Schmap Fort Worth Art & Entertainment

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Fort Worth - Art & Entertainment
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Bass Hall, on the corner of 4th Street and Calhoun, is home to Fort Worth's premier performing arts organizations and is the venue of choice for top artists from all over the world. Artists from ballet dancers to bagpipers perform here; there is something for every musical and artistic taste. Every four years, the top professional pianists in the world gather for the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. A newer jewel in the Cliburn Foundation's crown of jewels is the International Piano Competition for Outstanding Amateurs, held on campus at Texas Christian University.

The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra offers delights for every musical taste, ranging from its regular season with monthly concerts from September through May, through the Pops series, also from September through May, to the Concerts in the Garden at Fort Worth Botanical Gardens every summer for the past 10 years. Their regular concerts are presented at Bass Hall.

If classical music's not your thing, visit Casa Manana, the first permanent theatre designed for in-the-round performances. Chartered as a non-profit organization in 1958, it now offers a wide variety of entertainment from Broadway musicals to dramas to concerts and children's theater. Or, try the Jubilee Theatre in Sundance Square. African-American performers, writers, and directors are spotlighted here in dramas, comedies, and especially musicals, and use local talent whenever possible.

J & J Blues Bar offers cold beer and hot jazz, including some outrageous Thursday night jams. At the two live rock clubs, Wreck Room and Aardvark, fans can party with some of the Metroplex's top rock bands without having to drive to Dallas. Of course, no visit to Fort Worth is complete without stopping in at Billy Bob's Texas and The White Elephant Saloon. Billy Bob"s, billed as the world"s largest honky-tonk, features live entertainment almost every night by country music's biggest names. The White Elephant, an authentic Old West saloon, is as plain as Billy Bob's is fancy, with a good-sized dance floor and a combination of live and recorded music.

Art

Fort Worth is an art lover's paradise, boasting some of the finest museums and galleries in North America. The Amon G Carter Museum, founded by the pioneer to house his collection of paintings and sculpture by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, features pre-1940 works by premier nineteenth and twentieth-century artists. Itself a work of art, The Kimbell Art Museum is home to several unusual collections, featuring European art from 1920 forward and American art since 1940. For a delightful Friday evening, enjoy a light buffet with live music at the Kimbell. One of the oldest art institutions in Texas, the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth houses masterworks of post-World War II American and European artists in all media—a collection of more than 2800 pieces. The Carol Henderson Gallery offers a mixed bag of traditional and more abstract works by regional and international artists. From sculpture and paintings to folk art and pottery to designer jewelry, the collection will delight a wide variety of tastes. There is a gift shop if you see something you can't live without. Local and nationally known artists also show at Evelyn Siegel Gallery. In addition to painting, sculpture, and folk art, you can enjoy prints, glass/ceramics, and Native American arts here. Galerie Kornye West features American and European art, not only the traditional pieces but also glass and furniture. Academic and impressionist styles prevail here, especially florals, seascapes, and landscapes; management staff is knowledgeable and generous about sharing, so ask away. To view works by young talent on the art scene, be sure to visit Gallery 414. Owned and run by artists, the gallery is designed to showcase cutting-edge work. While its cultural center counterpart is being expanded and renovated, the Carter Downtown maintains the continuity of the collections until fall 2001 or so. Superb examples of American modernism and impressionism are on display here across from The Bass.

Theatre

Original works and those of rarely performed playwrights are featured at Hip Pocket Theatre, which has been in business for over 25 years. The company became the first Texas one invited to perform in the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland, the troupe has also performed at Queen Elizabeth Hall in London. Allied Theatre Group, formed when Stage West and Shakespeare in the Park merged, offers classic and contemporary plays year round. With Shakespeare's plays as the nucleus of its work, ATG performs in the venues its components have used over the years: in a former movie theater near University Drive and Berry Street and in lovely Trinity Park on an arena stage surrounded by green grass and trees. Snug in the historic Sanger Building at Sundance Square, The Circle Theatre offers an intimate theatre experience. Texas playwrights like Horton Foote and Larry L. King, as well as developing playwrights from North Texas, are showcased here as Circle regularly premieres contemporary plays. Fort Worth Theatre, is still the community theatre of Fort Worth, presenting four different series and offering not only quality community theatre but also commendable projects featuring at-risk youth.

