Things To Do Around DFW: Krewe of Barkus, A Night at the Movies, FWSSR, Disney's Aladdin and more

Mardi Gras dog
Photo credit Drazen Zigic/GettyImages

February is here and there are plenty of things to do around North Texas this weekend. KRLD's John Liddle takes you around town.

17th Annual Lunar New Year

Celebrate the 2024 Lunar New Year: Year of the Dragon at Asia Times Square in Grand Prairie. For the first two weekends there will be food and merchandise vendors along with live entertainment and daily lion dances. On February 10 and 11 enjoy the firecracker event with lion and dragon dances.

Where: Asia Times Square, 2625 W Pioneer Pkwy, Grand Prairie

When: February 2-4; February 10-11

Cost: Free

More info: https://asiatimessquare.com/events/lny2024/

The 39 Steps

London, 1935. The rather dull Richard Hannay encounters a woman who claims to be a spy. But, when she’s suddenly murdered, Richard finds himself the focus of a nationwide manhunt led by a mysterious organization called “The 39 Steps.” This fast-paced whodunit combines a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel (plus a dash of Monty Python), and features nonstop laughs, over 150 zany characters (played by a ridiculously talented cast of four), an onstage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers, and some good old-fashioned romance! A farcical tale of an ordinary man on an extraordinarily entertaining adventure!
Where: Irving Arts Center, 3333 N MacArthur Blvd, Irving
When: February 1-3

Cost: $24 and up

More info: https://mainstageirving.com/the-39-steps/

Artemisia

Artemisia Gentileschi was the most celebrated female painter of the 17th century, yet her name was all but lost for centuries. Attacked at just seventeen, publicly shamed and tortured to prove her truth, Gentileschi continues to fight for her art and the freedom to make it on her own terms.

Gunderson’s Artemisia is a work of humor and warmth which celebrates the courage, artistry, and humanity of a woman who attacked the glass ceiling with every brush stroke.

Where: Circle Theatre, 230 W 4th St, Fort Worth

When: Feb 1-3; Feb 8-10; Feb 15-17; Feb 22-24

Cost: $37 and up

More info: https://www.circletheatre.com/artemisia

Atsuko Okatsuka: Full Grown Tour

Atsuko Okatsuka’s distinctive comedic style has been captivating audiences nationwide, earning her appearances on prominent platforms such as Hulu, HBO, and Comedy Central.

Where: Texas Theatre, 231 Jefferson Blvd, Dallas

When: Friday, February 2 at 7:00 p.m.

Cost: Sold Out

More info: https://atsukocomedy.com/

Billy Bob’s: DYLAN SCOTT (Fri) / CASEY DONAHEW (Sat)

Where: Billy Bob’s Fort Worth
When: Friday at 10 p.m., Saturday at 10 p.m.

Cost: $20-$45

More info: https://billybobstexas.com/events

Bob Wills' Texas Playboys

When Texas Playboys front man Jason Roberts steps onto a stage with his fiddle and utters his first “AH-ha” of the evening, western-swing fans know they're seeing and hearing nothing less than the living embodiment of a tradition that stretches all the way back to 1933. Catch this special show featuring Matt Tedder on Saturday night in Dallas.

Where: Longhorn Ballroom, 216 Corinth St, Dallas
When: Saturday, February 3 at 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $22 and up

More info: https://www.prekindle.com/promo/id/532452770930220120

Craig Robinson

Beginning as a stand-up comedian, Robinson first made his mark in the comedy circuit at the 1998 Montreal “Just For Laughs'' Festival. Now headlining venues and festivals across the country, he does both solo acts as well as full-band sets with his band “The Nasty Delicious.” Before deciding to pursue his comedy career full time, Robinson was a K-8 teacher in the Chicago Public School System. Craig is best known for his portrayal of Daryl Philban in NBC’s “The Office” but has also starred in such movies as KNOCKED UP, THIS IS THE END, and HOT TUB TIME MACHINE.

Where: The Addison Improv, Addison
When: February 1-4

Cost: $45 and up

More info: https://improvtx.com/addison/comic/craig+robinson/

DSO: Sibelius Violin Concerto

Sibelius’s stylistic strengths are on full display in a program opened by his adventurous tone poem En saga and technically challenging Violin Concerto. Of his late-Romantic work, Sibelius wrote: “I begin already dimly to see the mountain that I shall certainly ascend. God opens his door for a moment and his orchestra plays the Fifth Symphony.” Inspired by a silver-ribbon-like flight of sixteen swans, the spellbinding finale ends with six crashing chords, each separated from the next by a stunning silence. At this concert, Donald Runnicles returns to lead your celestial orchestra — the DSO.
Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas
When: Thursday, February 1 - Saturday, February 3

Cost: $42 and up

More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/sibelius-violin-concerto/

Dallas Arboretum - $5 Admission

Think nothing happens at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden during the winter? Think again. There’s plenty to see and experience at one of Dallas’ gems. And from now through February 23, discounted admission is just $5.

