www.todoaustin.com
As a nation, why don’t we care?
VOLUME VIII / DEC 2016
Texas Together To Do Música Tim League Holiday Shows
Homelessness in Austin
CELEBRATES KLRU-TV, Austin PBS broadcast 18.1 / cable 9 klru.org
The Holidays
CHRISTMAS MASTER CLASS
A VERY MONKEY CHRISTMAS
Saturday, December 24 starting at 4:30 pm
December 16 at 7:30 am and 1:30 pm; December 18 at 7:30 am; December 24 at 7:00 am and December 25 at 7:00 am
In the countdown to Christmas, Paul bakes St. Lucia buns and mincemeat and marzipan couronne. Mary tackles French galette, Genoa cake, and white chocolate and ginger cheesecake. Paul’s showstopper kranskake is a spectacular tower of delicate rings.
Curious George and The Man with the Yellow Hat are having a wonderful time getting ready for Christmas. There’s only one dilemma - neither of them can figure out what to give the other for a present!
Get the complete lineup at KLRU.ORG/HOLIDAY Also This Month
Great Performances The Hollow Crown: Henry Vi, Part I
Arts In Context A’lante
December 11 at 8 pm
December 29 at 7:30 pm
The King is dead and England is in crisis. War rages with the French and divisions within the English court threaten the crown. Young Henry VI causes outrage by marrying Margaret of Anjou, forcing an unwanted truce; the scene is set for Civil War.
Olivia and Isaí Chacón were trained by the masters of flamenco in Spain. With a deep knowledge and appreciation for the art form, they formed A’lante Flamenco back in America - not to simply mimic what they’d learned in the name of authenticity but to honor the mixture of cultures that went into flamenco’s origin.
ACL Hall Of Fame New Year’s Eve
Celebrate New Year’s Eve as Bonnie Raitt, B.B. King and Kris Kristofferson are inducted into the Hall of Fame. Performers include Willie Nelson, Rodney Crowell, ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons and more. Hosted by Nick Offerman and Megan Mullally.
December 31 at 7 pm and 11 pm
KLRU-TV, Austin PBS is community supported. More than 85% of our funding comes from the public. PLEASE CONSIDER INVESTING IN KLRU.
C E N T R O U R B A N O HABLA Austin
Vote this month Early voting ends Friday, Dec. 9, and Election Day is Tuesday, Dec. 13. Residents in West Austin will elect either District 10 incumbent Sheri Gallo or challenger Alison Alter. Check Travis County election office for hours and locations to vote. Austin Trail of Lights
What began as a small gathering in 1965 as the “Yule Fest,” as a gift to the city of Austin from Austin Parks and Recreation Department has grown to be a community-wide celebration of the unique spirit and people that make Austin the place we love to call home. In 2014, more than 400,000 people attended the Trail of Lights. Today, the Trail of Lights is one of the three largest events in Austin and receives national accolades. But it remains a deeply cherished local tradition that brings us together to connect and reflect. Dec.10-23. State of Texas Children report The Center for Public Policy Priorities recently released its report, “State of Texas Children 2016: Race and Equity in Austin.” The advocacy group’s findings, released on Nov. 30 at the Dare Texas Summit, show that “due to policies which created and maintained unequal opportunities for families, disparities in child poverty exist across race, ethnicity and family type.” As reported in the Austin AmericanStatesman, black and Latino children in the Austin’s MULTICULTURAL media source for EIGHT YEARS • Find us at TODOAustin.com
Austin area are more likely to live in poverty, to attend low-income schools with fewer experienced teachers and to not have enough to eat, according to a new study. The disparities in child outcomes persist across race, ethnicity and gender. “Austin has not arrived here by accident,” said Mayor Steve Adler in a statement in response to the study. “Decisions by governments to segregate communities and discriminate against African Americans, Hispanics and other groups created inequities that continue in Austin to this day. To fix these inequities, we must face them without fear, and this report helps give us a good road map.” City responds to tax cut proposal On Nov. 29, the State’s Senate Select Committee on Property Tax Reform and Relief released its interim report. Among its recommendations is a proposal to cap the additional amount of property tax revenue a city can generate at 4 percent. Such a cap would limit the City of Austin’s ability to fund essential city services. “We have run the numbers for 2016. The proposal results in a tax cut of $2.69 a month for the average homeowner in Austin and cuts $15.4 million from the city budget. This will make it difficult for the City to provide the quality of services that Austinites have made clear they expect,” said Interim City Manager Elaine Hart. Animal Center microchipping event Austin Animal Center in partnership with the ASPCA and Subaru, will be hosting a free microchipping clinic for pets. The free microchip event will be Saturday, Dec. 10, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Veterans of Foreign Wars at 8706 FM 812, next to the Flea Market in Southeast Austin. Microchips create a safe and effective way of getting pets back to their families easily. If your pet gets lost and is taken to an animal shelter or veterinarian, they will scan the microchip to read its unique ID code. This code is used to identify you and your pet so you can be reunited.
