B-Fest 2016
B-Fest, the annual 24-hour B-movie marathon hosted on Northwestern's campus, begins this evening at 6:00pm and runs through Saturday evening at 6:00pm. For tickets and a schedule please see B-Fest.com.
Gapers Block has ceased publication.
Gapers Block published from April 22, 2003 to Jan. 1, 2016. The site will remain up in archive form. Please visit Third Coast Review, a new site by several GB alumni.
✶ Thank you for your readership and contributions. ✶
TODAY
Friday, April 19
Slowdown
Category
AC
Too Much Light: New Year's Eve @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists ring in the new year with a performance of their show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind, timed so that the show ends at the stroke of midnight. Attendees will enjoy pre-show refreshments, starting at 9:30pm. The show starts at 11:00pm sharp, and advance reservations are required. See the Neo-Futurist site for details, or call (773) 275-5255.
WBEZ presents Chicago Amplified @ Mayne Stage
WBEZ and Mayne Stage present Chicago Amplified, an evening of stories and live music. Doors open at 8:00pm, and the show starts at 9:00pm. See the event page for a complete schedule and for advance tickets. Mayne Stage: 1328 W. Morse. Box office: (773) 381-4554.
The Hateful Eight in 70mm @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, one of the very few theaters in the Chicagoland area that can show 70mm films, screens a special Ultra Panovision 70mm print of Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight, starting this evening and running through the next two weeks. Film fans will definitely want to see this extended version of the film, showing before the film goes into wider release. See the Music Box site for schedule and advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Hideout's Last Chance Holiday Sale 2015
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., hosts its 17th annual Last Chance Holiday Craft Sale this evening at 6pm. Vendors will include Sew What Sarah, Rhymes With Twee, Videnovich Farms, and Bloodshot Records. Admission to the event is free! 21+
ChiDM Holiday Yard Sale
The Chicago Design Museum, 108 N. State St., 3rd floor, hosts a Holiday Yard Sale tonight from 4 to 7pm. Shop for design-y gifts from local designers and companies like Cards Against Humanity, You Are Beautiful, Perfectly Acceptable Press and more. Free; RSVP on Facebook if you like.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout welcomes the monthly literary sporting event known as Write Club. Three matches of Chicago writers and performers taking up opposing ideas, with the audience picking the winners. Show starts at 7:00pm. Admission is $10, with proceeds going to charities chosen by the participants. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Music Box Alternative Christmas Double Feature
For over 30 years the Music Box Theatre has presented a Christmas double feature of It's A Wonderful Life and White Christmas. This year, the theater is offering an alternative holiday double feature of Love Actually and National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. The films screen on Tuesday and Wednesday, December 15th and 16th. See the Music Box site for a full schedule and advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Emmet Otter's Jugband Christmas live @ Hideout
The Hideout presents a live performance of everyone's favorite Muppet TV special, Emmet Otter's Jugband Christmas, with live performance of the songs by local musicians. Show starts at 6:00pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Hideout site. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Screening: Almost There with Cinematography Q&A @ Siskel Theater
The Kartemquin Films/ITVS co-production Almost There is back by popular demand this weekend with a flurry of special events at the Gene Siskel Film Center. Today's 5:15pm screening will be followed by a Q&A session with Co-Director/Cinematographer Aaron Wickenden and Environmental Cinematographer David Schalliol, who will discuss their contrasting approaches to cinematography and how each balanced the other in the finished film. The event is co-sponsored by the Museum of Contemporary Photography.
Best of Too Much Light @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists hold their annual two-weekend best-of shows this and next weekend. Come see the best plays produced over the year for their signature show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind, tonight at 11:30. The show happens at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland, near Foster); check the Neo-Futurist site for details and limited quantities of advance tickets.
2015 Annual Music Box Christmas Sing-A-Long & Double Feature
The Music Box Theatre begins their 32nd sing-along double feature of It's A Wonderful Life and White Christmas. Santa himself leads the audience in singing classic Christmas carols before and after the films! The double feature screens through December 24th, and advance tickets are available for purchase. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Songs of Good Cheer @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their annual holiday song performance Songs of Good Cheer, starting tonight and running through December 13. See the event page for a schedule and advance tickets. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
George Winston @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a concert by pianist George Winston, tonight at 8:00pm at their main convert hall at 4544 N. Lincoln. See the event page for details and advance tickets, or call the school at (773) 728-6000.
The Hideout's Last Chance Holiday Sale 2015
The Hideout hosts its 17th annual holiday craft sale this evening at 6:00pm. Vendors will include Sew What Sarah, Rhymes With Twee, Videnovich Farms, and Bloodshot Records. Admission to the event is free, and despite the name, there will be another craft show held on December 22 if you miss tonight's event. Full details available at the Hideout site. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Deathscribe 2015 @ Mayne Stage
WildClaw Theatre presents Deathscribe, their annual radio horror story competition, happening tonight at 8:00pm at Mayne Stage (1328 W. Morse). See the event page for details and advance tickets.
Neighborhood Night @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents Neighborhood Night, an evening where the general public is invited to see the evening's films at a discounted price of $6 per film. Check the film schedule to see what's playing. Film Center: 164 N. State St. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Best of Too Much Light @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists hold their annual two-weekend best-of shows this and next weekend. Come see the best plays produced over the year for their signature show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind, tonight at 11:30. The show happens at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland, near Foster); check the Neo-Futurist site for details and limited quantities of advance tickets.
Greg Sestero @ Music Box
"O hai, Mark." Greg Sestero, author of The Disaster Artist (about his part in the now-legendary cult film The Room), comes to the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., tonight for an evening of discussion about the film and his tell-all book. The show starts at 10pm with a discussion, a behind-the-scenes documentary, and a Q&A session with Greg. Then, stick around for a screening of The Room at midnight! Tickets are $12, or $20 if you stick around for The Room. Box office: (773) 871-6604.
Secret History of Chicago Music Book Release @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., hosts the book release party for My Kind of Sound: The Secret History of Chicago Music Compendium, a compilation of over 10 years' worth of drawings and band biographies from the Chicago Reader feature Secret History of Chicago. The book will be available for purchase, and author Steve Krakow will be available for signing! And in addition, Bobby Conn presents "My Chicago: A Multi Media Presentation," and ONO, Athanor and VCSR perform live. Admission is $8 or free with an RSVP; see the Empty Bottle site for details.
The Wonderful World of Industrial Musicals @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents an evening of industrial musicals hosted by former Simpsons writer Steve Young. The show starts at 7:30pm. Tickets are $11 and can be purchased in advance. (773) 871-6604.
Breaking News @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center screens the 2004 Johnnie To film Breaking News this evening at 6:00pm as part of the Film Center's lecture series Cities in Cinema. There will be a discussion of the film, led by Art Institute instructor Fred Camper. Advance tickets are available online. Film Center: 164 N. State. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Shop the Block on Chicago Avenue
Paperish Mess, 1955 W. Chicago Ave., will be banding together with three other shops, Ad Hoc, Study Hall, and Tarnish, today from noon to 7pm for a trunk show with local artists and special deals.
Tab Hunter Confidential @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center begins a week-long run of the new documentary Tab Hunter Confidential, a documentary about the 1950s and 1960s actor. Tonight's first screening of the film will feature a Skype interview with the actor by GB's own Steve Prokopy. See the Film Center's site for a full schedule and advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Sound of Music Sing-A-Long @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre hosts their annual sing-a-long edition of The Sound of Music, starting this afternoon at 1:00pm and running the next two weekends (through December 6). See the Music Box site for a complete schedule and advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Bocce ball @ Thalia Hall
Thalia Hall and Wicker Park Bocce invite you to come down for the inaugural Winter Bocce Series. Admission to the games is free. Full details at the Thalia Hall site. Thalia Hall: 1807 S. Allport. (312) 526-3851.
Zoe Keating @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents two performances by cellist Zoe Keating, at 4:00pm and at 8:00pm. Full details and advance tickets at the school's site, or call the school at (773) 728-6000.
Industrial Soundtrack For The Urban Decay @ Logan Theatre
The Empty Bottle and the Logan Theatre host the Chicago premiere of Industrial Soundtrack For The Urban Decay, a film about the origins of industrial music. The screening starts at 7pm; doors are open at 6pm, and tickets are $15. Logan Theatre: 2646 N. Milwaukee. (773) 342-5555.
Dangerous Men @ Music Box
The Music Box screens the latest so-bad-it's-good find from Drafthouse Films: the 2005 film Dangerous Men, a film whose reviewers describe using words like "insanity", "psychotic", and "bonkers". If this sounds like a good time, you'll want to show up for the midnight screenings tonight and Saturday night. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Burning Bluebeard @ Den Theatre
The Hypocrites present a re-mount of the highly acclaimed play Burning Bluebeard, first staged by the Neo-Futurists in 2011. The show opens tonight at the Den Theatre (1329 N. Milwaukee) and runs through January 10. Please see the Hypocrites' site for full details and online tickets.
Christmas Around the World @ MSI
The Museum of Science and Industry opens their annual holiday show Christmas Around the World today. Featuring dozens of trees decorated by various local communities, Christmas Around the World also features music and dance performances from many cultures. The event runs through January 3. MSI: 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive. (773) 684-1414
Jeff Buckley tribute @ Uncommon Ground
Uncommon Ground (3800 N. Clark) hosts a celebration of the February 1994 performance at uncommon Ground by Jeff Buckley by hosting a concert this evening at 8:00pm. Performers scheduled to perform include J.C. Brooks, Rebecca Rego, Liz Chidester, Nino Arobelidze, and others. Full details and advance tickets at the Uncommon Ground site.
Louder Than A Mom @ Martyrs
Martyrs hosts the latest in the live storytelling series Louder Than A Mom tonight at 8:00pm. In honor of the upcoming holiday, attendees are asked to bring their Thanksgiving stories to share with the audience. Full details at the Facebook event page. Martyrs: 4545 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
OPEN TV @ Woman Made Gallery
Watch pilot TV shows with OPEN TV, a beta program that features stories by queer, trans, cis-women, and people of color, today from 2 to 5pm at Woman Made Gallery at 685 N. Milwaukee Ave. Free with refreshments.
Creature from the Black Lagoon @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre hosts a screening of The Creature from the Black Lagoon today at noon, along with a discussion of the film by Paul Mayer from the Field Museum. The screening is part of the museum's series Field Trips: Cinema Science with the Field Museum. Full details and advance tickets at the Music Box site. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Game Positive @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists perform a special video-game-themed version of their long-running show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind tonight at 7:00pm as a fundraising event. Full details at the Neo-Futurist site. The benefit happens at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland, at Foster); for more details call (773) 878-4557.
Everything Is Terrible! @ Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall welcomes back those connoisseurs of low-grade direct-to-video content Everything Is Terrible! They're back celebrating their three-disc Legends compilation, and their live shows will feature classic clips as well as never-before-seen content. Plus, your favorite EIT! characters! The show starts at 7:00pm, and it's a 21+ show. Tickets at the Lincoln Hall site. Lincoln Hall: 2424 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 525-2501.
Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts the long-running Handmade Market today starting at 12:00pm. Plenty of hand-made crafts will be for sale this afternoon, and admission is free. Details at the Empty Bottle site. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. Tickets: (866) 777-8932.
Cabrini Green doc @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., begins a week-long run of Chicago director Ronit Bezalel's new documentary 70 Acres in Chicago: Cabrini Green, a follow-up to her 1999 short film on the Chicago housing project demolished to make way for pricier housing. The director will be in attendance for screenings on Friday and Sunday; see the Film Center's site for a full schedule and advance tickets. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Game Positive @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists perform a special video-game-themed version of their long-running show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind tonight at 7:00pm as a fundraising event. Full details at the Neo-Futurist site. The benefit happens at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland, at Foster); for more details call (773) 878-4557.
"On Permanent Display" Opening Reception @ Efrain Lopez Gallery
Efrain Lopez Gallery will be presenting Ryan Coffey's solo exhibition,On Permanent Display today from 6-9pm. The exhibition will be held at 1620 W. Chicago Avenue, Suite 304. The show will be on view until December 27th.
Bawdy Storytelling @ Martyrs
Martyrs hosts Bawdy Storytelling, the live lit series focusing on sexual stories. Doors open at 7:00pm, show starts at 8:00pm, and admission is $15. Martyrs: 4545 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
The Neocade @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists host a video-game-based fundraiser, The Neocade, starting tonight at 7:00pm. Attendees will be able to play games from local indie developers, and sample food & drink from Arcade Brewery, CH Distillery, and Dimos Pizza. Tickets are $40 (or $75 if you want the VIP treatment); see the Neo-Futurist site for details and ticket purchase. This event happens at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland, at Foster). For more details call (773) 878-4557.
Mark Pasnik and Chris Grimley Lecture @ The Charnley-Persky House
This evening MAS Context presents Mark Pasnik and Chris Grimley, principals of the Boston-based over,under. The duo will lecture about The Heroic Project, an exhibition and book documenting mid-century Boston architecture. The lecture, part of MAS Context's 2015 Fall Talks, will take place at the historic Charnley-Persky House, the headquarters of the Society of Architectural Historians. Doors open at 6pm, with the lecture following at 6:30pm. Read more about the event and RSVP on the event's page.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: Nashville
The Music Box Theatre and Sound Opinions present the latest in their screenings of music films. Tonight's film is the epic 1975 Robert Altman film Nashville. The screening kicks off at 7:30pm; tickets available at the Music Box site. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Benefit for Tim Mallott @ Martyrs
Martyrs hosts a benefit concert for Chicago drummer Tim Mallott, still recuperating after a motorcycle accident in August. Tonight's concert will feature The Hepkats, Bad Forum, and Sex Therapy. The show runs from 7:00pm to 11:00pm, and a $10 cover will go towards his medical bills. Full details at the Facebook page. Martyrs: 4545 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
Chicago Nerds Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Club @ Filter Cafe
The Chicago Nerd Social Club hosts their monthly science fiction & fantasy book club tonight from 6:30pm to 7:30pm at Filter Cafe (1373-75 N. Milwaukee). The book being discussed this evening is David Mitchell's Cloud Atlas. Full details on the event at the Chicago Nerds site.
Arlo Guthrie Alice's Restaurant 50th Anniversary @ Harris Theater
The Old Town School of Folk Music and the Harris Theater present Arlo Guthrie on his tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of Alice's Restaurant. The concert happens tonight at 7pm at the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $55-65.
Curbside Splendor Pop Up Book Fair @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle and Curbside Splendor present their bi-annual Book Fair, starting at 1:00pm. Over 30 local and regional book sellers, publishers, and presses will be represented. Admission is free with an RSVP through the Empty Bottle site, or $8 at the door. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Chicago Mac & Cheeze Takedown @ Lincoln Hall
Are you a fan of macaroni and/or cheese? Lincoln Hall is your jam this afternoon, my friend, because it's hosting the Chicago Mac & Cheeze Takedown starting at 1:00pm! Try all the mac & cheese you like, as served up by the various competing chefs, and vote for your favorites! Full details and advance tickets at the Lincoln Hall site. Lincoln Hall: 2424 N. Lincoln. (773) 525-2501.
"Picture the Cricket's Legs Apart" Opening Reception @ Kavi Gupta Gallery
The group exhibition, "Picture the Cricket's Legs Apart", opens today from 5-7pm at Kavi Gupta Gallery. The show is located at 835 W. Washington Blvd.
Schubas Gear Swap
Schubas hosts a gear swap this afternoon from noon to 4:00pm. Bring your used instruments and gear for exchange, and bring your cash for new & used gear from several local vendors. Admission is free, and it's an all-age event. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill! @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre screens the Russ Meyer classic Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill! tonight and tomorrow night at midnight. Worth viewing just for the outstanding sight of Tura Satana's cleavage. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
"The Truth of Masks" Opening Reception @ Richard Gray Gallery
The Richard Gray Gallery is presenting the works of John Stezker in the exhibition, "The Truth of Masks" this evening from 6-8pm. The gallery is located at 875 N. Michigan Avenue on the 38th floor.
Shaping Clay, Shaping Life: Cairn Project Workshop @ Wicker Park Lutheran Church
From noon to 3pm today, Corinne Peterson will be leading a workshop, Shaping Clay, Shaping Life, though her Cairn Project. In the workshop you will be guided to make a clay "rock" that represents a painful history and a porcelain piece which represents light and hope. Each cairn will then be exhibited at selected locations. Each workshop costs $55 and is located at 1500 N. Hoyne.
Bram Stoker's Dracula @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a special Halloween screening of a restored version of Francis Ford Coppola's 1992 film Bram Stoker's Dracula tonight at 8:00pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Film Center site. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Too Much Fright @ Neo-Futurists
The Neo-Futurists present a Halloween-themed edition of their regular show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. Tonight's show, dubbed Too Much Fright Make The Baby Go Blind, starts at 7:30pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Neo-futurists site. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 848-4557.
Tele-novela HIGHLIGHTS Watching Party @ Mana Contemporary
From 2 to 4pm today, a screening of Tele-novela HIGHLIGHTS Watching Party will be held in the UIC space at Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St., 5th floor. The series will include some work from the ACRE TV program. Free.
Central Manufacturing District Walking Tour
Join Preservation Chicago for a walking tour of Bridgeport's Central Manufacturing District (CMD). The $10 tour will visit some of the CMD's intact industrial landmarks, discuss current and future threats to the district, and look at some exciting examples of re-use in the area. The tour runs from 1 to 3pm. More details and tickets are available via the Chicago Architectural Biennial or Facebook.
Beat Swap Meet Chicago @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts the latest Beat Swap Meet Chicago today starting at noon. Come and look through the stock of vinyl collectors and dealers from far and near! Admission is $5, or free with a canned good. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Third Coast Filmless Festival
The Third Coast Filmless Festival runs Oct. 23-25 at ChiArts, 2714 W. Augusta Blvd. Today's programming begins at 10:30am and includes audio screenings and workshops till 4:45pm. See the full schedule for details. Weekend passes have sold out, but limited tickets to individual events range from $12 to $20 and may be available at the door.
"Nostalgia" Opening Reception @ SHoP
Ryan Chambers will be presenting 15 works of art at the Southside Hub of Production (SHoP) tonight from 6 to 9pm. The exhibition will feature memories and content from the artists children in the form of Digital Minimalism. Refreshments and '90s music will be provided; free, donations accepted. SHoP is located at 1448 E. 57th St.
Music Box of Horrors
The Music Box holds its annual 24-hour horror movie film fest this weekend, running from noon Friday to noon Saturday. Full details and advance tickets at the site for the fest. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Empty Bottle Book Club: Modern Romance
The Empty Bottle hosts a discussion of the Aziz Ansari book Modern Romance starting today at noon. Admission to book club is free! Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Third Coast Filmless Festival
The Third Coast Filmless Festival runs Oct. 23-25 at ChiArts, 2714 W. Augusta Blvd. Today's programming begins at 10:30am and includes audio screenings, Q&As, live podcast tapings, and the Third Coast Audio Awards at 7:30pm. See the full schedule for details. Weekend passes have sold out, but limited tickets to individual events range from $12 to $20 and may be available at the door.
Third Coast Filmless Festival
The Third Coast Filmless Festival runs Oct. 23-25 at ChiArts, 2714 W. Augusta Blvd. Tonight's programming is a "pep rally" from 7:30 to 9pm, featuring stories from Katie Mingle of 99% Invisible, independent producer Yowei Shaw, Shannon Cason of Homemade Stories, and Maya Goldberg-Safir and Dennis Funk of the Third Coast Festival. Weekend passes have sold out, but limited tickets to individual events range from $12 to $20 and may be available at the door. See the full schedule for details.
Welcome to Night Vale @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre hosts authors Joseph Fink & Jeffrey Cranor, who will be promoting their novelization of the podcast Welcome to Night Vale. The even starts at 7:30pm, and features a Q&A and author book signing. Full details and advance tickets at the Music Box site. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
"What We Don't Know" Opening Reception @ Heaven Gallery
Anaïs Daly and Andrew Barco will be presented in the two person exhibition, "What We Don't Know" at Heaven Gallery this evening from 7-11pm. The exhibition space is located at 1550 N Milwaukee Ave, Fl 2nd.
Nina Rappaport Lecture @ The Charnley-Persky House
This evening MAS Context presents Nina Rappaport in a conversation about her traveling exhibition and book, Vertical Urban Factory. The lecture, part of MAS Context's 2015 Fall Talks, will take place at the historic Charnley-Persky House, the headquarters of the Society of Architectural Historians. Doors open at 6pm, with the lecture following at 6:30pm. Read more about the event and RSVP on the event's page.
A Celebration of Stephen King @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., and Conseuqnece of Sound invite you to a celebration of Stephen King, featuring a surreal prom theme that will culminate in the midnight screening of Carrie. Arrive at 10:30pm for the pre-screening celebration. Tickets are $12.
Quay Brothers Films @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., screens Christopher Nolan's new documentary short Quay, along with a program of Quay Brothers films. Full details and advance tickets on the Music Box website.
"Political Clay" Opening Reception @ The Bridgeport Art Center
The Bridgeport Art Center is featuring the juried exhibition, Political Clay, tonight from 6pm-9pm. The show will take place in the Ceramic Center in the BAC located on 1200 W. 35th St.
Kickstarter Film Festival @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., hosts the 2015 Kickstarter Film Festival, featuring short and feature films that were funded through Kickstarter. Two programs screen tonight, one at 7pm (featuring the 2014 comedy What We Do In The Shadows) and one at 9:20pm (featuring animator Don Hertzfeldt's latest film World of Tomorrow). While they are both free, there are so many RSVPs that they're officially listed as sold out. If you want, brave the line and hope to get in.
Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., hosts Handmade Market, featuring a host of crafters who will be selling their hand-made wares. The show starts at noon, but the Empty Bottle starts serving at 11am, so feel free to come early and get a drink! Admission is free. 21 and over, except for kids accompanied by adults.
Lumpen Release Party @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Lumpen celebrates the release of its special comics issue tonight at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., from 7 to 11pm. Pick up a copy of the magazine, see comics art from the issue and enjoy music by Wet Wallet and Oscillator Bug. Free.
"Memories From the Future" Closing Reception @ Josef Gilmer Gallery
The Josef Glimer Gallery is hosting a closing reception for Lee Tracy's exhibition, "Memories from the Future". The gallery is located at 207 W. Superior and the reception will begin at 7pm.
Chicago Museum Week
The first annual Chicago Museum Week runs Oct. 1-7. A dozen museums (Adler Planetarium, Art Insitute, Chicago History Museum, DuSable Museum, Field Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo, MCA, Museum of Science & Industry, National Museum of Mexican Art, National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and Shedd Aquarium) are offering free or discounted admission as well as special events and exhibits. See the Museum Week site for details.
Chicago Museum Week
The first annual Chicago Museum Week runs Oct. 1-7. A dozen museums (Adler Planetarium, Art Insitute, Chicago History Museum, DuSable Museum, Field Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo, MCA, Museum of Science & Industry, National Museum of Mexican Art, National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and Shedd Aquarium) are offering free or discounted admission as well as special events and exhibits. See the Museum Week site for details.
Chicago Museum Week
The first annual Chicago Museum Week runs Oct. 1-7. A dozen museums (Adler Planetarium, Art Insitute, Chicago History Museum, DuSable Museum, Field Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo, MCA, Museum of Science & Industry, National Museum of Mexican Art, National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and Shedd Aquarium) are offering free or discounted admission as well as special events and exhibits. See the Museum Week site for details.
The Amazing Acro-Cats @ Vittum Theater
The Amazing Acro-Cats perform for four nights at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St. Watch the cats do a variety of circus tricks, play music and more. Tonight's performances are at 5 and 8pm. Tickets are $22, or $20 for seniors and students.
Chicago Museum Week
The first annual Chicago Museum Week runs Oct. 1-7. A dozen museums (Adler Planetarium, Art Insitute, Chicago History Museum, DuSable Museum, Field Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo, MCA, Museum of Science & Industry, National Museum of Mexican Art, National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and Shedd Aquarium) are offering free or discounted admission as well as special events and exhibits. See the Museum Week site for details.
Hermant/Butler Opening Reception @ The Franklin
The Franklin will be featuring, Hermant/Butler, this evening from 6-9PM. The exhibition includes a two person show by artists, Emily Hermant and Ben Butler. The Franklin is located at 3528 W. Fulton Blvd.
The Amazing Acro-Cats @ Vittum Theater
The Amazing Acro-Cats perform for four nights at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St. Watch the cats do a variety of circus tricks, play music and more. Tonight's performances are at 5 and 8pm. Tickets are $22, or $20 for seniors and students.
Empty Bottle Garage Sale
The Empty Bottle holds a garage sale today, starting at noon. No word on what's going to be sold, but no doubt this is going to be a fantastic event! Admission is free. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Chicago Museum Week
The first annual Chicago Museum Week runs Oct. 1-7. A dozen museums (Adler Planetarium, Art Insitute, Chicago History Museum, DuSable Museum, Field Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo, MCA, Museum of Science & Industry, National Museum of Mexican Art, National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum and Shedd Aquarium) are offering free or discounted admission as well as special events and exhibits. See the Museum Week site for details.
The Amazing Acro-Cats @ Vittum Theater
The Amazing Acro-Cats perform for four nights at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St. Watch the cats do a variety of circus tricks, play music and more. Tonight's performance is at 8pm. Tickets are $22, or $20 for seniors and students.
Now You See It, Now You Don't @ Flat Iron Arts Building
The Flat Iron Arts Building is hosting their 6th annual exhibition, Now You See It, Now You Don't at 1579 N. Milwaukee Avenue. The show will feature more than 30 artists from 6-10pm. $5 suggested donation.
Baudelaire in A Box @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music hosts Theater Oobleck for their latest edition of Baudelaire in A Box, a theater project based on Baudelaire's Les Fleurs de mal. The show starts at 8:00pm tonight in Szold Hall in the school's newest building at 4545 N. Lincoln Avenue. Full details at the school site, or call (773) 728-6000.
Barbara Kasten "Stages" @ Graham Foundation
Barbara Kasten will be presenting Stages this evening from 5-8pm at the Graham Foundation for Advanced Studies in the Fine Arts. The exhibition is in partnership with the Chicago Architecture Biennial. The Graham Foundation is located at 4 W. Burton Pl.
Chicago Artists Month
From today until November 15, the 20th annual Chicago Artists Month will offer exhibitions, performances, workshops, walking tours, and other artistic experiences around the city. See the link above for a complete schedule of events.
Expressionist Impulses Opening Reception @ Smart Museum of Art
The exhibition, Expressionist Impulses, opens tonight at the Smart Museum from 7-9pm. The show will focus on German and Central European art between 1890 and 1990 with approximately 80 paintings, sculptures, and drawings. The museum is located at 5550 S. Greenwood Avenue.
Attack on Titan part 1 @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., hosts screenings of the highly anticipated Attack on Titan films over the next few weeks. Tonight's screening of Part 1 will be followed on Oct. 20 with a screening of Part 2. Tickets are $10. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box site.
Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., hosts the monthly Moth StorySLAM this evening starting at 8pm. Audience volunteers are invited to tell a five-minute story on the evening's theme, and the winner, as judged by a panel of audience members, advances to the Championships. Tickets are $8 at the door. 21+
Metropolitan @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 1990 film Metropolitan. Today's screening is scheduled to include a Skype call to the film's director, Whit Stillman. Purchase advance tickets for this screening at the Film Center's site. Film Center: 164 N. State St. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Museum Day Live!
Smithsonian Magazine presents Museum Day Live!, a day where several museums around Chicago (and the rest of the country) are offering free admission for two guests. See the Smithsonian site for the coupon to bring to the museums.
Howard Kremer @ Schubas
Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave., hosts an appearance by Howard Kremer of the Who Charted? podcast. Show starts at 7:00pm, and ticket are $12 in advance, $15 at the door. UPDATE: This show is sold out.
Slate Culture Gabfest Live @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., hosts a live taping of the Slate Culture Gabfest this evening at 7:30pm. Co-hosts Stephen Metcalf, Julia Turner and Dana Stevens discuss the topics of the day, followed by a live Q&A session with the audience. Tickets are $25 and doors open at 7pm -- or pay $50 and attend a cocktail hour with the hosts at 6pm.
Thomas Kelley Lecture @ The Charnley-Persky House
This evening MAS Context presents Thomas Kelley of the architecture collaborative Norman Kelley. Kelley will be discussing the group's current work as as part of MAS Context's 2015 Fall Talks series. The lecture will take place at the historic Charnley-Persky House, the headquarters of the Society of Architectural Historians. Doors open at 6pm, with the lecture following at 6:30pm. Read more about the event and RSVP on the event's page.
Edgewater Home Tour
The Edgewater Historical Society presents an Edgewater Home Tour today from noon to 5pm, featuring homes in the east Andersonville neighborhood. Register for a guided tour anytime between noon and 4pm at the Philadelphia Church, 5437 North Clark St., where you'll get a tour map; a docent at each home will guide you through each property. Tickets are $25.
EXPO Chicago @ Navy Pier
The International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art returns to Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Sept. 18-20. The festival features 140 leading galleries from around the world. The festival is open from 11am to 6pm today. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30.
Ravenswood Art Walk
The Ravenswood Art Walk runs Saturday and today from 11am to 6pm at locations along both sides of Ravenswood Avenue from Waveland to Lawrence. Visit dozens of open studios and see artwork displayed in local businesses, shop in the artist market between Berteau and Belle Plaine, enjoy live music on two stages, and sample locally brewed beer at the Begyle Brewing Urban Beer Garden. The festival is free; $5 suggested donation for admission to the artist market.
Nashville @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a 40th anniversary screening of the 1975 Robert Altman film Nashville. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Ravenswood Art Walk
The Ravenswood Art Walk runs today and Sunday from 11am to 6pm at locations along both sides of Ravenswood Avenue from Waveland to Lawrence. Visit dozens of open studios and see artwork displayed in local businesses, shop in the artist market between Berteau and Belle Plaine, enjoy live music on two stages, and sample locally brewed beer at the Begyle Brewing Urban Beer Garden. The festival is free; $5 suggested donation for admission to the artist market.
EXPO Chicago @ Navy Pier
The International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art returns to Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Sept. 18-20. The festival features 140 leading galleries from around the world. The festival is open from 11am to 7pm today. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30.
EXPO Chicago @ Navy Pier
The International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art returns to Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Sept. 18-20. The festival features 140 leading galleries from around the world. The festival is open from 11am to 7pm today. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30.
EXPO Chicago @ Navy Pier
EXPO Chicago, the International Exposition of Contemporary and Modern Art, returns to Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Sept 18-20. Tonight's Vernissage preview party, presented by the MCA, runs from 6 to 9pm; tickets are $100.
"Warm Kitty, Soft Kitty" Opening Reception @ The Hyde Park Art Center
The Hyde Park Art Center is presenting their newest group exhibition, "Warm Kitty, Soft Kitty" today from 3-5pm. The HPAC is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Sept. 3-13 in five venues throughout the Jefferson Park neighborhood. Pick up a festival button (required for all shows) for $5 online or at Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave., then take your pick of the many performances of experimental theater, performance art, sketch comedy, dance and more -- see the schedule for daily details. Tickets to performances are $10, with multi-show tickets available. Shows start at 1pm today.
"Door Hinges" Jessica Stockholder Opening Reception @ Kavi Gupta Gallery
Jessica Stockholder will be having her first solo show in Chicago in 24 years at Kavi Gupta Gallery. Stockholder's work is colorful and based in mixed media. The opening reception will be held from 6-9pm and is located at 219 N Elizabeth St.
Chelsea Knight "Fall to Earth" Opening Reception @ Aspect/Ratio
Tonight from 5-9pm, Chelsea Knight will be featuring video and performance work at Aspect/Ratio. The gallery is located at 119 N. Peoria St., 3D.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Sept. 3-13 in five venues throughout the Jefferson Park neighborhood. Pick up a festival button (required for all shows) for $5 online or at Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave., then take your pick of the many performances of experimental theater, performance art, sketch comedy, dance and more -- see the schedule for daily details. Tickets to performances are $10, with multi-show tickets available. Shows start at 1pm today.
The Evil Dead @ Music Box
The Music Box screens Sam Raimi's classic horror flick The Evil Dead tonight and tomorrow night at midnight. Groovy. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Amy Winehouse doc @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center begins a week-long screening of Amy, the new Amy Winehouse documentary. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Meet the Patels @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport begins screening the 2014 film Meet the Patels, a documentary about one man's search for the perfect wife. A Q&A session with Vasant and Champa Patel led by GB film critic Steve Prokopy will take place after tonight's screenings at 7:20 and 9:45pm. Tickets are $10; see the Music Box site for details and advance tickets. Music Box box office: (773) 871-6604.
Chrome Green Opening Reception @ Heaven Gallery
Heaven Gallery, 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave., will be featuring 10 artists in the group exhibition, Chrome Green, which opens tonight from 7 to 11pm. The show focuses on nature and environment.
Laura Davis and Seth Kim-Cohen Opening Reception @ Threewalls
Threewalls Gallery will be hosting a solo exhibition for Laura Davis entitled, Legacy of Loneliness, as well as Seth Kim-Cohen's, Bars (of Ponge's "SOAP") work in the Project Room. The opening reception is from 6-9 and the location is 119 N. Peoria, 2C.
Irena Haiduk: Opening Reception @ The Renaissance Society
Irena Haiduk's exhibition, "Seductive Exacting Realism", opens today from 6-9pm at the Renaissance Society located at 5811 S Ellis Ave.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Sept. 3-13 in five venues throughout the Jefferson Park neighborhood. Pick up a festival button (required for all shows) for $5 online or at Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave., then take your pick of the many performances of experimental theater, performance art, sketch comedy, dance and more -- see the schedule for daily details. Tickets to performances are $10, with multi-show tickets available. Shows start at 6pm tonight.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Sept. 3-13 in five venues throughout the Jefferson Park neighborhood. Pick up a festival button (required for all shows) for $5 online or at Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave., then take your pick of the many performances of experimental theater, performance art, sketch comedy, dance and more -- see the schedule for daily details. Tickets to performances are $10, with multi-show tickets available. Shows start at 7pm tonight.
The Revel: Theatre Thursdays
Come for complimentary cocktails and a premiere of Chicago's Theatre Thursdays with the production of The Revel. The House Theatre of Chicago hosts the $15 show at 1543 W. Division St. with the performance officially beginning at 7:30pm, cocktails are at 6:30pm. Buy tickets here!
A Month Of... @ Stage 773
Chicago's monthly task-based storytelling gathering and potluck is tonight at 7:30pm at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. This month is A Month Of...Dreams: Find the stuff fiction is made of. Admission is $10 or free with a shared potluck dish.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Sept. 3-13 in five venues throughout the Jefferson Park neighborhood. Pick up a festival button (required for all shows) for $5 online or at Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave., then take your pick of the many performances of experimental theater, performance art, sketch comedy, dance and more -- see the schedule for daily details. Tickets to performances are $10, with multi-show tickets available. Shows start at 2:30pm today.
Empty Bottle Book Club: Go Set A Watchman
The Empty Bottle hosts a book club meeting to discuss the controversial new Harper Lee novel Go Set A Watchman this afternoon at 4:00pm. Admission is free. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Around the Coyote Festival
Around the Coyote returns to Wicker Park/Bucktown this weekend, Sept. 4-6, at the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Festival hours are 6-10pm Friday and noon to 5pm Saturday and Sunday. There is a $5 cover charge at the door. Proceeds support the work of the Flat Iron Artists Association. More info available on Facebook.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Sept. 3-13 in five venues throughout the Jefferson Park neighborhood. Pick up a festival button (required for all shows) for $5 online or at Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave., then take your pick of the many performances of experimental theater, performance art, sketch comedy, dance and more -- see the schedule for daily details. Tickets to performances are $10, with multi-show tickets available. Shows start at 1pm today.
"A Short and Pleasurable Journey" Opening Reception @ Vertical Gallery
Vertical Gallery will be presenting a group exhibition entitled, "A Short and Pleasurable Journey" tonight from 6-10pm. Vertical Gallery is located at 1016 N. Western Avenue. The event is free and open to the public.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Sept. 3-13 in five venues throughout the Jefferson Park neighborhood. Pick up a festival button (required for all shows) for $5 online or at Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave., then take your pick of the many performances of experimental theater, performance art, sketch comedy, dance and more -- see the schedule for daily details. Tickets to performances are $10, with multi-show tickets available. Shows start at 1pm today.
Around the Coyote Festival
Around the Coyote returns to Wicker Park/Bucktown this weekend, Sept. 4-6, at the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Festival hours are 6-10pm Friday and noon to 5pm Saturday and Sunday. There is a $5 cover charge at the door. Proceeds support the work of the Flat Iron Artists Association. More info available on Facebook.
Georgy Girl @ Music Box
The Music Box screens the 1966 British film Georgy Girl, with Lynn Redgrave in swinging London! The film will be the Saturday and Sunday matinee film, screening at 11:30. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Female Trouble @ Music Box
"Who wants to die for art?" That question is posed by Dawn Davenport (played memorably by Divine), a teenage runaway who lives a depraved, sordid life that has to be seen to be believed. John Waters' epic 1974 film Female Trouble screens Friday and Saturday night at midnight. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Tangerine @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center starts a week-long screening of the new film Tangerine, shot entirely on an iPhone 5. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Sept. 3-13 in five venues throughout the Jefferson Park neighborhood. Pick up a festival button (required for all shows) for $5 online or at Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave., then take your pick of the many performances of experimental theater, performance art, sketch comedy, dance and more -- see the schedule for daily details. Tickets to performances are $10, with multi-show tickets available. Shows start at 7pm tonight.
Jangleheart Circus Comedy Festival @ Annoyance Theatre
The comedy festival's second of three nights features 19 acts at the Annoyance, 851 W. Belmont Ave., including stand-up from Late Night with Seth Meyers writer Conner O'Malley and the Annoyance's experimental group Holy Fuck Comedy Hour. First show is at 7pm; see the schedule for full details. Tickets are $25.
Around the Coyote Festival
Around the Coyote returns to Wicker Park/Bucktown this weekend, Sept. 4-6, at the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Festival hours are 6-10pm Friday and noon to 5pm Saturday and Sunday. There is a $5 cover charge at the door. Proceeds support the work of the Flat Iron Artists Association. More info available on Facebook.
Jangleheart Circus Comedy Festival @ CiC Theatre
The festival's first of three nights will host 12 acts at the CiC Theater, 1422 W. Irving Park Rd., including one of iO Chicago's best Harold teams, The Late '90s, and the popular independent improv group Sand. First show is at 7pm; see the schedule for full details. Tickets are $25.
Chris Ware Lecture @ AIC
Located at the Art Institute of Chicago in the Rubloff Auditorium, Chris Ware will be in discussion with Hamza Walker from 6-8pm. Ware is an award winning cartoonist and author. The auditorium is located at 230 S. Columbus Dr.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Sept. 3-13 in five venues throughout the Jefferson Park neighborhood. Pick up a festival button (required for all shows) for $5 online or at Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave., then take your pick of the many performances of experimental theater, performance art, sketch comedy, dance and more -- see the schedule for daily details. Tickets to performances are $10, with multi-show tickets available. Tonight is the festival opening night party at Fischman's at 6pm.
The Church @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music welcomes The Church for an evening concert in their main performance venue at 4544 N. Lincoln. Tickets are available through the concert's information page, or call the school for more information: (773) 728-6000.
"Ripe Leeks" Film Screening @ Filmfront
Filmfront is presenting, "Ripe Leeks: forces adrift", a new quarterly screening series, tonight at 7pm on 1740 W 18th St. "Forces Adrift" will feature work by Alejandro Jimenez, Fern Silva, Jason Ogawa, Traci Hercher, and Ian Curry.
Throwing Shade @ Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall hosts a live show featuring the podcast Throwing Shade. Show starts at 9:00pm, tickets are $20, and it's a 21+ show. Advance tickets available at the Lincoln Hall site. Lincoln Hall: 2424 N. Lincoln. (773) 525-2501.
Ailbhe Murphy and Ciaran Smyth Artist Lecture @ Comfort Station
The Comfort Station is hosting an artist lecture today from 12-1pm with Ailbhe Murphy and Ciaran Smyth. The event is located at 2579 N Milwaukee Avenue.
Wizard World Comic Con
Wizard World Chicago runs Aug. 20-23 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Rd. in Rosemont. Meet such celebrities as Jeremy Renner, Norman Reedus, Summer Glau, Nathan Fillion, Kristy Swanson, Burt Reynolds, Bruce Campbell, the Undertaker, Michael Rooker, Caroll Spinney (voice of Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch), Arthur Darvill and Barry Bostwick; check out the artists' alley, buy stuff and take photos (respectfully) of cosplayers. Tickets are $40 in advance, $50 at the door; up to two children 10 or under are free with each paying adult. Tickets for VIP experiences, autographs, photo opps, etc. are extra. The convention runs 11am to 5pm today.
It Came From The Neo-Futurarium: Cocktail
After a long hiatus The Neo-Futurists are reviving their long-running series of stage readings of bad film scripts for two nights only! It Came From The Neo-Futurarium presents a reading of the script for the Tom Cruise boozy epic Cocktail, tonight at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland, at Foster). Full details at the Facebook event page, and advance tickets available through Eventbrite.
Madhuri Shukla: Dog Days Opening Reception @ Roman Susan Annex
Madhuri Shukla will be exhibited drawings, sculptures, animations, and murals at the Roman Susan Annex tonight from 7-10pm. The Annex is located at West Birchwood Avenue and North Sheridan Road.
Al Burian @ Quimby's
Quimby's hosts zine maker and musician Al Burian, who will appear to discuss his career and read selections from his various publications. The event starts tonight at 7:00pm, and is free. Quimby's: 1854 W. North Avenue. (773) 342-0910.
"Awkward Dimensions" Opening Reception @ LVL3
LVL3, the apartment gallery located at 1542 N. Milwaukee Avenue, will be presenting "Awkward Dimensions" a two-person show tonight from 6-10pm. The opening reception is free and open to the public.
Marc Fischer Presentation @ The Franklin
The Franklin will be hosting an event with Marc Fischer of Public Collectors today from 2-5pm in conjunction with his exhibition Hardcore Architecture. Fischer will be playing 1980s 7" hardcore records from bands that are included in his project. The Franklin is located at 3522 W. Franklin Blvd.
Wizard World Comic Con
Wizard World Chicago runs Aug. 20-23 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Rd. in Rosemont. Meet such celebrities as Jeremy Renner, Norman Reedus, Summer Glau, Nathan Fillion, Kristy Swanson, Burt Reynolds, Bruce Campbell, the Undertaker, Michael Rooker, Caroll Spinney (voice of Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch), Arthur Darvill and Barry Bostwick; check out the artists' alley, buy stuff and take photos (respectfully) of cosplayers. Tickets are $40 in advance, $50 at the door; up to two children 10 or under are free with each paying adult. Tickets for VIP experiences, autographs, photo opps, etc. are extra. The convention runs 10am to 7pm today.
It Came From The Neo-Futurarium: Cocktail
After a long hiatus The Neo-Futurists are reviving their long-running series of stage readings of bad film scripts for two nights only! It Came From The Neo-Futurarium presents a reading of the script for the Tom Cruise boozy epic Cocktail, tonight and tomorrow night at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland, at Foster). Full details at the Facebook event page, and advance tickets available through Eventbrite.
Wizard World Comic Con
Wizard World Chicago runs Aug. 20-23 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Rd. in Rosemont. Meet such celebrities as Jeremy Renner, Norman Reedus, Summer Glau, Nathan Fillion, Kristy Swanson, Burt Reynolds, Bruce Campbell, the Undertaker, Michael Rooker, Caroll Spinney (voice of Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch), Arthur Darvill and Barry Bostwick; check out the artists' alley, buy stuff and take photos (respectfully) of cosplayers. Tickets are $40 in advance, $50 at the door; up to two children 10 or under are free with each paying adult. Tickets for VIP experiences, autographs, photo opps, etc. are extra. The convention runs noon to 7pm today.
Wine & Cheese Night @ SHoP (Southside Hub of Production)
SHoP, a location in Hyde Park, is inviting individuals for a wine and cheese tasting. SHoP is located at 1448 E 57th St., and is free and open to the public. Visitors are asked to bring a bottle of wine and cheese.
Wizard World Comic Con
Wizard World Chicago runs Aug. 20-23 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Rd. in Rosemont. Meet such celebrities as Jeremy Renner, Norman Reedus, Summer Glau, Nathan Fillion, Kristy Swanson, Burt Reynolds, Bruce Campbell, the Undertaker, Michael Rooker, Caroll Spinney (voice of Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch), Arthur Darvill and Barry Bostwick; check out the artists' alley, buy stuff and take photos (respectfully) of cosplayers. Tickets are $40 in advance, $50 at the door; up to two children 10 or under are free with each paying adult. Tickets for VIP experiences, autographs, photo opps, etc. are extra. The convention runs 3 to 8pm today.
Collector's Edition @ Hideout
The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time: Collector's Edition is a "live music documentary" that explores music journalism from the casual listener's perspective. See it live on stage at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight at 9pm. Hosted by Richard Joyce, the show will feature a live soundtrack by John Szymanski and special guests James Teniya, Benjamin Vigeant and Sean Rose. Tickets are $5. 21+
Chicago Summer Psych Fest @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts Chicago Summer Psych Fest, a two-day festival featuring various psychedelic bands. Show starts at 8:00pm tonight; tickets are available from the festival's information page. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Ma(s)king Her Performance and Screening @ Reva and David Logan Center
The Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, in conjunction with Arts + Public Life and Center for the Study of Race, Politics & Culture, will be hosting an event tonight entitled, "Ma(s)king Her" from 7-10pm. The event includes the Honey Pot Performance and a special screening of "Futurewoman". Free and open to the public. The Logan Center is located at 915 E. 60th St.
Chicago Nerd Comedy Festival @ Stage 773
Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., hosts the Chicago Nerds Comedy Festival, featuring various players in the nerd comedy scene, Aug. 13-16. The festival features a range of sketch comedy, stand-up, improv and funny plays; see the schedule for details. Tonight's shows begin at 5pm. Tickets are $15 per show, or get a festival pass for $65. Attend in costume and get $5 your ticket.
The Room @ Music Box
The Music Box hosts a midnight screening of The Room tonight, so let's go eat, haaaaah? Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Found Footage Festival @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre hosts the Found Footage Festival, as they present their latest show Salute to Weirdos! This collection of VHS and public access oddities will be screened one time only, tonight at 9:30pm, so get your tickets in advance from the Music Box site. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Chicago Summer Psych Fest @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts Chicago Summer Psych Fest, a two-day festival featuring various psychedelic bands. Show starts at 9:00pm tonight; tickets are available from the festival's information page. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Chicago Nerd Comedy Festival @ Stage 773
Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., hosts the Chicago Nerds Comedy Festival, featuring various players in the nerd comedy scene, Aug. 13-16. The festival features a range of sketch comedy, stand-up, improv and funny plays; see the schedule for details. Tonight's shows begin at 7pm. Tickets are $15 per show, or get a festival pass for $65. Attend in costume and get $5 your ticket.
Chicago Nerd Comedy Festival @ Stage 773
Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., hosts the Chicago Nerds Comedy Festival, featuring various players in the nerd comedy scene, starting tonight and running through Aug. 16. The festival features a range of sketch comedy shows and funny plays; see the schedule for details. Tonight's shows begin at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 per show, or get a festival pass for $65. Attend in costume and get $5 your ticket.
Stevie Hanley: "Synaesthetica" Opening Reception @ International Museum of Surgical Science
From 6-9pm, "Synaesthetica", will open at the International Museum of Surgical Science and feature the work of Chicago-based artist Stevie Hanley. The museum is located at 1524 N Lake Shore Drive.
A Month Of... @ Stage 773
Chicago's monthly task-based storytelling show and potluck is tonight at 7:30pm at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. This month is A Month Of...Boundaries. Admission is $10 or free with a shared potluck dish.
Gallery Talk about Archibald Motley Exhibition @ Chicago Cultural Center
Join Daniel Schulman at the Chicago Cultural Center for a discussion about Archibald Motley's exhibition, "Jazz Age Modernist" which is on view until August 31st. The talk will be on the 4th floor, North, in the Sidney Yates Gallery. The talk is free and open to the public.
Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Club @ Filter Cafe
The Chicago Nerd Social Club holds their monthly sci fi and fantasy book club meeting this evenign between 6:30pm and 7:30pm at Filter Cafe (1373-75 N. Milwaukee). Today's book for discussion is Dark Orbit by Carolyn Ives Gilman. The event is free. Please RSVP through the Facebook event page.
Claire Arctander Exhibition @ Trunk Show
Tonight from 7-9, Trunk Show will be featuring Claire Arctander in her solo exhibition of "tender" but "both messy and incisive" series of work. The exhibition will be located in a backyard located at 2535 N. Willetts Ct.
Artflicks Screening @ Hyde Park Art Center
The Hyde Park Art Center is hosting a one night only event where the garage doors will be opened in Gallery 1 and transformed into a movie theater. From 4:30-5:45 "Style Wars" will be shown, from 6-6:45 an artist talk and film discussion will occur and at 7:30-8:55pm, "Cutie and the Boxer" will end the event. The HPAC is located at 5020 S Cornell Ave. The event is free and open to the public. Bring snacks and blankets/chairs!
South Side Mini Maker Faire
The South Side Mini Maker Faire runs from 11am to 5pm today at Ford City Mall, 7601 S. Cicero Ave. Check out projects and demos from more than three dozen organizations. Many of the demos are hands-on and interactive. Free. Register to attend.
Vampire's Kiss @ Music Box
"I'M A VAMPIRE!!!" So says Nicolas Cage in this 1988 film that birthed a million memes. Was he right? Only one way to find out. The film screens tonight and Saturday at midnight at the Music Box, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Tickets are $9.
"Ask the Oracle" Opening Reception @ Heaven Gallery
"Ask the Oracle" will be opening tonight from 7-11pm at Heaven Gallery located at 1550 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Wicker Park. The group exhibition includes painting, sculpture, performance, and video to reference the process of creation and assemblage. The reception is open and free to the public.
Crow Requiem: A Screening and Discussion @ Gallery 400
Gallery 400, located at 400 S. Peoria St., will be presenting the film "Crow Requiem" (2015) in conjunction with the exhibition "After Today". After the screening, Cauleen Smith, Ian Curry, and Krista Franklin will lead a discussion. The screening will be from 6-7:30pm.
Film Delights @ Comfort Station
As part of the Vernacular Photo Festival at the Logan Square Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave., curator Ron Slattery will screen Film Delights, a collection of 8mm and 16mm films found over Slattery's years of visiting flea markets, estate sales and auctions. The screening will run from 8:30 to 10pm. Free.
Steve Coleman Farewell Concert @ The Logan Center for the Arts
The Logan Center for the Arts will be presenting a farewell jazz concert by Steve Coleman and Five Elements this evening at 7:30pm. The event takes place at 915 E. 60th St. in the Performance Penthouse. Free, $10 suggested donation.
Open screening @ Chicago Filmmakers
Chicago Filmmakers (5243 N. Clark) holds their regular "open screening" tonight at 8:00pm. Local filmmakers are invited to bring their works (maximum time allowed is 20 minutes); all works will be screened. Admission is free.
Caseen Gaines @ Quimby's
Quimby's hosts author Caseen Gaines, who will appear to discuss and sign copies of his book We Don't Need Roads: the Making of the Back to the Future Trilogy. The event starts tonight at 7:00pm, and is free. Quimby's: 1854 W. North Avenue. (773) 342-0910.
Peter Skvara: "Approaches" Opening Reception @ Andrew Rafacz Gallery
Andrew Rafacz Gallery, located at 835 W. Washington Blvd., will be presenting a solo exhibition of Peter Skvara's paintings and installations today from 4-7pm at an opening reception event. Many of the works in "Approaches" reference shipwrecks, Lake Michigan, and exploration. The works will on view until September 5th, 2015. The event is free and open to the public.
The 2015 Chicago French Film Festival
The Music Box Theatre hosts the 2015 Chicago French Film Festival, which starts this evening at 7:00pm. A complete schedule and advance tickets are available at the Music Box site. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Wait Wait Don't Tell Me @ Millennium Park
Wait Wait Don't Tell Me tapes a free show tonight at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. Show time is at 7:00pm.
"A House Dance Class" @ The Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center will be hosting "A House Dance Class" event which is apart of the House Music Summer series developed by The City of Chicago. The class is open to all levels and instructs the basic foundational movements and footwork in House dancing. The CCC is located at 78 E. Washington St. The event begins at 6:00 and lasts until 7:30pm.
2nd Story @ Mayne Stage
Mayne Stage hosts the latest performance of 2nd Story, the live story-telling series. Scheduled to read tonight: Jess Kadish, Khanisha Foster, Nick Ward and Sam Bailey. Doors open at 7:00pm, show starts at 8:00pm, and tickets are $20. Mayne Stage: 1328 W. Morse. Box office: (773) 381-4554.
Just Eat It!: A Food Waste Story @ The Comfort Station
The Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave., hosts a film screening of Just Eat It!: A Food Waste Story from 8 to 10pm. The film focuses on the millions of food that North Americans toss and trash without any further thought. The event is free and open to the public.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' hosts the monthly meeting of The Moth StorySLAM, where audience volunteers are picked to give a five-minute story. The winner of tonight's event (as determined by a group of judges from the audience) goes on to face past StorySLAM winners in the Grandslam Championships. Show brgins at 8:00pm, and admission is $8 at the door. Martyrs': 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
Ghostbusters @ Music Box
The Music Box invites you to see the original Ghostbusters tonight and Saturday night at midnight. Are you afraid of ghosts? Didn't think so. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
"NO SAD STUFF" Opening Reception @ FLATSstudio
Tonight from 6-10pm, FLATSstudio will be presenting their July exhibition, "No Sad Stuff", which will feature pop art, nostalgia, and vibrancy. Beverages will be provided by KOVAL Distillery, music by Wild Skies and Indisposed, and live drawings by Grant Goodwine and Landon Perkins. RSVP to rsvp@flatschicago.com with the number of attendees. FLATSstudio is located at 1050 W. Wilson Avenue.
Opening Reception: Rodrigo Lara "Deportable Aliens" @ The National Museum of Mexican Art
The National Museum of Mexican Art will be hosting an opening reception for the exhibition, "Deportable Aliens" this evening from 6-8pm. In conjunction with the show, the artist, Rodrigo Lara, will be giving a talk on August 19th at 6pm.
Artist Talk with Susan Giles @ The Arts Club of Chicago
The Jackman Goldwasser Resident artist, Susan Giles, will be discussing her work and process with Tony Macaluso at the Arts Club of Chicago. The talk will begin at 12pm. Please RSVP to Arielle Ismail at ariellei@carolfoxassociates.com by July 24. The talk is located at 201 E Ontario.
North Korean Perspectives @ Museum of Contemporary Photography
The group show North Korean Perspectives opens today at 5pm with a brief discussion at 5:30pm at the Museum of Contemporary Photography. MoCP is located at Columbia College, 600 S. Michigan Ave. Free.
Sheffield Music Festival & Garden Walk
The 37th annual Sheffield Music Festival and Garden Walk runs Saturday and today on Sheffield Avenue between Webster and Fullerton from noon to 10pm. Enjoy live music, take self-guided tours of more than 80 neighborhood gardens, and take the family to kids' corner. $7 suggested donation; $10 after 3pm.
In conjunction with the fest, the Chicago Craft Beer Festival runs from 11:30am to 4pm each day. Sample more than 75 beers from local craft breweries. Tickets are $40 in advance, $45 at the door.
Pretend Garage Sale @ Comfort Station
Mothergirl holds a conceptual art event, the Pretend Garage Sale, today from 9am to 3pm in the Logan Square Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. A variety of items will be available to take home for free, but you have to pretend to haggle and pay for them. No, really.
Sheffield Music Festival & Garden Walk
The 37th annual Sheffield Music Festival and Garden Walk runs today and Sunday on Sheffield Avenue between Webster and Fullerton from noon to 10pm. Enjoy live music, take self-guided tours of more than 80 neighborhood gardens, and take the family to kids' corner. $7 suggested donation; $10 after 3pm.
In conjunction with the fest, the Chicago Craft Beer Festival runs from 11:30am to 4pm each day. Sample more than 75 beers from local craft breweries. Tickets are $40 in advance, $45 at the door.
The Room @ Music Box
Hi, doggy! The Music Box presents a screening of the modern cult masterpiece The Room. Wave to Johnny! Throw spoons! Say "hi" to Denny! Do ALL the Room things! The Room screens tonight and Saturday night at midnight. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Bob Suren/Crate Digger @ Quimby's
Quimby's presents a reading by Bob Suren, author of Crate Digger: An Obsession with Punk Rock Records. The reading happens at the Quimby's store (1854 W. North Ave.) tonight at 7:00pm. Further details at Quimby's site.
Mom & Pop: Family Business in Art & Life @ Arts Incubator
The Arts Incubator in Washington Park is featuring an opening reception for the group exhibition, "Mom & Pop: Family Business in Art & Life" tonight at 6pm. The show will focus on community, capitalism, and the complications of family.
CHIRP Radio Presents: The First Time @ Martyrs'
CHIRP Radio presents The First Time, a live lit series themed along life's firsts, tonight at Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave. This time it's First Trip, and readers include Len Kasper, Patrick Masterson, Sam Bailey, Maya Schenwar, Julia Weiss, Peter Kim and Danny Black. Each reading will be followed by related song covered by the First Time Trio. Jenn Sodini hosts. Show starts at 8pm, and admission is $10. 21+
Square Roots Festival
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their annual Square Roots festival, a three-day festival featuring live music, local food & beverage vendors, and family activities all weekend long. The festival takes place on Lincoln Avenue, between Montrose and Wilson. A complete schedule is available at the Square Roots website. The fest runs from noon to 9pm today.
"Wherever" Opening Reception @ LVL3
LVL3 and CHGO DSGN are hosting an exhibition this evening from 6-10pm entitled, "Wherever". LVL3 is located at 1542 N Milwaukee Avenue on the 3rd Floor. The exhibition will be on view until August 16th. Additionally, there will be a lecture on July 19th at 2pm by Bryce Wilner.
Square Roots Festival
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their annual Square Roots festival, a three-day festival featuring live music, local food & beverage vendors, and family activities all weekend long. The festival takes place on Lincoln Avenue, between Montrose and Wilson. A complete schedule is available at the Square Roots website. The fest runs from noon to 11pm today.
US Air Guitar Regionals @ Double Door
The US Air Guitar Chicago Regionals are tonight at the Double Door, 1551 N. Damen Ave., at 8pm. See guitar heroes pick, shred and finger the air as they compete to represent Chicago in the national championships, in hopes of going on to Finland and conquering the world. Past World Champion Nordic Thunder performs at halftime. Tickets are $15. 21+
A Murder in the Park @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents the new documentary A Murder in the Park, about a controversial murder case and the exoneration of the man charged for the crime. The directors and executive producer will be at tonight's screening at 8pm for audience Q&A, and there are discussions planned for later screenings of the film. See the Film Center site for a complete schedule and advance tickets. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
You Are Beautiful @ Galerie F
Matthew Hoffman and You Are Beautiful help Galerie F, 2381 N. Milwaukee Ave., celebrate its third anniversary with a show of 100 artist-decorated wooden You Are Beautiful signs, tonight from 6 to 10pm. "Superfluous amounts of beer" from SweetWater and Revolution Brewing will be served to those 21+. Free.
Square Roots Festival
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their annual Square Roots festival, a three-day festival featuring live music, local food & beverage vendors, and family activities all weekend long. The festival takes place on Lincoln Avenue, between Montrose and Wilson. A complete schedule is available at the Square Roots website. The fest runs from 5 to 10pm tonight.
TCC Digital Buffet
TCC Chicago presents its first Digital Buffet, where you can either download your fill from a variety of digital artists, OR you can eat your fill from a delicious buffet! Or both! This happens tonight at 6:00pm at Catalyst Chicago (650 West Lake Street); admission is $5 for food, $10 for food + art, and $19.95 for food + art + artist-customized USB drive. More details at the Facebook event page.
Invasion USA @ Music Box
USA! USA! USA! The Music Box, 3733 N. Southport Ave., celebrates the holiday weekend with martial arts expert (and action film regular) Chuck Norris protecting the nation from terrorists single-handed in Invasion USA. The film screens tonight and Saturday night at midnight. Tickets are $9.
Recently Restored @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents "Recently Restored," a festival of restored motion pictures that runs at the Film Center through August 16. Today's premiere title is the 1972 film 1776, which screens at 3:00pm. See the Film Center's site for a complete schedule and advance tickets. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Nerd Nite @ Bottom Lounge
The Chicago chapter of Nerd Nite presents DIY Plutonium, How To Music, and The Booty (Coconut), tonight at Bottom Lounge, 1375 W. Lake St. Speakers will be Darryl Suskin, Nick Gibson and Seth Harper, respectively. Doors open at 7pm, first talk's at 8pm. Free, but RSVP. 21+
Get Real: Docs at the Box @ Music Box Theatre
Every Tuesday evening in June the Music Box Theatre is screening recent documentaries, with post-screening discussions with directors and experts. Tonight's film is Guidelines, documenting one year at a Canadian high school. The film screens tonight at 7:30pm; see the Music Box site for a complete schedule and advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Made-Up with Danny Volk @ MCA
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is hosting Danny Volk's on-going project, "Made-Up with Danny Volk" today at 3pm. While interviewing artists, Danny simultaneously allows them to do his makeup. For this particular interview, Faheem Majeed will discuss his life and art while applying makeup to the host. The event is free.
Aesthetic Disorder Opening Reception @ The Archer Beach Haus
Archer Beach Haus, in collaboration with S+S Project, will be featuring a group exhibition entitled, Aesthetic Disorder, tonight from 6-10pm. The space is located at 10pm at 3012 S. Archer Avenue.
Signs of the Times Opening Reception @ Johalla Projects
Johalla Projects, 1821 W. Hubbard, Suite 209, hosts an opening reception for Signs of the Times, a new exhibition of work by street artist Dont Fret, tonight from 6 to 10pm. Wheat pastings and stylized characters that project humor, neighborhood culture, and charm, will be exhibited in the show which is on view until July 31.
"Pot Shop Pop Up" Opening Reception @ Tusk
A pop-up exhibition located at Tusk will feature 30+ artists tonight at an opening reception from 7-9pm. Tusk is located at 3205 W Armitage Avenue. Pot Shop Pop Up is free and open to the public.
Wavelength Film Screening @ The Art Institute of Chicago
From 6-8pm, the AIC will be presenting the avant-garde film by Michael Snow, Wavelength, in Price Auditorium. The film will be shown on 16mm format and was created in 1966 over a one week time span. The event is free with museum admission. The AIC is located on 111 S. Michigan Avenue
Get Real: Docs at the Box @ Music Box Theatre
Every Tuesday evening in June the Music Box Theatre is screening recent documentaries, with post-screening discussions with directors and experts. Tonight's film is What Happened, Miss Simone?, a biography of Nina Simone. The film screens tonight at 7:30pm; see the Music Box site for a complete schedule and advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
School Night: Political Correctness 101
Homeroom presents School Night: Political Correctness 101, a performance, presentation and panel discussion with artists and professionals about taboo, art and activism, and negotiating safer workspaces, tonight at the Arts Club of Chicago, 201 E. Ontario Ave., at 6pm. H. Melt, Damon Locks and Cassandra Troyan present, Fred Sasaki and Seth Vanek moderate. Free; RSVP on Facebook. UPDATE: This event has been postponed due to illness. We'll relist it once it's rescheduled.
Stardust Memories Annual Benefit and Silent Auction @ Heaven Gallery
Heaven Gallery will be hosting their 15th Annual Benefit and Silent Auction at their location in Wicker Park at 1550 N. Milwaukee Avenue. Artists, Soo shin, Liz McCarthy, Aron Gent, Marissa Lee Benedict, Phil Peters and many more will be featured in the silent auction. Tickets are $50 for VIP and $15 for the dance party. The event is from 6-11:30pm.
Ivan Lozano: Suffocated From the Inside Opening Reception @ Andrew Rafacz
Today from 4-7pm, Andrew Rafacz Gallery will be opening the exhibition, Suffocated From the Inside, featuring works from the artist Ivan Lozano. The gallery space is located on 835 W. Washington Blvd.
Not to Be Taken @ Sector 2337
Today at 3pm, Terri Kapsalis and Anne Elizabeth Moore perform Not to Be Taken, a work of artistic action as part of Ellen Rothenberg's exhibition elsetime at Sector 2337, 2337 N. Milwaukee Ave. Admission is free.
Chicago Design Week Closing Reception @ ChiDM
The Chicago Design Museum, 108 N. State St., third floor, hosts Lights Out: the Chicago Design Week Closing Reception tonight from 6 to 9pm. Enjoy drinks and snacks while checking out the museum's current exhibition, "The State of Detroit." Tickets are $20, $10 for ChiDM members.
Alice Tippit: La Force Opening Reception @ Paris London Hong Kong
Opening tonight from 5-8pm, Paris London Hong Kong, will be presenting the works of Alice Tippit in the exhibition, "La Force". PLJK is located on 845 W. Washington Blvd., 2nd Floor.
John Himmelfarb Opening Reception: "No Exit" @ McCormick Gallery
Thirty years of "trucks, icons, and weird drawings", will be presented at McCormick gallery in the solo exhibition, "No Exit" tonight from 5-7PM. The work of John Himmelfarb will be on view until August 15th. McCormick Gallery is located at 835 W. Washington Blvd.
Trainwreck Comedy Tour: Amy Schumer & Friends
Amy Schumer, Judd Apatow, and several other hilarious fiends will be performing tonight at 7:30pm at the Harris Theater, located at 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $100, and the show's proceeds will benefit the local groups Youth Guidance and YMCA Chicago's Urban Warriors.
This Is Chicago Release Party @ Redmoon
AIGA Chicago celebrates the release of This Is Chicago, a book of interviews with some of the city's biggest design names, wth a release party tonight at 7pm at Redmoon Theatre, 2120 S. Jefferson St. Meet some of the book's subjects, enjoy drinks and snacks, and view Redmoon spectacles based on the book. Non-member tickets are $50.
Get Real: Docs at the Box @ Music Box Theatre
Every Tuesday evening in June the Music Box Theatre is screening recent documentaries, with post-screening discussions with directors and experts. Tonight's film is 3 1/2 Minutes, Ten Bullets, a look at the 2012 shooting that killed Jacksonville, FL high school student Jordan Davis. The film screens tonight at 7:30pm; see the Music Box site for a complete schedule and advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Neighborhood Night @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents Neighborhood Night, an evening of cinema at reduced prices, to inspire people to come to a community event. A full schedule of the films is available at the Film Center site. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago Summer Series
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago debuts their second program solely comprised of pieces created by Resident Choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo. Cerrudo became the company's first Resident Choreographer in 2009, and has since choreographed 13 pieces with Hubbard Street. The Series will feature a wide range of Cerrudo's pieces, including the world premiere of his 14th piece created for the Company. Today's show starts at 3pm at the Harris Theater at 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $25-94.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago Summer Series
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago debuts their second program solely comprised of pieces created by Resident Choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo. Cerrudo became the company's first Resident Choreographer in 2009, and has since choreographed 13 pieces with Hubbard Street. The Series will feature a wide range of Cerrudo's pieces, including the world premiere of his 14th piece created for the Company. Tonight's show starts at 8pm at the Harris Theater at 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $30-99.
Orange You Glad! Opening Reception @ Ballroom Projects
From 7-10pm, Ballroom Projects is hosting an opening reception for the exhibition, "Orange You Glad!". The group show features artists Dan Mrva, Claire Ashley, and Matt Mancini. The event is location at 3012 S. Archer Avenue #3.
Chicago Samba @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents the latest in their Global Dance Party series: live Brazilian music and dance by Chicago Samba at the school's newest location, at 4545 N. Lincoln Avenue. The party starts at 8:30pm; full details at the school's site, or call (773) 728-6000.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago Summer Series
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago debuts their second program solely comprised of pieces created by Resident Choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo. Cerrudo became the company's first Resident Choreographer in 2009, and has since choreographed 13 pieces with Hubbard Street. The Series will feature a wide range of Cerrudo's pieces, including the world premiere of his 14th piece created for the Company. Tonight's show starts at 8pm at the Harris Theater at 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $25-77.
Chicago African Diaspora Film Festival @ Facets
Fecets Cinematheque presents their 13th annual Chicago African Diaspora Film Festival, a week-long showing of independent films from around the world. Full details available through the Facets site. Facet: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-4114.
Chicago Arts District 2nd Friday
The June edition of 2nd Fridays Gallery Night in East Pilsen will feature work by multi-disciplinary artists in 30-plus galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District. You'll find all manner of art and artists, as well as explore the gorgeous architecture and courtyards on Halsted Street between 16th and Cermak. Plan your stroll by picking up a map at the info center at 1821 S. Halsted St., or check out the calendar. 6pm-10pm.
Chantala Kommanivanh "Sabai, Sabai" Opening Reception @ NYCH Gallery
NYCH Gallery is presenting the new paintings of Chantala Kommanivanh during an opening reception tonight from 6-10pm. The gallery is free and open to the public. Located at 643 W 18th St.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago Summer Series
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago debuts their second program solely comprised of pieces created by Resident Choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo. Cerrudo became the company's first Resident Choreographer in 2009, and has since choreographed 13 pieces with Hubbard Street. The Series will feature a wide range of Cerrudo's pieces, including the world premiere of his 14th piece created for the Company. Tonight's show starts at 7:30pm at the Harris Theater at 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $25-94.
Get Real: Docs at the Box @ Music Box Theatre
Every Tuesday evening in June the Music Box Theatre is screening recent documentaries, with post-screening discussions with directors and experts. Tonight's film is The Russian Woodpecker, an investigation of the Chernobyl disaster by a Ukranian performance artist. The film screens tonight at 7:30pm; see the Music Box site for a complete schedule and advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Victoria Martinez "Eleven Eleven" @ Elastic Arts
From 8pm until 12am, Elastic Arts, is inviting the public to view Victoria Martinez's evolving installation. Following this exhibition, Martinez will exhibit at the Comfort Station in July and create site-specific sculptures with teenagers from the Logan Square Neighborhood Association. Elastic Arts in located at 3429 W Diversey Ave #208. The exhibition is on view until August 30th.
Hebru Brantley "Memoirs of the Minimum Wage" Opening Reception @ Vertical Gallery
Beginning at 6pm, Vertical Gallery will be opening the new exhibition, "Memoirs of the Minimum Wage" which features a survey of middle-class America. The artist, Hebru Brantley displays this topic through sketches, watercolors, paintings and sculptures. Vertical Gallery is located at 1016 N Western Ave. Free and open to the public.
Claire Sherman "Funeral Mountain" Opening Reception @ Kavi Gupta Gallery
Kavi Gupta Gallery, located at 835 W Washington Blvd., will be hosting an opening reception from 4-7PM this evening for Claire Sherman's solo exhibition, Funeral Mountain. The exhibition includes works on paper and paintings. Free and open to the public.
Chicago Alternative Comics Expo
CAKE 2015, the celebration and marketplace for independent comics, runs today and Sunday from 11am to 6pm at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. Attend panel discussions and workshops, meet comics artists, and buy cool stuff. See the schedule for a list of ancillary events. Admission is free.
The Barack Obama Presidential Library Opening Reception @ Hyde Park Free Theater
The Hyde Park Free Theater, located at 1448 East 57th St., hosts an opening reception tonight from 5 to 9pm for The Barack Obama Presidential Library. Free.
Art Paul "Hard Heads, Sweet Knees, Forked Tongues" Opening Reception @ Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art
Opening today from 6-9PM, the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art is presenting artist, Art Paul, in his new exhibition, "Hard Heads, Sweet Knees, Forked Tongues". Paul served as the art director for Playboy for 30 years and also designed the rabbit head logo. The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art is located at 2320 W Chicago Ave Chicago. Open and free to the public.
Chicago Alternative Comics Expo
CAKE 2015, the celebration and marketplace for independent comics, runs Saturday and today from 11am to 6pm at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. Attend panel discussions and workshops, meet comics artists, and buy cool stuff. See the schedule for a list of ancillary events. Admission is free.
Third Coast Listening Room @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
The Third Coast International Audio Festival presents the finalists for its annual ShortDocs competition at a Third Coast Listening Room event at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., tonight from 6 to 9pm. The theme for this year's competition was "Studs' Rules," in honor of Studs Terkel. Come listen to the finalists and vote on your favorite to win the "People's Short Doc Award." Tickets are $10.
Get Real: Docs at the Box @ Music Box Theatre
Every Tuesday evening in June the Music Box Theatre is screening recent documentaries, with post-screening discussions with directors and experts. Tonight's film is Saving Mes Aynak, about an archeological site in Afghanistan threatened by a Chinese mining corporation. The film screens tonight at 7:30pm; see the Music Box site for a complete schedule and advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Lives of Robert Ryan @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a discussion of the career of actor Robert Ryan, featuring a screening of Ryan's 1949 boxing drama The Set-Up. A post-screening discussion will feature Lisa Ryan, the actor's daughter, and Chicago Reader film critic J.R. Jones, author of the new biography The Lives of Robert Ryan. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box site. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
National Tap Day Celebration @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music celebrates National Tap Day this evening with a performance featuring Reggio McLaughlin. Show starts at 7:30pm at the Maurer Concert Hall, 4544 N. Lincoln. Full details at the school's site, or call (773) 728-6000.
Ballet Chicago's Illuminate @ Harris Theater
The Ballet Chicago Studio Company performs a new program today at 2pm and 7:30pm. The program is composed of five works, including a world premiere by Resident Choreographer Ted Seymour. Illuminate will be performed at the Harris Theater, located at 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $25-50.
Obscura Day 2015
Atlas Obscura sponsors Obscura Day, an annual celebration of obscure locations and events. Many events are planned worldwide, including several in Chicago. To participate, visit the Obscura Day site and RSVP for one of the events.
Chicago Science Fest
The Illinois Science Council presents Chicago Science Fest May 28-30. Today's programming is held at 1871 and MATTER Chicago healthcare incubator, Merchandise Mart 12th floor from 10am to 6pm, and include panels on the science of GMO foods, dark matter and other astronomical phenomena, the human microbiome, innovation among chimpanzees and much more. Tickets are $10 per event, or get a festival day pass for $30.
Jaime Foster Solo Exhibition "Biophilia" @ Elephant Room Gallery
Tonight from 6:30-9:30PM, Jaime Foster will be exhibiting her smaller scale abstract paintings in her solo exhibition, "Biophilia", at the Elephant Room Gallery. Jamie's work is ethereal, nature inspired, and rich with neutral hues and movement. The work will be on view until July 3rd, 2015. The Elephant Room Gallery is located at 704 S. Wabash Avenue.
Chicago Science Fest
The Illinois Science Council presents Chicago Science Fest May 28-30. Today's programming at the National Museum of Health & Medicine Chicago, 175 W. Washington St., includes and exhibition of winning images from National Science Foundation and Northwestern University's scientific visualization contests at 5pm, followed at 6:30pm by screenings of the documentaries The Believers and This Has Been to Space accompanied by a Q&A with directors Clayton Brown and Monica Ross. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.
High Fidelity Film Series @ Music Box
WBEZ and The Music Box Theatre present the latest in their High Fidelity Film Series: Sepideh: Reaching For The Stars, screening this evening at 7:30pm. Tickets are available through the Music Box site, or through the WBEZ site for High Fidelity members. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Nick Offerman @ Chicago Humanities Festival
The Chicago Humanities Festival presents an evening with Nick Offerman, Chicago native and star of "Parks & Rec," tonight at 7pm at the Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo Ave. Offerman will do a reading and performance of his new book, Gumption: Relighting the Torch of Freedom with America's Gutsiest Troublemakers, followed by an interview with Mark Bazer. Tickets are $32-38, and include a copy of the book. Main floor tickets are sold out, but balcony seats are still available.
Eat to the Beat: Chicago Academy for the Arts
As a part of the Harris Theater's Eat to the Beat series, The Chicago Academy for the Arts' Academy Repertory Dance Company will put on a 45-minute lunchtime performance today at noon. Audience members can "eat to the beat" with cuisine from food trucks on Lower Randolph. The Harris Theater is located at 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $5.
UHF with Weird Al @ Music Box
As part of the 2nd Annual 26th Annual Comedy Festival, The Music Box Theatre presents two screenings of the 1989 film UHF, with director Jay Levey and star Weird All Yankovic in attendance at both screenings. See the festival site for tickets.
The 2nd Annual 26th Annual Comedy Festival
The Onion and The AV Club present the second year of their 26th Annual Comedy Festival, featuring performances by at least one or two funny people and screenings of some funny films (Cabin Boy tonight, UHF on the 27th). Check the festival site for a schedule and ticket purchase links.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' hosts the monthly Moth StorySLAM. Attendees are invited to relate their 5-minute story on a chosen theme, and the winners (as judged by the audience) advance to the semifinals. Show starts at 8:00pm and admission is $8. Martyrs': 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
Kori Newkirk Artist Talk @ Logan Center for the Arts
From 6:30pm-8pm, Kori Newkirk will be giving an artist talk at the Logan Center for the Arts in Hyde Park. Newkirk creates paintings, multimedia work, installations, sculptures, and photographs that focus on cultural identity and his personal history. The Logan Center is located at 915 E 60th St. The talk is free and open to the public.
Trade Plants for Poems @ The University of Chicago's Logan Center for the Arts
Cream Co.'s ongoing project, General Economy, Exquisite Exchange (G.E.E.E.) will be located in the Logan Center's courtyard from today, May 26th until May 27th from noon until dusk. The courtyard is located on the U of C campus at 915 E 60th St. 2000 seedlings of fourteen variations of tomato's will be available for trading: for a word, a poem, or for free.
You Are Here Festival
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include DJ Taye (Teklife), Gel Set and Khaki Blazer. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
You Are Here Festival
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Quicksails. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
You Are Here Festival
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include ONO, Mind Over Mirrors, Potions and TalSounds. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
You Are Here Festival
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Tim Kinsella, Matt Lux, Alex Ingilzian, Adam Vida, Ben Lamar Guy, Will Faber, Leroy Bach and Ben Boye. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
Vintage Garage Chicago
Vintage Garage Chicago holds its monthly meeting today from 10:00am to 5:00pm at 5051 North Broadway. One hundred vintage vendors will be selling fixtures, clothing, and jewelry from earlier eras. Full details at the Vintage Garage Chicago site.
Open screening @ Chicago Filmmakers
Chicago Filmmakers (5243 N. Clark) offers an Open Screening evening starting at 8:00pm tonight. Anyone who shows up with original work less than 20 minutes long on a DVD will have a chance to show their film. See the Chicago Filmmakers site for full details. Admission to this event is free.
Mortified Chicago @ Mayne Stage
Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave., and The Mortified podcast present Mortified Chicago, an evening of people reading their most embarrassing writings from their younger years. There are two shows tonight, one at 6pm and one at 9pm. Tickets $23 in advance, $25 at the door. Box office: (773) 381-4554.
Hot Doug's Appreciation Day @ Paulina Meat Market
If you've been missing Hot Doug's, today's your lucky day: the Paulina Meat Market (3501 N. Lincoln Avenue) hosts a Hot Doug's Appreciation Day today, and will be selling the sausages that were produced for the much-beloved hot dog emporium. A grill will be outside, cooking up some of the sausages, and yes, Hot Doug himself will make an appearance!
You Are Here Festival
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Ed Schrader's Music Beat, Maurice [Paper Mice] and Kyle Kaos. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
Jeffly Gabriela Molina Opening Reception @ Kruger Gallery Chicago
Jeffly Gabriela Molina will be presenting her new work at Kruger Gallery Chicago tonight in an opening reception from 6-9PM. The work will be on view until June 27th. Kruger Gallery is located at 3709 N Southport Avenue.
Opening Reception for Feminism (n.): Plural and The Gallery Tally Poster Project @ Woman Made Gallery
Woman Made Gallery will be hosting an opening reception tonight from 6-8pm for their new exhibition, "Feminism (n.) Plural". Additionally, Gallery Tally is a social art project where 300+ artists from around the globe collected and visualized statistical data in regards to the ratios of male and female artists in the top contemporary art galleries. The event will be held at 685 N. Milwaukee Avenue.
Josep Lluís Sert: A Nomadic Dream Screening @ Graham Foundation
This evening MAS Context and the Graham Foundation are screening the film Josep Lluís Sert: A Nomadic Dream. The documentary, written and directed by Pablo Bujosa Rodríguez, tells the story of the architect, city planner, and contemporary of Miró, Calder, and Picasso, and his indelible impact on the course of American architecture. The event begins at 6pm at the Graham Foundation, 4 West Burton Place. Space is limited, so RSVP.
ACTIVATE @ Chicago Loop
The Chicago Loop Alliance is bringing back interactive artwork, music, and culture with ACTIVATE, an alley-based pop-up experience in downtown Chicago. On May 15th, June 12th, July 30th, August 27th, September 18th, and October 16th, the event will be held from 5-10PM. Specific locations will be announced a month prior. RSVP in advance for a complimentary drink ticket for beer or wine.
Trust Us/Screw You @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present Trust Us/Screw You, an investigation into the tradition of American confidence men. The show will feature live music, and actual games of chance (so bring a dollar or two). The show happens at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland, at Foster) and runs through June 13; see the Neo-Futurists' site for tickets and details, or call (773) 878-4557.
You Are Here Festival
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Diamond Terrifyer and Patrick Higgins. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
HoZac Blackout Fest Art Show @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., kicks off the 2015 HoZac Blackout Fest this evening at 9pm with an art show before the main festival. The Yolks, Werewheels, Skip Church and Joey Rubbish perform. Admission is $5 online or at the door. Festival passes are $40. See the Empty Bottle site for a complete schedule. 21+
Oh! Oh! Oh! Opening Reception @ Peregrineprogram
Peregrineprogram, located at 3311 W. Carroll Ave. #119, is featuring a new exhibition entitled, Oh! Oh! Oh!. The photographs by Kelly Kaczynski are reenactments of the eight positions of the body in the Charles Ray sculpture, "Oh! Charley Charley Charley". The opening reception is from 1 to 4pm, and is free and open to the public.
You Are Here Festival
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Zs and Greg Fox. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
CAF Scavenger Hunt
The Chicago Architecture Foundation hosts a scavenger hunt today, starting at 1pm at Buckingham Fountain Plaza, 301 S Columbus Dr. The hunt will take you (and one to three of your friends) through the Loop looking for clues in the buildings, streets and public art. The cost is $25 for CAF members, $35 for non-members. There's also a noncompetitive family version of the hunt that's only $10 for non-members and free for members.
Screening of Missing @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music present a free screening of the 1982 film Missing, about the disappearance of an American journalist in the 1973 Chilean coup. The screening happens at 1:00pm in the concert hall at 4544 N. Lincoln, and is followed by a discussion of recent developments in the case. Please RSVP by going to the Old Town School site, or calling (773) 728-6000.
Chicago Zine Fest
Day two of the Chicago Zine Festival runs from 11am to 6pm at the Plumbers Union Hall, 1340 W. Washington Blvd. In addition to the exhibition floor featuring zine publishers from across the country, there will be workshops and discussions throughout the day; see the festival site for details. Free.
2015 Chicago 7 Bus Tour
Today Preservation Chicago leads a city-wide bus tour of its 2015 7 Most Endangered Places from 10:30am to 2pm. The tour will leave from the parking lot located at 4410 N. Ravenswood. Purchase tickets before the event for $15 or $12 (members). Additional details are available on Facebook.
Welcome to Night Vale @ Copernicus Center
The Copernicus Center hosts an evening with the podcast Welcome to Night Vale, featuring tales and music designed to unsettle you. Details and advance tickets available here. Copernicus Center: 5216 W. Lawrence.
Puddles Pity Party @ Mayne Stage
Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave., hosts Puddles Pity Party, featuring Puddles the clown singing his sad songs for all who care to listen. There are two shows tonight, at 7pm and 9pm. The 9pm show is sold out, but tickets for 7pm are $33. Box office: 773-381-4554.
Test/Move/Play Ability Opening Reception @ Arts + Public Life
Arts + Public Life and the Center for the Study of Race, Politics and Culture are featuring resident artist, Alberto Aguilar, and his culminating exhibition. The exhibition will take place at several locations which include: Logan Center, Harold Washington College, Arts Incubator, Arts Club of Chicago and 4th Ward Project Space. The opening reception will be tonight from 6-9PM at 301 East Garfield Blvd.
Opening Reception: "Can I See Your ID?" @ Cultura
amfm, a creative hub for local artists will be presenting, "Can I See Your ID?", an exhibition centered on identity this evening at the 2nd Friday Pilsen Art Walk from 6-9PM. The event will be held at Cultura, located at 1900 S. Carpenter Street in Pilsen.
Chicago Zine Fest
The Chicago Zine Festival kicks off today at 5pm at Access Living, 115 W. Chicago Ave., with a panel discussion which focuses on zines and independent publishing. Readings continue throughout the evening and at 7pm, the annual youth reading will be presented as well as a reading by festival exhibitors at 8pm. Free and open to the public.
StoryCorps OutLoud @ Chicago History Museum
The Chicago History Museum (1601 N. Clark) hosts an evening of discussion with StoryCorps founder David Isay and UIC gender studies professor Jennifer Brier. The topic of discussion will be StoryCorps' OutLoud series of LGBTQ biographical interview recordings. Full details for this event at WBEZ's site.
Pitchfork Studio Visit
Visit the Pitchfork studio, 3317 W. Fullerton Ave., with MAS Context and sit down with designer and creative director Michael Renaud and art director Molly Butterfoss. The duo will discuss the ideas behind The Pitchfork Review and experience working on the first four issues of the magazine. Free registration is required. Donations to support MAS Context's public programs are welcome.
Chicago Critics Film Festival
The third annual Chicago Critics Film Festival runs May 1-7 at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Tonight's closing films are The Overnight at 6pm with director Patrick Brice on hand for a Q&A, and Me & Earl & The Dying Girl at 8:30pm with director Alfonso Gomez-Rejon in attendance for a Q&A. Check the festival's site for a complete schedule, advance tickets and festival passes.
Chicago Critics Film Festival
The third annual Chicago Critics Film Festival runs May 1-7 at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Tonight's films include The Second Mother at 5pm, The End of the Tour at 7pm with director James Ponsoldt and star Joan Cusack on hand for a Q&A, and Night Owls at 10pm with director Charles Hood and star Adam Pally in attendance for a Q&A. Check the festival's site for a complete schedule, advance tickets and festival passes.
Homemade Stories @ Mayne Stage
WBEZ and Mayne Stage present a live taping of the Homemade Stories podcast this evening from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Tickets are available through Eventbrite. Mayne Stage: 1330 W. Morse. Box office: (773) 381-4554.
MCA Live: Chicago Home Theater Festival
The Chicago Home Theater Festival (CHTF) is focusing on cultural segregation and social isolation at the Museum of Contemporary Art this evening at 6PM. The event will be held at 220 E. Chicago Ave. Free!
Chicago Critics Film Festival
The third annual Chicago Critics Film Festival runs May 1-7 at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Tonight's films include Blind at 5pm, Drunk Stoned Brilliant Dead: The Story of the National Lampoon at 7pm with director Douglas Tirola on hand for a Q&A, and The Connection at 9pm. Check the festival's site for a complete schedule, advance tickets and festival passes.
Chicago Critics Film Festival
The third annual Chicago Critics Film Festival runs May 1-7 at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Tonight's films include a shorts program at 5pm, Quitters at 7pm with director Noah Pritzker on hand for a Q&A, and Heaven Knows What at 9pm. Check the festival's site for a complete schedule, advance tickets and festival passes.
Version Festival 15
Version Festival 15 runs April 23 to May 3. The theme this year is "100 Watts" in honor of organizer Public Media Institute's newly licensed low-power radio station. Tonight's closing event is an art exhibition and Korean Polish BBQ. Other Voices and Sons of the Sun will perform live. Admission is free.
Cosmosis Opening Reception @ The Hyde Park Art Center
The Hyde Park Art Center will be hosting the group exhibition, Cosmosis, today from 2-5PM with refreshments and a live DJ set in collaboration with the experimental sound station. The exhibition is on view until August 23rd. The HPAC is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue.
Chicago Critics Film Festival
The third annual Chicago Critics Film Festival runs May 1-7 at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Today's films include a shorts program at 1pm; Slow West at 3pm, People, Places, Things at 5pm; Batkid Begins at 7:30pm with director Dana Nachman and writer/editor Kurt Kuenne on hand for a Q&A; and The Keeping Room at 10pm. Check the festival's site for a complete schedule, advance tickets and festival passes.
Version Festival 15
Version Festival 15 runs April 23 to May 3. The theme this year is "100 Watts" in honor of organizer Public Media Institute's newly licensed low-power radio station. Tonight's events include a variety show at Law of Ice, 1011 W. 31st St., at 8pm. Admission is free. Then from 9pm to 2am, WLPN broadcasts live from Maria's, 960 W. 31st St., featuring DJ Sonorama. No cover, 21+.
Chicago Critics Film Festival
The third annual Chicago Critics Film Festival runs May 1-7 at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Today's films include Kahlil Gibran's The Prophet at noon, The New Girlfriend at 2pm, Results at 4:15pm with star Cobie Smulders in attendance for a Q&A, Unexpected at 7pm with star Smulders and director Kris Swanberg on hand for a Q&A, Call Me Lucky at 9:30pm with director Bobcat Goldthwait and subject Barry Crimmins in attendance for a Q&A, and Goodnight Mommy at midnight. Check the festival's site for a complete schedule, advance tickets and festival passes.
Version Festival 15
Version Festival 15 runs April 23 to May 3. The theme this year is "100 Watts" in honor of organizer Public Media Institute's newly licensed low-power radio station. Tonight's event is a May Day celebration at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., featuring live performances by Chandeliers, Onyou, Cameron Brand and Dustin Drase. Admission is $5; bring your membership card. 21+
Kanikapila @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music celebrates Lei Day with an evening concert in their Global Dance Party series, featuring the school's hula & 'ukulele instructor, Lanialoha Lee. Musicians, singers, and dancers are invited to come join the traditional Hawaiian kanikapila starting at 8:30pm in the school's newest building, located at 4545 N. Lincoln Avenue. Full details and advance tickets at the school's site, or call (773) 728-6000.
Chicago Critics Film Festival
The third annual Chicago Critics Film Festival begins this evening at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., and runs through the 7th. Tonight's films include Digging For Fire at 7pm with director Joe Swanberg on hand for a Q&A, Raiders! at 9:30pm and Restoration at midnight, paired with the "Midnight Insanity" shorts collection. Check the festival's site for a complete schedule, advance tickets and festival passes.
Luftwerk Refractions Opening Reception @ Silent Funny
Luftwerk, the experimental light and installation duo, will be featuring, Refractions, at Silent Funny this evening from 6-10PM. A mid-month concert will be held May 9th from 7:30-10PM and the closing reception will include a live concert on May 29th from 6-8PM. The event is located at 4106 W Chicago Ave.
Version Festival 15
Version Festival 15 runs April 23 to May 3. The theme this year is "100 Watts" in honor of organizer Public Media Institute's newly licensed low-power radio station. Tonight's events include a screening of Sex and Broadcasting: A Documentary About WFMU at Constellation, 3111 N. Western Ave., at 8pm. Tickets are $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Then from 9pm to 2am, WLPN broadcasts live from Maria's, 960 W. 31st St., featuring DJs Lechstafari, Andrew Joseph and Laura Caringella. No cover, 21+.
Daniel Clowes @ Quimby's
Former Chicago artist Daniel Clowes returns to the city tonight to appear at Quimby's (1854 W. North Ave.) to sign a new reprint of the complete 18-issue run of Eightball. The event happens tonight at 7:00pm, and is free & open to the public. Full details at Quimby's site.
Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists Screening & Discussion @ UIC
This evening the film Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists will be screened at Gallery 400 with a panel discussion addressing gender equality in the visual arts. The schedule for the free evening begins with a reception with refreshments at 5:30pm, followed by a 6pm screening and an 8pm discussion with Claudine Isé, Barbara Rossi, Sue Williams, and moderator Judith Russi Kirshner. The event is supported by the Terra Foundation for American Art and is cosponsored by Gallery 400 and the Jane Addams Hull House Museum. Gallery 400 is located at 400 S. Peoria St. More information about the event is available on Facebook.
Version Festival 15
Version Festival 15 runs April 23 to May 3. The theme this year is "100 Watts" in honor of organizer Public Media Institute's newly licensed low-power radio station. Tonight's events include the Turbo Butcher Comedy Show at 8pm at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., featuring Mitch Nathan, Keegan Buckingham, Nigel Ng, Jeff Scheen, & Anthony Bonazzo. $5 at the door. Then from 9pm to 2am, WLPN broadcasts live from Maria's, 960 W. 31st St., featuring DJs Jose de Jesus and Gabriel Feijoo. No cover, 21+.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' hosts the monthly Moth StorySLAM, where a selected group of audience members are invited to give a five-minute story on the evening's topic (tonight's topic: Confusion). Details and advance tickets available at The Moth's site. Martyrs': 3855 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Version Festival 15
Version Festival 15 runs April 23 to May 3. The theme this year is "100 Watts" in honor of organizer Public Media Institute's newly licensed low-power radio station. Tonight's events include a special edition of Story Club South Side at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., from 7:30 to 10pm. Donations requested. Then from 9pm to 2am, WLPN broadcasts live from Maria's, 960 W. 31st St., featuring DJs Blanketforts and Toyacoyah. No cover, 21+.
Version Festival 15
Version Festival 15 runs April 23 to May 3. The theme this year is "100 Watts" in honor of organizer Public Media Institute's newly licensed low-power radio station. Toight's events include a release party for the latest issue of Lumpen Magazine, titled "Why here? Why now?," from 6 to 8pm at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St. Admission is free. Then from 9pm to 2am, WLPN broadcasts live from Maria's, 960 W. 31st St., featuring DJ Catieo and Paul Nixon. No cover, 21+.
Dance Extravaganza @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening of dance featuring artists and students from the school's dance classes. Expect to see bellydance, go-go, tap, capoeira, and more. The show starts at 3:00pm in the school's newest building at 4545 N. Lincoln Avenue; full details at the school's site, or call (773) 728-6000.
Version Festival 15
Version Festival 15 runs April 23 to May 3. The theme this year is "100 Watts" in honor of organizer Public Media Institute's newly licensed low-power radio station. Today's events include soundscaping and media workshops at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., from 1 to 7pm. Admission is free but registration is required, as space is limited. Then from 9pm to 2am, WLPN broadcasts live from Maria's, 960 W. 31st St., featuring BEAT TRVLR: Reel to Reel and DJ King Hippo. No cover, 21+.
C2E2
The Chicago Comics & Entertainment Expo, aka C2E2, runs April 24-26 at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Martin Luther King Dr. Attend panels and screenings, meet comic book artists, check out special performances, buy memorabilia and meet celebrities such as wrestler CM Punk, Haley Atwell of "Agent Carter," director Kevin Smith, Ming-Na Wen of "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Sylvester McCoy of "Doctor Who" and actor Sean Astin. The show runs from 10am to 5pm today. Tickets for today are $30 in advance, $40 at the door; three-day passes are $60 in advance, $70 at the door.
S+S Project Video & Performance: Currency Exchange
The S+S Project presents Currency Exchange, an evening of video, performance and hustlin'. RSVP for the address at withinthebody@gmail.com. Video works by Jaycee Conaway, Ben McCoy, Sofia Moreno, Project Rage Queen and many more. Performances by Kiam Marcelo Juno, Isabelle Mcguire, La Spacer and many more as well. The evening begins at 7pm.
Explore the Ryerson & Burnham Libraries @ The Art Institute
This morning readers of MAS Context will get a behind-the-scenes tour of the Art Institute's Ryerson & Burnham Libraries. The visit will by guided by Mary Woolever, Art and Architecture archivist, and Nathaniel Parks, assistant archivist. The event starts at 11am and is free with museum admission. Participants must register online before the event.
C2E2
The Chicago Comics & Entertainment Expo, aka C2E2, runs April 24-26 at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Martin Luther King Dr. Attend panels and screenings, meet comic book artists, check out special performances, buy memorabilia and meet celebrities such as wrestler CM Punk, Haley Atwell of "Agent Carter," director Kevin Smith, Ming-Na Wen of "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Sylvester McCoy of "Doctor Who" and actor Sean Astin. The show runs from 10am to 7pm today. Tickets for today are $35 in advance, $45 at the door; three-day passes are $60 in advance, $70 at the door.
Version Festival 15
Version Festival 15 runs April 23 to May 3. The theme this year is "100 Watts" in honor of organizer Public Media Institute's newly licensed low-power radio station. Tonight's events include live broadcasts of two shows at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St. The Not the Basement Show is from 5 to 8pm and the Late Show runs from 9 to 11pm. Admission to each broadcast is $5.
C2E2
The Chicago Comics & Entertainment Expo, aka C2E2, runs April 24-26 at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Martin Luther King Dr. Attend panels and screenings, meet comic book artists, check out special performances, buy memorabilia and meet celebrities such as wrestler CM Punk, Haley Atwell of "Agent Carter," director Kevin Smith, Ming-Na Wen of "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Sylvester McCoy of "Doctor Who" and actor Sean Astin. The show runs from 11am to 7pm today. Tickets for today are $30 in advance, $40 at the door; three-day passes are $60 in advance, $70 at the door.
Liz Larner @ The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is welcoming artist, Liz Larner, for a solo exhibition of her sculptural work today until September 27th. The AIC is located at 111 S. Michigan Ave.; hours are Mon-We, Fri-Sun 10:30-5; Thu 10:30-8.
Flash Gordon @ Logan Theater
FLASH! AHHH-AHHHHH! The Logan Theater presents a late night screening of the 1980 camp classic Flash Gordon, starring a very dubbed Sam Jones and Max von Sydow as Ming the Merciless! The film begins tonight at 10:30pm. Logan Theater: 2646 N. Milwaukee.
Version Festival 15
Version Festival 15 runs April 23 to May 3. The theme this year is "100 Watts" in honor of organizer Public Media Institute's newly licensed low-power radio station. Tonight's kickoff party runs from 6 to 11pm at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St. Your $85 ticket gets you an open bar, food from top-notch restaurants, art installations and live performances by Lord of the Yum Yum, HIDE, Bobby Conn, Oshwa, Sally Timms and V4MEE.
WORK WERQ: Opening Reception @ FLATSstudio
FLATSstudio is presenting WORK WERQ, an exhibition which focuses on Asian American identity. Music by Carla Starla and beverages by KOVAL Distillery will be presented at the show. FLATS is located at 1050 W. Wilson Ave. Please RSVP to rsvp@flatschicago.com and include the number of guests.
Sensing and Sensibility Panel Discussion @ SAIC
This afternoon MAS Context and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago present a panel discussion entitled "Sensing and Sensibility: Politics and Technology in the Contemporary City," featuring Javier Arbona, Ingrid Burrington, Laura Forlano, and Douglas Pancoast. The free event will be moderated by Iker Gil. The event runs from 4:30-6:30pm at the Columbus Auditorium, 280 S. Columbus Dr., Room 203.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: The Breakfast Club
Sound Opinions and The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., present the latest in the Sound Opinions at the Movies series of screenings: a 30th anniversary screening of John Hughes' The Breakfast Club. The film screens this evening at 7:30pm; see the Music Box site for advance tickets.
Nerdette Live!
The Nerdette podcast tapes a live episode this evening at the HQ for Cards Against Humanity (1917 N. Elston). The show runs from 8:00 to 10:00pm. Tickets available at Eventbrite.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts the monthly gathering of Write Club, the literary sporting event that pits local authors and performers against each other for charity! Show starts at 7:00pm; admission is $10 at the door, with proceeds going to the charities chosen by the participants. Full details at the Hideout's site. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Frances Stark: Intimism @ The Art Institute of Chicago
Opening today is "Intimism", the exhibition of Frances Stark's video and digital production pieces. The pieces displayed will feature her lo-fi Cat Videos, which she began in 1999. The exhibition opens today and runs until August 30th in Galleries 182-186. The Art Institute of Chicago is located at 111 S. Michigan Avenue.
Spring Exhibitions @ The Hyde Park Art Center
The Hyde Park Art Center will be presenting new exhibitions for the spring today from 3-5PM. HPAC is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue.
Outpost by Lou Mallozzi @ The Hyde Park Art Center
From 3-4PM today, Lou Mallozzi, Chicago-based sound and installation artist, will be surveilling audience members at the Hyde Park Art Center. The event is free and open to the public.
SSII: Post-Butoh Festival @ Outerspace
This weekend, April 18-19, the Post-Butoh Festival will be held at Outerspace, 1474 N. Milwaukee Ave., with performances on both nights at 6:30pm and workshops on both days from 1 to 4pm. RSVP for the event on the Butoh website. Free!
Chicago Palestine Film Festival
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the 14th annual Palestine Film Festival. Seven films from Palestine are scheduled to be screened during the festival, starting with the 2014 film Eyes of A Thief this evening at 8:00pm. See the Film Center site for a full schedule and advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
HUMP! Film Festival Tour @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Clark St., hosts the HUMP! Film Festival, a series of short & dirty films curated by Dan Savage. The program of 18 shorts screens Friday and Saturday night; showtimes for both nights are 7:30 and 10:30pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box site.
Home Video Day @ Nightingale Cinema
Chicago's first Home Video Day will be held today from 1-5pm at the Nightingale Cinema, 1084 N. Milwaukee Ave. To participate, bring your VHS, VHS-C, Betamax, Hi-8, Video 8 or Mini-DV cassette to have it inspected and repaired (if necessary) before playing up to 5 minutes of the video for the audience. Visit the event's Facebook page for the compete details.
SSII: Post-Butoh Festival @ Outerspace
This weekend, April 18-19, the Post-Butoh Festival will be held at Outerspace, 1474 N. Milwaukee Ave., with performances on both nights at 6:30pm and workshops on both days from 1 to 4pm. RSVP for the event on the Butoh website. Free!
HUMP! Film Festival Tour @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Clark St., hosts the HUMP! Film Festival, a series of short & dirty films curated by Dan Savage. The program of 18 shorts screens Friday and Saturday night; showtimes for both nights are 7:30 and 10:30pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box site.
Back to the Future parts I & II @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre celebrates the 30th anniversary of the original Back to the Future (and the 2015 date in Back to the Future II) by offering a screening of both films. The screenings start this evening; see the Music Box site for a full schedule and advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
What We Do In The Shadows @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run of the 2014 film What We Do In The Shadows, which recently finished up a popular first-run. If you missed this New Zealand comedy featuring Jemaine Clement from Flight of the Conchords, you have a second chance to catch it in the theater. See the Film Center site for full details and advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Chicago Reader's Book Swap @ The Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Music will be hosting an evening of live music and a book swap today from 6-9PM. Participants can take and bring as many as 15 books to the event. The event is located at 4544 N Lincoln Ave.
Michael Kubo Lecture @ SAIC
MAS Context and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago present a lecture at 6pm by architect and author Michael Kubo at the School of the Art Institute's LeRoy Neiman Center, 37 S. Wabash Ave. Details via MAS Context.
Shooting Star Screening and Discussion @ Harold Washington College
William Cordova, a resident at Harold Washington College, will screen, Shooting Star, a documentary about Jean Michel Basquiat today at 10:30 AM. A panel discussion will follow the film. The location is 30 E. Lake Street.
Chicago Nerds Book Club @ Filter Cafe
The Chicago Nerd Social Club holds their monthly sci fi & fantasy book club meeting this evening from 6:30pm to 7:30pm at Filter Cafe (1373-75 N. Milwaukee). This month's book is A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab. Full details at the Chicago Nerds site.
Bill Plympton @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents animation legend Bill Plympton, who will be screening his 2014 film Cheatin' at 3pm this afternoon. The film also screens through the rest of the week; see the Film Center site for full details. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
The Best of: A Student Showcase
Paola Coletto presents an evening of: Storytelling, Melodrama, Tragedy, Bouffon, Grotesque character & Clowning featuring her second year students (from 5 nations) at the School for Theater Creators this coming Saturday at MSA & Circus Arts at 1934 N. Campbell Avenue. The will be a Q&A session with the students and faculty about The School and its new nine month program which will start in September 2015. TO RSVP and reserve tickets email rsvptheschool@paolacoletto.com. Space is limited.
Coming Through @ Defibrillator Gallery
Defibrillator Gallery is presenting, a performance convergence tonight from 7-10PM. Five performance artists will be featured this evening at 1463 W. Chicago Ave. *Please bring an object that reminds you of your mother.
Chatter: Architecture Talks Back Discussion @ The Art Institute
This afternoon the Art Institute's new exhibition "Chatter: Architecture Talks Back," which looks at "the diverse contemporary methods and approaches wielded by five emerging architects," opens with a conversation among contributors Jimenez Lai of Bureau Spectacular, John Szot of John Szot Studio, and Chris Grimley of over,under, among others. Details on the Art Institute website. Free with admission.
How To Do Everything Meetup @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts a meetup for fans of the NPR podcast How To Do Everything. Hosts Mike Danforth and Ian Chillag will be in attendance, and will presumably show you how to do everything. The event runs from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Third Man Rolling Record Store @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts the Chicago stop of Third Man Records' Rolling Record Store. The mobile seller of merch from Jack White's label will have special RRS-only releases, so if you're a fan of the label you definitely want to attend. The Rolling Record Store will only be around from 4:00pm to 7:00pm, so leave work early! Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Deniz Gül: Experimental Music Performance @ The Hyde Park Art Center
Turkish artist, Deniz Gül, is presenting 5 Person Bufet this evening at 6:30 PM. The event is a collaborative experimental music performance which is free and open to the public. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue.
My Brother, My Brother and Me @ Athenaeum
The Athenaeum Theatre hosts an evening with the hosts of the Maximum Fun podcast My Brother, My Brother and Me this evening at 9:00pm. Also appearing on the bill: another Max Fun show, Sawbones. Tickets are available for purchase online. Athenaeum: 2936 N. Southport. Box office: (773) 935-6875.
Monty Python's Life of Brian @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre celebrates Easter Sunday with a midnight screening of Monty Python's Life of Brian. Be an individual and attend the screening! Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Imaginary Landscapes Opening Reception @ Chicago Urban Art Society
Lisa Alvarado, Robert Burnier, Assaf Evron and Caroline Kent are the featured artists in the exhibition, Imaginary Landscapes opening at the Chicago Urban Art Society, Satellite Space. Curated by Allison Glenn, the exhibition raises questions concerning physical space, time and memory. The opening reception begins at 6 PM and is located at 2233 S. Throop St., 4th floor.
Nelson Algren doc @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 2015 documentary NElson Algren: The End Is Nothing, The Road Is All at 3:00pm this afternoon. One of the co-directors of the film, Denis Mueller, will be in attendance for this screening. See the Film Center site for full details and advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Wizard of Oz @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents Easter weekend screenings of The Wizard of Oz. The screenings will feature a costume contest, so put on your ruby slippers for this event! The fun begins at 1:30pm on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Full details at the Music Box site. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Soloists from Fonema Series II: Kathryn Schulmeister
Kathryn Schulmeister will be playing the double bass tonight at High Concept Labs at 2233 S. Throop St., on the 4th floor of Mana Contemporary. This is the second component of Fonema Consort's HCL residency program. The event begins at 8pm and is free and open to the public.
Asian American Showcase
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the 20th annual Asian American Showcase, starting this evening and running through April 16. The opening night film, David Boyle's Man From Reno, screens this evening at 8:00pm. See the Film Center site for a full schedule and advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
DarkMatter: #ItGetsBitter @ Arts Incubator
DarkMatter, a trans south asian performance art duo, will be inviting the public for an evening of poetry, discussion, and healing, over the topic of new queer futures. The show will be followed by a Q&A at the Arts Incubator location at 301 E Garfield Blvd. Doors open at 5PM. Free and open to the public.
WildClaw Theatre benefit @ Four Moon Tavern
WildClaw Theatre holds their spring Metamorphosis benefit this evening at Four Moon Tavern (1847 W Roscoe). Come celebrate the 100th anniversary of Kafka's Metamorphosis and support the local theater group's efforts. RSVP at the event's Facebook page.
Beat Swap Meet Chicago @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts Beat Swap Meet, a marketplace featuring local record collectors & dealers selling their vinyl wares. Shopping starts at noon, and admission is $5 or free with a canned good. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Kren Cytter @ The Museum of Contemporary Art
The MCA is featuring video-based artist Keren Cytter, in a solo exhibition that opens today and closes Oct. 4. The MCA is located at 220 E. Chicago Ave. Additionally, Cytter will be giving a talk today at 3pm. Admission is $12 for adults, $7 for students and seniors, free to members and children 12 and under.
A Screendance Event @ Mana Contemporary
Monica Thomas, Jason Chiu, Jason Eleweski and Lizzie Leopold/Brian Mazzaferri will be presenting choreographic and filmic works tonight, along with composer Will Huff and music by Doug Kaplan and Maxwell Allison. Refreshments will be provided; pre-purchased tickets are $10, $15 at door. Mana Contemporary is located at 2233 S. Throop St.
Led Kaapana & Mike Kaawa @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening concert with Hawaiian music masters Led Kaapana & Mike Kaawa. The concert happens tonight at 8:00pm at the school's building at 4544 N. Lincoln. Full details on the school's site, or call (773) 728-6000.
Theater Oobleck's Song about Himself
Theater Oobleck presents the premiere of their latest play Song about Himself, premiering this evening at 7:30pm and running through April 26 at the Storefront Theater (66 E. Randolph). Full details and advance tickets available at the Oobleck Website.
Dance Anywhere Event
Dance Anywhere is a party where everyone is invited. Today at 2pm marks the worldwide public art performance where everyone is a performer. Wherever you are at 2pm today, whether it's your work place, school, a street corner or museum, you are encouraged to dance. The event marks the 10th year anniversary of Dance Anywhere.
Danny Collins @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a series of screenings in partnership with the New York Film Critics Series. Tonight's screening is the new Al Pacino film Danny Collins. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box site. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
PUNDAMONIUM: The Chicago Pun Slam @ Double Door
Pun fans take note: The Double Door hosts PUNDAMONIUM, the Chicago pun slam, where audience volunteers are pitted against each other in various rounds of punning. Show starts at 7:00pm, and admission is $8 at the door. Double Door: 1551 N. Damen.
Sones de Mexico and the Irish Music School of Chicago @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music welcomes Sones de Mexico and The Irish Music School of Chicago as they celebrate the little-known part that Ireland had in the history of Mexico. The concert starts at 7:00pm in the school's newest building, at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Full details and advance tickets available at the school's site, or call the school at (773) 728-6000.
My Kind of Town Opening Reception @ FLATSstudio
FLATSstudio is celebrating Chicago's 178th birthday with the event and exhibition, My Kind of Town. The work in the show will exemplify the architecture, history and culture which thrives in Chicago. The opening is from 6-10PM at 1050 W Wilson Avenue. Beverages will be provides by KOVAL Distillery and music by The Luke Saladin Jazz Trio. The event is free but please RSVP to rsvp@flatschicago.com.
William Schweigert "Our Debt, Your Debt" Opening Reception@ FLATspace
"Our Debt, Your Debt" is the solo exhibition at FLATspace featuring the works of William Schweigert, a painter located in Chicago. The opening reception is from 6-10PM and is located at Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St, 4th floor. The event is free but please RSVP.
THAW 2015 @ Block 37
Tonight #THAW2015 will be partying in downtown Chicago--right in the middle of everything on Block 37. There will be food and drinks and special spirits from Rhine Hall beginning at 6:30 and lasting until 11:30. General admission is $35. The exact location is 108 N. State St.
James Welling @ Art Institute of Chicago
James Welling will be speaking at the Art Institute of Chicago tonight from 6-7pm in Fullerton Hall. The event is offered on the occasion of the launch of the new University of Chicago Press monograph, James Welling: Diary/Landscape and the Art Institute of Chicago's exhibition of the same name. Free with museum admission. More information about the event is available from the Art Institute.
Vara Caivano Gallery Walk Through @ The Renaissance Society
Join the Renaissance Society in this evenings gallery walk-through of Vara Caivano's The Density of the Actions exhibition. The walk begins at 6PM at 5811 S. Ellis Ave. Free and open to the public.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts the monthly meeting of Write Club, the literary sporting event that pits local authors & performers against each other in a series of spoken word bouts. The show starts at 7:00pm; admission is $10 at the door, with the proceeds going to the charities selected by the winners of each bout. Full details at the Hideout site. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Irish Stories and Songs @ SPACE in Evanston
Megon McDonough and Susan O'Halloran will celebrate St. Patrick's Day with "Pot of Gold: Irish Stories and Songs from Two of Chicago's Own" tonight at SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston. Doors at 6pm. Singer-songwriter McDonough and story artist O'Halloran will weave together stories and songs about the pleasures and pitfalls of being raised Irish-American. The concert will include classics such as "Danny Boy" as well as original tunes. Tickets are $17-32 and can be purchased online or by calling Ticketweb at 866-468-3401. For more info, call SPACE at 847-492-8860.
Matthew Metzger Opening Reception @ Regards Gallery
Regards is featuring the artist Matthew Metzger this afternoon in his opening reception from 4-7PM. The exhibition will be up until April 25th and is located at 2216 West Chicago Avenue.
SXSW Send Off Party @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts an all-day showcase featuring 11 bands that are heading off to SXSW 2015. Among the acts performing: Tom Schraeder; The Lemons; Running; Psalm One; and Jon Langford (!). The show runs from 1:30pm to midnight, and admission is $10 at the door. Full details at the Hideout site. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
SAIC Undergraduate Exhibition @ The Sullivan Galleries
The SAIC spring undergraduate exhibition is having its opening reception today from 12-6PM at the Sullivan Galleries. More than 300 students will be completing their degrees this spring and this exhibition will illustrate their impressive and innovative work. The Sullivan Galleries are located on 33 S. State St.,7th floor. The opening reception is free and the show will be on view until April 1st.
Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts the monthly Handmade Market today starting at noon. Jewelry, clothing, bags, paper goods, and much more. Admission is free, so come on down! Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Who Framed Roger Rabbit? @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a midnight screening of the epic 1988 animation/live action combo Who Framed Roger Rabbit? Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Mariana Sissia @ THE MISSION
THE MISSION, 1431 W. Chicago Ave., opens an exhibition of the landscape drawings of Argentine artist Mariana Sissia tonight from 6 to 8pm. The show will be on view until April 25.
18th International Opening Reception @ Woman Made Gallery
Tonight from 6-8PM, Woman Made Gallery will be presenting their 18th International Open which will feature the works of 37 female artists. The gallery is located at 685 N Milwaukee Ave. Free and open to the public.
Faces of Eurydice @ The Flat Iron Arts Building
The Pentagon Theater in The Flat Iron Arts Building presents Faces of Eurydice, a performance piece by the CUBE Ensemble. Dance, opera and theater will be retelling the myth of Orpheus with choreographic work by Hope Goldman and music by Hope Littwin. Faces of Eurydice will premiere from March 12 at 7:30PM until March 21 at 9:30PM. Resale Tickets are $25 admission; $10 industry/student; Regular Tickets are $35 admission; $15 industry/student. The Flat Iron Arts Building is located at 1575 N Milwaukee Ave.
Encounters: Experimental Film and Animation @ Conversations at the Edge
Zagreb, Croatia has been an important location for animation, experimental film, and the avant-garde. SAIC's Conversations at the Edge will be presenting the work of filmmaker Alexander Stewart who produced works in Croatia from the 1960s through today. The event will take place tonight at 6pm at the Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., and is free and open to the public.
Sex Worker Art Show
SWOP Chicago presents the Sex Worker Art Show tonight from 7 to 11pm at the Church of Templehead, 1900 S. Allport St., in honor of International Sex Workers Rights Day. The exhibition will feature portraits of sex workers in a variety of media, created by current and former sex workers. Light refreshments will be served. Free, but donations welcome. 21+
Saving Mes Aynak @ Block Museum of Art
Tonight at 7pm, The Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art will be hosting an event for the screening of the documentary Saving Mes Anynak. The film focuses on an Afghan archaeologist who is trying to save a 5,000 year old archaeological site from a Chinese mining company. General admission is free and the director, Brent Huffman, will be in attendance. The museum is located at 40 Arts Circle Dr., Evanston.
European Union Film Festival
The Gene Siskel Film Center hosts the 18th annual European Union Film Festival, running through April 2 and featuring over 60 films from the EU. Tonight's premiere film is The Golden Horse from Latvia. See the Film Center's site for a complete schedule and advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Art Shay, Tony Fitzpatrick & Dmitry Samarov @ Hideout
Art Shay, Tony Fitzpatrick and Dmitry Samarov talk about Chicago's influence on their art tonight at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., with Chicagoist editor Chuck Sudo moderating. Doors open at 7:30, show's at 8:30pm. Free, 21+
Chicago Irish Film Festival Opening Night
The Chicago Irish Film Festival kicks off its 16th annual festival this evening with a screening of the 2014 film Poison Pen, with the filmmakers in attendance. Tonight's screening will be at The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Tickets are $10. The festival runs through March 7; see the festival site for a full schedule and screening locations.
FIVE Opening Reception @ LVL3
Tonight from 6 to 10pm, LVL3 hosts the group show [Five] in celebration of five years as an artist run space. Ben Sanders, Evan Robarts, Josh Reames, Sabina Ott and Lauren Clay will all be featured in the exhibition. LVL3 is located at 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave, 3rd Floor. Free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served for donations.
2015 Hashbrown Chili Cook Off @ Spudnik Press Cooperative
The annual Hashbrown Chili Cook-Off is happening today at 6pm at Spudnik Press Cooperative, 1821 W. Hubbard St., Suite 302. Enjoy an evening filled with food, games and celebration. General Admission $10; VIP Package $22; Royalty Package $65.
A Portrait Gallery @ Living Room
Arts mentorship organization Ag47 presents A Portrait Gallery!, its annual fundraiser, today from 4 to 7pm at the Living Room, 2423 W. North Ave. For a $5-$10 donation, you'll get a one-of-a-kind work of art in the form of a picture, song or choose-your-own-adventure story.
Soloists from Fonema Series I: Ryan Packard @ High Concept Labs
Soloists from Fonema Consort are curating three programs for part of their residency at High Concept Laboratories. Tonight at 8pm, Ryan Packard, a percussionist, will be performing at Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St., 4th floor. Details on Facebook. Free and open to the public.
Inherent Vice @ Film Center
If you missed Paul Thomas Anderson's Inherent Vice during its recent theatrical run, you have a second chance to catch the film as it begins a weeklong run at The Gene Siskel Film Center tonight at 8:00pm. See the Film Center's website for showtimes. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
An Evening with Ernie Gehr @ Logan Center for the Arts
The avant-garde filmmaker Ernie Gehr will be in person during the screening of several of his films at the Logan Center for the Arts, 915 E. 60th St., tonight at 7pm. Presented by the Film Studies Center at University of Chicago. Free.
Kim Gordon @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and The Chicago Humanities Festival present an interview with musician and artist Kim Gordon, who will be discussing her book Girl In A Band with WBEZ's Alison Cuddy tonight at 7:00pm. For full details and advance tickets please see the Chicago Humanities site.
Heather Gabel Artist Lecture @ Columbia College
Heather Gabel, visual artist and the badass front woman of HIDE, will be having an artist lecture tonight at Columbia College's Hokin Hall. Gabel's artistic practice includes collage, neon, and the themes of death and rituals. The talk is located at 623 S Wabash, Room 109, and begins tonight at 6pm. Free and open to the public.
MoCP 2015 Benefit Auction
Tonight at 5:30pm, the Museum of Contemporary Photography, holds its annual benefit auction at 195 E. Delaware Ave. All proceeds go to MoCP exhibitions, events and public programs. Tickets are $150; register online.
An Evening with John Mahoney @ Lake Theatre
The Historical Society of Oak Park and River Forest presents From Harlem Avenue to Hollywood Boulevard: An Evening with John Mahoney tonight at 7:30pm at the Lake Theatre, 1022 W. Lake St. in Oak Park. Film critic Doug Deuchler interviews Mahoney and moderates an audience Q&A. Tickets are $25.
Varda Caivano "The Density of Actions" Opening Reception @ The Renaissance Society
Tonight is the opening reception of The Density of the Actions, a collection of paintings created by Varda Caivano, at the Renaissance Society. Located at 5811 S. Ellis Avenue, the opening will begin a 4PM and will follow with a discussion led by Solveig Øvstebø in the Film Studies Center directly below the gallery.
Empty Bottle Farmers Market
The Empty Bottle hosts a winter farmers market this afternoon from noon to 5:00pm. Full details at the Empty Bottle site. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 726-3600.
Doris Salcedo Exhibition @ The Museum of Contemporary Art
Doris Salcedo, a Colombian artist, will be having her first retrospective at the Museum of Contemporary Art,until May 24th. The artist, whose work spans 30 years, will feature her installations and sculptural works. The MCA is located at 220 E. Chicago Avenue. 12$ general admission, Illinois residents have free admission on Tuesdays.
Underground Unseen Opening Reception Exhibition @ FLATSstudio
Tonight at 6PM, FLATSstudio located at 1050 West Wilson Avenue, will be presenting their first exhibition of 2015 with Underground and Unseen. The launch of VAM, a Chicago based magazine, is celebrating the night in conjunction with FLATS. Beverages will be provided by KOVAL Distillery and Lakeshore Beverage. Artists include: Krista O'Meara, Todd Diederich, Alison Van Pelt, Misha Khokhlov, Ali6, AntiBodyCorp, and Owen Bones. Don't forget to RSVP by Thursday, February 19th to rsvp@flatschicago.com; free and open to the public.
Greil Marcus, Jon Langford & Sally Timms @ Old Town School of Folk Music
Rock historian Greil Marcus will be doing a reading from his recent book The History of Rock'n'Roll in 10 Songs tonight at 8:00pm at The Old Town School of Folk Music. Local music heroes Jon Langford & Sally Timms will also be present to provide musical backup. The show takes place in the school's new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Full details and advance tickets at the school's site, or call the school at (773) 728-6000.
Faces of Eurydice Fundraiser @ The Cliff Dwellers Club
The CUBE Ensemble premieres, Faces of Eurydice, a dance-opera which will theatrically re-tell the story of Orpheus, on March 12. Tonight at 7pm CUBE Ensemble hosts a final fundraiser at Cliff Dwellers Club, 200 S. Michigan Ave., 22nd floor. Free entry; cash bar, dessert, an auction, preview of the piece and a live band with dancing will be apart of the fundraising evening.
THE SUB-MISSION: Artist Talk with Manuel Rodríguez-Delgado
The Mission presents the latest in its SUB-MISSION artist talk series today at 6pm, featuring Manuel Rodríguez-Delgado. Manuel Rodríguez-Delgado's site-specific exhibition, Selvanáutica is currently being displayed at The Mission, 1431 W. Chicago Ave. The talk is free and open to the public.
Cheryl Pope Opening Reception @ Harold Washington College
Cheryl Pope, a Chicago participant as a resident artist for the Pedestrian Project, celebrates the opening of her show Just Yell: Unfolding the Folds, today from noon to 2pm in the President's Gallery at Harold Washington College, 30 E. Lake St. Pope will be collaborating with students from the college's Department of Art and Architecture and bring forth conversations about social and relevant issues in today's society. Free.
Sound Opinions At The Movies: Sid and Nancy
Sound Opinions and The Music Box Theatre present the latest film in the Sound Opinions At The Movies series: the 1986 Alex Cox film Sid and Nancy. The screening starts tonight at 7:30pm; advance tickets available at Eventbrite. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts the monthly gathering of Write Club, the only sporting event fought with words, not fists or swords or sword-fists. Two local writers go head-to-head, each taking up a contrary position of an important topic (PAPER vs. PLASTIC, ANALOG vs. DIGITAL, FIGHT vs. FLIGHT, etc.) and one is crowned winner by a jury of peers/audience members. Write Club starts at 7:00pm, and admission is $10 at the door. Proceeds go to the charities picked by the participants. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Artists' Talk: Brian Holmes, Claire Pentecost & Dan Peterman @ Logan Center
This evening at 6pm, The Logan Center, 915 E. 60th St., will be hosting an artists' talk with Brian Holmes, Claire Pentecost and Dan Peterman. The event will involve a discussion about the current exhibition at the Logan Center, Lands End, and the notion of landscape in an artistic practice.
Films by Lyra Hill & Daviel Shy @ Roots & Culture
Lyra Hill and Daviel Shy, Chicago filmmakers and visual artists, will be sharing and discussing their research, experiments and reactions this evening at Roots & Culture, 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave., beginning at 7pm. The night will focus on the work that both filmmakers have created in the past seven years. Free.
The Naked at the Art Museum Scavenger Hunt @ Art Institute
Need a special Valentines date for your day? Why not go on a naked scavenger hunt in the Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave.? Watson Adventures will be taking you and your hunny through the museum for a peek at all of the nudes around the museum. Tickets are $41. Tour starts at 1pm. Adults only.
Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle
Handmade Market is back at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., today from noon to 4pm. A full list of crafters selling items at this event can be found at the Handmade site. Free admission; 21+ except for kids with their parents.
The Naked at the Art Museum Scavenger Hunt @ Art Institute
Need a special Valentines date for your day? Why not go on a naked scavenger hunt in the Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave.? Watson Adventures will be taking you and your hunny through the museum for a peek at all of the nudes around the museum. There are two tours today, at 11am and 2pm. Tickets are $41. Adults only.
Typeforce Six @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
The sixth annual Typeforce exhibition of typographic art and design opens tonight at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., with a reception from 6 to 11pm. See works by more than 20 artists and designers. Free.
Interactions with Light Opening Reception @ Chicago Art Department
Tonight is the opening reception for Interactions with Light, which will transform the Chicago Art Department gallery space in an interactive piece by Connie Wolfe and Galina Shevchenko. The opening reception begins at 6pm tonight, and the closing reception is Feb. 28 at 6pm. CAD is located at 1932 S. Halsted St, #100.
Try Youth as Youth @ David Weinberg Photography
David Weinberg's new exhibition, Try Youth as Youth, examines the juvenile justice system in America through the medium of photography, sculpture and video installation. Four artists will have their work featured in the gallery, located at 300 W. Superior St., Suite 203, from Feb. 13 to May 9. The opening reception is tonight from 5 to 8pm; free.
Simultaneous: Seripop + Sonnenzimmer @ Center for Book and Paper Arts
Chicago-based artists, Sonnenzimmer and the Montreal-based artists, Seripop, are both exhibiting their work today from 5-8PM at the Center for Book and Paper Arts at Columbia College Chicago. The reception is located at 104 S. Wabash Ave., 2nd floor. The event is free and open to the public.
Mummy Panel Discussion @ Art Institute
The Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave., presents a The Mummy Is a Daddy: How Technology Is Revealing Secrets of the Mummies, a panel discussion this evening at 6pm. In Fullerton Hall, several visiting curators and professors will introduce results of two CT scans performed on Art Institute mummies. Free with museum admission.
Table Talks: Chi-chi Nwanoku @ The Currency Exchange Cafe
The Currency Exchange Cafe in Washington park is hosting Table Talks, which are intimate lunches with visiting artists, and will be inviting Chi--chi Nwanoku today from 1-3PM. The event is free but RSVP is required. Email artsandpubliclife@uchicago.edu with "Table Talk: Chi-chi Nwanoku in the subject line, and include name and email address for anyone you are having as a plus one.
Videos by Hannah Piper Burns @ The Nightingale
Indie movie theater The Nightingale,1084 N. Milwaukee Ave., hosts THROUGH THE PRISM, a night of films by the artist Hannah Piper Burns, tonight beginning at 7pm. Burns' work has been described as, "fun, funny, feminist, physical, 'found footage.'" $7-10 donation requested at the door.
Footwork Workshop @ High Concept Labs
Today, from 1-4PM, Mana Contemporary is hosting an opening house at 2233 S. Throop St. During the open house, High Concept Labs will adjunctly invite visitors to learn from THE ERA, a footwork dance crew. The event is free and located on the 4th floor.
Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists @ the Chicago Cultural Center
Pentimenti Productions and the City of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events present a free screening of the film Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists, followed by a special panel discussion with Chris Ware, Karl Wirsum, Dan Nadel, and Robert Cozzolino on comics and humor in art. The screening will start at 3pm, with the panel discussion beginning at 5pm, in the Claudia Cassidy Theater at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., 2nd Floor North. Visit the Pentimenti website for more information.
HIJINKSfest 12-Hour Sketch Comedy Festival @ iO Theater
So, you say you like comedy? Well, put your money where your mouth is and strap in for HIJINKSfest, twelve solid hours of comedy with the experimental sketch group HIJINKS as they celebrate their move to iO Theater. The group will be performing twelve different one-hour shows ranging from a live podcast recording to sci-fi to a boxing match and beyond. The fest runs from noon until midnight, and attendees can come and go at their leisure. Tickets for all twelve hours can be purchased ahead of time for $15, or $20 day-of, with a limited number of VIP tickets going for $25. iO Theater is located at 1501 N Kingsbury St.
2nd Floor Rear 24 Hour Art Festival
2nd Floor Rear is a 24-hour arts festival featuring apartment galleries, migrant projects, experimental spaces, and Chicago's DIY art community. The festival will take place at various locations near the Blue Line. The contributors make the festival free so check out 2nd Floor Rear's Indiegogo for support.
The Height Below Opening Reception @ Heaven Gallery
Heaven Gallery is featuring a two-person exhibition entitled The Height Below, with Chicago-based artists Elizabeth McCarthy and Soo Shin. Heaven Gallery is located in Wicker Park at 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave. on the 2nd floor. The opening reception begins at 7pm and will include lots of bread!
Short Films by Shirley Clarke @ Film Studies Center
In celebration of dancing and life, Shirley Clarke (1919-1997), created short films that focused on these jovial themes. The program begins at 7pm at the Logan Center for the Arts, 915 E. 60th St and will feature the films Dance in the Sun, In Paris Parks, Bullfight, A Moment in Love, Bridges Go Round, Skyscraper, and A Scary Time. The screening is free and open to the public.
Mossy Cloak Opening Reception @ Roots & Culture
Curated by the collective Third Object, Roots & Culture is opening Mossy Cloak tonight at 6pm. The group exhibition will feature photography, painting, sound and sculptural work of six artists. Roots & Culture is located at 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave., and is free and open to the public.
"And sometimes gravity" Opening Reception @ Adds Donna
Join Adds Donna today from 1-4PM for the opening reception of the group exhibition featuring Chris Duncan, Assaf Evron, Alina Tenser, and Radius. Adds Donna is located at 4223 W. Lake St. The exhibition will on view until March 8th.
Bric-A-Brunch Day Party @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., and Bric-A-Brac Records & Collectibles team up to present Bric-A-Brunch, a chance for people to browse the the amassed collection of collectibles and curiosities from Bric-A-Brac's shelves, while enjoying brunch food from Bite Cafe next door. The party starts at noon, and admission is free! Details at the Empty Bottle site.
Quimby's 2015 Zlumber Party
Quimby's is throwing a slumber party for zine makers. The Zine Slumber Party, or Zlumber Party, starts tonight at 10pm when the store is closed to customers. Attendees are then free to work on their zines overnight, and hopefully have a finished publication by the time you leave in the morning. Quimby's is located at 1854 W. North Ave.; for more details on the event, give them a call at (773) 342-0910, or email info at quimbys dot com.
Onion City Film Festival @ Columbia College
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Onion City Experimental Film and Video Festival. Columbia College will host a plethora of films Jan 29-31 at Ferguson Auditorium, 600 S. Michigan Ave., beginning at 8:30pm. See the festival website for full schedule. Tickets are $8.
Mary Dorrell and Thomas King Exhibition @ Arts on Elston
The Art House is sponsoring a two person exhibition for Mary Dorrell and Thomas King today at Arts on Elston. The opening reception begins today from 3-6PM for the two artists whose work is made up of photography and painting. The event is located on 3446 N Albany Ave. RSVP to Exposed@TheArtHouse.us
Build Presence: Public Interactive Art Project @ Chicago Cultural Center
The growing movement in support for racial justice and an end to police brutality is the core of "Build Presence". The interactive art project will encompass this social movement and create a space for the public to meditate, cultivate, and embody knowledge. The event will be held at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington, today from noon-5:30 and Sunday February 1st, noon-4:00. Alexandria Eregbu will be opening up her studio on the first floor for this public installation.
Goodbye to Language 3D @ Siskel Film Center
Jean-Luc Godard's film Goodbye to Language 3D will be premiering at the Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., as part of a special series entitled, Godard: First Wave. The series includes 17 features and three shorts from the legendary filmmaker. Tonight after the 8pm showing, rare 15-minute shorts will be shown in 3D. General admission is $15, $10 for members and students.
The Art of Connection Exhibition @ The Sullivan Galleries
Tonight from 7 to 9pm, the Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State St., 7th floor, presents The Art of Connection, an exhibition featuring the work of art therapy students at SAIC. The opening reception is free, and the exhibition will be on view until Feb. 14.
Onion City Film Festival @ Columbia College
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Onion City Experimental Film and Video Festival. Columbia College will host a plethora of films Jan 29-31 at Ferguson Auditorium, 600 S. Michigan Ave., beginning at 6:30pm. See the festival website for full schedule. Tickets are $8.
The world is mystical, dangerous and delicious @ Western Exhibitions
Western Exhibitions, 845 W. Washington St., 2nd floor, holds an opening reception from 5 to 8pm this evening for their newest exhibition, The world is mystical, dangerous and delicious. The group exhibition features artists Elijah Burgher, Pamela Fraser, Dana Carter and Leah Mackin. The event is free and open to the public.
Onion City Film Festival @ Columbia College
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Onion City Experimental Film and Video Festival. Columbia College will host a plethora of films Jan 29-31 in Ferguson Auditorium, 600 S. Michigan Ave., beginning at 7:30pm. See the festival website for full schedule. Tickets are $8.
Gallery Talk & Opening Reception @ MoCP
The Museum of Contemporary Photography, 600 S. Michigan Ave., hosts a gallery talk and opening reception this afternoon for "What Remains and You and Me," an exhibition of work by artists Barbara Diener, Pao Houa Her, and Katja Stuke & Oliver Sieber. The gallery talk begins at 4pm and the reception at 5pm. Free.
Onion City Film Festival Opening Night @ Siskel Center
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Onion City Experimental Film and Video Festival. Tonight at 7:45pm, the Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., hosts the opening night program of short films; the rest of the festival will take place at Columbia College's Ferguson Auditorium, 600 S. Michigan Ave., Jan 29-31. Tickets for tonight's program are $11, $6 for students and members.
Alyssa Greenberg & Curtis Miller @ Mutual Interpretation
Alyssa Greenberg and Curtis Miller will be presenting and sharing their research at Mutual Interpretation this evening from 6:30-8PM. Greenberg will analyze art museum education from the 70s, which includes the Met and their Arts Awareness program, which was intended for youth, people of color, and others absent in traditional art settings. Moreover, Miller will discuss his research with working with items and images in rural and Midwestern settings. Pizza and refreshments will be served; free. The talk will be held at 935 W Harrison, Henry Hall Rm 106.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., hosts the monthly Moth StorySLAM this evening at 8pm. A group of randomly selected audience volunteers will have a chance to tell a 5-minute story on the evening's theme, "Cold." The winner of tonight's StorySLAM advances to the Grandslam Championships. More details at The Moth. Admission is $8 at the door; plan on arriving early, as this is a very popular event.
Third Coast Podcast Therapy @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., and The Third Coast International Audio Festival present Podcast Therapy, an evening where podcast fans can come to learn about new podcasts, get recommendations, and in general get their podcast problems solved by Third Coast's trained Podcast Therapists™. Doors open at 5pm, and the show starts at 6pm. Tickets are $10. Full details and advance tickets at the Hideout's site.
Transforming Accessory Group Exhibition @ LVL3
Ben Barretto, Clare Grill, and Spencer Stucky are three artists participating in the group exhibition Transforming Accessory at LVL3 located at 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave. The opening reception is tonight starting 6PM and continues until 10PM. Free.
Peanut Colada @ Roman Susan Annex
The Peanut Gallery is joining with Roman Susan Gallery in a site-specific, one-night-only exhibition featuring performances, sculptures, paintings, drawings and a plethora of other works by Ryan Burns, Brandon Howe, Charlie Megna, Jessi Meliza and Kelly Reaves. The Roman Susan Annex is located at 1637 W. Howard St. The evening kicks off at 4pm and lasts until 8pm.
Out of Site Mini Series @ The Chicago Cultural Center
Out of Site Chicago is a curatorial project that focuses on art in public spaces, public performance art and the publics perception. Today at noon in the Garland Room at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., there will be a continuation of the mini-series, "On Occasion," which welcomes guest speaker Robin Deacon, artist, writer and filmmaker. Free.
Late-Night Party @ Art Institute
The Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave., is hosting Late-Night Party: After Dark, an event in celebration of "Temptation: The Demons of James Ensor," from 9pm to midnight tonight The party will include live music, after-hour tours of the exhibition, and refreshments. Tickets can be purchased online, at the museum, or by phone at 877-307-4AIC. Evening associates $15, Members $20, Nonmembers $30.
Richard Williamson's Good Times Waiting Room @ The Honey Hole
The Honey Hole, a temporary art gallery located at 1656 S. Throop St., will be hosting an opening night with works by Zachary Cahill, Great Northern Labs, David Lloyd and DJ Phoenix. The event takes place this evening from 7-10PM. DJ Phoenix begins at 9PM; Free.
Jesse Malmed Film Screening @ The Film Studies Center
Experimental filmmaker, video artist, performer and curator Jesse Malmed will be screening several pieces at University of Chicago's Logan Center for the Arts, 915 E. 60th St., room 201, as part of the show Untitled (Just Kidding). Malmed will be in attendance to discuss his work during the screening, which begins at 6:30pm. Free.
Mathias Poledna Artist Talk @ The Renaissance Society
LA-based, Austrian-born artist Mathias Poledna gives talk this evening at the Renaissance Society pertaining to his current exhibition and film display. The event is free and will take place at the Film Studies Center, 5811 S. Ellis Ave, in Cobb Hall on the third floor.
B-Fest 2015
Northwestern's A&O Productions presents B-Fest 2015, the annual 24-hour B-movie film festival happening on the Northwestern campus in Evanston. From 6:00pm tonight until 6:00pm Saturday, a couple hundred film fans will hole up in the McCormick Auditorium to test their endurance of the cheesiest films mankind has to offer. Expect action flicks, blaxploitation, monster movies, and Plan 9 from Outer Space screening at midnight. Please see the B-Fest Website for full details and a link to purchase tickets.
John Gossage Conversation @ Art Institute
John Gossage, whose work is currently being exhibited in the Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave., will be visiting Chicago for a conversation with Matthew S. Witkovsky and Richard and Ellen Sandor to discuss the retrospective tonight in Fullerton Hall at 6pm. Free with museum ticket.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the monthly meeting of minds known as Write Club. A group of Chicago writers and performers go head-to-head, each taking up a contrary position for the amusement of the audience. A group of judges determine the winner in each bout, with the winner getting a donation to his or her selected charity. The show starts at 7:00pm, and tickets are $10 at the door. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Mary Louise Reynolds: Book Bindings @ The Art Institute of Chicago
Today the Art Institute will open the Ryerson and Burnham Libraries where the book bindings of Mary Louise Reynolds, an American influence to the Parisian Surrealist movement, will be on exhibition until March 23rd.
Document Discussion @ Woman Made Gallery
Today at 1pm, Woman Made Gallery, 685 N. Milwaukee Ave., presents Chicago-based curator Jessica Cochran and juror of the recent exhibition, Document, in a discussion about the featured artists in the show. Details on Facebook Free.
Libby Chaney @ The Rockefeller Chapel
Artist Libby Chaney presents her large-scale fiber pieces at the Rockefeller Chapel, 5850 S. Woodlawn Ave. The exhibition, Seasons, will have an opening reception today at 12:15pm and Jan. 22 at 4pm. Refreshments will be served; free.
The Peasant and the Priest @ The Film Studies Center
The Film Studies Center at the University of Chicago, 5811 S. Ellis Ave., Cobb Hall 306, is kicking off their new series for the quarter with a free screening of The Peasant and the Priest (2010, 47min, DVD), with director Esther Podemski present for a Q&A session after the film. The screening begins at 7pm, but arrive early as seating is first come-first serve.
Stephanie Serpick and Christopher Ottinger @ Bert Green Fine Art
This evening at Bert Green Fine Art, the works of Stephanie Serpick and Christopher Ottinger will be featured in an opening reception event. In addition to the opening reception, at the closing reception on February 28th at 4pm, Ottinger will be having an Artist's Talk. Bert Green Fine Art is located at 8 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 620.
House of Wax in 3D @ Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., kicks off a month-long showcase of classic 3D films this afternoon with a 4:45pm screening of the 1953 Vincent Price classic House of Wax. The 3D film series runs through February 5; see the Film Center website for a full schedule of films and advance tickets. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Ensor in Context Lecture @ The Art Institute of Chicago
Today at 2pm in Fullerton Hall, the AIC will be hosting a lecture about James Ensor's art and Les XX, an avant-garde group whom he was in affiliation with during his lifetime. This lecture is open to the public. The AIC is located at 111 S. Michigan Avenue.
Curator Talk: Matt Morris @ Western Exhibitions
Western Exhibitions is hosting a guided tour of the recent exhibition "Effeminaries" with curator Matt Morris today at 12:30PM. The tour is free and open to the public. Western Exhibitions is located at 845 W. Washington.
Alberto Aguilar: Celebratory System Exhibition at Kitchen Space
Kitchen Space, an alternative art gallery located in a kitchen, will be featuring the work of Alberto Aguilar, who will present several celebratory dinners during his solo exhibition in the gallery. Kitchen Space is located on 2716 N. Monticello Ave., 1F. Free and open to the public.
Exodus Exhibition @ Arts Incubator
Arts Incubator, located at 301 E. Garfield Blvd. in Washington Park, holds an opening reception for the exhibition Exodus, featuring works by Alexandria Eregbu and Alfredo Salazar-Caro, this evening at 6pm.
Harun Farocki & Trevor Paglen: Visibility Machines @ Gallery 400
UIC's Gallery 400, 400 S. Peoria St., features photography, film, and new media by the late artist Harun Farocki and Trevor Paglen, in the two person exhibition Visibility Machines. The opening reception is from 4 to 6pm today. Free.
Oscar Nominations Discussion @ Siskel Film Center
Today from 4:30 to 5:30pm at the Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., Illinois Film Office Deputy Director Betsy Steinberg moderates a panel discussion about this year's Academy Award nominees with Chicago film critics J.R. Jones (Reader), Michael Phillips (Tribune), Steve Prokopy (Gapers Block and Ain't It Cool News), Tasha Robinson (The Dissolve) and Ignatiy Vishnevetsky (MUBI and The A.V. Club). The panel will be followed by a reception featuring wine by City Winery. Admission is free.
Compass Cabaret 55 @ Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents a screening of Compass Cabaret 55, a documentary about the famous Compass Players (forerunners of Second City). The director will be in attendance for the screening at 8pm. Advance tickets are $11 ($6 for members) and are available at the Film Center website or by calling the box office at 312-846-2085.
Andreas Siqueland Talk @ The Logan Art Center
Oslo-based artist Andreas Siqueland will be giving an artist talk today at 6pm at The Logan Art Center, 915 E. 60th St., in room 802. Free.
Larry Cutler Solo Exhibition: Faces on Fire @ The Art House
Today from 2 to 6pm, The Art House, 3453 N. Albany Ave., hosts an opening reception for Larry Cutler's new solo exhibition with champagne, a silent auction, and hors d'oeuvres. Additionally, at 3pm there will be an artist talk in the gallery space. RSVP at facesonfire@thearthouse.us.
Compass Cabaret 55 @ Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents a screening of Compass Cabaret 55, a documentary about the famous Compass Players (forerunners of Second City). The director will be in attendance for the screening at 8pm. Advance tickets are $11 ($6 for members) and are available at the Film Center website or by calling the box office at 312-846-2085.
Alex Bradley Cohen & Marissa Neuman @ Roman Susan Gallery
Roman Susan, located at 1224 West Loyola Avenue, will be featuring the works of Alex Bradley Cohen and Marissa Neuman this evening from 6-9PM. The exhibition, "Living to Work Together" will be on view until January 23rd.
Boys Will Be Boys Exhibition @ Mana Contemporary
From 6 to 9pm tonight, Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St.,5th floor, and Ordinary Projects host an opening reception for the Polish American artist, Kasia Ozga, and her solo show "Boys Will Be Boys."
Living to Work Together Exhibition @ Roman Susan
Roman Susan, 1224 W. Loyola Ave., celebrates the opening of an exhibition of work by the artists Marissa Neuman and Alex Bradley Cohen tonight at 6pm. The show will be up for viewing until the 23rd of January.
Open Studios @ Fine Arts Building
Every second Friday of each month, the Fine Arts Building, located at 410 S. Michigan Ave., opens their doors and studios to the public for a free evening event. Starting from 5pm and ending at 9pm, the event will include fiber artists, musicians, yoga, and tap dancing lessons.
The Shining @ Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave. hosts a screening of The Shining tonight at 6pm in the Price Auditorium, in conjunction with the exhibition focus: Lucy McKenzie. Registration is not required for this event, however, basic AIC entrance fees are required.
Our Living Room Show @ UP Comedy Club
Second City alums (such as TJ Jagadowski and current SNL performers Aidy Bryant and Mike O'Brien) join forces with Wilco's Jeff Tweedy for an evening of comedy and song tonight at UP Comedy Club, 230 W. North Ave. (doors open at 6pm, show at 7pm). Tickets $75-150; event benefits Letters to Santa, a nonprofit that supports needy local families.
Too Much Light New Year's Eve @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists ring in the new year in their usual tradition of performing their flagship show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind so that it finishes exactly at 12 midnight. Ring in the new year with "30 Plays in 60 Minutes," and enjoy pre-show refreshments before the countdown starts. Doors open at 9:30pm, and the show begins promptly at 11:00pm. Full details at the Neo-Futurist Website.
10th Annual Alex Chilton Birthday Bash @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., kicks off their 10th annual Alex Chilton Birthday Bash this evening at 8pm. A host of local bands will be playing Chilton songs, including Ego & the Soul, Allegra Malone, the Injured Parties, Michael Heaton, Food and Drug, and the Van Goghs. Tickets are $10. 21+
Al Scorch's Feast of Friendship @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., continues the Christmas holiday spirit with Al Scorch and friends headlining a long Feast of Friendship, running from 5 to 11pm. Scheduled to appear: Kory Quinn; Baby Money; and the boys and girls of Everything Is Terrible! who will be debuting a new video piece they're calling "History of Country Music." Admission is a paltry $5, and doors open at 4pm. Full details and advance tickets at the Hideout website.
A Kubrick Christmas @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a year-end Kubrick festival, kicking off this evening with screenings of Eyes Wide Shut and The Shining. The festival runs through January 3rd; a complete listing of films is available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport Avenue. (773) 871-6604.
Third Annual Woman Power Holiday Show @ Schubas
Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave., presents the Woman Power Holiday Show, featuring female-fronted bands Diana & the Dishes, Everybody Says Yes and Birdie Wing. Show starts at 8pm, tickets are $15, and it's a 21+ show. Proceeds go to benefit Global Girls, an education organization for girls in the South Shore neighborhood.
Bluegrass Jam @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music holds a bluegrass jam this afternoon starting at 1:00pm at their main building at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. All players and singers are invited to attend this free event. Full details at the school Website, or call the front desk at (773) 728-6000.
No Media Performance Event @ High Concept Laboratories
No Media is a realtime performance, media, and improvisational art event held at High Concept Laboratories in Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St., tonight at 8pm. The event consists of matching random artists who are registered on the No Media website and given ten minutes to perform. Sign up is free and open to all artists.
Group Exhibition @ The Art House
The Art House gallery, located at 3446 N Albany is a studio and workshop center where exhibitions are held monthly. Today from 2-6pm and tomorrow, December 21st, from 2-6pm, opening and closing receptions will be featuring the works of Beth Borum, Christine Connor, Michael Coon, Timothy Curtin, Barbara Hopkins, Faun Manne and Ginny Voedisch in a group exhibition. Free and open to the public.
Open Studio Holiday Sale @ Amanda Gentry Studio
Mana Contemporary artist Amanda Gentry will be opening up her studio to the public eye today at noon until 4pm. Gentry will be inviting visitors for wine, conversation, and most importantly, a variety of bakeware, mugs and cups and an assortment of other pieces at 2233 S. Throop St., fourth floor.
