Samba, art and a girl named Pippi on tap today
Dance
Austin Samba’s “Texas! A Horse Opera.” This striking fusion of classic Texana and Brazilian carnaval, featuring 50 performers from the Austin Samba school and their special guests, will bring a whirlwind of rhythm and choreography to the Stateside Theater stage. You’ll get to see energetic tributes to Selena, Willie Nelson, ZZ Top, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Asleep at the Wheel and more. Mix all that with traditional Brazilian drum and dance and you’ve found a one-of-a-kind Austin experience. The special guests are Heybale, Stephanie Bergara and Gina Chavez. 6 p.m. doors Saturday. $17. 719 Congress Ave. austintheatre.org.
Art
Ash Almonte at Russell Collection Fine Art Gallery. Artist Ash Almonte’s mixed media show is named “Emma,” paying homage to the recent birth of her daughter. And the most recent pieces emerging from her studio reflect that — they’re dense with vibrant colors and her signature boldness. Fans of Almonte will notice that new motherhood has changed the direction of her artistic trajectory; she’s now going increasingly abstract with her pieces on canvas, made from graphite and enamel, oil and acrylic paint. She’ll be present at the Saturday reception. 6 to 8 p.m. opening reception. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays through Feb. 27. 1137 W. Sixth St. Free. RSVP requested: 512-478-4440, www.russell-collection.com.
Family
“Pippi Longstocking” at the Scottish Rite Theater. You know the story of “Pippi Longstocking,” right? She’s the scrappy 9-year-old with bright red hair in braids and a tendency to ask lots of questions. The play is back by popular demand at the Scottish Rite Theater throughout the month of February. Opens Saturday. 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays, 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Sundays through Feb. 28. $8-$12. 207 W. 18th St. 512-472-5436, scottishritetheater.org.