Accept the challenge-tear down the wall By Lesly Reynaga
Disappointing, uncomfortable and frustrating. That is exactly how I describe the recent November election, the most openly racist, misogynist, offensive presidential candidate in American history won a ticket to the White House for the next four years. The American reality has come to light, and it is likely to come at a high cost to the entire nation. The division is as loud and clear as the uncertainty that lies ahead with a new president who has absolutely no governing experience and an agenda full of outrageous ideas. A wall is likely be built among a friendly neighbor who has been crucial to the very existence of America. Although I consider the physical wall between America and Mexico to be an unrealistic idea, there are other ways to divide the two countries more than ever--restricting trade and travel are both good examples. Racial, religious and all kinds of minorities are at risk of bullying with no consequences to the oppressors--after all, the new president has proven to be the biggest bully of them all. Within the first few weeks of the election, we saw white nationalist Richard B. Spencer speak to an audience of 200 supporters about “the most despicable creatures to ever populate this planet.” And let’s not forget about the men
Volume VIII, Number 8
PRODUCTION SERVICES // Anthony Garcia
PUBLISHER/EDITOR // Gavin Lance Garcia info@todoaustin.com
CONTRIBUTORS // Elyse Aviña, Alka Bhanot, Ashna Bhansali, Lauren Bruno, Roy Casagranda, Cat Cardenas, Cindy Casares, Evelyn C. Castillo, Lobo Corona, Nora De LaRosa, Laura Donnelly Gonzalez, Sherri Greenberg, Mark Guerra, Mari Hernandez, Yadira Izquierdo, Chaille Jolink, Bryan D. Jones, Ryan Jordan, Ali Khataw, Ramey Ko, Harish Kotecha, Sonia Kotecha, Julia Lee, Isabel Lopez-Aguilar, Otis Lopez, Cristina Parker, Raul Rangel Uribe, Rian Rendon, Paul Saldaña, Marion Sanchez, Blake Shanley, Dani Slabaugh, Corey Tabor, Rama Tiru, Blanca Valencia, Lesley Varghese, Debora Kuetzpal Vasquez, Vanna Vasquez, Lichen Zhen
ART DIRECTOR // Dave McClinton // dmdesigninc.com EDITOR // Lesly Reynaga MANAGING EDITOR // Meredith C. Cox ASSOCIATE EDITORS // Liz Lopez, Monica Peña, Katie Walsh, Erica Stall Wiggins, Yvonne Lim Wilson CONTRIBUTING STAFF // Rose Di Grazia, Callie Langford, César E. López Linares, Genoveva Rodriguez, Diana Sanchez
ONLINE EDITION // TODOAustin.com COVER // Photo by César E. López Linares
who rose to give Nazi salutes to his shouting of “Hail Trump!” Trump may have disavowed the alt-right after this scandal went viral, yet he is guilty of running an abusive campaign that has empowered such groups to become as active as we’ve seen in decades. Respect towards those who are different from us is supposed to come from the top down, and Trump lacks the essence of this important value. A large majority of the millennial and minority populations have been played by older generations who refuse to accept cultural progress in this country. There is no question that the new, more accepting generations will sooner or later take back the power to lead the country into a brighter future, yet it could take many years to do so. The hard work of a progressive President Obama administration is likely to shatter, and the weight will be on our shoulders to pick up the pieces left from the mess that will be created in the next years. The tape has been set on rewind, and it is the job of all who reject ideas of hatred to stand up and defend the most vulnerable members of our community and tear down the wall. I personally accept the challenge and invite all to do so. On a brighter note, our city has elected TODO Austin’s endorsees to City Council--Delia Garza for District 2, Greg Casar for District 4, Jimmy Flannigan for District 6, and Leslie Pool for District 7. Congratulations to all of them, and may we, more than ever, work together to build a strong, diverse and friendly city. Wishing all our readers a happy holiday season.
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. © 2016 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 // DEC 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 03
America in the economically segregated post-BushClinton-Obama era By Sherri Greenberg
We learned much from this long presidential campaign, including that many Americans are weary of political dynasties, and that economic segregation is widespread in America. We must turn these lessons into meaningful actions with concrete results. The Democratic and Republican parties must listen to working people and not just the echo chamber of elites. Additionally, all levels of government and society must collaborate to implement policies that help people who have been left out of our country’s economic growth.
sharing in the nation’s increased prosperity, and the growing economic divides are becoming sharper.
Is America becoming Alabama of the 1960s?
Economic segregation transcends all geographic areas, races, ethnicities and ages in America. We see economic segregation in our big cities, small towns, rural areas and suburbs. We see pronounced differences in prosperity among people within the same city, between cities, suburbs and rural areas, and across regions, across states and across the nation.
By Bryan D. Jones
Ultimately, many people voted for a change based on their belief that the current system is leaving them behind. We no longer can just talk about economic segregation; the time for action is now. Austin is good example of what I am talking about – economic segregation. Austin has been growing at warp speed, but not everyone is sharing in the benefits from that growth. Austin also is one of the most economically segregated cities in the nation, and the suburbanization of poverty in the Austin area continues. However, Austin is not unique, and many cities and areas in Texas and across our country face these harsh realities. We see wide disparities in people’s access to technology, transportation, housing, health care and education, and these disparities contribute to economic segregation and lack of prosperity. One of our biggest challenges as Americans is to bridge and close these large prosperity gaps.
Many Americans believe that the Bushes and Clintons represented ruling dynasties who are out of touch with the struggles of the working class. They further believe that neither the traditional Republican Party, nor the traditional Democratic Party has addressed their concerns. They wanted a change, and we witnessed this in both the Republican and Democratic primaries, and ultimately, in the general election. The Democratic and Republican parties must actually listen to people and then make true systemic changes in each party’s infrastructure and policies to address people’s concerns. The political parties must truly incorporate the concerns of the grass roots in policies and decisions including everything from platforms to candidate selection and financing. Committees should be formed that incorporate people starting at the precinct level to evaluate the parties’ decision making and funding. We learned from this election that economic segregation is widespread in America, and it also fueled a desire for change. Not all Americans are 04 TODO AUSTIN // DEC 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
We must focus economic development programs and subsidies in the areas that need them the most instead of the areas that know how to get them. We must address inequities in educational opportunities, and we must actually implement programs that train people for real jobs. We must address the prohibitive affordable housing and transportation costs that many working Americans face by providing housing with viable transportation options that connect people to jobs. We no longer can simply talk about ladders of opportunity. We must provide people with the technology and tools that they need to succeed in today’s economy. We must create and connect housing, transportation, health care and education and workforce opportunities for people who have been left out. By providing real ladders of opportunity for those who have been left out, we can restore the faith of many American voters in our political parties and our economy. Sherri Greenberg is a clinical professor and the Max Sherman Chair in State and Local Government in the LBJ School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin.
As the Republican Party became more conservative, leaders convinced themselves that working-class whites were conservatives. But the base of white working-class Americans was never conservative. It could, however, be aroused by the rage of resentment as America diversified.
In 1966, I packed my bags and left the hatred, rage and resentment of Alabama — rage that was stimulated by the ultimate southern racist, Gov. George Wallace. I could no longer live in such a place. As I traveled through life, from Texas to Michigan to Washington state, I found an America that was much more open and dynamic and interesting than the simplistic politics of black and white in 1960s Alabama. But now the old Alabama found me, and America has become Alabama. Back in the 1960s, this so-called “white rage” that washed across Alabama and the Deep South came neither from job losses nor economic dislocation. It was, after all, the booming 1960s. It came from the loss of status and the threats from outside intervention in the segregated, white supremacist system that regulated race relations and was breaking down at the time. Neither is today’s white rage primarily a consequence of economic dislocation, although the signs of social distress in rural white America are obvious. Life spans of white Americans lacking a college degree are declining — unprecedented among any group in America since World War II. At the same time, blacks and Hispanics who lack a degree are experiencing increasing life spans. Drug overdoses, alcoholism and suicides are killing white rural Americans at an alarming rate. In the Deep South from the 1890s through the 1950s, populists dreamed of constructing a working class/yeoman farmer alliance of whites and blacks to offset the conservative power structure of wealthy plantation owners and bigcity industrialists and businessmen. The effort almost always failed because the conservatives raised the specter of race, splitting the populist coalition.