Last Dash Xmas Bash @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents the second pop-up store event organized by Logan Square boutique The Bus Shop. Over 20 local vendors will be selling their wares starting at noon. Admission is free; full details at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Botte: 1035 North Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
3rd Fridays Open Studios @ Zhou B Art Center
Tonight from 7 to 10pm, the Zhou B Art Center, 1029 W. 35th St., hosts its 3rd Friday Open Studios. Free and open to the public.
Danica Favorito: Old Work-About Face Opening Reception @ Domus
This evening from 6 to 9pm, Domus, 653 W. 28th St., hosts an opening reception for the artist Danica Favorito. Further details on Facebook.
Richard Hunt Exhibition @ The Museum of Contemporary Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago is celebrating the art of Richard Hunt, an eighty year old sculptor who is a local resident and great contributor to Chicago arts. The MCA will be featuring Hunt's sculptures and drawings which span from the 1950s to the 1990's. The exhibition will be run until May 17th. The MCA is located at 220 E. Chicago Ave. $12 general, $7 students, free kids 12 and under. Free admission for Illinois residents on Tuesdays.
Hoop Dreams @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents a special screenings of the 1994 Kartemquin film Hoop Dreams tonight at 6:30pm. The filmmakers will be in attendance: Steve James, Peter Gilbert, Gordon Quinn, Adam Singer, and film subject Arthur Agee will participate in a discussion of the film. See the Film Center Website to purchase advance tickets. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
The Second City That Never Sleeps @ Second City e.t.c.
This 24-hour marathon of some of the biggest names in music and/or comedy, which begins at 6pm tonight at Second City's e.t.c. Theater (1616 N. Wells), is a benefit for Letters to Santa, a nonprofit organization that helps local families in need. The $20 ticket price gets you in-and-out privileges (if some of you have to go to, say, work), but the whole event will be streaming online. Among some of the names scheduled to appear are Kim Deal (Pixies), J.C. Brooks & The Uptown Sound with Ian Rubbish (aka Portlandia's Fred Armisen), Robbie Fulks, Steve Albini, Jeff Tweedy, Orange is the New Black's Natasha Lyonne, and James McCartney (his dad is kind of famous). Local improvisers appear throughout the night as well.
Essay Fiesta @ Book Cellar
The Book Cellar, 4736-28 N. Lincoln Ave, hosts the monthly Essay Fiesta live reading series, featuring local authors reading first-person, nonfiction essays. The event starts at 7pm. All donations at the event go to 826 Chicago, the nonprofit writing & tutoring center.
Alex Chitty Opening Reception @ Adds Donna
Located at 4223 W. Lake, Adds Donna, is an experimental collective which will be hosting and featuring the work of Alex Chitty, a Chicago based artist. The opening reception is held from 2-5PM today and the show will be on view until January 18th.
Windy City Soul Club Six Year Anniversary Show
Chicago's finest monthly dance party, Windy City Soul Club, celebrates six years of spinning the finest Northern Soul records with this party at Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave. Happiness abounds, with DJs spinning only original 45rpm records of forgotten soul gems, with the occasional mainstream hit peppered in the mix. Get there early if you don't fancy waiting outside, as the show always sells out. $5 cover at the door. 21+
Burning Bluebeard @ Theater Wit
Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave., presents a remount of the highly acclaimed 2011 Neo-Futurist show Burning Bluebeard, telling the tale of the Iroquois Theater fire of 1903. The show plays Fridays through Sundays at the theater through January 4; see the theater's website or call (773) 975-8150 for advance tickets.
Hoop Dreams @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents two very special screenings of the 1994 Kartemquin film Hoop Dreams, tonight at 7pm and again on Tuesday, Dec. 16 at 6:30pm. At both screenings the filmmakers will be present: Steve James, Peter Gilbert, Gordon Quinn, Adam Singer, and film subject Arthur Agee will participate in a discussion of the film. See the Film Center website to purchase advance tickets. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
A. Laurie Palmer's Book Release @ Threewalls Gallery
A. Laurie Palmer, a sculpture professor at SAIC, is hosting her new book launch, "In the Aura of a Hole: Exploring Sites of Material Extraction," published by Black Dog Publishing. Palmer will speak with Rebecca Zorach, an art history professor at the University of Chicago, today starting at 4 until 6pm at Threewalls Gallery, located at 119 N. Peoria #2C.
Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle
Still have holiday shopping to do? Buy local at Handmade Market at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., this afternoon from noon to 4pm. More than 30 local crafters, artists and food-makers will be selling their handmade wares! Admission is free. 21+, with the exception of kids accompanied by a parent.
Best of TML @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present the best of the plays they wrote in 2014 for their flagship show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. The best-of show runs Friday and Saturday nights at 11:30pm, and Sunday at 7pm. All shows happen at The Neo-Futurarim, 5153 N. Ashland Ave.
Go Go Holiday Rock 'n' Roll Dance Party @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a holiday music show with go-go dancers from the school's dance classes. The show starts at 8:30pm in Szold Hall, located in the school's newest building at 4545 N. Lincoln Ave. Full details and advance tickets available at the school's website, or call for more info: (773) 728-6000.
Chicago Arts District Second Fridays
The September edition of 2nd Fridays Gallery Night in Pilsen will feature work by multi-disciplinary artists in 30-plus galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District. You'll find all manner of art and artists, as well as explore the gorgeous architecture and courtyards on Halsted Street between 16th and Cermak. Plan your stroll by picking up a map at the info center at 1821 S. Halsted St., or check out the event calendar. 6pm-10pm.
Candlelight Tour @ Museum of Surgical Science
An assortment of wines, holiday cookies, a candlelight tour and a historic mansion are what the International Museum of Surgical Science, 1524 N. Lake Shore Dr., has in store for this evening from 6 to 8:30pm. A slideshow of photographs which feature the home in the 1940s will follow the candlelight tour. Admission is $10 or $5 with a IMSS membership. Details on Facebook.
CFA Crashers: Mimi Nguyen @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., and Chicago Film Archives present CFA Crashers, a continuing series of non-CFA members putting together a program of films with no rules or restrictions. Tonight's Crasher is UIUC professor and author Mimi Nguyen. The show runs from 6 to 8pm, and admission is $5.
Upcycled Holiday Card Making Workshop @ The WasteShed
The WasteShed, located at 914 N California 1F, offers repurposed art, craft, and school supplies in order to promote an affordable and sustainable environment. The Upcycled Holiday Card Making Workshop today from 6:30-9:30PM, will provide materials for holiday card making as well as a how-to for creating gift bags from maps and calendars. The workshop costs $10 and includes all materials. Kids are welcome! Registration is required.
Mathias Poledna Opening Reception & Discussion @ Renaissance Society
The Renaissance Society, located at 5811 S. Ellis Ave., Bergman Gallery, Cobb Hall 418 on the University of Chicago's campus, will be presenting the work of Mathias Poledna, an LA based artist. The reception will begin at 4pm with a screening of a 35mm film. Solveig Øvstebø, the director of the Renaissance Society, will lead a discussion with Andrew Weiner at 5pm in Kent Hall, Room 120. Talk and opening reception are free and open to the public.
Bjork: Biophilia Live @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a return engagement of the 2014 Bjork performance film Biophilia Live. The film will only have three screenings over the following week, so check the Film Center's Website for a schedule and to purchase advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Type Sets Lecture by Claire Keys @ A + D Gallery
Claire Keys, a writer originally from the Midwest, visits Columbia College's A + D Gallery, 619 S. Wabash Ave., to discuss typography and text in conjunction with their current exhibition, TYPES, today at 2pm. Free.
Sistah Sinema Chicago Film Screening: Thick Relations @ Gallery 400
Today from 2pm-4pm, Gallery 400 will be teaming up with the UIC Gender and Sexuality Center and the organization Sistah Sinema to launch a monthly event which features queer women of color. The December film is titled, "Thick Relations" and will follow with a discussion expanding on the topics presented in the film and elsewhere. Admission is $10 for the general public and free for those with a UIC card. Snack and beverages will be provided. Gallery 400 is located on 400 S. Peoria St.
Best of TML @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present the best of the plays they wrote in 2014 for their flagship show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. The best-of show runs this and next weekend; Friday and Saturday night performances at 11:30pm, and Sundays at 7pm. All shows happen at The Neo-Futurarim (5153 N. Ashland, at Foster).
Krampusnacht @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Tonight from 8pm until midnight, the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., hosts Krampusnact, which features artwork, treats and an all-around Krampus theme. Wear your favorite Krampus costume, or simply attend the event. $10 admission includes drink ticket, $5 with Krampus related costume (includes drink ticket). Must be 21 to enter.
The Tale of Princess Kaguya @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents the latest film from Japan's legendary animation house Studio Ghibli, The Tale of Princess Kaguya, which will be running at the theater for the entire month of December. Along with the film, there is a companion behind-the-scenes doc that will be playing Saturday afternoons; see the Film Center's website for a complete schedule and advance tickets. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Media Futures Opening Reception @ Sullivan Galleries
This afternoon, from 4:3 to 7pm, the Sullivan Galleries will be hosting an opening reception for their new exhibition, Media Futures. The exhibition will focus on the intersection between fine art and media. The Sullivan Galleries are located at 33 S. State St., 7th floor; the show will run until Feb. 14. The opening reception is free and open to the public.
Holiday Sale @ the Hyde Park Art Center
The Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave., presents a large selection of paintings, pottery, prints, photographs and much more in their holiday sale today from noon to 5pm. The artworks are made from Oakman-Clinton School & Studio artists. Admission is free.
Chicago Filmmakers @ Comfort Station
Tonight at 7pm, Chicago Filmmakers host "From the Archive of..." is a series which features the work of collectors, curators, archivists, etc. from the Chicago area, at the Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Ron Slattery is one of the two individuals to discover Vivian Maier's work in an old storage unit and will screen films from his archive tonight in the series' series first night. Free.
Deathscribe 2014 @ Mayne Stage
Wildclaw Theatre presents Deathscribe, their annual showcase of short horror fiction written to be performed radio drama style! Come see and hear some of the scariest stories of the year tonight at 8:00pm at Mayne Stage (1328 West Morse Avenue); full details at the Wildclaw Website.
The Dinner Party @ City Winery
Chris Pandel of Balena cooks a multi-course meal; you enjoy the eats while a panel of guests (author Rebecca Skloot, Trib theater critic Chris Jones, and comedian/actor Dave Pasquesi) chat with the chef. Event takes place at City Winery, 1200 W. Randolph. Doors 6:30pm, event begins at 7pm. Tickets $45.
Amanda Gutierrez Talk @ Mana Contemporary
GRIDS artist, Amanda Gutierrez, will be giving an artist talk today at Mana Contemporary in the Radius Space. The talk will begin at 3pm and is located at 2233 S. Throop St in Pilsen. Gutierrez's work focuses on performance and sound, which she fuses together in her projects and pieces. In addition, the talk will broadcast live on NUMBERS.FM at the Comfort Station in Logan Square. The event is free and open to the public.
You, Me, Them, Everybody Live @ Hungry Brain
Brandon Wetherbee and Esmerelda Leon host the fifth anniversary of You, Me, Them, Everybody Live tonight at Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., from 7 to 9:30pm. The show features Deadbeat Beat, Goodrich Gevaart, Michael Pritchard, Al Scorch, The Puterbaugh Sisterz, Dmitry Samarov, Ernest Wilkins and more.
Sing-Along Sound of Music @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre hosts the annual Sing-Along Sound of Music screening this weekend, with two screenings today at 4:00pm and 8:30pm. Attendees will be given props to be used at different points in the film, and the lyrics will be shown on the screen for everyone to sing along. And don't forget the costume contest! A full schedule and advance tickets are available through the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Michael Milano Solo Exhibition for Trunk Show
Located at "a friend's garage" on 427 N. Albany, the mobile exhibition space Trunk Show will be hosting an opening reception today from 11am to 1pm for Chicago-based artist and writer, Michael Milano. The show features bumper stickers and will benefit Trunk Show's purchase of a new tape deck for the venue/car.
23rd Annual Wreathing of the Lions @ Art Institute
The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave., officially place the evergreen wreaths on their lion statues this morning at 10:30am. Following the ceremony there will be some family holiday crafts to participate in; see the Art Institute's website for details.
Robyn Hitchcock @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening of music from Robyn Hitchcock. The concert starts at 7:00pm, and happens in the concert hall in the school's main building at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. Full details and advance tickets available at the school's Website, or call the school at (773) 728-6000.
The Social @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music hosts their monthly "Social," an evening of music and teaching. Tonight's programs: 80s songs to sing and play at 7:00pm; and music & lyrics of the Indigo Girls at 7:30pm. Both events happen in the schools new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue, and seats are available through the school's Website. For more information, call the school at (773) 728-6000.
Nicholas Rigger & Steve Ruiz Opening Reception @ FLATspace Mana Contemporary
Mana Contemporary located at 2233 S. Throop St., 4th floor, will be hosting an opening reception tonight from 6-10pm, featuring work by artists Nicholas Rigger and Steve Ruiz.
Traci Fowler Opening Reception @ C33 Gallery
The Love That Let Us Share Our Name is Traci Fowler's first solo exhibition, and it opens at C33 Gallery, 33 E. Congress Pkwy, 1st floor, at 5pm tonight. The show will feature sculptural pieces, domestic objects and foliage that "pump up the tackiness" of traditional materials. The exhibition will be on view until Dec. 5.
ART21 Screening and Conversation with Jennifer Reeder @ Gallery 400
Today at 12pm, Chicago-based filmmaker and artist, Jennifer Reeder and UIC MA candidate, Andie Kimura will be holding a conversation and leading a viewing of ART21's Episode 4. Katharina Grosse, Joan Jonas, and Omer Fast are the artists featured in the episode tonight. Event is free, snacks will be provided and Gallery 400 is located on 400 S. Peoria St.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., hosts the monthly gathering known as Write Club. Host Ian Belknap oversees a series of three literary bouts, in which Chicago actors and authors take up opposing views to win bragging rights (and donations for their favorite charities). Admission is $10 at the door; show starts at 7pm. 21+
Matinee @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents a screening of Joe Dante's 1993 film Matinee as part of its series The Unquiet American: Transgressive Comedies from the U.S. Tonight's screening is at 6pm, and includes a lecture on the film by former Reader film critic Jonathan Rosenbaum. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Project Compass presents: Write Club @ Steppenwolf
Steppenwolf's Project Compass presents a special exhibition match of the long-running live lit show Write Club. In tonight's match, Write Club founder Ian Belknap goes up against long-running Write Club fave (and creator of the Drunk J.Crew Tumblr site) Jen Ellison. Tonight's event happens at the Steppenwolf Garage Theatre (1624 N. Halsted), starts at 6:00pm, and is free! Full details at the event's Facebook page.
School of Rock @ Beat Kitchen
The Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont Ave., hosts a performance of the latest graduates from Chicago's School of Rock. Doors open at 5pm, show is at 6pm, and tickets are $7 (kids under 10 free!). Advance tickets available through the Beat Kitchen website.
Happy To See Me: The "Fall-iday" Spectacular @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., presents a combination performance by BoyGirlBoyGirl and The Naomi Ashley Band, presenting a multi-holiday celebration they're calling the "Fall-iday" Spectacular. Expect music, readings, and combinations of the two. Show starts at 5pm, tickets are $12. See the Hideout's Website for details and advance tickets. 21+
Essay Fiesta @ Book Cellar
The Book Cellar, 4736-28 N. Lincoln Ave, hosts the monthly Essay Fiesta live reading series, featuring local authors reading first-person, nonfiction essays. The event starts at 7pm. All donations at the event go to 826 Chicago, the nonprofit writing & tutoring center.
Streetlight 2.0 Video Screenings @ Roman Susan Gallery
Roman Susan Gallery ANNEX, 1637-1643 W. Howard St. will be hosting a video screening tonight at 6pm. Twenty-one artists will be featured at the screening, which is free and open to the public.
Quintron and Miss Pussycat @ Hideout
Spellcasters arrive! The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., plays host to wildly popular former Chicagoans Quintron and Miss Pussycat, with loads of special guests. Doors at 9pm, show at 10pm, tickets are $13. 21+
Burroughs: the Movie @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents a week-long run of the newly-restored 1983 documentary Burroughs: the Movie, featuring William S. Burroughs discussing his long writing and performing career. For a list of showtimes see the Film Center's website. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Medium Cool @ Art Institute
The Art Institute hosts a screening of Medium Cool, a 1969 film by Haskell Wexler shot during the 1968 Democratic Convention, tonight at 6:30pm in Fullerton Hall. Free; enter at the 111 S. Michigan Ave. entrance.
Blue November Opening Reception @ NYCH Gallery
Tonight at 6pm, NYCH Gallery, 643 W. 18th St., will feature 10 artists who express personal emotions, social relevance and craft in their work. The artists exhibited are: Abraham Brand, Cesar Conde, Jaime Foster, Michael William Foster, Nasim Hantehzadeh, Lexygius Calip, Phillip Scott, Chantala Kommanivanh, Christie Chew-Wallace, Shana Zentner. Free.
GRAVY @ Berlin
GRAVY is a benefit dance party starting tonight at 10pm and going until 4am every second Thursday at Berlin, 954 W. Belmont Ave. GRAVY will feature a great list of DJs as well as special performances throughout the night. RSVP for a reduced cover till 11pm. This month all proceeds go to West Town Bikes, which promotes biking in Chicago.
Weather Warlock @ Reckless Records
The former Chicagoan Mr. Quintron, inventor of the analog drum machine The Drum Buddy, has an exciting new electronic project: the Weather Warlock, a synth that plays different tones depending on the current weather conditions. This device is currently broadcasting at Weather for the Blind, but makes a rare live appearance tonight at Reckless Records at 1532 N. Milwaukee to broadcast its "sunset ritual," accompanied by other guest musicians TBA. Sunset is scheduled to happen at 4:32pm today, but you better show up early to make sure you get a spot to watch.
Brock Clarke & Miriam Toews @ Book Cellar
The Book Cellar hosts a conversation with authors Brock Clarke and Miriam Toews as they discuss their latest books. The discusion begins at 7:00pm. Full details at the Book Cellar Website. Book Cellar: 4736-38 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 293-2665.
CFA Crashers: Christen Carter @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., and Chicago Film Archives presents CFA Crashers, a continuing series of non-CFA members putting together a program of films with no rules or restrictions. Tonight's crasher is none other than Christen Carter, head of Busy Beaver Button Company. The show runs from 6 to 8pm, and admission is $5.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: Pink Floyd - The Wall
The Music Box and Sound Opinions present the latest in their ongoing series of music-related films, the 1982 film Pink Floyd - The Wall. Doors open at 6:30pm, and the film screens at 7:30pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Eventbrite page. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Mel Phongsavath: DIN-DIN Opening Reception @ Outhouse Gallery
Outhouse Gallery, a visual art exhibition space located in the West Loop will be exhibiting a one night event for the artist Mel Phongsavath. Outhouse will be transformed into a south eastern Asian domestic dining space through installation work and the participation of the public. Outhouse Gallery is located at 212 N. Sangamon St., Apt 3B. Free.
Pop Up Book Fair @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle and Curbside Splendor Publishing present an afternoon book fair, starting at 1pm in the friendly confines of the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave. Over 30 independent publishers and booksellers will be here selling all kinds of books, from small to large! Admission is $8, or free is you RSVP through Ticketweb. See the Empty Bottle website for full details.
SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier
The 21st annual SOFA Chicago, the expo of sculptural objects and functional art and design, runs Nov. 7-9 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier. More than 70 galleries from around the world exhibit the works of hundreds of artists. There are also lectures given by artists and gallery owners throughout Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30; children under 12 admitted free with an adult. The festival is open from noon to 6pm today. Read our preview in A/C.
The Tiger Lillies @ Portage Theater
The Portage Theater, 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave., welcomes The Tiger Lillies, the "avant garde cabaret band" who notably wrote the music for the macabre stage hit Shockheaded Peter. The band will be playing two shows, Friday and tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $13 in advance, $15 at the door. Full details at the theater's website.
Perceptual Motion's A Taste of Wine & Chocolate Benefit
Join the party with dance company Perceptual Motion's Win and Chocolate Benefit tonight from 7 to 10pm, at the St. Andrew's Greek Orthodox Church, 5649 N. Sheridan Rd. Sample chocolate and wine, watch dance performances and demonstrations, and bid in a silent auction. Doors open at 6:45pm. Tickets are $45 in advance and $60 at the door. Individuals who purchase their tickets in advance will also receive a pass for two people to the ONE-Of-A-KIND Show at the Merchandise Mart in December.
Noelle Allen's "GRAFT" Opening Reception @ Comfort Station
Opening tonight, "Graft", a new exhibition will be featured at the Comfort Station located on 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Logan Square. The reception is from 4pm-8pm and is free and open to the public. The show features the work of Noelle Allen, alongside several other artists that inspire or are influential to Allen's practice.
Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle
Handmade Market is back at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., this afternoon from noon to 4pm. Come view plenty of local crafters selling their handmade wares! Admission is free. 21+, with the exception of kids accompanied by a parent.
SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier
The 21st annual SOFA Chicago, the expo of sculptural objects and functional art and design, runs Nov. 7-9 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier. More than 70 galleries from around the world exhibit the works of hundreds of artists. There are also lectures given by artists and gallery owners throughout Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30; children under 12 admitted free with an adult. The festival is open from 11am to 7pm today. Read our preview in A/C.
You're Being Ridiculous @ Mary's Attic
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, is back tonight in Andersonville. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Confession" from Brooke Allen, Eileen Dougharty, Karen Genelly, Samantha Irby, Jeremy Owens, Jeremy Schaefer, and Michael Van Kerckhove. Stories start at 8pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.
LaTasha N. Nevada Diggs @ Renaissance Society
At 8pm tonight, LaTasha N. Nevada Diggs will bring words, sounds, and video in her performance at the Renaissance Society, 5811 S. Ellis Ave. in Hyde Park. The event is associated and programmed through the Center for the Study of Race, Politics & Culture at the University of Chicago. Free.
The Tiger Lillies @ Portage Theater
The Portage Theater, 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave., welcomes The Tiger Lillies, the "avant garde cabaret band" who notably wrote the music for the macabre stage hit Shockheaded Peter. The band will be playing two shows, tonight at 8pm and Saturday. Tickets are $13 in advance, $15 at the door. Full details at the theater's website.
Alivia Zivich Opening Reception @ Night Club
Night Club, 2017 W. Moffat St. #1, will be featuring the show Bottomless, exhibiting work by Alivia Zivich tonight from 7 to 9pm. The work will remain up until Dec. 5. Free.
Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists Screening & Discussion @ U of C Film Studies Center
Hairy Who & The Chicago Imagists will be screened this evening at University of Chicago's Logan Arts Center, 915 E. 60th St., followed by a panel including Rebecca Zorach, professor of Art History, University of Chicago; Richard Born, senior curator, Smart Museum of Art; Allison Peters Quinn, director of exhibitions and residency programs at the Hyde Park Art Center; Jim Falconer [pdf], member of the original Hairy Who exhibition group. Additional details on the Film Studies Center website.
26th Annual Polish Film Festival
The Polish Film Festival in America begins tonight with a pair of screenings at Facets Cinematheque, 1517 W. Fullerton Ave., and runs through Nov. 23 at various venues. For more details and advance tickets please see the Facets website.
Mint & Serf Graffiti Artists @ Maxwell Colette Gallery
Opening tonight at the Maxwell Colette Gallery at 908 N. Ashland Ave., the two graffiti artists Mint & Serf will be premiering their large scale canvas paintings. The opening reception starts at 6pm and lasts until 9pm. The show will be up until Dec. 31. Read our preview in A/C.
Venus Flytraps, Bugs & People Doing Things Around the House: A Show of Drawings by Zach B (Age 30) & AJ Holub (Age 7)
The Beat Kitchen, located at 2100 W Belmont, will be hosting a lovely show featuring Zach B, an outsider artist, and a "young art prodigy," AJ Holub. The opening night begins tonight at 6pm until midnight. Free and open to the public.
Malkovich, Malkovich, Malkovich @ Catherine Edelman Gallery
Perhaps you've seen the photos online of John Malkovich re-creating historic images? Tonight from 5 to 8pm, you get a chance to see them in person, as the Catherine Edelman Gallery, 300 W. Superior St., presents a selection of these photos taken by photographer Sandro Miller. The exhibit will be at the gallery through January 31.
SOFA Chicago @ Navy Pier
The 21st annual SOFA Chicago, the expo of sculptural objects and functional art and design, runs Nov. 7-9 in Festival Hall on Navy Pier. More than 70 galleries from around the world exhibit the works of hundreds of artists. There are also lectures given by artists and gallery owners throughout Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $20, or get a three-day pass for $30; children under 12 admitted free with an adult. The festival is open from 11am to 7pm today. Read our preview in A/C.
SAIC Visiting Artists Program: Lewis Hyde
Tonight from 6 to 7:30pm, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago hosts their visiting artists program in the Rubloff Auditorium, 230 S. Columbus Dr. Lewis Hyde is a critic, poet and translator who will be discussing his recent publications and their relations to the arts. SAIC's Visiting Art Program lectures are always free and open to the public, however, seating is first come first serve.
Sound Opinions: The Beatles vs. The Stones @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents Sound Opinions co-hosts Greg Kot and Jim DeRogatis, hosting a discussion of the two most popular British bands of all time. The event begins tonight at 8:00pm in the Szold Music & Dance Hall in the school's new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Tickets may be purchased online at the Old Town School Website, or call the box office at (773) 728-6000.
Lorelei Stewart Lecture @ Columbia College
Through Columbia College's A+D Lecture Series, Lorelei Stewart, Director of Gallery 400 will be giving a talk titled, "Let Me Tell You a Story". Located at 623 S. Wabash, Room 203, the lecture series is FREE and open to the public. The talk will begin at 6pm.
Central Manufacturing District Walking Tour
Join Preservation Chicago and Landmarks Illinois on a walking tour of the Central Manufacturing District from 1pm-3pm this afternoon. The Central Manufacturing District was founded in 1902 by F. H. Prince and A.G. Leonard, making it one of the -- if not the first -- full service industrial real estate developments in the United States. It remained in operation as late as the 1980s. Get $5 tickets and the full details on Facebook.
Closing Reception: Soul Kitchen @ Kitchen Space
Kitchen Space, the alternative art space located in Logan Square, is hosting a closing reception for Karolina Gnatowski's show "Soul Kitchen". Starting at 9am today and ending at noon, Kitchen Space invites viewers for morning beers, fantastic fiber art and a silent wind chime. Kitchen Space is located at 2716 N. Monticello Ave., #1F. Free.
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret @ Silvie's
Silvie's Lounge hosts the Halloween / Day of the Dead edition of Chicago Ukulele Cabaret. Musicians are invited to play a 15-minute set that must include an 'ukulele, and must be on the theme of the evening. Show starts at 8:00pm, and continues until there are no other performers. Admission is free. For more info see the Facebook group. Silvie's 1902 W. Irving Park Road.
Dan Harmon & Harmontown @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents a screening of the new documentary Harmontown along with a special appearance by the film's subject, "Community" creator and podcaster Dan Harmon. Two screenings are happening today, one at 2:30pm and one at 7pm. Tickets are going fast, so head on over to the Music Box website to buy advance tickets.
Halloween Party @ Flats Studio
Looking for an open bar, photo booth pictures and devilish tunes on your Halloween night? Flats Studio is hosting a party with Hello Mr., a magazine that discusses men who date men, and the celebration of their bi-annual publication. The party takes place at 1050 W Wilson Avenue from 10pm-2am. RSVP here for $30.
Boneshaker @ Redmoon Theater
Celebrate Halloween with Redmoon Theater's annual costume party Boneshaker , which begins at 9pm tonight at Redmoon's Pilsen headquarters, 2120 S. Jefferson St. Redmoon has had some bad luck these days, but this event will surely redeem them. DJs, cocktails, food and the wondrous contraptions and theatrics that Redmoon is well known for are on the bill. Come in costume. Tickets are $100.
Moonlight Manor @ Moonlight Studios
Moonlight Studios (1446 W. Kinzie) hosts the Reader's Halloween party Moonlight Manor tonight (8pm-Midnight). Cocktails created by folks from Longman & Eagle and the Drawing Room, food from the Chop Shop, Katherine Anne Confections and El Ranchito, DJs, and frivolity. Tickets $50.
The Trip to Italy @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run of the Michael Winterbottom 2013 film The Trip to Italy, featuring the brillitan team of Rob Byrdon and Steve Coogan eating and arguing their way through a tour of Italy. For a list of showtimes see the Film Center's Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Aaron Draplin Lecture @ Film Row Cinema
The A+D Lecture Series presents designer Aaron James Draplin tonight at 6pm.The Draplin Design Co. provides a number of projects which include print, identity and illustration. The talk will be in the Film Row Cinema, 1104 S. Wabash Ave, 8th floor. Free; RSVP on Facebook.
Anda Korsts: Video Metropolis @ Gene Siskel Film Center
Anda Korsts, a Chicago artist and video creator, will show work from 1972-82, with a discussion following the screening. The Gene Siskel Film Center is located on 164 N. State St. The event starts at 6pm; tickets are $11, $6 for film center members and $7 for students.
11th Annual New Stages Festival
The 11th Annual New Stages Festival begins tonight at 7:30pm with Feathers and Teeth and will be followed by a book party for director Henry Godinez at the Goodman Theatre. The festival is free and will continue until Nov. 16. The complete calendar can be found here.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' presents the monthly meeting of The Moth StorySLAM. Audience members are chosen at random to deliver a five-minute monologue, and the winner (as judged by a panel of audience members) moves on to the championships. Show starts at 8:00pm, admission is $8. Martyrs': 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Robin Dluzen Artist Talk @ Lillstreet Loft
The Lillstreet Lecture Series located at the Loft on 4437 N Ravenswood Ave. is presenting the artist and art critic, Robin Dluzen. This is the tenth and final speaker for the artist lecture series. The talk begins at 7pm and ends at 8pm. The lecture is free and open to the public.
The Adventures of Danny & Mike @ Lincoln Hall
Former "Adventures of Pete & Pete" co-stars Danny Tamberelli and Mike Maronna bring their podcast to Lincoln Hall (2424 North Lincoln Avenue) this evening at 6pm. Tickets are $10, or if you pay $25 you can attend the later concert featuring "Pete & Pete" band Polaris. UPDATE: The show has sold out.
Opening Reception: Nicole Dyer & Matt Hilvers @ South of the Tracks
Open Mic Night, a two person show presenting the works of Baltimore artist, Nicole Dyer and Chicago based artist, Matt Hilvers, opens this afternoon at 4pm. South of the Tracks is an art gallery located on 319 N. Albany Ave. The event is free and open to the public.
Opening Reception @ PEREGRINEPROGRAM
The show Flamingo Clouds and Blue is opening today from 1pm to 4pm and will be on view until Nov. 23 at PERIGRINEPROGRAM, 3311 W. Carroll Ave. #119. The two artists, Sara Tabatabaie-Raissi and Trace Krug, are both painters who attended SAIC. The event is free.
Beat Swap Meet @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts Beat Swap Meet Chicago, a chance to buy & trade vinyl with local collectors and dealers. The event runs from noon to 5:00pm, and admission is $5 for free with a canned good. Full details at the Empty Bottle Website, or RSVP at the Facebook event page. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. WEstern. (773) 276-3600.
Chicago Humanities Festival
The 25th annual Chicago Humanities Festival runs Oct. 25 to Nov. 9 in locations all over the city and suburbs. Events today include a Gary Shteyngart reading, a lecture on astrophysics, and a conversation with singer Renee Fleming. See the schedule for full details. Ticket prices vary.
Opening Reception: Thresh/hold @ Roman Susan ANNEX
Megan Sterling's exhibition at the Roman Susan Annex, located in the Howard Theatre at 1637-1643 W. Howard St., is a compilation of work that focuses on hands and feet and the physical and psychological tension that follows. This afternoon at 5pm, the ANNEX will be hosting the opening reception until 8pm. The exhibition is on view until October 29th. The Roman Susan Annex is the gallery's space's off-site program which explores alternative spaces in Rogers Park. The event is free and open to the public.
Chicago Humanities Festival
The 25th annual Chicago Humanities Festival opens today and runs through Nov. 9. Events today include a conversation with Wallace Shawn, a screening of the Roger Ebert documentary Life Itself followed by a Q&A with Chaz Ebert and Steve James, and a discussion of black theater. See the schedule for full details. Ticket prices vary.
Project Recall: HCL @ Mana Contemporary
Utilizing sound and visual components, Project Recall aims to achieve a sense of nostalgia, memory and perception through a set of three live performances at High Concept Laboratories. HCL has a beautiful studio space on the fourth floor of Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St. The artists include Anthony Janas /Amanda Gutierrez, Nick Briz, The Fortieth Day + Noise Crush. Doors open at 7:30 and the show starts at 8 and goes on until 10pm. $5 admission.
Opening Reception: Andrew Barco & Eddie Breitweiser @ ThreeWalls
ThreeWalls, 119 N. Peoria St., Suite 2C, is hosting an opening reception of the work by Andrew Barco and Eddie Breitweiser this evening from 6 to 9pm. Barco's work, large-scale kinetic sculptures, in comparison to Breitweiser's, LED's and symphony of light are both meditative and conversational. The opening is free and open to the public.
The City Lost & Found @ Art Institute
Opening tonight from 6 to 8pm, The Art Institute of Chicago is presenting The City Lost & Found, a series of photographs and works capturing New York, Chicago and Los Angeles from 1960-1980. The exhibition will be on view until Jan. 11. The opening reception requests an RSVP which can be done at jvilla2@artic.edu or 312-443-3631. Enter through the Modern Wing at 159 E. Monroe St. for this event.
Opening Reception @ Aspect / Ratio
Aspect/Ratio is a contemporary art gallery that exhibits upcoming video artists. Located on 119 N. Peoria St. #3D, the gallery will have their opening reception for A rose is a rose is a rose is a rose this evening from 5 to 8pm. That's right, the fabulous line from Gertrude Stein's 1913 poem, Sacred Emily, is the title for the current exhibition. Through exploration of identity and meaning, Marcos Balter, Edmund Chia, Rebekah Heller and Casilda Sánchez present their works through video and performance in the space. The show will be up until Nov. 29. Free.
Cao Fei: Haze & Fog @ Gene Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, located on 164 N. State St. is hosting Cao Fei, a video and installation artist whose work mixes fantasy and documentary in order to present China's economy. Haze and Fog will be showing at the film center at 6pm. Following Haze and Fog will be a discussion. $11 general public, $6 film center members, $7 students.
Panel Discussion with Photography Susan Meiselas
The Logan Center located in Hyde Park is hosting a panel discussion with the Award winning Magnum photographer, Susan Meiselas. The discussion will be geared toward human rights and Meiselas' photographic project, "El Mozote". The event is free and open to the public. The Logan Center is located 915 E 60th St. and the discussion will be held in Seminar Terrace 801. For more information call 773-834-0957 or email human-rights@uchicago.edu
Pechakucha @ Martyrs'
Pechakucha returns to Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight. Featured this month are Peter Exley, Meida McNeal, Matthew Silva, Emmanuel Pratt, Carlos Matallana, Jorge Felix, Holly Chernobyl, Nick Fury, Chatherine Schwalbe, Yuri Lane, Jonald Jude Reyes, Sandra Leonard, Noelle Krimm, Leah Gipson and Jaclyn Jacunski. Each will do a presentation consisting of 20 slides, each of which appears for just 20 seconds. Chicago Artists Month Commissioner Michelle Boone and Coordinator Barbara Koenen host, along with Peter Exley. Tickets are $10. Doors open at 7, show's at 7:30pm.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the monthly literary sporting event known as Write Club. Local author Ian Belknap presides over a series of literary bouts featuring the finest Chicago authors and playwrights, each one going to bat for an opposing view (PAPER vs. PLASTIC, WAR vs. PEACE, etc.). The audience chooses the winner of each bout, with the prize being a donation to the winning author's charity. Show starts at 7:00pm, and admission is $10 at the door. Full details at the Hideout Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Essay Fiesta @ Book Cellar
Essay Fiesta, a monthly literary reading series that benefits 826 CHI, happens this evening at 7:00pm at The Book Cellar (4736-38 North Lincoln Avenue) with readings from David Boyle, Scott Stealey, M. Molly Backes, and Diana Slickman. The event is free and open to the public. Full details at the Essay Fiesta Website.
Lebowski Fest @ Diversey Rock 'n Bowl
Lebowski Fest goes bowling at Diversey Rock 'n Bowl, 2211 W. Diversey Pkwy., from 8pm to midnight tonight. There'll be costume contests, trivia contests, and of course bowling -- plus the debut of the new Big Lebowski pinball game. Tickets are $25. All ages, man.
Chicago Artist Month 3rd Friday @ Zhou B Art Center
The Zhou B Art Center is celebrating 10 years this 3rd Friday! The art center will be hosting an exhibition art, music, food and entertainment for the night from 7-10PM. The location of the event is 1029 W. 35th St. Contact 773-523-0200 or info@zhoubartcenter.com for more information. FREE!
Meghan Grubb + Peter Hammar @ Heaven Gallery
Tonight from 7-11 PM Heaven Gallery, located in Wicker Park, will be hosting an opening reception for the two artists, Meghan Grubb and Peter Hammar. Grubb focuses on installation, photo and video while Hammar explores performance and video. Heaven Gallery is located at 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave. The reception is free; refreshments and snacks will be served (usually delicious bread).
Jordan Martins Artist Talk @ Chicago Artists Coalition
Tonight from 6-9PM, Jordan Martins will be bringing selections of his work as well as conversation to the Chicago Room & Board Showroom located on 217 N. Carpenter St. Jordan is also the program director at the Comfort Station, a creative space located in Logan Square. The event will include wine and snacks and is open to the public.
BOO HAHA Beer Tasting at Chicago Truborn
Are you a beer lovin', snack tasting, art lover? Then come to the BOO HAHA event at Chicago Truborn located at 1418 W. Division St. to view "Chicago's Best New Art Gallery". Tickets are $10, event starts at 6pm and ends at 10pm. Call 773-420-9764 for more information regarding the event.
Baudelaire in a Box @ Charnel House
Theater Oobleck presents the latest in their ongoing series Baudelaire in a Box, "Episode 7: King of Rain." Part of an ongoing attempt to translate the French poet's works, the show features performances and music accompanying the translations. The performance runs through October 18 at Charnel House, 3241 W. Fullerton Ave.; full details and advance tickets at the Theater Oobleck site.
Rene Hell @ Lampo
Lampo presents Rene Hell, the latest project of Jeff Witscher, at the Graham Foundation's Madlener House, 4 W. Burton Pl., tonight at 8pm. Read our preview in Transmission. Free with RSVP.
Paul McCartney tribute @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music pays tribute to Sir Paul McCartney with an evening of music performed by school faculty and students. The concert starts at 8:00pm and happens in Szold Hall in the school's new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Full details available at the school's Website, or call for more information: (773) 728-6000.
Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle
Handmade Market is back at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., this afternoon from noon to 4pm. Come view plenty of local crafters selling their handmade wares! Admission is free. 21+, with the exception of kids accompanied by a parent.
Bjork: Biophilia Live @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center begins a one-week screening of the Bjork live concert documentary Bjork: Biophilia Live. A full schedule of showtimes is available at the Film Center's Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Meet Your Maker @ Links Hall
Chicago Artists Month and Links Hall to host a Creative Conversation in Chicago. This Creative Conversation, titled "Meet your Maker" is envisioned as an opportunity for local arts leaders to engage and meet face-to-face - bridging the divide between artists and arts administrators. Creative types, at any stage in their professional career, are encouraged to join us for an evening of exploration among arts-passionate people.
"Meet your Maker" is produced in the spirit of relationship and community building in the arts. Rather than a panel discussion or facilitated conversation about a particular topic, attendees 'come-as-they-are'. This smorgasbord of backgrounds, experiences and knowledge will provide a framework for interdisciplinary networking. Attendees are encouraged to break away from the comfort of the known and enter an unfamiliar space. Through informal round-table discussion "Meet your Maker" aims to foster new relationships and introduce arts professional to resources they may never have known existed!
Special guests include: • Chris Barrett, visual artist • Marie Casimir, Links Hall• Jeanelle Chang, Chicago Sinfonietta• Martin Garcia, Surmount Studio • Nikki Jolly, Chicago Park Chicago Arts District • Jessica Kaswiner, Artists Mean Business podcast • Merideth Lacina, Illinois Artisans Program, Illinois State Museum • Jenny Lam, Sixty Inches From Center • Jennifer Jansen, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago Alumni • Marivi Ortiz-Shoda, photographer • Meida Teresa McNeal, Changing Worlds • Eva Silverman, Arts Alliance Illinois
Sunday, October 19, 2014
5:30pm-7:30pm
Links Hall
3111 N. Western Ave | Chicago, Illinois
Suggested donation of $5 to cover food and refreshments.
Open to the public. RSVP here:
www.fanfueled.com/Event/Details/3773-meet-your-maker-where-chicago-creatives-connect
American Ballet Theatre @ Auditorium
The American Ballet Theatre performs Oct. 3-5 at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Today's performance is at 2pm. Tickets are $34-129.
7th Annual Spudnik Press Benefit
Spudnik Press, 1821 W. Hubbard St, Suite 302, has been providing artists with studio resources, book publishing, public exhibitions and residency programs for seven years now. Through tonight's benefit, Spudnik Press hopes to raise $10,000 to support the 2,500 visitors who have come to the cooperative. Starting at 5pm, a silent auction will feature studio sketches, visual brainstorms, artist proofs, draft, studies, notes and ephemera. General admission ($15) includes one complimentary drink and popcorn.
American Ballet Theatre @ Auditorium
The American Ballet Theatre performs Oct. 3-5 at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. There are two performances today, at 2pm and 7:30pm. Tickets are $34-129. Buy an adult ticket to the matinee and bring a kid under 12 free.
American Ballet Theatre @ Auditorium
The American Ballet Theatre performs Oct. 3-5 at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tonight's performance is at 7:30pm. Tickets are $34-129.
Fantasy Zone: K-9 ISLAND Opening Reception @ Hidden Dog
Tonight from 6 to 10pm, Hidden Dog, 2151 W. 21st St., hosts an opening reception for Fantasy Zone: K-9 ISLAND, a show that focuses on the relationship between abstraction and figuration. Artists Karolina Gnatowski, Sharmila Banerjee and Andrew Holmquist are featured in the show, and their work aims to create a conversation between the abstract and figurative aesthetics of their art. The exhibition will be on view until Oct. 24.
SAIC Visiting Artists Program: Claire Bishop & Claire Doherty
The SAIC Visiting Artists Program offers creatives around the city a chance to participate and listen to lectures by artists and historians around the globe. This evening in the Rubloff Auditorium, 230 S. Columbus Dr., Claire Bishop and Claire Doherty will be having a dialogue starting from 6pm to 7:30pm. Free. For more information, contact events@saic.edu or 312-899-5185.
500 Clown at the Threshold @ Smart Museum
What happens when you begin as an observer and then transition into a participant when viewing artwork in a museum? The Smart Museum in Hyde Park is seeking out the answer to this question in their event this afternoon/evening titled, "500 Clown at the Threshold." Starting at 5pm, the event will feature live performances and conversations inspired by the sculptures that are on view currently from the show, Carved, Cast, Crumpled: Sculpture All Ways. The Smart Museum is located at 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. and is free to the public.
Video Playlist @ MoCP
Interested in video screenings and installation artwork? The Museum of Contemporary Photography is hosting an event titled, "Video Playlist" today at 6PM in the main gallery. The event is made up of of a one-night public screening by artists whose work is related to MoCP. Contact (312) 663-5554 for more information. MoCP is located at Columbia College at 600 South Michigan Avenue.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' hosts the monthly Most StorySLAM this evening at 8:00pm. Audience members are invited to bring a five-minute story on the evening's theme (see The Moth Website for details). A group of audience members will judge the stories, and the winner of tonight's event goes on to the semifinals. Admission is $8, but a limited amount of advance tickets will be available through The Moth Website. Martyrs': 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Andersonville Alice
Upended Productions presents a remount of the 2004 show Alice, inspired by the Lewis Carroll books. A series of performances and installations around the Andersonville neighborhood will allow the attendees to feel what it's like to actually be Alice. The show runs Saturdays and Sundays at 1pm through November 2; full details and tickets available at the Upended Productions website.
BoyGirlBoyGirl: The Bible @ Stage 773
The theater collective BoyGirlBoyGirl presents The Bible, a series of monologues about the Good Book. The show runs tonight at 8:00pm at Stage 773 (1225 West Belmont). Full details at the BoyGirlBoyGirl Website.
White Mystery @ MCA
White Mystery covers the music of David Bowie tonight at the ">Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., at 6pm, in association with the exhibition David Bowie Is. Free with museum admission.
David Bowie Is @ MCA
The Museum of Contemporary Art presents David Bowie Is, a collection of album artwork, photographs, handwritten notes, and much more for an exhibit opening today and running through the New Year. Full details at the MCA Website. MCA: 220 East Chicago Avenue. Box office: (312) 397-4010.
City Made Festival
Andersonville turns into a gigantic beer garden, music fest and market full of locally made suds (Begyle, Lake Effect, etc.) today and Sunday from noon to 9pm on Clark Street between Argyle and Carmen Avenues. Suggested donation $5; event benefits the Andersonville Development Corporation.
BoyGirlBoyGirl: The Bible @ Stage 773
The theater collective BoyGirlBoyGirl presents The Bible, a series of monologues about the Good Book. The show runs tonight and next Saturday evening at 8:00pm at Stage 773 (1225 West Belmont). Full details at the BoyGirlBoyGirl Website.
Marlene Dietrich's Morocco @ Music Box
Marlene Dietrich's first US film, Morocco from 1930, screens this weekend at the Music Box Theatre as part of their weekend matinee series. Showtimes are Saturday and Sunday at 11:30am. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Last Days of Danger Release Party @ Challengers
Sean Dove celebrates the release of his Kickstarter-funded James Bond tribute book, Last Days of Danger, tonight from 7 to 10pm at Challengers Comics, 1845 N. Western Ave. Pick up a signed copy of the book, meet Sean and talk 007. Free. Details on Facebook.
Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the 10-year anniversary show for the literary series Funny Ha-Ha, hosted by Claire Zulkey and John Green. Tonight's show will feature performances and readings from the very first Funny Ha-Ha show. The show starts at 6:30pm, and tickets are $10. Full details and advance tickets at the Hideout's Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Diplomats of Drum, Hawaiian Music Masters @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music has a great-looking concert this evening at 8:00pm, as part of their World Music Wednesday series of concerts. On the bill: the Malaysian band Diplomats of Drum; and The Masters of Hawaiian Music: Ledward Kaapana, George Kahumoku Jr, & "Uncle" Richard Ho'opi'i. The concert happens in the school's main auditorium at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue, and admission is free! Make your reservations at the Old Town School Website, or call the box office at (773) 728-6000.
Fifth Star Awards @ Millennium Park
Tonight at 7pm in the Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph St., the City of Chicago honors Hubbard Street Dance founder Lou Conte, sculptor Richard Hunt; jazz pianist and DJ Ramsey Lewis, Cultural Affairs Commissioner Lois Weisberg and the Auditorium Theatre as recipients of the first Fifth Star Awards for "significant contributions in arts and culture." Free.
Luftwerk @ Chicago's Couch Place alley
The collaborative art duo, Luftwerk, will be showcasing a light and water installation titled, "FLOW/Im Fluss" from September 17th until the 20th from 5 PM - 12 AM on State St. between Lake and Randolph Streets. The opening night of FLOW/Im Fluss will be Sept. 17th and will include a complimentary drink ticket for those who RSVP. The location of the installation is 190 North State Street. More information will be updated on ACTIVATE
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout welcomes back Write Club, the literary sporting event that pits local authors and playwrights against each other in battles for charity. Overlord Ian Belknap presides over three matches this evening, each one being decided by a panel of seasoned judges who are only slightly influenced by audience opinion. The show starts at 7:00pm, and admission is $10, with all proceeds going to the charities of the winning parties. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Irene Hofmann Visiting Artist @ SAIC
Irene Hofmann (MFA 1994) is giving a talk and lecture at Columbus Auditorium located at 280 S. Columbus Dr. for the SAIC Visiting Artists Program. The event will take place today, September 16th from 6-7:30 PM. It is free and open to the creative public. Contact 312.899.5185 or events@saic.edu for more information.
Front & Center Exhibit and BBQ @ The Hyde Park Art Center
The Center Program is presenting the work of its 2014 students at the Hyde Park Art Center, September 13th from 5-8 PM. During this exhibition, the art center will also be celebrating it's 75th Anniversary BBQ from 12-9 PM which will include bouncy houses, a petting zoo, food trucks and three bands/DJ's playing throughout the day. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue. To contact the center, email generalinfo@hydeparkart.org. The event and exhibition is free and open to the public (food is not free).
Jason Soliday Opening Reception @ Mana Contemporary
The Propeller Fund Pilot Program Fellow Radius is exhibiting their first public exhibition at Mana Contemporary located at 2233 S. Throop St in Pilsen. Jason Soliday will be presenting his work, "Infinite Radius" which will be on view until September 30th. The opening reception is on September 12th from 7-9 PM.
Katharine Schutta Opening Reception @ Dreambox Gallery
The conceptual collage artist, Katharine Schutta, has an opening reception at Dreambox Gallery located at 2415 W. North Ave, on Friday September 12th from 6-10 PM. Her work will be up in the gallery until September 27th. The gallery's regular hours are Saturday from 1-5 PM or by appointment. You can contact the gallery at 773 292 0419 or dreamboxgallery@gmail.com. The opening reception is free and open to the public.
Simpsons Trivia Night @ The Atlantic
So you watched the recent Simpsons marathon? Okay, then put your new knowledge to good use at Simpsons Trivia Night, tonight at The Atlantic (5062 North Lincoln Avenue) from 7:30pm to 10:00pm. The event is produced by Project 891 Theatre; see their Website for more details.
Chicago Nerds Book Club @ Filter
The Chicago Nerd Social Club presents their monthly book club, happening as always at Filter Cafe (1373-75 North Milwaukee Avenue). Tonight's book is Andy Weir's The Martian. The event runs from 6:30pm to 7:30pm, and is free and open to the public.
Filipino Cinema series @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a series of films by Filipino directors, starting this afternoon with the Chicago premiere of Norte, The End of History at 3:00pm. A total of five films will be screened throughout the month at the Film Center: see the Film Center Website for details. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Life Itself @ Film Center
If you missed the recent run of the Roger Ebert documentary Life Itself, it starts playing for one week at, appropriately enough, The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St. A schedule is available at the Film Center website. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Recombinant Stare Opening @ Spudnik Press
Recombinant Stare, a retrospective of the influential Stare Magazine, opens in the Annex at Spudnik Press, 1821 W. Hubbard St., tonight from 6 to 9pm. Read John Wawrzaszek's preview in Book Club.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' hosts the monthly Most StorySLAM this evening at 8:00pm. Audience members are invited to bring a five-minute story on the evening's theme (see The Moth Website for details). A group of audience members will judge the stories, and the winner of tonight's event goes on to the semifinals. Admission is $8, but a limited amount of advance tickets will be available through The Moth Website. Martyrs': 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Chicago Comic Con
Wizard World's Chicago Comic Con returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Rd. in Rosemont, Aug. 21-24. Meet artists and celebrities; attend panels on your favorite pop culture, TV and film; watch movies; marvel at the cosplayers and check out the comics. The festival is open from 11am to 5pm today. Admission are $50 for today; tickets for autographs, photo ops and VIP experiences are extra. Four-day passes are sold out.
Chicago Comic Con
Wizard World's Chicago Comic Con returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Rd. in Rosemont, Aug. 21-24. Meet artists and celebrities; attend panels on your favorite pop culture, TV and film; watch movies; marvel at the cosplayers and check out the comics. The festival is open from 10am to 8pm today. Admission are $60 for today; tickets for autographs, photo ops and VIP experiences are extra. Four-day passes are sold out.
Chicago Comic Con
Wizard World's Chicago Comic Con returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Rd. in Rosemont, Aug. 21-24. Meet artists and celebrities; attend panels on your favorite pop culture, TV and film; watch movies; marvel at the cosplayers and check out the comics. The festival is open from noon to 7pm today. Admission are $50 for today; tickets for autographs, photo ops and VIP experiences are extra. Four-day passes are sold out.
Chicago Comic Con
Wizard World's Chicago Comic Con returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Rd. in Rosemont, Aug. 21-24. Meet artists and celebrities; attend panels on your favorite pop culture, TV and film; watch movies; marvel at the cosplayers and check out the comics. The festival is open from 3 to 8pm today. Admission are $40 for today; tickets for autographs, photo ops and VIP experiences are extra. Four-day passes are sold out.
The Room w/ Tommy Wiseau @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents a two-night appearance by Tommy Wiseau, director/star/writer of The Room. Wiseau will be of course screening The Room, and doing a Q&A session following the film. The screenings happen tonight and tomorrow night at 7pm; full details and advance tickets at the Music Box website.
Evil Dead trilogy @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., presents the latest in their occasional series of film screenings. Tonight's show is a doozy: all three Evil Dead films, starting at 7pm and screening through midnight! Admission is free, though you can RSVP at the Empty Bottle website.
Barefoot Ball @ Berlin
Adam Guerino hosts the Barefoot Ball, a "Southern style variety show," tonight at Berlin, 954 W. Belmont Ave., at 10pm. Patsy Cline cover band the Weepin' Willows headlines, along with drag performances by Ruby Dee and Dixie Lynne Cartwright, burlesque by Ben D. Mann, "Southern ruminations" by Joseph William Reese, an appearance by Tom Fell and more. $7 cover, 21+
Summer Music Film Festival @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and Sound Opinions present their annual Summer Music Film Festival, starting this evening and running through Wednesday, August 20. The lineup includes rock film classics as A Hard Day's Night, Purple Rain, and Stop Making Sense, along with the new 2014 film Got Help The Girl, directed by Stuart Murdoch of the band Belle and Sebastian. A full schedule and admission passes available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Tequila Tales @ Nouveau Tavern
The Tequila Tales, a monthly online webseries focused on "adventures in love and lust," holds a live taping at Nouveau Tavern, 358 W. Ontario St., tonight from 6 to 10pm. Tickets are free, but you can reserve a table for $20. Two drink minimum. 21+
Chicago Nerds Book Club @ Filter
The Chicago Nerd Social Club presents their monthly science fiction & fantasy book club this evening from 6:30pm to 7:30pm at Filter (1373-75 North Milwaukee). This month's book for discussion is Blindsight by Peter Watts. Full details on the event at the Chicago Nerds Website.
Tron: End of Line @ Victory Gardens Theater
Victory Gardens Theater hosts the world premiere of the new show by Chicago Dance Crash, Tron: End of Line, based on the series of films. Full details and advance tickets at the Victory Gardens Website. Victory Gardens: 2433 North Lincoln Avenue. Box office: (773) 871-3000.
Brain Frame Finale @ Thalia Hall
Brain Frame hosts its third anniversary and final show tonight at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport Ave. Doors open at 6pm for a gallery of screen printed Brain Frame posters, live experimental ambient music sets and interactive art installations, then at 8pm founder Lyra Hill hosts collaborative performances by Anya Davidson and Carrie Vinarsky, Aaron Renier and Jessica Campbell, Ian McDuffie and Emily Hutchings, the Rough House puppetry collective, Nick Jackson, and Gina Wynbrandt, and Hill performs a piece of her own. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door. 21+
My Big Fat Greek Grand Opening @ Corks & Brushes
Corks and Brushes is an alternative art space located in Greektown. The space offers BYOB painting classes as well as kids painting and craft classes. Tonight from 7pm to 11pm is the grand opening celebration of their second location, at 770 W. Gladys Ave., which will feature meet and greets, artwork, Greek food and plenty of wine. RSVP online or choose to make a small donation to the art space.
David Schalliol @ Washington Park Arts Incubator
This evening David Schalliol will be presenting his work on his Isolated Building Studies, along with two projects that started on Gapers Block, "To be Demolished" and "The Area." The conversation will be hosted by Andres L. Hernandez, who is repurposing an underutilized space behind the Arts Incubator into "Hush Harbor," a pop-up, open-air forum inspired by historical accounts of bush arbors or hush harbors, which were covert outdoor spaces created by African-Americans for sacred and secular cultural activities. The event is free, but RSVP and get additional details on Facebook. The University of Chicago Arts Incubator is located at 301 E. Garfield Blvd, just off the Green Line.
Monty Python Live @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a screening of the Monty Python live show that happened last month in London. Full details at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Great Midwest Uke Fest @ Chief O'Neill's
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret, the local open-mic night devoted to the ukulele, holds its fifth Great Midwest Uke Fest this afternoon & evening at Chief O'Neills, 3471 N. Elston Ave. The afternoon from 3 to 6:30pm is reserved for open mic performances, and 7 to 11pm is reserved for headlining performances by local groups Heavy Boxes, Lanialoha & Aloha Lives, Seeso, Vic Miguel, and others. Tickets are available at Brown Paper Tickets.
Comfort Station Potluck: Autotelic Studios
Stop by the Comfort Station, located in Logan Square at 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave, and visit the artists from Autotelic Studios for homemade pickles, vegan black bean brownies and conversations with friends and neighbors. The event is held today, August 3rd from 11AM-1PM. Please bring food that is ready to serve and all utensils which accompany your treat. Plates, bowls and towels will be provided. Free; donations welcomed.
Amber Ginsburg & Katie Hargrave @ Roman Susan Gallery
"How to un-make an American Quilt" is an interactive performance between Ginsberg and Hargrave where they will deconstruct a hand-made quilt in the Roman Susan gallery space. The piece begins tonight, August 1st, from 6PM-9PM and will be on view through August 17th. There are several more un-make sessions which include: Sundays--August 3, August 10, August 17 11AM-2PM. Roman Susan is located on 1224 West Loyola Avenue. The sessions are free and open to the public. Participation is welcome!
School of Rock Allstars @ Beat Kitchen
The Beat Kitchen hosts two evenings of School of Rock graduates, featuring some of the most talented students of the school. Doors open at 4:00pm, show starts at 5:00pm. Full details and advance tickets at the Beat Kitchen site. Beat Kitchen: 2100 West Belmont Avenue. (773) 281-4444.
WBEZ presents After Water @ Mayne Stage
Mayne Stage presents a panel discussion hosted by WBEZ editors and reports, who will discuss what our planet will look like in the future, when drinkable water will be in short supply. Doors open at 5:00pm, and the show starts at 6:00pm. The event is free, but you should claim your tickets at the Mayne Stage site to guarantee admission. Mayne Stage: 1328 West Morse Avenue. Box office: (773) 381-4554.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' hosts the monthly Most StorySLAM this evening at 8:00pm. Audience members are invited to bring a five-minute story on the subject "Altered". A group of audience members will judge the stories, and the winner of tonight's event goes on to the semifinals. Admission is $8, but a limited amount of advance tickets will be available through The Moth Website. Martyrs': 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Word Weekend @ MCA
The Museum of Contemporary Art, 200 E. Chicago Ave., hosts Word Weekend Saturday and today, featuring a variety of performances, installations and readings -- see the schedule for details. Activities run from noon to 5pm today; admission is free.
Filmspotting Episode #500 @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre hosts the WBEZ podcast Filmspotting as they tape their 500th show this evening at 9:30pm. Surprises, special guests, and top 5 lists are all on the schedule for the evening. Full details and advance tickets at the WBEZ Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Word Weekend @ MCA
The Museum of Contemporary Art, 200 E. Chicago Ave., hosts Word Weekend today and Sunday, featuring a variety of performances, installations and readings -- see the schedule for details. Activities run from noon to 10:30pm today; admission is free after 5pm.
Big Trouble In Little China @ Music Box
The Music Box presents midnight screenings of John Carpenter's 1986 film Big Trouble In Little China on Friday and Saturday nights. Bring a Six-Demon Bag! Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Chicago Reader B-Side Booze Cruise @ Navy Pier
The Chicago Reader and the Empty Bottle present the B-Side Booze Cruise, happening tonight at Navy Pier from 8:00pm to 11:00pm. The Empty Bottle provides the live music, with plenty of bands including White Mystery, Flesh Panthers, and DJ sets from Bric-A-Brac Records. Tickets are $40; full details and advance tickets available at the Empty Bottle Website.
The Mapping Sessions Finale @ Mana Contemporary
A must-see event is happening at Mana Contemporary tonight on the fourth floor featuring the Honey Pot Performance. An interactive, DJ hosting, dance party will be occurring from 7:30-11 PM. Mana Contemporary is a studio space for artists located in Pilsen at 2233 S. Throop St. The event is free and open to the public, however, it is suggested that you RSVP.
Pamela Staker Open Studio
A creator of abstract paintings and works of paper, Pamela Staker, has a studio located on 1830 South Canalport Avenue (East Pilsen). July 25th, 26th and 27th mark the time slots that Staker will open her studio from the public.
Here is the schedule for the three days:
Friday, July 25, 2014 - 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Saturday, July 26, 2014 - 12:00pm to 3:00pm
Sunday, July 27, 2014 - 12:00pm to 3:00pm
Michel Gondry's Mood Indigo @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run of Michel Gondry's 2013 film Mood Indigo, starring Romain Duris and Audrey Tatou. A complete schedule of screenings and advance tickets is available at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Phantoms in the Dirt @ MOCP
The Museum of Contemporary Photography is hosting an opening reception tonight, July 24th starting at 5 PM. Several of the exhibiting artists will be there to discuss their photographic works. MOCP is located at 600 S. Michigan Avenue and is free to the public.
Cultural Conversations with Caroline Picard @ Mana Contemporary
High Concept Laboratories, an interdisciplinary platform and non profits organization, is hosting a lecture in their location at Mana Contemporary. Caroline Picard, a Chicago artist, curator and writer, will be having a conversation and discussion regarding her curatorial work abroad and her future practices here in Chicago. The event is free, however HCL urges those interested to RSVP. Mana Contemporary is located at 2233 S Throop St. in Pilsen. The event starts at 7PM today, July 22nd.
Official Pitchfork Aftershow @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., hosts the Pitchfork aftershow this evening at 9pm, featuring DIIV, Lodro, and Regal Degal. Admission is $15. Full details at the Empty Bottle Website.
Labyrinth @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents the 1986 David Bowie-Jennifer Connelly-Jim Henson film Labyrinth, screening Friday and Saturday nights at midnight. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Sound Opinions Live with Jeff Tweedy @ Lincoln Hall
Sound Opinions presents an evening with Jeff Tweedy and his band at Lincoln Hall (2424 North Lincoln Avenue). Doors at 6:00pm, show runs from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Tickets are free, but you need to pick them up at the Eventbrite page.
Is This a Thing? @ O'Shaughnessy's
Reading series Is This a Thing? tackles the topic "I Was Wrong" at its latest edition tonight at 7pm at O'Shaughnessy's, 4557 N. Ravenswood Ave. Readers include Mare Swallow, Elena Colas, Ines Bellina, Karen Genelly, Kirk Kicklighter, Kendra Stevens and Jill Howe. Suzy Kahn Weinberg hosts. Free
"Two Rocks Do Not Make a Duck" Opening Reception @ Lvl3
Milano Chow, Sofia Leiby, and Malin Gabriella Nordin will be the artists exhibited at the Lvl3 gallery space located at 1542 N. Mikwaukee Ave on the 3rd floor. The show explores layering and the conceptual notion of surface. Tonight's reception beings at 6pm and is free and open to the public; the show will run until Aug. 17.
Sexcula @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a midnight screening of the 1974 skin flick Sexcula, almost never seen since its original release. The film plays tonight and tomorrow night at midnight. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
70mm Film Festival @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents the return of their two-week 70mm Film Festival, featuring a host of classic movies in the 70mm format. Among the films scheduled to screen: 2001: A Space Odyssey, Doctor Dolittle, It's A Mad Mad Mad Mad World, and The Master. It all begins tonight with Lawrence of Arabia at 7pm tonight. Full schedule and advance tickets available online.
Contained and TextTextText Opening Receptions @ Woman Made Gallery
Woman Made Gallery, 685 N. Milwaukee Ave., is hosting two opening receptions tonight, starting at 6pm. The exhibitions are entitled, "texttexttext" and "Contained". Woman Made Gallery is free and open to the public.
Open Studios @ Fine Arts Building
The Fine Arts Building, 410 S. Michigan Ave., holds an open studio night from 5 to 9pm tonight, as part of the Chicago Cultural Mile Second Fridays event. Free.
Mike Nudelman & Sarah Hicks @ Hyde Park Art Center
The educational establishment and exhibition space Hyde Park Art Center is holding two opening receptions tonight starting at 5pm. Nudelman, working with ballpoint pens, and Hicks, which will be displaying her ceramics pieces, are both exhibiting together at the art center. In addition to this event there is another opening reception, entitled "Figurative vs. Abstract" which will also begin at 5pm. Both events are free and open to the public. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Ave., next to Bridgeport Coffee.
Testimony Art Opening @ Logan Center for the Arts
The Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, located in Hyde Park has a new exhibition entitled, Testimony, opening tonight at 6 PM until August 30th. David Boykin, Krista Franklin, and Andres L. Hernandez are the three artists featured in the show. The Logan Center is located 915 E 60th Street and is open Monday-Sunday.
BoyGirlBoyGirl and Naomi Ashley Band Save America!
The Hideout presents the spoken word ensemble BoyGirlBoyGirl and singer/songwriter Naomi Ashley in an evening of music and spoken word that may (or may not) save America. Doors open at 8:00, show begins at 9:00, and tickets are $12. Full details and advance tickets at the Hideout's Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Alec Guinness retrospective @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., kicks off a month-long retrospective on the early comedy work of Alec Guinness by featuring the Ealing comedies his acted in during the 1950s. The retrospective kicks off this afternoon with the double feature of The Lavender Hill Moband Last Holiday, and continues through July 29. A complete schedule and advance tickets are available at the Film Center Website. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
John Hubley cartoons @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a program of cartoons by unconventional animator and Academy Award winner John Hubley. The program shows at 3:00pm this afternoon, with other showing scheduled the following Sunday and Tuesday. A complete schedule and advance tickets are available at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival
The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs June 27-29 on Milwaukee Avenue between Kedzie and Diversey. The festival features live music on two stages, pop-up galleries, performance art, family activities and food from local bars and restaurants. The festival runs from noon to 10pm tonight. $5 donation requested.
Beat Swap Meet Chicago @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts Beat Swap Meet, an afternoon of vinyl collectors & dealers selling their wares. The event happens from noon to 5:00pm, and admission is $5 or free with a canned good. Details at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Degenerate Art Gallery : 1 Year Anniversary Show
The Degenerate Art Gallery, 5554 N. Winthrop Ave., is celebrating their first year operating as a creative space tonight from 7 to 11pm. The event will be filled with several artists and celebrations. Free.
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival
The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs June 27-29 on Milwaukee Avenue between Kedzie and Diversey. The festival features live music on two stages, pop-up galleries, performance art, family activities and food from local bars and restaurants. The festival runs from noon to 10pm tonight. $5 donation requested.
Pink Floyd's The Wall @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a midnight screening of a 35mm print of Pink Floyd's The Wall. The film screens Friday and Saturday nights at midnight. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Version Festival 14
The 14th annual Version Festival runs June 21-29 with the theme "the Placemakers." Today's event is ArchiGO: 50 Years Later, an exhibition of works by the 1960s avant-garde architectural group based at IIT, at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., from 7pm to midnight. Free till 9, $5 after.
TML Pride Week Shows
The Neo-Futurists present their annual Pride Week series of shows, based on their flagship show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. The weekend's "30 Queer Plays in 60 Straight Minutes" are presented Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings at 11:30pm, and Sunday evening at 7:00pm. The shows happen at the Neo-Futurarium at 5153 N. Ashland, and proceeds from these performances will go to Project Fierce, helping reduce homelessness for LGBTQ youth in Chicago. Full details and advance tickets available at the Neo-Futurists' Website, or call their hotline at (773) 878-4557.
Version Festival 14
The 14th annual Version Festival runs June 21-29 with the theme "the Placemakers." Today from 1pm to 4pm, go on a special tour of The 606, aka the Bloomingdale Trail. $20 advance tickets required.
Theater Oobleck @ Hideout
Every Tuesday in June, Theater Oobleck presents an evening of performance and music at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. Tonight's program is "This Land That I Love," featuring works from the book of the same name written by Oobleck founding member John Shaw. The program begins tonight at 9pm, and admission is a suggested $5 at the door.
Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' hosts the monthly Moth StorySLAM tonight at 8:00pm. Ten audience members are selected to tell a five-minute story on the evening's topic, and the winner (as judged by a panel of audience members) goes on the the Moth Grandslam Championships. Admission is $8 at the door; plan on arriving early to make sure you can get in. Martyrs': 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Mindy Rose Schwartz Artist Talk @ The Lillstreet Art Center
The Lillstreet Art Center is hosting a lecture series located at the Lillstreet Loft at 4437 Ravenswood Avenue. Tonight from 7 PM - 8 PM, Mindy Rose Schwartz, a Chicago sculptor will be giving an artist talk at the loft. All lectures are free and open to the public!
A Day in the Country @ Hideout
The Hideout presents A Day in the Country, an entire day of country music with food provided by Country Barbecue, pies by Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits, and the beers of Lagunitas Brewing. Doors open at 1:00pm, show begins at 2:00pm, and the performances run late through the evening. Full details and advance tickets available at the Hideout Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Version Festival 14
The 14th annual Version Festival runs June 21-29 with the theme "the Placemakers." Today's festivities include the Mini-Market craft fair from noon to 6pm at Mana Contemporary Chicago (2233 S. Throop St.), curated by Renegade; the Placemakers Summit, featuring discussions of creative placemaking, urban innovation and more, also at Mana Contemporary from 12:30 to 6pm; and the Never the Same Artists' Congress Potluck in Palmisano Park, 2700 S. Halsted St., at 5:30pm. All of today's events are free.
Version Festival 14
The 14th annual Version Festival runs June 21-29 with the theme "the Placemakers." Today's festivities include the Mini-Market craft fair from noon to 6pm at Mana Contemporary Chicago (2233 S. Throop St.), curated by Renegade; the Placemakers Summit, featuring discussions of creative placemaking, urban innovation and more, also at Mana Contemporary from 12:30 to 6pm; and the Version Music Showcase at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., from 8pm to midnight. All of today's events are free.
Chicago Film Archives Media Mixer @ Hideout
The Chicago Film Archives celebrates its 10th anniversary with its third annual Media Mixer at the Hideout 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight at 8pm. The evening features collaborations between filmmakers and musicians, plus a raffle and silent auction, DJs and more. Alison Cuddy emcees. Tickets are $15. Doors open at 7pm.
Theater Oobleck @ Hideout
Every Tuesday in June, Theater Oobleck presents an evening of performance and music at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. Tonight's program is "The Jewboy Cain Interview", a special presentation of a fictional syndicated talk show devoted to the fictional American singer Jewboy Cain. The program begins tonight at 9pm, and admission is a suggested $5 at the door.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the monthly meeting of Write Club, the literary competition featuring local authors and performers taking up opposing viewpoints for the pleasure of the audience. Write Club starts at 7:00pm tonight; admission is $10, and proceeds will go to the charities chosen by the participants. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Our Public Space: Who Owns It, Who Shapes It & Who Benefits From It @ Lathrop Homes
The second day of Our Public Space brings together designer Quilian Riano and artist John Preus for a workshop engaging the site at Lathrop Homes, 2000 W. Diversey Ave. The event runs from 10am to 4pm, with a lunch break at noon. Free.
Comedy Festival After-Party @ Schubas
The after-party for the 1st Annual 26th Annual Comedy Festival happens tonight at Schubas at 10:30pm. The show will feature AV Club staffers discussing the festival, doing a Q&A session, and much more! Special guest Todd Barry will be making comments on the commenters, which should be very meta. Admission to the after-party is FREE with an RSVP at the Eventbrite page.. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
1st Annual 26th Annual Comedy Festival @ Athenaeum
The Onion and The AV Club present their first annual 26th Annual Comedy Festival, running for three nights at the Athenaeum Theatre (2936 N. Southport). Tonight's closing show features Marc Maron. The show starts at 7:30pm; full details on the festival available at 26comedy.com.
Our Public Space: Who Owns It, Who Shapes It, and Who Benefits From It @ Hyde Park Art Center
Dilettante Studios, MAS Context, and the Hyde Park Art Center present Our Public Space, a two-day program of lectures and a workshop presented by national and international architects, designers, and artists addressing public space and the built environment. Today's events will run from 1pm-5pm at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave.
Schubas Bike Bash & BBQ
Schubas holds a bike clinic today from noon to 4:00pm in their parking lot. Local bike shops will be on hand to give tune-ups, workshops and general advice to bike owners. Schubas will have plenty of BBQ and discounted beer from Revolution Brewing on hand. A raffle during the event will benefit the Working Bikes Cooperative. Admission to the Bike Bash is free! Full details at Schubas' Website. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
1st Annual 26th Annual Comedy Festival @ Athenaeum
The Onion and The AV Club present their first annual 26th Annual Comedy Festival, running for three nights at the Athenaeum Theatre (2936 N. Southport). Tonight's comedians are Tig Notaro and Kyle Kinane, performing two shows at 7:00pm and 10:00pm. Full details on the festival available at 26comedy.com.
Applied Words: Black Vernacular
The Guild Literary Complex presents Applied Words: Black Vernacular tonight from 7:30 to 9pm at the University of Chicago's Arts Incubator, 301 E. Garfield Blvd. Randall Horton, Nate Marshall, Kristiana Rae Colón and Toni Asantelightfoot perform and read work, and Holly Bass and others show short video pieces. Curated by Toni Asante Lightfoot. Free.
1st Annual 26th Annual Comedy Festival @ Athenaeum
The Onion and The AV Club present their first annual 26th Annual Comedy Festival, running for three nights at the Athenaeum Theatre (2936 N. Southport). Tonight's opening night features a live performance of the Comedy Bang! Bang! podcast. The show starts at 7:30pm; full details on the festival available at 26comedy.com.
Procreativity 101: Making Art Babies @ Hungry Brain
Homeroom presents Procreativity 101: Making Art Babies tonight at 9pm at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave. Visual artists Alberto Aguilar and Lise Haller Baggesen, curator Allison Grant, poet Jennifer Steele and artist Tselanie Townsend discuss "ways to imagine motherhood, imitate art and how to live and die with art and one another." Fred Sasaki and Seth Vanek host. $5 suggested donation. 21+
Theater Oobleck @ Hideout
Every Tuesday in June, Theater Oobleck presents an evening of performance and music at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. Tonight's program is "Row, Voyager", based on Schoen's song cycle "The Voyage". The program begins tonight at 9pm, and admission is a suggested $5 at the door.
Guerilla Truck Show
The 10th annual Guerrilla Truck Show returns tonight from 5:30 to 9:30pm, centered on the corner of Aberdeen and Fulton Market. Check out the latest product design, furniture concepts and art by dozens of designers, shown in the backs of moving trucks and in area galleries and businesses. Free.
Jen Kirkman "I Seem Fun" Live Podcast @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., welcomes comedienne Jen Kirkman, who will be taping a live episode of her podcast I Seem Fun tonight. There are actually two tapings this evening, one at 7pm and one at 10pm; doors open an hour before showtime. Admission to either show is $15. 21+
57th Street Art Fair @ Hyde Park
Saturday, June 7th 11 AM-6 PM and Sunday June 8th 10AM-5PM, Hyde Park is hosting their annual 57th Street Art Fair. This will mark the 67th year that Hyde Park has been hosting this event. The fair is located between Kenwood and Woodlawn. Admission is free!
Josef Koudelka @ Art Institute of Chicago
Josef Koudelka, a world-renowned photographer, will be filling the galleries of the Art Institute with his exhibition entitled, Nationality Doubtful. Koudelka's black and white photographs will be featured from Saturday, Jun 7th until Sunday, September 14th at 111 South Michigan Avenue. There is a member preview June 5-6.
Theater Oobleck @ Hideout
Every Tuesday in June, Theater Oobleck presents an evening of performance and music at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. Tonight's program is "One Up," a collection of short solo works by Oobleck regulars and associates. The program begins tonight at 9pm, and admission is a suggested $5 at the door. Full details and a complete program at
Chicago Alternative Comics Expo runs Saturday and today from 11am to 6pm at the Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. Attend a full day of panels, check out the vendor floor, and meet indie comic artists and writers galore. Free.Chicago Alternative Comics Expo
National Tap Day celebration
The Old Town School of Folk Music celebrates National Tap Day 2014 with an evening of tapping, hosted by the school's own Reggio "The Hoofer" McLaughlin. The performance starts at 7:30pm in the Maurer Concert Hall at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. Full details and advance tickets available at the school's Website, or call the front desk at (773) 728-6000.
Manual Cinema's Lula Del Ray Puppet Show
Set in the mid-century American Southwest and inspired by the music of Hank Williams, Roy Orbison and Patsy Cline, Lula Del Ray is a mythic reinvention of a classic coming-of-age story, performed with overhead projectors, shadow puppets, actors in silhouette, and live music. The event will be held at The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1015 N. Dearborn St., tonight at 7:30pm.
Everything Is Terrible! @ Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave. hosts another live show by video hoarders Everything Is Terrible! Tonight's show will feature screenings of their recent video releases Comic Relief Zero and Everything Is Terrible! Does the Hip-Hop, along with other video rarities from the EIT! vaults. Tickets are $15. Show starts at 9pm, it's an 18+ show.
Live Comics Reading @ Galerie F
Galerie F, 2381 N. Milwaukee Ave., hosts a live comics reading as part of the Chicago Alternative Comics Expo, tonight from 7 to 9:30pm. The event features readings by Sam Alden of It Never Happened Again, Andy Burkholder of Absolute Loneliness, Anna Bongiovanni of Out of Hollow Water, Mark Connery of Rudy, Edie Fake of Memory Palaces, Sarah Ferrick of Rare Creatures, John Holden of Detrimental Information, Scott Longo of Sonatina and Annie Mok of Screen Tests. Free.
Pivot Arts Festival : Art Meets Science
From May 28th until June 14th, the Pivot Arts Festival will be hosting a variety of performances which focus on gender and sexuality, the intersection between art and science, environmental issues and many more themes at various times throughout the day. Check out the calendar for times, locations and pricing.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
The Moth holds their monthly StorySLAM at Martyrs' tonight at 8:00pm. Volunteers from the audience tell a five-minute story on stage, and the stories are judged by a panel of audience members. Admission is a mere $8 at the door. Martyrs': 3855 North Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
Pole Sport Organization's Central Championships
The Pole Sport Organization's Central Championships run Saturday and today at the Vittum Theatre, 1012 N. Noble St. Read our preview in Tailgate. Today's competition will begin at 7:45am and run until 5:30pm. Tickets are $30 online or at the door.
Pole Sport Organization's Central Championships
The Pole Sport Organization's Central Championships run today and Sunday at the Vittum Theatre, 1012 N. Noble St. Read our preview in Tailgate. Today's competition will begin on Saturday at 7:15am and run until 9:30pm. Tickets are $30 online or at the door.
53rd Ward: After Dark @ Hideout
Schadenfreude presents 53rd Ward: After Dark, a new talk variety show at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight at 6:30pm. Fifty-third Ward Alderman Ed Bus talks with 2nd Ward Alderman Bob Fioretti, Mick Dumke of the Reader, Mark Bazer of The Interview Show, and Danielle Colby of "American Pickers." Tickets are $10 in advance or at the door. More details on Facebook. 21+
Haymaker @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present their latest prime-time offering, Haymaker by ensemble member Trevor Dawkins. Featuring a performance of a movie script Trevor wrote when he was 13, Haymaker features an all-actor cast, several staged fights, and the usual blend of autobiography & audience participation that the Neos are known for. Haymaker runs Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30pm at the Neo-Futurarium, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. Full details and advance tickets at the Neo-Futurist website, or call their hotline at (773) 878-4557.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., presents the monthly meeting of Write Club, the literary competition that pits local authors and actors against each other for the amusement of the audience. Show starts at 7pm, admission is $10, and all proceeds go to the charities selected by the participants.
Neighborhood Night @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., celebrates Neighborhood Night tonight by allowing moviegoers to pay a reduced admission to see a handful of screenings happening this evening. The film screenings start at 6pm, and a reception catered by Whole Foods starts at 7pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Film Center website.. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
WZRD 40th Anniversary Show @ Double Door
The Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee Ave., hosts the 40th anniversary celebration show for freeform radio station WZRD tonight. The headliners: Acid Mother's Temple, with opening acts Perhaps and Silver Abuse. Doors at 8pm, show at 8:30pm, and tickets are $18 ($10 for NEIU students). 21+
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret @ Silvie's Lounge
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret, the city's only uke-themed open mic night, convenes once again this evening at 8pm at Silvie's Lounge, 1902 Irving Park Rd. The theme of the evening is "UKE SOUNTRACKS": songs from movies, TV shows, musicals, etc. Musicans are allowed up to 15 minutes or three songs, and an ukulele must be part of the group. More details at the Chicago Ukulele Cabaret Facebook group.
Mapping Session with Honey Pot Performers @ MANA Contemporary
Are you into Punk & New Wave? Even better, are you into groovin' and dancin'? The wonderful Honey Pot Performance will be hosting a free monthly interactive/music themed event that reflects the Chicago music scene. The month of May is Punk & New Wave and will be hosted at MANA Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St., tonight at 7:30pm. You can check out more information on Facebook. The event is free and BYOB. Bring a dancing buddy.
Manual Cinema's Lula Del Ray Puppet Show
Set in the mid-century American Southwest and inspired by the music of Hank Williams, Roy Orbison, and Patsy Cline, Lula Del Ray is a mythic reinvention of a classic coming-of-age story, performed with overhead projectors, shadow puppets, actors in silhouette, and live music. The event will be held at The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1015 N. Dearborn St. tonight and May 30 at 7:30pm.
The Wind Rises @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a two-week-long run of the Studio Ghibli film The Wind Rises, which is supposedly the final film of legendary director Hayao Miyazaki. Full details and advance tickets available at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Human Rights Watch Film Festival @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the Human Rights Watch Film Festival, which runs Tuesday evenings through June 10. Each screening will feature and appearance by the filmmakers. Full details and advance tickets available at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Studs' Place @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts a "live performance/broadcast" of an episode of "Studs' Place," the TV show from the 1950s starring Studs Terkel. The performance will be done by Pocket Guide To Hell. Show starts at 7:00pm, doors open at 6:00, and admission is $10 at the door. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Kieran McGonnell Round Trip Ticket Exhibit
The Ugly Stepsister Gallery, located on 1750 S Union Avenue in Pilsen, will be hosting the first exhibition of Kieran McGonnell since his passing on May 9th from 6-8:30 PM. The exhibition runs through July 6 and is open and free to the public.
SAIC Graduate and Undergraduate Festival
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago Graduate and Undergraduate Film, Video, New Media, Animation, and Sound Festival is today, Wednesday May 7th, Thursday May 8th and Friday May 9th. The festival will begin all three days at 4:30PM at the Gene Siskel Film Center located at 164 N. State Street. Admission is free.
2014 MFA Photography Exhibition @ Columbia College
May 6-17 marks the beginning of the MFA Photo exhibition for Columbia College. The Glass Curtain Gallery located at, 1104 S Wabash Avenue, will be featuring six photographers in the Masters program.
One Minute Play Festival @ Victory Gardens Theater
Victory Gardens partners up with the New-York-based One Minute Play Festival to bring an evening of very short performances to the stage. The show runs tonight and tomorrow night at the Biograph Theater (2433 N. Lincoln Ave.) at 7:30pm. Tickets are $18, and can be purchased from the Victory Gardens website.
Randolph St. Market Festival
Today, May 24th and tomorrow, May 25th, the Randolph Street Market Festival will be occurring on 350 Block West Randolph and 1340 W. Washington Street. The festival is an urban antique market which features fashion, art, treasures, as well as food, drinks and music. General admission is $8, $10 at the gate.
Masters of Polish Cinema @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents a two-month series of screenings by Polish directors, as chosen by director Martin Scorsese. The festival starts this afternoon with screenings of the 1964 film The Saragossa Manuscript, and runs through July 3. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Troll 2 @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a midnight screening of the utterly inexplicable 1990 film Troll 2. Don't piss on hospitality and miss this film! Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Kartemquin Spring Showcase @ Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents a preview of upcoming films from Kartemquin Films, the local documentary company responsible for such films as Hoop Dreams and The Interruptors. The screening begins at 8:30pm tonight, and includes appearances by the directors. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
Seeger Social Singlong & Celebration @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music holds an evening of singing and music in honor of the late great Pete Seeger. Join original Old Town School instructor Frank Hamilton for a group singalong, and enjoy other related activities happening throughout the building. Full details and advance tickets available at the Old Town School Website, or call the school front desk at (773) 728-6000.
CIMMfest 2014
The Chicago International Movies & Music Festival runs April 30-May 4. Various musical performances, movie screenings, panel discussions, and other events are happening throughout the city; see the schedule for full details. Each show is ticketed separately, or buy a day pass for $35, a festival pass for $75, or a VIP pass for $150.
Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo
C2E2 returns to McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr., this weekend, April 25-27.Meet Hulk Hogan, Gene Ha, Brian Posehn, Scott Adsit, Ernie Hudson and Stan Lee (check the guest list for details), attend sessions and walk the floor. The show's open from 11am to 5pm today; tickets are $25 in advance, #35 at the door; $5 for kids 12 and under. Three-day passes are $60 preshow, $70 at the door.
Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo
C2E2 returns to McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr., this weekend, April 25-27.Meet Hulk Hogan, Gene Ha, Brian Posehn, Scott Adsit, Ernie Hudson and Stan Lee (check the guest list for details), attend sessions and walk the floor. The show's open from 10am to 7pm today; tickets are $25 in advance, #35 at the door; $5 for kids 12 and under. Three-day passes are $60 preshow, $70 at the door.
Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo
C2E2 returns to McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr., this weekend, April 25-27.Meet Hulk Hogan, Gene Ha, Brian Posehn, Scott Adsit, Ernie Hudson and Stan Lee (check the guest list for details), attend sessions and walk the floor. The show's open from 11am to 7pm today; tickets are $25 in advance, #35 at the door; $5 for kids 12 and under. Three-day passes are $60 preshow, $70 at the door.
Chicago Pun Slam @ Door No. 3
The Double Door hosts the Pundamonium: The Chicago Pun Slam tonight at 8:00pm in its Door No. 3 space. Ten contestants have to come up with puns on the spot on a given topic, and as the contestants get whittled down to the punniest, the reaction times get shorter and shorter. It's puns-on-demand! Details on the event at the Double Door Website. Double Door: 1572 N. Milwaukee.
Secret History of Chicago Music Anniversary show @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts the 10th anniversary celebration for the Chicago Reader's series The Secret History of Chicago Music. The show will feature a bunch of Chicago bands, but what you really need to know is that the infamous T. Valentine, the man behind the song "Hello Lucille, Are You A Lesbian?", is going to be there, which should be incentive enough to attend. Show starts at 9:00pm, and admission is FREE! Details at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Cake Frame 2 @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Brain Frame and the Chicago Alternative Comics Expo (CAKE) team up tonight for a fundraiser at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St. Bid on original art by local comic artists (including Chris Ware and Nicole Hollander); hear readings by Kevin Budnik, Rachel Niffenegger, Pup House and Jen Rickert; watch live drawing by Jenna Caravello; and enjoy live music by The El Is A Sound Of Joy. Doors open at 6pm, performances begin at 7. Admission is $5-20 on a sliding scale.
Ladies and Gentlemen, The Fabulous Stains @ Music Box
"Do you wanna join the PROFESSIONALS?" The Music Box presents a midnight screening of the 1982 cult film Ladies and Gentlemen, The Fabulous Stains this weekend. If you haven't seen Diane Ladd and Laura Dern in a punk band before, this is your chance! Screening details at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Steven Szegedi Collage Exhibition @ Harold Washington Library
Long time artist, Steven Szegedi, AKA Vaucanson's Workshop is introducing his work to a wider audience with his exhibition, Sergeant Vaucanson's Raree-Show, at the Harold Washington Library, 400 S State Street (eighth floor), from today until May 30th. Steven has a studio at the Bridgeport Art Center as well and will be having open studios in the near future.
The First Time @ Martyrs'
CHIRP Radio presents the latest edition of its literary series The First Time tonight at 8pm at Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave. The theme this time is "first move," and includes Doug Sohn of Hot Doug's, Imerman Angels founder Johnny Imerman, writer Cher Vincent, writer Barrie Cole, filmmaker and comedian Michael Sanchez, and Story Club founder Dana Norris -- and as always, the First Time Three performs a song related to each story. Admission is $10, and all proceeds go to CHIRPRadio.org.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the monthly meeting of Write Club. Founder Ian Belknap presides over a series of literary bouts, as various Chicago actors and authors take up opposing viewpoints and give a rousing speech. The winner, judged by a panel of knowledgeable experts, receives a donation for his or her preferred charity. Write Club starts at 7:00pm, and admission is $10 at the door. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
75th Birthday @ The Hyde Park Art Center
Today, April 13th, marks the 75th birthday of the Hyde Park Art Center. The art center, located at, 5020 S. Cornell Avenue will be hosting an event from 1:00pm to 5:00pm where visitors can mingle with the artists, explore The Beast and listen to experimental music by New Material.
Kieran McGonnell @ Ugly Step Sister Art Gallery
The late artist, Kieran McGonnell is having a three-month long exhibition entitled, Round Trip Ticket, in Pilsen at the Ugly Step Sister Art Gallery. The opening reception is tonight from 6-10pm at 1750 S. Union Ave. Event is free and open to the public.
Everything Is Terrible! @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., welcomes those VHS hoarders, Everything Is Terrible!, who will regale the audience with some short-length subjects before a screening of their 2012 film Doggie Woggiez! Poochie Woochiez!, a remake of Jodorowski's Holy Mountain ... but with dogs. The screening is tonight at 6pm. Box Office: (312) 846-2085.
Eleventh Dream Day @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., welcomes long-running Chicago band Eleventh Dream Day, as they begin a series of four concerts happening every Sunday in April at the Hideout. Tonight's show is at 8pm, and tickets are $10. Full details and advance ticket purchase available at the Hideout website.
Tropical Depression @ LVL3
Join the contemporary art gallery, LVL3, at 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave for their opening reception of Tropical Depression. The event is free and open to the public today from 6-10pm.
Sound Opinions workshop @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a workshop with the co-hosts of Sound Opinions, Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot. Their topic will be "Everything You Need to Know About the Music Industry in 2014," and will be geared at bands who are looking for tips to help promote their music. Full details on the workshop at the school's Website, or call the main desk at (773) 728-6000.
Bring Me the Head of James Franco... @ Steppenwolf
Steppenwolf's Late Night at Garage Rep series welcomes Write Club founder Ian Belknap tonight at 11:00pm. Ian will be performing his latest solo show Bring Me the Head of James Franco, That I May Prepare A Savory Goulash In The Narrow And Misshapen Pot Of His Skull. Tickets to the show are $5; see the Steppenwolf site for full details and advance tickets. The show happens in Steppenwolf's Garage space located at 1624 N. Halsted.
Mr. Freedom @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the surreal 1969 film Mr. Freedom as part of its American New Wave series. The film screens at 6:00pm; see the Film Center Website for full details and advance tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
International Vintage Poster Fair
Saturday and today, the International Vintage Poster Fair will be taking place at the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. . This year the exhibition will feature posters which present products and technology that emerged far before our present time. The show is open from 11am to 6pm today; admission is $15.
Harts for Arts @ LVL3
LVL3 art gallery in Wicker Park, 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave, will be presenting their 5th annual art auction and benefit raffle today for the non profit Arts of Life. The event runs from 6pm-10pm; bidding ends at 9:30. All of the presented artwork start at $30, raffle tickets are 1 for $3 or 2 for $5.
Women's History Month @ Chicago Public Library
The Chicago Public Library is hosting a Women's History Month art exhibition presenting sisters, Jessie Winslow and Rachel Winslow. Jessie will be giving an artist talk today at 2pm at the Lincoln Park branch, 1150 W Fullerton Ave. Event is free and open to the public.
Beat Swap Meet @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts Beat Swap Meet, a record fair featuring collectors & dealers from Chicagoland. The event starts at noon, and admission is $5 or free with the donation of a canned good. Full details at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
International Vintage Poster Fair
Today through Sunday, March 30, the International Vintage Poster Fair will be taking place at the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. . This year the exhibition will feature posters which present products and technology that emerged far before our present time. The show is open from 10am to 7pm today; admission is $15.
The Holy Mountain @ Music Box
Inspired by the new documentary Jodorowsky's Dune, the Music Box, 3733 N. Southport Ave., is doing a midnight screening of the director's infamous 1973 film The Holy Mountain. The film screens tonight and tomorrow night at midnight; details at the Music Box website. (773) 871-6604.
International Vintage Poster Fair
Today through Sunday, March 30, the International Vintage Poster Fair will be taking place at the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. . This year the exhibition will feature posters which present products and technology that emerged far before our present time. There's a preview party tonight from 5 to 9pm; admission is $20.
The Jesus Lizard book party @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle celebrates the release of The Jesus Lizard Book from Akashic Books. In attendance will be David Yow, David Sims and Mac McNeilly from the band, who will be participating in a panel discussion about the band & the book. The event starts at 7:00pm; full details at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs hosts the monthly Moth StorySLAM tonight at 8:00pm. Five audience members compete with a five-minute story on a given topic, and the person judged to be the winner of the slam goes on to the Grandslam Championships. Tickets are $8, and no advance tickets are available, so arrive early to make sure you get in. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
Visting Artist: Jennifer Doyle @ SAIC
The Art Institute of Chicago has invited Jennifer Doyle, Professor of English and Co-Chair of the LGBIT Studies Minor at University of California to speak about her newest book, "Hold It Against Me: Difficulty and Emotion in Contemporary Art". The event is this evening at 6pm located at 280 S. Columbus Drive at the SAIC Columbus Auditorium. For more information call 312-899-5185 or email events@saic.edu
"M"... is for Murder @ The Peanut Gallery
Artist, Corinne Halbert, will have a solo exhibition at the Peanut Gallery tonight from 5-9pm. The exhibition "M"...is for Murder features a maniacal mouse named "Mikee" and his beloved "Minee". The event, located at, 1000 N. California Ave, is free and open to the public.
Welcome To Night Vale @ Athenaeum
The Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave., welcomes the live touring performance of the wildly popular podcast "Welcome to Night Vale." Tickets are on sale through the Athenaeum box office, as well as through Lincoln Hall's website. There are two all-ages shows, at 7pm and 10pm. Tickets are $25.
Live Music Performance @ Roman Susan Gallery
Tonight the Roman Susan Gallery, located at 1224 W Loyola Avenue, will be featuring the musician and performer Steven Snowden. His performances include the vibraphone and electronic sounds sampled from 1970s pay phones around the US. The event is free and open to the public; doors open at 7:30pm, performance begins at 8pm.
Story Club South Side @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Story Club returns to Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., tonight at 8pm and is hosted by the ever charming Andrew Marikis. The theme this month is "Catch Your Own Tail." That is, stories that begin and end with the same phrase. The show features tales from Seven Deadly Sins producer Angela Vela, New York Times essayist Alan Neff and Storyteller, masseuse, and Quantum Leap aficionado Dennis Frymire. There's also an open mic, signup for which begins at 7:30pm. $5 suggested donation. The show is kinda bad-ass, you should totally go.
Story Week: 2nd Story @ Martyrs
As part of Columbia College's Story Week the event 2nd Story happens tonight at Martyrs, featuring live readings and live music. Show starts at 7:00pm, there's no cover charge, and it's an 18+ show. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
Almost Pi(e) Day @ Open Books
The Chicago Nerd Social Club celebrates Pi Day 2014 this afternoon at Open Books, 213 W. Institute Pl. with their annual pie bake-off, a trivia quiz, and a challenge to see who can recite the most digits of everyone's favorite irrational number! The celebration kicks off at 3pm, and admission is free! Full details at the Chicago Nerds website.
St. Patricks Day Scavenger Hunt @ Lomography Chicago
Calling all film photographers! Today at 12pm the Lomography Embassy Chicago store located at 1422 N. Milwaukee Ave will be hosting a scavenger hunt which includes a 3 hour shooting excursion. 21+ for bar hopping. Prepay $20/ Day of registration $25
Reservoir Dogs @ Music Box
The midnight movie this weekend at the Music Box, 3733 N. Southport Ave., is Quentin Tarantino's Reservoir Dogs from 1992, which will be shown in a 35mm print. Full details at the Music Box website.
St Patrick's Party @ Abbey Pub
The Abbey Pub, 3420 W. Grace St., celebrates its 40th annual St. Patrick's Day part with a three-day music festival starting this afternoon at 1:00pm. If three days of Irish music sounds good to you, check it out! Details at the Abbey Pub website. (773) 478-4408.
Chicago Zine Fest
The Chicago Zine Fest continues today with a zine exhibition, workshops, printing demos, and much more. The fest happens at Columbia College, 1104 S. Wabash Ave., beginning at 11am. See the festival's website for a complete schedule.
Particle Fever @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre starts screening the new documentary Particle Fever this evening, and is celebrating opening night with a Q&A session with the filmmakers. The screening is at 7:10pm; full details at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Chicago Zine Fest
The Chicago Zine Fest starts today at 1pm with a series of discussions at the Conaway Center at Columbia College, 1104 S. Wabash Ave. The festival continues through tomorrow; see the festival's website for a complete schedule.
HAPA @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening concert by Maui duo HAPA as part of their World Music Wednesdays series. The concert starts at 8:00pm at the school's concert hall at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. Full details at the school's Website, or call the front desk at (773) 728-6000.
Stones Throw Records doc @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents a screening of the documentary about Stones Throw Records, Our Vinyl Weighs A Ton. The screening starts at 6:30pm, and tickets are $15. Full details and advance tickets available at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
I Heart Core! @ Matilda's
Interested in live music, dancing and visual art? The Core Project is an arts company which focuses on the art of storytelling. The event is tonight from 7:30 to 10:30, at 3101 N Sheffield Ave. Light snacks and drinks are provided. Prepay for $8 or pay $10 at the door tonight!
First Friday @ Flat Iron Building
Join the party at the historic Flat Iron Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave, for tons of open artist studios and living spaces. The event takes place tonight from 6pm until 10pm. There is a suggested donation of $5.
Opening Reception @ Jackson Junge Gallery
Entitled, A Symphony of Realism and Abstraction, the Jackson Junge Gallery has a free exhibition running from March 7-April 27th. Located at 1389 N Milwaukee Ave, from 6-10pm. General gallery hours are 11-8 and Sundays 12-5.
Bob Mould @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a concert by Bob Mould, celebrating the 25th anniversary of his first solo album Workbook. The concert starts at 8pm in the school's concert hall at 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. Full details and advance tickets available online, or call the front desk at (773) 728-6000.
Wes Anderson Retrospective @ Music Box
In anticipation of Wes Anderson's new film, the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., is running a week-long retrospective of all of Anderson's previous feature films, from Bottle Rocket to Moonrise Kingdom. Visit the Music Box website for a complete schedule and advance tickets.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs hosts the monthly edition of The Moth StorySLAM, wherein five audience members go head-to-head with their best 5-minute story. The winner of tonight's event goes on to the Grandslam Championships at a later date. Show starts at 8:00pm, admission is $8. No advance tickets, so make sure you arrive early. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
The Room @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a midnight screening of that much-loved Valentine's Day classic The Room. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Sound Opinions @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening with Sound Opinions co-hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot. The topic of the evening is "20 Albums That You Haven't Heard That You Need To Know About", and Jim & Greg will present their list & talk with the audience about their choices. The talk starts at 8:00pm in the school's new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Full details and advance tickets available at the school Website, or call the school's front desk at (773) 728-6000.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the monthly meeting of Write Club, the literary bout featuring local authors taking up differing positions, and metaphorically duking it out on stage for your entertainment (and for charities of the participants' choice). Write Club starts at 7:00pm, and admission is $5. Full details at the Hideout Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Story Club South Side @ Co-Prosperity Sphere, Bridgeport
Story Club returns to Co-Prosperity Sphere , 3219 S Morgan St, tonight at 8pm. The theme this month is "shorts." This month's featured performers will have just 4 minutes to tell their stories. The show features stories from Emmy-award winner, playwright, and 90's comedian Joe Janes, You're Being Ridiculous founder and host Jeremy Owens, Story stylist-- most recently of Vocalo's Music & Stories Xavier Jordan, Actor, teaching artist, and founder of Knife & Fork Theatre Dani Bryant, Actor and story queen Maura Clement and Journalist and Story Club Magazine's web designer -- David Lipowski! There's also an open mic, signup for which begins at 7:30pm. $5 suggested donation.
Tribute to Punk @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening of punk music performed by school faculty & friends. The evening kicks off at 8pm in the school's new building at 4545 N. Lincoln Ave. Full details and advance tickets available at the school's website, or call the front desk at (773) 728-6000.
The Magical Exploding Boy and the Invisible Circus @ Actors Gymnasium
The Actors Gymnasium presents The Magical Exploding Boy (local clown & mime actor Dean Evans) along with circus performers from the Actors Gym. The show opens this afternoon with performances at 4:30pm and 7:30pm, and runs through March 23. Tickets available online only through Actors Gym Website. Actors Gymnasium: 927 Noyes Street, Evanston. (847) 328-2795.
Gear and Beer Swap @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle holds a gear & beer swap starting at noon. If you have musical gear, or beer, that you'd like to trade, bring it along! Admission is free. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
The Princess Bride @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special Valentine's Day screening of that romantic film The Princess Bride. Two screenings of the film tonight, one at 6:00pm and one at 9:30pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
George Kahumoku, Jr. & Ledward Kaapana @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music present an evening of Hawaiian music by two living slack-key guitar legends: Grammy-winning artist George Kahumoku, Jr.; and NEA NAtional Heritage Fellowship recipient Ledward Kaapana. The concert starts at 8:00pm in the Maurer Concert Hall in the school's main building at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. Full details and advance tickets available at the school's Website, for call the school's front desk at (773) 728-6000.
Leslie and the LYs @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents a performance by that wholesome Midwestern girl Leslie Hall, with her band Leslie and the LYs tonight at 9:30pm. Expect lots of gem sweaters and gold pants. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door; full details at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' hosts the monthly Moth StorySLAM, where audience members are invited to tell a five-minute story on the evening's theme. The winner, as judged by a team of judges also selected from the audience, advance to the Grandslam Championships. The evening starts at 8:00pm, but these shows are usually SRO, so arrive well in advance if you want to get in. Martyrs': 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
B-Fest 2014
Northwestern University's student organization A&O Productions presents B-Fest 2014, a 24-hour non-stop B-movie festival beginning Friday night at 6pm, and ending Saturday night at 6pm. B-Fest happens on the campus of Northwestern, in the McKormick Auditorium in Norris University Center. Full details and advance tickets available through the B-Fest website.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the monthly literary bout known as Write Club. Overlord Ian Belknap pits author vs. author, battling it out for bragging writes (and donations to their favored charities). Write Club starts at 7:00pm; admission is a mere $10. Full details at the Hideout's Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Performance Anxiety Chicago @ The Pleasure Chest
Do you love to laugh? Do you also love discounts on sex toys? Then Performance Anxiety Chicago is for you! This comedy showcase is a sex-positive, LGBT friendly stand-up show at the Pleasure Chest, 3436 N. Lincoln Ave. The show is FREE, and a $5 suggested donation goes to the performers. Tonight's performance features comedians Goodrich Gevaart, Kristin Clifford, Michael Timlin, Katie McVay, Reena Calm, Stephanie Hasz and Danny Kallas and starts at 8pm. Bonus: 15% discount on store items for any attendees. Stock up!
Global Dance Party @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music present an evening of go-go music and dancing tonight in their new school building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Free lessons, dance performances, and an amateur dancing contest are on the schedule for the evening. Full details at the Old Town School Website, or call the school's front desk at (773) 728-6000.
The First Time @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' hosts the CHIRP Radio literary program The First Time tonight at 8:00pm. The series pairs an essay about a first-time event with a song covered by The First Time Three band. Advance tickets available at the Martyrs' Website. Martyrs': 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Filmspotting 2013 Wrap Party @ Mayne Stage
Filmspotting, the Chicago-based film discussion radio show, wraps up 2013 today with a live discussion at Mayne Stage (1328 W. Morse) featuring Filmspotting co-hosts Adam Kempenaar and Josh Larsen, along with the Tribune's film critic Michael Phillips. The show starts at noon, doors open at 11:00, and tickets are available in advance through the Mayne Stage Website.
Zoë Keating @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a concert by cellist Zoë Keating, previously heard collaborating with the WNYC show Radiolab and many other artists. The concert happens this evening at 7:00pm in the school's main concert hall at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. Full details and advance tickets at the school's Website, or call the school's front desk at (773) 728-6000.
Our Living Room Show @ UP Comedy Club
This event, an extension of last month's Letters to Santa benefit, is not cheap -- tickets start at $300 -- but it's well worth the money if you love comedy and Jeff Tweedy. You'll get a 90-minute set from the Wilco frontman, as well as the comedy stylings of current "Saturday Night Live" and Second City talent (among them Pat O'Brien, Cecily Strong, Aidy Bryant, Beth Melewski, TJ Jagadowski, and Horatio Sanz). Doors open at 6pm, show begins at 7pm; UP Comedy Club is located at 230 W. North Ave.
Too Much Light New Year's @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present their annual New Year's Eve performance of their long-running show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. The ensemble will kick of the 60-minute show right at 1:00pm, so that when the buzzer sounds at the end of the show, the New Year has arrived. The catered pre-show reception will being at 9:30pm; tickets are $50, and can be purchased through the Neo-Futurists' Website. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 North Ashland (at Foster). (773) 878-4557.
Roky Erickson @ Beat Kitchen
Beat Kitchen rings in the new year with singer-songwriter Roky Erickson. Doors at 8:30pm, show at 9:30pm, 21+ show, tickets are $30. Advance tickets available at the Beat Kitchen Website. Beat Kitchen: 2100 W. Belmont. (773) 281-4444.
Alex Chilton Birthday Bash @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle celebrates the birthday of singe-songwriter Alex Chilton with their ninth annual Birthday Bash, featuring a slate of bands performing his songs all evening. The show starts at 8:00pm, and admission is $9. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
The Umbrellas of Cherbourg @ Music Box
The Music Box presents the return of the classic 1964 film The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, starring a 20-year-old Catherine Deneuve in a tragic tale of lost love, all set to a continuous score by Michel Legrand. The film runs through next week; see the Music Box Website for a full schedule. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Last day of Christkindlmarket @ Daley Center
Christkindlmarket closes up at the end of day today, so if you haven't been to get your German gifts for Christmas, better do it today! The market is open from 11:00am to 4:00pm in Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington).
The Party @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of Blake Edwards' film The Party, his Jacques Tati-inspired comedy that was reportedly Elvis Presley's favorite film. The Party screens this afternoon at 3:00pm, and again on December 26 at 6:00pm. Full details at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2600.
The Hideout's Last Chance Holiday Sale
The Hideout hosts their annual holiday craft sale today starting at 11:00am. A list of participating artists, along with further details, is available at the Hideout Website. Admission to the sale is free. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
6 String Social @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents the final occurrence of their 6 String Social, in which musicians of all instruments and levels are invited to join to sing and play songs. This evening's event is the final one being held in the school's location at 909 West Armitage Avenue, so expect a festive evening of song and merriment. The event starts at 6:30pm, and admission is $10 ($5 for school members). Full details and online registration available at the school's Website, or call their front desk at (773) 728-6000.
DIY Messiah @ Harris Theatre
Can you Handel it? Join up with musicians and a conductor to churn out a holiday classic tonight at 7pm at the Harris Theatre for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive. Tickets $15.
DIY Messiah @ Harris Theater
Can you Handel it? Join up with musicians and a conductor to churn out a holiday classic tonight at 7pm at the Harris Theatre for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive. Tickets $15.
Guts & Glory @ Powell's Bookstore
Come to Powell's Bookstore, 2850 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 7pm for Chicago's boldest and most bad-ass storytelling event. This brave and bold live-lit show is hosted by Brooke Allen and Keith Ecker. Tonight's featured performers include Danny Black, Randall Colburn, Eileen Dougharty, Robyn Okrant, Sarah Terez Rosenblum. Free.
Once in a Lifetime @ Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall and Everything Is Terrible! present their occasional series Once in a Lifetime, best described as an MST3K show focusing on Lifetime dramatic films. Tonight's film: the 1996 Tori Spelling jaw-dropper Co-Ed Call Girl, featuring live commentary by local comedians. The show starts at 8:00pm, it's an 18+ show, and admission is a measly $5. Full details and advance tickets available at the Lincoln Hall calendar. Lincoln Hall: 2424 N. Lincoln. (773) 525-2501.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' hosts the monthly Moth StorySLAM starting tonight at 8:00pm. Ten random people are chosen to deliver a five-minute story on a given topic, and the best story (judged by a panel of audience members) earns its author a spot at the StorySLAM semifinals. Admission is only $8, but the show is very popular, so arrive early. Martyrs': 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
The Second City That Never Sleeps/Letters to Santa @ Second City
This 24 hour-long benefit for needy families begins at 6pm at the Second City e.t.c Theater (1608 N. Wells) and is a marathon of music -- among them JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound, Bob Mould, and Sally Timms (Letters to Santa veteran Jeff Tweedy, as well as St. Vincent, Bush, and a reformed Veruca Salt will play live from other locations), improv from local Second City talent (as well as Fred Armisen) and entertainment (Lil Bub the cat!) that is well worth the $20 admission fee. The event will also auction off items such as a Jeff Tweedy concert in your living room, tickets to a taping of "Saturday Night Live," and a recording session with Steve Albini. If you can't handle the heat, stay out of the kitchen and watch the entire event online; it'll be streaming for free.
Quimby's Holiday Sketch Gift-ravaganza
Quimby's hosts six local comic artists today from 12:30pm to 6:30pm. Come on down and get a hand-drawn gift for your friends or family! Full details, including a list of participating artists, available at the Quimby's Website. Quimby's: 1854 W. North Avenue. (773) 342-0910.
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret @ Silvie's Lounge
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret presents its annual holiday ukulele open-mic show tonight at Silvie's Lounge (1902 W. Irving Park). The title of the evening is "How the Uke Stole Christmas (and Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, etc.)". Interested performers are requested to prepare up to 3 songs of holiday material for a 15-minute set. The show starts at 8:00pm, and runs until there are no more performers. Further information available at the group's Facebook page.
30th Annual Music Box Christmas Show
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. celebrates its 30th annual holiday special starting today, and running through December 24. The show consists of a double-feature of two holiday classics: It's A Wonderful Life and White Christmas. Along with the films you get sing-along Christmas carols and a visit from Santa Claus. A full schedule and advance tickets are available at the Music Box website.
The Punk Singer @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents the 2013 documentary The Punk Singer, a look at the career of singer Kathleen Hanna. The film opens tonight and runs through next week; see the Music Box Website for a complete schedule. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Songs of Good Cheer @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their annual Songs of Good Cheer holiday music concert series, starting tonight at 7:30pm and running through December 15. Full details and advance tickets available through the Old Town School Website, or call the school's front desk at (773) 728-6000.
Solo in the 2nd City @ Beauty Bar
Come to Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Avenue, tonight for Solo in the 2nd City at 8pm to witness a hand full of Chicago's talented writers, comedians and authors tell stories of being single, dating and sex in the Windy City. The show is hosted by Carly Oishi and Melinda McIntire. Tonight's featured performers include Brooke Allen, Patrick Allen Carberry, Neil O'Callaghan, Jeremy Owens and Katie Prout. The event is FREE but donations will be collected to benefit Chicago Women's Health Center. (21 +)
Dredd @ Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 2012 reboot of the Judge Dredd film series, starring Karl Urban in the title role. Dredd screens this evening at 6:00pm; see the Film Center's Website for details. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2800.
The Revenge of Radio Goggles @ Oracle Theatre
Oracle Theatre presents the latest in their series of recreations of old-time radio programs, The Revenge of Radio Goggles. Actors lip-sync to vintage radio dramas, to unusual effect (the Reader calls them "eerie, robotic performances"). Tonight's performance is at 8:00pm; the show runs through December 14. Admission is free, so reservations are recommended. Full details at the Oracle Theatre Website. Oracle Theatre: 3809 N. Broadway. (773) 2244-2980.
Plan 9 Burlesque @ Public House Theatre
Plan 9 Burlesque presents a "best-of" show this evening at 6:00pm at Public House Theatre (3914 N. Clark), featuring some of their favorite burlesque routines from 2013. Tickets are available through the Public House Website.
Lloyd Kaufman Troma screening @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a very special midnight movie experience this weekend: a live appearance by Troma co-founder Lloyd Kaufman, who will be introducing the latest Troma film: Return to Nuke'Em High, a sequel of the 1986 Troma film Nuke Em High. This screening and appearance happens both Friday and Saturday night at midnight; full details available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
I Am Divine @ Facets Cinematheque
Facets Cinematheque presents a week-long screening of the new documentary I Am Divine, telling the story of the film icon brought to the public by John Waters' series of films. See a full schedule of showtimes at the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue. (773) 281-4114.
First Friday @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents its monthly First Friday event, where the public can sample music and dance classes offered through the school. This month's First Friday also features a holiday crafts bazaar, with items made by the school's teachers, students and volunteers. First Friday starts at 6:00pm in the main building of the school, at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. Admission is $5 for individuals and $10 for families. Full details at the Old Town School Website, or call the school's front desk at (773) 728-6000.
Disney double feature @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a Disney double feature: Mary Poppins at 5:30pm, and the new film Saving Mr. Banks at 8:00pm. Details on how to attend available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
TML: The Baby Returns To The Cradle @ Chicago Comics
The Neo-Futurists celebrate their 25th anniversary with a special one-time-only performance of their flagship show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind at the space where they first debuted: 3244 N. Clark, currently home of Chicago Comics. Tonight's performance will feature a group of performers from the show's run, from founder Greg Allen to current ensemble members, and many in between. The show happens tonight at 8:00pm; full details and advance tickets at the Neo-Futurists Website.
Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts the latest installment of Claire Zulkey's reading series Funny Ha-Ha, tonight at 6:30pm. This time around, the show features Moth GrandSlam champion and Homemade Stories podcast host Shannon Cason, The Encyclopedia Show's Robbie Telfer, The Kates host Amy Sumpter, "SNL" writer Claire Mulaney, Meaty author Samantha Irby and filmmaker Steve Delahoyde. Admission is $5 at the door. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia.
Sing-Along Sound of Music @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents their annual sing-along version of The Sound of Music, opening this afternoon at 4pm. Props for audience-participation moments will be provided, and you are encouraged to dress up as your favorite character for the costume contest. The film screens multiple times this weekend; see the Music Box website for a schedule and advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Christkindlmarket @ Daley Center
The annual Christkindlmarket opens today in Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington) and runs through December 24. Hand-crafted holiday goods from Germany, Bavaria, Poland, and many other nations. Oh, and don't forget the German beer!
You're Being Ridiculous @ Mary's Attic
You're Being Ridiculous is a group of real people telling real funny stories about their lives with a theme as their guide. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "heroes." Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic (5400 N. Clark), tickets are $15 at Brown Paper Tickets.
Doctor Who 50th Anniversary Live Show @ Mad River
The Chicago Nerd Social Club hosts a viewing party for the 50th anniversary Doctor Who special, running from 11:00am to 2:00pm today. The screening is happening at Mad River (2909 N. Sheffield). The event is free; full details at the Chicago Nerds Website.
Music Box's 30th Anniversary
The Music Box Theatre celebrates their 30th anniversary as a repertory cinema with two weeks of daily double-features, starting today with a double feature of North by Northwest and The Big Lebowski. A complete schedule is available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Guts & Glory @ Powell's Bookstore
Come to Powell's Bookstore, 2850 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 7pm for Chicago's boldest and most bad-ass storytelling event. This brave and bold live-lit show is hosted by Samantha Irby and Keith Ecker. Tonight's featured performers include Ian Belknap, Jen Anne Coffeen, Jeremy Owens, Katie Prout and Diana Slickman. Free.
"Vanishing Neighborhoods" Film Shorts @ Comfort Station
This evening Preservation Chicago, the Chicago Film Archives and Kartemquin Films are screening three short 16mm films documenting Chicago's demolition and change in 1960s and 1970s at Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. For additional details about the films and the event, check out the event's Facebook page.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts the monthly literary bout WRITE CLUB, starting at 7:00pm. Emcee/Overlord Ian Belknap presides over three bouts of two authors, each battling it out for their chosen charities. Admission is $10 at the door. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
You're Being Ridiculous @ Mary's Attic
You're Being Ridiculous is a group of real people telling real funny stories about their lives with a theme as their guide. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "heroes." Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic (5400 N. Clark), tickets are $15 at Brown Paper Tickets.
Jonathan Richman @ Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall welcomes singer-songwriter Jonathan Richman for an all-ages concert tonight at 9:00pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Lincoln Hall calendar. Lincoln Hall: 2424 N. Lincoln. (773) 525-2501.
Os Mutantes @ Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall welcomes the Tropicalia innovators Os Mutantes for a show tonight at 8:00pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Lincoln Hall calendar. Lincoln Hall: 2424 N. Lincoln. (773) 525-2501.
Studs' Place @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts a "live performance/broadcast" of an episode of "Studs' Place," the TV show from the 1950s starring Studs Terkel. The performance will be done by Pocket Guide To Hell. Show starts at 7:00pm, doors open at 6:00, and admission is $10 at the door. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
You're Being Ridiculous @ Mary's Attic
You're Being Ridiculous is a group of real people telling real funny stories about their lives with a theme as their guide. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "heroes." Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.
Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts the monthly installment of Handmade Market, a craft show featuring local makers of all kinds. Expect to see handmade jewelry, clothing, bags, paper crafts, and much more. Admission is free, and the event runs from noon to 4pm. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Story Club @ Holiday Club
Come see Story Club tonight at the Holiday Club, 4000 N Sheridan Ave. The theme this month is "Thanks" and features readings from writer Sarah Hollenbeck, Chicago Writers Conference creator Mare Swallow, filmmaker and advice columnist Jennifer Peepas. Open mic slots are also available for storytelling hopefuls. Open mic signup starts at 7:30, show beings at 8pm.
Sparks @ Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave., welcomes the legendary electronic duo Sparks for a pair of concerts tonight and Thursday. Tickets are $30 online or at the door, which opens at 8pm. 18+
First Friday @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their monthly open house, Firdat Friday, starting this evening at 6:00pm in their new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Sample classes, jam sessions, and concerts will happen all evening. Admission is $5, or $10 for families. Full details at the school's Website, or call (773) 728-6000.
War of the Worlds @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a celebration of the infamous Halloween adaptation of H.G. Wells story War of the Worlds, with a screening of the 1953 film version (in a new 35mm print), and excerpts from the original 1939 version written by Orson Welles. The program starts this afternoon at 1:00pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Spooky Singalong @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a Halloween sing-along this morning at 11:00am in their main concert hall at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. The concert is $12, or $11 for school members. Full details and advance tickets available at the school's Website, or call (773) 728-6000.
Manos: The Hands of Fate @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre hosts a midnight screening of the legendary bad film Manos: The Hands of Fate. The version screening tonight is a recently restored version, made from an original work print of the film. Full details at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Kill All Comedy @ Hideout
The Hideout welcomes Kill All Comedy, the local comedy collective, as they present a best-of show starting tonight at 6:30pm (doors at 5:30pm). Admission is $5 at the door. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Sound Opinions at the Movies presents High Fidelity
The Music Box Theatre and Sound Opnions present the latest screening in their Sound Opinions at the Movies series: the film adaptation of Nick Hornby's novel High Fidelity. The film screens tonight at 7:30pm, introduced by Sound Opinions co-hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Bring Me The Head of James Franco... @ Den Theatre
The Den Theatre presents the new solo show by Write Club founder Ian Belknap, a show that has the snappy title Bring Me the Head of James Franco, That I May Prepare a Savory Goulash in the Narrow and Misshapen Pot of His Skull. Opening night is tonight at 7:30pm, and the show runs through November 16. See the Den Theatre Website for full details and ticket purchases. Den Theatre: 1333 N. Milwaukee. (773) 569-3454.
Music Box of Horrors
The Music Box Theatre presents their annual Music Box of Horrors film festival, running for 24 hours starting today at noon. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Filmless Festival
The Third Coast International Audio Festival presents their annual Filmless Festival, featuring audio productions from around the world, special guests talking about their works, and much more. The festival happens at the Old Town School of Folk Music today and tomorrow. Tickets to individual screenings and workshops are $12-20; a full festival pass is $75. Full details at the school's website.
Guts & Glory @ Powell's Bookstore
Come to Powell's Bookstore, 2850 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 7pm for Chicago's boldest and most bad-ass storytelling event. This brave and bold live-lit show is hosted by Samantha Irby and Keith Ecker. Tonight's featured performers include Megan Stielstra, Suzy Krueckeberg, Josh Zagoren, John Loos and Angela Benander.
Hawkwind @ Logan Square Auditorium
The Empty Bottle presents the space-rock band Hawkwind on their first tour in nearly 20 years. Tonight's show is at the Logan Square Auditorium at 8:30pm. Full details on the show available at the Empty Bottle Website.
Story Club South Side @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Come see Story Club tonight at the Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S Morgan St) The theme this month is "Are We Uncomfortable Yet?" and features readings from actor and solo performer Jane deLaubenfels, Writer and Host of The Encyclopedia Show Patrick Allen Carberry and Storyteller Extraordinaire Lara Levitan. Open mic slots are also available for storytelling hopefuls. Open mic signup starts at 7:30, show beings at 8pm. Entrance is free and a suggested $5 donation is greatly appreciated
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the monthly meeting of Write Club, the literary boxing match that pits Chicago authors and actors against each other in matches for charity. Write club starts at 7:00pm. Admission is $10 at the door. All proceeds go to the charities chosen by the participants. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Playdate at Old Town @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a tribute to their early days with Playdate at Old Town, a morning concert featuring instructors Mark Dvorak and Jason McInnes, and the Young Stracke All-Stars band. The concert happens in the school's new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue this morning at 1:00am. Full details and advance tickets available at the school's Website, or call (773) 728-6000.
Meet Your Maker
Meet your Maker is an opportunity for artists and arts administrators to interact and meet face-to-face bridging the divide between them. Join your colleagues from the creative sector to make a dynamic difference in the community. The event is tonight from 6 to 8pm at Fulton Street Collective, 2000 W. Fulton St. Suggested donation of $5 to cover food and refreshments; register to attend.
Word is Out @ Hideout
The Hideout, OutLoud Chicago, and In Our Words present Word Is Out, the reading series for the LGBTQ community. Doors open at 6:30pm, show is at 7:00pm, and admission is $5. Full details at the Hideout Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Found Footage Festival @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents The Found Footage Festival, masters of the found videotape, with a "best of the Midwest" special program tonight at 9:30pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Quintron & Miss Pussycat @ Empty Bottle
Former Chicagoans Quintron & Miss Pussycat bring their Spellcaster Lodge show back to the Empty Bottle tonight, with opening act zZz. Show starts at 9:00pm, admission is $14 at the door. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Docs at the Box
The Music Box Theatre presents its first documentary film festival, Docs at the Box. The festival runs for one week starting this evening, and will include such anticipated films as Evocateur: The Morton Downey, Jr. Movie, the George Plimpton biography Plimpton!, and the new Kartemquin film The Trials of Muhammad Ali. A full schedule and advance tickets for the festival are available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Art of Human Rights @ Palette & Chisel
Funds raised through The Art of Human Rights support Heartland Alliance's work to ensure that everyone has a roof over their head, access to health care, the opportunity to earn income to support themselves and their families, and to be treated fairly and with justice.
Reception: Friday, Oct. 4 • 7-10pm
at Palette & Chisel 1012 N Dearborn Chicago, IL 60610
First Fridays @ MCA
Magic is the theme at this month's First Fridays at the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave., tonight from 6pm to 11pm. See performances by magicians Dennis Watkins, Eugene Burger, David Kovac, Sean Masterson, Alba and Benjamin Barnes, plus short films by Christy LeMaster, psychedelia spun by DJ Plastic Crimewave and live music by Girl Group Chicago. Admission is $14 in advance, $18 at the door; $10 for MCA members.
Nick Offerman @ Music Box Theatre
The Music Box Theatre welcomes actor Nick Offerman, as he promotes his new book Paddle Your Own Canoe. He will be at the Music Box this evening from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website.
Spanish Flamenco Guitar
Thiago Vasquez is performing at the Instituto Cervantes tonight Friday, October 4th at 7PM.
Thiago is a world-class guitarist and composer who has worked with some of Spain's most renowned flamenco artists and this is his Chicago debut.
You can find more information here: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/461731
Additionally, Thiago will be teaching flamenco guitar group and private lessons throughout the month of October.
Story Club @ Holiday Club
Come see Story Club tonight at the Holiday Club, 4000 N Sheridan Ave. The theme this month is "Spooky" and features readings from "You're Being Ridiculous" producer Jeremy Owens, performer and dating superstar Ruth McCormack and Actor Maura Clement. Open mic slots are also available for storytelling hopefuls. Open mic signup starts at 7:30, show beings at 8pm.
Empty Bottle Book Club
The Empty Bottle hosts an afternoon book club meeting starting at 1:00pm. The book up for discussion is Salvage the Bones by Jesmyn Ward. Admission to the event is free. Full details at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 North Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
The Meat Puppets @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents the Meat Puppets this evening at 9:00pm, with special guests Enemy Planes and Vamos! Tickets are $20 ($18 in advance), and may be purchased through the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 North Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Beat Swap Meet @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts Beat Swap Meet Chicago, an afternoon of record vendors and DJs playing their rare vinyl. CDs not invited! Beat Swap Meet runs from noon to 6:00pm today, and entrance is $5 or free with a canned good. Full details at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 North Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Pere Ubu @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle hosts the legendary band Pere Ubu this evening at 9:30pm, with special guests Gagarin and Radiant Devices. The show starts at 9:30pm, and tickets are $15. Full details and advance tickets at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 North Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Django double feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center offers a double feature Quentin Tarantino's Django Unchained, and the original 1966 film Django at 6:00pm. The screening is part of the Film Center's Repertory screening series, and tickets for both films may be bought at a discount. See the Film Center's Website for full details. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Guts & Glory @ Powell's Bookstore
Come to Powell's Bookstore, 2850 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 7pm for Chicago's boldest and most bad-ass storytelling event. This brave and bold live-lit show is hosted by Samantha Irby and Keith Ecker. Tonight's featured performers include Stephanie Douglass, Mason Johnson, Corrbette Pasko, Arlene Malinowski, and Jeremy Solomon
Ella Jenkins @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music welcomes Ella Jenkins, who has been playing and recording music for children for over 50 years. The family concert starts at 11:00am at the concert hall in the school's main building at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. Tickets and information available at the school's Website, or call the school at (773) 728-6000.
UCLA Festival of Preservation @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a month-long series of films being restored and preserved by the UCLA Film & Television Archive. The festival kicks off this afternoon with a screening of Robert Altman's seldom-seen 1969 film That Cold Day In The Park, and runs through October 2 with such titles as 1933's madcap comedy International House, the Clara Bow silent film Mantrap, and the legendary 1950 film Gun Crazy. Full details on the festival, along with advance ticket purchases, available at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Stree. (312) 846-2085.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than two dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage today, beginning at 2:30pm; see the schedule for details. The festival closes tonight with its Anti-Oscars awards ceremony, to be held at Fringe Central (Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave.) at 10pm. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
Robyn Hitchcock @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music offers one of the more unusual double-bills in recent history: legendary singer-songwriter Robyn Hitchcock, with special guest Eugene Mirman. Interested in how that's going to work? Me too! The show is tonight at the concert hall in the school's main building at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. Tickets and information available at the school's Website, or call the school at (773) 728-6000.
The Shining / Room 237 double feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center offers a double feature of Stanley Kubrick's The Shining at 3:00pm, and the recent documentary about the film Room 237 at 5:45pm. The screening is part of the Film Center's Repertory screening series, and tickets for both films may be bought at a discount. See the Film Center's Website for full details. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than two dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage today, beginning at 2:30pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
Positive Babel Mural Dedication
The Old Irving Park Association will dedicate its latest mural, Positive Babel, at 11am today at the Union Pacific Railroad viaduct at Irving Park Road and Keeler Avenue. The mural, the 11th created in the community since 2003, is subtitled "The world lives, works and plays in Old Irving." The mural features 70 world landmarks that represent the home countries of residents.
OIPA president Marlena Ascher will emcee the event. Speakers will include Tony Sparrow, the lead artist, and public officials such as Congressman Mike Quigley, State Rep. Jaime Andrade Jr., and Aldermen John Arena and Tim Cullerton.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than a dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage tonight, beginning at 7pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
First Friday @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their monthly First Friday, an open house where they invite the community into the school to sample their many classes, play along with the school's instructors and students, and watch an evening of music and dance put on by the school. The evening starts at 6:00pm in the East building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Admission is a suggested donation of $5 ($10 for families). Full details available at the school's Website, or call (773) 728-6000.
Chicago Fringe Festival
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than a dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage tonight, beginning at 7pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
African Festival of the Arts
The 24th annual African Festival of the Arts runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 2 in Washington Park, 51st and Cottage Grove, from 10am to 10pm each day. Browse a marketplace with more than 300 artists and vendors; sample food from local restaurants; visit pavilions organized around topics such as books, spirituality and cyberspace; and enjoy music on two stages -- Brandy is the headliner tonight. Admission is $20 per day at the gate, or $30 for a weekend festival pass. Children under 12 and seniors over 65 are $5. Family passes are $30 per day, and include admission for two adults and up to four children.
Empty Bottle Family Friendly Block Party
The Empty Bottle hosts their first every Empty Bottle Family Friendly Block Party, featuring food from chef Dave Cooper from Bite Cafe, music from various bands (including Yakuza, Rabble Rabble, Circles, and more), and family activities inside the Empty Bottle. The party starts at noon today, happens on Cortez, between Western and the alley, and admission is a suggested $5 donation. Full details at the Empty Bottle Website.
African Festival of the Arts
The 24th annual African Festival of the Arts runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 2 in Washington Park, 51st and Cottage Grove, from 10am to 10pm each day. Browse a marketplace with more than 300 artists and vendors; sample food from local restaurants; visit pavilions organized around topics such as books, spirituality and cyberspace; and enjoy music on two stages. Admission is $20 per day at the gate, or $30 for a weekend festival pass. Children under 12 and seniors over 65 are $5. Family passes are $30 per day, and include admission for two adults and up to four children.
African Festival of the Arts
The 24th annual African Festival of the Arts runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 2 in Washington Park, 51st and Cottage Grove, from 10am to 10pm each day. Browse a marketplace with more than 300 artists and vendors; sample food from local restaurants; visit pavilions organized around topics such as books, spirituality and cyberspace; and enjoy music on two stages. Admission is $20 per day at the gate, or $30 for a weekend festival pass. Children under 12 and seniors over 65 are $5. Family passes are $30 per day, and include admission for two adults and up to four children.
Before Midnight @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center kicks off a week-long screening of Richard Linklater's "Before" trilogy with a screening of Before Midnight tonight at 6pm. A complete schedule of screenings and advance tickets are available at the Film Center website. Film Center: 164 N. State St. 312-846-2800.
African Festival of the Arts
The 24th annual African Festival of the Arts runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 2 in Washington Park, 51st and Cottage Grove, from 10am to 10pm each day. Browse a marketplace with more than 300 artists and vendors; sample food from local restaurants; visit pavilions organized around topics such as books, spirituality and cyberspace; and enjoy music on two stages. Admission is $20 per day at the gate, or $30 for a weekend festival pass. Children under 12 and seniors over 65 are $5. Family passes are $30 per day, and include admission for two adults and up to four children.
Delilah's 20th Anniversary Party
Delilah's celebrates its 20th anniversary this evening starting at 4:00pm. Among the events scheduled: an art opening featuring local artists; a tasting of their 20th anniversary whiskey; DJ-ing by Casino El Camino from Austin, TX; and many more surprises. Delilah's: 2271 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 472-2771.
Negativland @ Empty Bottle
The celebrated noise artists and copyright crusaders Negativland cruise into town this evening to perform at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave. Opening acts are Illusion of Safety and Good Willsmith. Doors open at 7pm, and tickets are $12 in advance $15 at the door. 21+
4th Annual Great Midwest Ukefest
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret presents the annual Great Midwest Ukefest this afternoon at Chief O'Neill's (3471 N. Elston) starting this afternoon at 2:00pm. A kids program at the top of the day will be followed by an extended open-mike session stretching through the evening, followed by a series of evening concerts featuring many Cabaret regulars. More details at the Brown Paper Tickets site, or see the Facebook event page.
Trapped in the Closet @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a midnight screening of R. Kelly's "Trapped in the Closet" tonight and tomorrow evening. Advance tickets are available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Noir City 5 @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and the Film Noir Foundation present their fifth annual Noir City: Chicago festival, starting this evening at 6:00pm. For the next week the schedule will include noir classics and rarely-seen films, from Sunset Boulevard to the rarely-seen Edward G. Robinson film Night Has A Thousand Eyes. A complete schedule with links for advance ticket purchases is available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Hunx and His Punx @ Subterranean
Subterranean welcomes Hunx and His Punx tonight with opening guests Hunters and Chit Chat. Show starts at 7:30pm, admission is $10, and it's an all-ages show. Subterranean: 2011 W. North Avenue. (773) 278-6600.
Empty Bottle Garage Sale
The Empty Bottle hosts their annual garage sale today starting at 11:00am. Along with whatever might be in the Empty Bottle's garage there will be other vendors selling their treasures. Admission to the sale is free. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Sound Opinions End of Summer BBQ
WBEZ and Sound Opinions host their end-of-summer BBQ this evening from 7:00 to 10:00pm at the WBEZ Terrace at 848 E. Grand Avenue. Food will be from Smoque BBQ, The Butcher & Larder, Bang Bang Pie Shop & Black Dog Gelato. Tickets are $40 in advance, and may be purchased through Eventbrite.
The Carter Family Family Show @ Hideout
The Hideout welcomes Chicago actors Chloe Johnston, Joe Dempsey, and Emmy Bean as they perform their show The Carter Family Family Show tonight at 8:00pm. Tickets are $10 at the door. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Queer Literary Showcase @ Quimby's
Quimby's hosts the Queer Literary Showcase with readers Michael Garabedian, elle navidson, Sam Lowry, and H Melt. The event starts at 7:00pm at Quimby's (1854 W. North Avenue). Full details at the Quimby's Website.
Snow City Arts Film Festival @ Adventure Stage
Snow City Arts is presenting 2013: A Film Festival, a retrospective of 15 years of productions made by children in Chicago hospitals. The screening runs from 1pm-5pm at the Adventure Stage Chicago at Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St. Tickets are free, but RSVP.
Hitchcock Silent Film Festival @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a week-long festival of Alfred Hitchcock's early silent films, only nine of which have survived. The films will be screening with musical accompaniment by the Music Box's resident organis Dennis Scott, as well as by the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra. See the Music Box Website for a complete schedule of screenins and links for advance ticket.s Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
First Friday @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music holds its monthly First Friday this evening at 6:00pm. Free classes, dance lessons, and evening concerts are offered in the school's new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Admission is $5 for individuals and $10 for families. Full details at the school's Website, or call their front desk at (773) 728-6000.
Wildclaw in the Wild @ 3031
Wildclaw Theatre presents Wildclaw in the Wild: Stories by the Fire, their summer reading series at 3031 N. Honore. Doors open at 7:00pm, the show starts at 7:30pm, and admission is a suggested donation of $5. Details at the Wildclaw Theatre site.
Se7en @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center kicks off a month-long examination of the films of David Fincher with a screening of Se7en from 1995 this afternoon at 3:00pm. Advance tickets are available at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2085.
The Princess Show @ Mayne Stage
The Mayne Stage presents the family-friendly show by Chicago Kids Company, The Princess Show. The 50-minute program features Cinderella, Snow White, and Rapunzel as the princesses, and includes audience participation and sing-alongs. The show starts at 1:00pm, and the lobby doors will open at 11:30. Full details on the show at the Mayne Stage Website. Mayne Stage: 1328 West Morse Avenue. (773) 381-4554.
Mark Mulcahy @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts an appearance by Mark Mulcahy, formerly of Miracle Legion and Polaris (a band name that "Pete & Pete" fans know all too well). Opening act is Healing Power. The show starts at 9:00pm, doors open at 8:00pm, and tickets are $12. Full details at the Hideout Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Frank Lloyd Wright: Origins and Influences
Anne Mallek, curator of the Gamble House, will speak on "Good Houses and Good Books": The English Arts and Crafts Movement in America, at 6pm at the Pritzker Auditorium in the Monroe Building, 104 S. Michigan Ave. Admission is free; registration is required. The Gamble House in Pasadena, CA is considered an outstanding example of American Arts and Crafts architecture. The lecture will explore how the work of British Arts and Crafts designers such as William Morris and Charles Robert Ashbee influenced American design.
Kicking Kevin Kane's Cancer Bills @ Schubas
Schubas hosts a benefit to help Columbia College grad student Kevin Kane pay his bills for leukemia treatment. Music provided by Cloudbirds and DJ Doug Hall, readings by Joe Meno and Lindsay Hunter, and the comedy stylings of Liza Treyger, Kenny Witzgall, and Maggie Ritchie. General admission is $20, or pay $30 for the VIP admission, which gets your complimentary dink and raffle tickets. Event starts at 8:00pm, and it's a 21+ show. Schubas: 3159 North Southport. (773) 525-2508.
This Must Be The Band @ Martyrs
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Talking Heads album Speaking In Tongues the tribute band This Must Be The Band plays the full album at the end of their performance this evening. Show starts at 9:00pm, tickets are $15 at the door, or $13 in advance (see the Martyrs Website to purchase tickets). Martyrs: 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Open Mic Comedy @ Schubas
Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave., presents a free Monday night open mic comedy program. Show starts at 9pm, and it's a 21+ event.
Jeff Garlin @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre welcomes comedian Jeff Garlin, who will be presenting a screening of his new film Dealin' With Idiots tonight and tomorrow night at 7:20pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Wright's Search for Innovation in Design
Restoration architect John Eifler will talk about the process of restoring a Frank Lloyd Wright building and how Wright's visionary Prairie style is retained as a building ages. He will also discuss current preservation standards and methods. 12 noon at the Gratz Center, 126 E. Chestnut St., just off Michigan Avenue next to 4th Presbyterian Church. Admission is free; registration is required.
Eifler's firm, Eifler & Associates, has restored some 20 Wright buildings, which were designed by Wright over a 60-year period. This event is sponsored by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust.
Third Coast Listening Room: Stories of Internetness
Former CTO of Threadless and the Obama campaign, Harper Reed, joins the Third Coast Audio Festival for a special Listening Room event featuring "stories of Internetness" tonight at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., at 7pm. Doors open at 6pm. Admission is $8 in advance, $10 at the door. 21+
Broken Windows: Writers on Architecture and the Urban Plan
Readings by Paul Durica, Maribel Mares and Sarah Ross on our relationships with the built environment. Sponsored by the Guild Literary Complex and SOILED Magazine and underwritten by Studio Gang Architects. Part of summer programming by the Polish Triangle Coalition. 6-8pm today at the Polish Triangle (intersection of Ashland, Division and Milwaukee). Free.
More information here or by emailing info@guildcomplex.org.
Broken Windows Placemaking Workshop
The Polish Triangle community and other interested participants will provide input for improving public space and learning how to continue placemaking. The workshop will be led by architect Katherine Darnstadt, founder and principal of Latent Design.
3-5pm today at the Polish Triangle (the intersection of Ashland, Division and Milwaukee). Free.
The "broken windows" theory states that when community problems such as trash, graffiti and loitering are addressed, the community will prosper and become a better place to live. When the broken windows are not fixed, larger crime problems can result.
Wet Hot American Summer @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a midnight screening of the 2001 cult film Wet Hot American Summer. Well, let's say 11:30pm, that way you can be here at midnight. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Studio Ghibli festival @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents a month-long retrospective of Studio Ghibli Films. The fun starts today with a screening of Spirited Away at 3pm, and runs through August 1. See the Film Center website for a complete schedule and to purchase advance tickets. Call the box office at 312-846-2085.
Footloose @ Gene Siskel Film Center
As part of their Date with the 80s film series, the Gene Siskel Film Center presents an evening screening of the 1984 film Footloose at 6:00pm. See the Film Center's Website for a complete list of screening films in the series, and to purchase advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. Box office: (312) 846-2085.
The Audience @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., screens a National Theatre Live broadcast of the West End production of the play The Audience, with Helen Mirren reprising her role as Queen Elizabeth II. The screening starts at 1:30pm. Tickets are $15. Full details on the event are at the Music Box website.
80s Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a double feature of two iconic 80s films: Dirty Dancing at 3:00pm, and Footloose at 5:00pm. You may purchase tickets for both films at a discount, or purchase a ticket for just one film. Full details at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Summer Music Film Festival @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and Sound Opinions present the third annual Summer Music Film Festival. Eight films will be screened over the next week, ranging from the classic 1983 hip hop film Wild Style to the Chicago premiere of the documentary Ain't In It For My Health: A Film About Levon Helm. The premiere happens this evening at 7:00pm, and includes an introduction by Sound Opinions co-hosts Jim DeRogatins and Greg Kot. Full details and a complete schedule of films available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Illustrated Press Gallery Discussion @ Harold Washington Library
Darryl Holliday and Erik Rodriguez of The Illustrated Press discuss their exhibition in the Congress Corridor of the Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St., tonight from 6 to 8pm. Several subjects of the comics will be in attendance. Free. RSVP on Facebook.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs
Martyrs hosts the monthly StorySLAM from The Moth. Ten audience volunteers are randomly selected to tell a five-minute story on the evening's theme, and a panel of judges decides the winner, who will go on to the Grandslam Championships. The show begins at 8:00pm tonight, but you'll definitely want to get in line early, because these events usually sell out. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
MusicEmotion @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre hosts MusicEmotion, a digital screening of classical music performed at Teatro Alla Scala in Milan. Today's screening is a program of Verdi compositions, including Nabucco, staged at the St. Margarethen opera festival in Austria. The program begins at 11:30am. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased in advance at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
John Reilly & Friends @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music hosts a performance by actor John C. Reilly, along with a group of musicians including Tom Brosseau and Becky Stark, this evening at 8:00pm. Tickets are $28 and may be purchased in advance from the school's Website. Full details at the Webiste, or call the box office at (773) 728-6000.
80s Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a double feature of two iconic 80s films: They Live at 3:00pm, and Repo Man at 5:00pm. You may purchase tickets for both films at a discount, or purchase a ticket for just one film. Full details at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Kill All Comedy @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts a comedy showbase by local comedy collective Kill All Comedy. Doors at 5:30pm, show at 6:30pm, and admission is a measly $5. Full details at the Hideout Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Etsy Craft Party 2013
Etsy is throwing a worldwide Craft Party today, and the Chicago party is happening at Mignonette Bridal (1747 W. Belmont) from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. The beneficiary of all proceeds from the party will be the Human Society of the US Pets For Life program. A certified therapy dog will be in attendance, in case you want to shake his paw. Admission is $5, or a donated bag of dog or cat food. For more details and to RSVP see the Facebook event page.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the monthly literary pugilistic bout known as Write Club. Host Ian Belknap presides over bouts of authors taking up opposing concepts, and presenting their arguments for their sides. A panel of judges decides the winners, who get a donation to the chairty of their choice. Doors open tonight at 7:00pm, and admission is $10. Full details at the Hideout Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
80s Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a double feature of two iconic 80s films: Raiders of the Lost Ark at 3:00pm, and Back to the Future at 5:15pm. You may purchase tickets for both films at a discount, or purchase a ticket for just one film. Full details at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Caddyshack @ Music Box Theatre
The Music Box Theatre presents the latest in Trib Nation's screenings of classic sports films, the 1980 film Caddyshack,, with discussion of the film by the Tribune's film critic Michael Phillips and sports columnist Steve Rosenbloom. The film screens at 7:00pm. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased in advance at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Peter Tork @Old Town School of Folk Music
Hey hey, it's a Monkee! The Old Town School of Folk Music hosts an evening concert by musician Peter Tork, with an opening act consisting of the Monkees Ensemble band from the school, along with dancers from the Psychedelic Go-Go class. The show starts at 7:00pm at the school's main concert hall (at 4544 N. Lincoln). Tickets are $30 and may be purchased from the school's Website, or call the box office at (773) 728-6000.
80s Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a double feature of two iconic 80s films: The Terminator at 3:00pm, and Conan the Barbarian at 5:15pm. You may purchase tickets for both films at a discount, or purchase a ticket for just one film. Full details at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
ActYourAge! @ Intuit
Following its inspirational and critically acclaimed sell-out run at Chicago Dramatists this April, Beth Urech will perform her one-woman show, ActYourAge!, tonight and Saturday, June 8, 2013 at 8pm at Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Arts, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave. Tickets are $20 (includes post-show reception). (312) 243-9088.
3rd anniversary party @ Inkling
Inkling, the craft boutique that sells locally produced artwork and goods, celebrates its 3rd year of business with a party this evening from 7:00pm to 10:00pm. The party will feature a raffle, button making, and free drinks. See the shop's Website for full details. Inkling: 2917 1/2 N. Broadway. (773) 248-8004.
First Friday @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music hosts their monthly First Friday evening of performances and workshops this evening. The public is invited to come to the school and sample some of the many music & dance classes the school has to offer. The evening takes place at the Szold Music & Dance Hall in the school's east building (4545 N. Lincoln), and admission is a $5 donation. See the school's Website for details on the evening, or call the box office at (773) 728-6000 for more information.
Pivot Arts Festival
Pivot Arts presents their inaugural Multi-Arts Festival starting tonight and running through June 22. Taking place in multiple venues in Edgewater and Uptown, the festival brings together many different performing groups, from the Neo-Futurists to Theater Oobleck to RE | Dance Group and many others. Full details of the festival at the Pivot Arts Website.
80s Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a double feature of two iconic 80s films: The Breakfast Club at 3:15pm, and Ferris Beuller's Day Off at 5:15pm. You may purchase tickets for both films at a discount, or purchase a ticket for just one film. Full details at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Wikileaks documentary @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents the documentary We Steal Secrets: The Story of Wikileaks. The film starts screening tonight at the theater; see the Music Box Website for a complete showtime schedule. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Portrait of Jason @ The Music Box *New Location*
The Music Box Theatre and the Northwest Chicago Film Society present a screening of the 1967 Shirley Clarke film Portrait of Jason, a film featuring a conversation with cabaret performer Jason Holliday. Portrait of Jason screens tonight at 7:00pm, and tickets are just $5. Full details and a complete schedule of society screenings at the society's Website. The Music Box Theatre is located at 3733 N. Southport Ave.
Kaumakaiwa Kanaka'ole @ Old Town School of Folk Music
As part of the Festival of Aloha happening this weekend the Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening concert by dancer and musician Kaumakaiwa Kanaka'ole in their main concert hall at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. Mr. Kanaka'ole is a five-time winner of the prestigious Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award, and comes from a distinguished family of practitioners of hula. Fans of Pacific Island music will definitely want to attend this concert! The show starts at 8:00pm; tickets are $22, and can be purchased through the Old Town School Website, or call the box office at (773) 728-6000.
Harold Lloyd's Safety Last @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special screening of Harold Lloyd's classic film Safety Last. Along with the screening there will be a reception with live music, live vaudeville acts, and a special sneak peek at the renovations going on inside the theater's smaller screening room. The evening starts at 6:30pm. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Cannibal Holocaust @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre
presents the infamous 1980 film Cannibal Holocaust in a restored, uncensored print. Definitely not for the squeamish. The film screens tonight and tomorrow night at midnight. See the Music Box Website for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Festival of Aloha @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music hosts the second annual Festival of Aloha, which begins this evening at 8:30pm. For their Global Dance Party series the festival is presenting a kanikapila (Hawaiian jam session) featuring some of the artists that are performing and teaching during the festival: Grammy-winnin artist Daniel Ho; hula instructor Sylvia Puanani Edgar; and Tahitian dance instructor Moeata Tehani. Admission is $10 to the event; see the Old Town School Website for full details and to purchase advance tickets. Old Town School: 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
Zardoz @ Portage Theater
The Portage Theater and the Northwest Chicago Film Society present a screening of John Boorman's weird post-apocalyptic 1974 film Zardoz, with Sean Connery in a red bikini. The screenin starts at 7:30pm, and admission is a measly $5. Full details and a complete schedule of screenings at the society's Website. Portage Theater: 4050 N. Milwaukee. (773) 736-4050.
