Cultural Art Happenings
November 2015
We are busier than a barnyard spider weaving a web of words to save a runty little pig from the dinner table.
We are moving faster than Goldilocks running from three bears or Three Little Pigs fleeing from a big bad wolf. We are running toward a goal to make downtown Abilene even more incredible for arts lovers and further cement our Storybook Capital of Texas designation.
As we seek funding for this goal, we are filling out state and national arts grants that ask lots of questions. These questions are causing us to dig deeper into marketing and visitor data, and those numbers tell an awesome story.
For instance, did you know that one out of six people who come to Abilene do so because of our culture and attractions? Or that downtown arts groups bring in 156,000 people a year? And, most gratifying, is that direct earnings for arts, entertainment and recreation jumped 7.1 percent in 2014 and 6.7 percent in 2012 - both years in which we had major Storybook Sculpture installations downtown.
We hope you will agree that investing in the arts is an investment in the Abilene economy. Check out the November calendar of arts events and see all the great ways you can invest in your own cultural development! 

Artfully Yours,
Lynn Barnett
Executive Director
Abilene Cultural Affairs Council 
325.677.1161 
Paramount's 24fps International Short Film Festival
Entries into the 24fps International Short Film Festival hosted by the Historic Paramount Theatre are up 44 percent this year.
Barry Smoot, the film fest's director, said since January he's received 6,200 submissions compared to 4,300 last year. 24fps, now in its 17th year, receives submissions from filmmakers all over the world. This year, Smoot, who also serves as Paramount's artistic director, said he received entries for the first time from Iraq, Syria and South Korea.
The short film festival will take place Nov. 6-7. Thousands of entries will be whittled down to 31 films, which will be shown 10 at a time at three showings.
Since 1999, 24fps has presented short films by aspiring and established artists from around the world. The juried competition is open to any work made outside the major worldwide studio film system and provides cash awards (with grants from the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council) to winners.
This year's films selected for viewing include a movie about a 15-year-old John Wayne quoting cowboy trying to fit in at a new school; a 55-year-old Tokyo office worker who takes on a new personality when she's given a blonde wig; and little girls from war-torn Ukraine auditioning to play Oksana Baiul in a movie.
Tickets are $10 per showing or $20 for a festival pass. Buy tickets on the Paramount website here.  
ArtWalk honors veterans, opens new exhibits   
This month, The Center for Contemporary joins the Military Partnership of West Central Texas in honoring the military as part of Abilene's Veteran's Week. ArtWalk is 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12. 
Abilene Christian University's Swing Cats will set the mood with dance moves from the World War II era that began as a protest against Hitler.  Abilene High School and Cooper High School Color Guards will present Colors to honor veterans, and The 12th Armored Division Memorial Museum Living History group will stage a mock WWII battle in front of United Way and The Center for Contemporary Arts in the 200 block of Cypress Street. These activities, as well as downtown art museums and galleries are free to the public during ArtWalk, with make-and-take art activities for the children at several venues, including the Abilene Public Library. 
At the Center, hear students of the Texas Music Teachers Association play the baby grand piano, then see new exhibits in the four main galleries. In the Emerging Artists Gallery upstairs, view a 15-minute documentary (screening continuously) called "Not Anymore: A Story of Revolution" that won the Red Citation Humanitarian Award at Abilene's own 24fps International Short Film Festival.
For a full schedule of ArtWalk events click here. 
ArtWalk is a monthly program of The Center for Contemporary Arts. To support ArtWalk by becoming a member of The Center or sponsoring an ArtWalk, call 325-677-8389.
 
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Small town America at heart of 'Middletown'
Both deeply moving and funny, Hardin-Simmons University Theatre Department's "Middletown" explores the universe of a small American town. As a friendship develops between longtime resident John Dodge and new arrival Mary Swanson, the lives of the inhabitants of Middletown intersect in strange and poignant ways in a journey that takes them from the local library to outer space and points between. "Middletown," written by Will Eno, was the winner of the inaugural Horton Foote Award for Most Promising New Play of 2010. Guest director is Carson McCain. The show runs Nov. 12-14 and Nov. 19-21 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 22 at 2 p.m. General admission tickets are $8; military, seniors and students are $5; and HSU faculty, staff and students are free. The play will take place in the Van Ellis Theatre on campus. Buy tickets at the box office at 325-670-1405 or online here.
 