Neither was Gov. Wallace a conservative — he was a big-spending racist. He gave his white voting base a combination of segregation, populist attacks on government and corporate elites, and plenty of government programs, focusing on a network of trade schools and junior colleges. Donald Trump today brings the same kind of mix to his presidency. By endorsing Donald Trump, the GOP has embraced fully the racism of George Wallace. Today’s Republicans have gone further — in effect acquiescing to Trumps’ rampant misogyny that would have appalled even Wallace. Republicans, whether admitting it openly or not, want to believe they can offer racial, ethnic and gender resentment without accepting Wallacestyle spending programs. But Trump instinctively grasps that these programs are essential to his demagoguery. The better angels of the Republican Party — and there are many, but very few are elected politicians — understand that one cannot have small government and racial demagoguery simultaneously. So what should reasonable, humane Americans on either side of the aisle do?
For similar reasons, today’s white working class cannot be unified with minorities in similar economic circumstances.
First and foremost, reassure our children. Many of our children are scared, and for good reason, but all is not lost.
Because working-class whites deeply distrust the only mechanism for addressing these ills — the government — they will not unify with minorities in a grand progressive coalition. Those who say that the Democrats have failed to cater to the anxieties of the white working class ignore the fact that white rage of today stems not from the politics of economics but from the politics of status.
Second, voters must realize that the Republican Party is dangerously close to being reborn as a white nationalistic force.
As far back as Richard Nixon’s Southern Strategy, Republicans worked to attract disaffected white southerners turned off by the Democratic Party’s embracing of integration and civil rights.
And finally, these are not normal times, and we all must realize that our democratic republic is under threat unlike any time in modern history. As Edmund Burke said, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” Bryan D. Jones is the JJ “Jake” Pickle Regent’s Chair in Congressional Studies at The University of Texas at Austin.
Tuesday, Dec. 6, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Austin Symphony Sing-A-Long. The Austin Symphony is once again bringing free music this holiday season. Christmas in the Community is a series of concerts held throughout the city playing familiar holiday music. Thursday, Dec. 8, 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Conversations with Contemporary Artists. Join us for a conversation with Afterworld Equations artist Kel Brown. Kel Brown produces works with rare sonic texture that explores the relationship between sound and art. Exhibit runs through Jan. 21. Sunday, Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Vibes and Verses. A bi-monthly black art series that features poetry, music, and performances. If interested in becoming a featured artist, please submit samples of your work to carre.adams@austintexas.gov. Mature themes and content will be explored during live filmed sessions and may not be appropriate for youth under the age of 18. Saturday, Dec. 17, 12 p.m. - 3 p.m. Santa Special. Join the Carver Museum for free pictures with Santa! Every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. Capoeira for Youth. Ages 6-13. $55 per month. 512.636.8665. The Carver Museum will be closed Friday, Dec. 23 - Monday, Dec. 26.
IMMIGRATION Texas Together campaign: building a principled humane community The election of Donald J. Trump as the 45th President of the United States has created an immense sense of fear and uncertainty in our immigrant communities and in many communities across Texas. Therefore, communities across Texas have joined with the Reform Immigration for Texas Alliance (RITA) to protect the rights of immigrant families and work for a Texas that provides for all people by upholding their dignity, rights, and lives. Texas has been and will continue to be ground zero for anti-immigrant, xenophobic rhetoric that is evident in the 2017 legislative priorities of State leaders. Texas Governor Greg Abbot has already put some of anti-immigrant measures on his priority list for the next Texas Legislative Session that begins on January 2017. Lt. Governor Dan Patrick has been a long-time foe of the immigrant community and has been lining-up legislative measures that will endanger immigrants and their U.S.citizen family members. There has been the introduction of several pieces of legislation that include, among others: an “antisanctuary cities” proposal; a constitutional amendment denying bail to undocumented persons; require the use of E-Verify; and, an anti-Immigrant Omnibus that makes local governments liable for damages caused
New Youth Exhibit in the Sam Z. Coronado Gallery. Saturday, Dec. 10. The ESB-MACC Education Department is proud to present the 2016 Youth Exhibit, Figúralo: Figurative Art. Figúralo will feature the exploration of artistic mediums through figurines, figurative images and figurative narratives. Opening reception 4 - 6 p.m. Free and open to the public. ¡Acompañanos a una Noche de festividades in the Zócalo of the ESB-MACC on Saturday Dec. 10! Univision will be providing free music and family activities to promote peace and joy this holiday season. Tómate una foto con Santa Claus. Enjoy comida Latina and art activities for the whole family. Surprise entertainment with Spanish television stars. Shuttle bus will pick-up and drop-off from Sanchez Elementary, Martin Middle School and Fiesta Gardens starting at 5 p.m. ESB-MACC presents the Bronze Band, which will rehearse on Sunday afternoons from 5-8 p.m. Interested musicians and vocalists should be at least 18 years of age. This community band provides musicians an opportunity to rehearse, network, and perform at one of the Center’s event. Directed by Robert Ojeda and Ernesto Calderon along with Roland Rodriguez, Charlie Reyna, Mayela Shepherd and Anthony Martinez.
by undocumented persons, mandates the use of the Priority Enforcement Program, prohibits the use of the Matricula Consular, and, prohibits local policies from stopping immigration enforcement. Through Texas Together, communities across the state will fight for a Texas that is inclusive and values the contributions and integration of immigrant communities. Texas Together is a campaign of all people living in Texas to promote inclusive communities that provide opportunity, dignity, and rights to all persons. Texas Together is a campaign to ensure that the Texas of today enacts policies needed to foster community wellbeing while rejecting the irresponsible voices of those who mess with Texas values of neighborliness, hospitality, and optimism. We ground ourselves in valuing community, in working to lift up ourselves by lifting up our neighbors. We welcome newcomers; immigrants and refugees are part of our communities, families, and lives. Their lives and their contributions matter immensely to the wellbeing of us all. We seek to integrate newcomers into our society at the same time that we work to sustain and uplift the happiness and prosperity of those already working and living here. Our vision is a Texas that provides for all people by upholding their dignity, rights, and lives; that promotes justice, inclusion, and opportunity now and in the future; and, that
Friday, Dec. 9, 1 - 3 p.m. Explore Asia: Holiday Storytime & Crafts. Enter a winter wonderland of tales with our holiday-themed story time and make your own crafts based on the books! Children invited to play in the artificial snow afterwards. Free. Saturday, Dec. 10, 5 - 7 p.m. Santa’s Bollywood Party. Monsoon Dance will showcase an assortment of Bollywood dances, an open dance floor for all and a special presentation by Santa Claus. $5 per adult/ child, $15 family of four, ages 2 and under free; includes food and (non-alcoholic) beverage. Sunday, Dec. 11, 2 - 5 p.m. VietnAMERICA Film Screening. This documentary follows Master Hoa back to Southeast Asia as he searches for the graves of his wife and children. Having escaped Vietnam in 1981 on a boat with his family friends, Hoa is the only survivor. Free. Wednesday, Dec. 14, 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. RICE Senior Holiday Party. Flu shots, health screenings, Austin Symphony in the Community Concert and AARC Community Choir performance. Free and open to the public. The AARC will be closed Friday Dec. 23 - Monday, Dec. 26 and Saturday, Dec. 31 - Monday, Jan. 2.
