Things To Do In Dallas This Weekend: Nov. 11-13

Happy parallel lines day. And also, happy Veteran’s Day. Remember your favorite service member.

Friday

It’s been awhile since the folks behind Contemplative Cinema put together an evening of odd-yet-thought-provoking films. But the ghost of events past returns tonight at the Texas Theatre (ugh, I know, two Texas Theatre events in two days). Well, technically, it’s in the Texas Theatre “dungeon,” the underground screening room. Expect new and in-progress films by San Francisco-based artist Eric Stewart, who explores landscape and ecology by messing around with the surface of 16 mm film. Mothlight by Stan Brakhage, Fuses by Carolee Schneeman, and Film Feedback by Tony Conrad are also on the program. All the films are silent, so chew that popcorn softly.

Not up for weirdness? Country artist Josh Turner takes the stage tonight at the Texas Stampede, presumably to croon something romantic and/or uplifting. The celebration of all things Western kicked off yesterday and continues through tomorrow evening. The cause is a good one, since proceeds benefit North Texas children’s charities, and there are lots of kid-friendly rodeo activities. Here’s where I’d insert the phrase my grandfather used when firing up the big old Lincoln, but it’s an inappropriate reference to camel refuse.

Saturday

I was discussing/mildly arguing with a friend about Art Con last night, since this friend claims he invited me to go. I disagreed, because mentioning that you’re going somewhere and then expecting the other person to invite themselves along does not  an actual invitation make. But according to this person, “everyone goes to Art Con.” I’ve never been, so as of Saturday, “everyone” will finally include me. From all accounts, it’s a good time. Artists are given a day to do something awesome to an 18×18 piece of plywood. The results are auctioned off with the funds going to Musical Angels, a North Texas nonprofit that provides free music lessons to hospitalized kids. And of course, there’s music at the event: Datahowler, The Hope Trust and J. Charles and the Trainrobbers will all play at some point during the evening.

Sunday

Fans of TLC’s Cake Boss should make their way to the Majestic Theatre on Sunday afternoon where star Buddy Valastro will do two of the things he does best: bake and be amiable. If you’re lucky, he will also do something else: howl like Scooby Doo. This little-known talent came to light during his interview with wonderful web intern Carol Shih last month. Check it out on SideDish before you go.

For more to do with your weekend, go here.