El Paso Chamber Music Festival - El Paso Pro-Musica’s 23rd annual festival presents world-class chamber musicians Jan. 12-Feb. 5. Concerts, recitals and other special events will be offered at various venues, in addition to the popular Music Film Series and free Bach’s lunch performances at El Paso Museum of Art. This year’s guests include Kim Kashkashian, Alfredo Oyaguez, Soovin Kim and Lara Downes.
Festival packages are $150 ($120 senior/military; $30 students) for all El Paso shows. El Paso/Las Cruces season packages are $200 ($160 seniors/military, $40 students).
Individual concert tickets: $30 ($25 seniors/military; $5 students). Information: 833-9400 or eppm.org.
• Violinist Kim Kashkashian plays Schumann to open the festival at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at UTEP’s Fox Fine Arts Recital Hall.
• Alfredo Oyaguez will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Jan. 20-21 at Western Hills United Methodist Church, 524 Thunderbird, and Sunday, Jan. 22 at NMSU’s Atkinson Recital Hall. Concerts are “Concerto Night” Friday, “From Spain” Saturday and “Miniatures” Sunday.
• El Paso Symphony Orchestra members perform the Bach Double Violin Concerto at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Jan. 27-28, at the Plaza Theatre.
• The Complete Beethoven Violin sonata in two parts: Part I features Ik-Hwan Be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, at Fox Fine Arts Recital Hall; Part II features Soovin Kim at 7:30 p.m. Monday, at First Baptist Church.
• A “Harlem on My Mind” concert with Lara Downes is 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, at El Adobe Recording Studio, 5301 El Paso Dr.
• Lara Downes presents “13 Ways of Looking at the Goldbergs” at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, at Western Hills United Methodist Church.
• Zuill Bailey joins the Las Cruces Symphony Orchestra as guest cellist at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 4-5, at NMSU’s Atkinson Music Recital Hall in Las Cruces.
The Music Film series is 7 p.m. Thursdays at the El Paso Museum of Art. Admission is free.
• Jan. 12 — “Copying Beethoven”
• Jan. 19 — “Surviving Picasso”
• Jan. 26 — “The Art of the Violin”
• Feb. 2 — “Shine”
Free Bach’s Lunch concerts are noon Thursdays at the El Paso Museum of Art. Performers:
• Jan. 12 – ViolaFest
• Jan. 19 — Alfredo Oyaguez, piano
• Jan. 26 — Soovin Kim
• Feb. 2 — Lara Downes.
‘Something Wicked This Way Comes’ Tour — The “horror punk” tour featuring Wednesday 13 and Aiden is Tuesday, Jan. 10, at Tricky Falls, 209 S. El Paso. Doors open at 7 p.m.; showtime at 8 p.m. Information: 351-9909. Also featuring Modern Day Escape, Branes and Epitaph Romance. Tickets: $15 in advance; $18 at the door.
Poetry Slam with Krystal Oblinger — Free Hole Slam hosts a writing workshop with slam poet Krystal Oblinger at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10, at The Percolator, 217 N. Stanton (between Texas and Mills), followed by an open mic by participants and poetry reading by Oblinger at 7 p.m. Admission is free. Information: 494-6762 or freeholeslam.com.
Oblinger, an El Paso slam winner and design editor of the UTEP Prospector, will present a writing workshop centering on her wacky, impulsive and empowering poetry.
Leon Panetta — The Greater El Paso Chamber of Commerce host the U.S. Secretary of Defense at a dinner Thursday, Jan. 12, at the Judson F. Williams Convention Center. Cocktails at 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7:15 p.m. Cost is $50. Information: Meghan Darnell, 534-0530 or mdarnell@elpaso.org.
‘January Jazz’ — El Paso Wind Symphony continues its 2011-12 “Spicy Season” season at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at UTEP’s Fox Fine Arts Recital Hall. Tickets $12.50 ($7.50 military, students and seniors). Information: 760-5599 or elpasowindsymphony.com.
Wolf + Lamb — The producers/DJs perform at Friday, Jan. 13, at Low Brow Palace, 111 E. Robinson, with opening acts Mr. B, J-En, Goldsmith and Ed Chalace. Showtime is 9 p.m. Tickets available online at ticketbully.com. Information: 356-0966 or lowbrow.elpaso@gmail.com. Tickets: $12 in advance; $15 at the door ($18 for age 20 and younger).
