexican moment encompassed artists such as painters Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, José Clemente Orozco, David Alfaro Siqueiros and Jean Charlot; graphic designer and art historian Miguel Covarrubias; photographers Nickolas Muray, Tina Modotti, Edward Weston and Manuel Álvarez Bravo; and jewelry designer William Spratling. Their work was championed by journalist and writer Anita Brenner, curator René d’Harnoncourt and publishers Frances Toor and Alfred and Blanche Knopf, among others. These individuals, many of whom traveled back and forth between the two nations, collectively became an important part of
Chronicling two decades of cultural exchange between Mexico and the U.S., the exhibition “Mexico Modern: Art, Commerce, and Cultural Exchange, 1920–1945” showcases examples of modern Mexican art and design. Through exhibitions, books and articles, it also documents the ways this art was broadcast to new audiences, primarily in the U.S. The exhibition demonstrates how, in the 1920s and 1930s, Mexican art that was initially received as avant-garde gained mainstream acceptance.
The more than 200 items in the exhibition, drawn primarily from the Ransom Center’s collections, reveal the importance of the transnational networks of individuals and institutions that sought, championed and interpreted many great, often radically new, works of art. The materials include paintings, photographs, jewelry and decorative
Already, cinephiles are excited about the first wave of programming. Embracing cinema spanning from Egypt to Lebanon to Iraq to Afghanistan, the fest celebrates the best of the region, along with plenty of representation from other countries around the world.
and the U.S., where New York, Chicago and Los Angeles served as epicenters of cultural activism.
By Carola Rivera
The exhibition highlights the important history of 20th-century art and how artists, museum curators, gallery owners, journalists and publishers in both countries instigated a cultural phenomenon by creating and promoting art that pioneered a synthesis of indigenous traditions and international aesthetics.
I discovered and fell in love with the film festival lifestyle. An opportunity to help out the Fantastic Fest team at Cannes a few years ago was soon followed by an official invitation to join the festival , which, as anyone will tell you, is pretty much the stuff that dreams are made of.”
The popularity and prestige of Mexican art throughout the 1920s and 1930s was the direct result of a dynamic exchange between Mexico
“The team realized that individually we were all listeners but never really thought about bringing our favorite shows and guests to Fantastic Fest to record here, so we’re looking forward to hearing these conversations and finding out the audience reaction to them!,” Ersoy said. Fantastic Fest is one of the events that makes Austin not just weird, but also great. For more info, visit fantasticfest.com. the historical narrative. Accompanying the exhibition is the book “Mexico Modern,” which will be published by the Museum of the City of New York and the Ransom Center in conjunction with Hirmer. The book features essays from the curators and profiles of leading figures showcased in the exhibition, as well as an introductory essay by George F. Flaherty, assistant professor of Latin American and U.S. Latino art history at UT Austin. The exhibition is on display from September 11 through January 1 in the Harry Ransom Center at The University of Texas at Austin. For more information, visit hrc.utexas.edu.
Wishing the Community a
arts, as well as correspondence, periodicals and exhibition brochures. “‘Mexico Modern’ provides a unique opportunity to showcase the Ransom Center’s remarkable collections to present a memorable cast of characters, whose connectedness is revealed not only through great works of art, but also via intimate media such as letters and snapshots,” notes guest curator Thomas Mellins.
One of the biggest changes this year is that Fantastic Fest will simultaneously launch in other markets – namely Denver, San Francisco and New York – meaning that moviegoers in those areas can attend screenings of some of the same films in their local Alamo Drafthouse. There’s also a new focus this year on podcasts.
Feliz Diez Y Seis! Yvonne Michelle Williams Justice of the Peace, Precint 4717 Heflin Lane, Suite 107 Austin, TX 78721
Phone # (512) 854-7700 Fax # (512) 929-3047 TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 13
Wizard World is back this fall with geek fun for all
home the gold. Categories include Best in Show, Best Male/Female Heroes, Best Male/Female Villains, Best Group and Best Anime.
The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM), a local nonprofit that provides access to affordable healthcare for Austin’s working musicians, will host its annual, city-wide HAAM Benefit Day event on Tuesday, Sep. 12. Hundreds of music showcases and concerts will take place at various locations all over Austin including clubs, restaurants, and retail stores to help raise awareness and funds for HAAM.
