Things To Do Around DFW: Rangers Opening Weekend, March Madness at AAC, Disney on Ice and more

Globe Life Field
Photo credit © Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

There are plenty of great things around North Texas this Easter weekend. KRLD's John Liddle takes you around town.

Alice in Wonderland

Fall down the rabbit hole and into a world of whimsy. It’s a musical adventure that’s perfect for the whole family! Featuring daytime shows, perfect for field trips!
Where: Theatre Arlington, 305 W Main St, Arlington
When: March 29-30; April 5-6; April 12-14

Cost: $15

More info: https://theatrearlington.org/production/alice-in-wonderland/

The Big Bounce America

Featuring “The World’s Largest Bounce House,” The Big Bounce America is the biggest touring inflatable event in the world and includes eight massive inflatable attractions: the newly expanded 24,000 sq. ft. World’s Largest Bounce House; the brand-new deep sea foam party inflatable OctoBlast; the incredible 900+ ft. long obstacle course The Giant; the customized sports arena Sport Slam; and the unique, three-piece, space-themed wonderland airSPACE. It’s here for one more weekend only.
Where: Reunion Tower, 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas
When: March 29-31

Cost: $22 - $45

More info: https://thebigbounceamerica.com/event/dallas/

Billy Bob’s: THE STEELDRIVERS (Fri) / TYLER HALVERSON (Sat)

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

Cost: $18 - $28

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

Circus Vazquez

It’s fun under the big top in Frisco. Enjoy a cast of incredible circus superstars, led by Memo Vazquez (the Ringmaster).
Where: Riders Field, 7300 Rough Riders Trl, Frisco
When: March 15 - April 1

Cost: $30 and up

More info: https://circovazquez.com/

Contemporary West Dance Theatre

Contemporary West Dance Theatre (CWDT) is a multicultural nonprofit organization that was founded in March 2007 by Alvin Ailey protege Bernard H. Gaddis and Charmaine Hunter. The company has a dance methodology that integrates classical and modern paradigms with an athleticism that gives audiences a more profound dance experience. CWDT dancers are passionate, relatable and highly skilled and have been bringing virtuoso performances to the stage that have excited and inspired audiences around the world for over a decade.
Where: Eisemann Center for Performing Arts, Richardson
When: Saturday, March 30 at 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $42 and up

More info: https://www.eisemanncenter.com/event/i/9449/d/contemporary-west-dance

DSO: Mahler Symphony No. 5

For intense emotions and radiant beauty, nothing can surpass Mahler’s Fifth. A movement marked “tempestuously. With great vehemence” stands alongside the achingly beautiful Adagietto — a gift to his beloved wife Alma — scored for strings and harp alone, a kind of “resting place” before the grand drama of the finale. The legendary conductor Herbert von Karajan called the Symphony “a transformative experience.” Coupled with the world premiere of Anna Clyne’s visceral and arresting Piano Concerto, this concert will have the emotional depth and range of the DSO on full display.

Where: Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St, Dallas

When: March 28-30

Cost: $49 and up

More info: https://www.dallassymphony.org/productions/mahler-symphony-no-5/

Dallas Blooms: A Picture's Worth a Thousand Words

It’s the largest annual floral festival in the SouthwestThis spectacular event showcases 500,000 spring blooming bulbs, representing 120 varieties, with a breathtaking display of 350,000 tulips and a mix of hyacinths and daffodils. As the festival unfolds, the garden transforms with vibrant azaleas and cherry trees, creating a stunning burst of color. This year’s theme, ‘A Picture’s Worth a Thousand Words,’ brings larger-than-life living selfie walls, adding a fun photo opportunity to the Dallas Blooms experience. And remember, it’s Easter Weekend at the Dallas Arboretum March 29-31. Country Critters Petting Zoo is back, featuring your favorite farm animals from 10am to 2pm. Enjoy live music at Jeanne’s Pavilion from 12pm to 2pm, and on the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage & Lawn from 2pm to 4pm. Pictures with a live bunny will be available for a nominal fee and don’t miss the spring market on March 30-31.

