Coming Soon: Laurie Berkner Band

“The energy from the kids is so immediate and so sincere. Play a song for them, and if they're into it, they're jumping up and down. They're so happy they're screaming for the song. Playing in cover bands, it takes a couple hours for everyone to get drunk enough to get into it and respond.”

-Laurie Berkner

We're hitting the home stretch for the 2011-12 season, and the performers keeps hitting the stage; consistently impressing the audience in exciting ways. Now, it may seem when presented with the task of maintaining the constant flow of talent to grace the historic stage at The Paramount, it would be fairly easy. While it seems like a no-brainer, I have been told that getting an act to appear onstage isn't necessarily child's play... yet in this case, I think this is precisely the case.

Perhaps The Laurie Berkner Band is not a familiar name to you. Then again, perhaps you are someone who has, you know, been around children in the past decade or so. If so, chances are that you've heard the music (and likely have caught yourself humming some of it to yourself). Since the late 1990s, they aren't just a popular children's musical act, they are THE musical act.

Te centerpiece of the group is Laurie Berkner, herself. She's carved a niche for herself in the subgenre of music known as "kinder rock." No, I'm not making that up. Heck, ask any parent, and they'll tell you that the genre runs deep. That's right, folks. Children's songs extend much further than "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" (A Wimoweh, wimoweh...) Her popularity is so vast that People Magazine anointed her as "The Queen of Children's Music." Indeed. Compared to her, The Wiggles are but mere jesters. But it was not always the case for Ms. Berkner...

Although Laurie has been a professional musician for twenty years, but didn't find her true calling until after some stints with cover bands. She released her first children's album in 1997, and the nest year formed her own independent record company. That's a heck of a way to break onto the children's music scene, and her status has only steadily grown from there.

Imbibing her songs with an uptempo beat and earnest lyrics, Laurie brings her songs to life with band members Adam Bernstein, Bob Golden and Susie Lampert. Together, hey have an uncanny knack of bringing a smile to your face.

Any doubts should be erased by watching the following clip. A word of warning, though. This song will stay in your head long after you see this.

So... "what do you think of that!?" (kick!)
See? I told ya. You're now gonna be hearing this song in your head for the next few days. You're welcome.

In addition to her musical gifts, Berkner also has written two children's books, appeared on television, and sold hundreds of thousands of DVDs. She's more than just the queen of children's music; she's a one-woman media empress. So, to all you parents out there: If you haven't let your little ones partake of any other music than "Old MacDonald" or "Bingo," then you owe it to them to round them up and mosey on down to The Paramount. Laurie's sound is that unique blend of folk music and kinder rock that provides a sense of wonder for all ages.

The Laurie Berkner Band will teach your kid how to rock and roll on Sunday, March 4th at 1:00 p.m.

Coming Soon: Good vs. Evil

“Cooking is a holistic process of planning, preparing, dining and sharing food. I place food at the center of our humanity, as it nourishes not only our physical bodies but also our emotional and spiritual lives. Food is truly a cultural phenomenon that informs our traditions and our relationship with the earth. I genuinely believe that food connects us all.”

-Eric Ripert

“Do we really want to travel in hermetically sealed popemobiles through the rural provinces of France, Mexico and the Far East, eating only in Hard Rock Cafes and McDonalds? Or do we want to eat without fear, tearing into the local stew, the humble taqueria's mystery meat, the sincerely offered gift of a lightly grilled fish head? I know what I want. I want it all. I want to try everything once.”

-Anthony Bourdain

There have been such delightful feasts thus far at The Paramount this season. In fact, it's been a veritable smörgåsbord of talent, each a memorable show that also whets our appetite for more. Well, fear not, my fellow Paramount subscribers and devotees; another course is about to be presented. It looks to be a unique experience served up onstage in the heart of Austin. The participants are two of the more prominent culinary voices in society today: Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert, a yin and yang in foodie circles. Unconventional as the idea may seem, the prospect of this duo has me salivating. It certainly sounds like an interesting dish, does it not?

