Music
Looking back: Austin City Limits Festival headliners, including Sabrina Carpenter and The Strokes, drew massive crowds, and reporters interviewed artists King Princess and Alex Amen. On campus, The Beach Boys brightened a rainy day at Longhorn City Limits, and The Cactus Cafe held a showcase featuring artists who frequent their open mic night. Austin label Happen Twice also released its debut compilation album, featuring alumni artists and donating 10% of proceeds to local musician health care.
Looking forward: South by Southwest will draw hundreds of artists from across the globe from Mar. 12 to 18 and Bass Concert Hall will feature live performances of “The Sound of Music” and “La La Land in Concert.”
Film
Looking back: Austin Film Festival premiered a handful of movies made by alumni and highly anticipated films like “Christy.” Throughout the semester, reporters interviewed actor Aziz Ansari and crew members behind “After the Hunt” and “Rhythm is a Dancer.” This fall, campus also saw visits from alumni Glen Powell and Matthew McConaughey for panel discussions about their latest projects.
Looking forward: Beyond music, SXSW will also bring a diverse film lineup and panels featuring cast and crew. Closer to campus, the 17th annual Texas Union Film Festival will showcase student films in February.
Student life
Looking back: “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” annual performance moved off campus after UT banned on-campus drag performances in March, the Hook ‘em hand sign celebrated its 70th anniversary in November, and students turned their West Campus apartments into restaurants.
Looking forward: In March, the annual Longhorn Run will return, and the Blanton Museum will introduce two new exhibitions. In April, the EQUINOX dance performances will showcase student and faculty choreography.