‘Other People’ featuring Molly Shannon is one of the Dallas International Film Festival’s centerpiece screenings for its 10th season.
In need of some ideas of what to do this weekend? We got you covered, because there’s always plenty to do in East Dallas.
The Dallas International Film Festival opens its 10th year this Thursday and runs through April 24, bringing hundreds of unique independent movies to theaters all over Dallas, including the Angelika at Mockingbird Station, where the festival sets up its main box office and “festival hub.”  Films range from locally produced documentaries to international feature narratives, and a variety of passes are available at different price-points. Most films will include a “rush line” where people who don’t have passes can buy single-ticket entry to one film to fill the theater after pass-holders are seated. Also look for a slew of special events associated with the film festival — from celebrity tributes to unique food/film pairings.
Laser-tag is one of many events at the White Rock Lake Spring Games.
The annual White Rock Spring Games gets kids grades K-5 excited about physical fitness with a full slate of athletic endeavors this Saturday, from classics like tug-of-war and sack races to warrior runs. Students from all of the White Rock Lake-area elementary schools are invited to participate, and the day raises money for multiple area schools. The event takes place at Bishop Lynch High School and although registration is closed, the opening party is set for Thursday, April 14, at The Lot – meant “white Rock Spring Games” and 25 percent of your ticket total will be donated to the school of your choice. Volunteers are also needed to help make the day a success — sign up here.
The young thespians of J.L. Long Middle School show their stuff with a rendition of the ultimate classic in children’s literature: “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” This version of the show was written by Joseph Robinette and directed by Sarah Horn and features all the talent of the school’s theatre department. Shows are at 6:30 p.m. April 14-16Â at the school. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $5 for adults and $2 for students.
Through April 30, experience White Rock Lake through the lens of Kathleen Wilke. The Dallas-based photographer, known for her underwater shots, stayed on dry ground to create this series by documenting life at the lake. Bath House Cultural Center is at 521 E. Lawther. Call 214.670.8749 or go to bathhousecultural.com. There is no charge to attend.
While there may be no words, kids will easily follow along with the action while watching “Balloonacy,” a play about an elderly man and his beloved red balloon. Prepare to participate in this hands-on show at the Dallas Children’s Theater. The play, recommended for children ages 2 and up, runs from April 15-May 1 with performances at various times on Friday, Saturday and Sunday during its run.
The Spring Market at Bishop Lynch High School brings a wide swatch of vendors to peddle their wares for the benefit of the Bishop Lynch Brigade, the school’s award-winning dance and drill team. The event takes place Saturday, April 16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the school’s atrium and cafeteria, 6139 Highgate Lane. Be sure to swing by the Hip Hop Cafe for a bite while you’re there.
It’s not quite the weekend, but hearing an Elton John tribute band play on the banks of White Rock Lake is a good reason to get out of the house on a Thursday night. The Dallas Arboretum launches its weekly summer concert series this week, opening with Rocket Man playing classics like “Tiny Dancer.” Concerts take place from 7:30 to 9:30 but doors open at 6 p.m. for an evening soaking up the sun on the Martin Rutchik concert stage and lawn (unless the weather is bad, then performances will take place in Rosine Hall). Tickets range in prices and can be bought for a single show or the entire series.