'Rabbit Hole' goes into one family's drama      
Becca and Howie Corbett have everything a family could want, until a life-shattering accident turns their world upside down and leaves the couple drifting perilously apart. McMurry University Theatre Department's student production "Rabbit Hole" charts their bittersweet search for comfort in the darkest of places and for a path that will lead them back into the light of day. Written by David Lindsay-Abaire. Directed by Aubrey Houston.
The show is at 7 p.m. Nov. 12-14 and Nov. 19-21 in the Ryan Little Theatre on campus. Ticket prices for Thursdays are $1 for McMurry employees and students and $3 general admission. Tickets on Friday and Saturday nights are $3 for McMurry employees and students and $5 general admission. Purchase tickets online here. 


New NCCIL exhibit opens for Provensens             
The National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature will feature original art from a Caldecott-winning husband and wife in a new exhibit titled "Glorious Flights: The Illustration Art of Alice and Martin Provensen." The exhibit opens Nov. 12 and runs through Jan. 30. The display includes artwork from their Caldecott winning book "The Glorious Flight" and Caldecott Honor book "A Visit to William Blake's Inn." Following its debut at the NCCIL, this exhibit will tour nationwide. The exhibit was curated by Leonard Marcus, of New York, one of the world's leading writers about children's books and the author of more than 20 award-winning books. Marcus will be at the NCCIL talking to the public about the Provensen exhibit at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 17. The event is free, as is museum admission.
Pre-show party to kick off 'Mamma Mia!'  

The Abilene Cultural Affairs Council is partnering with A People Party Production to offer a pre-show party for "Mamma Mia!" - the first Broadway in Abilene show of the 2015-16 season. The party starts at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17 in the lobby of the Abilene Civic Center with food vendors, drinks, live music and a photo op area to remember your fun night. The show starts at 7:30 p.m.
"Mamma Mia!"is the ultimate feel-good musical that has audiences coming back again and again to relive the thrill. This smash-hit combines ABBA's greatest hits, including "Dancing Queen," "S.O.S.," "Super Trouper," "Take A Chance on Me," and "The Winner Takes It All," with an enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship. The sunny, funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter's quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother's past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.  
The show is recommended for ages 8 and older. Tickets start at $33 and may be purchased online here. 
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Abilene Ballet Theatre presents 'Nutcracker' 
No less than 35 dancing mice will take the stage of the Historic Paramount Theatre for Abilene Ballet Theatre's 28th annual full-length classic ballet "The Nutcracker." Joining them will be 24 party girls, eight toy soldiers,two battle bunnies, 12 twinkling stars and 60 tiny flying angels.
New roles this year include Peppermint Twist soloists played by Abilene Christian High School seniors Kirsten Patterson and Maya Miller who will perform in the candy cane dance. They are double cast as the Sugar Plum Fairy.
The show has fabulous sets, drops, costumes and guest artists. A local cast of 120 dancers perform this beautiful presentation. The show tells the story of a young German girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince and a fierce battle against a Mouse King.
ABT is a nonprofit, a member of Regional Dance America/Southwest and Abilene's only regional ballet company.
For the first time ever "Nutcracker" tickets can be purchased online at abileneballettheatre.org starting Nov. 5 or at the Paramount Nov. 16-20. The show runs Nov. 20-22. 
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MENAGERIE exhibit at Grace all about animals
Opening Thursday, Nov. 12 at The Grace Museum is MENAGERIE - three art exhibitions featuring 19th, 20th and 21st century paintings, sculptures, prints and photographs of animals. The human fascination with representing animals is as old as art itself; from the earliest cave paintings to today's cutting-edge installation art, artists have created thousands of ways to depict our furred and feathered friends. Whether animals are portrayed as companions, entertainers, specimens, prey or beasts of burden they continue they continue to inspire depiction in a wide variety of media. 
The exhibit is curated by Judy Tedford Deaton, chief curator at The Grace. The reception for the exhibition is Dec. 3. The show runs through April. 
The main gallery group exhibition, MENAGERIE, will feature art by Helen Altman animals subjects created with fire, paper, wood and wire. Also included are celebrated contemporary paintings by David Bates and original nineteenth century prints by John James Audubon's scientific studies of birds of North America. 
Forty of Janet Turner's elegant, masterful fine art prints will be featured in a solo exhibition, "Janet Turner: Second Nature." 
"Best Friends II" is a group exhibition featuring the timeless photographs of beloved canine companions. 
 