Where: Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas

When: February 24-April 8

Cost: $22 - Adults / $18 - Seniors (65+) / $13 - Child (2-12) / Free (Child under 2)

More info: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/events-activities/dallas-blooms/

Disney on Ice: Magic in the Stars

Chart a course through the night sky to Disney On Ice — where every story starts with a wish! Experience the magic of Frozen 2 and celebrate the power of love with Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and Kristoff. Embrace the dreams and gifts inside us all with Mirabel, Luisa, Isabela, and maybe even Bruno from Encanto. Explore the skies with Aladdin and Jasmine and watch Genie multiply before your eyes. You’re invited to dig a little deeper and sing-along with Tiana as she dreams of owning her own restaurant.

Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth

When: March 28 - March 31 (Multiple shows on Saturday and Sunday)

Cost: $27 and up

More info: https://www.disneyonice.com/magic-in-the-stars/

An Evening with Kevin Von Erich

Legendary wrestler KEVIN VON ERICH is making a comeback, but this time it is not in the ring but on the stage with a one-man show called “Stories From the Top Rope” with Kevin sharing insight into his career, personal triumphs and tragedies. The evening will be hosted by Dale Hansen and feature a special guest appearance by legendary WCCW referee, booker and promoter David Manning.

Where: Dickies Arena, Fort Worth

When: Friday, March 29 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $11 and up

More info: https://dickiesarena.com/event/2024-03-29-kevin-von-erich/

FWBG: Butterflies in the Garden

Witness the magnificent transformation of nature and marvel at the sight of brilliantly colored living jewels fluttering in the Rainforest Conservatory of Fort Worth Botanic Garden during Butterflies in the Garden. It’s the largest exhibit of live, exotic butterflies in North Central Texas. Exhibit visitors will have the chance to see a diverse collection of butterflies from various parts of the world, including Central, North and South America, Africa, and Asia. The Blue Morpho (Morpho peleides), known for its striking beauty, is one of the most popular butterflies on display. Additionally, local favorites will also be showcased.

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

When: March 1 - April 14

Cost: $12

More info: https://fwbg.org/calendar-events/signature-events/butterflies-in-the-garden/

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: Seward Johnson Sculptures in the Garden

Twenty-one life-size sculptures by the late artist Seward Johnson will be on display throughout the Garden, Mar. 1 – Sept. 1,  2024. This head-turning exhibit of “living” art will take Garden guests by surprise as they encounter sculptures that fool the eye and beg for double takes. Strategically placed to blend with their surroundings, Mr. Johnson’s unique creations strive to make everyday occurrences special and bring classic art to life.

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

When: March 1 - September 1

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

More info: https://fwbg.org/events/seward-johnson-sculptures/

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/

Flashlight Egg Hunt

Experience hunting for eggs after the sun goes down and while the moon is shining bright. Bring your flashlight and basket to gather eggs with your child. Come check in as early as 6:00PM and enjoy fun-filled activities before the start of your hunt. CUTX Food Truck will be onsite serving hot dogs to registered participants and their families until food runs out.

Where: Bethany Lakes Park, 1201 E. Bethany Dr., Allen

When: Thursday, March 28 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Cost: $8-$11

More info

Funbox: The World's Biggest Bounce Park (Frisco and Hurst)

Just in time for great spring weather, Funbox brings their big bounce parks to locations in Collin County and Tarrant County. Enjoy 10 different play zones including the Mountain Challenge, Battle Beam, Gumball Gallop, Obstacle Course, Ninja Wall, 23 Foot Slide and a Chill Zone. Tickets are good for an 80 minute bounce session.