By Lesly Reynaga
Wizard World AUSTIN Comic Con & Gaming will bring together tens of thousands of fans to celebrate the best in pop culture again this year on November 17-19. The event has something for all: Movies, comics, toys, video gaming, games, tv, anime, manga, horror, wrestling, MMA, original art, collectibles and more. This year, Wizard World will bring a live solo concert by legendary KISS frontman Gene Simmons. Simmons co-founded KISS over four decades ago and is one of the world’s most recognized personalities. KISS has sold over 100 million CDs and DVDs worldwide and continues to sell out stadiums and arenas around the world, breaking box-office records set by Elvis and the Beatles. The band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
Gene Simmons
More entertainment for this family-friendly event includes autograph sessions, a geek shopping paradise on the exhibit floor, voice actors and celebrity photo sessions.
Fans will get to witness appearances by celebrity guests such as actors Jason Momoa (“Aquaman,” “Justice League,” “Game of Thrones”), Kate Beckinsale (“Underworld,” “Van Helsing,” “Total Recall”) and Val Kilmer (“Batman Froever,” “Top Gun,” “Willow”), among others.
With several shows around the country in places like Nashville, New Orleans and Oklahoma City, Wizard World Comic Con & Gaming is brought to Austin by the group who produces the most widely attended Comic Con tour.
Cosplayers will get a chance to dress to impress at the Wizard World Comic Con Costume Contest on Saturday, Nov. 18. Hosted by Victor Dandridge and Brit Bliss, the best dressed in their superhero and pop culture finest get to participate in the contest with a chance to bring
Show hours are Friday 4 - 9 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Advance tickets are $79.95 for three-day admission, Friday admission is $39.95, Saturday admission $49.95 and Sunday admission $44.95. For more information, visit wizardworld.com.
There’s no business like show business
on Broadway in 1996, and this revival holds the record as the longest-running musical revival and the longest-running American musical in Broadway history.
By Rose Di Grazia
The edgy storyline is rocket-propelled by a tart, jazzy score featuring such Broadway standards as “When You’re Good to Mama,” “Cell Block Tango,” “Mr. Cellophane,” and “Razzle Dazzle.” Murder. Greed. Corruption. Treachery. And all that jazz! Show dates are available through Sunday, Sep. 10.
City Theatre is my theater when it comes to having a choice of playhouses in Austin. The theatre has that Broadway feel--it is my Broadway experience on any given Sunday afternoon. In my opinion, everyone should put a little theatre in their life weekly, and the next opportunity to see a fantastic show is here with the hit show “Chicago.” “Chicago” has everything that makes musicals great: a universal tale of fame and fortune, one show-stopping song after another, and the best dancing you’ve ever seen. It’s no wonder it has been honored with thousands of standing ovations worldwide and awards such as the Tony Award for Best Revival and a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album. The original Broadway production opened in 1975 at the 46th Street Theatre and ran for 936 performances until 1977. “Chicago” was revived 14
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Save the date for HAAM Benefit Day
HAAM Benefit Day, presented by Whole Foods Market, is a nationally recognized musical celebration that helps keep music alive and well in Austin. Free to the public, HAAM Benefit Day is a great way to experience the incredible musical talent that Austin boasts, and a unique opportunity to get to know the musicians behind the music. The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians
Let’s get up and fight back diabetes in our Latino communities By Rene de Leon
I get it. I really do. Cecina and pan dulce are delicious. Margaritas are the bomb. But we gotta cut back, you guys. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, three out of four Mexican American adults over the age of 20 were either overweight or obese in the year 2000. According to the last census taken in 2010, Latinos and Hispanic groups made up 35.1 percent of Austin’s population.
encourages Austinites to head out and enjoy a music showcase or spend the day shopping and eating at participating stores and restaurants, many of which will donate up to 5 percent (or more) of their daily proceeds to HAAM. Many events are family friendly! Supporters should keep an eye out for the black HAAM donation boxes where they can make monetary donations to help keep Austin music alive and well. “HAAM Benefit Day is our biggest event of the year and is a great representation of why Austin is such a unique Texas city,” said Matthew Long, event chair and HAAM Board member. “Showcasing all of this immense talent on one day is a terrifically exciting way to celebrate Austin culture, and HAAM is devoted to making sure this culture is here to stay.” Music runs from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. the next day. For more information about HAAM Benefit Day, visit myhaam.org. I don’t need to do the math for you. The Nation’s obesity problem is Austin’s problem which is all of our community’s problem. Some of it is genetics. The same study shows Hispanics and Latinos are simply more genetically predisposed to obesity and diabetes. So, sure--blame the food, blame the genes, blame the lifestyle. Blame whoever you want to, but do something about it. The lifetime risk for developing diabetes in the U.S. is one in three for the general population, but one in two for Hispanics or Latinos. One in two. That’s a coin flip. The good news is that lifestyle changes can drastically curb the onset of diabetes. According to a study by the Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group, exercise and healthier diets were more effective than drugs at reducing the incidence of diabetes. Your choices are stronger than man-made drugs.