‘How to Get Published’ workshop — Lee Byrd of Cinco Puntos Press and Jeanie Glenn of Book Publishers of El Paso present a two-hour workshop for aspiring writers, at 9:45 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at Cinco Puntos Press, 710 Texas, followed by a question-and-answer period. Cost: $20 (space is limited; advance registration required). Information/registration: 838-1625 or 778-6670.
Downtown Artist Market — The City of El Paso Museums and Cultural Affairs Department new market for area artists are Saturdays on Anthony Street in the Union Plaza area. Hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. resuming Jan. 14. Space for about 53 artists available each month. Information: 541-4481.
LYNX Exhibits — The exhibit space is at 300 W. San Antonio (just south of Convention Center). Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Closed Monday. Last admission is one hour before closing time. Information: 533-4330 or lynxexhibits.com.
Showing Jan. 14-May 28: “The Science of SuperCroc,” with the world’s largest crocodile, 40-foot-long. SuperCroc brings together “Sarcosuchus and Suchomimus,” two of the fiercest prehistoric predators that lived 110 million years ago, in an exciting, hands-on experience. Included are original fossil specimens, life-sized skeletons, a flesh reconstruction of SuperCroc, and field tents mimicking life on a field expedition. Visitors have opportunities to “measure up” against the SuperCroc, “weigh in” as potential bait, mechanically move a dinosaur and more.
Also with SuperCroc are live animal displays by Dennis Breyer, of Noah’s Ark Pets and Supplies, including dwarf caimans and a Nile crocodile. Other local partners include the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Department, displaying illegal and counterfeit reptile skins and products, and the El Paso Public Library and Historic Preservation Department, providing information on San Jacinto Plaza’s famous alligator pond.
A free parking lot fair is Saturday, Jan. 14, with educational exhibits, giveaways, food, live animals and a jumping balloon. Opening day tickets are $5.
SuperCroc admission: $10; $8 for seniors, students and military with ID and $6 for children 4 to 11; free for ages 3 and younger.
Sasahara Gallery — 7100 Westwind Drive, Suite 135. Fine art paintings, jewelry, sculpture, photography, prints, cards and portraits. Owner is artist Linda Noack. Hours are 1 to 7 p.m. Friday, and noon to 5 p.m. Saturday; other days by appointment. Information: 584-4222 or sasahara.gallery@live.com. Web: sasaharagallery.com.
Opening Jan. 7 is “Visual Directions,” new works by Sally Backy Avant and Ben Avant. An artist’s meet and greet is 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14.
The Birddogs — The band performs Saturday, Jan. 14, at La Tierra Cafe, 1731 Montana. Doors open at 6 p.m., dinner served at 6:45 p.m., show at 8 p.m. Seating limited; reservations required. Tickets: $32 for dinner and show. Information: 533-8890 or latierracafe.com.
Laser Spectaculars — The popular laser rock shows in 3-D/H-D format are Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Abraham Chavez Theatre, featuring the music of Michael Jackson at 7 p.m. and Pink Floyd at 9 p.m. Tickets: $24.50-$35 ($15 ages 12 and younger). (Ticketmaster).
The “Spirit of Michael Jackson” show features the top Michael Jackson impersonators straight from the Vegas stage, along with dance troupes. The production includes lasers, large screen video projection, concert lighting and 50,000 watts of sound. Spanning his 40-year career, the show will take the audience on a visual journey that captures the essence of Jacksons’ worldwide concert appearances.
Celebrating its 26th year of successful touring, the two-hour Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular features Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side Of The Moon” with the second half featuring The Best of Pink Floyd (including “The Wall”).
El Paso Psychic Fair — The fair is 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 14-15, at the Hawthorn Inn, 1700 Airway (at Boeing). Admission: $5 for both days (private readings not included with admission). Free admission with active duty military I.D. Information: 345-6245 or elpasopsychicfair.com.
The fair features aura photos, handmade New Age crystal and gemstone jewelry, spirit writing, Feng Shui products, aromatherapy and readings by 14 professional psychic readers and mediums from across Texas and New Mexico. Readings offered in English and Spanish.
