It’s the first full weekend in February (what) and there’s a lot going on. Whether it’s WWII poems or Julia Roberts, this weekend is shaping up pretty nicely. And don’t worry, we’re saving all the ooey gooey Valentine goodness for next week. Cheers.
Friday (Feb. 6)
“Fourteen Minutes and Fifty-Nine Seconds: Recent Works by Guy W. Bell” opening reception at Thea Foundation, 401 Main St., North Little Rock: In the latest installment of The Art Department, the Thea Foundation is proud to feature Guy W. Bell. In this exhibit debut, Bell will reveal a floating statue. Yes, we know what we just said. The reception starts at 6:30 and includes hors d’oeuvres, an open bar, live music from John Willis and Late Romantics and the chance to win an original work by Bell. For more information, click here.
“For the Love of Art” musical showcase at the Lettermen’s Club, War Memorial Stadium, One Stadium Drive, Little Rock: Presented by Art Porter Music Education, Inc., the night will include the musical stylings of Rodney Block, New Era Jazz Project, Synergy, SOULutions, Sound So Good and more. Guest will also enjoy food and a cash bar. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged. Enter at Gate 7. The show starts at 7 p.m. For more information, click here.
“Pretty Woman” at CALS Ron Robinson Theater, 100 River Market Ave., Little Rock: There’s a reason this 1990 movie makes it into the upper echelon of so many people’s favorite film lists. Julia Roberts. Richard Gere. This is classic movie history, folks. It deserves to be watched in a theater. The screening starts 7 p.m. For more information, click here.
Saturday (Feb. 7)
Central Arkansas Heart Ball at the Statehouse Convention Center, 101 E. Markham St., Little Rock: To coincide with the rest of the American Heart Association awareness festivities, the Central Arkansas Heart Ball is a premiere black-tie event that helps raise funds for research, prevention and treatment of heart disease and stroke. Festivities start at 5:30. For more information, click here.
The Roots of African American Education in Arkansas at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, 501 W. 9th St., Little Rock: This special symposium is hosted by The Black History Commission of Arkansas and The Arkansas History Commission. The day will include talks by Peggy Lloyd, Dr. Joe Hale, Amanda L. Paige and Gwendolyn Twillie. Teachers in attendance can also earn up to four hours of professional development. Registration is required. For more information, click here.
Friday & Saturday (Feb. 6 & 7)
“Frost Bite Me” at The Joint Theater, 301 Main St., North Little Rock: Stop by The Joint and get your dose of The Main Thing. They’ve got a show full of sketch comedy and parodies, including an original piece about Sherwood, Arkansas’ number one private eye. Plus, The Joint has plenty of food and drink to make the night even better. The show starts at 8 p.m. both nights. For more information, click here.
Sunday (Feb. 8)
34th Annual AACF Soup Sunday at the Statehouse Convention Center, 101 E. Markham St., Little Rock: At this yearly favorite, the Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families serves up an evening of soups, breads and sweets from some of Little Rock’s finest and favorite restaurants. Check out our Q&A with event chair Molly McGowan to learn more about the organization and it’s most popular event. The soup starts flowing at 4 p.m. For more information, click here.
Thursday-Sunday (Feb. 5 – Feb. 8)
“How to Kill: World War II Watercolors by Robert Andrew Parker” at the Arkansas Arts Center, 501 E. 9th St., Little Rock: Based on the series of poems by WWII soldier Keith Douglas, the work of Robert Andrew Parker is a more gentle take on the poems’ harsh themes, creating an odd and fascinating contrast. The exhibit will only be at the AAC until March 8, so plan accordingly. For more information, click here.
“The Whipping Man” at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre, 601 Main St., Little Rock: In The Rep’s latest upcoming production, a jewish Confederate officer and his two former slaves remain, Simon and John. The three are left in the ruins of their hometown, forced to learn how to live in a post-slavery world. What unfolds as they wait for their loved ones’ return is full of pain, faith, horror, strength and secrets. Check out our review of “The Whipping Man” here. For more information, click here.
Art in the Park UALR Exhibit at Wildwood Park for the Arts, 20919 Denny Road, Little Rock: Come out and enjoy the newest exhibit in the Art at the Park lineup. The show includes work from students, faculty and alumni from UALR in a variety of mixed media. The exhibit is open on weekdays from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. and on weekends from noon- 4 p.m.. For more information, click here.
Charles Schulz exhibits at The Clinton Center, 1200 President Clinton Ave., Little Rock: Snoopy gets the presidential treatment as the Center celebrates 65th anniversary of Charles Schulz’s famous pup and the rest of the crew with their newest exhibits, “Pigskin & Peanuts” and “Heartbreak in Peanuts.” The Center is open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. and on Sundays from 1-5 p.m. For more information, click here.