ACU Theatre's 'I and You' explores youth, life, love
Anthony arrives unexpectedly at classmate Caroline's door, carrying a beat-up copy of Walt Whitman's poetry and an urgent assignment from their English teacher. Homebound because of illness, Caroline hasn't been to school in months but she is as quick and sardonic as Anthony is athletic, sensitive and popular. When these two let down their guard and share their secrets, this seemingly mundane poetry project unlocks the much deeper mystery that brought them together.
"I and You" is an ode to youth, life, love, and the strange beauty of human connectedness.
Abilene Christian University's Theatre Department production of this drama by Lauren Gunderson is directed by ACU's Adam Hester and runs Nov. 16-21 at 7:30 p.m. in Fulks Theatre. Talkback after each performance. The show is recommended for ages 13 and older. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased online here or by calling the box office at 325-674-ARTS. The box office is open 1-5 p.m. weekdays.
BOOK BUZZ: Crockin' Girls cook it up
Two slow-cooking mamas in a fast-paced world will be signing copies of their newest book, "It's Our Crockin' Life" at the Texas Star Trading Co. booth at Christmas Carousel from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 6 at the Abilene Civic Center.  
Jenna Marwitz and Nicole Sparks, two small-town girls from Brownwood, best friends and busy moms started a Facebook page to share slow cooker recipes with other time-strapped family and friends. Overnight, thousands of people from around the country began "liking" their page and the simple page they started from their cell phones went viral! They had hit a hotspot of interest amongst busy families looking to prepare delicious home-cooked meals, but not having the time or know-how. 
The Crockin' Girls, as they call themselves, are also authors of "The Crockin' Girls Slow Cookin' Companion" and a new magazine "Crockin' for the Holidays." 

 
Nov. 2, 5-7 p.m. or 7-9 p.m.
Jay Moore presents "Our American Past." War Briefs - How'd We Wind Up in This Mess? Session 3 of 4. Making sense of America's past so we can understand the present. Register for this classroom event (no notes or homework!) and enjoy a fresh look at people, event and decisions that shaped the present. (This event is open to the public; however, a reservation must be made in advance)
The Grace Museum
102 Cypress St. ￨ 325.673.4587 ￨ www.thegracemuseum.org
 
Nov. 2, 6:30 p.m.
Tween Time: Gumdrop Turkeys in the storyroom. Adorable turkeys will be assembled using gumdrops and toothpicks.  The faces will be constructed with a bit of frosting and edible eyes.  They will be sure to tickle the delight (and stomachs) of all those involved!  All the materials will be provided free of cost.
Abilene Public Library
202 Cedar St. ￨ 325.677.2474 ￨www.abilenetx.com/apl
 
Nov. 3, 11:30 a.m.
Los Aficionados Meeting - for museum supporters.
The Grace Museum
102 Cypress St. ￨ 325.673.4587 ￨ www.thegracemuseum.org
 
Nov. 3, 5:30-7 p.m.
Open call audition at First Baptist Church, 1333 N. 3rd St. Any female age 12 or older can audition to join the chorus.
Abilene Star Chorus
325.695.4721 ￨ www.abilenestarchorus.org
 
Nov. 3, 6 p.m.
The AR Club is designed to help students and reluctant readers easily complete great stories by participating in this read-aloud book club. For each session we will read one to three books (points will vary) with the goal of inspiring the love of reading whether you wish to listen or share in the read-aloud fun. In addition students should be able to contact their teacher and test at any AISD school to earn AR points for the books we read! Free.
Abilene Public Library - Mockingbird Branch
1214 N. Mockingbird Ln. ￨ 325.437.7323 ￨www.abilenetx.com/apl
 
Nov. 3, 6:30 p.m.
Each month the Anime Club will watch two episodes of Anime as well as learn a bit of origami. This month we will watch a character driven anime about a baseball team and its eccentric pitcher and the story of a cursed young man who might just find the answer to all his problems in a mysterious wish shop. Popcorn! Ages 13-25. Free.
Abilene Public Library
202 Cedar St. ￨ 325.677.2474 ￨www.abilenetx.com/apl
 
Nov. 3, 7:30 p.m.
Choirs Concert at the Recital Hall at the Williams Performing Arts Center.
Abilene Christian University Department of Music
ACU Drive ￨325.674.2199 ￨www.acu.edu/academics/cas/music
 
Nov. 5, 9:30 a.m. or 11 a.m.
Tot Spot
*Paid registration required.
The Grace Museum
102 Cypress St. ￨ 325.673.4587 ￨ www.thegracemuseum.org
 
Nov. 5-8
Junior League of Abilene's 35th annual Christmas Carousel at the Abilene Civic Center. A weekend filled with shopping and entertainment for adults and children. Click here to purchase tickets to the various events.
 
