For busy parents, the refrigerator door is prime real estate for school notices, children's artwork and more. Find out why Lynn Trimble is making room on hers for the 2010-2011 season brochure from Paradise Valley Community College.

"Glee Wiz!" Fall break is almost here and parents are on the prowl for theater camps to engage kids prone to screen time in a little more stage time. Learn about Valley options while there may still be time to enroll!

Domestic violence. Scarce resources. Corporate monopolies. Immigrant rights. Child labor laws. Gay rights. They're all tackled in upcoming works of performance art that'll make you think (and maybe even inspire you to act) in between all those remote control moments that eat up so much precious time.

Lynn Trimble is doing her happy dance as the Herberger Theater Center holds its grand re-opening ceremony and festival of the arts. She'll be in running shoes the rest of the weekend trying to get to some of the Valley's other events -- including storytime with a "Wild Thing," a festival featuring foreign films, an adult puppet slam and more -- plus her youngest daughter's high school musical.

Storytelling is an art that spans the ages. Lynn Trimble shares local resources for learning and enjoying the fine art of storytelling, spotlights famous storytellers making their way to Valley venues this season and reveals how your family can enjoy classic stories read by some pretty classy actors.

Looking for ways to support the arts at your child's school? Lynn Trimble share ideas for contributing small or large amounts of time, talent or financial resources -- and reveals the gifts many arts teachers cherish most.

This weekend is your first and last chance to enjoy some of the Valley's best in theater. It's also a weekend full of fabulous choices for families -- from festivals to storytimes. Even this weekend's fundraisers sound fun.

Stage Mom Lynn Trimble has been enjoying an annual Ballet Arizona tradition since it began more than a decade ago. Learn where you can enjoy this special event at a park or outdoor venue near you this week -- then pack your picnic baskets and beach blankets for a night of free and fabulous entertainment for the whole family.

A recent e-mail asked Stage Mom Lynn Trimble how she chooses which events to cover. Mostly, she admits, it's a mix of whimsy and wonder. But there's more to the story, which she's happy to share.

True, Free Arts of Arizona has partnered with Dance Theater West for a free weekend performance based on "Don Quixote." But did you know there are several other no-cost or low-cost arts events taking place this weekend and during the week ahead? Stage Mom Lynn Trimble hits the highlights -- including art, music, dance and poetry from a diverse array of cultures.

Today marks the start of National Hispanic Heritage Month. Learn about Arizona organizations promoting Hispanic arts and culture, Valley celebrations with a kid-friendly feel and national resources to help children, parents and educators learn more.

Stage Mom Lynn Trimble has a full plate this weekend -- but she's been invited to try a Bollywood dance class with Kriti Dance at Dance Connection 2 in Chandler. Will this be the weekend she crosses Bollywood off her "bucket list?" Find out -- and learn more about weekend options from opera at the movie theater to a play about workers' rights advocate Cesar Chavez.

Roland Sarlot is a self-taught magician who "loved magic as a kid" and learned his craft via "the road of hard knocks." He performs an intimate magic show titled "Carnival of Illusion" with partner Susan Eyed. Learn more about his inspirations and where you can enjoy the duo's family-friendly fare.

Travel the world with friends and family without ever leaving Arizona -- thanks to festivals, museums and performing arts venues that offer the art, music and dance of diverse peoples and places, including India, China, Italy, Australia, Mexico, Ireland and more. And learn how you can enjoy a free "tour" of Japan today in Mesa!

What's your weekend style? Festivals? Art exhibits? Multicultural music and dance? There's plenty to choose from throughout Arizona and the Valley -- from a costumed celebration of "Curious George" to an art exhibit featuring newspaper sculpture and costumes -- and much of it is free!

Think arts and culture for alone time, date night, get togethers with friends, and family adventures. And think Arizona Humanities Council when you're ready to make plans. Their online calendar, organized by five Arizona regions, features plenty of unique opportunities to enjoy the arts while upping your smarts.