The Miss Neo Pageant @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present their latest prime-time show, The Miss Neo Pageant, opening this evening and running through June 22. The play, described as "a feminist play for accidental feminists," is directed by Neo veteran Stephanie Shaw and features the stories of five female Neo ensemble members and collaborators. Performances are Thursday, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30pm; tickets are $20, $10 for seniors/students, and pay what you can on Thursdays. Full details and advance tickets available at the Neo-Futurists Website. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 848-4557.
Kartemquin Spring Showcase @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a preview of four upcoming movies by Kartemquin Films. The directors of the films will be in attendance for Q&A and feedback, and a post-screening reception for ticketholders is also scheduled. The screenings begin at 5:00pm. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2800.
The Room @ Music Box
"What kind of money? What kind of drugs?" The Music Box Theatre presents another midnight screening of the 2003 cult classic The Room. See the Music Box Website for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Asian American Showcase @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the 18th annual Asian American Showcase, starting tonight and running through May 30. The kick-off film, Quentin Lee's 2012 film White Frog, screens tonight at 8:00pm. A complete schedule, and advance tickets, are available through the Film Center's Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 246-2800.
Everything Is Terrible! @ UP Comedy Club
The keepers of made-for-VHS films Everything Is Terrible! present Comic Relief Zero: an EIT! stand-up special tonight at UP Comedy Club at Piper's Alley (230 W. North Avenue, 3rd floor). The 60-minute show starts at 8:00pm (doors open at 7:15pm). Tickets are $15 and can be purchased in advance at the UP Comedy Club Website.
Sci Fi & Fantasy Book Club @ Filter Cafe
The chicago Nerds Social Club presents their monthly sci fi & fantasy book club meeting, tonight from 6:30pm to 7:30pm at Filter (1373-75 N. Milwaukee). The book for discussion tonight is Little Green Men by Christopher Buckley. The event is free and open to the public. Full details available at the Chicago Nerds Website.
Mommie Dearest @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents their annual Mother's Day screening of the 1981 camp classic Mommie Dearest, hosted by Dick O'Day and the Hell in a Handbag players. Join Dick for a pre-screening show at 2:00pm, and expect a running commentary throughout the film by members of Camp Midnight. The first 100 attendees receive a commemorative wire hanger! Full details and advance tickets available through the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Facets Night School: Ben & Athur
Facets Cinematheque concludes its Facets Night School,a cult film paired with a discussion of the film, tonight at midnight. Tonight's final film is the cult film Ben & Athur, paired with a lecture by Facets Night School regular Lew Ojeda. Facets Night School screenings run Saturdays at midnight through May 11, and admission is $5. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
Michael Kenna @ Catherine Edelman Gallery
The powerful black and white landscapes of world-reknowned photographer Michael Kenna are returning to the Catherine Edelman Gallery, 300 W. Superior St. Kenna's fine-art prints use line and blur to capture the emotion and essence of cities and countries around the world. The images will be on display until July 6.
SAIC projects @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the thesis projects of the undergrad and graduate classes of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. The presentations happen today through Friday at the Film Center (164 North State Street) at 4:30pm. Admission is free, and tickets are available at the box office. Full details at the Film Center's Website.
Ian Svenonius @ Quimby's
Quimby's hosts Ian Svenonius, former singer for Nation of Ulysses and The Make-Up, tonight at 7:00pm. Ian will be reading from his book Supernatural Strategies For Making A Rock'n'Roll Group. Full details at the Quimby's site. Quimby's: 1854 W. North Avenue. (773) 342-0910.
Touch of Evil @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a screening of Orson Welles' classic film Touch of Evil today at 11:30am as part of its weekly matinee series. A complete matinee schedule is available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Facets Night School: Drop Dead Gorgeous
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School,a cult film paired with a discussion of the film, tonight at midnight. Tonight's film is the mockumentary Drop Dead Gorgeous, paired with a lecture by Facets Night School regular Lauren Whalen. Facets Night School screenings run Saturdays at midnight through May 11, and admission is $5. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
The Cremaster Cycle @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center begins screening one of the most highly divisive film series in recent memory: Matthew Barney's Cremaster Cycle. Cremaster 1 and Cremaster 2 begin the series tonight at 7:45pm. Full details, as well as advance tickets, are available through the Film Center's Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2800.
First Friday @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music hosts their monthly First Friday, in which the community is invited to sample music & dance classes, see student ensemble performances, and to gather together with like-minded people. First Friday starts at 6:00pm, and admission is a suggested donation of $5. Old Town School: 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
Richard Hell @ Book Cellar
The Book Cellar hosts writer and musician Richard Hell, reading from and signing copies of his book I Dreamed I Was A Very Clean Tramp, tonight at 7:00pm. Full details at the Book Cellar Website. Book Cellar: 4736-38 N. Lincoln. (773) 293-2665.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: Wattstax @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and Sound Opinions present the 1972 documentary Wattstax tonight at 7:30pm. Complete details at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
The Moth's monthly Chicago StorySLAM is tonight at Martyers', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave. Come hear true stories told without a script, and vote for your favorite. The theme tonight is "mystery." Doors open at 5pm, show starts at 8pm. Get there early and you might even be able to sign up to tell a story yourself! Admission is $8. 21+
Open house @ Pumping Station: One
Pumping Station: One, the Chicago hackerspace, presents an open house tonight starting at 6:00pm. The public is invited to come learn about the space, what the group does, and how you can join them. The event is free and open to the public. Pumping Station: One is located at 3519 N. Elston.
Facets Night School: The Cannibals
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School,a cult film paired with a discussion of the film, tonight at midnight. Tonight's film is the rare Portuguese horror film the Cannibals (Os Canibais), paired with a lecture by independent filmmaker Michael Smith. Facets Night School screenings run Saturdays at midnight through May 11, and admission is $5. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
Desperate Living @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents the John Waters classic Desperate Living tonight at midnight. Mink Stole, Edith Massey, Liz Renay, and Susan Lowe star in this tale of Mortville, the town full of criminals and sexual deviants. See the Music Box Website for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Stuck @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a special screening of the documentary Stuck, which takes a look at the process of adoption from the point of view of both the parents and the children. The film's director, Craig Juntunen, will be at the 7:00pm screening for a Q&A following the film. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased in advance through the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Birdemic 2 @ Patio Theater
The Patio Theater and the Chicago Cinema Society presents a one-night-only screening of Birdemic 2: The Resurrection. The very special guests at the screening will be the film's director James Nguyen and producer Jeff Gross, which will be abailable for Q&A after the movie. (And there WILL be many questions.) The screening starts at 9:00pm. Advance tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite.
Convoy @ Portage Theater
The Portage Theater and the Northwest Chicago Film Society present a screening of Sam Peckinpah's film Convoy, based on the hit song based on the CB radio. Convoy screens tonight at 7:30pm. Admission is a supercheap $5. Full details and a complete schedule of Northwest Chicago Film Society screenings available at the society's Website. Portage Theater: 4050 N. Milwaukee. (773) 736-4050.
The Moth GrandSLAM @ Park West
The Moth holds its annual Chicago GrandSLAM, featuring winners of its monthly StorySLAM storytelling series, tonight at the Park West, 322 W. Armitage. Tickets are $17. Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 8pm. 21+
Open house @ Pumping Station: One
Pumping Station: One, the Chicago hackerspace, presents an open house tonight starting at 6:00pm. The public is invited to come learn about the space, what the group does, and how you can join them. The event is free and open to the public. Pumping Station: One is located at 3519 N. Elston.
Facets Night School: She Shoulda Said "No"!
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School,a cult film paired with a discussion of the film, tonight at midnight. Tonight's film is a typical drugs exploitation film, She Shoulda Said "No"!, starring the actress Lila Leeds, who was arrested with Robert Mitchum for smoking marijuana and was forced to make this film. The program will also include a lecture by Facets Night School regular Chris Damen. Facets Night School screenings run Saturdays at midnight through May 11, and admission is $5. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
Michelle L'Amour's Old Time Strip Show @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' presents Michelle L'Amour's Old time Strip Show, with a cavalcade of burlesque talent taking the stage tonight starting at 9:00pm. Advance tickets available at the Martyrs' Website. Martyrs': 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
One-Night-Only Performance: Jay Chandrasekhar @Laugh Factory
Laugh Factory Chicago will host a one-night-only comedy performance by Jay Chandrasekhar, known for his role as Thorny in Super Troopers and Barry in Beerfest.
Friday April 19. Show begins at 8pm. Laugh factory is located at 3175 N. Broadway at Broadway and Belmont. 18+ show. $20-$30 tickets. For more info or to make reservations visit www.LaughFactory.com or call (773) 327-3175 x1.
Third Fridays @ Zhou B Art Center
Every third Friday of the month, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Zhou B Art Center,1029 W. 35th Street, a multi-floor, multi-discliplinary art and culture venue composed of artist's studios, art galleries, gathering spaces and the Zhou B Café & Art Lounge opens its doors to the public. On Third Fridays, resident and international artists exhibit their newest works in various media for the consumption of collectors, artists, and anyone else with an interest in art. The event also offers the opportunity for the public to interact with the artists who created the exhibited works. The event is free to attend, and free refreshments are provided.
#DocYourWorld @ Columbia's Film Row Cinema
Today Columbia College continues its free #DocYourWorld documentary panels and screenings from noon until 9:30pm in their Film Row Cinema on the 8th floor of 1104 S. Wabash Ave.
#DocYourWorld @ Columbia's Film Row Cinema
Today Columbia College continues its free #DocYourWorld documentary panels and screenings from noon until 9pm in their Film Row Cinema on the 8th floor of 1104 S. Wabash Ave.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., hosts Write Club, the monthly literary boxing match where writers & performers take up opposing concepts. The bouts are judged by a panel of literary experts, and the winners get donations for their chosen charities. This month, it's Scott Whitehair (allow) vs. Jen Bosworth (deny), Bobby Biedrzycki (trash) vs. Jessica Palmer (treasure), and James Finn Garner (liquid) vs. Ian Belknap (solid). The show starts at 7pm, and admission is $10 at the door. Full details at the Hideout Website. 21+
Facets Night School: Night of A Thousand Cats
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School,a cult film paired with a discussion of the film, tonight at midnight. Tonight's film is a "Mexploitation" title from 1972, Night of A Thousand Cats, paired with a lecture by Facets Night School regular Dominick Mayer. Facets Night School screenings run Saturdays at midnight through May 11, and admission is $5. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
Redd Kross @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents the LA punk band Redd Kross, touring on their highly acclaimed Merge Records album Researching the Blues. The show is tonight at 9:30pm; tickets are $13 in advance and $15 at the door. Advance tickets available at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Shane Carruth double feature @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and The AV Club present a double feature of Shane Carruth's two films, Upstream Color and Primer. Shane Carruth will be in attendance, interviewed by The AV Club's Scott Tobias. Upstream Color screens at 7:30pm; Primer screens at 9:45pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
CAKE FRAME (Fundraiser / Silent Auction) @ Peanut Gallery
The fabulous, annual Chicago Alternative Comics Expo is coming up again this summer, and to prepare for it, they've organized a big fundraising event at Peanut Gallery (1000 N. California Ave.) tonight from 7 to 11pm. There will be a rowdy live auction featuring a whole lot of work by talented local artists (some big names) and live performances by Paul Nudd, Jeremy Pettis, Alyssa Herlocher and Andy Burkholder. Facebook invite here. Free admission.
Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays
On the second Friday of every month, the thirty-or-so galleries and creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at S. Halsted and 18th Streets open their doors to showcase art and artists from Chicago and the world. The opening receptions begin at 6pm and last officially until 10pm, letting viewers get up close with the art and artists for free. Maps are available at the information center at 1821 S. Halsted.
ASMP/APA Bar Night @ DeLux Bar and Grill
The American Photographic Artists and the American Society of Media Photographers put on a monthly bar night every second Wednesday of the month. This is a chance for photographers, producers, models, printmakers, and anyone else connected with photography to network in a laid back environment. This month's event is sponsored by Calumet Photographic and is free to attend at Delux Bar & Grill, 669 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Sci Fi & Fantasy Book Club @ Filter Cafe
The Chicago Nerd Social Club has their monthly sci fi & fantasy book club meeting tonight at Filter Cafe (1373-75 N. Milwaukee) from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. The book for discussion tonight is Accelerando by Charles Stross. The event is free and open to the public. Full details at the Chicago Nerds Website.
Facets Night School: Hercules, Samson & Ulysses
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School,a cult film paired with a discussion of the film, tonight at midnight. Tonight's film is the 1963 sword-and-sandal epic Hercules, Samson & Ulysses, paired with a lecture by film critic Jef Burnham. Facets Night School screenings run Saturdays at midnight through May 11, and admission is $5. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
Art Reception @ Art on Armitage
A reception featuring artists Stacy Peterson, Pei San Ng, and Amie Sell will be held tonight from 6pm-8pm at Art on Armitage, 4125 W. Armitage. Stop by to check out their new nebulous work/ window exhibit inspired by a trip to Creative Reuse Warehouse. The cloud of up-cycled industrial hardware and metal wires plays on modern communication and acts as a visual representation of how people work together to create communities, social networks, and how molecular structures build. Meet these artists and better understand their new installation's subject and inspiration.
Room 237 @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents the documentary Room 237, which presents several unusual theories and interpretations of Stanley Kubrick's film The Shining. The film begins screening tonight; see the Music Box Website for a complete schedule. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special Easter screening of the classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory this afternoon at 2:00pm. The screening will include a costume contest for the audience, goodie bags, and a pre-show sing-along. Advance tickets and full details available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Facets Night School: Carnival Magic
Facets Cinematheque kicks off another session of Facets Night School tonight at midnight. The first film in the series is the long-forgotten chimpsploitation flick Carnival Magic, presented with a lecture by Jason Coffman of the Chicago Cinema Society. Facets Night School screenings run Saturdays at midnight through May 11, and admission is $5. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
Tom Billings @ Grand Bizzare
Tom Billings Currently has new sculptural pieces up at the Grand Bizzare Gallery and before it comes down there will be a bash of Music and typical Billings Mayhem.
Performances by:
Rik and Deuce
Riders of the Apocalypse
DJs
Rik Shaw and Le Deuce
9 - midnight 1418 W Division
http://www.grandbizzare.com
Sing-Along Sound of Music @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special Easter weekend screening of The Sound of Music along with sing-along lyrics for all of the songs in the film, packs of audience participation items, and of course a costume contest for the audience. The film screens this afternoon at 2:00pm. Advance tickets and full details available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Hitchcock, Psycho double feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents week-long runs of the 2012 film Hitchcock and the classic 1960 film Psycho. The films will often be screening back-to-back throughout the week, and you may purchase discount tickets for both films. Full details and advance tickets available at the Film Center's website., or call 312-846-2085.
Tommy Wiseau @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a return appearance by Tommy Wiseau and Greg Sestero, who will of course be presenting screenings of the cult classic film The Room this weekend. Three screenings will be happening for the next three days, each one at 10:30pm. See the Music Box Website for full details and to purchase advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Mitch O'Connell book signing @ Quimby's
Quimby's presents a book signing and slideshow by local artist Mitch O'Connell, promoting his new book Mitch O'Connell: The World's Best Artist. The event starts at 7pm at Quimby's (1854 West North Avenue), and is free and open to the public. Full details at the Quimby's Website.
South Pacific @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special free screening of the 1958 classic South Pacific as part of Turner Classic Movies' celebration of their Classic Film Festival. In attendance will be film critic and author Leonard Maltin and original star of the film Mitzi Gaynor. The screening is tonight at 7:30pm; tickets are free and can be reserved through the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., hosts the latest edition of Write Club, the literary equivalent of a boxing match. Two authors spar on opposing concepts, a winner is determined by the audience, and prize money is awarded to the winners' charities. Tonight's bouts:Carly Oishi (WATER) vs. Patrick Gill (WINE), Joe Janes (DRUNK) vs. Janna Sobel (SOBER), Ian Belknap (SHAKEN) vs. Jennifer Coffeen (STIRRED). Show starts at 7pm, and admission is $10. 21+
Eddie Pepitone @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special screening of the documentary film The Bitter Buddha, with the documentary's subject, comedian Eddie Pepitone, in attendance with the film's director Steven Feinartz. The film screens at 9:30pm; full details and advance tickets are available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Hoosiers @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special screening of Hoosiers tonight at 7:00pm. The screening will be followed by a discussion of the film by film critic Michael Phillips and Tribune sports columnist David Haugh. Advance tickets and full details are available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Nick Offerman @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents an appearance by Nick Offerman, who will be screening his new film Somebody Up There Likes Me tonight at two times, 7:30pm and 9:45pm. Advance tickets for these screenings are available at the Music Box Website; the film continues to screen at the Music Box through the following week. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Open House @ U of C's New Arts Incubator
The U of C's new Arts Incubator in Washington Park is having its first big open house from 3pm-6pm at 301 E. Garfield. There will be free tours of the new space, music and a new exhibition, "Feedback." See more on Facebook.
Chicago Zine Fest
The 2013 Chicago Zine Fest kicks off today with a panel discussion at Columbia College, readings at 826 CHI, and a zine-related game show happening tonight at Quimby's. Full details of the two-day event available at the Chicago Zine Fest Website.
Analog @ The Neo-Futurarium
Starting Friday, March 1st, The Neo-Futurists will be debuting they newest production- Analog. Analog is an experimental play following Kurt Chiang's real-life process of transcribing Lord of The Flies is collaged with the personal narratives of five different writer-performers in this visceral exploration of the concept of "Fate."
Playing at The Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland)
7:30PM Thurs-Sat.
March 1- April 6 2013
Order Tickets: $20 ($10 for students/ seniors with ID)
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs
Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., presents the monthly Moth StorySLAM. Storytelling audience members are judged by a panel of their peers, and the winner of tonight's event goes to the storytelling finals. Show starts at 8pm, and admission is $8. 21+
Fourplay @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 2012 film Fourplay as part of Reeling: The Chicago Lesbian & Gay International Film Festival. Kyle Henry, the film's director, will in in attendance for a Q&A session. The screening begins at 8:00pm. Full details on the screening available at the Film Center's Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret @ Silvie's
Silvie's Lounge hosts the latest Chicago Ukulele Cabaret, a regular open-mike evening for 'ukulele players. Tonight's theme is "Sorry I Forgot About Valentine's Day", and players are invited to perform up to 15 minutes, or up to three songs, whichever comes first, on the theme of love, forgiveness, break-ups, etc., etc., etc. The evening begins at 8pm, and admission is free. Silvie's: 1902 West Irving Park Road. For more information please see the group's Facebook page.
Kung Fu Triple Feature @ Portage Theater
The Chicago Cinema Society presents a triple-feature of three kung fu films this evening at the Portage Theater (4050 N Milwaukee). The films are: The 36th Chamber of the Shoalin; The Kid With The Golden Arm; and the Chicago premiere of Cold Steel from last year. All three films will be screened in 35mm prints starting tonight at 6:30pm. Details and advance tickets available at the Society's Eventbrite page.
Funny Ha Ha @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts the triumphant return of Funny Ha Ha, Claire Zulkey's reading series. Tonight's event features: Robbie Telfer from The Encyclopedia Show; Write Club's Ian Belknap; author Wendy McClure; sketch comedy from Schadenfreude; and many more exciting people you will enjoy. Admission is a paltry $5 at the door; the show starts at 6:30pm. Full details at the Hideout's Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Adler Planetarium After Dark
The Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., presents their monthly Adler After Dark event tonight from 6pm to 10pm. An evening for adults that includes a rare chance to look through the planetarium's Doane Observatory telescope, the largest publicly accessible telescope in the Midwest. Full details on the event at the Planetarium's website or call all 312-922-7827 for more info.
Michael Salvatore @ Heritage Bicycles
MAS Context and Heritage Bicycles present a conversation with Michael Salvatore, CEO and owner of Heritage, who will discuss the company's bicycle production process, bicycle styles and how Heritage brings bicycles and coffee together. Free and BYOB at 2959 N. Lincoln Ave. 7pm.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout welcomes Write Club, the monthly literary slugfest featuring Chicago's finest authors duking it out verbally for cash prizes (for charities of their choosing). Sparring tonight: Scott Whitehair (ALLOW) vs. Jen Bosworth (DENY); Bobby Biedrzycki (TRASH) vs. Jessica Palmer (TREASURE); and James Finn Garner (LIQUID) vs. Ian Belknap (SOLID). The fight begins at 7:00pm; admission is $10 at the door. Details at the Hideout Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Holy Motors @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 2012 film Holy Motors, which confounded and excited audiences last year. The film screens tonight at 6:00pm; see the Film Center Website for details and advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Performance Anxiety @ The Pleasure Chest
Caitlin Bergh hosts this Chicago spin-off of TJ Miller's LA show at The Pleasure Chest (3436 N Lincoln Ave). In a sex-positive atmosphere, Performance Anxiety provides a room for the city's top comics and hardworking up-and-comers. This month's lineup includes Natalie Jose, Saurin Choksi, Andrew Smreker, The Puterbaugh Sisters and show co-producer Goodrich Gevaart. The show starts at 8pm. It is free, 18+ and BYOB. Audience members receive a 15% discount on store merchandise after the show.
Holy Motors @ Gene Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a repeat engagement for the highly acclaimed 2012 film Holy Motors as part of a retrospective look at the work of the director Leos Carax. Holy Motors screens this afternoon at 5:15pm, and again tomorrow night at 6pm. See the Film Center's Website for a complete schedule and to purchase advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2800.
Susanin's February Auction
Today at 9am, Susanin's Auctions (900 S. Clinton) is holding its February auction, which includes antique and mid-century furniture, paintings, prints, sculpture, chocolate molds, porcelain, glass, silver, rugs and carpets, Inuit and Native American pottery and carvings, Asian art, as well as some decorative art. Preview runs all week long (Monday, Feb. 11 through Friday, Feb. 15) from 10am to 5pm. Entry is free. Visit susanins.com or call 312-832-9800 for more information. Admission is free.
Music Box Theatre 70mm Festival
The Music Box presents a two week festival of 70mm movies. Titles range from the classic (2001: A Space Odyssey) to the modern (P.T. Anderson's The Master) to the trashy (Lifeforce). The full schedule of films has been posted at the Music Box Website; tickets are available for individual movies, or you may purchase a full festival pass for $70. Music Box: 3753 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: The Graduate @ Music Box
The Music Box and Sound Opinions present the latest in their series of film screenings, The Graduate from 1967. The film screens this evenin at 7:30pm; full details at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Sci Fi & Fantasy Book Club @ Filter Cafe
The Chicago Nerd Social Club presents their monthly sci fi & fantasy book club this evening at Filter (1373-75 N Milwaukee) tonight from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. The book for discussion this evening is William Goldman's The Princess Bride. Full details of the event available at the Chicago Nerds Website.
Don Coscarelli double feature @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a double feature of two Don Coscarelli films, to celebrate his new film John Dies At The End. That film will screen tonight at 7:20pm, and will be followed by the film Phantasm II at 9:45pm. Mr. Coscarelli will be in attendance for a Q&A session after the first film. Tickets are $12 in advance, and $15 at the door. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Room @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a midnight screening of The Room, the instant cult classic featuring the odd Tommy Wiseau. "Hi, doggy!" Full details at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Don Coscarelli double feature @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a double feature of two Don Coscarelli films, to celebrate his new film John Dies At The End. That film will screen tonight at 7:20pm, and will be followed by the film Bubba Ho-Tep at 9:45pm. Mr. Coscarelli will be in attendance for a Q&A session after the first film. Tickets are $12 in advance, and $15 at the door. There will be a second double feature tomorrow night, so look there also. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Spacewarming Party
Jackalope Theater Company is celebrating the grand opening of their new multi-use rehearsal and educational space at 8 p.m. in the north-side neighborhood of Edgewater. The party will feature visual art by Mikey Rioux, a performance in the spoken word by Shannon Matesky, live jazz by Blue Whale, and a performance by Brandon Moorehead and Rhapsody Snyder.
If you'd like to go to the event, you can simply rsvp on the event's Facebook page. The party is at 1106 W. Thorndale Ave, just steps from the Thorndale Red Line stop. The show is at 9, and last call is at midnight.
Wednesday Rewind @ Logan Theatre
The Logan Theatre kicks off Wednesday Rewind, a weekly late-night screening series for people who enjoy cheezy & weird films, with a screening of the Mexican punksploitation film Intrepidos Punks! The screening starts at 10:30pm, and is a steal at a mere $3 admission. Full details at the Logan Theatre's Website. Logan Theatre: 2464 North Milwaukee. (773) 342-5555.
Ginger Baker doc @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the 2012 documentary Beware of Mr. Baker, a film about the legendary rock drummer Ginger Baker. The film screens tonight at 8:00pm, and again this Thuesday at 8:30pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Network @ Music Box
The Music Box presents Network from 1976 as part of their Oscar Winning Films matinee series. The film screens Saturday & Sunday at 11:30am. See the Music Box Website for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
artEdge at the MCA
The Museum of Contemporary Art is throwing its annual fundraising benefit, artEdge, on Feb. 2 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. The event offers guests a decadent evening filled with the romance of the Industrial Age and features a concert by the critically-acclaimed indie pop band, Fitz and the Tantrums.
Attendees will begin their evening with hors d'oeuvres in the Chain-Link Room. They'll then make their way through the Automation Room, Corrugated Room and Chain Room, sampling food from an automated conveyor belt and experiencing live performances curated by Peter Taub, the MCA's Director of Performance Programs.
The event takes place at the MCA Warehouse, 1747 W. Hubbard St. Individual tickets are available for $1,000, which includes the cocktail reception, dinner, dessert reception and concert performance. Table packages begin at $15,000. Concert tickets are available for $150 and include the dessert reception, open bar and concert performance. To purchase tickets, table packages, make reservations, or to inquire about sponsorship, email hhanas@mcachicago.org or call (312) 397-3868.
The Dinner Party @ Mayne Stage
Food and culture intersect tonight at Mayne Stage (1328 West Morse) for The Dinner Party. Michael and Patrick Sheerin of the Trencherman will be serving hors d'oeuvres, Vin Divino beings the wine and Vosges the chocolate; a jazz duo opens the evening, followed by art collector Howard Tullman, musician Kelly Hogan and Black Ensemble Theatre Artistic Director Jackie Taylor. They may talk, perform, or just sit there; you'll have to find out yourself. Cocktails at 6:30pm, event begins at 7pm. Tickets $30.
80s Icons: A Tribute to Prince & Madonna @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening tribute to the music of Prince and Madonna, featuring faculty, staff and students of the school. The concert begins at 8pm in the Maurer Concert Hall in the school's main building at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. Full details at the school Website, or call (773) 728-6000 for more information.
Mummenschanz @ Harris Theater
The Swiss mime company Mummenschanz comes through Chicago this weekend on their 40th anniversary tour. Fans of "The Muppet Show" may remember this innovative troupe from one of the original series' episodes. YouTube may also be of help here. Mummenshanz performs tonight at 7:30pm at the Harris Theater in Millennium Park; see the theater's Website for details and tickets. Harris Theater: 205 East Randolph Drive. (312) 334-7777.
Italian Cultural Institute Open House/Celebration
The Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago offer Chicagoans the chance to join in the celebration by learning to speak Italian through their new official language school, ItalCultura, 500 N. Michigan Ave., Ste. 1405. A free open house tonight from 5:30 to 8pm includes the opportunity for attendees to take an Italian language skills evaluation test; mix and mingle with others interested in Italian language and culture; enjoy Italian delicacies, wine and music; meet the staff and professional teachers for a trial class; and register for the upcoming class series.
A Personal Project Show at Defibrillator Gallery
A Personal Project Show gives audiences the opportunity to peek into the personal worlds of 13 Chicago artists. The show features photography and paintings completed by artists for their own personal purposes, and not for commercial use. The event offers fine art, music, and drinks, and it's FREE tonight from 6-11 p.m. at Defibrillator Gallery, 1136 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, 60642.
Italian Cultural Institute Open House
The Italian Cultural Institute of Chicago offer Chicagoans the chance to join in the celebration by learning to speak Italian through their new official language school, ItalCultura, 500 N. Michigan Ave., Ste. 1405. A free open house tonight from 5:30 to 8pm includes the opportunity for attendees to take an Italian language skills evaluation test; mix and mingle with others interested in Italian language and culture; enjoy Italian delicacies, wine and music; meet the staff and professional teachers for a trial class; and register for the upcoming class series.
Stranger Than Fiction documentary series @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents Stranger Than Fiction, a month-long series of new documentary screenings. The series begins tonight with the 2012 film Perseverance: The Story of Dr. Billy Taylor, a documentary about the former University of Michigan football star. Dr. Taylor and the film's directors will be in attendance at the screening, so make sure you get advance tickets. A full schedule of the series is available at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2800.
Too Much Light New Year's Eve @ The Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists continue their tradition of hosting a special New Year's Eve edition of their flagship show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. The hour-long play kicks off at 11pm sharp, and when the buzzer sounds at midnight the audience toasts the new year! The doors open at 9:30pm for pre-show refreshments. Reservations are $50, and can be made through the Neo-Futurists' Website. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 North Ashland, at Foster. (773) 878-4557.
Fun-A-Day Kickoff @ Mess Hall
Mess Hall, 6932 N. Glenwood Ave., launches its new Fun-A-Day project with a kickoff event from 2 to 5pm today. Learn how to make all sorts of things, from zines to yo-yos to embroidery, all for free.
FW Murnau's Sunrise @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents the latest in its weekend silent film matinees this morning at 11:30am. Today's film is FW Murnau's Sunrise from 1927, and features (according to the Music Box website) "the most arodable drunk pig you'll ever see on film." Well, you've GOT to go see that!
Searching For Sugar Man @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run of the 2012 documentary Searching For Sugar Man, about the search for a long-lost Detroit singer-songwriter. Nightly screenings run through Thursday, January 3; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein @ Film Center
As part of their celebration of Universal Pictures the Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 1948 film Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein, also featuring the classic horror film monsters Dracula and the Wolf Man. The film screens this afternoon at 4:30pm, and again on Wednesday the 26th at 6:00pm. See the Film Center Website for details and to purchase advance tickets. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2800.
Rock For Kids benefit @ Subterranean
Subterranean hosts a benefit for Rock For Kids tonight, featuring the bands Coping, CSTVT, Noumenon, and Dowsing. Doors at 8pm, show at 8:30, 17+, and tickets are $8 (purchase in advance). Subterranean: 2011 w. North Avenue. (773) 278-6600.
Die Hard vs. Gremlins @ Lincoln Hall
As part of their 3 Penny Was Here series Lincoln Hall is hosting a special movie event this evening: a double feature of Die Hard and Gremlins, along with local comedians Joe McAdam, the Puterbaugh Sisters, Matt Drufke and Joe Fernandez. More details and RSVP at Do312. Lincoln Hall: 2424 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 525-2501.
Windy City Artist Alley
The Chicago Urban Art Society holds its annual Windy City Artist Alley today from noon to 6pm at 1664 S. Blue Island Ave. Shop for art, craft, vintage furniture, records and more while listening to music spun by Dj Trew and DJ Select Inverse. Admission is free.
Facets Warehouse Sale
Facets Multimedia holds their annual warehouse sale today and tomorrow in their lobby. From 10am to 4pm today, and from noon to 4pm on Sunday, you'll be able to buy DVDs and VHS tapes at deep discounts. For more details please see the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue. (773) 281-9075.
Sita Ram @ Harris Theater
The Lookingglass Theatre presents a remount of their 2006 show Sita Ram, appearing for only three shows at the Harris Theater (205 East Randolph Drive). Full details on the shows at the Sita Ram Website.
Music Box Christmas Show
The Music Box Theatre presents their 29th annual Christmas show, with showings of the Christmas classics It's A Wonderful Life and White Christmas. You can see just one film, or purchase tickets for both films at a discount. Each screening features an appearance by Santa Claus, and the singing of Christmas carols accompanied by the Music Box organist. The double feature starts tonight, and runs through December 24. Tickets are available online starting October 31; see the Music Box Website for links to purchase tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Burlesque-A-Pades @ Martyrs
Martyrs presents Burlesque-A-Pades, an evening of burlesque and entertainment from NYC. Featured act in the show: the World Famous Pontani Sisters! Burlesque-A-Pades starts tonight at 9pm. Tickets are $15 in advance, and $18 at the door. Check the Martyrs Website to purchase advance tickets. Martyrs: 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Songs of Good Cheer @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their 14th annual holiday show Songs of Good Cheer, hosted by Eric Zorn and Mary Schmich. Evening concerts run at the school's main performance space at 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. today through Sunday, Dec.16. Tickets available from the school's website, or call (773) 728-6000.
Sci Fi & Fantasy Book Club @ Filter Cafe
The Chicago Nerds Social Club hosts their monthly sci fi and fantasy book club this evening at Filter Cafe (1373 North Milwaukee) from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. Tonight's book for discussion is Stories of Your Life and Others by Ted Chiang. Full details on the event at the Chicago Nerds Website, or at the event's Facebook page.
Universal Pictures celebration @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a celebration of Universal Pictures starting today and running through January 3. This afternoon's kick-off film will be Blind Husbands from 1919 at 3pm. See the Film Center's Website for a full schedule of films and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Pop-Up Book Fair @ Empty Bottle
Quimby's presents a one-day-only book fair today at the Empty Bottle (1035 North Western Avenue) from 2pm to 7pm. Plenty of local publishers and distributors will be here all afternoon selling their books. It's a 21+ event, and it's free if you RSVP at the Empty Bottle Website; otherwise the admission is $5. More details at the Facebook event page.
Too Much Light best-of shows @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists continue the tradition of showcasing the best plays from the previous calendar year by having a best-of weekend at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 North Ashland, at Foster). This weekend you'll see some of the best plays written for their flagship show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind, with a huge cast of ensemble members performing their best work of 2012. Tickets are available in advance if you don't want to take the chance of a show bein sold out; see the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details on the shows.
First Friday @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents this month's First Friday, an evening of sample classes, sing-alongs, and performances by dance & music classes at the school. Doors open at 5pm, and admission is $5. Full details and a schedule available at the school's Website. Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
Energy BBDO Creative Salon
Energy BBDO's last Creative Salon of the year features Amy Krouse Rosenthal, author of Duck! Rabbit!, The OK Book and Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life, today at 4pm in the agency's offices, 410 N. Michigan Ave. Free.
Deathscribe 2012 @ Mayne Stage
WildClaw Theatre presents Deathscribe 2012, the winners of their annual horror radio play contest. The show starts tonight at Mayne Stage (1328 West Morse) at 8pm. Tickets available through the Mayne Stage Website.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs
Martyrs and The Moth present the monthly StorySLAM tonight at 8pm. Ten storytellers are chosen from the attendees to tell their story. The winners go to the Grandslam Championships! Tickets are $8 at the door, and you definitely want to be there way before showtime. Martyrs: 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Sound Opinions at the Movies: The Blues Brothers @ Music Box
Sound Opinions presents the latest of their regular series of music film screenings at the Music Box Theatre. Tonight's film is not only a music classic, but a Chicago classic as well: the 1980 film The Blues Brothers. The screening is tonight only at 7:30pm. Tickets are $9 in advance, and $10 at the door; see the Music Box Website for full details and to purchase tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
You, Me, Them, Everybody @ Hungry Brain
You, Me, Them, Everybody celebrates its third anniversary at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., tonight starting at 8pm. Hosts Brendon Wetherbee and Esmerelda DeLeon welcome Brian Babylon, Katie McVay and musical guest Deadbeat. $5 suggested donation. 21+
Monty Python and the Holy Grail @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents the classic 1975 comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail, in a newly remastered print. Coconuts optional. For a schedule of showtimes please see the Music Box website.
Tron @ Music Box
The Music Box presents midnight screenings of a 70mm print of the 1982 Disney movie Tron tonight and tomorrow night, to celebrate the movie's 30th anniversary. Full details at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Miami Connection @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and Drafthouse Films present a very special midnight movie this weekend: Miami Connection, a 1987 motorcycle ninja rock drugs film that appears as amazing as it sounds. Miami Connection screens tonight and tomorrow night at midnight. See the Music Box Website for details and to purchase advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Sing-Along Sound of Music @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a new classic Thanksgiving tradition; the sing-along version of The Sound of Music, this afternoon at 4pm. If you've been here before, you know the drill: various props to help you participate in the film, on-screen captions to help you sing along, warming up before the film with additional sing-along songs, and a costume contest (most likely to be won by the cutest kid dressed as one of the Von Trapp children). Tickets are available in advance at a discount through the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Sing-Along Trapped In The Closet @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents what must be the ultimate sing-along experience: R. Kelly's "Trapped in the Closet", in a special midnight screening tonight only. Full details and advance tickets available at the Music Box website.
Miami Connection @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and Drafthouse Films present a very special midnight movie this weekend: Miami Connection, a 1987 motorcycle ninja rock drugs film that appears as amazing as it sounds. Miami Connection screens tonight and tomorrow night at midnight. See the Music Box Website for details and to purchase advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Henry Rollins @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents Henry Rollins in a three-night "The Long March" tour series of spoken word shows. The shows take place each night at 8pm in the school's main performance hall at 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets are $26, $24 for members and $22 for seniors and children, available in advance from the school's website, or call 773-728-6000.
Vivian Maier Book Discussion @ DePaul Art Museum
Co-authors Michael Williams and Rich Cahan will discuss their newest book, Vivian Maier: Out of the Shadows, at the DePaul Art Museum, 935 W. Fullerton, this evening from 6-8PM.
Chicago Nerds Sci Fi & Fantasy Book Club
The Chicago Nerd Social Club presents their monthly sci fi & fantasy book club, meeting tonight at 6:30pm at Filter (1373-75 North Milwaukee Avenue). Tonight's book is Ben H. Winters' The Last Policeman. The event is free and open to the public. Full details available at the Chicago Nerds Website.
Studs' Place @ The Hideout
The Hideout presents a tribute to "Studs' Place", the 1950s TV show starring Studs Terkel. The main event of the tribute is a live performance of a new episode of the series, which will be followed by clips from the original series and a conversation with Mark Dvorak from the Old Town School of Folk Music. The show starts tonight at 7pm. Admission is a suggested donation of $7 to $10. Full details at the Hideout's Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
The Cameraman @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents the latest in their Second Saturday Silent Cinema series. Today's film is the 1928 Buster Keaton film The Cameraman, which will be shown at noon with live organ accompaniment by Dennis Scott. Full information on the screening and advance tickets are available at the Music Box website.
Snoozapalooza @ Women and Children First
Women and Children First present Snoozapalooza, an early morning celebration of Dr. Seuss's book the Sleep Book for children ages 3 and up. Bring your kids to a Saturday morning pajama party with games, snacks, and readings of Dr. Seuss books. Snoozapalooza starts at 9:30am; see the Women and Children First Website for details. Women and Children First: 5233 North Clark Street. (773) 769-9299.
The Room @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a midnight screening of the 2003 cult classic The Room. What kind of money? What kind of drugs? Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Bhangra Night @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening of Bhangra dance featuring local area dance troupes, as well as an introductory class to learn the dance. Dance class is at 8:30pm, and the concert is at 9pm. Tickets are $10, and the event happens in Szold Hall in the school's newest building at 4545 N. Lincoln Ave. Full details and advance tickets available from the school's website, or call 773-728-6000.
AMERICA/N @ Defibrillator Gallery
Art collective Lucky Pierre presents AMERICA/N, a 13-hour discussion and performance of the US Constitution at the Defibrillator Gallery (1136 N. Milwaukee). Starting at 6am a slate of performers and authors will discuss each article of the Constitution, each performance followed by a discussion. See the Lucky Pierre Website for a full schedule of performers. The event is free and open to the public.
Fall French Market
The eighth annual Fall French Market runs Nov. 2-4 at Lycée Français de Chicago, 613 W. Bittersweet Pl. Browse arts, crafts and gourmet foods from around 100 vendors and enjoy French food and music from 11am to 4pm today. Admission is $5.
Sing-Along Xanadu @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a sing-along midnight screening of the 1980 roller disco classic Xanadu, with Olivia Newton-John, Gene Kelly, and an ELO soundtrack. Full details and advance tickets are at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Fall French Market
The eighth annual Fall French Market runs Nov. 2-4 at Lycée Français de Chicago, 613 W. Bittersweet Pl. Browse arts, crafts and gourmet foods from around 100 vendors and enjoy French food and music from 10am to 5pm today. Admission is $5.
Fall French Market
The eighth annual Fall French Market runs Nov. 2-4 at Lycée Français de Chicago, 613 W. Bittersweet Pl. Browse arts, crafts and gourmet foods from around 100 vendors and enjoy French food and music. Tonight's opening party, from 7pm to 10pm, includes dinner by Vietnamese restaurant Hai Yen and a dance performance by the Vietnamese Student Association of UIC. Admission is $35 in advance, $45 at the door.
The Whisperer in Darkness @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center 164 N. State St., presents a screening of The Whisperer in Darkness, an adaptation of the HP Lovecraft film done in the style of classic 1930s monster movies. The film screens tonight at 8pm. Full details at the Film Center website or call the box office at 312-846-2085.
Spooky Singalong @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a family concert this morning at 11am in their main concert hall at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. The Wiggleworms faculty will be leading a singalong of songs about ghosts, witches, and other spooky (but not scary) creatures. Tickets are $12, or $11 for school members. More details at the school Website, or call the box office at (773) 728-6000.
Facets Night School: America's Deadliest Home Video
Tonight Facets Cinematheque concludes Facets Night School, their series of cult film screenings paired with lectures and discussions, with a midnight screening of America's Deadliest Home Video, starring Danny Bonaduce as a "home video enthusiast" kidnapped & forced to film his captors. Tonight's screening will be accompanied by a lecture and discussion by Facets Night School regular Chris Damen. Facets Night School runs Saturday nights at midnight through October 27. Full schedule and advance tickets available through the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. Inquiries about Facets Night School can be directed to nightschool at facets dot org.
Chicago International Children's Film Festival
Facets Cinematheque presents the 29th annual International Children's Film Festival, running from today through November 4. The festival will feature plenty of screenings in Chicago film venues, as well as workshops for kids interested in the film making process. For full details please see the festival website.
Facets Night School: Psycho Sleepover
Tonight Facets Cinematheque continues Facets Night School, their series of cult film screenings paired with lectures and discussions, with a midnight screening of the 2008 film Psycho Sleepover. Tonight's screening will be accompanied by a lecture and discussion by Facets Night School regular Joseph R. Lewis. Facets Night School runs Saturday nights at midnight through October 27. Full schedule and advance tickets available through the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. Inquiries about Facets Night School can be directed to nightschool at facets dot org.
The Whisperer in Darkness @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center 164 N. State St., presents a screening of The Whisperer in Darkness, an adaptation of the HP Lovecraft film done in the style of classic 1930s monster movies. The film screens tonight at 8pm. Full details at the Film Center website or call the box office at 312-846-2085.
Xtro + Trick or Treat @ Portage Theater
The Chicago Cinema Society has a very special Halloween feature for horror movie fans: 35mm prints of the bizarre 1982 British film Xtro and the 1986 heavy metal Satan-worship classic Trick or Treat. The double feature starts tonight at 7:30pm at the Portage Theater (4050 N. Milwaukee), and tickets are only $5. Full details at the Facebook event page.
Facets Night School: Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2
Tonight Facets Cinematheque continues Facets Night School, their series of cult film screenings paired with lectures and discussions, with a midnight screening of the no-budget film Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2. Tonight's screening will be accompanied by a lecture and discussion by Facets Night School regular Dominic Mayer. Facets Night School runs Saturday nights at midnight through October 27. Full schedule and advance tickets available through the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. Inquiries about Facets Night School can be directed to nightschool at facets dot org.
El Vez @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents El Vez, the Mexican Elvis impersonator, in his "El Vez 4 Prez" show tonight at 8pm. The concert happens in the concert hall in the school's main building at 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets available through the school's website, or call 773-728-6000.
Open House Chicago
Today go behind the scenes at more than 150 area buildings with Open House Chicago. Use their handy map or site list to see what's open and for how long.
Facets Night School: The Slumber Party Massacre
Tonight Facets Cinematheque continues Facets Night School, their series of cult film screenings paired with lectures and discussions, with a midnight screening of the 1981 film The Slumber Party Massacre. Tonight's screening will be accompanied by a lecture and discussion by independent filmmaker Michael Smith. Facets Night School runs Saturday nights at midnight through October 27. Full schedule and advance tickets available through the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. Inquiries about Facets Night School can be directed to nightschool at facets dot org.
Robyn Hitchcock @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening of performance by Robyn Hitchcock. There will be two concerts: the 7pm show will be a performance of the album Eye in its entirety; and the 10pm show will be all requests. The shows take place in the main concert hall at 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets for both shows are available at the school's website, or call 773-728-6000.
Music Box of Horrors @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents Music Box of Horrors, a 24-hour marathon of horror movies running from tonight through tomorrow. Eight feature films are scheduled for screening, and the event's special guests are director Jeff Lieberman and B-film star Sybil Danning. For full details and advance tickets please see the Music Box website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Open House Chicago
Today and tomorrow go behind the scenes at more than 150 area buildings with Open House Chicago. Use their handy map or site list to see what's open and for how long.
Facets Night School: The Sleeper
Tonight Facets Cinematheque continues Facets Night School, their series of cult film screenings paired with lectures and discussions, with a midnight screening of the 1980s slasher film tribute The Sleepr. Tonight's screening will be accompanied by a lecture and discussion by FilmMonthly.com writer Jason Coffman. Facets Night School runs Saturday nights at midnight through October 27. Full schedule and advance tickets available through the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. Inquiries about Facets Night School can be directed to nightschool at facets dot org.
Chained Heat @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special screening of the women-in-prison classic Chained Heat tonight at 9:30pm. Sybil Danning, B-movie actress and co-star of this film, will be in attendance for the screening. For full details and advance tickets see the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Nosferatu @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents the latest in its silent film series with a screening of the 1922 classic Nosferatu. The film will screen tonight at 7:30pm with live organ accompaniment by Dennis Scott. See the Music Box Website for full details and to purchase advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Chicago's Weird, Grandma @ Neo-Futurarium
The Barrel of Monkeys theater group presents a special run of their "That's Weird, Grandma" show called "Chicago's Weird, Grandma". They've taken their tried-and-true formula of adapting stories written by Chicago public school kids and asked a bunch of other Chicago theater groups and performers to do the same! Scheduled to perform throughout the next few weeks are: House Theatre; The Hypocrites; Steppenwolf; WildClaw Theatre; Dean Avans; and many more! Chicago's Weird, Grandma runs Monday evenings at 8pm through December 17 at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland, at Foster). Full details at the Barrel of Monkeys page, or call (312) 409-1954.
The Magical Mystery Tour @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a one-night-only screening of The Beatles' film The Magical Mystery Tour, newly restored and on the big screen for the first time. The main feature will screen with additional footage and interviews from the time the film was being made. The film screens tonight at 7:30pm; tickets are $11 and can be purchased through the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Third Coast Audio Festival Awards
The Third Coast Audio Festival awards ceremony and Champagne reception is tonight from 6:30 to 9:30pm at Northwestern's Norris University Center, 1999 Campus Dr. in Evanston. Tickets are $75.
Facets Night School: Rock'n'Roll Nightmare
Tonight Facets Cinematheque continues Facets Night School, their series of cult film screenings paired with lectures and discussions, with a midnight screening of Jon Mikl Thor's heavy metal horror film Rock'n'Roll Nightmare. Tonight's screening will be accompanied by a lecture and Q&A session by FilmMonthly.com editor-in-chief Jef Burnham. Facets Night School runs Saturday nights at midnight through October 27. Full schedule and advance tickets available through the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. Inquiries about Facets Night School can be directed to nightschool at facets dot org.
44 Plays for 44 Presidents @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present the premiere show of their 2012-13 season, 44 Plays for 44 Presidents. Applying the "keep it short" principle to the lives of the 44 US Presidents, the company gives a quick history lesson from the 18th to the 21st century. The show opens tonight a 7:30pm, and runs on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through November 10. Full details and advance tickets available at the Neo-Futurists Website. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 North Ashland (at Foster). (773) 878-4557.
The Life of Death @ Storefront Theater
WildClaw Theatre presents an adaptation of Clive Barker's story "The Life of Death", which opens tonight at the DCA Storefront Theater at 66 East Randolph in the Loop. The show runs Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through November 4. Full details at the WildClaw website. Advance tickets available through Brown Paper Tickets.
Adventures in Modern Music Festival @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle and The Wire present the annual Adventures in Modern Music festival, starting tonight at the Empty Bottle and running through October 7. This year's theme is "A Celebration of Outsider Sounds," so you can expect the greatest in unusual musicans. Among the scheduled artists: R. Stevie Moore, Andy Stott, Biosphere, Sao Paulo Underground, Supreme Cuts, and many many more. Full schedule at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1025 North Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
LCD Soundsystem: The Final Concert @ Music Box Theatre
The Music Box Theatre celebrates the DVD release of the LCD Soundsystem final concert film Shut Up and Play the Hits by screening the complete concert (nearly four hours long!) tonight starting at 7:30pm. The Music Box will have advance copies of Shut Up and Play the Hits for sale at the screenin tonight. See the Music Box Website for details and to purchase advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Facets Night School: Turkish Exploitation
Tonight Facets Cinematheque kicks off yet another session of Facets Night School, their long-running series of cult film screenings paired with lectures and discussions, with a midnight screening of Seytan, aka "Turkish Exorcist". Tonight's screening will be accompanied by a lecture and Q&A session by Facets Night School regular Lew Ojeda. Facets Night School runs Saturday nights at midnight through October 27. Full schedule and advance tickets available through the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. Inquiries about Facets Night School can be directed to nightschool at facets dot org.
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret @ Chief O'Neill's
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret, the regular series of open-mike ukulele performances, happens this evening at Chief O'Neill's (3471 N. Elston Avenue) starting at 9pm. Tonight's theme is "Uke Soundtracks". Participants are invited to being up to three songs from (or based on) movies, TV, or theatrical productions. An advance sign-up list is available at the event's Facebook page. The event is free & open to the public.
Radiolab Live @ Chicago Theatre
NPR's "Radiolab" takes to the stage at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., tonight at 8pm. Hosts Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich will explore the theme of "In the Dark" with athletic dance troupe Pilobolus and composer Thao Nguyen. Tickets are $28-78.
Superstars of Burlesque @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents an evening of burlesque tonight at 7:30pm and 10pm. Both shows will feature Burlesque Hall of Famers Michelle L'amour, Imogen Kelly, Dirty Martini and many more. Also in attendance as the guest of honor, burlesque legend (and Russ Meyer film star) Kitten Natividad. For full details and to purchase tickets please see the Music Box website. Call 773-871-6604 for more info.
Brink of Survival @ Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center presents a free screening of the new documentary Brink of Survival, about a small hospital in Malawi that serves a community of 120,000 people. The screening happens this evening at 6:30pm in the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Cultural Center, followed by a discussion with Salome Chasnoff, the director of the film, and Dr. Martha Sommers, the doctor featured in the film. The screening is free and open to the public. Full details at the Center's Website. Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. (312) 744-6630.
Vertigo @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the Alfred Hitchcock film Vertigo, recently voted as the best film of all time by Sight & Sound. Come see what all the fuss is about this evening at 6pm. If you can't make the screening, Vertigo will also be screened on Tuesday the 25th at 6pm. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the latest in the "Write Club" series, where local performers and authors take up differing sides of a literary conflict and battle it out for charity. Tonight's bouts: FIGHT (Christian Stolte) vs. FLIGHT (David Pasquesi); THEORY (Mare Swallow) vs. PRACTICE (Michael Patrick Thornton); and LOST (Dave Snyder) vs. FOUND (Ian Belknap). The bouts start at 7pm. Admission is $10 at the door. Full details at the Hideout's website. Hideout: 1354 West Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Muppets Tribute @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a Muppets tribute this afternoon at 3:30pm. Join the teachers, staff, students and friends of the school for a family-friendly concert celebrating the music of the Muppets. The concert takes place in the main building of the school at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. See the Old Town School Website for details and to purchase advance tickets.
Bike-In Movie Theater: The Last Waltz @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the latest screening in their Bike-In Movie Theater series. Tonight's film is Martin Scorsese's The Last Waltz, which screens at 7:30pm on the Hideout's patio. Admission is free, and you can bring your own snacks. Just don't bring your own drinks, because the Hideout has you covered. Hideout: 1354 West Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Theater Oobleck Book Release Party @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts a book release party by local theater group Theater Oobleck. The newly published book More If You've Got It contains five Oobleck plays, and tonight's party will feature scenes from Oobleck plays, live music, and a sneak preview of the next Oobleck production. The party starts at 7pm, and admission is free. Full details at the Hideout website. Hideout: 1354 West Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Bernie @ Gene Siskel Film Center
If you missed the Richard Linklater film Bernie when it was in theaters earlier in the year, you've got another chance to see it as the Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run for the film. For showtimes and to purchase advance tickets see the Film Center's Website. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2085.
Sleepwalk With Me screening with Ira Glass @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre begins screening the new film Sleepwalk With Me tonight, and they're hosting appearances by the film's co-writer, Ira Glass, tonight and tomorrow. Mr. Glass will be introducing the film and participating in a Q&A session after the screenings. See the Music Box website for full details and to purchase advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Touch of Evil @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center kick off a four-month retrospective of 1950s American cinema tonight with a screening of Orson Welles' Touch of Evil. The film screens tonight at 6pm, and again on Tuesday, September 4th at 6pm. The Film Center offers lectures by Chicago Reader film critic Fred Camper with the Tuesday evening screenings in this series. See the Film Center website for full details on the program. Film Center: 164 North State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Facets Night School: Scumbabies
Facets Cinematheque concludes its summer session of Facets Night School, a series of midnight screenings paired with lectures and conversations about cult films. Tonight's film is the award-winning horror movie musical Scumbabies. There will be an 11pm reception before the screening, and the film's director, Facets Night School regular Joseph R. Lewis, will be in attendance. Tickets are $5, and you can find a complete schedule and advance tickets at the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, email nightschool at facets dot org.
Frank Rosaly's Todos de Pie! @ Millennium Park
As part of 175 Days to Love Chicago, Millennium Park presents a performance by Todos de Pie, featuring drummer Frank Rosaly & vocalist Jaap Blonk. The opening act for the performance will be a group of musicians from Chicago-area high schools. The concert starts tonight at 6:30pm at Millennium Park, and admission is free.
Chicago Opera Theater Booze Cruise
The Chicago Opera Theater's first annual Booze Cruise is tonight, and the theme is "I'm On a Boat!" Join opera lovers for a two-hour cruise on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan with wine, beer and hors d'oeuvres -- and selections from the theater's upcoming production of Mozart's The Magic Flute. Boarding begins at 6:15pm at the dock at 330 N. Wabash Ave. The boat pushes off at 6:30pm. Tickets are $40 in advance, $50 at the dock.
Facets Night School: Pulgasari
Facets Cinematheque continues its summer session of Facets Night School, a series of midnight screenings paired with lectures and conversations about cult films. Tonight's film is a 1985 film from North Korea, Pulgasari. Tonight's lecturer is Night School regular Chris Damen. Facets Night School runs through August 25. Tickets are $5, and you can find a complete schedule and advance tickets at the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, email nightschool at facets dot org.
Beyond the Myth: a Story of Breed Discrimination in America @ Instituto Cervantes
One Tail at a Time animal rescue hosts a screening of Beyond the Myth, a documentary about the stigma and reality of pit bulls. By the end, you'll want your own! Fifty the two-legged pit bull will be on hand for pictures and chin-scratches. Event runs 6-9pm at Instituto Cervantes, 31 W. Ohio Ave. Tickets $10.
The Room @ Music Box
The Music Box hosts another screening of the 2003 instant cult classic The Room. What kind of money? What kind of drugs? The Room screens tonight at midnight. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Noir City: Chicago @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents Noir City: Chicago, a week-long festival of film noir. The festival organizers have planned a dozen films to be screened during the week; see the Music Box Website for a complete schedule. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Sebadoh @ Schubas
Schubas welcomes Sebadoh tonight at 8pm. Opening acts: Lou Barlow and Cirlce of Buzzards. It's a 21+ show, and tickets are $20. See the Schubas Website for advance tickets. Schubas: 3159 North Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
Chicago Nerds Book Club @ Filter
The Chicago Nerd Social Club presents their monthly book club meeting tonight at Filter, 1373 N. Milwaukee Ave. Tonight's book is the collected Wool omnibus by Hugh Howey. The book club meeting runs from 6:30pm to 8pm, and admission is free. Full details at the Chicago Nerds Website.
Facets Night School: Please Don't Touch Me!
Facets Cinematheque continues its summer session of Facets Night School, a series of midnight screenings paired with lectures and conversations about cult films. Tonight's film is a 1959 film from Ron Ormond, Please Don't Touch Me! Tonight's lecturer is Night School regular and founding member of Everything Is Terrible! Katie Rife. Facets Night School runs through August 25. Tickets are $5, and you can find a complete schedule and advance tickets at the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, email nightschool at facets dot org.
Joe Dante's Movie Orgy @ Nightengale
The AV Club presents director Joe Dante, who will be screening his 1968 project The Movie Orgy, a 240-minute compilation of commercials, trailers, and film scenes. The show starts at 8pm at The Nightengale (1084 North Milwaukee). Admission is $7.
Battle Royale @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents midnight screenings of the infamous Japanese film Battle Royale tonight and tomorrow night. For a primer of the film please see the AV Club's New Cult Canon essay. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The New Cult Canon presents: Joe Dante double feature @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and The AV Club present an evening with director Joe Dante. Tonight's double feature: a 9:30 screening of Dante's 2009 film The Hole, followed by a midnight screening of Gremlins 2: The Next Batch. Joe Dante will be present at the screenings, and will participate in a Q&A session in between the films. Tickets are $15; see the Music Box Website for full details and to purchase advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 North Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Forgotten Chicago's "The Bloomingdale Line" Discussion @ Comfort Station
This evening Terence Banich of Forgotten Chicago will present a lecture and discussion entitled "The Bloomingdale Line, a study of a former link to interstate commerce." The event runs from 7pm-9pm at the Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Also on view will be David Schalliol's photographs of The Bloomingdale. Free.
Corruption is Funny @ Paris Club
The Onion teams up with the Better Government Association for a night of poking fun at local politics, with Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon and Larry Potash and Robin Baumgarten of WGN in attendance. Event takes place at Paris Club, 59 W. Hubbard St., from 6 to 9pm; tickets are $50.
Music Box Summer Music Film Festival
The Music Box Theatre and Sound Opinions present four evenings of music films starting tonight, with the double feature Monterey Pop and Gimme Shelter. The other films that will be shown are the Paul Simon documentary Under African Skies, the Andrew Bird documentary Fever Year, and the LCD Soundsystem doc Shut Up and Play The Hits. See the Music Box Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Facets Night School: Yor, the Hunter From the Future
Facets Cinematheque continues its summer session of Facets Night School, a series of midnight screenings paired with lectures and conversations about cult films. Tonight's film is the bizarre 1983 film Yor, The Hunter from the Future, with plenty of sci-fi, mummies, robots, and who knows what else. Tonight's lecturer is Jef Burnham, editor of FilmMonthly.com. Facets Night School runs through August 25. Tickets are $5, and you can find a complete schedule and advance tickets at the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, email nightschool at facets dot org.
The Bloomingdale Exhibition Opening @ Comfort Station
David Schalliol is exhibiting photographs from his project about The Bloomingdale, a near northwest side former rail line that is being converted into a park and trail. The opening is from 7pm-10pm at the Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. The exhibition runs from July 20-August 26.
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival @ Logan Square
The annual Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival continues three days of music, art, theater, dance and food in Logan Square. Events run from 11am-10pm today on Milwaukee Ave. between California and Kimball.
Facets Night School: Myra Beckenridge
Facets Cinematheque, 1517 W. Fullerton Ave., continues its summer session of Facets Night School, a series of midnight screenings paired with lectures and conversations about cult films. Tonight's film is the notoriously bad 1970 film Myra Beckenridge, with Night School regular Dominick Mayer lecturing. Facets Night School runs through August 25. Tickets are $5, and you can find a complete schedule and advance tickets at the Facets website. For more information about Facets Night School, email nightschool at facets dot org.
Sing-Along Mary Poppins @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre present a screening of the classic Disney Film Mary Poppins, with audience participation including sing-along opportunities, a chimney sweep costume contest, and much more. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for kids. The film screens today and tomorrow at 2pm; see the Music Box Website for full details and to purchase tickets in advance. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival @ Logan Square
The annual Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival continues three days of music, art, theater, dance and food in Logan Square. Today events run from 11am-10pm on Milwaukee Ave. between California and Kimball.
Cinemapocalypse @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents Cinemapocalypse, a selection of films curated by the programmers for Austin's famed Alamo Draft House. The films screen tonight and tomorrow night, and the program will include a selection of trailers from the collection of the Draft House, and an appearance by film-maker Gary Sherman, who will be presenting a screening of his film Vice Squad tonight at 9pm. And if that wasn't enough, there's a special midnight screening tomorrow evening that's a special surprise! For the full details of Cinemapocalypse, and to purchase advance tickets, please see the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival @ Logan Square
The annual Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival kicks off three days of music, art, theater, dance and food in Logan Square. Events start this afternoon at 4pm and run all weekend on Milwaukee Ave. between California and Kimball.
Like a Secondhand Sea
A gigantic cast of characters (including Jon Langford, Sally Timms, Water Reclamation District Commissioner Debra Shore and WBEZ's Allison Cuddy) perform a three-part Historical Reenactment that tells the story of "how human contact has altered Lake Michigan and the Chicago River." Event takes place in a few different places: 11am at Chicago and Fairbanks for a small play about Marquette and Joliet; a play about the origins of Streeterville from noon to 2pm at the park space located across the street from 435 E. Illinois Ave. Free bowler hats, tintype pictures, Streeterville Currency, and squirt guns (limited supply); and a river reversal rededication ceremony at 2pm at Centennial Fountain, East River Drive and McClurg Ct. All events are free.
Woody Guthrie 100th birthday tribute @ Uncommon Ground
Uncommon Ground hosts a 100th birthday tribute to Woody Guthrie this evening from 9pm to 11pm. The featured performer will be musician and songwriter Bucky Halker, with special guest Lanialoha Lee from the Old Town School of Folk Music. Ticket price is $15. Uncommon Ground: 3800 North Clark Street. (773) 929-3680.
Metrospective Opening Reception
The Metro celebrates 30 years as one of Chicago's best rock clubs with a retrospective exhibition of photography and memorabilia at the Inland Steel Building downtown at 77 S. Dearborn. It opens with a reception tonight from 5pm to 8pm, featuring DJ sets by Mister Wolf, Mother Hubbard, Greg Corner and Zebo.
Jaws @ Film Center
As part of a Universal Pictures retrospective the Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of Jaws this afternoon at 5:15pm. If you miss today's screening you can also catch the movie tomorrow evening at 7:30pm. See the Film Center Website for showtimes and advance tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Beer Church @ Pumping Station: One
Pumping Station: One presents Beer Church, an afternoon of beer tasting and discussion of the science of brewing. Attendees are invited to bring beer for a "potluck beer tasting," and also any homebrewing equipment you might have and perhaps are willing to let others use. Beer Church begins today at noon. Full details at the Pumping Station: One site. Needless to say, this is a 21+ event. Pumping Station: One: 3517 North Elston.
3rd Annual Great Midwest Ukefest @ Chief O'Neill's
The third annual Great Midwest Ukefest happens today at Chief O'Neill's, 3471 N. Elston Ave. The day kicks off with a 11:00am workshop by Lanialoha Lee from the Old Town School of Folk Music, followed by an extended open-mike session from 1pm to 6pm, and concludes with an evening concert featuring many regulars from Ukulele Cabaret evenings. Tickets are $10, and proceeds benefit the Intonation Music Workshop. Details available at the event's Facebook page.
Facets Night School: Bettie Page, Alucarda, Normal Love
Facets Cinematheque continues its summer session of Facets Night School, a series of midnight screenings paired with lectures and conversations about cult films. Tonight's program consists of Bettie Page short films, the 1963 film Normal Love, and the 1977 nunsploitation classic Alucarda. Tonight's lecturer is Night School regular Bruce Neal. Facets Night School runs through August 25. Tickets are $5, and you can find a complete schedule and advance tickets at the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, email nightschool at facets dot org.
Paul Williams: Still Alive @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run for the 2011 documentary Paul Williams: Still Alive, featuring a look at the career of the singer, songwriter, and actor. Paul Williams will be at tonight's screening of the documentary for a discussion of the film, moderated by GB's own Steve Prokopy. The film screens tonight at 7:45pm, and runs at the Film Center through July 5. See the Film Center's Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
...and the whole train was like... @ Victory Gardens
Victory Gardens Theater and the VG Poets Conservatory present ...and the whole train was like..., a play about seven poets on a Chicago train. The show runs this weekend only, June 28 through July 1, at Victory Gardens Biograph Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets are $15, and can be purchased at the Victory Gardens website. More information: (773) 871-3000.
Facets Night School: Wonder Women
Facets Cinematheque kicks off a summer session of Facets Night School, a series of midnight screenings paired with lectures and conversations about cult films. Tonight's film is the 1973 Filipino action flick Wonder Women, screened tonight in a rare 35mm print. Tonight's lecturer is Facets Night School Lew Ojeda, who will also be taping a live episode of the Cinematrocities podcast as part of the event. Facets Night School runs through August 25. Tickets are $5, and you can find a complete schedule and advance tickets at the Facets Website. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, email nightschool at facets dot org.
Beyond the Black Rainbow @ Logan Theatre
The Logan Theatre and The Chicago Cinema Society present the Chicago premiere of Beyond the Black Rainbow, the 2010 Canadian film/acid trip that's starting to get distributed around the US. The film screens tonight and tomorrow night at 11pm. Tickets are available in advance at the Chicago Cinema Society Website. Logan Theatre: 2646 N. Milwaukee. (773) 342-5555.
30 Queer Plays in 60 Straight Minutes @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present their annual Pride Show this weekend with three special prime-time performances of their long-running show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night at 8pm. The ensemble will present a program of GLBTQ-themed plays, with proceeds from the show going to UCAN's Host Home Program. Tickets are $19.99 each, and can be purchased through the Neo-Futurists' Website. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Wet Hot American Summer, Dazed and Confused @ Lincoln Hall
Tonight Lincoln Hall reverts back to its 3 Penny cinema roots, as they offer a great double bill: Wet Hot American Summer at 7pm; and Dazed and Confused at 9pm. Even better, the evening is free! Details at the Lincoln Hall Website. Lincoln Hall: 2424 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 525-2501.
Found Footage Festival @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre hosts The Found Footage Festival, in town to record footage for their all-new DVD collection of random video footage that has to be seen to be believed. In addition to the array of VHS clips, the event will feature an opening program of educational school films from the 1960s and 1970s, curated by Skip Elsheimer of The AV Geeks. The show starts at 8:30pm. Tickets are on sale, and can be purchased in advance through the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
James Bond 50th anniversary celebration @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a weekend Father's Day program of classic James Bond films. Today and tomorrow the theater will screen four films: Dr. No; From Russia With Love; Live And Let Die; and Octopussy. See the Music Box Website for a full schedule of films. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (733) 871-6604.
Just For Laughs: Eddie Pepitone & Patton Oswalt @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center hosts a series of screenings as part of this year's Just For Laughs Chicago comedy festival. Tonight's program is the world premiere screening of the 2012 documentary The Bitter Buddha, featuring comedian Eddie Pepitone. The director of the film, Steven Feinartz, will be at tonight's screening, along with Pepitone and Patton Oswalt, for audience discussion after the film. The Bitter Buddha screens tonight at the Film Center at 8pm. See the Film Center Website for a full schedule of the films that will be screened. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
The New Cult Canon presents: Black Dynamite @ Music Box
The AV Club and the Music Box Theatre team up for another New Cult Canon screening. Tonight's film: the righteous blaxploitation parody Black Dynamite from 2009. Fiendish Doctor Wu, you done f'ed up now! The film screens tonight at 8pm; visit the Music Box Website for full details and to purchase advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
100 Days of Chicago Opening @ Chicago Photography Center
The winners of The Local Tourist's 100 Days of Chicago photo contest will be on display at a reception tonight at the 3301 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight from 7pm to 9pm. Free, but RSVP requested.
Just For Laughs: Pulp @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center hosts a series of screenings as part of this year's Just For Laughs Chicago comedy festival. Tonight's film is the 2011 film Pulp from the UK, which features a discussion of Star Wars that you may have seen on YouTube. Pulp screens tonight at the Film Center at 8:15pm. See the Film Center Website for a full schedule of the films that will be screened. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Just For Laughs: Short Films @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center hosts a series of screenings as part of this year's Just For Laughs Chicago comedy festival. Tonight's program is a series of short comedy films from foreign and domestic directors. The program screens tonight at the Film Center at 8:15pm. See the Film Center Website for a full schedule of the films that will be screened. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Pee Wee's Big Adventure @ Millennium Park
As part of Bike to Work Week, Bike Chicago is presenting a free screening of the classic bike movie Pee Wee's Big Adventure tonight at Millennium Park. The event is free, and the screening begins at dusk.
Chicago Design Museum Opening Reception
The Chicago Design Museum celebrates its opening with a reception tonight from 7pm to 11pm at the museum, 700 N. Sacramento Ave. Explore the inaugural exhibitions, including Debbie Millman: Look Both Ways, Ed Fella: More Into Less, IBM100: Icons of Progress, Fresh Produced: Exploring the Craft of Hand-Painted Signage, and Rodchenko 120; and check out the gift shop. $10 suggested donation.
Experimental Garage Sale
The electronics designers at GetLoFi.com present their 5th annual Experimental Garage Sale today from noon to 6pm at Experimental Sound Studio (5925 N. Ravenswood). A group of about 10 vendors will be selling experimental electronic sound equipment, effects pedals, spare parts, microphones, DIY electronic kits, and much more. More information on the event is available at the GetLoFi Website. The event is free and open to the public.
Studio Ghibli film festival @ Gene Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center hosts a two-month-long retrospective of the animated films of Studio Ghibli. Fifteen films will be screened through August, including two that have not been screened in North America before. Tonight's film is Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, at 6pm. A full schedule of films is available at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Andrew Bird doc @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 2011 documentary Andrew Bird: Fever Year, documenting the artist's 2009 tour schedule. The film plays tonight at 8pm, and the director Xan Aranda will be at the screening. See the Film Center Website for full details and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Filmspotting live show @ Lincoln Hall
Filmspotting, the local movie review podcast, celebrates its 400th show with a live taping tonight at Lincoln Hall (2424 N. Lincoln Avenue). The show starts tonight at 7:30pm, and features special guests Michael Phillips from the Chicago Tribune and Dana Stevens from Slate. It's a 21+ show, and tickets are $10. More information and a link to purchase tickets at the Lincoln Hall Website.
Reading Under the Influence
Reading Under the Influence is back tonight at 7pm in the back room of Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave., with an appropriate theme for a Wrigleyville area bar: "Pain (The Baseball Edition)." Join readers Ben Tanzer (This Zine Will Change Your Life), April Newman, writer-zinestress Liz Baudler (The Toucan magazine) and Windy City Story Slam All-City Champion Alex Bonner. $3 admission. 21+
Chicago Underground Film Festival
The Gene Siskel Film Center hosts the 19th annual Chicago Underground Film Festival, which starts tonight and runs through June 7. The opening film tonight is The Fourth Dimension, featuring work by three directors (Alexsei Fedorchenko,
Harmony Korine, and Jan Kwiecinski). See the Film Center Website or cuff.org for full details on the festival and to purchase tickets and passes. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts the latest edition of Write Club, a literary joust between local authors. On tonight's card: DAMNED (Ian Belknap) vs. EXALTED (Jeff Miller); LOCK (Lindsay Muscato) vs. KEY (Noelle Krimm); and REVOLUTION (Jim DeWan) vs. EMPIRE (Chris Schoen). The show starts at 7pm; admission is $8, and proceeds go to charities picked by the authors. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Maria McCullogh & Yahvi Pichardo @ Schubas
Instructors from the Old Town School of Folk Music, Maria McCulloch & Yahvi Pichardo, play a program of free music today at noon at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport.
Guinness Ukulele Lesson Attempt @ Welles Park
As part of the ongoing Festival of Aloha at the Old Town School of Folk Music, the organizers invite anyone and everyone who can play an 'ukulele to stop by the bandshell at Welles Park (near Western and Montrose) this afternoon to participate in an attempt to beat the Guinness record for largest 'ukulele lesson. The record is 1,378 people, so if you can help out you're definitely invited to attend! The lesson kicks off at 2:30pm sharp, so make sure you're at the park well before that time. Admission is free, so bring your uke and be a part of history!
Dead Alive @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents a 20th anniversary screening of the Peter Jackson film Dead Alive. For a refresher, please see the AV Club's New Cult Canon article about the film. The film screens tonight and tomorrow night at midnight.
THE MALL Launch Event @ ZaZaZoo Nail Salon
Matt Kasin (The Gaudy God) and Alysse Dalessandro (Ready-to-Stare) officially launch THE MALL, an Etsy-based concept store comprised of vintage and handmade jewelry inspired by cult '90s teen films such as Clueless and Spice World. Tonight's launch party includes complimentary nail services, drinks, and baked goods from Delectables. The full collection will be available for purchase and guests may RSVP here. ZaZaZoo Nail Salon is located at 1842 N. Damen Ave. and the party starts at 7pm. An after party at Local Option, 1102 W. Webster St., starts at 10pm.
Festival of Aloha @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music plays host to the first Festival of Aloha, a four-day series of workshops and performances by several Asian and Pacific Island musicians, artists and teachers. Every day will feature workshops for musicians and dancers, and the evening concerts will feature Daniel Ho, Darlene Ahuna, Jason Arimoto, and many more. See the festival's Website for full details. Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
Theatre of War @ Chopin Theatre
Spektral Quartet and High Concept Laboratories present Theatre of War, an evening of music, film, performance and poetry on the subject of war. The event happens tonight and tomorrow night at 7:30pm at the Chopin Theatre building (1543 W. Division). Tickets are $30, or $20 for students with ID, and can be purchased through the Spektral Quartet's Website.
Daniel Clowes signing @ Quimby's
Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 W. North Ave., welcomes back renowned artist Daniel Clowes, subject of the new book The Art of Daniel Clowes: Modern Cartoonist, for a book signing tonight at 7pm.
Fictlicious @ Hideout
The Hideout welcomes Fictlicious for an evening of stories and songs. For a full list of scheduled artists please see the Hideout Website. The evening starts at 7pm, and admission is $7 at the door. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Killer Moon CD release @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., hosts Killer Moon tonight, celebrating the release of their new self-titled CD. Opening band: Creepy Band. Show starts at 9:30pm; admission is free.
The T.A.M.I. Show @ Hideout
The Hideout presents a special "bike-in" screening of the 1964 film The T.A.M.I. Show, featuring performances by James Brown, The Rolling Stones, Marvin Gaye, Jan and Dean, and many more. The film will be screened at 8pm on the Hideout's patio, and admission will be free. Full details at the Hideout Website. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia Avenue. (773) 227-4433.
Klute @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a matinee screening of the 1971 movie Klute, featuring Donald Sutherland and Jane Fonda in one of her best roles. The screening is part of the Music Box Neo-Noir series, and starts at 11:30am. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Quintron & Miss Pussycat @ Empty Bottle
Some things are eternal, and this is one of them: Quintron & Miss Pussycat emerge from their New Orleans lair and make what must be the 90,000th appearance at the Empty Bottle. Things to expect: killer organ sounds by Quintron, a puppet show by Miss Pussycat, and dancing dancing dancing. Also on the bill: Pierced Arrows; Don't; and Sir DJ. The fun cavalcade starts at 10pm, so don't be late. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased in advance at the Empty Bottle Website.
Arcade Brewery Fundraising Event @ Threadless Headquarters
New local brewery Arcade Brewery hosts their first fundraising event tonight at the Threadless Headquarters (1260 West Madison). Running in conjunction with their Kickstarter campaign, this fundraiser includes a dj set by Martin Atkins; performances by Ones Bent to Zero, Prom Band, and sketch comedy group Comedy Think Tank; and haircuts from Rock Razors Scissors. Guests may bring their own beer for a "beer potluck." A suggested donation of $20 goes toward startup costs for the brewery and the event runs from 7 to 11pm. 21+.
Rushmore @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents midnight screenings of the 1998 Wes Anderson film Rushmore this weekend. Jason Schwartzman and Bill Murray; what more do you need in a movie? Rushmore screens Friday and Saturday night at midnight. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Sea and Cake @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle welcomes The Sea And Cake tonight at 9:30pm. Opening act: Golden Retriever. Tickets are $18, and advance tickets are available at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-2600.
Mexican Music & Theater @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a day of event celebrating Mexican culture. Art classes, music workshops, and an evening pot luck & jam session are all scheduled at the school's 909 W. Armitage location. For full information see the school's Website, or call the school at (773) 728-6000.
Coffy @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a midnight screening of Pam Grier's Coffy ("She'll CREAM you!"). The film screens tonight and tomorrow night. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Songwriting Workshop @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a songwriting workshop headed by Adrianne Gonzalez and Natalia Zukerman, co-creators of the art is song music & painting project. The workshop happens in the school's new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue, runs from 7pm to 9pm, and costs $20. Full details at the Old Town School's Website, or call the school at (773) 728-6000.
The Unstable Object @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a one-time screening of the 2010 documentary The Unstable Object, an look at unusual production models (including a German Volkswagen plant, a Chicago clock factory staffed by blind workers, and a Turkish cymbal factory). The director, Daniel Eisenberg, is scheduled to appear at the screening tonight at 6pm. See the Film Center Website for a full description and to purchase advance tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Student Academy Awards @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center hosts the 39th annual Student Academy Awards, honoring the regional film-makers who represent the best college-level film making. The winners of tonight's awards will advance to the national finals in Los Angeles next month. The event starts tonight at 6:30pm, and ticketholders are invited to a pre-screening reception in the lobby at 5:45pm, with Thai food from Sonny's Deli. See the Film Center Website for full details and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Timtacular @ Goose Island
Local author and fan of nonprofits Tim Sarrantonio is celebrating his birthday today at Goose Island, and YOU'RE invited! He's raising money for 4 separate local nonprofits (Reading With Pictures, The Art of Life, the Neo-Futurists, and ARISE Chicago), and the admission price of $60 will get you food and drinks, a tour of the Goose Island brewery, live entertainment by the Neo-Futurists, a live auction, and much more. Details at the event's Facebook page.
An Actor Prepares @ Logan Center for the Arts
The University of Chicago presents the new Mickle Maher play An Actor Prepares, which premieres tonight at the university's Theater East at the Logan Center for the Arts (915 E. 60th Street). Taking the classic Stanislavsky text as its inspiration, the play finds the author confronted with a group of characters, all named Stanislavsky. The play premieres tonight at 8pm and runs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through May 5. Full details at the U Chicago Website.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs plays host to the monthly Moth StorySLAM. Willing audience members are randomly chosen to deliver a short story based upon the agreed-upon topic (tonight's topic: "Competition"), and a panel of judges picks the winner, who advances to the semifinals held later this year. The show starts tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $8 at the door, but some advance tickets will be available for $16 at The Moth Website. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
Write Club @ The Hideout
The Hideout once again plays hosts for Write Club, the literary bouts between writers taking up opposing opinions. Tonight's bouts: FIGHT (Christian Stolte) vs. FLIGHT (David Pasquesi); THEORY (Mare Swallow) vs. PRACTICE (Michael Patrick Thornton); and LOST (Dave Snyder) vs. FOUND (Ian Belknap). Write Club starts at 7pm, and admission is $8. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
All In: The Poker Movie @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a one-time screening of the 2011 documentary All In: The Poker Movie tonight at 8:15pm. The film traces the history of the game from its origins on steamboats to the recent popularity of televised & online versions of the game. Scheduled to appear at tonight's screening is James McManus, world class poker player and SAIC professor. See the Film Center Website for full details and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Ralph's World @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music welcomes former OTS teacher Ralph Covert, also known as Ralph's World, for two kids concerts today at the school's main concert hall at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. The shows are at 11am and 3pm, and tickets are available either online at the school's Website or by calling the school at (773) 728-6000.
Facets Night School: Head
Facets Cinematheque concludes its 10th session of Facets Night School screenings paired with lectures & discussions about the films tonight, with the infamous 1968 Monkees film Head. Discussion of the film will be led by writer and film critic Joel Wicklund. Facets Night School runs Saturday evenings through April 21; the lectures begin at midnight with a $5 fee. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue. For all inquiries about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Record Store Day
Yes, today's the day where you show your appreciation for your local independent record store by going there and buying stuff! Many local stores will have special releases available only today; go to the Record Store Day Website for a complete list of releases and the shops where you can find them around the city. Read about what your local Chicago record store has planned in our lengthy preview in Transmission.
Numero Group Pop-Up Record Store Day Shop @ Empty Bottle
As part of Record Store Day celebrations the local label Numero Group will be opening up a pop-up record store at the Empty Bottle today from 9am to 6pm. Come down to the store to buy Numero Group titles, including some special-edition CDs and 45s available only today. Numero Group will also set up their low-power radio station WTNG with guest DJs, live auctions, and much more. The event is free and open to the public. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Fritz The Cat @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a one-time screening of Ralph Bakshi's X-rated Fritz the Cat tonight at midnight. It's an animated film, but don't bring the kids. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Battle Royale @ Logan Theatre
The recently re-opened Logan Theatre, along with the Chicago Cinema Society, presents two screenings of the infamous Japanese film Battle Royale, a vision of a dystopian future where teenagers battle to the death. Not quite like The Hunger Games, though. Have a look at the AV Club essay on the film for some background of the film. Battle Royale screens tonight and tomorrow night at midnight. Logan Theatre: 2646 N. Milwaukee Avenue. (773) 342-5555.
Chicago Palestine Film Festival @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the 11th annual Chicago Palestine Film Festival, running from today through May 3. The opening night film, Man Without A Cell Phone, screens tonight at 8:15pm. For a complete list of films and to purchase tickets in advance please see the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Haymarket Pub and Brewery
The Haymarket Pub and Brewery hosts a special mid-month instance of the Moth StorySLAM. Willing audience members are randomly selected to deliver a story on the agreed-upon topic (tonight's topic: "Silver Lining"), and a winner is chosen by a panel of judges and invited to appear at the storySLAM finals, happening later in the year. Doors open at 5pm, show starts at 8pm. Tickets are $8 at the door, but advance tickets are available for $16 through The Moth Website. Haymarket Pub and Brewery: 737 W. Randolph (at Halsted). (312) 638-0700.
Architecture & Design Film Festival
The Architecture & Design Film Festival runs April 12-16 at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Today's schedule is below. Tickets can be purchased online from the ADFF website or in person at the Music Box Theatre box office.
• 7pm: Robert A.M. Stern: 15 Central Park West and the History of the New York Apartment House, Up to the Sky - Hearst Tower, Public Farm 1 & High Line Phase 2
• 7:15pm: The Pruitt-Igoe Myth & Mudgee Tower
• 9pm: Lioness Among Lions - The Architect Zaha Hadid, School #9 Coop Himmelb(l)au & Studio Gang Architects
• 9:15pm: The Gruen Effect: Victor Gruen and the Shopping Mall & Three Walls
Chicago Comics & Entertainment Expo
C2E2, the Chicago Comics & Entertainment Expo, runs April 13-15 in the North Building at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr. Browse the show floor, hit panel discussions and get autographs from your favorite comic book artists, authors, and film and TV stars. The expo is open to the public from 10am to 5pm today. Tickets are $25 for a one-day pass, $50 for a weekend pass in advance, $35 and $65 at the door.
Architecture & Design Film Festival
The Architecture & Design Film Festival runs April 12-16 at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Today's schedule is below. Tickets can be purchased online from the ADFF website or in person at the Music Box Theatre box office.
• 3pm: ARCHITECT: A Chamber Opera in Six Scenes
• 3:15pm: The Gruen Effect: Victor Gruen and the Shopping Mall & Three Walls
• 5pm: Mission Statements & American Homes plus Q&A with director/architect Jord den Hollander
• 5:15pm: Robert A.M. Stern: 15 Central Park West and the History of the New York Apartment House, Up to the Sky - Hearst Tower, Public Farm 1 &High Line Phase 2
• 7pm: Unfinished Spaces plus Q&A with filmmaker Ben Murray
• 9pm: Volume Zero: The Work of Charles Correa & Concrete Coast
• 9:15pm: Biophilic Design: The Architecture of Life & Minka
Facets Night School: The King of Kong
Facets Cinematheque, 1517 W. Fullerton Ave., presents its 10th session of Facets Night School screenings paired with lectures & discussions about the films. Tonight's film is the 2007 documentary The King of Kong, about one man's epic quest to get the best score on the old-school Donkey Kong arcade game. Discussion of the film will be led by film critic and Facets Night School regular Dominick Mayer. Facets Night School runs Saturday evenings through April 21; the lectures begin at midnight with a $5 fee. See the Facets website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. For all inquiries about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at 800-331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Architecture & Design Film Festival
The Architecture & Design Film Festival runs April 12-16 at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Today's schedule is below. Tickets can be purchased online from the ADFF website or in person at the Music Box Theatre box office.
• 3pm: Architect of Dreams, Passive Passion & The Man Who Built My Childhood
• 3:15pm: John Portman: A Life of Building, Louis LeRoy - Endless Work in Time and Space & Into the Garden of Glass and Steel
• 5pm: ARCHITECT: A Chamber Opera in Six Scenes w/Q&A with composer Jenny Kallick and musician Michiko Theurer
• 5:15pm: Biophilic Design: The Architecture of Life & Minka
• 7pm: EAMES: The Architect and the Painter & Elephants on Safari
• 7:15pm: Mendelsohn's Incessant Visions & South Pond
• 9pm: Pool Party & Gather Give Grow
• 9:15pm: Detroit Wild City & The Landfill
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret @ Silvie's Lounge
The Chicago Ukulele Cabaret returns to Silvie's Lounge (1902 W. Irving Park Road) tonight starting at 8pm. Interested performers are invited to bring up to 3 songs adhering to the evening's chosen theme. Tonight's theme: "Uke In The Family," which means songs about moms & dads, sons & daughters, aunts & uncles, and cousins by the dozens. Full details at the Facebook page for the event.
Chicago Comics & Entertainment Expo
C2E2, the Chicago Comics & Entertainment Expo, runs April 13-15 in the North Building at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr. Browse the show floor, hit panel discussions and get autographs from your favorite comic book artists, authors, and film and TV stars. The expo is open to the public from 10am to 7pm today. Tickets are $25 for a one-day pass, $50 for a weekend pass in advance, $35 and $65 at the door.
Architecture & Design Film Festival
The Architecture & Design Film Festival runs April 12-16 at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Today's schedule is below. Tickets can be purchased online from the ADFF website or in person at the Music Box Theatre box office.
• 5pm: Detroit Wild City & The Landfill
• 5:15pm: Architect of Dreams, Passive Passion & The Man Who Built My Childhood
• 7pm: EAMES: The Architect and the Painter & Elephants on Safari
• 7:15pm: Mission Statements & American Homes, w/ Q&A with director/architect Jord den Hollander.
• 9pm: The Pruitt-Igoe Myth & Mudgee Tower
• 9:15pm: Pool Party & Gather Give Grow
This Is Not A Film @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center begins a weeklong run of This Is Not A Film, the 2011 non-film featuring Iranian director Jafar Panahi, under house arrest and forbidden from making films, outlining the details of the project that he would be working on, if he were allowed to make films. This Is Not A Film screens through Thursday, April 19; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Chicago Comics & Entertainment Expo
C2E2, the Chicago Comics & Entertainment Expo, runs April 13-15 in the North Building at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr. Browse the show floor, hit panel discussions and get autographs from your favorite comic book artists, authors, and film and TV stars. The expo is open to the public from 1pm to 7pm today. Tickets are $25 for a one-day pass, $50 for a weekend pass in advance, $35 and $65 at the door.
Architecture & Design Film Festival Opening Night
The Architecture & Design Film Festival opens the five-day event at 6pm with the Chicago premieres of feature-length film Mendelsohn's Incessant Visions and short film, South Pond. Then at 8pm, there's a screening of Unfinished Spaces, and a Q&A with filmmaker Ben Murray. The festival is being held at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave. Tickets can be purchased online from the ADFF website or in person at the box office.
Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Club @ Filter
The Chicago Nerd Social Club presents their monthly Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Club meeting tonight at 6:30pm at Filter (1373-75 North Milwaukee Avenue). Tonight's book up for discussion: Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games. The event is free and open to the public. Full details available at the Chicago Nerds Website.
Facets Night School: The Beaver Trilogy
Facets Cinemathequepresents its 10th session of Facets Night School screenings paired with lectures & discussions about the films. Tonight's film is the indescribable 2001 film by Trent Harris The Beaver Trilogy, about which the less you know the better. Discussion of the film will be led by film-maker and Facets Night School regular Joseph R. Lewis. Facets Night School runs Saturday evenings through April 21; the lectures begin at midnight with a $5 fee. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue. For all inquiries about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Asian American Showcase @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents their 17th annual Asian American Showcase, running from today through April 19. The opening night film, Daylight Savings, screens tonight at 8:15pm. For a complete list of films and to purchase tickets in advance please see the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Melies' A Trip to the Moon @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center begins weeklong run of A Trip to the Moon, the Georges Melies film from 1902 (!), seen here in a newly restored color version. Accompanying the film is the 2011 documentary The Extraordinary Voyage. See the Film Center's Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Rock for Kids charity art exhibit @ Hinge Gallery
Rock For Kids will be hosting Shifting Focus, a fine arts exhibit held one night only &mdsah; tonight — at the emerging contemporary art gallery Hinge from 6-9:30pm. The event is free to attend and will exhibit various works from seven different contemporary artists: Zack Balber, Tim Buwalda, Typoe, Debbie Carlos, Alex Colindres, Sarah Newby, and Lucia Palmarini, all at various stages in their careers. A portion of all proceeds will benefit Rock for Kids as well as further arts education. Hinge Gallery is located at 1955 W. Chicago Ave. More on Facebook.
The Interview Show @ Hideout
Mark Bazer's The Interview Show returns to The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., from 6:30pm to 8pm tonight. Guests this time around are actor Brian Dennehy, rapper King Louie and Chicago Opera General Director Brian Dickie. Adam Hendrickson and Louise Rogan also perform. Admission is $8. 21+
Time Fite @ Subterranean
Subterranean welcomes Tim Fite, touring to promote his new studio album Aint Aint Aint. Opening act: Band Called Catch. Doors open at 7:30, show's at 8pm, tickets are $10, and it's 18+. Advance tickets available at the Subterranean Website. Subterranean: 2011 W. North Avenue. (773) 278-6600.
ICE Chicago Benefit @ Longman and Eagle
The International Contemporary Ensemble holds a benefit for its programs in music education and performance tonight at Longman and Eagle, 2657 N Kedzie. Tasting menu from chef Jared Wentworth, drinks, a silent auction and performances by ICE artists is on the bill. Event starts with a champagne reception at 4pm; dinner 5-7:30pm.Tickets $150-300.
Facets Night School: The Bengali Detective
Facets Cinemathequepresents its 10th session of Facets Night School screenings paired with lectures & discussions about the films. Tonight's film is the 2011 fantasy detective story The Bengali Detective, making its Chicago premiere tonight. Discussion of the film will be led by Neil Calderone, director of The Chicago Cinema Society. Facets Night School runs Saturday evenings through April 21; the lectures begin at midnight with a $5 fee. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue. For all inquiries about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Everything Is Terrible! Presents Bulletproof @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and Everything Is Terrible! present a one-time screening of the 1988 Gary Busey film Bulletproof, aka your worst nightmare, butthorn. Bulletproof screens tonight at midnight, so don't be late. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Anoushka Shankar @ Pick-Staiger
Grammy-nominated sitar player Anoushka Shankar leads a performance of Traveler, a blending of traditional Spanish and Indian music, at the Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Dr. in Evanston, at 7:30pm tonight. Tickets are $26, $10 for students.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs plays host to this month's Moth StorySLAM, starting tonight at 8pm. Willing participants are picked from the audience to deliver a story on the evening's topic (tonight's topic: "Kiss of Death"). The winner is selected by a panel of judges and invited to return to the Moth's finals, happening later in the year. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Facets Night School: Shadow of the Vampire
Facets Cinemathequepresents its 10th session of Facets Night School screenings paired with lectures & discussions about the films. Tonight's film is the 2000 horror film Shadow of the Vampire. Discussion of the film will be led by Facets Night School regular Cary Elza. Facets Night School runs Saturday evenings through April 21; the lectures begin at midnight with a $5 fee. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue. For all inquiries about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
The Room with Tommy Wiseau @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents a return by the director of The Room, Tommy Wiseau, for a special screening of Wiseau's cult classic. For this screening Wiseau will also be joined by cast member Greg Sestero. The film will be screened tonight at 10:30pm; ticket are available in advance at the Music Box website or by calling the box office at 773-871-6604.
CARMEN.maquia @ Harris Theater
Luna Negra Dance Theater's CARMEN.maquia runs for one night only, tonight at the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St.. The performance begins at 8pm and tickets are $25 to $65. Tickets are available by calling the Harris Theater box office at 312-334-7777 or online. See our review in A/C.
The Room with Tommy Wiseau @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents a return by the director of The Room, Tommy Wiseau, for a special screening of Wiseau's cult classic. For this screening Wiseau will also be joined by cast member Greg Sestero. The film will be screened tonight and tomorrow evening at 10:30pm; ticket are available in advance at the Music Box website or by calling the box office at 773-871-6604.
Capone's Whiskey: The Story of Templeton Rye @ Mayne Stage
If you like whiskey, you'll love Templeton Rye, the legendary export of a small community in Iowa whose residents illegally made the drink in their sheds (when farming wasn't paying the bills) during the Depression. Al Capone, who loved Templeton Rye, influenced the whiskey's popularity and frequent availability in speakeasies all over the Midwest. Filmmaker Kristian Day tells the tale of Templeton Rye and its place in Midwest culture in his recent film Capone's Whiskey: The Story of Templeton Rye, which will be shown tonight at Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse. Doors open at 6:30pm; film starts at 8pm, followed by a Q&A with Day. Tickets $10-15. Templeton Rye, which began commercial, above-board sales in 2006, hosts a post-film reception. Event sponsored by Gapers Block.
Mortified @ Lincoln Hall
Mortified holds a special edition of its show about embarrassing stories at Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 8pm. The show will be filmed for a documentary about the reading series, and Blue Ribbon Glee Club will perform. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 at the door. 21+
Facets Night School: Three Came Home
Facets Cinemathequepresents its 10th session of Facets Night School screenings paired with lectures & discussions about the films. Tonight's film is the 1950 biopic Three Came Home, based on the experiences of Oak Park native Agnes Newton Keith, who was imprisoned by the Japanese during World War II. Discussion of the film will be led by author and Facets Night School regular Stephen Reginald. Facets Night School runs Saturday evenings through April 21; the lectures begin at midnight with a $5 fee. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue. For all inquiries about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Stuart Davis @ Schubas
Schubas plays host to the Twisted Mystic, Stuart Davis. Show starts tonight at 10pm, tickets are $14, and it's a 21+ show. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
Live Band Karaoke @ Schubas
Schubas invites you to enjoy your post-St. Patrick's Day parade afternoon with live band karaoke starting at 5pm. Classics and recent hits will be available for singing, and yes, lyric sheets will be available. Admission is $5, and it's a 21+ event. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
Pray For Japan Charity Screening
Tonight at 7pm, the documentary Pray For Japan will be screened at AMC River East 20. Filmed in the aftermath of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, the documentary shows victims of the disaster, and their attempts to overcome their hardships. Tonight's screening is a charity event, with proceeds going to benefit the tsunami victims. Full information at the film's Website.
Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Club @ Filter
The Chicago Nerd Social Club presents their latest sfi fi & fantasy book club meeting tonight at 6:30pm at Filter (1373-75 North Milwaukee Avenue). Tonight's book is Kraken by China Miéville. The meeting is free and open to the public.
Facets Night School: Barfly
Facets Cinemathequepresents its 10th session of Facets Night School screenings paired with lectures & discussions about the films. Tonight's film is Barbet Schroeder's 1987 film Barfly, based on the writings of Charles Bukowski. Discussion of the film will be led by Facets Night School regular Chris Damen. Facets Night School runs Saturday evenings through April 21; the lectures begin at midnight with a $5 fee. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue. For all inquiries about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Stars! Wars! The Musical! @ Mercury Theater
Chicago-based improv group Octavarius is performing a one-night showing of Stars! Wars! The Musical! tonight at the Mercury Theater, 3745 N Southport Ave. The musical will be followed by a bonus improv set. Show starts at 8pm. Tickets are $10. Discounted tickets of $7 are offered to attendees who dress in Star Wars attire or bring a light saber.
Facets Night School: I'm Not There
Facets Cinemathequepresents its 10th session of Facets Night School screenings paired with lectures & discussions about the films. Tonight's film is Todd Haynes' 2007 "anti-biopic" of Bob Dylan, I'm Not There. The discussion will be led by film-maker and instructor Michael Smith. Facets Night School runs Saturday evenings through April 21; the lectures begin at midnight with a $5 fee. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue. For all inquiries about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Chiditarod
The seventh annual Chiditarod shopping cart race begins today at noon at the corner of Wolcott and Hubbard. Watch teams in crazy costumes pilot their shopping carts around the city. Check the site or Facebook for course details. If you're going to watch, bring along a canned good to give to your favorite team; donations go to the Greater Chicagoland Food Depository.
An Evening With Don Hertzfeldt @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre welcomes animator Don Hertzfeldt tonight for the Chicago premiere of his latest film It's such a beautiful day. The screening happens tonight at 7:30pm; tickets are available in advance, and can be purchased at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Ben Lee @ Martyrs
Australian singer-songwriter Ben Lee plays Martyrs tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $16 and are available through the Martyrs Website. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
Evening of inaugural performances @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening of three performances commissioned by the school to celebrate the opening of their new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Presented tonight will be: "Shuffling Through Snapshots" by Jennifer Guglielmi; Tom Stevens' "String Quartet Number Four"; and Anne-Marie Akin's "Call and Response: Voices from the Old Town School." The performances start at 7pm in Szold Hall in the new building; admission is $20, or $18 for school members. For reservations please call (773) 728-6000.
Facets Night School: Amin: The Rise and Fall
Facets Cinematheque kicks off its 10th session of Facets Night School tonight, with a screening of the 1981 biopic Amin: The Rise and Fall. Night School regular Lew Ojeda will be on hand to discuss the film. Facets Night School runs Saturday evenings through April 21; the lectures begin at midnight with a $5 fee. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue. For all inquiries about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Chicago Maritime Festival
The Chicago Maritime Festival takes place today at the Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St. The conference runs from 10am to 3:30pm and features seminars and discussions of maritime history, boat safety and culture. Then from 7pm to 11pm, musicians including Calico Jack, Tom Lewis and Serre l'Écoute perform sea shanties and other maritime music while attendees compete in a silent auction. Tickets are $14 for day activities (kids 12 and under are free), $20 for the evening concert or $25 for an all-day pass.
Chico & Rita @ Gene Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run of Chico & Rita, the Spanish film nominated for an Oscar for Best Animated Feature. The film begins screening tonight at 6pm and 8pm, and shows through Thursday, March 1. See the Film Center's Website for a complete schedule and to purchase advance tickets for screenings. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Guerilla Glee @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening concert at their new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Titled "Guerilla Glee," the event will feature Musical Ensemble instructors leading their students in various music & dance numbers. The show starts at 8pm in the brand-new Szold Hall, and is free & open to the public.
Steve James presents Harlan County USA & The Interrupters @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special screening of the Barbara Kopple documentary Harlan County USA this afternoon at 1:30pm. The screening will be co-hosted by Kartemquin Films director Steve James and author Robert K. Elder. As a bonus, James will also be screening his recent Kartemquin documentary The Interrupters. The screening starts at 1:30pm; tickets are available separately for each screening, or as a discounted ticket for the double feature. See the Music Box Website for details and to purchase tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Slack Key Guitar & Ukulele Workshops @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening of classes taught by slack key guitarist George Kahumoku Jr. and his son Keoki. There will be a slack key workshop by George at 7pm tonight, and a ukulele workshop by Keoki at 8:30pm. Both worshops will be held in the school's new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. These workshops are held in conjunction with the Wednesday night performance by the artists as part of the school's World Music Wednesdays series. The registration for each class is $20; see the school's Website for details, or call (773) 728-6000.
Latin Dance Night @ Ballroom Dance Chicago
To celebrate Valentine's Day, Ballroom Dance Chicago is offering a special Latin Dance Night event at 6pm. Couples will learn the basics of Latin dance and watch a professional dance demonstration. The event happens at Ballroom Dance Chicago's studios at 4043 N. Ravenswood. Tickets are $70 per couple, and include champagne and appetizers. RSVP required, so please call Ballroom Dance Chicago at (312) 504-5866 to make reservations.
Michelle L'amour's Big SEXY Show @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a Valentine's Day burlesque show hosted by Michelle L'amour. A group of performers, including Toronto comedy duo Parker & Seville, the burlesque group Chicago Starlets, and beatbox artist Yuri Lane, will perform two shows this evening, one at 8:30pm and one at 11pm. Tickets are available in advance; see the Music Box Website for details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Super Button Mashers @ OHNO!DOOM ARCADE
The OhNo!Doom gallery, 1800 N. Milwaukee, becomes the OhNo!Arcade tonight as it hosts it's Super Button Mashers exhibit from 6pm to 10pm. The night will feature an eclectic arsenal of artists from the city and beyond including Jeremiah Ketner, Aya Kakeda, Max Bare and many more. The deal maker may very well be the local eats by Duck N Roll, coffee courtesy of The Wormhole, and brew brought to you by LowDive.
Second Saturday Silent Cinema @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents the latest in their Second Saturday Silent Cinema screenings of silent films accompanied by in-house organist Dennis Scott. Today's title is the 1921 Fatty Arbuckle comedy Leap Year. The film screens today at noon. Tickets are $10 ($8 for seniors and students with ID). See the Music Box Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Ukulele Workshop @ Old Town School of Folk Music
Ukulele instructor Lanialoha Lee does an in-store appearance at the Different Strummer music store at the Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue, tonight at 7:30pm to give a basic introductory ukulele workshop. The event is free and open to the public.
Shine Box Comedy @ The Burlington
Shine Box Comedy, a new stand-up comedy showcase every first Monday of the month at The Burlington, kicks off with James Fritz, the Puterbaugh Sisters, Nate Simmons, Jason Earl Folks, Stephanie Hasz and Andy Fleming. The show is free (with a $5 suggested donation), 21+. Doors at 8:30, show at 9:00.The Burlington is located at 3425 W. Fullerton Ave.
Super Bowl Party @ Empty Bottle
For those of you not terribly interested in any sporting events that might be happening today, the Empty Bottle has a free Super Bowl party for the music fans! The band scheduled to play is "Football," featuring members of Tight Phantomz, The Pony, Hot Machines and The Guilty Pleasures. The fun starts at 4pm, so come on down! Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. 773-276-3600. 21+
Ti West double feature @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and The AV Club present a double feature by director Ti West. His 2009 horror film House of the Devil will be screened, as well as his latest film The Innkeepers. Tw West will be in attendance, along with The AV Club's Scott Tobias. Tickets are available in advance; see the Music Box's Website for full information. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Schadenfreude Rent Party
Sketch comedy trouple Schadenfreude hosts Rent Party Boogaloo tonight at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont Ave., tonight at 8pm. The variety show includes comedian and Vocalo radio host Brian Babylon, writer/performer Samantha Irby, songwriter Julie Frost, and many of your favorite Schadenfreude characters. Tickets are $10 online or at the door. 21+
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
Martyrs' presents the monthly StorySLAM from The Moth. Ten participants are picked at random to deliver five-minute stories, which are judged by a panel of audience members. The winner gets to move on to the Grandslam Championships, where 10 winners face off to declare a grand champion. Tonight's StorySLAM starts at 8pm. Tickets are $8 and are only available at the door, so get there early! Martyrs': 3855 North Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Lightness & Darkness Release Party @ Happy Dog
Brand-spankin' new multimedia book project Lightness & Darkness will throw its release party and first performance tonight at Happy Dog Gallery (1542 N. Milwaukee), a Wicker Park apartment gallery and alternative art space. For more information about Lightness & Darkness, and/or to support them on Kickstarter click here. For more information about the release event, visit the FB event page.
B-Fest 2012
A&O Productions of Northwestern University presents B-Fest 2012, the annual 24-hour B-movie film festival taking place on Northwestern's campus. The festivities begin tonight at 6pm, and end on Saturday evening at 6pm. Expect a full roster of bad movies from the past century of film (blaxploitation, cheezy sci-fi, bad action movies from the 80s, big budget flops, etc.) along with various short films, a raffle of various films & memorabilia, and a midnight screening of the classic Plan 9 From Outer Space. Tickets are $35 ($20 for Northwestern students). See the B-Fest Website at www.b-fest.com for full details.
Sundance Film Festival 2012 @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents an advance screening of a feature film from the Sundance Film Festival. Tonight's screening is 2 Days In New York, the new film directed by actress Julie Delpy. See the Music Box Website for full details on this event and to purchase tickets in advance. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Lightness & Darkness "BABY SHOWER" Fundraiser @ Uncharted Books
Lightness & Darkness is crowning, guys! Shower the baby with your love at Uncharted Books, a brand spanking new book store in the heart of Logan Square. Grant Reynolds will be doing commissioned drawings for donations for the book as well as selling some of his own publications to benefit L & D! There will be snacks, refreshments and other sort of fun stuff available for small donations. The event is today from 3:30 to 7pm at Uncharted Books: 2630 N. Milwaukee. More info here.
Comics Workshop for Adults and Teens @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a workshop on comics -- their history, how they convey meaning, and now you can create your own. The workshop is available to adults and teens, and is free to take. Materials will be provided. The workshop happens this evening at 7:30pm as part of the school's celebration of the opening of their new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. The workshop takes place in the new building.
I Give You All My Money @ Renaissance Society
Cathy Wilkes's new exhibit, I Give You All My Money, opens at The Renaissance Society, a part of the University of Chicago. The exhibit, which was shortlisted for the Turner Prize in 2008, consists of found, symbolic objects, arranged to create a particular narrative and structure. The objects used range from mannequins and baby strollers to dried food and "soiled dishes." The Renaissance Society is located at 5811 S. Ellis. The opening reception is from 4-7 p.m. and Wilkes will speak from 5-6 p.m. Free.
Complete Beatles @ Old Town School of Folk Music
As part of the celebration of the opening of their new school & performance space, The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a two-day performance of the complete Beatles catalog. Every song from the British releases from 1963 to 1970 will be performed by various Old Town School faculty and students, under the direction of guitar instructor Steve Levitt. The performances run from 3pm to 11pm on both nights in the new performance space at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. Admission for the event is a suggested $10 donation. For details and advance tickets please see the Old Town School Website.
Sound Opinions Movie Night @ Music Box
Sound Opinions and the Music Box Theatre present the latest in their series of Movie Night screenings of rock-related films. Tonight's film is the 2002 Michael Winterbottom film 24 Hour Party People, the dramatization of the Manchester music scene starring Steve Coogan. The film is screening tonight at 7:30pm, and the event is hosted by Sound Opinions co-hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot. Tickets are available in advance; see the tickets page for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Jaymay @ Schubas
New York singer-songwriter Jaymay will be at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave., tonight at 9pm. Her somber tune, Sea Green, See Blue, made its way to the background of an episode of the CBS sitcom, How I Met Your Mother and is likely to be a favorite for the night. Tickets are $10. 18+
Pueblo Latino Chicago @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents Pueblo Latino Chicago, the inaugural event for a new Pan-Latino initiative at the school. The event will include music, dance and workshops representing the US, Mexico, Central & South America, Spain, and the Carribean. Pueblo Latino Chicago happens this afternoon at 4pm in the school's main building at 4544 North Lincoln Avenue. Admission is a suggested $10. Full information and advance tickets are available at the Old Town School Website.
Crispin Hellion Glover @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre hosts a two-night appearance by none other than Crispin Hellion Glover. Tonight he's hosting a screening of his film "What is it?", along with a live dramatic presentation by Mr. Glover accompanied by a slide show. The starting time for both nights is 7:30pm; tickets are available for each event separately, or for both events. See the Music Box Website for full details and to purchase tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Second Saturday Silent Cinema @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents the latest in their Second Saturday Silent Cinema screenings of silent films accompanied by in-house organist Dennis Scott. Today's title is Show People from 1928, starring Marion Davies, with cameos by Charlie Chaplin, Douglas Fairbanks, and Norma Talmadge. The film screens today at noon. Tickets are $10 ($8 for seniors and students with ID). See the Music Box Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Crispin Hellion Glover @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre hosts a two-night appearance by none other than Crispin Hellion Glover. Tonight he's hosting a screening of his film "It is fine! EVERYTHING IS FINE", along with a live dramatic presentation by Mr. Glover accompanied by a slide show. The starting time for both nights is 7:30pm; tickets are available for each event separately, or for both events. See the Music Box Website for full details and to purchase tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Tomorrow Never Knows 2012: Glass Candy @ Lincoln Hall
Tomorrow Never Knows, a five-day music festival happening at various Chicago venues, starts tonight with performances by Glass Candy and Chromatics at Lincoln Hall. The show starts at 8pm, tickets are $15, and it's an 18+ show. For online ticket purchasing, please see the Lincoln Hall Website. [See the full TNK 2012 lineup.]
Opening reception: The Posters of American Music @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents the opening reception for an exhibit of posters for folk and popular music, from the collection of the school, Ronald Cohen and the Peace Museum. The reception happens tonight at 6:30pm in the brand-new school space at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue, and is free and open to the public.
New Building Opening Ceremony @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music celebrates the opening of their brand new building at 4545 North Lincoln Avenue. This morning at 10:30am there will be a ceremonial ribbon-cutting at the new space. There will be speeches, sing-alongs, building tours, and celebration all throughout the day. The event kicks off a celebration of the new space that runs through March; see the Old Town School Website for full details on events.
Free Scrappers Screening and Q & A @ Hyde Park Art Center
The Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Avenue, is hosting a free screening of Scrappers followed by a question and answer session with the co-directors at 6pm tonight. The locally made film was included on Roger Ebert's list of the best documentaries of 2010. Additional information about the film is available in this interview with GB; additional screening details are available on the HPAC website.
Freakers Ball: A Tribute To Shel Silverstein
Jon Langford leads the festivities at the "Freakers Ball: A Tribute To Shel Silverstein" tonight at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., at 8pm. The evening of poetry and song will focus on Silverstein's more adult material from the pages of Playboy and elsewhere. Tickets are $20. 21+
My My My @ Schubas
Local band My My My plays tonight at Schubas. Opening acts: Mr. Russia and The Bright White. Show starts at 8pm, tickets are $6, and it's an 18+ show. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound @ Schubas
Schubas hosts a two-night series of concerts by JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound. Tonight's show is a 21+ show that starts at 10pm. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. You may also purchase a pass for both evenings for $35. See the Schubas Website for full details and to purchase tickets online. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound @ Schubas
Schubas hosts a two-night series of concerts by JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound. Tonight's show is an 18+ show that starts at 10pm. Tickets are $12 in advance and $30 at the door. You may also purchase a pass for both evenings for $35. See the Schubas Website for full details and to purchase tickets online. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
Martha Berner Record Release Party @ Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall plays host to singer-songwriter Martha Berner, celebrating the release of her new album Fool's Fantasy. She'll be performing this evening with her band the Significant Others, with opening guest Xoe Wise. The show starts at 8pm. It's a 21+ show, and tickets are $10 in advance ($12 at the door). See the Lincoln Hall website for full details and to purchase tickets online. Lincoln Hall: 2424 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 525-2501.
Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs
The Moth presents its monthly StorySLAM tonight at Martyrs (3855 N. Lincoln Avenue). Participants will be asked to tell a five-minute story on the chosen topic (tonight's topic: Ancestors), and a panel of judges will pick the night's winner. The StorySLAM happens tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $8, and the tickets are only available at the door, so show up early.
Chicago Calling VIII: Clash Christmas @ Schubas
Schubas hosts A Very Special Clash Christmas this evening at 8pm with the Clash tribute band London Calling and the Jam tribute band All Mods Conned (the alter ego of local band Who's This Mary?). The show is 18+; tickets are $12, and a portion of the proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society in memory of Egon Martensen. See the Schubas website for full details and to purchase tickets. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
The Lost Panoramas @ Barnes & Noble
Author's Richard Cahan and Michael Williams will be at Barnes & Noble, 1 E. Jackson Blvd., at noon today to discuss their new book, The Lost Panoramas: When Chicago Changed its River and the Land Beyond , a "volume chronicling the development of the engineering marvel, its context and its effects."
Winter Ball @ Chicago Children's Museum
The Chicago Children's Museum at Navy Pier, welcomes kids of all ages to brush up on their three counts and learn to waltz today at its Winter Ball. The dance begins at 2pm and is free with museum admission.
Feminist Book Group @ Women and Children First
Women and Children First host their monthly feminist book group meeting tonight at 6pm. Tonight's book for discussion is Anthropology of an American Girl by Hilary Thayer Hamann. The meeting happens at the bookstore at 5233 N. Clark; the event is free and open to the public. For more information please call the store at (773) 769-9299.
The Interrupters @ Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center hosts a free screening of the 2011 Kartemquin film The Interrupters this afternoon at 2pm at the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the center. Admission to the screening is free.
Santa Sangre, The Last Circus @ Portage Theatre
A rare 35-millimeter print of Chilean director Alejandro Jodorowsky's Santa Sangre (1989), as well as The Last Circus (2010) and the short film "Bobby Yeah," (2011) will be screened at the Chicago Cinema Society at 7 p.m. The event is at the Portage Theatre, 4050 N. Milwaukee, at 7:30 p.m. this Saturday, 12/17. You can find more details here and purchase tickets here.
The Interrupters @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a return engagement of the very popular 2011 film The Interrupters, the latest film by Chicago's Kartemquin Films that chronicles the work done by the organization CeaseFire to stop violence on the streets. The film screens through December 22; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Holiday Sing Along @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music hosts one of its regular Six String socials this evening at 6:30pm at their Armitage location (909 W. Armitage Avenue). Tonight's song theme: holiday songs. Attendees are invited to bring their instruments to play along with the group, or just come to sing along. Registration fee is just $5. Please see the Old Town School website to register, or call (773) 728-6000.
28th Annual Music Box Christmas Show
The Music Box Theatre presents their 28th annual Christmas double feature, with screenings of the classics It's A Wonderful Life and Holiday Inn. There will be Christmas carols sung before the films, and an appearance by Santa Claus himself! The double feature runs through Saturday, December 24, and tickets are available for purchase on the Music Box website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Holiday Party / Book Sale @ Graham Foundation
The Graham Foundation, a center for avant-garde art and architecture, will be holding a holiday party and book sale. Its collection of books and publications, including Bertrand Goldberg: An Architecture of Invention and Stanley Tigerman's Schlepping Through Ambivalence, will all be discounted by 15%, with greater savings on certain titles. The party runs from 5-8 p.m. at Madlener House, 4 West Burton Place. RSVP recommended. Free. Find more information here.
Irish Christmas in America @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents Irish Christmas in America, a revue of Irish music, singing, and dancing. The show starts tonight at 9:30pm at their main concert hall at 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. Tickets are $25, and can be purchased by calling the school box office at (773) 728-6000.
2nd Story @ Webster's Wine Bar
The performance series, 2nd Story, will take place tonight at 7:30pm at Webster's Wine Bar, 1480 W. Webster Ave. Local writers Andy Bayiates, Molly Each, Richard Leslie, and Ilana Shabanov will share their musically accompanied stories, while guests enjoy the tunes, tales, and complimentary wine tasting. Tickets are $15 online or $20 at the door. 21+
Robin Thicke @ The Mid
Robin Thicke, a R&B crooner with a classic twist, is coming to The Mid, 306 N Halsted, tonight, as he continues his Love After War tour. Doors open at 7:30pm, at which time ticket sales will end. $25 for general admission. 21+
Gustafer's Holiday Yellowsnow Show @ Schubas
Schubas' Family Series presents a Gustafer Yellowgold show this afternoon at 3pm. The show is all-ages; Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door, and kids under 2 are free. See the Schubas Website for full details and to purchase tickets online. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
Holiday Warehouse Sale @ Facets Cinémathèque
Get your fill of rare and out-of-print films at Facets Cinémathèque's holiday warehouse sale. Both DVDs and VHS tapes will be available at up to 90% off their regular price. Highlights include films by Guy Maddin, Charlie Chaplin's Circus and King of New York, and heavily discounted contemporary films like Sofia Coppola's Lost in Translation.
Facets is located at 1517 W. Fullerton, and the sale runs Saturday, December 10 through Sunday, December 11, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days. For more information call 773-281-9075 or email elizabeth@facets.org.
The Nutcracker by the Joffrey Ballet @ Auditorium Theatre
The Joffrey Ballet presents its opening night of The Nutcracker tonight at 7pm at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 East Congress Parkway. Tickets to this holiday classic range in price from $30-$115.
Project Onward Holiday Sale @ Chicago Cultural Center
The Project Onward Holiday Sale will be selling original artwork on note cards, book marks, and hand-painted holiday ornaments by local artists in the Garland Room at the Chicago Cultural Center today. Featured artists will also take part in painting original portraits for $20 a piece or $100 for six pieces. Sittings for portraits can be reserved at (312) 744-8032 or info@projectonward.org.
Andy Warhol's Empire @ Art Institute
Warhol's massive 1964 film Empire, clocking in at just a little over eight hours and consisting of a single shot of New York City's Empire State Building, will be projected from the Art Institute's Modern Wing onto the 12 upper stories of the Aon Center this Friday. A joint project between the Graham Foundation and the Art Institute, the screening marks the opening of the Institute's new exhibit Light Years: Conceptual Art and the Photograph, 1964-1977. The outdoor screening will take place from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Mongolian Music & Throat Singing Workshop @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music plays host to the Mongolian band Boerte this evening for a workshop on Mongolian music & throat singing techniques. The workshop starts at 6pm; registration fee is $20. Please call the school to register for the workshop. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
The Second City 24 hour fundraiser: Letters to Santa
For a decade, The Second City has enlisted Chicago's best improvisers and their musical counterparts in offering twenty-four consecutive hours of the best improvised live art you will see in the city. This unique event raises money and gives hope to disenfranchised Chicago families on Christmas Day. This year's improvisation will be spearheaded by TJ Jagadowski, Tim Baltz, and Brendan Jennings. More information. The event starts at 7pm on 12/6 and runs until 7pm 12/7. RSVP on Facebook.
A Very Carrie Christmas @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and Hell In A Handbag Productions present "A Very Carrie Christmas"! A screening of the classic Brian De Palma film Carrie will be enhanced by: a costume contest (think prom dresses and fake blood); a sing-along led by the famous Music Box theater organ; an "Interactive Audience Screening" guide; and an appearance by film star Piper Laurie! Showtime is at 2pm; tickets are $15 at the door ($12 in advance). See the Music Box Website for full information. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Fenn Fair Multiples Sale @ SHOP
Southside Hub of Production (SHOP), 5638 S Woodlawn Ave, is hosting Fenn Fair, a weekend exhibition and art/craft sale of multiples and reproducible objects. It is the kickoff of REPRODUCE+ABILITY. The exhibition will include printmakers, mixtape artists, self-publishers, photocopy artists, object and image-makers, and others. 11am-5pm. Free.
What's Your Art?: Celebrating Chicago's Art Centers @ The Cultural Center
Simultaneously embracing the holiday season and celebrating Chicago's rich landscape devoted to emerging artists and art education, "What's Your Art? Celebrating the Art Centers of Chicago" will take place at the Chicago Cultural Center (Yates Hall, 78 East Washington) today from 12 to 5pm. The event is free, but reservations are recommended. Across the city, remarkable places of art exhibition, classes, and public events exist to foster and inspire the development of art and culture. Each unique location has its own style, feel, and expertise and in an effort to share their mission and motivate those outside their regular audience, 12 extraordinary Art Centers from all across Chicago will come together under one roof. Additionally, new this year is the Marketplace where guests can purchase a variety of original artwork from the participating Art Centers perfect for the holiday season! There will also be a unique wrapping station where guests can add their own artistic touch. To RSVP and for more information, visit http://www.wbez.org/event/2011-12-03/whats-your-art.
Fenn Fair Multiples Sale @ SHOP
Southside Hub of Production (SHOP), 5638 S Woodlawn Ave, is hosting Fenn Fair, a weekend exhibition and art/craft sale of multiples and reproducible objects. It is the kickoff of REPRODUCE+ABILITY. The exhibition will include printmakers, mixtape artists, self-publishers, photocopy artists, object and image-makers, and others. Sales run from 11am-5pm, followed by music and screenings throughout the evening. Free.
Chicago Review release party
Join writers Nathanael & Joshua Baldwin in welcoming issue 56:2/3 of the Chicago Review. Get your discounted issue at 7 p.m. at the Lillie House, 5801 S. Kenwood Ave. Free.
Sound Opinions Film Night: The Last Waltz @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre plays host to Sound Opinions' ongoing series of rock & roll themed film screenings. Tonight's film is The Last Waltz, the documentary of the final performance by The Band. Showtimes is at 7pm; doors open at 6:30. Tickets are available in advance through the Sound Opinions Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Sunday Salon @ Katerina's
The New York-based prose reading series, Sunday Salon, returns to Katerina's, 1920 W. Irving Park Rd., tonight at 6:30pm. Featured this evening, are writers and instructors, M. Molly Backes, Jennifer Ann Coffeen, Kate Harding, and Scott Onak from StoryStudio Chicago.
George Harrison Tribute Concert @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a tribute concert for George Harrison this evening at 7pm. Join the faculty, students and friends of the school for a celebration of the quiet Beatle. The show starts at 7pm; tickets are $12. See the Old Town School Website for full details. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
World of Dance Tour @ Copernicus Theater
The World of Dance Tour, an international urban-dance-competition that's been moving, shaking, and breaking-it-down across the nation, makes its way to the Copernicus Theater, 5216 W. Lawrence Ave., tonight. Welcoming some of the most respected names in the industry from within the city and beyond, the performance promises a night of culture and creativity for all those with a craving for the urban arts. Doors open at 4pm and tickets are $25. For other tour dates and ticket purchases visit worldofdance.com.
Vintage Heaven "In the Black" Big Sale @ Heaven Gallery
Heaven Gallery is holding its Vintage Heaven "In the Black" Big Sale today and tomorrow from 12pm to 6pm. Located at 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave. on the second floor, the non-profit gallery and art space showcases works from local artists and hosts vintage resellers once a month.
Sing-Along Sound of Music @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents the return of that holiday classic, the sing-along Sound of Music! Along with singing along to the film, attendees will get a packet of audience participation props, get to judge a costume contest, and have a sing-along warm-up session before the film. The film plays tonight at 7pm, and has additional screenings through Sunday, November 27. See the Music Box Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Chicago Craft Mafia's DIY Trunk Show @ Broadway Armory
The DIY Trunk Show, featuring 129 area artists, presented by the Chicago Craft Mafia, is one of the longest-running indie, craft shows in Chicago, now in its ninth year. Admission is FREE. Shoppers can find one-of-a-kind, handmade, high-quality yet affordable items for all ages and genders, including jewelry of all types, clothing and t-shirts for adults and kids, bags and purses, stationery and paper products, housewares and lamps, ceramics, glassware and enamelware, fiber work and knitwear, photography, pet items, plush toys, candles, woodwork items, pens, wallets, soaps and body care products. Now in a larger location to accommodate more vendors, the DIY Trunk Show has built its reputation by supporting the Chicagoland craft community, encouraging emerging artists and crafters, and helping to promote local nonprofits and small businesses. The DIY Trunk Show will partner with Wishcraft to provide a kids crafting area, from 11am to 3pm for ages 4 and up. Free on-site workshops include Blue Buddha Boutique's earrings or zipper pull decorations. Free goody bags, including vendor products and coupons, will be given to the first 150 shoppers who make a purchase - first come, first served. The trunk show is today from 10am to 5pm at Broadway Armory Park (Edgewater): 5917 N. Broadway. More info here.
Waxing and Waning
Waxing and Waning is an exhibition featuring emerging and established artists demonstrating there given abilities within an exhibited body of work. It will include an extensive group show of painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, and installation.
Participating artists are Tim Anderson, Robert Billings, Thomas Billings, James Ciccenia, Paul Elledge, Ken Ellis, Oskar Friedl, Andres Garcia Pena, Max Grey, MartinJon Garcia, Chris Hammes, Jenny Hellman, Christine Huck, Micheal krynski, Thomas Masters, Jared Metzner, Kumiko Murakami, Sam Rosby, Paul Sierra, Paul Weston, Glenn Wexler, and Eric Wulkowicz.
Reception is November 19 from 5-11pm.
Chicago - Ashland Office Building
755 Ashland Ave.
Chicago, IL
Raiders of the Lost Ark @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a digitally restored copy of Raiders of the Lost Ark for the 30th anniversary of the film. See the Music Box Website for a complete schedule of showtimes. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Craig Thompson reads from Habibi @ Quimby's
Craig Thompson will read from his graphic novel, Habibi, which is already topping some best of 2011 lists. Arabic for beloved, Habibi tells the story of two escaped child slaves in an undisclosed Islamic state. Come see what all the fuss is about at 7 p.m., 1854 W. North Ave. Free.
Covers For Cover III @ Schubas
Schubas plays host to Covers For Cover, an evening of female cover bands. The event will be raising funds for the Primo Center for Women and Children. The evening starts at 8:30pm; tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door, and it's an 18+ show. Tickets available in advance at the Schubas Website. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
Nelson Sosa "Farewell to Chicago" @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening concert by Chilean guitarist Nelson Sosa, who is returning to Chile after spending 30 years in Chicago. The concert starts at 8:30pm; admission is a suggested $5 donation at the door. Full details at the Old Town School Website. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
Appropriating Art: Art Theft Unveiled @ Chicago Artist's Coalition
This event exposes the depths of the art world rarely discussed: forgery, fraud, and theft. The evening will begin with a presentation and discussion with former FBI agent and art security consultant Robert Spiel. Following this discussion will be a screening of the Don Argott documentary The Art of the Steal, exploring the controversy behind the theft of pieces from the Barnes Collection (Philadelphia). For more information click here or call 312-491-8888. The event will take place tonight at 6:30pm at the Chicago Artists Coalition, 217 N. Carpenter St. Admission is $10 for members, $15 for everyone else.
Ezio Manzini: Design & Sustainability
Ezio Manzini, professor of design at the Politecnico di Milanogive, lectures design and sustainability tonight at 6pm, in Columbus Auditorium at the School of the Art Institute, 280 S. Columbus Dr. Following the lecture will be a panel discussion moderated by Victor Margolin, professsor emeritus of design history at UIC, featuring Manzini; George Aye, assistant professor of design at SAIC; Gabe Klein, commissioner of the Chicago Department of Transportation; Marisa Novara, project manager for the Metropolitan Planning Council; Dan X. O’Neil, executive director of Smart Chicago; John Tolva, chief technology officer of the City of Chicago; and Karen Weigert, chief sustainability officer of the City of Chicago. The event is hosted by the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and the Department of Architecture, Interior Architecture, and Designed Objects as part of the the William H. Bronson & Grayce Slovet Mitchell Lecture Series. Doors open at 5:45pm. Free.
Handmade Holidays Craft Fair @ Chicago Urban Art Society
Today's HANDMADE HOLIDAYS CRAFT FAIR features over 30 vendors, selling their hand-made crafts at the fair, including: clothing, jewelry, pottery, leather goods, soaps, paintings, silk-screens, etc. and an additional 15 vendors selling homemade food. The first and second place winners of the Sixth Annual Feria del Mole will be selling their famous mole. This fair takes place today from 11am to 6pm at the Chicago Urban Arts Society at 2229 South Halsted Street. The Second Annual Craft Fair a fundraiser to benefit programs at Universidad Popular and to help support the Students for Students scholarship. More info here.
Peter Pan @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents the final film in its Second Saturday Silent Cinema series, a 1924 adaptation of J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan with Betty Bronson in the title role. The film screens at noon, and will feature accompaniment by Music Box organist Dennis Scott. Tickets are $10, or $8 for students and seniors. See the Music Box Website for complete details and to purchase tickets in advance. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Neocassion: 30 Beers for 60 Minutes
The Neo-Futurists present a special fundraising event for their theater: 30 Beers for 60 Minutes. Over 30 local & regional brews will be available for the sampling, along with an evening of live theater and and auction of several beer-themed prizes (tours of breweries, home-brew kits, etc.). Tickets are available at several levels; information available at the Brown Paper Tickets page for the event, or call Dan McArdle at (773) 878-4557 for sponsorship opportunities. Meo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland. (773) 275-5255.
Art in Motion Gala @ River East Art Center
A&BC's annual benefit gala - Art in Motion - is today from 5:30 to 10pm, at the River East Art Center, 435 East Illinois Street. This event will feature cocktails, exciting silent and live auction packages, a savory dinner and exhilarating performances by local arts ensembles. This year A&BC's featured performers include the Chicago Human Rhythm Project, Congo Square Theatre, Orbert Davis' Chicago Jazz Philharmonic, the People's Music School and Aloft Aerial Dance. For the first time ever, A&BC is offering a special Entertainment Only ticket, for $100, which includes after dinner cocktails and performances. Ticket registration is at http://www.artsbiz-chicago.org/events/ or 312-372-1876 ext. 223.
Slack Key Guitar & Ukulele Workshop @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening workshop in conjunction with the Jeff Peterson concert happening this week. OTS instructor Lanialoha Lee offers a workshop in slack key guitar, ukulele and Hawaiian steel guitar. The workshop happens this evening at 6pm; registration is $20, and can be done by calling the school. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
The Good, The Bad and The Monkey @ Stage 773
The Good, The Bad, and The Monkey: Singlehood, Dating, and the Search for Something Real: Amanda Rountree takes a hilarious-and at times, heartbreaking-look at the cycles of relationships and the myths that we tell ourselves about finding a soul mate.....using sock monkeys. Stage 773′s Cabaret Theatre, 1225 W. Belmont. Tonight and the 17th at 8pm.
Click here for tickets.
Powerless Comic Art Opening @ I Am Logan Square
Villains beware... I Am Logan Square is transforming into a comic book gallery! The opening reception is tonight from 6 to 8:30pm at I Am Logan Square's Gallery, located at 2644 N. Milwaukee Ave. Food and drinks will be provided by Rewster's Cafe and IALS's official gallery series sponsor, Revolution Brewing. The first 30 people to come will receive a goody bag filled with comic goodness provided by G-Mart Comics! More info here.
Jeff Peterson @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening concert by slack key guitarist Jeff Peterson, considered one of the rising stars of the next generation of Hawaiian slack key guitarists. The concert starts at 8:30pm; admission is a suggested $5 donation. In conjunction with the concert, the school will offer a slack key guitar & ukulele workshop the following evening. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
Hypocrisy Now! @ Hamburger Mary's
Democracy Burlesque and Mayoral Tutorial precent Hypocrisy Now! at Mary's Attic (5400 N. Clark) tonight at 8:30pm. An evening of comedy, politics, and a pop quiz. $15 general admission (cash only at the door), doors open at 7:10pm, and all proceeds go to benefit Chicago Independent Radio Project. RSVP to Democracy Burlesque at tickets (at) democracyburlesque (dot) com.
America: Now and Here @ Dorchester Projects
America: Now and Here, a national project connecting artists and social issues, has its third Chicago event to discuss community engagement and artistic practice as well as The Bloomingdale Trail. Artists and expert presenters include Eric Fischl, Dawoud Bey, Theaster Gates, David Schalliol, Beth White and Rebecca Zorach. The free event runs from 5:30-8pm at the Dorchester Projects, 6918 S. Dorchester. If possible, RSVP to Jessica at 248.770.0260.
America: Now and Here @ 30 East Cedar Street
America: Now and Here, a national project connecting artists and social issues, has its second Chicago event. Artists and expert presenters include Eric Fischl, Michelle Boone, Dawoud Bey, Jan Tichy and Erika Hanner. The free event runs from 2-5pm at the Sandra and Jack Guthman residence, 30 East Cedar Street. RSVP to Jessica at 248.770.0260.
America: Now and Here @ The Hull-House Museum
America: Now and Here, a national project connecting artists and social issues, has its first Chicago event. Artists and expert presenters include Dawoud Bey, Kathy Dickhut, Dorothy Dunn, Indira Johnson, Lisa Yun Lee and Jason Reblando. The free event runs from 5:30-8pm at The Hull-House Museum, 800 S Halsted. If possible, RSVP to Jessica at 248.770.0260.
The Interview Show
The Interview Show returns to The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm. This month host Mark Bazer talks with pro wrestler Colt Cabana, singer-songwriter Tony Rogers and the editors of Chicago Home magazine. Plus, comedian Kelsie Huff does stand-up and the Wagyu Wagon food truck will be outside waiting for your order. Admission is $8. 21+
Celluloid Salon with DJ Chrissy Murderbot @ The Viaduct Theatre
DJ Chrissy Murderbot creates a live soundtrack to four movies at tonight's Celluloid Salon at The Viaduct Theatre at 7pm. The show is free with RSVP to myopenbar.com/celluloidsalon. The Viaduct Theatre is at 3111 N. Western Ave. Read our preview in Transmission.
Spooky Singalong Kids Concert @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a pair of Spooky Singalong family concerts at their building at 909 W. Armitage. The faculty of the school's Wiggleworms program will lead children in a program of Halloween songs. The shows are at 10am and 3pm; tickets are $9 ($8 for OTS members). For full information and to purchase tickets online, see the OTS Website. Old Town School: 909 W. Armitage. (773) 728-6000.
Facets Fright School: The Frighteners
Facets Multimedia presents the final screening of Facets Night School, their semi-regular series of midnight cult movie screenings paired with lectures on the films' subjects (renamed Facets Fright School for this run, due to this series' focus on horror films). Tonight's screening: Peter Jackson's The Frighteners from 1996, with Michael J. Fox as an architect who can communicate with the spirit world (yes, really). The accompanying lecture will be from Facets Night School regular Dominick Mayer. See the schedule on the Facets Website for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
Facets Fright School: The Devil's Rain
Facets Multimedia presents the return of Facets Night School, their semi-regular series of midnight cult movie screenings paired with lectures on the films' subjects (renamed Facets Fright School for this run, due to this series' focus on horror films). Tonight's screening: The Devil's Rain from 1975, with a stellar 1970s cast: Ernest Borgnine, William Shatner, Eddie Albert, Ida Lupino, Tom Skerritt, and John Travolta in his big-screen debut. Tonight's lecture will be given by longtime Facets Night School regular Chris Damen. Facets Fright School runs Friday and Saturday nights at midnight through October 29. See the schedule on the Facets Website for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
Festival of New Spanish Cinema @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents their fourth annual Festival of New Spanish Cinema, which starts tonight and runs through November 23. Tonight is opening night, and the featured film is the 2010 film With Or Without Love. The director and one of the stars of the film will be in attendance for tonight's screening, and attendees are invited to a 7:00pm opening night reception. For a full list of the films playing in the festival and to purchase tickets in advance please see the schedule at the Film Center's Website. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Urban Gateways' "Cut a Rug" Fundraiser @ Vecco
Join the New Arts Forum and Vecco Design Studio for this Urban Gateways benefit featuring complimentary appetizers, cocktails, and beer by Goose Island, a special dance performance by the nationally recognized dance crew FootworKINGz, DJ /dancing and the opportunity to bid on an original Chicago-inspired auction item created by Urban Gateways artists. This event begins at 6pm tonight at Vecco (912 W. Armitage). Admission is $10 in advance or $20 at the door. More info here.
M.A.K.U. Sound System @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a concert by Colombian group M.A.K.U. Sound System as part of their World Music Wednesdays series of concerts. The concert begins at 8:30pm. Admission is a suggested $5 donation, and reservations are strongly recommended. Full information available at the OTS Website. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
Flying Saucers book launch @ Chicago Cultural Center
Jake Austen, publisher of Roctober, hosts a book release party for his new book Flying Saucers Rock 'n' Roll tonight at 6:30pm at the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington). In addition to readings from the book, the event will feature a video presentation called "Flying Saucers Rock!", a collection of performances from some of the artists mentioned in Austen's book, and there will be a special performance by Milt Trenier, the last surviving member of the 1950s R&B band The Treniers. The event is free and open to the public.
Moth StorySLAM @ Martyrs'
The Moth StorySLAM returns to Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 8pm. Watch people tell true stories up on stage -- and possibly even join them. Tickets are $8 at the door. 21+
MDW Fair + Hand in Glove Conference @ The Geolofts
Starting Friday and running through this weekend, The MDW Fair presents a Fall Showcase of solo and duo exhibitions curated by small not-for-profits, artist-run spaces, independent galleries, collectives and curators from around the country. This iteration of the MDW Fair runs in conjunction with The Hand in Glove Conference and will highlight innovative curatorial and administrative practices happening in independent arts initiatives. The Fall Showcase will focus on the practices of individual artists, offering the opportunity for each artist to mount an ambitious project. The Fall Showcase, like the previous MDW Fair, will also feature an independent arts publisher's forum. The fair is open today from noon to 6pm at The Geolofts (3636 S. Iron St.).
Tea with Bertha Palmer @ Highland Park Community House
If you'd like to be transported back to the late 1800s, go to the Highland Park Community House (1919 Sheridan Road, Highland Park) today at 1pm for high tea with (a reenactor dressed as) socialite Bertha Honore Palmer. Tickets $50; $60 at door. Event organized by the Greater Midwest Foodways Alliance.
Facets Fright School: The Old Dark House
Facets Multimedia presents the return of Facets Night School, their semi-regular series of midnight cult movie screenings paired with lectures on the films' subjects (renamed Facets Fright School for this run, due to this series' focus on horror films). Tonight's screening: The Old Dark House, made by Frankenstein director James Whale. Tonight's lecturer is filmmaker and film studies teacher Michael Smith. Facets Fright School runs Friday and Saturday nights at midnight through October 29. See the schedule on the Facets Website for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret: Uke Horrifica
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret, the long-running open-mike night for ukulele players, returns to Silvie's Lounge tonight at 8:30pm. Tonight's theme: Uke Horrifica! Musicians are asked to bring up to 3 songs of horror, darkness, and/or fright to perform tonight. The event is 21+, and is free and open to the public. Silvie's: 1902 W. Irving Park.
Garfield Park Conservatory Plant Rescue Sale
The Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., is holding a "plant rescue sale" today from 9am to 2pm in order to both fundraise and find homes for plants that can't be stored for the winter in the greenhouses damaged by this summer's hailstorm. Tropical trees, plants, succulents, and perennials from the Conservatory and grounds will be for sale for one day only; get there early for the best selection.
MDW Fair + Hand in Glove Conference @ The Geolofts
Starting Friday and running through this weekend, The MDW Fair presents a Fall Showcase of solo and duo exhibitions curated by small not-for-profits, artist-run spaces, independent galleries, collectives and curators from around the country. This iteration of the MDW Fair runs in conjunction with The Hand in Glove Conference and will highlight innovative curatorial and administrative practices happening in independent arts initiatives. The Fall Showcase will focus on the practices of individual artists, offering the opportunity for each artist to mount an ambitious project. The Fall Showcase, like the previous MDW Fair, will also feature an independent arts publisher's forum. The fair is open today and tomorrow from noon to 6pm at The Geolofts (3636 S. Iron St.).
The Last Pullman Car Screening
South Side Projections, Kartemquin Films, Pullman State Historic Site and the Bronzeville/Black Chicagoan Historical Society present a free screening of The Last Pullman Car at the Clock Tower Building in the Pullman State Historic Site, 11057-59 S. Cottage Grove Ave., today at 4pm. Kartemquin founders Gordon Quinn and Jerry Blumenthal will lead a discussion of the documentary after the screening. More info on Facebook.
PHONEBOOK 3 Release Party @ threewalls
Fans and newcomers are invited to attend the release party for PHONEBOOK 3 at threewalls. PHONEBOOK 3 includes critical essays, a directory, and practical information on independent art spaces, programming, and projects throughout the U.S. Essayists include Renny Pritikin, Susan Sakash, Faheem Majed, Chances Dances, Paul Durica, Dara Greenwald, Amy Franceschini, Jon Brumit and Sarah Wagner, PLAND, Andy Sturdevant, Robby Herbst and more. The party begins at 8pm and lasts until 11pm. Hosted by and featuring a special edition of Salon Saloon, local artists, writers, designers and musicians are encouraged to share stories, photos, essays, and performances on a theme. Copies of PHONEBOOK 3 will be available for purchase. threewalls is located at 119 North Peoria, #2c.
The Room @ Music Box
The Music Box presents a screening of Tommy Wiseau's The Room. Hi, doggy! The film screens tonight at midnight. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Facets Fright School: Tim Burton's Vincent & Other Shorts
Facets Multimedia presents the return of Facets Night School, their semi-regular series of midnight cult movie screenings paired with lectures on the films' subjects (renamed Facets Fright School for this run, due to this series' focus on horror films). Tonight's program is a series of shorts, including David Lynch's first film The Alphabet, Monte Hellman's Stanley's Girlfriend, and Tim Burton's short film Vincent (narrated by Vincent Price). Tonight's lecture will be given by author and Facets Night School regular Joel Wicklund. Facets Fright School runs Friday and Saturday nights at midnight through October 29. See the schedule on the Facets Website for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
The Enigma Machine Theater Gala @ Wicker Park Arts Center
Tonight at 8pm, new theater company the Agency hosts their debut gala. "The Enigma Machine," an evening centered around a theme of codes and secrets, will feature drinks, interactive live entertainment, food, prizes and more. Ticket sales and donations benefit the Agency's upcoming docket of shows and events.
$10 tickets can be purchased online, and a ticket also gets you one drink. Wicker Park Arts Center, Acme Art Works, 2215 W. North Ave.
Universal Horror @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a week-long series of screenings of classic Universal Studios monster pictures, including Creature From The Black Lagoon, The Invisible Man, Frankenstein, and many others. A full schedule is available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Benefit Screening of The Interrupters @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center concludes its two-week run of the 2011 documentary The Interrupters tonight with a benefit screening for CeaseFire, the violence prevention group profiled in the film. All proceeds from the 8:15pm screening of the film will be donated to the organization. See the Film Center Website for full details and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Labyrinth & Stand By Me @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special double feature: Stand By Me and Labyrinth, both films celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. Stand By Me screens at 5:30pm, and Labyrinth screens at 7:30pm; both films will be presented in new 35mm prints. See the Music Box Website for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Roxana Saberi @ Thorne Auditorium
In 2009, Iranian-American journalist Roxana Saberi was arrested in Iran and detained in Evin Prison. She was released 100 days later, after her case captured the world's attention. Her book Between Two Worlds: My Life and Captivity in Iran tells the story of her arrest and captivity, shares the struggles and courage of her cellmates that inspired her along the way, and describes her personal journey as she strives to defy her captors and be true to herself, regardless of the consequences. She is now writing and speaking out for human rights and "prisoners of conscience" in Iran. In a Facing History Community Conversation facilitated by former WBEZ journalist Victoria Lautman, Saberi will speak about her experiences at Thorne Auditorium, 375 E. Chicago Avenue (on the downtown Northwestern campus). Doors open at 5pm, and seating is limited for this FREE event. RSVP online or by calling (312) 345-3203.
Labyrinth & Stand By Me @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special double feature: Stand By Me and Labyrinth, both films celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. Stand By Me screens at 5:30pm, and Labyrinth screens at 7:30pm; both films will be presented in new 35mm prints. See the Music Box Website for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Fall French Market @ Lycée Francais de Chicago
Lycée Francais, Chicago's most adorable Madeline-esque elementary school is hosting a fall festival of sorts, complete with vendors selling jewelery, accessories, clothing, home decor and more. Don your beret, check out cooking demos by Chicago's finest french chefs and take a break at the French Bistro with nicoise salad, beef bourguignon and un peu de fromage.
All events take place at the Lycée Francais de Chicago, 615 W. Bittersweet Place (entrance on Irving Park Road and Marine Drive). The market runs today from 11am-4pm. Adult admission is $5, with free admission for children.
Facets Fright School: I Walked With A Zombie
Facets Multimedia presents the return of Facets Night School, their semi-regular series of midnight cult movie screenings paired with lectures on the films' subjects (renamed Facets Fright School for this run, due to this series' focus on horror films). Tonight's screening: the 1943 classic I Walked With A Zombie, one of producer Val Lewton's most famous films. The accompanying lecture will be given by Facets Night School regular Stephen Reginald. Facets Fright School runs Friday and Saturday nights at midnight through October 29. See the schedule on the Facets Website for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
Facets Fright School: The Love Thrill Murders
Facets Multimedia presents the return of Facets Night School, their semi-regular series of midnight cult movie screenings paired with lectures on the films' subjects (renamed Facets Fright School for this run, due to this series' focus on horror films). Tonight's screening: the Manson Family/hippie film The Love Thrill Murders, with a lecture given by writer (and founding member of Everything Is Terrible!) Katie Rife. Facets Fright School runs Friday and Saturday nights at midnight through October 29. See the schedule on the Facets Website for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
HOMO-COMING @ Beauty Bar
Join DJs Reaganomix of FKA and Black Gold of Queerer Park for this throw-back event at Beauty Bar featuring a photo booth from Glitter Guts. Tickets can be purchased for $5. All proceeds benefit CHIRP, Chicago Independent Radio Project. Beauty Bar is located at 1444 West Chicago and the events starts at 10pm.
Facets Fright School: Bloodsucking Freaks
Facets Multimedia presents the return of Facets Night School, their semi-regular series of midnight cult movie screenings paired with lectures on the films' subjects (renamed Facets Fright School for this run, due to this series' focus on horror films). Tonight's screening: the outrageously gory and campy Bloodsucking Freaks from 1978. Tonight's lecture will be given by author and head writer at Mr. Skin Mike McPadden. Facets Fright School runs Friday and Saturday nights at midnight through October 29. See the schedule on the Facets Website for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
Facets Fright School: Ginger Snaps
Facets Multimedia presents the return of Facets Night School, their semi-regular series of midnight cult movie screenings paired with lectures on the films' subjects (renamed Facets Fright School for this run, due to this series' focus on horror films).
Tonight's screening: the 2005 film Ginger Snaps, which combines the classic werewolf tale with the relationship of two teen sisters on the verge of womanhood. The accompanying lecture will be given by Facets Night School regular Catherine Clepper, currently a PhD candidate at Northwestern University. Facets Fright School runs Friday and Saturday nights at midnight through October 29. See the schedule on the Facets Website for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
The Interrupters @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a return engagement for Kartemquin Film's new film The Interrupters, a documentary about former Chicago gang members working in the community to defuse violent situations. The film runs at the Film Center through October 20; see the Film Center's Website for a complete schedule of showtimes and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 N. State Stree. (312) 846-2600.
Tabloid @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the Errol Morris 2011 documentary Tabloid. The film plays tonight at 8:15pm and runs through October 13. See the Film Center Website for a schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Season Opener @The Lincoln Lodge
Located within The Lincoln Restaurant (4008 N. Lincoln Avenue), The Lincoln
Lodge is entering into it's 12th year: shows are every Friday at 8:30pm and
10:30pm with free parking in the Lincoln Restaurant parking lot. Tickets for the season opener are $15 and doors open at 7:30pm, with pre-show drinks and dining available. The Lincoln Lodge is proud to open it's 12th season with special guest headliner James Adomian (Last Comic Standing, Funny Or Die, Just For Laughs). Tickets and more information available HERE.