Comedy

For comedy, choose from two venues, Hyena's and Four Day Weekend, an improv troupe performing at Caravan of Dreams on weekends.

Dance

Dance offers three fine choices: Contemporary Dance Fort Worth, with a lively repertoire and a full season of performances; North Texas Ballet Theatre, a non-profit youth ballet company that provides performance experience to pre-professionals while promoting ballet in the community; and Fort Worth Dallas Ballet, a thriving joint venture with a board and a full season in each city. The troupe performs at the Bass in Fort Worth and the Music Hall at Fair Park in Dallas.

Family Favorites

A variety of other entertainment options may be found in and around Fort Worth. The Log Cabin Village, for example, is a group of seven restored nineteenth century cabins inside Trinity Park where you will get another one of those living history lessons. Daily demonstrations of pioneer life include candle-dipping, corn grinding, spinning, and weaving. There's a little museum and gift shop, too. And speaking of Trinity Park, it's a must-visit oasis of trees, grass and, of course, water not far from downtown. There are 32 miles of multi-use trails as well as playgrounds, picnic areas, and restrooms. You can find a festival or some sort of celebration here almost any time of year.

For 17 acres of manmade water fun, take the kids to NRH2O, where there are attractions for every age from a water choo-choo to a 65-foot tall water coaster and a breathtaking waterfall drop ride. Concession stands and picnic space are plentiful. In stark contrast, the Tandy Center Ice Rink offers year-round ice-skating right in the Fort Worth Outlet Mall. Admission to the rink also pays for skate rental; the food court will help keep skater's energy levels high—and Mom and Dad can shop while the kids skate, if you prefer. Inside the Miller Brewery you'll find the Brew Kettle Museum and Pub, where you can enjoy a multi-media presentation of the history of Miller Brewing Company. Purchase all kinds of logo souvenirs from golf bags to glassware and Rusty Wallace autographed NASCAR memorabilia—all at the Miller Marketplace. And back to outdoor fun, try Berger's Lake, a former fish hatchery that's as close as you'll get to the swimming hole of your childhood. There are all the amenities you'd expect in a family park; the lake boasts 14 floating tubes, a fountain, and even a trapeze for "swingin' and droppin'."

Racing

Finally, if racing is your bag, there are two fabulous places less than an hour away for watching the best of the best: Lone Star Park and Texas Motor Speedway. Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie, open 313 days a year, features both live and simulcast (from other premier racetracks) thoroughbred horse racing. Some of the top jockeys and trainers in the country work here, where you'll sometimes see purses exceeding USD1 million. Texas Motor Speedway in Roanoke offers a full roster of NASCAR, Indy, hot rod, and Grand Prix racing almost year round. Campgrounds nearby are plentiful, as are RV hookups. You can tour the facility whether there's a race or not.

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Bass Performance Hall

Majestic concert hall in Sundance Square

555 Commerce Street
Fort Worth, TX 76102
United States
+1 817 212 4325
http://www.basshall.com/

Towering angels blow a fanfare as they watch over this magnificent Sundance Square concert hall, which was modeled after New York City's Carnegie Hall. Great care was given to assure that this space provides the best acoustics possible. Bass Performance Hall opened in 1998 as a venue for the acclaimed Van Cliburne International Piano Competition, an event held every four years. The hall also serves as home to the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, the Fort Worth Dallas Ballet and the Fort Worth Opera. Visiting companies of all kinds: opera, modern dance, Broadway musical, etc. perform in this elegant, majestic space. Valet parking and group discount rates are available.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Bass Performance Hall photo by Chris Zúniga

Photo: Chris Zúniga

Bass Performance Hall photo by Rob Rummel-Hudson

Photo: Rob Rummel-Hudson

Bass Performance Hall photo by Ben McLeod

Photo: Ben McLeod

Bass Performance Hall photo by David Piske

Photo: David Piske

Bass Performance Hall photo by michelle love

Photo: michelle love

Bass Performance Hall photo by thebatemans

Photo: thebatemans

Bass Performance Hall photo by Ronnie Pope

Photo: Ronnie Pope

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Photo: Jon Geib

Bass Performance Hall photo by mandy woodbury

Photo: mandy woodbury

Bass Performance Hall photo by Chris Deever

Photo: Chris Deever

Bass Performance Hall photo by Eric Kiel

Photo: Eric Kiel

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Bass Performance Hall photo by Mandy L Thompson

Photo: Mandy L Thompson

Bass Performance Hall photo by Richard Threlkeld

Photo: Richard Threlkeld

Bass Performance Hall photo by Texan gurl

Photo: Texan gurl

Bass Performance Hall photo by Sherri Rado

Photo: Sherri Rado

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Photo: Gemma Steel

Bass Performance Hall photo by Phoenix Flames Inc.