Where: Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas

When: January 6 - February 23

Cost: $5

More info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/visitor-information/

Dallas Open

The week-long Dallas Open tournament will showcase the top men’s singles and doubles talent including top American players - Frances Tiafoe (ranked No. 14 in the world), Tommy Paul (No. 15), Ben Shelton (No. 16) and 2022 Dallas Open Champion Reilly Opelka.

Where: Styslinger / Altec Tennis Complex (at SMU), 5669 N Central Expy, Dallas

When: February 3-11

Cost: Varies

More info: https://www.dallasopen.com/en/

Deep Ellum First Friday

It’s a celebratory night for art, food, music and culture in historic Deep Ellum on the first Friday of every month. Sip & Shop with complementary mocktails, do a pedal bike progressive happy hour, participate in the Murals and Margs mural tour, or enjoy the Live Art Series with Melanie Hardy Mcvey.

Where: Deep Ellum, Dallas

When: Friday, February 2 from 5-8 pm (Also March 1, April 5)

Cost: Free

More info: https://deepellumfirstfridays.com/

Disney's Aladdin

Discover a whole new world at Disney’s ALADDIN, the hit Broadway musical. It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite.  ALADDIN features all your favorite songs from the film as well as new music written by Tony® and Academy Award® winner Alan Menken (Newsies) with lyrics penned by the legendary Howard Ashman (Beauty and the Beast), Tony Award® winner Tim Rice (The Lion King, Aida), and book writer Chad Beguelin (The Wedding Singer). Disney recommends this production for ages 6 and up.

Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth

When: January 31 - February 4

Cost: $72 and up

More info

Elephant & Piggie’s “We Are in a Play!”

Get ready for the play to end all plays – led by two best friends – with very different perspectives. The ever–upbeat Piggie is thrilled to be on stage, while Elephant is a bit busy hoping nothing goes "terribly, horribly, best–friendship endingly wrong" during the duration of the performance. He's getting there... Anything can happen in this goofy, heartfelt show that is sure to have audiences laughing hard.

Where: Dallas Children's Theater, 5938 Skillman St, Dallas

When: February 3-4; February 10-11; February 17-18; February 24-25

Cost: $20 and up

More info: https://www.dct.org/plays/

FWBG: Dinosaurs Around the World: The Great Outdoors

See Dinosaurs Around the World, Jan. 26 through May 30. Created in collaboration with a world-renowned dinosaur paleontologist, Dr. Gregory M. Erickson, this outdoor exhibit will feature advanced animatronic dinosaurs from every continent, a multi-layered narrative, and cutting-edge research for visitors to explore. Travel back to the Age of Reptiles and experience what it was like when dinosaurs walked the Earth!

Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth

When: January 26 - May 30

Cost: Included with general admission: $6 - $12

More info: https://fwbg.org/events/dinosaurs/

FWBG: FLORIGAMIINTHEGARDEN

Enjoy a new outdoor sculpture exhibition by Santa Fe artists Jennifer and Kevin Box. The show presents a fresh look at paper folding in the 21st Century with large-scale origami-inspired metal sculptures. Emerging butterflies, big birds, grazing deer, and blooming flowers all celebrate the process of plant pollination. The colorful, whimsical, and kinetic sculptures were created in collaboration with modern masters of paper folding: Robert J. Lang, Michael G. LaFosse and Beth Johnson. Their intricate folds have been transformed into monumental metal sculptures by Kevin Box and his studio team to inspire, educate and entertain audiences in the outdoor setting of public gardens.

Where: Fort Worth Botanic Garden, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth

When: August 19 - February 14

Cost: $6 - $12

More info: https://fwbg.org/events/florigami/

FWMSH: “Black Cowboys: An American Story”

Did you know that one of four cowboys who went on the trail was Black?  Black Cowboys: An American Story explores the lives and work of the numerous Black men, women and children – enslaved and free – who labored on the ranches of Texas and participated on cattle drives before the Civil War through the turn of the twentieth century.