All Hands On: The2ndHand After 10, 2000-2011 @ Quimby's
The2ndHand editor Todd Dills and other publication contributors delivery and discuss the anthology All Hands On: The2ndHand After 10, 2000-2011, a Reader. 7pm, 1854 W. North Ave. More info here.
Diane Izzo Memorial Concert @ Hideout
The Hideout presents a memorial concert for singer & songwriter Diane Izzo, who died earlier in the year. Performances by Beau O'Reilly, Jenny Magnus, Cheryl Trykv, Souled American, Califone, and more. Doors open at 5:30. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
50/50 Pilsen
50/50 Pilsen calls itself "the blurring of art & craft." The craft portion occurs this weekend at 1915 S. Halsted St., Sept. 30 to Oct. 2; the art exhibition portion opens Oct. 15. This weekend, peruse crafts from 15 to 20 local artisans. Hours are 6-10pm Friday, noon-7pm Saturday and noon-6pm Sunday. Free.
Facets Fright School: Donnie Darko
Facets Multimedia presents the return of Facets Night School, their semi-regular series of midnight cult movie screenings paired with lectures on the films' subjects (renamed Facets Fright School for this run, due to this series' focus on horror films). Tonight's screening: the Richard Kelly cult classic Donnie Darko, which introduced the world to Jake Gyllenhaal, time travel, and Sparkle Motion. The accompanying lecture will be presented by Facets Night School regular Lauren Whalen. Facets Fright School runs Friday and Saturday nights at midnight through October 29. See the schedule on the Facets Website for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
50/50 Pilsen
50/50 Pilsen calls itself "the blurring of art & craft." The craft portion occurs this weekend at 1915 S. Halsted St., Sept. 30 to Oct. 2; the art exhibition portion opens Oct. 15. This weekend, peruse crafts from 15 to 20 local artisans. Hours are 6-10pm Friday, noon-7pm Saturday and noon-6pm Sunday. Free.
Facets Fright School: Sisters of No Mercy
Facets Multimedia presents the return of Facets Night School, their semi-regular series of midnight cult movie screenings paired with lectures on the films' subjects (renamed Facets Fright School for this run, due to this series' focus on horror films). Tonight's kick-off screening is a special premiere: two long-time regulars of the Night School series, Lew Ojeda and Joseph Lewis, have made their own cult film (Sisters of No Mercy) and present it tonight along with performances by circus actors, musicians, dancers, etc. Facets Fright School runs Friday and Saturday nights at midnight through October 29. See the schedule on the Facets Website for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (800) 331-6197.
50/50 Pilsen
50/50 Pilsen calls itself "the blurring of art & craft." The craft portion occurs this weekend at 1915 S. Halsted St., Sept. 30 to Oct. 2; the art exhibition portion opens Oct. 15. This weekend, peruse crafts from 15 to 20 local artisans. Hours are 6-10pm Friday, noon-7pm Saturday and noon-6pm Sunday. Free.
Mortified! @ Martyrs'
Mortified! returns to Chicago with stories of deep humiliation tonight at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave., at 7:30pm. More info on Facebook. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door. 21+
F*cked Up, WAVVES @ Logan Square Auditorium
The Empty Bottle presents Fucked Up and WAVVES at the Logan Square Auditorium (2539 N. Kedzie) tonight at 7pm. It's an all-ages show, and tickets are $18 at the door ($15 in advance, available through Ticketweb).
The Evolution @ Navy Pier
Enjoy a night of fabulous fashion featuring Chicago-based designers at "The Evolution," from 5pm-10pm tonight at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand. Celebrating "the journey of every woman," the event, held in the Crystal Gardens Ballroom and hosted by WCIU-The U's Art "ChatDaddy" Sims, will showcase designs by The Double Stitch Twins, GOCA Designs Fraley Le and Bouye Designs. Tickets are $35; contact evolution@thebydesignnetwork.com for more information.
No Place Like Home Opening @ HPAC
This afternoon the Hyde Park Arts Center opens No Place Like Home, a photography exhibition curated by Dawoud Bey that features Chicago-based photographers Lisa Lindvay, John Lowenstein, Jason Reblando, Jessica Rodrigue, David Schalliol and Leilani Wertens. The opening reception runs from 3pm-5pm in Gallery 4 at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 South Cornell Ave.
Maxwell Street Walking Tour
Join the Culinary Historians of Chicago on a walking tour of Chicago's classic urban marketplace. Created by historic ordinance in 1912, Maxwell Street was the birth place of Vienna Beef, Nabisco and that fabulous polish we all know and love. Email your RSVP to chicago.foodways.roundtable@gmail.com or call (847) 432-8255. The tour begins at 11am at the Maxwell Street cul-de-sac that is 1/2 block west of Halsted, and will run for 1.5 hours.
Yarncon
YarnCon, Chicago's annual exhibition for yarn and yarn-related crafts, runs from 11am to 6pm today at the Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, 1419 W. Blackhawk St. See a list of vendors here. Admission is $3.
Preservation Chicago Benefit @ Logan Square Arts Center
Preservation Chicago's annual benefit, "Le Festival de Preservation," runs this evening from 6pm to 9pm at the Logan Square Arts Center, 2800 N. Milwaukee Ave. Enjoy old world jazz, carnival performances, appetizers, an open bar (including Revolution brew) and a silent auction. Tickets can be purchased online for $85 in advance or $100 at the door. All proceeds from the tax-deductable tickets benefit the protection of historic architecture.
Polynesian Music & Dance Workshops @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a pair of music & dance workshops tonight headed by members of the Polynesian band Te Vaka. The music workshop runs from 6pm to 7:20, and covers music from Tokelau, Tuvalu, and Samoa; the dance workshop runs from 7pm to 8:20 and will include dance from Tokelau, New Zealand, and Samoa. Workshop seating is limited, so please sign up at the Old Town School's workshops page as early as possible. Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
Pearl Jam Twenty Advance Screening @ Gene Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents an advance screening of Cameron Crowe's documentary Pearl Jam Twenty, featuring performance footage and interviews with the band and friends. The film screens tonight at 9:30pm in advance of a week-long run at the Film Center starting on Friday, September 30. Advance tickets are available through the Film Center's Website. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Deadline for Proposals to MDW Fair
Today is the deadline for proposals to the likable MDW Fair, formed in protest over the treatment of small and not-for-profit art groups in the city by its more commercial brethren, such as Art Chicago. This breakaway-spirited Fair returns in October to Bridgeport's Geolofts.
Schoolhouse Rock tribute @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a tribute concert to Schoolhouse Rock! Fun for children and adults alike. The concert happens this afternoon at 3pm in the concert hall on Lincoln Avenue (4544 N. Lincoln). Tickets are $12, or $11 for OTS members. Make reservations by calli the box office at (773) 728-6000.
Brilliant Corners of Popular Amusements @ Eckhart Park
This three-day-long event at Eckhart Park (1330 W. Chicago Ave.) features music from such acts as Shellac, School of Seven Bells and Sidi Toure, circus and acrobatics performers, a farmers market, the Renegade Craft Fair, and a fun walk/run. I wish more outdoor festivals were like this! Admission to some events is free; others run up to $20.
ART WAR @ Treasure Town
This epic, experimental, two-day art/performance fest in Little Village promises to deliver -- with interactive installations, live murals, combative performance, culinary experiments, sustainable fashion, fire-spitters, a skate park, a tattoo artist & the tamale guy (to skim the surface). If you're looking for a lively, unusual time, look no further. Tonight's event starts at 8:08pm. Treasure Town is located off the Pink Line at 2106 S. Kedzie. More more information, click here and here.
Brilliant Corners of Popular Amusements @ Eckhart Park
This three-day-long event at Eckhart Park (1330 W. Chicago Ave.) features music from such acts as Shellac, School of Seven Bells and Sidi Toure, circus and acrobatics performers, a farmers market, the Renegade Craft Fair, and a fun walk/run. I wish more outdoor festivals were like this! Admission to some events is free; others run up to $20.
Dock 6 Collective Fall Design and Art Series Opening Party
Dock 6 Collective presents Fall Design and Art Series, curated by Hinge Gallery. The opening night party is tonight from 6pm to midnight, followed by Saturday, September 17 viewing hours from 11am to 3pm. Friday night refreshments will be served. Fall Design and Art Series features the work of the seven design companies that comprise Dock 6 Collective along with an exhibition of 13 artists curated by Hinge Gallery. Each artist has created a site specific piece that interacts within Dock 6 Collective's 24,000 sq. ft. raw workshop space. Artwork includes fiber installation, performance, light sculpture, and video. Featured design companies include Carson Maddox Studios, -ism Furniture, Lagomorph Design, Navillus Woodworks, SAP Design, Inc, Thomeworks, and zakrose. Exhibiting artists include Scott Ashley, Jeffrey Forsythe, Chris Lin, Raul Mendez, Rusty Shackleford, Ben Stagl, Russ White, Kayce Bayer, Karolina Gnatowski, Laura Lulu, Matthew Schlagbaum, Rana Siegel, Bill Talsma. Dock 6 is located at 4200 W. Diversey. Details here.
ART WAR @ Treasure Town
This epic, experimental, two-day art/performance fest in Little Village promises to deliver, with interactive installations, live murals, combative performance, culinary experiments, sustainable fashion, fire spitters, a skate park, a tattoo artist & the tamale guy (to skim the surface). If you're looking for a lively, unusual time, look no further. This event starts at 8:08pm tonight and basically continues on until about 3am on Satuday night. Treasure Town is located off the Pink Line at 2106 S. Kedzie. More more information, click here and here.
Comedian/Impressionist Jay Lamont @ Jokes & Notes
Jokes and Notes, 4641 S. King Dr. hosts comedian Jay Lamont for one night only, tonight at 8:30pm. Lamont, who has appeared on HBO's "Def Comedy Jam" and "Jamie Foxx's Laffapalooza," mixes music and comedy along with impressions of everyone from President Barack Obama to singers Michael McDonald and Prince. Tickets are $10 at the box office. For more information, contact (773) 373-3390.
Messing For A Cause @ Mary's Attic
Susan Messing and Tim Baltz will be performing improv a la "Messing with a Friend," to support GLBT youth along with the Alliance, Jeanie Doogan & Adam Guerino and Krystal LaFianza-Pitzen. Show up at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark, at 8pm. $5 suggested donation. More information is available on facebook.
Doctor Who 101 @ Wormhole Coffee
The Chicago Nerds Social Club present the second installment in their Doctor Who 101 series tonight at Wormhole Coffee (1462 N. Milwaukee) from 7 to 9pm. If you're interested in getting up to speed with the Doctor's exploits, then stop by and hear this presentation by Gordon Dymowski, writer, blogger and Doctor Who fan. The event is free and open to the public. Full details for this event available at the Chicago Nerds Website.
Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Club Meeting @ Noble Tree Cafe
The Chicago Nerds Social Club invite you to the latest meeting of their science fiction & fantasy book club. Tonight's book for discussion is Robopocalypse by Daniel H. Wilson. The discussion happens tonight from 8:30 to 8pm at Noble Tree Cafe (2444 N. Clark). The event is free and open to the public. For full details please see the Chicago Nerds Website.
Renegade Craft Fair
The Renegade Craft Fair returns to its home town this weekend, with more than 300 vendors selling their wares on Division Street between Damen and Paulina from 11am to 7pm Saturday and today. Free.
Renegade Craft Fair
The Renegade Craft Fair returns to its home town this weekend, with more than 300 vendors selling their wares on Division Street between Damen and Paulina from 11am to 7pm today and Sunday. Free.
The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari @ Music Box
The Music Box presents the latest screening in their Second Saturday Silent Cinema series, the 1919 classic The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari. The screening begins at noon, and the film will be accompanied by Music Box organist Dennis Scott. Tickets are $10 each, or $8 for students and seniors. See the Music Box Website for full details and to purchase tickets in advance. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Fourth Annual After-Openings Dance Party @ Phyllis' Musical Inn
Take refuge from the drudgery of making the citywide gallery circuit tonight at the Fourth Annual After-Openings Dance Party at Phyllis' Musical Inn. Hosted by artists and local art world mainstays John Phillips and Nevin Tomlinson, the action starts at 9:30pm and rolls on until 2am.
Hennessey Youngman @ the Museum of Contemporary Art
Influential humorist and art commentator Hennessey Youngman visits the Windy City tonight for "The Dialogue," an annual live-chat panel on "museums, diversity, and inclusion" at the Museum of Contemporary Art Theater (220 East Chicago Avenue), 6pm. This year's event with Youngman will focus on Millennials and their effect on museum issues, alongside "Chicago's Commissioner of Cultural Affairs, Michelle T. Boone, and our newest curator, Naomi Beckwith, formerly of The Studio Museum in Harlem." The MCA's press materials describe Youngman as "You Tube's most followed art theorist," and points out Art in America's description of his satirical Art Thoughtz program performances as "Ali G with an MFA." If you can't make it to the live event, check out the Live Tweet at @mcachicago, using the #thedialogue to participate in the conversation via tweet.
@MayorEmanuel Book Release @ Hideout SOLD OUT
Author Dan Sinker celebrates the release of his book, The F*cking Epic Twitter Quest of @MayorEmanuel, tonight from 6pm to 9pm at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia. The evening will include readings by Sinker as well as Megan Stielstra and Dmitry Samarov, spoken word by Louder Than a Bomb, and a surprise musical guest performing the music of the Black Eyed Peas. DJ John Tolva spins. Tickets are $5 in advance or at the door. All proceeds of the event go to Young Chicago Author's Louder Than a Bomb project. 21+ UPDATE: This event is sold out. Sinker will be doing another reading on Sept. 13 at the MCA.
PechaKucha Night @ Martyrs'
PechaKucha returns to Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight from 8pm to 11pm. This month, Bob Barber & Mark Rubenstein, Jessica Charlesworth, Tim Fawkes, Lucy Hilarides, Chris Neville, RoxAnne Rochester, Stephen Vick, Stephen Yas, Dawn Hancock, Evan Forrest, Amber Hawk Swanson and special guests will get 20 seconds to discuss each of 20 slides on the topic of their choosing. Tickets are $10 in advance or at the door. 21+
Makeover Anniversary @ Maria's Community Bar & Co-Prosperity Sphere
Join the party tonight to celebrate the 1-year anniversary of a makeover that transformed Bridgeport's favorite friendly neighborhood watering hole, located at 960 W 31st St, into the Maria's Packaged Goods and Community Bar. Craft brew fans will be delighted to know that "Half Acre, Three Floyds, 5 Rabbit and Dogfish Head are bringing a ton of their flagship and rare beers to the party." Events begin at Maria's at 4pm (until 4am), with Co-Prosperity Sphere events from 6-10pm, including an "all you can eat and drink" offer for $15 admission.
Sammy Figueroa & His Latin Jazz Explosion @ Old Town School of Folk Music
As part of their regular World Music Wednesdays series of concerts The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a concert by Sammy Figueroa & His Latin Jazz Explosion, who are kicking off their record release tour this evening. Admission is a suggested $5 donation. The concert starts tonight at 8:30pm. The concert happens in the school's performance hall on Lincoln Avenue (4544 N. Lincoln). For full details and to make reservations please call the box office at (773) 728-6000.
You, Me, Them, Everybody @ The Hungry Brain
You, Me, Them, Everybody is a live talk show and podcast hosted by Brandon Wetherbee and Esmerelda Leon. The next installment of YMTE will be held tonight at The Hungry Brain (2319 West Belmont), doors are at 8pm, show is at 9. No cover charge, 21 and over. Guests include hip-hop artist Psalm One, comedy group Think Tank, a musical set from Anna Soltys and special appearance by Jeremy Tromburg of The Ragtones.
You, Me, Them, Everybody @ The Whistler
You, Me, Them, Everybody is a live talk show and podcast hosted by Brandon Wetherbee and Esmerelda Leon. The next installment of YMTE will be held tonight at The Whistler (2414 North Milwaukee), doors are at 8 pm, show is at 9. No cover charge, 21 and over. Guests include comic Danny Kallas, Sean Parnell from the Chicago Bar Project, Chicago-based rapper Steinomite and Jeremy Tromburg of The Ragtones.
The Saps @ Empty Bottle
Chicago's very own The Saps play tonight at the Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western). Opening acts are Kentucky Knife Fight and Rivals of the Peacemaker. The show starts at 9:30pm, and tickets are $8 (free if you RSVP!). See the Empty Bottle Website for full details.
Peter Bjorn and John @ Empty Bottle
Peter Bjorn and John are playing tonight at the Empty Bottle at 9:30pm. Tickets are $20; advance tickets are not currently available. For more details follow the Empty Bottle on Facebook or Twitter. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Kartemquin Films Benefit @ Hideout
The Hideout hosts a benefit to celebrate the 45th birthday of Chicago film-makers Kartemquin Films (currently screening their latest film The Interrupters at the Gene Siskel Film Center). Music will be spun by DJs Numero Group, Naomi Walker, Zak Piper, and Joe Wroblewski. The event starts at 9pm, and admission is $10. See the Hideout Website for details and to purchase advance tickets. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Robbie Fulks @ Hideout
Chicago musician and Old Town School of Folk Music instructor Robbie Fulks performs tonight at the Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia) with guitarist Jon Spiegel. Show starts at 7pm, and admission is a suggested $10 donation. See the Hideout Website for details.
Ladyfest Midwest 10th Anniversary Celebration
This weekend Ladyfest Midwest celebrates its 10-year anniversary with a weekend of events happening around the city. Today's event: an exhibition of video, photographs, and materials from Ladyfest Midwest 2001. The exhibition is happening at LivingRoom Gallery 1530 W. Superior). The exhibition is open from 2 to 5pm today, and admission is free. Proceeds from the weekend's events will go to benefit the Chicago Women's Health Center. See the Ladyfest Midwest Website for full details.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and Midnight Madness present a screening of the classic cult film The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Stop by to see if that man still has no f***king neck. The film screens tonight at midnight (of course), and advance tickets are available through the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Ladyfest Midwest 10th Anniversary Celebration
This weekend Ladyfest Midwest celebrates its 10-year anniversary with a weekend of events happening around the city. Tonight there's a music showcase at the Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western) featuring the Wanton Looks, Cathy Santonies, Hollows and DJ Reaganomix. Tickets are $15 at the door, and there will be a raffle with various prizes from Reckless Records, Hanger 18 and Bucket of Blood. Also happening today: an exhibition of video, photographs, and materials from Ladyfest Midwest 2001. The exhibition is happening today and tomorrow at LivingRoom Gallery 1530 W. Superior). Proceeds from these events will go to benefit the Chicago Women's Health Center. See the Ladyfest Midwest Website for full details.
Ladyfest Midwest 10th Anniversary Celebration
This weekend Ladyfest Midwest celebrates its 10-year anniversary with a weekend of events happening around the city. Tonight, the celebration is at Late Bar (3534 W. Belmont), where DJs Sam O'Rama, Emily Augustin and Rebecca Crawford will be playing music from 10pm to 4am. It's a 21+ show, and admission is a suggested $5 donation. Proceeds will go to benefit the Chicago Women's Health Center. See the Ladyfest Midwest Website for full details.
The 5,000 Fingers of Dr. T @ Music Box
"Is it ... is it ATOMIC?" The Music Box Theatre presents a weekend screening of the Dr. Seuss live-action musical The 5,000 Fingers of Dr. T as part of their summer children's matinee series. The film screens this afternoon at 3pm, and Saturday & Sunday at 11:30am. For full details see the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
It Came From the Neo-Futurarium: Purple Rain
The Neo-Futurists wind up the 10th year of It Came From The Neo-Futurarium, their annual series of staged readings of movie scripts, with a production of 1984's classic Purple Rain, directed by Mike Przygoda. After the film please join the cast and company for a celebratory party. Please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (near Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Soul Train doc @ Chicago Cultural Center
As a celebration of the 40th anniversary of the TV show "Soul Train," the Chicago Cultural Center is screening the documentary Soul Train: The Hippest Trip in America this afternoon at 2pm. Chicago Public Radio's Richard Steele will moderate a post-screening discussion featuring local author Jake Austen, Clinton Ghent, George Daniels and others. The event is free and open to the public. Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. (312) 744-6630.
56th Annual Ginza Holiday @ Midwest Buddhist Temple
The 56th Annual Ginza Holiday, a large Japanese cultural festival, will be presented by the Midwest Buddhist Temple (MBT) Aug. 12 - 14 at 435 W. Menomonee Street in Old Town. Flown in from Tokyo for this event, four master craftsmen (Waza) will demonstrate their generations-old skills creating unique crafts. The public will have the opportunity to meet the Waza and purchase their crafts. Several other exhibits and booths will be filled with Japanese dry goods, snacks, kimonos and jewelry. An abundance of traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered, from udon to kintoki. Featured in the festival will be ongoing stage performances with the energetic taiko drumming, classical dance, traditional and not-so-traditional music, martial arts and a ukulele group! Aikido, Judo and Karate schools will demonstrate self-defense tactics, while Kendo (Japanese fencing) will entertain the crowd. The chapel will be open for guests who are interested in observing the place of worship and learning the basics of Buddhism. During stage intermissions, Rev Ron Miyamura will deliver short Dharma talks. A benefit donation of $6 for adults, and $5 for students and senior citizens will be collected at the gate. Children under 12 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Details here.
Facets Night School: The Quick and The Dead
Facets Cinematheque presents the final film in Facets Night School, its occasional series of midnight cult film screenings paired with guest lecture/discussion sessions. Tonight's concluding movie is Sam Raimi's 1995 Western The Quick and The Dead. The discussion of the film will be headed by Cary Jones Elza, author and Ph.D. candidate at Northwestern. The screening starts at midnight; see the Facets Night School page for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
56th Annual Ginza Holiday @ Midwest Buddhist Temple
The 56th Annual Ginza Holiday, a large Japanese cultural festival, will be presented by the Midwest Buddhist Temple (MBT) Aug. 12 - 14 at 435 W. Menomonee Street in Old Town. Flown in from Tokyo for this event, four master craftsmen (Waza) will demonstrate their generations-old skills creating unique crafts. The public will have the opportunity to meet the Waza and purchase their crafts. Several other exhibits and booths will be filled with Japanese dry goods, snacks, kimonos and jewelry. An abundance of traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered, from udon to kintoki. Featured in the festival will be ongoing stage performances with the energetic taiko drumming, classical dance, traditional and not-so-traditional music, martial arts and a ukulele group! Aikido, Judo and Karate schools will demonstrate self-defense tactics, while Kendo (Japanese fencing) will entertain the crowd. The chapel will be open for guests who are interested in observing the place of worship and learning the basics of Buddhism. During stage intermissions, Rev Ron Miyamura will deliver short Dharma talks. A benefit donation of $6 for adults, and $5 for students and senior citizens will be collected at the gate. Children under 12 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Details here.
Summer sale @ Old Town School of Folk Music
This weekend at the Old Town School of Folk Music their music store, the Different Strummer, is having its summer clearance sale. Everything in the store will be on sale, from instruments to books to CDs and much more. The hours this weekend are Saturday & Sunday from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
The Silent Film Society of Chicago presents Sunrise @ Portage Theater
The 2011 Silent Summer Film Festival reaches a crescendo tonight with a rare screening of the 1927 F. W. Murnau film Sunrise, starring Janet Gaynor and George O'Brien. What makes tonight especially not-missable is the live photoplay accompaniment by the Month Alto Motion Picture Orchestra. Sunrise is considered by some to be one of the top ten films from the silent era. Film starts at 8pm. Tickets are $15 in advance, $17 at the door. The Portage Theater is located at 4050 N. Milwaukee Avenue. For more info call (773) 205-SFSC or visit The Silent Film Society of Chicago.
Noir City: Chicago 3 @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and the Film Noir Foundation present the third edition of Noir City: Chicago, a festival that presents noir classics and rarities, many of which are currently unavailable on DVD. The festival starts tonight with a double feature of High Wall and The Dark Mirror. The festival runs through Thursday, August 18. Please see the Music Box Website for a full schedule and to purchase advance tickets and festival passes. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Interrupters @ Gene Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the Chicago premiere of Kartemquin Films' new documentary The Interrupters, which takes a look at the workers of the anti-violence group CeaseFire. The film-makers and representatives from CeaseFire will be at screenings this weekend for audience Q&A; see the Film Center's Website for details and to purchase tickets in advance. The Interrupters plays at the Film Center through Thursday, August 25. Film Center: 164 S. State. (312) 846-2600.
56th Annual Ginza Holiday @ Midwest Buddhist Temple
The 56th Annual Ginza Holiday, a large Japanese cultural festival, will be presented by the Midwest Buddhist Temple (MBT) Aug. 12 - 14 at 435 W. Menomonee Street in Old Town. Flown in from Tokyo for this event, four master craftsmen (Waza) will demonstrate their generations-old skills creating unique crafts. The public will have the opportunity to meet the Waza and purchase their crafts. Several other exhibits and booths will be filled with Japanese dry goods, snacks, kimonos and jewelry. An abundance of traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered, from udon to kintoki. Featured in the festival will be ongoing stage performances with the energetic taiko drumming, classical dance, traditional and not-so-traditional music, martial arts and a ukulele group! Aikido, Judo and Karate schools will demonstrate self-defense tactics, while Kendo (Japanese fencing) will entertain the crowd. The chapel will be open for guests who are interested in observing the place of worship and learning the basics of Buddhism. During stage intermissions, Rev Ron Miyamura will deliver short Dharma talks. A benefit donation of $6 for adults, and $5 for students and senior citizens will be collected at the gate. Children under 12 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Details here.
It Came From the Neo-Futurarium: Red Dawn
The Neo-Futurists continue the 10th year of It Came From The Neo-Futurarium, their annual series of staged readings of movie scripts, with a remounted show from the 2007 series, Red Dawn (yes, the Cold War relic starring Patrick Swayze and Charlie Sheen) directed by Neo-Futurist alumnus Phil Ridarelli. It Came From The Neo-Futurarium runs on Thursday nights through August 18: please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (near Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Jazz Guitar @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening with their jazz guitar instructors, featuring the featuring Tony Do Rosario Quartet, the Mike Allemana Group with Greg Fishman, and Paulinho Garcia. The concert happens this evening at 7pm in the concert hall on Lincoln Avenue (4544 N. Lincoln). Tickets are $15 ($13 for OTS members, $11, for seniors/children). Please call the box office at (773) 728-6000 for more details and to purchase tickets.
Tim Burtonwood Artist Talk @ Hinge Gallery
Tom Burtonwood's exhibition Permutations examines color and shape through a formalistic approach to paper compositions and three-dimensional wall reliefs. Visit Hinge Gallery (1955 W. Chicago Ave.) today at 4pm to hear/take part in a discussion with the artist about his work.
A Sustainable Reality Kickstarter Fundraiser Party 2.0
In order to reach their goal of $11,000 by midnight (central time) on August 12 A Sustainable Reality is hosting one final Kickstarter bonanza tonight from 5pm to 10pm at The New Chicago Brewing Company, 1400 W. 46th St., the soon-to-be sustainable brewery that operates within The Plant located in the Back of the Yards on the South Side. They will be providing live entertainment all evening long via a large eclectic ensemble of local bands and artists. Booze and food will be served all night, complimentary with ticket purchase. Tickets are $20.
Facets Night School: Hal Harley's Amateur
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, its occasional series of midnight cult film screenings paired with guest lecture/discussion sessions. Tonight's movie is Hal Hartley's 1994 film Amateur. The discussion of the film will be headed by Julian Antos, film collector and archivist. The screening starts at midnight; see the Facets Night School page for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
17th Annual Black Harvest International Festival @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the 17th annual Black Harvest International Festival of Film and Video. Opening night is tonight, and the festival runs through September 1. For tonight's premiere event, the festival presents a program of short films, and also presents the Deloris Jordan Award for Excellence in Community Leadership to actress and playwright Regina Taylor. See the Film Center Website for full details, a complete schedule, and information on purchasing tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Marc Maron @ Mayne Stage
For more than 15 years, Marc Maron has been writing and performing raw, honest and thought-provoking comedy for print, stage, radio and television. A legend in the stand-up community, he has appeared on HBO, Conan, Letterman, his two Comedy Central Presents specials and almost every show that allows comics to perform. He will be performing at Mayne Stage (1328 W. Morse Ave.) tonight, Aug. 4 at 8pm, and shows at 8pm and 10:30pm Friday and Saturday, Aug5 and 6. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office.
It Came From the Neo-Futurarium: The Flaming Urge
The Neo-Futurists continue the 10th year of It Came From The Neo-Futurarium, their annual series of staged readings of movie scripts, with a production of the the 1953 film The Flaming Urge, about a young man who loves to watch burning buildings. The staged reading is directed by Neo-Futurist alumnus David Kodeski. It Came From The Neo-Futurarium runs on Thursday nights through August 18: please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (near Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Milwaukee Ave Arts Fest
The stretch of Milwaukee between California and Kimball becomes a network of art galleries, performance spaces, and entertainment venues from Friday to Sunday. Music, food, and art are on the bill. Event runs today from noon-11pm.
Ricky Skaggs @ Old Town School of Folk Music
Country and bluegrass legend Ricky Skaggs performs tonight at the concert hall at the Old Town School of Folk Music (4544 N. Lincoln Avenue). Two concerts tonight, at 5pm and 8pm; tickets are available online at the OTS Website.
Facets Night School: Pusher
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, its occasional series of midnight cult film screenings paired with guest lecture/discussion sessions. Tonight's movie is Nicolas Winding Refn's 1996 movie Pusher. The discussion of the film will be headed by Chris Damen, co-manager of Facet's rentals department. The screening starts at midnight; see the Facets Night School page for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Milwaukee Ave Arts Fest
The stretch of Milwaukee between California and Kimball becomes a network of art galleries, performance spaces, and entertainment venues from Friday to Sunday. Music, food, and art are on the bill. Event runs today from noon-11pm.
Milwaukee Ave Arts Fest
The stretch of Milwaukee between California and Kimball becomes a network of art galleries, performance spaces, and entertainment venues from Friday to Sunday. Music, food, and art are on the bill. Event runs Friday 4-11pm and Sat-Sun noon-11pm. Admission $10 for all three days; individual day passes available.
Grease Sing-Along @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents weekend sing-along screenings of the 1978 film Grease. Attendees are encouraged to dress in 1950s attire for a costume contest. The screenings start tonight at 8pm; see the Music Box Website for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Looney Tunes Shorts @ Music Box
As part of their summer children's matinee series the Music Box Theatre presents a program of Looney Tunes cartoons this weekend. Screenings are Friday at 3pm, and Saturdays & Sundays at 11:30am. See the schedule on the Music Box Website for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
It Came From the Neo-Futurarium: The Apple
The Neo-Futurists continue the 10th year of It Came From The Neo-Futurarium, their annual series of staged readings of movie scripts, with a remount of last year's production of the very odd Biblical allegory The Apple, as performed by the Barrel of Monkeys theater company. It Came From The Neo-Futurarium runs on Thursday nights through August 18: please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (near Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Sound Opinions Movie Night: Stop Making Sense
Sound Opinions and the Music Box Theatre present the latest in their Movie Night series, Jonathan Demme's concert film of the Talking Heads Stop Making Sense. The movie screens tonight at 7:30pm; advance tickets are available through Ticketweb. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Body Language @ Harold Washington Library
The Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St., presents "Body Language," today at 12:15pm. As part of the "Dancing in the Library" series, dancers from the Chicago-based Leopold Group will perform Lips of Their Fingers, exploring the art of pantomime and its relationship to dance. This free event takes place in the library's Pritzker Auditorium. For more information, call (312) 747-4300.
Music Box Summer Music Film Festival
The Music Box Theatre presents a week-long festival of music movies. Tonight's the opening night, which features a program of musical shorts, and the documentary films The Last Waltz and Radiohead: Meeting People Is Easy. See the Music Box Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Facets Night School: Lover Come Back
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, its occasional series of midnight cult film screenings paired with guest lecture/discussion sessions. Tonight's movie is Lover Come Back from 1961, starring Doris Day and Rock Hudson in an overlooked successor to Pillow Talk. The discussion of the film will be headed by Northwestern's Catherine Clepper. The screening starts at midnight; see the Facets Night School page for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a concert by long-running rock band Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes tonight at 8pm at the school's concert hall (4544 N. Lincoln Avenue). Tickets are available for purchase in advance through the school's Website.
It Came From the Neo-Futurarium: KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park
The Neo-Futurists continue the 10th year of It Came From The Neo-Futurarium, their annual series of staged readings of movie scripts, with a remount of from 2006, the ludicrous TV movie KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park, directed by John Pierson and Steve Walker and featuring live music! It Came From The Neo-Futurarium runs on Thursday nights through August 18: please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (near Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Third Coast Listening Room @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music and The Third Coast International Audio Festival present a Listening Room event tonight at the school's concert hall at 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. The show starts tonight at 7pm; admission is $10, or $8 for seniors, children and OTS members. See the OTS Website for details and to purchase tickets.
Conversation & Cocktails: An Evening with Barbara Hashimoto
Chicago Artists' Coalition presents "Conversation & Cocktails: An evening with acclaimed artist Barbara Hashimoto." This event, taking place from 6pm to 8pm tonight at BauerLatoza Studio: 2241 S. Wabash Ave., will include an artist talk, a tour of the studio and a chance to experience Hashimoto's installations, as well as a cocktail reception. Tickets are on sale now. Space is limited. Tickets are $15 for CAC Collectors Circle Members and $40 for the general public.
Facets Night School: Educational Shorts
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, its occasional series of midnight cult film screenings paired with guest lecture/discussion sessions. Tonight's program is a series of educational short films presented by Facets personal video consultant Lew Ojeda. The screening starts at midnight; see the Facets Night School page for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
The Room @ Music Box
Hi, doggy! The Music Box presents a midnight screening of the 2003 Tommy Wiseau instant cult classic that introduced the world to spoons, the slow jam "You Are My Rose" and Denny the kidult. Advance tickets are available through the Music Box's Website, in case you're sure you want to attend. Come on! Cheep cheep cheep! Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
6 String Social: Women of Rock @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents the latest in their series of 6 String Socials, the weekly Friday night jams at the school's 909 W. Armitage location. Tonight's subject: Women of Rock. Instructor Shelley Miller leads the group through a number of songs written or performed by women. Six String Social starts tonight at 6:30pm; admission is $5. Details at the OTS Website.
It Came From the Neo-Futurarium: Devil Girl From Mars
The Neo-Futurists continue the 10th year of It Came From The Neo-Futurarium, their annual series of staged readings of movie scripts, with a remount of 2002's production of the sci-fi classic Devil Girl From Mars, directed by Edward Thomas-Herrera. It Came From The Neo-Futurarium runs on Thursday nights through August 18: please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (near Foster). (773) 275-5255.
King Khan @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents a performance by King Khan, featuring Gris Gris. Opening acts: Outer Minds and Shane Shane. Show kicks off at 9:30pm; tickets are $15 and can be purchased through Ticketweb. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Science Fiction & Fantasy Bookclub @ Noble Tree Cafe
The Chicago Nerds Social Club presents the latest in their regular series of science fiction & fantasy bookclub meetings tonight at 6:30pm at Noble Tree Cafe (2444 N. Clark). Tonight's book for discussion: The Adventures of Guy by Norm Cowie. The event is free and open to the public. For more information please see the Chicago Nerds Website.
Chicago Folk & Roots Festival
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents the 14th annual Chicago Folk & Roots Festival at Welles Park (on Lincoln Avenue between Montrose & Sunnyside). Six stages running performances and workshops all day, plenty of food & crafts vendors, and much more. The festival happens today from noon to 9:30pm, and admission is a suggested donation of $10. See the festival's Website for full information.
Facets Night School: The Masque of Red Death
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, its occasional series of midnight cult film screenings paired with guest lecture/discussion sessions. Tonight's movie is the Roger Corman Poe adaptation the Masque of Red Death, with discussion by author Joel Wicklund. The screening starts at midnight; see the Facets Night School page for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Chicago Folk & Roots Festival
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents the 14th annual Chicago Folk & Roots Festival at Welles Park (on Lincoln Avenue between Montrose & Sunnyside). Six stages running performances and workshops all day, plenty of food & crafts vendors, and much more. The festival happens today and tomorrow from noon to 9:30pm, and admission is a suggested donation of $10. See the festival's Website for full information.
Dollar Disco Presents Skatetown USA @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and Dollar Disco, the weekly disco party at Smart Bar, present midnight screenings of the 1979 disco skating extravaganza Skatetown USA. The cast list reads like a who's who of late 1970s entertainment: Scott Baio, Maureen McCormick, Flip Wilson, Gary Mule Deer, Bill Kirchenbauer, Ruth Buzzi, Billy Barty, The Unknown Comic, and you can just spy Dorothy Stratten at the snack bar. Skatetown USA screens tonight and tomorrow night; see the Music Box Website for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Fear Itself: The Art of Stuart Immonen @ Rogues Gallery
Canadian comic book artist Stuart Immonen brings the art of "Fear Itself", Marvel's miniseries crossover event, to Challengers Comics. Yes, he will be there. 7pm, 1845 N. Western Ave. 2R. Check out his art, and buy a comic while you're there.
It Came From the Neo-Futurarium: The Care Bears Movie
The Neo-Futurists continue the 10th year of It Came From The Neo-Futurarium, their annual series of staged readings of movie scripts, with a remount of the 2004 production of The Care Bears Movie by the House Theater. It Came From The Neo-Futurarium runs on Thursday nights through August 18: please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (near Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Soup & Bread: GP Conservatory Benefit @ The Hideout
The Hideout is hosting a special Soup and Bread benefit program tonight to help fund the cleanup and repairs of the Garfield Park Conservatory, which was severely damaged by last Thursday's hail. Stop by The Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia) tonight (5:30 - 8pm) and stuff your face for a good cause. Details here.
Magic Chicago
Tonight at 7:30pm, Magic Chicago's monthly show at the City Lit Theater, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., features New York's Ran'D Shine, Danish magician Jan Hellesoe and Chicago's own Tevell Rose. Tickets are $20 in advance or at the door.
Robbie Fulks' Pseudo-Open Stage @ Hideout
The Hideout presents a pre-fireworks cookout and pseudo-open state, hosted by Hideout regular Robbie Fulks. Anyone who has played the Monday night Hideout series is invited to come and play. No donation or charge for the event! The show starts at 7pm. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
transmit/transmute : Adrian Moens @ Comfort Station
Bringing together sound, sculpture, video, writing and painting with a heavy dash of New Age poeticism, Adrian Moens' installation at Comfort Station displays an eye for performance, dabbling in many mediums but retaining a sense of interconnectedness. Opens tonight at 7pm (lasts til 10pm), 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Runs through 7/24.
The 2nd Annual Great Midwest Ukefest
The organizers of Chicago Ukulele Cabaret, the occasional ukulele open-mike night, presents their second annual Great Midwest Ukefest, happening today at Chief O'Neil's (3471 N. Elston). The event kicks off at 11am with a special kids concert featuring music by Little Miss Ann, continues with an open mike section from 1pm to 6pm, and concludes with a series of featured performers starting at 6:30pm. Tickets are $10 and are available through Brown Paper Tickets. Proceed go to benefit the Intonation Music Workshop, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing music education to Chicago children in under-served neighborhoods. Details at the Facebook page for the fest.
It Came From the Neo-Futurarium: The Black Hole
The Neo-Futurists continue the 10th year of It Came From The Neo-Futurarium, their annual series of staged readings of movie scripts, with a production of the 1979 Disney film The Black Hole, directed by Jen Ellison and Dave Stinton. It Came From The Neo-Futurarium runs on Thursday nights through August 18: please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (near Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Poetry Foundation Open House
The Poetry Foundation celebrates the completion of its new headquarters with an open house this weekend. Check the schedule for events. Doors open at 10am today. Free.
Luxury Garage Sale @ Sofia
Sofia welcomes Luxury Garage Sale for a pop-up store inside of their boutique. Luxury Garage Sale features new or gently used contemporary and designer clothing, artwork, and other items for the home. Featuring designer clothing, jewelry, and handbags, the sale lasts until 5pm. Sofia is located at 72 East Oak Street. The store is open 11am to 7pm, Thursday through Saturday, and on Sunday from 12pm to 5pm.
Facets Night School: Killer Klowns From Outer Space
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, its occasional series of midnight cult film screenings paired with guest lecture/discussion sessions. Tonight's movie is the 1988 clown nightmare Killer Klowns From Outer Space, with discussion by Joseph R. Lewis from the Elephant and Worm Educational Theater Company. The screening starts at midnight; see the Facets Night School page for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Poetry Foundation Open House
The Poetry Foundation celebrates the completion of its new headquarters with an open house this weekend. Check the schedule for events. Doors open at 10am today. Free.
Piven Theatre Workshop's 40th Anniversary @ MCA Loft
Piven Theatre Workshop will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a red carpet evening of dinner, cocktails and an exciting live auction at the MCA Loft (1747 W. Hubbard) tonight from 6pm to 10pm. For more information and to purchase tickets call (847) 866-8049 or visit Piven's website.
Luxury Garage Sale @ Sofia
Sofia welcomes Luxury Garage Sale for a pop-up store inside of their boutique. Luxury Garage Sale features new or gently used contemporary and designer clothing, artwork, and other items for the home. Featuring designer clothing, jewelry, and handbags, the sale lasts through Sunday at 5pm. Sofia is located at 72 East Oak Street. The store is open 11am to 7pm, Thursday through Saturday, and on Sunday from 12pm to 5pm.
Chicago Global Runway
The Chicago Global Runway showcases fashion and jewelry from Southeast Asian designers tonight from 7:30pm to 11pm in Preston Bradley Hall at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St. Tickets are $75 to $250. Proceeds benefit Save a Mother, a non-profit organization working to reduce maternal and infant mortality in India.
There will also be a pop-up shop featuring pieces by the designers in the show in the Green Room at Hotel Allegro, 171 W. Randolph St., tomorrow, June 25, from 11am to 5pm.
Rafaël Rozendaal Artist Talk @ The Nightingale Theatre
Experimental new media artist Rafaël Rozendaal is speaking about his work at The Nightingale Theatre (1048 N Milwaukee Ave.) at 6pm tonight. Admission is free.
Art Openings All Over Town
Visit this post in A/C to see what to see...
Luxury Garage Sale @ Sofia
Sofia welcomes Luxury Garage Sale for a pop-up store inside of their boutique. Luxury Garage Sale features new or gently used contemporary and designer clothing, artwork, and other items for the home. Featuring designer clothing, jewelry, and handbags, the sale lasts through Sunday at 5pm. Sofia is located at 72 East Oak Street. The store is open 11am to 7pm, Thursday through Saturday, and on Sunday from 12pm to 5pm.
It Came From the Neo-Futurarium: Tiptoes
The Neo-Futurists continue the 10th year of It Came From The Neo-Futurarium, their annual series of staged readings of movie scripts, with a production of the infamous 2003 movie Tiptoes, directed by Neo-Futurist alumnus Noelle Krimm. It Came From The Neo-Futurarium runs on Thursday nights through August 18: please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (near Foster). (773) 275-5255.
WI Rise Up: An Art In These Times Exhibition
Art In These Times, the community gallery at In These Times' office (2040 N. Milwaukee Ave.), presents a new exhibition of posters and photographs from ongoing labor demonstrations in Wisconsin that began on February 14, 2011. The exhibition is a collaboration with Nicolas Lampert and will feature prints and placards he has collected as an active participant in the labor and community rallies in Madison. An opening party will be held at 7pm tonight, in conjunction with the Working-Class Studies Conference at UIC. "The Hard Times Trio," a jazz group which performs classic labor songs, will perform. The artwork will be on display through the summer and fall. The exhibition features screenprints and off-set posters from rallies in Madison and Milwaukee and features prints by Nicolas Lampert, Colin Matthes, Eric Drooker, Jesus Barraza, Josh MacPhee, Jesse Graves and others. The photography of Lauren Cumbia (who co-organizes the gallery space with Daniel Tucker), Brandon Pittser and the Public Collectors archive will also be exhibited.
Grafitti Zone's Spring Fundraiser @ Chicago Urban Arts Society
Four youth artists -- winners of Graffiti Zone's Next Top Artist Contest will be honored tonight at GZ's Spring Fundraiser. The event will take place at Chicago Urban Arts Society: 2229 S. Halsted from 6 to 9pm. Hosted by Chicago hip hop performer Philip Morris, described as "one of the ultimate word smiths of hip-hop (Skope Magazine)," the evening will feature catering by Green Cuisine, open bar, silent auction and performances by Opera-Matic with sound by Mark Messing. Ample free parking is available behind the building, off of Cermak. Tickets are $35 at the door, or online at graffitizone.org. All proceeds to benefit Graffiti Zone, a non profit arts organization serving the 29th ward.
Luxury Garage Sale @ Sofia
Sofia welcomes Luxury Garage Sale for a pop-up store inside of their boutique. Luxury Garage Sale features new or gently used contemporary and designer clothing, artwork, and other items for the home. Featuring designer clothing, jewelry, and handbags, the sale begins today and lasts through Sunday at 5pm. Sofia is located at 72 East Oak Street. The store is open 11am to 7pm, Thursday through Saturday, and on Sunday from 12pm to 5pm.
Cell Camp Performs "Cell Camp After Dark" at Stage 773
Chicago's Cell Camp gets dirty in their latest sketch show inspired by late-night Cinemax movies and the Illicit Dream series. Expect raunchy language, nudity, gay sex, regular sex, cartoon violence and the return of Tifty the Cybercrime and Rape Fighting Mouse.
Cell Camp After Dark will take place at 10:30 p.m. at Stage 773. Stage 773 is located at 1225 W. Belmont Avenue, conveniently situated a short walk from the Belmont Red/Brown/Purple el stop. Tickets are available via the Stage 773 website and in person at the box office.
Make Music Chicago Festival
Make Music Chicago is a live, one-day, completely free music festival on the first day of summer, inspired by France's "Fête de la Musique," a national musical holiday marking its 30th anniversary this year. People of all ages, music of all genres, and musicians of all levels are invited to gather throughout the day in Chicago's public spaces to engage in spontaneous music-making. These events go on all day: 7am to 5pm culminating to a grand finale concert from 5:15 to 9pm at St. James Cathedral Commons. This event takes place at public spaces citywide, including Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington), Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington), Alliance Française (810 N. Dearborn) and St. James Cathedral Commons (65 E. Huron). For details, visit makemusicchicago.com.
Minor Art Attack Craft Fair/Benefit @ 2055 W. Erie
This is not your run of the mill craft fair. This is a community gathering together to help a school in need, with local crafters and artists coming together in support of Madero Middle School in Little Village (28th St. and Kedzie), a 90% reduced/free lunch school in need of books. Check out the newest goods from over 20 kick ass local crafters, artists and vintage sellers.
Want to kick it up a notch? Bring books (any subject manner as long as in decent condition) to donate to Open Books Ltd., an organization that helps provide funding for literacy programs right here in Chicago. This event takes place today from 12pm to 6pm at 2055 W. Erie. More details here.
Facets Night School: Black Dynamite
Facets Cinematheque presents the return of Facets Night School, its occasional series of midnight cult film screenings paired with guest lecture/discussion sessions. Tonight's kick-off movie for this session is the superbad 2009 flick Black Dynamite, with discussion by Facets regular Dominick Mayer. The screening starts at midnight; see the Facets Night School page for full details. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School, contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197 or suzi (at) facets (dot) org.
Minor Art Attack Craft Fair/Benefit @ 2055 W. Erie
This is not your run of the mill craft fair. This is a community gathering together to help a school in need, with local crafters and artists coming together in support of Madero Middle School in Little Village (28th St. and Kedzie). They are a 90% reduced/free lunch school, in need of books. Check out the newest goods from over 20 kick ass local crafters, artists and vintage sellers. The first 50 attendees will receive a free Minor Art Attack tote bag. Want to kick it up a notch? Bring books (any subject manner as long as in decent condition) to donate to Open Books Ltd., an organization that helps provide funding for literacy programs right here in Chicago. This event takes place today from 12pm to 8pm and tomorrow from 12pm to 6pm at 2055 W. Erie. Details here.
Bri-Ko @ Stage 773
All silent, all hilarious -- Stage Style Chicago describes Bri-Ko's performance as "...three grown men taking very simple tasks and turning them into exaggerated hysterical mishaps." Like not much else in the Chicago area's theater arena, this is a show not to be missed. Happens today at 2pm at 1225 W. Belmont. Tickets $13. There's a show tomorrow, too!
Free Kids Ceramics Class @ Penguin Foot Pottery
School's out soon -- get a jump start on beating the summer doldrums with Penguin Foot Pottery's free class today from 1pm-6pm, where your kid can learn how to make planter pot in a color of their choice. 2514 W. Armitage Ave. Free seeds and soil too!
It Came From the Neo-Futurarium: Night of the Lepus
The Neo-Futurists kick off the 10th year of It Came From The Neo-Futurarium, their annual series of staged readings of movie scripts. Tonight's premiere "film": Night of the Lepus (gigantic rabbits terrorize cattle ranchers and DeForest "Bones" Kelley), directed by Jason Meyer. It Came From The Neo-Futurarium happens for the next 10 Thursdays in a row: please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (near Foster). (773) 275-5255.
The New Cult Canon: Starship Troopers @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents the latest in the AV Club series The New Cult Canon. Tonight's film: Paul Verhoeven's Starship Troopers, hosted by the AV Club's Scott Tobias. The screening starts at 7:30pm this evening; see the Music Box Website for full information and to purchase tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
7th Annual Guerrilla Truck Show
This is a collection of new works by local, independent object and furniture designers. 5:30pm-9:30pm at 1052 W. Fulton Market. For more information, click here.
NeoCon Opening Night
NeoCon is North America's largest design exposition and conference for commercial interiors, providing over 40,000 architecture and design professionals with more than 140 CEU-accredited seminars and association forums, top-notch keynote speakers, taking place today through Wednesday, June 15, 9am-5pm at the Merchandise Mart (222 Merchandise Mart Plaza). Even though it's intended for commercial consumption, there are several independent local furniture designers showing, so furniture junkies shouldn't miss it. For more information, visit NeoCon's website.
John Waters Presents Female Trouble @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special screening of John Waters' Female Trouble, introduced by director John Waters. The screening begins tonight at 10:30pm, and advance tickets are available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
John Waters presents The Wizard of Oz @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special screening of the classic children's film The Wizard of Oz, as part of a new series of films inspired by Robert K. Elder's book The Film That Changed My Life. Elder will be in attendance, as will the selector of tonight's film, director John Waters. Both men will have a post-film discussion and will sign books after the screening. The show starts at 5:30pm. Tickets are $22 in advance, and $27 at the door. To get more information, or to purchase tickets, please go to the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Harry Shearer introduces Spinal Tap @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre welcomes actor, author & director Harry Shearer. In town to present this film The Big Uneasy (screening at the Music Box earlier in the evening), Shearer will also be on hand to introduce a 10:30pm screening of the classic This Is Spinal Tap. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door, and can be purchased at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Harry Shearer Screens The Big Uneasy @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a screening of Harry Shearer's documentary about the 2005 flooding of New Orleans, The Big Uneasy. Mr. Shearer will be in attendance at tonight's screening. The film screens at 7:30pm; full details and advance tickets are available at the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Etsy Birthday Party @ Inkling
Come celebrate the birthday of Etsy.com with a crafting extravaganza at Inkling (2917 1/2 Broadway) from 6:30 to 9pm. Suggested donation to cover your crafting supplies is $2, and benefits Chicago Style Crafters.
Structurally Sound: Pop Up Library @ North Branch Projects
The Chicago Underground Library's latest pop-up library, Structurally Sound, opens at North Branch Projects, 3550 W. Lawrence Ave., with a reception tonight from 7pm to 10pm. Enjoy food and drink, ping pong and the services of a "library database psychic," and peruse the CUL's collection of self-published media. Free, but donations accepted.
Gift Circle @ Mess Hall
How a gift circle works: people meet, share some food and introduce themselves, form a circle, then go around and share what they need. All kinds of things have been asked for: bodywork, help healing a broken heart, advice on marketing a product, someone to talk to about life goals, help cleaning out files, etc.Then people go around again and offer a gift, something they would like to share with no expectation of it being accepted. Again, a wide range of things have been offered: a dreamcatcher, a vacuum sealer, shamanic healing, handquilted potholders, research help (from a librarian), help writing a simple will (from a lawyer), etc, etc. Afterward, people check in with those who responded to the gifts/needs/wishes and schedule them. (Bring your calendars!) 6:30pm to 7pm: Potluck (BYOB, dish). 7pm to 8:30pm: Gift Circle. Free & open to the public. Mess Hall is located at 6932 N. Glenwood Ave.
WPA Mural Tour @ Lane Tech High School
Tonight Preservation Chicago and portoluz are hosting a tour of the Great Depression-era murals at Lane Tech High School. The tour begins at 5pm at Entrance M of the school, 2501 W. Addison. $10 donation is requested at the door but RSVP to spfingsten@preservationchicago.org.
Pecha-Kucha @ Martyrs'
Pecha-Kucha Night returns to Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $8 in advance or at the door. 21+
Literary Death Match @ Hideout
Literary Death Match returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Four authors -- Samantha Irby, Johanna Stein, Ian Belknap and Amy Guth -- fight for the favor of judges Claire Zulkey, Kate James and Nathan Rabin. Hosted by Todd Zuniga and Dennis DiClaudio. $5 in advance, $8 at the door. 21+
Science Fiction & Fantasy Bookclub @ Noble Tree Cafe
The Chicago Nerds Social Club holds their 21st science fiction & fantasy book club meeting tonight at Noble Tree Cafe (2444 N. Clark). Tonight's book for discussion is Things We Think About Games by Will Hindmarch and Jeff Tidball. The meetings runs from 6:30pm to 8pm, and is free. For full details please see the Chicago Nerds Website.
Printers Row Lit Fest
It's the last day of Printers Row Lit Fest: today, Printers Row (Dearborn Street, Congress to Polk streets) will be filled with literary events, authors/speakers, and of course many, many books. Check out the full event schedule (all free, but you need to reserve your ticket for Harold Washington Library Center and University Center events) and full list of appearing authors. Find out about exact details, contact information, kids' activities and more here.
Experimental Garage Sale
The Experimental Sound Studio, 4925 N. Ravenswood Ave., holds its fourth annual Experimental Garage Sale today from noon to 6pm. Browse and buy experimental musical instruments, circuit-bending supplies, neat art and other fun stuff. Buy a ticket for the 3pm raffle and you might win something strange and wonderful. More details on Facebook. Free.
Printers Row Lit Fest
Today and tomorrow, Printers Row (Dearborn Street, Congress to Polk streets) will be filled with literary events, authors/speakers, and of course many, many books. Check out the full event schedule (all free, but you need to reserve your ticket for Harold Washington Library Center and University Center events) and full list of appearing authors. Find out about exact details, contact information, kids' activities and more here.
Johalla Projects Rager @ Streetside
Kings of Maplewood perform and White Mystery deejays at Streetside Bar, 3201 W. Armitage Ave., tonight from 9pm to 1am. Photos by Brian Sorg hang on the wall, too. More details here. Free, 21+.
Art Futura Opening Night Awards Party
The 9th annual ArtFutura is a juried art exhibition of more than 150 emerging and established artists benefiting the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Art Therapy program. All events including the Opening Night Awards Party tonight take place at the Ryan Family Atrium of NU Lurie Center (303 E. Superior St.). Proceeds from this event allow the hospital to maintain an Art Therapist at the hospital to work with patients. More information about this event can be found here.
Living Flesh Drawing Pad @ The 1901 Gallery Theatre
Artists aspiring, established, and otherwise, your search for real figure models has ended, at least for tonight (it's a monthly event).. The 1901 Gallery Theatre hosts burlesque dancer JuJu Minxxx tonight from 8pm-10pm. $10. BYOB. 1901 W. Belmont Ave., (773) 281-8670.
Chaplin double feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the kick-off screenings for a Charlie Chaplin festival that will run through June 30. This afternoon you can see City Lights at 3:15pm, and Modern Times at 5pm. You may see either program separately, or purchase tickets for both programs at a discount. Both programs will also be screened separately this weekend; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Wayward Sisters @ Chicago Temple
Baroque chamber group Wayward Sisters perform "The Naughty List: Music By Braggarts, Hotheads, Curmudgeons and Snobs," tonight at 7:30pm at the Chicago Temple, 77 W. Washington St. Admission is $20, $10 for students/seniors.
Family Firsts: 3 Tales of Immigration Film Screenings @ the Cultural Center
Chicago Film Archives presents a rare opportunity to see three newly restored Chicago-centric films that look at personal stories of immigration, acculturation and assimilation in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs. This event is free and open to the public at Chicago Cultural Center's Claudia Cassidy Theater (78 E. Washington St.), and happens at 6:30pm. Details here.
Chaplin Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the kick-off screenings for a Charlie Chaplin festival that will run through June 30. This afternoon you can see The Circus at 3pm, and The Great Dictator at 4:45pm. You may see either program separately, or purchase tickets for both programs at a discount. Both programs will also be screened separately later this week; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Wort Workshop Series #4 @ Spoke
PUBLIC BREWERY is part art installation, part DIY brewery, and completely community oriented. Visitors are invited to bring an ingredient they have grown or purchased locally to be used as part of today's workshop demonstrating home-soda making techniques. Today's drink will be a crabapple blossom soda incorporating crabapple blossom syrup donated by the Chicago Rarities Orchard Project (CROP). A representative from CROP will also facilitate discussions about this new project taking place in Logan Square. An exhibition at the end of the month allows today's participants to taste the fruits of their labor. Today's workshop runs from 12pm - 3pm. This event is all ages and families with children are strongly encouraged to attend. All children must be chaperoned by an adult. $5 per family/group. Spoke is located at 119 North Peoria, #2D.
Nature Strikes Back Saturday @ Portage Theater
The Portage Theater presents and afternoon/evening of classic black & white horror films: Abbott & Costello Meet Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde; Tarantula; Beginning of the End; and The Deadly Mantis. In addition to the films, there will be monster collectibles on sale in the lobby, and a coloring contest for the kids. Doors open at 1pm, screenings start at 2pm. See the Portage Theater Website for details. Portage Theater: 4050 N. Milwaukee. For more information: (773) 875-7582 or timetoys [at] rcn [dot] com.
Schizcago @ The Building Stage
The film Schizcago will screen at 10pm tonight at The Building Stage, 412 N. Carpenter Street. $5. As described by the filmmakers: "This bricolage comedy follows Lacey and her friends as they fake their way into clinic trials and peddle their tastes as corporate youth consultants. A surreal portrait of wage relations, Schizcago wryly presents the changing desires of privileged city youth."
The Room @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a midnight screening of Tommy Wiseau's cult classic The Room. Hi, doggie! Tickets are $10 in advance and can be purchased through the Music Box Website. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Schizcago @ The Building Stage
The film Schizcago will screen at 10pm tonight at The Building Stage, 412 N. Carpenter Street. $5. As described by the filmmakers: "This bricolage comedy follows Lacey and her friends as they fake their way into clinic trials and peddle their tastes as corporate youth consultants. A surreal portrait of wage relations, Schizcago wryly presents the changing desires of privileged city youth."
Local Craft Beer Parties @ Maria's & Co-Prosperity Sphere
Hey beer lovers, tonight three of the country's most rad craft breweries are hosting a double event in Bridgeport: One at Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar (960 W. 31st St.) and a simultaneous event takes place two blocks away at the Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S. Morgan St.). These events are being held to celebrate Chicago Craft Beer Week. Half Acre, Three Floyd's and Dogfish Head will be stocked at Maria's, with some rare beers on draft. 7pm til 2am. No cover.
The event at Co-Prosperity Sphere takes place from 8pm to 11pm. Admission is $10, which entitles you to complimentary craft beers. There are no online or presale admission tickets. Meet the staff of your favorite breweries: Three Floyd's Gregg Alzinga will be on the decks. Lord of the Yum Yum will perform at both venues. Proceeds will go to the non-profit arts organization Public Media Institute.
The Verdict @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a screening of the 1982 Sydney Lumet film The Verdict as part of "Movies On Trial", a series of films worth Continuing Legal Education credit. The screening starts today at noon, and is followed by a panel discussion. Admission is free, but RSVP is required. Please see the Music Box Website for full details on how to RSVP. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Meet Your Digital Partners @ The Nightengale
The IFP (Independent Film Project) is pleased to launch a new salon/discussion series for media makers in the Chicagoland and Midwestern region: MEET YOUR DIGITAL PARTNERS. The goal is to bring together people from a broad array of fields related to media making, to exchange ideas and talk about developing visual and aural stories in a variety of cross-platform arenas. With the convergence of technology, there is a lot of talk of making work that can be relevant across a multitude of platforms. Yet media makers may not know where to meet potential collaborators outside their usual circle. Stay relevant and make new connections by attending this open forum, whether you're a game developer, filmmaker, social media producer, advertiser, audio artist, or cross-platform media maker. This event takes place tonight at 7pm at The Nightingale (1084 North Milwaukee Ave.) Suggested donation $10 non-members, $5 members.
ECLIPSE Master Class: Man, Woman, and the Beast Within @ Columbia College
Columbia College Chicago and Fulcrum Point New Music Project, in association with Fujitsu Ten Ltd., will present ECLIPSE Master Class: Man, Woman, and the Beast Within, a free, one-time-only film music screening event with live orchestra, at the sound stage of the Columbia College Media Production Center (1600 S. State St.) today at 7:30pm. This special ECLIPSE Master Class event is free and open to the public but advance registration and ticket reservations are required. For more information and to reserve tickets, please visit www.ccc-emc.org or call 312-726-3846.
The First Time Show @ Beat Kitchen
CHIRP's First Time Show returns with an evening of readings and songs on the theme "First Concert" tonight at 8pm at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont Ave. Readers/perfomers will be Matt Priest of Canasta; musicians Zapruder Point, Gerald Dowd, and Dag Juhlin; writers Leah Jones, Amy Hayden and Karl Klockars; and more. Tickets are $10; 21+.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout presents the latest in the combative writing series, Write Club. Local author, actor and curmudgeon Ian Belknap presides over these literary bouts: Hello vs. Goodbye; Fate vs. Free Will; and Rain vs. Shine. A group of authors will bring their prepared pieces on these topics, and the declared winners of each bout will win a percentage of the door for their chosen charities. The show starts at 7pm, and tickets will be available at the door. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Chaplin Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the kick-off screenings for a Charlie Chaplin festival that will run through June 30. This afternoon you can see The Kid at 3pm, and a program of Chaplin shorts at 5pm. You may see either program separately, or purchase tickets for both programs at a discount. Both programs will also be screened separately later this week; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Cornelia Arts Building Open House
The Cornelia Arts Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Ave., holds an open house tonight from 6pm to 10pm. Visit the studios and see recent work by Doug Birkenheuer, Anthony Bowers, Jeff Bryner, Nancy Charak, Kelsi Crivaro, Tor Dettwiler, Doug Frohman, Lauren Harlowe, Beth Kamhi, Jeremiah Ketner, Reed Kirst, Alley Maranto, Teresa Matchett, Jason Messinger, Alisa Miller, Greg Milne, Ahavani Mullen, Matt Nichols, James Parenti, Emily Rapport, Judy Schumacher, Susanne Siegel, Scott Simons, Eric Steele, Kevin Swallow, Eric Weinstein and Joey Wozniak. Musical guest North Branch perform. Free.
Ol' Time Mississippi Fish Fry @ Da Sto
Tonight, check out the Ol' Time Mississippi Fish Fry and Hip Hop Storytelling Revival. The night will feature Grammy winning rapper and former 20th Ward alderman candidate Che "Rhymefest" Smith, spoken word by the Neighborhood Writing Alliance, food and cooking demonstrations, a West Woodlawn TIF photo gallery and more. Brought to you by Blacks In Green , a community education and trade association working to foster and sustain green, neighbor-owned businesses in African-American communities. Da Sto, 460 E. 61st, 6-10pm, $35 for dinner, show and festival; click here for tickets
Gift Circle @ Mess Hall
How a gift circle works: people meet, share some food and introduce themselves. Then they form a circle. People go around and share what they need. All kinds of things have been asked for, and the need is spoken with no expectation of it being fulfilled. People in the circle respond if they feel it. Then people go around again and offer a gift, something they would like to share with no expectation of it being accepted. Again, a wide range of things have been offered. Afterward, people check in with those who responded to the gifts/needs/wishes and schedule them. (Bring your calendars!)
6:30pm to 7pm: Potluck (BYOB, dish). 7 to 8:30pm: Gift Circle. Free & open to the public. Mess Hall is located at 6932 N. Glenwood Ave.
"The Cannon" Performative Reading Series @ Bonny's
"The Cannon," a monthly event starting tonight, (and part of Logan Square's "Strongworks" performance programming) will feature six Chicago actors
performing short stories chosen by Will Litton, fiction editor of the literary magazine
Wag's Revue, and Sam Nyhart, company member of Strong Works. Readings will be "performative, polished and punchy," according to Amanda Rozmiarek, production manager of Strong Works. Tonight's event will be held at Bonny's (2417 N. Milwaukee Ave.) from 9 to 10. Afterward, the Strong Works jazz band will play, followed by DJs, dancing and drinks. A $5 donation will be gently suggested at the door to keep their otherwise entirely unfunded season going.
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret: Uke Gastronomica @ Silvie's
The Chicago Ukulele Cabaret presents the latest in its seasonal open mike evenings at Silvie's Lounge (1902 W. Irving Park Road, just west of the Brown Line stop). Tonight's theme: Uke Gastronomica. Musicians are invited to play up to 3 food- or drink-related songs in a 15 minute set; a ukulele must be one of the instruments for all your songs. Apart from that, you're free to do as you wish; costumes, skits and audience participation are encouraged. The evening starts at 8pm, and there's no cover charge. For more information, search for the "Chicago Ukulele Cabaret" group on Facebook.
Wort Workshop Series #3 @ Spoke
PUBLIC BREWERY is part art installation, part DIY brewery, and completely community oriented. Visitors are invited to bring an ingredient they have grown or purchased locally to be used as part of today's workshop demonstrating home-brewing techniques. Today's brew will be a Pilsen Beekeeper's Ale incorporating malted honey and three pounds of local honey from beekeeper Donna Oppolo. Oppolo will also facilitate discussions on local food production. An exhibition at the end of the month allows today's participants to taste the fruits of their labor. Today's workshop runs from 3 - 8pm. Participants must be at least 21 years old. $5 entry fee. Spoke is located at 119 North Peoria, #2D.
A Lesson Before Dying @ Lincoln Square Theatre
It's opening night for A Lesson Before Dying at Lincoln Square Theatre (4754 N. Leavitt). Based on the novel by Ernest J. Gainesset, the play is set in Bayonne, Louisiana in 1948. Kristina Schramm directs. Shows Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 3pm & 8pm through June 11. Tickets are $20, $12 for students and seniors. For reservations and info call (773) 275-7930 or visit Lincoln Square Theatre.
Daniel Ho @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a concert by Grammy-Award-winning artist Daniel Ho, as part of their World Music Wednesday evenings. The show starts at 8:30pm, and admission is a suggested $5 donation. For reservations please call the Old Town School box office. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. Box office: (773) 728-6000.
Vintage Heaven @ Heaven Gallery
Heaven Gallery continues its popular tradition of monthly group vintage sales at their latest event. Heaven Gallery is located at 1550 North Milwaukee, 2nd floor. Vintage Heaven begins at noon and ends at 6pm.
Wort Workshop Series #2 @ Spoke
PUBLIC BREWERY is part art installation, part DIY brewery, and completely community oriented. Visitors are invited to bring an ingredient they have grown or purchased locally to be used as part of today's workshop demonstrating home-brewing techniques. Today's brew will be a Humboldt Part Cherry Pale Ale incorporating cherries picked from a Humboldt Park resident. Local urban agriculturalists also facilitate discussions on local food production. An exhibition at the end of the month allows today's participants to taste the fruits of their labor. Today's workshop runs from 3 - 8pm. Participants must be at least 21 years old. $5 entry fee. Spoke is located at 119 North Peoria, #2D.
My Heart is an Idiot Film Screening @ Intuit
My Heart Is An Idiot is a documentary about love that spans more than two years and a hundred cities. The film captures the manic road-tripping lifestyle of Davy Rothbart ("This American Life") as he tours North America in a van promoting his magazine FOUND, a virally popular and iconic printed collection of discarded notes and photographs. Show starts at 7pm. Running time: 95 minutes, tickets: $10. Director David Meiklejohn and subject of the film Davy Rothbart will be in attendance for a Q&A after the film.Intuit is located at 756 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Vintage Heaven @ Heaven Gallery
Heaven Gallery continues its popular tradition of monthly group vintage sales at their latest event. Heaven Gallery is located at 1550 North Milwaukee, 2nd floor. Vintage Heaven begins at noon and ends at 6pm.
NEXT 2011 @ Ruth Page Center for the Arts
LifeSpeak premieres as part of NEXT 2011. Additional performances include a reprise of Shirley Mordine's 2009 work Illuminations, work from guest company RE|Dance featuring Lucy Vurusic Riner and Michael Estanich, as well as work from Alitra Cartman, selected to participate in Mordine & Company Dance Theater's 2011 Emerging Artist Mentoring Program. The performances begin at 8pm at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, located at 1016 North Dearborn. Tickets ($20 in advance, $22 at the door, and $15 for students and seniors) are available online or by calling (800) 838-2006.
Global Activism Expo @ UIC Forum
Derived from the "Global Activism Series" hosted by "Worldview"'s Jerome McDonnell, the Global Activism Expo has become WBEZ's largest event of the year, happening again today (complete with music & food) and gathering hundreds of Chicago-area global activists, each providing ways you can immediately get involved and join their efforts. Doors open at noon and stay open until 6pm; it's FREE -- so bring your classes, your children, your neighbors, your friends and family. The address is 725 W. Roosevelt. Details here.
American: The Bill Hicks Story @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long screening of the 2011 documentary American: The Bill Hicks Story, which features archival performance footage of the legendary stand-up comedian throughout his short yet illustrious career. The film screens tonight at 6pm and runs through Thursday, may 5; see the Film Center Website for a compete list of showtimes. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
NEXT 2011 @ Ruth Page Center for the Arts
LifeSpeak premieres as part of NEXT 2011. Additional performances include a reprise of Shirley Mordine's 2009 work Illuminations, work from guest company RE|Dance featuring Lucy Vurusic Riner and Michael Estanich, as well as work from Alitra Cartman, selected to participate in Mordine & Company Dance Theater's 2011 Emerging Artist Mentoring Program. The performances begin at 8pm at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, located at 1016 North Dearborn. Tickets ($20 in advance, $22 at the door, and $15 for students and seniors) are available online or by calling 800-838-2006.
CIF: Die Gorillas; ImproTOP @ iO Theater
Hailing from Berlin, Germany, Die Gorillas perform tonight with Mexico City's own ImproTop at the iO Theater (3541 N. Clark) as part of this year's Chicago Improv Festival. Show starts at 8pm, tickets are $12 and can be purchased at the iO box office, online, or by calling 773-880-0199. For more information visit Chicago Improv Festival.
Performing Tonight: Liza Minnelli's Daughter @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present the final show in their 2010-11 season: Performing Tonight: Liza Minnelli's Daugher, starring ensemble member Mary Fons in the title role. The show is in preview performances tonight and tomorrow night, and opens on Saturday, April 30 at 8pm. For full information and to purchase tickets please see the Neo-Futurists Website. All performances are at the Neo-Futurarium, 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). For more information, please call the Neo-Futurarium at (773) 275-5255.
Perceptual Motion, Inc. @ Hamlin Park Studio Theatre
Preceptual Motion, Inc. presents Through the Window, a dance piece premiering the work of Lin Shook, Chagall's Window, and A Breath in Time, with original music by Andrew Edwards at the Hamlin Park Studio Theatre (3035 N. Hoyne). Featuring dancers Helene Alter-Dyche, Claire Bushey, Cindy Huston, Melanie Windland, Inger Smith, and Colleen Welch, and featuring Guest Artist Harvard Vallance. Tickets are $20 for general admission, $15 for students and seniors. Ticket price includes a free yoga class on Thursday, April 28th 6:30-7:30pm, and a post-performance discussion. To save $3 on tickets purchased in advance, use paypal at PerceptualMotionDance. Cash or personal check at the door. For more information call (773) 549-3958.
Off Off Broadzway @ Stage 773
A sorta-kinda-sexy, definitely funny mix of burlesque, sketch comedy, and song, Off Off Broadzway opens their new musical revue, "We Changed Our Pannies". Garnering acclaim like "The show's incisive lyrics, easy musicality and well‐choreographed routines are a pleasure to watch" (Centerstage Chicago), ""[Off Off Broadzway's] humor pushes boundaries" (Chicago Tribune), and "Best Bet" (Metromix), it's a show you won't want to miss. 8pm, 1225 W. Belmont. Get your tickets here.
And in case you can't go tonight, the show runs through May 19. Watch a preview here.
How We Got On by Idris Goodwin @ New Leaf Theatre
This is part of the Treehouse Readings Series at New Leaf Theatre. The revamped series, which kicked off last fall, is dedicated to providing an incubator for new play development, specifically for plays that have received an initial reading and are in the more advanced stages of polishing before their premieres. Tonight at 7pm they will be reading How We Got On by Idris Goodwin, a classic American coming-of-age tale with a unique hip-hop treatment: domestic suburban life remixed. The Selector, our DJ/Narrator, samples and loops us through the lives of three Midwestern teen rappers who have yet to discover the power of harmony over discord. This reading will take place at New Leaf Theatre's home at the Lincoln Park Cultural Center, 2045 N. Lincoln Park West. Free, For more information, visit newleaftheatre.org.
Danny Boyle's Frankenstein @ Music Box Theatre
The Music Box Theatre presents Academy-Award winning director Danny Boyle's production of Frankenstein. For the first time ever, National Theatre Live will broadcast two separate performances of a production. Throughout the run of Frankenstein at the National Theatre, Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller are alternating the roles of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature. Audiences in cinemas will have the chance to see both combinations, with two broadcasts a week apart. Purchase advance tickets here. Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave, (773) 871-6607.
Rap Sessions @ Columbia College Chicago
Columbia College Chicago's Institute for the Study of Women and Gender in the Arts and Media hosts "Rap Sessions, From Precious II For Colored Girls: The Black Image in the American Mind," tonight at 6:30pm. This panel discussion, led by acclaimed author and activist Bakari Kitwana, will examine early definitions and perceptions of various aspects of black culture--from both an internal and external standpoint--and how they both have affected the way blacks are perceived today. Other members of the panel include authors Mark Anthony Neal, Joan Morgan, Vijay Prashad and Elizabeth Mendez Berry. This event, held at the college's Conaway Center, 1104 S. Wabash, is free and open to the public. Call (312) 369-8829 for more information.
You, Me, Them, Everybody Live @ Hungry Brain
You, Me, Them, Everybody brings its live show to the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., tonight at 9pm. Guests include DJ and author James Van Osdol, comedian Dan Ronan, Good Evening and Trevor McSpadden. Hosted as always by Brandon Wetherbee and Esmeralda Leon. Doors open at 8pm; free. 21+
You, Me, Them, Everybody Live @ The Whistler
You, Me, Them, Everybody brings its live show to the Whistler, 2124 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight at 9pm. Guests include Pitchfork news editor Amy Phillips, comedian Prescott Tolk, The Post Honeymoon and Jeremy Tromburg. Hosted as always by Brandon Wetherbee and Esmeralda Leon. Doors open at 8pm; free. 21+
The MDW Fair @ the Geolofts
Three of Chicago's most celebrated art spaces - threewalls, Roots and Culture, and Public Media Institute - present the MDW Fair, a celebration and gathering of Chicagoland area independent art initiatives, spaces, galleries, publishers, and artist groups. Featuring exhibited works, talks, and performances, the fair aims to "demonstrate the diversity, strength, and vision of the people/places making it happen in the art ecology of our region." The MDW Fair takes place at the Geolofts (3636 South Iron Street) on April 23 from 1pm to 10pm and April 24 from 1pm to 6pm. Admission to the fair is $5.
The MDW Fair @ the Geolofts
Three of Chicago's most celebrated art spaces - threewalls, Roots and Culture, and Public Media Institute - present the MDW Fair, a celebration and gathering of Chicagoland area independent art initiatives, spaces, galleries, publishers, and artist groups. Featuring exhibited works, talks, and performances, the fair aims to "demonstrate the diversity, strength, and vision of the people/places making it happen in the art ecology of our region." The MDW Fair takes place at the Geolofts (3636 South Iron Street) on April 23 from 1pm to 10pm and April 24 from 1pm to 6pm. Admission to the fair is $5.
Do Something Reel Film Festival @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, in partnership with Whole Foods, presents the Do Something Reel Film Festival, a series of six documentary films focusing on food-related issues. The opening film, Lunch Line, focuses on a group of Chicago culinary students takin a trip to Washington, DC. The film screens tonight at 6pm. For a complete list of the films in the festival, please see the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
WONKA BALL 2011: A Royal Wedding @ SAIC Ballroom
Polish your tiaras! Before Prince William and Kate Middleton tie the knot across the pond, About Face Theatre is throwing its own royal wedding at WONKA BALL 2011. AFT's premier fundraising event will be held tonight at the School of the Art Institute Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave., at 6:30pm with a VIP reception at 5:30pm. Tickets are currently available at www.aboutfacetheatre.com or 773-784-8565. The evening will include a silent auction, open bar, mouth-watering edibles from some of Chicago's best restaurants including Atwood Café, Garrett Popcorn, J&L Catering, Polo Café, Terry's Toffees and more. WONKA BALL wouldn't be complete without plenty of music, dancing, entertainment and of course lots of surprises--including a "Wonka-style" visit from Queen Elizabeth herself! Tickets are a steep $250/VIP reception or $150/general admission. Details here.
Weightless Film Screening @ Intuit
Women rule the water in Weightless, a short documentary film by Faith Pennick about a scuba diving camp for plus-size women. Weightless depicts larger women as they are rarely seen: 1) as physically active, and 2) not consumed by the need or expectation to be thin. Show starts at 5:30pm. Running time: 39 minutes, tickets: $15. Includes a Q&A with the filmmakers. Intuit is located at 756 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Doctor Who 101 @ Tech Nexus
The Chicago Nerd Social Club present Doctor Who 101, a chance for those fans not completely versed in the Doctor's history to learn all about this sci-fi series. The event will be hosted at Tech Nexus (200 S. Wacker, 15th floor), runs from 7pm to 8pm tonight, and is free. Please go to the Chicago Nerds Website for full information and to RSVP.
Live Taping of "Who Knows Her Better?" @ Mary's Attic
Tellofilms.com announces "Who Knows Her Better?" a new game show hosted by Elizabeth Keener from The L Word that asks the question: who knows a woman better -- her husband or her gay best friend? The premiere episode will be taped in front of a live audience tonight from 6pm to 9pm at Mary's Attic (5400 N. Clark St.). Tickets include two shows of "Who Knows Her Better?" and can be purchased in advance for $10 at BrownPaperTickets.com. Tickets will also be available at the door for $15. The minimum age for attendees is 21 years old.
Poetry Off the Shelf @ Curtiss Hall
Curtiss Hall, 410 S. Michigan Ave., presents Poetry Off the Shelf, an "experimental piano series," with a performance inspired by the poetry of Ed Roberson and Christina Pugh, with music provided by Chicago jazz pianist Ari Brown and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The evening will also feature a solo performance by pianist Mabel Kwan, who uses poetry by Rachel Jamison Webster and Reginald Gibbons as her muse. The program starts at 7pm; tickets are $10-$20 and can be purchased online. For more information, call (312) 291-0291.
All-day benefit for Japan @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music is going to be raising money for Japanese earthquake relief pretty much all day today. From 11am to around midnight, the 909 W. Armitage location will play host to various sales (bake sale, art sale, etc.), free yoga classes, and starting in the afternoon performances by a huge number of performers too numerous to mention here. Admission is a suggested $10 donation; 100% of the funds will be matched by an anonymous donor and given to the Japanese Red Cross. For more information on the the event please see the Old Town School Website.
Anniversary Party @ Pumping Station One
Hacker space Pumping Station One, 3354 N. Elston Ave., celebrates its second anniversary and grand reopening tonight starting at 6pm. Drinks and other refreshments will be served, and DJ DSTROY spins. $5-10 donation at the door requested. RSVP on Facebook.
Found Footage Festival @ Music Box
The Music Box plays host to the Found Footage Festival, celebrating 25 years of screening the strangest footage ever found by man. Hosts Joe Pickett & Nick Prueher will present a program of amazing videos starting tonight at 10pm. See the Music Box Website for full details and to purchase advance tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
10th Annual Chicago Palestine Film Festival @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the 10th annual Chicago Palestine Film Festival, which starts tonight and runs through April 27. Tonight's opening night film is Zahara from 2009, which will be preceded by two short films. For a complete schedule of the festival please see the Film Center's Website. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
The Illusionist @ Film Center
The Oscar-nominated animated film The Illusionist plays at the Gene Siskel Film Center for a week, starting tonight at 6:15pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule of showtimes. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Gift Circle @ Mess Hall
How a gift circle works: people meet, share some food and introduce themselves. Then they form a circle. People go around and share what they need. All kinds of things have been asked for: bodywork, help healing a broken heart, advice on marketing a product, someone to talk to about life goals, help cleaning out files, etc. The need is spoken with no expectation of it being fulfilled. People in the circle respond if they feel it. Then people go around again and offer a gift, something they would like to share with no expectation of it being accepted. Again, a wide range of things have been offered: a dreamcatcher, a vacuum sealer, shamanic healing, handquilted potholders, research help (from a librarian), help writing a simple will (from a lawyer), etc, etc. Afterward, people check in with those who responded to the gifts/needs/wishes and schedule them (bring your calendars!).
6:30pm to 7pm: Potluck (BYOB, dish). 7pm to 8:30pm: Gift Circle. Free & open to the public. Mess Hall is located at 6932 N. Glenwood Ave.
Sound Opinions Movie Night: Fix - The Ministry Movie
The Music Box and Sound Opinions present the latest in their series of Movie Night screenings. Tonight's film is a special co-presentation with the Chicago International Moviesand Music Festival: the world premiere of Fix - The Ministry Movie, a look at the history of the mythic industrial band. In attendance at the screening, along with your Sound Opinions hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot, will be the director & producer of the film, as well as Ministry bassist Paul Barker. The screening starts at 7:30pm. Advance tickets are $15 and can be purchased online. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Double Feature Lecture Series @ Mess Hall
This lecture series features presentations by Nick Bastis and Andrew Norman Wilson. Bastis will talk about his "Forms of Spectacle and Solutions to Vacancy" project, which sought to challenge construction and distribution hierarchies of destination-object architecture. By building and celebrating the "opening" of a replicated 1:1 scale Frank Gehry structure with students in an underserved neighborhood of Chicago's west side, the installation and performance examined certain architectures as symbols of capital and power, testing the perceived strength of Gehry's aesthetic and its rumored ability to seemingly transform a struggling neighborhood's social and economic infrastructure. The project became a platform to not only test current and historical trends in architecture and planning, but to playfully redistribute such urban renewal methodologies and examine their power structures. Wilson will talk about his "Virtual Assistance" project, which began with research geared towards unpacking the relational system of Get Friday, a virtual personal assistant service based in Bangalore, India, that provides remote executive support to a largely American client base through "virtual" personal assistants. I am a part of that client base, paying monthly fees for a primary assistant who works out of the Get Friday office in India. My "assistant" is a 25-year-old male Bangalore resident named Akhil. In paying for our relationship I am not trying to lighten my work load, but rather to attempt collaborative projects and even reversals of the normative outsourcing flow under a corporate contract arranged for one-way command. These lectures take place tonight from 7 to 9 at Mess Hall: 6932 North Glenwood Ave.
Townhall Hearing to Save Rumble Arts @ The Humboldt Park Fieldhouse
Humboldt Park art and community center Rumble Arts is (once again) in danger of closing its doors because the family-owned pawnshop that provides its primary source of funding is in danger of being replaced by a Cash America. Show your support for Rumble by attending the townhall hearing tonight at 6pm at the Humboldt Park Fieldhouse (1400 N. Sacramento). While you're at it, why not sign this petition?
Windy City Story Slam: Golden Gloves Edition @ Multikulti
This boxing-themed story event is hosted by its founder, Bill Hillmann, who happens to be a former Golden Gloves champion, and freelance writer Julia Borcherts. Starting with short stories from boxing and literary luminaries like one-time NABA regional champ and 2009 Story Slam first runner-up Fernando Hernandez, it moves onto local writers and their tales. 1000 N. Milwaukee, 8pm. Free.
Jessica Baran reading @ Golden Age
St. Louis-based artist Jessica Baran reads from her newest publication of poetry, Remains to be Used, at local artist book shop Golden Age. The poems were written in response to aural, visual, and textual artifacts from notable figures such as Lewis Carroll and Sigmund Freud. A screening of Robert Altman's 1977 film, 3 Women, follows after the reading. The reading begins at 4pm. Golden Age is located at 119 North Peoria, #2D.
Facets Night School: Beyond the Valley of the Dolls
Facets Cinematheque concludes its Facets Night School series tonight with a screening of the immortal Beyond the Valley of the Dolls, directed by Russ Meyer and penned by Roger Ebert. Accompanying the film will be a lecture/discussion from Night School regular Dominick Mayer. The film screens tonight at midnight; see the Facets Website for a complete schedule of films in this current Night School session. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197.
Don't Call Me Joe @ Catalyst Ranch
WBEZ invites you to Don't Call Me Joe, billed as a "traditional coffee cupping" at Catalyst Ranch (656 W. Randolph) featuring people from Intelligentsia Coffee serving coffee, and a slate of authors including Kyle Beachy, Paul Durica, Fred Sasaki, Sam Weller, and others presenting "Readings on Coffee". The event starts at 7pm; tickets are $15, $12 for WBEZ members, and $10 for students with ID. Full information at the WBEZ Website.
Freedom Riders @ DuSable Museum of African-American History
The DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents a screening of Freedom Riders, today from 2pm-4pm. Directed by Emmy-award winner Stanley Nelson, this documentary celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Freedom Riders and their impact on American culture. A panel discussion featuring former Freedom Riders Genevieve Hughes Houghton, Thomas Armstrong and Dan Stevens follows the screening. This event is free and open to the public; for more information, visit the Freedom Riders or contact the museum at (773) 947-0600.
A Variety of Fits @ Jolhalla Projects
A Variety of Fits opens tonight at Jolhalla Projects (1561 N. Milwaukee Ave.), featuring the image-heavy, convention-configuring, almost watercolor-like drawings of Adam Grossi. 6pm-9pm. Free.
The City in Which @ The Nightingale
Joshua Dumas and Christy LeMaster gave brand-spankin' new rolls of 16mm film to 12 Chicago-based experimental filmmakers, and then asked these filmmakers to respond to Chicago poet Li-Young Lee's "The City in Which I Love You," while adding in their own creative experiences in Chicago. The end result is The City in Which, a Chicago cine-poem, a short film made from splicing all of the filmmakers' work together. The film's premiere is tonight at 8pm, with a second showing tomorrow, April 9, at The Nightingale (1084 N. Milwaukee). Lee's poem will be read live to accompany the film, and a cine-poem program, curated by LeMaster, will follow.
Third Coast Listening Room: The Power of Voice @ Old Town School of Folk Music
Go out for an evening of memorable radio stories teeming with a wide range of voices -- from shrill to soothing, angry to joyful, animal to human. Third Coast directors Johanna Zorn and Julie Shapiro lead, with special guest musician Abraham Levitan (Baby Teeth, Shame That Tune) bringing his trademark razzle dazzle. The event is tonight at 7pm. Admission is $10 / $8 for students, seniors, children and Old Town School members. The Old Town School of Folk Music is located at 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue
Facets Night School: Female Prisoner Scorpion #701: Beast Stable
Facets Cinematheque continues its Facets Night School series tonight with a screening of the grindhouse classic Female Prisoner Scorpion #701: Beast Stable from 1973. The screening will be accompanied by a lecture/discussion of the film by writer & film-maker Katherine Rife. The film screens tonight at midnight; see the Facets Website for a complete schedule of films in this current Night School session. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197.
Jaguar Headband Twins @ Comfort Station
Logan Square artist Jordan Martins presents his contemporary yet Baroque collages at Comfort Station (2579 N. Milwaukee Ave) tonight: drawing from sources like old cookbooks, comics, encyclopedias and other castoff texts, he brings this disparate elements together to form two- and three-dimensional compositions. 7-10pm.
Tumblr Reads! @ Street Side Bar
Tumblr continues its city-based readings in Chicago with local writers (and Tumblr fanatics) Joe Erbentraut, Arianna Stern, Katherine Gilhooly, and Britt Julious. The meetup and reading begins at 7pm at Street Side Bar, 3201 West Armitage.
16th Annual Asian American Showcase @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents its 16th annual Asian American Showcase from April 1st through the 14th. Tonight's opening film, Surrogate Valentine, stars songwriter & musician Goh Nakamura as himself. The film's director, Dave Boyle, and Nakamura will be attending tonight's 8pm screening in person. For a full list of playing films please see the Film Center's Website. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Magnetic Fields doc @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a return engagement of the Magnetic Fields/Stephin Merritt documentary Strange Powers: Stephin Merritt and the Magnetic Fields. The film starts tonight and runs through April 7; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule of showtimes. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
"Gala Undone" Benefit Art Party & Auction @ Venue One
"Gala Undone" is Urban Gateway's 50th anniversary party, hosted by New Arts Forum. The party will feature an open bar, snacks, and silent art auction. There will also be a performance by UG group, BAM!, live mural art by UG artist James "Casper" Jankowiak and tunes by DJ Mister Wolf (of Only Children). 21+. Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door. The party is from 9:30pm to midnight tonight at Venue One: 1044 W. Randolph. More information and tickets can be found at urbangateways.org.
Dandelion Momma by Greg Romero @ New Leaf Theatre
This is part of the Treehouse Readings Series at New Leaf Theatre. The revamped series, which kicked off last fall, is dedicated to providing an incubator for new play development, specifically for plays that have received an initial reading and are in the more advanced stages of polishing before their premieres. Tonight they will be reading Dandelion Momma by Greg Romero. Synopsis: A 100-year old woman reflects on her life through broken pieces of memory. An eight-year old girl takes care of wayward dandelions and sees the lights inside of people. A farm girl and a writer search for life while planting seeds in the hardened ground of the Great Depression. The ground becomes harder, the girl becomes tired, the air becomes heavier and something new must be born. This reading will take place at New Leaf Theatre's home at the Lincoln Park Cultural Center, 2045 N. Lincoln Park West. The staged readings will be followed by a talk-back. Admission is free to all readings. For more information, visit newleaftheatre.org.
The Moth Storyslam @ Martyrs
Martyrs and The Moth present the monthly story slam tonight at 8pm. Ten people picked from the audience will each tell a 5-minute story, with tonight's winner earning a place in the Grandslam Championships. Tickets are only available at the door, so show up REALLY early for this event. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
"Unschooling Arts Education" SALON @ threewalls
If you've been craving some serious art talk but don't have the loot to go to art school, stop by threewalls tonight (or across the hallway at Western Exhibitions, rather) for their "Unschooling Arts Education" SALON-- part of their monthly, (free!) super-educational and interactive discussion series. This event is from 7 to 9pm tonight at Western Exhibitions: 119 N Peoria St., unit 2A. Admissions is free and open to the public. More info here. Super-specific all-encompassing details with supplementary readings and profiles of the guest speakers here.
UnTill Emmett Till @ DuSable Museum
The DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents "UnTill Emmett Till," today from 4pm to 7pm. Created by jazz saxophonist and composer Ernest Dawkins, this work, in conjunction with the museum's For All the World to See: Visual Culture and Struggle for Civil Rights exhibit, pays tribute to the anniversary of Till's 1955 murder. Two Chicago artists, spoken-word poet Khari B. and jazz singer Dee Alexander accompany Dawkins in the performance.
Tickets are $25 and are available online. For more information about the performance, contact (773) 947-0600.
Long Lazy Lunch Picnic @ ACRE
ACRE hosts a "Long Lazy Lunch" picnic today from 4-8pm at 1913 W. 17th St.-- an afternoon of treats and libations featuring musical performances by ACRE residents. This is a celebration of the release of KADABRA: Recipes and Miscellany from ACRE 2010-- part cookbook, part scrapbook created by Melissa Damasauskus and Rachel Ettling, who command the kitchen at ACRE's summer residency program. Also available are ACRE's new calendar tea towels designed by Alex Chitty and Jessica Taylor Caponigro. Performances include improvised acoustic melodies by Matt Austin and EJ Hill, noise influenced tunes by Marvin Astorga and Young Joon Kwak, and experimental video djing by John Paul Glover. KADABRA: Recipes and Miscellany from ACRE 2010 contains excerpts from the original overflowing binder of recipes used to feed the residents of ACRE's 2010 summer residency program. This handmade book is documentation of the first ACRE residency kitchen, highlighting favorite recipes and featuring notes, anecdotes, photographs and reflections on learning to cook creatively and resourcefully for a large group of varied eaters. More info can be found at acreresidency.org.
Facets Night School: Hannie Caulder
Facets Cinematheque continues its Facets Night School series tonight with a screening of the 1971 movie Hannie Caulder with Raquel Welch and Robert Culp. The film will be accompanied by a lecture/discussion from author & teacher Michelle Zaladonis. The film screens tonight at midnight; see the Facets Website for a complete schedule of films in this current Night School session. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197.
Chicago Zine Fest @ Columbia College
A celebration of expression and sharing information through zines, self-publishing and the principles and practice of DIY, the Chicago Zine Fest is happening today at the Conaway Center (1st and 8th floor) of Columbia College (1104 S. Wabash Ave), between 10am and 5pm. There's a zine exhibition with a variety of authors and artists, a DIY film festival, workshops, lectures, and more! Free!
Jon Satrom: Prepared Desktop @ Graham Foundation - WAITLISTED
Brought to you by The Graham Foundation and Lampo, Jon Satrom presents Prepared Desktop as part of the Lampo Performance Series. Turning normal computer applications, programs, and desktop features into a strange(ly awesome) audio/video experience. 8pm, 4 West Burton Place (Madlener House). Get on the waitlist and find out more information here.
John Waters @ Lake Forest College
Missed John Waters in December? Well, now you can see him free (!) at Lake Forest College -- he's the keynote speaker for their Literary Festival. More discussion of camp and film than you can shake a pink flamingo at starts 7:30pm, Lily Reid Holt Memorial Chapel, 555 N. Sheridan Road, Lake Forest, Illinois 60045. For more information call (847) 234-3100.
Easy Six Kickoff Party @ Chief O'Neill's Pub
Factory Theater Hosts a Kick-Off Party for Their Newest and Swingiest Rat Pack-Era Production of Easy Six tonight from 6 to 9:30 at Chief O'Neill's Pub (3471 N. Elston Ave.). Featuring live entertainment from cast member, Esteban Cruz (2009 Jeff Award winner for best actor in Jesus Hopped the A Train at Raven and recently seen in the Lyric Opera's production of Benjamin Britten's Midsummer Night's Dream), a first look at the Easy Six Promo Video Premier, mingling with Factory Theater ensemble and Easy Six cast members, special priced tickets to Easy Six opening night including post-show party and raffles and prizes. This event is free to attend.
Man With A Movie Camera @ Links Hall
Dziga Vertov's Man with a Movie Camera screens tonight at Links Hall, with an original score and live performance by Dan Scaff. 3435 N Sheffield Ave, 8pm. Tickets are $8-$10.
Curated by Sarah Best, Dance Films Kino is a celebration of the genre in an atmosphere reminiscent a "kino" or private film club of the 1920s.
Benten Records Japan Nite @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle and Benten Records from Japan present the Japan Nite 2011 starting at 9:30pm. Scheduled to play: Lolita No. 18; Mo'Some Tonebender; Zukunashi; and Hystotic Vein. Tickets are $10. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Chicago Jazz Ensemble
The Chicago Jazz Ensemble's final performance of the season is a tribute to Mahalia Jackson on what would have been her 100th birthday, tonight at 8pm at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $15 to $45, with discounts for senior citizens and groups. Student tickets are $5. Tickets can be purchased at 312-334-7777, at the Harris Theater box office or online.
Facets Night School: The Long Kiss Goodnight
Facets Cinematheque continues its Facets Night School series tonight with a screening of the infamous Renny Harlin film The Long Kiss Goodnight with Geena Davis as an amnesiac hit-woman. The screening will be accompanied by a lecture from Facets video consultant Miguel Martinez. The film screens tonight at midnight; see the Facets Website for a complete schedule of films in this current Night School session. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197.
Windy City Burlesque Fest @ Greenhouse Theater Center
Windy City Burlesque Fest puts on not one but three showcases of dancers from around the the United States and beyond Saturday and tonight at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. Tonight's 8pm show features LA's Lux LaCroix, the 10pm show features Chicago's own Michelle L'Amour, and the midnight show features Seattle's Miss Indigo Blue. Tickets are $20, available online or at the door. A $100 festival pass gets you into all six shows.
hArts for Art: 2nd Annual Benefit Auction + Raffle @ LVL3
This is an art auction, with proceeds benefiting arts education at www.associationhouse.org. Contributing artists include Alysia Kaplan, Amy Yao, Andrew Holmquist, Austin Eddy, David Geeting, David Leggett, Easton Miller, Erin Zona, Fraser Taylor, Gary Petersen, Heidi Norton, Jacob Goudreault, James Cooper, Jason Benson, Jason Lazarus, Jenny Kendler, John Campbell, Jon Rafman, Kate Ruggeri, Kate Steciw, Leslie Supnet, Liz Nielsen McKeever Donovan, Michael Hunter, Paul Kenneth, Racer Levan, Richard Galling, Robin Cameron, Ryan Fenchel, Stephen Eichhorn, Timothy Bergstrom, Vanesa Zendejas, Veronica Rafael, WarpWeftWoof and Wyatt Grant. Advanced bids start Saturday, March 12 at www.lvl3auction.info. All bidding ends at 10pm on March 19 (tonighht). Raffle immediately after auction. All artwork starts at $20. Bids can be made in $5 increments. Artwork must be picked up by Sunday, March 20. Cash and check accepted.Raffle tickets: 1 for $3 or 2 for $5. Must be present to win raffle. This event is from 6 to 10pm tonight at LVL3 Gallery: 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Mar(t)ch Madness Art Tournament @ Fulton St. Collective
Mar(t)ch Madness is an art show and event conceived in the spirit of a certain famous collegiate basketball tournament, organized by Lion vs. Gorilla. The show will begin with artwork from 16 established and emerging artists. Over the course of four bracketed rounds, viewers will vote to narrow down the playing field to their two favorite artists, and those artists will then compete for the championship trophy. Artists can (and will!) do whatever they can to court votes from audience members, to increase their odds of victory. There will be a half-time show, featuring Chicago's own cheerleading team, The Chicago Spirit Brigade. After the crowning of the Mar(t)ch Madness Tournament champion, there will be a tailgate reception, with refreshments and live music by Ludus Lovestyle. This is going to be a high-energy, fun event, and it is an opportunity for members of Chicago's arts community to come together and celebrate some of the amazing work being produced in this city. This event begins tonight at 8pm tonight at the Fulton Street Collective: 2000 W. Fulton. $5 suggested donation. Part of the proceeds will go to The Howard Brown Health Center.
Slow Motion Action/Research Collective @ Mess Hall
Join the folks at Mess Hall for this, the third meeting of the Slow-Motion Action/Research Collective (Chicago Branch) w/Brian Holmes. From noon to 2pm today there will be an open meeting & "lunchluck", where proposals morph into action plans. Then from 2pm to 4pm is a "public feelings experiment"-- experiments in data collection to produce knowledge-in-common. Brian Holmes' lecture-workshop at Mess Hall in January, "Four Pathways through Chaos," gave a broad overview of the current economic crisis and its effects -- on our city, region, and country as well as on our ways of living and sense of self. Details at messhall.org. Mess Hall is located at 6932 North Glenwood Ave. All events there are free, all ages and open to the public.
Sci Fi Spectacular 5 @ Music Box
The Music Box presents the fifth annual Sci Fi Spectacular starting today at noon and running until 2am. Scheduled to attend as a special guest: writer and director Mick Garris, who will be presenting his film Critters 2 in the middle of the festival. Along with a full schedule of films there will be short subjects, classic trailers, a live charity auction and much more. Tickets are $22 in advance, $25 at the door. See the Music Box Website for more details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Windy City Burlesque Fest @ Greenhouse Theater Center
Windy City Burlesque Fest puts on not one but three showcases of dancers from around the the United States and beyond tonight and tomorrow at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. Tonight's 8pm show features Seattle's Indigo Blue, the 10pm show features Chicago's own Michelle L'Amour, and the midnight show features LA's Lux LaCroix. Tickets are $20, available online or at the door. A $100 festival pass gets you into all six shows.
likemind Chicago @ Argo Tea
The next meeting of likemind, the monthly gathering of creative people, happens this morning from 8am to 10am at Argo Tea at 140 S Dearborn. The event is free and open to the public. For more information follow @likemindchicago on Twitter, join the likemind Chicago group on Facebook, or see likemindchicago.com.
Next Objectivists Poetry Workshop @ Mess Hall
The Next Objectivists is a free, open-to-the-public poetry & poetics workshop dedicated to the study & reproduction of the outside-real. Mess Hall's Winter/Spring seminar (tonight) focuses on the reproduction of specific aesthetic effects related to objectivism in modern & contemporary short fiction and poetry. We read together, write together & enjoy each others' company. Beginners are always welcome. Feel free to leave your expertise at the door!
Please visit nextobjectivists.blogspot.com for specific information about the workshop. This workshop is from 7 to 10 tonight at Mess Hall: 6932 N. Glenwood Ave.
Poetry Off the Shelf: Luis J. Rodriguez
A standout figure in the Chicago, Chicano, and national literary scene, award-winning poet Luis J. Rodriguez reads at Jane Addams Hull-House Museum (800 S. Halsted, Residents' Dining Hall). 5:30pm, free.
Michael Showalter @ Schubas
Schubas welcomes stand-up comic, author, film-maker and all-around funny fellow Michael Showalter tonight for two shows, 7pm and 10pm. Tickets are going fast, so buy them NOW if you want to go! Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
Story Week: 2nd Story @ Martyrs
Martyrs plays host to the opening night of Columbia College's 15th annual Story Week festival. Tonight's event is 2nd Story, a showcase featuring authors Lott Hill, Eric May, Patricia Ann McNair and April Newman. Show starts at 7pm, doors open at 6:30pm. This event is free and open to the public. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
Octavarius: Battle for the Belt @ Stage 773
Critically acclaimed improv comedy troupe Octavarius is premiering a new show series titled "Octavarius: Battle for the Belt," tonight at 7pm at Stage 773: 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Additional performances will take place on March 20 & 27. Colt Cabana, former WWE and current Ring of Honor superstar, is a special guest of the series, making an in-person appearance on night two (the 20th) and video appearances on night one and three. "The Ego" Robert Anthony, CZW Heavyweight Champion, will make a surprise appearance on the final night of the series (the 27th). Tickets are $15 per show, or $25 for a ringside pass to all three nights. Audience members are encouraged to make a sign cheering or jeering their favorite Octavarius superstars, and receive tickets at a discounted rate of $12. For more information, visit Octavarius.com.
Facets Night School: Dance, Girl, Dance
Facets Cinematheque continues its Facets Night School series tonight with a screening of Dance, Girl, Dance from 1940, featuring Lucille Ball and Maureen O'Hara. The film will be accompanied by a lecture/discussion by instructor & film director Michael Smith. The film screens tonight at midnight; see the Facets Website for a complete schedule of films in this current Night School session. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197.
Creative Chicago Expo @ Chicago Cultural Center
The Creative Chicago Expo is a free, day-long event that connects Chicago's creative community -- including individual artists, businesses, and organizations -- with services, spaces, information, and networks. More than 130 vendors will participate in this year's Expo, including arts services, community organizations, arts educators, space and housing providers, health care and financial consultants, and more. Who should attend? Dancers, writers, musicians, actors, performers, theater professionals, visual artists, fashion designers and marketers, graphic designers, new media and filmmakers...and all other Chicago creatives. This event is today from 10am to 5pm at the Cultural Center:
78 E. Washington. Admission is free. More info here.
Good Evening Poetry Reading @ Mess Hall
The Good Evening Poetry Reading Series features ABI STOKES, TATIANA M. UHOCH, & BRIAN MORNAR. The open mic begins at 7pm and the featured readers at 7:45pm. Free & open to the public! BYOB! Mess Hall is located at 6932 N. Glenwood Ave.
Gift Circle @ Mess Hall
How a Gift Circle Works: people meet, share some food and introduce themselves. Then they form a circle. People go around and share what they need. All kinds of things have been asked for: bodywork, help healing a broken heart, advice on marketing a product, someone to talk to about life goals, help cleaning out files, etc. The need is spoken with no expectation of it being fulfilled. People in the circle respond if they feel it. Then people go around again and offer a gift, something they would like to share with no expectation of it being accepted. Again, a wide range of things have been offered: a dreamcatcher, a vacuum sealer, shamanic healing, handquilted potholders, research help (from a librarian), help writing a simple will (from a lawyer), etc, etc. Afterward, people check in with those who responded to the gifts/needs/wishes and schedule them. (Bring your calendars!) 6:30 to 7pm: Potluck (BYOB, dish). 7 to 8:30pm: Gift Circle. Free & open to the public. Mess Hall is located at 6932 N. Glenwood Ave.
Awe Dub Sessions @ Rodan
AWE DUB SESSIONS is a night of rare and classic sci-fi film & reggae. All vinyl, all night selected by RUFFY, TUFFY, and RAD BRIAN. Special guests include a rotating cast of musicians, selectors, and chanters-- both local and international. Tonight's session: "Give Thanks & Praises Ina Topo Duh Holy Mountain!" features a crucially projected double feature from the great Alejandro Jodorowsky! El Topo (1970) & The Holy Mountain (1973) meet the sweetest in obscure roots, rockers, dub & dancehall vinyl. Awe Dub Sessions takes place every second Thursday of every month from 10pm to 2am. 21+. No Cover. Rodan is located at 1530 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Facets Night School: Mulholland Drive
Facets Cinematheque continues its Facets Night School series tonight with a screening of David Lynch's Mulholland Drive, accompanied by a lecture/discussion by Facets' own Lauren Whalen. The film screens tonight at midnight; see the Facets Website for a complete schedule of films in this current Night School session. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197.
The 14th Annual European Union Film Festival @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the opening night of its annual European Union Film Festival. The opening night film is Hungary's Academy Award submission Bibliotheque Pascal, and tonight's 6pm screening will include appearances by the director and star. The festival runs through the end of March; go to the Film Center's Website for a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
The Interview Show @ The Hideout
The Interview Show returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm. Guests this month are chef Chris Duffy, aldermanic candidate and rapper Che "Rhymefest" Smith, The Autumn Defense's Patrick Sansone and John Stirratt, and comedian Beth Stelling. Admission is $5; 21+.
The Alternative History of Chicago Theater (Abridged) @ Chopin Theater
WBEZ presents a panel of Chicago theater experts for an evening of discussion about Chicago's long theatrical history. Along with the discussion there will be short performances from: Robot vs. Dinosaur; BoyGirlBoyGirl; The Plagiarists; RoShamBo Theater; and Tofu Chitlin' Circuit. The event starts at 7pm at the Chopin Theater (1543 W. Division); tickets and more information are available at the WBEZ Website.
Soulico @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle welcomes four-member DJ crew Soulico from Israel tonight at 9:30pm. Also on the bill: Philip Morris and James Dean! Tickets are $8 at the door, or free if you RSVP to rsvp (at) emptybottle (dot) com by 12am on March 1. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
PechaKucha Night @ Martyrs'
PechaKucha Night Chicago returns to Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 8pm. The lineup includes activist and education reformer Bill Ayers, human beatbox Yuri Lane, architecture mapper Chris Botham, architects from the Studio Gang, spoken word artist Kevin Coval, journalist Melissa Harris, Pop-Up Loop's Michael Perry, furniture rep John Kim, the Young Architects Forum's Ania Jaworska and artist Dena Lyons each get 20 seconds to talk about 20 slides of their choosing. Architect Peter Exley and artist Andy Hall will emcee. Tickets are $10 in advance or at the door. More info here. 21+
Facets Night School: Johnny Belinda
Facets Cinematheque continues its current series of Facets Night School tonight with a screening of Johnny Belinda from 1948, with Jane Wyman in the title role. Accompanying the film will be a discussion by film historian Stephen Reginald. Facets Night School begins tonight at midnight; see the Facets Website for a complete schedule of all films in this series. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information about Facets Night School call Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197.
Celebrate Black History Month @ South Shore Cultural Center
The South Shore Opera Company of Chicago honors Black History Month
with "Celebrate Black History Month," tonight at 5:30pm. This free concert, which will pay homage to African-American composers, will consist of a mix of opera and musical theater, along with a performance by the Deeply Rooted Dance Theater. The concert takes place at the South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. South Shore Drive. For more information, contact Gary Ossewaarde at opera@southshoreopera.org.
The Power of Glamour @ Near North Library
The Near North Library, 310 W. Division St., presents The Power of Glamour, a tribute to the 83rd Annual Academy Awards, today at 2pm. Featuring a performance by solo dramatist Roberta Randall, this program celebrates the "golden era" of Hollywood and five of its legendary actresses: Katharine Hepburn, Tallulah Bankhead, Greta Garbo Joan Crawford and Marlene Dietrich. For more information, contact (312) 744-0991.
PORQUES NO COMES @ Gorilla Tango
Lupe Sanchez performs his "semi-falsified, autobiographical one-man performance", PORQUE NO COMES, tonight at Gorilla Tango Theatre (1919 N. Milwaukee Ave). PORQUE NO COMES (Because You Don't Eat) is the comedic story of a Latino boy (Lupe himself) growing up in a white suburb (Schaumburg to be specific), and his journey to find understanding and identity. Show starts at 9:30pm. Tickets are $10.
Psycho @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues their series of psychological horror films with the classic 1960 Alfred Hitchcock film Psycho, about which very little should be said if you are not familiar with the story. The film screens tonight at 6pm, and again on Tuesday, March 1 at 6pm. See the Film Center Website for more details and a complete schedule of the series. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
People's Music School 35th Anniversary Gala
The People's Music School, an Uptown-based organization providing free music education to inner-city children, celebrates its 35th anniversary with a gala event in the Chicago Cultural Center's Preston Bradley Hall, 78 E. Washington St., tonight from 6pm to 11pm. The evening includes dinner and cocktails, a performance by violinist Rachel Barton Pine and the school's students and alumni, and a silent auction to benefit the school. Tickets are $150.
"Race and Photography in African-American Imagery" @ DuSable Museum
New York's Deborah Willis, Ph.D., presents "Race and Photography in African-American Imagery," tonight at the DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl. Willis, also the curator of the museum's exhibit, "Let Your Motto Be Resistance: African American Portraits," will give a lecture and multimedia presentation, as well as discuss and sign copies of her latest award-winning book, Michelle Obama: The First Lady in Photographs. The lecture is from 5:30pm to 8:30pm; general admission is $10, $5 for students and museum members. Contact (773) 947-0600 for more information.
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The Moth Storyslam @ Martyrs
Martyrs and The Moth present the monthly story slam tonight at 8pm. Ten people picked from the audience will each tell a 5-minute story, with tonight's winner earning a place in the Grandslam Championships. Tickets are only available at the door, so show up REALLY early for this event. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
Dance Films Kino: Lucy Cash @ Hyde Park Art Center
Dance Films Kino curator Sarah Best and Hyde Park Art Center's Artist in Residence Mark Jeffrey present a viewing and discussion of short, visually and performance art-influenced films by UK-based Lucy Cash, a member of Chicago performance art group Goat Island (1987-2009). 6-8pm, 5020 S. Cornell Avenue. Free!
Kicks off the Dance Films Kino festival.
President Turtle @ Hungry Brain
The Accountants of Homeland Security present "President Turtle," an evening of standup comedy at The Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., tonight starting at 9pm. This month's lineup includes Ken Barnard, Marty DeRosa, David Mascorro, Mike Sheehan and
The Great Sandini, plus music by Veeli. Free, 21+.
Facets Night School: The Boneyard
Facets Cinematheque begins another session of Facets Night School tonight at midnight. For the next 8 weeks enjoy a classic cult film along with a lecture/discussion about the themes in that film. Tonight's kick-off film is 1991's The Boneyard, starring Phyllis Diller, Norman Fell and a zombie poodle. The lecture will be provided by Facets Night School regular Lew Ojeda. The fun kicks off tonight at midnight; see the Facets Website for a complete schedule of all upcoming films. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. For inquiries about Facets Night School, call Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197.
Vaudezilla's Show & Tell Cabaret @ The Greenhouse Theater
Strut on over to the Greenhouse Theater (2257 N. Lincoln Avenue; 773-404-7336) tonight at 11pm for the Show & Tell Cabaret. Presented by Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe Vaudezilla, the show promises "the Best of the Best" of burlesque and variety performances. Starring Red Hot Annie, Donna Touch, RenZena, Cherry Brandi, The Dolls of Doom, and Stage Door Johnnies, the show is expected to sell out and tickets ($15) can be purchased on the Greenhouse Theater's website.
Schadenfreude's "Alderman Ed Bus Victory Party (and variety show)" @ Gallery Cabaret
Schadenfreude (Chicago's critically acclaimed comedy group) is performing tonight at the Gallery Cabaret in Bucktown. The comedic variety show will focus on the upcoming mayoral election in Chicago. Alderman Ed Bus (53rd) is running for mayor. He will host. Guests include Alderman Scott Waguespack (32nd Ward), former 42nd Ward Alderman Burt Natarus, Grammy Award winner and 20th Ward candidate Rhymefest, Cook County Social Club (2010 Best Comedy Group, Chi Reader), Comic and future Chicago Wingman: Ernest Wilkins, Beatbox sensation Yuri Lane and Paul Thomas (Rum Emanuel). Gallery Cabaret is located at 2020 N. Oakley St. Admission is $10. Show starts at 9pm.
And Everything Is Going Fine @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run of Steven Soderbergh's 2010 film And Everything Is Going Fine, an examination of the career of actor and monologist Spalding Gray. The film screens this evening at 6:15pm, and plays through Thursday, February 24. See the Film Center's Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Caché @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues their series of psychological horror films with a screening of Michael Haneke's 2005 film Caché, the puzzling thriller that may or may not have an explanation. The film screens this evening at 6pm, and again on Tuesday, February 22 at 6pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and more details. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Schadenfreude's "Alderman Ed Bus Victory Party (and variety show)" @ Gallery Cabaret
Schadenfreude (Chicago's critically acclaimed comedy group) is performing both Friday and Saturday night (Feb. 18 &19) at the Gallery Cabaret in Bucktown. The comedic variety show will focus on the upcoming mayoral election in Chicago. Alderman Ed Bus (53rd) is running for mayor. He will host. Guests include Alderman Scott Waguespack (32nd Ward), former 42nd Ward Alderman Burt Natarus, Grammy Award winner and 20th Ward candidate Rhymefest, Cook County Social Club (2010 Best Comedy Group, Chi Reader), Comic and future Chicago Wingman: Ernest Wilkins, Beatbox sensation Yuri Lane and Paul Thomas (Rum Emanuel). Gallery Cabaret is located at 2020 N. Oakley St. Admission is $10. Show starts at 9pm.
Chicago Jazz Ensemble
The Chicago Jazz Ensemble presents "An Evening of Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan" with special guest performer Ledisi tonight at 7:30pm at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $15 to $45, with discounts for senior citizens and groups. Student tickets are $5. Tickets can be purchased at 312-334-7777, at the Harris Theater box office or online.
Ox-Bow Benefit Dance Party @ Architectural Artifacts
Join the artists and creative people who work/play at Ox-Bow artist "colony" for a night of art, auctions, eating, drinking, dancing and FUN, benefiting Ox-Bow. Tickets are $25 after 9pm. Come hear DJ Eric May spin the jams (reggae, funk, soul, dub). Dance with your pals. Take in the art. Have a few drinks. Take a gamble on the works on paper raffle. Get your glamor shots taken by Glitter Guts. If you want to come earlier, tickets are $100 and include food and drinks and a live and silent auction. This party is tonight from 6:30 to 11pm at Architectural Artifacts: 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave.
UX Book Club Chicago: Nick Disabato
Designer, and most recently Kickstarter-backed author Nick Disabato will discuss Cadence & Slang, his book about "a series of rules that advocate simplicity, consistency, and humanity in technology" -- the principles of interaction design. Join the UX Book Club at 6pm, 350 North LaSalle Street, Room TBD, and submit a question for Nick here beforehand. The event will be recorded and podcast.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout plays host once again to Write Club, a display of literary pugilism. Three rounds of authors going head-to-head, each taking a contrary position and doing their best to defend their side. The show starts at 7pm, and admission is a suggested $8 donation (proceeds donated to charities of winners' choosing). Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Too Much Love: 30 Love Plays in 60 Love Minutes @ Neo-Futurarium
For Valentine's Day the Neo-Futurists present a love-themed edition of their regular show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. The ensemble will attempt to perform 30 love-related plays in the space of 60 minutes. The show starts at 8pm, but doors will be open at 7:30pm for some pre-show activities, including a silent auction for a "Honeymoon Suite" package. The show happens at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland, near Foster). Tickets are $20; for reservations please see the Neo-Futurists' Website or call (773) 275-5255.
Tommy Wiseau presents The Room @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre welcomes back Tommy Wiseau, the director/writer/star of the cult classic The Room. The film will be screened, and Wiseau will be in attendance for a Q&A session after the screening. The Room screens tonight at 10pm. See the Music Box schedule for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret Valentine's Day show @ Silvie's
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret, the regular open mike night for ukulele players, has its Valentine's Day show this evening starting at 8pm at Silvie's Lounge (1902 W. Irving Park Road). Musicians are invited to bring up to 3 romantic songs to play on stage; an ukulele has to be included in the arrangements of all songs. For more information please see the Chicago Ukulele Cabaret Facebook page.
Mayoral Candidate Meet & Greet @ Chicago Urban Art Society
Come meet and mingle with the mayoral candidates at the Mayoral Engagement, a meet and greet at the Chicago Urban Art Society, 2229 S. Halsted St., tonight from 6 to 11pm. DJs Pickel, Intel and Trew spin, beverages will be served, a variety of arts organizations will be on hand, and hopefully all the candidates will be there to say a few words and talk with you. Free.
Fast Track To Terror @ Wilmette Theatre
Shadows and Screams presents Fast Track To Terror, an evening of independent short films. The program starts tonight at 10pm at the Wilmette Theatre (1122 Central Avenue, Wilmette) and includes a free raffle. Tickets are only $5 and can be ordered in advance; see the Shadows and Screams Website for full details.
Tommy Wiseau presents The Room @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre welcomes back Tommy Wiseau, the director/writer/star of the cult classic The Room. The film will be screened, and Wiseau will be in attendance for a Q&A session after the screening. The Room screens tonight and tomorrow night at 10pm. See the Music Box schedule for full details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Play Misty For Me @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues their series of psychological horror films with a screening of Clint Eastwood's directorial debut, Play Misty For Me from 1971. Eastwood co-stars with Jessica Walter (whom you may know from her recent career resurgence on such TV shows as "Arrested Development" and "Archer"). The film screens today at 6pm, and again on Tuesday, February 15 at 6pm. See the Film Center Website for full details and a complete schedule of the series. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Sound Opinions Movie Night: Jailhouse Rock
Sound Opinions and the Music Box Theatre present the latest in the series of movie nights curated by Sound Opinions hoses Jim DeRogatis & Greg Kot. Tonight's film: Jailhouse Rock, one of the best Elvis movies. The screening begins tonight at 7:30pm. See the Music Box Website for more details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Hobo College @ Hungry Brain
Homeroom presents another edition of Hobo College tonight at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., from 9pm to midnight. Topics to be discussed include "Panhandling vs. Mooching"; "Riding the Rails: Over, Under, or In"; "The American Tramp, Then and Now"; "The Secret of the Big Rock Candy Mountain" and "The Great Windsor-Clifton Beggars Banquet of 1908." More info on Facebook. Free, 21+.
Books: Reading Jennifer Homans: Apollo's Angels: A History of Ballet @ Newberry Library
Saw Black Swan recently, and want to know more about the history behind the drama? Don't care about the movie, but appreciate the tradition that's been swayed and dipped by the culture of the time, be it Renaissance and Classicism, the Enlightenment and Romanticism, Bolshevism, Modernism, or the Cold War? The Newberry Library hosts Jennifer Homans, author of Apollo's Angels: A History of Ballet , a rich history and exploration of ballet, a form dance that maintains traditions yet is very much of its time. 60 W Walton St, 1pm. Free.
"The Paul Show" @ The Charnel House
Fifteen artists from the recently established training center Klein Artists Works will stage an exhibition of their works at the Charnel House, a new multi-arts center in Logan Square. Featured artists include Jess Beyler, Robert Fields, Doug Frohman, Teresa Getty, Tatjana Jovancevic, Andrew Rigsby, René Romero Schuler, Jill Pope West, and Peggy Wolff. The opening reception for The Paul Show takes place today from 6 pm to 9 pm, 3421 West Fullerton.
Movie Night @ Pumping Station: One
Pumping Station: One, the Chicago hackerspace, hosts its monthly movie night tonight from 7pm to 10pm at their space at 3354 N. Elston. See the PS:1 events calendar for full details.
Eyes Without A Face @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues their series of psychological horror films with the astounding Eyes Without A Face from 1959, which tells the story of a surgeon who will stop at nothing to restore his daughter's disfigured face. The film screens this afternoon at 5:15pm, and again on Tuesday, February 8 at 6pm. See the Film Center Website for full details and a complete schedule of the series. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
PORQUES NO COMES @ Gorilla Tango
Lupe Sanchez performs his "semi-falsified, autobiographical one-man performance", PORQUE NO COMES, tonight at Gorilla Tango Theatre (1919 N. Milwaukee Ave). PORQUE NO COMES (Because You Don't Eat) is the comedic story of a Latino boy (Lupe himself) growing up in a white suburb (Schaumburg to be specific), and his journey to find understanding and identity. Show starts at 9:30pm. Tickets are $10.
Love Local @ Inkling
Fall in love with Chicago and the handmade items its artists produce tonight at Inkling. Featuring Busy Beaver Button designers Chris Corbalis and Britton Walters, Laura Berger, Sarah Best, Alvin Lau, Jeremiah Reilly, Michelle Simon and more, the opening reception features a variety of arts in crafts in a range of mediums. 2917 1/2 N. Broadway St., 6pm-10pm. Free cookies and wine!
Chicago Looks @ Heaven Gallery
In the first exhibition of her photography, Brazilian-born and Chicago-based Isa Giallorenzo presents a selection of street style photographs from her fashionable blog, Chicago Looks. An eclectic array of pretty young things and dapper gentleman, Chicago Looks - a photo collection portraying street fashion explores the idea of a style aesthetic in a town often referred to as the second city when it comes to fashion. The exhibition opens tonight at 7pm at Heaven Gallery, located at 1550 North Milwaukee, 2nd floor.
Naked Girls Reading @ Everleigh Social Club
Tonight is the Naked Girls Reading Series featuring Michelle L'Amour and a rotating cast of burlesque performers. The February theme is (naturally) Love Stinks. The evening will feature readings from Harper Perennial's new book Great Philosophers Who Failed at Love by Andrew Shaffer. Martha Stewart Whole Living magazine (who knew they did book reviews?) says "if you're in Dutch with your valentine, give him Andrew Shaffer's book, which recounts the tortured love lives of 37 thinkers. Compared to them, you'll look as saintly as St. Thomas himself -- who, Shaffer tells us, once chased a prostitute out of his room with a hot poker." Throw a live reading from naked girls into the deal and you'll be "out of Dutch" and in the running for girlfriend of the year. Everleigh Social Club, 939 W. Randolph. Tickets are $20 or two for $35; available here. 7pm.
Laika Dog In Space previews @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present a remount of the New York Neo-Futurists' 2009 play Laika Dog In Space, an examination of the short life of the Russian space-exploring canine and how the play's authors & performers relate to Laika's story. The play is in previews tonight and tomorrow, and officially opens on Saturday, February 5. The play takes place at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland), and show time for all nights is 8pm. The play runs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through March 12. See the Neo-Futurists' Website for more details, or call (773) 275-5255.
The New Cult Canon: Death Wish 3 @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and The AV Club present the latest in their New Cult Canon series of screenings. Tonight's feature: Death Wish 3, which Scott Tobias described in his New Cult Canon article as "palatable viewing, even oddly comforting in the myriad ways it gets street life outrageously, cluelessly, miraculously wrong." Special guest at the screening: cast member Alex Winter! The screening begins at 7:30pm. See the Music Box Website for more details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Airplane! screening @ AMC Theatres
Inspired by the success of a recent one-day-only screening of Back To The Future, AMC Theatres are doing a two-day-only screening of the 1980 classic Airplane! The second of the two screenings happens tonight at 7pm. See the AMC Theatres Website for a list of local theatres that are screening the film.
You, Me, Them, Everybody Live @ Hungry Brain
You Me Them Everybody returns to the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., tonight at 8pm with special guests Red Bar Radio's Mike David, standup comic Chad Briggs, Al Scorch and music by Jeremy Tromburg. Brandon Wetherbee and Esmeralda Leon host. Free, 21+.
Illinois in the Civil War @ River Forest Public Library
Find out how Illinois experienced the Civil War, complete with local color and hometown heroes (Lincoln, Grant) at River Forest Public Library tonight. 735 Lathrop Ave., 7pm, River Forest. For more information call (708) 366-5205.
Olafur Arnalds @ MCA
The Museum of Contemporary Art and The Empty Bottle present a performance by Icelandic musician Olafur Arnalds tonight at 7:30pm at the MCA (220 E. Chicago). Tickets are $15 ($10 for students) and are available through the MCA website.
Printapalooza @ The Block Museum
Cutting-edge independent print-makers and graphic artists from the Chicago area and around the country will show off their skills and their work at Printpalooza, a print fair and sale at Northwestern University's Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art today. Admission is free and open to the public. Printpalooza takes place from noon to 4pm today at the Block Museum, 40 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston campus. Free parking is available. For more information, including driving directions as well as directions from the CTA Purple Line and the Metro/Union Pacific North Line, visit www.blockmuseum.northwestern.edu or call (847) 491-4000.
Airplane! screening @ AMC Theatres
Inspired by the success of a recent one-day-only screening of Back To The Future, AMC Theatres are doing a two-day-only screening of the 1980 classic Airplane! There's a screening today at 12:30pm, and the second screening is Tuesday, February 1 at 7pm. See the AMC Theatres Website for a list of local theatres that are screening the film.
Find a Place and Hold It for a While Opens @ Peanut Gallery
Find a Place and Hold It for a While is a cyclical performance of labor, documenting moments of various weaving processes, addressing how loss can create opportunities for transformation through the construction and deconstruction of a hand-woven cloth. The artist, Lauren La Rose, is a BFA candidate at SAIC. She has installed a giant loom in the gallery and will be working on the cloth during the opening tonight and for several weeks thereafter. A video of the performance as it has been done before will be projected on the wall in the gallery. The opening reception is from 7 to 10 tonight at Peanut Gallery: 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Rm. 345. All ages and breeds are welcome.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout plays host to this month's bout of Write Club, a 3-round literary beatdown featuring some of Chicago's best literary & theatrical talent. Your host, as always, is the sparkling Ian Belknap. Write Club starts at 7pm, and admission is a suggested $8 donation (proceeds go to charities selected by the combatants). Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
B-Fest 2011
B-Fest, the annual B-movie film festival put on by Northwestern University, kicks off this evening at 6pm with the first of many films that will be show for the next 24 hours without interruption (only pausing for a meal break tomorrow around lunch time). For details on B-Fest happenings see this writeup on Gapers Block. B-Fest happens on Northwestern's campus in Evanston, IL. Tickets may still be available; see the B-Fest Website for full details.
Repulsion @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center kicks off a series of phychological horror films with a screening tonight of Roman Polanski's Repulsion, starring Catherine Deneuve as a woman slowly going mad in a London apartment. Repulsion screens tonight at 6pm, and again on Tuesday, February 1 at 6pm. See the Film Center Website for full details and a complete schedule of the series. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Sundance Festival screening @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special one-night screening sponsored by the Sundance Film Festival. The film being shown tonight is the 2010 film The Music Never Stopped, and a special guest from the film will be in attendance for a post-screening discussion. The Music Never Stopped screens tonight at 7:30pm. See the Music Box Website for more details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Urban Gateways Interactive Launch Party @ Chicago Urban Art Society
In commemoration of the last 50 years of bringing arts education to Chicago youth, Urban Gateways: Center for Arts Education invites you to celebrate the momentous anniversary with them at an interactive launch party tonight at the Chicago Urban Art Society's Gallery at 2229 S. Halsted St. and will feature a visual art and graffiti gallery exhibition by some of Chicago's most notable contemporary artists, the debut of their new interactive website, "I Am Urban Gateways", live student performances and an Urban Gateways art exhibition. Free and open to anyone 12 and up, but RSVP is required.
Peter Saul and Brian Calvin Opening @ Corbett vs. Dempsey
Corbett vs. Dempsey presents "Stupid Arguments," the first gallery exhibition of work by Peter Saul in Chicago in 25 years. Additionally, work by Brian Calvin will be displayed in the gallery's east wing. The reception will run from 5:00-9:00pm. The exhibition will be on view through March 12th, 2011.
The Moth Story Slam Grand Slam @ Park West
The Moth Story Slam presents their Grand Slam tonight, featuring the winners of the last 10 story slams. Tickets are $16, available at www.etix.com, by calling 1-800-541-ETIX (3849) or visiting the Park West box office. The Park West, 322 West Armitage, doors at 6pm, show at 8pm.
Oscar Nominations Discussion @ Siskel Center
Our own Steve Prokopy will join ABC7's Janet Davies, Reader's JR Jones, Time Out's Ben Kenigsberg and the Tribune's Michael Phillips at the Gene Siskel Film Center today at noon for a panel discussion of this year's Oscar nominations, moderated by Rich Moskal from the Chicago Film Office. Free.
Ric Hess Memorial @ Sheffield's
Ric Hess, owner of Sheffield's, died unexpectedly last Monday, January 17. A memorial service will be held today at the bar, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave.. Doors open at 3pm, service at 6:30pm.
Leon Redbone @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a concert by Leon Redbone tonight at 7pm. See the Old Town School Website for full details and to purchase tickets. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
MAZE: Work By Hyeon Kim Opens @ Roxaboxen Exhibitions
Kim's most recent work, Maze, an installation and video work, is a reflection of the labor-intensive practices of her parents' new working situation after immigrating to America. Maze revolves around the social and cultural aspects of life in America through the lens of a Korean immigrant family living in the US. For the past few months, Hyeon accumulated large amounts of shirts left behind at dry-cleaners around the Chicago area. In her video, she travels throughout Maze putting dry-cleaning bags on every shirt to explore how labor and physical objects can hold the stresses of everyday life, as well as the public perception of this type of work. The opening reception for this show is tonight at Roxaboxen Exhibitions (2130 W 21st St.) from 7pm to 10pm. For more information, visit Roxaboxen's website.
Frank Lloyd Wright film @ Chicago History Museum
Catch Ken Burns' biopic on Oak Park-based architect known almost as much for his scandalous love life as his "Prairie Style" architecture today at the Chicago History Museum. Wrapping up their "Wright Week" events is a screening of this film at 1:30pm. Make a reservation and check out other events this weekend. FREE. The museum is located at 1601 N. Clark St. 312-642-4600
Great Directors @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the Chicago premiere of the 2009 documentary Great Directors, a look at ten of the greatest living directors. The director of the film, Angela Ismailos, will be attending today's screening. The film screens today at 2:15pm, and again on Thursday, February 3 at 8:15pm. See the Film Center's Website for a complete schedule and more information. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Urban Folk Circuit
The Urban Folk Circuit visits Reggie's Rock Club, 2105 S. State St., today from noon to 5pm. More than 30 local crafters sell their wares, alongside performances by Tisa Bachelder, Joey Basketball, Steve Sebby and Andrew FrancisFree. More info here.
Shoah @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run of Claude Lanzmann's epic 1985 documentary Shoah, a 10-hour examination of the Holocaust. The Film Center will be screening both parts of this film today (at 1pm and 7:15pm), and will be offering the two parts at different screening times through Thursday, February 3rd. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
B Sides Opens @ Coalition Gallery
Curated by Pepper Coate and Susan Aurinko, B-Sides is an exhibition featuring works by each of the Coalition Gallery artists (Adrienne Pike, Bernell Loeb, Brad Nugent, Bryan Boomershine, Christie Helm, Connie Wolfe, Dimitri Pavlotsky, Jori Foreman, Kevin Wisor, Nathalie Gribinski, Robin Dluzen, Sarah Rehmer, Shawn Stucky and Zach Mory), created in a medium separate from their primary genres. As painters exhibit sculptures and glassworks, printmakers present photographs, and figurative artists deviate from the human form, this exhibition is an opportunity for the artists to showcase successful works in a medium for which they are not well known to employ. The opening is tonight from 6:30 to 9 at Coalition Gallery (2010 W Pierce Ave, Suite 102).
William S. Burroughs Documentary @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a screening of William S. Burroughs: A Man Within, a documentary on the life of the celebrated author. The director of the film, Yony Leyser, will be in attendance for tonight's screening. The film shows at 8pm. See the Music Box Website for more details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Scrappers Screening and Q&A with Co-Directors @ Doc Films
Doc Films is hosting a screening of Scrappers followed by a question and answer session with the co-directors at 7pm tonight. The locally made film was included on Roger Ebert's list of the best documentaries of 2010. Additional information about the film is available in this October interview with GB and a recent feature in The Core. The event is $5 and located in the Max Palevsky Cinema in Ida Noyes Hall, 1212 E. 59th St. Co-sponsored by Fire Escape Films and the Center for Latin American Studies.
Trad Fest @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents Trad Fest, a two-day festival of performances and workshops by visiting bands. Tonight you may attend an open house featuring the Foghorn Trio, Bruce Molsky & The Dust Busters. Tomorrow night you can attend a concert featuring these performers. See the Old Town School Website for full details. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
Chicago Jazz Ensemble
The Chicago Jazz Ensemble presents "The Great Summit: The Music of Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington" tonight at 7:30pm at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph St. Joined by Jon Faddis as special guest conductor and performer, the CJE celebrates its roots with a concert honoring jazz giants Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington. Tickets are $15 to $45, with discounts for senior citizens and groups. Student tickets are $5. Tickets can be purchased at 312-334-7777, at the Harris Theater box office or online.
7 Day Shorts @ Second City
An exercise imported from Second City's West coast troupe, 7 Day Shorts is an exercise in which students, faculty and alumni make a two-minute short film on a given subject. The action begins tonight at 10:30pm at the de Maat Theatre in Second City's space (1616 N. Wells).
Dr. King Day Celebration @ DuSable Museum
The DuSable Museum of African American History (740 E. 56th Pl.) presents "Dr. King Day Celebration," today from 10am-5pm. This family-friendly, event-filled tribute to the late Civil Rights leader features a full program with film, spoken word, children's storytelling and theatrical and dance performances from the Chocolate Chips Theatre Company, the Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre and more. Admission is $10 adults, $5 for children age 12 and under. For more information, call (773) 947-0600.
RE:COM Comedy Show & Launch Party @ Crown Tap Room
The official launch party for RE:COM's Social Media issue begins at 8pm tonight at the Crown Tap Room: 2821 N. Milwaukee. RE:COM is a national publication, headquartered in Chicago, that focuses on alternative stand-up comedy. In this issue, they feature Marc Maron, of the WTF podcast, plus Paul F. Tompkins and Comedy Death-Ray Radio's Scott Aukerman. The launch party doubles as the inaugural edition of the Crown Comedy Show, and features James Fritz (whose debut comedy album "Deflated" was recently the No.1 seller on iTunes); Ricky Carmona (featured on HBO Latino); Chad Briggs (winner of Impress These Apes Season Four); Natalie Jose (comedian and singer of the beloved Patsy Cline cover band, the Weepin' Willows); and Sean White, recent Chicago transplant and winner of the RE:COM Perfect Tweet Contest. The show starts at 9pm. There will also be a FREE TACO BAR. More info here.
Magnetic Fields Documentary @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 2010 documentary Strange Powers: Stephin Merritt and the Magnetic Fields. Fans of the band will definitely want to catch this documentary showing Merritt and his co-writer, Claudia Gonson, working on new material. The film screens today at 8pm, and again on Thursday, January 20 at 8:30pm. See the Film Center Website for full details. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
The Black Jew Dialogues @ Greenhouse Theater
The Black Jew Dialogues, a comedy that explores race and culture in society, returns to Chicago for a special performance in honor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday tonight at 8pm at the Greenhouse Theater, 2257 N. Lincoln. The Chicago performance marks the kick-off of the show's Black History Month tour. Tickets are $17.50-$25; for more information, visit the theater's website or call (773) 404-7336.
Lincoln Fair Burlesque
Vaudezilla hosts Lincoln Fair, a free evening of burlesque, tonight at the Lincoln Tap Room, 3010 N. Lincoln Ave. Two shows run at 9pm and 11pm.
The StatiCCreep Exhibition of Sequential Art Opening @ Las Manos Gallery
Chicago has a bastion of sequential artists that enrich the world of comic books through the imprint the city leaves on them -- a certain noir factor absorbed through brick and steel-heavy architecture, inky black alleys and a history of subversive characters has worked its way under their skin. Las Manos Gallery will be the vessel holding more than one hundred original, hand-drawn and painted pieces by more than twenty of these artists. Participating artists include: Alex Wald, Andrew Pepoy, Chris Burnham, Corinne Mucha, Doug Klauba, Hilary Barta, Heather McAdams, Jeffrey Brown, Jenny Frison, Jill Thompson, Tony Akins, Nicole Hollander, Mike Norton, Mitch O'Connell, Sarah Becan, Dave Dorman, Nicole Hollander, Tim Seeley, Lucy Knisley, Gary Gianni, Steve Krakow and Bill Reinhold. The opening reception is tonight at Las Manos Gallery (5220 N. Clark St.) from 6 to 10pm.
Heads On Poles Opens @ Western Exhibitions
Heads on Poles features over 60 local, national and international artists organized by the Chicago-based artists Paul Nudd and Scott Wolniak. The artists, ranging widely in discipline and style, were invited to produce sculptures loosely based on the formula of Head On Pole, in any material. In the side room Terence Hannum's drawings, paintings and video installations cull the periphery of heavy metal and hardcore music subcultures to analyze the nexus of music, myth, audience and ritual. Both shows run through February 19. The opening reception is tonight from 5 to 8pm, which is free and open to the public. Western Exhibitions is located at 119 N Peoria St.
Marwencol @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run of the 2010 documentary Marwencol, the story of illustrator Mark Hogancamp and his attempt at piecing together his life after a brutal attack. The film screens this evening at 6pm, and runs through Thursday, January 20. See the Film Center's Website for a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
The Illusionist @ Music Box
The Music Box presents The Illusionist, the new film from the makers of The Triplets of Belleville made from a screenplay by French film legend Jacques Tati. The film begins screening this evening; see the Music Box Website for a complete schedule. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Spirit Molecule @ Portage Theater
The Spirit Molecule a "poetic interpretation of the elusive and enigmatic compound, DMT", premiers in Chicago tonight at 8pm at the Portage Theater (4050 N. Milwaukee). Following the screening, there will be a Q & A with the director of the film, Mitch Schultz. Tickets are $10.
Facebook Me! book release party @ Neo-Futurarium
Local author, actor, playwright and bon vivant Dave Awl cordially invites you to the book release party for the second edition of Facebook Me!, his guide to using Facebook for people who want to socialize, promote their own projects, or navigate the notoriously difficult Facebook privacy filters. The event begins at 7:30pm with an interview with the author, followed by audience Q&A, book signing, and refreshments. The event happens at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland, at Foster). For more information see the Facebook Me! group on Facebook.
Quennect 4 Benefit Dance Party @ Danny's
Do you remember the story about Quennect 4 that we published last year in A/C? No? This awesome Humboldt Park venue for all forms of art with a strong slant toward world music and local politics was shut down by the city last year, and since then they've been fund raising to relocate-- putting on events around town at places like Multikulti, Wickerwell, and The Music Lounge. Tonight they're hosting a big ole' FREE fundraiser/dance party at Danny's Tavern (1951 W. Dickens) with Peace Party DJs Naomi Walker & Dave Marques + Special Guests DJs Raj Majal & Nate Wells spinning funk, soul, and afrobeat all night. A portion of all sales will be donated toward Q4's mission to reopen legitimately this year. The party is 21+ from 7pm to 2am. No cover charge, as far as we can tell...
Chicago Artists' Coalition Holiday Sale
For one last weekend, Coalition Gallery artists are offering original works, ALL PRICED UNDER $100. Art for sale includes pottery, works on paper, glassware, photography and more. This sale is going on today from 12pm to 6pm at 2010 W. Pierce Ave. Admission is free. For more information call the CAC at (773) 772-2385.
Gerard Byrne A thing is a hole in a thing it is not Opens @ Renaissance Society
The Renaissance Society, the Lismore Castle Arts, and 2010 Glasgow International Festival of Visual Art have co-commissioned in collaboration with the Van Abbemuseum a new multi-channel film installation titled "A thing is a hole in a thing it is not." As the title -- a reference to Carl Andre's famous dictum -- suggests, Byrne's attention will be on the historical reception of Minimalism as a movement, a history that is resonant within the context of The Renaissance Society's early engagement with that movement's artists. The opening reception for this installation is today from 4pm to 7pm, with a discussion with the artist from 5 to 6pm. The Renaissance Society is located at 5811 S. Ellis Ave.
Woody Allen's Another Woman @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre is running a Woody Allen matinee series in January. Today's film is 1988's Another Woman, with Gena Rowlands and Mia Farrow. The film screens today at 11:30am. See the Music Box Website for a complete schedule of matinee films. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
New Chicago Comics @ MCA
It's a sequential art kind of January at the Museum of Contemporary art. Today through January 30th, the museum features comic book artists and animators both known and rising -- Jeffrey Brown, Lilli Carré, Paul Hornschemeier, and Anders Nilsen showcase their differing yet equally interesting styles. 220 E. Chicago Ave. $12 suggested admission (free Tuesdays). More information here.
A Certain Ratio Opens @ Roots & Culture
The five artists in A Certain Ratio (Elijah Burgher, Ryan Fenchel, Jonah Groeneboer, Shane Huffman, and Erin Zona) engage abstraction to investigate classic philosophical inquiries -- where math intersects with science, religion and art. A reduction of form to symbolic or geometrical composition imparts their work with a depth of mystical pursuit. The opening reception for this exhibition is tonight from 6pm to 9pm at Roots and Culture: 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Talia Chetrit, Daniel Gordon, & Matthew Metzger Exhibitions Open @ Tony Wight Gallery
In the north gallery, two young photographers (Talia Chetrit and Daniel Gordon) show collaborative work that utilizes the studio as a site of production. While there is an evident parallel between their practices -- both artists compose and photograph temporal situations in their studios -- this exhibition aims to articulate divergences as well as similarities. In the south gallery, three paintings by Matthew Metzger explore the dependency and exchangeability within Figuration and Abstraction as a method to portray the liminal and fleeting qualities that compose aspects of being. The opening reception for these exhibitions is tonight from 5pm to 8pm at Tony Wight Gallery: 845 W. Washington.
Chicago Artists' Coalition Holiday Sale
For one last weekend, Coalition Gallery artists are offering original works, ALL PRICED UNDER $100. Art for sale includes pottery, works on paper, glassware, photography and more. This sale is going on today and tomorrow from 12pm to 6pm at 2010 W. Pierce Ave. Admission is free. For more information call the CAC at (773) 772-2385.
The Room @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special midnight screening of the 2003 film The Room, starring Tommy Wiseau as the best boyfriend in the world. Leave your stupid comments in your pocket and come see this cult favorite! Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Confessions of a Chubby Tomboy @ Gorilla Tango Theatre
Stacey Smith brings us her one-person show, Confessions of a Chubby Tomboy tonight only. As a one-night showcase to build exposure, she will not only deliver humorous anecdotes, but share life lessons gleaned from personal experiences. COACT starts at 8pm tonight at Gorilla Tango Theatre (1919 N. Milwaukee Ave.).Tickets are $10; to purchase tickets call (773) 598-4549 or visit www.gorillatango.com. For more information about the show visit staceyelisabeth.com.
Jacques Tati's My Uncle @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents My Uncle, a slightly different version of Jacques Tati's classic Mon Oncle. People who haven't been fans of M. Hulot before will no doubt enjoy this slightly more accessible film. My Uncle starts showing tonight; see the Music Box schedule for showtimes. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Krueger, Moore, Baker Group Show Opening Reception @ Packer Schopf Gallery
Michael Krueger: So Alone and Mystified-- drawing/prints, Dominic Paul Moore: you're partially to blame (drawing/painting), and Deborah Baker: Cryptogram (embroidery) opens at Packer Schopf gallery tonight. The reception is tonight from 5 to 8pm at Packer Schopf Gallery (942 W. Lake St.). For details call the gallery at (312) 226-8984 or visit their website: http://www.packergallery.com.
First Friday @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents First Friday, an evening of open-house workshops & performances from 5pm to 10pm. Tonight's featured performer is faculty member Lance Brown. Admission is a suggested $5 donation. See the Old Town School Website for full details. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
Finding Vivian Maier Exhibit @ Chicago Cultural Center
Tonight marks the opening of the photographic career of the late recluse and North Shore nanny Vivian Maier, whose stunning body of work was discovered at a storage locker auction. An opening reception runs from 5:30 to 7:30pm; the exhibit runs through April 3 at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington.
The Collective (Final Exhibit) Opens @ David Weinberg Gallery
Tonight the David Weinberg Gallery will host its last opening. The show, entitled The Collective, will be a salon style exhibition featuring 21 of their artists. This final exhibit is an opportunity for the gallery to support their artists and display some of their finest works for the last time. The gallery was around for over four years, and this show acts as a thank-you to all those who made it possible. The reception is today from 5pm to 8pm at David Weinberg Gallery: 300 W. Superior, Suite 203. Click here for more details.
Mexican Accordion Workshop @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents the latest in their series of one-day workshops for music and dance students. Tonight's workshop is a Mexican accordion class taught by Roberto Serrato, a fixture of Chicago's Norteño scene. Students should bring their own instruments. The workshop happens this evening from 6pm to 7:20pm at the school's main building (4544 N. Lincoln Avenue). The cost is $20, and you can register at the Old Town School Website. For more information, call the school at (773) 728-6000.
Back to School
David Wojnarowicz: A Fire in My Belly @ Smart Museum of Art
The Smart Museum displays David Wojnarowicz's video A Fire in My Belly, joining institutions around the country who are displaying the work in protest of its removal from the National Portrait Gallery exhibition, Hide/Seek: Desire and Difference in American Portraiture. The original 13-minute video, accompanied by a 7-minute chapter found among the artist's collection, is on display until February 6. The Smart Museum of Art, 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. (773) 702-0200. Admission is free. Please check the museum web site for hours.
Four Lions @ Facets
Facets Cinematheque gives you another chance to see the Chris Morris slapstick comedy about terrorism, Four Lions, this week as it screens the film through Thursday, January 6. See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-4114.
Inside Job @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center begins a week-long run of the 2010 film Inside Job, a close examination of the causes of the current economic crisis. The film screens this afternoon at 3pm and runs through Thursday, January 6. See the Film Center's Website for a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Too Much Light New Year's Eve @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists presents their annual New Year's Eve performance of their long-running show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. Doors open at 9:30pm tonight at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland at Foster), and the performance of the show begins promptly at 11pm. When the show finishes exactly 60 minutes later, the cast and audience celebrate the New Year! Please see the Neo-Futurists Website for full details, or call (773) 275-5255.
Best of 2010 Poster Art Show Opens @ Roxaboxen Exhibitions
Roxaboxen Exhibitions has gathered some of the best handmade posters made in 2010 from events around the city. The mediums include everything from silk screens to embroidery, including posters by Ryan Duggan, Aay Preston-Mynt, Josh Davis, April Camlin, Spudnik Press Members, and lots more! Roxaboxen Exhibitions is located at 2130 W 21st St. The reception is from 5pm to 9pm today with a live musical set by A Jacob Wick Band.