Where: Stonebriar Centre, 2601 Preston Rd, Frisco (Opens March 1)
Where: North East Mall, Hurst (Opens March 8)

When: March 1 - June 2

Cost: $19 - $35

More Info: https://funbox.com/frisco & https://funbox.com/hurst

Heroes of the Fourth Turning

It's nearing midnight in Wyoming, where four young conservatives have gathered at a backyard after-party. They've returned home to toast their mentor Gina, newly inducted as president of a tiny Catholic college. But as their reunion spirals into spiritual chaos and clashing generational politics, it becomes less a celebration than a vicious fight to be understood. On a chilly night in the middle of America, Will Arbery's haunting play offers grace and disarming clarity, speaking to the heart of a country at war with itself.

Where: Second Thought Theatre, 3400 Blackburn St, Dallas

When: March 27-April 1 / April 4-8 / April 11-13

Cost: $25

More Info: https://www.secondthoughttheatre.com/heroes

Home Free

Home Free is an American a cappella group that burst onto the national scene after winning the fourth season of NBC's "The Sing-Off" in 2013. Formed in 2000, the group originally hailed from Mankato, Minnesota, and was established by brothers Chris and Adam Rupp. Over the years, Home Free has evolved from a hobby between friends into a professional touring group known for their country-tinged a cappella performances and tight harmonies.

Where: Majestic Theatre, Dallas

When: Friday, March 29 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $43 and up

More Info: https://homefreemusic.com/

Life Doesn't Frighten Me: I Am Fearless Royalty

"Shadows on the wall / Noises down the hall / Life doesn't frighten me at all" begins Dr. Maya Angelou's famous poem which serves as the foundation for Paige Hernandez's LIFE DOESN'T FRIGHTEN ME: I AM FEARLESS ROYALTY. This play, co–commissioned by Children's Theatre of Charlotte, Dallas Children's Theater, The Rose Theater of Omaha, and Children's Theater of Madison, stars four heroes as they conquer their fears using heart, soul, body, and mind. With original music from Grammy–nominated Kris Funn and themes inspired by actual students across the country, this show is a moving multicultural performing arts experience that reminds everyone that LIFE DOESN’T FRIGHTEN ME: I AM FEARLESS ROYALTY.

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

When: March 30

Cost: $20 and up

More Info: https://www.dct.org/plays/

Lonesome Blues

In Lonesome Blues, a one-man musical, the legendary Blind Lemon Jefferson looks back on his life during the moments before his death in Chicago on a cold December night in 1929. Blind Lemon’s memories come to life through his music in a journey that is at once evocative, troubling, and transformative.

Where: Dada Dallas, 2720 Elm St, Dallas

When: Saturday, March 30 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, April 7 at 2 p.m.

Cost: $20 and up

More Info: https://buy.ticketstothecity.com/purchase.php?event_id=14026

March Madness at the American Airlines Center in Dallas

The American Airlines Center plays host to the 2024 NCAA Division I Men's South Basketball Regionals. On Friday night, #11 seed North Carolina State takes on #2 seed Marquette at 6:09 p.m., then at 8:39 p.m. it’s #1 seed Houston facing #4 seed Duke. The winners will face off for a trip to the Final Four on Sunday.

Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas

When: Friday, March 29 and Sunday, March 31

Cost: Sold Out - Tickets on Resale Market

More Info: https://www.americanairlinescenter.com/events/detail/ncaa-mff-24

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 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: $20 and up

More Info: https://meowwolf.com/

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/

Pompeii: The Immortal City

Through a world-class multi-media experience, journey back in time with the AMA to Rome just before, during, and after the fateful eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Hear and feel the roar of the volcano erupting while you take in the wonder of original artworks and newly-discovered artifacts.

Where: Arlington Museum of Art, 1200 Ballpark Way, Arlington

When: March 30 - June 23

Cost: $8 - $23

More Info: https://arlingtonmuseum.org/pompeii-the-immortal-city

Rangers Opening Weekend

The World Series Champion Texas Rangers open up their title defense season by hosting the Cubs this weekend.

