Events for the week

tuesday
october 15
Tina McElroy Ansa: Author Tina McElroy Ansa has stirred some big waves in the literary community with her three books that focus on an isolated but thriving African-American culture on Saint Simon's Island off the coast of Georgia. Her just published third novel, The Hand I Fan With, details the smalltownish intrigues of the community that has come to rely on a big-hearted matriarch for advice and support. A sudden change in her life means a sudden change in everybody's. Tina McElroy Ansa comes to Dallas to read from The Hand I Fan With at 6 p.m. at Black Images Book Bazaar, 230 Wynnewood Village. It's free, but donations to the Writer's Garret are gratefully accepted. Call 943-0142.

wednesday
october 16
Monk's Night Out: As if Dallas didn't have enough improvisational insanity floating around area clubs, the Austin-based comedy troupe Monk's Night Out heads north to join the fray. Like 4 Out of 5 Doctors, Rubber Chicken, and The (Unnamed) Comedy Troupe, Monk's Night Out alternates original sketches with audience-driven improvisation. The rapturous press clippings that precede its arrival confirm the troupe is a favorite with laid-back Austin audiences, and with one reported skit concerning Sam Spade making a midlife career switch to lingerie salesman, we think Dallas comedy audiences will respond. Monk's Night Out performs at 8 p.m. at Pocket Sandwich Theatre, 5400 E. Mockingbird. For ticket information call 821-1860.