Closing Reception for Two Exhibitions @ Intuit
Intuit: The Center For Inuitive And Outsider Art invites the public to the closing receptions for two shows on display: Almost There: A Portrait of Peter Anton; and Forget Me NOT. The reception is from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, and admission is free. Intuit is located at 756 N. Milwaukee Avenue. (312) 243-9088. If you haven't seen Almost There, check out these promos for additional background on Anton and the show's subject matter.
Dance Party @ Lincoln Hall
Lincoln Hall presents an evening of team karaoke dancing, featuring music by B Starr and DJ La*Jesus. Doors open at 9pm, admission is free, and it's an 18+ event. Lincoln Hall: 2424 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 525-2501.
Psychobilly Pre New Years Eve Eve @ Delilah's
Delilah's presents a pre-New Year's Eve celebration tonight with DJ Machetti. $2 PBR longnecks, $2 Old Crow Bourbon. Delilah's: 2771 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 472-2771.
The Moth Story Slam @ Martyrs
The Moth presents its monthly Story Slam event tonight at Martyrs (3855 N. Lincoln) at 8pm. Ten randomly selected storytellers get to expound on the evening's theme, with the winner chosen by a panel of judges. Tickets are $8 at the door. Arrive early, because this event packs the house.
You, Me, Them, Everybody LIVE @ The Hungry Brain
Visit The Hungry Brain tonight for a live podcast recording of "You, Me, Them, Everybody" hosted by Brandon Wetherbee and Esmeralda Leon. Writer, co-founder of the Chicago Underground Library, and comedian Emerson Dameron will perform. Known more for his zine writer, he's contributed to The 2nd Hand and Chunklet. He's also published many of his own zines including Wherewithal. There will also be a special solo set from Mike Pritchard, the lead singer of Otter Petter. Following YMTE Live! will be a screening of "A Proud Tradition" featuring Ned Hepburn, narration by Emerson Dameron and music by Daniel Knox. View the trailer here. 21+. No Cover. Doors open at 8pm and the show starts at 9. The Hungry Brain in located at 2319 W. Belmont Ave.
Last Sunday of the Month Reading @ Brewed Awakening
In the suburbs for the holidays (or year-round)? Brewed Awakening in Westmont, in conjunction with the Illinois State Poetry Society and the Westmont Area Friends of the Arts, hosts their last Sunday of the month poetry reading this weekend. Poetry from noon to 1:30pm, music from 1:30 to 2pm. Cover charge of $5 includes refreshments. Bring a few poems to share at the open mic. Brewed Awakening, 19 W. Quincy, Westmont.
Millennium Trilogy @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center is screening all three films made of Stieg Larsson's novels through January. Today they are screening The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo at 2:30pm and The Girl Who Played With Fire at 5:15pm. See the Film Center's Website for a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Spike Lee Booksigning @ Barbara's Bookstore
Spike Lee will be at Barbara's Bookstore at 4pm today signing his new book, Do The Right Thing. Barbara's Boostore is located at 1218 S. Halsted St. Contact the bookstore at 312-413-2665 for more information.
CHIRP benefit @ Whistler
CHIRP Radio holds its monthly benefit this evening at Whistler (2421 N. Milwaukee Avenue) at 9:30pm. Tonight's showcase features Ken Camden & Magical Beautiful, along with music played by CHIRP Radio DJs. Show starts at 9pm.
Too Much Light Anniversary Performances @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present a celebration of 22 years of performing their long-running late night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind by performing a selection of their best plays this weekend. Current and alumni members will be in the show this weekend, so this will be your chance to see some of the best material that's been written over the years. Please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for more details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275 5255.
Songs of Good Cheer @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their 12th year of Songs of Good Cheer, the annual benefit for the school and local charities. Chicago Tribune columnists Mary Schmich and Eric Zorn are your hosts for an evening of holiday songs performed by school staff. The show starts at 5pm tonight, and tickets are $40. Please see the Old Town School Website for more details and to purchase tickets. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
Too Much Light Anniversary Performances @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present a celebration of 22 years of performing their long-running late night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind by performing a selection of their best plays this weekend. Current and alumni members will be in the show this weekend, so this will be your chance to see some of the best material that's been written over the years. Please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for more details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275 5255.
Indie Arts Holiday Market @ Schubas
Head to the music room at Schubas (3159 N. Southport) for a craft fair! Perfect for the last-minute shopper (i.e. most of us) for a craft fair full of hand-roasted coffee, illustrations, jewelry, pillows, greeting cards, hand-bound journals and stationery (buy your cards!), and much, much more from local designers. 11am-7pm. Free!
Questions? Call Michelle at (773) 388-8811.
Songs of Good Cheer @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their 12th year of Songs of Good Cheer, the annual benefit for the school and local charities. Chicago Tribune columnists Mary Schmich and Eric Zorn are your hosts for an evening of holiday songs performed by school staff. The show starts at 7:30pm tonight, and tickets are $40. Please see the Old Town School Website for more details and to purchase tickets. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
Too Much Light Anniversary Performances @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present a celebration of 22 years of performing their long-running late night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind by performing a selection of their best plays this weekend. Current and alumni members will be in the show this weekend, so this will be your chance to see some of the best material that's been written over the years. Please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for more details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275 5255.
Songs of Good Cheer @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their 12th year of Songs of Good Cheer, the annual benefit for the school and local charities. Chicago Tribune columnists Mary Schmich and Eric Zorn are your hosts for an evening of holiday songs performed by school staff. The show starts at 7:30pm tonight, and tickets are $40. Please see the Old Town School Website for more details and to purchase tickets. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
27th Annual Music Box Christmas Show
The Music Box Theatre presents its 27th annual Christmas Show, featuring screenings of the films White Christmas (with Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye and Rosemary Clooney) and the classic It's A Wodnerful Life. Screenings include a holiday sing-along and an appearance by Santa! The Christmas Show runs through December 24. Tickets are available for purchase in advance; please see the Music Box Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
GOD Group Exhibition Opens @ Peanut Gallery
GOD, a multimedia group exhibition featuring work by local emerging artists all about God, opens tonight with a reception from 7 to 11pm at Peanut Gallery. All are welcomed-- including animals, gradmothers, and babies of all ages. Wear your Sunday Best. Peanut Gallery is located at 1579 N. Milwaukee (the Flat Iron building) in room 345. Details here.
Girls Rock! Chicago Fundraiser @ Schubas
Schubas plays host for a fundraiser for Girls Rock! Chicago, a nonprofit that helps young girls confidence and self-esteem through music. Tonight's benefit features The Laureates, along with special guests too shy to be mentioned here. The benefit starts tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $10, and it's an 18+ show. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport at Belmont. (773) 525-2508.
"Expressions of MJ" @ CICS-Longwood
For Children, By Children (FCBC) returns with "Expressions of MJ," a dance musical honoring the musical legacy of Michael Jackson, tonight at 7pm at the CICS-Longwood, 1309 W. 95th St. Written and directed by Rod Lewis, FCBC pays tribute to the late entertainer with all new songs, skits and dance routines to some of the singer's greatest hits. Tickets are $5-$7 for students; $7-$10 for adults. For more information, call (708) 769-9880.
A Christmas Story Screening @ Pritzker Park
You'll shoot your eye out, kid! Is there a favorite scene in A Christmas Story that you watch year after year? Movies in Pritzker Park will allow you to catch that scene, recite your favorite quote and head on your way. New to Winter WonderLoop this year is a special three-week series of holiday film screenings Wednesday evenings at 5:30pm, from Dec. 1-15, in Pritzker Park at State and Van Buren Streets. This winter, Pritzker Park, the former home of Tony Tasset's EYE sculpture, will be transformed into an outdoor movie theater allowing patrons to stop by or enjoy a full screening of some iconic holiday films. Tonight you can see A Christmas Story there for free at 5:30pm. For more information about Winter WonderLoop, please visit http://www.winterwonderloop.com.
Big Star Tribute @ Schubas
You Get What You Deserve: A Tribute to Big Star happens tonight at Schubas. Among the musicians that will be paying tribute to the band are Steve Frisbie, Jon San Juan, Tom Szidon and Mike Zelenko. Opening act is Village, and DJ poseur will spin records between acts. The show starts tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $8, and it's a 21+ show. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport at Belmont. (773) 525-2508.
A John Waters Christmas @ Harris Theater
The Baltimore-born "Pope of Trash" brings his version of holiday spirit to Chicago tonight with the acclaimed A John Waters Christmas, a series of rapid-fire monologues employing his trademark dark humor and hilariously inappropriate wit. 7:30pm, 205 E. Randolph Drive (Millennium Park). Tickets $35 - $65, and can be purchased at the Harris Theater box office (Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Dr.), by calling (312) 334-7777, or online.
The Second City That Never Sleeps: Letters to Santa @ Second City ETC
This 24-hour-long party, which begins at 7pm tonight, features music from a range of local acts (among them Jeff Tweedy, JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound, Robbie Fulks, Steve Albini and Danielson Famile) and comedy from local improvisers and actors. Your $15 ticket, which is good for exit and re-entry (if you have to go to work, blegh), benefits needy families. Event is at Second City ETC, 1608 N Wells.
Peaches Christ Superstar @ Portage Theater
It's Andrew Lloyd Webber as you've never seen (or heard) him before: the often outrageous Peaches performs Jesus Christ Superstar -- yes, every single part, with some help from pianist/rapper Chilly Gonzales. 8pm, 4050 N Milwaukee Ave. Buy tickets ($25) here. For more info, call (773) 736-4050.
Everything Is Terrible! @ Hungry Brain
Everything Is Terrible!, the amazing video blog that made "Dwayne!!" a household word, has another video night tonight at the Hungry Brain (2319 W. Belmont, near Western Avenue). Special guest tonight: Al Scorch! The show starts at 9pm, and admission is free.
Chicago Nerds Book Club @ Noble Tree Cafe
The monthly book club meeting of The Chicago Nerds Social Club happens this evening at Noble Tree Cafe (2444 N. Clark). This evening's title is John Dies At The End by David Wong. The meetings starts at 6:30pm, and is open to the public.
Too Much Light Anniversary Performances @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present a celebration of 22 years of performing their long-running late night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind by performing a selection of their best plays this weekend. Current and alumni members will be in the show this weekend, so this will be your chance to see some of the best material that's been written over the years. If you can't make it this weekend, there will be another round of best-of shows December 17-19. Please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for more details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275 5255.
Now THAT is Christmas! @ Heaven Gallery
Vintage Heaven at Heaven Gallery continues its once-a-month collective vintage sales with this holiday-themed celebration featuring carefully curated pieces from local sellers such as Jenstyle Chic Vintage, Venus Meets Vintage, and Lovestory Vintage. The sale starts at noon and ends at 6 pm. Heaven Gallery is located at 1550 N Milwaukee, 2nd floor.
Family Day: 'Tis the Season @ MCA
'Tis the Season invites families to celebrate the season with contemporary art at the Museum of Contemporary Art today from 11am to 3pm.Families can connect and explore ideas in the galleries, using the designs and colors they see to create their own projects. At 1pm, families can celebrate the season with a special holiday Taiko drumming performance featuring three generation of artists. This performance is a preview for Taiko Legacy 7 on the MCA Stage, December 18 and 19. Free for families with children 12 and under. The MCA is located at 220 E. Chicago. 312-280-2660.
Too Much Light Anniversary Performances @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present a celebration of 22 years of performing their long-running late night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind by performing a selection of their best plays this weekend. Current and alumni members will be in the show this weekend, so this will be your chance to see some of the best material that's been written over the years. If you can't make it this weekend, there will be another round of best-of shows December 17-19. Please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for more details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275 5255.
The Eyes Are The Windows To The Skull New Works by Greg Shirilla Opens @ Revolution Gallery
Greg Shirilla will be showing new works, in 3 distinct styles (painting, digital collage, and photography) at Revolution Tattoo & Gallery. An opening reception will be held tonight from 8pm to midnight. You can see Greg Shirilla's work online at http://www.mistershirilla.com or call (773) 704-7382 for additional information. Revolution Tattoo & Gallery is located at 2221 N. Western Ave.
Facets Holiday Warehouse Sale
Facets Multimedia has its annual warehouse sale of DVDs and videos today and tomorrow. This is a great place to buy all kinds of movies for cheap prices, so make sure you show up early! The sale happens from 10am to 5pm on both days. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton.
"Dr. Margaret Burroughs: In Her Own Words" @ DuSable Museum
The DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents "Dr. Margaret Burroughs: In Her Own Words," a tribute to its late founder, artist and poet, Dr. Margaret Burroughs. This family-friendly celebration is from 10am-5pm today, and includes a full program with film, musical and spoken word performances based on Burroughs' poetry and art, museum exhibit tours, children's art workshops and more. This event is free; RSVP to (773) 947-0600 x627.
Now THAT is Christmas! @ Heaven Gallery
Vintage Heaven at Heaven Gallery continues its once-a-month collective vintage sales with this holiday-themed celebration featuring carefully curated pieces from local sellers such as Jenstyle Chic Vintage, Venus Meets Vintage, and Lovestory Vintage. The sale starts at noon and ends at 6 pm. Heaven Gallery is located at 1550 N Milwaukee, 2nd floor. Free.
Too Much Light Anniversary Performances @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present a celebration of 22 years of performing their long-running late night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind by performing a selection of their best plays this weekend. Current and alumni members will be in the show this weekend, so this will be your chance to see some of the best material that's been written over the years. If you can't make it this weekend, there will be another round of best-of shows December 17-19. Please see the Neo-Futurists' Website for more details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275 5255.
Reply All
Head to the Evil Olive tonight (1551 W. Division St.) for Reply All -- put on by Merge, a small group of community-minded AIGA Chicago members, it's "like a conference after-party without the long day of conferencing." 7pm-4am.
ACRE Winter Benefit Country in the City (aka ACRE County Fair) @ Heaven Gallery
Join the rest of the art school elite and bohemian set this Friday for ACRE's Winter Benefit at Heaven Gallery. ACRE needs your support to continue to provide resources for and programming by emerging artists from Chicago and beyond. Hang out with some sheep and chicks in the Petting Zoo! Deck yourself in plaid and grab a corn cob pipe for the photo booth! Sip some home-made hard cider from our new ACRE mugs! Sign up for the cake eating contest with a spin, led by Industry of the Ordinary. Try your luck on our prize wheel! Get some great deals on art by local and national contemporary artists at the art auction and sale.
Keep that warm feeling going and join us for an after-party a few doors down at The Crocodile (1540 N Milwaukee Ave) featuring DJs and dancing, starting at 11pm. Heaven Gallery is located at 1550 N Milwaukee Ave. on the second floor. Admission is $20 ($10 for students) suggested donation, and includes 3 raffle tickets. More details here.
Film Screening: La Porte, IN @ Intuit
Tucked away in the back room of a B&J's American Cafe lies a secret history waiting to be discovered: 18,000 dog-eared studio portraits from the 1950s and 60s. From baby pictures to graduation shots to young soldiers heading off to war and beyond, each of these photos hints at a personal story waiting to be told. Come discover the documentary film La Porte, Indiana with a special introduction by Producer, Jason Bitner. Copies of the dvd and book will be available for purchase in the gift shop. 7pm. $5 / Free for Intuit Members. Intuit is located at 756 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Chicago History Museum Holiday Pub Crawl
Join the Chicago History Museum for their "Deck the Pubs! Christmas Caroling" pub crawl along Armitage Avenue. Learn the history of the songs and pubs visited. Begins at 6:45pm, tickets are $25 or $20 for members. To purchase tickets or for more information, check out the Chicago History Museum website.
Proximity 008 Release Party @ Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar
The Public Media Institute opens Select Media Festival 9: Infoporn II with the release of their own contribution to the information overload. Proximity magazine's Issue 008, themed Education as Art, is a 230 page opus and represents our latest and greatest effort in publishing. Stop by and get a copy at a discount ($10), enjoy some beverages and meet the creators. The upcoming issue of Proximity takes on this theme through a number of profiles, interviews, essays, and narratives. This issue includes meditations, conversations, and collaborations around "education as art" from a number of perspectives. The party is from 7 to 11 tonight at Marias: 3219 S Morgan St. 21+. No Cover.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas Screening @ Pritzker Park
Is there a favorite scene in A Christmas Story that you watch year after year? Movies in Pritzker Park will allow you to catch that scene, recite your favorite quote and head on your way. New to Winter WonderLoop this year is a special three-week series of holiday film screenings Wednesday evenings at 5:30pm, from Dec. 1-15, in Pritzker Park at State and Van Buren Streets. This winter, Pritzker Park, the former home of Tony Tasset's EYE sculpture, will be transformed into an outdoor movie theater allowing patrons to stop by or enjoy a full screening of some iconic holiday films. Tonight you can see How the Grinch Stole Christmas there for free at 5:30pm. For more information about Winter WonderLoop, please visit http://www.winterwonderloop.com.
Cole Porter's Top Ten List Songs
Maxim's, The Nancy Goldberg International Center, 24 E. Goethe St., hosts "Charles Troy Presents Cole Porter's Top Ten List Songs," at 3pm today. Maxim's describes the show thusly: "Charles Troy tells the story of American composer and songwriter Cole Porter, whose works include Hollywood movies and Broadway musicals such as Kiss Me, Kate, Fifty Million Frenchmen and Anything Goes, as well as songs like 'Let's Do It,' 'You're the Top' and 'Anything Goes.' Cole's sophisticated and bawdy lyrics, clever rhymes and complex forms made his songs very popular. In a dynamic multi-media presentation, Troy talks about List songs and plays Porter's ten most significant examples, all in the course of telling Porter's unusual life story." Tickets are $25, reservations required; call 312.742.TIXS (8497) or visit Maxim's website.
Brad Killiam National Roundabout Task Force Opens @ Julius Caesar Gallery
Local artist Brad Killam (who co-runs The Suburban gallery in Oak Park) has an exhibition going up at Julius Caesar gallery this month, and the opening is this afternoon from 4 to 7pm. Julius Caesar is located at 3311 W. Carroll Ave. in East Garfield Park. There is plenty of parking and public transportation (Green line, Kimball bus) nearby.
UNEARTHED @ No Nation Gallery
Illinois Institute of Art designers Carmen McGhee and Aris Sergakis collaborated to produce this eventful evening, featuring an art exhibition and a runway show of work by 15 student designers, either original or refurbished from vintage clothing. There is a suggested donation of $3 and the evening will include a cash bar and music. UNEARTHED begins at 7pm and takes place at No Nation Gallery, located at 1542 N Milwaukee.
Chicago Ukulele Cabaret holiday show @ Silvie's
The latest evening of Chicago Ukulele Cabaret happens tonight at 9pm at Silvie's Lounge (1902 W. Irving Park Road). Tonight's theme: "How The Uke Stole Christmas (and Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa)". Participants are invited to prepare up to three holiday-themed songs on the ukulele. Skits and costume changes are encouraged. For more information on the event see the group's Facebook page.
"Harold and the Purple Crayon: A Dance Adventure"@ Harris Theater
Hubbard Street 2 will present "Harold and the Purple Crayon: A Dance Adventure," an hour-long, interactive dance program based on the beloved childrens' book, 3pm at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. Tickets to the program, which is sponsored by Target, are only $5 each, and may be purchased online at harristheaterchicago.org or by phone -- (312) 334-7777.
On the Tip of My Tongue @ Gorilla Tango
"On the Tip of My Tongue" is a theatrical performance based on food and memory, and is written, performed, and presented by Neighborhood Writing Alliance participants. Award-winning Affrilachian Poet Parneshia Jones provides artistic direction. Event is free, but reservations are required -- call (773) 684-2472 to reserve your seats.
--Gorilla Tango Theater, 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave.
AREA Chicago Wants & Needs Auction
AREA Chicago hosts its fourth annual Wants & Needs auction tonight at Roots and Culture Gallery, 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave., from 8pm to midnight. Items up for bid include a group acupuncture session followed by a delicious homecooked Indian meal, a custom portrait on black velvet of the revolutionary educator of your choice, dinner with Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn, four hours on the Chicago River with the Fantastic AquaCat, and more, with bids starting as low as $10. In addition, DJs will spin and refreshments will be served. $10 suggested donation.
Julmarknad @ Swedish American Museum
Music, food and handmade crafts mark the annual Julmarknad event, which takes place today from 10am-5pm (and tomorrow from 11am-4pm) at the Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark. Admission $2.
Parallel Lines Never Intersect: The Artwork of Connie Noyes Opens @ ThreePeas Gallery
The opening reception for this show is tonight from 6 to 10pm at ThreePeas Gallery: 75 E. 16th St. For details, please visit the gallery's website or Connie Noyes' website.
Brandy Agerbeck @ Inkling
Get in the holiday spirit (and some great, affordable ornaments and cards) tonight at store and gallery Inkling (2917 1/2 N. Broadway St.), which tonight features artist Brandy Agerbeck and her quirky, colorful, and above all visually appealing collection of ornaments. 6pm-10pm, call (773) 248-8004 for more information.
Sound Opinions Movie Night: Don't Look Back
Sound Opinions and the Music Box Theatre present another Sound Opinions Movie Night tonight at 7pm. Tonight's movie: the Bob Dylan documentary Don't Look Back. Doors open at 6pm. Tickets are $9 in advance, $10 at the door. Tickets available for purchase online. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The Unstable Object @ Gene Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., presents a preview screening of The Unstable Object, Daniel Eisenberg's latest film that explores the relationship and effect that objects have on both producers and consumers. The film screens tonight at 6pm; reserve tickets online or contact the box office at (312) 846-2600. Eisenberg will be available for audience discussion following the screening.
Sing! The Music of Sesame Street @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents "Sing! The Music of Sesame Street", an 80-minute compilation of musical moments from the Sesame Street TV show. The program is part of a month-long retrospective of work by Jim Henson and the Muppets. The program screens tonight at 6pm. Please see the Film Center's Website for more details and a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
A Tribute to Kate Bush @ Late Bar
Despite never touring in this city, for a dedicated number of fans the lasting influence of Kate Bush's music permeates in a variety of different artistic and cultural realms. During this eclectic tribute to the singer, DJs play Bush's music along with the music of artists she has influenced. Two performers will also make their drag debut in full-Kate Bush regalia. A Tribute to Kate Bush takes place from 10pm to 4am at Late Bar, located at 3534 W Belmont. This event is 21+ and free.
The Tofu Chitlin Circuit @ The Digital Youth Network
The Digital Youth Network, 1050 E. 47th St., hosts The Tofu Chitlin Circuit's "A La Carte" panel discussion on the controversy surrounding filmmaker Tyler Perry's latest film, For Colored Girls, tonight from 6:30pm-8:30pm. Panelists include Ebonyjet.com film critic Sergio Mims, Jackie Taylor, playwright and executive director of the Black Ensemble Theatre, and filmmaker Barbara Allen. Admission is $5. Contact (773) 787-6800 for more information.
You, Me, Them, Everybody Live @ Hungry Brain
You, Me, Them, Everybody returns to the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., tonight at 9pm. Brandon Wetherbee and Esmeralda Leon host an evening talking with writer/musician/historian Steve Krakow, aka Plastic Crimewave, and comedian Renee Schultz, as well as music by Jeremy Tromburg of The Ragtones, Otter Petter and a special set by the Jon Williams Swing Group. No cover. 21+
Chicago Human Rhythms Project @ Harris Theater
The Chicago Human Rhythms Project (CHRP) will conclude its 20th season during Thanksgiving weekend performances at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. When you purchase a ticket to any of these performances, you'll be giving back to Chicago area non-profits through the Thanks 4 Giving program. You will receive a ten percent discount just by mentioning an area non-profit when purchasing your ticket. Plus, CHRP will donate 50 percent of the revenue from your ticket purchase to the organization you mention. The performance begins at 3 pm. Tickets are $15-55 and are available by calling 312-334-7777 or visiting harristheaterchicago.org.
Sesame Street double feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a month-long tribute to Jim Henson and hiw work with the Muppets. This afternoon the theater presents a double feature of material taken from Sesame Street. At 2:15pm there will be a 80-minute compilation of musical performances from the show, and at 4:15pm a program of rare clips from TV specials and other appearances, hosted by puppeteer Fran Brill, who performs Zoe on Sesame Street. See the Film Center Website for full details and a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Holiday C.A.R.E. Faire @ Unitarian Church of Evanston
From 11 am to 5 pm at the Unitarian Church of Evanston, 1330 Ridge (at Greenwood), the Evantson Animal Shelter presents their Holiday C.A.R.E. Faire. Visitors can bring their puppies or kittens for a picture with Santa Claus, purchase homemade cookies in the Cookie Walk Bake Sale, buy gifts for pets, and enter a raffle to win a range of prizes. For more information, call (847) 866-5080, or visit http://www.care-evanston.org.
Chicago Human Rhythms Project @ Harris Theater
The Chicago Human Rhythms Project (CHRP) will conclude its 20th season during Thanksgiving weekend performances at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. When you purchase a ticket to any of these performances, you'll be giving back to Chicago area non-profits through the Thanks 4 Giving program. You will receive a ten percent discount just by mentioning an area non-profit when purchasing your ticket. Plus, CHRP will donate 50 percent of the revenue from your ticket purchase to the organization you mention. Performances take place at 3 pm and 7 pm. Tickets are $15-55 and are available by calling 312-334-7777 or visiting harristheaterchicago.org.
Dino-Mite Saturday @ Portage Theater
The Portage Theater presents Dino-Mite Saturday, an afternoon of dinosaur movies starting at 2pm. Among the movies presented will be Destroy All Monsters, The Land Unknown and Jurassic Park 3. Vendors will be selling collectible dinosaur and monster toys & memorabilia in the lobby of the theater. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids. Doors open at 1pm. Portage Theater: 4050 N. Milwaukee. For more information call (773) 875-7582 or email timetoys [at] rcn [dot] com.
Chicago Human Rhythm Project @ Harris Theater
The Chicago Human Rhythms Project (CHRP) will conclude its 20th season during Thanksgiving weekend performances at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. When you purchase a ticket to any of these performances, you'll be giving back to Chicago area non-profits through the Thanks 4 Giving program. You will receive a ten percent discount just by mentioning an area non-profit when purchasing your ticket. Plus, CHRP will donate 50 percent of the revenue from your ticket purchase to the organization you mention. The performance begins at 7 pm. Tickets are $15-55 and are available by calling 312-334-7777 or visiting harristheaterchicago.org.
Sing-A-Long Sound of Music @ The Music Box Theatre
Back by popular demand, the Music Box Theatre presents its annual Sing-A-Long Sound of Music! The film is complete with subtitles so the whole audience can along. There will also be a costume contest, so remember to dress up as your favorite character! This event always sells out, so be sure to pick up your advance ticket, available through the Music Box Theatre's website. The Music Box Theatre is located at 3733 N. Southport. 7pm tonight, full schedule available at the website.
Sesame Street double feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a month-long tribute to Jim Henson and the Muppets. This afternoon they are presenting a double feature, with two Muppets-related programs. At 2pm the theater will present Sesame Street at 40, a 80-minute best-of compilation featuring an appearance in the theater by Fran Bill, who performs Zoe on Sesame Street. And at 3:45pm, the Film Center will screen the feature film Follow That Bird. You may buy tickets for each program separately, or purchase tickets for both programs at a reduced rate. See the Film Center Website for more information and a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Valley of the Dolls @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a screening of the 1967 film Valley of the Dolls (the original film, not the Russ Meyer version) today at 1pm. The pre-show event, hosted by Camp Midnight host Dick O'Day, will feature a costume parade, a sing-along, and many more surprises. After the film there will be a Q&A session with Patty Duke, one of the film's three female leads. Tickets for the screening tonight at available at Brown Paper Tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Chicago Literary Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
On Saturday, Nov. 20, Chicago journalist and radio personality Rick Kogan will emcee the inaugural induction ceremony for the fledgling Chicago Literary Hall of Fame.
The ceremony will be honoring notable writers Nelson Algren, Saul Bellow, Gwendolyn Brooks, Lorraine Hansberry, Studs Terkel and Richard Wright for their contributions to local literature. Among those accepting the posthumous honors of their famous writer relatives will be Greg Bellow, Nora Brooks Blakely, Dan Terkell, Dana Smith (grandniece of Richard Wright) and Taye Hansberry (grandniece of Lorraine).
This special event takes place at Northeastern University auditorium at 3701 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. in Chicago and starts at 6pm. Tickets are $45 and can be ordered online here.
For more information, visit the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame website or contact the Chicago Writers Association.
St. Morten's GlöggFest @ Swedish American Museum
The Andersonville Chamber of Commerce hosts an evening of glögg from neighboring Simon's Tavern (the first sampling of the season's batch!), music, food and a silent auction at the Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark. Admission $30; event begins at 7pm. Proceeds benefit the Chamber.
Roger Ebert signing @ Old Orchard Shopping Center
Film critic Roger Ebert will be signing all of his books tonight at 7pm at the Old Orchard Shopping Center in Skokie. The event is free and open to the public.
Lynda Barry Visits Chicago
Extraordinary, warm, bold, full of laugh-out-loud energy: Lynda Barry is -- and here I must copy and paste this list -- a painter, cartoonist, writer, illustrator, playwright, editor, commentator, and teacher. Her last book, What It Is, won the Eisner award. Tonight, she will make an appearance at Columbus Auditorium, 280 S. Columbus, at 6pm as part of SAIC's Visiting Artist Program. She is not to be missed.
Shut Up and Laugh @ Abbey Pub
Local comedy veterans Cynthia Levin (ABC, Comedy Central, BET), Jeanie Doogan (The Improv, Zanies), and Emily Lake (The Improv, Mikey O Productions) present the first in a recurring series of Sunday evening shows called Shut Up and Laugh. The show begins at 7:30 pm at the Abbey Pub, 3420 W Grace St. The show is 21+.
Amy Sedaris @ Borders
Actress and writer Amy Sedaris will be at the Borders at 830 N. Michigan Avenue this afternoon at 3pm to discuss her new book Simple Times: Crafts For Poor People. For more information visit the Borders events page.
Every Person is a Philosopher Launch @ Intuit
The Neighborhood Writing Alliance is hosting a launch party for its new blog, "Every Person is a Philosopher," at Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art (756 N. Milwaukee) from 6-7:30pm. The free event will include hors d'oeuvres, giveaways, open discussion and short speeches from Journal of Ordinary Thought writers and others. The blog will "provide provocative dialogue, fresh writing, and Chicago-focused news and ideas in literary arts and social justice."
Kevin Jerome Everson @ Gene Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St., hosts filmmaker and artist Kevin Jerome Everson as he discusses his acclaimed feature film, Erie (2010), tonight at 6pm. In Erie, Everson highlights urban issues, and includes youth performers "krump" dancing and performing other musical theater. Tickets are $10 general public and $5 Film Center members. For more information, call (312) 846-2600.
Little Red Leaves @ Open Books
Contributors to the online poetry journal Little Red Leaves will be reading their work at Open Books (213 W. Institute Place) tonight at 7pm. Come by (for free!) and watch some of LRL's finest do their thing.
Fractured Lens Video Showcase @ The Portage Theater
Tonight short filmmakers and aspiring video artists from the tri-state area will converge on the Portage Theater (4050 North Milwaukee) for the Fractured Lens Video Festival. Going on its fourth incarnation, this festival highlights the best in short film and video projects made locally by amateurs, professionals and hobbyists by giving them a platform to display their work to the public and on the big screen. This year's event will contain live elements, including a big show opener.
The doors open at 7pm and the show starts promptly at 8pm. For more information about this event, or if you are interested in submitting work to be considered for inclusion in the festival, please visit www.fracturedlensvideo.com.
From Pullman to Albany Park: Great Walks in Chicago and Other Pursuits @ Sulzer Regional Library
Writer and explorer Max Grinnell talks about all things Chicago in a free discussion of his latest book, 24 Great Walks in Chicago. Find out more about Max and his book at TheUrbanologist.com. 7pm. Sulzer Regional Library, 4455 N. Lincoln Ave. (312) 744-7616.
US Surgeon General @ Pritzker Auditorium
The US Surgeon General, Dr. Regina M. Benjamin, speaks tonight at 6pm in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St., as part of the Chicago Public Library's ongoing MacArthur Fellows Science Series. The event is free, but space is limited. More information here.
The Mighty Uke @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 2010 documentary The Mighty Uke, detailing the history of the ukulele and its recent resurgence in music. The screening begins tonight at 8pm. The directors will be in attendance, and patrons are invited to bring their ukes along for a jam session following the screening. See the Film Center Website for full details. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Chicago Nerds Book Club @ Noble Tree Cafe
The Chicago Nerds Social Club present their monthly book club meeting & discussion at Noble Tree Cafe (2444 N. Clark). The book for discussion this evening is The Space Merchants by Frederik Pohl and Cyril M. Kornbluth. The meeting runs tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm, and admission is free.
Vintage Heaven: The Cat's Meow @ Heaven Gallery
Stock up on fall essentials during this popular group sale, featuring vintage clothing, shoes, accessories, and other accoutrement. Heaven Gallery holds its monthly vintage sale, Vintage Heaven, today from 12pm to 6pm. Heaven Gallery is located at 1550 N Milwaukee, 2nd floor. Free.
The Mighty Uke @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 2010 documentary The Mighty Uke, detailing the history of the ukulele and its recent resurgence in music. Today's screening is at 2pm, and there will be a second screening tomorrow evening at 8pm. At both screenings the directors will be in attendance, and patrons are invited to bring their ukes along for a jam session following the screening. See the Film Center Website for full details. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Detroit @ Steppenwolf
This afternoon is your last chance to see Lisa D'Amour's entirely modern and brilliantly written perspective on the dwindling American suburb, Detroit. Everyone will construct his or her own theories on what the play is about so construct your own at The Steppenwolf at 3pm today 1650 N. Halsted Street in Lincoln Park. Student tickets are available for $15 otherwise plan on paying upwards of $63.
Vintage Heaven: The Cat's Meow @ Heaven Gallery
Stock up on fall essentials during this popular group sale featuring vintage clothing, shoes, accessories, and other accoutrement. Heaven Gallery holds its monthly vintage sale, Vintage Heaven, today from 12pm to 6pm. Heaven Gallery is located at 1550 N Milwaukee, 2nd floor. Free.
Coffee & Art: Urban China @ MCA
Urban China: Informal Cities, a retrospective of the only magazine devoted to issues of urbanism published in China, marks Urban China's first U.S. commission. Employing diagrams, photographs, texts, and archive of artifacts and images, Urban China has become a think tank and databank recording the fastest urbanization in history. After viewing Urban China in the MCA's gallery, the group considers it within the context of a long history of exhibitions about the city, discussing what aspects of cities are represented, and which aspects tend to be left out. Led by architect, writer, and UIC professor Alexander Eisenschmidt. To register, call the MCA Box Office at (312) 397-4010. This event is today from 10am to noon. Admission is $20, $14 for students.
Urban Folk Circuit
The Urban Folk Circuit brings more than 30 crafters to the Glenwood Bar, 6962 N. Glenwood Ave., tonight from 3pm to 8pm. Free. Details on Facebook.
Back to the Future 25th Anniversary Screening
Yet another screening of the classic film Back to the Future happens at two Chicago area theaters this afternoon at 12:30pm: AMC South Barrington 30 and AMC River East 21. Click here for full information and to purchase tickets.
Poetry and Prints Reading Series @ Spudnik Press Cooperative
Watch San Francisco, New York, and Chicago poets and artists -- and one musician -- perform tonight at the Spudnik Press Cooperative (1821 W Hubbard, Suite 308) from 8 - 11pm. $5 suggested donation.
Paula Treichler: History of the Condom
Prof. Paula Treichler discusses the History of the Condom at the Main Hall C of the UIC Forum, 725 W. Roosevelt Rd., today at 3pm as part of the Chicago Humanities Festival. Tickets are $5. Read our interview with Prof. Treichler.
Open Books Presents The Revelry: A Night Fair @ Salvage One
Award-winning literacy non-profit Open Books presents The Revelry: A
Night Fair, a gala celebrating the organization's expansion and mission. Featuring music from The Flat Cats and entertainers like a magician, juggler, stilt-walker, and caricature artist, it's sure to be a night to remember. Drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and a silent auction are also included in the ticket price of $100, which can be purchased here. 7pm -10:30pm, 1840 West Hubbard Street.
Marwen Benefit Art Fair with Threadless @ Marwen's Gallery
Marwen announces its fifth annual Art Fair, a celebration, exhibition, and sale featuring approximately 150 works created by Marwen students, alumni, staff, and teaching artists. Half of the proceeds of each work sold benefits Marwen's free art programs for Chicago's under-served young people; the other half benefits the artist.Lowry Hill is the presenting sponsor of Art Fair. Art Fair attendees may vote for the winners of the "Threadless Live at Marwen" t-shirt design challenge; full proceeds of Threadless display art sold at the event benefit Marwen.
The Art Fair is today from 5:30 to 11pm (DJ set begins at 8pm) in Marwen's River North gallery space at 833 North Orleans. A suggested donation of $40 includes food and drinks; $30 advance tickets available (before October 31) at Marwen.org. The phone number for general inquiries is (312) 944-2418.
The Interview Show @ Hideout
Mark Bazer hosts The Interview Show tonight at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, from 6:30pm to 8pm. Guests include Rhymefest, hip hop artist and 20th Ward aldermanic candidate; Thomas Geoghegan, labor lawyer and author of Were You Born on the Wrong Continent?; documentary director Ruth Leitman; and Sones de Mexico Ensemble. $5 admission, 21+.
Story Club @ Uncommon Ground on Clark
Story Club, a monthly open mic storytelling series, combines the spontaneity of an open mic with featured readings at Uncommon Ground (3800 N. Clark). Tonight's featured readers are Gail Duberchin & Michael Van Kerckhove. Open mic sign-up at 8pm, go time at 8:30. This event is free. For more information visit Uncommon Ground or Story Club.
Hard Boiled 14th Anniversary @ Butterfly Social Club
Hard Boiled Records celebrates its 14th anniversary tonight with a party at Butterfly Social Club (722 W. Grand). Mark Ferguson, the owner of Hard Boiled, will be screening classic Hong Kong gangster films starting at 8pm and DJing later in the evening. Admission is free, and there's a $4 beer & shot special.
Nerves of Steel @ Hungry Brain
THE2NDHAND and King Coal present
"Nerves of Steel," an evening of readings at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., tonight starting at 8pm. Writers Chris Bower and Tim Racine, Drowning Tuscon author Aaron Michael Morales and rogue advice columnist Naomi Des Moines read, Good Evening performs, and Kate Duva and Harold Ray host. No cover, 21+
Horror Plays @ Prop Theatre
Cock & Bull Theatre presents the final weekend of splatter fest Axe Lizzie & The Possession of Alice Von Truskin, written and directed by Chris Garcia Peak. Performances are for ages 18 and over only, and take place at Prop Theatre, 3502 N Elston, 8pm. Tickets are $20 -$25 (student discount available), and may be purchased at cockandbulltheatre.org, theatremania.com, or (866) 811-4111.
Mariachi Reyna de los Angeles @ Harris Theater
Join America's first all female mariachi ensemble, Mariachi Reyna de los Angeles, for an energetic performance. This 12-member ensemble is Grammy-nominated and continues to break stereotypes and shape new cultural traditions. The performances begins at 5pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $25-45 and may be purchased at the Harris Theater website or by calling (312) 334-7777.
Spooky Singalong @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a Spooky Singalong for the whole family to attend. The singalong will be led by the school's Wiggleworms faculty, and you are encouraged to attend in costume. The singalong begins at 11am in the concert hall at 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. Tickets are $12, or $11 for school members. See the Old Town School Website for details, or call the school box office at (773) 728-6000.
Facets Fright School: Fall of the House of Usher
Facets Cinematheque presents the last screening in their current series of midnight movies, Facets Fright School. Tonight's film is the 1928 silent film version of The Fall of the House of Usher, with a live musical score performed by Cursed Bird. Facets Fright School starts tonight at midnight. Admission is $5. For more information about Facets Fright School please contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton.
Nerdcore Night @ Martyrs
Martyrs plays host to nerdcore bands Dual Core, Beefy and Former Fat Boys tonight at 9pm. Tickets are $13 and are available in advance through Music Today. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 404-9494.
Yakuo Yokoshi's "Tyler Tyler" @ The Dance Center
The Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago presents the Chicago debut of Hiroshima-born choreographer Yasuko Yokoshi. Yokoshi's work "Tyler Tyler," offers a contemporary perspective on Kabuki Su-odori dance, a stripped-down form of Kabuki that has been revered for its purity and simplicity. Chicagoans can take advantage of this rare opportunity to view Kabuki Su-odori through a contemporary lens at 8 pm, at The Dance Center, 1306 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $26-30, and may be purchased via The Dance Center website.
Horror Plays @ Prop Theatre
Cock & Bull Theatre presents the final weekend of splatter fest Axe Lizzie & The Possession of Alice Von Truskin, written and directed by Chris Garcia Peak. Performances are for ages 18 and over only, and take place at Prop Theatre, 3502 N Elston, 8pm and 10pm. Tickets are $20 -$25 (student discount available), and may be purchased at cockandbulltheatre.org, theatremania.com, or (866) 811-4111.
Chicago Sinfonietta @ Harris Theater
The Chicago Sinfonietta celebrates and pays tribute to Maestro Paul Freeman in his final year as Music Director In a special concert, commemorating the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). The concert takes place at 7:30pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $10-50, and may be purchased at the Harris Theater website or by calling (312) 334-7777.
Halloween Button Party @ Ronny's Pancho's
Busy Beaver hosts a glow-in-the-dark Halloween button party at Ronny's, 2101 N. California Ave., starting at 7pm tonight. White Mystery, Loose Dudes and Pink Torpedo perform, and all sorts of glow-in-the-dark buttons will be around. $5, all ages. UPDATE: The party has been moved to Pancho's, 2200 N. California Ave.
Japanese Culinary History @ Chicago History Museum
Join author Elizabeth Andoh to talk about Japanese food at the Chicago History Museum today at 10am, North and Clark Avenue. Event sponsored by the Culinary Historians of Chicago. Admission $3-5.
Facets Fright School: Nekromantik
Facets Cinematheque presents the latest in their current series of midnight movies, Facets Fright School. Tonight's film is Nekromantik from 1987, a German film about a street sweeper who takes home a corpse to his wife. Trouble naturally ensues. Nekromantik will be presented by Facets video consultant Chris Damen. Facets Fright School starts tonight at midnight. Admission is $5. For more information about Facets Fright School please contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton.
Nerd-O-Ween 2.0
The Chicago Nerds Social Club present their second annual Nerd-O-Ween celebration tonight at Flounders Bar & Grill (2201 N. Clybourn) starting at 8pm. Dressing in costume is encouraged, and prizes will be given out for the best, silliest, most accurate, nerdiest and most original costumes. Admission is $10 in advance, $15 at the door, or free if you bring a Nerd O'Lantern (a jack o'lantern with a nerdy carving). See the Chicago Nerds Website for full details and to purchase tickets.
Horror Plays @ Prop Theatre
Cock & Bull Theatre presents the final weekend of splatter fest Axe Lizzie & The Possession of Alice Von Truskin, written and directed by Chris Garcia Peak. Performances are for ages 18 and over only, and take place at Prop Theatre, 3502 N Elston, 8 pm. Tickets are $20 -$25 (student discount available), and may be purchased at cockandbulltheatre.org, theatremania.com, or 866-811-4111.
It's Your Funeral @ Tattoo Factory Gallery
The Tattoo Factory Gallery (4443 N. Broadway) presents the opening night of It's your Funeral, an art show inspired by death. Sounds fun, no? The opening is tonight at 6pm. For more information see the gallery's Facebook page.
Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba @ Auditorium Theatre
Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba lights up Roosevelt University's Auditorium Theatre with flamenco, ballet and contemporary dance set to Spanish and Afro-Cuban rhythms. The company, made up of eighteen female dancers, celebrates the uniqueness of Cuban culture in this lively engagement. The performance takes place at 8 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets run $30-69 and may be purchased by phone at 800.982.ARTS (2787), online at Ticketmaster.com, or at the Auditorium Theatre Box Office, 50 E. Congress Parkway.
Yakuo Yokoshi's "Tyler Tyler" @ The Dance Center
The Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago presents the Chicago debut of Hiroshima-born choreographer Yasuko Yokoshi. Yokoshi's work "Tyler Tyler," offers a contemporary perspective on Kabuki Su-odori dance, a stripped-down form of Kabuki that has been revered for its purity and simplicity. Chicagoans can take advantage of this rare opportunity to view Kabuki Su-odori through a contemporary lens at 8pm, at The Dance Center, 1306 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $26-30, and may be purchased via The Dance Center website. There will be a post-performance discussion with the artists following this performance.
Neo-Obama Portrait-O-Rama
The Neo-Futurists are holding a theater benefit tonight to unveil the Barack Obama portrait in their long-running art installation Hall of Presidents (the portraits of every US President that hang in the entrance hall of the Neo-Futurarium theater). Included tonight will be refreshments, music and performances by the Neo-Futurists, and a silent auction of the runner-up Obama portraits. Tickets are $25 in advance, $35 at the door. See the Neo-Futurists Website for details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland, at Foster. (773) 275-5255.
Horror Plays @ Prop Theatre
Cock & Bull Theatre presents the final weekend of splatter fest Axe Lizzie & The Possession of Alice Von Truskin, written and directed by Chris Garcia Peak. Performances are for ages 18 and over only, and take place at Prop Theatre, 3502 N Elston, 8 pm. Tickets are $20 -$25 (student discount available), and may be purchased at cockandbulltheatre.org, theatremania.com, or 866-811-4111.
Darger Puppet Show by The Anatomy Collective @ Intuit
Following the Contemporary Authors and the Artistic Process panel event, theater group The Anatomy Collective (TAC) was given about three weeks to develop an exclusive puppet show that blended the tracings, clippings, ephemera and writing generated and collected by Darger with the book collectively created by attendees of CUL's panel. The resulting performance today showcases TAC's talents and resourcefulness in a whimsical epic that re-interprets Darger's (home) life and (studio) work and the readers and viewers it continues to inspire. Admission: donations. 6pm. Intuit is located at 756 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba @ Auditorium Theatre
Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba lights up Roosevelt University's Auditorium Theatre with flamenco, ballet and contemporary dance set to Spanish and Afro-Cuban rhythms. The company, made up of 18 female dancers, celebrates the uniqueness of Cuban culture in this lively engagement. The performance takes place at 7:30 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets run $30-69 and may be purchased by phone at 800.982.ARTS (2787), online at Ticketmaster.com, or at the Auditorium Theatre Box Office, 50 E. Congress Parkway.
BOO-ze! Haunted History Tour--SOLD OUT!
Join the Chicago History Museum for a trolley tour of haunted pubs in the city Scary drunks are the best! Admission $25-30.
Playboy and the Making of the Good Life in Modern America @ Loyola University
Author and Loyola History professor Elizabeth Fraterrigo discusses her latest work, Playboy and the Making of the Good Life in Modern America, in which she researches and explores how the magazine influenced American life and culture. 6pm, 1032 West Sheridan, Richard Klarchek Information Commons, 4th Floor. Free.
The Moth Storyslam @ Martyrs
Martyrs and The Moth present the latest in their series of Storyslam events tonight at 8pm. Ten randomly chosen people will compete to be the evening's winner and move on to the Grandslam Championships. The event starts tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $8 at the door. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 404-9494.
Paranormal Preservation @ Excalibur with Preservation Chicago
Join Preservation Chicago at Excalibur, 632 N. Dearborn St., from 6-8pm for a Halloween celebration. Sean Parnell, author of Historic Bars of Chicago, will give a brief talk about the haunted history of the Dome Room and will sign books. The $30 ticket includes two drinks, an appetizer buffet and a one year membership for new members.
BOO-ze! Haunted History Tour--SOLD OUT!
Join the Chicago History Museum for a trolley tour of haunted pubs in the city Scary drunks are the best! Admission $25-30.
Halloween Havoc 3 @ Portage Theater
The Portage Theater kicks off its 3rd annual Halloween Havoc series of horror movies tonight with two car-related films: The Car at 7pm; and Duel at 9:10pm. The series runs through October 29. See the Portage Theater Website for full details. Portage Theater: 4050 N. Milwaukee. (773) 736-4050.
The Chicago Chamber Musicians @ Harris Theater
This program, entitled "The Complete CCM," features Dohnányi's Sextet in C Major, Op. 37 for wind, strings, and piano, Bartók's String Quartet No. 2 in A minor, Sz. 67, and Schumann's Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 47. The concert takes place at 7:30pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $10-40, and may be purchased at the Harris Theater website or by calling the box office at (312) 334-7777.
Philip Glass' "The Seasons Project" @ Harris Theater
The Venice Baroque Orchestra, one of Europe's premiere ensembles devoted to period instrument performance, performs Vivaldi's Four Seasons on Baroque-style instruments and then uses modern instruments for Philip Glass' Violin Concerto No. 2: The American Four Seasons. American violin virtuoso Robert McDuffie will perform as both soloist and leader. The performance takes place at 3pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $45-75 and may be purchased through the Harris Theater website.
Joffrey Ballet "All Stars" @ Auditorium Theatre
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 2 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Informal Cities Colloquium @ MCA
Audience members are invited to join a discussion between four architecture practitioners and writers on global informal urban development. The presentations are led by Alexander Eisenschmidt, Daniela Fabricus, Jesse LeCavalier, and Jiang Jun, editor-in-chief of Urban China, a publication devoted to issues of Chinese urbanism and the catalyst for the the latest exhibition at the MCA, Urban China: Informal Cities. Informal Cities Colloquium takes place at the MCA, located at 220 East Chicago from 2-4pm. Free.
Facets Fright School: Evil Ed
Facets Cinematheque presents the latest in their current series of midnight movies, Facets Fright School. Tonight's film is the Swedish film Evil Ed, about an editor who's forced to work on a low-budget horror film, with disastrous results. The film will be introduced by film enthusiast Jason Frederick. Facets Fright School starts tonight at midnight. Admission is $5. For more information about Facets Fright School please contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton.
Joffrey Ballet "All Stars" @ Auditorium Theatre
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performances take place at 2 pm and 7:30 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago
Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago presents their fall engagement, featuring three world premieres in "LiveLife.Dance." The performance begins at 8pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $15-$60, and may be purchased through the Harris Theater website.
IRREGULAR a fashion homage by Renovar @ Heaven Gallery
Alma Weiser -- appointed "mother" of Heaven Gallery and the designer behind Renovar -- pays homage to the Japanese designers of the late 20th century (Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto and Rei Kawakubo for Comme Des Garcons) and their anti-fashion movement in a runway show that highlights their aesthetic from the late 60s to present day. IRREGULAR a fashion homage by Renovar takes place at Heaven Gallery, 1550 N Milwaukee, 2nd floor. Doors open at 8pm and the show begins at 9pm. Refreshments are provided and a $10 donation is suggested. RSVP here.
Penguin Foot Pottery Grand Opening
Long-time art teacher and ceramics artist Chris Busse is opening his own studio with partner Paige Bailey, and offering a variety of classes for all ages and skill levels: learn to hand-sculpt, throw with the wheel, or work with tile, in a bright, attractive space conveniently located near the Western Blue Line stop. Exhibiting artists include Chris Busse (ceramics), Tina Chan (jewelry), and Sean Hewe (paintings).
5% off classes for anyone who registers during the grand opening. Beverages and finger foods will be served. 2514 W. Armitage, 6pm - 9pm. Free!
Facets Fright School: Fright Night
Facets Cinematheque presents the latest in their current series of midnight movies, Facets Fright School. Tonight's film is the 1980s horror classic Fright Night with Roddy McDowell as a TV horror movie show host who has to confront real monsters. The movie will be introduced by Facets instructor Cary Jones Elza. Facets Fright School starts tonight at midnight. Admission is $5. For more information about Facets Fright School please contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton.
Mugs @ LVL3 Gallery
More than just a means of holding your morning coffee, mugs are objects to be bought, sold, collected, and given. As our culture changes, so too does our relationship to such everyday objects. Mugs, held in conjunction with Chicago Artists Month, is an unconventional approach to artistic expression where each artist selects a mug that holds personal symbolic meaning. The opening reception for Mugs takes place tonight from 6pm to 10pm at the temporary LVL3 project space in the Merchandise Mart, 222 West Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 1573. The exhibition runs through October 31.
Dance Slam @ University of Chicago
Dance Chicago 2010's Dance Slam, a competition featuring dancers who perform various dance styles including tap, ballet and hip hop, is tonight at 7:30pm at University of Chicago's Mandel Hall, 1131 E. 57th St. Tickets are $25 and are available online or at the door (cash only). Contact (773) 989-0698 for more information.
Phil Spector Documentary @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the 2010 documentary The Agony And Ecstasy of Phil Spector, featuring an extended interview with Spector and countless examples of his classic musical creations. The film screens tonight at 6:15pm and 8:15pm, and runs at the Film Center through Thursday, October 28. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago @ Harris Theater
Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago presents their fall engagement, featuring three world premieres in "LiveLife.Dance." The performance begins at 8 pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $15-60, and may be purchased through the Harris Theater website.
The Level Eater @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
In conjunction with Pentagon gallery, Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S. Morgan St.) presents THE LEVEL EATER, opens up tonight at 8pm. This exhibition features the work of Jeriah Hildwine, Luke Willard, Michael Garcia, Nick Bahr and Sam Sieger. This three day event combines two worlds, turning gaming into art and art into gaming. Games of Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer, Magic: The Gathering and "unique" fantasy games to explore, view and participate in. If you are still interested in participating in this event as a player or want to run a little adventure please email pentagon961@gmail.com. To RSVP, please click here.
Joffrey Ballet "All Stars" @ Auditorium Theatre
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 7:30 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Decorative Taste/Religious Space: Contextualizing the Redecoration of the 2nd Presbyterian Church of Chicago
What exactly did go into the 1901 redesign of the Second Presbyterian Church of Chicago? PhD candidate (Art History, Indiana University) and pre-doctoral Fellow at the Smithsonian American Art Museum Elizabeth McGoey explores the values and design that went into historic structure's interior. 6pm reception, 7pm lecture, 1936 S. Michigan Avenue, $5.
Black Prairie @ Schubas
Schubas presents a performance by Black Prairie, featuring three-fifths of The Decemberists, tonight at 9pm. Opening acts are Canasta and Honda Pavarotti. It's a 21+ show, tickets are $12 and can be purchased at the Schubas site. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport. (773) 525-2508.
Joffrey Ballet "All Stars" @ Auditorium Theatre
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 7:30 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Gurlesque @ Hokin Hall
When poet Arielle Greenberg says "Gurlesque," she means "an emerging Third Wave feminist aesthetic that foregrounds the girly in work that is subversive, carnal, performative, grotesque, and brash." And Greenberg, along with poet-critic Lara Glenum, have edited an anthology of Gurlesque work for everyone to enjoy. Tonight, hear them tell you what it's all about -- for free! -- at Hokin Hall, Room 109 (623 S. Wabash), at 5pm. Catherine Wagner will also be on hand to read some Gurlesque poems.
Everything Is Terrible! @ Hungry Brain
Everything Is Terrible! presents a fall video show tonight at 9pm at the Hungry Brain (2319 W. Belmont). Tonight's special guest is ventriloquist April Camlin. The show is free, but donations will be accepted and go to Odd Obsession Video.
Night of the Living Entertainers @ Martyrs
Martyrs plays host to Night of the Living Entertainers, an evening of various forms of entertainment from video mixing to dance to music. Show starts at 8pm, and tickets are $7. Martyrs: 3855 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 404-9494.
Sphinx Chamber Orchestra @ Harris Theater
The internationally acclaimed Sphinx Chamber Orchestra returns to Chicago for a one-night performance. The program also features the Harlem Quartet, and includes works by Bach, Vivaldi and Mozart, alongside seldom-presented works by Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson, George Walker, Michael Abels and Astor Piazzolla. The performance beings at 7:30 pm, at the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph Dr. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased online at the Harris Theater website.
CCPA Musical Theatre Showcase @ Miller Studio Theatre
CCPA's musical theatre undergraduate students present ane evening of musical selections. The event takes place at Miller Studio Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. at 2 pm. Tickets are $6. Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
Ag47 Meet & Greet @ Grace UMC
The Logan Square arts mentoring organization Ag47 (previously discussed in A/C) is recruiting girls aged 11-16. At this "make and take" event, girls will get to tackle a short creative project, while their parents are encouraged to meet the mentors and find out more about this year's program. Applications for girls who want to participate are also due by the end of the day: they're available for download on Ag47's site. The event will take place from 4-6pm at Grace United Methodist Church, 3325 W. Wrightwood. Contact Ag47 via email with any questions.
Fresh @ Chicago History Museum
Learn more about today's food production innovators and thinkers at this lecture today at 1:30pm at the Chicago History Museum, Broadway and North. Free with museum admission.
Joffrey Ballet "All Stars" @ Auditorium Theatre
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 2 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Facets Fright School: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre
Facets Cinematheque presents the latest in their current series of midnight movies, Facets Fright School. Tonight's film is the infamous Tobe Hooper film The Texas Chainsaw Massacre from 1974. The film will be introduced by Facets volunteer Dominick Mayer. Facets Fright School starts tonight at midnight. Admission is $5. For more information about Facets Fright School please contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton.
CCPA Musical Theatre Showcase @ Miller Studio Theatre
CCPA's musical theatre undergraduate students present an evening of musical selections. The event takes place at Miller Studio Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. at 2 and 7:30pm. Tickets are $6. Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
Shakespeare Project of Chicago @ Newberry Library
The Newberry Library Center for Renaissance Studies presents its first Shakespeare Project of Chicago staged reading of the 2010-11 season. The center will perform a reading of Measure for Measure at 10am at the Newberry Library, 40 W. Walton St. The performance is free and will be followed by a discussion with the director and cast. No tickets required.
BamBUDDHAed! @ Portage ARTspace
BAMBuddhaed! Or I Ching, You Ching, We All Ching... for I Ching opens up this evening at Portage ARTspace, 4837 West Berenice at 5pm. This exhibition co-curated by Larry Lee and Johannah Silva, blurs the literal boundary between home and gallery and investigates how we neatly file artwork neatly in terms of feng shui. For more information and to RSVP, please click here.
Luna Negra Fall Season @ Harris Theater
Luna Negra Dance Company celebrates its first season led by Artistic Director Gustavo Ramirez Sansano, featuring contemporary Latino dance including "Toda una Vida" by Gustavo Ramírez Sansano, the world premiere of "Bate" by Fernando Melo, and the North American premiere of "Deshár Alhát" by Eduardo Vilaro. The performance takes place at 6:30pm at Harris Theater in Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Dr. Tickets are $22-55, and can be purchased by calling (312) 334-7777, or visiting www.harristheater.org for tickets.
Joffrey Ballet "All Stars" @ Auditorium Theatre
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performances take place at 2 pm and 7:30 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Tristan Perich's "1-Bit Symphony" @ Lampo
LAMPO kicks off its fall 2010 season with Tristan Perich, whose array of intentionally crude electronic triggering devices come together in what he calls a "1-Bit Symphony." This LAMPO-sponsored performance takes place at the Graham Foundation's Madlener House (4 W. Burton Pl., Chicago) tonight at 8pm. The event is FREE, but reservations are required. Get your RSVP here.
Facets Fright School: Fulci's The Black Cat
Facets Cinematheque presents the latest in their current series of midnight movies, Facets Fright School. Tonight's film is Lucio Fulci's 1981 film The Black Cat, which is not quite the Edgar Allan Poe tale that the title suggests. The film will be introduced by Facets writer & teacher Michele Zaladonis. Facets Fright School starts tonight at midnight. Admission is $5. For more information about Facets Fright School please contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton.
Patterns @ Betty Dare Art Gallery
Come out tonight at 7pm to Betty Dare Art Gallery, 1319 W. Chicago Ave to experience Patterns, featuring the Paula Henderson's installation, Ryan Morris' stencils and June Farley's photographs. Cocktails will be served. To RSVP please click here.
(hybrid)nate * germinate Opens @ Church of T.H.ink
(hybrid)nate * germinate is an interactive group exhibit promoting a hybrid of visual, audible, and functional arts in a environment playfully designed to elicit humor, expression, TEXTural touch, and productivity, opening tonight. Church of T.H.ink is in an under developed district in need of artistic renewal and has given the artists and gallery an ability to hibernate and compose ideas which can stimulate and redefine the germination of new concepts and products. Church of T.H.ink is located at 3722 W. Chicago Ave. For event details, click here. Contact the people behind the madness at 773-269-8351 or churchofthink@gmail.com.
Licking Eyeballs & Loving it! Opens @ Pawn Works
Tonight Pawn Works presents Licking Eyeballs & Loving it!: New works by Matt Scobey x Josh Wills. The opening reception is from 7-11pm. Pawn Works is located at 1050 N. Damen Ave. For event details, click here or visit Pawn Works' website.
CCPA Musical Theatre Showcase @ Miller Studio Theatre
CCPA's musical theatre undergraduate students present an evening of musical selections. The event takes place at Miller Studio Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave., at 7:30pm. Tickets are $6. Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
Winnebago Man @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the first Chicago run of the 2009 documentary Winnebago Man, an investigation into the identity of the star of the Winnebago video out-takes that you may have seen on the YouTubes. The film screens tonight at 6:15pm and 8:00pm, and runs at the Film Center through October 21. See the Film Center Website for full details. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Existence Value @ Roots and Culture
Come out tonight to Roots and Culture, 1034 N Milwaukee Ave. at 6pm to experience the Paul and Scott Cowan's exhibition. Existence Value investigates the intrinsic value people and cultures give to things. This exhibition investigates how signs hold a particular magnetism to all individuals. For RSVP and more information, please click here.
Joffrey Ballet "All Stars" @ Auditorium Theatre
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 7:30pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Ben Greenman @ Borders Lincoln Park
New Yorker editor and short story author Ben Greenman is here to discuss his latest work, Celebrity Chekov, which takes an assortment of the famous Russian author's tales, and works modern-day celebrities into them in a way that has been described as "strange," "high-concept," "at once a tribute and travesty," and "rectangular." 2817 North Clark St., 7pm. Free.
The New Cult Canon: Kiss Kiss Bang Bang @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre and The AV Club present the latest in their New Cult Canon screenings: Shane Black's Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, with Robert Downey Jr. and Val Kilmer. The screening happens tonight at 7:30pm. Tickets are $9.25 in advance, and can be purchased through Brown Paper Tickets. Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
CCPA Musical Theater Showcase @ Miller Studio Theatre
CCPA's musical theatre undergraduate students present an evening of musical selections. The event takes place at Miller Studio Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. at 7:30pm. Tickets are $6. Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
THIS WAS THE KIND OF PRESENTATION OF ALL THE MATERIAL @ LG Space
Come out to the LG Space, 37 South Wabash Room 220 this evening at 4pm to experience THIS WAS THE KIND OF PRESENTATION OF ALL THE MATERIAL. Benjamin Chaffee's exhibition is a performance composed of objects, lectures, and a play. For more information and to RSVP, please click here.
Joffrey Ballet "All Stars" @ Auditorium Theatre
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars", a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 7:30pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Sound Opinions Movie Night: The Wall
Sound Opinions and the Music Box Theatre present the latest in the Sound Opinions Movie Nights. Tonight's film is Pink Floyd's The Wall. The screening begins tonight at 7:30pm (doors open at 6:30). Tickets are $9 in advance, $10 at the door, and can be purchased online. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Threadless Book Release @ MCA
Threadless celebrates the release of Threadless: Ten Years of T-shirts from the World's Most Inspiring Online Design Community at the Museum of Contemporary Art store, 220 E. Chicago Ave., tonight from 6pm to 8pm. Co-founder Jake Nickell will be on hand to sign books, and anyone who buys it will receive a limited edition shirt. The event is free; RSVP on Facebook.
POW-WOW Tuesday Series @ Jeffrey Pub
Rumored to be an "authentic alternative reading series," POW-WOW runs every Tuesday at Jeffrey Pub (7104 S. Jeffrey). For the $5 cover, you get food served at 7:30pm with an open mic at 8:30pm. Tonight, POW-WOW will celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Week with African drumming (with Yaounde Olu) + poetry readings. Come out in support of boobs! And poetry!
Chicago Nerds Book Club @ Noble Tree Cafe
The Chicago Nerd Social Club has its 14th Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Club meeting tonight at Noble Tree Cafe (2444 N. Clark) at 6:30pm. Tonight's book is The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov (the 2001 Penguin Classics printing is recommended). This event is free and open to the public. For full details please see the Chicago Nerds Website.
Innervation Dance Cooperative's "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes" @ Theater Wit
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes," a contemporary rock ballet based on Greek myths such as The Birth of Zeus, The Creation and Destruction of Medusa, The Sirens, and Orpheus and Euridice, set to music by popular artists including Pink, Feist, Coldplay, and Beck. The performance takes place at 2:30pm at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. Tickets are $20 for adults, or $15 for students and seniors. To purchase tickets visit www.theaterwit.org, call (773) 975-8150, or purchase at the box office on the day of the performance.
Mainstage Theatre's "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare" (Abridged) @ O'Malley Theatre
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare are long, so Mainstage Theatre presentsa 90-minute roller coaster of Shakespeare. The performance begins at 2 pm at O'Malley Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $6 for students, $10 for adults.
Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
Nick Lowe @ Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a concert by Nick Lowe & His Band, with opening act Geriant Watkins. The concert starts tonight at 7pm. Tickets are $38 ($36 for school members, and $34 for seniors/children). See the Old Town School Website for full details and to purchase tickets. Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
Brazilian Music Festival @ Nichols Hall
The Music Institute of Chicago (MIC) presents its second annual Brazilian Music Festival, featuring MIC ensemble-in-residence Orquestra de Samba performing the music of Brazilian giants Pixinguinha, Antonio Carlos Jobim, and Heitor Villa Lobos. Brazilian guest artist Dill Costa, along with MIC faculty artists Jim Setapen, Julia Miller, and Fiona Queen, will explore the relationship between Brazilian popular and classical music. The program takes place at 3pm at Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston.Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for students, and are available at musicinst.org or (847) 905-1500 ext. 108.
Facets Fright School: Mystics In Bali
Facets Cinematheque presents the latest in their current series of midnight movies, Facets Fright School. Tonight's film is a gruesome Indonesian film from 1981, Mystics In Bali, famous for its disturbing imagery and dreamlike tone. The film will be introduced by Everything Is Terrible! member Katherine Rife. Facets Fright School starts tonight at midnight. Admission is $5. For more information about Facets Fright School please contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton.
Winifred Haun & Dancers Flash Mob @ Oak Park
Winifred Haun & Dancers are hosting a flash mob in Oak Park today as part of Oak Park's annual Artrageous!. One performance will take place on the steps of the Hemingway Museum (aka Arts Center), 339 N. Oak Park Ave., at 11am, and the other on the plaza of the Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake St. at 12pm. Come out and watch! Or join the flash mob! To find out how, visit WinifredHaun.org, email wini@winifredhaun.org, or call (773) 454-9843.
Mainstage Theatre's "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare" (Abridged) @ O'Malley Theatre
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare are long, so Mainstage Theatre presentsa 90-minute roller coaster of Shakespeare. The performance begins at 7:30pm at O'Malley Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $6 for students, $10 for adults.
Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
Hip Hopera @ Harris Theater
The New Millennium Orchestra presents this fun musical program for kids and tweens with a program explores the intersection of popular music and classical opera. The performance beings at 2pm, at the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph Dr. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased online at the Harris Theater website.
Music Box Massacre 6
The Music Box Theatre and Movieside team up to present Music Box Massacre, a 24-hour festival of horror films that runs from noon today through noon tomorrow. There will be dealers selling horror memorabilia, vintage film trailers between the feature films, special guests, and much more. Tickets are $28 in advance, and $33 at the door. See the Music Box Website for full details and to purchase tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Innervation Dance Cooperative's "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes" @ Theater Wit
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes," a contemporary rock ballet based on Greek myths such as The Birth of Zeus, The Creation and Destruction of Medusa, The Sirens, and Orpheus and Euridice, set to music by popular artists including Pink, Feist, Coldplay, and Beck. The performance takes place at 8 pm at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. Tickets are $20 for adults, or $15 for students and seniors. To purchase tickets visit www.theaterwit.org, call 773-975-8150, or purchase at the box office on the day of the performance.
Facets Fright School: Carnival of Souls
Facets Cinematheque presents the latest in their current series of midnight movies, Facets Fright School. Tonight's film is the classic low-budget horror film Carnival of Souls, introduced by Facets writer Susan Doll. Facets Fright School starts tonight at midnight. Admission is $5. For more information about Facets Fright School please contact Susan Doll at (800) 331-6197. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton.
Mainstage Theatre's "The Complete Works of Willam Shakespeare" (Abridged) @ O'Malley Theater
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare are long, so Mainstage Theatre presentsa 90-minute roller coaster of Shakespeare. The performance begins at 7:30 pm at O'Malley Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $6 for students, $10 for adults.
Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run of Howard Hawks' Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, with the amazing female leads Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell on the search for love and fortune. The film screens tonight at 6:15pm and again at 8pm; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Innervation Dance Cooperative's "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes" @ Theater Wit
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes," a contemporary rock ballet based on Greek myths such as The Birth of Zeus, The Creation and Destruction of Medusa, The Sirens, and Orpheus and Euridice, set to music by popular artists including Pink, Feist, Coldplay, and Beck. The performance takes place at 8 pm at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. Tickets are $20 for adults, or $15 for students and seniors. To purchase tickets visit www.theaterwit.org, call 773-975-8150, or purchase at the box office on the day of the performance.
Vacation Group Art Show Opening @ Peanut Gallery
Peanut Gallery is having their third opening tonight-- a vacation-themed group show with paintings, drawings and photographs by twelve local artists: Daniel Schmid, Justin Nalley, Anna Timmerman, Bill Guy, Aaron Tucker, Christina Anderson, Jack Edinger, Edmund White, Sheena Jones, Kerry Couch, Charlie Megna and Kelly Reaves. BONUS: A performance by the majestic Brandon Howe during the opening reception, which is tonight from 7 to 10 at Peanut Gallery: 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Rm. 345.
LaPorte, Indiana @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of LaPorte, Indiana, the movie companion to Jason Bitner's book containing a sampling of 18,000 photos he happened upon in a diner in LaPorte, Indiana. The film screens tonight only at 8:15pm; Bitner and the film's director, Joe Beshenkovsky, will both be in attendance. See the Film Center Website for complete details. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Xiang Zou @ Ganz Hall
Xiang Zou, one of the leading pianists of his generation in China, performs Schubert, Liszt, Messiaen and more. The concert is free and takes place at Ganz Hall, 430 S. Michigan Ave. at 8pm.
Book Bike Fundraiser @ Empty Bottle
Heavemedia is proud to partner up with Gabriel Levinson of Book Bike to produce a fundraiser event. Though Book Bike hides away from the cold temperatures in its secret storage place, Gabriel and Heavemedia aren't ready to put the project to sleep.
Chicago musicians Sad Brad Smith, Adam Fitz, and Stephen Paul Smoker will be playing the event at the Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western Ave). Gabriel will also be bringing Book Bike out from storage to give away some free books during the show. Admission is only $5, with a portion of the proceeds going directly to Book Bike. Tickets can be purchased in advance here.
Love Flows Both Ways: Street Culture x Contemporary Art @ Chicago Loop Alliance
Love Flows Both Ways: Street Culture x Contemporary Art was curated by Oliver Hild of the Maxwell Colette Gallery. This show features artwork by monster-sized international art-stars: Banksy, Bast, Faile, Keith Haring, Shepard Fairey, Kaws, Buff Monster, Crash, Space Invader, Takashi Murakami, Damien Hirst, Saber, Slinkachu, Barry Mcgee, Ray CRO Noland and others. See the Facebook event page for details. The opening for this show is tonight from 5:30-10pm at 11 E. Adams St.
Musical of the Living Dead
Celebrate Halloween, zombies, and musicals throughout the month of October with Musical of the Living Dead, the story of ten very different people bound together by an undead apocalypse. Produced by The Cowardly Scarecrow Theatre Company INC, it runs every Thursday through Saturday, 7:30pm, at the Charnel House, 3421 W. Fullerton Ave (with a special performance on Halloween). It's sure to be a gory, occasionally profane good time -- adults only. For more info, go here or contact Liz McArthur at (773) 251-9601, marketing [at] musicalofthelivingdead [dot] com
CCPA Wind Ensemble @ Ganz Hall
The Chicago College of Performing Arts Wind Ensemble features Eugene Bozza's Children's Overture, Richard Strauss Serenade in Eb, Op. 7, Paul Hindemith's Konzertmusik fur Blasorchester, Op. 41, Benjamin Britten's The Courtly Dances from Gloriana, Op. 53, and American composers Frank Ticheli's Postcard and Walter Mays' Dreamcatcher . The performance is free and takes place at 7:30 pm at Ganz Hall, 430 S. Michigan Ave.
Innervation Dance Cooperative's "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes" @ Theater Wit
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes," a contemporary rock ballet based on Greek myths such as The Birth of Zeus, The Creation and Destruction of Medusa, The Sirens, and Orpheus and Euridice, set to music by popular artists including Pink, Feist, Coldplay, and Beck. The performance takes place at 8 pm at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. Tickets to this performance are $10 each. To purchase tickets visit www.theaterwit.org, call 773-975-8150, or purchase at the box office on the day of the performance.
You, Me, Them, Everybody @ Hungry Brain
Podcast You, Me, Them, Everybody brings their show live to the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., tonight at 9pm. The show will feature hosts Brandon Wetherbee and Esmeralda Leon, Sky Full of Bacon's Michael Gebert, standup by Kevin Lee, and music by Katie Jo Knaub and Jeremy Tromburg. Free, 21+.
MusicNOW @ Harris Theater
Cliff Colnot conducts this performance featuring new music performed by musicians from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Meet the composers nad musicians during a post-performance reception with free food and drink. The performance starts at 7 pm at the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $10-20. Purchase tickets at the Harris Theater website or by calling the box office at 312-334-7777.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago @ Harris Theater
You can catch HSDC's "Fall Series" at 3 pm. The company presents a series of four distinctive contemporary dance works. The performance takes place at Harris Theater in Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $25-94 and may be purchased online through HSDC's website, or by calling the Harris Theater box office at 312-334-7777.
Orion Ensemble @ Nichols Hall
Orion Ensemble marks the opening of its 18th season, with Schumann's Fantasy Pieces for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 73, Piazzolla's tango-influenced Four Seasons of Buenos Aires for Violin, Cello and Piano (1965), and Beethoven's Trio in C Minor for Violin, Viola and Cello, Op. 9, No. 3. Orion Ensemble will perform at 7:30pm at the Music Institute of Chicago's Nicholas Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave, Evanston. Tickets are $26. Senior tickets are $23, student tickets are $10, and children ages 12 and under are free. To purchase tickets or learn more, visit orionensemble.org, or call (630) 628-9591.
Superamas: EMPIRE (Art & Politics) @ MCA Stage
How is reality constructed and manipulated through the stories we share? A reconstruction of the Napoleonic Battle of Aspern-Essling in 1809 grounds this hybrid theater production that begins with a live filmed battle and travels to a present-day New York premiere party of the film. EMPIRE (Art & Politics) is running in conjunction with the exhibition Luc Tuymans, and as part of the MCA Global Stage series at the MCA Stage. The MCA Stage is located at 220 E Chicago Ave. Tickets are $28, $22 for MCA members and $10 for students. Purchase tickets through the MCA Box Office or by phone at 312-397-4010.
History, Violence, Disquiet @ MCA Theater
Featuring a reading by local author Aleksandar Hemon, a conversation with members of performance group Superamas, and a conversation with artist Luc Tuymans led by curator and writer Hamza Walker, this afternoon symposium explores how artists confront the often fragmented narratives of violence prevalent in mass-media. A book signing takes place following the program. "History, Violence, Disquiet" takes place at 1pm in the MCA Theater, located at 220 E Chicago. Tickets are $12, $8 for students and are available at the MCA Box Office or by phone at 312-397-4010.
GLI.TC/H Screening and Performance @ Nightingale
Come out tonight to Nightingale Theater, 1084 N Milwaukee Ave at 7pm to experience a night of the GLI.TC/H Festival! Featuring works and performances by Theo Darst, Jon Satrom, Ben Baker-Smith, Evan Kuhl, Jimmy Joe Roche and many more. For more information, please click here and RSVP here.
Yarncon
Yarncon returns to the Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, 1419 W. Blackhawk St., today from 10am to 4pm. Shop for yarn, attend workshops, or just soak in the crafty good vibes for just $3 admission.
Superamas: EMPIRE (Art & Politics) @ MCA Stage
How is reality constructed and manipulated through the stories we share? A reconstruction of the Napoleonic Battle of Aspern-Essling in 1809 grounds this hybrid theater production, which begins with a live filmed battle and travels to a present-day New York premiere party of the film. EMPIRE (Art & Politics) is running in conjunction with the exhibition Luc Tuymans, and as part of the MCA Global Stage series at the MCA Stage ( 220 East Chicago Avenue). The MCA Stage is located at 220 E Chicago Ave. Tickets are $28, $22 for MCA members and $10 for students. Purchase tickets and find times through the MCA Box Office or by phone at (312) 397-4010.
Kick Off Chicago Artists Month
Gapers Block hosts the opening night of Chicago Artists Month at the Pilsen East Artists Open House. Join us at 2003 S. Halsted from 6pm to 10pm to view two galleries filled with works by artists from around the city and right there in Pilsen East, enjoy complimentary drinks from local sports drink startup Greater Than, and support the vibrant art scene in Chicago. This doubles as our monthly GB Get-Together; join us after the show for an afterparty at a nearby bar, TBA.
The exhibition will be on view over the weekend, too, from noon to 7pm.
McKeever Donovan: Hold Me @ Monument2
Come out tonight at 6pm to Monument2 (2007 N. Point St.), to experience Hold Me! McKeever Donovan's sculptural works provoke an imbalance with fabricated forms, their suggestive function and dislocates the gesture.
SHADOWPLAY @ Rodan
Come out to Rodan Lounge, 1530 N. Milwaukee Ave. at 10pm tonight! Hosted by Rolan Vega, featuring DJ Sets by Sandra Nazz and Omar Padron from Nova Feedback and Erick Jimenez from Shadowplay and Polarlicht. It's free all night, no cover! For information, please click here.
The Encyclopedia Show and Silver Tongue @ The Conway Center
The Encyclopedia Show is a variety show that has its participants perform pieces on encyclopedia topics. Silver Tongue is Columbia College Chicago's student-run reading series. Watch them come together tonight at The Conway Center (1104 S Wabash) at 7pm and define the topic "bears" with poetry, film, music, and anything else they can think of. Admission is free!
Funny Ha-Ha
Funny Ha-Ha returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight at from 7pm to 8:30pm. Claire Zulkey hosts readings and performances by author Wendy McClure, "Curb Your Enthusiasm" actress Johanna Stein, 2nd Story's Megan Stielstra, blogger Meghan Haynes, comedy act "Mark and Homer Like This," and filmmaker Steve Delahoyde. $5 admission, benefitting the Neighborhood Writing Alliance. 21+
David Rakoff @ Harold Washington Library
Author and This American Life contributor David Rakoff reads from his forthcoming book Half Empty today at noon at the Harold Washington Library (400 S. State Street). Admission is free and open to the public.
Fat Bitch! @ Getz Theater
Enjoy "A Night of Comedy" tonight at Columbia College's Getz Theater, 62 E. 11th St., with Chicago native Erica Watson, as she brings her one-woman show, Fat Bitch!, back to town. The play hilariously tackles perceptions surrounding race, weight and images in society. Doors open at 7:30pm; show is from 8pm-9:30pm. Tickets are $15 and can be reserved online. Contact (312) 369-8640 for more information.
Free Dance Performances and Instruction @ The Dance Center of Columbia College
In celebration of ten years at their 1306 S. Michigan Ave. location, the Dance Center of Columbia College will present 13 hours of free dance performances, workshops, and classes. The event, 1306 - Ten Years Later, will fill the studios, theater, hallways, and even the stairwells of 1306 S. Michigan Ave. with activites from 10am until 11pm. 1306 - Ten Years Later is free to the public, and requires no tickets or RSVPs. For the full schedule of events, visit the Dance Center of Columbia College website, or call (312) 369-8300.
Celebrate the Power of Preservation @ The Former Sears Power House
Preservation Chicago's annual fund-raising event will be held this evening at the historic Sears Power House in Chicago's Lawndale neighborhood, 931 S. Homan Avenue. The party will run from 7pm-10pm, with an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, music by the Corey Wilkes quartet, tours of the building and a silent auction. Tickets are $85 in advance or $100 at the door. Free valet parking will be provided.
Michael Zerang + Dance & Voice @ Dance Center of Columbia College
Percussionist extraordinaire Michael Zerang performs with dancer Rachel Damon and vocalist Dan Mohr at the Dance Center of Columbia College, 1306 South Michigan Avenue. 8pm. Admission charge not indicated, though it's always good to have a few bucks in your pocket just in case.
The Fearmakers @ Music Box Theatre
The Music Box Theatre presents a new weekend matinee screening series for September that brings noir to the forefront. Screening as a part of the theater's "Films By Jacques Tourneur", The Fearmakers (1958) brings the communist scare in Hollywood to Washington politics. A Korean War vet finds his DC-based PR firm taken over by communists bent on influencing the public and lobbyists with their own agenda. Screening starts at 11:30am at the Music Box Theatre (3733 N. Southport). Tickets are $9.75 and can be purchased at the theater box office.
Alexis Gideon @ Roxaboxen/No Coast
Come out tonight at 8:00pm to Roxaboxen/No Coast, 2130 West 21st Street. Alexis Gideon performs his one-man video opera, Video Musics II: Sun Wu-Kong. To RSVP, please click here.
Latino Culinary Tour of Logan Square
Multilingual Chicago hosts a tour of several Logan Square area Latin American restaurants (with a one hour-long Spanish lesson!) today from 11am-3:30pm. Food, transportation and instruction included. Tickets $45.
Chicago Food Film Festival @ MCA Warehouse
The Chicago Food Film Festival, a weekend-long celebration of food on film (today and tomorrow at the MCA Warehouse, 1747 W. Hubbard), kicks off tonight at 8pm with Eat Your Fill, a documentary about a man's mission to eat every deep fried or be-sticked item at the Wisconsin State Fair, to Celeriac, a short-form thriller (no joke). Documentaries about farm stands, soda making, oysters, and raising grass-fed beef are also on the schedule, along with food; each night of the festival features dishes paired with the night's cinematic offerings. Eats from DMK Burger Bar accompanies Saturday night's showing of an abbreviated version of Hamburger America. Tickets for both nights start at $25.
Danielle Dutton and Kate Zambreno @ Women & Children First
Two recent books "ponder the banality" of contemporary, suburban American life through absurd, engaging narratives. Danielle Dutton, author of S P R A W L, and Kate Zambreno, author of O Fallen Angel, will read tonight at Women and Children First, 5233 N. Clark St., at 7:30pm. For more information, click here.
Sarah Mosk @ Kokorokoko
Come out this evening at 5:00pm to Kokorokoko, 1112 N. Ashland Ave. to check out Chicago artist, Sarah Mosk's work! This opening party features food,drink and discounts! This is your chance to meet the artist and hang out! To RSVP, please click here!
Lar Lubovitch Dance Company @ Harris Theater
Famed choreographer, Lar Lubovitch, will bring his internationally acclaimed dance company to Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph, 7:30pm. The Lar Lubovitch Dance Company headlines Harris Theatre's See the Dance series with "North Star," "Dogs of War" (2010), "Nature Boy: Kurt Elling" (2005), and "Calvalcade" (1980). Tickets are available at the Harris Theater box office, 205 E. Randolph Dr., or by calling (312) 334-7777, or via the Harris Theater website.
Orion Ensemble @ Ganz Hall
Orion Ensemble marks the opening of its 18th season, with Robert Schumann's Fantasy Pieces for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 73, Astor Piazzolla's tango-influenced Four Seasons of Buenos Aires for Violin, Cello and Piano (1965), and Ludwig Van Beethoven's Trio in C Minor for Violin, Viola and Cello, Op. 9, No. 3. The performance takes place at Roosevelt University's Ganz Hall, 430 Michigan Ave., at 7:30pm. To purchase tickets or learn more, visit orionensemble.org, or call (630) 628-9591.
Community, Culture, Resistance: From the Crescent City to Chi-town
Chicago publisher Haymarket Books is celebrating the release of their new book Floodlines, on resistance in post-Katrina New Orleans. In addition to hearing from the book's author, Jordan Flaherty, there will be art, poetry, a DJ, and readings by inmates from the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center. It's at 2229 S. Halsted at 8pm, with a $5 suggested donation (free for students).
Hollow Triumph @ The Portage Theater
Only have $4? Wanna see a movie? This week's matinee at The Portage Theater (4050 N. Milwaukee) is the 1945 film Hollow Triumph starring Paul Henreid and Joan Bennett. His scar marked them both! Tickets are $4, screening at 1:30pm. For more info call (773) 736-4050 or visit The Portage Theater.
Lar Lubovitch Dance Company @ Harris Theater
Famed choreographer Lar Lubovitch will bring his internationally acclaimed dance company to Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph, at 7:30pm. The Lar Lubovitch Dance Company headlines Harris Theatre's See the Dance series with "North Star" (1978), "Duet from Meadow" (199), "Coltrane's Favorite Things" (2010), and "Marimba" (1976). Tickets are available at the Harris Theater box office, 205 E. Randolph Dr., by calling (312) 334-7777, or via the Harris Theater website.
Waiting 4 the Bus @ Cafe Ballou
Cafe Ballou, 949 N. Western Ave., hosts Waiting 4 the Bus's open mic night from 7:30pm to 10pm. Singer-songwriters and poets will perform up to three pieces apiece. Might that include you? Free.
Let Each One Go Where He May @ Nightingale
Come out tonight to Cinema Borealis, 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave. to experience Let Each One Go Where He May! Set in Surinam, Russell's latest investigation of ethnography and representation is simultaneously beautiful, political and formally complicated. This film is also a telling document of Surinam's shifting landscape, as the brothers pass through a crowded city, lush jungles, a gold mine and rural villages as they trace their ancestral path. Please click here for more information!
Diabolique @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center is presenting a retrospective of the work of French director Henri-Georges Clouzot, and today screens his most famous film, Diabolique from 1955, with Simone Signoret and Vera Clouzot. The film screens this afternoon at 3pm, and again on the evening of Monday, September 20 at 6pm. Full information on the retrospective at the Film Center Website. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Trypps @ MCA
The Trypps film series features seven films by Ben Russell at MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave. The films featured in the series are entitled Black and White Trypps Number One, Black and White Trypps Number Two, Black and White Trypps Number Three, Black and White Trypps Number Four, Trypps #5 (Dubai), Trypps#6 (Malobi) and Trypps#7 (Badlands). These series can be best described as a psychedelic ethnography, an aim to combine self knowledge with a traveling dialect. For more information, please click here.
Carmen Jones @ Music Box
As part of 20th Century Fox's "Hometown Hollywood" series of films being screened in the cities they were shot, The Music Box Theatre presents a one-night-only screening of the film Carmen Jones from 1954, starring Doroth Dandridge, Harry Belafonte, Diahann Carroll, Pearl Bailey and Brock Peters. The film screens tonight at 7pm. Advance tickets are $9.25 and can be purchased through Brown Paper Tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Ben Russell's Artist Talk @ MCA
Come out at 6:00pm today to the MCA, 220 E. Michigan Ave, Ben Russell will directing an Artist Talk: Illustrated by a Selection of Moving Images. Ben Russell curates a film series featuring Forcefield's Third Annual Roggabogga Motion Picture, Ferdinand Zecca's The Red Spectre, Kenneth Anger's Invocation of My Demon Brother, Timothy Asch and Napoleon Chagnon's Children's Magical Death, Gerard Holthuis's Marsa Abu Galawa, Ben Rivers' This Is My Land and Gunvor Nelson's My Name is Oona.
Lakeview East Festival of the Arts
The sixth annual Lakeview East Festival of the Arts brings together artwork by more than 150 artists for a juried exhibition and neighborhood festival on Broadway Avenue between Belmont and Roscoe this weekend. Enjoy art, music, food and shopping from 10am to 6pm Saturday and 10am to 5pm Sunday. Free, but donations accepted. More information here.
What is a hammer? @ ADDS DONNA
Come out this evening at 3:00pm to ADDS DONNA, 4223 W. Lake St. #422 to experience What is a hammer?! This exhibition features work by Ilia Ovechkin, Jared Madere and Leah Patgorski. Admission is free, please click here to RSVP!
Lakeview East Festival of the Arts
The sixth annual Lakeview East Festival of the Arts brings together artwork by more than 150 artists for a juried exhibition and neighborhood festival on Broadway Avenue between Belmont and Roscoe this weekend. Enjoy art, music, food and shopping from 10am to 6pm Saturday and 10am to 5pm Sunday. Free, but donations accepted. More information here.
Sex, Power & Labor Opens @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Intentionally and ironically falling on September 11, this show is devised as an interdisciplinary conversation addressing systematic institutional oppressions of 'other'. In addressing the 'other' through the queering of pieces, the art works re-evaluate race, gender, class and systems of power that oppress. Commencing as a one night event on the 9th anniversary of September 11, the curators have sought to bring together works, pieces, actions to negotiate a new media-ridden contemporary art space. Notably loaded and intertwined, Sex, Power & Labor are chosen categorizations to implicate the works in an intricate visual landscape. The opening and closing for this show is tonight from 7 to midnight at Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219-21 South Morgan Street) with an after party at Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar.
The Playground Improv Marathon @ The Playground Theater
At 6:00pm today, The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted St. hosts The Playground Improv Marathon. This event is in benefit of child literacy and Illinois Coalition of Reach Out and Read and the Playground Theater features nine members of K.C. Redheart who will be testing their wits, endurance and sanity. Please click here for more information!
George Gittins @ Monument 2
Come out this evening at 6pm to the opening reception of George Gittins's exhibition entitled Feeling One Way or Another at Monument 2, 2007 N Point St! His work is based on the intuitive process of creating paintings, he refrains from theatricality while advocating spontaneity. For more information, visit the website or RSVP here!
Design, Drama, and Discord @ Hungryman Gallery
Come out tonight at 6:00pm to Hungryman Gallery, 2135 N. Rockwell St. to experience Design, Drama, and Discord! Featured in this exhibition are Timothy Bergstrom's paintings of cartoon figures, vernacular images and texts that meld into an anomalous potentiality. To RSVP, click here!
Meet Illinois Artisans @ Water Works Visitor Center
The newly remodeled Water Works Visitor Center, 163 E. Pearson, will host art-making demonstrations and offer artisan wares for sale from 1-5 pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase one-of-a kind jewelry, fiber, and ceramics pieces during the monthly program, hosted by the Chicago Office of Tourism and the Illinois Artisans Program.
Art Opening After Party @ Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar
Lord of the Yum Yum plays Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar with Lazer Crystal guest spinning all night. Lord of the Yum Yum will go on at 11pm. Maria's is located at 960 W 31st Street. Admission is free. 21+. For details, visit Maria's website.
Megan Greene & Carolyn Ottmers Exhibition Opens @ Carrie Secrist Gallery
Megan Greene's current body of work includes drawing and collages built using Audubon bird prints. This exhibition showcases her interest in hybridization, extended to the treatment of surface, i.e. the seamless and discordant shifts between passages drawn v. photographic and representational v. abstract. The original image of each creature is elaborated and dissolved, elided with found images and subsumed by pattern. As a result the images are intermediate, shifting, and newly animate. Carolyn Ottmers work often calls attention to the detail and beauty of the natural world. She accomplishes this by representing it in an exaggerated scale. In her most recent body of work, the artist has made use of her exceptional fabrication skills, by producing absurdly oversize yet still delicate models of plants cast in stainless steel. In the "Splice" series Ottmers has completed studies of plants that thrive in urban environments, such as those that are seen breaking through cracks in city sidewalks and growing up sides of buildings. The sculptures produce lyrical shadows on the gallery walls, creating an installation that mimics a forest or jungle. The opening reception for these shows is today from 5 to 8pm at Carrie Secrist Gallery: 835 W. Washington Blvd. Visit the gallery's website for details.
Poignant Trash @ EC Gallery
At 6pm, experience Connie Noye's Poignant Trash at EC Gallery, 215 N. Aberdeen! This exhibitions is a part of her series, which deals with metaphor of living in an urban environment, the detritus of life such as dust, debris, and items normally ignored and underutilized. For more information, please contact Ewa Czeremuszkin at info@ec-gallery.com or call (312) 850-0924.
Michael Nudelman's Light & Magic & Samantha Bittman Open @ Thomas Robertello Gallery
Nudelman's painstaking process of creating ballpoint pen drawings, rendered in tens of thousands of small diagonal lines, currently is engaged with the hyper-romanticized landscape. The sources of his imagery are reproductions of famous artists' work. For this show, consisting of nine drawings made in the past two years, Nudelman explores the work of American landscape artists, including several Hudson River School painters. Exploring the relationship between structure and image, Bittman's paintings follow a predetermined set of guidelines dictating color, pattern, order, and texture. Four of the five paintings in the exhibition are on stretched handwoven cloth. The warp, weft, and weave structures remain visible, and are underscored or fully revealed by the painted patterns. A balance of play and logic becomes evident as underlying texture and form melds with a rational but imperfect overlay of painted areas. This subtle juxtaposition often gives way to an optical buzz that breaks down upon close inspection, making perception elusive and fully dependent on the viewer's physical proximity to the work. The wide array of visual effects produced by individual works is extraordinary, ranging from a razor sharp flicker, much like a strobe light, to a meditative calm. The opening reception for these shows is today, probably from 5 to 8pm, but please contact the gallery to be sure. Thomas Robertello Gallery is located at 939 W. Randolph St.
PDBTS Book Signing & Reading @ Chicago Urban Art Society
In Please Don't Bomb the Suburbs, graffiti artist-turned-organizer Billy Wimsatt charts the rise and future of Obama movement, hitting the road for a book tour through twelve swing states. Equal parts hip-hop memoir, razor-sharp analysis of the current political climate, and self-help manual for the progressive movement, Please Don't Bomb the Suburbs: A Midterm Report on My Generation and the Future of Our Super Movement (Akashic) will hit bookstores in September.
Limited Edition designed PDBTS screen printed posters designed and signed by Erik RISK DeBat available. For more information about Please Don't Bomb the Suburbs or Wimsatt's Swing State Book Tour, please visit http://www.akashicbooks.com/pleasedont.htm. This event is tonight from 6 to 11pm at Chicago Urban Art Society: 2229 South Halsted Street.
Michael Ferris Jr., Eric Stotik & Frank Trankina @ Packer Schopf Gallery
To start their 23rd fall season Packer Schopf gallery has grouped three artists into three solo exhibitions: Michael Ferris Jr., Eric Stotik and Frank Trankina. All three artists work in a traditional format (painting, drawing, and/or sculpture) but share an underlying forwardness in the way they approach their particular subject matter through composition. They all mine the figure, directly or indirectly, and communicate different aspects of art history and personal narrative via their straightforward mediums. Each is obsessive in their own way and manifests it through exceptional technique. The opening reception is today from 5 to 8pm at Packer Schopf: 942 W. Lake St. Visit the gallery's website for details.
Ben Stone & Joey Fauerso @ Western Exhibitions
Western Exhibitions kicks off the fall season with new work by Ben Stone and Joey Fauerso. Stone's six new sculptures and one small painting transform two-dimensional images culled from popular sources into compelling and uncanny three-dimensional forms. "Act Natural", a solo exhibition by Joey Fauerso opens in Gallery 2. Fauerso will show two videos and figurative watercolors on paper that combine landscapes and figures, exploring a grey area between fantasy and reality. The opening reception for these exhibitions is tonight from 5 to 8 at Western Exhibitions: 119 N. Peoria, #2A. For details, visit Western Exhibition's website.
Justin Henry Miller: Remnants of a Radiant Tomorrow Opens @ Zg Gallery
Justin Henry Miller's new paintings and altered vintage photographs will be on display at Zg Gallery today through October 23. The opening reception is today from 5:30pm-7:30pm at Zg Gallery: 300 W. Superior. The artist will be on hand for conversation. For details, click here.
Kelly Kaczynski's The Stagehand's Unseen & Kirsten Leenaars Exhibitions Open @ Threewalls Gallery
In The Stagehand's Unseen, Kelly Kaczynski constructs a stage that fills threewalls gallery to its perimeter. Arranging sculptural objects from "Olympus Manger" onto the stage, the objects take the place of actors and propose narrative as a topography that is open to the wanderings of the individual. Unlike previous installments of "Olympus Manger", The Stagehand's Unseen does not invite the audience to interact with the exhibition, rather this landscape of objects creates desire through their stasis and limited accessibility, as the props remain just on the verge of being re-deployed yet on pause. Kirsten Leenaars work is also on exhibit in the project room. The opening reception for these shows is tonight from 6 to 9 at Threewalls: 119 N. Peoria #2C.
John Henley & Carol Jackson Exhibition Opens @ Roots & Culture
The work of John Henley and Carol Jackson exists in a world where ideological fervor and the quest for power have become empty exercises. Henley's paintings of primitive figures comingle with Jackson's icons of former triumph in a still hopeful ghost town of former
sophistication and glory at Roots and Culture gallery. The opening reception is tonight from 6 to 9 at Roots & Culture: 1034 N Milwaukee Ave. For details, visit Roots & Culture's website.
Chris Johanson Backwards Toward Forwards Opens @ Kavi Gupta
Chris Johanson's Backwards Toward Forward opens in the main gallery and a group show curated by Johanson, including work by Julia Asherman, Gary Groves, Dave Schubert and Masao Yamamoto opens in the project room. Visit Kavi Gupta's website for details. The opening reception is from 5 to 8 tonight at Kavi Gupta Gallery: 835 West Washington Blvd.
Philip Hanson The Subtle Diagram & Michiko Itatani Cosmic Wanderlust Open @ Corbett vs. Dempsey
Long-time Chicago imagist Philip Hanson shows his new, very ambitious paintings and drawings incorporating poetry by several writers, primarily Emily Dickinson but also William Blake, William Shakespeare and Gerard Manley Hopkins in the main gallery. In the east wing, Michiko Itatani shows 50 5"x5" new paintings, each one its own complete cosmos, part of an interrelated series of images based on fantastic intergalactic libraries (Itatani calls these "hyper-baroque") and a magical nighttime woodland scene ("Moon-Light/Mooring") with rings of mysterious illuminated globes that appear in both series. The opening reception is tonight from 5 to 9pm at Corbett vs. Dempsey: 1120 N. Ashland Ave. #3.
R'Fuah: New Works by Max Kauffman Opens @ Pawn Works
Popular Denver folk artist Max Kauffman is showing new work at Pawn Works: 1050 N. Damen. The opening is tonight from 6pm to 10pm.
DEATHHATCHERY @ The Bakery
Come out tonight at 8pm for the finale of shows at The Bakery, 1854 W 21st Pl! The bands featured in this final performance are Tiger Hatchery, Heat Death, Criminals, Billington/Laughlin Duet, Wyoming, Brain Forest and many more. Come on kids, lets finish this! Don't miss out! Admission is free, donations are suggested. To RSVP, please click here!
Adrian Orange, Ali Baba, Shakers, Chaperone and Vince Gaulin @ CAMP BELL
Come out this evening at 9pm to celebrate and donate at a fundraiser show for Mali at CAMP BELL, 4929 S. Campbell. It's Steps away from the Orange Line- Western stop, or take the #49 to Western and 50th. The entertainment this evening includesAdrian Orange, Ali Baba, Shakers, Chaperone and Vince Gaulin! Admission is free, but a $5 donation is encouraged.
John Henley and Carol Jackson @ Roots & Culture
Come out this evening at 6pm to explore the opening reception of an exhibition by Carol Jackson and John Henley at Roots & Culture, 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave. This dynamic duo's show garners inquiry of material values that affirm and revoke one's entity. Henley's figurative paintings question the idea of dominance in relation to supremac,y while Jackson's recall a nomenclature reassignment of former respected symbols.
Meet Illinois Artisans @ Water Works Visitor Center
The newly remodeled Water Works Visitor Center, 163 E. Pearson, will host art-making demonstrations and offer artisan wares for sale from 1-5pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase one-of-a kind jewelry, fiber, and ceramics pieces during the monthly program, hosted by the Chicago Office of Tourism and the Illinois Artisans Program.
Adventures in Modern Music @ MCA
The Empty Bottle and The Wire present the annual Adventures in Modern Music festival from September 8 through 12. Opening night is tonight at the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 East Chicago Avenue) at 7:30pm. The kick-off show features The Rhys Chatham Trio, John Wiese and Bill Orcutt. See the Empty Bottle Website for a complete schedule of events in the festival.
Street Anatomy @ International Museum of Surgical Science
Street Anatomy, a group exhibition focusing on representations of human anatomy in contemporary art and pop culture will open tonight from 5pm to 9pm at the International Museum of Surgical Science, 1524 North Lake Shore Drive. More information about the exhibition is available on the corresponding blog.
Patricia Treib @ GOLDEN
Come out to 6:00PM to Golden Gallery, 816 W. Newport to the opening reception of an exhibition of new paintings by Patricia Treib. Featured in this exhibition will be two corresponding bodies of work which include intimate paintings on paper and large gestural paintings on canvas. The two different modes operate on different scales and tie abstraction to a process of un-naming.
New Work from New York @ GOLDEN
Starting at 9:00 at GOLDEN, 3319 N. Broadway wil be a debut of New Work
from New York. Running through October 16th, this is a group exhibition featuring the work of Richard Aldrich, Jessica Dickinson, Josephine Halvorson, Erik Lindman and Eric Palgon.
First Fridays: MAZES @ MCA
Come out tonight to at 6pm to the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave, for their First Fridays! This issue is fashion focused, featuring a cinematic performance with Ben Russell and Joe Grimm entitled MAZES. Tickets are $18 at the door and $13 in advance, available through the MCA Box Office at (312) 397-4010 or online. Guests must be 21 or older to enter.
plain plane @ Slow
Come out to Slow at 6:00PM for the opening reception of plain plane.This exhibition features Chicago painter Todd Chilton and New York sculptor Mike Peter Smith. Running through September 4, Chilton's paintings utilizes pragmatic principles to challenge the absolutes of the past while Smith's sculptural works focus on the impulsive and childlike demeanor of life.
Chicago Photography Collective September Salon Show
The Chicago Photography Collective (CPC) is hosting a member's salon show throughout the month of September. The CPC is group of over 25 established photographers whose methods and subject matter run the photographic gamut - digital and film, inkjet and silver prints, black + white and color, portraits and street photography, abstracts and documentary. This salon show will consist of approximately 50 photographs from twenty of the group's members. The opening reception is tonight at 29 E. Madison from 5pm to 8pm, and the show will be up through October 2.
SPILL @ Betty Rhymer Gallery
Come on out this evening at 4:30PM to the opening reception of SPILL at the Betty Rhymer Gallery, 280 S. Columbus Drive! This is an SAIC Undergraduate painting exhibition curated by Judith Geichman and John Phillips. This exhibition features work by Brian James Bartlett, Stephanie Brown, Inah Choe, Jan Christopher-Berkson, Chris Urban, Coyote Detlaff, Jennifer Diaz, Sarah Doll, John Dominguez, Danica Favorito, Rachel Fay, Ali Gibbons, Danny Giles, Wyatt Grant, Samantha Haring, Zachary Hunter Harvey, Alyssa Herlocher, Ji Soo Hong, Julieann Hu, Heelim Hwang, Ryan Ingebritson, Emma E. James, Elizabeth Jung, Andre Kerm...an, Youjeong Kwon, Jihee Lee, Manuel López Aguilar, Betsy O'Brien, Sohhee Oh, Tilghman Pelczar, Tessa Perutz, Stephani Plichta, Betany Porter, Brenna Quinn, Dan Rizzo-Orr, Daniel Schmid, Joey K Sheung, Jessica Turcios, Tully, Jobet Uy and Nayeon Yang.
Illusion of Safety, Jon Mueller, Fielded & Psychic Steel @ Reuben's Palace
Come out tonight at 9:30pm to drone and zone out to the jams of Illusion of Safety, Jon Mueller, Fielded & Psychic Steel at Reuben's Palace,1620 N Fairfield! Experience the electro-acoustic, noise, sound collage, improvisation, and power electronics of Illusions of Safety, the acoustic and rambunctious rhythms of Jon Mueller, lush melodies with perfect harmonies of Fielded and Ppogged drumming with intricate synths of Psychic Steel all in one night. Admission is free, suggested donation is 5 dollars. Please RSVP here!
The First and Only Lesson @ The Chicago Center for the Performing Arts
Pablo Perea's The First and Only Lesson premieres tonight at The Chicago Center for the Performing Arts (777 N Green Street). This one-night-only showing offers a meet and greet reception with the film's cast and crew beginning at 5:30pm. Screenings for the 22-minute film start at 6:30pm and 8pm. Tickets are $20 at the box office with all proceeds going towards upcoming film festival entry fees. Street parking is available -- especially on Chicago Avenue -- or in the $8 parking lot directly across the street from the theater.
Harry Shearer's The Big Uneasy
Harry Shearer's new documentary about New Orleans life after Hurricane Katrina, The Big Uneasy, screens tonight at Landmark's Century Centre (2828 N. Clark), and at the Lake theater in Oak Park (1020 Lake Street). Showtimes at both theaters are 7pm and 9:30pm tonight.
Dog Day on the Green @ Montrose Harbor
The second annual Dog Day on the Green happens today from 9am to 4pm at Montrose Harbor (Montrose Avenue & Simonds Drive). Plenty of events are scheduled, including agility demonstrations, a dog fashion show, obedience training, pet tricks competition, and much more. The event is free and open to the public. For full information please see the event Website.
THE JOKE IS IRRESISTIBLE @ Sullivan Galleries
Opening this evening at 4:30PM at the SAIC Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State Street, 7th Floor is The Joke is Irresistible. Curated by Joe Iverson, this exhibition challenges various tropes of masculinity and the gendered gaze. This area remain largely undocumented in gender studies and is analyzed by borrowing from the feminist tradition and applying the same tools to questions of masculinity. This exhibition's artists include Christopher Bradley, Andy Cahill, Jason Conny, Anthony Creeden, Alan Fleming and Michael Fleming, Joe Grimm, Millie Kapp and Isabella Ng, Mik Kastner, Ei Jane, Janet Lin and Miao Jiaxin.
Hunger Games Fan Fest
Celebrate the release of Mockingjay, the third and last installment of of the popular and acclaimed young-adult series Hunger Games at State St. Borders (150 North State St.), 4pm.
Expressions of MJ @ DuSable Museum of African-American History
The For Children, By Children (FCBC) youth theater troupe honors the musical legacy of Michael Jackson tonight at 7pm at the DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., with "Expressions of MJ." Written and directed by Rod Lewis, FCBC pays tribute to the late entertainer from his early days with The Jackson 5 and through his solo career with dance routines and skits that include a medley of popular tunes like "ABC," "Dancing Machine," and "Billie Jean." Tickets for "Expressions of MJ" are $10-$15 for students; $15-$20 for adults. For more information, contact (708) 769-9880.
Lebanon @ The Music Box Theatre
The First Lebanon War - June, 1982. A lone tank is dispatched to a hostile town recently bombarded by the Israeli Air Force. What seems to be a simple mission gradually spins out of control as the four young soldiers inside are pushed to their limits. Writer-director Samuel Maoz uses his own vivid recollections of the war and restricts the film's settings to the tank's interior, showing us the outside world only through the lens of a periscopic gun sight. Lebanon opens at the Music Box Theatre tonight. 3733 N. Southport Ave.
Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child @ Music Box Theatre
Centered on a rare interview that director and friend Tamra Davis shot with Basquiat over twenty years ago, this definitive documentary chronicles the meteoric rise and fall of the young artist. Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Childopens at Music Box Theatre tonight, time TBA. 3733 N. Southport Ave.
Maximalism: Fashion Show @ Happy Dog Gallery
The Sometimes Store, The Gaudy God and Sisterman present Maximalism: Fashion Show tonight at Happy Dog Gallery (1542 N. Milwaukee Ave.). The show will feature 24 all nude and black looks comprised of '80s and '90s new vintage. All looks will be available for purchase after the show. Doors open at 7pm, show starts at 8, and the afterparty runs until midnight.
COLOR @ 345 Gallery
A dynamic and colorful multimedia group show by about a dozen local, emerging artists focusing on color opens tonight at 345 Gallery (Flat Iron Arts Building: 1579 N. Milwaukee, Rm. 345). Artists include A/C writers Hiba Ali and Kelly Reaves, among others. The opening reception runs from 6 to 9pm.
The Square Affair Live @ Logan Square Auditorium
The Square Affair, which celebrates Logan Square's eclectic culture, is hosting a live show with some of the neighborhood's best bands. John Drake & the Shakes, the Shams Band, the Minneapolis Henrys, Derek Nelson & the Musicians, and Dirty Diamonds will be playing at the Logan Square Auditorium (2539 n. Kedzie). Tickets are $8 in advance and $12 at the door. Show starts at 9pm and is open to everyone 17 and over.
Banana Thieves and Caged Birds @ Harper Gallery
Harper Gallery is having an end of summer opening with 2 exceptionally fun artists. Jessie Smith-Larson and Mr. Walter will be presenting their own brand of inspired creativity this Friday from 5:30pm-9:30pm. 1915 S. Michigan.
Etgar Keret @ SAIC Auditorium
Israeli author Etgar Keret -- who, on August 22, begins a two-week stint as an artist-in-residence at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign -- gives a lecture at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago tonight, moderated by UIUC Hebrew-literature professor Rachel Harris. Free, School of the Art Institute auditorium, 280 S. Columbus Dr., (312) 899-5185.
Poem as Dream @ Mess Hall
Lose yourself in the "outsidereal" with The Next Objectivists at Mess Hall (6932 North Glenwood) in Rogers Park. Starting at 7pm, you'll talk about your dreams, poems about dreams, and do a bit of writing together. The workshop is free and open to the public.
Pulp Fiction @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of Tarantino's masterpiece, Pulp Fiction from 1994, this evening at 6:30pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
His Girl Friday @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center winds up its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of His Girl Friday, the Howard Hawks film that Tarantino cites as one of his favorites, this evening at 6:15pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
The Red Machine @ Facets
The Red Machine (2009) follows Eddie Doyle, master safe cracker, on his way to jail, where e is offered the opportunity for forgo his sentence by helping Lt. F. Ellis Coburn and the US government pull the theft of a lifetime. The film combines a heist movie with a classic espionage flick to create a dynamic between Doyle and Coburn that keeps the film in high gear. There are two screenings - 7pm and 9pm. Tickets are $9 for general audience and free for Facets members. Filmmakers Stephanie Argy and Alec Boehm will perform a Q&A about the film following the screening. Tickets can be purchased through the Facets box office or their website. 1517 W. Fullerton Ave.
Socio-Analytical Perspectives on Gender Culture Through Dance @ Links Hall
Newly-formed dance company Under Construction Dance Project premieres Socio-Analytical Perspectives on Gender Culture Through Dance at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave. The performance, a collaborative cultural examination of sex and gender roles in society, begins at 8 pm. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $7 for students and seniors. You can purchase them advance at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/117836.
Women's Empowerment Screenings @ Cultural Center
This afternoon, the Chicago Cultural Center hosts another two films centered on women's empowerment as part of a four-film series begun on August 15th. Today, Going on 13 and Troop 1500 will play, with a panel discussion following each screening. Going on 13, the story of three girls of color in the tough transition from girl to woman, plays today at noon. Keeping the focus on the young, Troop 1500, a film that follows a very unique Girl Scout troop focused on uniting its members with their incarcerated mothers, will play at 2:30pm.
Admission is free. The Chicago Cultural Center is located at 78 E Washington.
Socio-Analytical Perspectives on Gender Culture Through Dance @ Links Hall
Newly-formed dance company Under Construction Dance Project premieres Socio-Analytical Perspectives on Gender Culture Through Dance at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave. The performance, a collaborative cultural examination of sex and gender roles in society, begins at 8 pm. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $7 for students and seniors. You can purchase them advance at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/117836.
Daredevils' Hamlet opening @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists kick off their 2010-11 series with Daredevils' Hamlet, a combination of the Shakespeare play and the Neos' 2005 show Daredevils, which featured a cast going through a series of physical and emotional stunts & challenges. Daredevils' Hamlet opens tonight at the Neo-Futurarium, and runs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays through September 25. Shows are at 8pm on all nights. Tickets are $15, $10 for students/seniors with ID, or pay-what-you-can on Thursday nights. See the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details and to purchase tickets. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Encyclopedia Show @ Vittum Theatre
Chicago Slam Works brings you the best of The Encyclopedia Show, a regular series of artists and writers presenting a verbal encyclopedia entry. Today's show features a dozen faces from the past season of the show, including Rachel Claff, Joel Chmara, Amy Johnson, Mike Argol, Diana Slickman, and many more. The show starts tonight at 7:30pm at the Vittum Theatre (1012 N. Noble Street); tickets are $6 at the door.
Grigsby Award for Excellence in the Art of Solo Performance @ Theater Wit
On the final day of Lifeline Theater and Live Bait Theater's annual Fillet of Solo Festival, Tekki Lomnicki will be presented with the Grigsby Award for Excellence in the Art of Solo Performance at Theater Wit (1229 W. Belmont). Beginning at 7pm, Ms. Lomnicki will be recognized for her achievements and talent, and celebrated with an industry roast. Tickets are $50 for VIP, $35 for regular admission, for more information call (773) 761-4477 or visit Lifeline Theater.
Summer Storm @ Doc Films, U of C
Doc Films presents a screening of Summer Storm, Douglas Sirk's first feature from 1944. A dangerous love story and a dangerous crime fill this story based on a novel by Chekhov. Screenings are at 7pm, and 9:15pm. Doc Films, University of Chicago, 1212 East 59th Street. $5.
Tarantino Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a double feature: Pulp Fiction at 3pm; and Howard Hawks' His Girl Friday (on the list of Tarantino's favorite films) at 6pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
"Dance for Life" 2010 @ Harris Theater
Each year, Dance for Life raises money for HIV/AIDS prevention and care programs. This year's benefit will feature dancers from Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theatre, Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, The Joffrey Ballet, River North Chicago Dance Company, and Thodos Dance Chicago.Dance for Life takes place at 7:30 pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph Dr. Performance-only tickets are $75 each. Tickets including the Gala Reception, which begins at 5 pm on the Millennium Park Rooftop Terrace above the Harris Theater, begin at $150. To reserve tickets, call 312-922-5812 or visit www.danceforlifechicago.com.
Superstars of Burlesque @ The Music Box Theatre
Chicago's favorite sweetheart Michelle L'amour presents the Superstars of Burlesque tonight and Saturday night, at The Music Box Theatre (3733 N. Southport). The show features an all-star lineup, with every act carrying a winning title. This includes the Chicago Starlets (2010 World's Best Burlesque Group), Hot Toddy (2009 King of Boylesque), and Michelle L'amour herself, Queen of Burlesque 2005. The doors open at 10pm and the fun starts at 10:30pm. Tickets are $20 or two for $35. For more details, a complete line-up of acts, and to buy tickets, visit their website.
Socio-Analytical Perspectives on Gender Culture Through Dance @ Links Hall
Newly-formed dance company Under Construction Dance Project premieres Socio-Analytical Perspectives on Gender Culture Through Dance at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave. The performance, a collaborative cultural examination of sex and gender roles in society, begins at 8 pm. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $7 for students and seniors. You can purchase them advance at http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/117836.
Burlesque Documentary @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents Behind The Burly Q, a documentary about the golden age of the burlesque revue. The film's director, Leslie Zemeckis, will be in attendance for tonight's screening at 8:15pm, and tomorrow evening's screening at 7:45pm. The film screens through Sugust 26; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Daredevils' Hamlet Preview @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists kick off their 2010-11 series with Daredevils' Hamlet, a combination of the Shakespeare play and the Neos' 2005 show Daredevils, which featured a cast going through a series of physical and emotional stunts & challenges. Daredevils' Hamlet is in previews tonight, and opens on Saturday, August 21. Shows are at 8pm on all nights. Tickets are $15, $10 for students/seniors with ID, or pay-what-you-can on Thursday nights. The show runs at the Neo-Futurarium through September 25. See the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details and to purchase tickets. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Fractured Lens Video Fest @ Portage Theater
Fractured Lens Video Festival is back! Portage Theater, 1450 N Milwaukee is accepting submissions for their Fractured Lens Video Festival. The are inviting filmmakers of all ranges of expertise to submit their videos, contest will be held for the audience's favorite. Please click here for more information!
Prose and Poetry Karaoke @ Jak's Tap
UIC's literary journal, Packingtown Review, is hosting a fundraiser at Jak's Tap (901 W. Jackson) tonight, 7-10pm. Stop by for readings from Chicago writers and a book sale, not to mention a drawing. Oh, and take part in a Prose and Poetry Karaoke contest: bring your poem or short prose work to be read by a randomly selected reader, and if the judges select your piece, you win a prize! The suggested donation is $10, and if you want to take part in karaoke, it's $5. All proceeds go to Packingtown Review's third issue.
Daredevils' Hamlet Preview @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists kick off their 2010-11 series with Daredevils' Hamlet, a combination of the Shakespeare play and the Neos' 2005 show Daredevils, which featured a cast going through a series of physical and emotional stunts & challenges. Daredevils' Hamlet is in previews tonight and tomorrow, and opens on Saturday, August 21. Shows are at 8pm on all nights. Tickets are $15, $10 for students/seniors with ID, or pay-what-you-can on Thursday nights. The show runs at the Neo-Futurarium through September 25. See the Neo-Futurists' Website for full details and to purchase tickets. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Natural Born Killers @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of the Oliver Stone film Natural Born Killers (with a script by Tarantino) this evening at 6pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Historic Bars of Chicago Pub Crawl West Side-Style
Hop on a trolley and join the Chicago Bar Project's Sean Parnell from 6-10:00pm on this tour of historic watering holes along what was the city's Polish Broadway. A former burlesque theater, betting parlor and speakeasy are among the stops, which also include a visit to Chicago's original beer bar. Tickets must be purchased online in advance and cost $30 per person or $50 per couple. The tour fee includes a signed copy of Parnell's Historic Bars of Chicago.
Taxi Driver @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of one of Tarantino's favorite films, Martin Scorsese's Taxi Driver, this evening at 6pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Ernest Dawkins @ Hyde Park Jazz Society, ROOM 43
Legendary saxophonist Ernest Dawkins heads up the Hyde Park Jazz Society's weekly ROOM 43 outing. Come down to one of the best rooms in the city for one a taste of a both a bygone era and a vibrant look at city's current jazz scene. 7:30pm. ROOM 43- 1043 E. 43rd Street.
Women's Empowerment Screenings @ Cultural Center
This afternoon, the Chicago Cultural Center will host two screenings centered on modern-day issues and examples of women's empowerment: Made in L.A. and Taking the Heat. Both will be followed by panel discussions. Made in L.A., which explores the lives of three Latina garment workers, will be shown at noon. Taking the Heat, the story of women firefighters in America and the struggle they face, will play at 2:30pm.
Come feel the lady love and learn more about how you can help. Admission is free. The Chicago Cultural Center is located at 78 E Washington.
Facets Night School: Rubin and Ed
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, a weekly series of midnight screenings paired up with lectures, discussions, and much more. Tonight's screening: the astounding 1991 film Rubin and Ed, featuring the always cryptic Crispin Glover and Howard Hesseman, for some reason. Facets Night School starts tonight at midnight, and tickets are $5 (advance tickets available through Ticketweb). See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-4114.
The Mighty Boosh On Tour Documentary @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the Chicago premiere of Journey of the Childmen: The Mighty Boosh On Tour, a documentary of the British comedy duo Julian Barratt & Noel Fielding on tour in the UK. The film screens this evening at 6:45pm, and again on Wednesday, August 18 at 8:15pm. See the Film Center for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
All About Evil @ Music Box
All About Evil: The Peaches Christ Experience in 4-D screens at the Music Box, 3733 N. Southport, tonight at 11:30pm. The "4-D" part refers to the presence of Peaches Christ herself, along with costar and frequent John Waters collaborator Mink Stole, as well as the expectation that you come dressed in your finest zombie/gore getup. Tickets at $13 in advance or at the door. More info here.
Tarantino Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with Oliver Stone's Natural Born Killers (scripted by Tarantino) at 3pm, and Martin Scorsese's Taxi Driver (one of Tarantino's favorite films) at 5:15pm. You can purchase a ticket for either film, or discount tickets for both screenings. See the Film Center for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Feeble Intimacy @ LVL3
Come out tonight at 6:00pm to the opening reception of Feeble Intimacy at LVL3, 1542 N Milwaukee Ave #3! Through falsified realizations, Feeble Intimacy showcases Liz Nielsen, Kate Ruggeri and Brendan Sullivan whose works touch on methods of interaction with the viewer and incorporate themes that focus on human connectivity with one another and the environment. To RSVP, please click here.
Old Town School Summer Sale
The OId Town School of Folk Music holds its annual store-wide sale today and tomorrow at the Different Strummer (4544 N. Lincoln Avenue). Everything in the store -- CDs, instruments new and used, books, tuners, strings, accessories, etc., etc. -- is on sale today. Hours for the sale are 9:30am to 4:30pm on both days.
Mabel's Wayback Machine @ The Op Shop 3
Mabel Stark, world famous tiger trainer from the 1920s, is hosting a variety show based around the ideas of improbable histories and hyperbolic figures. With a handmade time machine that doubles as a players' stage, Mabel will take us through history in an effort to prevent her true love's death. Along the way, she discovers an odd cast of characters who share their stories through word, song, sound, and movement. Acts include: a puppet show, sing-song storytelling, poetry, comedy, music performances, tiger wrestling, and more. The performance starts at 6:30pm, followed immediately by a (pot luck) dinner at 8pm. This event is FREE and open to the public--just bring a dish to share. The Op Shop 3 is located at 5226 S. Harper Ave. For more info contact Kayce Bayer: (773) 827-7502, kaycebayer [at] yahoo.com.
Chicago Variety Show @ Rotofugi
Rotofugi hosts a group show of Chicago artists opening with a reception tonight from 7pm to 10pm, featuring new works by Jeremiah Ketner, Myong Kurily, Jim Pavelec, David Rettker, Shawn Roberts and Chema Skandal. DJ Sean Doe spins. Free.
Man, Nature, & the Space Between @ Betty Dare Art Gallery
Come out at 7pm to the opening reception at Betty Dare Art Gallery, 1319 W. Chicago Ave in Ukrainian Village! Photography partners Thomas Harris and Matthew Messner, along with painter Terry Swafford, venture into abandoned buildings in order to preserve the essence of decaying structures. Man, Nature, & the Space Between's theme is focused on natures need to recycle, society's collective inclination to form structure in order to create an individualistic legacy. Join them for all this, and complimentary wine!
THE GAUDY GOD's Slasher Slumber Party/Sale @ GG's APT
It's FRIDAY THE 13th, Come at 5:00pm to Gaudy God's Apt, 1543 W. Walton St. Apt. 2 and escape the summer heat by spending the night watching a slasher film marathon, drinking & shopping through the Gaudy God's classy trashy collection. To RSVP, please click here!
The Film Screening are as follows: : 5:00pm - Brian De Palma's Dressed to Kill (1980), 7:00pm - Dario Argento's Tenebre (1982), 9:00 - Rita Mae Brown's The Slumber Part Massacre (1982), 10:30 - Friday the 13th (1980), 12:30- Chopping Mall (1986), 2:00 - A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge (1985).
WHO'S YR SHAMAN? @ Johalla Projects
Come out tonight at 7pm to Johalla Projects, 1561 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd floor to solve the mystical mystery of WHO's YR SHAMAN?. Curated by Melissa Marinaro, this group exhibition features seven artists who subject the history of magical practice in contemporary art and take inspiration from unorthodox belief systems. To RSVP, please click here!
LVL3 @ Merchandise Mart
Opening this evening at 5pm at Merchandise Mart (222 West Merchandise Mart Plaza Suite 1573), LVL3 curates an exhibition entitled Variations on a Theme. This opening reception is sponsored by Chicago Artist Coalition; Paul Cowan, Scott Cowan, Christopher Gatton, Michael Hunter and Vanesa Zendejas subjecting themselves to rigid constraints revolving around ideals and conventions of the artistic practice. For more information, please click here!
Doug Fogelson: Field Work @ Chicago Urban Art Society
Come out tonight at 6:00pm to the opening reception of Doug Fogelson's Field Work at Chicago Urban Art Society, 2229 South Halsted Street. Field Work starts with the physicality of dirt itself since its continual existence is the culmination of thousands of years of decay and erosion. In his exhibition, Fogelson aims to expose its history through the mediums of transparency and prints. Complimentary drinks will be served, to RSVP please click here!
Fifth House Ensemble Performs Messiaen's "Quartet for the End of Time" @ Adler Planetarium
Chicago's Fifth House Ensemble presents Olivier Messiaen's Quartet for the End of Time in Adler Planetarium's Sky Theatre. The ensemble will perform the chamber music epic under a visual display of the universe. The piece is scored for cello, clarinet, piano and violin, an unusual combination based on resources available to prisoners of war where Messiaen first composed and performed it. The show begins at 7pm. Tickets are $15 for Adler members and $20 for the public. For more information, visit the Adler online.
Fillet of Solo Festival @ The Artistic Home
Lifeline Theater (6912 N. Glenwood) and Live Bait Theater (3914 N. Clark Street) change venues with week 3 of the Fillet of Solo Festival, moving south to The Artistic Home (3914 N. Clark). At 7pm Julie Ganey performs The Half-Life of Magic and Matt Miller performs Sea World. At 8:30pm, Rett Lowell performs The Second Boat, Anthony Zoccoli performs Wiggerlover [whiteboy + blackdad = grey areas], and Deb R. Lewis performs Darkness, then Light. Performances are $10 each, and runn Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. for more information call (773) 761-4477 or visit Lifeline Theater.
Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with one of the films that Tarantino cites as an influence: Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein from 1948. Also appearing alongside Frankenstein's monster: Dracula (Bela Lugosi) and the Wolf Man (Lon Chaney, Jr.)! The film screens this evening at 6:15pm; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Future of Girls, Gaming & Gender @ Columbia College
The 3G Public Forum will feature presentations by, and a lively conversation with, five leading women gaming scholars and design artists discussing such topics as the gender gap in the gaming industry, the growing ubiquity of gaming and its role in education and culture, and the potential for gaming as a tool for civic engagement and social change.
6pm-8pm
Media Production Center Soundstage, 1600 S. State
Admission is free.
For more information, visit www.colum.edu/3gsummit.
Presented by Interactive Arts and Media Department and the Ellen Stone Belic Institute for the Study of Women and Gender in Arts and Media at Columbia College, the event features Mary Flanagan (artist and scholar, author of "Critical Play"); Tracy Fullerton (game designer, educator and writer; "Cloud;" "flOW;" "The Night Journey"); Jennifer Jenson (scholar of gender and technology, York University); Susana Ruiz (independent game designer ("Darfur is Dying" and "Finding Zoe"); Erin Robinson, Indie Game Designer ("Puzzle Bots" and "Nanobots")
Inglourious Basterds @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of Tarantino's WWII epic Inglourious Basterds this evening at 6:30pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Facets Night School: Under The Cherry Moon
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, a weekly series of midnight screenings paired up with lectures, discussions, and much more. Tonight's screening: Prince's 1986 film Under The Cherry Moon, featuring an early role for Kristin Scott Thomas. Facets Night School starts tonight at midnight, and tickets are $5 (advance tickets available through Ticketweb). See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-4114.
Hey, We're All Beginners Here! @ Roots and Culture
Come out tonight to Hey, We're All Beginners Here! Line, Form, Color, Nutrients and Affection at Roots and Culture, 1034 N Milwaukee Ave at 6:00pm. Presented by the Network of Crowded Art, this exhibition features a historical narrative composed of a series of social events and collection of images includes drawings, an open stage and pulpit, a book making work shop, good food, video, wheat grass, and a bike ride to Shaumburg.. This exhibition features the work of Robin Hustle, Sarah Kavage, Pennie Brinson, Salem Collo-Julin, Sarah Ross, Red76, Sarah Smizz, Courtney Moran and Park McArthur. For more information, please click here.
Orion Martin & Hudson Harring Berry @ Monument 2
Come out tonight at 7:00pm to see the work of Orion Martin & Hudson Harring Berry at Monument 2, 2007 N Point St. Activating the domestic tradition of the art object, this exhibition entitled Minutes Away From Downtown pairs, both ontologically and aesthetically, the paintings of artist Orion Martin with an ambitious installation of post-war furniture from the collection of design scholar Hudson Harring Berry.
Tarantino double feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a pretty unique double feature this afternoon: Inglourious Basterds at 2:45pm; and Abbott & Costello Meet Frankenstein 5:45pm. You can see either movie separately, or purchase discount tickets for both films. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Cheap Art for Chicago! Benefitting AREA @ Yollocalli Arts Reach
AREA Chicago is hosting their second annual art show and auction, featuring work inspired by Chicago and made by artists living in the city. They'll have paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more, with starting bids as low as $5! Artists include: Charlie Vinz, DiDi Grim, Mary Patten, Mathias Regan and Amy Partridge, Jayne Hileman, Mary Sea, Marian Hayes, Rachel Wallis, Robin Hewlett, Annie Siegler, Laura Szumowski, Csi...lla Kosa, Frank Rico, Nicole Marroquin, Rebecca Zorach, Claudia Garcia-Rojas, Kolektif Atis Jakmel, Josephine Ferorelli, Jhonathan F. Gómez, Neil Brideau, Alex Guzman, and more! This event is from 4 to 11pm at Yollocalli Arts Reach (1401 W 18th St.) For more information, email Rachel at rachel.a.wallis@gmail.com.
PSYCHAPALOOZA @ Locked Out
Psyching out at 9:00pm tonight, The Chicago Metaphysical Circus presents: PSYCHAPALOOZA! At Locked Out, 3951 W Fullerton The Great Society of Mind Destroyers create a psychotic wall of groove rock & roll, hailing from Detroit Sisters of Your Sunshine Vapor rock groovy sights and sounds, the droney Hands of Hydra, the weighty dreams of Black Wrym Seed, garage rock of Micheal Micheal Motorcycle & DJ Psychedalex spins grooves all night. BYOB, Donations are welcome and tickets will sold at the door. For more information please click here!
LVL3 @ Art on Track
In motion today at 5:00pm, LVL3 will be showcasing the works of Jacob Goudreault, Alyssa Herlocher, Ben Medansky and Marcus Ober ON a CTA Train! Art on Tracks is a mobile art experience aboard an eight-car CTA train, which circles the Chicago loop for a day long celebration of fine arts culture. The train will begin on CTA elevated Loop Track in Adams and Wabash CTA Platform. For tickets, please click here!
"JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance" @ MCA
The Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP), concludes its annual festival of American tap dance and contemporary percussive arts with the three performances at the Museum of Contemporary Art MCA Stage (220 E. Chicago Ave.). "JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance" begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $30 for non-Rhythm World participants, and may be purchased
online.
Sacred Spaces @ Welles Park Tennis Courts
Come out to Welles Park Tennis Courts, 2333 W. Sunnsyside in Lincoln Square at 5:00pm to The Moving Architects' Sacred Spaces: Bringing the Racket like Venus and Serena to check out the performance of Lauren Bisio, Natalia Negron, Laura Vinci, Jess Wright and Jessie Young. For your viewing pleasure, please bring a lawn chair and sunblock and maybe an umbrella for sitting on the tennis court or leaning against the fence. For more information, please click here.
First Friday @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents their monthly First Friday evening of dance and music. This month is a special First Friday, because the school is celebrating the groundbreaking of their new dance facility which is scheduled to be completed next year. There will be free activities happening this evening from 6 to 8pm in front of the lot across the school where the facility is being built, and there's the usual evening of music & dancing from 7 to 10pm in the main school building at 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. Admission is a suggested $5 donation. See the Old Town School Website for more information, or call the school at (773) 728-6000.
Metropolis @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run of the recently recovered version of Fritz Lang's 1927 masterpiece Metropolis. The film screens this evening at 6:30pm and runs at the Film Center through August 12; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Jody Mack @ Nightingale
You are invited to PRETTY PARTY tonight at 8:00pm at Nightingale, 1084 N. Milwaukee! A Farewell Screening of Chicago-made work by Jodie Mack will engulf the viewer in her animated collage films such as YARDWORK IS HARD WORK, her musical and the premiere of several films shot this summer as part of her packing up process. Admission is $5. To RSVP, please click here!
Dance Party @ The Negative Space
Please come out tonight at 9:00pm to support the community darkroom! The Negative Space, 1000 N. Milwaukee invites you to a dance party fundraiser. Music by East of Eden's Soul Express, A.D.D.J and Sweet D. There will be dancing, music, art and $10 open bar and $5 for admission.
First Thursdays Gallery Walk @ Art + Vision Gallery
Please join us at 5:00pm at Art + Vision Gallery, 208 S. Wabash Ave for the Chicago Loop Alliance's Pop-Up Art Galleries First Thursdays Gallery Walk. The Pop-Up Art Loop Gallery Walk is a free, self-guided tour of the many new art venues throughout the Loop neighborhood. This exhibition features a merging of work by Kate Friedman who employs the use of dualities to converge to create layered paintings and Angela Garbot who presents her her travel photography series entitled Travel Collections: Destinations.
It Came From The Neo-Futurarium: My Little Pony: The Movie
The Neo-Futurists present their 9th annual series of live film script readings, It Came From The Neo-Futurarium IX: The Perils of the Neo-Futurarium! Tonight's concluding performance of the festival is a staged reading of My Little Pony: The Movie, directed by Film Fest creator Rachel Claff. The film festival runs Thursday nights at 8pm through August 5. Tickets are $10, $8 for students with ID and repeat customers. A full schedule and tickets are available at the Neo-Futurists' Website. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275-5255.
Once Upon A Time In Mexico @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of Once Upon A Time In Mexico, directed by Tarantino's friend Robert Rodriguez. The film screens this evening at 6pm; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Pop Up Loop Gallery Walk
This month's walk features five pop-up gallery spaces with work from more than 10 Chicago artists spanning from sculpture to photography and works on paper. Pop-Up Art Loop, an initiative of the Chicago Loop Alliance, is working to bring art to unexpected places and the association with the Chicago Artists' Coalition and their 1800+ artist members enables this program to help artists gain exposure, while enhancing the cultural experience of visitors to the Loop. Today's gallery walk will include five spaces: 23 E. Madison Ave, 29 E. Madison Ave, 208 S.
Wabash Ave, 220 S. Wabash Ave, and 240 S. State St. This event is from 5-8pm today at all of those locations. Contact Alyson Koblas (alyson@chicagoartistscoalition.org or 773-772-2385) for more information.
"JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance" @ MCA
The Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP), concludes its annual festival of American tap dance and contemporary percussive arts with the three performances at the Museum of Contemporary Art MCA Stage (220 E. Chicago Ave.). "JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance" begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $30 for non-Rhythm World participants, and may be purchased
online.
Drink & Draw @ Spudnik Press
Spudnik Press hosts a monthly "Drink & Draw" night at 1821 W. Hubbard, Suite 308, from 7pm to 9:30pm. They provide beer and a theme, you bring paper and some creativity and join in. This month, everyone's fingerpainting! More info here. Suggested donation $5.
"JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance" @ MCA
The Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP), concludes its annual festival of American tap dance and contemporary percussive arts with the three performances at the Museum of Contemporary Art MCA Stage (220 E. Chicago Ave.). "JUBA! Masters of Tap and Percussive Dance" begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $30 for non-Rhythm World participants, and may be purchased
online.
Jackie Brown @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of Jackie Brown tonight at 6:30pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Rhythm World Student Showcase @ Museum of Contemporary Art
The second performance in the Chicago Human Rhythm Project's annual festival of American tap dance and contemporary percussive arts will feature students faculty, and professionals participating in Rhythm World classes and workshops. This informal showcase takes place at theMuseum of Contemporary Art's MCA Stage (220 E. Chicago Ave.). A $5 donation is suggested.
Rhythm World @ the Jazz Showcase
The Chicago Human Rhythm Project (CHRP), continues its annual festival of American tap dance and contemporary percussive arts with the 20th anniversary of Rhythm World at the Jazz Showcase (806 S. Plymouth Ct.). This opening night performance will feature renowned tap masters and rising stars of tap from around the world, joined by live jazz musicians. The performance begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door.
Facets Night School: Reform School Girls
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, a weekly series of midnight screenings paired up with lectures, discussions, and much more. Tonight's screening: the women-behind-bars classic Reform School Girls, with the late great Wendy O. Williams. Facets Night School starts tonight at midnight, and tickets are $5 (advance tickets available through Ticketweb). See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-4114.
Beatles Celebration @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a Beatles celebration evening with plenty of performers: Beatles Ensemble w/Steve Levitt, Uke Nation w/Lanialoha Lee, Phil Angotti, The Janes, St. Clemens Kids, Brown Lazer, The Astronomer, Jay Goeppner of the Instant Karma Band, and many more. Proceeds for the evening go to the Brendan Hedges scholarship fund, which provides free music lessons to teenagers who cannot pay. The show starts tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $15, $13 for OTS members, and $11 for seniors/kids. Full information on the event at the Old Town School Website. Old Town School:4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
Tarantino Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective this afternoon with a double feature of Tarantino's Jackie Brown at 3pm, and Robert Rodriguez's Once Upon A Time In Mexico at 5:45pm. You can see either film separately, or purchase discount tickets for both films. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Bughouse Square Debates
The 25th annual Bughouse Square Debates, the Newberry Library's annual celebration of Washington Square Park's history of soap box speeches and debates. This year, the main debate will feature Otis McDonald, plaintiff in the Supreme Court case that struck down Chicago's handgun ban. More than a dozen other soapbox speeches follow, emceed by Tribune columnist Rick Kogan. The even runs from 1pm to 4pm in Washington Square Park, 901 N. Clark St. Free.
Vintage BIG Sale @ Heaven Gallery
Ongoing till August 1, Sisterman and many local vintage sellers will be holding a BIG sale in a convenient location, close to the Damen Blue Line station at Heaven Gallery, 1550 N. Milwaukee - 2nd floor. This is during Wicker Park Fest, starts at 12pm.
"The Great Wave: An Introduction to Japanese Woodblock Prints" @ Floating World Gallery
Floating World Gallery (1925 N. Halsted St.) hosts "The Great Wave: An Introduction to Japanese Woodblock Prints" today from 1-3pm. The free seminar, designed for collectors, will provide audiences the chance view original museum quality prints up close. A reception will follow the seminar. Admission is free, but space is limited. To reserve your spot, email classes@floatingworld.com, or call (312) 587-7800.
The Printers' Ball: Print <3 Digital
The annual Printers' Ball is tonight from 6pm to 11pm at Columbia College's Ludington Building, 1104 S. Wabash Ave. Join independent publishers -- both print and digital, as per this year's theme -- for a celebration of words and images. Pick up free books, magazines, newspapers, stickers, buttons and other fun stuff, plus a special display of Chicagoland's online lit sites. Enjoy food, drinks and music, too. Free.
BROADZILLA! @ Exit
BROADZILLA! The Burlesque Beast attacks tonight (10:30pm and 1am) at Exit (1315 W. North Avenue). The free event is hosted by Backdoor Aly and features two full-length, completely different shows by Chicago's finest burlesque dancers, along with straight-out-of-Detroit special guest star Lushes LaMoan. Presented by Vaudezilla, tonight's line-up including Red Hot Annie, Siren Jinx, The Revelettes, and Viva La Muerte. For a complete list of burlesque beauties and more Vaudezilla events, visit their website.
Rectory @ Pawn Works
Come out tonight at 6pm to experience a solo exhibition from Chicago's emerging illustrators, Joe Padilla entitled Rectory. This exhibit at Pawn Works, 1050 N. Damen Ave. features the debut of the Pawn Works sticker machine and artist network program. The audience is encouraged to participate in the trading and collecting of stickers.
Clif Wallace Quartet @ SGI-USA Chicago Culture Center
Starting at 7:00pm, the SGI-USA Peace Concert Series presents The Clif Wallace Quartet at the SGI-USA Chicago Culture Center, 1455 S. Wabash. The Clif Wallace Quartet is comprised of Dudley Owen on saxophone, Quentin Coaxum on trumpet and John Tate on bass. Doors open at 6:30pm, for more information please call 312.913.1211. Free parking and there is no admission fee.
It Came From The Neo-Futurarium: Viking Women...
The Neo-Futurists present their 9th annual series of live film script readings, It Came From The Neo-Futurarium IX: The Perils of the Neo-Futurarium! Tonight's performance is billed as a mashup between Roger Corman's Viking Women and the Sea Serpent and Peter Weiss' play Marat/Sade, which promises to be a truly theatrical film experience. Joe Janes of the Improvised Shakespeare Company directs. The film festival runs Thursday nights at 8pm through August 5. Tickets are $10, $8 for students with ID and repeat customers. A full schedule and tickets are available at the Neo-Futurists' Website. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275-5255.
Carousel Microcinema with Cauleen Smith @ threewalls
Come out tonight at 7:00pm to view Carousel Microcinema with Cauleen Smith at
threewalls, 119 n. peoria #2d. Resident artist Cauleen Smith hosts an ongoing, roving cinema in her Carousel Microcinema series which presents contemporary experimental, performance or conceptual film and video with historical works. At threewalls, Smith will screen Barbara McCullough's Shopping Bag Spirits and Freeway Fetishes: Reflections on Ritual Space, Billy Jackson's Didn't We Ramble On: The Black Marching Band (Narrated by Dizzy Gillespie) and Wuru-Natasha Ogunji's The Epic Crossings of an Ife Head. Post-screening discussion moderated by Kerry James Marshall. Free Admission! You can read more about the films and Carousel Microcinema here!
Kill Bill Vol. 2 @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of Kill Bill Vol. 2 this evening at 6:00pm. See the Film Center Website for full details and a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Montgomery Perry Smith @ Kokorokoko
Come out tonight at 5:00pm to check out Super talented local artist Montgomery Perry Smith at Kokorokoko, 1112 N. Ashland for one night only! He will be selling his hand made designs that incorporate some of his favorite materials into wearable art. Refreshments will be served and the artist will be present. FUN!
Atomic Sketch 2-Year Anniversary @ evilOlive
Celebrating its 24th installment at evilOlive (1551 W. Division St), the Atomic Sketch Event features a special giant-sized, all-star panel and group show. As the event's single largest showing of artwork and artists in its two year history, the lineup includes 16 fan favorites: Keely Hakala, Sara Renae Jones-Lubin, Brian Hofmeister, Stephanie Combs, Ken Carrano, MR. Shapeless, John Airo, revise cmw, Joey Potts, CHema Skandl!, [ad7m], Michael Frank, Michelle Mashon, emmy star brown, SOOPAQOOT, and Jon Scordato. Tonight's free event runs from 6-10pm.
Open Studios @ SAIC
TONIGHT! At Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State, 7th Floor at 5:00pm The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and threewalls invite you to join them for a special event as artists-in-residence share their studios with the public! Artists-in-residence include Bad at Sports, Elise Goldstein, Georgia Kotretsos, Diego Leclery, Adia Millett, Jennifer Mills, Libby O'Bryan & Elissa Papendick, John Riepenhoff, Miller & Shellabarger, Cauleen Smith and Marjorie Welish. Summer Studio is part of Studio Chicago-a yearlong collaborative project that focuses on the artist's studio. For more information, click here.
The New Cult Canon: Lost Highway @ Music Box
The AV Club Chicago and The Music Box team up to bring you a screening of David Lynch's Lost Highway, one of the films in AV Club writer Scott Tobias' series The New Cult Canon. The screening kicks off tonight at 7:30pm, and will feature an introduction by Tobias and a post-screening discussion. Advance tickets available through Brown Paper Tickets. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Art World Chicago @ Sullivan Galleries
At Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State, 7th Floor at 5:00pm Devening Projects + Editions, Peregrine Process, Julius Caesar, Suitable Gallery, Parking Space and Club Nutz come together to celebrate Art World Chicago.They offer a unique opportunity to participate in a condensed version of the social and geographic structure of an art scene by experience of over a dozen artists' original work in an environment conducive to the discussion of our braided expectations of venue, reputation, biography and community. Exhibiting artists include Christopher Michlig, Michael Pfisterer, Joseph Grigely, Thomas Roach, Kozue Hasegawa, Mike Schuh, Matt Hanner, Hot Can and many more. Don't miss it!
Abandoned Practices Public Performance Presentation @ SAIC
At 1:00pm at School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 280 S. Columbus Dr.in room B-012, you are invited to attend presentations that are a response to the form of the Chautauqua Assembly, a popular traveling rural adult education institution from the late 1800s. The twenty-five participants with teachers Matthew Goulish, Lin Hixson, Mark Jeffery, and TA James Smith create four presentations perfomances of expert lectures, educational and entertainment that share the theme of useful knowledge entitled Abandoned Practices. An informal reception will follow. For more information, please contact Mark Jeffery at mjeffe@saic.edu.
Abandoned Practices Public Performance Presentation @ SAIC
Today at 1:00pm, you are invited to attend presentations devised in response to the form of the Chautauqua Assembly, a popular traveling rural adult education institution from the late 1800s. Held at School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 280 S. Columbus Dr. in Room B-12. In alternating presentational modes of expert lecture, traveling exhibition, educational and entertainment performance which share the theme of useful knowledge, the four presentations of 18 or 21 minutes in length. The twenty-five participants will include parcipitation from teachers Matthew Goulish, Lin Hixson, Mark Jeffery and TA James Smith. An informal reception will follow. For more information, please contact Mark Jeffery at mjeffe@saic.edu.
Zachary Kaplan @ Golden Age
Come out this evening at 6pm to experience the opening of Zachary Kaplan's exhibition, Popular Reactions to 9/11. What narratives constitute the popular reaction to the events of September 11 and the prevalent politics and aesthetics thereafter? He engages a discussion around these ideas through a variety of media and activities at Golden Age, 119 N Peoria #2D. For more information, check out Facebook.
Kill Bill Vol. 1 & 2 @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of both parts of his Kill Bill saga. Vol. 1 screens at 6:00pm, and Vol. 2 screens at 8:15pm. You can buy tickets for each film separately, or buy discount tickets for both films. See the Film Center Website for full details and a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Hubbard Street Dance Company Wine Tasting Benefit @ The James Hotel
Wine promotes dancing in more ways than one at the Hubbard Street Dance Company's third annual Twilight on the Roof benefit. From 7 to 9pm, taste the fruits of 12 Napa and Sonoma wineries, including Blackbird Vineyards and Pride Mountain Wines; buying a VIP ticket ($145) gets you an extra hour (6-9pm), wines that aren't available to the general crowd, and private tastings with vintners. Regular admission tickets are $95. James Chicago, 55 E. Ontario.
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Fest
The second annual MAAF continues today (for its final day) in Logan Square, featuring curated art galleries filled with eclectic works in all media, live music on three stages boasting diverse and critically-acclaimed line-ups, theater, dance, film, vaudeville and other live performances, an indoor art market, a community mural, children's activities, local cuisine and Magic Hat craft brews, and last but not least, a freaking trolley! Most importantly, don't forget to stop by the Gapers Block booth. The festival is from noon to 11pm today. It runs along Milwaukee between Kimball and California Ave. in Logan Square.
Recent Work by David Schalliol @ The Op Shop
Recent work by photographer David Schalliol will be featured on Sunday, July 25 at the newest location of The Opportunity Shop, 5225 S. Harper Ave. The show will be open from 12:00pm-5:30pm, with a community dinner open to the public to follow at 6pm.
OUT OF TIME FESTIVAL @ Happy Dog Gallery
Starting at 1:00am latenight OUT OF TIME FESTIVAL, a micro festival of time based arts kicks off at Happy Dog Gallery, 1542 N Milwaukee Ave! This three day fest is In celebration of the Mayan Day Out Of Time to rub out the calendars of the boards of the earth for ever and features works by Balta Pena, William Amaya, Sebasitian Alvarez, Instinct Control, Marissa Perel, Nick Edelberg, Justin Cabrillos, NIcholas Monsour, Tessa Siddle, Emily Smith, Heather Marie Vernon, Jedediah Logsdon, Max Alexander and The North. Bring a sleeping bag because this is a sleepover! For more information, check Facebook.
Facets Night School: Slightly Scarlet
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, a weekly series of midnight screenings paired up with lectures, discussions, and much more. Tonight's screening: the 1956 film noir Slightly Scarlet. Facets Night School starts tonight at midnight, and tickets are $5 (advance tickets available through Ticketweb). See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-4114.