When one thinks of Texas (in the gastronomical sense), I imagine the initial thoughts are limited to merely steaks or barbecue. While I suppose profiling our state as a land of beef isn't completely without merit, we Texans are capable of cooking and eating more than red meat. For those that don't know, the size and history of our state has provided a diverse variety of cultures to cultivate our culinary tastes. At long last, we're beginning to break through the mold of briskets, rib eyes and fajitas. Heck, we in the Lone Star state are even hosting a season of Top Chef. Ok, wait... while that doesn't quite validate our credentials, it does expose a broader view of food in a land where everything's bigger.

So if you're a Texan whose palate is limited to Whataburger value meals, you may just be asking yourself... who the heck are these guys?

Well, when it comes to accolades, it's hard to think of anyone more honored in the food-mosphere than Eric Ripert. He's a chef, author, television personality, as well as the living embodiment of modern French cuisine. Author of four cookbooks, Ripert also is a recipient of the Legion d’Honneur, France’s highest honor. On television, he's a regular guest judge on "Top Chef” and hosts “Avec Eric,” an Emmy-winning PBS series.

Oh yeah, and he cooks too. Ripert is the chef and co-owner of Le Bernardin in New York City. The restaurant has earned the very highest ratings from The Michelin Guide, the Zagat Guide, and has held a four-star review from The New York Times for over two decades. A man with a reputation for some of the finest seafood in the world, it's safe to say you'll never catch him at your local neighborhood Long John Silver's.

Eric Ripert's accolades are without question and full of merit. Anthony Bourdain, on the other hand, is a whole other brand of awesome...

I'll be 100% honest. I'm not one to idolize anyone, but Anthony Bourdain is one of my favorite people on Earth. Sure, he's acerbic, but beneath his outwardly cynical veneer is a worldliness and refreshingly rough and tumble approach to life itself. He is a chef, author and television personality (and nemesis of Rachel Ray and Paula Deen).

A graduate of the CIA (that's the Culinary Institute of America, not the Central Intelligence Agency), Bourdain was an executive chef at Brasserie Les Halles in New York City, where he specialized in classic French dishes. He wrote about his experiences at the restaurant in his professional memoir, Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly. A visceral and eye-opening look behind the kitchen door, the book introduced us all to his sardonic wit and gift for prose.

After making his splash on the New York bestseller list with Kitchen Confidential, Bourdain appeared on The Food Network (don't hold that against him) with his show "A Cook's Tour." He then jumped ship to The Travel Channel where he has established himself as the host of "No Reservations," a program that allows Anthony to showcase different cultures and the foods that help define people across the globe. He has continued to author bestselling books and is now also a writer and consultant for the HBO series "Treme."

An outspoken author and food critic, Bourdain's most admirable trait is the sense that he plows through existence as a man with little to no fear. He possesses a lust for life that would make Iggy Pop proud. For Anthony, food is clearly one of the highest forms of artistry, imbibed with the spirit of whoever prepared it. The most important ingredient is the heart and soul of the cook; the end result isn't just the presentation of a dish, but a sharing of a story. When viewed in that light, Bourdain's voice is enlightening and occasionally a thing of beauty.

While these two may be a yin and yang of culinary points of view, the wealth of experience and observations they hold is mind-boggling to ponder. Think of the stories these two must have heard, think of the savory details they could share, not to mention the recipes they've encountered. Now, who wouldn't want to sit at a table with these two? I could happily eat, sit and listen to these guys talk for hours on end.

Now is our chance to do so, and without the hinderance of a full belly. After all, we Texans have a big appetite for storytelling also. Variety may well be the spice of life, and these two guys have a wealth in their pantries.

Hungry for more? Good vs. Evil with Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert will give you something to digest on Wednesday, February 8th at 8:00 pm.

