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: John Waters' Christmas

As we usher in December, the Christmas gears are spinning like clockwork. 'Tis the season for colder weather, warmer wishes and a plethora of holiday traditions. Things like: families, stockings, chestnuts, Rudolph and Frosty. Yes, everywhere one looks there are reminders of what this season is about: consumerism. Er, I mean goodwill towards men... and stuff.

The Paramount Theatre will be offering many holiday themed shows over the coming weeks, each with their own unique spin on December celebrations. Among the festivities are those by Michael Martin Murphey, Kelly Willis & Bruce Robison, and Asleep at the Wheel. Yet there is a one man show coming to grace the stage, and is guaranteed to present a holiday event unlike any other. And that man is...

John Waters, of course.

Wait, what?!?

John Waters, the pencil-mustached film director, is... how shall we say... an interesting choice to host a live Christmas show. I mean, this is a man so unconventional and outlandish that he makes Tim Burton look like Newt Gingrich. Waters has been a film maker since the 1970s, but he certainly isn't a part of the New Hollywood wave of Coppola, Scorsese, De Palma, Spielberg or Lucas. His movies were more underground, shocking audiences with content and quickly attaining a cult following. He and his motley crew made some memorable sleazy flicks during this period, including the so-called "Trashy Trilogy" of Pink Flamingos, Female Trouble and Desperate Living.

In many ways, he is a crusader for bad taste itself. But there is a method to his madness. Allow him to explain...

Ever the champion for filthy yet personable characters, Waters has always pushed the boundaries of censorship. As he grew more mainstream his films grew less controversial, yet John never abandoned his idiosyncratic style.

Hmmm. Now that I think about it... Considering how Christmas attitudes have skewed from genuine goodwill to crass commercialism, perhaps John Waters isn't such a bizarre choice for a Christmas show, after all. After all, he is a big fan of the holiday. Don't believe it? Then give this a listen. It's his deliberately facetious view of the most wonderful time of the year.

With this in mind, I can think of no other person to shine a new light on how I view Christmas. I mean, who better to sift the tinsel from the trash than John Waters? Here is a man who needs no reason for his season. He keeps it weird.

Now where ever have I heard that before?

Oh, yes. This is shaping up to be one Christmas show we won't soon forget.

John Waters will have himself a Merry Little Christmas at The Paramount Theatre on Friday, December 2 at 8:00 p.m.

Coming Soon: Kenny Rogers

As the first entry in the Marquee Series this season at The Paramount, I gotta say that Kenny Rogers fits the bill as the appropriate level of "legendary." I mean, come on. Kenny's a big deal. Over the past five decades, Rogers has made waves as a songwriter and singer in a dominant fashion. In the mid 1980s, he was named "Favorite Singer of All Time" in a poll by USA Today and People magazine (take that, Elvis and The Beatles). In addition, Rogers is an accomplished producer, actor, and more. This man even launched an empire of rotisseire chicken franchises (take that, P. Diddy).

Although best known as a country music icon, Kenny Rogers actually began his musical career as a member of doo-wop group (!!!) in the 50s, and bounced around as a member of various bands and dabbling in different genres (including jazz, folk, pop, rock, and even psychedelia). For instance, check out this bizarre clip from the old Smother Brothers TV show, where Kenny Rogers and The First Edition performi their mild hit "Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)."

Hard to believe that's the guy who would later sing "Islands in the Stream," isn't it?

If "Just Dropped In" sounds familiar but you just can't quite place it, fret not, my friends. I can assure you that you are not the victim of any hallucinogenic episode. The song was revitalized in the late 1990s when it appeared on the soundtrack of the cult classic film The Big Lebowski. It was even featured in the movie's trailer.

As Kenny began a solo career in the late 70s, he steadily grew in popularity. But when "Lucille" was released, he skyrocketed into the upper atmosphere. he entered the 1980s firmly entrenched as one of country music's biggest stars with smash singles like "Coward of the County," "Lady," "Through The Years," and "Islands in The Stream" (a memorable duet with Dolly Parton)

Ah, but how could I leave out his best known hit. A song that spawned a legion of followers and a series of television movies. That's right, I'm talking about "The Gambler." I find it only appropriate, in the spirit of the season, to share a unique version of Kenny Roger's most famous song. No, I'm not referring to the Christmas season. I'm thinking something more contemporary to these recent weeks in 2011... something like... The Muppets.

