Dance Your Cares Away (Or At Least Watch Someone Else Do It)

It's been a weird couple of weeks, Houston. We've had sad abandoned animals, the Rocket, a distinct lack of the toothsome Texas peaches, and, oh yes, that Enron thingy.

So if you're feeling a little fed up, come take advantage of one of the greatest parts of this city: the ridiculously large amount of cheap or free cultural entertainment avaliable. This week, we'll be putting our best foot forward downtown, where two weeks of innovative dance and performance art kicks off this evening.

The Big Range Dance Festival, says their mission statement, "seeks to foster quality dance-theater that explores diverse ideas and the fusion of theatrical arts". The festival, which has become an annual event, debuts this weekend and runs through June 18th. The performances vary each evening, but include works by choreographers from DiverseWorks and other Houston institutions. Tickets are avaliable at the door, but you can save money if you purchase them online.

What: Big Range Dance Festival
When: Various nights June 2- June 18th
Where: Barnevelder Movement/Arts Complex (2201 Preston St. Three blocks east of Minute Maid Park and on the east side of US 59)