MOVIE FUN FOR KIDS.

If you’re looking for fun times with kids and movies, look no more. First of all, the new Alamo Drafthouse Vintage Park in northwest Houston is here! I was lucky enough to enjoy a special sneak preview and let me tell you, the theatre is lovely. The Alamo will open its doors to the public tomorrow (Thursday) and will continue their fine tradition of signature programming, which includes Sing-a-Longs, Japanimation nights, special meals, and much more. This Saturday, February 16, at 11am, they are kicking off their “Alamo Kids Club” with a screening of WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT? I can’t believe it because I remember when this film debuted – but it’s the 25th anniversary screening of Robert Zemeckisʼ groundbreaking blend of animation and live action noir. The whole family is invited to this free screening and for every person who attends, the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema will donate $1 to the local YMCA scholarship fund.

And mark your calendars now for two more kid movie extravaganzas, the “Popcorn Kids” film screenings at the Aurora Picture Show. On Saturday, March 2 at 4pm, the Aurora is screening a series of stop-animation films inspired by PES, an artist who has earned global recognition for his innovative short films and unique approach to stop-motion animation. Often working with familiar foods, household items and found objects, PES has crafted some of the most memorable short films of recent years, including "KaBoom!," "Game Over," and "Western Spaghetti." And as a fun jump-start to summer, I’m curating the 2nd annual “I Can Do Anything! Film Shorts for Kids” screening that will take place on Saturday, June 15 at 4pm. I’m rounding up some very unique films about kids who live life out loud – including the new You Tube sensation, Kid President, as well as films from the Netherlands, Canada, and United States. We’ll start the afternoon with a performance by kids. Both screenings are free.

GISH PICKS is a free weekly email in which I highlight family-oriented cultural events, products or services. Please note that I "highlight" events, but I don't know if they are appropriate for your particular children, so choose wisely based on age, maturity and interests. I know many of you go to events based on GISH PICKS recommendations; PLEASE remember to tell the organization that you are there because of us. Word-of-mouth like yours helps our business to grow. In the same spirit, please also feel free to share GISH PICKS with friends and families.

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The purpose of GISH PICKS is to help parents become aware of all the fun things they can do with their children in Houston and the surrounding area, so GO FIND FUN! Please do give me feedback and ideas, as you are out there in the trenches also looking for interesting things for your family and I want to hear what you find.

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