Inga Muscio @ Women & Children First

In Inga Muscio's latest work, Autobiography of a Blue-Eyed Devil, the well-known feminist explores racism and US history by discussing the differences between the American history we learn and the American history that we live. Free at 7:30pm at Women & Children First, 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.

Burlesque Halloween

Why not spend tonight with the sexy, funny folks from the Star and Garter Burlesque featuring Brandy's worst enemy, Miss Exotic World Michelle L'Amour! Check out tonight's Halloween-themed show "Thriller! I Hardly Know Her" at Fizz at 9:00 pm. Just $10! Fizz is at Lincoln just north of Belmont.

Oh, yeah, and "Thriller!" is running every Thursday in October!

20th Annual Edgar Allen Poe Readings

Starting with "Descent into the Maelstrom," a one-man show exploring Edgar Allen Poe's personal journals and letters, Glessner House is celebrating 20 years of Edgar Allen Poe Readings. The show starts at 8pm with the reception at 9:30pm. Free at open to the public, 1800 S. Prairie Ave. Call 312-326-1480 for more information.

Opening: Halloween Show @ Gift Theatre

"A theatrical investigation into the definitions of fear, panic, and horror, The Halloween Show is not meant for children." If Halloween's approach makes you seek out scares and chills, check out this production, which features creepy excerpts from Beckett, Poe, and Blake. 8 PM, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through 5 November with a special performance on Tuesday, 31 October. $25, 4802 N Milwaukee. For more information, call 773-283-7071 or visit the website.

Delicate Noise Record Release Party @ Sonotheque

Celebrate the release of Delicate Noise's "Diversion" tonight at Sonotheque, 1444 W. Chicago Ave., sponsored by Magnet Magazine, Flaunt Party, Lens Records and Hollywood Life Magazine. Open bar from 9pm to 10pm, and discounted copies of the CD will be available. DJ Justin Long spins. No cover, 21+

The Hold Steady @ Metro

Touring in support of their fantastic new album, Boys and Girls in America. 3730 N. Clark Street, 8 PM, 18+. $16; tickets here.