Days of Remembrance Bridal & Quinceañera Faire — The 22nd annual event is 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at the El Paso Convention Center, presented by Elegant Penguin Productions. The event gathers more than 100 experts in the field of weddings and quinceañeras, including cakes, catering, dresses, flowers, halls, hotels, photography/video services, tuxedos and more. A variety of door prizes will be given away, as well as grand prizes of honeymoon vacation packages and quinceañera prizes (must be present to win). Admission: $5. Information: 592-8897 or eptuxs.com. Admission fees benefit the El Paso Child Crisis Center.
The event also features fashion shows of wedding and quinceañera gowns and formal wear.
Martin Luther King Jr. Food Drive — The annual city-wide effort to restock area food pantries is Jan. 5-16, with several organizations participating. Canned and other nonperishable food items can be dropped off at various public and private locations throughout town. The food will then be collected, sorted and distributed among agencies serving the less fortunate including the Salvation Army, the Opportunity Center for the Homeless, the El Paso Rescue Mission, the Center Against Family Violence and others. Information: 541-4010 or 541-4140.
A kick-off event is 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 5. Location to be determined.
Drop-off sites: City Hall Basement and 1st floor, County Courthouse 1st and 3rd floors, all Big 8 Food stores, Wal-Mart Super Centers and Neighborhood Markets, El Paso Juvenile Justice Center, El Paso Electric Company Facilities, Sheriff’s Department Downtown Jail, Headquarters and Annex, Socorro ISD Headquarters, Rio Grande Power Plant, Vista Central Grocery and all Public Library facilities.
‘Murder on the Nile’ — El Paso Playhouse, 2501 Montana, presents the Agatha Christie murder mystery Jan. 6-28. Directed by Frieda Voeks. When a new bride is murdered while on her honeymoon, it is up to her guardian to find out who the murderer is, before the boat reaches its destination. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $10 ($8 seniors, $7 military/students with ID). Information: 532-1317, elpasoplayhouse.com.
Dancing at the Mall — The Desert Dancer Chapter 5017 of USA Dance host and afternoon of dancing 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at Sunland Park Mall, with dancing performances and lessons. Admission is free. Information: 585-1936 or 487-9396.
Jay’s Pix — Film historian, educator, writer, archivist, collector Jay Duncan brings back his weekly film series after an 8-year absence at 1:30 p.m. Sundays, at International Museum of Art, 1211 Montana. Each screening includes commentary, anecdotes and film facts from Duncan. Admission is free. Information: 532-6747 or jayspixpresents@yahoo.com.
January’s films celebrate 2012 as the 85th anniversary of the Academy Awards with a series of films recognized and bestowed the Academy Award for “Best Film,” including the very first recipient.
• Jan. 15 — “Lawrence Of Arabia” (1962). Based on T.E. Lawrence’s book, “The Seven Pillars of Wisdom,” the motion picture was nominated for ten Oscars and won seven, including Best Director, Best Score and Best Picture. A true account and epic depiction of the revolt of the Arabs against the Ottoman Empire during World War I, it established Peter O’Toole as a major star in the lead role of Lawrence.
• Jan. 22 — “The Sting” (1973).
• Jan. 29 — “Wings” (1927).
Sports
UTEP Women’s Basketball — UTEP hosts Tulsa at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12, at the Don Haskins Center. Ticket information: 747-5234 or utepathletics.com.
Monster Truck Spectacular — The “Thunder Slam” monster truck show is 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Jan. 13-14, at El Paso County Coliseum, 4100 Paisano. Tickets: $19.75 to $25. (Ticketmaster).
Fort Bliss half marathon — The 2012 Fort Bliss Half Marathon, presented by Under Armour, is 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at Soto Gym on East Fort Bliss.
Open to all the entire El Paso community. Awards will be given to top three finishers in each age group, as well as the top overall male and female finishers. All finishers receive medals. Registration: $35 ($20 active-duty military); additional $10 fee for race day registration. First 200 registered runners will receive Under Armour shirts; first 100 registered guaranteed shirt sizes. Information: 744-5790 or aaron.k.jones.naf@mail.mil. Online registration at active.com.
Register at any Fort Bliss Gym through Jan. 11 or onsite 6:30 to 7:45 a.m. on race day.
Polar Plunge — The “Freezin for a Reason” cold weather swim benefiting Special Olympics Texas-El Paso Area 19, is 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at Wyndham El Paso Airport, 2027 Airway. Cost: $50 ($25 17 and younger). Information: 533-8229 or sotx.org.
