Things To Do Around DFW: Rangers Fan Fest, Denton Black Film Festival, Lunar New Year and more

Year of the Dragon
Photo credit Alix Tran Duc/GettyImages

It's not just a weekend, it's a chance to make every moment count. KRLD's John Liddle takes us 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: January 26-28; 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: January 26-28; February 1-3

Cost: $24 and up

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

Billy Bob’s: PAT GREEN (Sat) 

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

Cost: $20-$65

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

Collin Raye

Get ready for an unforgettable night with country music legend Collin Raye, as he takes the stage to serenade you with his timeless hits!
Where: Arlington Music Hall, 224 N Center St, Arlington
When: Friday, January 26 at 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $43 and up

More info: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/collin-raye-tickets-730942206817

DMA: "Between Wonder and Seduction"

Assembling nearly all his known surviving works, Abraham Ángel: Between Wonder and Seduction introduces U.S. audiences to this legendary artist with the first major survey of his work in over 35 years. During his brief three-year career, Ángel developed a unique artistic style that successfully captured the rapidly changing society and culture of Mexico in the early 20th century. Despite his work sometimes being overshadowed by his tragic death, Ángel’s compelling paintings cemented his status as a pivotal figure in the history of modern Mexican art. See the vibrant and captivating works of Abraham Ángel with the premiere of this ambitious retrospective.

Where: 1717 North Harwood, Dallas

When: September 10, 2023 - January 28, 2024

Cost: Free

More info: https://dma.org/art/exhibitions/abraham-angel-between-wonder-and-seduction

DSO: Rajaton Sings Queen

Revisit your favorite Queen songs with Finnish sensation, Rajaton. The six-person singing group, accompanied by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, will sing Queen’s greatest hits including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “I Want It All,” “Somebody to Love,” “We Are The Champions” and many more.

Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, Dallas

When: January 26-29

Cost: $46 and up

More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/rajaton-sings-queen/

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 Opera: The Linda and Mitch Hart Institute for Women Conductors Showcase Concert

A festive concert of opera selections that showcases some of the world’s most brilliant young conductors. Each conductor will lead The Dallas Opera Orchestra in several pieces from one opera, sung by some of the country’s top singers from the cast of Elektra. The conductors and orchestra will be projected onto a large screen on stage providing a unique view of the performers and conducting style.

Where: Winspear Opera House, Dallas

When: Sunday, January 28 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $15-$50

More info: https://dallasopera.org/performance/hart-institute-showcase-concert-2024/

Denton Black Film Festival

This year, the Denton Black Film Festival highlights the importance of sharing and celebrating Joy within the Black community and beyond. It commemorates positivity, freedom, and the fulfillment of being oneself. The Denton Black Film Festival has evolved into a five-day event that allows guests to immerse themselves in some of the finest artistic showcases of cinema, music, spoken word, art, and more. The festival is known for its inclusivity, celebrating with everyone as it showcases Black Culture!

Where: Theatre Denton, 214 W Hickory St, Denton

When: January 24 - January 28

Cost: $10 and up

More info: https://dentonbff.com/film-festival/

Dog Man: The Musical

Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious, heartfelt family adventure based on the worldwide bestselling series from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants and Cat Kid Comic Club.

Best buds George and Harold have been creating comics for years, but now that they’re in 5th grade, they figure it’s time to level up and write a musical based on their favorite character, Dog Man, the crime-biting sensation who is part dog, part man, and ALL HERO!! How hard could it be?

Where: Wyly Theatre, 2400 Flora St, Dallas

When: Jan 25-28

Cost: $35 and up

More info: https://attpac.org/event/dog-man-the-musical

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: January 27-28; 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/

FWSO: "Edusei conducts Mahler’s Seventh"

Hailed for his “tasteful restraint and explosive energy” by The Guardian, German conductor Kevin John Edusei’s star is on a meteoric rise. In January, he returns to Fort Worth for a single work, Mahler’s epic Symphony No. 7, a symphony of such towering majesty that it demands a program all to itself. The symphony traces a day’s journey from dawn to dusk, from the “religious vision” of the first movement through the snarking, biting scherzo and boisterous C Major conclusion.

Where: Bass Performance Hall, Fort Worth

When: January 26 - January 28

Cost: $26 and up

More info

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: Tanya Tucker

Tanya Tucker plays Friday night as part of the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo's Auditorium Entertainment Series. Her most recent album came out in 2023: “Sweet Western Sound.”

Where: Will Rogers Auditorium, Fort Worth

When: Friday, January 26 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $27 and up

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

Fort Worth Opera: The Tragedy of Carmen

Part of the Civic Impact and Hattie Mae Lesley Resident Artists season in collaboration with I.M. Terrell Academy.

"The Tragedy of Carmen" is an adaptation of Georges Bizet's opera "Carmen," with a new libretto by Sheldon Harnick. The story follows the fiery and seductive Carmen, a cigarette factory worker in Seville, Spain, who captures the attention of soldier Don José, leading him down a destructive path of jealousy and violence. Their tumultuous relationship ultimately comes to a tragic end when Carmen chooses the glamorous toreador Escamillo over Don José, resulting in his murder of Carmen in a fit of despair. The opera explores themes of passion, betrayal, and obsession, set to the stirring melodies and rhythms of Bizet's iconic score.