Photo: Phoenix Flames Inc.

Bass Performance Hall photo by Roger Pauner

Photo: Roger Pauner

Bass Performance Hall photo by Robyn Young

Photo: Robyn Young

Bass Performance Hall photo by Cecilia Gonzales

Photo: Cecilia Gonzales

Photo: NFKILLER

Billy Bob's Texas

Live music and loads of fun 2520 Rodeo Plaza
Fort Worth, TX 76106
United States
+1 817 624 7117
http://www.billybobstexas.com/ This cavernous honky-tonk is America's "Best Country Music Nightclub," according to both the Country Music Association and The Academy of Country Music. It's also one of the largest and most famous. Founded in 1981, Billy Bob's Texas offers enough room for 6,000 people to drink, shoot pool, play video games, or dance to the live country music performed every night. Rodeo enthusiasts will enjoy the indoor arena where cowboys ride bucking bulls every friday and saturday night. Friday and saturday night headliners are often among the biggest names in the industry, including Garth Brooks, Lee Ann Rimes, Hank Williams Jr. and Bob Hope. All have left handprints, which are displayed in concrete around the club. It's recommended that you call the box office for weekend concert ticket prices, before visiting.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Lee Gillen

Casa Mañana

Acclaimed Theater 3101 West Lancaster Ave
Fort Worth, TX 76107
United States
+1 817 332 2272
http://www.casamanana.org This historic theater was created by Henry Kaiser, following examples and design principles set by famous architect R. Buckminster Fuller. Casa Mañana features a modified thrust stage with a seating area of 1,045. Entertainers such as Bill Cosby, Johnny Mathis and Barry Manilow have performed here. In addition, Broadway touring productions including Cats and Miss Saigon have thrilled visitors with spectacular sets and performances. Casa Mañana also serves as the location for the children's theatre with support from a national endowment for the Arts grant. Call ahead for current program information and times.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Michael Burt

Circle Theatre

Established theater presents comedies with a Southwestern flair 230 West Fourth St
Fort Worth, TX 76102
United States
+1 817 877 3040
http://www.circletheatre.com/ A highlight of downtown and a Fort Worth landmark, the Circle Theatre is located underground. The theater was founded in 1981 and has been a hit ever since. Around a half dozen shows, covering a variety of themes, are presented annually. Their mission is to present professional, contemporary plays in an intimate, 125 seating area. Student tickets for any remaining seats are available at half-price beginning half an hour before shows. Complimentary valet parking is available.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Circle Theatre photo by wcities
Photo: wcities

Kimbell Art Museum

Brilliant use of light and space 3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard
Fort Worth, TX 76107-2792
United States
+1 817 332 8451 / +1 817 654 1034
http://www.kimbellart.org/ Architect Louis I. Kahn won an award from the American Institute of Architects for this building's striking design. He has used a series of arched glass ceilings to let in natural light and enhance the presentation of the many important pieces in the museum collection. Artworks come from all over the world and range from ancient times to present day, with maestros such as Renoir, Picasso, Rubens and Rembrandt represented. Those desiring more exotic artworks will enjoy the Asian, African and Mediterranean collections. The Buffet Restaurant is open daily, offering different kinds of light fare depending on the time of day. Museum tours take place Wednesdays at 2p and Sundays at 3p.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: UncaMikey
Photo: Robert Plumb
Photo: Lydia Heard
Photo: Steve Moddelmog
Photo: julián gonzález
Photo: Heidi Bertman
Photo: Todd Trimmer
Photo: Kevin (Kevbo) Graves

Photo: Heidi Bertman
Photo: Summer Smith
Photo: Chris Fox
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Photo: Monika Salo-Noeth
Photo: Jquantz
Photo: Andrew Shockley
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Photo: Jacqueline Poggi
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Log Cabin Village