Nov. 5, 4 p.m.
Footprint turkeys are the name of the game at Mockingbird's November Make & Take! Join us for loads of creative, messy fun! Free.
Abilene Public Library - Mockingbird Branch
1214 N. Mockingbird Ln. ￨ 325.437.7323 ￨www.abilenetx.com/apl
 
Nov. 5, 4:30 p.m.
Collecting Commas Writing Club in the storyroom. For young adults ages 10-17, a chance to improve your creative writing skills with no pressure or stress. This weekly writing club will give young writers the opportunity to write poems, short stories, plays, or even a continuous work like a novel.  We will participate in group writing activities, such as "pick a prompt" from a hat that everyone came up with, or collaborative writing and maybe even perform a play, or put on a poetry slam. We will go over the basics of writing, and how to build up your writing. Free.
Abilene Public Library
202 Cedar St. ￨ 325.677.2474 ￨www.abilenetx.com/apl
 
Nov. 5, 6 p.m.
We want you to play with your food at the South Branch during Family Fun @your Library: Food Fun. We'll enjoy interesting stories, fun games, and make a super-yummy edible craft. Free and fun for the whole family!
Abilene Public Library - South Branch
1401 S. Danville Dr. ￨ 325.698.7565 ￨www.abilenetx.com/apl
 
Nov. 5, 8:30 p.m.
Richard Burke & Friends - Live Jazz.
Neon Parrot Lounge
181 Pine St. ￨ 901.649.3448 ￨ www.neonparrotlounge.com
 
Nov. 6, 9:30 a.m. or 11 a.m.
Tot Spot
*Paid registration required.
The Grace Museum
102 Cypress St. ￨ 325.673.4587 ￨ www.thegracemuseum.org
 
Nov. 6, 5-6:30 p.m.
Reception for Student Summer Travel Exhibit: "Paris, Provence and Barcelona." Senior exhibits by Ashton Hooks and Lizzie Lehew. Exhibit runs Oct. 16 through Nov. 20.
McMurry University Art Department
1642 Sayles Blvd. | 325.793.4888 | www.mcm.edu
 
Nov. 6-7
The 17th annual 24fps International Short Film Festival has three showings of a total of 30 short movies entered into the juried competition. Single program tickets are $10 general admission. A Festival Pass (which admits the holder to all three public programs) is $20. To learn more about 24fps, visit the official site at: www.24fpsfest.com. To purchase tickets online, click here.
Historic Paramount Theatre
352 Cypress St. ￨ 325.676.9620 ￨www.paramount-abilene.org
 
Nov. 7, 5-7 p.m.
Come and go Fall Festival featuring spaghetti dinner, games and fun! St. Paul's United Methodist Church Activity Bldg, corner N. 5th and Orange. Tickets $5/each in advance; available from any Chorus member or by calling the office. Tickets are $5 in advance, $6 at the door.
Chorus Abilene
1174 N. 1st ￨ 325.673.SING ￨ www.chorusabilene.net
 
Nov. 7
All day wine and chocolate reception and Special Olympics Silent Auction Art Show Fundraiser in Studio 209.
Cockerell Art Studios & Gallery
1133 N. 2nd upstairs| 829.7975 | www.cockerellgalleries.com
 
Nov. 8, 5 p.m.
Staci Spring, bassoon with Abigail Payne Sanders, piano.
Heavenly Rest Chamber Music Concert Series
602 Meander St. | 325-677-2091 | www.heavenlyrestabilene.org
 
Nov. 9, 5-7 p.m. or 7-9 p.m.
Jay Moore presents "Our American Past," Session 4 of 4. "Presidents: Their Powers and Occasional Abuses Therein and How Nine People Have Affected Your Life." Making sense of America's past so we can understand the present. Register for this classroom event (no notes or homework!) and enjoy a fresh look at people, event and decisions that shaped the present. (This event is open to the public; however, a reservation must be made in advance)
The Grace Museum
102 Cypress St. ￨ 325.673.4587 ￨ www.thegracemuseum.org
 
Nov. 9, 4:30 p.m.
We do hands-on science experiments at our monthly Science Club in the main auditorium. Free.
Abilene Public Library
202 Cedar St. ￨ 325.677.2474 ￨www.abilenetx.com/apl
 