has at its center the concept of community and community wellbeing. Our mission is for this campaign to lead a diverse coalition of people to promote principles and policies that reject politics of racism, division, and hatred in favor of approaches rooted in our shared community, humanity, and opportunity. To this end, we adopt the following campaign goals rooted in six core principles: Uplifting Human Dignity, Rights, and Lives; Opportunity for All People; Community Safety for All People; Government Accountability; Federal Authority over Border and Immigration Enforcement; and, Embracing the Future of Texas. We believe applying these principles toward these goals will guide this state to a place of community, dignity, opportunity, and prosperity for all Texans.
OUR CAMPAIGN GOALS INCLUDE: Overall Goal: RITA aims to create a Texas, which in policy and practice, uplifts and advances the human dignity and rights of all people. Defensive Goals for 2017: • RITA will educate on anti-Immigrant and antiRefugee agenda in Texas in 2017, including:
3. Refugee resettlement in Texas. 4. Additional funding for DPS border operations. 5. An interstate “border security” compact. 6. The ability of local governments to create and issue Community Identification Cards. 7. Public and private detention centers housing mothers, children, and other vulnerable populations. Proactive Goals for 2017: • RITA aims to create and uplift welcoming Texas communities by providing the resources and opportunities needed to thrive: 1. Educate on the importance of the access to driver’s licenses. • RITA will ensure that state law enforcement is accountable to all persons and resources are focused on maximizing community safety: 1. Advocate for funding to aid local governments and NGOs in preventing Migrant Deaths.
1. Anti-“Sanctuary Cities.” 2. In-state tuition for undocumented students.
2. Advocate a framework for DPS Accountability, Oversight, and Community Engagement. TODO AUSTIN // DEC 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 05
Rep. Lloyd Doggett Ready to Help...
a Ustin symphony orchestra
The holidays are around the corner, but my office is open to serve you! Help with Federal Agencies Sometimes dealing with the federal bureaucracy is a challenge. My office can help when you run into problems on federal issues like Social Security, Medicare, Veterans Administration claims, student financial aid, and the I.R.S. If you are experiencing a problem with a federal agency, please fill out a privacy release form available on my website.
Internships In Rep. Doggett’s Office If you are a college or graduate student interested in helping me better serve our neighbors by interning in either my Austin office or Washington federal office, e-mail me at Lloyd.Doggett@mail.house.gov with your resume and three references.
your perfect
Date night
Want to Honor a Vet or Servicemember? You can purchase an American flag at cost through my Washington Office. Please allow five weeks for deliveries. You may choose to have the flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of a person, event, or special occasion.
starts here
Contact my Austin office Phone: (512) 916-5621 Address: 300 E. 8th Street #763, Austin (located inside the J.J. “Jake” Pickle Federal Building) Website: doggett.house.gov
Upcoming events: December 6, 8:00 p.m. Handel’s Messiah austin Symphony & Chorus austin Hyde park Baptist Church December 29 & 30, 8:00 p.m. broadway by request™ Selections chosen by you! palmer events Center
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tickets/info Se aSon S po nS o r S
Handel’S MessiAh
Broadway By requeSt™
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(512) 476-6064 or austinsymphony.org
Media SponSorS
All artists, programs, and dates subject to change.
Facebook.com/LloydDoggett
Lloyd.Doggett@mail.house.gov
@RepLloydDoggett
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FREE
DECEMBER 2016 FEATURED EVENTS: Noche Navideña with UNIVISION
Saturday, December 10, 6pm - 9pm Enjoy music and art activities to promote peace and joy this holiday season.
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center, 600 River St. More information at www.maccaustin.org
Festival of Trees with Keys of Life Recital
Wednesday, December 14, 6pm-8:30pm Music, cookie decorating, hot chocolate, and beautiful trees!
George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, 1165 Angelina St. More information at www.carvermuseum.org
Ivy and the Wicker Suitcase
LOGO DESIGN BRAND DEVELOPMENT WEB DESIGN
Tuesday, December 20, 7pm-9pm
The musical adventure of a young girl who falls into a surreal world. Dougherty Arts Center, 1110 Barton Springs Rd. More information at www.austintexas.gov/DAC
Kwanzaa
Friday, December 30, 6pm-8pm Celebrating the 5th Day of Kwanzaa with an African Storyteller 512.827.2620 // SUNDARAMDESIGN.COM 4201 West Parmer Lane • Building C • Suite 250 • Austin, TX 78727
George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, 1165 Angelina St. More information at www.carvermuseum.org
Visit our Facebook page for all upcoming events! www.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.