Coming Soon: Moulin Rouge

Ahhh, February. The days of St. Valentine are nearly upon us, and now we can turn to thoughts romantic. And what better way to celebrate the love than to embrace something French, no? More specifically, The Paramount presents a unique opportunity for the lovers out there. The next guests to the stage are a special ballet company from our neighbors to the North. Although technically Canadian, this Royal Winnipeg Ballet brings a Parisian flair to the stage, and invite you to visit the famous Moulin Rouge. Ooh la la!

Distinctive for its red windmill, this historical venue has an iconic status in Paris second only to the Eiffel Tower itself. It's not just a cabaret... it's the cabaret; a artistic mecca for bohemian principles. Over the years, its history has become the stuff of legend, and its story has been told and fictionalized in all manner of arts. Perhaps you know of it from books, or from myth, or from its numerous depictions on film. The Moulin Rouge has always remained in the public eye, but interest was renewed ten years ago thanks to Baz Luhrmann's frenzied romantic musical starring Ewan MacGregor and Nicole Kidman.

On this side of the pond, The Royal Winnipeg Ballet has a distinctive history of its own. First established in 1939, the company began touring in 1945, and received its official royal title in 1953. In the decades since they have established themselves as one of North America's most accomplished ballet companies as well as a premier performing arts organization. Today, they present the story of Moulin Rouge as a unique extravaganza for the stage.

Don't believe me? Take a look at this behind-the-scenes video about the production's set design. Attention to detail is top notch, and reflects the quality of this entire show.

See? Now that, my friends, looks like something special.

You see, this Moulin Rouge ballet is more than just another act. It's a celebration of what may well be the most important thing of all: l'amour. If your idea of French romance extends solely to the likes of Pepe Le Pew, then you owe it to yourself to see this. See it for the dancing, the costumes, the performances, and the very spectacle of love itself. Grab a seat and reaffirm that "the greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return."


The Royal Winnipeg Ballet brings their spectacular spectacular to The Paramount Theatre on Thursday, February 2nd at 8:00 p.m. Come because you can can-can!

Coming Soon: Jack Hanna's 'Into The Wild, Live!'

A new year dawns, and typically this is when most people's thoughts start to veer away from the generally good times of the holiday season. Alas, rather than continue the frivolity and good spirits, they turn to more serious thoughts. You know, something along the lines of New Year's resolutions, preparing for tax season and/or committing to jog off those holiday pounds they've gained.

But, wait a sec... Who says that quality family time has to stop when the holidays end?

Well, The Paramount sure doesn't. In fact, the 2011-2012 season rings in the new year with a very special treat. As a part of the Majestic Series during this season, they are bringing in a dose of wholesome fun. A live show that possesses universal appeal, as well as a possible fanged creature or two. Worry not, my dear readers. There's nothing to be afraid of, since the whole show will be under the supervision of one of the world's best known zookeepers: Jack Hanna.

Hanna is a veteran in zoological circles, and his media appearances have paved the way for the likes of later TV animal experts like Jeff Corwin and the late Steve Irwin. Jack's live animal showcases on television have made him readily identifiable over the decades, and introduced millions to groups of interesting beasts. Or should I instead say... flocks? Herds? Packs? Prides? Gaggles? Eh, well, you get the idea. Regardless of the terminology, the point is that he's displayed lots and lots of critters.

And, I might as well come right out and say it.

I love watching this guy and his parade of animals. It's simply great entertainment to see Hanna on a talk show. For example, he's been a staple on The Late Show with David Letterman for years. Heck, even going all the way back to the NBC days.


As the years went on, their hair may have gone white, but the energy is still there. The mix of Jack's goofy charm, Dave's wit, and majestic creatures is gold. Of course, sometimes the zoological guests can generate quite a different response...


You just never know what critters Jack Hanna will show up with. Just ask Ellen DeGeneres as she encounters pre-simians, gators, and owls.