Booze and Bacon @ Slow
Booze and Bacon is always a foolproof recipe for crowd-pleasing. A group of dynamic people indulging in simple pleasures, it seals the perfect night. Opening at 7pm this evening, this exhibit at Slow, 2153 W. 21st St., features the work of Brooke Barnett, Benjamin Bellas, Tola Brennan, Judith Brotman, Christopher Bungart, Ann Chen, Laura Davis, Meg Duguid, Jason Dunda, Kirk Faber, Brent Garbowski, Max Garett, Jeffrey Grauel, Matt Harrison, John Henley, Andrew Holmquist, Fred Holland, Michael Hunter, Carol Jackson, Brad Johns, Larry Lee, Kirsten Leenaars, Mican Morgan, Helen McElroy, Chris Naylon, William Newhouse, Susannah Papish, Laura Prieto-Velasco, Scott Ramon, Tim Schade, Sarah Wild, and Philip von Zweck and many more.
One-night performance by Georgia Wall @ Knock Knock Gallery
Starting at 8:00pm tonight, Where 37th intersects Wolcott is an unseen performance by Georgia Wall at Knock Knock Gallery, 3658 S Wolcott Apt 2F. The structure for the unseen performance is as follows:Two people are invited to view a performance that will remain unseen by all others. As these two people witness the event they will provide accounts of what they are seeing to the others present.
SENSE & SENSIBILITY @ Rainbo Club
Running until August 21st, SENSE & SENSIBILITY starts at 8pm at Rainbo Club, 1150 N. Damen Ave. Curated by Paulina Samborska & Michael Thibault, this exhibition addresses the the traditional subjects of landscape, portraiture and still life through new contextual means. The artist featured are Mary Amor, Mikaylah Bowman, Alana Celii, Vincent Dermody, Jon Edwards, Maxfield Hegedus, Evan Jenkins, Sandy Kim, Anne Lass, Jason Lazarus, Annie Purpura, Noel Rodo-Vankeulen, Daniel Shea, Sarah Sieradzki and Virgil Wong. Through a rational and irrational artistic language, these artists are working at creating a place beyond thought and feeling.
Two Hour Comedy Hour @ Gallery Cabaret
This week's Two-Hour Comedy Hour will be hosted by super skydiver and comedian Mo Welch and features comedians Michael Palascak, Jacob Williams, Renee Schultz, Joe Maresse and Mike Lebovitz. This free show features a fresh mix of comedians each week. There's no cover for the 21+ show -- though a $5 donation is accepted. Runs from 7-9pm at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley (near Western and Milwaukee, just off the Blue Line stop). Guests are encouraged to arrive early.
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Fest
The second annual MAAF continues today in Logan Square, featuring curated art galleries filled with eclectic works in all media, live music on three stages boasting diverse and critically-acclaimed line-ups, theater, dance, film, vaudeville and other live performances, an indoor art market, a community mural, children's activities, local cuisine and Magic Hat craft brews, and last but not least, a freaking trolley! Most importantly, don't forget to stop by the Gapers Block booth. The festival is from noon to 11pm today and Sunday. It runs along Milwaukee between Kimball and California Ave. in Logan Square.
Kill Bill Vol. 1 & 2 @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of both parts of his Kill Bill saga. Vol. 1 screens at 3:00pm, and Vol. 2 screens at 5:15pm. You can buy tickets for each film separately, or buy discount tickets for both films. See the Film Center Website for full details and a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
A Family Portrait @ Chicago Theatre
At the Chicago Theatre (175 N. State Street), 7pm, Family Bridges presents A Family Portrait, an evening of comedy, theater, poetry, dance and art. The universal themes of love, relationships, and family tie these performances together. Tony Plana, from Ugly Betty, will be performing From the Diaries of Adam and Eve. Mark Gungor, author, will be reading The Tale of Two Brains and Ruben Borrero will be reciting original poetry. Loyda Hjelte, an international musician, and Inaside Dance, a dance troupe, will be performing. Tickets prices start at just $20. Go to thechicagotheatre.com, The Chicago Theatre's Box Office or call 1-800-745-3000 for more information.
Backyard Film and Music Festival @ The Pullman State Historic Site
Head down to the historic Pullman neighborhood today to check out the Backyard Film and Music Festival. Eleven bands that veer from the Americana such as Judson Claiborne and Nathan Blake Lynn to the experimental workouts of Martin Dosh set up shop within the Pullman State Historic Site and get down. When not enjoying the music or the eclectic lineup of short films, wander around the Soloman Beman-designed neighborhood and wrap yourself in its past. $15. From Noon-Midnight. The Pullman State Historic Site, 11057 S. Cottage Grove.
Frankenjew Records Show @ Maman Cave
Come out tonight one and all for Frankenjew Records Compliation Release Show at Maman Cave, 6448 N. Greenview Ave. Starting at 7:00pm, this musical performance features the punks of Culo, the gritty garage noise of Lake Breeze, the minimalism of And Jesus Was a Sailor, the eradicating keyboards of M3thlaab, the stoner jams of Geffika and the hardcore punk of Poor Choice, Harshest Realm and Morbid Obesity. Donations are encouraged, check Facebook for more information.
Heaven Gallery's 10 Year Anniversary Party @ Heaven
Join Heaven Gallery, 1550 N.Milwaukee Ave. at 7:00pm in celebrating 10 years of community art and music. This event will be an art opening of works shown at Heaven with performances by Heaven's protest series.
SAIC's MFA in Design Thesis Exhibition @ Sullivan Galleries
Showcasing design from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's Architecture, Interior Architecture, Designed Objects, and Fashion departments, this graduate thesis exhibition comes to a close tonight. This is your last opportunity to check out the newest work from the freshest young local designers and talk to them about their work. The reception is from 5 to 7pm today at SAIC's Sullivan Galleries at 33 S. State St. on the 7th Floor. Click here for details and pretty pictures.
James Herbert's Shorts
Tonight, Chicago Filmmakers will host a screening of the early work of James Herbert, infamous for his early R.E.M videos, including "It's the End of the World as We Know It". The screening begins at 8pm, and four short films will be shown. Tickets are $8 for general admission, $7 for students with an ID, and $4 for Chicago Filmmakers members. Chicago Filmmakers is located at 5243 N. Clark St.
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Fest
The second annual MAAF begins today in Logan Square, featuring curated art galleries filled with eclectic works in all media, live music on three stages boasting diverse and critically-acclaimed line-ups, theater, dance, film, vaudeville and other live performances, an indoor art market, a community mural, children's activities, local cuisine and Magic Hat craft brews, and last but not least, a freaking trolley! Most importantly, don't forget to stop by the Gapers Block booth. The festival is from 4pm to 11pm today, and from noon to 11pm Saturday and Sunday. It runs along Milwaukee between Kimball and California Ave. in Logan Square.
Art Your Heart Out in Bridgeport
Looking for something to do tonight? Start at Eastern Expansion (244 W 31st Street) to see Paul Rizzuto's Carny photographs. Then make your way to the Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S Morgan Street) for Corporate Psychedelia 1968-1975 where you can view silkscreen prints from the collection of Jason Pickleman. If you make it to C-PS you will also be able to check out James Jankowiak's new front window installation. Everything's going on from 6-10pm.
OUT OF TIME FESTIVAL @ The Epiphany Church
Starting at 8:30pm tonight, OUT OF TIME FESTIVAL, a micro festival of time based arts kicks off at The Epiphany Church, 201 S Ashland Ave.! This three day fest is In celebration of the Mayan Day Out Of Time to rub out the calendars of the boards of the earth for ever and features works by Balta Pena, William Amaya, Sebasitian Alvarez, Instinct Control, Marissa Perel, Nick Edelberg, Justin Cabrillos, NIcholas Monsour, Tessa Siddle, Emily Smith, Heather Marie Vernon, Jedediah Logsdon, Max Alexander and The North. For more information, check Facebook.
Dan Gamble's "Phenomena" Opening @ Zg Gallery
Artist Dan Gamble will open his second solo show withZg Gallery tonight. Gamble's exhibit, entitled "Phenomena" includes works describing the existence between opposing conditions, including abstraction vs. figuration, and order vs. chaos. The "Phenomena" opening reception begins at 5:30pm and last until 7:30pm at Zg Gallery (300 W. Superior St.). Gamble's exhibit will run through September 4, 2010.
It Came From The Neo-Futurarium: Brain Damage
The Neo-Futurists present their 9th annual series of live film script readings, It Came From The Neo-Futurarium IX: The Perils of the Neo-Futurarium! Tonight's performance is Brain Damage, the story of a brain parasite and its teenage friend. The film festival runs Thursday nights at 8pm through August 5. Tickets are $10, $8 for students with ID and repeat customers. A full schedule and tickets are available at the Neo-Futurists' Website. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275-5255.
Rio Bravo @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with one of the many films that inspired Tarantino's work: the 1959 Howard Hawks Western Rio Bravo, with John Wayne and Dean Martin. The film screens this evening at 6:00pm; see the Film Cetner Website for full details and a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Women Empowerment Screenings @ Cultural Center
This afternoon, the Chicago Cultural Center hosts another two films centered on women empowerment as part of a four-film series begun on August 15th. Today, Going on 13 and Troop 1500 will play, with a panel discussion following each screening. Going on 13, the story of three girls of color in the tough transition from girl to woman, plays today at noon. Keeping the focus on the young, Troop 1500, a film that follows a very unique Girl Scout troop focused on uniting its members with their incarcerated mothers, will play at 2:30pm.
Admission is free. The Chicago Cultural Center is located at 78 E Washington.
Ernest Hemingway Birthday Lecture @ Ernest Hemingway Museum
Today is Ernest Hemingway's 101st birthday. To celebrate, the Ernest Hemingway Museum is having an open house at 3:30pm, then at 7:30pm Thomas J. Putnam, Director of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum will present the lecture Treasures from Hemingway's Trunk: Highlights from the Ernest Hemingway Collection at the John F. Kennedy Library. Ernest Hemingway Museum, 200 N. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park. Admission is $20; $10 for Foundation members, seniors and students. Phone: (708) 848-2222 or email ehfop [at] sbcglobal.net for reservations.
Sound Opinions Movie Night: Dazed and Confused
Chicago Public Radio and the Music Box present another Sound Opinions movie night. Tonight's film is the 1993 Richard Linklater film Dazed and Confused, starring a large cast of soon-to-be-famous actors in a story about high school graduation in 1976. So of course it has an excellent rock & roll soundtrack. The film screens tonight at 7:30pm; doors open at 6:30pm. Tickets are $9 in advance, and can be purchased online. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Write Club @ Hideout
The Hideout plays host tonight to the mighty return of WRITE CLUB, where two opposing writers are given 7 minutes to write on a specific topic, and then the audience picks the winner. Three bouts are scheduled: Mind vs. Body, Heaven vs. Hell, and Fight vs. Flight. The artists scheduled to fight: Write Club host Ian Belknap; Emily Rose; Edward Thomas-Herrera; Ali Weiss; Steve Heisler; and David Kodeski. The show runs from 6pm to 7:30. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
True Romance @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues its Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of True Romance from 1993. The film screens this evening at 6:00pm. See the Film Center Website for full details and a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Found Footage Festival
The Found Footage Festival comes to the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., tonight at 7pm. The festival showcases a mish-mash of film and video clips, and this time around features the terrible mid-'80s film Computer Beach Party. Tickets are $10; more details here. 21+
Facets Night School: The Gate
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, a weekly series of midnight screenings paired up with lectures, discussions, and much more. Tonight's screening: the gateway-to-Hell 1980s film The Gate. Facets Night School starts tonight at midnight, and tickets are $5 (advance tickets available through Ticketweb). See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-4114.
J. Davis Trio @ Double Door
The J. Davis Trio hit the Double Door tonight to play songs from their upcoming CD. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 9pm. Tickets available through the Double Door Website. Double Door: 1572 N. Milwaukee Avenue. (773) 489-3160.
Tarantino Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center is running a retrospective of Quentin Tarantino movies and some of the films that inspired the director. This afternoon's films are True Romance from 1993, screening at 3pm; and the John Wayne/Dean Martin film Rio Bravo, screening at 5:15pm. You can buy separate tickets to each film, or you can buy discount tickets for both films. See the Film Center Website for full information and a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
The Art of Touring Opening @ Johalla Projects
This is a multimedia exhibit of work by musicians, inspired by touring and life on the road. It brings together some of the talent from the book Art of Touring (square root books) and the local music community, to showcase creative endeavors when not rockin' on the stage. Whether video, pictures, sketches or written word, these musicians keep their creative edge sharp while whittling away the hours in a van, on a plane or walking about the cities they frequent. The opening is tonight from 7-11pm at Johalla Projects (1561 N Milwaukee Ave).
It Came From The Neo-Futurarium: Billy Jack
The Neo-Futurists present their 9th annual series of live film script readings, It Came From The Neo-Futurarium IX: The Perils of the Neo-Futurarium! Tonight's performance is Billy Jack, a heart-warming tale of a pacifist kung fu expert who spreads his message of tolerance by beating everyone up. Long-time film fest fave Bob Stockfish directs, with musical contributions by Naomi Ashley. The film festival runs Thursday nights at 8pm through August 5. Tickets are $10, $8 for students with ID and repeat customers. A full schedule and tickets are available at the Neo-Futurists' Website. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275-5255.
Grindhouse @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues their Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of the 2007 Tarantino/Robert Rodriguez project Grindhouse, featuring two films by both directors along with a bunch of amazing fake trailers in between the two main features. The complete film and trailers will be screened tonight starting at 7:30pm. See the Film Center Website for full details and a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Gapers Block Book Club Meeting
Join the Gapers Block Book Club tonight for a discussion of Dave Eggers' The Wild Things. 7:30pm at The Book Cellar, 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Discussion questions here. Free, new members welcome.
West Pilsen/Little Village Walking Tour
Bowing to high demand, Forgotten Chicago is hosting a repeat of its tour exploring the two neighborhoods' "rich ethnic history, including Czechs, Germans, Latinos, and even a small Italian enclave." For $10 a person, the tour begins at noon and sign-up is required.
Facets Night School: Teeth
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, a weekly series of midnight screenings paired up with lectures, discussions, and much more. Tonight's screening: the 2007 horror film Teeth, a literal tale of the vagina dentata urban legend. Facets Night School starts tonight at midnight, and tickets are $5 (advance tickets available through Ticketweb). See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-4114.
Grindhouse @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues their Quentin Tarantino retrospective with a screening of the 2007 Tarantino/Robert Rodriguez project Grindhouse, featuring two films by both directors along with a bunch of amazing fake trailers in between the two main features. The complete film and trailers will be screened tonight starting at 7:30pm. See the Film Center Website for full details and a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
The Cardboard Show Opens @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Mike Pocius organized and hosts this works on carboard group exhibition. This community art project shows works made on cardboard only! The opening reception is tonight from 6-11pm. This show will be up for one day only. Co-Prosperity Sphere is located in Bridgeport at 3219 S Morgan St. Click here for more information.
Beast Women @ Greenhouse Theater Center
Opening tonight at 10:30pm and running through August 22nd at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. Beast Women showcases female strength, beauty and individuality through sexy, cutting edge and thought-provoking performances. Hosted by Michelle Power and curated by Jillian Erickson, this highly entertaining and inspiring show features a variety of genres including music, erotic poetry, belly dancing, clown acts, burlesque, stand-up comedy, magic and more! Tickets are $15, for more information and line-ups, call (773) 278-1212.
Pussy Galore Opens @ 345 Gallery
345 Gallery opens its doors this afternoon with its first group show, dedicated to cats. All mediums, all sizes, anything goes for this one. Artists include Katie Arford, Laura Bovinet, Lianna Faletto, Allysa Hallett, Brandon Howe, Andrea Jablonski, Matthew Jorgensen, Andrew Malvenda, Charlie Megna, Charlie's mom, Eric Oij, Kelly Reaves (GB A/C editor-- shameless self promotion), Pat Rios, Madelyn Strutz, and others TBA. 345 Gallery is located in rm. 345 in the Flat Iron Arts Building in Wicker Park (1579 N. Milwaukee) and the opening is today from 5-8pm. BYOB. Meow.
YOUNGER THAN JANIS @ Noble and Superior Projects
Come out tonight at 6pm to Noble and Superior Projects, 1418 W. Superior St., 2R to an opening reception of YOUNGER THAN JANIS. This exhibition is a celebration of youth and beauty, an exaltation of inevitable failure and a blatant disregard to the fear of mortality. Janis Joplin, one of a number of iconic figures who died at or near the age of 27, is a broad metaphor for the importance of free expression of youth and its potential to have enduring relevance, long past the life of the creator. This exhibition features the work of Lucas Blair, Steve Ruiz, Vanessa Macholl, Connor None, Anna Rochinski, Michael Radziewicz, Celia Marks, Eliza Koch, Liz Rugg, Adam Cruces, Mike Morris, Kevin Clancy, Blair Waters, Norm Wilson, Ryan Barone, Marcel Alcala, Ross Meckfessel, Andre & Evan Lenox.
Visible City: Map Room @ Fill in the Blank Gallery
Come out tonight to Fill in the Blank Gallery, 5038 N. Lincoln Ave., for the opening reception of Visible City: Map Room. Running through August 7th, this exhibition features Aaron Delehanty's drawings & large-scale paintings. Delehanty uses urban imagery to create a nonexistent city, a strange and unique human settlement. 7-11pm.
The Interview Show @ Hideout
Mark Bazer once again brings The Interview Show to the Hideout tonight. Special guests include: Chef Graham Elliot Bowles, singer-songwriter Matthew Santos, author Robert K. Elder and see short films by Steve Delahoyde! $5 6:30pm. The Hideout is located at 1354 W. Wabansia.
Reservoir Dogs @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues their Quentin Tarantino film retrospective this evening with a screening of his 1992 film Reservoir Dogs. The film screens at 8pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule of films in this series. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
It Came From The Neo-Futurarium: The Apple
The Neo-Futurists present their 9th annual series of live film script readings, It Came From The Neo-Futurarium IX: The Perils of the Neo-Futurarium! Tonight's performance is a reading of 1980's The Apple, surely one of the strangest disco-influenced operas ever filmed. The theater troupe Barrel of Monkeys will re-enact The Apple live on stage for your viewing pleasure. The film festival runs Thursday nights at 8pm through August 5. Tickets are $10, $8 for students with ID and repeat customers. A full schedule and tickets are available at the Neo-Futurists' Website. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275-5255.
The Nomadic Studio Begins @ the DePaul Art Museum
Tonight the Stockyard Institute's exhibit, Nomadic Studio opens at the DePaul University Art Museum (2350 N. Kenmore). Nomadic Studio is a four and a half month exhibit about the artist and non-traditional studio spaces. For the month of July, they are focusing on the musician and the home studio. They have built a replica of the Rumpus Room in the center of the gallery. As the event progresses, the space will be transformed every month to reflect a new theme, as well as to feature different artists and spaces. Doors open at 5pm. At 6pm is a performance by Steve Albini. At 7pm there will be live music by Bric-a-Brac, onono, and Small Awesome. Music performances will take place in the Rumpus Room, a fully-functioning 'home' recording studio. All three bands consist of musicians that have rehearsed or recorded in the Rumpus Room. For more information, click here.
I Love My Job; I Hate My Job @ Black Rock Bar
The Reconstruction Room reading event is an art, lit, and performance "theme party" that takes place monthly at Black Rock Bar (3614 N. Damen). Starting at 8pm, tonight's theme is all about jobs, and will feature poems, stories, performances (and much more) focusing on what we do to pay our bills. Fortunately, this event is free, so save your hard-earned money for the drinks!
The Wild Bunch @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center continues a Quentin Tarantino film retrospective this evening with a screening of one of the many films that inspired Tarantino's work, Sam Peckinpah's The Wild Bunch. The film screens at 6:30pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule of films in this series. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Creation Station: Flat to Form @ MCA
Creation Station: Flat to Form opens today, visitors can sculpt and play with forms, materials, and ideas to make their own art at the MCA Creation Stations, 220 East Chicago Ave. During the day, visitors can feed their inspiration with the colors of the Farmer's Market, and during the evening, create art to the rhythms of jazz. The theme of the season's second creation station is "flat to form". Farmer's Market Creation Station is from 11am to 2pm, and Jazz on the Terrace Creation Stations is from 5pm to 8pm.
Club Nutz @ MCA
Running through the 11th, Club Nutz performs Here/Not There with Scott Reeder, Tyson Reeder and Elysia Borowy at the MCA, 220 East Chicago Ave. Here / Not There asks how participatory actions within structured events can encourage a collective act of creation. The viewer, rather than the artist, is the focus as guests are encouraged to participate in performing and creating works. $12 for general admission, $7 students and seniors, free for MCA members, children under 12, and members of the military; Tuesdays are free.
...Sorry I Didn't Have Time to Google You @ Julius Cæsar
Come out this 4th at 4:00pm to the opening reception of ...Sorry I Didn't Have Time to Google You at Julius Cæsar, 3311 West Carroll Ave. Running till the 11th, this exhibit features the painterly work of David Jourdan, Lisa Holzer, Kitty Kraus, Chiara Minchio and Stefan Schuster. For more information, please visit their website or call 312.725.6084.
CONTEMPLATIONS @ Julius Cæsar
Come out this 4th to Julius Cæsar, 3311 West Carroll Ave. to experience the opening reception of CONTEMPLATIONS by Gil Rocha. Starting at 4:00pm, this exhibit up until the 25th features his painting works carefully constructed with simplistic yet tantalizing visceral details. For more information, please call 312.725.6084.
THIS IS STILL LIFE @ Monument 2
Running until the 25th, THIS IS STILL LIFE opens today at 2:00pm at Monument 2, 2007 N. Point St. This exhibition curated by Ghazal Hashemi features works by Wilford Barrington, Amir H. Fallah, Ian Hawk, Bruce Ingram, Sandy Kim, Jason Lazarus, Maximilian Schubert, Dylan Walker and Harley David Young. This show presents a group of contemporary artists who have developed personal philosophies that they express through the art of still life. For more information, please call 312.208.7632.
Tarantino double feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center kicks off a Quentin Tarantino film retrospective this afternoon with a screening of his 1992 film Reservoir Dogs at 3pm, and the Sam Peckinpah film The Wild Bunch at 5pm. You can see either film, or you can purchase discount tickets for both films. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule of films in this series. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Gregg Evans & Jeroen Nelemans Open @ EBERSMOORE
Gregg Evans' The Things I Once Owned and Jeroen Nelemans' Pilfer Your Land open tonight at EBERSMOORE Gallery (213 N. Morgan, #3C). The reception is from 6 to 9 tonight. The show will be up through August 7. Click here for details.
JOURNEYMAKER @ THE DEPTHS
Come out tonight at 7pm to THE DEPTHS, 1539 W. Haddon, to the opening reception of JOURNEYMAKER. This exhibition features the work of Joseph Noderer, Daniel Belasco Rogers, Sara Caron, Jim Hittinger, Sam Sieger, Elyse Mack, Ben Dimock, Nick Edelberg and Ben Edelberg. Through their practices of paintings, photos, videos and zines, they embed narratives in every mark of externalized memory.
It Came From The Neo-Futurarium: Supergirl
The Neo-Futurists present their 9th annual series of live film script readings, It Came From The Neo-Futurarium IX: The Perils of the Neo-Futurarium! Tonight's kick-off performance is 1984's Supergirl, re-enacted onstage by The Plagiarists. The film festival runs Thursday nights at 8pm through August 5. Tickets are $10, $8 for students with ID and repeat customers. A full schedule and tickets are available at the Neo-Futurists' Website. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland at Foster. (773) 275-5255.
"Writing at the Movies" Workshop @ Messhall
"Writing at the Movies" is a new writing workshop led by the poet Gene Tanta.
Participants in this workshop will use as their point of departure Andre
Breton's surrealist montage technique of dropping in and out of various
cinemas looking to cutup visual elements and dialogues. However, instead of the
velvety cinemas of Paris, they will use DVDs and Google Videos (no limits on
theme or form). For the first half, they will screen a few minutes of the films
we bring in and/or of internet audio-visual artifacts while describing what we
see and hear. For the second half, they will perform and discuss what we produced
(again, no limits on theme or form). They will write in response to these moving
images and sounds, striving for a precise or even a phenomenological
(suspending our assumptions) description of what we see and hear.
"Writing at the Movies" is at Messhall (6932 N. Glenwood Ave.) tonight from 7 to 9:30. It is free & open to the general public.
2nd Story @ Morseland
2nd Story continues their monthly live storytelling series at Morseland (1218 W. Morse Ave.) tonight featuring Kim Morris, Deb Lewis, and Doug Whippo. Live music by Los Peregrinos. Doors open at 7, music begins at 7:30pm, storytelling starts at 7:45. Tickets are $10, available online or at the door. For more information visit 2nd Story or Morseland.
Orange Alert Reading Series @ The Whistler
Tonight is the Orange Alert Reading Series. Orange Alert is a blog and book publisher whose mission is "to support the independent arts and to introduce, inform, interact, and instigate ideas." Sunday's reading features John Cotter,
Martin Seay, Kathleen Rooney and Stephen Markley. The Whistler, 2421 N. Milwaukee Ave., (773) 227-3530, 6pm.
Rock & Roll Cinema: Walk Hard @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents the latest in their Rock & Roll Cinema series of film screenings. Tonight's film is Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story from 2007, the music biopic send-up which didn't quite connect with viewers at the box office (though it's worth seeing just to hear the various musical styles that star John C. Reilly handles throughout Cox's recording career). Film starts at 7pm, and admission is free! Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Michele Fitzsimmon @ Bar Wine Cafe
Come out this afternoon to Bin Wine Cafe, (1559 North Milwaukee Ave) from 3pm to 5pm for Michele Fitzsimmon's opening reception. He will be debuting his recent prints and collages. The collages previewed on his website here, crash together the western and eastern perspectives of the feminine, one can't help but interpret theology as a mode of introspection.
American Spanish Dance Festival's Flamenco Passion @ North Shore Center for Performing Arts
The culmination of Chicago's Ensemble Español's American Spanish Dance Festival, Flamenco Passion will feature three Flamenco dance world premieres. The performance takes place at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd. at 3 pm. Tickets are $26-$46. Free parking is available. For tickets or more information call (847) 673-6300 or visit northshorecenter.org.
Facets Night School: The Stuff
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, a weekly series of midnight screenings paired up with lectures, discussions, and much more. Tonight's screening: Larry Cohen's 1985 horror classic The Stuff, about a mysterious addictive foodstuff that has unforeseen side effects. Facets Night School starts tonight at midnight, and tickets are $5 (advance tickets available through Ticketweb). See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-4114.
The Neo-Futurists Present The Paper Machete: Special Pride Edition 2010
The Neo-Futurists team up with the local weekly performance series The Paper Machete for a special Pride edition this evening at 7:30pm at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland at Foster). Hosted by Neo-Futurist alumnus Dave Awl, the evening will feature readings and live performances from plenty of artists, some of whom are former & current Neo-Futurists. Admission is a suggested $10; proceeds go to Test Positive Aware Network (TPAN). For more information on the event, please see the event's Facebook page.
Chica- GOA-Electronic Picnic @ Chicago Beach
From 10am to 10pm, Intelligent Minds presents Chica-Goa, an electronic picnic featuring the performance of Herbal, Pinche Cowboys, Wyser, Oswpatch, Rapha, Cest lavie vs. Eye Contact, Machi, Robyo, Shai, Zita Zie, Psyckohazzard and Medical Grade. Please consult facebook event prior to receive exact location of the event or call the info line at (312) 473-5521.
Cuentos Foundation and Buena Vista Social Club Concert @ Ravinia
Want to learn about Fair Trade and Cuentos Foundation? Want to dance, eat delicious treats, hear some good music and have a drink with some lovely ladies?!? If so, come out to Ravinia, 418 Sheridan Rd. tonight! For more information, please visit the website or buy your tickets here.
CRATES AND LAPTOPS @ WELIVEINNY$LA
Come out tonight to experience the opening reception of CRATES AND LAPTOPS at WELIVEINNY$LA,1801 S. Peoria St. Curated by Jordan Rhoat and It Takes Two to Stereo, this exhibition-social presents screen-based works, installations and performance by Chris Collins, Arend deGruyter-Helfer, Louis Doulas, Daniel Everett, Bea Fremderman, Brian Khek, Jason Lazarus, Duncan Malashock, Nicholas O'Brien, Nik Pence, Tabor Robak, Micah Schippa, Brad Troemel, Sarah Weis, Evan & Andre Lenox. Join us for drinks and conversation in the gallery's garden at 7pm.
Masterpiece Theater @ Finger Garden
Come out tonight at 7pm to Finger Garden, 3144 W. Carroll Ave 2B, to experience works by Katie McCarty and listen to music by Positive Shadow, Josh Burke, Illusion of Safety and Slag Heap.
Louis Sullivan's Idea @ Chicago Cultural Center
Going on in conjunction with Looking After Louis Sullivan: Photographs, Drawings, and Fragments at The Art Institute of Chicago, Louis Sullivan's Idea exhibition is on view until November 28th at Chicago Cultural Center, 78 East Washington. Chicago artist Chris Ware and cultural historian Tim Samuelson present an installation of photographs, drawings, documents, and artifacts that will portray Sulllivan's life, writings, and architectural works in the context of his time and original creative intent. For more information and opening times, click here.
In a Plain Brown Wrapper @ Johalla Projects
Come out tonight from 7pm to 10pm to Johalla Projects, 1561 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd floor to experience the opening reception of In a Plain Brown Wrapper. This mixed media exhibition explores themes of sex and how the visceral imagery of sexualized body is understood, analyzed, controlled by law and condemned even by a population that regularly indulges in its fantasies. Please be advised that this showcase contains explicit adult content that is graphic in nature. For more details, please contact: johallaprojects@gmail.com
Ox-Bow Centennial: Contemporary Art @ Roots & Culture
Come out tonight from 6pm to 9pm to Roots & Culture, 1034 N Milwaukee Ave. The opening reception of Ox-Bow Centennial: Contemporary Art celebrates the centennial year of Ox-Bow, school of art and artists' residency. For the past 100 years, Ox-Bow has provided an immersive experience as an oasis for the creative community. The artists featured in this exhibition are Mike Andrews, Jonah Groeneboer, Shara Hughes, George Liebert, Anna Mayer, Aspen Mays, Carmen Price, Elizabeth Rupprecht, Melanie Schiff, Andrew Winship, and Nate Wolf.
Michael Jackson Memorial Procession
The Michael Jackson Memorial Procession, organized and led by Chicago based artist Jason Lazarus, is a commemoration to the dynamic pop legend. At 6pm, a 50 car-long caravan will proceed from his boyhood home in Gary, IN and travel throughout the city of Chicago, IL. All procession participants will be given disposable point and shoot cameras and video cameras for documentation of their journeys to contribute to the project. For more information, please contact Jason Lazurus.
Chopin Celebration with Grazyna Auguscik @ Millenium Park
At 6:30pm this evening, please join acclaimed jazz singer, Grazyna Auguscik in her salute to composer Frederick Chopin in an evening of visionary interpretations of the composer's masterpieces at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, 55 N Michigan Ave. Entitled Chopin 200: Grazyna Auguscik's World Sound, Auguscik has won the praise and admiration of music critics with her unorthodox approach to rewriting classic works as an adventure into uncharted territory.
GARRRBAGE WORRRLD @ Mortville
Darkest hearts desire darkest pleasures. Gertie Garbage, will once again host a night of performance art featuring the return of Bargain Hunter, Ishtar Bukkake and Heather-Marie Vernon and introducing Heather Lynn, BorderClinic, Charles Mahaffee and Natalee Decker at Mortville, 2106 S Kedzie at 9:00pm. Donuts will be provided, fluids shall be shared. The night will end with dancing, $5 donation is encouraged.
American Spanish Dance Festival's Flamenco Passion @ North Shore Center for Performing Arts
The culmination of Chicago's Ensemble Español's American Spanish Dance Festival, Flamenco Passion will feature three Flamenco dance world premieres. The performance takes place at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd. at 7:30pm. Tickets are $26-$46. Free parking is available. For tickets or more information call (847) 673-6300 or visit northshorecenter.org.
Quintron & Miss Pussycat @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents a return engagement by everybody's favorite organist/puppet show team, Quintron and Miss Pussycat with opening acts Eddy Current Suppression Ring and Cave. Show starts at 9:30pm; tickets are $12 and are available in advance from Ticketweb. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Chicago Underground Film Festival opening night @ Gene Siskel Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center hosts the 17th annual Chicago Underground Film Festival, which starts this evening with the premiere screening: The Wild Hunt from 2009, a Canadian film set in the world of LARPs. The screening starts tonight at 8pm, and the festival runs through July 1. See the Film Center site for a complete schedule of films, along with links to purchase tickets. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Juxtapose: An Evening of Art, Burlesque and Music @ Intuit
All creative disciplines get fair play at this gathering of like-minded, yet disparate folks. For one evening, you can treat yourself to the art of Charles Steffen, the burlesque of the Chicago Starlets, DJ spins by Derek Erdman, delectable foods by Fiery Alyce, and cocktails by the good folks at Matchbox.
Visit the Intuit site for the full scope. $30. 756 N. Milwaukee Ave
Third Coast Listening Room: Stories About Music @ Stop Smiling Storefront
Tonight, the Third Coast International Audio Festival and the Chicago Independent Radio Project will present "Third Coast Listening Room: Stories about Music" at the Stop Smiling Storefront (1371 N. Milwaukee). Third Coast Artistic Director Julie Shapiro and CHIRP DJ Dr. Drase will offer radio stories covering a range of music topics. The event takes place from 7 to 9pm, and a donation of $8 is suggested. To RSVP, e-mail rsvp [at] stopsmilingonline.com.
April Pollard Opening @ Kokorokoko
Come out this evening at 5pm to check out April Pollard's work at Kokorokoko, 1112 N. Ashland Ave! April's work features dismembered limbs and eye balls, prints of her fingers and hand. She incorporates illustration and printmaking, seamlessly creating landscapes from body parts.
I Am Deeply Rooted @ Merle Reskin Theatre
At 7:30pm at Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo Dr., for their 15th anniversary concert Deeply Rooted Dance Theater presents a performance entitled I Am Deeply Rooted. Directed by Kevin Iega Jeff, this show features world-class African-American theatrical dance. Tickets are priced at $25-55; $125 includes pre-performance reception. For more information contact 312-922-1999 or visit their website.
Working It Out @ Ugly Step Sister Gallery
Come out at 6pm to the Ugly Step Sister Gallery (1044 W. Fulton Mkt.) to the opening reception of Eliot Taguiam's Working It Out. In his current series of male nudes, Taguiam delineates the separation between art and every day people.
Janet Kuypers @ The Cafe
Writer/poet (among other things) Janet Kuypers will be featured at The Cafe's (5115 N. Lincoln) open mic night, starting at 8:30pm. Admission is $2, and there's a donation for the feature.
New Icon @ LUMA
A public walk-through with the curator of the art exhibition New Icon is tonight at 6pm at LUMA, 820 N. Michigan Avenue. New Icon features Chicago-based contemporary artists working in sculpture, painting, drawing, and video. The artists include Zachary Buchner, Pamela Fraser, Carrie Gundersdorf, Dan Gunn, Diana Guerrero-Maciá, Brennan McGaffey, William J. O'Brien, Sze Lin Pang, and Kevin Wolff, exploring iconography in contemporary society, and employing a broad interpretation of the spiritual. Exhibition will be on view from June 5 through August 1. Sponsored by Chicago's Contemporary Arts Council (CAC).
Ox-Bow Centennial: Contemporary Art @ Roots & Culture
Come out tonight from 6pm to 9pm to Roots & Culture, 1034 N Milwaukee Ave. The opening reception of Ox-Bow Centennial: Contemporary Art celebrates the centennial year of Ox-Bow, school of art and artists' residency. For the past 100 years, Ox-Bow has provided an immersive experience as an oasis for the creative community. The artists featured in this exhibition are Mike Andrews, Jonah Groeneboer, Shara Hughes, George Liebert, Anna Mayer, Aspen Mays, Carmen Price, Elizabeth Rupprecht, Melanie Schiff, Andrew Winship, and Nate Wolf.
Rock & Roll Cinema: The Blues Brothers @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents the latest in their Rock & Roll Cinema series of film screenings. Tonight's film is the John Landis classic The Blues Brothers, starring John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd and the city of Chicago. "They broke my watch!" Film starts at 7pm, and admission is free! Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Women in the Attic Reading Series
Starting at 7:00pm, this first ever reading at the Attic, 2846 W 21 Street, 3rd Floor features an evening of fine literature with works by Leila Wilson, Fiona Cook, Rebecca Cooling-Mallard, Laura Goldstein, Cait Rappel, Noor Shawaf and installation of works on paper by Katie McCarty.
Facets Night School: Theodora Goes Wild
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, a weekly series of midnight screenings paired up with lectures, discussions, and much more. Tonight's screening: a classic screwball comedy from 1936, Theodora Goes Wild. Facets Night School starts tonight at midnight, and tickets are $5 (advance tickets available through Ticketweb). See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-4114.
Puerto Rican Pride Parade
The Puerto Rican Pride parade kicks off at noon at Columbus and Balbo; festivities follow at Humboldt Park, California and North Avenues.
Art-About in West Town
From 4pm to 10pm today, Art Adventure! Events is hosting a free Art-About throughout the West Town neighborhood. Explore 25 venues to see new artwork, hear live music, drink wine, and do even more exotic activities, like participating in a tai chi or silk screening demonstration. For a full list of activities and participating venues, click here. Start the Art-About at 4pm at the Sculpture Courtyard at 935 N Damen, where maps will be available and artwork on display.
Remembering the Future @ Hills Aesthetic Center
Join ACRE at 8:00pm tonight, for their opening reception entitled Remembering the Future at Hills Aesthetic Center, 128 N Campbell, Unit G. This group show includes a conglomeration of new photographs, drawings, sculpture, moving image and sound. For more information, consult their website.
Looking After Louis Sullivan: Photographs, Drawings, and Fragments @ AIC
Running until December 12th, Looking After Louis Sullivan: Photographs, Drawings, and Fragments is on view in Photography Galleries 1 and 2 and Architecture Gallery 24 at the Art Institute of Chicago, 111 South Michigan Avenue. This exhibition provides a rare opportunity to examine Sullivan's structures and ornamental programs across a variety of media and platforms. For more information and opening times, click here.
Bill Ayers & Bernardine Dohrn @ Columbia College
As part of the Bronzeville Cultural Festival, Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn will speak on an sign copies of their recent book, Race Course: Against White Supremacy. At Columbia College, 600 South Michigan, Chicago, Room 901 starting at 10:30AM, the talk will focus on the election of our nation's first Black president. With regard to enduring racism, this has brought many Americans to question where we've been, where we are and where we are going in America.
Takin' It To The Streets Festival @ Marquette Park
Come out tonight for one night only festival from 9am to 9pm at Marquette Park, 6700 S Kedzie Ave. Takin' It to the Streets bridges today's cultural divides by connecting diverse racial, ethnic, and religious communities through a dynamic festival enriching Chicago. Headliners are Mos Def, Brother Ali from Minnesota, Tinarwein from Mali, Chabab al Andalous from Morocco and Outlandish from Denmark.
Buddy Guy @ Ravinia
Blues legend Buddy Guy performs at Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd in Highland Park, at 7:30pm. JJ Grey and his band Mofro open and celebrate the release of their very first vinyl LP, The Choice Cuts. Tickets are $65 reserved and $22 for lawn.
O Canada! @ Kendall College
Be reminded that American food is not the best through the eyes of Canadian expats (Tim Hortons! Poutine! First Nations! Tons of fish!) today at Kendall College, 900 North Branch @ 10am. Free parking, admission $3-5. Event sponsored by Chicago Foodways Roundtable.
ANGELS @ Kunz, Vis, Gonzalez
Come out this evening to Kunz, Vis, Gonzalez , 2324 W Montana at 6:00pm to the opening reception of ANGELS. This exhibition features work by Christopher Cosnowski, Andrew Falkowski, Aukje Koks, Matthew Metzger, Lester Monzon and Craig Yuprese who reexamine established painting traditions and approaches to arrive at new conclusions about illusion, representation and ultimate abstraction.
Visions from the Burned Forest @ No Coast
Come out tonight at 5pm to the opening reception of Megha Gupta's new works on paper at No Coast, 1500 W. 17th St. Envisaged in her work are processes of obliteration, regeneration, alchemical operative chance and free association of memory. Exhibited until July 9, these poetic vehicles refer to the cycle of a forest through the medium of lithography, xerox-transfer and collage.
Peace Fest @ Lincoln Park
Going on until Sunday, the 20th come out to enjoy Peace Fest on the lakefront in Lincoln Park, roughly at 1700 N. Stockton, a block from Lincoln Park Zoo. This festival features bands, poets, speakers, dancing, art and love. The fun starts off at noon with a drum circle.
Urban Gateways' Interactive Arts Benefit @ Cultural Center
Support arts education for every Chicago-area child. Join Urban Gateways for an evening of cocktails, dinner, and interactive media, visual and performance art. Children are encouraged to attend. This benefit is at 6pm at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington.) Tickets are $150 per person/ $50 per child. Click here for more info.
Matter Dance Company Presents: Step into the Ring! @ Vittum Theater
Today, tomorrow, and Saturday, Matter Dance Company performs Step into the Ring!, a circus of a dance performance complete with clowns, live dolls, a lively band, and more under the big top delights. 8pm tonight and tomorrow, 2pm & 8pm Saturday. Adventure Stage Chicago's Vittum Theater (1012 N Noble St). $20 general admission. More information and sexy pictures here.
Reading @ Green Lantern
Come out tonight at 7pm to Green Lantern, 2542 W. Chicago Ave. This reading performance will feature works of prose and fiction by Rob Stephenson, Davis Schneiderman, Kathleen Rooney, Jac Jemc, Tim Jones, A. D. Jameson and FC2 authors.
Winnebago Man @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the 2009 documentary Winnebago Man, an investigation into the infamous "Winnebago Man" YouTube clip. The documentary screens tonight only before opening theatrically in Chicago later in the summer. Tonight's screening will also include an appearance by the director, Ben Steinbauer. (Winnebago Man not scheduled to appear.) Winnebago Man screens tonight at 8pm as part of the TBS Just For Laughs Festival; see the Film Center Website for a full schedule of films. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Morlen Sinoway Guerrilla Truck Show @ Fulton Market Street Loading Docks
The Morlen Sinoway Guerrilla Truck Show is a FREE creative Chicago grassroots event sponsored by DIFFA that started in 2005 to give an opportunity to young and emerging artists, giving designers to showcase their products, art, and furniture. This year's emerging designers and Guerrilla Truck Show veterans will be celebrated from 5:30-9pm at 1052 W. Fulton Market.
Showcasing guests include Morlen Sinoway Atelier, Linda Warren Gallery, Brickermade, Uncommon, Fix Boutique, EC Gallery, Black Walnut Gallery, Montalbano Home, Anne Loucks Gallery, and Jupiter Outpost.
For more information call (312) 432-0100.
From Gaza to Beijing @ Walsh Gallery
Starting at 5:00pm, From Gaza to Beijing exhibit features the work of Gao Lei. Curated by Wu Hung, this exhibition runs until August 9th at the Walsh Gallery, 118 N.Peoria St. This series represents a rejection of both purely conceptual and purely documentary styles in favor of a redefinition and fusion of these dualist realities.
AIADO & Fashion Graduate Exhibition @ Sullivan Galleries
Come out to the Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State St., 7th floor today from 6pm to 8pm. Showcasing design from the Departments of Architecture, Interior Architecture and Designed Objects (AIADO); and Fashion, this exhibition brings together work by graduate students that explores responses to gravity exemplifying fiction and advocacy through innovation and design.
Jim Waid: Paintings and Drawings @ Jean Albano Gallery
Come out tonight to the opening reception for Jim Waid's new work! From 5:30pm to 7:30pm at Jean Albano Gallery (215 W. Superior) will be exhibiting work that engages in landscape reveries and floral dreamscapes.
Rock for Kids' Poster Artist Interviews w/ Geoff Peveto
If you've ever wanted to know more about your favorite show posters, tune in tonight at 7pm at the Rock for Kids' website to pose questions to rock poster artists. The nonprofit's new interview series continues today with an interview with Geoff Peveto of the Decoder Ring at 7pm. Clay Hayes from gigposters.com will be interviewing the artists, and fans can ask their own questions via text and webcam. During the interviews, Rock for Kids will launch some online auctions of some out-of-print and band-signed posters. You can participate in the chat by signing up for a Vokle account or just logging in with your Twitter account while the interview is ongoing at RockforKids.com.
Rock & Roll Cinema: Rock 'n' Roll High School @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents the latest in their Rock & Roll Cinema series of film screenings. Tonight's film is Rock 'n' Roll High School, the Roger Corman/Ramones classic from 1979. "Do your parents know you're Ramones?" Film starts at 7pm, and admission is free! Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Artist Books and Original Drawings @ Home Gallery
Come on out this afternoon from 12pm to 3pm to Home Gallery, 1407 E. 54th Pl for the closing brunch. This exhibition features the drawings, sketchbooks, and artist's books from Michael Brehm, Amanda Vahamaki & Michelangelo Setolo from Souvlaki Circus, Anders Nilsen from Big Questions and Doug Shaeffer.
"Cosmic Images: Beyond Beauty" Panel Discussion
Tonight, the School of the Art Institute is hosting a panel discussion titled "Cosmic Images: Beyond Beauty." The discussion brings together four professionals in astrophysics and cosmology to discuss their studies and interpretations of photographs of space, and how these photographs shape our understanding of the cosmos. The discussion begins at 7pm at the SAIC Ballroom (112 S. Michigan Ave.) and is free and open to the public.
Deep Blue Sea @ Town Hall Pub
Running from June 13th to the 22nd at 7:00pm, Town Hall Pub, 3340 N Halsted St presents Deep Blue Sea directed by Jason Economus. Deep Blue Sea is a short play that stars Roberta and Danny, the combustible and combative pair. Grasping at stability, they indulge in a perverse and mesmerizing mating ritual which renders them raw and heart breakingly tender. Tickets can be purchased at the door, $10 and donations are accepted. For more information call (773) 472-4405 or visit the website.
Facets Night School: Django
Facets Cinematheque presents Facets Night School, a weekly series of midnight screenings paired up with lectures, discussions, and much more. Tonight's screening: the 1966 spaghetti Western Django, a film about a mysterious gunslinger that drags a coffin around wherever he goes. Facets Night School starts tonight at midnight, and tickets are $5 (advance tickets available through Ticketweb). See the Facets Website for a complete schedule. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-4114.
Drinking & Writing Festival
The 6th Annual Drinking & Writing Festival celebrates the life and work of noted drinker and writer Mike Royko. Speakers include Northwestern University's Bill Savage, urban social scientist Denese Neu, Haymarket Pub & Brewery founder and brewer Pete Crowley, and Drinking & Writing's Sean Benjamin and Steve Mosqueda. Special guest David Royko will read from his upcoming book Royko in Love: Mike’s Letters to Carol. Beer from Illinois Craft Brewers Guild members including Rock Bottom, Goose Island, Metropolitan, Three Floyds and Half Acre will be served, along with a few beers from Portland, OR. You can also compete in the 2 Drink Minimum Writing Contest. Today from noon to 5pm at Hopleaf, 5148 N. Clark St. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door and include 10 drink sample tickets. 21+
Nerdologues Night @ Joone Studios
The Chicago Nerds Social Club invite you to The Nerdologues, an evening of stories written by nerds for nerds. After the stories, you are invited to "hang out, play videogames and drink until midnight." Nerdologues happens tonight at 9pm at Joone Studios (1327 N. Ashland). Tickets are $10 and are available through Brown Paper Tickets. For more information see the Chicago Nerds Website.
Humboldt Park Art Fair
The 4th annual Humboldt Park Art Fair, organized by nonprofit arts organization Graffiti Zone, runs from noon to 9pm today in the Humboldt Park Boat House, 1400 N. Sacramento Ave. Check out art by dozens of area artists, and listen to music by local acts. Free, but donations encouraged.
Daniel Clowes @ Quimby's
Former Chicagoan and author of Ghost World and Eightball Daniel Clowes makes a rare appearance in his native city to promote his new graphic novel Wilson. 1854 W. North Ave, 7pm.
Intonation Music Workshop's Stars Of Tomorrow Summer Spectacular @ Fosco Park
In the shadow of some of Chicago's most dangerous neighborhoods, bands comprised exclusively of kids ages 5-18 will take the stage in front of their families, friends and a big crowd of curious music fans to prove that there is more than one story being told on the South and West sides of Chicago. This free outdoor concert - by kids and for kids - is presented by Chicago's Intonation Music Workshop and the Chicago Park District. Fosco Park is located at 1312 S. Racine. Noon.
Influence @ Betty Dare Gallery
Come out tonight from 7pm to 11pm to Betty Dare Gallery, 1319 W. Chicago Ave. off of Chicago Blue Line. This exhibition features Martin Bernstein sculptures, Aaron Straus's installation, Rory Coyne and Tristan Hummel's paintings. Influence inspires the audience to reassess their personal myth of life and examine the role of external forces through animism, worship of our mementos and shifting spectral externality. All media is invited to attend. More information can be found here.
William Chance Nicholson's Solo Exhibition
Come out tonight at 6pm to 5052 N. Troy to check out William Chance Nicholson's solo exhibition entitled TIME IS ART. The philosophy of "Time is Art" pertains to the fact that nature is intrinsically beautiful and that all endeavors should ultimately result in the beautification of the world we live in. By creating sculptures from decaying urban artifacts and 'paintings' out of live plants, Nicholson has turned trash into treasure and time into art. Free beer while supplies last! For more information, visit facebook or the website.
Transgression/ Transmutations The Book Rejiggered @ 23rd Atmosphere Group Gallery
Come out tonight from 6pm to 10pm to 23rd Atmosphere Group Gallery, 1907 South Halsted Street. This exhibition features work by Darek Piech, Robert Furman, Lucinda Chapman, Mathew Hall and Robert Henry Mutterson II, who physically alter and incorporate books into their works of art. The process of "rejiggering" is the reappropriation of landfill bound books to their original use as informational tools.
GL 2010: "Not Your Generic Latina" @ Chicago Dramatists
Presented by Teatro Luna, Chicago's All-Latina Theatre Company at Chicago Dramatists, 1105 W. Chicago Ave. at 7:30pm. Not Your Generic Latina takes on the question: what has changed for Latinas over the past 10 years? The ladies of Lunáticas challenge you to confront old stereotypes and break down new ones through original music, spoken word and new autobiographical stories reflecting the diverse lives of Latina women. Tickets are currently on sale for $12, $15 and $20.
Artist-in-Residence Ramu Ramdev @ AIC
In the Alsdorf Galleries of Indian, Southeast Asian, and Himalayan Art Section of the Art Institute of Chicago, master miniature painter Ramu Ramdev from Jaipur, India will be in residence from June 6th to the 12th, offering a rare opportunity to see the artist at work. The times to view him are 11:00am to 1:00pm and 2:00pm to 3:00pm (also 5:00pm to 7:00pm on June 10th). Click here for more information about the event and here to learn all about Ramu Remdev.
Rock for Kids' Poster Artist Interviews w/ Geoff Peveto (Rescheduled)
If you've ever wanted to know more about your favorite show posters, tune in today at 1pm at the Rock for Kids' website to pose questions to rock poster artists. The nonprofit's new interview series launched last week and continues today with Geoff Peveto of the Decoder Ring at 1pm. Clay Hayes from gigposters.com will be interviewing the artists, and fans can ask their own questions via text and webcam. During the interviews, Rock for Kids will launch some online auctions of some out-of-print and band-signed posters. You can participate in the chat by signing up for a Vokle account or just logging in with your Twitter account while the interview is ongoing at RockforKids.com. [Note: this online interview is rescheduled for Monday, June 14th at 7pm.]
Steven Koozer, Cheap Smokes, The Motley Crew & Dumpster Babies
Come out tonight at 9:00pm to the Empty Bottle, 1035 North Western Ave. and get stained. Steven Koozer, Cheap Smokes, The Motley Crew and Dumpster Babies play a great show. Afterwards come to Stella's Tap, 935 North Western Ave. for Old Style beers.
Face Time Performance @ The Whistler
From 9pm to 12am, the The Whistler (2421 North Milwaukee Avenue) presents Tony Barba on tenor saxophone; bansuri; melodica; electronic effects, Patrick Mulcahy on electric bass and Cory Healey on drums and electronics as Face Time. Barba leads this high octane trio into new dimensions and decibel levels departure from the traditional jazz tenor-bass-drums trio with songs influenced by rock and roll, north Indian classical music, reggae, ambient electronic and jazz. No cover.
Show 'n Tell Show
The Show 'n Tell Show returns tonight at Lincoln Hall, 2424 N Lincoln Ave., with stories about things by Ezra Claytan Daniels, Nathan Kirkman, Object Design League, Jennifer Farrell of Starshaped Press, and The Curious Cardigans. Doors open at 7pm; show starts at 8pm. Free. 21+
Hyde Park Community Art Fair @ Hyde Park
The annual Hyde Park Community Art Fair will feature art and crafts from a variety of artists and vendors. 5700 S. Kimbark Ave. (773) 870-0395.
Rock & Roll Cinema: This Is Spinal Tap @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents the latest in their Rock & Roll Cinema series of film screenings. Tonight's film is the comedy classic This Is Spinal Tap, and it definitely goes to 11. Film starts at 7pm, and admission is free! Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Oistrach Symphony Orchestra Summer Quartet
Tonight come see the Oistrach Symphony Orchestra Summer Quartet perform
Haydn Opus 76 Quartet No. 2 in D Minor "Quinten" and Mozart String Quartet No. 15 in D Minor K.421 at the Church of the Three Crosses, 333 W. Wisconsin Street in Lincoln Park. This is an open house concert, no tickets are required. A post concert wine and cheese reception and musician discussion follows. For more information e-mail info@oistrachsymphony.org.
Constructor Craft Fair
Get your DIY on in the western suburbs today at Constructor Craft Fair. Cute and useful goods abound at Fitzgerald's, 6615 W. Roosevelt Road, Berwyn. 10am-6pm. Free!
Small Victories: An Unflattering Vanity Project @ Annoyance Theatre
Starting tonight through June 13, the Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway presents Small Victories: An Unflattering Vanity Project. This comedic performance directed by Kate Duffy, written and performed by Kristen Studard focuses on the confessional, shedding a hilarious and often harsh light on the lies we tell ourselves. Everyday household objects cry out their inner thoughts, a Hungry Hungry Hippo contemplates the loss of his appetite and a girl scout invokes eugenics in a dog adoption debate. Show starts at 9:30pm. Ticket are available for $10 at 773-561-4665 or online.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago Summer Series @ Harris Theater
HDSC's Summer Series is sure to delight. The company performs at the Harris Theater at 3pm. Tickets start at $25 and may be purchased at hubbardstreetdance.com or through the HSDC ticket office at 312-850-9744.
International Summer Screenings @ Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center (in conjunction with Cinema/Chicago) continues its International Summer Screenings Program with Cape No. 7 (Hái-kak chhit-ho), the highest-grossing Taiwanese film ever. Catch the film at 2 p.m. Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington St. (312) 744-6630. Free.
Hyde Park Community Art Fair
The annual Hyde Park Community Art Fair will feature art and crafts from a variety of artists and vendors. The event takes place on June 5 & 6. 5700 S. Kimbark Ave. (773) 870-0395.
Free Workshops @ Lillstreet Art Center Open House
Workshops in various media for both adults and children are being held today at the Lillstreet Art Center Open House. Check out the Lillstreet website for more information on workshop times, and be sure to swing by for free snacks and a tour through the facility as well! Lillstreet Art Center is located at 4401 N Ravenswood Ave.
Alex Ross @ Chicago Comics
Alex Ross is promoting his DC Comics sketchbook hardcover, Rough Justice, at Chicago Comics, 3244 North Clark St. He will be signing from 3pm to 5pm. Each attendee can have up to 4 items signed and should be there early.
Spring Trunk Show @ Galleria 1712
Join Halo Stitch and Leeba Creations this evening for cocktails and appetizers from 6pm to 10pm. This fundraiser collectively commemorates their cause, which is to create Fairly Traded jobs for women in India and raise money for Leeba Hope, a foundation which raises money for children with special needs.
Experimental Garage Sale @ Experimental Sound Studio
The Experimental Sound Studio plays host to the Experimental Garage Sale, at which circuit-bending artists will be selling their wares to the general public. Also on hand will be all kinds of electronic gear, including spare parts, electronic kits, vintage toys, etc. The sale happens today from noon to 5pm. For more information see this link at GetLoFi.com, or RSVP on Facebook. Experimental Sound Studio: 5925 N. Ravenswood.
EXHIBITION 7.06052010 @ MVSEVM
From 6pm to 10 pm, come out tonight to MVSEVM, 1626 N. California Ave. This exhibition features the work of Chad Kouri, Rachel Niffenegger, Jes Takla, Omair Hussain, Brookhart Jonquil, Robert Andrade, Luke Willard. Scott Jarrett, Carson Fisk-Vittori and Mark Beasley. For more information visit MVSEUM.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago Summer Series @ Harris Theater
HDSC's Summer Series is sure to delight. The company performs at the Harris Theater at 8pm. Tickets start at $25 and may be purchased at hubbardstreetdance.com or through the HSDC ticket office at 312-850-9744.
Eric Fleischauer: POST-CURSOR @ threewalls
Come out tonight to threewalls, 119 N. Peoria #2C to see Eric Fleischauer's exhibition POST-CURSOR at 6pm. It featurse a series of videos and an artist book that reflects the scattered nature of online search queries, shortened attention spans, and random thoughts, that are symptomatic of the excessive availability of information.
Tom Parish @ Gruen Galleries
Gruen Galleries (226 West Superior Street) hosts opening for Tom Parish from 6pm to 9pm. Working with oils on canvas, Parish paints scapes from Venice.
Jerome Powers and Heidi Van Wieren @ Roy Boyd Gallery
Come to Roy Boyd Gallery (739 N. Wells) from 5pm to 7pm to see the new work of Jerome Powers and Heidi Van Wieren. Jerome Powers combines the austerity of minimalism with a distinctly humanist sensibility by using common materials like hair and pencil. Heidi Van Wieren fascinated by captured and layered light uses Elmer's Glue and ink to emphasize these qualities by building up layers. Exhibition runs through July 20th.
Toots Zynsky @ Habatat Gallery
Through July 17th, Habatat Gallery (222 West Superior Street) exhibits Toots Zynsky's new glass work. The opening reception is tonight from 5pm to 8pm, filet de verre, the process of pulling glass threads from hot glass cane, has earned Zynsky international acclaim.
Sense Objects @ Noble and Superior Projects
Come on out to Noble and Superior Projects from 6pm to 10pm tonight, right off the Chicago Blue Line at 1418 W. Superior St. Apt 2R. This exhibition features the work of Kate O'Neill, whose photography series Third Law depicts constructed performances addressing the materiality of banal materials through futile gestures. Rebecca Kressley's installation ON THE SOUTH LOCK OVER SHINE conjures sensuous experiences through careful arrangements of materials that subtly decay and collapse over time.
Rock for Kids' Poster Artist Interviews w/ Strawberry Luna, Hero Designs
If you've ever wanted to know more about your favorite show posters, tune in today at 1pm at the Rock for Kids' website to pose questions to rock poster artists. The nonprofit's new interview series launches this week and continues today with Strawberry Luna and Hero Design Studio (1pm) and then Geoff Peveto of the Decoder Ring on Wednesday, June 9th (1pm). Clay Hayes from gigposters.com will be interviewing the artists, and fans can ask their own questions via text and webcam. During the interviews, Rock for Kids will launch online auctions of some out-of-print and band-signed posters. You can participate in the chat by signing up for a Vokle account or just logging in with your Twitter account while the interview is going on at RockforKids.com.
Camino by Peggy Robinson @ Gallery Cabaret
Come out tonight from 7pm to 10pm to Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N Oakley to view new work by Peggy Robinson. Up through July 4th, Camino presents a sketchbook diary documenting her pilgrimage to Spain's Camino de Santiago de Compostela depicted through rapid fleeting impressionistic sketches and sensitive renderings. They describe the experience as learning through observative patience.
Chicago Eastside Millennium Art Festival
Continuing on through June 6th from 10am to 5pm, the New Eastside Artworks present Chicago Eastside Millennium Art Festival off of Lake Street and Michigan Avenue. This festival offers original works from 150 juried artists working in ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, sculpture, mixed media, painting, drawing, photography, wood and furniture. For more information about the Eastside Millennium Art Festival or Amdur Productions Inc., please call (847) 926-4300 or email info@amdurproductions.com.
Eulalio Fabie de Silva @ Sapere Art Gallery
Come out tonight at 7pm to Sapere Art in the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 Milwaukee Avenue, 3rd Floor Studio, 341. Bay Area Figurative and Plein Air Painter Eulalio Fabie de Silva will be performing live painting. Friday night will be spontaneous works on paper modeled after masters works and Saturday will be a live model setting.
The Interview Show @ Hideout
Mark Bazer talks with Charlie Trotter and author/Cubs player Doug Glanville, and Prescott Tolk, Shadenfreude and The Jordan Years perform at this month's Interview Show at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight at 6:30pm. $5 at the door. 21+
All in the Timing @ the Greenhouse Theater
The Organic Theater Company presents All in the Timing by David Ives. All in the Timing, a wacky collection of six situational episodes where three literary chimpanzees named Milton, Swift and Kafka; a conman; black holes and the resurrective death of Leon Trotsky implore the viewers to rethink the simple concept of a play. His sarcastic humor is sure to outwit the most keen of his audiences. The show opens tonight at the Greenhouse Theater, 2257 N Lincoln Ave., and runs through June 24. Tickets for all performances are $29 (students and seniors, $20 with ID) and may be purchased by phone at (773) 404-7336 or online at OrganicTheater.org.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago Summer Series @ Harris Theater
HDSC's Summer Series is sure to delight. The company performs at the Harris Theater at 8pm. Tickets start at $25 and may be purchased at hubbardstreetdance.com or through the HSDC ticket office at 312-850-9744.
Balkan Beat Box @ Millennium Park
At 6:30pm, Millennium Park's Music Without Borders concert series kicks off with Balkan Beat Box and their Mediterranean-influenced music. Their music incorporates traditions from Eastern Europe and the Middle East, combining west with the east -with solid rock and reggae foundations. For more information about Music Without Borders and all of the programming in Millennium Park, call (312) 742-1168 or visit Millennium Park on Facebook.
Free Shuttle Bus to A Porous Space Opening
A free shuttle bus from the Art Institute of Chicago to the Gahlberg Gallery in Glen Ellyn will leave at 5pm today. Jump on the bus to attend the opening of Deborah Boardman's multi-media exhibit, A Porous Space. The exhibit focuses on the faults of the earth and ourselves, drawing parallels between our experience and our environment. On opening night, a chorus will sing about their faults. The bus will arrive back in Chicago by 9pm.
Reginald Gibbons @ STOP SMILING
Tonight at 7:30pm at 1371 N. Milwaukee Ave. STOP SMILING debuts "The Chicago Ward Primer: Celebrities, Scandals, and Snacks," a multimedia presentation from Gapers Block politics editor and MAKE cofounder Ramsin Canon. Also featuring readings from Slow Trains Overhead by Reginald Gibbons, a poet, fiction writer, translator and essayist. Free.
Sacred Spaces @ St. Pauls Chapel
This evening at 8pm, St. Pauls Chapel, 655 W. Fullerton presents Sacred Space. This performance pairs fluidity with ecstatic angular movement, with choreography by Erin Carlisle Norton and musical composition by Ian Hatcher. Free parking in church lot, 600 Block W. Kemper. Tickets are $18 for general admission and $12 for students. More information can be found here.
International Summer Screenings Program @ Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center in conjunction with Cinema/Chicago continues its International Summer Screenings Program with Cape No. 7 (Hái-kak chhit-ho), the highest-grossing Taiwanese film ever. Catch the film at 6:30pm. Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington St. (312) 744.6630. Free.
Pub Quiz Against Poverty @ Burwood Tap
The Heartland Alliance is holding a pub quiz this evening at The Burwood Tap (724 W. Wrightwood) to raise funds for their From Poverty to Opportunity Campaign to work towards ending poverty in Illinois. The quiz happens this evening from 6 to 9pm, and the event also includes a raffle to win some great prizes. For full information on the event and to purchase tickets please see the Heartland Alliance Website.
Rock for Kids' Poster Artist Interviews w/ Jay Ryan
If you've ever wanted to know more about your favorite show posters, tune in today at 1pm at the Rock for Kids' website to pose questions to rock poster artists. The nonprofit's new interview series launches this week with Jay Ryan of the Bird Machine. The series continues Friday, June 4th with Strawberry Luna and Hero Design Studio (1pm) and Geoff Peveto of the Decoder Ring on Wednesday, June 9th (1pm). Clay Hayes from gigposters.com will be interviewing the artists, and fans can ask their own questions via text and webcam. During the interviews, Rock for Kids will launch some online auctions of some out-of-print and band-signed posters. You can participate in the chat by signing up for a Vokle account or just logging in with your Twitter account while the interview is ongoing at RockforKids.com.
MFA Thesis Film Screening @ Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art and Block Cinema
The artists from this year's MFA Thesis Exhibition from the Department of Art Theory & Practice show films that inspired their work. 7-9pm, 40 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. Free!
Everything Is Terrible! @ Hungry Brain
Everything Is Terrible, the infamous video blog, hosts another disturbing video show tonight at Hungry Brain (2319 W. Belmont, near Western). Tonight's theme: "Summer Fun!" So expect plenty of disturbing beach party action. The show starts tonight at 9pm, and admission is free!
Ashes of American Flags: Wilco Live @ Gene Siskel
Screening until June 3rd, Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St. presents Ashes of American Flags: Wilco Live at 8:15pm today. Americana remains the theme in every sense, and Wilco fans and newcomers alike will revel in the superbly produced concert footage filmed in iconic locations, reflecting on the changing small town landscape. Tickets are $10 for general admission, $7 for students, $5 for members and are available at the Film Center Box Office.
Grand Opening @ Saki
Come out tonight to Saki, 3716 W. Fullerton Ave. for some good tunes! Saki is a music store with art, books and zines for your reading pleasure. For your listening pleasure, Chicago's very own Hollows open at 6pm and the psychedelic trance outfit, Sadhu Sadhu follow at 7pm - for full listings visit Saki.
Asian American Arts Benefit @ Schubas
Schubas hosts an evening of Asian and Pacific American artists, including Narciso Lobo, Imelda de la Cruz, Aloha Lives!, Cynthia Lin, and many more. Proceeds go to benefit A-Squared Theater Workshop and CIRCA/Pintig. The show starts at 8pm. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at Schubas' Website. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
Keep It Local! Showcase @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents a Keep It Local! showcase, featuring Nelken, Dopplerman, Aquifiers, Wild Jesus and the Devil's Lettuce, Goodbyehome, Lamb B. Bear and Kyle Theiss. The show starts at noon, and tickets are $8. Full schedule and tickets are available at the Empty Bottle Website. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Magical Strings of Youth @ Symphony Center
At Chicago Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., at 12:45pm The Betty Haag Academy of Music presents a concert by The Magical Strings of Youth, with collaboration from world-renowned violinist Ilya Kaler. The Magical Strings of Youth are a talented group of young violinists from Chicago who have toured extensively from Europe to Carnegie Hall. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased in advance by calling 847-382-7925, or at the Symphony Center box office on the day of the show.
The Complete Lost Works of Samuel Beckett... @ Steppenwolf Garage
Theater Oobleck and The Neo-Futurists present a one-night-only remount of Greg Allen's show The Complete Lost Works of Samuel Beckett As Found In An Envelope (partially burned) In A Dustbin In Paris Labeled "Never to be performed. Never. Ever. EVER! Or I'll Sue! I'LL SUE FROM THE GRAVE!!!" A hilarious presentation of the late playwright's final works (or not), the show is performed tonight at Steppenwolf Garage (1624 N. Halsted, near North Avenue) at 5pm. Tickets are $15 or pay-what-you-can.
The Pentagon Saves the World @ The Pentagon
Come out tonight to the opening of The Pentagon Saves the World, from 7pm to 11pm. Featuring works in video, photography, sculpture and film by Deborah Stratman, Jim Zimpel, Jesse Avina, Daniel Baird, Jake Myers and The Pentagon Education Collective. This exhibition examines the effectiveness and importance of heroics in contemporary American culture such as the archetypes of heroic athletes, soldiers, astronauts, cowboys and other saviors. Come early for soup and beer. The Pentagon Gallery, 961 w 19th Street.
2nd Story @ Strawdog Theater
Tonight 2nd Story will be at Strawdog Theater. 2nd Story is a hybrid performance event combining storytelling, wine, and music that is produced by the Serendipity Theater Collective. It's got the polished, dynamic feel of a theatrical event in a relaxed atmosphere. Megan Stielstra, Director of Story Development, sums up their M.O. as "the best stories I've ever heard come from hanging out with friends over a good bottle of wine. That's when people really start talking, really get to the meat of their experiences - the wild beauty of it all, the destruction and the hope. That's the feeling we're going for: the intimacy of my own living room and the crazy secrets that have been told there." Friday's theme is Body Movin'. Featured readers are Nick Kawahara, Johanna Stein, Jen Shin and Byron Flitsch. Strawdog Theater, 3829 N. Broadway. Tickets are $10. Doors open at 10:30pm, stories at 11pm.
Asi Esta La Cosa @ Marwen Gallery
Gonzalo Reyes curates Asi Esta La Cosa, featuring work from emerging artists from Mexico City and Chicago, tonight from 5pm to 9pm on the second floor of Marwen Gallery, 833 North Orleans St. The exhibition includes work by Sara Condo, Alex Herrera, Danny Gallegos, Olivia Leyva, Christian Castañeda, Ricardo Velmor, and Luis Felipe Rojas.
The Wizard of Oz @ CSO
Tonight, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (220 South Michigan Avenue) performs the entire score of The Wizard of Oz over the film and to the original vocals. The concert starts at 8pm, and tickets range from $33 to $80.
Sebastian Vallejo @ Lloyd Dobler Gallery
Come out tonight to Lloyd Dobler Gallery, 1545 W. Division, Second Floor at 6pm to view Sebestian Vallejo's Lux: New Work. In this exhibition, Sebestian enveils a classier version of the 1980s through fabric application, day-glo paint and copious amounts of opportunely placed glitter.
Urban Decay/Urban Renewal
CCLaP hosts a reading of pieces centered on the theme of "Urban Decay/Urban Renewal" tonight at the Op Shop, 1530 E. 53rd St., at 8pm. Readers include Sally Weigel, Ben Tanzer, Mark Brand, Jason Fisk and Katherine Hodges. Free.
Office Romance Fundraiser & Auction @ The Library
This party/fundraiser for threewalls will feature performances by Dog & Pony Theater Co., Naked Girls Reading, Chances Dances and much more! Live and silent auction artworks by a huge list of local emerging and established artists (who are really, really good). The VIP hour is from 7:30-8:30pm with general admission after that 'till midnight. The Library is located at 190 S LaSalle. Click here for details.
Salwomir Mrozek's The Police @ the Greenhouse Theater
The Organic Theater Company presents The Police by Salwomir Mrozek. The Police, a ferocious comedy, explores the unexpected consequences of a police force so efficient that all citizens have become law-abiding. In order to secure the existence of the system, the police must manufacture fake political dissenters. The play opens tonight at the Greenhouse Theater, 2257 N Lincoln Ave., and runs through June 27. Tickets for all performances are $29 (students and seniors, $20 with ID) and may be purchased by phone at 773-404-7336 or online.
Poetry Bomb Tour of Words 2010 @ Chopin Theater
Poet/actor S.A. Griffin brings his Poetry Bomb Tour of Words to the Chopin Theater (1543 W. Division) tonight at 8pm (doors open at 7:30). Hosted by Chicago Slam Works, admission is $10 at the door, and proceeds go to OUTSPOKEN: Chicago's Poetry & Spoken Arts Festival. Come out and help CSW and Griffin launch a poetic bomb!
Robert K. Elder @ Blackstone Library
Tonight Robert K. Elder will talk about his forthcoming book Last Words of the Executed. Rob Warden, executive director of the Center on Wrongful Convictions, says "this is a powerful, haunting book. Whether you favor or oppose the death penalty, you won't think about it the same way after reading the last words of the condemned - some remorseful, some spiteful, some humorous, all tragic. Most horrifying is the realization that some of those who claimed innocence until the end probably were telling the truth." Actors will be performing dramatic readings of some of the more famous cases. Tonight's reading is part of the Leon Despres Memorial Lectures series. Blackstone Library, 4904 S. Lake Park Ave., (312) 747-1105, 6pm.
Daniel Stolar @ Richardson Library, DePaul University
Tonight, DePaul professor Daniel Stolar (who, incidentally, gets a red chili pepper for "hot professor" on ratemyprofessors.com), reads from new fiction tonight. His previous work includes the 2003 short story collection The Middle of the Night. Set in his hometown of St. Louis, where his mother was an alderman for eight years, Publishers Weekly says of The Middle of the Night: "it revolves around the continual surprises life springs on us when we are least expecting them...these stories are intelligently written, thoughtful, precise and memorable." DePaul University, Richardson Library, Room 300, 2350 N. Kenmore Ave., at 6pm.
Athens @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle plays host tonight to Athens, promoting their latest release What Would We Wear Were We Werewolves (an album that also doubles as a handy tongue-twister). Also playing tonight: The Names That Spell and The Gentlemen's Guild. Show starts at 9:30pm; tickets are $5 at the door and $3 in advance (see the Empty Bottle Website to purchase advance tix). Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Absolute Kinography and World Revolution @ Woodlawn Collaborative
Come join us tonight at the Woodlawn Collaborative, 6400 S Kimbark Ave -Porter Room, 1st Floor from 6:30pm to 8:30pm, to watch Dziga Vertov's Man With a Movie Camera. It is an experimental 1929 silent documentary drawing from the ferment of the international socialist revolutions of 1917 to 1923. A discussion will follow. Free pizza will be served. For more information, contact Greg (gregg@uchicago.edu).
Chet Nichols @ MCA
Chet Nichols performs at the Museum of Contemporary Art tonight as part of The Secret History of Chicago Music exhibition in the USB 12 x 12 gallery. Performance begins at 7pm. Museum admission is free on Tuesdays. 220 E. Chicago Ave.
Rafal Olbinski & "The Freedom of Fence" @ SAIC
The screening of The Freedom of Fence highlights the history of Polish poster design. This 40 minute documentary in SAIC's Rubloff Auditorium is followed by a presentation by one of the film's feature artists, Rafal Olbinski. Mr. Olbinski is a master Polish-American painter and poster maker. From 6pm to 8pm, $20 for general admission and $10 for students.
John Goldman @ The Jazz Showcase
At The Jazz Showcase, 806 S. Plymouth, sets at 8pm and 10pm. John Goldman, Chicago altoist, and his band Quaderangle celebrate the release of their new album Outside the Box. Outside the Box has been heralded as an eclectic fusion of jazz and psychedelia. This performance will feature guests from the album such as Leslie Beukelman, Kendall Moore and Victor Garcia, a Latin jazz trumpeter. For general admission, tickets are $10 and $5 dollars for students and musicians.
The Shock Doctrine @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long screening of The Shock Doctrine, the 2009 Michael Winterbottom film version of the Naomi Klein book. The film screens through May 27; see the Film Center Website for a full schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
The Legacy of Chess Records @ Blue Heaven Studios
Take a rare look at the Chess Records Studio, where the likes of Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon, Howlin' Wolf, Sonny Boy Williamson, and Chuck Berry lay down their tracks. In 1993 the building was bought by Marie Dixon, Willie Dixon's widow, and donated to the Willie Dixon Blues Heaven Foundation. Visitors will be given a tour of the space, and participate in a blues harmonica workshop taught by musicians Doktu Rhute Muuzic and Fernando Jones. Ticket holders will also have the chance to meet Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot, hosts of WBEZ's Sound Opinions, who will share their thoughts on the Chess Records legacy. 2120 S. Michigan Avenue, tickets $15.
Spatial City @ Hyde Park Art Center
Come view the Spatial City exhibition at Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S Cornell Ave, from 3pm to 5pm. This show features works that reflect the environmentally influenced cycling and recycling of optimism and cynicism of each individual artist. There are over 22,000 pieces in this exhibition, and will be up until August 8.
Jeff Kowalkowski @ Experimental Sound Studio
At 2pm at Experimental Sound Studio, 5925 N. Ravenswood, Jeff Kowalkowski performs a one-hour piano set. Jeff's chamber music works have been performed internationally. $10 suggested donation, $7 students and ESS members.
Chop Suey @ Chicago History Museum
Join food writer Andrew Coe to learn more about the history of the beloved Chinese-ish dish at the Chicago History Museum, North and Clark, at 10am this morning. Coe will be available to sign copies of his newest book Chop Suey: A Cultural History of Chinese Food in the United States, and attendees will get a nifty sampling of Chinese food. Cost $3-6; email to RSVP (requested).
Kurosawa Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center is running an Akira Kurosawa series through June, and this afternoon you can see two of his films: Stray Dog (1949) at 3pm and Throne of Blood (1957) at 5:30pm. You can purchase tickets to each film individually, or purchase a discount ticket for both films. See the Film Center Website for full details and a schedule of the series. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
1700% Project @ Sullivan Galleries
Poetry is like love, hard to define, often badly imitated, but you know the real thing when you find it by how hard it is to forget and how uncomfortable it makes you. That's how I felt hearing about the 1700% Project on NPR the other day. The title refers to the rise in hate crimes against Arabs, Muslims (and those perceived as such) since September 11, 2001. The poem is a Cento, which is 100 lines of found writings, comprised of some of the individual news stories that fill out that percentage. It's an ingenious technique that's all the more arresting for its simplicity and straightforwardness. The brainchild of "artist/writer/agitator" Anida Yoeu Ali, "1700% Project: Otherance" was "conceived as a collaborative project utilizing art not just as a means to address critical issues but also as strategic intervention." Check out the last two performances, which include the poem, video, dance, audio recording and performance-installation, at Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State Street, 7th Floor, (312) 629-6635, Saturday, May 15 at 12:30pm and Friday, May 21 at 4:30pm.
Update, 05/13/2010: Ali's project was vandalized some time between May 6 and May 11.
Good Evening Reading @ POST
The 123 Collective is hosting their Good Evening Series tonight at POST (1816 S. Racine) in Pilsen. Stop by to hear Zach Kolodjeski, Kat Sanchez, and John Franklin Dandridge read, and then get on stage yourself for an open mic! Space opens at 7pm and reading begins at 8pm. The event is free, but BYOB.
Revamped Fashion Show
Earth Share of Illinois presents Revamped, a fashion and art show dedicated to celebrating and promoting the beauty of eco-conscious lifestyle practices. Tickets are $35 in advance, $45 at the door; VIP entry is $75.
The City That Works @ Gallery Cabaret
Sketch comedy troupe Schadenfreude and funk/hip hop quintet The Jordan Years team up for the show "The City That Works" at the Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley Ave., at 8pm. $10. Free food.
Bro Noir: Exhibition and Concert
A show at 2224 N. Leavitt featuring the musical and visual works of Geffika; Connor and Zack; Micheal, Jordyn and Greg; Aaron Zarzutzki and "lots of moldy porn in a plastic bag." Starts at 8pm. Free but donations are appreciated.
Annual Juried Reading & Awards Ceremony @ SAIC Ballroom
The Poetry Center of Chicago has announced seven finalists for their 16th Annual Juried Reading Competition -- read about them here. The first through third place winners will be announced at an awards ceremony tonight at 7:30 pm, at the SAIC Ballroom (112 S. Michigan). Admission is free.
Images of Memory and Decay Exhibition @ Audible Gallery
Today at 6pm on 5925 N. Ravenswood, Alice Hargrave celebrates the opening of her exhibition, "Untitled (family)". Recalling the vernacular reside of family life, her photography explores the parallels between the transience of photographs and way memory is filtered altered over time. Featuring a performance by Anton Hatwich at 7:30pm.Laugh It Up, Kid: Stand-Up Comedy Showcase @ Schubas
Schubas presents an evening of stand-up comedy, featuring Prescott Tolk, Chad Biggs, Ken Barnard, Liza Treyger and Chris Condren. The show starts at 9pm, it's a 21+ show, and tickets are $5. See the Schubas Website for full information and to purchase tickets in advance. Schubas: 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont). (773) 525-2508.
Rob Reid @ Uncommon Ground on Clark
Self-described "afro-folk kitchenware storyteller" Rob Reid plays at Uncommon Ground on Clark at 7pm, followed by Carmen Mikol and Matt Campbell. Reid has played in countless coffee houses, restaurants, farmers markets and neighborhood taverns, and issued his third solo album, The Principles of Crop Rotation, in December 2009. Uncommon Ground is located at 3800 N. Clark Street. For more information call (773) 929-3680 or visit Uncommon Ground.
The Maude Squad
Are you missing Bea Arthur, and reruns of the Golden Girls on the We network just aren't cutting it? Cabaret Chanteuse Carla Gordon honors the iconic actress of stage and screen in Queen Bea - A Tribute To Beatrice Arthur at the Skokie Theatre, 7924 Lincoln Avenue. 2pm. Tickets $20 in advance / $25 at the door.
Sappho's Salon @ Women & Children First
Women and Children First hosts Sappho's Salon: A Provocative Night of Lesbian Diversions this evening at 7:30pm, featuring comedy from Sapna Kumar and M. Shelly Conner, and music by DJ SpinNikki. Admission is $7-10 (sliding scale) and includes food & wine. Women & Children First: 5233 N. Clark. (773) 769-9299.
Scott Free's 10th Annual Alt-Q Festival
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a 10th anniversary "best of" show of Scott Free's Alt-Q series of performances from the GLBT community. Among the acts featured tonight will be: Coyote Grace; Wishing Chair; Heat Birds; Namoli Brennet; Actor Slash Model; and more. Tickets are $20 ($18 to OTS members, $16 to seniors/kids) and can be purchased from the Old Town School box office. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
1700% Project @ Sullivan Galleries
Poetry is like love, hard to define, often badly imitated, but you know the real thing when you find it by how hard it is to forget and how uncomfortable it makes you. That's how I felt hearing about the 1700% Project on NPR the other day. The title refers to the rise in hate crimes against Arabs, Muslims (and those perceived as such) since September 11, 2001. The poem is a Cento, which is 100 lines of found writings, comprised of some of the individual news stories that fill out that percentage. It's an ingenious technique that's all the more arresting for its simplicity and straightforwardness. The brainchild of "artist/writer/agitator" Anida Yoeu Ali, "1700% Project: Otherance" was "conceived as a collaborative project utilizing art not just as a means to address critical issues but also as strategic intervention." Check out the last two performances, which include the poem, video, dance, audio recording and performance-installation, at Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State Street, 7th Floor, (312) 629-6635, Saturday, May 15 at 12:30pm and Friday, May 21 at 4:30pm.
Update, 05/13/2010: Ali's project was vandalized some time between May 6 and May 11.
(re)cycle green(er)
(re)cycle green(er) is a progressive storefront installation exemplifying the ecology and logistics of six bicycle builders. Functional art is achieved through a collage of components, once donated or disposed, then reconstructed and reassembled by local (re)cyclists. Second-hand frames become the canvas for the hyperbolic extensions of cycling green. Through the process of reduction and renewal, each bicycle is resurrected as an icon of self-expression.
6pm to 10pm
1900 S. Halsted St.
(773) 331-0211
http://www.thechainlink.org/events/recycle-greener
Manifest 2010 @ Columbia College Chicago
Columbia College's urban arts festival, Manifest, starts May 14 on Columbia's campus in the Loop and will feature readings, performances, music, and much much more! It's free and open to the public, so check out the schedule of events here.
Cory Doctorow @ Harold Washington Library
Blogger and author Cory Doctorow will be at the Harold Washington Library this evening at 5pm to promote his new young adult novel For The Win. The event is free, but pre-registration is required. Call (312) 747-5260 to register.
Funny Ha-Ha
Funny Ha-Ha returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 7 to 8:30pm, Claire Zulkey hosts an evening of readings and performances by:
RedEye columnist and Interview Show host Mark Bazer
"Impress These Apes" creator and co-host Steve Gadlin
Sunday Night Sex Show contributor Samantha Irby
Another Chicago Magazine editor Jacob Knabb
sketch comedy group Schadenfreude
Plus films by genius film maker & comedian at large Joe Avella
$5 suggested donation; proceeds benefit the Neighborhood Writing Alliance. 21+
Cory Doctorow @ Anderson's Books, Naperville
Blogger and novelist Cory Doctorow will be at Anderson's Books in Naperville this evening at 7pm promoting his new young adult novel For The Win. The event is free and open to the public.
Preservation Chicago: Drinking in Your History
Preservation Chicago presents a talk by Chicago Bar Project's Sean Parnell on the history of bars and speakeasies in Chicago tonight at the Green Door Tavern, 678 N. Orleans, one of the city's oldest bars. The talk will be given in the bar's old speakeasy room, which is usually closed to the public. Tickets are $25 in advance, and include two drinks, light appetizers, a copy of Parnell's Historic Bars of Chicago, and a one-year membership to Preservation Chicago.
Quickies! @ Innertown Pub
Quickies!, created by Mary Hamilton and Lindsay Hunter to showcase very short prose, asks writers to read 4 minutes of prose the second Tuesday of every month. This month features Sara Levine, Matt Trupia, Jonathan Messinger, Natalie Edwards, Amanda Marbais, Barry Graham, and Sam Pink. It's free and starts at 7:30pm. 1935 W. Thomas St.
Kick @ Chopin Theatre
Kick, a short film by Chicago-based experimental filmmaker Clara Alcott, premieres at the Chopin Theatre. A science fiction melodrama with a feminine kick, the film deals with two women who, despite being strangers, have the same therapist, a mutual anxiety about technology, and a psychic connection. The screening will be preceded by a series of short works by Sarah Weis and Arturo Cubacub, Chris Hefner, Yony Leyser, Lilli Carre, Catie Olsen, Laura Klein, and The Pretty Things. The event begins at 8pm and admission is $5. A reception follows the screening in the Chopin Lounge. Chopin Theatre | 1543 West Division
101 Lecture Show: Anne Elizabeth Moore
The 101 Lecture Series concludes its current run at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont, with writer and activist Anne Elizabeth Moore. She'll talk about her experiences teaching independent media in Cambodia tonight at 9pm. Presented by Homeroom and youmethemeverybody. Free. 21+
Dandridge Chapbook Release Party @ Tonic Room
Hear John Franklin Dandridge read from his new poetry collection from Fast Geek Press, Further Down Rd, at Tonic Room (2447 N. Halsted) starting at 8pm. Other featured readers include Charly "the city mouse" Fasano and Jennifer Steele. Admission is free.
Ukulele Cabaret @ Silvie's Lounge
This evening is the latest Ukulele Cabaret evening at Silvie's Lounge (1902 W. Irving Park), where ukulele players are invited to show up and play songs related to the evening's theme. Tonight's theme is UKE SOUNDTRACKS: television, movie, theater music, they're all allowed. The evening starts at 9pm tonight, and there's no cover charge. Players that RSVP before tonight will be given priority, so you might want to check in with the group's Facebook or MySpace page before tonight.
CYSK Takes Over The Two-Hour Comedy Hour
This week's Two-Hour Comedy Hour is being invaded by Comedians You Should Know: Drew Michael, Danny Kallas, Marty DeRosa and Michael Sanchez. This weekly stand-up comedy showcase, hosted by Trey Mowder, features a different lineup each week. There's no cover for the 21+ show -though a $5 donation is accepted - and it runs from 7-9pm at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley (near Western and Milwaukee, just off the Blue Line stop). Guests are encouraged to arrive early.
Girls Night Out @ Lillstreet Art Center
Girls Night Out is part of Lillstreet Art Center's series of Mother's Day inspired workshops. This workshop is a one-night-only event that will teach women how to use a low-flame torch to make glass beads and have fun bonding and chatting. The workshop is from 6:30-9:30pm at Lillstreet Art Center (4401 North Ravenswood Avenue). $60 for members and $65 for non-members.
Starting Today Reading @ The Book Cellar
Listen to a reading from the anthology Starting Today: 100 Poems For Obama's First 100 Days at The Book Cellar (4736 N Lincoln Ave) starting at 7pm. Reading their work from the anthology will be Tony Trigilio, Josh Corey, Chris Green, John Beer, John Gallaher, Patrick Culliton, and Cin Salach.
Dance & Technology Forum @ The Cultural Center
Join Chris Elam, Julia Rhoads, Scott Silberstein and Marlon Barrios Solano tonight for a presentation and discussion on how to explore, integrate and take advantage of current digital media tools, combining technology in dancemaking practices in provocative and unexpected ways. CAR Dance Researcher Meida Teresa McNeal will moderate the discussion. Audience questions are welcome. This forum is from 6 to 7:30pm tonight at the first floor Studio Theater at the Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. Email chicagodancemakers@gmail.com to reserve your seat for the forum and post-forum networking reception at the Hard Rock Hotel's Base Bar.
James Greer, Zach Dodson, and Natalie Edwards @ Quimby's
James Greer is on tour for his new novel, The Failure. He will be reading at Quimby's Bookstore (1845 W. North Ave.) with Zach Dodson and Natalie Edwards. It's free and starts at 7pm.
Lambda Award Nominees @ Gerber/Hart Library
The Lambda Literary Foundation, which "nurtures, celebrates, and preserves LGBT literature through programs that honor excellence, promote visibility and encourage development of emerging writers," is hosting their 22nd annual Lambda Literary Awards ceremony May 27 in New York. Tonight there's some hometown love for local nominees. The Gerber/Hart Library in Edgewater will be hosting a reading by Chicago and Midwestern finalists, including Deborah B. Gould (nominated in the LGBT Studies category), J. E. Knowles (Bisexual Fiction), Kristin Naca (Lesbian Poetry) and Trace Richardson (Lesbian Romance). Books will be available for purchase and refreshments will be served. Gerber/Hart Library, 1127 West Granville, May 4, 7pm.
Art Chicago, Artropolis, and NEXT Art Fairs @ Merchandise Mart
This is your last chance to see the biggest annual art fairs in the city. Kazillions of local and not-so-local artists will be on display, both established and emerging -- just about every Chicago gallery has a booth set up at the Merchandise Mart to showcase their artist's work. The show is open from 11am to 4pm today. Tickets range from $15 to $20. Click here for details.
Rock & Roll Cinema: Live Forever @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents the latest in its series of Sunday evening rock & roll film screenings. Tonight's film is Live Forever: The Rise and Fall of Britpop from 2003, featuring music and interviews from plenty of musicians and bands from the British music scene of the 1990s. The screenin starts at 7pm, and admission is free. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Art Chicago, Artropolis, and NEXT Art Fairs @ Merchandise Mart
The biggest art fair in the city is this weekend at the Merchandise Mart. Kazillions of local and not-so-local artists will be on display, both established and emerging, as just about every Chicago gallery has a booth set up this weekend at the Mart to showcase their artist's work. The show is from 11-6 today and 11-4 on Monday. Tickets range from $15 to $25. Click here for details.
Bagels and Bloodies @ Monique Meloche
From 9am-noon, there is a private viewing of Monique Meloche Gallery's current exhibition, Karl Haendel & Walead Beshty,Sheree Hovsepian and Barbara Kasten, which will be on view through May 5. Bagels and bloody marys will be served. RSVP to info@moniquemeloche.com
7 (x1) SAMURAI @ Redmoon Theater
7 (x1) SAMURAI An Epic Tale, Told by an Idiot is a one-man show, performed by David Gaines. This show won Best of the Capital Fringe Fest in 2008 and runs through May 6 at Redmoon Central in West Town (1463 W Hubbard St). The show is loosely based on Akira Kurosawa's The Seven Samurai. Tickets can be purchased here or call the box office at (312) 494-9509. Adults $11 and children $5 in advance.
James Brown's B-Day Party @ The Bottom Lounge
James Brown would have been 77 on May 3. The closest party day is Saturday May 1. The Get Up With the Get Downs and Afro Zep (African-styled Zeppelin tunes featuring members of Chicago Afrobeat Project and some guests percussionists from Africa) are gonna celebrate his music and legacy and influence by playing the most epic sets ever. It's gonna a rhythmically charged, dance-filled Saturday night. $8 in advance. $10 at the door. Party starts at 9pm. The Bottom Lounge is at 1375 W. Lake St.
Roots & Culture Gallery's 4th Annual Fundraiser Party
Featuring a full bar, Chicago style street food, funky DJ's (DJ Ryon (Healing of the Nation Sound System), Rock Hard Gym (NIGHT SCHOOL), and Ross Kelly (Chicago Workgroup, Kokorokoko) spinning the funky business, and a world class art auction featuring the generosity and talents of just about every talented young artist in this beautiful city. $10 Admission from 8pm to midnight. Roots & Culture is located at 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave.
A.R.T. Celebrates Art & Hispanic Culture @ the National Museum of Mexican Art
Chicagoans can celebrate Cinco de Mayo early with the entire family at the National Museum of Mexican Art (1852 West 19th St) today from 5 to 8pm. A.R.T. is Chicago's oldest and largest educational organization dedicated to providing vibrant visual arts programs to elementary school children, teachers and parents in underserved neighborhoods and schools. This event-- designed to raise awareness and funds for the organization-- will feature art making, live music, activities for children and open museum galleries to celebrate Hispanic culture. It will highlight Mexican and Latin American artwork and will include a silent auction, dinner and drinks.
Two-Craft Minimum @ Cole's
Crafts and beer? Where do you sign up? The Chicago Style Crafters are holding a craft fair at Cole's (2338 N. Milwaukee) tonight from 4:30-9pm. Admission is free but the handmade stuff isn't.
Art Chicago, Artropolis, and NEXT Art Fairs @ Merchandise Mart
The biggest art fair in the city is this weekend at the Merchandise Mart. Kazillions of local and not-so-local artists will be on display, both established and emerging, and just about every Chicago gallery has a booth set up this weekend at the Mart to showcase their artist's work. The show is from 11-7 today, 11-6 Sunday, and 11-4 on Monday. Tickets range from $15 to $25. Click here for details.
ChicaGo Green @ Brookfield Zoo
ChicaGo Green educates and entertains about the small steps everyone can take to make a big positive impact on the environment. Explore a 40-foot CTA hybrid bus, frost organic cupcakes from Bleeding Heart Bakery, check out a fashion show, and much more. 10am - 5pm at Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513, (708) 485-0263. Admission is reduced (TBA).
Honor Thy Mother @ Skokie Doubletree
Today marks the 10th annual "Honor Thy Mother" literary event and luncheon sponsored by Literature for All of Us, a 501(c)(3) organization which connects young people to their strengths through literature, engaging them in book groups where they read and discuss literature and write poetry. Event includes lunch, poetry readings by teen LFAOU poets, and keynote speech from author Elizabeth Berg. Doubletree Hotel, 9599 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie. Begins at 11:30am. Tickets are $100 per person. Registration details available on the LFAOU website or contact Maria Ballantyne at (847) 869-2249.
The Pigeons @ Swim Cafe
The Pigeons, written by Joe Zarrow and directed by Cassy Sanders, asks, "Can artists, yuppies, pigeons or anybody escape gentrification?" The real estate farce opens tonight at 8pm and continues Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays through June 7. Tickets are a suggested donation of $10 to $15. Swim Cafe, 1357 W. Chicago Ave. Find out more here.
The Bike Show @ Envision Gallery
This is an art exhibit dedicated to bicycles and the people who ride them, featuring work by Christopher Dilts, Henry Bolzon, Pauline Kochanski, Adam Clark, and Alice Dubois. Curated by Meredith Siemsen. The opening reception is tonight from 6-8pm and the show will stay up through June 12. Flourish Studios Envision Gallery is located at 3020 N Lincoln Ave.
Sticky Forest, Part One @ Prop Thtr
Brain Surgeon Theater's reinterpretation of a Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale opens tonight and runs through May 16. The show, which involves talking ravens, sorcery, puppets, original music and a very small witch and is at 8pm Fridays and Saturdays and 2pm on Sundays, at the Prop Thtr, 3502 N Elston Ave. Buy tickets at ovation tickets or at the door.
School of the Art Institute MFA Exhibition @ Sullivan Galleries
The opening reception for the School of the Art Institute of Chicago's Graduate Exhibition is from 8-10pm in the Sullivan Galleries at 33 S. State St, 7th floor. The show features work by more than 120 students completing their master's degrees in art and technology studies, ceramics, fiber and material studies, painting and drawing, performance, photography, print media, sculpture, sound, and visual communication design.
Art Chicago, Artropolis, and NEXT Art Fairs @ Merchandise Mart
The biggest art fair in the city is this weekend at the Merchandise Mart. Kazillions of local and not-so-local artists will be on display, both established and emerging, and just about every Chicago gallery has a booth set up this weekend at the Mart to showcase their artist's work. The show is from 11-7 today and tomorrow, 11-6 Sunday, and 11-4 on Monday. Tickets range from $15 to $25. Click here for details.
Tom Morello IWW Benefit @ Bottom Lounge
Tom Morello, of Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, will be performing as the folk/rock Nightwatchman tonight at a benefit for the Industrial Workers of the World at the Bottom Lounge, 1375 W. Lake St. The Rust Belt Ramblers and Bucky Halker also perform. Tickets are $16 and are available online.17 and over.
Heavy Equipment @ Rodan
Chicago DJs King Hippo, Gogo and Tony Junior play funk, soul, Brazilian, psychedelia, boogie and deep disco tonight at Rodan (1530 N. Milwaukee Ave). In conjunction with their spring set, the trio will also show experimental and avant-garde film/video on the lounge's massive projection screen. The night starts at 10pm and is totally free. RSVP via Facebook. 21+
CHIRP Reading Event: The First Time @ Uncommon Ground
CHIRP Radio presents its inaugural reading event, "The First Time," at Uncommon Ground's Devon Avenue location (1401 W. Devon). A series of authors will read essays about "Their First Time," and each essay will include a song or artist. After each reading the band (Liam Davis, Steve Frisbie and Gerald Dowd) will play that song or artist. The show begins tonight at 8pm and seating is limited; if you make dinner reservations you're guaranteed a seat for the show. Admission is a suggested $10 donation; if you can't attend the event you can also make a donation at the CHIRP Radio Website.
Unearthed Arcana: Narrative Art for Others @ LVL 3
This show consists of thirteen living artists representing several generations of American life-- Family-men, healers, care-takers, lovers, and a space goddess, with stories told through psychedelic non-fiction and future traditions. Artists include: Roderick MacKenzie, Gunsho, Kyla Cech, Scott Alerio, Margeurite Keyes, Nemo Boko, Travis Millard, James Bruce King, J. Chris Johnson, Lisabeth Gutierrez, Peter Karpick, Goddess Irena, & Orion Dommisse. The show is tonight at LVL 3 Gallery: 1542 N Milwaukee Ave., third floor from 6-10pm (free afterparty @ Rodan: 1530 Milwaukee Ave.).
Free Books and Beer @ Sheffield's Beer Garden
Today marks the release of the Not For Tourists Guide To Chicago 2010 iPhone app. Attendees of the launch party who print a voucher from the NFT site can pick up a free NFT Guide to Chicago 2010 and enjoy a 312 Urban Wheat Ale while supplies last. Sheffield's Beer Garden and BBQ Restaurant, 3258 N. Sheffield, 7-10pm, FREE, 21+.
Little Friends of Printmaking @ Apple Store
Milwaukee silkscreen artists The Little Friends of Printmaking will be speaking upstairs at the Michigan Avenue Apple Store, 679 N. Michigan Ave., tonight at 7pm, as part of the ADC Young Guns speaking series. Free.
Christian TeBordo @ The Whistler
Tonight, author Christian TeBordo reads from his new short story collection, The Awful Possibilities, which Jeff Parker, author of Ovenman, calls "Quentin Tarantino on short story juice. The violence and depravity ride the surface, where I like them, and the heart is a lyrical heart. Add to that creepy postcards with cryptic messages and this collection attacks from all sides." Published by Featherproof Books, this is a book release party including special guests Jeff Parker, Lindsay Hunter, Adam Levin, and Tim Kinsella, with music by DJ Baby Sloth. Free, 21+. At The Whistler, 2421 N. Milwaukee Ave., (773) 227-3530, April 26 at 8pm.
Chicago Improv Festival Closing Festivities @ Martyrs
Closing night festivities for the 13th annual Chicago Improv Festival take place at Martyrs (3855 N. Lincoln Avenue) and include an opening act by the troupe Reset List, a roast of outgoing CIF Artistic Director Mark Sutton, and a closing act by Chicago troupe Schadenfreude. Tickets are $10, show starts at 8pm. For info and tickets call (773) 404-9494, tickets will be available at the box office on the day of the show.
Greek Independence Day Parade
Head slightly south of downtown the Greek Independence Day Parade in (surprise) Greektown. It goes from 2:30-4:30pm, beginning at Randolph and Halsted.
Chicago Improv Festival @ Chemically Imbalanced Theater
As part of the Chicago Improv Festival, Chemically Imbalanced Theater (1420 W. Irving Park Rd.) presents Michael Pizza and 96D. Tickets are $10, show starts at 10:30pm. For info and tickets call (773) 865-7731 or visit Brown Paper Tickets.
Chicago Improv Festival @ The Annoyance Theater
As part of the Chicago Improv Festival, The Annoyance Theater (4830 N. Broadway) presents the troupes Swear Jar and Skinprov. Tickets are $8, show starts at 11:30pm. For info and tickets call (773) 561-4665, tickets will be available at the box office on the day of the show.
826CHI Prom Hanks @ Pulaski Park Fieldhouse
826 Chicago invites you to their annual prom, held tonight at 8pm at the Pulaski Park Fieldhouse (1419 W. Blackhawk). The prom theme: "Prom Hanks". You are invited to dress as a person, place or thing from a Tom Hanks movie. Tickets are $35 in advance ($50 at the door), and include food & drink, a silent auction and plenty o' dancing. See the 826 Chicago Website for for details and to purchase tickets.
Poetry Fest
The Chicago Public Library and Poetry magazine team up for the 11th annual Poetry Fest, a day-long celebration of the poem at the Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St. Festivities begin at 10:30am; see the schedule for full details. Free.
Kanikapila with Uke Nation @ Grafton Pub
Ke Ali`i Victoria Ka`iulani Hawaiian Civic Club and 'Uke Nation present a kanikapila (Hawaiian jam session) at the Grafton Pub (4530 N. Lincoln) this afternoon from 3pm to 5pm. Musicians, dancers and singers are invited to join in a two-hour get-together to celebrate the music of the Pacific Islands. Admission is a suggested contribution of $5, which goes to the local branch of the Hawaiian Civic Club, a nonprofit community-based organization. Full information available at the Facebook event page.
Build Your Own Treasure Workshop @ Intuit
Start out by exploring Intuit's exhibition, The Treasure of Ulysses Davis, where you will find inspiration to carve and chisel your very own treasure. The workshop will be led by Chicago artist and sculptor, Dan Galemb. Over the past several decades, Galemb has taught 3-D design, welding and figure sculpture and drawing at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Columbia College and Wilbur Wright College. Supplies and lunch will be provided. Space is limited, purchase your spot today! Admission is $30 for Intuit members/students and $40 non-members. Visit Intuit's website for details. Intuit is located at 756 N Milwaukee Ave.
6 String Social: Primal Songs of the South Pacific
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents the latest in their series of 6 String Socials, weekly one-shot classes where you get to learn a bunch of songs on a specific topic. Tonight's topic is songs of the South Pacific, and `ukulele & hula teacher Lanialoha Lee will be drawing on her considerable performance experience to give attendees a glimpse into several cultures of the South Pacific: Maori, Samoan, Tahitian, and the paniolo Hawaiian cowboy style songs. Class starts at 6:30pm at the Armitage location (909 W. Armitage). Class is a mere $5 at the door.
Version Fest Opening Night Party/Concert @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
If you like art or arty music you need to go to this event. This year's Version Fest Kicks off tonight at Co-Prosperity Sphere with a wild party, an art installation, and a slew of great local live music. Tonight, Telefantasy Studios will create a temporary soundstage for performance. Please come in costume as a Sci-Fi/fantasy character to be filmed, photographed, interviewed, and auditioned. Best Costume wins a surprise. Also! Browse the 15 Minute Museum (ephemera, drawings, costumes, and models exhibited by Telefantasy Studios), enjoy a Hornswaggler retrofuturist concoction at Tech Noir Bar (by Image Search LTD and Nick Bahr, with light fixtures by Kevin Rhee), gawk at a new installation of silkscreened sculptural forms and prints by super art duo Seripop, be amazed by Go.Go!, a "Fuck-n-Go" performative installation (by Adam Van Eeckhout and Zihan Loo) and freak out with SWERVE, a dance duo from outer disco space. At 8pm: World Premier of Multinauts (episode 2) (Click here for a trailer for epsiode 1.) Finally, there will be live performances by Chandeliers, Mahjongg, Brilliant Pebbles, Mr666, Extreme Animals and D J+J+J. This event is at Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219-21 S Morgan St) from 8pm to 2am tonight.
Chicago Improv Festival @ The Annoyance Theater
As part of the Chicago Improv Festival, Chicago's own Tim Meadows performs as a special guest at The Annoyance Theater (4830 N. Broadway) in the show Messing With a Friend. Tickets are $20, show starts at 10:30pm. For info and tickets call (773) 561-4665, tickets will be available at the box office on the day of the show.
Chicago Improv Festival @ i.O. Comedy Theater
As part of the Chicago Improv Festival, i.O. Comedy Theater (3541 N. Clark St.) presents two shows for CIF-iO International Night: at 8:30pm the Portuguese troupe Os Improvaveis takes the stage, followed by Tale & Nick, who represent Canada and Norway; closing the show is Mexico's Impro Top. A second show at 10:30 opens with the French team Eux Impro, and closes with Sweden's Improvisation & Co. Tickets to both shows are $15, for info and tickets call (773) 880-0199 or visit TicketWeb.
Chicago Improv Festival @ Apollo Theatre Studio
As part of the Chicago Improv Festival, Apollo Theatre Studio (2450 N. Lincoln Ave.) hosts the troupes Swords and Dirty Water. Show starts at 8pm, tickets are $15. For info and tickets call (773) 935-6100, tickets will be available at the box office on the day of the show.
Chicago Improv Festival @ 16th Street Theater
As part of the Chicago Improv Festival, the 16th Street Theater (6420 16th Street, in Berwyn) will be hosting the troupes Dominizuelan and ImproTop. Show starts at 7:30pm, tickets are $15. For info and tickets call (708) 795-6704 or visit Brown Paper Tickets.
Sound Opinions Movie Night: The Song Remains The Same
Sound Opinions presents the latest in their series of movie nights at the Music Box (3733 N. Southport). Tonight's film: The Song Remains The Same, the Led Zeppelin performance documentary from 1973. Showtime is 7:30pm, doors open at 6:30pm, and tickets are $9 in advance ($8 for WBEZ members), available online.
Chicago Improv Festival Lifetime Achievement Awards @ The Second City ETC
As part of the Chicago Improv Festival, The Second City ETC (1608 N. Wells) is the venue for the Chicago Improv Festival Lifetime Achievement Awards. Achievement recipients include: Harold Ramis; Dick Schaal; and Severn Darden (accepted by his widow, Heather Darden) among others. Tickets are $50. For information and tickets call (312) 337-3992 or visit Brown Paper Tickets.
Chicago Improv Festival: One World One Stage @ Comedy Sportz
As part of this year's Chicago Improv Festival, troupes from Canada, France, Portugal, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the U.S. perform at ComedySportz (929 W. Belmont) tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $10, and can be purchased at Chicago Improv Festival.
Art in Age of Infinite Reproducibility @ threewallsSALON
It is obvious that the internet, the database and other such technologies have profoundly altered the ways we conceive of, locate, and access knowledge in time and space. The ramifications for artistic practice are, of course, enormous. Artists and theoreticians engaging with this new media have been invited to this discussion to tackle this limitless line of inquiry. One of the many topics that will be discussed is if the internet is making us lazy and what implications this has on art. Should be fun. The discussion starts at 7pm at threewalls: 119 N. Peoria #2D.
Chicago Improv Festival Opening Night
The 19th annual Chicago Improv Festival kicks off tonight at the Annoyance Theater (4830 N. Broadway) featuring the improv troupes Bad Touch, 4 Horsemen and Uncle's Brother. Tickets are $12, show starts at 8pm. Tickets and more information at Chicago Improv Festival.
Too Much LADY Makes The Baby Go Blind
The Neo-Futurists present an all-female version of their long-running show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. Scheduled to appear are 8 female ensemble members, who will go through their most- and least-ladylike material for an evening of very short plays. After the show, there will be a round table discussion titled "Ladies In Your Face". The evening starts tonight at 8pm (doors at 7pm) at Victory Gardens Theater (2433 N. Lincoln Avenue). Tickets are 425 and are available through the Victory Gardens Website, or call (773) 871-3000.
The Order of Odd-Fish Gallery Show - Special Book Club Tour
James Kennedy, author of the GB Book Club's May selection The Order of Odd-Fish, is giving a special tour of his gallery show, featuring fan art inspired by his young adult novel. Come learn about how fans are getting involved with the book and see the art they've submitted. James will also read from the novel. 7:30pm at 437 N. Wolcott. State your affiliation with the Book Club to gain free admittance (new members are always welcome). Email us at bookclub[at]gapersblock[dot]com for any questions.
Lara Miller Fashion Show @ Loft on Lake
The 312 Fashion Runway Series continues tonight with a runway show from local designer Lara Miller. The StyleChicago.com hosted cocktail hour begins at 7pm and the show begins at 8:30pm at the Loft on Lake (1366 West Lake Street). Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at 312 Fashion's website.
Global Activism Expo @ UIC Forum
Hosted by Worldview's Jerome McDonnell, Chicago Public Radio Presents... is thrilled to again present this remarkable celebration - complete with food, music and over 100 Chicago-area Global Activists, all featured guests of Worldview's Global Activism Series. On the air for seven years now, the series continues to be inspirational, and bringing everyone together for this Expo has quickly become an annual event. This event is free and takes place from noon to 6pm. Click here for all the juicy details.
Windy City Burlesque Fest @ Greenhouse Theatre
Hold on to your pasties and tighten your corset, Vaudezilla and Belmont Burlesque are bringing American burlesque back where it all began with the Windy City Burlesque Fest! The three day event concludes tonight with a performance at the historic Greenhouse Theatre's Main Stage (2257 N Lincoln Avenue) at 8pm. The show includes performances from over a dozen bawdy broads, including Minneapolis' Foxy Tann, Hollywood's Penny Starr Jr., Toronto's Tanya Cheex, and several of Chicago's shimming stars. Admission is $20. Visit the Windy City Burlesque Fest's website for a complete listing of events, featured performers, and to buy tickets.
"Community Rhythms" @ South Shore Cultural Center
The South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. South Shore Dr., presents "Community Rhythms: A Celebration of Dance in the Parks," today from 10am-3pm. For $5, you can participate in classes from a variety of dance styles including salsa, ballroom, tap, ballet and hip-hop. Guests can also enjoy performances from dance companies across Chicago as well as from the Chicago Park District's dance arts partners. Registration begins at 9am; contact the South Shore Cultural Center at (773) 256-0149 for more information.
BOUND Miniature Art Exhibition Opens @ 4Art Inc., Gallery
This provocative new series is based on a visual interpretation of a diary. The miniature 4"x4" size is meant to interpret the secrets diaries hold. Artists are given a theme of which they are free to create based on their own emotion, experience, etc., using any medium they choose. The opening reception is tonight from 7 to 10pm at 4Art Inc. (1029 W. 35th St. #403.)
Common Borders Opens @ 33 Collective Gallery
Common Borders, a show of work by Pedro Palacios and Joe Milosevich, opens at 33 Collective Gallery (1029 W. 35th St.) tonight. The opening reception is from 7-10pm and the show will stay up through May 7.
Tradition & Reinvention Exhibition Opening and Performance Party @ Packer Schopf Gallery
This opening night event is designed to complement the two shows upstairs (Friese Undine and Ian Weaver). It's a curated show of global street banner paintings culled from the
tradition of Cantastoria. Performers Dave Buchen and Chris Schoen will perform a "scrolly" show, which consists of pictures on a scroll, which is unwound as a singer sings the narration. Clare Dolan will present a short sung history of the form using brightly colored illustrations painted on her dress, and Spiro Dousias, a Chicago puppeteer, will perform a short sung piece with pictures as well. Meredith Miller will also perform. Golosá is Chicago's premiere Russian folk choir, founded in 1997 at the University of Chicago. They will enhance this evening and sing sacred and secular Russian folk songs a capella, and will perform at various points through the night. This event is from 5-10pm tonight at Packer Schopf Gallery: 942 W. Lake St.
In a Paperweight Opens @ Tony Wight Gallery
In a Paperweight is a group show featuring the work of Walead Beshty, Sebastiaan Bremer, Daniel Gordon, Tamar Halpern, Barbara Kasten, Sara VanDerBeek and James Welling. Also opening tonight is Allison Schulnik's Home for Hobo Too. For information about the show visit Tony Wight's website, call John Henderson at 312-492-7261 or email them at info@tonywightgallery.com. Tony Wight Gallery is located at 119 N. Peoria St. The opening reception is tonight from 5-8 and the show will stay up through May 15.
MMX Spring Group Show Opens @ Zg Gallery
A selection of really talented local artists will be showing their work at Zg Gallery (300 W. Superior) starting tonight. The opening reception is from 5:30 to 7:30pm, and the show will stay up through May 22. Participating artists include Molly Briggs, Ben Butler, Amy Casey, Bill Frederick, Dan Gamble, Steve Hough, Regin Igloria, Gregory Jacobsen, Anna Jóelsdóttir, Justin Henry Miller, Mark Murphy, Martina Nehrling and Jackie Tileston. Click here to see examples of their work.
Windy City Burlesque Fest @ Greenhouse Theatre
Hold on to your pasties and tighten your corset, Vaudezilla and Belmont Burlesque are bringing American burlesque back where it all began with the Windy City Burlesque Fest! The three day event continues tonight with a performance at the historic Greenhouse Theatre (2257 N Lincoln Avenue) at 10pm. The show includes performances from over a dozen bawdy broads including Yorkshire's Anna Fur Laxis, New Orleans' Perle Noire, Montreal's Scarlett James, and several of Chicago's shimming stars. Admission is $20. Visit the Windy City Burlesque Fest's website for a complete listing of events, featured performers, and to buy tickets.
Music for Matisse @ The Art Institute
Tonight, enjoy a concert by the Fulcrum Point Music Project highlighting French music in the spirit of Matisse's stencil book project, entitled Jazz. The concert is free from 6-7pm at Fullerton Hall. For more information, visit The Art Institute calendar.
Windy City Burlesque Fest's Opening Night @ Blue Bayou
Hold on to your pasties and tighten your corset, Vaudezilla and Belmont Burlesque is bringing American burlesque back where it all began with the Windy City Burlesque Fest! The three day event begins tonight with an opening night party at the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue) featuring two tassel-shaking shows at 10pm and 11:30pm. The free shows include performances from over a dozen bawdy broads including Hollywood's Penny Starr Jr, New Orleans' Perle Noire, Vancouver's Madame Mae I, and several of Chicago's shimming stars. Visit the Windy City Burlesque Fest's website for a complete listing of events, featured performers, and to buy tickets to other performances.
Daniel Everett @ MCA
Artist, Daniel Everett uses technology like video games and the Internet to question everyday life. His exhibit, THE END, opened April 2 at First Fridays in the Museum of Contemporary Art's UBS 12x12 Gallery (220 East Chicago Avenue) for new work and new artists. THE END is a looped video clip accompanied by a photograph of crumpled papers from Everett's journal which tracks the Internet search terms that have led people to his website. At 6pm, Everett will discuss his work, followed by an after party in Puck's Cafe located in museum.
Chicago Nerds Book Club @ Noble Tree Cafe
The Chicago Nerd Social Club holds a book club meeting this evening at Noble Tree Cafe (2444 N. Clark). The book for discussion tonight: Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter. The discussion happens tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm. See the Chicago Nerds Website for full details and to RSVP.
Chelsea Handler @ Women & Children First
The sharpest tongue in late night brings it to Women & Children First Bookstore (5233 N. Clark St.), meeting fans and signing copies of her new book, Chelsea, Chelsea, Bang! Bang!. Time TBD, follow Women & Children First on Twitter for updates.
8th Annual CHIRP Record Fair And Other Delights
Now that you've got your bike out and are riding it to and fro in the early spring warmth, it's time to fasten that milk carton to the back seat as well - Spring means Record Fair season is here as well. Returning to the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Union (1340 W. Washington) from 10am-5pm, the 2010 CHIRP Record Fair and Other Delights should be good cause to warm up your vinyl-scouring fingers. Local shops and labels, record distros, and personal collections will all be in attendance, as well as entertainment from bands and DJ sets throughout. And proceeds go to CHIRP, so you can support independent radio (even if you secretly just want to be a vinyl junkie).
Schadenfreude & Jordan Years: City that Works
Sketch comedy troupe Schadenfreude and musical act The Jordan Years team up to present the new live show "City that Works." The show is at the Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley Ave., tonight at 9pm. $10. Free food. 21+
Chicago Art Department Open Studios
Today from 12-4pm the Chicago Art Department opens their studio space to the public, showing their shared studio facility located at 1732 West Hubbard. In addition to studio practice, CAD will also be showing a collection of member and resident art inside of a dedicated gallery area called "Tetris". Separate from studio practice and art on the walls, drop by to learn about their upcoming programs and events, and also to meet some of our CAD artists, who will be on hand to explain their work.
Creative Chicago Expo @ Chicago Cultural Center
Now in its 7th year, this highly successful event connects artists and art organizations in all disciplines -- music, dance, theater, film, design, new media, fashion, publishing, visual art -- with the support, services and networks they need. This event is free and open to the public. There will be over 20 workshops, 100 vendors, and 40 consultants to help you out with anything you might need to know. The workshop topics range from grant writing to a public art crash course to "cultivating shamelessness." The expo is from 10am to 4pm today at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington). Visit this website for details.
Horacio Nieto Fashion Show @ Loft on Lake
The 312 Fashion Runway Series continues tonight with a runway show from designer Horacio Nieto. The StyleChicago.com hosted cocktail hour begins at 7pm and the show begins at 8:30pm at the Loft on Lake (1366 West Lake Street). Tickets are $40 and can be purchased at 312 Fashion's website.
Handmade Market
About 30 of the city's greatest makers of handmade goods will be gathering today at Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western Avenue) from noon to 4pm for another Handmade Market Chicago. The sellers will help you you pick out a few gifts for others, or yourself. You can see who is selling at the show here. And one of the best parts of this show is that you get to sip a tall frosty something while you peruse fantastic products. If you don't leave with full shopping bags, you may leave inspired, or at least a little tipsy.
How Are "We" Influencing Art? @ Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago's Leadership Advisory Committee presents "New Paradigms: How Are "We" Influencing Art?," tonight from 6:30pm-7:45pm. Held in the Rubloff Auditorium, 280 S. Columbus Drive, this panel discussion, featuring artists Dawoud Bey, Theaster Gates and Kehinde Wiley, will focus on the impact and influence of diversity in the museum culture. This event is free; to confirm attendance, RSVP to lacevents@artic.edu by Thursday, Apr. 1. A reception follows at 8pm at the Chicago Stock Exchange Trading Room (via the Columbus Drive entrance).
Chris Hales Tribute Show @ The Chicago Art Department
This event features music, words, and art for, about, by or inspired by Chris Hales: DJ Tapedek, Anti-Matter Media, and the Afters Cool Society. It is a tribute exhibition/benefit for Chris Hales, who recently passed away at the young age of 27 years. He was a devoted musician, artist, and friend. Join CAD as they celebrate his life by showing a variety of art made in his honor. Music and Poetry Performances by: Maggie Litgen, Ryan Clark, Diori, Amanda Furdge, Ryan Miller, Sharrief Muhammed, Nat Soti. This event runs from 6-10pm at the Chicago Art Department, 1837 S. Halsted St.
Chicago Artists' Coalition Gallery Opening
The Chicago Artists' Coalition's Coalition Gallery, 2010 W. Pierce St., opens its exhibition "Curator's Choice Part One" with a reception tonight from 5:30 to 8:30pm. The show features new work by Anthony Adcock, Jennifer Bisbing, Meredith Dytch, Julian Gordon, Diane Huff, Barbara Krol, Kathleen Letts, Lucy Mueller, Jonah Ortiz and Richard Shipps. The show runs through May 7.
Emily Wardill Screening and Q&A @ SAIC
Tonight at 6pmm, Emily Wardill will be at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago for the Chicago premiere of her feature film, Game Keepers without Game, and a discussion afterward. This event is free and open to the public. 112 S. Michigan Ave. Rm. #1307.
Metropolis with Orchestra @ Tivoli Theatre
It's a trek out of the city, but possibly worth the trip: The Tivoli Theatre, 5021 Highland Ave. in Downers Grove, will be screening Metropolis with live accompaniment by the Carthage College Wind Orchestra at 7:30pm tonight. Tickets are $10/$8 for children.
Emily Wardill Screening and Q&A @ Gene Siskel
Everything I Tell You Now Is True: The Short Films of Emily Wardill
is being screened tonight at 6pm as part of the Conversations at the Edge series at Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St. Wardill will be at the screening in person for a discussion afterward. General admission is $10.
Performance Anxiety Video Program @ Gallery 400
Go for UIC's MFA Thesis Exhibition opening from 5-8pm, and stay for Performance Anxiety, a program of short video works dealing with performances of cultural identity. In navigating complicated understandings of gender, race, class, sexuality, or existence in on- and off-line spaces, individuals accept and internalize cultural rules or ideologies and "pass"; reject them, identifying such performances as a form of cultural oppression; or even scramble and combine rules and codes in personalized constructions. Performance Anxiety (run time: approximately 50 minutes) features the work of American artists Rochelle Feinstein, Kate Gilmore, James Murray, Jeroen Nelemans, Greg Stimac and Stacia Yeapanis. Gallery 400 is located at 400 S. Peoria St. Visit their website for details.
Everything Is Terrible! @ Hungry Brain
The mad video archiving geniuses behind the video blog Everything Is Terrible! return to Chicago for an evening of the worst video you've ever seen. The show takes place tonight at 8pm at the Hungry Brain (2319 W. Belmont, near Western) and admission is free.
Black Violet (Act III) @ Chicago Cultural Center
Local comic book artist and designer Ezra Claytan Daniels teams up with chamber group Fifth House Ensemble for an original illustrated story/live music event: through sounds and pictures, Black Violet details the story of a cat, Violet, during the last major outbreak of the Black Plague. This is the last act in the series, previous episodes can be viewed here. 7pm, Cassidy Theatre (78 E. Washington), free.
Andrea Zittel @ MCA
Andrea Zittel is an artist most well-known for her "Living Units"-- pod-like structures that contained everything the artist needed to live in a compact space. Her work is part of the Production Site, the exhibition at the MCA (220 East Chicago Avenue) that explores the artist's studio. She is speaking at 6pm about creating work in her studio, which is in the California desert.
Version Fest Fundraising Party @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
In preparation for a fresh new bigger-than-ever Version Fest this year, the folks behind this amazing shindig need to find the money to pay for it all. There will be a silent auction, an art raffle, live bands, and a cash bar. Click here for details. Co-Prosperity Sphere is located in Bridgeport at 3219 S. Morgan St. and this event will take place from 7pm to 1am tonight.
Mercadito DIY Craft Fair @ Rumble Arts Center
Humboldt Park's Rumble Arts Center will host "Mercadito," a craft fair featuring creations and demonstrations from many local artists and crafters, as well as a trunk show and performances by students and teachers at the center. Admission is free, and there will be music and refreshments. 11am-4pm, 3413 W. North Ave.
I'm OK You're OK: The Art of Self Improvement Opening @ Concertina Gallery
For I'm Ok You're Ok: The Art of Self-Improvement, a group exhibition of six artists who explore appropriations of popular self-help and healing techniques. Neither entirely mocking new age and self-help trends nor blindly subscribing to their alluring promises, each artist approaches their subject in an exploratory manner. Artists include Jacob C. Hammes, Faith La Rocque & Jaimie Henthorn, Gregg Louis, Habby Osk, and Jill Pangallo. The opening reception is tonight from 7-10pm at Concertina Gallery: 2351 N. Milwaukee, 2nd Floor.
"Let Freedom Sing" @ DuSable Museum
The DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., celebrates the closing of its "Freedom's Sisters" exhibit today with "Let Freedom Sing: A Celebration of the Music of the Civil Rights." This program and panel discussion, hosted by legendary singer Mavis Staples, is filled with songs that influenced the Civil Rights Movement. This event is from 3pm-5pm; tickets are from $10-$15. Call (773) 947-0600 x236 for more information.
Foxy Goat's Sinful Saturday @ Risque Cafe
Tired of all those good girls on Good Friday? Foxy Goat has the cure with Sinful Saturday! Tonight, seven of Chicago's loveliest burlesque girls will be showing their sins at the Risque Café (3419 N. Clark Street). Each girl will be performing as one of the seven deadly sins including Natasha Minsk, Red Hot Annie, Miss Ellie Noise, and more. The show begins at 10:30pm but the doors open at 9pm for raffles, trivia, music by DJ 5/16, and a deadly sin costume contest. The event is 21 plus and the cover is $5 at the door ($7 after 11 pm). For more information including a full list of performers, visit Foxy Goat's Facebook page.
Chicago Movie Madness @ Chicago Theatre
Starting at noon from The Chicago Theatre (175 N. State St.), use public transportation to grab Foursquare badges at Ferris Bueller, High Fidelity, and Dark Knight filming locations for the chance to get your name on The Chicago Theatre's marquee.
At 6pm, Redeye and Metromix host a Tweetup party with food from Wow Bao.
Metromix has the rules, registration, and full details for the event.
Dean Evans: Magical Exploding Boy @ Next Theatre
Local actor and mime artist Dean Evans presents a remount of his fantastic show Magical Exploding Boy at Next Theatre in the Noyes Cultural Arts Center (927 Noyes Street, Evanston). If you don't think you want to see an evening of wordless mime, you're wrong; Evans has the ability to tell a compelling story through body language, some cleverly chosen props, and a heaping tablespoon of talent. The show runs tonight and tomorrow night at 8pm.
First Friday @ Flat Iron Arts
It's First Friday again, which means the studios and galleries in the Flat Iron Arts Building (1579 N. Milwaukee) in Wicker Park are all set up and open to the public. Go buy some art. Click here for details.
Casual Object Garden Opening @ Roots & Culture Gallery
Casual Object Garden features new work by Carson Fisk-Vittori and Michael Hunter. Topics covered include re-arranging pre-arranged non-arrangements through formal, temporary and permanent situations. Roots & Culture is located at 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave., and the opening is from 6-9 tonight. Click here for details.
Ted Halkin's Relief Opening @ Corbett vs. Dempsey
In his signal works of the 1950s and early 1960s, when he first emerged as one of the most important artists in Chicago, Halkin created fantastic figurative scenes painted atop topographic surfaces made of modeling paste and papier-mache, facial features and body parts poking out from the canvases in a vivid 3-D tableaux. In his most recent body of paintings, he extends the abstract elements of recent years, exploring a bright, rich, hard-hitting palette, sometimes tempered with greys and greens, featuring his virtuoso handling of multi-layered totemic and hieroglyphic forms. In many of the paintings made over the last two years, Halkin introduces papier-mache and carefully placed cotton twine as both dimensionality and image, creating yet another layer and heightening the funky energy of new works. This show of his new work, titled Relief, opens tonight at Corbett vs. Dempsey (1120 N. Ashland Ave. #3.) The reception is from 5-9pm.
Daniel Everett Opening @ MCA
Artist Daniel Everett uses technology like video games and the Internet to question everyday life. His exhibit opens today at First Fridays in the Museum of Contemporary Art's UBS 12x12 Gallery for new work and new artists. One piece in the exhibit, THE END, is a looped video clip accompanied by a photograph of crumpled papers from Everett's journal which tracks the Internet search terms that have led people to his website.
The Interview Show
The Interview Show returns to The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6:30 to 8pm. This month host Mark Bazer talks with film director Steve James, hip hop artist Kid Sister and Chicago Opera Theatre's Brian Dickie. Comedians Hannibal Burress and Laura on Laura also perform. Doors open at 6. Admission is $5. 21+
The Diary of Anne Frank @ Harold Washington Library
The Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St., presents a free film screening at 6pm tonight of the first hour of PBS's "MASTERPIECE" Classic adaptation of The Diary of Anne Frank. Held in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, the screening will be followed by a panel discussion led by executive producer, Rebecca Eaton. All seating is limited and available on a first come, first served basis. Doors open at 5pm.
On the Waterfront @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 1954 Elia Kazan classic On The Waterfront with Marlon Brando and Eva Marie Saint. The film screens as part of the Film Center's series Inside Hollywood and features a discussion by UIC professor Virginia Wright Wexman; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule. A Star Is Born screens tonight at 6pm. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Bella Voce: Monteverdi Vespers @ Harris Theater
The Bella Voce Chamber Choir will celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Monteverdi Vespers with a live performance, featuring violinist Rachel Barton Pine. Tickets are $35; the show starts at 7:30pm. For more info and to buy tickets, check out the Harris Theater.
"You, Me, Them, Everybody" Live Show @ The Hungry Brain
The "You, Me, Them, Everybody" podcast is hosting it's monthly live show. Guests include author/musician/general raconteur Brian Costello, stand up comedian Cameron Esposito and Trevor McFadden of The Hoyle Brothers performing a special solo set. Jeremy Tromburg from The Ragtones will be playing piano throughout the night. Brandon Wetherbee hosts with co-host Kevin McGuire. The Hungry Brain is located at 2319 W Belmont. Doors at 8pm, 21+, no cover.
Rock & Roll Cinema: Dave Chapelle's Block Party @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents Rock & Roll Cinema, an ongoing series of free film screenings every Sunday night. Tonight's film is Dave Chapelle's Block Party, directed by Michel Gondry. The film screens tonight at 7pm, and admission is free. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Short Film Brigade @ Hideout
The Chicago Short Film Brigade's 2010 season kicks off with a pair of premiers Thursday, March 25 at 8:30pm and tonight at 6pm at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia. See international short films while snacking on popcorn and mini-pies from SugarKist. A full list of featured films is available on the Film Brigade website. Tickets are $8 in advance or at the door. 21+
IN>TIME @ The Cultural Center
IN>TIME is a Chicago performance series of local, national, and international artists. Developed as a collaboration between DCA Theater and the Chicago Performance Network, the event features practitioners working with ideas of time and body, crossing the performing body with text, objects, sounds, visual art, and technology. This year's showcase event is co-sponsored by The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's Performance Department and features performances by Justin Cabrillos, Angela Ellsworth, Every House has a Door and Jessica Hannah. This event will take place at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington) tonight from 6 to 9.
Politics of the Black Body Lecture @ Intuit
Using Ulysses Davis's series of presidential portrait busts as a point of departure, art historian Amy Mooney, Ph.D. will explore the politics of black representation in art and visual culture from the 19th to 21st centuries today at Intuit. From the recent controversy over Sheppard Fairey's depiction of President Obama to the stereotypes found in Sigmund Krausz's 1896 publication Street Types of Great American Cities, Dr. Mooney will consider the ways in which U.S. social institutions employed the black image as a means of furthering opposing political agendas of uplift and oppression. Sharing an excerpt from her forthcoming book, Portraits of Noteworthy Character, Dr. Mooney will present the historic framework that continues to inform our expectations of representation. Dr. Mooney is Associate Professor of Art History, Visual Culture, & Critical Theory at Columbia College in Chicago. This lecture starts at 11am today at Intuit (756 N Milwaukee) and is free and open to the public.
Dean Evans: Magical Exploding Boy @ Next Theatre
Local actor and mime artist Dean Evans presents a remount of his fantastic show Magical Exploding Boy at Next Theatre in the Noyes Cultural Arts Center (927 Noyes Street, Evanston). If you don't think you want to see an evening of wordless mime, you're wrong; Evans has the ability to tell a compelling story through body language, some cleverly chosen props, and a heaping tablespoon of talent. The show runs tonight and tomorrow night at 8pm, and Sunday afternoon at 2pm.
Richard Hull Solo Show Opens @ Western Exhibitions
This is renowned local artist and SAIC instructor Richard Hull's first solo show at Western Exhibitions. Gallery 1 will be devoted to paintings and in Gallery 2, Hull will show one large charcoal drawing of a concentrically repetitive amoeba-like form, two crayon drawings and two watercolors featuring imagery related to his Klein bottle inside/outside concerns. Click here for images of his work. Western Exhibitions is located at 119 N. Peoria, Suite 2A. The reception is from 5-8pm tonight. Click here for more information.
Vaudezilla's 'BROADZILLA! The Burlesque Beast!' @ The Exit
Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe Vaudezilla attacks tonight with 'Broadzilla! The Burlesque Beast!' Stop by the Exit (1315 W North Avenue) tonight for two totally different burlesque sets chock-full of twirling tassels and sequined panties at 10:30pm and 1am. There is no cover and no reason not to show up since the show features some of hottest acts since the Chicago fire including Wham Bam Pam, Jeez Loueez, Bonny Babs, and more. Visit Vaudezilla's website for a full list of dancers as well as other upcoming events.
Vaudezilla's 'All Lathered Up' Bartop Burlesque @ Blue Bayou
Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe Vaudezilla is doing their spring cleaning with their newest bar top burlesque show 'All Lathered Up' tonight at the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue). Grab your brooms and feather dusters (but leave the polishing to the girls) and belly up to the bar at 10pm sharp. The show is free, hosted by the always unpredictable Wham Bam Pam, and features Red Hot Annie, Bonny Babs, The Flaming Dames, and other fearless broads. Visit Vaudezilla's website for a full list of dancers as well as other upcoming events.
Culinary Conversation with Food Women @ The Downtown Farmstand
In celebration of Women's History Month, Judith Dunbar-Hines will lead a lively conversation with five women who own and operate Chicago area food businesses to learn about their journey establishing, operating and marketing their successful operations. This event will take place at Chicago's Downtown Farmstand (66 E. Randolph), which will remain open until 8pm to accommodate post-event shoppers. Participants include Nicole Bergere, Nicole's Crackers; Jessica Volpe, Pasta Puttana; Jenny Yang, Phoenix Tofu; Meg Dhamer, Pigtales Twist; and Elizabeth Madden, Rare Bird. Admission is free but capacity is limited. Advance registration is required by calling (312) 742-8497.
Curating the Page @ threewallsSALON
There appears to be a growing return to the book amongst younger artists, writers and thinkers. This move towards the material and physical may be in reaction to the vastness and immateriality of forms of cultural production in the Second Life era. This discussion centers around definitions of the publication as art object, as curated exhibition, as micro-archive, as well as phenomenological aspects of the publication--its tactility, personable and intimate dimensions, and the unique one-to-one relationship between reader/viewer and object. Bookmakers, editors, curators and scholars have been invited to this discussion to share their experiences as we ponder the significance of recent evolutions in the book as object, curatorial challenges the artist book provokes, and the future of the medium. All the fun starts at 7pm tonight at threewalls: 119 N. Peoria #2D.
Comic Book Academia @ Challengers Comics
The Chicago Nerd Social Club presents Comic Book Academia, a discussion by Loyola doctoral candidate Cord Scott about the comic's place in the academic world. The talk happens tonight at Challengers Comics (1845 N. Western) from 7pm to 9pm. The event is free, but you need to RSVP at the Chicago Nerds Website.
Improvised Electro-Acoustic Concert @ U of C
Tonight at 8pm the University of Chicago hosts this electro-acoustic concert of improvised music, inspired by space, place, and energy. The combined credits for the three musicians playing reads like a who's who in experimental music, both home and abroad. Moments of combustion. Moments of meditation. Their work can revolve around a gestural dynamic one minute and a serendipitous serenity the next. This concert will take place in Bond Chapel, 1050 East 59th Street (directly east of Cobb Hall). Admission is free.
Rock & Roll Cinema: 30 Century Man @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents Rock & Roll Cinema, an ongoing series of free film screenings every Sunday night. Tonight's film is the Scott Walker documentary 30 Century Man. The film screens tonight at 7pm, and admission is free. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Sillier Than Thou Tour @ Elastic Arts
The Sillier Than Thou Tour stops at Elastic Arts tonight and features Louis Logic and Type with Dubasaurus vs. Phillip Morris and DJ White Owl. Elastic Arts is located at 2830 N. Milwaukee, Floor 2. Show starts at 9pm. $7. All ages.
Annual Real St. Patrick's Day Parade @ The Whale
The Annual Real St. Patrick's Day Parade is today! It will kickoff between 3-5pm and go 'till 4am, or come at noon to help with floats (2025 S Halsted -- enter through back alley). All -- people, costumes, floats, music, intoxicants -- are welcome. So are kids, but if you bring them you are responsible for their safety at the Whale, in the Tetanus Garden, and on the street.
Looking For: New Works @ Salvage One
The Looking For: New Works project asks a simple question: What are you looking for? Mike Nourse and Marta Sasinowska ask people what they are looking for in life, and the answers point to the power of searching and how jobs can lead to a sense of self. Answers are also used to setup scenes that are digitally shot. Images from the photo shoot are mined and ultimately a large-scale portrait is gel-medium transferred onto a found window. With the finished works and exhibition Nourse and Sasinowska present a time and place to feature individuals who are searching, and a forum to discuss the larger questions behind employment. The opening reception for this show will be from 4 to 7 tonight at Salvage One: 1840 W Hubbard.
Cordy Ryman @ Kavi Gupta
With accessible materials like Velcro, manufactured woods, enamels and various other found objects, Ryman constructs simple and elegant forms that conflate the aesthetics of Minimalism and Post Painterly Abstraction. Rough and casual, Ryman's sculptures treat the reductive movements that form the apex of Modern Art as pliable components employed toward a yet unfinished project. Without being overwrought or playing to the lowest common denominator, they represent a strategy for how art can leave behind the limiting principles of our last century and engage formalism for today. His solo show opens today at Kavi Gupta Gallery (835 W. Washington) and will stay up through April 24. Click here to see images of Ryman's work.
Then is Now at Carrie Secrist Gallery
Then is Now is a dual exhibition featuring works by Phyllis Bramson and Judith Geichman, opening tonight. Both Bramson and Geichman are interested in unconventional beauty and a certain kind of visual clarity in their work. Additionally, they share several common sources including including Chinoiserie, Toile de Jou, Chinese scholar rocks, Rococo, abstraction, and elements of collage. The opening reception for this show is tonight from 5 to 8 at Carrie Secrist Gallery (835 W. Washington Blvd.) and the show will stay up through April 24. Visit the gallery's website for more information.
Swap-O-Rama-Rama @ Chicago Waldorf School
The international phenomenon Swap-O-Rama-Rama is a clothing swap and series of do-it-yourself workshops in which a community explores creative reuse through the recycling of used clothing. SORR explores a new kind of studio, bringing together the art-knowledgeable and the art-curious in a spontaneous maker-centic community. Promoting the DIY ethos of creators not consumers, the SORR "studio" is manifested when hundreds of makers congregate; bringing with them clothing, materials, tools, and knowledge. The shared space has rules (such as "no mirrors") to force interaction: the catalyst for community. This crowded, noisy, joyous, creative, energetic event forces participants to share materials, space, tools, ideas, opinions and knowledge. Art emerges as a product of interaction and exploration around reuse. To get in, bring a bag of clothes and a $20 donation ($10 students/seniors) or pay what you can. This event is from 9-5pm today at Chicago Waldorf School: 1300 W Loyola. (And 1-5pm tomorrow.) There are other events as part of the SORR Chicago weekend such as an Inspiration Fashion Show and a screening of "Handmade Nation" - see Swap-IL.com for details.
Hey! Dancin'! @ Prop Thtr
The Factory Theater presents Hey! Dancin'!, a tribute to the 1980s, dance TV shows, teen comedies, and so much more. Opening night is tonight at Prop Thtr (3502 N. Elston), and the show runs Friday and Saturday nights through April 24. For more information about the show see The Factory Theater Website.
Chicago Alderman Project @ Johalla Projects
50 artists from across Chicago have made portraits of 50 Chicago alderman in a project that was conceived as a vehicle to get people who don't normally think about politics to think again. Go and try to find your alderman. The opening is tonight from 7-11pm at Johalla Projects: 1561 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Wet Paint Closing Exhibition @ Zhou B. Art Center
This is your last chance to see the wildly popular Wet Paint exhibition, a collection of new paintings by 52 MFA students hand picked from around the country. The closing reception is tonight from 7 to 10pm at the Zhou B. Art Center: 1029 W. 35th St. For more information about the show, visit this website.
AROUND @ EBERSMOORE
Around was curated by William Staples and features artists Dianna Frid, Deva Graf, Anne Simon, Brian Taylor, and Scott Wolinak. What is intended by this small exhibit is to concentrate solely on one formal quality (3-dimensionality, viewed from 360 degrees) of the discipline of sculpture so as to examine how some contemporary artists approach this essentially exclusive experience of it. The opening reception is from 6-9 tonight at EBERSMOORE gallery ( 213 N Morgan #3C) and the show will stay up through April 17. For further information, please contact the gallery: info@ebersmoore.com or call 312-772-3021.
The Invisible City @ Heaven Gallery
The Invisible City--a joint show by architect/furniture designer Eve Fineman and artist Damon Locks--opens tonight at Heaven Gallery (1550 N. Milwaukee, 2nd floor). Speaking to "unrealized potential, the underground, the marginalized and the spaces in-between" the Invisible City show is about dualities: noisy and quiet, questions and answers, seen and unseen. The opening reception runs from from 7pm-11pm and includes a musical performance by Spectronix and A Grape Dope.
Tiny Houses @ (C)TAS
Take a peek at the lives of inhabitants and the transgressions they commit in the privacy of their little homes in this gallery installation by Ania Greiner-- 3 Card Molly and a sound performance at 7pm by Joseph Kramer. The reception is tonight from 4:30-8:30pm at The (Con)temporary Art Space: 208 S Wabash. The installation will stay up through March 24.
Vaudezilla's 'All Lathered Up' Bartop Burlesque @ Blue Bayou
Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe Vaudezilla is doing their spring cleaning with their newest bar top burlesque show 'All Lathered Up' tonight at the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue). Grab your brooms and feather dusters (but leave the polishing to the girls) and belly up to the bar at 10pm sharp. The show is free, hosted by the always unpredictable Wham Bam Pam, and features Red Hot Annie, Jeez Loueez, Bonny Babs, Lula Houp-Garou, and other fearless broads. Visit Vaudezilla's website for a full list of dancers as well as other upcoming events.
Celia: The Life and Music of Celia Cruz @ Athenaeum Theatre
The riveting off-Broadway musical Celia: The Life and Music of Celia Cruz, premieres tonight at 7:30pm at Athenaeum Theatre (2936 N. Southport Ave). Kicking off a one-week engagement with International Latino Cultural Center, Cruz takes audiences on a 60-year journey through the life and music of Celia Cruz--from her humble beginnings in Cuba to her international super stardom. Featuring a superb ensemble of 16 singers, dancers and musicians, the musical highlights the global icon's greatest hits. Tickets range from $35-$100.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo @ Landmark Century Cinema
Flavorpill hosts a free (with RSVP) screening of the late Stieg Larsson's well-received mystery, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. 2828 N Clark St, 7pm.
A Star Is Born @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the 1937 classic A Star Is Born, directed by William Wellman and scripted by Dorothy Parker. The film screens tonight as part of the Film Center's series Inside Hollywood and features a discussion by UIC professor Virginia Wright Wexman; see the Film Center Website for a complete schedule. A Star Is Born screens tonight at 6pm. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Rock & Roll Cinema: American Hardcore @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents Rock & Roll Cinema, an ongoing series of free film screenings every Sunday night. Tonight's film is American Hardcore, a documentary about the hardcore scene of the early 1980s. The film screens tonight at 7pm, and admission is free. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
Flogging Molly @ The Aragon
The seven piece Celtic punk band from Los Angeles comes to the Aragon Ballroom (1106 West Lawrence Avenue) as part of the Green 17 tour. Frank Turner opens. All ages, doors open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm. For tickets and more information call (773) 561-9500 or visit Ticketmaster.
Tim Kinsella @ MCA
Tim Kinsella is the front man for deep-rooted Chicago band Joan of Arc, as well as Cap'n Jazz, Owls, and Make Believe. He curated Joan of Arc: Don't Mind Control, a compilation of songs by the extended Joan of Arc family including Vacations, Cale Parks, and Ghosts and Vodka. Kinsella will be performing with White/Light as part of the Museum of Contemporary Art's UBS 12x12 series. White/Light is experimental music duo, Matt Clark and Jeremy Lemos who will create an interactive music installation.
3pm, free with suggested museum admission. 220 East Chicago Avenue.
Hideout "Sending the Four-star City to the Lone Star State" All-Day Party
The Hideout once again throws a big (and we mean BIG) send-off bash for some of their favorite Chicago bands heading down south to show Austin how we do at SXSW. Come and spend the day and listen to the likes of The Hood Internet, Via Tania, The Life During Wartime DJs, Plastic Crimewave Sound, Tom Schraeder, and many more! Details. Tickets are $10 and are available at the door only (first come, first served). Music starts at 3pm. The Hideout is located at 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Art as Event @ MCA
This is a panel discussion that looks at the "modes of art making and motivations that are leading artists to produce works that might best be described as events: situated in place, unfolding in time, and often performative or interactive in approach, these actions, interventions, and social situations challenge our notions of art." It will be moderated by art historian Irene V. Small, as well as a number of panelists, including artists and curators. Begins at 3pm. 220 East Chicago Avenue, MCA Theatre.
2010 Chicago Zine Fest
Open to the public and featuring self publishers from around Chicago, the Midwest, as well as zinesters from across the country, the Chicago Zine Fest is an independent event creating an outlet for small press and independent publishers to showcase their work. The goal is to make DIY zine-making accessible, highlighting the talents of self-published artists, and give independent artists a chance to interact, and swap skills through tabling, lectures, and workshops. It's happening at multiple venues around Chicago, including Quimby's Bookstore, Johalla Gallery, and Conaway Student Center at Columbia College. More information at ChicagoZineFest.Org.
2010 Chicago Zine Fest
Open to the public and featuring self publishers from around Chicago, the Midwest, as well as zinesters from across the country, the Chicago Zine Fest is an independent event creating an outlet for small press and independent publishers to showcase their work. The goal is to make DIY zine-making accessible, highlighting the talents of self-published artists, and give independent artists a chance to interact, and swap skills through tabling, lectures, and workshops. It's happening at multiple venues around Chicago, including Quimby's Bookstore, Johalla Gallery, and Conaway Student Center at Columbia College. More information at ChicagoZineFest.Org.
Lecture: Cinema and Hypnotism @ U of C
Today at 6:30pm Stefan Andriopoulos (Associate Professor, Department of Germanic Languages at Columbia University) gives a lecture on hypnotism in cinema. Andriopoulos is the author of Possessed: Hypnotic Crimes, Corporate Fiction, and the Invention of Cinema, which won the SLSA Michelle Kendrick award for best academic book on literature, science, and the arts. Tracing a preoccupation with mesmerism and possession through the era of silent films, Andriopoulos pays particular attention to the terrifying notion of murder committed against one's will. Films like The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari and Dr. Mabuse, the Gambler famously portrayed the hypnotist's seemingly unlimited power on the movie screen. This event will take place in Swift Hall room 106. 1025 East 58th Street (on the Main Quadrangle of the University, directly east of Cobb Hall). Admission is free.
TOM RUBNITZ SURPRISE! @ Flaxman Theater
SAIC's new film screening program, Eye and Ear Clinic, is showing rare and videos by queer artist Tom Rubnitz tonight from 6-8pm. Rubnitz was born in Chicago but spent the 1980s making experimental videos both about and starring some of the key figures in the New York underground drag scene. Pop and camp hideously collide in a brightly colored smudged frenzy of grotesque fairies and drag terrorists, food products and plastic dolls. This screening is free and open to the public at 6pm tonight at SAIC's Flaxman Theater: 112 S. Michigan, Room 1307.
LGBTQA Issues in Journalism @ UIC Student Center East
Hear Tracy Baim, editor of Chicago's leading LGBT newspaper, speak about her experiences and what it takes to run a newspaper. After her presentation (today in Room 605, Student Center East, 750 S. Halsted Street, from noon to 2pm), there will be a hands-on journalism workshop specifically regarding ethical reporting and representation on LGBTQA issues, concerns, and people. This event is organized by the Gender & Sexuality Center and co-sponsored by the Dept. of Communication. Get more information.
Rock & Roll Cinema: End of the Century @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents Rock & Roll Cinema, an ongoing series of free film screenings every Sunday night. Tonight's film is the Ramones documentary End of the Century. The film screens tonight at 7pm, and admission is free. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western Avenue. (773) 276-3600.
The Strange Case of William Mumler Spirit Photographer @ U of C
Today at 2pm, Louis Kaplan (Director of the Institute of Communication and Culture and Associate Professor at University of Toronto) gives a lecture about William Mumler. As Kaplan's case study of Mumler shows, faith in the truth-telling abilities of photography has always been accompanied by skepticism about the objectivity of the photographer. Beginning in the early 1860s, Mumler became famous in Boston and New York for taking "spirit photographs" in which ghostly images of departed family members or friends appear in portraits of living subjects. All photographs are, as Roland Barthes and others have argued, ghostly images of the past. Their very ghostliness inspires narratives that are in turn essential to understanding that past. This event will take place in Swift Hall, Room 106. 1025 East 58th Street (on the Main Quadrangle of the University, directly east of Cobb Hall). Admission is free.
Vibrator Opens @ Knock Knock Gallery
Vibrator: New Work by Jacob Goudreault and Carmen Price, with special guests Billy Kang, C.J. Matherne, and Tyson Reeder opens tonight at Knock Knock Gallery. Expect to see some serious dude art. Seriously, dude. The reception is from 6-10 tonight. Knock Knock Gallery is located at 3658 S. Wolcott Apt 2F.
Strange Tales Saturday @ Challengers Comics
Chicago Comics and Challengers team up today for a celebration of Marvel's Strange Tales hardcover, featuring creators Michael Kupperman, Becky Cloonan, and Jeffrey Brown. Signings and panels take place at both stores: go here for the details. 1pm-4pm. The only catch to this two-store extravaganza is that purchase of a Strange Tales hardcover from either store the week of signing (with receipt as proof) is required to attend the signing.
Third Coast Filmless Festival @ MCA
The MCA partners with the Third Coast International Audio Festival to present the Filmless Festival. This all-day event presents a variety of storytelling, audio documentaries, and sound in the form of unique audio screenings from some of the most innovative and celebrated radio producers. Highlights include a special presentation of a documentary-in-progress with Joe Richman, a celebration of the launch of the book Reality Radio with Ira Glass and the Kitchen Sisters, and presentations from past winners of the Third Coast/Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Competition. Q&As with the producers follow each presentation. This is the seventh event in the second season of Chicago Public Radio Presents. A festival pass is $30, MCA members $24 (subject to availability), evening screening only is $15, $12 MCA members. Any single daytime screening: $8, $6 for MCA and WBEZ members. Get your tickets through the MCA website. The festival begins at 11:30am and the evening event begins at 8pm. All performances take place in the MCA Theater and Kanter Meeting Center at the MCA: 220 E. Chicago Ave.
Kenzaburo Oe @ UCHICAGO
Kenzaburo Oe, winner of the 1994 Nobel Prize in literature, will deliver the annual East Asian Studies' Najita Lecture at the University of Chicago's International House (1414 East 59th Street) at 4pm.
The event is Free and open to the public.
For more information, see the website, contact Sarah Arehart at the Center for East Asian Studies at sarehart@uchicago.edu, or call (773) 702-8647.
Handmade Nation screening & discussion @ Columbia College
The documentary Handmade Nation will be screened today at Columbia College (600 S. Michigan, Room 921) at 3:30pm. In attendance for a discussion will be the film's director, Faythe Levine, and author & researcher Betsy Greer. The event is free and open to the public. Full information on the event is at the Columbia College Website.
I'm There: A Birthday Celebration for Chicago @ Chicago Art Department
I'm There: A Birthday Celebration for the City of Chicago is meant to give a celebratory real-time, ground level look at the current state of three pivotal neighborhoods in Chicago--Wicker Park, Wrigleyville and Pilsen. Each neighborhood will be represented visually by a photographer and musically with a DJ from each 'hood. Each photographer and DJ collaborated to take unique shots for a one night only photography exhibit that is meant to produce a truly unique and personal journey into their neighborhood and lives as influential artists in the city. America's Dog will be providing food, 404 Wine Bar will be sampling some spectacular wines, and Bleeding Heart Bakery is putting together a cake of epic proportions. There will be a hosted Old Style bar from 7-8pm with a donation-based wet bar after that. Admission is free from 7-11pm. Chicago Art Department is located at 1837 S. Halsted.
Forgotten Chicago Silent Auction & Book Giveaway
Forgotten Chicago celebrates the city's 173rd birthday tonight at 8pm at Cunneen's, 1424 W. Devon Ave., with a silent auction of Chicago-related books, photos and ephemera. As a bonus, the first 80 guests will receive a free book from Lake Claremont Press. More info here; RSVP on Facebook.
Tastes of Lebanon
The Oriental Institute is hosting a Tastes of Lebanon dinner at Fattoush Restaurant (2652 N. Halsted St.), where owners Samer and Lina Elakhaoui will prepare and explain several traditional Lebanese dishes, including fattoush, their signature salad. Enjoy mezze (appetizers), a sampling of entrees, and desserts. Diners will also receive a recipe to take home with them. The dinner takes place from 7-9pm. The fee is $49 for Oriental Institute members, or $54 for non-members, and it includes food, tax, gratuity, and wine. Pre-registration is required and can be done online or by calling (773) 702-9507.
First Tuesdays with the Midwest Independent Film Festival
This event showcases work by Midwest filmmakers on the first Tuesday of the month, providing an opportunity to view upcoming talent, network, or just talk about film. This Tuesday welcomes in Female Filmmakers Night. Cocktails at 6pm, film screens at 7:30pm. Landmark Century Centre Cinema, 2828 N. Clark St., $10-$15.
Letters/X 7 @ Hungry Brain
It's the seventh annual cabaret of exes, break-ups, and all manner of love gone wrong or just stupid: catch it in its last week for awhile (runs through 3/6) at the Hungry Brain (2319 W. Belmont Ave. ), 8pm. Free! And drinks are strong and cheap.
Pete Seeger Documentary @ Empty Bottle
The Empty Bottle presents a screening of the documentary film Pete Seeger: Power of Song this evening at 7pm. Admission is free. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Matt Saunders Exhibition Opens @ The Renaissance Society
In drawings, paintings, short films, and photographic works, Matt Saunders recasts images, often taken from film or television, into new narratives about portraiture and spectatorship. His subject matter is a diverse cast of characters, spanning World War II and the Cold War, providing a kind of stuttering record of 20th Century lives. This is an exhibition about painting, and also about moving pictures, how they are found, loved, and lost. The opening reception is today from 4-7pm with a talk with the artist from 5-6 pm, in Cobb Hall Room 307 (directly below the gallery.) The Renaissance Society is located on the U of C campus, at 5822 S. Ellis Ave. This show will stay up through April 11.
punkplay @ Steppenwolf
Gregory Moss's punkplay, about "two sort of marginal adolescent boys growing up in the suburbs who latch on to punk rock and use it to find an identity outside of the mainstream," is a Pavement Group production, going up as part of Steppenwolf Theatre Company's new Visiting Company Initiative, Garage Rep. Read the Gapers Block interview with Moss here. The show starts at 8pm in the Merle Reskin Garage Theatre, 1624 N. Halsted. Tickets are $20 and available here or by calling (312) 335-1650. Student tickets are $12.
South Shore Opera Company of Chicago Salutes Black History Month
The South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. South Shore Dr., welcomes the South Shore Opera Company of Chicago tonight at 5:30pm for its Black History Month concert. This musical tribute will feature selections from pianist/composer George E. Cooper, who will be accompanied by singers Robert Sims, Kimberly Jones and Cornelius Johnson. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Dr. Marvin Lynn, Executive Director, at marvinlynn@southshoreopera.org or (773) 241-6147.
Tinariwen @ Old Town School of Folk Music
Tinariwen will once again be playing at the Old Town School of Folk Music this weekend for two back to back concerts today at 7pm and 10pm, and a third concert Sunday at 7pm. A Sunday guitar and percussion workshop is also on the schedule at 3:30pm. For more, keep an eye on Transmission. The Old Town School of Folk Music is located at 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. (773) 728-6000.
Laura Veirs @ Corbett vs. Dempsey
Singer/Songwriter Laura Veirs performs an acoustic set at Corbett vs. Dempsey today. With a personal songwriting sensibility and fantastical lyrics that emanate from her native Portland, Oregon, Veirs has carved a unique niche for herself. She'll start her set at 5:30pm. The event is free, but space is limited so go early, and be prepared to sit on the floor. It will be worth it! Corbett vs. Dempsey Gallery is located at 1120 N. Ashland Ave. #3.
Jim Trainor Animation @ threewalls
Chicago animator, Jim Trainor will combine animations of Max and Dave Fleischer, the creators of Betty Boop and Popeye cartoons with Oskar Fischinger, abstract German film artist. threewalls says, "The effect, we hope, will be like sitting on an overstuffed couch, Louis Armstrong on the Victrola, paging through a book of Kandinsky paintings with Jean Harlow on your lap."
Doors open at 6pm (119 North Peoria Street), program starts at 7pm. There is a suggested donation of $5.
House @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a week-long run for Hausu (House), the surreal 1977 Japanese horror film about six classmates trapped in a terrifying house (YouTube trailer). The film premieres tonight and runs through March 4; see the Film Center Website for showtimes and more details. Film Center: 164 N. State Street. (312) 846-2600.
Alumni Opens @ David Weinberg Gallery
Alumni features the new work of a handful of recent graduates from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago-- Noelle Allen, Helen Maurene Cooper, Amy Mayfield and Michael Ratulowski. There is something for everyone at this show. The opening is from 5-8 tonight and the show will stay up through April 10. David Weinberg Gallery is located at 300 W. Superior St. Suite 203.
Fever Dream Opens @ Roots & Culture Gallery
The premise of this exhibit is to address painting as an increasingly abstract notion, and to consider its inherent sculptural and object based possibilities. Work will be shown by Jacob Goudreault, Angel Otero, Max Reinhardt, Simon Slater, and Easton Miller. Also, a new installation by Jessica Labatte will be featured in the project window. The opening for this show is tonight from 6-9pm and the show will stay up through March 27. Roots & Culture Gallery is located at 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave. Call them at 773-235-8874 for more information or visit their website.
Soundings: The Chayah Drawings @ Experimental Sound Studio
Michele Feder-Nadoff's chayah drawings are large suspended pieces, viewed from both the front and rear. They engage the viewer like manuscript sheets or layers of tanned skin, unattached to walls and wafting in the air currents stirred up by passers by. The opening reception will run from 6-9pm and features a musical performance by Douglas Ewart at 7. Experimental Sound Studio is located at 5925 N. Ravenswood. Call them at 773-769-1069 for more information.
Ken Fandell @ Donald Young Gallery
Arguably the best artist in Chicago, Ken Fandell, has a show opening today at Donald Young Gallery called Squares and Circles and Sex and Stardust. Don't miss it! Donald Young is located at 224 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 266, and the reception starts at 5pm. Call the gallery at (312) 322-3600 for more information.
Agents of Change @ the Korova
Sonic terrorists Agents of Change bring their funkified political punk rock to the southwest suburb of Morris at the Korova, 425 E. US Rt. 6. If there is a riot, at least there will be a good soundtrack. Also performing Lethal Scriptures, Sicken With You, AllGood, and Black Matt. $8 cover. RSVP on Facebook.
The Firemen's Ball @ Mary and Leigh Block Museum
The Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art and Block Cinema present Czech director Milos Forman's The Firemen's Ball, a subtly ironic and darkly humorous film centering around the ball put on by a small town's volunteer fire department and the confusion surrounding its organization. 7pm, 40 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. $6, more information here.
Flash Mob @ the Art Institute
Is it a flash mob, or a zany way to enjoy the free day at the Art Institute? Find out at 111 S. Michigan Ave on February 25, 2010 at 6 PM.
Organizers are encouraging people who show up to wear colors that correspond with your school.
Matthew Kerstein @ MCA
Former Scotland Yard Gospel Choir member and founder of Brighton, MA plays tonight at Puck's Cafe at the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 E. Chicago). This is part of the Magical Musical Showcase series, where different venues present chosen artists to play at the MCA (Kerstein was Schubas' choice). 6pm. Free!
threewallsSALON: Cartography 2.0
This discussion, part of threewallsSALON 2010 series, is all about maps. Today, contemporary artists across the globe employ mapping and diagramming in their creative practice to incredibly diverse ends. A spate of exhibitions in Chicago and from around 2004 on ignited a flurry of interest in the map, such as the Mapping show at Mess Hall in 2004, Mapping the Self at the MCA from 2007-8 and An Atlas at Gallery 400, 2007-8. These exhibitions and the work of invited guest respondents will figure into this conversation as participants explore the political, social, personal and ontological dimensions of the map. The discussion begins tonight at 7pm at threewalls: 119 N. Peoria #2D.
Lysistrata @ Victory Gardens Studio
The Poetry Foundation presents a staged reading of Aristophanes' comic masterpiece, first performed in 411 B.C.E. during the 20th year of the Peloponnesian War. Lysistrata leads the women of Athens to deny sex to their husbands until they end the war, a tactic that turns out to be as frustrating to them as to their mates. The Greeks had few language taboos and no problems with phallic imagery. These characteristics add to the startling humor and poignancy of the play, even in our uncensored age. Bernard Sahlins of Second City fame directs.
Show starts at 7:30pm, tickets are $20, $10 for students. 2433 North Lincoln Avenue. For tickets and information call (773) 871-3000 or visit Victory Gardens.
Parade @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a month long retrospective of the films of Jacques Tati. Tonight's film is Tati's rarely-seen final film, Parade from 1974. The film screens at 6pm. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Lysistrata @ Victory Gardens Studio
The Poetry Foundation presents a staged reading of Aristophanes' comic masterpiece, first performed in 411 B.C.E. during the 20th year of the Peloponnesian War. Lysistrata leads the women of Athens to deny sex to their husbands until they end the war, a tactic that turns out to be as frustrating to them as to their mates. The Greeks had few language taboos and no problems with phallic imagery. These characteristics add to the startling humor and poignancy of the play, even in our uncensored age. Bernard Sahlins of Second City fame directs.
Show starts at 7:30pm, tickets are $20, $10 for students. 2433 North Lincoln Avenue. For tickets and information call (773) 871-3000 or visit Victory Gardens.
D&D 101 @ Dice Dojo
Always wanted to play Dungeons & Dragons, but never had enough friends to start? The Chicago Nerd Social Club has you covered. This afternoon you can attend D&D 101 at Chicagoland Games: The Dice Dojo (5550 N. Broadway), which includes a discussion of the history and importance of the game before attendees are split up into groups to play D&D. The event starts at 5:30pm and runs through (at least) 8:30. Admission is a mere $2. For more information and to sign up please see the Chicago Nerd Social Club Website.
Just Kids @ Harold Washington Library Center
Join author, visual artist and musician Patti Smith today at 2pm at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St., as she discusses her new book Just Kids, a memoir of her life in New York City. Just Kids details Smith's life in Brooklyn in the summer in the late sixties and how that time fed her interest in art and poetry. This is event is free and open to the public.
Celestial Navigations @ Gene Siskel Film Center
Employing the archival skills honed during the excavation of over 40 full-length albums, Celestial Navigations marks The Numero Group's first foray into the world of cinema. The 45 films collected have been transferred and color corrected from the original 16mm prints, along with fully remastered sound. Special features include a 30-minute documentary on Jarnow's creative process, as well as film playlists designed for both children and adults. The show starts at 8pm. For tickets, click here. The Gene Siskel Film Center is located at 164 N. State St.
Jacques Tati Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a month long retrospective of the films of Jacques Tati. Today they present a double feature: Play Time at 3pm; and Parade at 5:3pm. You can see either film separately, or play a reduced price to see both. See the Film Center website for full details. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Troy Taylor @ Quimby's Bookstore
Troy Taylor presents The Murder and Mayhem in Chicago Series at Quimby's at 7pm. Every Chicago neighborhood has at some point been home to violence, gang influence, and corruption. Local Author Troy Taylor airs all of Chicago's dirty laundry in this five-part series, chronicling the infamous destruction of the Great Chicago Fire, the most shocking crimes of the 1800's and the rise of the mafia during Prohibition, leading to Al Capone's eventual domination in the Windy City's underworld. Discover the notorious capers, cons and killings that terrorized a city, and unearth the brutes, bank robbers and burlesque dancers that history could never forget as the Murder & Mayhem in Chicago series exposes the Second City's darkest sins and dirtiest secrets.
"Bittersweet History of Chocolate in France" @ Lexington College
Join local sugar artist Mark Seaman today for this lively discussion on the history of chocolate in France. Be regaled with sweet tales of kings and queens and learn how chocolate goes from bean to bar. Also, indulge in confections prepared by the French Pastry School of Chicago. The talk takes place from 10am to noon at Lexington College, 310 S. Peoria St. (two blocks west of Halsted, just south of Jackson). Parking is free in the adjacent college garage. Cost of the program is $5, $3 for students and members and no charge for CHC members and Lexington faculty and students. To reserve, call Barbara Olson at (708) 788-0338, or e-mail to save your spot.
punkplay @ Steppenwolf
A preview of
Gregory Moss's punkplay, about "two sort of marginal adolescent boys growing up in the suburbs who latch on to punk rock and use it to find an identity outside of the mainstream," is a Pavement Group production, going up as part of Steppenwolf Theatre Company's new Visiting Company Initiative, Garage Rep. Read the Gapers Block interview with Moss here. The show starts at 8pm in the Merle Reskin Garage Theatre, 1624 N. Halsted. Tickets are $20 and available here or by calling (312) 335-1650. Student tickets are $12.
Speakeasy Reading Series Presents: The Heart @ Worshop
This is a collaborative reading performance by a bunch of local, young, super-creative creative writers featuring art installations and snacks donated by Bleeding Heart Bakery. They are asking for a $5 donation to benefit The International Medical Alliance Relief Effort in Haiti. This event is from 7-9pm at Workshop (818 W. 18th St.).
Celestial Navigations @ Gene Siskel Film Center
Employing the archival skills honed during the excavation of over 40 full-length albums, Celestial Navigations marks The Numero Group's first foray into the world of cinema. The 45 films collected have been transferred and color corrected from the original 16mm prints, along with fully remastered sound. Special features include a 30-minute documentary on Jarnow's creative process, as well as film playlists designed for both children and adults. The show starts at 8pm. For tickets, click here. The Gene Siskel Film Center is located at 164 N. State St.
3 Solo Shows @ Packer Schopf Gallery
Three solo shows by Donald Cameron, Diem Chau, and Stephen Warde Anderson open tonight at Packer Schopf Gallery: 942 W. Lake. The reception is tonight from 5-9pm and the shows will stay up through March 27. Call the gallery (312-226-8984) for more information.
Daily Photos Show @ Antena
Antena gallery in Pilsen opens tonight for a celebration of photographs by artist Sarah Best titled "Daily Photos." Best's project involved taking photos exclusively with a cell phone camera and putting her friends and daily life on display. Inspiration was drawn by Frank O'Hara's daily work from Lunch Poems and Robert Mapplethorpe's Polaroids. Antena is located at 1765 S. Laflin St., Chicago in Pilsen (1 block east of the intersection of Ashland and 18th). The opening celebration is tonight from 6pm-10pm. Otherwise, the gallery is open by appointment only. Call (773) 257-3534 or email antenapilsen (at) gmail.com. The show runs through March 20, 2010.
Amelia Klem Osterud @ Quimby's Bookstore
Amelia Klem Osterud is reading from her new (and first) book, "The Tattooed Lady: A History" at Quimby's Bookstore (1854 West North Avenue) at 7pm.
"Tattooed ladies were a part of forgotten American history, often dismissed in print as second-rate circus freaks or as monstrous, yet sexy anomalies," she explains.
There is shockingly little documentation recounting the women (and men) who launched the cultural movement of tattooing. Publicity photos show up in general tattooing books, but the real stories behind these sideshow marvels remain a mystery, until now. The first book of its kind, The Tattooed Lady explores the duality of life on- and offstage for these gutsy women.
Rockabilly: Rebels Without a Blouse @ Mary's Attic
Calling all Big Daddies and fast Kittens: The Ripettes Burlesque is back with a totally neat-o show, Rockabilly: Rebels Without a Blouse, tonight at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic (5400 N. Clark Street, above Hamburger Mary's). The hep show features the beautiful bettys Trixie Darling, Dixie More, Jeez Loueez, and Sushi Martinez and is hosted by Mickey LaRue with (some) help from Horhay Sexteban. Tickets are $15 at the door but if you dust off your best James Dean or Bettie Paige threads, you'll save $3. It's going to be straight-from-the-fridge ice cool, you dig?
Grand Opening Group Show Opens Today @ The (Con)Temporary Art Space
As part of the Chicago Loop Alliance's Pop-Up Art Loop Gallery Project, The (Con)Temporary Art Space celebrates their grand opening today from 4:30 to 8:30pm with a group show by its founding members. Stop by and find out how you can have a show in their Display Case Gallery or participate in the space, or help them create a collaborative map of the city's "Other Culture." The (Con)Temporary Art Space is located at 208 S. Wabash. Visit their website for more information.
E.M.P.A.C.T. Fundraiser Party @ The Wicker Well
This month E.M.P.A.C.T. is raising funds for the Chicago Delegation to The U.S. Social Forum in Detroit so folks who can't otherwise afford it can make it to this historic gathering of 15,000+ activists, artists & cultural workers. The process is bringing together Chicagoans across the city & across sectors so folks can get down with building a city that works for everyone. Live Brasilian music will be provided by Planeta Azul Samba Band, an artistically rich group of Brazilian musicians complimented by the "Passistas" Samba dancers. And Ang G, Brotha Onaci, David Marques & Scrabblor of the People's DJs' Collective will keep the dance floor hot! There will be art, vendors and drink specials too. $5 donation. 21+. This event will run from 9:45pm to 2am tonight at The Wicker Well (1637 W. North Ave.).
Exploring Byzantine Cartography
The Chicago Map Society's monthly meeting features Alex Papadopoulos, Professor of Geography at DePaul University, who will lecture on Byzantine cartography. The discussion kicks off at 5:30pm and takes place in the Towner Fellows' Lounge at the Newberry Library (60 W. Walton). Free for members, $5 for non-members. For more information call (312) 255-3689.
Life as Lincoln @ Siskel
Life as Lincoln, a fascinating documentary chronicling the lives of three Abraham Lincoln impersonators as they make the rounds of schools and libraries to talk about our nation's sixteenth president (who turns 201 today), playstonight at 8pm at the Siskel Film Center.
Anvil! The Story of Anvil @ Empty Bottle
Love is overrated. What you really need on Valentine's Day is some metal. The Empty Bottle is screening the music documentary Anvil! The Story of Anvil today. Anvil follow the story of the Canadian rock band Anvil. In the 80's this band played with Whitesnake and Bon Jovi at huge festivals, but somehow never found the same success. Throughout the documentary we watch the remaining members try to bring back the band for one last hurrah at a European metal festival. Screening starts at 7pm and is free.
Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade
Ring in the Year of the Tiger 4708 in Chinatown today, starting with the parade at 1pm and a host of other events throughout the area. The parade runs on Wentworth from 24th St. to Cermak Rd. Details.
Strange Tales Saturday @ Challengers Comics Postponed
The Strange Tales signing with Michael Kupperman, Becky Cloonan and Jeffrey Brown has been postponed to Saturday, March 6.
Damian Abraham's X420X @ Concertina Gallery
Damian Abraham, perhaps better known as Pink Eyes, frontman of Toronto-based punk band Fucked Up, is an accomplished illustrator whose work constructs a visual language based on highly detailed and grotesque characters. X420X is Abraham's first solo exhibition, and is comprised of two serial projects and a site-specific wall drawing. His show opens tonight at Concertina Gallery (2351 N Milwaukee, Floor 2). The opening reception is from 6-8:30pm. Fucked Up will perform at the Viaduct Theater (3111 N. Western) immediately following the opening.
Cupid Cats of Chicago @ GTT
Animal trainer Samantha Martin brings her troupe of trained felines to Gorilla Tango Theatre for two shows tonight. Cats aren't the only animal Martin has trained in her career; her previous work includes chickens in the award-winning documentary Natural History of the Chicken, which led to an appearance, with chickens, on The Tonight Show. Martin's cats perform a variety of entertaining tricks involving wheels, hoops, and a musical act called The RockCats.
The cats will be performing today at 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave at 4pm and 5:30pm, tickets are $15. For tickets and info call (773) 598-4549 or visit Gorilla Tango Theatre's website. To view a clip of Martin and her charges, visit YouTube.
Jacques Tati Double Feature @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a month long retrospective of Jacques Tati's films. Today they're presenting a double feature of films featuring M. Hulot: Mon Oncle at 3pm; and the seldom-seen Trafic at 5:15pm. You can see either film separately, or both films at a discounted price. See the Film Center Website for a complete schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Painting Panel Discussion & Gallery Openings
Today, Chicago celebrates painting. Starting with a panel discussion all about painting at 9:30am, (until 12pm at the Hyatt Regency) and continuing on with several gallery openings: JULIUS CÆSAR at 4pm, continuing to Shane Campbell Gallery at 6pm, and ending at the 119 N Peoria Building in the West Loop at Rowley Kennerk Gallery and Western Exhibitions, from 7 to 10pm. Both the panel discussion and the exhibitions feature some of the best and most well-versed painters in Chicago. Visit the individual galleries' websites (linked above) for more information.
Torn Pages @ OhNo!Doom
Come to OhNo!Doom tonight (6pm-10pm) for "Pages Torn From our Most Favorite Imaginary Books", a series of artist/illustrator mashups detailing original children's stories. 1800 N Milwaukee Ave, show runs until March 2. Want a preview? Check out our interview with curator Josh Lucas in A/C.
Life as Lincoln @ Gene Siskel Film Center
Life as Lincoln, a fascinating documentary chronicling the lives of three Abraham Lincoln impersonators as they make the rounds of schools and libraries to talk about our nation's sixteenth president (who turns 201 today), playstonight at 8pm at the Siskel Film Center (164 North State Street).
Handmade Market
About 30 of the city's greatest makers of handmade goods will be gathering today at Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western Avenue) from noon to 4pm for another Handmade Market Chicago. The sellers will help you you pick out a few gifts for others, or yourself. You can see who is selling at the show here. And one of the best parts of this show is that you get to sip a tall frosty something while you peruse fantastic products. If you don't leave with full shopping bags, you may leave inspired, or at least a little tipsy.
Power of Suggestion Listening Party @ Gene Siskel Film Center
Local musician Charlie Deets will be hosting a listening party for his new album The Power of Suggestion, which comes out February 14th on Paribus Records, at the Gene Siskel Film Center. Nine visual artists have also created videos to accompany Deets' work. You can see a preview of one of the videos on Jesse McLean's to get a feel of what's to come and stream The Power of Suggestion on Deets's official website. This event is free, however seating is limited. RSVP via Facebook to be added to the guest list.
Photographs by Jeff Harvey @ Strange Beauty Show
Strange Beauty Show, the funky salon at 1118 N. Ashland, hosts the opening of In Bed: Photographs by Jeff Harvey from 7pm-10pm. Jeff Harvey is an artist, graphic designer and musician who explores the personal space of peoples' bedrooms and how beds themselves function in our lives. The artwork will stay up in Strange Beauty Show until the end of April.
Cocktails and Clay @ Hyde Park Art Center
Think night on the town meets playing in the mud. Join Vocalo for a late night clay-making, dance-partying, gallery-hopping good time. There will be 45-minute sessions in the clay studio at Hyde Park Art Center, a DJ mixing live and drink specials from 8pm to 12am. The suggested donation for this event is $15. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Ave.
ANTEXPAGNA and 4x4 @ EBERSMOORE Gallery
An exhibition of trippy graphite drawings by Chicago artist Ryan Travis Christian and equally trippy geometric paintings by San Francisco artist Jonathan Runcio opens today at EBERSMOORE Gallery, which is located at 213 N Morgan, #3C. The opening reception is from 6-9pm tonight and the show will stay up through March 13. Call the gallery at 312) 772-3021 for more information, or visit their website.
The Disasterists present American Hipstery Text
Like making fun of hipsters? Like making fun of yuppies? We all do, right? Sketch comedy group The Disasterists will take a shot at these easy targets with their show, American Hipstery Text, opening tonight at Bucktown's Gorilla Tango Theatre (1919 N. Milwaukee Ave). Shows run every Friday at 10:30pm through March 5. Tickets are $10. For more information visit The Disasterists website.
Life as Lincoln @ Siskel
Life as Lincoln, a fascinating documentary chronicling the lives of three Abraham Lincoln impersonators as they make the rounds of schools and libraries to talk about our nation's sixteenth president (who turns 201 today), premieres tonight at 8pm at the Siskel Film Center.
Women's Caucus for Art @ CAA Conference
The Women's Caucus for Art, in conjunction with the College Art Association (CAA) conference, will host a panel discussion tonight entitled "Investigating the Need for Women's Art Galleries, Exhibitions, and Organizations: From Our Center." Panelists, including faculty from Chicago State University and DePaul University, will discuss women and leadership in the art community. This free event takes place at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, West Tower, 151 E. Wacker Dr., Room Regency B, from 5:30pm-7:00pm.
UIC Open Studios @ Gallery 400
Come out and see what the future of art looks like. UIC's MFA students open up their studios and show their newest work to the public today, from 5:30 to 7pm at 400 S. Peoria St.
Sweet Tooth Bake Sale/Art Show for Chicago Art
This bake sale benefit features an art installation by James Casper Jankowiak, art display by glitter artist Sue Zola and an art raffle by 12 artists, and music by local DJs. A $20 door donation gets you complimentary wine and beer along with a complimentary pastry ticket. The money goes to several Chicago-based arts organizations. This event is from 6-10pm at 2003 S. Halsted. Click here for more information.
Blowing Kisses @ EP Theatre
Chicago-based indie film collective Rubbish launches their experimental public art project Blowing Kisses tonight at EP Theatre (1820 S. Halsted). Originally created for the 2008 Looptopia event, Blowing Kisses offers anyone who loves Chicago a chance to write or record a personal love letter to the Windy City and be featured on the Blowing Kisses website. The launch party will also feature work from local artists and designers Long Live Analog, Visual Armory, Art School Girl, Dessert for Breakfast, Mean Millies, Emmy Star Brown, Aaron Scamihorn, Joe Van Wetering, Firebelly Design and soopaqoot as well as live acoustic sets from Miles Benjamin of The Loneliest Monk, Jason Ewers & Emmy Chen of Ornery Little Darlings, Reddelicous and others. Come on out and blow your kisses from 7pm to midnight.
Colt Noble & the Megalords Launch Party @ Challengers Comics
By the power of Greyskull, local comic book artist Tim Seeley and Image bring the Masters of the Universe to comics in a one-shot parody. Watch the commercial, then come celebrate at 1845 N. Western Ave. 2R, 5-7pm. Tim Seeley will be there to sign copies.
Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout
Funny Ha Ha returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm, featuring readings and performances by stand-up comic Cameron Esposito; blogger and Lessons from the Fat-o-Sphere author Kate Harding; The Order of Odd-Fish author James Kennedy; writer, editor, and conspirator Fred Sasaki; and poet
and Spiking the Sucker Punch author Robbie Q. Telfer -- plus films by Steve Delahoyde. All hosted by Claire Zulkey. $5 suggested donation, benefitting the Neighborhood Writing Alliance.
Classic Candy @ Chicago History Museum
Monica Eng of the Tribune will be moderating a discussion about the love of candy between reps of the Wrigley and Primrose Candy companies tonight at 7pm at the Chicago History Museum, North and Clark. Cost $8-10.
Jour de Fete @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents a month-long retrospective of Jacques Tati's M. Hulot films. Tonight's film is Jour de Fete, the 1949 film that officially introduces Hulot. The film screens at 6pm tonight; see the Film Center Website for a full schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Dancers at Work Forum: New Directions in Presenting Chicago Dance @ Cultural Center
In this panel discussion, dance artists learn about the range of spaces available for presenting new dance work in Chicago. Presenting organizations discuss their missions in featuring dance to local audiences in addition to opportunities or services they offer for developing local artists. From new community collectives to experimental spaces to established presenting venues, this panel will offer the scoop on ways to build a profile as a dance artist in Chicago. This discussion starts today at 6pm on the 5th floor of the Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. Admission is free.
Susan Giles Buildings and Gestures @ Kavi Gupta
Susan Giles' work considers the relationship between memory and architecture. Her solo show of sculptures, installation, and a video, titled Buildings and Gestures, opens today at Kavi Gupta Gallery and will stay up through March 13. Kavi Gupta Gallery is located at 835 W. Washington. Visit their website for more information.
Now You See it, Now You Don't @ Flat Iron Arts
At 6pm tonight about 40 local artists -- many of them artists-in-residents at the Flat Iron -- unveil interconnected murals throughout the building's hallways and then, at 10pm, destroy the work by painting over it. While you're there, visit the open galleries to see more of the artists' work. A $5 donation for admission includes snacks and booze. The Flat Iron Arts Building is located at 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Benefit for the Whale @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
In December an electrical fire destroyed the Whale, home of the utopian secret society/art collective, The Order of the Lamprey. All three Pilsen artists and their pets survived, but now they need to pay bills, rebuild, and above all, return to their former glory. To help, Lumpen Magazine is throwing a party, with a suggested donation of $10. Bands performing include Black Nag, Thin Man, Son of Cops (ex-Drapes), Members Only (80s glitter covers), and DJaded. This show's also a release party for the special 114th issue of Lumpen, "Looking for Answers." The magazine is free upon entry. The party will go from 9pm-2am at Co-Prosperity Sphere: 3219 S. Morgan, Bridgeport.
Dirty Needles Craft Night @ The Hideout
Hang out with the coolest chicks (and the occasional dude) in town tonight, at the coolest bar in town, making stuff! What kind of stuff? Whatever you want! Mostly scarves, I think, but tonight Vera Videnovich will teach you how to build a drop spindle out of old cds. So bring your old CDs. Oh, and valentines. Lots of valentines will be made. This event is from
5:30pm - 8:30pm at The Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia.
Street Shadows @ Harold Washington Library
Meet Chicago native Jerald Walker tonight as he reads from his new book, Street Shadows: A Memoir of Race, Rebellion, and Redemption. Walker discusses the challenges he faced growing up in Chicago's public housing and the single incident that helped get him on the right track. The reading/discussion is at 6pm at the Harold Washington Library Center. This event is free and is open to the public. Contact the library at (312) 747-4300 for more information.
February One @ Columbia College
Columbia College's "Film Row," 1104 S. Wabash, kicks off Black History Month tonight with a screening and panel discussion of February One: The Story of the Greensboro Four. The film explores the lives of African-American college students in 1960 and their "sit-in movement" at a segregated Woolworth's lunch counter. The reception is from 5pm to 6pm, the film screening and discussion are from 6pm to 8pm. Admission is free; RSVP at rsvp@chicagofreedomschool.org.
Workshop: Golden Age of American Song @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents another of their regular series of one-day workshops for music and dance students. Today's workshop is titled "Golden Age of American Song," and instructor Barbara Silverman will show students the composition of songs from the Tin Pan Alley and sing/big band eras. The workshop begins this afternoon at 2pm in the school's main building at 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. Registration is $20 and is available either by calling the school at (773) 728-6000 or by visiting the Old Town School Website.
Robert Bruce Tague Exhibit @ Scout
This exhibition is Scout and Corbett vs. Dempsey Gallery's first joint effort, a gathering of watercolors by the important Chicago artist and architect Robert Bruce Tague. In the intimate Scout storefront, more than a dozen of Tague's watercolors, dating from the 1930s to the 1970s, will be on display. (From press release:) "Primarily landscapes, some naturally contain traces of the architectural, while others hint at the distinctly American modernist watercolor tradition of John Marin. All are quite subtle, but spectacularly complex in color and composition." This exhibition opens with a quiet wine reception at Scout (5221 N. Clark) this afternoon, starting at 2pm. Contact the gallery at (773) 275-5700 for more information, or visit their website.
Indie Wed @ Ravenswood Event Center
Getting married this year? Interested in using vendors that get your unique tastes? Check out Indie Wed, the unique wedding show and marketing featuring independent, modern, edgy and eco-friendly wedding vendors from the Midwest and beyond. At the Ravenswood Event Center, 4025 N. Ravenswood Ave, today from 11am to 5pm. $20 admission at the door, $10 advance (or $15 per couple advance).
Gracen Brilmyer's To Come From @ Knock Knock Gallery
Based on the artist's time spent while living in Sweden, Gracen Brilmyer's latest show, To Come From is a site-specific body of work that sifts through memories while living abroad. Working intuitively within self imposed time constraints, Brilmyer embraces the unique possibilities and foibles inherent within the printmaking process. Creating layers by printing over original drawings, paintings and other prints, the final pieces reference both reality and characters form the artist's own imagined narratives. Drawing influence from traditional comic books, the passage of time is depicted as multiple points within a single panel. Knock Knock Gallery is located at 3658 S. Wolcott #2F. The reception starts at 6pm.
The Masked Winter Ball @ Kimball Arts Center
The city is frozen. If you listen, you can hear the cold. Snow muffles the sounds of tires and brakes, howls and laughter, errands and wishes. The familiar rumble of the el pulses slightly farther away. Trees pose in heavy gowns of the softest snow, brick buildings wear glittering necklaces of icicles. Winter has dressed the city in her mysterious finery. The city whispers to you to celebrate winter! Swap your scarf for a mask, lose your boots for dancing shoes and go to the masked ball tonight. There will be music by Can Ky Ree, Baby Alright, DJ's Naomi Walker and Jocelyn Brown, and Ringmistress Cameron Esposito, as well as wild installations by several popular local artists. Masks encouraged, costumes adored, and dancing highly recommended! The party goes from 8pm - 2am. $15 - $50 sliding scale suggested donation. Space is limited so get there early! Kimball Arts is located at 1757 N. Kimball.
The Power of Selection @ Western Exhibitions
The Power of Selection, the first in a series of three shows curated by Ryan Travis Christian, has been up in gallery 1 since January 2, but the public reception for it is tonight. In gallery 2 is a video show curated by Scott Wolniak titled Suitable Video: Works from the Suitable Exhibitions Archive. Visit Western Exhibitions website for more information about the exhibition. The gallery is located at 119 N. Peoria, 2A, and the reception is from 6-9pm.
Touch with Your Eyes: Recent Works by Angel Otero Opens @ Cultural Center
Chicago painter Angel Otero's largest solo show to date opens at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington) today. The opening reception is from 6-8pm tonight and the show will be up through March 28.
Dialogue: Presented by IRUS art @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Two teams of artists, one in Tehran and another in Denver have assembled under one name: IRUS (Iran - United States). Starting with their mutual respect for art, they have established collaborative projects between their groups. During a one-year period, each group initiated a creative piece and mailed incomplete works back and forth through completion between our two cities: either directly or through friends, relatives or acquaintances who were traveling between the U.S. and Iran. This show demonstrates the fruit of that one-year period: a vibrant collection of intercultural pieces designed to celebrate cultural differences and find harmony through art. The show opens today at Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219-21 S. Morgan, Bridgeport), the reception is from 7-10pm, and it will stay up through Feb. 4. A discussion panel with five of the IRUS artists will be held on January 30, 5-7pm. For more information, visit IRUS art's website.
Art Auction Fundraiser @ Johalla Projects
Our economic mess has not spared art. A lot of exhibition spaces drowned and several, including Johalla Projects, are hanging on by a thread. So, they have organized their first Art Auction Fundraiser, taking place tonight. Proceeds from the auction will go towards improving their exhibition space and continuing to support artists in Chicago. This is an event fit for the collector on a budget. Whether you are a seasoned art investor fixing your eyes on a steal or a budding enthusiast looking for that first piece of art to kick start your collection, this auction has something for everyone. Over 50 artists have donated original work. Participating artists are Nathan Baker, Bridgette Buckley, Elijah Burgher, Philip Dembinski, Anni Holm, Aron Gent, Jon Gitelson, Chad Kouri, Daniel Shea, Montgomery Perry Smith, Myles Smutney-Hyde, and many, many others. The auction viewing is from 7-11pm, bidding closes at 10pm. Tickets to bid are $5 for one or $20 for five. There is no limit on how many times one may bid during the evening. Johalla Projects is located at 1561 N. Milwaukee Ave., 2nd floor. Email them at johallaprojects@gmail.com for a full list of participating artists or additional auction details.
Angel Otero @ Cultural Center
Chicago art-darling Angel Otero leads a gallery talk through the exhibition of his work Touch with Your Eyes. This exhibition of 12-15 new works is Otero's largest solo show to date and promises to be stunning. Otero's talk begins at 12:15pm at the Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington.
Comic Book 201 @ Third Coast Comics
The Chicago Nerd Social Club and Third Coast Comics team up tonight (7pm) for Comic Book 201, the sequel to (you guessed it) Comics 101. Find out more about publishers, continuity, and other topics of comic book import. Third Coast Comics, 6234 N. Broadway. Sign up here.Free Store Opens @ Gallery 400
The Free Store is a nomadic, temporary free store that irregularly visits a variety of Chicagoland neighborhoods. The Free Store, open during all gallery hours, invites you to be involved: come to the store, bring stuff you want to give away, and take stuff that you want. There is no restriction on what you can take--you don't have to trade or barter. Just take it. The Free Store will be up through March 6, and the opening reception is tonight from 5 to 8. Gallery 400 is located at 400 S. Peoria.
Book Signing for The Rockabillies @ The MCA
Chicago native photographer Jennifer Greenburg will be at the MCA today to sign copies of her first monograph, The Rockabillies. The book features a series of photographs of members of Greenburg's own community in Chicago and across the country, whose worlds revolve around the 1950's rockabilly aesthetic. For more information, visit the MCA's website. The signing begins at 6pm at the MCA: 220 E. Chicago.
Local Dance Scene Discussion @ Cultural Center
This forum opens with a roundtable sampling of emerging, mid-career and established artists discussing the sustainability of dance-related careers in Chicago. How are dance artists locating and creating new opportunities to perform and broaden their audience base? What practical strategies are dance artists using to create exposure (print or email marketing, Facebook, face-to-face networking, collaborations, etc.)? Dance artists share their respective solutions for finding resources to help their creativity and their organizations develop and thrive. This discussion is from 6-7:30pm at the Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington, 1st Floor Garland Room.
The Doctoral Artist: Research and Art Practice @ threewalls gallery
Join threewalls this winter for the 2010 SALONS series, The Work of Gambling Historians: Oblique Glances at the Present, a special series curated by Ania Szremski. Held on Tuesday evenings at 7pm, SALONS feature guest respondents in round table discussion with the public about current topics in contemporary visual arts.
Today: Research-based artistic practice seems to have greater currency today than perhaps ever before. Art projects begin to feel like dissertations; loaded with multivalent cultural, political, and historical references, this type of practice often doesn't result in a traditional art object, but instead exists in performance, in conversations, in recreations of office spaces or archives within a gallery. Contemporary strains of this type of practice have had high visibility in Chicago recently, with exhibitions by Liam Gillick and Jeremy Diller at the MCA in the fall, and the knowledge-questioning investigation by Aspen Mays about to open at the Hyde Park Art Center; these examples will be touchstones for the conversation. With guest speakers: Patrick Bobilin, Aspen Mays, Allison Peters Quinn, and Frances Whitehead.
We Are The World Group Show Opens @ Roots & Culture
We are the World showcases work by 12 emerging international artists. The exhibition features work in a wide range of media including illustration, new media, painting, photography, sculpture, textile, and video. Prompted by the 1985 music project "We Are the World," co-written by Lionel Richie and Michael Jackson, and recorded by nearly 50 of the biggest names in music in an effort to raise money and awareness of the famine crisis in Africa, this current show asks artists born in the 1980s to reimagine on the original project. Conceived as both a critique of the ineffectiveness of the original
program and an embrace of its cultural significance, the show reflects on the
ways in which we can make and think art in the midst of crisis. This show will be up through Feb. 20 but check out the opening tonight from 6 to 9 at Roots and Culture Gallery: 1034 N. Milwaukee Ave.
We Ride No Brakes Too @ Untitled
Fresh new artists Charlie Megna, Jake Gillispie, and Matthew Jorgensen show their new work at Untitled (1941 W. North Ave.) tonight. The opening is from 7-10pm. Dave Mata (A.K.A. White Devil) will provide musical refreshments.
Rhinofest Opening Night @ Prop Thtr
Tonight's the opening night of the 21st Annual Rhinoceros Theater Festival at Prop Thtr (3502 North Elston Avenue). Three performers are scheduled to perform tonight, and Curious Theatre co-founder Beau O'Reilly will host Full Moon Vaudeville, an opening night party with live music. Tickets and a complete schedule are available at rhinofest.com.
Dance Party @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Publicist (Seb from Trans Am), Waterbabies, DJ Ryan Stinson, Gatekeeper, and Joe Kisser provide musical refreshments at this dance party. A Dutch art exhibition by The Tupajumi Foundation will be on display. The exhibition opens at 7pm and the party starts at 8. Admission is $8. Co-Prosperity Sphere is located at 3219 S. Morgan.
Jeff Marlin Painting Show Opening @ Corbett vs. Dempsey Gallery
Spanning a period of about ten years, this survey includes various series in the oeuvre of Chicago painter Jeff Marlin (1969-2009), which, in the artist's words, "...is always a dialogue between hand and machine systems." The selection of works extends back to early paintings exploring dot matrix disintegrations of images (UFOs, mushroom clouds, fascist architecture), all using scanned and manipulated photographic sources, Xeroxes and stencils in the development of the paintings. His more recent work has evolved into minimal abstraction. The show will be up through Feb. 6, but check out the opening tonight from 5-9pm at Corbett vs. Dempsey: 1120 N. Ashland Ave. #3.
E.M.P.A.C.T. Party @ The Music Lounge
E.M.P.A.C.T.- Everyone's Music Politics Art and Community Throwdown, is a monthly series that showcases live band's and DJ's while fundraising for deserving not-for-profits and community organizations. The goal of E.M.P.A.C.T. is to spread culture, diversity, and knowledge of community issues while providing a common ground for activists, educators, artists, and community organizers to celebrate the commonality of our struggles. Tonight's live music includes EveryPeople Jazz Workshop, Rebel Rhythm Collective, and DJ David Marques. The show starts at 9pm and ends at 2am at The Music Lounge: 3017 W. Armitage. $5 donation, benefiting the Rumble Arts Center.
What Is a Masterpiece?
The Alliance Française (54 W. Chicago) presents world-renown art expert Isabelle Leroy-Jay Lemaistre in this art lecture on how the definition of "masterpiece" has changed over time in painting, drawing, sculpture, and decorative arts. The talk gets underway at 6:30pm and costs $5 for members of the Alliance, $10 for non-members. Register online or call (312) 337-1070 for more information.
Glitter in the Gutter @ Annoyance Theater
Get your wig caps and stilettos on to visit Pepper LaRoo and Velveeta Fitzgerald, inseparable drag queen roommates that dream of hitting it big. Inspired by John Waters', Designing Women and Dionne Warwick's, Glitter In The Gutter offers a fresh look at drag culture while paying R-E-S-P-E-C-T to it's roots.
Glitter In The Gutter is directed by Kellen Alexander and stars Wes Perry and Seth Dodson.
Tonight and Thursdays, runs through March 11 | 8pm | $10
Slam Champion Eboni Hogan @ Butterfly Social Club
Mental Graffiti presents an open mic and open poetry slam followed by readings by featured poet Eboni Hogan at the Butterfly Social Club (728 W Grand) at 8pm. $5 donation, 21 and up.
Haiti Benefit @ The Hideout
Hideout Haiti Benefit tonight at 8pm, featuring music from the Waco Brothers and Eleventh Dream Day, a poster sale by Judgeworks, and a bake sale organized by Joanna of My Vegetable Blog. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. The Hideout 1354 West Wabansia (773) 227-4433
DuSable Museum Celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr.
The DuSable Museum of African-American History will host a full day of events to commemorate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. To celebrate the memory of the late Civil Rights leader, today, guests of the museum will get to enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities that include not only films and documentaries, but also live dance and musical performances by theatre groups from all over Chicago.
The event is from 10am to 6pm; admission prices are as follows: $8 for adults, $5 for children (4 years and up), and $6 for museum members. Contact the museum at (773) 947-0600 for more information.
Illustrious Corpses @ MCA Theater
In conjunction with the Museum of Contemporary Art's exhibit Italics: Italian Art between Tradition and Revolution 1968-2008, the MCA Theater is screening classic Italian films throughout January.
In Illustrious Corpses, a detective investigates the mysterious murder of several Supreme Court judges only to uncover a deeper political plot. Though the quality of the print may not be the best, Illustrious Corpses is rarely screened and this presents a unique opportunity to see it.
Tickets are $8, $6 for MCA members. Screening starts at 1pm.
Cedric the Entertainer @ Arie Crown Theater
Laugh away the winter blues with one of the "Original Kings of Comedy," Cedric the Entertainer, tonight at 8pm at the Arie Crown Theater, 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr. Tickets are $45-$75; contact the theater box office for more information.
Proximity Release Party @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Tonight Proximity Magazine celebrates the release of their sixth issue. There will be an evening of performances by Proximity friends and family as well as an exhibition of works by artists featured in past magazines. There will be performances by Implodes, Aleks and the Drummer, Maxwell Citron and Members Only. With DJ J+J+J. For this issue they invited friends and friends of friends to contribute to their annual geographically and territorially-based examinations of some other art worlds. This not so random survey of under-represented art scenes, movers and shakers, artist run initiatives, groups, spaces and theoretical constructs helps us imagine and remake the worlds we want to live and work in. It features reports from not only Chicago but around the world. For $10 you get admitted into the party as well as a copy of the new issue. The party is from 9pm-1am at Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S Morgan St.)
Pepe le Moko @ Musicbox Theatre
Before there was Bogart, the French had Jean Gabin. And before American noir came Julien Duvivier and a slew of French filmmakers setting up the atmosphere for it. Duvivier and Gabin's greatest collaboration Pépé le Moko (1937) screens at the Musicbox Theatre today and tomorrow as part of their weekend matinee. Pépé le Moko follows crook on the run Gabin through the casbah of Algiers. As is typical in noir films, Pépé can run from the coppers day and night but he can't run from love.
Screening starts at 11:30am. Tickets are $9.25 and can be purchased at the Musicbox box office.
CHIRP Launch Party with The Yolks @ The Empty Bottle
The Chicago Independent Radio Project is launching a new radio station online this month and they celebrate said launch tonight at The Empty Bottle. Committed to local, independent programming and focusing on Chicago's diverse music, arts, and cultural scenes, CHIRP's local dedication is reflected in the party-starting Chicago-based bands they have invited to play tonight. Soul-rock band The Yolks headline and Rabble Rabble and Hollows open. The show starts at 10pm, admission is $8. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western Ave. 21+.
Greg Kot @ Revolution Books
Music critic Greg Kot talks about and signs copies of his book Ripped today at Revolution Books, 1103 N. Ashland, at 2pm.
3rd Annual Winter Block Party for Chicago Hip-Hop @ Chicago Urban Art Society
Kicking off 2011, Chicago Public Media (WBEZ 91.5 FM) continues its Off-Air Series with the 3rd Annual Winter Block Party for Chicago's Hip-Hop Arts at Chicago Urban Art Society today from 11am to 10pm. Created to celebrate Chicago's hip-hop arts, this annual party begins at 11am with free events such as: a visual art and graffiti gallery exhibition; marketplace; hip-hop barbershop; the Vocalo Sampling Showcase with Vocalo host Jesse Menendez leading a presentation on the art of sampling; lots of special guests; music all afternoon by some of Chicago's favorite DJs including Itch 13, Sweatpants Money, DJ Susannah Kim; and more! Ticketed programs this year include a screening of Copyright Criminals, which examines the creative and commercial value of musical sampling, tracing the rise of hip-hop from the urban streets of New York to its current status as a multibillion-dollar industry, and the popular "First Come, First Served!" one-on-one B-Boy/B-Girl battle hosted by Chicago's own Legendary Brickheadz. Highlighting the event will be a ticketed evening program titled Original Style: Exploring the History of Chicago House hosted by Kevin Coval, which will include archival film of the scenes and sounds of the 1980s and 90s, music selections courtesy of SilverRoom founder DJ Eric Williams, plus the founders of Chicago House: DJ Frankie Knuckles, known as 'The Honorary Godfather of House Music'; Robert Williams, owner of the Warehouse and Music Box; Frederick Dunson, original warehouse manager; Reggie Corner, House music promoter; Lewis Lazu, dancer and promoter; and many more. The evening will wrap up with an After Party with legendary house DJ Ron Trent and seminal Hip-Hop DJ Jesse De La Pena! Admission during the day is free with optional ticketed programming for $5 general admission or $3 for WBEZ members. Tickets for the evening program are $15 general admission, $12 for WBEZ members, and $10 for students with a valid ID. Tickets are available at www.wbez.org/events. The Chicago Urban Art Society is located at 2229 S. Halsted Street.
Armita Raafat Solo Show Opens @ threewalls
Raafat's installation subtly transforms the 'pristine' gallery, drawing on the wall with mirror, paint, plaster, cardboard, papier-mâché and cloth to sculpt a crumbling architecture from Middle Eastern structures, patterns and motifs. Referencing Islamic and Persian architecture, Raafat applies ornament in a state of ruin, often to the perimeter of the site, with patterns spreading, dripping and crumbling from corner to floor. This exhibition opens tonight at threewalls(119 N. Peoria #2D)-- the reception is from 6-9pm.
Art Shay's True Colors @ Thomas Masters
An exhibit of color photographs by Art Shay, who is known for his black and white photography, opens tonight at Thomas Masters, 245 W. North Ave. The opening reception will be held from 6-9pm. For more information, call (312) 440-2322.
Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion @ MCA Theater
In conjunction with the Museum of Contemporary Art's exhibit Italics: Italian Art between Tradition and Revolution 1968-2008, the MCA Theater is screening classic Italian films throughout January.
The Oscar-winning picture Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion follows a high-ranking police officer who plants clues to a murder he commits to judge the competency of his own force. Smart, satirical, and filled with black-humor, this film is one of the best Italian films of the 70s.
Tickets are $8, $6 for MCA members. Screening starts at 6pm.
Vaudezilla's 'Out with the Clothes, in with the Nudes' @ the Blue Bayou
Though (Baby) its cold outside, the broads of Vaudezilla are heating up the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue) with their 'Out with the Clothes, in with the Nudes' Bar top Burlesque Revue. Dig yourself out of a snow drift tonight and visit the bevy of beauties including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Siren Jinx, Donna Touch, and more! The show is free and starts at 10pm sharp. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers.
Three Peas Art Lounge Presents: Kevin Powell
Meet multimedia personality, author, and activist Kevin Powell tonight from 6pm to 8pm at Three Peas Art Lounge, 75 E. 16th Street. Powell will be part of a panel discussion on the "the future of urban America" in the Obama era. Admission is free, but RSVP to Randy Crumpton at rancrump@aol.com. Call (312) 933-5977 for more information.
Octavarius Improv @ Underground Lounge
Chicago-based improv group Octavarius performs tonight at 8pm at Underground Lounge (952 W. Newport Ave.) Call them (773-327-2739) for more information.
The Sports Show Film & Video Screening @ Gallery 400
Gallery 400 is "foam-finger-waving" proud to present a double-header of films and videos that seek to address athletics in all of its art-side incarnations. In the absence of $6 hot dogs and $7 Budweisers, they've got a stadium's worth of bruisers ready to bring the (critical) pain--from ethnographic melon tossing to video art ice skating, close-up baseball to performative competitive swimming, ice hockey ankle-slashing to video game basketball to Papua New Guinean cricket warfare--they've got more than enough sports identification to fill up your art-team jersey closet forever and ever. Nine videos and films by artists ranging from Miranda July to Stan Brakhage will be screened tonight between 7 and 9:30pm at Gallery 400: 400 S. Peoria.
The Best of Second City
Tonight (and future Mondays) at 8pm, the Second City touring companies perform a series of sketches both classic and improvised. 1616 N. Wells, $15-$20 (free improv set follows). More information here.
The Rainbow Connection @ Quimby's
Jessica Max Stein's tells the story of the "queer puppeteer" who was behind characters like Scooter and Janice, and became a fixture on Sesame Street with her zine The Rainbow Connection: Richard Hunt, Gay Muppeteer today at Quimby's. 1854 W North Ave, 3pm. Free! For more information call (773) 342-0910.
The Decameron @ the MCA Theater
In conjunction with the Museum of Contemporary Art's exhibit Italics: Italian Art between Tradition and Revolution 1968-2008, the MCA Theater is screening classic Italian films throughout January.
Based on the novellas of Giovanni Boccaccio, The Decameron brings fourteenth century Italy to life - debauchery and all. Characteristic of director Pier Paolo Pasolini, The Decameron satirizes the church and state while exposing Italy's fascination with all things love.
Tickets are $8, $6 for MCA members. Screening starts at 1pm.
Hot & Heavy Burlesque: Pink Floyd's The Wall @ the Viaduct Theater
Hot & Heavy Burlesque presents a spectacular tribute to the iconic Pink Floyd album, The Wall. The classic album will be performed, in its entirety, by a bevy of burlesque beauties including Viva La Muerte, Red Hot Annie, and Donna Touch. 'The Wall' continues tonight at 10 pm and runs Friday January 15th and Saturday January 16th at the Viaduct Theater (3111 N. Western Avenue). Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and to purchase tickets.
Handmade Market
About 30 of the city's greatest makers of handmade goods will be gathering today at Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western Avenue) from noon to 4pm for another Handmade Market Chicago. The sellers will help you you pick out a few gifts for others, or yourself. You can see who is selling at the show here. And one of the best parts of this show is that you get to sip a tall frosty something while you peruse fantastic products. If you don't leave with full shopping bags, you may leave inspired, or at least a little tipsy.
Gregory Jacobsen's Prostrate @ Zg Gallery
Gregory Jacobsen's fifth solo show opens tonight at Zg Gallery. Titled Prostrate: New Paintings & Drawings, the show features new works from his botanical heaps series-- still life bouquets composed of such disparate elements as meat and muscle tissue, wigs, secreting organs, petit-fours, flora, fauna and various food stuffs, set in romantic landscapes, tenderly gathered into bundles and tied with ribbons. The show opens tonight at Zg Gallery (300 W. Superior.) The public reception will go from 5:30 to 7:30pm. For more information, visit Zg's website or call them at (312) 654-9900.
Vespine Gallery Farewell Party
Vespine Gallery, 1907 S. Halsted, will be closing at the end of January, and is having a farewell party tonight from 7pm to 10pm. The gallery's final exhibition, Retrospect, runs from Jan. 2 to Jan. 29.
Jason Lahr, Tim Vermeulen, & Gene Hamilton @ Packer Schopf Gallery
Today at Packer Schopf Gallery three shows of interesting-looking work by three artists open. On display are paintings and drawings of and about the crisis of manhood, pop culture, Moby Dick, the meaning of life, and ventriliquist dummies, among other things. Jason Lahr shows DEATHMETALHIPPIEKILLER, Tim Vermeulen shows Moby Dick, and Gene Hamilton shows Vent Figure Fun! (Ventriloquist Dummy Portraits). The opening is from 5-8 tonight at Packer Schopf: 942 W. Lake. Visit their website for more information.
iPhone Therefore I Art @ CAD
iPhone Therefore I Art is an exhibition of new art (of various forms) made with iPhones by 25 artists from around the world. The show, curated by Mike Nourse of the Chicago Art Department, is the culmination of an iPhone art class he led at CAD. Go to the opening at CAD tonight to see how yet another use for the ubiquitous iPhone has been discovered. CAD is located at 1837 S. Halsted, and the opening is from 6-10pm.
Tragedy of a Ridiculous Man @ MCA Theater
In conjunction with the Museum of Contemporary Art's exhibit Italics: Italian Art between Tradition and Revolution 1968-2008, the MCA Theater is screening classic Italian films throughout January.
Tragedy of a Ridiculous Man follows the dynamic events of a cheese factory owner whose son is suddenly kidnapped by leftist terrorists. Instead of giving the money to his son's kidnappers, he opts to keep the ransom to save his near-bankrupt company.
Tickets are $8, $6 for MCA members. Screening starts at 6 pm.
Explorations in Food Writing Class @ Evanston Public Library
If you're interested in honing your food writing skills, have we got the class for you: Northwestern University and the Evanston Public Library are holding a free (yes, free!) eight-session creative writing class starting tonight where each week you will learn how to translate your favorite meals into words. So if you're looking to make a New Year's resolution to eat less, perhaps writing more will be an easier goal to keep. Evanston Public Library, Main Library, 1703 Orrington Avenue. Tuesday, 7-9pm.
Free Theatre @ Holiday Club
The n.u.f.a.n. ensemble launches its free theatre series at the Holiday Club, 4000 N. Sheridan, tonight at 6pm. The series will run the first Tuesday of every month, and will feature original plays, monologues and variety shows.
Holiday Panto Benefit Show @ Hideout
Come out to the Hideout today for a special re-play of their 4th Annual Holiday Panto, "Ho Ho Ho the Humanity", to benefit three cast members who were left homeless and without possessions after a December house fire. Tickets are $12/$5 kids (get them in advance). There are two shows, one at 3pm and one at 6pm. Details. All ages and family friendly. The Hideout is located at 1354 W. Wabansia. 773-227-4433
Naked Girls Reading Presents "Pulp!"
This BYOB brunch by Naked Girls Reading features skin and smut, with a book release party for Hard Case Crime's newest novel, "The Corpse Wore Pasties" - by author and Naked Girls Reading NYC producer Jonny Porkpie. The event takes place at noon at Studio L'Amour (939 W. Randolph). Reservations required--spaces are $20 for one, and $35 for two--and can be made online. Call (312) 243-6690 for more information.
The Power of Selection & Suitable Video Open @ Western Exhibitions
The Power of Selection is the first in a series of three shows curated by Ryan Travis Christian in gallery 1 at Western Exhibitions. The idea behind the exhibition is to increase the circulation of contemporary artwork seen in Chicago by showing works by out of town and/or up-and-coming artists. In this first installment, Christian selected work that takes figuration into strange and bewildering stylizations through the use of drawing, sculpture and video. In Gallery 2 Scott Wolniak has curated an exhibition (Suitable Video: Works from the Suitable Exhibitions Archive) of video works loosely based around artists who showed at Suitable Gallery, a DIY exhibition space located in Humboldt Park between 1999 and 2004. The show will be up through February 6 with a public reception on January 30. Visit Western Exhibitions website for more information. Western Exhibitions is located at 119 N. Peoria, 2A.
15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program @ Malcolm X College
Malcolm X College is hosting the 15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program today, starting at 10am. This is the last day of the largest known seven-day celebration of Kwanzaa in the country publicly held in an institution of higher learning. Admission is free. For more information contact Jessica Holloway: Kwanzaa Chairperson at 312-850-7472 or arhoden@ccc.edu. Malcolm X College is located at 1900 W. Van Buren. For more information, including the schedule, check out this press release.15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program at Malcolm X College today, starting at 10am. This is the last day of the largest known seven-day celebration of Kwanzaa in the country publicly held in an institution of higher learning. Admission is free. For more information contact Jessica Holloway: Kwanzaa Chairperson at 312-850-7472 or arhoden@ccc.edu. Malcolm X College is located at 1900 W. Van Buren. For more information, including the schedule, check out this press release.
Too Much Light New Year's Eve @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists ring in the new year with a special New Year's Eve production of their long-running show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. The show starts at 11pm at the Neo-Futurarium (5153 N. Ashland at Foster), and when it finishes exactly 60 minutes later it's 2010! Doors open at 9:30pm for a reception with food provided by Whole Foods Sauganash. Tickets for the evening are $40 and can be purchased through Brown Paper Tickets. For more info see the Neo-Futurist Website or call the Neo hotline: (773) 275-5255.
New Year's Eve Ball @ Reversible Eye Gallery
The amazing Reversible Eye Gallery is hosting what will surely be a wild New Year's Eve party tonight. Aerial acrobatics from Aloft will be performed throughout the evening, and breakfast and mimosas will be served at 5am New Years Day. Bands performing includeSpires that in the Sunset Rise,Loto Ball Show,ReDeMer,Loto Ball Stupid Dans,The Funeral and the Twilight, and Grace Kulp. Admission is $25 in advance and $30 at the door--not bad if you consider all the live entertainment and the free food and booze 'till dawn. The party starts at 9:30pm. Reversible Eye Gallery is located at 1103 N. California. Call them at (773) 862-1232 or email info@reversibleeye.com for more information.
NYE Party @ Kaplan's Liquors
Each year Kaplan's Liquors hosts a New Years Eve party, and this year is no different, but they're expecting quite a crowd. There will be free Korean and Polish Food and a Youtube Karaoke performance with VJ Eddie Gymkata of the 80's performance art band, Members Only, among other things. Korean ladies, mutants, and sexy co-eds will be mingling with intellectuals, art fags, old men, and union guys. Should be pretty fun. Should be free, too, except for the booze. The party will be from 8:30pm to 2am. It's a bar, so only go if you're 21+. Kaplan's Liquors is located in Bridgeport at 960 W. 31st. St. Call them at 773-890-0588 for information.
Daedelus @ Kinetic Playground
He didn't father a doomed, flying son (as far as we know), but Alfred Darlington, or Daedelus, keeps turning out interesting, somehow romantic and often beautiful electronic beats. Kinetic Playground, 1113 W Lawrence, 9pm. Tickets here, for more information call (773) 769-5483.The Moth Story Slam @ Martyr's
National, non-profit storytelling show, The Moth's Chicago chapter, will be hosting a story slam tonight at Martyr's, 3855 N. Lincoln Ave.
The idea is for participating audience members to tell a conflict/resolution story within the time allocated based on the night's theme with the goal to captivate.
The theme for submission is "Cars" (previous themes have been "firsts" and "blunders"). The story slam begins at 8pm and there's a $7 cover at the door. For more information check out the full story in A/C.
15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program @ Malcolm X College
Malcolm X College and the Bolozi Wazee (Council of Elders) - Shule Ya Watoto (School for Children) are celebrating 15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program at Malcolm X College, starting today and continuing through Kwanzaa every day starting at 10am, until January 1. This is the largest known seven-day celebration of Kwanzaa in the country publicly held in an institution of higher learning. Admission is free. For more information contact Jessica Holloway: Kwanzaa Chairperson at (312) 850-7472, or arhoden@ccc.edu. Malcolm X College is located at 1900 W. Van Buren. For more information, including the schedule, check out this press release.
Christmas in Manila @ Davenport's
Pop/jazz singer Carlo Chapelle of Lampkin Music Group's show illustrates his homeland's version of Christmas tonight at Davenport's (1383 N. Milwaukee). 7pm, $10 and 2 drink minimum.1985 @ The Factory Theater
Closing night for The Factory Theater's spoof of George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. Eric Roach directs. Located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Show starts at 8pm, tickets are $20. For information and tickets call (312) 409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
Indie Arts Market @ Schubas
Sponsored by Paper Boy, this holiday craft market features the latest creations from Chicago illustrators, artists and crafters. Jewelry, screen prints, letterpress, housewares and more for sale. At Schubas, 3159 N. Southport, from 11am to 5pm today. Admission is free. For more information visit the Indie Arts Market website.
The View from the Kitchen @ Chicago History Museum
Presented by the Culinary Historians of Chicago, today's lecture about the culinary travels of a former chef of the family who owned Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece Fallingwater will not disappoint. "The View from the Kitchen: an Upstairs-Downstairs Look at Frank Lloyd Wright's Most Famous House" runs 10am-noon at the Chicago History Museum,1600 N. Clark. Admission starts at $3; RSVP requested.
1985 @ The Factory Theater
The Factory Theater spoofs George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. Eric Roach directs. Located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Showtimes: Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and Sundays at 7 through December 19th. Tickets are $20. For information and tickets call (312)-409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
Megan Baker @ AJ Kane Gallery
Opens tonight, 5pm-12am: Photoshop artist Megan Baker's dystopian photography of small decaying towns in the United States. 119 N. Peoria St. Suite 2B. Free. More information here.
Found Footage Festival @ Lakeshore Theater
"A celebration of odd and hilarious found videos" is the slogan for the Found Footage Festival, hosted and narrated by comedians Joe Pickett and Nick Prueher. In 1991 they found a video titled "Inside and Outside Custodial Duties," which was filmed inside a McDonald's break room, and launched their mission to find similarly intriguing videos.They have since been collecting them from dumpsters and garage sales. This now large collection is comprised of outrageous, stupid, strange and outlandish videos. There are two screenings tonight-- one at 7:30pm and one at 10:30pm. Tickets are $12. Lakeshore Theater is located at 3175 N. Broadway. Call them at (773) 472-3492 for more information.
Trendbeheer Meets Proximity Exhibition Opening @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
For the past two years Public Media Institute and Proximity magazine have been collaborating with Trendbeheer.com, a Rotterdam-based Arts initiative, to bring artists and projects to each others' cities. This exhibition, mounted by Thendbeheer, coincides with issue 6 of Proximity magazine, themed (An)Other Worlds. Issue 6 includes an expansive Rotterdam Section and artists interviewed in the issue will be present in Chicago for the Trendbeheer Meets Proximity exhibition. The opening reception is from 7-9pm, performances begin at 9 and go on until 1am. Co-Prosperity Sphere is located at 3219 S. Morgan St.
Vaudezilla's Bartop Burlesque @ The Blue Bayou
The broads of Vaudezilla are back on the Blue Bayou's bartop for a night of free burlesque! Stop by 3734 N. Southport Avenue tonight for their weekly 10pm show. Hosted by Dick Dijon, the show features a bevy of beauties including Wham Bam Pam and Maria May I. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers.
"Tales From Tchaikovsky:" Redmoon Collaboration with the CSO
Redmoon Theater Company collaborates with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to re-imagine Tchaikovsky's "The Snow Maiden" and "Swan Lake." The show includes array of handcrafted shadow puppets, live puppetry, and giant video projections. Beginning at 6:30pm, there's no intermission, so you can be outta there by 8. Or, stay and enjoy free wine at the post-performance reception. Mingle with other concertgoers and partake in a Q&A with guest artists and CSO musicians. Tickets are $25. Online patrons: enter promo code 10591. Phone and Box Office Patrons (312-294-3000): Mention code "Special $25." $10 Student tickets are also available. Symphony Center: 220 S. Michigan.
Dystopias vs. Enchanted Forests
Quimby's Bookstore is hosting an off-site event called the Cabinet of Curiosities at the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 East Chicago Avenue) at 6pm in Puck's Cafe. The Cabinet of Curiosities series is a curated "variety show." Artists and performers featured in this month's theme, Dystopias vs. Enchanted Forests, include Ed Marszewski (Lumpen, Proximity, Co-Prosperity Sphere), Kate Sheehy (puppeteer), Joe Mason (pop culture specialist), Oscar Arriola (street art archiver and documentarian), and Jon Resh (Viper Press, Amped).
Amanda Ross-Ho @ SAIC
Formerly of Chicago, now of Los Angeles artist Amanda Ross-Ho continues to explore the concept of workspace as art, making her talk introducing the Studio Chicago project particularly appropriate. Sullivan Galleries, SAIC, 33 S State St, 7th Fl. For more information, call (312) 629-6635 or go here. Free!
Daniel Burnham Documentary @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents Make No Little Plans: Daniel Burnham and the American City, an hour-long documentary on the career of the architect whose "Plan For Chicago" was a model for urban design of the 20th century. The film screens this evening at 6pm. The director, Judith Paine McBrien, will be present for audience discussion. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
101 Lecture Show: Jay Ryan & Paul Hornschemeier
Homeroom and You, Me,Them, Everybody co-host the 101 Lecture Show at Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., tonight at 9pm. This month's guests are screenprinter Jay Ryan and graphic novelist Paul Hornschemeier. They'll each deliver a short lecture and be interviewed, and will sign copies of their latest books. $5 suggested donation; 21+.
Daniel Burnham doc @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents Make No Little Plans: Daniel Burnham and the American City, an hour-long documentary on the career of the architect whose "Plan For Chicago" was a model for urban design of the 20th century. The film screens today at 3pm and again tomorrow evening at 6pm. The director, Judith Paine McBrien, will be present at both screenings. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
The Nutcracker @ Francis W. Parker School
Choreographer Kenneth Von Heidecke brings this holiday classic to Francis W. Parker School for a matinee performance. Additional performances the following week at the McAninch Arts Center at the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, featuring the New Philharmonic and Music Director and Conductor Kirk Muspratt. Performance at 2pm, tickets start at $25. For info and tickets to today's performance call (800) 838-3006 or visit Brown Paper Tickets. For info and tickets to Glen Ellyn performances call (630) 942-4000 or visit the McAninch Arts Center.
The Ripettes' 'A Nightmare Before XXX-Mas' @ Mary's Attic
The Ripettes are taking over Christmas this year with a burlesque and comedy revue that will definitely make the naughty list! A Nightmare Before XXX-Mas invades Mary's Attic (above Hamburger Mary's at 5400 N Clark Street) tonight, 7:30pm. The show is hosted by Mickey LaRue and features the beautiful Trixie Darling, Miss Jeezloueez, Dixie More, Sushi Martinez, and Horhay Sexteban (good luck under the mistletoe). Tickets are $15 at the door but discounted to $12 if you bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the Chicago Anti-Hunger Federation. Visit The Ripettes website for more details.
Handmade Market @ Empty Bottle
Check out the latest crafty designs from Chicago handmade sellers at the Handmade Market, today from noon to 4pm at Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western. Admission is free.
Holiday of Horrors Film Festival @ Portage Theater
For those of you who are pissed that Halloween is over and want to celebrate Christmas in a less conventional/more bloody way, check this out-- Portage Theater is hosting a Christmas-themed horror film festival tonight. Films include Christmas Evil, Silent Night, Deadly Night, New Years Evil, and Black Santa's Revenge. Lewis Jackson, the director of Christmas Evil, will be there in the flesh. There will also be vendors, free stuff, and booze. Portage Theater is located at 4050 N. Milwaukee. Doors open at 5pm, movies start at 7. Tickets are $12 at the door. Click on this link for details.
Ronny's Art & Music Jam
Live music and art. And snacks. Bands include Michael Michael Motorcycle, Amen & The Hell Yeahs, Pretty Boy Thorson & the Falling Angels, and Altar Eagle. There are too many artists participating to list. Sorry. Art viewing time is from 6-8pm with DJ Stylings of Geppettoboner.org (Mr. Ian Floetl with Mr. Vito Nusret.) Bands start at 8pm. Ronny's is located at 2101 N. California. 21+.
One Night Only Magazine Release Party @ Reversible Eye Gallery
The One Night Only Magazine is a new quarterly journal where each issue is structured around a theme, dictating the design and content, so that each full issue may stand alone as a complete multimedia art object of its own. For $10 at the door you will get a copy of the CD magazine, free drinks, and performances by One Night Only contributors in between the following bands: Glittermouse, Ragged Claws, and Jordan E. Ramsier. Pre-orders of the magazine are available through One Night Only's website for $7.50. A pre-order gets you free admission to the party-- which, by the way, starts at 8pm. Reversible Eye Gallery is located at 1103 N. California. Call them at 773-862-1232 for more information.
Angel Otero Solo Show Opens @ Kavi Gupta
Chicago's own painting darling, Angel Otero, has a solo show opening today. The reception is from 4-7pm at Kavi Gupta Gallery: 835 W. Washington. The show will be up through January 30 (by then, he'll have a solo show up at the Cultural Center.)
Debutante Ball @ threewalls
The Debutante Ball is threewalls' annual winter fundraiser. This year they're doing a formal, southern-style thing, complete with a hat contest, mint juleps and red velvet cake. Tickets are $30.00 each with annual holiday glass and unlimited refreshments. Couples can purchase a special couples ticket for $50.00. The ball starts at 7:30pm at threewalls' new location: 119 N Peoria #2C. Click here for tickets and information.
Squasht by Les Trunk Show @ Wolfbait & B-Girls
Squasht by Les, by independent Chicago based designer, Lesley Timpe, is having a shopping event at Wolfbait & B-Girls in Logan Square today. This trunk sale features reversible hats, ready-to-wear garments, rusched handbags and 1940s-style petal headbands. Today-only discounts include $10 off a purchase of $100 or more, and $30 off a $200 purchase. 11am-6pm. Wolfbait & B-Girls is located at 3131 W. Logan Blvd.
The Gregory Battcock Archive Opens @ Rowley Kennerk Gallery
Chicago artist and SAIC professor Joseph Grigely presents a collection of murdered Warhol-era artist and critic, Gregory Battcock's ephemera. The show opens tonight at Rowley Kennerk Gallery (119 N. Peoria #3C) from 6-8pm, and will remain up through January 30. Contact the gallery at 773-983-0077 or info@rowleykennerk.com for more information.
After Dark @ The Art Institute
Party in the AIC's Modern Wing tonight and go on tours of the newly expanded architecture and design galleries. DJ sets by Dark Wave Disco and Midnight Conspiracy, a live performance by Gemini Club, and immersive performances from Collaboraction. Hosted by Moneypenny with a GlitterGuts photo booth. Cash bar & free appetizers. Admission is $25, $20 if you're an AIC member or a student. For advance tickets, visit museumtix.com or call 877-307-4AIC. The party is from 6-10pm.
The Book as its Own Addendum
At Marwen's Alumni Gallery from 5pm-7pm, 833 N. Orleans, is the opening night of The Book as its Own Addendum, featuring original works of art from local, national, and international artists alongside the books and literature that inspired them. Some contributing artists will be Mitsuko Brooks, Jen Cooney, Alfredo Garcia, Zach Huelsing, Regin Igloria, Edith Kollath, Matt Kuhlman, Zoe McCloskey, Shawn Sheehy, and Jeremy Tinder. While you're there, check out the student art as well.
AREA Chicago's Wants and Needs Auction 2009 @ UE Hall
AREA Chicago's third annual auction is tonight, with ALL proceeds benefiting the Spring 2010 issue of AREA. Items being auctioned range from customized tours of the city to hand-drawn portraits of the winners to catered retreats in the countryside. 7-12pm. Auction at 9:30pm. DJs before & after. UE Hall: 37 S. Ashland. $10 donation at the door, $20 donation for admission and a tote bag. To RVSP or prepay email areachicagointern@gmail.com.
Video Art 101 @ Chicago Art Department
With Video Art 101, the Chicago Art Department uses the frame of an art exhibition to teach basic video art concepts. What is unique about the medium of video? How is it different from other media? What are some of the possibilities offered by video? What are some of the basic techniques? What are some of the tools and how are they used? These are some of the questions that this exhibit will try to help answer. It's an intro video art class masquerading as an art exhibition. 6-10pm at Chicago Art Department:1837 S. Halsted.
Scott Stulen: Kool-Aid Drunk @ ebersmoore
Scott Stulen's paintings and sculptures investigate how shared cultural memory can slip into fiction or fabrication, creating a partial truth recalled as authentic memory or experience. They're often pretty damn funny, too. His solo show opens tonight at ebersmoore gallery: 213 N. Morgan. 6-9pm. The show will be up through January 2.
Picturing the Studio @ SAIC
This exhibition explores the richly complex politically and psychologically charged notion of the artist's studio today. With works by over 30 artists spanning the past two decades, this exhibition also includes several specially designed installations undertaken by artists on site. Among the artists included are Susanne Doremus, Julia Fish, Rodney Graham, Karl Haendel, Adelheid Mers, Bruce Nauman, Amanda Ross-Ho, and James Welling.
The opening is from 4:30-7:30pm, Sullivan Galleries, SAIC: 33 S. State, 7th Floor.
Forever Vegetal @ Roots & Culture
Forever Vegetal is a collection of new work by Chicago artists Brian McNearney and Edra Soto. The opening is from 6-9pm tonight and the show will be up through January 16. Roots & Culture Contemporary Art Center is located at 1034 N. Milwaukee. Call them at (773) 235-8874 for more information.
Vaudezilla's Bartop Burlesque @ The Blue Bayou
The broads of Vaudezilla are back on the Blue Bayou's bartop for a night of free burlesque! Stop by 3734 N. Southport Avenue tonight for their weekly 10pm show. Hosted by Dick Dijon, the show features a bevy of beauties including Red Hot Annie and Siren Jinx. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers.
It's a Wonderful Life (Live) @ The Claudia Cassidy Theater
The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs presents the classic holiday story of George Bailey, Clarence the angel, and the town of Bedford Falls. Performed live by AFTRA/SAG radio voice actors, sound effects artists and musicians. Free at the Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington Street. Show starts at 7pm. For more information visit The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs' website.
What Does it Say to You Student Show @ Spertus
Tonight, seven art students from Columbia College and SAIC present original artworks in response to Spertus Museum's current exhibition What Does It Say to You? These student artists have met weekly to discuss the roles that cultural identity, religious perspective, and formal training play in the way that they create and experience art. The pieces on display are their physical manifestations of those discussions. These works will be temporarily installed alongside the Spertus exhibition for a special reception tonight. Students will speak about their work and artistic process at 6:30pm. Admission is $7, $5 for seniors, and free for students with ID and Spertus members. Spertus is located at 610 S. Michigan Ave.
Joe Hardesty Artist Talk @ Western Exhibitions
Joe Hardesty was the 2008 recipient of SAIC's Jacques and Natasha Gelman Travel Fellowship upon receiving his MFA from SAIC last year. Hardesty will discuss his current solo show at Western Exhibitions and the work he created during his fellowship year in Germany and his travels through central Europe. The lecture begins at 5:30pm. Western Exhibitions is located at 119 N. Peoria, Suite 2A. Contact them at 312-480-8390 for more information.
Verbatim Verboten Deluxe @ Hamburger Mary's
Verbatim Verboten, the performance of staged transcripts never meant for the public, presents a deluxe evening of performances featuring plenty of past VV performers. Too many people to mention will be performing tonight (over 50 names listed on VV's Facebook page!); you'll just have to attend to believe it. The show runs from 7pm to 9pm at Hamburger Mary's (5400 N. Clark). Tickets are $15 (available through Brown Paper Tickets), and reservations are highly recommended. Phone (773) 344-6328 for more info.
Mathew Paul Jinks: On Sundrun Opens @ UIC's Gallery 400
Jink's On Sundrun, uses the quintessentially English game of cricket to explore post-colonialism, ritual and memory. The exhibition will include sculpture, film, location sound recordings of cricket matches, and a performance in the gallery space during the opening reception. Jinks explores cricket as an enactment of the mythology of cultural identity and the effects of transposition and assimilation. The opening reception is tonight, from 5-8pm. The show will be up through Jan. 16 at Gallery 400: 400 S. Peoria. Visit the gallery's website for more information or call them at (312) 996-6114.
"Freaks" Film Screening @ Claudia Cassidy Theater
Casting many actual carnival performers, this 1932 horror film about sideshow "freaks" and "normal" people examines which are the real monsters. This special screening includes live, original musical accompaniment by Silent Theatre Band. Claudia Cassidy Theater: 77 E. Randolph. 7pm. Admission is free. Visit the Department of Cultural Affairs' website for more information.
Carrie Schneider @ MCA
Carrie Schneider is a SAIC alumni who makes big, beautiful photographs. There has been a lot of buzz around town about her work lately, and for good reason. She will talk about her work at 6pm today at the MCA: 220 E. Chicago. Admission is free, but you might want to call ahead (312-397-4010) to reserve a spot.
Quickies!
Started by Mary Hamilton and Lindsay Hunter, Quickies! showcases short prose. Each reader has only five minutes to read a complete work of prose. No poetry. No excerpts. No cheating. Readers last month included Toby Bengelsdorf, Tim Hall, Rory Jobst, Simon A. Smith, Kathryn Regina, and Tim Racine. Quickies! is every second Tuesday at 7:30pm at Innertown Pub (1935 W. Thomas).
YouTube Assembly
The YouTube Assembly brings the viral video to the live performance realm. Sign up to share your favorite YouTube video, projected on a big screen, for audience members to comment on -- just like on the site except out loud and in real time with no anonymity! Hosted by Mairead Case and Bryan Wendorf in connection with Homeroom. Tonight at 8pm at Nightingale, 1084 N. Milwaukee. $7 suggested donation. More details here.
Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Sale @ Pulaski Park Fieldhouse
It's that ringing of handmade jingle bells again! The nation's most famous handmade market descends upon Wicker Park's Pulaski Park Fieldhouse (1419 W. Blackhawk St.) this weekend for a 2-day holiday sale and event, featuring "over 150 of today's finest indie-craft and contemporary design talents" selling their wares. New this year: free trolley rides to and from the field house from a number of Wicker Park hot spots. The fair is free to attend and runs 11am - 7pm on Saturday and Sunday, December 5 and 6. More information is available on the Renegade Craft Fair website.
To Russia With Love @ Danny's
Head to Danny's, 1951 W. Dickens, between 7pm and midnight tonight to help fund The Seldoms' upcoming trip to the International Festival of Modern Dance (Festival Isadora) in Krasnoyarsk, Russia in April 2010. Percussionist Tim Daisy performs a solo set, "To Russia with Love," and 30 percent of all bar sales go toward supporting The Seldoms' trip. 21+
Renegade Craft Fair Holiday Sale @ Pulaski Park Fieldhouse
It's that ringing of handmade jingle bells again! The nation's most famous handmade market descends upon Wicker Park's Pulaski Park Fieldhouse (1419 W. Blackhawk St.) this weekend for a 2-day holiday sale and event, featuring "over 150 of today's finest indie-craft and contemporary design talents" selling their wares. New this year: free trolley rides to and from the field house from a number of Wicker Park hot spots. The fair is free to attend and runs 11am - 7pm on Saturday and Sunday, December 5 and 6. More information is available on the Renegade Craft Fair website.
Maurizio Cattelan Coffee & Art Lecture @ The MCA
Paola Morgavi, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of French and Italian at Northwestern University, will lead a discussion on the art of popular contemporary Italian artist, Maurizio Cattelan this morning. Unfortunately, Cattelan won't be there. This is part of the MCA's Coffee and Art series, which is basically a series of relatively cheap and easy Art History courses. The discussion begins at 10am. Space is limited; reservations are required. Admission is $18 for regular folk; $15 MCA members; $12 students with valid ID. For tickets, call the MCA Box Office at 312.397.4010. For more information, visit their website.
Holiday Hop Concert @ Governors State University
The Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University presents a special holiday concert featuring 50's and 60's hit-makers Cornell Gunther's Coasters, The Platters and The Marvelettes. Tickets are $32 to $52, but Gapers Block readers receive 20% off (details in Transmission). 8pm. 1 University Parkway, University Park.
CHROMAsome Opening @ New Wave Coffee
"CHROMAsome: A Portrait of a Community," a photography exhibition by George Aye, makes its debut at New Wave Coffee, 2557 N Milwaukee Ave., with an opening party tonight at 7pm. Arranged chromatically from darkest to lightest in skin tone, each portrait of a Logan Square resident features a hand-written description by the participant of their background. The exhibition runs through Jan. 7. Free
Restless City Opens @ Corbett vs. Dempsey
Restless City is Corbett vs. Dempsey's first solo show of artwork by Margo Hoff. It spans the majority of Hoff's lengthy and prolific career, and features woodblock prints, paintings, and painted "canvas collages" from the 1940s through the 1980s. In the East Wing is an exhibition of recent paintings by Sam Prekop. Yes, THE Sam Prekop. The opening reception is from 5-9pm tonight, and the show will be up through January 16. Corbett vs. Dempsey is located at 1120 N. Ashland. For more information visit the galleries website.
Aspect Ratio Opens @ Plaines Project
MFA students in the School of Art and Design at UIC are presenting artworks reflecting on questions of time, space and narrative. Based in an interdisciplinary seminar class of the same name as the exhibition, the artists approach time, space and narrative within the multi-faceted context of readings, screenings and discussions in physics, anthropology, sociology, literary criticism and art theory. Aspect Ratio opens at Plaines Project (1822 S. Desplaines) tonight, the reception is from 6-9pm, and the show will stay up through December 18.
The One of a Kind Show and Sale @ Merchandise Mart
The One of a Kind Show and Sale continues today from 11am until 9pm at the Merchandise Mart (222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, 8th Floor; 312-527-4141). The event features handmade furniture, art, clothing, and accessories from over 500 artists. Tickets are $12 for all 4 days, and available at the show's website, along with a complete listing of participating artists.
Dmytro Dobrovolsky @ Ukrainian National Museum
As a world city Chicago has a lot to offer and this is no exception. Dmytro Dobrovolsky is a wonderful painter with a unique approach and relationship to paint, as he builds paintings piece by piece to create a wonderful unity.
Ukrainian National Museum 7pm
2249 W. Superior
312-421-8020
www.ukrainiannationalmuseum.org
Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago @ Gary Comer Youth Center
If you've never seen a live performance of West African Dance, you're missing out; if you've never seen the Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago, you're missing out on one of life's greatest joys. This week Muntu brings The Sankofa Project to the Gary Comer Youth Center, 7200 S Ingleside Avenue. The performance features key works from Muntu's history as well as new work showcasing the choreography of Amansu Eason, feature dancer for Muntu Dance Theatre and principal artist for Indiana's South Shore Dance Alliance, and Abdel Salaam, Executive Director of Forces of Nature. 7:30pm, $15.
Additional showtimes and ticket prices: December 5 @ 8pm, $27.50; and December 6 @ 3pm, $27.50. Additionally, there will be a gala reception and silent auction on December 4 @ 6pm, tickets are $75. Discounts for groups, children and seniors available. For tickets and information call (773) 241-6083 or visit Muntu.
Black as Ink: Three Tattoo Films @ Intuit
Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art presents an evening of short films on the subject of tattoo history and culture: Stoney Knows How; Tattooed Lady of Riverview; and Fullsuit: A Portrait of Blu-Bak. Filmmakers Tom Palazzolo (Tattooed Lady) and Kapra Fleming (Blu-Bak) will be on hand for a Q&A session after the screenings, and Kapra will present an additional film on Blu-Bak. Amelia Klem Osterud will be signing copies of her book The Tattooed Lady: A History.
Screenings start at 6pm at 756 N. Milwaukee Avenue; $10 non-members, $5 members. For more information call (312) 243-9088 or visit Intuit.
Object Design League Worth Your Salt Reception @ Pavilion Antiques
Enjoy food and drinks while checking out the Object Design League's December pop-up shop, Worth Your Salt, in residence at Pavilion Antiques, 2055 N. Damen, from 5-9pm as part of the larger December on Damen Bucktown retail event. Worth Your Salt runs through December 11 and showcases the work of independent object designers from Chicago and beyond -- and you can buy the stuff, too! More information is on the Object Design League website.
Third Coast International Audio Festival @ Cultural Center
The Third Coast International Audio Festival presents: Chicago Sound Drops, an array of audio pieces about Chicago, hosted by Julie Shapiro with special guest Stuart Dybek. The event, the last in the TCF's 2009 Listening Room series, takes places at 7PM this evening in the Claudia Cassidy Theater at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington. Admission is free but reservations are strongly encouraged. More information, and a link to make reservations, is available on the Third Coast website.
Doodleganza Art Party @ The MCA
Chicago-based artist and teacher Paul Nudd will lead a doodling party today at the MCA, teaching participants how to "release their inner slug." This art party/class is appropriate for all ages-- pretty much anyone who can hold a pen in their hand. For some reason the MCA felt the need to mention on their press release that you shouldn't bring your pets to this event, so yeah, don't bring your doggies. Or kitties. The MCA is located at 220 E. Chicago. This event is free and begins at 6pm.
Slippery Handles Opens @ Gorilla Tango Theater
An all-female improv group presents this women-centric "dramedy," Slippery Handles. The first show is tonight, and performances will continue through December 16. Gorilla Tango Theater is located at 1919 N. Milwaukee. Tickets are $10; to purchase tickets call 773-598-4549 or visit Gorilla Tango Theater's website.
Ruffle Your Feathers @ Betty's Blue Star Lounge
Start a new tradition this Thanksgiving Eve with Vaudezilla's "Ruffle Your Feathers" burlesque show. Stop by Betty's Blue Star Lounge (1600 W Grand Avenue) at midnight to see a cornucopia of burlesque beauties, including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, and Titi Touche (we promise they'll be less prim than Pilgrims). Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Visit Vaudezilla's website to buy tickets and for a complete list of performers.
Eye of the Sandman Screening and Discussion @ Gene Siskel Film Center
Just days before her wedding, a one-eyed bride-to-be develops an obsession for a mysterious stranger that may cost her her marriage, her home, and her other eye. Family secrets, forbidden desires, and squeaky gears collide in this eccentric riff on ETA Hoffman's 19th century story, "Der Sandmann". Meet the cast and filmmakers and participate in a Q&A following each screening, (11/20 & 11/23). Check out the trailer here. Showtime is at 8pm. Admission is $10, $8 for students. Purchase tickets here.
Precious Cargo Workshop @ Mess Hall
Multidisciplinary artist Paul Lloyd Sargentpresents his recent research and artwork and encourages attendants to bring their own maps, nautical charts, and lake/seaway shipping-related ephemera to mess around with and make art from. 5pm-7pm. Mess Hall: 6932 N. Glenwood Ave.
Party Crashers Opens @ Concertina Gallery
Party Crashers, a group exhibition featuring photography, performance, drawing, and mixed media by Dick Blau, Micah Lexier, Dutes Miller & Stan Shellabarger, Davida Nemeroff, Annie Pootoogook and Carrie Schneider opens tonight and runs through Dec. 13. The reception is from 7-10pm at Concertina Gallery: 2351 N. Milwaukee. Visit the gallery's website or email them at concertinagallery@gmail.com for more information.
The Knock Knock Hot Spot @ EP Theater
Come see some Vaudevillian tease, queer burlesque, old-fashioned kink, informative sex talk from the folks at Early 2 Bed, belly dance and more, directed by Mae Phillips.
8:30pm and 10:30pm at the EP Theater in Pilsen,1820 S Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60608. Tickets are $15 at the door. For more info: maethebellydancer@gmail.com
DIY Trunk Show @ Pulaski Park Auditorium
Check out this GIGANTIC trunk show and buy some handmade stuff by local creative people. 10am-5pm. Pulaski Park Auditorium: 1419 W. Blackhawk. Free.
TyK's Gala-Gallery Release Party @ Mars Gallery
TyK's popular sexy cyclists calendar is out again- the release party will feature large prints of the cyclists- pinups of the ladies and superhero portraits of the men. You can buy a calendar there, or at the TyK website. All proceeds go to the Chicago Women's Health Center. There will be free cocktails and prints for sale at the party. Mars Gallery: 1139 W. Fulton Market. 5-11pm.
Super Bad Ass @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Kick off the Select Media Fest at the Co-Prosperity Sphere with the group show that is sure not to disappoint, uh, I mean, it should be Super Bad Ass.
Featuring:
Juan Angel Chavez
Dayton Castleman
Stephen Eichorn
Aron Gent
Jeremy Tubbs
Hilary Olson
Tom Torluemke
Gunsho (James Quigley)
Berry Sander
Montgomery Perry Smith
Hui-Min Tsen (with dozens of participants)
Justin B. Williams
Friday, November 20, 2009, 7 pm to 1am
Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S Morgan St.
Admission: $8 after 9pm
Reality, Whatever That is Opening @ Western Exhibitions
Artist Nicholas Frank's Reality, Whatever That is show opens at Western Exhibitions tonight. Joe Hardesty's new work will be on display in gallery 2. The opening is at Western Exhibitions: 119 N. Peoria, Suite 2A, from 5-8pm, and the show will stay up through December 19. Visit the gallery's website for more information about the artists, or call them at (312) 480-8390.
Artists at Work Forum: Teaching Art
Join four innovative teaching artists for a candid discussion about combining a passion for the arts with an interest in pedagogy. Learn the paths they've taken, the variety of opportunities available, and ways to connect for future professional development. 6-7:30pm. Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. Check out the listing on CAR's website for more information.
Wolfgang Plöger Artist Talk @ AIC's Price Auditorium
Plöger's artist's talk is in conjunction with the current exhibition On the Scene, which features new work by emerging artists. Plöger's work is interdisciplinary, using elements of photography, film, and sculpture. Currently on view at the Art Institute, Make No Mistake about This (2008) uses the text of death row inmates'
final statements as found on the internet. The lecture is from 6-7pm in the Price Auditorium at The Art Institute: 111 S. Michigan. Admission is free. For for information, visit AIC's website.
MFA Open Studios @ UIC
UIC MFA students will present works in varying media within their personal studios as well as video, film and media based work in screening rooms. Artists will be on hand to speak with visitors. 7-9pm. UIC School of Art & Design: 400 S. Peoria.
25th Annual Passport to France @ Union League Club
Celebrate French culture with the French-American Chamber of Commerce - Chicago Chapter (FACC) tonight from 6pm to 9pm at the Union League Club of Chicago (65 W Jackson Blvd). Enjoy an evening of French flavors and music, featuring food from Bistro 110, Red Hen and Café des Architectes, sweet crepes, cheese and charcuterie and French wine and spirits, including Georges Duboeuf's 2009 Beaujolais Nouveau.
Tickets are $50 in advance and $60 at the door. Visit the FACC website for more information.
Khmer Cultural Dance Troupe @ The Old Town School of Folk Music
As part of World Music Wednesdays, the Old Town School of Folk Music, in partnership with the Cambodian Association of Illinois, presents an evening of traditional Cambodian music and dance. Join Cambodian artists who have made tremendous sacrifices to preserve these treasured traditions in the face of enormous odds. World Music Wednesdays are free, ticketed events, with a suggested $5 donation. The artists will also be at the Old Town School for a workshop on Thursday evening. For information and tickets call (773) 728-6000 or visit the Old Town School of Folk Music. This event takes place at the Gary and Laura Maurer Concert Hall, 4544 N Lincoln Ave.
"Everybody's Got Money Issues" AREA Reading Group @ Mess Hall
The spring issue of AREA and the Chicago Political Workshop's contribution to that issue has inspired for a reading group to investigate further the issues raised by that issue in a more long term, theoretical, and historical way with the goal of beginning to answer some of the questions raised in the CPW contribution. This meeting is intended to foster a discussion about potential readings and to chart the course of the group. 7-10pm. Mess Hall: 6932 N. Glenwood Ave.
The Hydroacoustic Show Opens @ Gallery 400
This is a show of film and video works devoted to the unusual sounds and sights of the sea, curated by Ben Russell. Works on display include a siren-Spongebob-song, a flicker score for the Red Sea with a whale chorus, octo-electronica, and gurgling pop tune by internationally-famous and loved video artist, Pipilotti Rist. The opening is at 7pm at UIC's Gallery 400: 400 S. Peoria. Call them at (312) 996-6114 for more information.
The Rebirth of Blues Benefit @ Bridgeview Bank
Preview selections of "RIPPED: The Living Newspaper Project," a new project by American Blues Theater founding ensemble member Rick Cleveland, at The Rebirth of Blues Benefit at Bridgeview Bank, 4753 N. Broadway tonight from 6:30pm-8:30pm. The evening's program will feature Academy Award-winner Olympia Dukakis reading a passage written by Eduardo Machado, Dennis Zacek reading a passage written by Rick Cleveland, and other special guests. Tickets are $75 ($125 VIP tickets include a 5:30 p.m. private reception with Dukakis). Proceeds will benefit the newly reborn American Blues Theater. For more information visit American Blues Theater.
Musicians at Work Forum: Stand Out in a Digital World
Learn how to make the most of MySpace, iTunes, Facebook, and Twitter by attending this Musicians at Work Forum, featuring Jim Goodrich, local musician and producer/host of the show "With a Voice Like This", and other experts. A networking session begins at 5:30pm, followed by the panel discussion at 6pm. Admission is free. Chicago Cultural Center - Claudia Cassidy Theater: 78 E. Washington. Call (312) 744-6630 for more information.
Comic Art Show & Sale @ Challengers Comics + Conversation
Challengers presents a 3 day comic art show & sale featuring original art by Mark Bagley, Greg Land, Mike Wieringo, Cliff Chiang, Steve McNiven, Rafael Albuquerque, etc. All art will be available for sale for 3 days only. Friday, November 13: Opening night wine reception, 7pm - 10pm. November 14 & 15: 11am-5pm. Challengers Comics + Conversation: 1845 N. Western, #2R. Check out Challengers website for more information.
Deedee Davis and Casey Roberts: Closing Brunch Reception
If you still want a chance to catch the DeeDee Davis and Casey Robers cyanotype and layered glass painting show, head to the Home Gallery this afternoon to explore their use of color and natural imagery with glass, enamel, and photochemical processes and enjoy brunch. 12-3pm, Home Gallery (1407 E 54th Pl). For more information, call (773) 363-5935.Innervation Dance Cooperative @ Links Hall
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Our Own Devices, a concert of ten eclectic dance pieces from eight choreographers. Innervation's theatrical roots bloom in this concert: each piece unquestionably tells a story. And while some of the dances are more literally narrative than others, dance aficionados and novices alike will come to know each character and empathize with that character's experiences. Much of the music - from Etta James to John Lennon, from Bob Seger to Metallica - will also draw in those audience members who might otherwise dismiss the art form as inaccessible. Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL. Tonight @ 7:00 p.m. $15 ($10 students and seniors). Click here or call 773.281.0824 for tickets.
Vaudezilla's Absolut Comedy Show @ Exit Chicago
The broads of Vaudezilla have been working on their shtick and are debuting their Absolut Comedy Show tonight at Exit Chicago (1315 W North Avenue). The evening consists of two completely different, completely free burlesque shows at 11pm and 2am. The cabaret features some of the best burlesque dancers Chicago has to offer, including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Natasha Minsk, Siren Jinx, and The Ripettes. For more details and a complete list of performers, visit Vaudezilla's website.
Comic Art Show & Sale @ Challengers Comics + Conversation
Challengers presents a 3 day comic art show & sale featuring original art by Mark Bagley, Greg Land, Mike Wieringo, Cliff Chiang, Steve McNiven, Rafael Albuquerque, etc. All art will be available for sale for 3 days only. Friday, November 13: Opening night wine reception, 7pm - 10pm. November 14 & 15: 11am-5pm. Challengers Comics + Conversation: 1845 N. Western, #2R. Check out Challengers website for more information.
Melissa Oresky @ Western Exhibitions
Artist Melissa Oresky will conduct a discussion of her current exhibition "A Wildness of Edges" at Western Exhibitions today. The gallery talk begins at 4pm and is open to the public. A reception will follow, until 7pm. Western Exhibitions is located at 119 N. Peoria, Suite 2A. Call the gallery at (312) 480-8390 for more information.
Innervation Dance Cooperative @ Links Hall
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Our Own Devices, a concert of ten eclectic dance pieces from eight choreographers. Innervation's theatrical roots bloom in this concert: each piece unquestionably tells a story. And while some of the dances are more literally narrative than others, dance aficionados and novices alike will come to know each character and empathize with that character's experiences. Much of the music - from Etta James to John Lennon, from Bob Seger to Metallica - will also draw in those audience members who might otherwise dismiss the art form as inaccessible. Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL. Tonight @ 8:00 p.m. $15 ($10 students and seniors). Click here or call 773.281.0824 for tickets.
Comic Art Show & Sale @ Challengers Comics + Conversation
Challengers presents a 3 day comic art show & sale featuring original art by Mark Bagley, Greg Land, Mike Wieringo, Cliff Chiang, Steve McNiven, Rafael Albuquerque, etc. All art will be available for sale for 3 days only. Friday, November 13: Opening night wine reception, 7pm - 10pm. November 14 & 15: 11am to 5pm. Challengers Comics + Conversation: 1845 N. Western, #2R. Check out Challengers website for more information.
Innervation Dance Cooperative @ Links Hall
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Our Own Devices, a concert of ten eclectic dance pieces from eight choreographers. Innervation's theatrical roots bloom in this concert: each piece unquestionably tells a story. While some of the dances are more literally narrative than others, dance aficionados and novices alike will come to know each character and empathize with that character's experiences. Much of the music - from Etta James to John Lennon, from Bob Seger to Metallica - will also draw in those audience members who might otherwise dismiss the art form as inaccessible. Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL. Tonight @ 8pm. $15 ($10 students and seniors). Click here or call (773) 281-0824 for tickets.
War and Peace @ Th!nkArt Salon
War & Peace An Exhibition of Contemporary Artists: David Gista A, Dave Sheehan & Todd Narbey
opens tonight, 5pm to 9pm, poetry readings by award-winning poets Emily Calvo & Stella Vinitchi Radulescu.
Th!nkArt Salon
1530 N. Paulina St., Suite F
T: (773) 252-8672 Ext. 303
E-mail: thinkartsalon@gmail.com
Stephen Bayley @ SAIC
Stephen Bayley is one of the world's best known and outspoken commentators on modern culture. Former Chief Executive of the Design Museum in London, Bayley's wit, humor, and keen observations on art and culture have brought him great success as a journalist, author, speaker, and design consultant for such companies as Absolut Vodka, Volkswagen, Audi, and the Victoria & Albert Museum. On this provocative evening of cultural history, Bayley explores why objects--from historic cars to the female body--convey meaning. Following the talk, Bayley signs copies of his two most recent books. The lecture begins at 6pm, at SAIC's Columbus Auditorium: 280 S. Columbus Dr. Email events@saic.edu for more information.
Jay Ryan @ Quimby's
Jay Ryan, the graphic artist sometimes better known by his screen printed poster shop name, The Bird Machine, kicks off a nationwide book tour at Quimby's Bookstore (1854 W North Ave) this evening, signing copies of his new book, Animals and Objects In and Out of Water, which features 120 of Ryan's favorite pieces of art from the last three years. The event starts at 7pm. Visit the Quimby's event calendar or call (773) 342-0910 for more information.
Jaume Plensa @ AIC
Jaume Plensa, creator of Millennium Park's Crown Fountain (you know, the one with the faces) and William and Stephanie Sick, distinguished professors at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, presents a lecture entitled "In the Public Space." Plensa will discuss the creation of Crown Fountain and his collaboration with SAIC faculty and students on that project, as well as other projects he's installed internationally.
This event takes place in the Rubloff Auditorium of the Art Institute (280 S. Columbus Drive) at 6pm. For more information, please call (312) 899-5143 or visit SAIC Events on Facebook.
Guerrilla Girls Lecture: Feminist Masked Avengers @ MCA
Since their first riotous appearance in 1985, the Guerrilla Girls have dedicated themselves to exposing sexism, racism, and corruption in the art world, the film industry, and popular culture. Adopting the names of dead women artists and decked out in full jungle drag, these anonymous avengers use facts, humor, and outrageous visuals to skewer institutional bias and inequality. In this program, the Guerilla Girls give a guided tour through the history of their many public interventions, perform satirical skits, and inspire us to create our own sophisticated acts of aesthetic resistance. Unfortunately this program is sold out, but you might try calling or just showing up at the last minute and begging to get in. The lecture begins at 7pm, at the MCA Theater: 220 E. Chicago. For additional information, call (312) 494-9509 or visit www.chfestival.org.
Haptic and Lisa Slodki @ MCA
Experimental musicians Haptic (Steven Hess, Joseph Clayton Mills, and Adam Sonderberg) and video artist Lisa Slodki (a.k.a Noisecrush) discuss their work and ideas during this informal gallery talk, which is part of the MCA's 12x12 exhibition series. Their exhibit will be up November 6-29. The artist talk begins at 6pm, at the Museum of Contemporary Art: 220 E. Chicago. Admission is free. Call the MCA at (312) 280-2660 for more information.
Jorge Pardo @ AIC
Cuban-born Chicago-based artist Jorge Pardo's work walks the line between art and furniture. Check out this feature on him from the LA Times to get a sense of what he does. This lecture is part of SAIC's Visiting Artist Program.
Admission is $5 for the general public; $3 for SAIC alumni, non-SAIC students, and seniors; and FREE for students, faculty, and staff of the AIC. 6pm. Fullerton Auditorium: 112 S. Michigan.
SOFA @ Navy Pier
Celebrating its 16th year, SOFA, the wildly popular sculpture objects & functional art fair, returns to Chicago to present work from 68 international galleries and dealers from 10 countries. As always, the fair will be at Navy Pier, Festival Hall: 600 E. Grand. It will continue through Sunday the 8th. Fair hours are as follows: Friday and Saturday: 11am - 8pm; Sunday 12-6pm. Tickets are $15 for single day general admission and $25 for a three-day pass. Discounted student, senior and group tickets are available. Catalogs are $15. For general information, visit SOFA's website, call 773-506-8860, or email info@sofaexpo.com.
"Wine and Time" Lecture/Tasting @ threewalls
David Tamarkin will lead a seminar on the pleasure of wine; a sensory examination and evaluation of wine for personal appreciation. We will discuss a range of perceived flavors, aromas and general characteristics of wine in a casual format and do some tasting. Tamarkin wears a lot of hats-- working for institutions from Time Out to CBS News to "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy"-- almost always functioning as a professional taste maker and "foodie." (Sorry for using that word.) The lecture starts at 7pm at threewalls: 119 N. Peoria, #2D. $5 Suggested donation. Call 312-432-3972 for more information.
Artists Run Chicago Digest Release Party @ Hyde Park Art Center
The Artists Run Chicago Digest, published by threewalls and The Green Lantern Press, documents Chicago artist-run spaces active between 1999 and 2009 offering a look at the various platforms that often act as extensions to studio practice. The ARC Digest acts as compliment to and extension of the Artists Run Chicago exhibition at the Hyde Park Art Center, with interviews, essays, and an audio supplement presenting a 10-year time period in Chicago's artist-run culture.
The release party is from 2-5pm, Hyde Park Art Center: 5020 S. Cornell.
For more information, visit the HPAC's website or call them at 773-324-5520.
SOFA @ Navy Pier
Celebrating its 16th year, SOFA, the wildly popular sculpture objects & functional art fair, returns to Chicago to present work from 68 international galleries and dealers from 10 countries. As always, the fair will be at Navy Pier, Festival Hall: 600 E. Grand. It will continue through Sunday the 8th. Fair hours are as follows: Friday and Saturday: 11am - 8pm; Sunday 12-6pm. Tickets are $15 for single day general admission and $25 for a three-day pass. Discounted student, senior and group tickets are available. Catalogs are $15. For general information, visit SOFA's website, call 773-506-8860, or email info@sofaexpo.com.
Daria Martin and Anne Collod in Conversation @ MCA
This fall the MCA presents two works developed in dialogue with legendary choreographer Anna Halprin -- choreographer and dancer Anne Collod re-interprets Halprin's dance performance parades & changes and filmmaker Daria Martin exhibits Minotaur, a film installation. In this conversation, Collod and Martin share their creative process, inspirations and shared interests: in Halprin's work; in questions of figure and abstraction; and in the strategies of reinterpreting and restaging artworks. The discussion begins at 2pm at the MCA Theater: 220 E. Chicago. Admission is $10, $8 for MCA members, and $6 for students. For tickets, call the MCA Box Office at (312) 397-4010 or get them through the MCA website.
The Incredible Journey That is Consciousness @ Golden Age
A new publication by Chicago's Alex Fuller and Gabe Usadel will be launched tonight at Golden Age from 7-11pm.
1744 W. 18th Street
Chicago, IL 60608
Thurs-Sun 12-6pm
SOFA @ Navy Pier
Celebrating its 16th year, SOFA, the wildly popular sculpture objects & functional art fair, returns to Chicago to present work from 68 international galleries and dealers from 10 countries. As always, the fair will be at Navy Pier, Festival Hall: 600 E. Grand. It will continue through Sunday the 8th. Fair hours are as follows: Friday and Saturday: 11am - 8pm; Sunday 12-6pm. Tickets are $15 for single day general admission and $25 for a three-day pass. Discounted student, senior and group tickets are available. Catalogs are $15. For general information, visit SOFA's website, call 773-506-8860, or email info@sofaexpo.com.
Polish Film Festival Opens @ River East
The 21st annual Polish Film Festival starts today and runs through November 12. Opening night is tonight at AMC River East 21 (322 East Illinois Street) with a screening of the film General Nil. See the festival's website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets.
Jackie Tileston's Mesocosmos II Opens @ Zg Gallery
Jackie Tileston makes lush, colorful, celebratory paintings, photographs, and works on paper- feeding off the colors and customs of Eastern culture. An exhibition of her new work opens tonight at Zg Gallery, located at 300 W. Superior. Call the gallery at (312) 654-9900 for more information.
Hans Koch Performance @ Corbett vs. Dempsey
Corbett vs. Dempsey continues its series of unaccompanied instrumentalists with a visit from the brilliant Swiss reed player Hans Koch. Koch joins us during an American tour that brings him to Chicago to perform at the Umbrella Music Festival. The performance begins at 4pm. Corbett vs. Dempsey is located at 1120 N. Ashland, #3. Admission to this event is free. Call the gallery at 773-278-1664 for more information, or visit their website.
Austin Eddy Opening @ Golden Gallery
Austin Eddy creates paintings that borrow their imagery from a myriad of sources; this most recent work employs recurring visual vocabulary passed down through the history of painting. The compositional tools of Matisse, Picasso, and Avery act as a jumping off point for Eddyʼs renderings of colorfully patterned, melancholic interior spaces. Eddy experiments with the flattening of illusionary space, which at times the artist renders virtually abstract by building up layers of acrylic, enamel, oil, colored pencil, puffy paint, glue, nail polish, & spray paint.
The opening is from 6-9pm, and the show will be up through Dec. 12th. Golden Gallery: 816 W. Newport. Call (773) 209-8889 for more info.
Ghosting Opens @ Roots & Culture
Tonight, "Ghosting"-- works by Rob Doran and Ryan Fenchel opens at Roots & Culture Gallery: 1034 N. Milwaukee. The opening is from 6-9pm. The show will be up through December 6. Check out R&C's website for more information about the artists. Call the gallery at 773-235-8874 for more information.
Jean Fischer Lecture: "Tricksters, Troubadours, and Bartleby"
In this lecture, titled "Tricksters, Troubadours, and Bartleby - On Art from a State of Emergency," Jean Fisher discusses artists whose work emerges from a history of colonial violence and cultural dispossession. Framed within the idea of the hermeneutic play of the "trickster" and the "troubadour" (encountering, trespassing, vectoring, and opportunism), she asks, can art be a means of reclaiming agency? How might one characterize these practices, and do they differ from social activism? Can these practices resonate in the political, collective sphere? 6pm. Free. Art Institute of Chicago, Price Auditorium: 111 S. Michigan. Check out the listing on CAR's website for more information, or email events@saic.edu.
"Optimism & Everyday Life" Lecture @ threewalls
Claire Pentecost, a local artist and writer, gives a lecture today about optimism-- what happened to it and how can it be generated? 7pm. threewalls is located at 119 N. Peoria, #2D. Call them at (312) 432-3972 for more information.
Reeling Lesbian and Gay International Film Festival Opening Night
The Opening Night of the second oldest gay and lesbian film festival in the world will launch at Music Box Theatre at 7:30pm with the dramatic comedy ("dramedy,") The Big Gay Musical with co-director Casper Andreas and lead actor Daniel Robinson in attendance.
Reeling describes the film: "Through rousing musical numbers that feature scantily clad tap-dancing angels, a clever retelling of Genesis, creepy televangelists, and a camp that attempts to turn gay kids straight, everyone realizes that life gets better once they accept who they really are." What more could you ask for to start this film festival?
The night will be followed by a performance by The Joans (a band based on Joan Crawford) at the Opening Night Gala at Architectural Artifacts, 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave. Hors d'oeuvres will be served along with the open bar.
Admission for the film only is $12 ($10 members) and admission for the film and gala is $35 ($32 members). 21+ required for the gala. For more anticipated event information at Reeling check out our preview.
Burnham Plan Presentation & Book Signing @ Ferguson Theater
Columbia College Chicago Friends of the Library Signature Showcase: "An Ongoing Legacy: The Burnham Plan from the City Beautiful Movement to Daley's Post-Modernist Chicago." Presented by Dominic Pacyga, faculty, Humanities, History and Social Science Department, Columbia College. A book signing featuring his latest book, Chicago: A Biography will be held immediately after his presentation. Ferguson Theater, 600 S. Michigan, First Floor. 6-8pm. Free. Call (312) 369-7153 for more info.
John Freeman @ Barnes & Noble
John Freeman, the new editor of Granta and the mind behind the Chicago issue, comes to Barnes & Noble to discuss his work with the literary magazine and his new book The Tyranny of E-mail. Free at 7:30pm at 1441 W. Webster Ave. Call (773) 871-3610 for more information.
"Talking Point" Art Discussion @ The Hyde Park Art Center
Dan S. Wang is a Chicago-based artist and writer, who cocurated the HPAC's "Shanghype!" exhibition. Previous writings have appeared in Art Journal, ART asiapacific, Ten by Ten, and New Art Examiner. Wang is also involved with Mess Hall, a performance and exhibition space in Rogers Park. This discussion is part of a series of such, aiming to reinvent the artist talk, built around dialogue and conversation amongst all participants rather than lectures or panels. Join this growing community of artists, curators, students, and all around creative individuals for drinks, snacks, and lively discussion. This event is free, and begins at 6pm. Hyde Park Art Center: 5020 S. Cornell Ave. Call the HPAC at 773-324-5520 for more information.
Tour of Anthony Elm's Art & Ephemera Collection
Anthony Elms is the assistant director of Gallery 400, the editor of WhiteWalls, an artist, and a writer. Anthony Elms' collection includes show invites, correspondence, museum brochures, exhibition posters, self-produced posters and broadsheets, postcards, clothing, DVDs, mail art, knickknacks, LPs, scribbles, CDs and doodads. The full collection is listed here. Meet at threewalls gallery (119 N. Peoria, #2D) at 2pm. From there, the group will take the train out to Elm's home, where he will introduce his collection and participants will be given time to peruse the materials. Call threewalls at (312) 432-3972 for more information.
Galaween @ Chicago Cultural Center
Decorations, dancing, DJ White Shadow, open bar, hors d'oeuvres, and a costume contest with a top prize of $1,000 are more than worth the price of admission to Galaween. Galaween is a fundraiser for the Chicago Cultural Center Foundation, directly supporting the admission-free Chicago Cultural Center, as well as the presentation of hundreds of free events and exhibitions there each year. Galaween runs from 7:30 pm - 1 am at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 East Washington Street. Tickets are $75 in advance, $90 at the door. Reservations can be made by calling (312) 744-1364 or online at galaween.org.
Scott Treleaven & Josh Azzarella Opening @ Kavi Gupta Gallery
Canadian, Paris-based artist, Scott Treleaven's current exhibit memorializes the beautiful delirium of the 19th-century psychocultural impetus to capture the ephemeral - that which throbs just beneath the scrim of consciousness or skin, via travelogue, spirit photography, or film paraphernalia.
New York artist Josh Azzarella, shows his new film, Untitled #100 (Fantasia) 2007- 2009. The film makes a departure from his former use of historic press images to augment what is likely the 20th century's greatest pop cultural phenomenon, Michael Jackson's "Thriller". As a work that was created over a nearly three year process it predates the star's passing and marks Azzarella's most ambitious project to date.
The opening is from 4-7pm. The show will be up through Dec. 5th. Kavi Gupta Gallery: 835 W. Washington. Call (312) 432-0708 for more info.
Mrs. Gruber's Ding Dong School
Easily the best Robot vs. Dinosaur show to date, Mrs. Gruber's Ding Dong School takes the audience through a twisted, rollicking day at an academy run by a doddering but feisty schoolmarm with an age-addled brain and a passion for expanding young minds. Spot on casting, warped sensibilities and imaginative puppetry give it a Wonder Showzen feel, without a hint of a knock-off. Tickets are $15, and the show runs Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm through Nov. 21 at Gorilla Tango, 1919 N. Milwaukee (right under the Western Blue Line stop). For tickets, call (773) 598-4549 or visit www.gorillatango.com.
Rob Carter Opening @ ebersmoore Gallery
Photographer and video artist Rob Carter's first US solo exhibition, "Stone on Stone," opens tonight at ebersmoore. The work employs stop motion animation, time-lapse video and photographic 're-constructions' to spotlight the iconic and political structures in our urban environment, especially sports stadia, skyscrapers, churches, and other historical landmarks. ebersmoore Gallery is located at 213 N. Morgan, #3C. The opening is from 6-8pm, and the show will stay up through November 28. For more information, call (312) 772-3021.
Exquisite: A Series of Corpses
Following in the tradition of exquisite corpse parlor games, Plastique Press and the Near Northwest Arts Council have developed this interactive poetry/visual art series, in which visual artists, poets, and writers collectively assemble a collection of words and/or images in one event. It takes place in the upstairs of St. Paul's Cultural Center (2215 W. North Ave.) from 7-11 PM. Additionally, CIMMFest will be showing short films on the lower level. Free. Costumes welcome. For more information contact Lauren Levato at Plastique Press at 773-640-4522 or Laura Weathered at the Arts Council at 773-278-7677.
Open House @ Graphic Conservation
Ever wanted a behind the scenes look at where art is restored? Here's your chance! Graphic Conservation specializes in the conservation and restoration of all art on paper, including books, photos, prints, family documents, etc...
Restored art will be on display, there will be free food, and the view is supposed to be pretty amazing.
6-9pm. Graphic Conservation: 329 W. 18th St. Suite 701. Free.
Halloween Party @ Corbett vs. Dempsey
Corbett vs. Dempsey is hosting a day-long Halloween listening party, featuring hip and obscure, spooky tunes, painstakingly picked by the gallery. While you're there, check out Gina Litherland's 15 glorious new paintings, as well as Bart Johnson's haunted ink drawings. The gallery requests that you do not wear costumes to the party, which, I must admit, seems really lame. I say wear one anyway. The party is from 11-4pm. Corbett vs. Dempsey is located at 1120 N. Ashland, #3. Call 773-278-1664 for more info.
Ken Fandell Artist Talk @ MCA
Chicago artist and SAIC instructor Ken Fandell will be talking about his practice. His wall installation, "Days and Nights, Dawns and Dusks, North and South, East and West, Mine and Yours," will be up through October 31st.
12-2pm. Museum of Contemporary Art: 220 E. Chicago.
The Mann Collection of Ukiyo-e Presentation
The Japan America Society welcomes George Mann, Director & Vice President of the Japanese Art Society of America, to show images and lecture on his personal collection of ukiyo-e art, which is the largest collection in the United States. The lecture will cover all major periods of ukiyo-e, ranging from the 1680's to the 1860's, and includes a Q&A period. It takes place tonight at The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, Michael Moskow Auditorium (230 S. LaSalle St., 3rd floor) with registration starting at 6pm, followed by the presentation from 6:30-7:15, and Q&A until 7:30. Due to security measures, all registration must be done in advance, either online or by calling (312) 263-3049. Students $5, Society members $15, non-members $20.
Artist at Work Forum @ Cultural Center
This Artist at Work Forum kicks off a year long collaborative project, Studio Chicago, which focuses on the Artist's Studio through exhibitions, talks, publications, tours, and research. The Forum will introduce key components of Studio Chicago, and invite participation and suggestions from artists and the art-curious. Presenters will include representatives from the Museum of Contemporary Art, The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, Hyde Park Art Center, and threewalls gallery.
6-7:30pm, Chicago Cultural Center: 78 E. Washington. Free.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyr's
The Moth is back! The thirteen-year-old New York based storytelling institution is coming to the Windy City for a StorySLAM, and your story could be the winner! Come prepared with a five-minute story to be performed without notes, and drop your name into a hat. Ten lucky people will have their names called out loud and have a chance at storytelling greatness onstage at Martyr's, 3855 N. Lincoln Avenue.
StorySLAMS are held once a week in New York and twice a month in L.A. to sold out crowds. Tonight's SLAM will focus on the theme of "firsts", so get your story down on paper, and rehearse it out loud until you can tell it to a roomful of people without looking at your notes.
Tickets are $7, doors open at 7:30pm, storytelling begins at 8pm. Information on future StorySLAMS here.
Aleksandar Hemon @ LUC
Bosnian-born Chicago resident Aleksandar Hemon's works The Lazarus Project, The Question of Bruno and Nowhere Man were finalists for the National Book Critics Circle Award, and since he began writing in English in 1995 he's gained a Guggenheim Fellowship, "genius grant" from the MacArthur Foundation, and comparisons to Joseph Conrad and Vladimir Nakobov. Come hear the author discuss Lazarus and his latest, Love and Obstacles, at Loyola's Crown Center Auditorium (1032 West Sheridan Road), 6pm. To RSVP, contact Carol Franklin at (773) 508-2641 or cfrankl@luc.edu. Free.Trunk Show Opening @ Barbara & Barbara Gallery
Trunk Show: Luggage, Travel & Place opens tonight from 7-10pm at Barbara & Barbara Gallery, 1021 North Western Ave. The group show includes nearly 20 artists, including Pete Cuba, Julia Hendrickson, Scott Reinhard, David Schalliol, Chris Sykora and Hannah Zurko. Opening night music will be provided by Ben Bontempo, Julia Hendrickson & Marie Barker (with Chris Gingrich), Anna Vogelzang and Vintage Gramma. The show runs from October 23 until November 17.
Squasht by Les Trunk Show
As part of Fashion Focus Chicago, Squasht by Les, by independent Chicago based designer, Lesley Timpe, hosts a downtown shopping event. This trunk sale features reversible hats, ready-to-wear garments, ruched handbags and 1940s-style petal headbands. $10 off purchases of $100 or more, $30 of purchases of $200 or more. Light fare with beverages will be provided. 11am-1pm. 72 E. Randolph. Click here for more info.
Kari Lydersen talks about her new book, "Revolt on Goose Island..." @ 57th St Books
Kari Lydersen, author of this week's cover story in The Reader on cabbie-directed violence, discusses "Revolt on Goose Island: The Chicago Factory Takeover, and What It Says About the Economic Crisis" at 57th Street Books: 1301 E. 57th. 6pm. Free. Call 773-684-1300 for more info.
Historic Pullman's 1st Annual Art Crawl
This art fair features residents of the Historic Pullman District presenting their sculpture, poetry, pen & ink, film, photography, installations, exhibits, found art, music and much, much more. 1-5 pm, 112th St. & Champlain. For more information call (773) 209-6911.
David Eagleman @ Book Cellar
Is there an afterlife? Neuroscientist and fiction writer David Eagleman explores the many possibilities that await us in the end in his book, Sum: Forty Tales From the Afterlives. 4736-38 N Lincoln Ave, 2pm. Call (773) 293-2665 or go here for more details. Free.
Gina Litherland Opening @ Corbett vs. Dempsey
Gina Litherland's solo show, The Murmur of Pearls, opens tonight, featuring 15 new paintings. The show takes its title from Arthur Rimbaud, whose writings - along with those of Charles Baudelaire - constitute important points of reference for Litherland. The newest body of work includes several of Litherland's most ambitious and subtle pieces, some of them extending her fascination with circuses and exploring a recent love of opera. All the paintings are oil on masonite, exquisitely painted and often minutely detailed.
Eight graphite and ink drawings by Bart Johnson will be on display in the East Wing.
The reception is from 5-9pm at Corbett vs. Dempsey: 1120 N. Ashland #3. The show will be up through November 20. Call the gallery at 773-278-1664 for more information.
Melissa Oresky & Eric Lebofsky @ Western Exhibitions
Melissa Oresky will debut "Rock Gardens", a dynamic group of paintings that make an analogy between painting and gardening, combining a range of visual languages and elements within a series of small, paired canvases. Eric Lebofsky will present selections from a new drawing series, "Superfreaks." Starting on his 32nd birthday and continuing until his 33rd in August 2010, Lebofsky will post one Superfreak drawing a day on his blog. Opening reception from 5-8pm. The show will be up through November 13th. Admission is free. Western Exhibitions, 119 N Peoria St, Suite 2A.
Fake It 'til You Make It & The Devourer of Men: Martin Ontiveros and Jeremy Tinder
Purveyors of vinyl toy delights Rotofugi host new works by Martin Ontiveros and Jeremy Tinder tonight, 7-10pm. Music by DJ Sean Doe. 1955 W. Chicago Ave., Show runs until November 8.Cheer-Accident @ Reggie's Music Joint
Prog legends Cheer-Accident play at Reggie's tonight. Arriver and Three Cheers for One Dead Man open. 9pm. Tickets are $12, or $8 in advance. 2105 S. State St. (312) 949-0120. 21+.
Dance for the Camera Film Screening @ Cultural Center (FREE)
Dance for the Camera - Making Dance for the Stage and for Film. This free film screening features Arch of Repose (preview). Hedwig Dances premieres Jan Bartoszek's Arch of Repose, a poetic, image-rich dance created for the camera. The film is a re-imagining of Bartoszek's 2007 dance theater work, Night Blooming Jasmine. This is the second night of screenings for "Dance for the Camera" (more on Wednesday night's short films here). FREE. 6pm, 78 E. Washington St, Claudia Cassidy Theater. More details.
Maria Gaspar @ MCA's 12 x 12 Gallery
The Museum of Contemporary Art will host Chicago artist Maria Gaspar as she discusses her work on view in the 12 x 12 gallery, which festively represents the immigrant body and Mexican heritage. Following the artist's talk, an after party will be held in Puck's Café , where Gaspar will play music and show images from her personal collection. Admission is free. 6pm. 220 E. Chicago. (312) 280 2660.
Dance for the Camera Film Screening @ Cultural Center (FREE)
Dance for the Camera International Film Screening - Character Studies. This free international film screening features films by Pina Bausch, Michael Jackson and other artists, and explores themes of character, gender and personality. Multiple short films will be screened on Oct. 13th and another longer film on Oct. 14th at the Cultural Center. FREE. 6pm, 78 E. Washington St, Claudia Cassidy Theater. More details, video clips.
Handmade Market
Handmade Market returns to the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., again today from noon to 4pm. Browse crafts and artwork from local folks while perhaps enjoying a beer from the bar. 21+, except for parents with kids.
The Hunnert Car Pileup
The Chrome Czars Motor Club presents the eighth annual Hunnert Car Pileup "The Midwest's Greasiest Hot Rod Show," today at the historic Grundy County Speedway and fairgrounds in Morris. Featuring some of the Midwest's best examples of traditional style hot rods and Kustom Kulture, this is the show for the truly hardcore enthusiast, last years show drew 1200 rods, customs and motorcycles. Fast cars, fast women and fast music (full band lineup here) Admission for spectators is $5 and $20 for cars/trucks/motorcycles meeting criteria. Gates open at 9am.
Yuganaut with Film & Video @ the Velvet Lounge
This performance event, part of the Chicago Calling Arts Festival, features the Brooklyn-based experimental jazz trio Yuganaut performing while video artist Selina Trepp mixes video in real time. Videos by Jayve Montgomery, Mikey Peterson, and other Chicago-based filmmakers and video artists will be projected. 9:30-11:30pm. Admission is $15. Velvet Lounge, 67 E. Cermak. For more information, call (312) 791 9050.
Nano-Punk Party @ Reggie's Music Joint
This is a collection of some of the loudest, weirdest, most entertaining and energetic bands in the Chicagoland area. Their music spans across the Electro/Garage/Punk/Thrash/Ghetto-tech arenas. Go if you want to dance and let loose. Don't go if you don't want to get pummeled by sweaty punk rock dudes. The lineup includes Fuckface Unstoppable, Superfun Yeah Yeah Rocketship, Hood Kicks, Heart Shaped Hate, Puking Pearls, Eyes, and The Names That Spell. Show starts at 7pm. Tickets are $5. Reggies Music Joint: 2105 S. State St. 312-949-0120.
Pain Kurst Girls @ Debonair Social Club
The Pain-Kurst Girls use their sexual magic and belief in the power of femininity to entertain and captivate audiences. Be one of the captivated audience members tonight. 10pm. Debonair social club : 1575 N Milwaukee Ave. Call 773-227-7990 for more information.
The Punchbuggy Book Tour
Cartoonists Liz Baillie, MK Reed, and Ken Dahl (née Gabby Schulz) gather at Quimby's tonight for another stop along The Punchbuggy Book Tour: a trip within a trip of sorts, where they explore in graphic novel form journeys both physical and not. 7pm, 1854 W North Ave. Free!
Ravenswood Art Walk
This year's art walk includes over 50 venues and the art work of over 150 working, professional and emerging artists and performance groups. Start at 4256 N. Ravenswood. There, you will see one piece from each artist showing which will help you plan your route, based on your tastes. (Don't miss "The Blago Project" taking place in the former wire tapped offices of the Friends of Rod Blagojevich: 4147 N. Ravenswood.) This event is happening on the 3rd and the 4th from 11am to 6pm. Admission is free.
Poetry Readings and "Telephone Art" Game @ Myopic Bookstore
This event, part of the Chicago Calling Arts Festival, features poetry readings and a "telephone art" game with poetry. Poets TBA. 7-9pm. Admission is Free. Myopic Books, 1564 N Milwaukee. For more information, call (773) 862 4882.
"Improvising Strategies for Large Ensemble" Workshop @ Elastic Sound and Vision Gallery
This interdisciplinary workshop, taught by Gino Robair, will examine a number of techniques you can use when improvising within a large group. There will be a focus on global awareness and listening, while exploring strategies for achieving maximum variety and avoiding stagnation. Concepts such as foreground/background, solo/support, and intention/non-intention will be discussed. 12-4pm. $25 workshop fee. Elastic Arts, 2830 N. Milwaukee, 2nd Floor. For more information, call (773) 772 3616.
Fresh Prints @ People Lounge
Logan Square artist Charlie Menga comes out of hiding and shows his new work in conjunction with a record release party for the new Meah!/Phantom Family Halo split 7". Or you can buy it here. The event is free. 7pm. People Lounge: 1560 N. Milwaukee.
Chris Hardwick @ Lakeshore Theater
Chris Hardwick may have made his mark as the quirky co-host on "Singled Out," but now, he is @nerdist, hear him tweet! Today, the multi-talented comedian is a writer, producer and host of "Web Soup" on G4, as well as a frequent guest on "Attack of the Show," "Chelsea Lately" and almost every comedy podcast you can get your hands on. In addition to touring, he is also writing a book on time management. Go figure. This show includes a special appearance by his musical comedy partner, Mike Phirman. 3175 N. Broadway. (773) 472-3492. $22.50. 7:30pm & 10:30pm.
Paintings, Poetry, and Live Music @ Elastic Sound and Vision Gallery
This event, part of the Chicago Calling Arts Festival, includes Vibrational Sound Narratives, a collection of artworks by Alpha Bruton, poetry readings, and musical performances. Artists and projects include:
Eric Elshtain (Chicago) and Greg Fraser (Georgia) -- poetry collaboration
Satya Alliance (Satya Gummuluri (voice), Douglas Brush (percussion), Joel Wanek (upright bass), and Dan Godston (trumpet)). This performance includes poetry by Divik Ramesh (New Delhi).
Trio with Gino Robair (percussion / Oakland), Andrew Royal (violins / Chicago), and Aaron Zarzutzki (electronics / Chicago)
Vibrational Sound Narratives, a collection of new paintings by Alpha Bruton
Jamie Kazay -- poetry
Textaport Project
Wayne Allen Jones (Chicago) and Duane Vorhees (Bangkok) -- poetry collaboration
Bauhaus9090 performance
other performances / projects TBA
7-11pm. $12 suggested donation. Elastic Arts Foundation, 2830 N. Milwaukee, 2nd Floor. For more information, call (773) 772 3616.
Panel Discussion and Performance @ Chicago Cultural Center
This event begins at 1pm with a panel discussion involving people in New Orleans and Chicago discussing the arts, curation, and the roles of the arts in society. The panelists in New Orleans and Chicago will be connected over the internet, using Skype. A large ensemble performance of Gino Robair's Divination will begin at 2:30pm. The event will be held at the Claudia Cassidy Theater, on the 2nd Floor of the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington. 1-4pm. Admission is free.
Ravenswood Art Walk
This year's art walk includes over 50 venues and the art work of over 150 working, professional and emerging artists and performance groups. Start at 4256 N. Ravenswood. There, you will see one piece from each artist showing which will help you plan your route, based on your tastes. (Don't miss "The Blago Project" taking place in the former wire tapped offices of the Friends of Rod Blagojevich: 4147 N. Ravenswood.) This event is happening on the 3rd and the 4th from 11am to 6pm. Admission is free.
Monotonix @ Logan Square Auditorium
My only complaint about Monotonix, Tel-Aviv's boisterous garage rock trio, is that the sets always seem to get cut short because the drum kit has fallen apart completely in the audience and someone has a concussion. That said, those fifteen minutes of ruckus might be the most fun fifteen minutes you've ever had at a rock show. Just go. Turbo Fruits and Ga'an open. 9pm. Admission is $15. Logan Square Auditorium: 2539 N. Kedzie.
An Evening With Mary Lynn Rajskub @ Lakeshore Theater
Probably best known as the stone-faced Chloe O' Brien on 24, Mary Lynn Rajskub first got her start doing sketch comedy on HBO's Mr. Show. She has since appeared on The Larry Sanders Show, NewsRadio, The Sketch Show, Just Shoot Me and Flight of the Conchords, and has had roles in a number of major films over the years. The multi-talented actress and comedian will be appearing at the Lakeshore Theater for one night only. 7:30 and 10:30pm. $20. 3175 N. Broadway. (773) 472-3492
22 in a Million @ Chicago Artist's Coalition
Today, 22 in a Million, part 1 opens, featuring all the 2009/2010 Coalition Gallery artists with an installation by Jonah Ortiz. Admission is free. 5:30-8:30pm. 2010 W. Pierce. For more information, call (773) 772 2386.
The OTHER Dance Festival @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. This weekend's performers are: Peter Carpenter, Hedwig Dances, The Humans, Ayako Kato/Art Union Humanscape, and The Seldoms.
$12-$15, 7:30 p.m., Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call 773.880.5402 for tickets.
Chicago Calling @ Brown Rice
This event features two sets of sound, music, and film. First, a performance by Chicago Phonography. Second, Chicago-based musicians perform while films by out-of-town filmmakers are projected. Performers include Gregory O'Drobinak (Arc of the Oven), Ritwik Banerji (saxophone), Jayve Montgomery (saxophones and percussion), Saalik Ziyad (vocals), Williwaw (amplified ukulele), Jon Godston (soprano saxophone), Michael Staron (bass), Jimmy Bennington (drums), and other TBA performers. 10pm-12am. Brown Rice, 4432 N. Kedzie. $5 suggested donation.
First Fridays @ Museum of Contemporary Art
Chicago artist Maria Gaspar will publicly celebrate public celebrations with a large, body-like sculpture that will parade through the MCA in a performance and exhibit called, Oblation For A Parade. October's First Fridays theme is "Myth" and guests may view a Rag and Bone fashion show, create wearable tattoo sleeves at the Creation Station, participate in a scavenger hunt for Constellations, play cornhole in the sculpture garden, and dance to beats mixed by DJ Duke Shin and DJ Nate Mano. 6-10pm. Tickets are $11 in advance, $16 at the door, and $8 for MCA members. 220 E. Chicago. 21 & up. Contact the box office at (312) 397-4010.
Poets Perform @ Mercury Cafe
This event, part of the Chicago Calling Arts Festival, features performances by Chicago-based artists, mostly poets, in collaboration with artists who live outside of Chicago. Artists include Vittorio Carli, Carolyn Curtis Magri, Elizabeth Harper, Faux Paul, Rachel Javellana, Donna Collins, Elizabeth Marino, Janina Ciezadlo, Leonard De Montbrun, Don Coorough, Cathleen Schandelmeier, Sid Yiddish, The Clean Boys, and other TBA artists. Mercury Cafe has a bunch of vegan treats, too, for all you animal lovers. This event is free. 6-9pm. Mercury Cafe, 1505 W. Chicago. For more information, call (312) 455-9924.
Dirty Needles Craft Night @ The Hideout
If you've been craving exposure to glitter and yarn, and you'd really like to play with them in a bar, then this is for you. Dirty Needles, an established Los Angeles craft outfit, has expanded their membership to Chicago, and their first club meeting is today. Bring a small project - knitting, crochet, needlepoint, scrapbook... or volunteer to help with the projects the other members are working on. For you knitting virgins, there are rumors that a bona fide knitting instructor will be present. Oh, and I think boys are allowed, too. 5:30-8pm. The Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia.
The OTHER Dance Festival @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. This weekend's performers are: Peter Carpenter, Hedwig Dances, The Humans, Ayako Kato/Art Union Humanscape, and The Seldoms.
$12-$15, 7:30 p.m., Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call 773.880.5402 for tickets.
Empowerment Art: Interactive and Collective Works @ New Wave Cafe
This event, part of the Logan Square ARTicipation tour, will feature work by Chicago ARTillery artists. On display will be paintings by Victor M. Montanez; Tracy Kostenbader; Camilo Quitze Quintana; Rene Ricardo Montanez; Iris Iris Pasic, Julia Rocholz and photographs by Chrystal McGrew. There will be music by El DJ Rebel X and Camilo Quintana. The audience will have the opportunity to interact with artists and can manipulate the paintings to discover various protagonists and themes. The exhibition runs through November 2nd. 6-10pm, New Wave Cafe, 2557 N. Milwaukee. (312) 405 7660. Free.
Larry Marder Signing @ Chicago Comics
Former Chicagoan Larry Marder's career spans many regions of the comic book world: the artist of the award-winning Beanworld has also been the Marketing Director for Chicago's Moondog's Comicland, Executive Director of Image Comics from 1993-1999, and President of McFarlane Toys from 1999-2007. Stop by Chicago Comics tonight from 6-8pm tonight to get your books and art signed and enjoy sneak previews of the new Beanworld book, Remember Here When You Are There. 3244 North Clark St, call (773) 528-1983 for more information. Free!
"Arts and Activism in St. Louis, Detroit, and Chicago" Panel Discussion @ The Little Black Pearl
This panel discussion focuses on the arts scenes in St. Louis, Detroit, and Chicago and is part of the Fourth Annual Chicago Calling Arts Festival. The panelists include Lindsay Obermeyer, Theaster Gates, Carol Ng-He, Jennifer Karmin, and Dan Godston. The panelists will be connected over the internet, via Skype, so the panelists and other participants will be able to see and hear each other. Free. 7-9pm at The Little Black Pearl Art & Design Center. 1060 E. 47th St. Call (773) 285-1211 for more information.
Pecha Kucha Night - Burnham Plan Centennial Edition
A Special Pecha Kucha Night Event - Burnham Plan Centennial Edition, in conjuction with the exhibit: "Big. Bold. Visionary: Chicago Considers The Next Century". Each presenter shares their ideas and passions - 20 slides per person, 20 seconds per slide. Presenters include: Brad Lynch, Elva Rubio, Thomas Gray, Tracey Dear, Ed Uhlir, Lynn Becker, Clare Lyster, Kyle Reynolds, Michael Wilkinson, and more...
At the Chicago Tourism Center, 72 E. Randolph Street
Doors at 6pm. Show at 7pm.
Tickets $25.00; includes three beverage tickets
Tickets at (312) 742-TIXS, in person at 66 E. Randolph.
Where the Wild Things Are Chicago Debut
Join director Spike Jonze and writer David Eggers at the Chicago premiere of the Maurice Sendak adaptation Where the Wild Things Are at the Musicbox Theatre. Tickets are $30 and all proceeds go to support 826CHI, a Chicago non-profit creative writing and tutoring lab. Advanced tickets can be purchased at 826CHI's website. Show starts at 7pm, Q&A with Jonze and Eggers following the screening.
The Moth StorySLAM @ Martyr's
The Moth is landing in Chicago! The twelve-year-old New York based storytelling institution is coming to the Windy City for a StorySLAM, and your story could be the winner! Come prepared with a five-minute story to be performed without notes, and drop your name into a hat. Ten lucky people will have their names called out loud and have a chance at storytelling greatness onstage at Martyr's, 3855 N. Lincoln Avenue.
StorySLAMS are held once a week in New York and twice a month in L.A. to sold out crowds, and Tuesday's SLAM will be the first in a series of four here in Chicago.
Tickets are $7, doors open at 7:30pm, storytelling begins at 8pm. Information on future StorySLAMS here.
Chain and the Gang @ Beat Kitchen
Chicago punk-funk staple and talk show host, Ian Svenonius has a new-ish band, Chain and the Gang. They perform tonight at the Beat Kitchen. D. Rider and The Love of Everything open. Bring your dancing shoes, it should be a wild show. 9pm. $10. Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont. 17+.
Musicians at Work Forum @ Double Door
What do you do after you get the gig? This discussion explores the process of putting together a show. Topics include advancing the show, preparing equipment and set list, merchandise and mailing list materials, how to deal with the venue, and how to do a soundcheck. Panelists include FOH engineer Jesse Ewan of Double Door, booking person Phil Kosch of Double Door, and Alex White, Musician. Paul Natkin of the Chicago Music Commission moderates. 6pm. Admission is free. Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee. (773) 489 3160.
Rollin' Outta Here Naked: A Big Lebowski Burlesque
Vaudezilla presents "Rollin' Outta Here Naked: A Big Lebowski Burlesque," at 10pm tonight and every Saturday in September at the Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave. -- as well as at Lebowski Fest. Featuring dances inspired by the cult classic film, performers Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Donna Touch, Bonny Babs and Maria May I will have you out of your element in no time. Tickets are $15 in advance.
The OTHER Dance Festival @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. This weekend's performers are: Breakbone DanceCo, Cindy Brandle Dance Company, Dance COLEctive, Matthew Hollis, Mordine & Co. Dance Theater, and Janet Schmid.
$12-$15, 7:30 p.m., Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call 773.880.5402 for tickets.
Chicago Dance Crash's The Drawing Board @ Ruth Page Center
The Ruth Page Center for the Arts will host Chicago Dance Crash's final main stage production of the year, and the final full-length offering of outgoing Artistic Director Kyle Vincent Terry. You're in for a treat: Crash fans and average Joes alike have been logging onto Crash The Drawing Board since January 1st and pitching some of the most ridiculous ideas conceivable.
The Drawing Board premiers at The Ruth Page Center for the Arts, located at 1016 N. Dearborn. The performance is at 8pm. Tickets are $18 advance, $20 at the door. For ticket reservations, contact the Ruth Page Center for the Arts at (312) 337-6543 or visit their site here.
Photobooth Make-out Party
312Photobooth and ItWasLoveWhen.com co-host a photobooth "make-out party" in the back room of Bar DeVille, 1958 W. Huron, tonight from 6:30pm to 10:30pm. Bring your significant other and make out in the retro-style digital photobooth. Everyone will get a free copy of their digital photos. More details here. 21+
The OTHER Dance Festival @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. This weekend's performers are: Breakbone DanceCo, Cindy Brandle Dance Company, Dance COLEctive, Matthew Hollis, Mordine & Co. Dance Theater, and Janet Schmid.
$12-$15, 7:30 p.m., Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call 773.880.5402 for tickets.
Paul Nudd Gallery Talk @ Western Exhibitions
Western Exhibitions is hosting a free gallery talk with Paul Nudd, creator of the playful and intricate, if slightly repulsive Vomitromiton painting show that is currently living in the gallery. 6 pm. 119 N Peoria St., 2nd Floor.
Intonation Music Workshop Silent Auction @ Darkroom Bar
Intonation Music Workshop is holding a Silent Auction tonight at Darkroom to raise money for their music education programs. They provide instruments and lessons to children, and at the end of the program they perform their own material in a community performance. Items up for bidding include a guitar signed by The Hold Steady, a tour of the set of ABC's Private Practice from star Paul Adelstein, and a script from the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning August: Osage County signed by author Tracy Letts and director Anna Shapiro. Tickets are $10, or $20 with a raffle ticket to win a prize package from Hot Doug's! Tickets can be purchased from Intonation's website or at Brown Paper Tickets. 2210 W. Chicago Ave. 6-9pm.
Orange Alert Reading Series @ The Whistler
A special edition of the Orange Alert Reading Series as OA partners with The Nervous Breakdown. The reading starts at 7pm and as always is free.
Line-up:
Amy Guth
Greg Boose
Claire Bidwell Smith
Irene Zion
Raise High The Roof Beam (Special Musical Guest!)
The Whistler is located at 2421 N. Milwaukee Ave. Logan Square.