The theatre’s cozy and charming feel will add an extra charm to your experience. The lobby welcomes attendees with its eclectic antiques and chairs, bar and high top tables, chairs and settee. The bar always has a nice selection of wine, sodas, candy and chips available during intermission. A huge picture of Mona Lisa hangs on one wall, along with the traditional velvet theatre curtains.
I go to a fitness boot camp here in Austin at least three times a week. I’ve noticed a Hispanic family who brings their threeyear old daughter along. She can’t do these exercises, but she doesn’t know that. She still runs around with her one-pound weight, and jumps and spins and laughs. She’s learning that an active life is a healthy life. She’s watching her parents set a great example.
City Theatre is located at 3823 Airport Blvd. For more information, call 512-5242870, email info@citytheatreaustin.org or visit citytheatreaustin.org.
Our children are the future of this city. Let’s show them what it takes to live a longer, healthier life.
CELEBRATING
DIVERSITY
BRIDGE2BRIDGE From Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin
PECAN STREET FESTIVAL
The ninth Centroamericanto Fest will feature a line-up of outstanding Central American artists including Costa Rica’s Ensamble Esperanza, countrymen Jeana and Juan Carlos Ureña, Mister Meli and Clara Curteis, each from Nicaragua and event host Mauricio Callejas. Come early to visit the small business fair and enjoy traditional food. Tickets $20 at the door, Saturday, Sep. 2, 7 p.m. at ESBMACC. cacfest.com
ENFRASCADA ESB-MACC
Teatro Vivo is excited to present Enfrascada, a dark comedy by renowned playwright and screenwriter Tanya Saracho, presented at the Emma S. Barrientos-Mexican American Cultural Center, running September 7-24. Alicia is a successful art curator who seems to have her life together. But, when her world is turned upside down, she turns to her friends for support. Together they seek the guidance of wise señoras - and enter the realm of hoodoo, santería, curanderismo, and nostalgia - to make things how they used to be. Starring Karina Domínguez, Emily McDougall, Eva McQuade, Bárbara Mojica, JoJanie Segura Moreno, and Minerva Villa-Rivera, and under the direction of Claudia M. Chávez, this hilarious and touching comedy about a group of modern-day Latinas explores the true magic of friendship. Claudia M. Chávez has been involved in the Spanish theatre scene in Austin as producer, stage manager, and director for over ten years. “This story touches on so many amazing aspects of our culture,” Chávez said. “It embodies freedom and the sisterhood of women.” Tanya Saracho grew up between Reynosa, Mexico and McAllen, Texas. She is a playwright who also writes for television, including “Looking,” “Girls,” “Devious Maids,” and “How To Get Away With Murder.” Saracho is a winner of the Ofner Prize given by the Goodman Theater in Chicago, a recipient of an NEA Distinguished New Play Development Project Grant, and was given the first “Revolucionario” Award in Theater by the National Museum of Mexican Art. Committed to engaging its audience with the culture and history of the Latino experience, Teatro Vivo is a leading bilingual Latino theater company in Texas, and has received numerous awards from the Austin Critics Table and B. Iden Payne Committee. Teatro Vivo is a recipient of the FuturoFund Austin Award, and the Award for Leadership in Community-Based and Civic Engagement from the Association for Theatre in Higher Education.