No matter what, it's always a treat when the parade of animals makes an appearance. Jack Hanna will bring his gang of four-legged friends (or if snakes are present, no-legged friends) to The Paramount this January. Bring your friends, bring your family, and bring your enthusiasm. Few people have made exposure to different species both entertaining and enlightening like he does.

I have no idea what critters will make an appearance, but I wouldn't miss it for the world. Just between you and me, I'll have no issues with snakes if any come along for the show. But if he brings out any freakin' scorpions, I'll scream like a 6 year-old girl. Yeah, I'm not a fan of the scorpion.

Either way, I'll be ready to gape and gasp at whatever Jack and his live show have to offer. With all apologies to Tony the Tiger... it's gonna be grrrrrrr-eat.


Jack Hanna and his furry companions hit The Paramount Theatre on Saturday, January 28th at 2:00 p.m.

Coming Soon: The Cake Boss, Bakin' with the Boss Tour

My oh my, how we've had some mighty fine courses thus far to start the season. From k.d. lang to Sergio Mendes to Joan Rivers, the entertainment served on stage has been prime. So how about a little dessert? It only seems appropriate that the next course in the 2011/12 season features Buddy Valastro. That's right, The Cake Boss himself. He's coming to Austin as part of his Bakin' with The Boss Tour, where he will be hosting a live and interactive event up on stage.

Now, perhaps a few of you are asking, "who is this Cake Boss guy?"

Well, for the uninitiated, Buddy Valastro is featured in the hit reality television show "Cake Boss" on the TLC network. He operates Hoboken, New Jersey's own Carlo's Bakery, a family business. A far cry from the like of Jersey Shore, this show follows the ordeals of Buddy and his clan as they fulfill orders for some truly epic cakes.

And when I say epic cakes, I mean epic. cakes.

Yeah. When you're creating massive baked masterpieces like that, there are hazards involved that most of us could never imagine. No Easy-Bake Oven here, kiddos. Tribulations aside, the results are often nothing short of spectacular. Take this one, for instance, where an anniversary cake for Sesame Street doesn't just impress the crowd, but also one of the world's most well known purveyor of baked goods...

Is your sweet tooth awake yet? Mine sure is.

The show offers many different areas of interest. Some may gravitate to Buddy,who really is quite a character. Others may follow the drama inside a family business, and for the rest of us, we gawk at baked goods.

Myself, I must confess a weakness for cooking and baking shows. To paraphrase an old saying, the surest way to my eyes nowadays is through my stomach. Now that I reflect back for a moment, I guess it's always been this way. One of my earliest Saturday morning cartoon memories was this PSA...

To this day, those frozen juice blocks remain the pinnacle of my cooking ability. My cooking and baking skills are limited to bowls of cereal and slightly burned toast. Make no mistake, I would be fired by any cake boss with the utmost quickness. No wonder I gravitate to these foodie programs.

Those who can, bake. Those who can't... er, watch... and then eat.

As part of the Majestic Series during this season, this show promises to be a real delectable treat. Valastro will share stories about the show and his family, and even answer audience questions. Best of all, he'll give a live demonstation right there on stage. I have no clue what it may be, but I'm hoping it's enough to feed the whole audience.

So satisfy that sweet tooth and get ready or a unique event. The Cake Boss is coming, and I can't think of a better way for foodies and their families to spend an evening than to get baked with Buddy.

Buddy Valastro will be appearing live in his Bakin' with The Boss Tour at The Paramount Theatre on Thursday, November 10 at 7:30 p.m.

Coming Soon: Joan Rivers

"The only thing that's saving me is my age. Because I don't care. I've been up, I've been down. I've been fired, I've been hired. I've been broke. What are you gonna to do to me? Not like me? I don't give a damn."