This powerful exhibition features artifacts, photographs and documents depicting the work and skills of Black cowboys.  Black Cowboys: An American Story offers insight into legendary cowboys, a clearer picture of the Black West and a more diverse portrait of the American West.

Where: Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, Fort Worth

When: January 23 - April 13

Cost: Included with general admission: $12 - $16

More info: https://www.fwmuseum.org/calendar/black-cowboys/

Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo

Prepare to be awed by the legendary Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo! Since 1896 this event has been the epitome of the authentic western lifestyle. With 23 thrilling days, it encapsulates all that makes Fort Worth one of the best cities in the world.

The rodeo lineup includes the Best of the West Ranch Rodeo, the vibrant Best of Mexico Celebración, the Cowboys of Color Rodeo, the adrenaline-pumping Bulls Night Out Extreme Bull Riding, and the Texas Champions Challenge. The grand finale, the FWSSR PRO RODEO Tournament, takes place in the world's most spectacular rodeo venue – Dickies Arena.

But that's not all! The FWSSR offers captivating livestock and horse shows, family-friendly activities and exhibits, live music, a lively carnival midway, fantastic shopping, delectable food, and so much more. Hours for the Stock Show grounds are 8 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. daily.

Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth & surrounding venues

When: January 12 - February 3

Cost: General Admission - Adults - $12, Kids ages 6 to 16 - $6, Kids 5 and under - free
Seats for rodeo performances are separate and when purchased include grounds admission.

More info: https://www.fwssr.com/

FWSSR Concert Series: PAM TILLIS + LITTLE TEXAS - FEBRUARY 1 and JAMEY JOHNSON - FEBRUARY 3

The concert series concludes with Pam Tillis & Little Texas and Jamey Johnson this weekend at the Will Rogers Auditorium.

Where: Will Rogers Auditorium, Fort Worth

When: Thursday, February 1 and Saturday, February 3 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $16 & Up (Tillis) / $46 & Up (Johnson)

More info: https://www.fwssr.com/p/plan-a-visit/auditorium-entertainment

Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue

Miami’s sassiest seniors have returned for one more hurrah. 2024 finds Sophia out on bail, after being busted by the DEA for running a drug ring for retirees. Blanche and Rose have founded CreakN, a thriving sex app for seniors. And Dorothy is trying to hold it all together, with help from her much younger, sex-crazed love interest. Relive the heartfelt hilarity of four ladies who never stopped being your friends! (Performed by an all male cast)

Where: Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre, Dallas

When: January 30 - February 4

Cost: $45 and up

More info: https://attpac.org/event/golden-girls

Groundhog Day Celebration at Grandscape

They’re Groundhog Day at Grandscape in The Colony! Enjoy selfies with Gary the Groundhog, decorating themed crafts, and grab your very own DIY Groundhog “Dirt Pie'' to take home and enjoy. They’ll also be casting predictions, so get ready to submit your vote on if spring is on the way, or if winter is here to stay. They’re also screening the classic film Groundhog Day at 6:30 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. Showings are free and seating is first-come, first-serve.

Where: Grandscape’s Galaxy Theatres, 5752 Grandscape Blvd, The Colony

When: Friday, February 2 from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Cost: Free

More Info: https://www.grandscape.com/event/groundhog-day-celebration/2024-02-02/

I Am Delivered't

Good Friday. The New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church’s Seven Last Words service is in full swing. But outside – in the church parking lot – another resurrection story is taking shape. Sis, the Vice President of Usher Board Number One and her protégé Pickles, find themselves in a battle royale of romantic quagmires. This joyful new comedy introduces theater audiences to the world of Church Usher Board culture and celebrates same gender loving church folks, and the power and joy of being your authentic self. These are the announcements. Let us govern ourselves accordingly.

Where: Kalita Humphreys Theater, 3636 Turtle Creek Blvd, Dallas

When: February 2-4; February 6-11; February 13-18

Cost: $25.50 and up

More Info: https://dallastheatercenter.org/shows/i-am-deliveredt/

I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change

Presented as a series of vignettes, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change is a touching musical comedy about all of love’s greatest challenges: dating, sex, marriage and family.

Where: Theatre Three, 2688 Laclede St, Dallas

When: February 1-4; February 8-11; February 15-18; February 22-25

Cost: $40 and up

More Info: https://www.theatre3dallas.com/shows-tickets/

Ice Cream For Breakfast Day

Have you ever had ice cream for breakfast? MELT Ice Creams is set to host their highly anticipated annual Ice Cream For Breakfast Day Celebration. This delightful event invites visitors to trade in their traditional cereal for a scoop of MELT's delectable ice cream, offering a uniquely sweet way to kickstart the day. Adding to the excitement, the event will showcase a selection of fresh breakfast-inspired flavors, ensuring a truly delightful morning experience.

