Best Bets: Struck by magic

Published 2:10 pm Friday, February 10, 2012

It’s been a while since Austin has been struck by magic, as well as I am aware. Well, it is coming this weekend, tonight, at the Paramount — the first of its kind.

1. ‘The Magic Flounder’

The first-ever play production of “The Magic Flounder” will open at the Paramount Theatre, 125 Fourth Ave. NE, at 7 p.m. Friday.

The production, an altered version of the “The Fisherman and His Wife,” has one of Matchbox Children’s Theatre’s largest ever casts, and the set is above and beyond the norm, as well. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for ages 14 and younger. The play also shows at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

2. Teen dance at the YMCA

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For youngster’s looking for a different type of magic, there is more on Friday night. The YMCA, 704 First Drive NW, is holding a teen dance from 7 to 9 p.m. Students get in for $5 with an ID, $7 without one.

3. My Furry Valentine

Pets also need to get out and mingle, folks. So 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Oak Park Mall will be the best time to allow those dogs to socialize with their K-9 companions, during My Furry Valentine. The event, hosted by Start a Park for Austin’s Respectable K-9s is open to the public. Just bring leashes and dogs.

4. 1950s alive and well at church

With the lack of a local Hard Rock Cafe, St. John’s Lutheran Church, 1200 13th Ave. NW, is determined to recreate the ‘50s. Okay, that’s not their reasoning, but they are holding a ‘50s Diner Dinner from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, complete with burgers, fries, root beer floats, ‘50s props, dancing and of course, ‘50s rock. The event is free and open to the public, but the youth group would certainly appreciate as many donations as it can get for upcoming faith projects.

Other events

Don’t forget to buy a gift for your Valentine if you haven’t already done so. Tuesday is Valentine’s Day. Making plans now? The American Legion is holding a Valentine’s dinner, but please make reservations early. Among these events, there is plenty more, including poker at the Eagles, a Relay for Life fundraiser and a Riverland Theatre production, too.

Look to Reporter Matt Peterson’s column every Friday for more about upcoming events in Austin. For even more, check out the calendar on Page 4 every day in the print edition and the AustinDailyHerald.com homepage.