-Joan Rivers

Over the years, I've heard Joan Rivers called a lot of things, and not all of them have been flattering. Her fearlessness, no-nonsense manner and raspy voice are distinctive, but can rub people with all the velvety touch of steel wool. In many ways, she's a comedic splinter, capable of getting under your skin, but never cutting deep or inflicting irreparable harm. Regardless of your feelings about her, one thing is certain. After being one of the first successful American comediennes (not to mention staying relevant for nearly 50 years), Joan's a certifiable legend. She's been a comedian, an actress, a talk show host, an author, a TV personality, a reality TV star, a red carpet commentator... and, through it all, an unflappable performer.

She emerged on the comedic scene from Greenwich Village in the early 1960s, and broke into show business writing for Candid Camera. Her big splash, however, came when she made her first appearance on The Tonight Show back in 1965 as a guest for host Johnny Carson. She appeared on the show numerous times over the years, and Rivers cites Carson as the person who provided her with "her big break."

In the 70s, Rivers was omnipresent. She would appear on TV on The Carol Burnett Show, Hollywood Squares, and other programs. Joan began to enter the big time, and soon everyone knew her trademark self-depreciating humor, delivered with that particular voice you would know anywhere.

The 1980s arrived, and the hits just kept on coming for Joan Rivers. Johnny Carson anointed her as the permanent guest host of The Tonight Show in 1983, and she became a full-fledged pop culture icon at that point. Always a comedian's comedienne, now everyone got to know her brand of humor. Although she remained inimitable, Joe Piscopo sure gave it a noble effort when she hosted Saturday Night Live.

Alas, things took a turn in the middle of the decade, Rivers and Carson had a falling out, and her own attempt at a late night talk show proved disastrous. She lost her husband to suicide shortly thereafter, and times were hard indeed.

Joan's comeback began with a daytime talk show, which won her an Emmy and ran for five years. Then, she and daughter Melissa Rivers in 1994 began their stint as red carpet interviewers for the E! channel. She introduced her snark to a whole new genreration as a red carpet commentator / reporter for the network, with an emphasis on the slash, I may add. Her wickedly funny criticism and dissection of celebrities were sharp as razors, and occasionally shaved soem personalities a little too close for comfort.

In the years since, Joan has kept her hands full. Despite entering her seventh decade, she hasn't slowed for one moment. Rivers has appeared on: Nip/Tuck, Drawn Together, QVC, Celebrity Apprentice, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Louie, and The TV Guide channel. All the while still touring and performing with the vigor (and venom) of a young and hungry comedian.

In 2010, Rivers was the subject of a film documentary, Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work, which was lauded by critics on the film festival circuit. It provided a rare glimpse behind the curtain, and is a candid portrayal of Joan as a real person in an unreal profession. Her looks may be timeless due to her freely admitted frequent trips to a plastic surgeon, but her longevity through her sheer will. One doesn't last as long in the business as she has through luck. In this clip, she's discussing her treasure trove of jokes over the years. No, really. It's an archive. Take a look:

Amazing to think she can still do these shows without showing down. After decades in an unforgiving profession, Joan has een highs, lows, and everything in between. Her life has had has had ups and downs, but she's still the same uncensored, uninhibited queen of comedy that you've either come to love or hate.

Joan's definitely lived her life on her own terms, and will continue serving her unique brand of acerbic humor on her own terms. Soon, this devilish whirlwind will come to Austin for one night only. It's a can't miss event, because when someone as fearless as Joan takes the stage, there's no 10-second delay, and no one knows what's gonna come out of that mouth next.

Joan Rivers will be appearing live at The Paramount Theatre on Thursday, November 3 at 8:00 p.m.

Coming Soon: Sérgio Mendes

When a theatre has a history as deep and vast as The Paramount, one comes to expect entertainment of a higher caliber. All this time, the venue has never disappointed. Heck, viewing superior talent just comes with the territory. But lest we become content, even The Paramount kicks things up a notch every so often by bringing in honest to goodness legends.

The next performer is just such a man and living legend: Sérgio Mendes.

