From staff reports

KUHT-TV will begin airing “InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse,” a half-hour, long-format interview program, tonight at 10 p.m.

Host/producer Ernie Manouse will sit down with a single newsmaker or celebrity for a one-on-one conversation.

Manouse disarms his guests with a warm, casual approach that makes for an interesting, often intimate, encounter with some of today’s most captivating notables.

“InnerVIEWS with Ernie Manouse” will air Thursdays at 10 p.m. Tonight’s guest will be critically acclaimed author Anne Rice.

Below is the schedule for shows airing through March 4.

Anne Rice
On Jan. 15, blockbuster author and “Mistress of the Macabre,” Anne Rice, brings forth her thoughts on religion and the supernatural. Rice also talks about her final volume in “The Vampire Chronicles,” her literary practice and Elton John’s musical, “Lestat.” She also offers the back-story on how she created her own vampire lore.

Ben Vereen
On Jan. 22, Ben Vereen, Broadway song and dance man, talks about his source of inspiration and strength. After following a dream that led him to spectacular starring roles in “Pippin,” “Jesus Christ Superstar” and the epic mini-series “Roots,” a life threatening accident in 1992 led many to believe Vereen would never walk again, let alone dance. Now, he shares his story.

Nellie Connally
On Jan. 29, Nellie Connally, former first lady of Texas, mother and grandmother, recounts those tragic moments just before former President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas on Nov. 22, 1963.

Louis Messina
On Feb. 5, successful entrepreneur Louis Messina discusses his new philosophies about venues, seating and those outrageous ticket prices. Messina built an empire by bringing live music to America. He founded Pace Concerts, which eventually grew into SFX, and then merged the company with Clear Channel Communications. After leaving Clear Channel, waiting out a two-year noncompete clause, Messina has developed a new business approach and is ready to enter the game again.

Molly Ivins
On Feb. 12, writer Molly Ivins talks about the California recall, the White House, balancing the national budget and peace in the Middle East. Ivins, who’s known for her razor wit and pointed commentary, has been a literary thorn in the side of politicians for years.

Patty LuPone
On Feb. 19, accomplished theater actress Patty LuPone talks about the rocky road that brought “Norma Desmond" to the stage and the challenges of a prime-time television series. LuPone is known for the remarkable strength and determination she brought to her roles in “Evita,” “Les Miserables” and “Sunset Boulevard.”

Bruce Wilkinson
On Feb. 26, best-selling inspirational author Bruce Wilkinson shares his advice for following your dreams. Wilkinson faced high praise and an onslaught of harsh criticism when he published “Prayer of Jebez.” This surprisingly strong reaction did not deter Wilkinson from following what he felt was God’s will. Now, he has a second best seller, and a mission to help the starving and sick of Africa.

Frankie Avalon
On March 4, actor, singer and pop icon of the 1950s, Frankie Avalon takes viewers back to the beginning of his successful career. Avalon, a master storyteller, recreates Philly in the late 1950s, when a young trumpet player found fame and gained a reputation that eventually launched his singing career.