THE PERFECT WEEK FOR FESTIVALS, THEATRE, MUSIC AND MORE – The upcoming weekend is the perfect time to explore Abilene’s annual festivals, live theatre and music scene.

The 9th Annual West Texas Book and Music Festival will be held through Saturday. This exciting festival recognizes authors, musicians, publishers and readers from across Texas. Hear area authors, publishers and musicians throughout the week at the Hall of Texas Authors, Boots & Books Luncheon, Pickin’ in the Park, panel discussions, presentations and more. Two-time Grammy award winners, Brave Combo, and The Texas Swing Kings of Austin will perform at 8 p.m. Friday at the Paramount Theatre. Tickets for the concert are available at any APL branch. Festival concludes on Saturday with the West Texas Gospel Hymnfest at the Civic Center. Information: www.abilenetx.com/apl and click on the Boots & Books logo.

“Ruthless, the Musical” will open at Abilene High’s auditorium on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. “Ruthless” is a wild, comic musical that tells the tale of what can happen when everyone seeks stardom. Through Saturday. Call 325-677-1731 for ticket information.

Book an evening at the Abilene Community Theatre for “Whoa, Brittania!” Thursday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m. This musical comedy is set in 1944. America’s favorite singing cowboy, Tex Riley and his troupe are late for a special BBC broadcast in London. The station’s manager and producer grab whoever they can in an act of desperation: a snobby announcer, sociable sound man and a passing soap opera actor. The result is one performance England will never forget! Call (325) 673-6271 for ticket information.

Plan to attend a weekend of fun at the 15th Annual Big Country Balloon Festival in Red Bud Park, Friday through Sunday. Activities include: colorful hot air balloons, children’s games and inflatable rides, silent auction, 5K run, motorcycle bingo run, food and craft vendors, and much more. Sponsored by the Optimist Unlimited Club of Abilene. Free to the public. Times and information: visit www.bigcountryballoonfest.com.

On Saturday, listen to the sounds of the Abilene Philharmonic as they kick off the 2009-2010 season with the first of four classical concerts, “Fire and Fury” at 8 p.m. at the Civic Center. The Philharmonic will open its 59th season with an appearance by Di Wu, finalist in the 2009 Van Cliburn Competition, and includes Igor Stravinsky’s, “Firebird Suite.” $12-$35 per person. Tickets and more information: www.abilenephilharmonic.org or call 325-677-6710.

The Children’s Performing Arts Series presents, “Joe McDermott in Concert,” at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Paramount Theatre. McDermott has been called “the maestro of imagination” for his creative approach and appeal to children of all ages. $7 per person. Tickets and more information: www.abilenecac.org or call 325-677-1161.