Where: Globe Life Field, Arlington

When: Thursday at 6:35 p.m., Saturday at 6:05 p.m. and Sunday at 1:35 p.m.

Cost: Varies

Info: www.texasrangers.com

Ryan Upchurch at South Side Ballroom

Ryan Upchurch  has carved a unique niche for himself in the music industry by blending country, rock, and rap. Upchurch began his career as a comedian, creating videos that showcased his humorous take on life in the South, which quickly garnered a significant online following.

Where: Southside Ballroom, Dallas

When: Friday, March 29 at 8:00 p.m.

Cost: $49 and up

Info: https://www.upchurchmerch.com/tour

Sweeney Todd

Sweeney Todd, a barber unfairly banished, comes back to 19th century London with a burning desire for retribution against the corrupt judge who wronged him and harmed his wife. His quest for vengeance brings him to Mrs. Lovett, a clever owner of a struggling pie shop. Together, they establish a new barber business above her shop. Mrs. Lovett's fortunes change drastically as Todd's craving for revenge leads to a macabre innovation in her pies, drawing crowds of Londoners... and initiating a gruesome cycle of violence.

Where: Lyric Stage, 1170 Quaker St, Dallas

When: March 29-30; April 5-7

Cost: $35 and up

More Info

Thee Phantom & The Illharmonic Orchestra

When was the last time you witnessed; strings, horns and piano at a Hip-Hop concert? Add to that, a party-rocking DJ, a soul-stirring female vocalist and a fire-breathing MC and that is still but a fraction of what you’ll see when you catch Thee Phantom & The Illharmonic Orchestra in action! Combining the raw energy and passion of Hip-Hop, with the beautiful sounds of orchestra accompaniment, The Illharmonic is just the 3rd Hip-Hop group to headline their own performance at the famed Carnegie Hall.

Where: Majestic Theatre, Dallas

When: Sunday, March 31 at 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $25 and up

More info: https://attpac.org/event/thee-phantom

Things My Mother Taught Me

Olivia and Gabe are moving into their first apartment together. They’ve just packed up all of their belongings and driven halfway across the country to start a new life together in Chicago. Their moving day doesn’t go exactly as planned, though, and things become slightly more complicated when all of their parents show up to help! Can a two-bedroom apartment contain all of the love, laughs, worry, and wisdom, and wisdom that’s about to happen?

Where: Richardson Theatre Centre, 518 W Arapaho Rd # 113, Richardson

When: March 28-30; April 4-7

Cost: $22 - $24

More info: https://richardsontheatrecentre.net/season24.html

Venardos Circus: A Grand Ol’ Time Tour

The Venardos Circus, a unique Broadway-Style Circus performance, has been touring the U.S. since its debut at the L.A. County Fair in 2014. It is reinventing the American Circus tradition for a new generation with Broadway-style flair, bringing joy to people across the U.S. Theatre lovers and nostalgic circus fans alike will appreciate the intimate experience and sentimental way the show pays homage to circus traditions through the lens of high-quality entertainment for a modern family audience.

Where: The Promenade at the River Walk, 3899 River Walk Dr, Flower Mound

When: March 28-31; April 3-7

Cost: Adults - $28 / Kids - $17 / VIP - $60

More info: https://venardoscircus.com/flower-mound-texas/

Walk this Way: Footwear from the Stuart Weitzman Collection of Historic Shoes

From silk boudoir shoes created for the 1867 Paris Exposition to leather spectator pumps signed by the 1941 New York Yankees, Walk this Way features more than 100 striking pairs of shoes. This exhibition presents footwear – spanning nearly 200 years – from the collection of iconic shoe designer Stuart Weitzman, and businesswoman and philanthropist Jane Gershon Weitzman.

Where: Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, Dallas

When: Now - July 14

Cost: $19 for adults; $12 for students

More info: https://www.dhhrm.org/exhibitions/walk-this-way/

Featured Image Photo Credit: © Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports