Thank you to everyone to attended the Buy Art Fundraiser for the Austin ArtWorks Center.

The event raised $6,500, and we still have art to sell. There will be an announcement on our website at austinareaarts.org and in this column when and where the remaining art will be available for purchase.

For those who haven’t heard our exciting news, we have officially merged with the Austin Area Art Center. Shortly we will transform their location in the Oak Park Mall into the temporary location of the ArtWorks Center. Hopefully we will soon be able to finalize a lease agreement on the location at 300 N. Main Str. and make a formal announcement of a more permanent home.

While we are pushing the ArtWorks Center forward, don’t miss the activities still happening at the Historic Paramount Theatre.

Our 2014 Movie Series brought to you by Knutson Construction kicks off at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 30 with the 1934 version of “Cleopatra.”

This epic drama directed by Cecil DeMille was shown at the Paramount Theatre the fifth year it was open.

Tickets are only $5.

We will then gear up for fun when Ted Manderfeld and David Eichholz perform “What a Wonderful World” and “Deuces Wild! Dueling Pianos” at 2 and 7:30 p.m. respectively on Thursday, Feb. 6.

“What a Wonderful World” features beloved musical standards, spirituals and sing-alongs liberally sprinkled with comedy, costumes, and wit. Tickets are $15.

“Deuces Wild! Dueling Pianos” defies all expectations and experiences in a dueling piano show. Dave and Ted take you on an adventure, where the audience paves the way to a wild and zany performance.

Come and be part of the action. Tickets are $18 in advance, and $23 at the door. Tickets for all our shows can be purchased online at austinareaarts.org, at the Paramount Box Office Tuesday-Friday noon to 5 p.m. and over the phone 507-434-0934.