Where: MELT Ice Creams, 1201 W Magnolia Ave Ste 115, Fort Worth

When: Saturday, February 3 at 9:00 a.m.

Cost: Free

More Info: https://www.melticecreams.com/

Jason Boland & the Stragglers: Delectric Tour '24 with special guest Logan Halstead

For the past 20 years, Jason Boland & the Stragglers have dazzled audiences all over as one of the leading ambassadors of the Oklahoma and Texas music movement.

Where: The Kessler Theater, Dallas

When: Friday, February 2 at 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $28 and up

More Info: https://thestragglers.com/

Krewe of Barkus Parade

Krewe of Barkus is a Mardi Gras Dog Parade put on by the city of McKinney, celebrating its 22nd year. This year’s theme is Texas…saluting the Lone Star State! So put on your boots and hold on to your cowboy hats. They’ll be celebrating everything Texas: the history, culture, cuisine, crazy characters, and don't forget the Texas State Fair! There are dog costume awards for: Best in Show, Most Creative and Best Dog-Owner Combo

Where: Dr. Glenn Mitchell Memorial Park,  300 W. Louisiana St., McKinney

When: Sunday, February 4 from 12:30 - 4 p.m. (Dog registration by February 3)

Cost: Free to attend, $5 per dog

More Info: https://www.mckinneytexas.org/674/Krewe-of-Barkus

Mania: The ABBA Tribute

Mania recreates ABBA’s sound not only perfectly, but respectfully too. Mania is not only for lifelong, die-hard ABBA fans but the new generation of fans, who never had the opportunity to see ABBA live.

Where: Majestic Theater, Dallas

When: Friday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $23 and up

More Info: https://maniatheshow.com/us/tour-dates/

Meow Wolf: The Real Unreal

Is it real? Is it a dream? Is it Meow Wolf’s fourth permanent exhibition? Yes. Get to know the unknown in this brand new, mind-bending, interactive art experience located at Grapevine Mills. Explore the transformative power of creative energy at Meow Wolf’s The Real Unreal. When an ordinary family encounters the extraordinary, an inspiring tale of chosen family, community, and the power of imagination unfolds within a mesmerizing, interactive artscape. Featuring a massive collaboration between Texas and Santa Fe based artists, Meow Wolf Grapevine expands into a new era of art and storytelling.

Where: Meow Wolf Grapevine, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy Suite 253, Grapevine

When: Daily

Cost: $40 and up

More Info: https://meowwolf.com/

The Modern Lights: Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

The Modern trees are illuminated with an array of festive lights in celebration of the holiday season. Passersby experience a stunning display, and visitors are invited to enjoy evening viewing opportunities. The museum galleries are open with free admission until 8 pm on Fridays.

Where: Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, 3200 Darnell St., Fort Worth

When: Daily through February 4

Cost: Free

More info: https://www.themodern.org/modern-lights

The Nazarene – The Way, The Truth, and The Life

The most important story of mankind, told through interactive visual installations.

The state-of-the-art technology with breathtaking 3D set designs, lighting and panoramic sound will immerse you in the magnitude of the word of God, bringing to life scenes from the New Testament. You can look over the shoulder of Jesus, stand in the place of the apostles and walk the path of faith side by side with the Savior.

Where: LOOK Dine-in Cinemas Dallas

When: August 25-March 31

Cost: $34.50

More Info: https://thenazarenexp.com/

A Night at the Movies: Good vs. Evil
A tribute to some of our favorite Hollywood heroes and villains.  Are they good or evil? You decide! Gary Cogill, longtime film critic for WFAA, will share his insights as our guest commentator. The program includes beloved film scores which reveal the emotional impact of cinema’s most celebrated characters. From Erich Korngold (“The Adventures of Robin Hood”) to Bernard Herrmann (“Psycho”) to John Williams (“Jaws”) to John Barry (“Dances With Wolves.”)
Where: Eisemann Center, Richardson
When: Saturday, February 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $22 and up
More info: https://www.eisemanncenter.com/event/i/9275/d/rso-a-night-at-the-movies