Nov. 9, 6:30 p.m.
Make adorable scarecrows using popsicle sticks glued together for the Make 'N' Take activity. Children of all ages will be able to decorate with a variety of items already cut for them - hair, hats, noses, mouths, eyes, and other fun accessories.  A string will be run across the top so the scarecrow can be hung and admired by all!  All the materials will be provided free of cost.
Abilene Public Library
202 Cedar St. ￨ 325.677.2474 ￨www.abilenetx.com/apl
 
Nov. 9, 6:30 p.m.
A silent film production company and cast make a difficult transition to sound in this Hollywood classic from 1952 during this showing of Movies @ Mockingbird. Tickets are one per person while supplies last; seating is limited. Tickets may be collected 30 minutes prior to showtime, first come first served. Free.
Abilene Public Library - Mockingbird Branch
1214 N. Mockingbird Ln. ￨ 325.437.7323 ￨www.abilenetx.com/apl
 
Nov. 9, 7:30 p.m.
Percussion Ensemble Concert in Cullen Auditorium.
Abilene Christian University Department of Music
ACU Drive ￨325.674.2199 ￨www.acu.edu/academics/cas/music
 
Nov. 10, 11, 13, noon
Degenerate Art
This film about the "degenerate art" that Hitler tried to destroy during his stronghold will be screened during ArtWalk in the Emerging Artists Gallery at the Center for Contemporary Arts. The art was modern and it made people thing and he didn't like that, according to Bird Thomas at the Center.
The Center for Contemporary Arts
220 Cypress St. ￨ 325.677.8389 ￨ www.center-arts.com

Nov. 12-13, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4-6 p.m.
The McMurry Student Art Sale will take place in the Ryan East Foyer, 1642 Sayles Blvd. Buy original photography, paintings, prints, ceramics, cards and more.
McMurry University Art Department
1642 Sayles Blvd. | 325.793.4888 | www.mcm.edu

Nov. 12, 5-8 p.m.
Monthly ArtWalk experience with the theme of "Here's to the Heroes" sponsored by Military Partnership of West Texas. Abilene Community Band is performing in front of the Paramount Theatre.
The Center for Contemporary Arts
220 Cypress St. ￨ 325.677.8389 ￨ www.center-arts.com
 
Nov. 12, 5:30-8 p.m.
Featured Artist
Charcoal/Colored Pencil Portrature Artist, Michael Romero of Studio 203. "Installation" opens ArtWalk. Runs Nov. 2-30.
Hardin-Simmons University Senior Art Show
Opening Reception - ArtWalk, Nov 12. - 5:30 p.m.
Studio 209, Second Floor, Cockerell Building.
Cockerell Art Studios & Gallery
1133 N. 2nd upstairs| 829.7975 | www.cockerellgalleries.com
 
Nov. 12-14 & 19-21, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 22, 2 p.m.
Both moving and deeply funny, "Middletown" explores the universe of a small American town. As a friendship develops between longtime resident John Dodge and new arrival Mary Swanson, the lives of the residents of Middletown intersect in strange and poignant ways. Winner of the Horton Foote Award for Most Promising New Play of 20101. Directed by Carson McCain in Van Ellis Theatre.
Hardin-Simmons University Department of Theatre
2200 Hickory￨325.670.1405￨ www.hsutx.edu
 
Nov. 12-14 & 19-21
"Rabbit Hole" by David Lindsay-Abaire. Winner of the 2007 Pulitzer Prize. Directed by Aubrey Houston.
Becca and Howie Corbett have everything a family could want, until a life-shattering accident turns their world upside down and leaves the couple drifting perilously apart. "Rabbit Hole" charts their bittersweet search for comfort in the darkest of places and for a path that will lead them back into the light of day.
McMurry University Department of Theatre
S. 14th & Sayles￨325.793.3800￨ www.mcm.edu
 
Nov. 12, 8:30 p.m.
Happy Fat Band - Live Blues
Neon Parrot Lounge
181 Pine St. ￨ 901.649.3448 ￨ www.neonparrotlounge.com
 
Nov. 13, 5:30 p.m.
The annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser at Southern Hills Church of Christ, 3666 Buffalo Gap Rd. Tickets are $8 and children 10 and under are free.
Abilene Star Chorus
325.695.4721 ￨ www.abilenestarchorus.org
 
Nov. 13, 6:30 p.m.
Holladay on Film: Paramount Film Director Robert Holladay continues his film lecture series with a discussion of the history and making of the film "How to Marry a Millionaire." The 30-minute lecture will be followed by a 30-minute break before the feature begins at 7:30 p.m. You must purchase a ticket to the movie to attend this lecture.
Historic Paramount Theatre
352 Cypress St. ￨ 325.676.9620 ￨www.paramount-abilene.org
 
Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 14, 2 & 7:30 p.m.
The Paramount Film Series presents "How to Marry a Millionaire" starring Marliyn Monroe, Betty Grable and Lauren Bacall in this technicolor comedy about three women who set out to find eligible millionaires to marry, but instead find true love. 1953, color, 95 minutes, Not Rated. Tickets are $6 for adults and $5 for students, seniors, military and children.  To purchase tickets online, click here. To see the complete list of the 2015 Paramount Film Series schedule, click here. To view this film's trailer, click here.
Historic Paramount Theatre
352 Cypress St. ￨ 325.676.9620 ￨www.paramount-abilene.org
 
Nov. 14, 8 a.m.         
Abilene Community Theatre's "LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION" 5K Run
Location:  Rose Park, ACT parking lot
Fee: $20, includes T-Shirt and other goodies
Costumes welcome.
Abilene Community Theatre
809 Barrow ￨ 673.6271 ￨ www.abilenecommunitytheatre.org
 
Nov. 14, 1-4 p.m.
Family Art Project. Always FREE.
National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature
102 Cedar Street ￨ 325.673.4586 ￨ www.nccil.org
 
Nov. 14, 1 - 4 p.m.
Printmaking Workshop
Ready to make your holiday cards? Learn how to carve and hand-print your own stamp from our Grace Art Educator.
*Paid registration required.
The Grace Museum
102 Cypress St. ￨ 325.673.4587 ￨ www.thegracemuseum.org
 
Nov. 15, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Chautauqua Learning Series featuring Melonnie Hicks speaking about the Sweetwater Pioneer Museum. Free.
Buffalo Gap Historic Village
133 N. William St.￨ 325.572.3365 ￨ www.tfhcc.com
 
Nov. 15, noon-5 p.m.
Military Appreciation Day for active and retired military and their families. Free admission. Spend an afternoon exploring the Village.
Buffalo Gap Historic Village
133 N. William St.￨ 325.572.3365 ￨ www.tfhcc.com
 
Nov. 15, 2-4 p.m.
Craft Sunday for children. Make and take activity. Children 12 and under, military and Members have free admission. $7 adults and $6 seniors.
Buffalo Gap Historic Village
133 N. William St.￨ 325.572.3365 ￨ www.tfhcc.com
 
Nov. 15, 2 p.m.
Sugar Plum Fairy Tea featuring the dancers and costumes from "The Nutcracker" at Abilene Woman's Club. Enjoy treats from the "Land of the Sweets."
Abilene Ballet Theatre
1265 N. 2nd St.￨ 325.675.0303 ￨www.abileneballettheatre.org
 
Nov. 15, 3 p.m.
High Brass Studio Recital at Ryan Recital Hall.
McMurry University Department of Music
1642 Sayles Blvd. ￨ 325.793.3800￨www.mcm.edu
 
Nov. 16-21, 7:30 p.m.
"I and You" is a Cornerstone Production directed by Adam Hester. Anthony arrives unexpectedly at classmate Caroline's door carrying a beat-up copy of Walt Whitman's poetry and an urgent assignment from their English teacher. As the two students, very much different, let down their guard and share secrets, the project unlocks a much deeper mystery that brought them together. Recommended for ages 13 and older. Talkback every performance.
Abilene Christian University Theatre Department
Fulks Theatre ￨ 325.674.ARTS (2787) ￨ www.acu.edu/theatre
 
Nov. 17, 5:30 p.m.
Leading children's book historian, author and critic Leonard Marcus, of New York, will speak about the new exhibit "Glorious Flights: The Illustration Art of Alice and Martin Provensen" that opened Nov. 10 and continues through January 2016.
National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature
102 Cedar Street ￨ 325.673.4586 ￨ www.nccil.org
 
Nov. 17, 7:30 p.m.
The smash-hit musical "Mamma Mia!" is the ultimate feel-good show that has audiences coming back again and again. The tale of love, friendship and laughter combines ABBA's greatest hits, including "Dancing Queen," "S.O.S.," "Super Trouper," "Take A Chance on Me" and " The Winner Takes It All." Abilene Civic Center.
Celebrity Attractions
 
Nov. 17, 7:30 p.m.
Jazz Ensemble Concert at Cullen Auditorium.
Abilene Christian University Department of Music
ACU Drive ￨325.674.2199 ￨www.acu.edu/academics/cas/music
 
