Dallas’s 2010 Arts & Entertainment Snapshot

Step back in time with us to 2010 and explore the vibrant Arts & Entertainment scene that defined Dallas. This retrospective delves into the Dallas Observer’s “Best Of” awards, highlighting local favorites and unsung heroes that shaped the city’s cultural landscape a decade ago. Discover award-winning venues, creative talents, and unique experiences that made Dallas a hub of excitement and innovation.

Nurturing Nature & Creativity

In 2010, Dallas celebrated its green spaces and artistic havens. The Butterfly Garden at the Bath House Cultural Center was lauded as the Best Small Public Garden, a testament to sustainable design and community effort. For budding artists, Bows and Arrows took the title of Best Place to Get Crafty, offering diverse classes from floral arranging to screen printing in a multi-use space that also functioned as a floral shop and art gallery.

The Bishop Arts District was already a magnet for community gatherings, winning Best Place for a Street Festival, known for its creative and invigorating events like art crawls and the popular Mardi Gras parade. The spirit of local artistry was further recognized with the Free Night of Theater, an initiative that successfully brought new audiences to Dallas’s diverse live theater performances.

Performing Arts Prowess

Dallas’s theater scene was vibrant, with the Dallas Theater Center and its Brierley Resident Acting Company earning Best Theater Company, celebrated for its talented ensemble and dedication to local actors. Kevin Moriarty, the artistic director, was named Best Theater Director for his bold stagings and championing of local talent, including SMU drama students and artists from Booker T. Washington High School. Local acting powerhouses Sally Nystuen Vahle and Regan Adair were recognized as the Best Local Actress and Actor, respectively, for their versatility and deep character work.

The newly restored Kessler Theater quickly established itself as a premier music venue, earning Best Backstage for its artist-friendly amenities. The Margot and Bill Winspear Opera House was celebrated as the Best New Theater, instantly becoming a grand, graceful venue with perfect acoustics, hosting Broadway tours and the world premiere of the opera adaptation of Moby-Dick.

Iconic Attractions & Leisure Spots

For visitors and locals alike, the State Fair of Texas remained the undisputed Best Tourist Attraction, offering a full day’s immersion into Texas culture, from deep-fried delicacies to technology showcases. Fair Park also hosted the Esplanade Fountain, named Best Hydro-Spectacular for its dancing water shows synchronized to Texas-themed music.

For more active leisure, the Fraternal Order of Eagles boasted the Best Pool, providing a retro 1960s community pool vibe with an adult twist. Skateboarding enthusiasts found their haven at Guapo Skillz Center Skatepark, recognized as the Best Skatepark for its strong community and excellent bowl and street-style skating.

Critics’ Picks vs. Readers’ Choices: A 2010 Showdown

It’s interesting to see where critic and reader tastes diverged or aligned in 2010, offering a multifaceted view of Dallas’s favorites.

Musical Moments & Media Highlights

Music lovers flocked to Good Records for Music Movie Mondays, celebrating it as the Best Monday Night for its free music DVD screenings, popcorn, and beer. The critically acclaimed “Suburban Nature” by Sarah Jaffe was recognized as the Best Local CD Release, marking her breakout success. The Toadies’ re-release of “Feeler” was hailed as the Best Middle Finger to the Music Industry, a triumphant comeback after major label disputes.

In local media, Katie Fairbank’s “Problem Solver” column in The Dallas Morning News was recognized as the Best Daily Newspaper Columnist for her clear writing and thorough reporting on real-world issues. News 8 Update on WFAA (Channel 8) was lauded as the Best TV News for its strong anchor duo and top-notch investigative reporting, with Heather Hays (KDFW FOX 4) recognized as Best TV News Anchor for her smooth delivery and trustworthy presence.

Hidden Gems & Unconventional Praises

Dallas also celebrated its quirks. The AT&T Telephone Pole-Climbing Training Grounds surprisingly won Best Make-Out Spot for its adventurous, adrenaline-fueled romance. For those looking for love in unexpected places, the McKinney Avenue Albertson’s was humorously named Best Meet Market, due to its “best-looking crop of shoppers.” These unconventional nods highlight the unique character of Dallas and its residents.

FAQs

• What was named the Best Small Public Garden in Dallas in 2010?
  The Butterfly Garden at the Bath House Cultural Center.
• Where was the Best Place for a Kids’ Party, according to the Dallas Observer?
  The Butterfly House at Texas Discovery Gardens, offering a unique rainforest experience.
• Who was recognized as the Best Local Actress in Dallas in 2010?
  Sally Nystuen Vahle, a versatile and strong performer with the Dallas Theater Center.
• What was the Best Local CD Release of 2010?
  “Suburban Nature” by Sarah Jaffe, an acclaimed collection of folk, indie rock, and pop tunes.
• What was considered the Best Place to Get Crafty?
  Bows and Arrows, a multi-use space offering various art and craft classes.

As we reflect on these “Best Of” selections from 2010, it’s clear that Dallas has long fostered a rich tapestry of arts, culture, and unique experiences. This snapshot encourages us to continue exploring and supporting the diverse talent and venues that make our city so special today.

Dallas Two Thousand Ten Arts And Entertainment Snapshot