There's a little bit of everything going on in Dallas-Fort Worth this weekend, making it a time to get out and about no matter what your personal preferences may be. Among your choices are another great musical, a visit from a big-time foodie, stand-up comedy from a legend and a special event with the host of This American Life.
Below are the best options for your precious free time Thursday through Sunday. Don't like what you see? Lucky for you, we have a much longer list of the city's best events.
Thursday, July 9
Do It for Durrett '80s Night
Now in its second year, Do It for Durrett was originally a fundraiser for the family of baseball sportswriter Richard Durrett, who died unexpectedly in 2014. The foundation dedicated to him now raises money for families in similar situations, and this event at Globe Life Park in Arlington features performances by current members of the Texas Rangers, country music star Casey Donahew and other surprises.
Dallas Summer Musicals presents Pippin
The 2014-2015 Dallas Summer Musicals season comes to a close with the national tour of the revival of Stephen Schwartz's Pippin. The musical, playing at Music Hall at Fair Park through July 19 before transferring to Bass Performance Hall July 21-26, tells the story of a young prince on a death-defying journey to find meaning in his existence.
Friday, July 10
DMA Arts & Letters Live presents Anthony Bourdain: Close to the Bone
Chef and author Anthony Bourdain has been all over the world in search of great food, adventures that he shares in this event at Majestic Theatre. Bourdain presents a brutally honest monologue reflecting on diverse culture, street cuisine and his travels to lesser-known locations around the world. The event is sold out, but tickets can still be found on the secondary market.
Bob Newhart in concert
God bless Bob Newhart: At 85 years old, the comedian is still out on the road performing for the masses. Best known for his legendary comedy albums and his two successful sitcom runs in the '70s and '80s, Newhart has a wealth of experience from which to draw his act, which he puts on display at Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie.
Saturday, July 11
Dallas Gallery Day
During this annual event, art galleries across the city throw open their doors as both a way to expose people to the tons of great art on display and an inviting way to beat the summer heat. The 30 participating galleries are located in Deep Ellum, the Dallas Design District and other locations.
Tedeschi Trucks Band in concert with Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings and Doyle Bramhall II
The Tedeschi Trucks Band — led by married couple Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks — has had a stellar start to their career together, with their 2011 debut album winning the Grammy for Best Blues Album. This concert at Gexa Energy Pavilion will be heaven for blues/soul music fans, as it also features Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings and Doyle Bramhall II.
Keith Sweat, Bell Biv Devoe and SWV in concert
New Jack Swing is back in full effect at Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie with this throwback concert. Keith Sweat, who's credited with being one of the genre's innovators, headlines, and he's joined by Bell Biv Devoe, best known for their song "Poison," and SWV, one of the most successful all-female groups of all time.
#thinkspeak: Ira Glass, Monica Bill Barnes and Anna Bass
Taking a break from his This American Life duties, NPR radio host Ira Glass presents this special event about a topic well-suited to the venue, Winspear Opera House. Titled “3 Acts, 2 Dancers, 1 Radio Host” performance, Glass is joined by dancers Monica Bill Barnes and Anna Bass in a show that combines two art forms for an entertaining evening of mixed talents.
Sunday, July 12
Festival of Independent Theatres
The Festival of Independent Theatres, taking place at Bath House Cultural Center through August 1, is a chance for smaller theater and arts companies to showcase their talents in a more high-profile manner. Among the troupes presenting works are WingSpan Theatre Company, Upstart Productions, Gorilla Theater and DGDG.
Tyler Oakley's Slumber Party
If you're not familiar with the work of Tyler Oakley, congratulations on being over the age of 25. For those weaned on YouTube, though, Oakley is one of the biggest stars on the Internet, winning scads of fans for his sense of humor and social activism. This event at Majestic Theatre features behind-the-scenes stories, interactive games and lots of surprises.
Anthony Bourdain tells stories from his travels around the world at Majestic Theatre on July 10.
