The Dallas Museum of Art hosts Arts and Letters Live every year, and tickets for the 2010 season are now available.

If you’re not familiar with the series, the museum’s web site describes it like this:  ”Arts & Letters Live is a literary and performing arts series for all ages at the Dallas Museum of Art that features award-winning authors and actors of regional, national, and international acclaim. The series is recognized for its creative multidisciplinary programming, combining literature with visual arts, music, and film and for commissioning new work from musicians, dancers, and poets, inspired by works of art in the Museum’s collections and exhibitions.”

As I flipped through the virtual brochure, I have to admit I was giddy at the thought of being able to see some of these authors in our own backyard. Here’s just a sample of participating authors and illustrators:

• David Wroblewski, author of “The Story of Edgar Sawtelle,” which is described as a new coming of age story. It was an Oprah’s book club selection in 2008, and although I haven’t read it yet, it’s on my list. He’s coming Jan. 21, though, so I better hurry. This could interfere with “Gone With the Wind” … just kidding, book club friends.
• Jan Brett, illustrator and author with 34 million books in print. Her work is instantly recognizable, and you may remember it from “The Mitten” or “The Three Snow Bears.” You’ll get a sneak peek at her newest book, ”The Easter Egg.”
• David Sedaris – is an explanation of his identity really necessary? Perhaps the most well-known satirist ever, he will read from new and unpublished material, and I have a feeling tickets will go fast for this one. Even if you’ve never read his work you’ll recognize titles like “When You Are Engulfed in Flames”, “Holidays on Ice” and “Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim.” will read from new and unpublished material.
• Isabel Allende, author of “Daughter of Fortune” and “Portrait in Sepia,” among others. She is a best-seller in multiple continents, and her books have been published in 27 languages. She was also inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 2004. Her newest book, “Island Beneath the Sea,” will be released in April before her appearance at Arts and Letters in May.
• Ira Glass, host of “This American Life,” which can be heard on public radio. He has been named the “Best Radio Show Host in America” by Time magazine, and each week his show draws 1.7 million listeners. He is a master storyteller, and I was lucky enough to hear him speak last summer at the Mayborn Conference. His approach to storytelling is insightful, and my face hurt afterward from a mesmerized smile and occasional burst of laughter.

These are just a few names that jumped out at me while browsing the web site, but of course, you will find others that pique your interest. Tickets can be purchased here, and subscriptions, which allow you to buy ticket packages, can be purchased through Jan. 21. ”
”

It promises to be inspiring!