Rennie Harris Puremovement: Rome & Jewels

Formed in 1992 by Dr. Rennie Harris, Puremovement – American Street Dance Theater has emerged as an international Hip-hop and Street dance ambassador. Known for creating work that utilizes hip-hop movement, as well as finding its voice in theater, Harris pioneers a new genre, while bringing hip-hop culture to the proscenium stage. Hailed as an Elizabethan masterpiece, Rome & Jewels is based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, reimagined in the streets of Philadelphia. Rome & Jewels won 3 Bessie Awards, a Shakespeare Theater Award, and a nomination for United Kingdom’s prestigious Lawrence Olivier award, to name just a few.
Where: Moody Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas
When: February 2-3 at 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $26 and up
More info: https://attpac.org/event/rennie-harris-puremovement

Rusalka (from Opera Arlington)

Based on Hans Christian Andersen's The Little Mermaid and Slavic folklore, this magical tale will transport you into a fantasy forest, where a water nymph yearns for the love of a human prince, and an evil witch plots her downfall. But is it the witch's curse that will bring her demise, or the fickleness of the human heart?
Immerse yourself in Antonín Dvořák's breathtaking melodies and witness a cast of DFW's opera stars in this monumental Czech opera from the year 1900. Presented with Jaroslav Kvapil's original Czech text with English supertitles, this production will be performed with chamber orchestra (arranged by Michael Withers), conducted by Jason Lim and directed by Eliza Escalante.
Where: Tate Springs Baptist Church, 4201 Little Rd, Arlington
When: February 2 and February 3 at 7:00 p.m.
Cost: $15 and up
More info: https://www.operaarlington.com/rusalka

Sensing Deep Space: Pandora's Cluster

"Journeying into the Cosmos: Pandora's Cluster Unveiled" is a multi-sensory encounter that seamlessly intertwines the realms of art and science, guiding guests through the enigmatic Pandora's Cluster region of space to offer an immersive understanding of the celestial expanse.
Within the mesmerizing Pandora's Cluster, a distant and awe-inspiring realm beyond the reach of human exploration, a convergence of artistic ingenuity and scientific innovation now grants access.
Thanks to the groundbreaking James Webb Space Telescope, which has revolutionized our ability to explore the depths of space, a gateway to the seemingly unreachable cosmos has been opened. This advancement has also paved the way for a unique installation that transcends the confines of terrestrial experience, allowing visitors to embark on a journey into the previously uncharted.
Where: Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Dr, Richardson
When: February 1-4
Cost: Free w/ RSVP
More info: https://www.sciartex.net/sensingdeepspace.html

Seussical Jr.
Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat, and all of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in  Seussical TYA, a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony Award winners Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty. With catchy music and heartwarming tales, this is sure to be a family favorite. This show is suitable for all audiences.
Where: Casa Mañana, Fort Worth
When: February 3-4; February 9-11; February 17-18
Cost: $24 and up
More info: https://casamanana.org/events/seussical/

Scott Joplin Chamber Orchestra of Houston
The African American Museum, Dallas (AAM), is proud to announce The Scott Joplin Chamber Orchestra of Houston Concert, on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 5 p.m. The event will be hosted at The Black Academy of Arts and Letters’ Bruton Theater, at 1309 Canton St. in Dallas.
This performance marks the orchestra's eighth appearance in Dallas and serves as a tribute to the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, celebrating its profound influence on American culture.
Where: Black Academy of Arts and Letters’ Bruton Theater, 1309 Canton St., Dallas.
When: Saturday, February 3 at 5:00 p.m.
Cost: $15 and up
More info: https://www.tbaal.org/

Tina: The Tina Turner Musical
There was only one. Her voice was undeniably captivating. Her passion burned unceasingly. Her triumph stood unparalleled.
"TINA – The Tina Turner Musical" tells a heartwarming comeback story like no other, portraying the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and rose to become the Queen of Rock n’ Roll.
Tina Turner, one of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, has earned an impressive 12 Grammy Awards®, and her live performances have been witnessed by millions, surpassing all other solo performers in music history in ticket sales.
Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall and directed by the internationally acclaimed Phyllida Lloyd, this musical features Tina's beloved songs and pays tribute to her enduring legacy.
Where: Music Hall at Fair Park, Dallas
When: January 23 - February 4
Cost: $30 a person
More info: https://dallas.broadway.com/shows/tina-the-tina-turner-musical/

Tool

Progressive metal band Tool comes to Dallas on their North American tour. Tool's music is celebrated for its depth and complexity, making them one of the most iconic and influential bands in the world of rock and metal. Tool is playing with special guests, Elder.
Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas
When: Friday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Sold out - but you can find resale tickets
More info: https://www.americanairlinescenter.com/events/detail/tool-24

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Drazen Zigic/GettyImages