Nov. 19, Noon-1 p.m.
ArtFilm: 2015 24fps International Short Film Festival Winners
Bring a lunch and watch and discuss selected jury prize winners of this year's 24fps International Short Film Festival hosted by the Paramount Theatre.
The Center for Contemporary Arts
220 Cypress St. ￨ 325.677.8389 ￨ www.center-arts.com
 
Nov. 19, 6 p.m.
DIY Holiday Gifts for Pets
*Paid registration required.
The Grace Museum
102 Cypress St. ￨ 325.673.4587 ￨ www.thegracemuseum.org
 
Nov. 19, 7:30 p.m.
Jazz Ensemble Concert at Bynum Band Hall.
McMurry University Music Department
1649 War Hawk Way￨325.793.3800￨www.mcm.edu
 
Nov. 19, 8:30 p.m.
Tony Barker Band - Live Blues & High Energy Acoustic
Neon Parrot Lounge
181 Pine St. ￨ 901.649.3448 ￨ www.neonparrotlounge.com
 
Nov. 20, 8 p.m.
Nov. 21, 2:30 & 8 p.m.
Nov. 22, 2:30 p.m.
The 28th annual, full length classic ballet "The Nutcracker" is complete with fabulous sets, drops, costumes and guest artists. A local cast of 120 dancers perform this beautiful presentation at the Historic Paramount Theatre. ABT is a nonprofit, a member of Regional Dance America/Southwest and Abilene's only regional ballet company.
Abilene Ballet Theatre
1265 N. 2nd St.￨ 325.675.0303 ￨www.abileneballettheatre.org
 
Nov. 21, 1-4 p.m.
Family Art Project. Always FREE.
National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature
102 Cedar Street ￨ 325.673.4586 ￨ www.nccil.org
 
Nov. 23, 7:30 p.m.
Percussion Ensemble Concert at Ryan Recital Hall.
McMurry University Department of Music
1642 Sayles Blvd. ￨325.793.3800￨www.mcm.edu
 
Nov. 24-29
The Historic Paramount Theatre will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday.
 
Nov. 24, 11 a.m.
ACU Opera: Hansel and Gretel Children's Performance at the Abilene Civic Center. Free!
Abilene Christian University Department of Music
ACU Drive ￨325.674.2199 ￨www.acu.edu/academics/cas/music
 
Nov. 25, 7:30 p.m.
Willie Nelson in concert at the Abilene Civic Center. Tickets are $53-$74.
 
Nov. 26, 8:30 p.m.
Poetry Slam & Jazz
Neon Parrot Lounge
181 Pine St. ￨ 901.649.3448 ￨ www.neonparrotlounge.com
 
Nov. 28, 1-4 p.m.
Family Art Project. Always FREE.
National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature
102 Cedar Street ￨ 325.673.4586 ￨ www.nccil.org

ONGOING and ON EXHIBIT

THE GRACE MUSEUM
102 Cypress St. ￨ 325.673.4587 ￨ www.thegracemuseum.org

Exhibits
Nov. 12, 2015 - April 2016
Reception: Thursday, Dec. 3, 2015
 
"MENAGERIE" 
Group exhibition of paintings, sculpture, prints and photographs featuring animal subjects curated from public and private collections with art from The Grace Collection by David Bates, Helen Altman, John Alexander, David Everett and others.
"Best Friends II"
Back by popular demand, the second (all new) edition of fine art photographs from the private collection of Alice and Bill Wright featuring dogs as the subject of fine art photography accompanied by quotes from literature about man's best friend.
"Janet Turner: second nature"
Exhibition of extraordinary fine art prints and paintings by renowned printmaker and naturalist Janet Turner (1914-1988).
 
NATIONAL CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S ILLUSTRATED LITERATURE
102 Cedar St. | 325.673.4586 | www.nccil.org
 
Exhibits
 
Oct. 3-Nov. 10
Closed for roof repairs.
 
Nov. 10, 2015-Jan. 29, 2016
"Glorious Flights: The Illustration Art of Alice and Martin Provensen"
Leonard Marcus will speak on the exhibit Nov. 17 at 5:30 p.m.

IRA M. TAYLOR MEMORIAL ART GALLERY
Frost Art Building at Hardin-Simmons University | www.hsutx.edu
 
Oct. 5 - Nov. 19
William Wright: Selected Works
Reception: Saturday, Oct. 24, 5 p.m.
 
ACU DOWNTOWN GALLERY
Cockerell Galleries and Studios, 1133 N. 2nd St.
 