Rated PG13, some material may not be suitable for children.

Where: I.M. Terrell Academy for STEM, 1411 I M Terrell Cir S, Fort Worth

When: Saturday, January 27 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, January 28 at 2 p.m.

Cost: $20 - $45

More info: https://www.fwopera.org/productions/the-tragedy-of-carmen-2024

Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience

Adventure into an illuminated forest. A nighttime woodland trail experience filled with magical creatures and wizarding wonders from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films. Set in a beautiful woodland, this experience has been brought to life by award-winning theatrical designers and experiential creators. Celebrating some of the most iconic forest scenes from the beloved film series, visitors can come face-to-face with magical creatures including a Hippogriff, Nifflers, and more. Strike your best stance for a wand duel photo before trying your hand at casting a Patronus to illuminate the dark woods.
Where: Little Elm Park, 701 W Eldorado Pkwy, Little Elm
When: Daily through January 28
Cost: $44 and up
More info: https://hpforbiddenforestexperience.com/little-elm/

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: January 25-28; February 1-4; February 8-11; February 15-18; February 22-25

Cost: $40 and up

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

Judy Collins featuring the Richardson Symphony Orchestra

Judy Collins has inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs, and a firm commitment to social activism. In the 1960s, she evoked both the idealism and steely determination of a generation united against social and environmental injustices. Five decades later, her luminescent presence shines brightly as new generations bask in the glow of her iconic 50-album body of work. Ms. Collins will be accompanied by the stellar Richardson Symphony Orchestra led by Maestro Clay Couturiaux.

Where: Eisemann Center, Richardson

When: Saturday, January 27 at 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $67 and up

More Info: https://www.eisemanncenter.com/event/i/9445/d/judy-collins-wildflower-tour

The Magic of Jen Kramer

Jen Kramer, a magical sensation, transforms the impossible into the unforgettable with her infectious smile and world-class sleight-of-hand. She headlines her own show at Westgate Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, recognized as Female Magician of the Year by the International Magicians Society. With boundless creativity, fearlessness, and extraordinary skill, Jen Kramer brings a fresh energy to the world of magic, whether turning $1 bills into $100s or crafting captivating social media magic on stage.

Where: McKinney Performing Arts Center, 111 N Tennessee St, McKinney

When: Friday, January 26 at 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $25 - $40

More Info: https://tickets.mckinneyperformingartscenter.org/TheatreManager/1/online?performance=11203

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/

Michael Jackson: The Burlesque Show

Get ready to experience the King of Pop in a whole new light! Join us for an electrifying burlesque extravaganza paying homage to the one and only Michael Jackson, where music, dance, and comedy collide for a night of entertainment you won’t forget. From the smooth moves of "Smooth Criminal" to the infectious energy of "Billie Jean," you’ll catch the performance talents of Lucille Bombay, Ruby Montana, Lil Crispy, Sylvia Topley, Cherry Antoinette, Dirty Diane, Penny Priddy, and Northern Joy.

Where: The Nines, 2911 Main St, Dallas

When: Friday, January 26 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $18 and up

More Info: https://www.uptownrevue.com/schedule/nines-january-2024

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/

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: January 25-28; February 1-4
Cost: Free w/ RSVP
More info: https://www.sciartex.net/sensingdeepspace.html

SPARK!: Family Days
SPARK! provides an all-encompassing, immersive indoor, underground play experience designed for children aged 7–17. It sparks their creativity by offering a 360-degree, interactive learning playground that encourages kids to engage with the arts and various creative fields in extraordinary ways. Throughout January, and on every alternate Saturday throughout 2024, SPARK!'s indoor playground will be open to the public, making it a perfect destination for Family Day outings.
Where: SPARK Dallas, 1409 Botham Jean Blvd., Ste. 004, Dallas
When: Saturdays from January 13 - January 27 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Cost: $15 a person
More info: https://sparkdallas.org/events/

Texas Rangers Fan Fest
On Saturday, January 27, join us for a very special Championship Edition of Fan Fest at Globe Life Field – the home of the World Champion Texas Rangers! You’ll have a chance to celebrate the team and title all day long. Take pictures with the Commissioner’s Trophy, get autographs from Rangers players and alumni, enjoy Q&A sessions with players and legends, run the bases, go deep in the Wiffle ball home run derby, and much more. The Grand Slam Team Store will also be fully stocked with World Champs merchandise! Concessions will be open during Fan Fest. And parking is FREE!
Tickets are just $10 for kids 13 years and younger and $20 for adults. Fast Passes for this year’s Fan Fest are SOLD OUT!
Where: Globe Life Field, Arlington
When: Saturday, January 27 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Cost: $10 - $20
More info: https://www.mlb.com/rangers/fans/fanfest

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/

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Alix Tran Duc/GettyImages