A Brazilian musician with nearly 50 years in the business, Mendes is a pianist and pioneer in Latin Jazz and Bossa Nova. Originally trained as a classical pianist, he became influenced by jazz and began to play nightclubs and lounges. His reputation grew as he played with nearly every American jazz musician that toured through Brazil in the late 1950s.. After forming the Sexteto Bossa Rio in 1961, Mendes toured Europe and North America before finally moving to the U.S. in 1964.

After that, things really blew up for him. The Bossa Nova scene really took off, and Sérgio helped lead the way towards its prominence in the U.S. in the 1960s with his new group, Sérgio Mendes and the Brasil '66.

Even if the name doesn't ring a bell, surely you are familiar with the music. In fact, I'm willing to bet that you know this tune. It's a staple of the Bossa Nova era, "Mas Que Nada," released in 1966.

In the decades since, Sérgio hasn't slowed down one bit. He's recorded and released over 35 albums over his career, and is constantly striving to reach new audiences with the timeless sounds of Brazilian music and culture. The late 1990s saw a revival of the retro lounge music genre, and Mendes' riffs captured a whole new generation. Regardless, he is never afraid to evolve his music, and even infusing it contributions with modern artists. His latest album, Timeless, features an impressive lists of collaborators: Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, India.Arie, John Legend, Justin Timberlake, Q-Tip, Stevie Wonder and Pharoahe Monch.

To underline his ability to evolve, here's a modernized version of "Mas Que Nada," this time with the Black Eyed Peas.

¿Impressionante, que no? Sérgio Mendes continues spreading the influence of Latin jazz, one set of ears at a time.

Doesn't this just want to make you just get up and dance? Go ahead, I won't tell anyone. But be sure and dave some of that groove thang for November. It's not everyday that someone of Mendes' caliber graces Austin, but when he does, it's only appropriate that he appear onstage at The Paramount Theatre. After all, legends play here.

Sérgio Mendes will be appearing live at The Paramount Theatre on Wednesday, November 2 at 8:00 p.m.

Coming Soon: Bela Fleck and The Flecktones

"I don't wanna celebrate the old days. We're here now. Let's go do something we've never done before."

-Béla Fleck

What comes to mind when you hear the word "reunion?" Perhaps the term has no vested interest for you at that moment; maybe you're too young to have attended even a high school reunion thus far. If so, let me share a not-so-little secret about them. What should be a celebration and a rejuvenation is often just not so. Instead, they're usually a tad preoccupied with past achievements. It can be a somewhat sad affair, a commemoration that is nevertheless tinted with the regret of nostalgia.

For music groups, their own reunions often fall into the same traps. It's rarely about starting a new chapter, and instead seems more preoccupied with cashing in on past success. Alas, it's also a general rule of thumb that the get-togethers are sub-par. Off the top of my head, the only two recent examples of reunion where hype matched the performance was The Police tour and the one-night-only Led Zeppelin reunion. Exemplary examples of this sort are exceedingly rare, because... well, let's be honest. The bands usually broke up for a good reason to begin with. All the money in the world won't right the ubiquitous "creative differences." I'm looking at you, The Monkees.

Why not let the sleeping dog lie, then? Because once in a blue moon the stars align and offer renewal rather than a recycling of old times. Case in point, Béla Fleck and the Flecktones. These guys aren't driven by greed, but by promise. Although preforming for nearly a quarter of a century, the band deviated from its original members long ago, last playing together as that unit in 1991.

Now before I go any further, I know what some of you are thinking: Just who the heck is Béla Fleck?

A world renown banjo player, Fleck has participated in a wide range of solo and collaborative projects throughout his career. He has blended some musical genre lines and busted through many others. As a result, Béla has been nominated in more different Grammy categories than any other musician. He has won Grammys for his work with Asleep at the Wheel, Alison Brown and Edgar Meyer. The things Fleck can do with a banjo can defy belief. Fearless in his approach, Béla has even adapted classical selections for use with a banjo. One can witness the beautiful result as he plays Prelude from Bach Violin Partitia #3 on his own set of strings right here.

