Arts & Events: November 2009 Archives

For the Week of November 9th-11th, 2009 Phew, we sure had us a weekend, visiting our cousin Austinist and their big party Fun Fun Fun Fest. It's tough coming back to a world without free drink tickets and constant live music, but we suppose we'll have to make do. Here's what's coming up for you this week.

• 5-9 p.m. — POISSANT Gallery opening, "Filtered," featuring new work by three Houston artists, Felipe Contreras, Haden Garrett, and Carol Gerhardt, who's work with Barbies we *love*. Free, 5102 Center Street.
• 6:30-9:30 p.m. — Via Colori sneak peak at Coffee Groundz. See prints from the VC ‘08 Photo Contest Winners and find out how to participate in the 2009 Photography Contest, learn how to promote The Center for Hearing and Speech fourth annual fall fundraiser, listen to good music and enjoy good drinks. Free. Via Colori is November 21-22. Free, at 2503 Bagby.

It's common knowledge that Lawndale has the best annual Dia de los Muertos art celebration in the city, but did you know you can get some hands-on experience in making a traditional symbol of the Latin American holiday?

Unlike the West Alabama Theater, the River Oaks Theater has managed to thwart the plans of greedy developers in recent years thanks in part to your support. Tonight the Houston landmark will celebrate it's 70th Anniversary with a special showing of Frank Capra's 1939 classic film Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, starring Jimmy Stewart. The opening reception begins at 6:00 with cake and drink specials in the upstairs lounge.

CALLING ALL HOUSTON BANDS! If you're interested in being a truly functional touring band then H-Town Rock advises you to stop in to Avant Garden tonight and listen to what Martin Atkins has to say. Atkins is a former member of PiL [Public Image, Ltd. aka that band Johnny Rotten had after the Sex Pistols], Killing Joke, and Ministry. His book Tour:Smart is considered a premium handbook to touring effectively. Space is limited to what Avant Garden can hold, so get there early. Atkins is supposed to start speaking at 7 pm. Details can be found here: http://www.avantgardenhouston.com/atkins.html and you can RSVP here.

The good doctor is in, so have a seat and let's chat. We know what you're thinking, "what happened this week in Houston music? What have I missed? I can't take it anymore!" The stress on your brow, the nervousness in your hands. Dr. H. Town Rock is here with some scene-specific Xanax for that concern of yours.

This week H-Town Rock sat down with Airon Paul Dugas & The Religion to chat about the band, recording, Seattle, albinos, and Jacob Calle's 'fro. Afterwards we were lucky enough to be treated to arguably one of the best plates of migas we've ever had. Airon swore us to secrecy, however, lest we unintentionally spur a douche-ification of his favorite dining spot. You can listen to the full 24 minute interview [complete with Steven's million-dollar flashbulb idea] here. There is the occasional dirty word, so get some headphones if you're at work.