UTEP Men’s Basketball – UTEP hosts SMU at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Don Haskins Center. Information: 747-5234 or utepathletics.com.
El Paso Puzzler Mountain Bike Race — El Paso’s only endurance mountain bike race is 8 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at Bowen Ranch’s Round House. Hosted by the Border Mountain Bike Association. Registration: $60; $25 for GPS fun ride. Gate fee: $5 donation to ALS Association. Information: 845-1097 or elpasopuzzler.com.
The 3rd annual 50-mile single-track ride (35-mile route and 10 mile GPS fun ride also offered) with several climbs and descents.
Packet pick-up and late registration is noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Bowen Round House. Additional $20 per rider late fee. No race day registration.
Sunland Park Racetrack & Casino — The 2011-2012 live horse racing season runs through April 17. Race days are Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. First post is 12:25 p.m. each race day. General admission is free to the track and casino. Turf Club seating is $7. Information: (575) 874-5200 or sunland-park.com.
Simulcast racing begins at 10 a.m. everyday. General admission and parking are free. Information: (575) 874-5200.
To get there, take the Sunland Park exit from I-10, go south (left turn coming from Downtown) and follow the signs.
Southern New Mexico
Antique and Collectible Show — The 25th annual winter nostalgia show and sale is 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 14-15, at St. Genevieve’s Parish Hall, 1025 E. Las Cruces Ave. in Las Cruces. Free appraisals offered and food will be served. Admission: $1.50 (good for both days). Information: (575) 526-8624.
Wells Fargo Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally — Nearly 40 balloons, including a variety of special shapes, are expected at the 2012 rally Jan. 14-15 at Brown Farm Field in Las Cruces. The event also includes food vendors, balloonist competitions, vintage car show and more. Admission is free. Information: stonej@comcast.net or mvbr.com.
The official opening ceremonies begins 7 a.m. Saturday followed by mass ascension at 7:30 a.m. both days
An afternoon “fun launch” is 3 p.m. Saturday, weather permitting, and a “balloon glow” 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Tethered rides begin at 8:30 a.m. both days and continue until fuel is gone or weather is unagreeable. Cost: $2 donation for local charities.
The launch field is across from St. John Mobile Home Park on El Camino Real and south of Armstrong Road.
Gregory Alan Isakov - The South African folk musician performs at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at the Buckhorn Opera House, 18 Main Street, in Pinos Altos, N.M. as part of the Mimbres Region Arts Council’s Folk Series. Isakov has been called a “lyrical genius” and has shared the stage with acts like Mumford and Sons, Calexico and Fiona Apple, as well as having appeared at well-respected venues like South by Southwest and Telluride Bluegrass Festival. Tickets: $20 ($15 members/$5 students). Groups of 20 or more: $10 each. Information: (575) 538-2505 or mimbresarts.org.
Le Chat Lunatique — The “filthy, mangy” gypsy jazz band performs at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at the Rio Grande Theatre, 211 N. Downtown Mall in Las Cruces, performing everything from Gypsy Swing to Western Swing. Tickets: $10 in advance; $12 at the door. Information: (575) 523-6403 or riograndetheatre.com.
Le Chat Lunatique’s sound is a result of a mutual love for the great Hot Club of France; a gypsy swing group from 1940s Paris, which included the combined genius of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grapelli.
Devilishly clever lyrics offer insight into l’amour (“falling in love is like eating tacos”), a louche paean to a doting millionairess (“Buy me a Cadillac, buy me a yacht / Buy me everything that I haven’t got”), minatory observations on fate (“the bus of God will run you over”), and the inevitable bitterness of a broken heart (“Miss Lady...please do me the courtesy of drinking in some other gin joint”). The band’s repertoire also features original arrangements of tunes that stretch from kindergarten favorites (“Frère Jacques”) to pop hits (“Straight Up”) to swing anthems (“Minnie the Moocher”) to Reinhardt classics (“Blue Drag”).
The Pointer Sisters — The pop/Motown legends perform at 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, at Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort and Casino in Mescalero, N.M. Age 21 and older admitted. Tickets: $25-$60. (Ticketmaster) Information: 1-877-277-5677 or innofthemountaingods.com.