RUHL RULES: Upstart Productions’ current show is Melancholy, Sarah Ruhl’s story of what happens to a town of happy folk when a moody stranger enters their world. That may sound like a downer, but judging from the reviews, it actually is a lot of fun. “In a theater season currently launching with seriously noble and dramatic works, it’s a relief to crack a smile and let happy goose bumps break out all over once the playing commences,” Alexandra Bonifield writes on criticalrant.com. “Upstart Productions does it well, turning the Green Zone into something out of an antique, DIY dream where things get seriously strange,” Liz Johnstone writes on Front Row. Catch it through Feb. 4.

THE LONG ARMS OF THE CLIBURN: After pianists medal at the Cliburn, their affiliation with the organization really is just beginning. In addition to being able to put that honor at the top of their resumes, the Cliburn begins the detailed process of managing the budding soloists’ careers. That process – including how some of the artists balance performing and finishing school – is detailed in a dfw.com feature.

BUILDING THE BRIDGE: If you’re looking for something to do tonight, consider heading over to the Texas Theatre. That’s where Calatrava Student Constructors, a short film sponsored by the Trinity Trust will debut. You’ll learn how the bridge was constructed along with a team of area students as they build a scale model. Some of those kids talk about the experience on dallasnews.com.