19th-century log cabins in authentic detail 2100 Log Cabin Village Lane
(at University Drive)
Fort Worth, TX 76109
United States
+1 817 926 5881
http://www.logcabinvillage.org/ Located in a very woodsy section of Trinity Park, this 19th-century grouping of log cabins is a true delight. The seven fully restored cabins originated in the 1850s. Volunteers who run the operation are adept at giving demonstrations of everyday activities from days gone by including corn grinding, candle dipping, spinning and weaving. Special programs such as pioneer pastimes are often held, showing children how people lived in pioneer times with examples of art, crafts and other displays. See website for admission prices and more.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: John McDonald
Photo: John McDonald
Photo: Robert Langley

NRH2O

Huge family fun water park beckons all to enjoy 9001 Grapevine Highway
(at Precinct Line Road)
Fort Worth, TX 76180
United States
+1 817 656 6500
http://www.nrh2o.com/ Manmade river twists and turns through trees and flowers at this 17-acre water park, a perfect spot for children of all ages. One highlight is the green extreme, a water roller coaster measuring 65 feet tall and 1,161 feet long. With its myriad twists and turns, this ride,deemed the world's largest uphill water coaster, is everyone's favorite. The endless river offers the opportunity for a relaxing ride on a lazy summer day, while NRH2Ocean is a 12,000-square-foot wave pool. On Friday nights, "dive-in" movies are shown on a screen that is readily viewable from anywhere in this pool.

Review © 2007, Wcities

NRH2O photo by wcities
Photo: wcities

Texas Christian University

Liberal arts college on tree-filled campus 2800 South University Drive
Fort Worth, TX 76129
United States
+1 817 257 7000
http://www.tcu.edu/ Texas Christian University enrolls 7,600 graduate and undergraduate students per year. 79 undergraduate majors are available in six schools: education, business, fine arts, arts and science, nursing and divinity. The Horned Frogs compete at the NCAA Division IA-level in football, basketball, baseball, volleyball, and 15 other sports. Banners lining the campus streets proudly display purple and white colors. Randolph and Addison Clark first tried to build a college in Fort Worth in 1869, but briefly moved the site to Thorp Springs in 1873. Another move to Waco followed in 1895. After the Waco campus was destroyed by fire, the school made its final move back to Fort Worth in 1910.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Britta Gregor
Photo: Texas Finn
Photo: Gabe Grote

The Miller Marketplace

Miller Brewing Company retail store 7009 South Freeway
(I-35W at Sycamore School Road)
Fort Worth, TX 76134-4001
United States
+1 817 568 2337 It's "Miller Time" all the time at the Marketplace, located inside the Miller Brewery just 10 minutes south of downtown Fort Worth. Shoppers can purchase bar accessories, golf bags, glassware, Tommy Hilfiger shirts and even autographed memorabilia from NASCAR racing great Rusty Wallace—all sporting the Miller logo.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Trinity Park

Scenic park with 32 miles of trails 2401 University Drive
(at I-30)
Fort Worth, TX 76107
United States
+1 817 871 7698 Traveling through Fort Worth near downtown and the cultural district, Trinity Park winds along the river of the same name. Shakespeare's plays are presented in an amphitheater just off Seventh Street in a large area amid trees and slopes. The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is opposite the University Drive, a few blocks north of I-30. The trails that span the entire park have played host to annual events such as the American Heart Walk and Mayfest. The paved multi-use hiking/biking trail serves joggers, skaters and runners. There are many playgrounds, shelters, picnic areas and restrooms scattered throughout.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Jennifer Arnett
Photo: Jennifer Arnett
Photo: Amy Jones
Photo: 19melissa68

White Elephant Saloon

Old West Saloon in the Stockyards 106 E Exchange Ave
Fort Worth, TX 76106
United States
+1 817 624 8273
http://www.whiteelephantsaloon... Sporting an authentic Old West saloon ambiance, the White Elephant Saloon has been named among Esquire magazine's 100 Best Bars in America. Memorabilia found in the White Elephant Saloon memorializes the Fort Worth Stockyard's past. You will also find a wonderful collection of elephant artifacts, statues and toys given to the bar by appreciative patrons from around the world, from Germany to Thailand. Country and western music is played every night. The food is the usual bar fare, made specifically to complement the drinks and entertainment.

Review © 2007, Wcities

Photo: Molly Warnke
Photo: Derkoslaw

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