In the years since, Kenny hasn't slowed down one bit, and still enthralled his legions of fans. As of today, he has recorded 65 albums and sold well above 100 million records.

Rogers has also appeared as an actor in the film Six Pack, as well as a string of television films based on his single "The Gambler" and a variety of television programs. Over the past decades it almost seems as if his face is omnipresent, and in the realm of internet American pop culture that has not gone unnoticed. If you really do think you see him everywhere, you're not alone. Check out this website to put your mind at ease (and a smile on your face).

And now Kenny's sure to be giving Austin his best, gracing the stage as only he could. Rest assured, he will do much more than see what condition our condition is in. You won't want to miss this chance to see Kenny Rogers on stage at The Paramount, and if you haven't got tickets yet, you now know when to run. . So don't hesitate; hurry and get your tickets now. When they are in your hand, you'll know when to hold them, but don't even think of folding them or walking away. The chance to see this legend is a gamble you can't afford to lose.

Kenny Rogers will be appearing live at The Paramount Theatre on Thursday, December 1 at 8:00 p.m.

Coming Soon: A Tuna Christmas

Why, hello there, November. You sure took your time getting here this year. Thanks for your lackadaisical ushering in of cold fronts that bring the temperature plummeting. Okay, well, maybe it's not cold. Cool, maybe. Would you believe, Cool...ish? Anyways, as central Texas temperatures drop into the 60s, we can all dust off our Snuggies in hopes of using them... next month. Oh, and while I'm at it, thanks also for turning out the lights. You know, the whole daylight savings thing that for some reason I can't quite adjust to this year.

Alright, November. Perhaps I am being a little hard on you. After all, you also bring unwavering traditions. Christmas creep has penetrated our stores, thoughts of turkeys and pies fill our brains, and Texas and Texas A&M will continue to tussle for eternity just as they always have... Oh... wait. As Rick Perry so eloquently said recently (after 50 seconds of agony), "oops."

Well fear not, my fellow Texans. It's not all about holiday blues. In fact, this month brings one more tradition that continues to endure every holiday season: Tuna. That's right. I said tuna.

No, not this guy.
If you're not familiar with "A Tuna Christmas," I can understand the confusion.

Having nothing to do with Charlie the Tuna or any other aquatic cuisine, "A Tuna Christmas" is a farcical play created by Jaston Williams, Joe Sears, and Ed Howard. Set in the fictional town of "Tuna" (proudly proclaimed as the "third-smallest in Texas"), the play revolves around the community's annual Christmas Yard Display Contest, a wayward vandal, family strife, and a frustrating attempt to stage a production of "A Christmas Carol."

The twenty-plus roles in the play, and all help the audience paint a mental picture of what Tuna, TX is really like. Each is distinct, and yet readily identifiable to anyone who's ever been in a podunk town in the Lone Star state. Funny? Yes, but here's the truly entertaining part. Everyone one of these roles is played by Williams and Sears. That's right.

It's like some mad math equation:

2 guys + 24 roles x lightning fast costume changes + comedic wit = entertainment gold.

Brewed right here in Austin and performed by many across the country, the play constantly tours the country. Extolling the virtues (and shortcomings) of tiny Tuna, TX, the performances yield laughs that spread like a contagion of silliness. And as a holiday treat each year, the original cast of Williams and Sears bring it back for a homecoming reception by the Austin crowds. Now it's as much of a November tradition as eating way too many starches on Thanksgiving, watching the Cowboys on TV, and being underwhelmed by Black Friday newspaper ads.

So come to Paramount and help yourself to something that won't disappoint.

Tuna. It's what's for Christmas.

A Tuna Christmas will be performed on:

Tuesday, November 22 at 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, November 23 at 8:00 p.m.

Friday, November 25 at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, November 26 at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Sunday, November 27 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.