I come to you all riding the high of having just seen our campus performance of The Rocky Horror Picture Show shadow cast, and it has definitely put me in the mood for more. While you’ll have to wait until next fall for the next excellent performance of Rocky Horror, there are so many other plays and live events happening on campus this fall that are worth checking out and supporting. UT’s creative and performing arts scene is brimming with talent from students, faculty, and others who are drawn to the university. I often forget just how lucky I am to have so many entertainment opportunities (often for free) because I go to Texas. Below, I’ve highlighted a few events I’m especially excited about and hope you’ll check out too.
The Madrigal DinnerÂ
As a lover and frequent visitor of the Texas Renaissance Festival, I’m super excited about this year’s magical and medieval-themed Madrigal Dinner happening right on campus at the Shirley Bird Perry Ballroom. This year marks the 43rd annual dinner performance, and this long-standing UT tradition is sure to be a great one. The Madrigal Dinner isn’t just a play, but an interactive experience featuring a multi-course dinner, audience interaction, improv, and music. This year’s play is titled The Legend of Lost Magic, and the best part is that there are three performances in November: the 14th, 15th, and 16th. Ticket prices vary and can be found and purchased on the University Union website. Plus, students get a discount with the presentation of your ID.
James and The Giant Peach
This beloved classic tale is getting a revival at UT, and you don’t want to miss it. Adapted from the book by Roald Dahl, the author who also wrote some of my favorite childhood stories, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Fantastic Mr. Fox, I’m counting on this performance of James and the Giant Peach to cure my inner child. On the UT Theater and Dance Website, after the ending of the book and creatively uses “live action, puppetry, and storytelling” to replay the events of the original story. At only 85 minutes long, this play is perfect for families visiting or for babysitters looking for an activity. The play runs from October 31 to November 10, and tickets can be purchased on the Theater and Dance website linked above.
Cactus Cafe Songwriters Open Mic
I just couldn’t write this article without mentioning one of my favorite events on campus: the Open Mic Night at the Cactus Cafe. I regret not appreciating how close I was to the Union’s Cactus Cafe when I lived on campus, where I could easily attend these open mic nights. Now that I’m off campus, I’ve let my attendance slip, and I really plan to rectify that this upcoming month. There are always different events and bands playing at the Cactus Cafe, but their Songwriters Open Mic Night was always my favorite. These take place every Tuesday night from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and there are always familiar faces performing. They’re also very encouraging toward newcomers. All the songs performed are originals, so you’ll never have the same experience twice. The best part? It’s free to attend. More information about these open mic nights can be found at the University Unions website, and I highly recommend going and experiencing it for yourself!
A Conversation With Larry DavidÂ
I know a Larry David comedy panel doesn’t exactly have any direct connections to UT, but I’m so excited about this event that I’m including it anyway. This one-night-only event will take place on December 4 at the Bass Concert Hall and would serve as a great, hilarious reprieve during the dreaded finals week. Larry David, the comedian behind “Seinfeld” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” will discuss both shows with a moderator. Unfortunately, this event isn’t exactly family-friendly, and all attendees must be 16 or older (much to the chagrin of my “Seinfeld”-loving younger brothers). You can buy tickets for the panel at The Texas Performing Arts website. They’re selling fast, so be sure to grab them while you can!