Good Times at Güero’s For great tunes and great rita’s! Please join us for live music on our outside jardin stage, every Wednesday through Sunday. THANKS TO THE FANS & BANDS WHO SUPPORT US!!! DECEMBER Line-up
TACO BAR
1412 S. Congress Avenue • Austin, Texas 78704 Open Weekdays 11am-11pm; Weekends 8am-11pm
OUTDOOR SHOWS ARE WEATHER PERMITTING -----------------------------------------------------------------------THU 12/1 LOS FLAMES @ 6:30 FRI 12/2 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 SAT 12/3 THE BREW @ 2:30 / EL TULE’ @ 6:30 SUN 12/4 RICK LUGO BLUES BAND @ 12:00 / THE RECUPERATORS @ 3:00 -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 12/7 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 12/8 BEYOND THERAPY @ 6:30 FRI 12/9 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 SAT 12/10 THE TEXAS TYCOONS @ 2:30 / THE SOLID SENDERS @ 6:30 SUN 12/11 TRENT TURNER & THE MOONTOWERS @ 12:00 / BLUE MIST @ 3:00 -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 12/14 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 12/15 GLENN COLLINS & THE ALIBIES @ 6:30 FRI 12/16 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 SAT 12/17 JIM STRINGER AND THE A.M. BAND @ 2:30 / AUSTIN HEAT @ 6:30 SUN 12/18 PAULA ORTA & THE KINGPINS @ 12:00 / MITCH WEBB Y LOS SWINDELS @ 3:00 -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 12/21 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 12/22 JEAN PIERRE & THE ZYDECO ANGELS @ 6:30 FRI 12/23 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 SAT 12/24 NO MUSIC IN GARDEN SUN 12/25 CLOSED -----------------------------------------------------------------------WED 12/28 KDRP RADIO SHOW @ 6:00 THU 12/29 TEX THOMAS & HIS NEW DANGLIN’ WRANGLERS @ 6:30 FRI 12/30 THE BOB FUENTES SHOW @ 6:30 SAT 12/31 DON LEADY & HIS ROCKIN’ REVUE @ 2:30 / ANDREA DAWSON & BLUE SUNDAY @ 6:30
www.GuerosTacoBar.com
Homelessness in Austin and how to help this holiday season By Meredith C. Cox
Homelessness is an issue that nearly everyone in Austin is familiar with. It’s hard to miss the people standing at intersections with their cardboard signs asking for money. Front Steps’ Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (ARCH) shelter at the corner of 7th Street and Neches Street is as much a staple of downtown Austin as The Driskill Hotel or the Alamo Drafthouse. And many people probably get used to walking past members of the homeless community without really thinking about how those people ended up there or doubtful that it would ever happen to them. According to ECHO, an organization that aims to end homelessness, the homeless population in Austin has risen 20 percent in the last year, after being on the decline for five years prior. On any given day in 2015 or 2016, there are approximately 2,100 people in Austin who could be classified as homeless. In 2015 there were 7,054 individuals total who were homeless or sought resources for the homeless.
The truth is, many people may be much closer to homelessness than they think. According to ECHO, Austin is experiencing rapid population growth, which has led to rising housing costs and more demand for rental units. This has created more competition, especially for those experiencing homelessness who may already have additional barriers to finding affordable housing like criminal records, a history of substance use, poor employment or poor credit. In addition to the rising housing costs, wages for low-income workers in Austin has remained relatively stagnant. For many people, it may only take one unforeseen financial crisis–like a medical emergency or a car accident–which, coupled with a weak social support system, can push them over the edge into homelessness.
“Our biggest challenge in Austin is affordable
From welder to homeless By César E. López Linares
In order to provide readers with first-hand insights on the issue of homelessness, TODO Austin staff member César López Linares took some time to interview Larry, a homeless old man on a wheelchair. Every day, Larry spends all morning and part of the afternoon in the corner of 6th Street and Congress Avenue, holding a cardboard with a message asking for help. Do you live here, in Austin? “It’s been four months [since I moved here]. I’m from Houston.” You are so close to the ARCH (Austin Resource Center for the Homeless)… “They got a bunch of drug addicts over there and they steal from you. I had a wheelchair. While I sleep, they took it. They are smoking crack and everything; they drink, not inside, but outside [the ARCH].” Do you live in the streets? “Yes” For how long? “Four months” Is that since you came from Houston? “Yeah. They didn’t give me my check. I got hit by a car in a motorcycle. I need my check so I can get a place. But I haven’t got it yet, so…” Is that the check from the insurance company? “The check from the government. They said they were going to 08 TODO AUSTIN // DEC 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM
housing,” Front Steps’ Communications and Development Director Kay Klotz said. “We have incredible case managers who work very hard to help clients overcome all of their barriers to housing, only to find there are no available housing units to rent in the City of Austin. With a 99 percent occupancy rate in the city, our case managers have to work diligently with property managers to house the clients we serve. [There are other] big challenges for us, but getting housing for someone eliminates their biggest challenge.” The population served by safety net providers may be different than what most people expect. For their emergency night sleep program, which provides beds to homeless men, the highest proportion of users each night are veterans (17 percent). Mentally ill and disabled persons make up 13 percent each, with the rest of the population made up of people suffering from alcohol and drug abuse, domestic abuse, HIV/AIDS or another disability. And while ARCH can currently only provide beds to men each night, the homeless population is very diverse nationwide. Families make up half of the people being housed in shelters each night, and a third of the homeless population are teens and young people under the age of 24. Humanitarian causes such as homelessness are usually on the minds of more people around the holidays. As Klotz comments, there are many things members of the community can
do to get involved and make a difference: “Front Steps doesn’t have storage space for clothing even though our clients need them. This is where we collaborate with others. The Clothing Closet will come by to take folks to get clothing from a space we rent in a local downtown church. We rely on volunteers from companies and church groups to come in to serve dinner. People experiencing homelessness need bus passes to go to job interviews or doctor’s appointments. And dollar donations are still the best investment in ending homelessness. We can pay for another case manager who can help 10 more people get into housing in the next few months, or we can pay the rent for another formerly homeless person who is too disabled or old to be able to work, or we can pay for a bed in a nursing home for someone who is too sick to return to the streets after a serious illness. Every person housed saves the community thousands of dollars each month.” While the homeless situation can be daunting, there are occasional bright spots. “My most satisfying moment working for Front Steps is being able to say good bye to someone who is moving out of the shelter into safe and stable housing,” Klotz shared. For more information on Front Steps, please visit frontsteps.org.
give me $700 a month. It’s not much but… better than nothing.” When is that going to happen? “The month that’s coming up I will start getting a house. Government housing, to get off the streets. They have housing projects. They are cheap.” Did you already apply for that? “Not yet. I am going to do it tomorrow.” Is that process fast or do you have to wait? “I’ll wait a year… yeah.” Did you use to have a job? “Yes, I was a welder. That was what I used to do.” But after the accident you stopped doing it? “Yes.” How long did you work as a welder? “For 20 years… I am 58 now. I will be 59 in December, five days before Christmas.” Do you have family here? “I don’t have no family at all.” And in Houston? “I don’t have no family nowhere.” (…) “I’ll be still here till like about 4:00 o’clock, then I’ll go back…” Where do you sleep? (he points the ground with his hand)
But in what area of town? “Anywhere.” Is it cold sleeping on the streets? “I’ve got a sleeping bag…” (he points to the back of his wheelchair, where he carries a package. How are people around here? Do they give you money? “So so… Like about $20 a day. I no need no more.” Are you always downtown? “Yeah.” Besides the broken leg, are you healthy? “I got a disc out of my back. I had a surgery in my back. It’s hard for me to walk.” Are you planning to go back to Houston? “I don’t know, I don’t have no more family, so…” Is it better here for living? “It’s pretty nice, yeah. People are pretty friendly. People are mean there (in Houston)... You need a lot to live here. Everything is so high. I think it’s better here, not too much rain.” (…) “Don’t mess up like I did. Don’t mess up like me.” “I started doing drugs, then I don’t do it no more… I do nothing, I don’t even drink.”
To Do Música
Dec. 16 at the Empire Control Room & Garage, 606 E. 7th St. Visit the venue Facebook page for more information. ---Mariachi Azteca de Austin will be performing at the Trail of Lights on Wednesday, Dec. 21 from 8 - 8:30 p.m. at Zilker Park. austintrailoflights. org. ---Enjoy a Christmas celebration of Chicano soul, Tejano, conjunto music and more with Big Band Tejano and Conjunto Los Pinkys. Sunday,
By Liz Lopez
BROWN SOUND NEWS Jelly Ellington presents Jelly’s 4th Annual Christmas Jam, with all canned-food donations taken directly to Capital Area Food Bank of Central Texas. Featuring sets by Jelly, Michael Dillard Band, Candi & The Muthaload, Sundown Revelry, 80H Project, and special guests Chris Castaneda, Alex Geismer, Robert Wagner, Aric Garcia, Adrian Myers, Chip Vayenas, Kevin Flatt, Cody Tubbs, and more. Wednesday, Dec. 7 at One-2-One Bar. Doors open at 9:30 p.m. Showtime is 10 p.m. $7 cover (21+). jellyellington.com. The Austin Tejano Music Coalition and KOKE Tejano Radio 1600 AM are host to their 5th Annual Christmas Toy Drive and Dance benefiting Brown Santa of Travis County, featuring Marcos Orozco and other entertainment. Dec. 4 at Dance Across Texas on E. Ben White. A $5 pre-sale ticket and a toy will get you in and children 13 and under enter at no charge. Cover charge will vary if no toy donation or no pre-sale tickets are purchased. Food will be sold onsite. For tickets or more info, please visit the Austin Tejano Music Coalition Facebook page. After more than two decades as part of the Ruben Ramos band, Grammy Award-winning accordionist, arranger and producer, Rick Fuentes is forming the new Brown Express, a band his late father Ricardo “Richard” Fuentes led until 1983. Fuentes will lead the band, as well as serve as arranger and producer, vocalist and accordionist. Additional announcements are forthcoming and updates will be available via Rick Fuentes’ Facebook music page. KOOP Radio 91.7 is celebrating their 22nd anniversary with a KOOP Blowout show. Three legends of Austin music take the stage--Omar and the Howlers, Pressure and Joe King Carrasco. Saturday, Dec. 17 at the Spider House Cafe and Ballroom. Tickets and details available at spiderhouse.com. Johnny Hernandez will perform in town on Dec. 7 and will have a Q&A session with the audience regarding his book, “The Cotton Picker--An Mariachi Azteca
Omar and the Howlers
Big Band Tejano, led by Latin Grammy Winner / Ídolos del Barrio Award recipient Felipe Borrero brings to you the true sound of “Classic Tejano”. The instrumentation of Big Band Tejano features a five-piece horn section, two trumpets, trombone, alto and tenor sax. Vocals, piano, bass, guitar, drums and percussion positions complete the bands roster. Their collective expertise showcases an experience level of that will be sure to please any crowd at any venue. Conjunto Los Pinkys’ Tex-Mex style dance music is known as conjunto music. Instrumentation features the button accordion and bajo sexto. Many international and regional musical styles are represented in conjunto music, including the influence of the Spanish, German, Polish and Czech, American popular music, Mexican-Norteño ranchera, Colombian cumbia, waltz, redova, shotis, huapango, bolero, mambo and country two-step.
Joe King Carrasco
Odyssey” and his life in general. Beyond Therapy will also perform at the event from 7-10 p.m. at the Onion Creek Ballroom, 9341 Old Lockhart Hwy. There is a limited amount of tickets available at 512-470-7166. RECOMMENDED SHOWS Yayo Castillo y Rumores and Alejandro El Leon will perform Friday, Dec. 2 at Tropicana Bar & Grill. Doors open 8 p.m. $10 cover. Visit the band and venue Facebook pages for details and updates. ---Marcus Morales and The Bohemian Groove has upcoming shows, featuring Austin based drummer, Frank Ramirez, who performs with several bands with varied genres. Described as post-modern blues folk rock, the band performs Saturday, Dec. 10 in Austin at the Lone Star Court, 10901 Domain Dr. lonestarcourt.com. ---OK Corral hosts a double-header with two of Tejano’s biggest names, David Lee Garza y Los Musicales and Gary Hobbs on Friday, Dec. 9. Doors open at 8 p.m. OK Corral, 629 W Ben White Blvd. Visit the venue Facebook page for details and updates. ---Patricia Vonne will be celebrating her birthday with a show, accompanied by Robert LaRoche and Rick Del Castillo at The Backstage, 1302 S. 1st St. Saturday, Dec. 10 at 8 p.m. Tickets available at patriciavonne.com. ---Jess Lopez will be performing on Dec, 10, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. at El New Goal Post, 1506 E Mesa Park Dr., Round Rock. Visit Jess Lopez’s Facebook music page for details and updates. ---Peligrosa will be celebrating their nine-year anniversary, and Bidi Bidi Banda joins in. Friday,
Dec. 25 from 6 - 9:30 p.m. at Antone’s. $15 advance cover/ $20 at the door.
Observe Austin roots and rejoice this holiday season Step out this holiday season for diverse holiday activities taking place across the city. December offers several attractions and here are just a few to experience. A Gospel According to Jazz Christmas Grammy-winning tenor saxophonist, Kirk Whalum, returns to One World Theatre with his much celebrated series on Sunday, Dec. 4. He combines the stylistically sounds from his Memphis youth with the natural, expressive spiritual waves jazz embraces. With Norman Brown and Keiko Matsui. Austin Music Chamber Music Center’s ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ A perfect holiday tradition with all the music from the beloved TV holiday classic performed live. Featuring Michelle Schumann, piano, Utah Hamrick, bass, and David Sierra, drums. Saturday, Dec. 10, 3:30 & 7:30 p.m. at Stateside at the Paramount. Kelly Willis and Bruce Robinson’s Holiday Shindig It’s a bonafide Paramount holiday tradition. You can bet this singer-songwriter husband-andwife duo will light up the house performing songs from their Christmas album, “Happy Holidays,” holiday-themed classics and more. Saturday, Dec. 17, 8 p.m. Robert Earl Keen’s ‘Merry Christmas from the Fam-O-Lee Keen will make a stop at ACL Live on Tuesday,
Dec. 20, 8 p.m., for a very special holiday show. Now three-decades on from his debut album, Keen remains as committed to and inspired by his muse as ever. The evening also includes an appearance by Hot Club of Cowtown. A Swingin’ Christmas Billy Stritch and Jim Caruso are back to brighten up the yuletide season with A Swingin’ Christmas. They will be joined by vocalist Klea Blackhurst to perform some swinging jazz arrangements of “Christmas Waltz,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Holiday Season,” “Snow,” “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm” and many other holiday favorites. Dec. 20-22 at Rollins Studio Theatre. Kwanzaa Celebration: Nia The principal of Nia (nee-AH) is purpose. To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness. Join the community in a recommitment to purpose, featuring performances by Elizabeth Kahura. This event is free and open to the public. Friday, Dec. 30, 6 p.m. at the Carver Museum and Cultural Center. Armadillo Christmas Bazaar The bazaar is actually an art fair and music festival in one, in true Austin style. With goods and crafts from 160 local artists, including ceramics, glass, home furnishings, leatherwork, mixed media, textiles, woodwork and more. “Hot music, fine art, and cold beer,” are what set this market apart from the others in Austin, and that just may be true. Check out their website for a full list of musicians and performance dates for this year. Dec. 14-24 at Palmer Events Center. TODO AUSTIN // DEC 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 09
Tim League receives TCRP’s Community Empowerment Award
wife Karrie have not only created a successful César E. López Linares Photo theater franchise but have done their part in advancing progress in our community.
By Lesly Reynaga Last month, the nation was shaken up by the results of the national elections. With new President-elect Donald Trump, whose offensive campaign language towards many groups of people has raised concerns about his leadership of the country, it is now more crucial than ever for our communities to come together. The Texas Civil Rights Project, an organization that has done a remarkable job defending the rights of the most vulnerable people in our state, awarded local business owner and community leader Tim League with the Renato Ramirez Community Empowerment Award on Nov. 10 at the 26th Bill of Rights Dinner. Founder and Chief Executive Office of the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Tim League and his
CASA
(Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Travis County
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT “It felt like I always had a heart for helping,” explained FAWN JACKSON-YOUNG, a Utility Account Analyst who has worked for the City of Austin for 23 years. “As I got older it seemed like that heart was coming out more and more.” Fawn always devoted herself to helping others, volunteering with organizations like Family Eldercare and Foundation Communities. Her family has long since gotten used to Fawn missing family dinners to spend her holidays feeding the hungry. Six years ago, Fawn’s life changed when a family member became involved in the child welfare system. The court asked Fawn if she would take in the children, letting her know that otherwise they would enter foster care. “I just couldn’t see them separated and living with strangers,” said Fawn. “It was a struggle. My son was 20, so I went from an adult to waking up with three kids under four in my house.” Whenever things got hard, though, Fawn found someone there to help, an endlessly flexible boss, a friend who trained to provide respite care or dear friends, like K Young, who offered steadfast encouragement. Seeing firsthand how CASA refused to give up on her family, Fawn decided to become a volunteer advocate. Now she uses her experience to advocate for keeping another sibling group together. She explained, “I feel like this is a calling or purpose for me.”
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The Leagues’ both attended Rice University. Learning from a rough business experience with their first theater in Bakersfield, CA, they moved back to Texas in 1995. Tim, a native of Texas, stated that all signs pointed to a move to Austin as real estate was affordable back then and there was a prominent film scene to boot. So the couple returned to Austin with a projector and theater seats and started the Alamo Drafthouse. Over 20 years later with a thriving business and locations in 22 cities, League and his Alamo Drafthouse team created a partnership with the League of Women Voters and Travis County Tax Assessor-Collector Bruce Elfant’s office to encourage civic participation leading up to the 2016 election day. As League explained, his engagement with the Bernie Sanders campaign prompted him to do his part to get the community involved in the presidential election. “We have thousands of people coming through our doors each month, so I reached out to the League of Women Voters to see if they would like to partner on events and set up voter registration in our lobbies,” League said. During the 26th Bill of Rights Dinner, just days after election day, League provided the audience with words of advice that he has received in the past. “When you’re feeling helpless, the most important thing you can do
Josephine House-a holiday gem By Rose Di Grazia Step inside the Josephine House, located in historic Clarksville across the street from Fresh Plus, and you may think you just entered into Martha Stewart’s kitchen. The cozy house is reminiscent of charming homes in Vermont or upstate New York. The place is immaculate and filled with sunlight from the windows all around. It bounces off the squeaky clean hard wood floors. The smell of hot, fresh pastries is in the air. The pastries line the counter top and are visible for all to see as they are being seated. My eyes scanned the pumpkin scones, oatmeal cookies, fresh baked bread and quiche. It reminded me of when you went to grandmother’s house and desserts adorned the top of her table. I feel like a little girl wanting to jump up and down as my eyes scan the pastries like an old typewriter carriage going across the page.
The waiter takes us outside to a nook in a corner half in the shade and half in the sunshine. The leaves are falling like the ice-cold water filling my glass by the waiter. It is a breathtaking day and I am delighted to find this gem of a place. I order the French press coffee for two. It is delicious and smooth yet strong. Next my mouth-
is be hopeful,” League said as he received his award. “It is a very important time to be helpful.” TCRP’s Executive Director Mimi Marziani brought up some of the organization’s cases during her opening speech at the event. One was about a hardworking, young Latina mom from El Paso who spent 10 days in jail for her inability to pay parking tickets and other fines despite the fact that the U.S. Constitution prohibits debtors’ prison. Another was the case of a Mexican immigrant without legal status who has been in the Rio Grande Valley since her youth and is now a mom of two girls born in Texas. State officials refused to grant her birth certificates for her daughters because the identifications she presented, a Matricula Consular and Mexican Passport, were not good enough. “I love what the Texas Civil Rights Project represents and I care about the issues for which they fight,” League said. “This is a huge honor for me, but.. I should really pass it along to the attorneys in the organization who are taking big issues to the supreme court in an effort to make Texas a more fair and just state. They are the real honorees in my book.” watering pumpkin scone and oatmeal cookies appear. The scone has pumpkin in the middle and is the perfect fall treat with my morning coffee. My quiche with salad appears next. The crust is buttery and out of this world. I imagine what it would be like to come for Sunday brunch. The quiche is paired with a buttery salad with a salty, lemon-tasting dressing. It is the perfect addition to my eggs. The service is excellent. I never wanted for water or cream or anything. The waiter is always ready to serve.
The outside yard with tables is just as delightful as sitting inside. People are filling the yard and sitting outside under the beautiful trees. Don’t do what I did and just walk by when you see this place. I knew I wanted to come and dine there the first time I passed. I just didn’t know how much until I stopped in. This is one place you don’t want to just walk on by, especially during the cozy holiday season. For more information, visit josephineofaustin.com
CELEBRATING
DIVERSITY
BRIDGE2BRIDGE From Montopolis Bridge to 360 Bridge, Everything Austin
The Austin Symphony is once again bringing free music to all Austinites this holiday season. “Christmas in the Community” is a series of 10 concerts held throughout the city featuring different ensembles of the orchestra playing familiar holiday music from Dec. 3-23. For a schedule of performance locations and times, each open to the public with no tickets required, see austinsymphony.org
THE NUTCRACKER THE LONG CENTER
It’s time to celebrate the season with Austin’s favorite holiday tradition, Ballet Austin’s “The Nutcracker,” presented by the Georgia B. Lucas Foundation Fund. The seasonal classic, featuring Stephen Mills’ enchanting choreography, Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, and live accompaniment by the Austin Symphony Orchestra, offers 14 performances from Dec. 3-23 at the Long Center for the Performing Arts. Evening and matinee performances are available. The longest-running production of The Nutcracker in the State of Texas, Ballet Austin’s interpretation of this world-famous ballet is now in its 54th year and is bigger and better than ever. The colorful cast of nearly 200 individuals features 47 dancers from Ballet Austin’s professional, apprentice and training companies and more than 147 student performers. “Our most important holiday traditions are those that bring family and friends together to relive favorite memories and make new ones, and Ballet Austin’s production of the The Nutcracker is one of the traditions we hold dear,” said Stephen Mills, Ballet Austin’s Sarah and Ernest Butler Family Fund Artistic Director. “The Nutcracker” draws audiences into the family home of a young Clara Silberhaus, who receives a nutcracker doll from her mysterious godfather, Herr Drosselmeyer, during a frenetic holiday party. In her dreams later that night, Clara’s toy transforms into a Nutcracker Prince who helps her defeat a rascally army of rodents, led by the dreaded, three-headed Rat King. With victory assured, our heroine and her prince are transported to the delectable court of the Sugar Plum Fairy, where courtiers from many cultures dance to celebrate their accomplishments. As her dream dissipates, Clara is left to marvel at her wintry escapades and the doll that inspired them all. For more information and tickets, please visit balletaustin.org.
Ballet East Dance Company and Rodolfo Mendez present “Thirty Seven and Still Dancing” at the Dougherty Arts Center, Dec. 1-4, featuring choreographers Sharon Marroquin, Andrea Ariel, Dixon Mena, Toni Bravo, Lindsey Taylor, Amberlee Cantrell, Esther Bramlett and Miguel Marroquin. Mexican folkloric dances by Ballet East’s outreach program are also on the program. More info at www.balleteast.org. Conspirare Christmas with Matt Alber is a luxurious musical fabric of pop, folk, classical and season favorites, meticulously woven together by arranger/composer Craig Hella Johnson in collaboration with Conspirare singers and the West Coast singer/songwriter, Alber. Also featuring Thomas Burritt on percussion. Monday, Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. at the Long Center. Tickets from $25. conspirare.org Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” is the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical that will transport you back to your childhood. Its lush production feature an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love — the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists. Running Dec. 6-11 at Bass Concert Hall. texasperformingarts.org This December, we’re gonna party like its 1995! “Doper than Dope 2,” a live 90s-themed sketch show produced by Base Reality Productions and Heckle Her, returns with another high-energy comedy show at SpiderHouse Ballroom, Thursday, Dec. 8 and Friday, Dec. 16. The crew is back with all new sketches, new choreography and new faces in the ensemble plus the Fly Girl dance team and DJ Mahealani. heckleher.com/dope Tapestry Dance Company’s Austin-tatious rhythm tap and jazz spin on the beloved yuletide story, “The Nutcracker,” returns Dec. 8-18 to Rollins Studio Theatre. “Of Mice and Music” is performed to a jazzed up version of Tchaikovsky’s score and beloved jazz classics, with a musical spotlight on some of Austin’s best jazz musicians joined by the professional company and rising stars. tapestry.org Austin’s New Year will transform Vic Mathias Shores into a wonderland of music, art, special performances and food favorites. The Lake Stage—one of three—will showcase Shinyribs, Ray Wyllie Hubbard and the Peterson Brothers, among 15 local and regional bands, plus food trucks, kid’s activities and art installations. Kick-off at 3 p.m. with a traditional fireworks finale at 10 p.m. capping the event. austintexas.gov
Nuestra Pastorela ESB-MACC
Get ready to laugh and celebrate a Hispanic holiday tradition this Dec. 1-18. Teatro Vivo presents “Nuestra Pastorela” Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. at the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (600 River Street). Written by Jeffry Farrell and David Lozano, and directed by Ricky Ramon, “Nuestra Pastorela” is a fun and wacky adaptation of the traditional shepherds tale. Accompanied by the musical styling of Clemencia Zapata and performed in a playful mix of English, Spanish and gibberish, “Nuestra Pastorela” follows the lively shepherds on their way to Bethlehem. Along the way, a group of bumbling devils try to interrupt their journey and plot the shepherds’ ultimate doom, bringing the ultimate showdown between good and evil front stage in a chaotic and hilarious compilation. Pastorelas are one of the oldest and most enduring Christmas traditions in Mexico. Originally, the Mexican pastorela was a religious theater created for the purpose of converting “heathen natives.” Once appropriated by popular theater, it was never the same. Pastorelas take many forms and are vigorously influenced by invention and improvisation from the talent participating. Pastorelas may be religious, folk drama, theater, or even urban folk drama, but a very particular structure is maintained. The bilingual play resonates with both Spanish and English speaking audience members and incorporates traditional music and dance from various regions of Mexico. The Teatro Vivo production is an entertaining way the whole family can enjoy the Christmas classic. Inspired by the power of theater to both educate and entertain, Teatro Vivo produces and promotes Latino based theater providing a window into the Latino experience, accessible to all audiences. Admission is $15 for general admission and $20 for reserved seating. Tickets and more information available at teatrovivo.org. TODO AUSTIN // DEC 2016 // TODOAUSTIN.COM 11
FEBRUARY 18-19
ONCE
Winner of eight 2012 Tony Awards® including BEST MUSICAL, ONCE is a truly original Broadway experience. Featuring an impressive ensemble of actor/musicians who play their own instruments onstage, ONCE tells the enchanting tale of a Dublin street musician who’s about to give up on his dream when a beautiful young woman takes a sudden interest in his haunting love songs.
MARCH 2
ELVIS LIVES
MARCH 4
LET IT BE