Kick off the first weekend of 2024 with a mix of live music, performing arts, and circus magic at happenings throughout the city. Enjoy juggling and stunts at Cirque Italia’s Water Circus, or experience a performance by Austin’s only all-Black en pointe dance company. Check out the top seven things to do in Austin this weekend. For a complete list of events, visit our calendar.
Thursday, January 4
Barton Creek Square presents Cirque Italia Water Circus
Cirque Italia is back with its newest, aquatic-inspired production at Barton Creek Square. Spectators can experience the story of Raphael the Clown through his circus adventures including juggling, skating, a trampoline wall, a swing act, Rolla Bolla, and more. Performances are scheduled through January 15. For seating availability, go to silver.cirqueitalia.com.
Friday, January 5
Cap City Comedy Club presents Marlon Wayans
Multihyphenate entertainer Marlon Wayans showcases his stand-up comedy talents at Capitol City Comedy Club this weekend. Wayans is best known for his roles in films like White Chicks, Little Man, and the Scary Movie series and for his 2018 Netflix special, Woke-ish.
The Paramount Theatre presents Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular
The multimedia laser and light show featuring masterful recordings of Pink Floyd illuminates the Paramount Theatre in its return to Austin. This production includes a combination of classic hits and cutting-edge effects for an immersive experience and the ultimate fan event.
The Long Center presents Shen Yun
Be transported to the world of ancient China, and experience the art of classical Chinese dance at The Long Center for the Performing Arts. Shen Yun is a (heavily marketed, widely memed) production featuring a blend of high-tech backdrops, a live orchestra, colorful costuming, and some of the most talented performers versed in a once-lost artistic culture. Performances are scheduled through January 7.
AEG presents An Evening(ish) with Gary Janetti
Author and essayist Gary Janetti settles in at Stateside at the Paramount for a brief evening of passage readings and conversations. Fans will get the opportunity to hear selections from Janetti’s best-selling books read by the writer himself. He’ll also answer questions from the audience during the event.
Saturday, January 6
Meanwhile Brewing Co. presents Deaf Artisans Market Day
Meanwhile Brewing Co. hosts its first vendor market day of the year featuring local deaf and hard of hearing makers. Visitors can browse and purchase a variety of goods, enjoy beer specials, and make new friends. Market admission is free and open to the public.
Ballet Afrique presents Duke Ellington's The Nutcracker Suite
Austin’s only all-Black en pointe dance company brings The Nutcracker Suite to life at the Paramount Theatre. This production, arragned by the late, great Duke Ellington, takes the audience to New York City during the Harlem Renaissance, where the Claranette family weathers the challenges of the Great Depression, Jim Crow, and more.
Marlon Wayans will perform at Cap City Comedy Club this weekend.
