By Sarah Carlson, Arts Editor

While Abilene may not be the center of Western civilization, residents have a variety of options to keep themselves entertained. Here is a sample of upcoming events in town for your enjoyment.

The Grace Museum is hosting Nigel McGilchrist, art historian and scholar, next week during the presentation of three Italian Renaissance paintings. He will have several lectures with museum guests and students during his stay, finishing with a free Gallery Talk at 6:30 p.m. Thursday entitled Three Master Italian Renaissance Paintings: The Stories They Tell and the History They Illuminate.

The Historic Paramount will host a live taping for the national broadcast of “From The Top,” sponsored by KACU. The radio show features exceptional young classical musicians in a chance to show off their chops and is hosted by Christopher O’Riley. The performance starts at 7 p.m. and tickets are available at the Paramount Theatre box office between noon and 5 p.m. or by calling 676-0648, or calling KACU at 800-933-KACU (5228) Adult tickets are $20, KACU members’ are $15 and students’ are $10.

Also at the Paramount in early February is the film In America, the story of family of Irish immigrants as they move to New York City, chasing the American dream and coming to terms with their past. The film shows Feb. 10 at 7:30 p.m. in conjunction with Art-Walk. The Paramount Valentine’s Day classic film is 1934’s It Happened One Night starring Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert and winner of five Academy Awards including Best Picture. The film will be shown Feb. 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for both films are $5 for adults and $4 for students.