In 1988, he formed Béla Fleck and the Flecktones with Victor Wooten, Roy "Future Man" Wooten, Howard Levy and, of course, Fleck himself. Their music isn't easy to classify, but it is a fusion of bluegrass and jazz. In fact, they should create a whole new category just for them. The wide variety of influences in their body of work is the very reason why they have been Grammy nominated in such a spectrum of categories: instrumental, jazz, bluegrass, pop, spoken word, contemporary Christian, gospel, classical, and country (to name a few). In many ways they are musical chameleons, adapting to whatever inspires them.

Keyboardist and harmonic player Levy stayed with them during their first three albums, but departed the group after the 1992 album UFO Tofu. This year, Levy returned to the lineup and the original members have released a new album, Rocket Science. This is the first time in nearly 20 years that The Original Flecktones have performed together. Instead of using this as a cash grab opportunity, their purpose is simply creative in nature. They aim to push each other into new grounds, and that's quite a bold statement for such an innovative group that has blazed trails and blended genres for nearly a quarter century.

But don't take my word for it. Here, meet the band for yourselves...

Is this a glimpse of the future of the band? Or is it merely a one-time reunion tour? The Flecktones may not even know, but they're taking advantage of the rejuvenation and celebrating the progress they are able to make together. It's rare, it's inspiring, and it's something to behold with your eyes and ears.

Getting the band back together isn't rocket science, but it can be a challenge to do it for the right reasons. Béla Fleck and the Flecktones are their own guiding light, and this reunion is no mere time machine to the past. Instead, the guys have reunited to build their own rocket ship to move forward, reach new heights, and inspire new audiences in ways they've never imagined. We as listeners are merely along for the ride, but what a wonderful musical adventure it's going to be.

Béla Fleck and the Flecktones will be appearing live at The Paramount Theatre on Thursday, October 13 at 8:00 p.m.

Coming This Fall: The 2011-2012 Season

Right now, it's like a mirage on the horizon. A paradise seen in the distance, faintly visible after another long, hot summer. You may thirst for it and reach in vain, for as of now it remains beyond your grasp. But give it time, my dehydrated friend. Soon, the seasons will change. And come the fall, you can quench your thirst for more live performances... at The Paramount Theatre's 2011-2012 season.

I, for one, am craving more performances. Last season was the first I experienced at The Paramount, and it blew me away. Everything surpassed my expectations, and it was incredible to see so many people at the top of their craft. I was entertained, moved, enlightened and always amazed by the artist on stage. At every event, I found myself rapt at attention as I watched each act on stage inside the classic venue. And as excited as I was last season, I am even more feverish with anticipation at what lies ahead.

Now's the time to start salivating at the announced entertainers. A full season of 19 shows approaches. So dust of your calendars and start clearing your plans. Some of these you just can... not... miss.

Presenting the following Season Subscription Series...

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Experience music, comedy and candid discussions with the following ladies:

It's Just My Nature: A Conversation with Bette Midler

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

A spoken word performance with the "Divine Miss M" about passions that extend beyond the world of showbiz.

Joan Rivers

Thursday, November 3, 2011 

She's bringing the funny. Be ready to gasp... repeatedly.

k.d. lang and The Siss Boom Bang

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

An evening with one of the most commanding voices in music today.

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Legends and bold entertainers shine brightly upon the classic Paramount Theatre marquee.

Kenny Rogers

Thursday, December 1, 2011 

The Legend. The Gambler. The man with over five decades in show business under his belt sings his greatest hits.

Martin Short

Friday, March 23, 2012

Hilarious comedy that is sort of a two-for-one deal: Not only do you get Short, but the show will feature his alter ego, the delightfully annoying Jiminy Glick.