Oct. 3-Nov. 5, 2015
"Iconic Figures: Works by Nancy Boren and Jill Maxwell"
 
Nov. 12-Dec. 5, 2015
2015 Big Country Art Association (BCAA) Annual Art Competition. Entries due Nov. 6-7. Open to all Big Country artists - amateur and professional - who are 18 and older.
 
CLOVER VIRGINIA SHORE ART GALLERY
Don H. Morris Center at Abilene Christian University | 325.674.2085 | www.acu.edu
 
Oct. 30-Nov. 13, 2015
Senior Show

Nov. 20-Dec. 11, 2015
"Texas Atomic Iron Commission - Post Japan Show"

 
ABILENE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Three locations | www.abilenetx.com/apl
 
Pre-School Storytime
Held year-round at 10:45 a.m. on select days at all three library locations.
 
Cover-to-Cover Book Club - third Thursday of the month, Main Library Auditorium, 7 p.m.
Adults who love to read make up the Cover-to-Cover Book Club. Each month, they choose the books they will discuss the following month.

THE CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY ARTS
220 Cypress St. ￨ 325.677.8389 ￨ www.center-arts.com

Exhibits
Nov. 3- Jan. 30
"On the Table" by Polly Jonesin the Jane Breed Gallery.
"TPS 24: The International Competition" from the Texas Photographic Society in the Bill and Alice Wright Photo Gallery.
"Divisions and Connections" by Center Artist Members in Gallery 3.
"Talk with You" by Kathy Robinson in Gallery 4.
"24fps International Short Film Festival Award Winners" - Continuous screenings of jury prize winners from the Abilene festival in the Emerging Artist Gallery.

COCKERELL ART STUDIOS & GALLERY
1133 N. 2nd, Second Floor | 325.829.7975 | www.cockerellgalleries.com | Carolyncc52@yahoo.com

MESQUITE STORY TELLERS
Come Listen to a Tall Tale or Tell One!
Meets the third Thursday every month (except Dec.)
Open to the public! No Cost! All ages welcome!
2nd Floor - Studio 209
6 p.m.
 
SINGING CIRCLE
Hosted by Musician ANDREW HOLMES
Studio 209 - 2nd Floor of The Cockerell Art Studios
Come ready to sing, play acoustics, or just enjoy listening!
6 p.m. every Sunday
 
Nov. 2-30
Charcoal/Colored Pencil Portrature Artist, Michael Romero of Studio 203. "Installation" opens ArtWalk, Nov. 12, 5:30-8 p.m.
 
Nov. 12-20
Hardin-Simmons University Senior Art Show
Opening Reception - ArtWalk, Nov 12. - 5:30 p.m.
Studio 209, Second Floor, Cockerell Building.

AMY GRAVES RYAN FINE ARTS GALLERY
McMurry University
1642 Sayles Blvd. | 325.793.4888 | www.mcm.edu
 
Oct. 16-Nov. 20, 2015
Student Summer Travel Exhibit: "Paris, Provence and Barcelona." Senior exhibits by Ashton Hooks and Lizzie Lehew. Reception is 5-6:30 p.m. Nov. 6

JODY KLOTZ FINE ART
1060 N. 2nd St. | 325.670.9880 | fineart@jodyklotz.com | www.jodyklotz.com
 
19th and early 20th Century European paintings, with a strong emphasis on beautiful 19th landscape paintings by artists such as Henri Biva (French, 1848-1929), William Didier Pouget (French, 1864-1959), and Ren� Charles Edmond His (French, 1877-1960).
 
MIKE LANIER FINE ART / STUDIO 13 GALLERY
909 N 13th St. | http://mlanier.fineartstudioonline.com/

 
ABILENE CIVIC CENTER
1100 N. 6th St.￨ 325.676.6211 ￨ www.abilenetx.com/CivicCenter/
 
Bud Clayton's art display is in the Red Carpet Lobby.
 
ABILENE WRITER'S GUILD
Meets the fourth Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in Classroom B of the Rose Park Senior Citizens Center, 2625 S. 7th St. except in November (third Thursday) and December (no meeting). Annual memberships are $25 for individuals and $35 for a family.
  
Arts Calendar
 

Hearts for the Arts  


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We want to hear from you! Please let us know what you would like to see included in this newsletter as well as any other ideas you have to strengthen Abilene's cultural arts community. Send your emails to Sidney Levesque at sidney@abilenecac.org 

or Executive Director Lynn Barnett 325.677.1161 / lynn@abilenecac.org