The 30th Austin Gay & Lesbian International Film Festival, the fourth oldest such event in the country features a program of more than 100 films depicting a myriad of issues across cultures, race, immigration status, class and gender identity. Sep. 7-10 at Alamo Drafthouse South Lamar. Badges start at $50 students/$125 other and are available online and at the theatre. For more info see agliff.org In Trump’s America, minority communities everywhere are under attack. In the one-man comedy from the Latino Comedy Project, Adrian Villegas is in the ‘hood and strikes back in “Barrio Daze.” Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous national election, the show is a sprawling and irreverent tour through a single day in the barrio. At the Institution Theater, 3708 Woodbury Dr., from Sep. 7-16. Austin Symphony Orchestra opens its season with “Mozart in Paris,” Sep. 8-9, 8 p.m. in Dell Hall. ASO takes you on a musical journey featuring Francis Poulenc’s Suite from Les biches, Anton Nel performing Poulenc’s Concert champêtre for Harpsichord and Orchestra, and Wolfgang Amadé Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 15, concluding with Mozart’s Symphony No. 31 (Paris). austinsymphony.org Dhoom Productions presents Agni Entertainment’s “Disco Deewane,” a Broadway-style Bollywood musical in English. The epic production will take you through some of the greatest moments in American musical theater history mixed with Bollywood pop culture, narrated by an amazing combination of song, dance and theater. Saturday, Sep. 16, 7:30 p.m. at Travis County Expo Center. Tickets at events.sulekha.com Singer, actor, author, and playwright Storm Large makes a triumphant return to the McCullough Theatre stage with her band Le Bonheur. Best known as guest vocalist for Pink Martini, she has taken her voice from rock clubs to concert halls. Storm and her band perform American songbook classics, Broadway tearjerkers and rock anthems with a fierce emotional commitment. Sep. 21, 8 p.m. texasperformingarts.org Austin Shakespeare presents “The Crucible” from Sep. 21–24 in Rollins Studio Theatre. The fully-costumed staged reading with scenic projections is a modern classic where a flawed hero confronts adolescent sex and the hysteria of the Salem Witch Trials in 1690. Arthur Miller wrote “The Crucible” at the height of the McCarthy Era “Red Scare,” and his words still ring true Tickets from $22. thelongcenter.org
Sixth Street | Now in its 40th year of operation, the Pecan Street Festival takes place Saturday and Sunday, September 23-24 from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on historic Sixth Street in downtown Austin. PSF is the largest, and longest-running, of Texas’ arts/crafts and music festivals, drawing nearly 300 local and national arts, crafts and food vendors, 50 musical acts and a quarter-million attendees during the weekend.
It is also the only large-scale festival that can boast of free entry. Through its affiliated The Pecan Street Association non-profit, the festival gives back to the community via donations to local charity organizations and helps assist historical education and preservation of Pecan Street (aka Sixth St.). Special guests being honored this fall are Austin legends Eddie Wilson, a godfather of Austin music and owner of Threadgill’s, and musician/author Jesse Sublett, who will be in attendance at the PSA booth at Sixth St. and Trinity from 2-4 p.m. on Saturday to sign copies of their new memoir, “Armadillo World Headquarters.” The featured artist is up and coming local Eleanor Niz. Originally from Lima, Peru, she typically works on mural scale, fusing Mesoamerican magical realism with contemporary, hip-hop insight. Also showing their wars are an array of over 20 new artisan vendors bringing festival-goers pottery, printmaking, pen and acrylic work, hand blown glass, jewelry, assemblage art and more. Kids are invited to experience an upgraded, interactive petting zoo and carnival rides, with activities for kids of all ages like hula hoops, Jenga and bean bag toss. Music highlights for the festival include headliners from Louisiana, Royal Teeth, and rising star and local blues guitar goddess, Jackie Venson, plus unique DJ-act Peligrosa. Other highlights from a sonically diverse line-up include shoe-gaze popsters Moving Panoramas, Kay Odyssey, a fast-rising female psychedelic rock band, Pat G, one of Austin’s best MC’s, Boca Abajo, an impressive rock-n-roots acts, Mean Jolene, Knifefight, Booher; Kiko Villamizar and more you can hear on our soundcloud. TODO AUSTIN // SEP 2017 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 15
Anton nel, piAno
Opening Weekend! Friday/Saturday, September 8/9 anton nel, piano n peter bay, conductor n Long Center’s dell Hall Concert at 8:00 p.m. n pre-concert talk with bob buckalew at 7:10 p.m. Grab that special someone and your passport because the aSO is taking you on a musical journey with a paris connection. the austin Symphony opens its 107th season featuring mozart’s popular Paris Symphony. also hear local favorite anton nelDownload perform the app: mozart’s piano Concerto no. 15 and poulenc’s Concert champêtre for Harpsichord and Orchestra. Download the app: Still want more? How about enjoying activities like playing on stringed instruments provided by our friends at Violins etc., texting with aSO staff and musicians using #aso107, and capturing a memory in front of our photo wall?
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All artists, programs, and dates subject to change.