Royal Winnipeg Ballet's MOULIN ROUGE: THE BALLET

Thursday, February 2, 2012

A story of truth, beauty, freedom and love. Why watch it? Because you can can can!

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Unique shows and personalities for a city that keeps it weird.

Sergio Mendes

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

This legendary and eclectic performer has sold millions of records. Experience his distinctive sound.

Good vs. Evil with Anthony Bourdain & Eric Ripert  

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

The affable yet acerbic Bourdain of Travel Channel's "No Reservations" takes on Ripert, celebrated chef of New York’s Le Bernardin restaurant and Bravo TV’s "Top Chef." This will be a dish best served cold.

The Moth on The Road

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

One of New York's hippest storytellers, The Moth has packed houses across the nation with his live stories (told without notes!) about people from all walks of life.

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Offering entertainment for the entire family. Great for audiences young and old.

The Cake Boss: Bakin' with The Boss Tour starring BUDDY VALASTRO 

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Buddy's live show serves up fun and cakes!

Jack Hanna's Into The Wild: Live!

Saturday, January 28, 2012

An afternoon of stories, family fun, and critters. Lots of critters.

ScrapArtsMusic

Saturday, March 3, 2012

Canadian quintet who put on an energetic show. Their instruments are crafted from recycled materials such as scrap metal and even artillery shells! Together they create music that is far from being junk.

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Ah, but there are still many more shows.

Bela Fleck and the Original Flecktones

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Composer and bandleader Bela Fleck has reunited his original Flecktones and brings them all to The Paramount. Also along for the ride, Bela's signature banjo.

A Tuna Christmas

The Paramount tradition returns! Comedians Joe Sears and Jaston Williams bring their two-man show back for a tale of Christmas hijinks in the little town of Tuna, TX.

John Waters' Christmas

December 2, 2011

Yep. That John Waters. The director of Pink Flamingos, Hairspray, Cry-Baby and Serial Mom brings his offbeat humor to the stage in a one-man vaudeville act. It would be a dirty shame to miss it.

Kelly Willis & Bruce Robison Holiday Show

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Another Paramount tradition returns for the holidays! Texas royalty on the country music scene, Willis and Robison bring warmth and joy in a show that has something for everyone.

Pilobolus

February 17 & 18, 2012

A production of amazing choreography that blurs the line between individual performers. Sure to mesmerize audiences with their "sense of dance-troupe-as-organism" acts.

Laurie Berkner Band

Sunday, March 4, 2012

The Queen of Kids' Music. Need I say more? You know what little members of the family to bring.

Montana Reperatory Theatre's DOUBT: A Parable 

Tuesday, March 6, 2012 

A powerful play performed by one of America's oldest and most respected touring companies. Winner of a Pulitzer Prize for Drama and a Tony Award for Best Play, it was also adapted into an Oscar nominated film in 2008.

David Sedaris at The Long Center

Monday, April 23, 2012 

What would a season be without David and his sardonic wit? There's never a dull or artificial moment during his live performances. If you've never seen him, you owe it to yourself to attend. If you have seen him, you know you can't wait to do it again.

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Season packages and various combinations of shows are available now. Don't forget that as a subscriber, you can reap the following benefits:

• Priority Seating
• Waived Service Fees
• Free Parking
• Paramount Club Membership

and... exclusive access to

• The Season Kick-Off Party
  September 21, 2011
• The Holiday Party
  November 30, 2011
• The Wrap Party
  April 18, 2012

Get the best seats possible or choose more flexibility for the shows you want to attend. The choice is yours on how you want to see them. Each one of these is a special event in itself. Special because of the performer, special because of the historic venue, special because it will be something you'll aways treasure.

This lineup truly has something for everyone, and that's no mirage. Join us at The Paramount all season long. It forever shines bright in downtown Austin, and is always your oasis for culture and entertainment.

Try and contain yourselves, folks. It'll be here before you know it.