Setting the Stage
EG: What kind of decorations would help to set the mood at this dinner party?
DC: There are a number of things that would make it feel like a Texas barbecue. A red-checked tablecloth, western style bandanas, and sheriff's stars used as party favors or placecards. Of course a Texas flag should be hung. At TexasInaBox.com we have a decorating package for 8 that includes all these items. If you're looking for decorations and linens for more folks, they can work up a custom price for you.
EG: We like to help set the mood at our theme parties by playing the appropriate music. What can you suggest to help us get in the Texas spirit?
DC: I have several suggestions for you:
- "Cowboy Songs" by Michael Martin Murphey. Texan Michael Martin Murphey has released 4 albums of Cowboy Songs. They are available on cassette or CD and are perfect for music during your Texas theme party.
- If you're looking for something a little more upscale, who can beat Lyle Lovett's "The Road to Ensenada", featuring Lovett's quirky, often humorous songwriting and tongue-in-cheek delivery. Favorite songs include "Don't Touch My Hat", which could be called "Ode to a Stetson", "Long, Tall Texan", and "That's Right, You're Not From Texas". Available at most music stores or TexasMusicExpress.Com.
- For something a little edgier, try either Terry Allen's "Lubbock On Everything", which includes his classic, often-covered "Amarillo Highway" or any of Robert Earl Keen's albums. Our favorite Keen albums are "No. 2 Live Diner", "West Textures", or "Gringo Honeymoon", which includes the song, "Barbeque".
EG: After we've all had our fill of eating, what would you suggest for entertainment?
DC: You could hire a trick roper - entertaining for both kids and adults. Or you could play some Cowboy poetry. I recommend the CD's and tapes of Baxter Black. He is the most famous large animal veterinarian/cowboy poet and is frequently heard on National Public Radio.
If you can find a local cowboy poet, he would be a great addition to the party - use the Cowboy Poets' Society to find a local artist. This page has a list of cowboy poets by location, including Florida, Maryland, California, and North Carolina: http://www.cowboyrudy.com/cbyptsoc.htm or send an email to the Western Folk life Center at wfc@westernfolklife.organd see if they can assist you.
Ask among your friends to find a guitarist or pianist to sing and play cowboy songs for you. A good piano songbook is My 1st Book of Cowboy Songs: 21 Favorite Songs in Easy Piano Arrangements. A good guitar songbook I recommend is Mel Bay Presents Cowboy Songs for Acoustic Guitar.
EG: Thanks David for all that great information!
A Texas Barbecue Menu
Texas Style Smoked Brisket and Pork Ribs Both served with a tasty barbecue sauce.
Pickled jalapenos, okra, and cherry peppers. Sliced onions and dilled pickles.
Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole
Fresh Blackberry Cobbler served with vanilla ice cream
Lone Star Beer