Sci-Fi Strip-Tacular
This Windy City Comicon afterparty keeps science fiction sexy. Flesh Tones Burlesque presents a night of racy outer space antics sure to appeal to nerds and non-nerds alike. Break out the Starfleet uniform: $2 off the $15 admission if you come in costume. 9pm, Viaduct Theater (3111 N Western). Sponsored by Evil Squirrel Comics.
Rollin' Outta Here Naked: A Big Lebowski Burlesque
Vaudezilla presents "Rollin' Outta Here Naked: A Big Lebowski Burlesque," at 10pm tonight and every Saturday in September at the Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave. -- as well as at Lebowski Fest. Featuring dances inspired by the cult classic film, performers Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Donna Touch, Bonny Babs and Maria May I will have you out of your element in no time. Tickets are $15 in advance.
Chicago Dance Crash's The Drawing Board @ Ruth Page Center
The Ruth Page Center for the Arts will host Chicago Dance Crash's final main stage production of the year, and the final full-length offering of outgoing Artistic Director Kyle Vincent Terry. Combining a screwball menu of unpredictable scenes, ideas, jokes, and pop culture rip-offs, Crash's crew of seasoned dancers and mercenary movers will give audiences exactly what they've asked for, and more in The Drawing Board.
The Drawing Board premiers at The Ruth Page Center for the Arts, located at 1016 N. Dearborn, at 8pm. Tickets are $18 advance, $20 at the door. For ticket reservations, contact (312) 337-6543 or visit their site here.
Chicago Poetry Mini Conference
Join Series A Conversations for a day of panels and discussions on the art of poetry. Free and open to all. Panels include topics such as poetry publication, new media poetics, and contemporary poetry schools. Over 30 writers will speak and read. BYOB.
Hyde Park Arts Center
5020 S. Cornell
4833 Studio Room
9am - 5pm
The OTHER Dance Festival @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. Performers at tonight's show are: Chicago Moving Company, Lucky Plush Productions, Molly Shanahan / Mad Shak, and Same Planet Different World Dance Theatre.
$12-$15, 7:30 p.m., Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call 773.880.5402 for tickets.
The OTHER Dance Festival @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. Performers at tonight's opening night show are: Chicago Moving Company, Lucky Plush Productions, Molly Shanahan / Mad Shak, and Same Planet Different World Dance Theatre.
$12-$15, 7:30pm, Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call (773) 880-5402 for tickets.
Frida @ the Chicago Cultural Center
Cinema/Chicago, presenter of the Chicago International Film Festival, once again is teaming up with Chicago's various consulates and cultural organizations to present the sixth annual International Summer Screening Program at the Chicago Cultural Center (77 E. Randolph Street).
Tonight's screening of Frida is presented by the Consulate General of Mexico in Chicago and the Mexico Tourism Board. As famed Mexican painter Frida Kahlo lays in pain in her bedroom, she recalls the memories of her life that lead her to the places that she is. Director Paul Deluc's 1986 film about her life touches on some her toughest moments, from the accident in her childhood that would haunt her the rest of her life to her tumultuous yet passionate time with muralist Diego Rivera. Throughout her bed-ridden time Kahlo sees the leaps and bounds she took for female painters everywhere through her courageous and inventive paintings.
Admission is free and seating is on a first come, first served basis. Screening starts at 6:30pm.
Granta: Camilo Vergara @ Hull House
Camilo Vergara, a MacArthur fellow photographer whose photo essay on Chicago's public housing projects appears in Granta's all Chicago issue, will be at Hull House to discuss his work along with Tim Samuelson and Peter Hales. Free at 6pm in the Dining Hall, 800 S. Halsted.
Lebowski Fest
Bowl, drive around, and have an acid flashback: The Big Lebowski hits us today through Tuesday with bowling, burlesque, and of course the film itself. See the site for locations and times.
Layer Cake: Tales from a Quinceañera @ C33 Gallery
Becoming a woman is rarely simple, and in a country of mixed moral, spiritual and cultural messages, the Latino coming-of-age ritual known as the Quinceañera is in some ways more complicated than ever. Layer Cake: Tales from a Quinceañera
gathers artists who can capture this fantastic confusion through personal engagement, showing that Quinceañera is not only an Hispanic tradition but a human one.
Opening reception 4-8pm, Columbia College Chicago's C33 Gallery, 33 East Congress Parkway @ Wabash.
Throughout the exhibit, students, the Columbia College community and the public will be invited to submit personal photos from Quinceañeras they have attended, participated in, had, crashed, etc. See the blog for more images and media.
Ephemera Festival @ Hungry Brain
The Ephemera Festival, "A Celebration of D.I.Y. Culture," takes place tonight at the Hungry Brain,
2319 W. Belmont Ave., starting at 8pm. The event includes a zine and craft fair as well as a series of 5-minute live performances that range from music to zine readings to drama. 21+
Lebowski Fest
Bowl, drive around, and have an acid flashback: The Big Lebowski hits us today through Tuesday with bowling, burlesque, and of course the film itself. See the site for locations and times.
Renegade Craft Fair
Another outdoor go for the Renegade Craft Fair. Hopefully this one won't end up a mess of wet yarn and umbrellas. This year the renowned DIY craft show is located on Division St. between Damen & Hermitage in Wicker Park. Entry to the fair is free. The booths will be open from 11 am-7 pm today.
Lebowski Fest
Bowl, drive around, and have an acid flashback: The Big Lebowski hits us today through Tuesday with bowling, burlesque, and of course the film itself. See the site for locations and times.
Rollin' Outta Here Naked: A Big Lebowski Burlesque
Vaudezilla presents "Rollin' Outta Here Naked: A Big Lebowski Burlesque," at 10pm tonight and every Saturday in September at the Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave. -- as well as at Lebowski Fest. Featuring dances inspired by the cult classic film, performers Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Donna Touch, Bonny Babs and Maria May I will have you out of your element in no time. Tickets are $15 in advance.
Renegade Craft Fair
Another outdoor go for the Renegade Craft Fair. Hopefully this one won't end up a mess of wet yarn and umbrellas. This year the renowned DIY craft show is located on Division St. between Damen & Hermitage in Wicker Park. Entry to the fair is free. The booths will be open from 11am-7pm today and tomorrow.
Snoopster Site Launch
Elaine Matsushita, former editor of the Tribune's House & Homes section, has done what any self-respecting style writer does these days: she's launching a blog. The Snoopster peeks into Chicagoan's homes to bring inspiration to those craving home interior photos after the demise of so many design rags. The site formally launches today, kicking off a series of design district scavenger hunts This one takes place in various locations throughout Andersonville tonight from 7 to 9pm, with a list of 11 participating design shops including Scout, Brimfield, Room Service and White Attic. More information online at thesnoopster.com, or by calling (847) 361-0469.
La Mode: Parisian Fashions in the Age of Impressionism
Discover Impressionist Paris at Mon Ami Gabi (2300 N. Lincoln Park West). Enjoy a French meal and a slide show on Parisian fashion by an Art Institute lecturer. The evening starts at 6pm with a wine reception, followed by the lecture, then a multi-course French dinner. The event costs $65 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required. Call (773) 348-8886 to reserve your spot.
Sing That Strip: Karaoke Burlesque
What's better than taking off your clothing to music? Singing to it! Join Flesh Tones Burlesque for a night of karaoke hits and more with the Porcelain Dolls. Yow! US. Beer Company, 1801 N Clybourn, doors at 10pm, show at 11.
Rollin' Outta Here Naked: A Big Lebowski Burlesque
Vaudezilla presents "Rollin' Outta Here Naked: A Big Lebowski Burlesque," at 10pm tonight and every Saturday in September at the Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave. -- as well as at Lebowski Fest. Featuring dances inspired by the cult classic film, performers Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Donna Touch, Bonny Babs and Maria May I will have you out of your element in no time. Tickets are $15 in advance.
Interview Show @ Hideout
Mark Bazer's The Interview Show returns to The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm. Guests this month include actor Joey Slotnick, author Claire Zulkey and encased meat purveyor Doug Sohn. Admission is $5. 21+
Pecha Kucha Night @ Martyrs'
Pecha Kucha is an event in which each presenter delivers a lecture based on 20 slides, with 20 seconds per slide. Chicago's 10th official Pecha Kucha night is tonight at Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., starting at 10:20pm and ending at 11pm. (Drinking and cavorting will occur both before and after.) Admission is $10. More details here. 21+
Lucha Libre Mexicana @ Congress Theatre
Spanish for "free fighting", lucha libre combines costuming and theatrics with professional wrestling to create something that's part-sport, part-pageantry. Catch it tonight at the Congress Theatre (2135 N Milwaukee Ave), featuring luchadores La Parka, Blue Demon, Jr., Perro Aguayo, Jr. and Damian 666. 6pm, buy your tickets here.
Naked Lunch 50th Anniversary @ ThinkArt Salon
Tonight, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the landmark William S. Burroughs novel Naked Lunch, ThinkArt Salon hosts an evening of performance, reading and art inspired by the book. Among those scheduled to appear tonight are Peter Weller (star of the David Cronenberg version of the film), poet John Giorno, local activist William Ayers, and Burroughs estate executor James Grauerholz. There will also be a preview screening of a trailer for the new documentary William S. Burroughs: A Man Within; proceeds from tonight's event will go towards the completion of the film. ThinkArt Salon is at 1530 N. Paulina, Suite F. Event runs from 5:30pm-9:30pm. For more information call (773) 252-2294.
Pearl Fest 2009 - Celebrating 15 Years of Urban Innovation
Come celebrate the achievements of "urban innovation" in Mandrake Park (E 39th & S Cottage Grove) with music, food, activities, and merchant vendors. Festival hours are from 11am - 10pm and admission is free. For more info, see the Little Black Pearl's web site.
26th Annual Ukrainian Festival
This weekend, come check out the Ukrainian Festival in... that's right, folks, Ukrainian Village. The festival takes place from 12pm - 10pm both Saturday and today in Smith Park at 2526 W. Grand Ave.
For more info, check out the awesomely-named Illinois Ukrainian Congress Committee's website.
Chicago Dancing Festival @ Pritzker Pavilion
The Chicago Dancing Festival again brings together some of the biggest names in American dance, and all for us lucky Chicagoans to enjoy for free! Tonight's "Celebration of American Dance" will showcase such heavy hitters as Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Lar Lubovitch Dance Company, and American Ballet Theater. Bring your picnic baskets and blankets and start camping out early because this is sure to draw an enormous crowd. Saturday, August 22, 7:30 p.m., Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park.
Rockaholic Fashion Fest @ Moonshine
This weekend is the first annual Rockaholic Fashion Fest & Fashion Show. Come over to Wicker Park's Moonshine (1824 West Division Street) Saturday at noon to enjoy an afternoon of shopping and music. The bar's parking lot will be transformed into a "Shopper's Row," where local boutiques will showcase their winning fashion. A DJ will be spinning all afternoon, and at 9 p.m. the party really gets going with the main fashion show featuring designs by M. Go Fashion Salon. Drink specials will be available all day long and there is no cover, so come ready to spend money on some modern and stylish clothing.
26th Annual Ukrainian Festival
This weekend, come check out the Ukrainian Festival in... that's right, folks, Ukrainian Village. The festival takes place from 12pm - 10pm both today and Sunday in Smith Park at 2526 W. Grand Ave.
For more info, check out the awesomely-named Illinois Ukrainian Congress Committee's website.
Bicycle Film Festival
The Bicycle Film Festival screens at Columbia College, 1104 S. Wabash, 8th Flr., today starting at 3pm. Here's the full schedule:
3pm:
The Bicycle Church
A Gentleman Never Sweats
The Third Wheel
5pm:
Keirin Queen / Onna Keirn Oh
7pm:
I'm Good On That One
Train Trip
I Love My Bicycle: The Story of FBM Bikes
9pm:
Empire
One Less Horse
Safari London
The Messenger's Creed
Made In Queens
Kant
Polo Manual
Pixel Gears Bikes!! Ride Safe, Ride Fast, Ride Free
The Scraper Bike King
Broadway Bomber/Bridge Battle
Down By The Weep Hole: The Story of The Stupor Bowl
Anima D'Acciaio (Soul of Steel)
Tickets available here.
Bicycle Film Festival
The Bicycle Film Festival screens at Columbia College, 1104 S. Wabash, 8th Flr., tonight starting at 7pm. Here's the full schedule:
Made In Queens
Where Are You Go
Parasol
Bikes (Biciclette)
Curiosity
Thoughts On My Bike
Paris Vision
28.6
Red Hook Criterium
Where Do You Start Where Do You Stop
A Bicycle Trip
Virtuous Chapter 10
Friends We Love Featuring Ellis Gallagher
Wolfpack Hustle: All City Team Race 2
Le Dernier Voyage of Maryse de Lucas
Purchase tickets here.
BFF Scavenger Hunt & Joyride Art Show
The Bicycle Film Festival throws a scavenger hunt and Joyride Art Show tonight. Registration for the scavenger hunt starts at 5:30pm in Union Park; the hunt begins at 6:30pm. The art show runs from 6pm to 10pm at the MCA Warehouse, 1747 W. Hubbard St., and features more than two dozen artists. Both events are free. The afterparty at Cobra Lounge, 235 N. Ashland Ave., from 9pm to 2am is 21+
Bicycle Film Festival Kickoff @ Metro
The Metro, 3730 N. Clark St., hosts the kick-off concert for the Bicycle Film Festival tonight, featuring Glass Candy, Busdriver and Mike Simonetti. Doors at 7.30pm. Tickets are $10 in advance and at the door. 21+
Busy Beaver Buttons Grand Opening
Busy Beaver Buttons, Chicago's own button supplier, is having a party to celebrate the grand opening of their new space, located at 3279 W. Armitage. All day the button crew will be hosting different events (all free) with different booze and, of course, lots of buttons.
Open House (1-5pm) - Tour the new building, sip on champagne, and make your own buttons. A ribbon cutting with 35th Ward Alderman Rey Colon is at 1:30pm.
Button-o-matic Party (5-8pm) - Check out Busy Beaver's new 24 ct button series, enjoy some golden beer, and music by Devin Davis.
2nd Annual Experimental Garage Sale
Interested in circuit bending, electronic music and experimental sounds? (Or not saying "huh?" after that sentence?) Then you probably want to check out the 2nd Annual Experimental Garage Sale today at the Experimental Sound Studio, 5925 N. Ravenswood. The sale is one-stop shopping for sound artists, circuit benders, and anyone interested in making weird sounds. Lo-fi electronic kits and synths, handmade contact microphones, piles of Casio keyboards and Barbie Karaoke machines, "finished" products and hand-built sound devices will all be for sale from noon until 8pm. Free.
For more information on the sale, visit the Experimental Garage Sale's MySpace page.
North American Wildlife @ Family Room
The Post Family hosts North American Wildlife, "an assembly of conceptual artists working across all plat forms of visual, sound and multimedia installations," at The Family Room, 1821 W. Hubbard St., tonight from 6pm to 12:30am. Free.
Chicago Artists' Coalition Gallery Opening
Chicago Artists' Coalition inaugurates its new gallery space at 2010 W. Pierce St. with a group show of member artists, including Anthony Adcock, Maricarmen Pizano, Jennifer Bisbing, Loren Robare, Robert Brasher, Richard Shipps, Meredith Dytch, Michael E. Smith, Julian Gordon, Jun-Jun C.Sta.Ana, Juliette Herwitt, Jeff Stevenson, Diane Huff, Allison Svoboda, Barbara Krol, Darren Thompson, K.A. Letts, Vanessa Vargas, Lucy Mueller, Erin Waser, Jonah Ortiz and Serene Wise. The reception is from 5pm to 8pm tonight; the show runs through Aug. 30. Free.
Chicago Visionaries: From Burnham to Today & Beyond @ Harold Washington Library
The Harold Washington Library presents a panel on "Chicago Visionaries: From Burnham to Today and Beyond," a discussion of how Chicago can stay vibrant in the 21st century. Panelists include Carl Smith, author of the current One Book, One Chicago selection Plan of Chicago: Daniel Burnham and the Remaking of the American City, Nichole Pinkard of the University of Chicago's Urban Education Institute, architects Sarah Dunn and Martin Felsen, and Angela Hulock of Claretian Associates, developers of green and affordable housing on the Southeast side. MarySue Barrett, President of the Metropolitan Planning Council, will moderate. Free at 6pm in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium. Call (312) 747-4300 for more information.
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival
The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs Friday through Sunday along Milwaukee Avenue between California and Ridgeway avenues, centered on the Logan Square Centennial Monument. The free street fair features over 150 artists in over 20 open galleries, diverse food & drink options, local vendors, a free shuttle and multiple live music stages. Here's today's music schedule:
Whistler Stage at the Centennial Monument:
9pm I Kong Kult
8pm Tomorrow Kings
7pm In Tall Buildings
6pm Cains & Abels
5pm Algernon
4pm Vertikal
3pm Puerto Muerto
noon Alpha and the Princes of Futa
Polonia Stage at Milwaukee and Ridgeway:
8pm Johnny Comes Late
5pm Axix (Jimi Hendrix Tribute)
2pm Big Al's Polka Duo
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival
The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs Friday through Sunday along Milwaukee Avenue between California and Ridgeway avenues, centered on the Logan Square Centennial Monument. The free street fair features over 150 artists in over 20 open galleries, diverse food & drink options, local vendors, a free shuttle and multiple live music stages. Here's today's music schedule:
Whistler Stage at the Centennial Monument:
9pm Blah Blah Blah
8pm Mass Shivers
7pm Michael Columbia
6pm Robbie Hamilton
4pm Son del Viento
3pm Nicole Mitchell
2pm Box of Baby Birds
1pm Pedro y Su Renaviniento
noon Mar Caribe
The Spirit of the Square, a presentation of choral music from the Logan Square area at the Norwegian Lutheran Memorial Church, 2614 N. Kedzie Ave.:
6pm New Community Covenant Church Choir
5pm the Blue Ribbon Glee Club
4pm My Damn Butterfly
3pm Norwegian Lutheran Choir
2pm St. Luke's Choir
1pm St. John Berchmans Choir
Polonia Stage at Milwaukee and Ridgeway:
4-6:30pm Polish Elvis
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival
The Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival runs Friday through Sunday along Milwaukee Avenue between California and Ridgeway avenues, centered on the Logan Square Centennial Monument. The free street fair features over 150 artists in over 20 open galleries, diverse food & drink options, local vendors, a free shuttle and two live music stages. Here's tonight's music schedule
Whistler Stage at the Centennial Monument:
10pm Scotland Yard Gospel Choir
8pm Jim Becker
6pm The Megitza Quartet
Polonia Stage at Milwaukee and Ridgeway:
6:30-10pm DJ Mazi & DJ Matt Alchemist presented by 1030AM
Monster Movies @ Portage Theater
Portage Theater, 4050 N. Milwaukee, hosts an evening of classic monster movies tonight. See The Deadly Mantis, Monster on Campus and Curse of the Werewolf, and peruse vintage toys and collectibles in the lobby before the show. Doors open at 4pm, first film starts at 6:30pm. $10 admission. Call773-875-7582 for more info.
Get It Together @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Get It Together, a group show of assemblage, collage and collaborative works, runs tonight from 7pm to midnight and Saturday from 2pm to 5pm at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219-21 S. Morgan St. Featured artists include Chris Robertson, Emily Clayton, James Ewert, Rod Hunting, Adrienne Goodrich, Peter Skvara, Chad Kouri, Matt Nicolas, Jim Kozar, Ed Marszewski, Ben Speckmann, Sara Jeziorski and Richard Smith. Le Deuce and Rik Shaw perform audio collage performance Free.
Run, Blago Run! Opening
Run, Blago Run!, a group show of art inspired by our disgraced ex-governor, opens tonight at 1925 N. Milwaukee Ave., with a reception from 6pm to 9pm. The show is also open Saturday and Sunday, July 25 & 26, from noon to 7pm. Free.
Facets Night School: Wild Style
Facets Multimedia presents the second session of Facets Night School, midnight screenings of classic and cult movies with discussions about each film. Tonight's film is the classic 1982 hip-hop movie Wild Style. Facets employee Jason Makman will lead a post-screening discussion of the film. The movie screens tonight at midnight, and tickets are only $5 (available through Ticketweb). Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton.
West Loop Gallery Tour
The Art Dealers Association of Chicago, composed of fine art dealerships ranging from the antique to the avant-garde, has added a second round of galleries to their weekly Saturday tours in River North. Beginning tonight and taking place every 6-8 weeks, the ADAC will take groups through the burgeoning West Loop art community. Stops on the tour include Peter Miller Gallery, Andrew Rafacz Gallery, Carrie Secrist Gallery, and McCormick Gallery. For more information about the new West Loop tour and their longstanding River North tours, see the ADAC website.
Varietease @ Lakeshore Theater
The Varietease Cabaret takes over the Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway, tonight at 10:30pm. Produced and hosted by the hottest legs and dirtiest mind in town, Backdoor Aly, the show will also feature all-star special guests like Miss Tamale, Mae the Bellydancer, The Honey Buns, Dizzy Lizzy Delicious, Lyra Belecqua, Pearl Pistol, Red Hot Annie, Dolls of Doom and more. Tickets are $15. 21+
Nitrate and Kinogeists @ Portage Theatre
Century Guild brings legendary multi-media artist Dave McKean to the Portage Park Theatre for "Nitrate and Kinogeists", an exhibit of both both Century Guild's inventory of silent film posters and McKean's latest paintings from his haunting current body of work, Nitrate, inspired by the silent era of cinema. The two-day event features screenings of silent films that have inspired McKean, live performers, and other special surprises to be revealed. Tonight begins with an artist's reception at 6pm and concludes with a showing of F.W. Murnau's 1926 Gothic masterpiece, Faust at 9pm. On Saturday, there will be a special screening at 9pm of Dave McKean and Neil Gaiman's feature film MirrorMask , with McKean himself introducing.
Admission is $18 day/$30 for the weekend, 6pm- midnight. 4050 N Milwaukee Ave.
Blackbird @ Victory Gardens Theater
Do you like beer? Do you like theater? Then this event is for you. Before an 8pm show of Blackbird, the stars of Drinking & Writing will host a craft beer tasting, courtesy of Rock Bottom Brewery and Vini's Pizza. So head on over to Victory Gardens Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln Avenue, 6:30pm. (773) 871-3000
Japanese Calligraphy Workshop
Learn the basics of Japanese calligraphy and create a finished work on a Japanese fan in celebration of the Tanabata (Star Festival). Certified Calligraphy Instructor Yoshimi Tanaka will lead this workshop, which is tonight from 6-8pm at the Japan America Society of Chicago (20 N. Clark St., Suite 750). Cost is $15 Members /$20 Non-Members; all materials are included. Register online or by calling (312) 263-3049. Registration closes July 6.
Portrait of a Palace at Chicago Architecture Foundation
The Chicago Architecture Foundation, 24 S. Michigan Ave., screens Portrait of a Palace, a documentary about the Uptown Theater, at 12:15pm today, accompanied by a discussion of the theater's history and its planned renovation by Friends of the Uptown's Andy Pierce and Jam Productions founder Jerry Mickelson. More info here. Free.
Sceneoke w/ Appetite Theatre @ The Spot
Be a star for a minute and join Appetite Theatre for SCENEOKE! (just like karaoke, only for film.) Browse from an extensive list of scripts and choose from your favorite timeless classic films, 80's brat pack flicks, and current Oscar bound movies. $15 at the door gives you an all-access pass to the stage. Get there early (between 8-9pm) to receive all the FREE beer, wine and cocktails you need to improve your acting.
Proceeds from this event go to towards Appetite Theatre Company's summer production Jinx, adapted for the stage by Company Member Basia Kapolka from the novel by Theophile Gautier.
The Spot
4437 N. Broadway
8pm - 11pm
$15
* All attendees must be 21 or over.
Everyman: The Classic Rock Ballet @ Vittum Theater
Innervation Dance Cooperative's Classic Rock Ballet Everyman, with an all-female cast and 100% Led Zeppelin soundtrack, tells the allegory of Everyman. We enter on her live-for-the-moment life just before she receives a visit from Death, and our heroine begs to be given more time. She spends the rest of the ballet searching for a companion for the inevitable journey. IDC has retained the message of the medieval morality play -- to take stock of one's life, to make choices based on how you define a life well lived -- while telling a story with moments of humor, an enormous amount of love, emotional highs and lows, and a sense of catharsis. The music of Led Zeppelin emphasizes the epic nature of the story, while providing the dancers and the audience a reason to rock!
Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble, 2:00 p.m, $18 ($15 student/senior). Click here for tickets and more info.
AREA Chicago's Cheap Art Sale @ The Orientation Center
Five pieces of original art and photography, inspired by the city of Chicago, will be sold for $25 each, with proceeds to benefit making AREA Chicago #9 (www.areachicago.org).
This one day exhibit runs from from noon until midnight on June 20th, with DJ Charlie Vinz and a photo booth by Justin Goh from 7pm on.
@ The Orientation Center 2129 N. Rockwell Ave.
For more info contact Rachel.a.wallis@gmail.com
Featuring Works by:
Rachel Wallis, Anthony Elms, Rebecca Zorach, Emily Piper Forman, Jayne Hileman, Mary Sea, Jerome Grand, Frank Edwards, Jason Reblando, Justin Goh, Samuel Love, Borys Niewiadomski, Seth Kammueller, Dave Pabellon, Paul Sargent, Laurie Palmer, Mike Bancroft, Naomi Leibowitz, CAFF Collective, Daniel Tucker, Michael Coolidge, Allison Havens, Earl Secrest, Dave Marques, Sam Sieger
Schadenfreude Rent Party @ Just For Laughs Festival
Sketch group Schadenfreude headlines the Just For Laughs Festival at the Annoyance Theater, 4830 N. Broadway, tonight at 10pm. Special guests include Ken Barnard, Hey You Millionaires, Susan Messing, Paul Provenza and the Lakewood Manor Players. Special Appearances by the Walter E. Smithe Brothers, WTTW's Phil Ponce and Alderman Ed Bus (53-d). 10pm. Tickets are $10 online or at the door.
Dismantling the Corporate State and Other Amusements
"Dismantling the Corporate State and Other Amusements," and exhibition of works by Anne Elizabeth Moore, open at the Center for Book & Paper Arts, 1104 S. Wabash, with an opening reception tonight from 6pm to 9pm. On display will be 16 years of zines and other works commenting on consumerist culture, modern media and feminism. Free.
Everyman: The Classic Rock Ballet @ Vittum Theater
Innervation Dance Cooperative's Classic Rock Ballet Everyman, with an all-female cast and 100% Led Zeppelin soundtrack, tells the allegory of Everyman. We enter on her live-for-the-moment life just before she receives a visit from Death, and our heroine begs to be given more time. She spends the rest of the ballet searching for a companion for the inevitable journey. IDC has retained the message of the medieval morality play, while telling a story with moments of humor, an enormous amount of love, emotional highs and lows, and a sense of catharsis.
Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble, 8pm, $18 ($15 student/senior). Click here for tickets and more info.
Tonight Only: "Your Turn to Tango" benefit @ Ritz Tango Cafe, just blocks from the theater, immediately following the show. $60 includes a ticket to the show, open bar, hors d'oeuvres, desserts, and a tango lesson! Come mingle and dance with the IDC dancers. Contact info@innervationdance.org for benefit tickets.
On the Trail of a Disorderly Future: Chicago Pedway Guided Tour
Ever wonder about that tangled ribbon of corridors that runs throughout 40 blocks of downtown Chicago? How did it get there -- and what does it look like? Join artist Hui-min Tsen for a guided tour that re-imagines the tunnel's origins according to residual undercurrents in our urban history. Originally part of the Version Fest, the 90-minute tour is being remounted today at 2pm at the southwest corner of Wacker and State. The tour is free but entrance to the train station does cost $2.25, so be sure to have train fare. For more information visit chicagopedwaytour.com.
Everyman: The Classic Rock Ballet @ Vittum Theater
Innervation Dance Cooperative's Classic Rock Ballet Everyman, with an all-female cast and 100% Led Zeppelin soundtrack, tells the allegory of Everyman. We enter on her live-for-the-moment life just before she receives a visit from Death, and our heroine begs to be given more time. She spends the rest of the ballet searching for a companion for the inevitable journey. IDC has retained the message of the medieval morality play -- to take stock of one's life, to make choices based on how you define a life well lived -- while telling a story with moments of humor, an enormous amount of love, emotional highs and lows, and a sense of catharsis. The music of Led Zeppelin emphasizes the epic nature of the story, while providing the dancers and the audience a reason to rock!
Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble, 8:00 p.m. Running all weekend. Special pricing for tonight only: $5 plus a roll of the dice. Or go here for tickets and more info.
Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout
Chicago's favorite humor reading series is back at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, with readings from Tales from the Scale author and blogger Erin J. Shea, "Talkin' Funny" and "Impress These Apes" host Steve Gadlin, AV Club head writer and The Big Rewind author Nathan Rabin, Captive Audience author Dave Reidy and poet Robbie Q. Telfer -- plus short films by Steve Delahoyde. Hosted by Claire Zulkey, author of An Off Year. The show runs from 6:30pm to 8pm, and it's a $5 suggested donation at the door -- proceeds benefit the Neighborhood Writing Alliance. 21+
Old Town Art Fair @ Old Town Triangle
Check out one of the oldest juried art fairs in the country this weekend as the Old Town Art Fair celebrates 60 years. This year the fair will feature 260 exhibitors, entertainment, food, children's activities and a self-guided garden tour. Suggested donation is $7 -- children 12 and under are free. The fair is located at 1763 N. North Park and is open from 10am-6pm today.
Prairie District Neighborhood Alliance Walk Through Time
This exclusive tour is the annual fundraiser for the Glessner House Museum, a walk through ten Prairie Avenue homes, seven of which will only be open on this day. Tickets are $50 per person, $40 for museum members and are available in advance by calling (312) 326-1480. They may also be purchased at the door. The tour starts at 1pm at the Glessner House Museum Coach House, 1900 South Prairie Ave., and runs until 4pm.
Geek Prom
Yes, that's right, Geek Prom is tonight! Hosted at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., Geek Prom features music, dancing, and "some sort of contest based on physical appearance, but we promise that it won't be excruciating or embarrassing!" Plus a show of DIY gadgets and hacks from hosts Pumping Station: One. Tickets are $15 for couples, $10 for singles.
Little Dead Riding Hood @ Athenaeum Theatre
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
Old Town Art Fair @ Old Town Triangle
Check out one of the oldest juried art fairs in the country this weekend as the Old Town Art Fair celebrates 60 years. This year the fair will feature 260 exhibitors, entertainment, food, children's activities and a self-guided garden tour. Suggested donation is $7 -- children 12 and under are free. The fair is located at 1763 N. North Park and is open from 10am-6pm today and tomorrow.
Little Dead Riding Hood @ Athenaeum Theatre
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8pm, the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
The Art of Preservation Benefit
Preservation Chicago's spring fundraiser, "The Art of Preservation," takes place from 5:30 to 8:30pm tonight at 1835 S. Halsted Street in the Pilsen art district. Drinks and food from Pilsen restaurants will be provided, along with music by local Latin band Son Del Viento. Tickets are available for $25 in advance from http://www.preservationchicago.org or $30 at the door. Call (773) 334-8800 or email info@preservationchicago.org for more information.
Wait Wait...Don't Tell Me! Live @ Millennium Park
NPR's "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!" airs live from Millennium Park. This is the third time that "Wait Wait" has broadcasted live from this open-air venue. Tickets are free. Tonight at 6:30pm. 201 E. Randolph St. Call (312) 948-4600 for more information.
The Kriti Festival
DesiLit hosts the Kriti Festival, a biennial celebration of South Asian and diasporic literature and arts. Starting this evening and running through June 14, the fest features readings, workshops, panels, and performances from a variety of South Asian and diaspora novelists, poets, actors, literary agents, and editors. Guests of honor at this year's fest include the award-winning authors Romesh Gunesekera, Amitava Kumar, and Bapsi Sidhwa. The Kriti Fest will be held at the University of Illinois at Chicago and Roosevelt University. To register and to view a complete schedule of participants and events, visit the festival website or email info@desilit.org. You may also call (312) 846-6878.
The Kriti Festival / June 11-14 / UIC and Roosevelt University
Little Dead Riding Hood @ Athenaeum Theatre
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Today at 3:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
Printers Row Lit Fest
The Printers Row Lit Fest returns to celebrate "25 Years of the Book Fair and More." This year, featured authors will include Lynda Barry, Joe Meno, Haki Madhubuti, Harvey Pekar, Dave Eggers, Elizabeth Strout and many more, with exhibitions from as many local booksellers as you can count. It is a must-attend event for any book lover in Chicago. Admission to the Lit Fest is free, however specific events may charge an admission fee. 10am-6pm, various locations. Be sure to check the site for a schedule of events for both today and Sunday.
Twitter Island
Today from 1pm to 3pm at Chicago Art Department, 1837 S. Halsted, artists Lauri Apple and Seth Gershberg present "
Little Dead Riding Hood @ Athenaeum Theatre
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
US Air Guitar Chicago Regional @ Metro
The US Air Guitar Championships hit the Metro, 3730 N. Clark St., tonight for the Chicago regional competition. Come see who rocks the air guitar better than the rest -- or sign up and show off your own skills. Tickets are $15. 18 and over.
Little Dead Riding Hood @ Athenaeum Theatre
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
A Son at the Front @ Athenaeum Theater
Everybody knows what war destroys, but who asks what war creates? That's the question in A Son at the Front by playwright and Loyola University professor Allen J. Frantzen, a new play and musical adventure based on Edith Wharton's novel about World War I. 8pm, 2936 North Southport Ave. Tickets $20. Runs through the weekend.
Sam Shoots @ The Family Room
In honor of his 24th birthday, Post Family member Sam Rosen has hung a thousand of his own pictures in the Family Room gallery space, 1821 W. Hubbard #202, tonight from 6pm to midnight. The photos are available for purchase right off the wall, and as they're purchased they reveal a solid square of pigment -- the average color of each corresponding photo, determined by a computer algorithm -- creating a secondary image that evolves throughout the night. There's also food and beverages, live music and DJs, and a photo booth. Free. More info here
Little Dead Riding Hood @ Athenaeum Theatre
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Today at 3:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
Split Pillow's Chicago360 @ Hideout
Split Pillow will premiere its fourth annual Chicago360 documentary series. The Chicago-centric documentary brings together five filmmakers to interpret this year's theme of "PLAY": a unique glimpse into how some Chicagoans choose to spend their time while they're off the clock.
The Hideout @ 4pm.; 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. Tickets: $7 (www.splitpillow.com)
Little Dead Riding Hood @ Athenaeum Theatre
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
Split Pillow's Chicago360 @ Viaduct
Split Pillow will premiere its fourth annual Chicago360 documentary series. The Chicago-centric documentary brings together five filmmakers to interpret this year's theme of "PLAY": a unique glimpse into how some Chicagoans choose to spend their time while they're off the clock.
Viaduct Theater @ 7pm; 3111 N. Western Ave. Tickets: $7 (www.splitpillow.com)
Additional screening will be held at the Hideout (4pm Sunday, May 31) Visit www.splitpillow.com for info.
A Fairyland of Violence @ DePaul
Heartland Alliance and DePaul University present A Fairyland of Violence: Stories of Violence Through the Eyes of Refugee Youth, a documentary about the experiences of refugees fleeing violence in their home countries, only to find violence in their new homes in America. The film will be screened this evening at DePaul's Monroe Hall at 2312 N. Clifton. There will be an opening reception before the film, and a panel discussion with the filmmakers afterward. The evening runs from 6 to 8pm. For more information please contact Lea Tienou at (312) 296-0199.
Little Dead Riding Hood @ Athenaeum Theatre
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8pm, the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
The Point Magazine Release Party
The Point Magazine, a new literary journal, celebrates the release of its first issue tonight at the Smart Museum, 5550 S. Greenwood Ave., from 5:30pm to 8:30pm. Pick up a copy of the first issue and enjoy fine wine and gourmet cupcakes.
The Parlor's 2nd Annual Emerging Writer's Festival
Coincident with the Pilcrow Lit Fest, The Parlor's 2nd Annual Emerging Writer's Festival features readings by upcoming authors Sarah Terez Rosenblum, Jeanie Chung, Peter Anderson and more. Free! BBQ afterwards. Green Lantern Gallery, 1151 N. Milwaukee Avenue. 4pm on.
Pilcrow Lit Fest
Pilcrow Lit Fest brings authors, writers, poets, librarians, booksellers, and publishers from around the country together in support of small presses and independent media through small workshops, panel discussions, lectures and author readings in Chicago at Trader Todd's, 3216 N. Sheffield, and Matilda's, 3101 N. Sheffield. Today, discussion panels & workshops from 10am-5:45pm, and The One-Two Punch: Literary Death Match & Rebuilt Books Auction(Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave).
Fieldtrips Dance Performance Marathon @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
The Field Chicago and Chicago Moving Co. present the 14th annual Fieldtrips Performance Marathon. There are so many small or medium-sized dance companies in Chicago, and The Field has brought a bunch of them together for your viewing pleasure. Tonight, come check out performances by GI Alliance, Innervation Dance Cooperative, Mary Sue Miller, Prairieland Movement Project, and Marianne Schaefer/Gillian Holoroyd -- you just might find your new favorite Chicago dance company to follow!
7:30 at the Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Tickets are $15. For info and reservations, call 804.873.1018.
Secret Handshakes @ Rotofugi
New works by Brian Morris and Mitch O'Connell, tonight, from 7pm-10pm. Music by DJ Unicorn. Runs until June 7th.
Fieldtrips Dance Performance Marathon @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
The Field Chicago and Chicago Moving Co. present the 14th annual Fieldtrips Performance Marathon tonight and tomorrow night. Tonight, come check out performances by Antibody Dance, Karla Beltchenko, Dim Sum Dance, Molly Jaeger, Kris Larsen & Leslie Stevenson, Solo Movement Collective, and Jessica Wright. Tomorrow there's a whole new batch of companies to sample. You just might find your new favorite Chicago dance company to follow!
7:30pm at the Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Tickets are $15. For info and reservations, call (804) 873-1018.
Found Magazine's Denim & Diamonds Tour
Found Magazine's Davy and Peter Rothbart will be joined by sword swallower Brett Loudermilk, NYC's Story Pirates, The Watson Twins and other special guests for a reading in support of Requiem for a Paper Bag, a collection of stories about lost and found items from around the world, tonight at 8pm at the Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway. Tickets are $20, 21 and over.
"Indispensable Pests: Media in Democracy"
Former Chicago Tribune Editorial Page Editor Don Wycliff gives a lecture titled "Indispensable Pests: Media in Democracy" as part of East-West University's "East-West Perspectives" lecture series tonight in the Fourth Floor Auditorium at 816 S. Michigan Ave. There's a reception at 6:30pm; the lecture begins at 7pm. Free.
Split Pillow's Chicago360 @ Music Box
Split Pillow will premiere its fourth annual Chicago360 documentary series. The Chicago-centric documentary brings together five filmmakers to interpret this year's theme of "PLAY": a unique glimpse into how some Chicagoans choose to spend their time while they're off the clock.
Music Box Theater @ 7:30pm; 3733 N. Southport Ave. Tickets: $9.25 (Available at the door only)
Additional screenings will be held at the Viaduct (7pm Saturday, May 30) and at the Hideout (4pm Sunday, May 31) Visit www.splitpillow.com for info.
Manifest Urban Arts Festival
Columbia College's Manifest Urban Arts Festival fills the day with fun activities today. Performance art is, er, performed in various places from 11am to 7pm. Art cars line up at 640 S. Wabash from 11am till 9pm, while an exhibition of auto-inspired art is on display in the parking lot at Wabash and 9th Street from 4 to 7pm. An artwalk runs from 4 to 7pm, student work showcases run throughout the day and the school's galleries are all open from 11am to 9pm. Mucca Pazza leads a march at noon, and the big Spectacle Fortuna Parade of Creativity kicks off at Harrison and Wabash at 6:45pm. Plus all sorts of music throughout the day and night. All free! Check the site for details.
Sweater Workshop @ Loopy Yarns
Every Monday 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m at Loopy Yarns located at 47 West Polk Street. Call 312/583-YARN (9276) for more details.
This great yarn shop has all of the luxury of a knitting boutique with the friendliness of the "Cheers" bar. Their weekly Monday Workshop is perfect for sweater knitters to gather, to get the help & guidance and the support you need through your project. Just come to work on your sweater or feel free to bring any questions or slip ups that you just can't quite figure out.
STATIC: A headphones tour
Everybody loves a good ghost story, and STATIC: A Headphones Tour follows the mystery behind Walter and Millie Burke, an eccentric couple that lived on the outskirts of town. Years later, Will and Margaret have found a cardboard box full of cassette tapes of Walter's daily recordings. The young couple follows a strange path to the Burke's mysterious home, documenting as they go. Sorting the truth from fiction, the audience moves through the rooms of the Burkes house with Will and Margaret as guides.
This show combines theater with art installation in an audio format similar to the headset tours found in museums. The audience experiences the story listening to headphones and moving through the space, interacting with artifacts and each other.
Tours start every fifteen minutes beginning at 7pm, North Lakeside Cultural Center, 6219 N. Sheridan Road.
More info: http://sansculottes.org/
Schadenfreude Rent Party
Sketch comedy troupe Schadenfreude hosts the last of their "Rent Party" variety shows tonight at the Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley, at 9pm. Guests include Joe Canale, Susan Messing, Mike and Duane, Jamie Buel and
32nd Ward Alderman Scott Waguespack. $10 at the door, free food and drink specials. 21+
STATIC: A headphones tour
Everybody loves a good ghost story, and STATIC: A Headphones Tour follows the mystery behind Walter and Millie Burke, an eccentric couple that lived on the outskirts of town. Years later, Will and Margaret have found a cardboard box full of cassette tapes of Walter's daily recordings. The young couple follows a strange path to the Burke's mysterious home, documenting as they go. Sorting the truth from fiction, the audience moves through the rooms of the Burkes house with Will and Margaret as guides.
This show combines theater with art installation in an audio format similar to the headset tours found in museums. The audience experiences the story listening to headphones and moving through the space, interacting with artifacts and each other.
Tours start every fifteen minutes beginning at 7pm, North Lakeside Cultural Center, 6219 N. Sheridan Road.
More info: http://sansculottes.org/
The Encyclopedia Show: Vice Presidents
Young Chicago Authors presents The Encyclopedia Show, at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division, tonight at 7pm. Artists, performers and writers share works relating to theme "Vice Presidents," including Aaron Enskat; Naomi Ashley; Ryan Heneberry; Mary Fon; Lindsay Muscato; Jasmine Houston-Burns; Marty McConnell and Andi Strickland; Sarah Becan; Dan "Sully" Sullivan; Greg Pickett; Sarah Winters, Alice Thatcher and Raina Sun; Ashley Hart; Kurt Heinz; Tim Stafford; Joel Chmara; Evan Chung and Jilted Emily Rose. Tickets are $5 at the door. All ages.
Sweater Workshop @ Loopy Yarns
Every Monday 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m at Loopy Yarns.
This great yarn shop has all of the luxury of a knitting boutique with the friendliness of the "Cheers" bar. Their weekly Monday Workshop is perfect for sweater knitters to gather, to get the help & guidance and the support you need through your project. Just come to work on your sweater or feel free to bring any questions or slip ups that you just can't quite figure out.
The Books @ MCA
Experimental folktronica duo The Books perform tonight at the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Avenue, at 6pm. The performance includes a pre-concert talk with members Nick Zammuto and Paul de Jong. Tickets are $20, available online. Call 312-280-2660 for more information.
Mortified! @ Beat Kitchen
Mortified puts embarrassing stories of teen angst onstage for all to see, tonight at the Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont, at 7:30pm. The Blue Ribbon Glee Club will help soften the blow. Tickets are $10 advance, $15 at the door. 21+
Innervation Dance Cooperative Fundraiser @ Durkin's
If you're going out tonight, you might as well support the arts while you drink! Innervation Dance Cooperative, a Chicago-based multi-disciplinary dance company, is raising funds for the June 18-21 performance of their Classic Rock Ballet Everyman. For $20, you get three hours of open bar, a chance to win raffle prizes, the opportunity to mingle with the fun and lovely dancers of IDC, and that warm-fuzzy feeling of supporting local artists. All of this at Durkin's, 810 W. Diversey at Halsted, from 8pm to 11pm Just say "Innervation" at the door.
Free Fender Electric Guitar Bench Check @ Old Town
Bring in $5- $10 worth of canned food for the Greater Chicago Food Depository to the Old Town School of Music Store, and get a free basic setup on your electric guitar. From 11am-5pm, Jack Schwarz, Fender's Vice President of Global Customer Service, will be performing electric guitar bench checks, including a new set of Fender guitar strings, action, neck, bridge and pickup adjustment and an intonation check. All brands of six-string electric guitar are welcome; one guitar per customer. Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 N Lincoln Ave, (773) 728.6000
AREA Chicago Release Party
AREA Chicago celebrates its eighth issue, "Everybody's Got Money Issues," with a release party tonight at St. Paul's Cultural Center, 2215 W. North Ave., from 7:30pm to 11:30pm. DJs Dan and Jay spin, issue contributors read, and the Reading Band perform. There will also be a fair-trade bazaar featuring products from Resistance Coffee, Maya Essence, Mark Shipley, AREA Chicago, JustSeeds, TWINE NFP and others.
Common Nonsense @ Rotofugi
New works by master of surreal beauties Ken Keirns and wood, vinyl, and now resin toy artist Scott Tolleson. 1955 W. Chicago Ave, 7-10pm. Music by DJ Qbot. Soda and snacks will be served. Exhibit continues through 5/17.
The Interview Show
Mark Bazer's The Interview Show returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm. This month Bazer interviews Nate Berkus, design expert on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" and head of Nate Berkus Associates; Joe Meno, author of the forthcoming novel The Great Perhaps; and Gina Bazer, Renanah Lehner and Andrew Day, authors and illustrator of the children's book Now Hiring: White House Dog. The show will also include short films by Steve Delahoyde and music by Horse in the Sea. Doors open at 6; admission is $5. 21+
Cinco de Mayo Festival
This celebration of Hispanic culture in the Lawndale neighborhood lasts today through Sunday and features live music, food vendors, carnival rides and a parade (noon on Sunday). 1401 S. Sacramento Drive, 3-10pm. For more information call (773) 762-2842 .
Lunch Hour Talk @ Smart Museum of Art
The Smart Museum of Art (5550 South Greenwood Ave.) presents a lunch-hour talk today at noon. "Artistic Evidence: Data or Dust?" investigates whether collecting periphery objects and source materials related to Chicago artists Roger Brown and H.C. Westermann are worthwhile. The talk is free, advance registration is required. Box lunches may be ordered in advance ($10/$8 Museum members). To register, contact Kristy Peterson at 773-702-2351. More information is available online.
Chicago Reader Book Swap
The annual Chicago Reader Book Swap takes place at Bottom Lounge, 1375 W. Lake St., tonight from 6pm to 9pm. Bring up to 15 gently used books and swap them for other used books. The bar will be featuring a new "Bookworm" cocktail, and there will be free Chicago Public Library tote bag for the first 100 swappers. Steppenwolf tickets and other prizes will be given away throughout the evening. More details here. Free, 21+
Sweater Workshop @ Loopy Yarns
Every Monday 6:30-8:30pm at Loopy Yarns (47 West Polk Street).
This great yarn shop has all of the luxury of a knitting boutique with the friendliness of the "Cheers" bar. Their weekly Monday Workshop is perfect for sweater knitters to gather, to get the help & guidance and the support you need through your project. Just come to work on your sweater or feel free to bring any questions or slip ups that you just can't quite figure out.
Anarchist Film Festival
The Chicago Anarchist Film Festival runs Friday through Sunday at the Jane Addams Hull House Museum, 800 S. Halsted St. Tonight the screenings run from 7pm to 10pm, showing Boom or Bust, Get Rid of Yourself, Infiltrating the Underground and Infest Wisely. A donation of $5-10 per festival day is requested, but come on, they're anarchists -- you won't be turned away if you don't have any cash.
Anarchist Film Festival
The Chicago Anarchist Film Festival runs Friday through Sunday at the Jane Addams Hull House Museum, 800 S. Halsted St. Tonight the screenings run from 7pm to 10pm, showing Tierra Libertad and Capitalismo; Oilers; Love Revolution, Not State Delusion, Homotopia; Black Iron Vatican II; Ethel MacDonald: An Anarchist's Story and Enraged. A donation of $5-10 per festival day is requested, but come on, they're anarchists -- you won't be turned away if you don't have any cash.
Zombie Pub Crawl
The Chicago Zombie Pub Crawl returns to Andersonville today. Get ghouled up and go drinking! Registration is $15 in advance, $20 at the event -- which gets you a t-shirt, a zombie makeup kit, two tickets to any pH Productions show, and keepsake mug that you will need to take to all the bars. It doesn't get you free drinks, but the mug will get you access to drink specials. Registration begins at 2pm; check the site for details. 21+
SAIC Fashion Show 2009
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago will celebrate the 75th anniversary of its annual Fashion Show tonight. Over 200 innovative garments will be showcased during this multimedia celebration of creative clothing and contemporary art, which will also feature specially commissioned works by students and faculty from the School's Performance department. Tickets $75 through the Art Institute ticket office, on sale March 23. 36 S. Wabash Ave., 7pm. For more information, call (312)-899-5168 or go here.
Anarchist Film Festival
The Chicago Anarchist Film Festival runs Friday through Sunday at the Jane Addams Hull House Museum, 800 S. Halsted St. Tonight the screenings run from 7pm to 10pm, showing Tottenham Outrage, On Media Reality, Prisão, Shutdown: The Rise & Fall of Direct Action to Stop the War and On the Verge: The Smash EDO Campaign. A donation of $5-10 per festival day is requested, but come on, they're anarchists -- you won't be turned away if you don't have any cash.
Schadenfreude Rent Party
Schadenfreude continues its Rent Party series tonight at 9pm at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley. Eric Zorn will be there as a contestant on the Judy Baar Topinka Dating Game, and Ken Barnard, Lola Balatro and Seith Weitberg also perform. $10 at the door. 21+
The Breast Show Ever
Tonight at 8pm at the Subterranean, 2011 W. North Ave., Girlie-Q Productions presents The Breast Show Ever, a "boobies for boobies" burlesque fundraiser for the Lesbian Community Care Project and Be Bright Pink. Hosted by Ms. Bea Haven, the show features Cruel Valentine, Dizzy Lizzy Delicious, Ezra Poundable, Ms. Leslie Lee, Lula Houp- Garou, Maiden Sacrifice, Plucky Rosenthal, Salome Slaughter, Sauda Namir and Siren Jinx. Admission is $10, and includes a swag bags to take home. 21+
Sweater Workshop @ Loopy Yarns
Every Monday 6:30pm to 8:30pm at Loopy Yarns.
This great yarn shop has all of the luxury of a knitting boutique with the friendliness of the "Cheers" bar. Their weekly Monday Workshop is perfect for sweater knitters to gather, to get the help & guidance and the support you need through your project. Just come to work on your sweater or feel free to bring any questions or slip ups that you just can't quite figure out.
Post-it Note Reading Series
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, hosts the Post-it Note Reading Series tonight at 8pm, featuring featuring animator/illustrator Arthur Jones, This American Life contributors Starlee Kine and David Wilcox and artist Derek Erdman. Tickets are $8 at the door or in advance; doors open at 7pm. 21+
Handmade Nation Screening @ Film Row Cinema
As part of a series of workshops and screenings, IFP/Chicago presents a screening of the documentary Handmade Nation, which features interviews with a lot of local crafters. The film screens this evening at 6pm at Film Row Cinema (1104 S. Wabash, 8th floor). Tickets are available through the IFP/Chicago Website.
The Guerrilla Girls @ International House
The Guerrilla Girls use facts, humor and visuals to "expose sexism, racism and corruption in politics art, film and pop culture. A founding member will talk about their work, their philosophy of activism and their campaign against the appalling lack of ethics in the art world." Assembly Hall, International House, 1414 East 59th Street. Doors open at 6:30pm, show at 7:00pm. Free.
"Inside Out" Exhibition @ National Public Housing Museum
"Inside Out" is a one-night exhibition of audio and visual installations in the future home of the National Public Housing Museum, the former Jane Addams Homes, 1322-24 West Taylor Street. Set in the former residential units, interviews with public housing residents will be paired with photographs by Jack Bridges, John Brooks, Patricia Evans, Scott Fortino, Bridget Montgomery, Bob Natkin, Jason Reblando and David Schalliol. The event includes a reception and is free. It will run from 6pm-10pm. For more information call: (312) 446-2034.
Schadenfreude Rent Party
The Schadenfreude Rent Party returns to the Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley, tonight with new material and special guests. This week, the best and brightest underground comedians celebrate Schadenfreuder Sandy Marshall's 35th birthday. Guests/acts include The Public Service Administration, RedEye's Mark Bazer, comedian Ken Barnard, Bertha Mason and beatbox sensation Yuri Lane. Also a special appearance by the Walter E. Smithe Brothers. Doors open at 8pm, show at 9pm. $10 admission. 21+
Ravinia Tickets on Sale
Ravnia lawn and pavillion tickets are available online only starting today. Big screen projections of the show will be added to the Pavillion this year and featured on the lawn for selected dates as well. Ravinia Festival. 200 Ravinia Park Rd. Highland Park, IL.
Off the Cuff Screening
Off the Cuff, a mockumentary about the CUFF improv festival, screens tonight Sonotheque, 1444 W. Chicago, as part of a program of locally produced indie films. Doors open at 6pm, the shorts Mandrake and They Can Sleep screen at 7pm and Off the Cuff starts at 7:30pm. Admission is $12; more info here.
Sweater Workshop @ Loopy Yarns
Every Monday 6:30pm to 8:30pm at Loopy Yarns.
This great yarn shop has all of the luxury of a knitting boutique with the friendliness of the "Cheers" bar. Their weekly Monday Workshop is perfect for sweater knitters to gather, to get the help & guidance and the support you need through your project. Just come to work on your sweater or feel free to bring any questions or slip ups that you just can't quite figure out.
Ottoman Empire Dining Culture @ Chicago History Museum
Learn more about how the Turks ate today at the Chicago History Museum, 1600 North Clark, from 10am-12pm. Historian Channon Mondoux will be at the helm, relating recipes, customs, and a narrative of a simulated dinner. Yum. Event organized by Culinary Historians of Chicago. Admission $3-5. RSVP required. ChicaGourmets will host a post-lecture lunch at Roscoe Village's Turquoise (cost $42-52).
Schadenfreude Rent Party
Sketch comedy troupe Schadenfreude returns to the backroom of the Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley, for the first of its annual Rent Party shows.
The show features new Schadenfreude material and special guests Robert
Buscemi, The Lakewood
Manor Players, the world premiere of "Judge Doody" from Blewt and sketch comedy team Gay Co. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 9pm, and admission is $10.
Flower Parade: New Works by Jeremiah Ketner & Julie West @ Rotofugi
Chicago painter Jeremiah Ketner with UK-based Julie West for what is sure to be a fantastic show at Rotofugi, 1953 W Chicago Ave, 7-10pm. Free, and there will probably be snack cakes.
Final Performance! Livewire Theatre's "Wonder of the World" @ The Side Project
Livewire Theatre performs its Jeff Recommended version of Wonder of the World by David Linsday Abaire.
From The Onion: "The story follows thirtysomething Cass as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery after making a shocking discovery in her husband's sweater drawer. She ends up in Niagara Falls, and the zany events that follow include encounters with bickering detectives, a suicidal alcoholic, a lonely tourboat captain, and an enormous jar of peanut butter."
From metromix.com: "...this show is hilarious! Laugh out loud, things should be coming out of your nose funny."
The Side Project Theatre
1439 W Jarvis
3pm & 7pm
$15
Cut&Paste Digital Design Tournament
This year's competition brings both 3D and motion-design categories into play. More details here. 7pm, Congress Theatre (2135 N Milwaukee Ave). Tickets $20/$15 in advance. (312)-458-9668.
Interview Show @ The Hideout
Mark Bazer's monthly Interview Show runs tonight at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Guests this month are Anthony Moseley, executive artistic director of Collaboraction; Tito Beveridge, founder of Tito's Handmade Vodka; Anni Rossi, singer-songwriter; and Mark Caro, Chicago Tribune entertainment reporter and author of The Foie Gras Wars. $5 cover, 21 and over.
Livewire Theatre's "Wonder of the World" @ The Side Project 8pm
Livewire Theatre performs its Jeff Recommended version of Wonder of the World by David Linsday Abaire.
From The Onion: "The story follows thirtysomething Cass as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery after making a shocking discovery in her husband's sweater drawer. She ends up in Niagara Falls, and the zany events that follow include encounters with bickering detectives, a suicidal alcoholic, a lonely tourboat captain, and an enormous jar of peanut butter."
From metromix.com: "...this show is hilarious! Laugh out loud, things should be coming out of your nose funny."
The Side Project Theatre
1439 W Jarvis
8pm
$15
The One-Man Musical @ iO
Blaine Swen performs his fully-improvised one-man musical at 8:00 pm at iO (3541 N. Clark).
An Evening with Jay Ryan
Join Chicago-area concert poster maker Jay Ryan as he discusses his computer-free design work, hands-on printing process and some of his favorite prints made during the last 13 years. As this discussion takes place on the first of April, Jay may simply show slides of rabbits and/or fish which he has seen in various public parks. 6:30pm, The Parthenon Restaurant, 314 South Halsted Street. Sponsored by The Society of Typographic Arts. Tickets $25 for STA members, $10 for students, $35 for non-members. To register go here or e-mail jw@jackweissassociates.com.
Film Boot Camp @ Chicago Photography Center
Join this beginner's course in film -- actual film! -- photography at the Chicago Photography Center, 3301 N. Lincoln. No previous experience, or even a camera, is required. The class runs from 9am-5pm and costs $225. Register online or call 773-549-1631.
Margin Detail: A Doodle Party
Come join art and design collective The Post Family at The Family Room today as they celebrating the launch of Margin Detail, collection of unrefined doodles by working illustrators and designers. This will be a doodle party, drawing trade, zine jammin' good time. 6-10pm, The Family Room (1821 W. Hubbard St. #202).
Chicago Neighborhood Tours: The White City
Get a dose of what made the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition so spectacular on the Chicago Neighborhood Tours "White City" tour. The day starts at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington, at 10am with a slide presentation and discussion, then continues to Jackson Park, Midway Plaisance and Osaka Garden, concluding at the Chicago History Museum where the elevated train that transported fairgoers to the exposition is displayed. Tickets are $50, $45 for students and seniors, and are not available online for this tour. You must call 312-742-1190 to book seats.
Taste of the Neighborhoods Tour
Travel Chicago and savor cuisines from two different restaurants serving assorted small-plate samplers. Taste the nuances; talk exotic ingredients, techniques and cultures; and collect recipes. Dessert or sweets on the last stop are the cherry on top. Restaurants are determined three weeks before tour dates -- call for details and to check availability as seats go quickly on this, the most popular of the Chicago Neighborhood Tours. The tour is about five hours long and departs from the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington, at 10am. Tickets are $50; Seniors, students and children ages 8-18 are $45. Available online. Call 312-742-1190 for more information.
Do It Your Own D*mn Self Show
The Chicago Craft Mafia and more than 30 Friends of the Family are gathering up all their unwanted tools, books, jewelry-making supplies, fabric, soap-making supplies, paper goods, glues, notions, yarn, wire, and so much more and making it available at really reasonable prices to tempt other people to get their craft on their own damned selves. So head on over to Pulaski Park Fieldhouse (1419 W. Blackhawk, three blocks northeast of the Milwauke/Division/Ashland intersection) from 12pm to 4pm to pick up some great products at some amazing deals.
Third Coast Filmless Festival
Chicago Public Radio and The Third Coast Festival present the Third Coast Filmless Festival, an afternoon full of audio documentaries and story-telling from around the world. The festival happens at the Chicago Center for the Performing Arts (777 N. Green Street), and will also feature audio installations, workshops, and other surprises. Doors open at 11am, and the festival runs from noon to 6pm. See the Chicago Public Radio Website for full details and to purchase festival tickets and passes.
Boombox Closing Reception @ Heaven Gallery
Boombox, a show of music-related poster, silkscreen and letterpress art, holds a closing reception at Heaven Gallery, 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight from 7pm to 11pm.
Livewire Theatre's "Wonder of the World" @ The Side Project 8pm
Livewire Theatre performs its Jeff Recommended version of Wonder of the World by David Linsday Abaire.
From The Onion: "The story follows thirtysomething Cass as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery after making a shocking discovery in her husband's sweater drawer. She ends up in Niagara Falls, and the zany events that follow include encounters with bickering detectives, a suicidal alcoholic, a lonely tourboat captain, and an enormous jar of peanut butter."
From metromix.com: "...this show is hilarious! Laugh out loud, things should be coming out of your nose funny."
The Side Project Theatre
1439 W Jarvis
8pm
$15
Holle Cambodia Talk @ ThreeWalls
Anne Elizabeth Moore discusses the exhibition Holle Cambodia at ThreeWalls Gallery, 119 N. Peoria #2d, from 6pm to 8pm tonight. The exhibition features seven zines and comics handmade by young Cambodian women with little other access to mediums of self-expression, as well as the collaborative book New Girl Law, a demand for gender equality and human rights co-created by Moore and 32 residents of a unique all-girls university dormitory. Moore will explain how the publicaitons were created and about the barriers in Cambodia and the US to letting you see them.
Live at Maxim's with Rick Kogan: Dennis DeYoung
Journalist Rick Kogan interviews musician Dennis DeYoung about Styx and his recent work in musical theater Live at Maxim's, the Nancy Goldberg International Center, 24 E. Goethe St. There's a reception at 6pm; the show starts at 6:30. Tickets are $25: call 312-742-8497 or visit dcatheater.org to order.
Aria @ Center on Halsted
Aria, an all female subdivision of Chicago's Windy City Gay Chorus, presents its first concert of the season in honor of Women's History Month. 3pm.
Center on Halsted
3rd floor Auditorium
3656 N Halsted
Tickets $15, $10 if senior or student, RSVP to: tballentine@centeronhalsted.org or call (773) 472-6469 X 245.
Livewire Theatre's "Wonder of the World" @ The Side Project 3pm & 7pm
Livewire Theatre's Jeff Recommended production runs through April 5th.
A twisted and kooky comedy of the best kind: one with heart. "Wonder of the World" is a meditation on relationships in all their many forms, Lindsay-Abaire takes one woman's life crisis, throws her and a cast of one-of-kind characters into a barrel and has them ride on the waterfall's edge of insanity and self discovery.
Th-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm & 7pm
The Side Project
1439 W Jarvis
$15 tickets available here
Polish Triangle Open House
The Wicker Park Bucktown SSA hosts the second day of an open house for the community to share suggestions for the future of the Polish Triangle. You'll find a photo suggestion booth, a gallery of possible designs, a small history exhibit, a survey of the area, an interactive map, and suggestion boxes for transportation, seating, comfort, safety, and access. 10am to 4pm, 1275 N. Milwaukee (between Ashland and Paulina).
Equinoccio de Primavera
Site of Big Shoulders presents an exhibition of art by Q: Cleveland Dean and Jordan Gilchrist at the Space of Big Shoulders, 1543 N. Milwaukee Ave. The gallery exhibition is open today from 2pm to 6pm, followed by a reception from 7pm to 11pm featuring refreshments by Wicker Park Libations, music by DJ Bigshoulders and a silent auction. More info here.
Livewire Theatre's "Wonder of the World" @ The Side Project 8pm
Livewire Theatre's Jeff Recommended production runs through April 5th.
A twisted and kooky comedy of the best kind: one with heart. "Wonder of the World" is a meditation on relationships in all their many forms, Lindsay-Abaire takes one woman's life crisis, throws her and a cast of one-of-kind characters into a barrel and has them ride on the waterfall's edge of insanity and self discovery.
Th-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm & 7pm
The Side Project
1439 W Jarvis
$15 tickets available here
An Appetizing Reading Series @ The Book Cellar Sat 4pm
Appetite Theatre and The Book Cellar Present a FREE reading of the play Manuscript by Paul Grellongthis Saturday at 4PM!
Come early to browse the books, get a glass of wine, and settle in for a FREE sit-down reading series featuring some of Chicago's hottest emerging talent.
Manuscript: In the bedroom of a Brooklyn Heights brownstone, three ambitious college freshmen confront the discovery of an unpublished manuscript that can guarantee success. As the bright young things scrap over what to do with the manuscript, their plotting turns hilarious ...
The Book Cellar in Lincoln Square
4736 N Lincoln Ave
Polish Triangle Open House
The Wicker Park Bucktown SSA hosts an open house today for the community to share suggestions for the future of the Polish Triangle. You'll find a photo suggestion booth, a gallery of possible designs, a small history exhibit, a survey of the area, an interactive map, and suggestion boxes for transportation, seating, comfort, safety, and access. 10 am to 4 pm 1275 N. Milwaukee (between Ashland and Paulina).
Livewire Theatre's "Wonder of the World" @ The Side Project 8pm
Livewire Theatre's Jeff Recommended production runs through April 5th.
A twisted and kooky comedy of the best kind: one with heart. "Wonder of the World" is a meditation on relationships in all their many forms, Lindsay-Abaire takes one woman's life crisis, throws her and a cast of one-of-kind characters into a barrel and has them ride on the waterfall's edge of insanity and self discovery.
Th-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm & 7pm
The Side Project
1439 W Jarvis
$15 tickets available here
Chicago Flower & Garden Show @ Navy Pier
Today is the last day of this week-long exhibition, designed to help "aspiring gardeners take it up a notch," includes workshops on container gardening, a marketplace selling garden and green-related products, "garden gourmet" showcasing the culinary talents of both local and national chefs, and a horticulture competition. Hours are 10am-6pm at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., in Festival Halls A and B. Admission today is $14. Visit the official website for more information or call Navy Pier at 312-595-5282.
Dyeing of the Chicago River/Downtown St Patrick's Day Parade
This Chicago St. Patrick's Day tradition, this "modern miracle" can be viewed from tthe East side of the bridge at Columbus Drive or upper and lower Wacker Drive between Columbus and Lake Shore Drive. 10:45am. Free.
After you've see the dye wreak an Irish havoc on our river, take in the Downtown St Patrick's Day Parade, which will kick off at noon at Balbo Drive.
Chicago Flower & Garden Show @ Navy Pier
This week-long exhibition, designed to help "aspiring gardeners take it up a notch," includes workshops on container gardening, a marketplace selling garden and green-related products, "garden gourmet" showcasing the culinary talents of both local and national chefs, and a horticulture competition. Hours are 10am-8pm (6pm on Sunday) at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., in Festival Halls A and B. Admission is $14 on weekends, $12 on weekdays. Visit the official website for more information or call Navy Pier at 312-595-5282.
Michel Gondry @ Quimby's canceled
Screenwriter and filmmaker Michel Gondry was supposed to do a book signing at Quimby's this evening, but this event has been canceled. Drat!
Chicago Flower & Garden Show @ Navy Pier
This week-long exhibition, designed to help "aspiring gardeners take it up a notch," includes workshops on container gardening, a marketplace selling garden and green-related products, "garden gourmet" showcasing the culinary talents of both local and national chefs, and a horticulture competition. Hours are 10am-8pm (6pm on Sunday) at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., in Festival Halls A and B. Admission is $14 on weekends, $12 on weekdays. Visit the official website for more information or call Navy Pier at 312-595-5282.
Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays
Every second Friday of the month the more than 100 artists and 35 galleries of the Chicago Arts District (formerly known as Pilsen East) open their doors to the public to showcase work from Chicago and beyond. Many of the Pilsen neighborhood galleries are artist-owned, so Gallery Night is an excellent opportunity to get information about the works from their source. The reception takes places from 6-10pm and the event is free. Maps and information available at 1821 S. Halsted on the night of the event. Call (312) 377-4444 or visit the Chicago Arts District website for more information.
Chicago Flower & Garden Show @ Navy Pier
This week-long exhibition, designed to help "aspiring gardeners take it up a notch," includes workshops on container gardening, a marketplace selling garden and green-related products, "garden gourmet" showcasing the culinary talents of both local and national chefs, and a horticulture competition. Hours are 10am-8pm (6pm on Sunday) at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., in Festival Halls A and B. Admission is $14 on weekends, $12 on weekdays. Visit the official website for more information or call Navy Pier at 312-595-5282.
Chicago Flower & Garden Show @ Navy Pier
This week-long exhibition, designed to help "aspiring gardeners take it up a notch," includes workshops on container gardening, a marketplace selling garden and green-related products, "garden gourmet" showcasing the culinary talents of both local and national chefs, and a horticulture competition. Hours are 10am-8pm (6pm on Sunday) at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., in Festival Halls A and B. Admission is $14 on weekends, $12 on weekdays. Visit the official website for more information or call Navy Pier at 312-595-5282.
Chicago Flower & Garden Show @ Navy Pier
This week-long exhibition, designed to help "aspiring gardeners take it up a notch," includes workshops on container gardening, a marketplace selling garden and green-related products, "garden gourmet" showcasing the culinary talents of both local and national chefs, and a horticulture competition. Hours are 10am-8pm at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., in Festival Halls A and B. Admission is $12. Visit the official website for more information or call Navy Pier at 312-595-5282.
Chicago Flower & Garden Show @ Navy Pier
This week-long exhibition, designed to help "aspiring gardeners take it up a notch," includes workshops on container gardening, a marketplace selling garden and green-related products, "garden gourmet" showcasing the culinary talents of both local and national chefs, and a horticulture competition. Hours are 10am-8pm at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., in Festival Halls A and B. Admission is $12. Visit the official website for more information or call Navy Pier at 312-595-5282.
Chicago Flower & Garden Show @ Navy Pier
This week-long exhibition, designed to help "aspiring gardeners take it up a notch," includes workshops on container gardening, a marketplace selling garden and green-related products, "garden gourmet" showcasing the culinary talents of both local and national chefs, and a horticulture competition. Hours are 10am-6pm (8pm on during the week) at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., in Festival Halls A and B. Admission is $14 on weekends, $12 on weekdays. Visit the official website for more information or call Navy Pier at 312-595-5282.
Chicago Flower & Garden Show @ Navy Pier
This week-long exhibition, designed to help "aspiring gardeners take it up a notch," includes workshops on container gardening, a marketplace selling garden and green-related products, "garden gourmet" showcasing the culinary talents of both local and national chefs, and a horticulture competition. Hours are 10am-8pm (6pm on Sunday) at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., in Festival Halls A and B. Admission is $14 on weekends, $12 on weekdays. Visit the official website for more information or call Navy Pier at 312-595-5282.
El Circo Cheapo @ Aloft Loft
The local aerial circus center Aloft Loft (2041 W Carroll #306) is holding its monthly El Circo Cheapo, an event they call "the poor man's Cirque du Soleil, with world class acrobats, jugglers, puppeteers, aerialists, clowns, side show freaks and more". There are two shows, one at 7pm and one at 10pm; tickets are $10 or less (depending on how many pull-ups you can do) and can be purchased in advance here.
5th Annual Sock Monkey Madness Festival
The Sock Monkey Madness Festival returns as a unique celebration of Rockford, Illinois' past by highlighting its knitting industry and boom of the stuffed sock toy which continues as a large part of America's pop culture. 10:30am - 4pm, continues through Sunday. Admission is $7 for adults; $4 children and students. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, IL. Call (815)-397-9112 or visit the website for more details.
First Friday: Promoters' Ordinance discussion @ Old Town School
The Old Town School of Folk Music holds their monthly First Friday this evening. Usually an evening of free classes, music and dancing, this month's First Friday is unofficially devoted to the Chicago Promoters' Ordinance, a pending city ordinance that may have a huge effect on the live music community in Chicago. The school will be screening the documentary The Chicago Promoters' Ordinance Kills Independent Music and hosting a discussion about the ordinance which will feature journalists, activists and musicians from the music community. The evening starts at 5:30pm (door open at 5), and costs a $5 donation. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000.
Alexis Mackenzie Opening @ Threadless Gallery
Collage artist Alexis Mackenzie opens a show of her work at the Threadless Gallery, 3011 N. Broadway, tonight from 7pm to 9pm. Free.
Rec Room @ Black Rock
The Reconstruction Room presents "You Give Me Growing Pains, Theodore Huxtable," a series of stories themed on the '80s curated by Mary Hamilton with readings by Jac Jemc, Lindsay Hunter, Mary Hamilton and Jill Summers, Tobias Amadon Bengelsdorf, Nicolette Bond, Meg Barboza, Brian Costello, Zach Plague, Allison Gruber and Erin Teegarden. Tonight at the Black Rock, 3614 N. Damen, starting at 8pm.
Happy Birthday, Chicago! @ Chicago History Museum
Celebrate the city's 172nd birthday party @ at the Chicago History Museumwith music, crafts, and birthday cake from 10am-pm General admission to the Museum is FREE. 1601 N. Clark St. Call (312) 642-4600 for more details.
Kevin O'Donnell's March Spectacular @ Martyrs'
Not only has Kevin O'Donnell composed the soundtrack for over 30 works of theater in Chicago, including The House Theatre's The Sparrow, he's your unofficial best bet for catching an unannounced Andrew Bird show. (O'Donnell has performed on all of Bird's records and Bird played at O'Donnell's last Martyrs' performance in February.) O'Donnell plays tonight (no word about Bird yet) at 8pm at Martyrs' (3855 N Lincoln Ave).The $8 cover goes to benefit The House Theatre of Chicago. Tickets are available online or by calling 800-594-TIXX.
Uptown Poetry Slam @ Green Mill
Chicago's 18-year-old slam poetry tradition continues this evening, as it does every Sunday at the Green Mill, with founder Marc Kelly Smith, an open mic, a special guest and a competition. The event starts at 7pm with a $6 cover at the Green Mill, 4802 North Broadway.
Acme Miniature Flea Circus @ Intuit
Chicagoans get their first chance to witness trained insects in action as the Acme Flea Circus makes its Chicago premiere this weekend at Intuit, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave. Today's performances are at 2, 4 and 6pm. Admission is $12, $10 for students, seniors, and members, and $8 for children under 12. More information and tickets available here, or by calling 312-243-9088.
Taste of the Neighborhoods Tour
Travel Chicago and savor cuisines from two different restaurants serving assorted small-plate samplers. Taste the nuances; talk exotic ingredients, techniques and cultures; and collect recipes. Dessert or sweets on the last stop are the cherry on top. Restaurants are determined three weeks before tour dates -- call for details and to check availability as seats go quickly on this, the most popular of the Chicago Neighborhood Tours. The tour is about five hours long and departs from the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington, at 10am. Tickets are $50; Seniors, students and children ages 8-18 are $45. Available online. Call 312-742-1190 for more information.
Acme Miniature Flea Circus @ Intuit
Chicagoans get their first chance to witness trained insects in action as the Acme Flea Circus makes its Chicago premiere this weekend at Intuit, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave. Tonight's performance is at 6:30pm. Admission is $12, $10 for students, seniors, and members, and $8 for children under 12. More information and tickets available here, or by calling 312-243-9088.
Free Midnight Dance Jam @ Hubbard Street Dance
Beginning at midnight, Hubbard Street Dance Center teaching artist Dionna PridGeon will lead a Midnight Dance Jam, a free jazz funk class incorporating elements of jazz and hip hop. The two-hour-long Midnight Dance Jam is free and open to all proficiency levels.
Pre-registration by phone at 312-850-9766 is required. Participants ages 15 to 17 require parent approval. The dance center is located at 1147 W. Jackson Blvd. See the events page on the dance center's website for more information.
Acme Miniature Flea Circus @ Intuit
Chicagoans get their first chance to witness trained insects in action as the Acme Flea Circus makes its Chicago premiere this weekend at Intuit, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave., 6:30pm. Admission is $12, $10 for students, seniors, and members, and $8 for children under 12. More information and tickets available here, or by calling 312-243-9088.
Left Field Documentary Screening
Left Field, a new documentary about Chicago's unofficial kickball league, screens at Portage Park Theatre, 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight at 7:30pm. "A whole lot more" is promised as well. Tickets are $9.99.
Jordan and Steve are Steve and Jordan, Respectively
Jordan Klepper and Steve Waltien perform their critically adored sketch show "Jordan and Steve are Steve and Jordan, Respectively" tonight at the iO Theater (3541 N. Clark) to showcase it for the Montreal Comedy Fest. The show begins at 6pm and is free. Call 773-880-0199 for more details.
Comet Lulin Viewing Party
American Science & Surplus will be holding a free Comet Lulin viewing party at its Geneva/West Chicago store, 33W361 Roosevelt Rd , tonight from 8pm to 10pm, weather permitting. They'll have several telescopes and binoculars set up for the public to view this once in a lifetime event. Call 630-232-2882 to confirm the event if the skies are not clear.
Pete Seeger: The Power of Song @ Evanston Public Library
The Reeltime Independent Film and Video Forum presents Pete Seeger: The Power of Song tonight at 7:30pm at the Evanston Public Library, 1703 Orrington Ave. This rockumentary examines Seeger's life and work through interviews, archival footage and home movies. Admission is free. Call 847-448-8600 for more information.
Alice in Wonderland @ Merle Reskin Theatre
Sean Graney's quirky new take on this highly
imaginative classic. Tickets $8. Performances are at DePaul's Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo, every Tuesday and Thursday @ 10am, and Saturday @ 2pm until 3/3/2009. Questions? Contact aables@depaul.edu, or (773)-325-7938.
The Mass in B Minor @ Harris Theatre
A complete music setting for the Latin Mass, Bach's Mass in B Minor is widely considered one of the most sublime classical works ever written. Tonight, local chamber outfit Music of the Baroque tackles this musical tour de force with principal guest conductor Nicholas Kraemer. 7:30pm, 205 East Randolph Drive. Tickets $38 and up. For more information, go here.
Evgeny Kissin @ Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Russian classical pianist Evgeny Kissin performs selections by Prokofiev and Chopin at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, 220 S. Michigan Ave., today at 3pm. Tickets are $36-$149. The performance was initially sold out, but stage seats have been added and are available by calling 312-294-3000. More information here.
Dvorak in America @ Civic Orchestra of Chicago
Dvorak in America is the name of the program, which explores the music that Antonin Dvorak made while here visiting America in the late 1800's and influenced by Harry T. Burleigh, a black composer of that time. The concert will take place at the South Shore Cultural Center at 7059 S. South Shore Drive and is free. Show begins at 6:30pm.
Chicago Neighborhood Tours: South Shore Neighborhoods
Chicago Neighborhood Tours takes you to the prosperous middle-class neighborhoods that boomed after the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. Tour highlights include the South Shore Cultural Center, Saint Philip Neri Catholic Church and the Gary Comer Youth Center. Light refreshments are served. Tours run approximately 4 hours and depart from the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph Street at 10am. Tickets are $30, $25 for students and seniors, and are available
ChicagoImprovAnarchy takes on reality television with their newest production, "Dirty Scoundrels," which tackles an entire season of a fake reality TV show in 45 minutes, complete with maniacal challenges, hazardous alliances and back-stabbing opponents. The show runs Saturdays in February at 10pm at the Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Tickets are $10 and are available at the box office or online. For more information call 773-598-4549.ChicagoImprovAnarchy @ Gorilla Tango Theatre
C.M.Y.K. Auditions at Illinois Institute of Art
Graphic designers get the opportunity to be one of seven competitors on C.M.Y.K.: America's Top Graphic Designer. Open auditions are being held today at The Illinois Institute of Art - Schaumburg, 1000 Plaza Drive, from 11am-5pm. More information online or by calling 404-861-7712.
Free Camera Workshop @ Chicago Photography Center
If you have an SLR (single lens reflex) camera and need a brush-up, join the Chicago Photography Center's free workshop this afternoon for a crash course in controls, use of your camera's exposure meter, loading and unloading film. Bring your camera and your camera manual, if you have it. The class is at the Chicago Photography Center, 3301 N Lincoln, from noon until 1:30pm today. Admission is free, no reservations are required.
The Viking & Morgan Opening @ Novem
Street artists The Viking and Morgan celebrate the opening of an exhibition of their work at Novem Studio, 1104 N. Ashland, tonight from 6pm to 10pm. They're promising surprises, free things, beer, art and "things you can't even imagine."
President's Day @ Chicago History Museum
Celebrate the history of our nation's presidents through storytelling, musical and dramatic performances, and craft activities at the Chicago History Museum from 10am till 2pm. 1601 N. Clark St. Call (312) 642-4600 for more details. Free!
ChicagoImprovAnarchy @ Gorilla Tango Theatre
ChicagoImprovAnarchy takes on reality television with their newest production, "Dirty Scoundrels," which tackles an entire season of a fake reality TV show in 45 minutes, complete with maniacal challenges, hazardous alliances and back-stabbing opponents. The show runs Saturdays in February at 10pm at the Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Tickets are $10 and are available at the box office or online. For more information call 773-598-4549.
Chicago Neighborhood Tours: The White City
Get a dose of what made the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition so spectacular on the Chicago Neighborhood Tours "White City" tour. The day starts at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington, at 10am with a slide presentation and discussion, then continues to Jackson Park, Midway Plaisance and Osaka Garden, concluding at the Chicago History Museum where the elevated train that transported fairgoers to the exposition is displayed. The tour is 6 hours long and lunch at a local restaurant is included. Tickets are $50, $45 for students and seniors, and are not available online for this tour. You must call 312-742-1190 to book seats.
UniVerse of Free Expression @ Chicago Center for the Performing Arts
Chicago Public Radio and UniVerse of Poetry present UniVerse of Free Expression, a live studio recording of poets, at the Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, 777 N. Green St., tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $15, $12 for Chicago Public Radio members, Victory Gardens subscribers & AWP poets, and $10 for students. Available online. Call 312-948-4644 for more information.
Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays
Every second Friday of the month the more than 100 artists and 35 galleries of the Chicago Arts District (formerly known as Pilsen East) open their doors to the public to showcase work from Chicago and beyond. Many of the Pilsen neighborhood galleries are artist-owned, so Gallery Night is an excellent opportunity to get information about the works from their source. The reception takes places from 6-10pm and the event is free. Maps and information available at 1821 S. Halsted on the night of the event. Call (312) 377-4444 or visit the Chicago Arts District website for more information.
Ig Nobel Prize Discussion
Marc Abrahams brings Improbable Research and its Ig Nobel Prize to Chicago for the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science tonight from 8pm to 10pm. Abrahams will review the past year's improbable research and Ig Nobel winners, and several Ig Nobel winners will try to explain what they did and why they did it. The talk takes place in the Moulin Rouge Room of the Fairmont Hotel, 200 N. Columbus Dr. Admission is free, but space is limited.
Abe Lincoln in Illinois @ City Lit Theatre
City Lit Theatre presents a one-night only concert reading of Robert Emmet Sherwood's 1939 Pulitzer Prize-winning play Abe Lincoln in Illinois in commemoration of Abe Lincoln's 200th birthday. The show starts at 7:30pm at City Lit Theatre, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr. Tickets are $5.01 (the Lincoln bill plus the Lincoln coin), and are available online. Call 773-293-3682 for more information.
Happy Birthday, Abe! @ Chicago History Museum
This date marks the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. Take your picture with Abe, listen to musical performances and enjoy birthday cake in honor of our 16th president at the Chicago History Museum from 10am till 2pm. General admission for the celebration is a portrait of Abe himself on a penny. 1601 N. Clark St. Call (312) 642-4600 for more details.
Opium's Literary Death Match @ Hideout
Opium Magazine brings its The Literary Death Match to the The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight at 6pm. Watch four writers, including Holly Wilson and Julius Kalamarz, duke it out with five-minute readings to determine who's tops. Todd Zuniga and Claire Zulkey host. $5 at the door -- another $5 gets you a copy of the magazine. 21+
The Lady Eve @ Cultural Center
Expand your conception of radio drama by checking out this performance by the AFTRA/SAG Senior Radio Players, dedicated to "keeping alive the uniqueness of radio as the theater of the imagination." Tonight, the group recreates The Lady Eve, which was a great movie with Henry Fonda and Barbara Stanwyck from 1941. Free, at the Cassidy Theater. 78 E Washington Street, 7pm. For more information, visit the website.
David Mura @ Japanese American Service Committee
The Japanese American Service Committee and Japan America Society of Chicago have teamed up to present a reading and book signing by David Mura, who will read and discuss his latest novel Famous Suicides of the Japanese Empire. The event will be from 7:00-8:30pm at the Japanese American Service Committee (4427 N. Clark Street). The event is free, and books will be available for purchase for $15. RSVP here.
Poetry Center of Chicago Annual Benefit @ Victory Gardens
No Love For Love, the Poetry Center of Chicago's 3rd Annual Valentine's Day Benefit, is tonight at the Victory Gardens/Biograph Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln Ave., at 8pm. The event is hosted by Time Out Chicago books editor Jonathan Messinger, with special guest Peter Sagal of NPR's "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me" and performances by Rosie Forrest, Edward Thomas-Herrera, Robbie Q. Telfer and short film maker Steve Delahoyde. Tickets are $20 for general admission, VIP tickets -- which include a reception and a chance to clink cocktails with Sagal -- are $150. General admission can be purchased online or by calling the Victory Gardens box office at 773-871-3000. VIP tickets are available through the Poetry Center online or at 312-899-1229.
Journal of Ordinary Thought Release Party @ Manning Branch Library
The Neighborhood Writing Alliance presents readings from the Journal of Ordinary Thought, at the Mabel Manning Branch Library, 6 S. Hoyne, from 5:30-7pm. The current issue features writing from six Chicago neighborhoods, with images from the People's Atlas of Chicago. Free and open to the public.
Structuring Change @ Cultural Center
Chicago-based artist Inigo Manglano-Oval , whose work incorporates natural forms and systems, talks with scientist Mark Hereld of the Argonne National Laboratory and University of Chicago, and New York-based artist Siebren Versteeg. Part of the Ars Scientia series, 6pm, free, in the Claudia Cassidy Theater, 78 E Washington. For more information, visit the website.
ChicagoImprovAnarchy @ Gorilla Tango Theatre
ChicagoImprovAnarchy takes on reality television with their newest production, "Dirty Scoundrels," which tackles an entire season of a fake reality TV show in 45 minutes, complete with maniacal challenges, hazardous alliances and back-stabbing opponents. The show runs tonight and Saturdays in February, 10pm at the Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Tickets are $10 and are available at the box office or online. For more information call 773-598-4549.
Chicago's Magnificent Churches Tour
Chicago Neighborhood Tours takes you on a guided tour of the Prairie Avenue Historic District's Second Presbyterian Church. An Arts and Crafts wonder, it's one of Chicago's finest examples of architect Howard van Doren Shaw's work. The tour includes two to three additional churches, synagogues or temples (decided closer to the tour dates). It departs from the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington, at 10am. Tickets are $50; Seniors, students and children ages 8-18 are $45. Available online. Call 312-742-1190 for more information.
Gapers Block/Calumet Photo Swap @ Calumet Photographic
Gapers Block and Calumet Photographic invite photographers of all experience levels to participate in a photo swap. Show up at Calumet with five 4"x6" photographs, hang out with other photographers and then leave with five photos from others. Food and drinks will be provided. The event is free and will be at Calumet Photographic, 1111 N. Cherry Ave, from 5:30pm and 7:30pm. For more information, contact David Schalliol.
Facilitators Exhibition @ Open Studio Project
Venture up to Gallery 901 (901 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL) for the annual Facilitators Exhibit opening, showcasing artwork by Open Studio Project facilitators. The opening (10am-4pm) will feature art, refreshments and art making! Visit OpenStudioProject.org, their Facebook page, or call 847-475-0390 for more details.
The Interview Show @ Hideout
Mark Bazer celebrates the first anniversary of his Interview Show tonight at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, from 6:30pm to 8pm.
Guests include Tom Geoghegan, Illinois' Fifth Congressional District candidate and labor lawyer; John Green, award-winning novelist of Looking for Alaska and Paper Towns; T.J. Jagodowski and Dave Pasquesi, from the acclaimed IO show "TJ & Dave"; and Konee Rok, filmmaker, music-video director and chronicler of the Chicago hip-hop scene. Plus a musical performance by Dave and Darren of The Changes. $5 at the door. 21+
The House Theatre's Love-O-Rama @ Nick's Uptown
The House Theatre hosts its annual dance party benefit, Love-O-Rama, tonight at Nick's Uptown, 4015 N Sheridan Rd., from 7-11pm. The festivities include a live DJ, make-out booth, $3 PBR and a raffle. $15 advance, $20 at the door. All proceeds benefit the House. Tickets are available online or by calling 773-251-2195.
Midwest Independent Film Festival First Tuesdays @ Landmark Century Cinema
The first film in the Midwest Independent Film Festival's 2009 First Tuesdays series is The Poker House, directed by Lori Petty and starring Selma Blair and David Alan Grier. The film begins at 7:30pm, with a Guinness-sponsored pre-show cocktail reception at 6pm and a panel immediately preceding the film at 6:30pm at the Landmark Century, 2828 North Clark Street. Post-screening reception hosted by Forno Diablo, 433 West Diversey. General admission is $10 and includes entry into all of the evening's festivities. Tickets available online.
Elbowing Off the Stage
Andrew Terhune, David Trinidad Jan Beatty read their work tonight at 7:30pm at 1278 N. Milwaukee #4W, as part of the "Elbowing Off the Stage" community reading series. Free, donations accepted.
Chinese New Year Parade
Come celebrate the Year of the Ox, ushering in a time of prosperity through fortitude and hard work. The parade starts 1:30pm at the corner of 24th St & Wentworth Ave.
Taste of the Neighborhoods Tour
Travel Chicago and savor cuisines from two different restaurants serving assorted small-plate samplers. Taste the nuances; talk exotic ingredients, techniques and cultures; and collect recipes. Dessert or sweets on the last stop are the cherry on top. Restaurants are determined three weeks before tour dates -- call for details and to check availability as seats go quickly on this, the most popular of the Chicago Neighborhood Tours. The tour is about five hours long and departs from the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington, at 10am. Tickets are $50; Seniors, students and children ages 8-18 are $45. Available online. Call 312-742-1190 for more information.
Patti Smith @ Block Museum of Art
Legendary musician, poet, and artist Patti Smith will attend the Block Cinema screening of the new documentary Patti Smith: Dream of Life at 8pm tonight at the Block Museum of Art, 40 Arts Circle Dr. in Evanston. Smith will participate in a post-screening discussion with the film's director, Steven Sebring, and Sun-Times music critic Jim Derogatis. Pre-registration is required to purchase tickets. Both can be done online. Tickets are $8 for Northwestern University students, faculty, and staff; $11 for the general public. Limit 2 per person. For more information call 847-491-4000.
John Sparagana @ Museum of Contemporary Photography
John Sparagana signs copies of his latest book Sleeping Beauty: A One-Artist Dictionary, a collaboration with critic Mieke Bal, published by University of Chicago Press, tonight from 5-7pm at the Museum of Contemporary Photography, 600 S. Michigan Ave. Free and open to the public. For more information call 312-663-5554.
The Spirit in Architecture: John Lautner @ Chicago Architecture Foundation
The Chicago Architecture Foundation screens The Spirit in Architecture: John Lautner tonight at the John Buck Company Lecture Hall Gallery, 224 South Michigan Ave., from 6-7:30pm. The film examines the life and work of the late American architect John Lautner, and shouldn't be confused with the other Lautner doc which premiered two weeks ago in Palm Springs. Admission to the CAF screening is $15 for non-members; $10 members; $5 students. RSVP by calling 312-922-3432 x224, or buy tickets online.
Shout @ Sonotheque
Part of Theaster Gates' Temple Exercises exhibition at the MCA (a series of exercises that occur both at the MCA and around the city), DJ Madrid, Eric Williams, Sadie Woods and Sean Alvarez host a music listening and dance party that fuses global sounds with music inspired by the Black Church. At Sonotheque, 1444 W. Chicago Ave., tonight from 8pm-2am. Admission is $5 (21 and over only). Call (312) 226-7600 for more information.
Winter Block Party for Chicago's Hip-Hop Arts
Devoted to the local hip-hop scene, Chicago Public Radio's Winter Block Party features sets by Chicago DJs Itch13 and Issues, a gallery exhibition of local artists, a live mural painting by acclaimed graffiti artist Revise CMW, and an open-mic session featuring hip-hop performance artist Idris Goodwin and author Kevin Coval. The evening closes with a special ticketed event featuring Bomb the Suburbs-author, graffiti artist, activist, and Chicago native, William "Upski" Wimsatt. FREE for day event / $15 for William Wimsatt talk. Victory Gardens Biograph Theater (2433 N Lincoln Ave), (773) 871-3000. For more information, go here.
Loopy Yarns Stitch n' Bitch
All are invited to open knitting and crocheting (including expert help!) at the fantastic Loopy Yarns, 47 W. Polk St. in the South Loop. Take a breather before your rocking weekend and hang out amongst beautiful colors and amazing fellow knitters and crocheters. Fridays from 5pm to 9pm. Free. Call 312-583-YARN (9276) or visit Loopy Yarns for more details.
After Dark: Return of the Impressionists @ The Art Institute
Toast the newly renovated Impressionist galleries with live DJs and performances by theater ensemble Collaboraction at After Dark: Return of the Impressionists at the Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S. Michigan Ave. tonight from 6-10pm. An official afterparty follows. Tickets are $15 for members and students and $20 for the public. Available online or by phone at 312-575-8000, or at any Art Institute admission counter.
Yousuf Karsh: Regarding Heroes @ The Art Institute of Chicago
His black-and-white photographs captured the icons of the 20th century, including Albert Einstein, Ernest Hemingway, Audrey Hepburn, Andy Warhol and Winston Churchill. On the centenary of his birth, The Art Institute of Chicago presents Yousuf Karsh: Regarding Heroes. Opening today, the exhibit traces Karsh's artistic development and reassesses his place in the history of photography. Included with museum admission. 111 S. Michigan Ave. Call 312-629-6635 or click here for more information.
Milking the Rhino @ The Block Museum of Art
The Reeltime Independent Film and Video Forum presents Milking the Rhino tonight at 7:30pm at the Block Museum of Art, 40 Arts Circle Dr., in Evanston. The documentary film examines the effects of "white man conservation" on two of earth's oldest cattle cultures, the Maasai of Kenya and the Himba in Namibia, who are now vying for a piece of the wildlife tourism pie. Admission is free.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute Concert @ Symphony Center
The Chicago Sinfonietta presents "The Dream Lives On," an annual tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr., at 7:30 pm at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $26-$96; $10 students and children. Available online or by calling 312-294-3000.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day @ Chicago History Museum
Commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with dramatic readings and gospel performances at the Chicago History Museum. 1601 N. Clark St. Admission is FREE. Call (312) 642-4600 for more details.
Mortified @ Beat Kitchen
Mortified, the comic stage show where brave adults read their angst-ridden adolescent journals in front of a live audience, comes to the Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont, tonight at 7pm. Featuring the Blue Ribbon Glee Club. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. 21 and older.
Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival
The eighth annual Chicago Sketchfest ends its run at the Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., today. Tickets are $12.50, and an all-festival pass will set you back $150. See tonight's schedule here.
Senator Obama Goes to Africa @ Chicago Filmmakers
Get into the inauguration spirit as Chicago Filmmakers presents Senator Obama Goes to Africa tonight at 8pm, 5243 N. Clark Street. The film follows then-Senator Obama as he visits South Africa, Kenya and a Darfur refugee camp in Chad in 2006. Admission is $8 ($7 student; $4 members). Call 773-293-1447 or visit their website for more information.
Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival
The eighth annual Chicago Sketchfest continues today and runs through the 18th at the Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave.
Tickets are $12.50, and an all-festival pass will set you back $150. See today's schedule here.
Queen of Samba 2009
Hothouse presents its annual contest for the best female samba dancer in Illinois. Dancers compete for cash prizes to music by Chicago Samba. Carnaval dancers, dance lessons and other prizes available for non-contestants. Tickets are $15. At the HotLoft, above Fizz, 3220 N. Lincoln Ave. Doors open at 9pm.
"Who Is SOLVE?" Show @ Country Club
Country Club Gallery (1100 N. Damen) hosts a show opening tonight, 6pm-10pm, concentrating on the work of slain Chicago artist and graphic designer Brendan Scanlon. Scanlon, who was murdered last June in the Logan Square area, was a prolific street artist under the name SOLVE. For more information visit the website or call (773) 368-4045.
Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout
Funny Ha-Ha, the literary humor reading series, returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm, featuring readings by Such a Pretty Fat author Jen Lancaster, Steve Heisler, RedEye columnist Mark Bazer and members of the AV Club -- plus humor from comedian Robert Buscemi and short films by Steve Delahoyde. Hosted, as always, by Claire Zulkey. Admission is $5, with proceeds benefiting the Neighborhood Writing Alliance. 21+
High Society Burlesque
Vaudezilla presents "High Society Burlesque" at Debonair Social Club, 1575 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight at 9pm. Red Hot Annie & Wham Bam Pam host a revue including, Miss Tamale, Pearl Pistol, Lady Jack, Backdoor Aly, The Honey Buns, Viva La Muerte, Donna Touch, Bizarre Sally, Bombshell Baby Debbie, Red Hot Annie herself and a special appearance by The Flaming Dames. Coldcock Jones & the Shithawks also perform. $10 gets you in the door, plus burlesque strip teases, party favors and swag bags. 21+. E-mail vaudezilla@yahoo.com with questions.
Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival
The eighth annual Chicago Sketchfest continues tonight and runs through the 18th at the Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave.
Tickets are $12.50, and an all-festival pass will set you back $150. See tonight's schedule here.
Sticks Opening Reception @ Intuit
Sticks opens tonight at Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art, 756 N. Milwaukee. The exhibition features self-taught artists who have created pieces out of, well, sticks: telephone poles, toothpicks, logs, matchsticks, branches... The reception is from 5-8pm with beer provided from Chicago's Half Acre Beer Company. The event is free but donations are always accepted.
Eamon Grennan @ The Art Institute of Chicago
Pushcart Prize-winning poet Eamon Grennan reads at The Art Institute's Fullerton Hall, 111 South Michigan Ave., at 6pm. A Dublin native and professor at Vassar College, Grennan has published over ten volumes of poetry, translation, and essays, most recently Matter of Fact (Graywolf Press). The event is co-sponsored by the Poetry Foundation. Admission is free.
Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival
The eighth annual Chicago Sketchfest continues tonight and runs through the 18th at the Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave.
Tickets are $12.50, and an all-festival pass will set you back $150. See tonight's schedule here.
The General Washingtons @ Greenhouse Theater
The General Washingtons, "Chicago's first and only all white, all male comedy group," will be performing Thursdays @ 10:30pm through January 28 at the Greenhouse Theater (2257 N Lincoln Avenue). Tonight they'll be joined by local improv group Old West Family Photo. $6 at the door. $5 with one of their postcards. (Hint: They bear the image of one of our Founding Fathers. I'll let you guess which one.)
Polaroids: Mapplethorpe @ Block Museum of Art
Polaroids: Mapplethorpe opens today at the Block Museum of Art, 40 Arts Circle Dr., Evanston. The exhibition showcases photographer Robert Mapplethorpe's early instant camera work, including self-portraits, figure studies, still lifes, and portraits. Admission to the museum is free, donations are accepted. Call 847-491-4000 for more information or visit the exhibition website.
Before the Flood @ University of Chicago
The Smart Museum of Art presents Before the Flood, the fourth documentary in the Displacement film series at the University of Chicago Cochrane-Woods Art Center, today at 2pm. The program addresses the controversial Three Gorges Dam project on the Yangzi River in China, which has displaced over one million people and submerged over one thousand towns and villages. 5540 South Greenwood Avenue. Free. Call the Smart Museum of Art at (773) 702-0200, or click here for more information.
Myopic Poetry Series
Poets Erin Teegarden, Liz Marino and Dan Godston read at Myopic Books, 1564 N. Milwaukee Ave., at 7pm tonight. Larry Sawyer hosts. Free.
Old Town School of Folk Music: Jim Craig, Ed Holstein, Mark Dvorak
Old Town School of Music
January 11th, 4 pm
@ the 4544 N. Lincoln location
Three of the Old Town School of Folk Music's finest folk troubadours and the Pickin' Bubs join forces for an evening of tradition. $20 for general public, $18 members/$16 senior & children. Call the box office @ 773.728.6000 or click on the above link for details.
Dance, Girl, Dance @ Chicago Filmmakers
The Chicago Filmmakers' Dyke Delicious series continues with Dance, Girl, Dance (1940). The film was directed by Dorothy Arzner, the lesbian filmmaker who broke the "talkie" glass ceiling, and stars Maureen O'Hara and Lucille Ball as dancers -- one ballet, one burlesque -- who fall for the same man. At Chicago Filmmakers, 5243 N. Clark. Reception at 7pm, movie at 8pm. Admission is $10. Call (773) 293-1447 or visit the Chicago Filmmakers' website for more information.
No Pants! CTA Ride
Improv Everywhere's No Pants Subway Ride, originated in New York, has gone global, and Chicago's ride starts at the Granville Red Line stop today at noon. Show up a little early -- with pants on, but bring a bag or something to store your pants in -- and await further details. Free. More info on Facebook.
Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival
The eighth annual Chicago Sketchfest continues today and runs through the 18th at the Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave.
Tickets are $12.50, and an all-festival pass will set you back $150. See today's schedule here.
Handmade Market
The Handmade Market returns to the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western, today from noon to 4:30pm. Shop jewelry, purses, knitted items, clothing, paper crafts, and more from 32 local crafters. Free, 21+ (kids with parents OK.)
Little Friends of Printmaking @ Threadless Gallery
The Little Friends of Printmaking debut their exhibit "Tough Luck" at Threadless Gallery, 3011 N. Broadway, tonight from 7pm to 9pm. The show will also see the debut of the Milwaukee printmaking duo's Threadless Select t-shirt design. Free.
Loopy Yarns Stitch n' Bitch
Let's Knit Together (yeah, yeah, yeah!)
Loopy Yarns
5:30-9:00pm
All are invited to open knitting and crocheting (including expert help!) at the fantastic Loopy Yarns located at 47 West Polk Street in the South Loop. Take a breather before your rocking weekend and hang out amongst beautiful colors and amazing fellow knitters and crocheters. Call 312-583-YARN (9276) or visit Loopy Yarns for more details.
Chicago Arts District 2nd Fridays
Every second Friday of the month the more than 100 artists and 35 galleries of the Chicago Arts District (also known as Pilsen East) open their doors to the public to showcase work from Chicago and beyond. Many of the Pilsen neighborhood galleries are artist-owned, so Gallery Night is an excellent opportunity to get information about the works from their source. The reception takes places from 6-10pm and the event is free. Maps and information available at 1821 S. Halsted on the night of the event. Call (312) 377-4444 or visit the Chicago Arts District website for more information.
Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival
The eighth annual Chicago Sketchfest continues tonight and runs through the 18th at the Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave.
Tickets are $12.50, and an all-festival pass will set you back $150. See tonight's schedule here.
Look, What I Don't Understand @ the Athenaeum
Tony Nikolchev's Bulgarian immigrant solo show opens tonight, detailing the journey of a family finding a home in the US. 2936 North Southport Ave. Tickets here. Call (773) 935-6860 for further details.
Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival
The eighth annual Chicago Sketchfest continues today and runs through the 18th at the Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave.
Tickets are $12.50, and an all-festival pass will set you back $150. See today's schedule here.
Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival
The eighth annual Chicago Sketchfest kicks off today and runs through the 18th at the Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont Ave.
Tickets are $12.50, and an all-festival pass will set you back $150. See tonight's schedule here.
Wine Tweet-up w/ Ortho-Jewish Rapper YLove
Matilda's Wednesday $5 wine with Guest of Honor YLove
Matilda's
3101 N. Sheffield Ave.
Wednesday, January 7th, 7pm
Orthodox Jewish rapper and social media geek @ylove wants to meet you! 'You' being the Chicago Twitter scene, of course. If you're into punk and/or hip hop, we think you should come and meet him before he performs his Chicago show. Come to mingle and enjoy $5 glasses and 1/2 price bottles of wine.
Call Matilda's @ 773.883.4400 or visit Chicago Tweet-Ups for more information.
MCA Stitch n' Bitch featuring artist Karen Reimer
Tuesday, January 6, 2009, 5:30-8pm
220 E. Chicago Avenue
Puck's Café
Free
This event presented by the Museum of Contemporary Art invites knitters and crochet hookers to bring their needles and yarn to knit and exchange techniques and stories, with guest artist Karen Reimer. Reimer makes craft-based conceptual art and has recently exhibited at moniquemeloche gallery in Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Craft in Portland, and Wallspace in New York. Needle and hooking workers of all levels are welcome to participate in this fresh adaptation of the traditional sewing circle. Call the MCA @ (312) 397-4010 for additional details.
"Connecting With the Creative Process" Workshop
Take an afternoon to open the window to your creative side. In this three hour workshop, from 1pm to 4pm, allows you to explore the Open Studio Project process to combine uninhibited art-making with thoughtful writing and reflection. No prior art or writing experience necessary; a variety of drawing and painting materials will be used. $65 for non-members, $55 for Open Studio Project members. The studio is located at 903 Sherman Ave. in Evanston
Jo Dery @ Quimby's Bookstore
Rhode Island book and paper artist (and short filmmaker) Jo Dery visits Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 W. North Ave. from 7-8pm, for an evening of storytelling, live radio plays and short animations. Dery's newest book, Quietly Sure - Like the Keeper of a Great Secret will be available for purchase. Call (773) 342-0910 for more information or visit the Quimby's website.
The Game Show Show... and Stuff @ Lakeshore Theatre
Keep the tail end of the holiday season interesting by trying out some new games (and stuff) tonight at the Lakeshore Theater. Physical challenges, guessing games, and trivia comprise half the show, while music, comedy, and dance make up the rest. Choose to be an active participant to win prizes and potentially embarrass yourself in front of an audience -- or sit back and laugh at the braver souls. 3175 N Broadway, 10:30pm. 773-472-3492. Tickets here.
Farewell to 1229 @ Bailiwick Arts Center
After 15 years at 1229 W. Belmont Ave., Bailiwick Arts Center closes its doors. This benefit features performances of musical numbers from nine past productions including "Pope Joan," "Jerry Springer--The Opera," "Kiss of the Spider Woman" and "The Christmas Schooner." The evening kicks off with a 6pm appetizer and cash bar reception; a 9pm post-show open mic for backstage stories follows at Joey's Brickhouse. $25-$75, 1229 W. Belmont Ave. For tickets and more information call 773-883-1090 or visit the website.
Devil in the White City Companion Bus Tour
This tour recounts the remarkable events that occurred in Chicago in 1893 and their lasting impact upon us: the World's Columbian Exposition of 1893 and the emergence of America's first mass murderer. The Devil in the White City Companion Bus Tour is based upon Erik Larson's bestselling book and is intended to accompany it and expand upon its many elements. Starts 10:30am, ArchiCenter Shop in the Santa Fe Building, 224 S. Michigan Avenue. Tour begins with a 45 minute slide presentation in the John Buck Company Lecture Hall followed by a two and one half hour bus tour of Prairie Avenue and Jackson Park. Ticket prices vary, for more information click here.
Kwanzaa Karamu @ DuSable Museum of African-American History
Includes brunch (2pm) and a live musical production by People's Jazz Theatre (4pm). The show is set during the Great Migration of the 1950s and features music of the African Diaspora. Don't have time for both? Choose between the meal and performance. $12-$15 for brunch only; $15-$20 for performance only; $25-$30 for both. 740 E. 56th Pl. Reservations required. For tickets and more information, call 773-947-0600 ext. 225.
Saturday Craft Time @ Lozano Library
Lozano Public Library
1805 S. Loomis Street
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Time: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Ages 6-9 years
Come all ye festive adults and children as we make jingle bells, snowmen, and other wintery crafts to take home. Call the library @ 312-746-4329 for more details.
The Wreck of the Medusa
The Plagiarists perform The Wreck of the Medusa in the Studio Theater at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., at 7:30pm tonight. Free, but reservations encouraged.
Chicago Chamber Choir's Carols By Candlelight
Get your fill of the Yuletide spirit as The Chicago Chamber Choir presents Carols by Candlelight this afternoon at 4pm at Unity Lutheran Church,1212 W. Balmoral. This annual winter program features traditional and contemporary carols and is billed as a partial sing-a-long: they even trust the audience to do "Dona Nobis Pacem" as a round. Post-concert refreshments are included with admission. Tickets are $18 in advance for adults, $15 for children and students. Available online.
Chicago Chamber Choir's Carols By Candlelight
Get your fill of the Yuletide spirit as The Chicago Chamber Choir presents Carols by Candlelight tonight at Lincoln Park Presbyterian Church, 600 W. Fullerton, at 7:30pm. This annual winter program features traditional and contemporary carols and is billed as a partial sing-a-long: they even trust the audience to do "Dona Nobis Pacem" as a round. Post-concert refreshments are included with admission. Tickets are $18 in advance for adults, $15 for children and students. Available online.
Hideout's Annual Christmas Panto
The Hideout's annual holiday pantomime returns for six shows Dec. 18-20. This year the story follows the adventures of Charles Darwin (played by Tim Tuten), "a wordy and misunderstood naturalist, searching for the scientific origins of Christ-mas." Also starring Jon Langford, Mike Bulington, Callie Roach, Derek Erdman, Gnat Ward, Amy Lombardi and Janet Bean. Directed by Sally Timms. Expect the unexpected -- and a guest appearance by Moby Dick. 1354 W. Wabansia. Performances are at 7pm and 10pm each night; tickets are $12 or $5 for children. More information here.
Hideout's Annual Christmas Panto
The Hideout's annual holiday pantomime returns for six shows Dec. 18-20. This year the story follows the adventures of Charles Darwin (played by Tim Tuten), "a wordy and misunderstood naturalist, searching for the scientific origins of Christ-mas." Also starring Jon Langford, Mike Bulington, Callie Roach, Derek Erdman, Gnat Ward, Amy Lombardi and Janet Bean. Directed by Sally Timms. Expect the unexpected -- and a guest appearance by Moby Dick. 1354 W. Wabansia. Performances are at 7pm and 10pm each night; tickets are $12 or $5 for children. More information here.
Atomic Sketch Event @ Evil Olive
Atomic Sketch returns to Evil Olive, 1551 W. Division St., from 6pm to 10pm tonight with a special holiday edition of the sketch group. You'll have the opportunity to watch artists Ryan P. Young, Kyle Francis Harter, Blütt, Ethan Hutchinson, Joyce Vallejo, David Johnson, Frederick Kobrick, Czr Prz, Sara Renae Jones, Brett Whitacre and Anjali Bahl draw live, and purchase sketches for just $50 apiece. Other artists are welcome to drop in and sell work as space allows. In addition, Blütt and Czr Prz will hang a show of their artwork in the bar.
Chicago Theatre Panel Discussion
Collaboraction, the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation and the League of Chicago Theatres host a free reception and panel discussion on the national and international influences on and by Chicago theatre today from 5:30pm to 7:20pm at The Building Stage, 412 N. Carpenter St. Participating in the discussion will be Philip Himberg, producing artistic director of the Sundance Institute,
Bonnie Metzger, artistic director of About Face Theatre Company, Jim Lasko, artistic director of Redmoon Theatre, and Henry Godinez, director in residence at Goodman Theatre. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres will be served. Email ben@chicagoplays.com to RSVP.
Hideout's Annual Christmas Panto
The Hideout's annual holiday pantomime returns for six shows Dec. 18-20. This year the story follows the adventures of Charles Darwin (played by Tim Tuten), "a wordy and misunderstood naturalist, searching for the scientific origins of Christ-mas." Also starring Jon Langford, Mike Bulington, Callie Roach, Derek Erdman, Gnat Ward, Amy Lombardi and Janet Bean. Directed by Sally Timms. Expect the unexpected -- and a guest appearance by Moby Dick. 1354 W. Wabansia. Performances are at 7pm and 10pm each night; tickets are $12 or $5 for children. More information here.
Chicago Flair @ Martyr's
Chicago Flair showcases a wide range of Chicago talent tonight at Martyr's, 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., starting at 8pm. The evenings entertainment includes burlesque performances by Viva La Muerte and Ms. Bea Haven, insanely funny video comedy skits by RookieTV, performance art by dominatrix Miss Maya Sinstress, fetish performance by the incomparable Miss Xena, spoken word by Miss Vine, magical illusions by Ron Fitzgerald, and a special appearance by Donna Smith from the movie SiCKO. DJ Lee Farmer spins house music and Chochise Soulstar of Paradox spits hip hop rhymes. There will also be a fashion show of latex clothes by House of Bias. The show is a benefit for Maria The Purple Goddess, a Chicago burlesque and fetish performer who had brain surgery earlier this year. Tickets are $15. 21 and over.
Chop Shop @ Metro
Scion presents a screening of Chop Shop at the Metro, 3730 N. Clark St., tonight at 8pm. There will be a cocktail reception w/ music by Tone B Nimble beforehand, and a Q&A with director Ramin Bahrani after. Free, but RSVP required. 21+
Belmont Burlesque @ Angels & Kings
The Belmont Burlesque revue performs at Angels & Kings tonight at 8pm with a free open bar sponsored by Drambuie. RSVP here. 21+
It's A Wonderful Life: The Radio Play @ American Theater Company
The American Theater Company presents their sixth annual production of Frank Capra's It's A Wonderful Life as a radio play. The ATC ensemble present the story as an old-time radio show, complete with commercial breaks and live sound effects. The show opens tonight, and runs through December 28 (no show on Christmas Day). Tickets are $35-40. Please see the ATC website for more information, including additional showtimes. American Theater Company: 8pm, 1909 W. Byron. (773) 409-4125.
The Chicagoan @ Harold Washington Library
Neil Harris, the author of the much lauded, upcoming book The Chicagoan: A Lost Magazine of the Jazz Age, comes to the Harold Washington Library to discuss the work that went into his book. Free at 6pm, 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.
Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker
Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker makes its Chicago debut yesterday and tonight at the Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave. The show is a "full-blown professional production of the holiday classic -- rendered in 1930s burlesque cabaret style" by professional burlesque dancers. There are two shows each night, at 7:30pm and 10pm; tickets are $30 in advance. 18 and over.
Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker
Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker makes its Chicago debut tonight and tomorrow at the Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave. The show is a "full-blown professional production of the holiday classic -- rendered in 1930s burlesque cabaret style" by professional burlesque dancers. There are two shows each night, at 7:30pm and 10pm; tickets are $30 in advance. 18 and over.
Cabaret Biciclet
No doubt that the Cabaret Biciclet is "first of its kind." The "bicycle art/erotica show combined w/ glam rock burlesque" promises to show us what bicycle erotica means to local artists, while further titillating us with "a cosmic naked starship as Burlesque performers strut and dazzle to the sounds of glam rock." Doors open at 8:30pm at Happy Dog Gallery, 1542 N. Milwaukee Ave. 21+
The Interview Show @ Hideout
Mark Bazer's Interview Show returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm. This month Bazer interviews alt-country musician Robbie Fulks, author and Sun-Times columnist Neil Steinberg, author Jen Lancaster and stand-up comic Robert Buscemi. Fulks and Buscemi also perform. Admission is $5. 21+
Lillstreet Holiday Open House
Lillstreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., hosts a holiday open house tonight from 6pm to 9pm. Enjoy refreshments and live entertainment while you shop, and check out demonstrations and workshops in the center's 19 classrooms and 50-plus artists' studios. Ceramic purchases can be combined with seasonal treats from First Slice Pie Café and a portion of the proceeds will help fight hunger in the community. Free, all ages.
Annie Leibovitz @ Harold Washington Library
Celebrated photographer Annie Leibovitz comes to the Harold Washington Library to discuss her upcoming book Annie Leibovitz at Work. In the book, Leibovitz discuss her knowledge of photography - including portraiture, reportage, fashion, lighting and digital cameras - as well as providing insight on some of the historical icons she's photographed during her career - everyone from Richard Nixon to William S. Burroughs. Free at 6pm in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.
Christkindlmarket Opens
Open through 12/24, this unique holiday event once again takes over Daley Plaza (corner of Washington and Dearborn) in the Loop. The German-style market, or Christkindlmarket, features unique European-style food, crafts, musical and dance performances and family events. Free to attend! Full schedule and more online.
Christkindlmarket Sneak Peak
Opening with a sneak peak during the Thanksgiving Parade 11/27, this unique holiday event once again takes over Daley Plaza (Dearborn and Washington) in the Loop until Christmas. The German-style market, or Christkindlmarket, features unique European-style food, crafts, musical and dance performances and family events. Free to attend! Full schedule and more online.
Innervation Dance Cooperative @ The Galaxie
Innervation Dance Cooperative brings together dancers and choreographers with varied backgrounds, mixes 'em up, and creates an eclectic contemporary dance aesthetic on stage. Featuring seven world premieres and three re-staged pieces from nine different choreographers, with dances ranging from introspective to comedic to joyful, you're sure to find something to your liking at their fall concert, "Nothing in Common."
Two performances today, at 3pm and 7pm The Galaxie, 2603 W. Barry. Tickets are $15 ($12 students/seniors/artists with resumes). Email info@innervationdance.org or call Innervation at 773.230.2168.
In the Land of the Headhunters @ The Field Museum
Edward S. Curtis' 1914 silent film In the Land of the Headhunters was the first to exclusively star Native North Americans. It was recently restored and will be shown today at 10am (and tomorrow at 10:30am) at the Field Museum. Stick around afterwards for a discussion with historians Dr. Aaron Glass and Dr. Brad Evans and descendants of the Kwakwaka'wakw nation, featured in the film. 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr. Admission is free. More details on the Field website.
Innervation Dance Cooperative @ The Galaxie
Innervation Dance Cooperative brings together dancers and choreographers with varied backgrounds, mixes 'em up, and creates an eclectic contemporary dance aesthetic on stage. Featuring seven world premieres and three re-staged pieces from nine different choreographers, with dances ranging from introspective to comedic to joyful, you're sure to find something to your liking at their fall concert, "Nothing in Common."
Two performances today, at 6pm and 9pm The Galaxie, 2603 W. Barry. Tickets are $15 ($12 students/seniors/artists with resumes). Email info@innervationdance.org or call Innervation at 773.230.2168.
Innervation Dance Cooperative @ The Galaxie
Innervation Dance Cooperative brings together dancers and choreographers with varied backgrounds, mixes 'em up, and creates an eclectic contemporary dance aesthetic on stage. Featuring seven world premieres and three re-staged pieces from nine different choreographers, with dances ranging from introspective to comedic to joyful, you're sure to find something to your liking at their fall concert, "Nothing in Common."
Tonight's show is the annual Benefit Concert. Tickets are $30, which includes open bar and appetizers, 7-8pm, show at 8pm, and a post-show cocktail reception until 10pm.
The Galaxie, 2603 W. Barry. For tickets, email info@innervationdance.org or call Innervation at 773-230-2168.
Handmade Nation @ Quimby's
Quimby's hosts Faythe Levine and Cortney Heimerl, authors of Handmade Nation, the book that accompanies the forthcoming documentary featuring lots of local crafters. Faythe and Cortney will be at Quimby's tonight at 7pm; the event is free and open to the public. Quimby's: 1854 W. North. (773) 342-0910.
Chicago Filipino American Film Festival @ Portage Theater
The Chicago Filipino American Film Festival begins its final day with a 1:00 pm screening of 1954's Jack and Jill starring Dolphy, aka the Philippines' "King of Comedy". Tickets for each movie are $10, with a Sunday daily pass costing $20. Students and seniors can request free day passes here. 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL 60641
Chicago Filipino American Film Festival @ Portage Theater
The Chicago Filipino American Film Festival continues today. Programming begins at 1pm with documentary That Asian Thing, a look at the challenges and opportunities for Chicago-based Asian-American folks in film, entertainment, and the media. Tickets for each movie are $10. A Saturday daily pass is $20. Students and seniors can request free day passes here. 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL 60641
Kate Boggiano Trunk Show @ Florodora
Stop by Florodora's Loop location (330 S Dearborn inside the Mondanock Building) today to check out local designer Kate Boggiano's trunk show. The Chicago native will be showcasing her line from noon until 6pm. Call 312-212-8860 or visit their website for more details.
Chicago Filipino American Film Festival @ Portage Theater
The Chicago Filipino American Film Festival begins tonight with a free reception, followed by an 8:00 pm showing of Santa Mesa. Music video awards start at 10:30 pm. Tickets for the feature and the video awards are $10 each, though a daily pass is a bargain at $10.00 for the evening. Students and seniors can request free day passes here. 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL 60641
Tura! Tura! Tura! @ Tattoo Factory Gallery
If you didn't get enough of cult icon Tura Satana at last nights screening of Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill! You are in luck, Tura! Tura! Tura! Opens tonight at the Tattoo Factory Gallery and Tura Satana will be there in person! This group art show organized by Chicago artist Mitch O'Connell, features artist such as Glenn Barr, Lisa Petrucci, Shag, Molly Crabapple and many more all celebrating the film icon. Profits from sales of posters and personal items donated by Tura herself will go to Apna Ghar, a domestic violence shelter and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The event stars at 7pm and runs to 11pm and is free. The art show continues through Jan. 26.
Tattoo Factory Gallery: 4443 N. Broadway. (773) 989-4077
Barry R. Bone's Burlesque Brothel
Head to The Darkroom, 2210 W. Chicago Ave., at 9pm for Barry R. Bone's Burlesque Brothel, a vaudevillian burlesque murder mystery featuring audio/visual performances from Chicago's most versatile burlesque performers: Red Hot Annie, Pearl Pistol, Salome Slaughter, Naughty Natanya, Chasity Chaos, and Lady Jack & Siren Jinx. Special appearance by Chicago Outfit Derby Girls. Pre-show entertainment will include 1920s vintage erotica as well as circus sideshow acts. Various goodies and swag bags will be distributed to all who attend. Post-show entertainment will include chocolate truffles from Coco Rouge, as well as a raffle sponsored by Chicago Avenue Salon, Pleasure Chest, G-Boutique, Platinum Partners, & Batteries Not Included. Rock band Whiskey Blonde will conclude the night with a set. Tickets are $10 in advance, $13 at the door. 21+
Dance for the Camera @ Chicago Cultural Center
In "Dance for the Camera" 2008 (scroll down once you get to that link), Hedwig Dances and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, in association with the Dance Films Association, present "innovative examples of dance films created by artists in the Midwest and around the world." This year's theme is "Landscapes and Interiors," focusing on the interaction between human activity and physical setting.
FREE. Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington (Claudia Cassidy Theatre).
Program 1, October 28: Networking reception @ 6pm. (for dancers, filmmakers, students, and guests). Screening @ 7pm.
Program 2, October 30: Screening @ 6 p.m. Panel discussion @ 7 p.m.
Atomic Sketch Event @ Evil Olive
BCD Collaborative hosts another Atomic Sketch Event tonight at Wicker Park's Evil Olive. The Halloween-themed evening of live art-making showcases established and emerging artists of various disciplines and offers finished works for sale at prices set by the artists. It's a great place to test your costume and cop original pieces at affordable prices. In addition to the panel, practicing artists and illustrators are welcome to drop-in with their own materials to sketch/paint on the sidelines and hang their work on the wall too. 6-9 p.m. 1551 W. Division St.
The Science of Spooky @ Cubby Bear
Just what it sounds like this panel, consisting of three scientists from NU, Fermi Lab and UChicago (with specialties ranging from physics to neuroscience) will breakdown the science of scary phenomena. More info at IllinoisScience.org. 6:30pm. Cubby Bear; 1059 W. Addison. Free.
This Country's F$cked @ Lakeshore Theater
Schadenfreude and Gayco team up to present This Country's F$cked, the first annual political comedy festival, sponsored by the Crossroads Foundation and Lakeshore Theater. The comedy show will feature Ken Barnard (Stand-up), Susan Messing (Annoyance), Mike and Duane (musical comedy), Matthew Hollis and the Power of Cheer, the Blue Ribbon Glee Club plus many, many more. This show will include live (on tape) performances from Rep. Jan Schakowsky, Reverend Jesse Jackson and Barack Obama. There will be two shows tonight, at 8pm and 11pm, at the Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway. DJ Jesse De La Pena will spin after the 11pm show. Tickets are $20.
NAMAH & Zarbang @ Dance Center of Columbia College
The mission of Banafsheh Sayyad and her company NAMAH is to bring Iranian (and world) performing arts to a broad audience. This weekend's performance is a rare opportunity to see Persian dance outside of Iran, where women are banned from dancing in public. The dancing will be accompanied by Zarbang, a Persian and Middle Eastern percussion and woodwind group.
$24-$28. October 16, 17, 18 @ 8 p.m. Dance Center of Columbia College, 600 S. Michigan. To purchase tickets and for more information (including a video), visit Columbia's performances site. Or call the ticket office at 312.344.6600.
Home Movie Day @ Cultural Center
The Chicago Film Archives sponsors Home Movie Day at the Chicago Cultural Center; 78 E. Washington St. Bring in your homespun video goodness and they will show it on the big screen. From 3pm to 6pm, CFA archivists will inspect your home movies (call 773-478-3799 to reserve a spot, or just walk in and wait), then from 6pm to 10pm they'll screen home movies from attendees and the CFA collection. Free.
This Country's F$cked @ Lakeshore Theater
Schadenfreude and Gayco team up to present This Country's F$cked, the first annual political comedy festival, sponsored by the Crossroads Foundation and Lakeshore Theater. The comedy show will feature Mark Bazer (RedEye), Bassprov (Annoyance), Matthew Hollis and the Power of Cheer, Yuri Lane (beatbox), Claudia Wallace (Second City), Jet and Holly (IO) plus many, many more. This show will include live (on tape) performances from Rep. Jan Schakowsky, Reverend Jesse Jackson and Barack Obama. There will be two shows tonight, at 8pm and 11pm, at the Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway. Tickets are $20.
NAMAH & Zarbang @ Dance Center of Columbia College
The mission of Banafsheh Sayyad and her company NAMAH is to bring Iranian (and world) performing arts to a broad audience. This weekend's performance is a rare opportunity to see Persian dance outside of Iran, where women are banned from dancing in public. The dancing will be accompanied by Zarbang, a Persian and Middle Eastern percussion and woodwind group.
$24-$28. October 16, 17, 18 @ 8 p.m. Dance Center of Columbia College, 600 S. Michigan. To purchase tickets and for more information (including a video), visit Columbia's performances site. Or call the ticket office at 312.344.6600.
NAMAH & Zarbang @ Dance Center of Columbia College
The mission of Banafsheh Sayyad and her company NAMAH is to bring Iranian (and world) performing arts to a broad audience. This weekend's performance is a rare opportunity to see Persian dance outside of Iran, where women are banned from dancing in public. The dancing will be accompanied by Zarbang, a Persian and Middle Eastern percussion and woodwind group.
$24-$28. October 16, 17, 18 @ 8 p.m. Dance Center of Columbia College, 600 S. Michigan.
To purchase tickets and for more information (including a video), visit Columbia's performances site. Or call the ticket office at 312.344.6600.
Quickies Reading Series @ Innertown Pub
Quickies!, a very short reading series, hits the Innertown Pub, 1935 W. Thomas Ave., tonight at 7:30pm. Donations appreciated. 21+
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago @ Harris Theater
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago presents its Fall Program: Fold by Toru Shimazaki (world premiere), Minus 16 by Ohad Naharin (audience -- and this writer's -- favorite), and Extremely Close by Alejandro Cerrudo. You can't go wrong with this show. This is the one to bring your friend to -- you know, that friend who swears she hates to watch dance and needs to be pleasantly surprised! Check out HSDC's FootNotes or their repertoire for more description of the dances.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance at Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Drive. Thursday 10/9 @ 7:30 p.m., Friday 10/10 @ 8 p.m., Saturday 10/11 @ 8 p.m., and Sunday 10/12 @ 3 p.m. Tickets are $25 to $86 (the $25 tix are only available on Saturday). HINT: There's no such thing as a bad seat at the Harris. Click here to purchase tickets, or call 312-334-7777.
SAIC BareWalls 2008 @ Sullivan Galleries
The School of the Art Institute Alumni Society holds its annual BareWalls fundraiser tonight in the new Sullivan Galleries at the Historic Sullivan Center (aka, the Carson Pirie Scott Building), 33 S. State Street, 7th Floor, tonight from 6pm to 9pm. Come see dozens of SAIC alums paint live at the event, bid on artwork in a silent auction, and meet guest artist Robert Lostutter (class of '63). Tickets are $100; VIP tickets are $250, and include a pre-event tour of the new galleries and early entry to the event. Proceeds benefit the Alumni Scholarship fund.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago @ Harris Theater
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago presents its Fall Program: Fold by Toru Shimazaki (world premiere), Minus 16 by Ohad Naharin (audience -- and this writer's -- favorite), and Extremely Close by Alejandro Cerrudo. You can't go wrong with this show. This is the one to bring your friend to -- you know, that friend who swears she hates to watch dance and needs to be pleasantly surprised! Check out HSDC's FootNotes or their repertoire for more description of the dances.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance at Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Drive. Thursday 10/9 @ 7:30 p.m., Friday 10/10 @ 8 p.m., Saturday 10/11 @ 8 p.m., and Sunday 10/12 @ 3 p.m. Tickets are $25 to $86 (the $25 tix are only available on Saturday). HINT: There's no such thing as a bad seat at the Harris. Click here to purchase tickets, or call 312-334-7777.
"We Need Each Other" @ Oh No! Doom
Oh No! Doom, 2955 W. Lyndale, celebrates the opening of "We Need Each Other," an "epic artist collaboration" composed of 80 painted panels by some two dozen artists. Additional art will also be shown. DJ Clockwerk and Trey spin, beverages and apps will be served, and art, toys and tees will be available for purchase. Tonight from 6pm to 10pm. See the flyer here.
"Deceptive Design" Opening
"Deceptive Design: Experiments in Furniture," an exhibit of innovative furniture design, holds an opening reception in the Michigan Ave Galleries of the Chicago Cultural Center 78 E. Washington, from 6pm to 8pm tonight. Meet the designers and explore their creations. Free.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago @ Harris Theater
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago presents its Fall Program: Fold by Toru Shimazaki (world premiere), Minus 16 by Ohad Naharin (audience -- and this writer's -- favorite), and Extremely Close by Alejandro Cerrudo. You can't go wrong with this show. This is the one to bring your friend to -- you know, that friend who swears she hates to watch dance and needs to be pleasantly surprised! Check out HSDC's FootNotes or their repertoire for more description of the dances.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance at Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Drive. Thursday 10/9 @ 7:30 p.m., Friday 10/10 @ 8 p.m., Saturday 10/11 @ 8 p.m., and Sunday 10/12 @ 3 p.m. Tickets are $25 to $86 (the $25 tix are only available on Saturday). HINT: There's no such thing as a bad seat at the Harris. Click here to purchase tickets, or call 312-334-7777.
Hubbard Street Dance @ Harris Theater
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago presents its Fall Program: Fold by Toru Shimazaki (world premiere), Minus 16 by Ohad Naharin (audience -- and this writer's -- favorite), and Extremely Close by Alejandro Cerrudo. You can't go wrong with this show. This is the one to bring your friend to -- you know, that friend who swears she hates to watch dance and needs to be pleasantly surprised! Check out HSDC's FootNotes or their repertoire for more description of the dances.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance at Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Drive. Thursday 10/9 @ 7:30 p.m., Friday 10/10 @ 8 p.m., Saturday 10/11 @ 8 p.m., and Sunday 10/12 @ 3 p.m. Tickets are $25 to $86 (the $25 tix are only available on Saturday). HINT: There's no such thing as a bad seat at the Harris. Click here to purchase tickets, or call 312-334-7777.
Andersonville Arts Weekend
Andersonville Arts Weekend continues today with a wide range of exhibits, events and performances from 10am into the evening, including the Puppet Bike, dance classes at the Joel Hall Dance Center, theater at Pegasus Players and the Neo-Futurarium, and gallery shows. Admission ranges from free to cheap -- see the site for details.
Andersonville Arts Weekend
Andersonville Arts Weekend continues today with a wide range of exhibits, events and performances from 10am to late night, including paintings at the Edgewater Historical Society, dance lessons at the Joel Hall Dance Center, and burlesque at Mary's Attic. Admission ranges from free to cheap -- see the site for details.
YarnCon
YarnCon, a mostly fiber arts craft show, fills the Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, 1419 W. Blackhawk, from 10am to 4pm today. Free.
Andersonville Arts Weekend
Andersonville Arts Weekend kicks off tonight from 6pm to 10pm with the "night of 100 pARTies," ranging from art exhibits at local shops and galleries to performances by the Pegasus Players, Theater Ooblek and the Neo-Futurists. The galleries are free; the plays are cheap -- see the site for details.
The Interview Show @ Hideout
Mark Bazer's Interview Show returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight at 6:30pm. This month's guests include "Top Chef" winner Stephanie Izard, author Kevin Davis and stand-up comic Hannibal Buress, and features performances by Buress and Jeff Dorchen of Theater Oobleck. $5 at the door. 21+
Bonnie & Clyde's Fashion Show w/Jeffrey Sebelia
"Project Runway" winner Jeffrey Sebelia will be the guest host for Bonnie & Clyde Boutique's fall fashion show tonight at Lumen, 839 W. Fulton Market. Junior Sanchez and Darkwave Disco DJ, with a guest appearance by Troy This. Doors open at 9pm, show starts at 10pm. RSVP to info@lumen-chicago.com for reduced cover before 10pm. 21+
Tierra Muhammad Opening @ House of Culture
Artist Tierra Muhammad debuts new work at the House of Culture, 618 E. 71st St., with an opening reception at 2pm. Free.
James Marshall (Dalek) Opening Reception @ Phaiz
Phaiz Gallery,673 N. Milwaukee Ave., celebrates the opening of its new exhibit of one-of-a-kind art by James Marshall, aka Dalek, with a reception tonight from 7pm to 11pm. Backfield fashion and Rosemary Lee vests will also be shown. Free.
Magic In Cinema @ Sonotheque
Sonotheque, 1444 W. Chicago Ave., and the Chicago Cinema Forum host "Magic in Cinema," highlighting the use of mystical and mesmerizing moments of magic in early cinema history. Among the films shown will be a selection of works by the first wizard of cinema, Georges Melies; a recently restored print of Lotte Reinger's animated film The Adventures of Prince Achmed; Edwin S. Porter's Dream of a Rarebit Fiend; and R W Paul's surreal The ? Motorist. The films will be accompanied by original music by producer/musician Shannon Harris and guitarist Jeff Parker of Tortoise. Doors open at 7pm, films begin at 8pm. $8 admission, 21+.
Wax Burner Show @ A.Okay Official
A.Okay Official, 3270 N. Clark, presents Wax Burner, a group show of custom-painted prayer candles. The opening reception is tonight from 6pm to 11pm. DJ sets by Maker, Intel and Sonryze. Refreshments will be served.
Scrappers Movie Benefit @ The AV-aerie
Scrappers is a feature-length documentary that tells the stories of three Chicago men who comb the city streets in search for people's discarded-yet-valuable resources, such as iron and aluminum. Still in production, the film is the focus of this evening's benefit from 6-10pm at The AV-aerie, 2000 W. Fulton. In addition to scenes from the film, there will be video installations, words from the filmmakers and subjects, and musical performances by Scrappers composer Frank Rosaly, the Jonathan Crawford/Frank Rosaly/Michael Zerang percussion trio and the Friction Brothers. There is a $10 suggested donation. RSVP required to scrapmovie@gmail.com.
Writers on the Record: Junot Diaz
Junot Diaz, author of The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, talks with Victoria Lautman in the latest edition of Writers on the Record tonight at 6pm at the Harold Washington Library, Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, 400 S. State St. Free.
Black Collar Ball
426 Brand, Chicago's own rockabilly fashion house, unveils its new fall line the Black Collar Ball tonight at the Old Oak Tap, 2109 W. Chicago Ave. DJ Caesare spins, Russ Meyer's cinematic magic on the walls, and the Revelettes go-go-going on the dance floor. The USO will be accepting donations at the door, Kilo Kai specials all night. Doors open at 8pm. 21 and over.
Third Coast Festival's "Radio Ephemera"
The Third Coast International Audio Festival presents highlights from its "Radio Ephemera" challenge tonight at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, from 7pm to 9pm. Admission is $8, $6 if you're a Chicago Public Radio member.
"The People's Temple" @ American Theater Company
"The People's Temple" kicks off the American Theater's 24th season. This is a riveting play about Jonestown in 1978.
American Theater Company: 1909 W. Byron Street
Tickets: $40.00
Box office: (773) 929-1031
Friday and Saturday at 8:00p.m and Sunday at 3:00p.m.
Red Bull Flugtag Chicago
Red Bull brings Flugtag back to North Avenue Beach today; come watch 40 teams compete to see whose crazy contraption flies the farthest. Doors open at 11am, first launch takes place around 1pm. Free.
South Union Arts Closing Show
South Union Arts is closing its doors, but before it goes, it's having "a corn roast," featuring works by Kaelyn Garcia & Jocelyn Stotz, Catherine Bouzide & Bill Friedman, Catie Olson, Anni Holm, Annie Heckman, Ben Funke, Michael Una and Viki Fowler. Among the works is Chicago's first in-ground corn maze. Show runs from 3pm to 7pm. Free.
Breakbone DanceCo @ Viaduct Theater
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
"The People's Temple" @ American Theater Company
"The People's Temple" kicks off the American Theater's 24th season. This is a riveting play about Jonestown in 1978.
American Theater Company: 1909 W. Byron Street
Tickets: $40.00
Box office: (773) 929-1031
Friday and Saturday at 8:00p.m and Sunday at 3:00p.m.
Young June Lew Opening @ Andrew Bae Gallery
Andrew Bae Gallery celebrates the opening of an exhibition by artist Young June Lew tonight from 5pm to 8pm at the gallery, 300 W. Superior St. The show runs through Oct. 18.
Breakbone DanceCo @ Viaduct Theater
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
"The People's Temple" @ American Theater Company
"The People's Temple" kicks off the American Theater's 24th season. This is a riveting play about Jonestown in 1978.
American Theater Company: 1909 W. Byron Street
Tickets: $40.00
Box office: (773) 929-1031
Friday and Saturday at 8:00p.m and Sunday at 3:00p.m.
The Interview Show @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, once again hosts Tribune columnist Mark Bazer's Interview Show tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm. On the show this month are jazz saxophonist Frank Catalano, hip-hop poet Kevin Coval, and Blewt! Productions creative director Steve Gadlin. Catalano and Coval will perform, and Gadlin will screen a short "Impress These Apes!" film.
Breakbone DanceCo @ Viaduct Theater
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
"Wait! Wait! Don't Tell Me!" @ Pritzker Pavilion
Host Peter Sagal, scorekeeper Carl Kasell, and panelists Paula Poundstone, Mo Rocca and Charlie Pierce will tape an episode of "Wait! Wait! Don't Tell Me!," the NPR news quiz produced by Chicago Public Radio, tapes in the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park tonight at 6:30pm, for free.
Pecha Kucha Night
It's Pecha Kucha Night at Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., starting at 8pm tonight. Come watch a dozen people run through 20-image presentations, each shown for just 20 seconds each, forcing them to be very concise and quick. Presenters include Jon Langford, Sally Timms, Kurt Lauer and more. $10 at the door. 21+
Cinema 16 @ High Concept Labs
Head to High Concept Laboratories, 1401 W Wabansia Ave., tonight at 7pm for Cinema 16, a screening of classic short films by Czech surrealist Jan Švankmajer, modernist Man Ray and French filmmaker and scriptwriter Robert Enrico, with live soundtrack performed by a live band. DJ Kid Color fills in between flicks. Sponsored by Drambuie and Myopenbar. It's free, but you have to RSVP. 21+
Parkways Foundation @ Buckingham Fountain
Buckingham Fountain closes for the season on Tuesday, Sept. 2, for much needed renovation. The Parkways Foundation, which raises private funds for projects within the Chicago Park District, is launching its public campaign to raise $5 million for the restoration project at the fountain today from 10:30am to 1pm. Fountain visitors will receive complimentary treats courtesy of Caffe Rom, and can purchase an exclusive Buckingham Fountain t-shirt with all proceeds going toward the renovation.
African Festival for the Arts
The African Festival for the Arts runs Friday through Monday at 5100 S. Cottage Grove with loads of music, art, food and culture. Tickets are $10 per day, with weekend passes available for $30. Today's musical lineup is below.
World music stage
2:30pm: DJ music
3:30pm: New Orleans Revival
4:45pm: Voices
6:30pm: Diblo Dibala
Dee Parmer stage
2:30pm: Trinity
4:30pm: Muntu
6:15pm: Nicholas Payton
7:45pm: Kool & The Gang
Hip-Hop stage
5pm: Black Sheep
5:45pm: Rhymefest
7pm: Brand Nubian
African Festival for the Arts
The African Festival for the Arts runs Friday through Monday at 5100 S. Cottage Grove with loads of music, art, food and culture. Tickets are $10 per day, with weekend passes available for $30. Today's musical lineup is below.
World music stage
2:30pm: DJ music
3:30pm: Odies Williams
4:45pm: Roland Brown
6:30pm: New Orleans Revival
Dee Parmer stage
2:30pm: DJ music
4:30pm: Mulgrew Miller
6:15pm: Les Nubians
7:45pm: Rachelle Farrell
Hip-Hop stage
5:30pm: Keith Murray
7pm: Nice and Smooth
African Festival for the Arts
The African Festival for the Arts runs Friday through Monday at 5100 S. Cottage Grove with loads of music, art, food and culture. Tickets are $10 per day, with weekend passes available for $30. Today's musical lineup is below.
World music stage
2:30pm: DJ music
3:30pm: Tribute to Motown
4:45pm: Youssoupha Sidibe
6:30pm: Ray Martinez
Dee Parmer stage
2:30pm: DJ music
4:30pm: Odies Williams
6:15pm: Raices Habaneras
7:45pm: New Orleans Revival
Hip-Hop stage
5:30pm: Special Ed
6:15pm: The Lady of Rage
7pm: Big Daddy Kane
Breakbone DanceCo @ Viaduct Theater
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
Summer FUNdraiser @ Country Club Chicago
Fourteen local artists have created silkscreen prints inspired by the joy of summer for the Summer FUNdraiser tonight from 6pm to 10pm at Country Club Chicago, 1100 N. Damen Ave. Artists include Billy Baumann, Ann Benjamin, Briana Bolger, Sam Conant, Rachel Cortner, Silas Dilworth, Luke Franz, Ryan Halvorsen, Matt Kubis, Myra Mazzei, Mark McGinnis, Ryan Sievert and John Soliminet. Proceeds to benefit Friends of Pritzker. Call 773-960-1811 for more info.
African Festival for the Arts
The African Festival for the Arts kicks off today at 5100 S. Cottage Grove with loads of music, art, food and culture. Tickets are $10 per day, with weekend passes available for $30. The festival runs Friday through Monday; today's musical lineup is below.
World Music Stage
3pm: DJ Music
3:30pm: SPIRIT
4:45: siji/DJ Music
6:30: Fertile Ground
Dee Parmer Stage
2:30pm: DJ Music
3:30pm DJ Music
4:30pm: SPIRIT
6:15pm: Antoine
7:45pm: Al Hudson & One Way
Breakbone DanceCo @ Viaduct Theater
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
Summer FUNdraiser @ Country Club Chicago
Fourteen local artists have created silkscreen prints inspired by the joy of summer for the Summer FUNdraiser tonight from 6pm to 10pm at Country Club Chicago, 1100 N. Damen Ave. Artists include Billy Baumann, Ann Benjamin, Briana Bolger, Sam Conant, Rachel Cortner, Silas Dilworth, Luke Franz, Ryan Halvorsen, Matt Kubis, Myra Mazzei, Mark McGinnis, Ryan Sievert and John Soliminet. Proceeds to benefit Friends of Pritzker. Call 773-960-1811 for more info.
Breakbone DanceCo @ Viaduct Theater
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
A Day Without A Mexican
Females United for Action hosts a screening of A Day Without A Mexican tonight at 5pm at its offices, 11 E. Adams St., Ste. 902. It's free, but RSVP is requested: call Manju at 312-341-9650.
Watering Hole @ Chicago Cultural Center
Dog & Pony Theatre mounts a work-in-progress play, Watering Hole, at the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph, tonight at 7:30pm. The performance inaugurates the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs Theater's Incubator Series, a program designed to support the creation of new work by emerging Chicago theater companies. Tickets are free, but reservations are recommended; make yours online or call 312-742-8497.
Camp Midnight: Showgirls Gone Wild
Dick O'Day and Hell in a Handbag Productions host Camp Midnight, a late-night campy film series at The Music Box, 3733 N. Southport. Tonight's film is Showgirls, and the preshow starts at 10:30pm on August 23, including a stripper pole/lap dance contest, sleazy prizes and more. The film starts around midnight. Tickets are $12 in advance.
"Easier than Running a Marathon!" @ Lincoln Lodge
The Lincoln Lodge takes a break from its summer vacation for "Easier than Running a Marathon!", a special show benefiting Mary Tarullo, who is running the AIDS marathon this fall. Performers include Adam Burke, Jeb Cadwell, CJ Toledano, Carrie Callahan, and Will Miles. Show starts at 9pm; tickets are $10. At The Lincoln Restaurant, 4008 N. Lincoln Ave.
A Celebration of American Dance @ Pritzker Pavilion
The third night of the Chicago Dancing Festival. "A Celebration of American Dance" in Millennium Park is a free evening of performances by some fantastic companies, including the American Ballet Theater (performing the Black Swan pas de deux from Swan Lake--you can't get any better than that) and Chicago's Hubbard Street Dance, Joffrey Ballet, and Muntu Dance Theater. It's not often you get the opportunity to see all of this dancing in one night, for FREE, while taking advantage of the best part of Chicago summers: sitting outside with your family or friends and a bottle of (ahem) grape juice with the skyline rising above you.
August 20, 7:30 p.m., Pritzker Pavilion, Michigan Ave. and Randolph St. No reservations necessary, but get there early for a good spot!
Artists Up Close @ Museum of Contemporary Art
The second night of the Chicago Dancing Festival. If you're interested in learning about the origins of modern dance from some people who would really know what the heck they're talking about (imagine learning physics from Einstein's #1 student), reserve your free spot for Artists Up Close, where dancers and the respective artistic directors of the Limon Dance Company and the Martha Graham Dance Company will present a multimedia lecture and demonstration exploring the birth of modern dance.
August 19, 6 p.m., Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Call 312-397-4010 for reservations. FREE.
Jersey Joe Rime Opening @ Phaiz
Phaiz Gallery, 673 N. Milwaukee, celebrates the opening of Jersey Joe Rime's "Layers" with a reception tonight from 7pm to 11pm.
Ethnic Arts Bazaar
The Illinois Artisan's Shop presents the Ethnic Arts Bazaar, featuring the work of a dozen Illinois artists. Yesterday and today from 10am to 3:30pm in the James R. Thompson Center Atrium, 100 W. Randolph St.
Ethnic Arts Bazaar
The Illinois Artisan's Shop presents the Ethnic Arts Bazaar, featuring the work of a dozen Illinois artists. Today and tomorrow from 10am to 3:30pm in the James R. Thompson Center Atrium, 100 W. Randolph St.
Chicago Poems: The Individual and the Mass in the Modern American City @ Smart Museum
This summer, the Smart Museum of Art and 57th Street Books present a series of discussions that relate the Ashcan artist John Sloan’s images of New York to classic literary works connected to Chicago. Amid John Sloan's artwork, read from Carl Sandburg’s Chicago Poems (1916) and then take part in an informal book-club-style conversation comparing Sandburg’s and Sloan’s depictions of crowds and individuals in the modern city. Poet and cultural historian Matthias Regan will lead the conversations amidst Sloan’s artwork in the Smart Museum’s galleries. Free. 2pm. Smart Museum of Art. 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. Call 773-702-0200 for more information.
Tribute: An Art and Music Event @ Manhattans Bar
A one night art and music event where artists, musicians, and patrons pay tribute to famous people that may or may not have had an impact in their lives. Eighteen artists and four musical acts were asked to produce a piece of work that either 1. Was their own piece in a famous artist's style, or 2. Was a famous artist's piece in their own style. The organizers encourage everyone who attends to dress as someone famous. Artists include Joe Markevicius, Shelley Hermes, Corey Lake, Laura Terek, Jose Arceo, Andrea Zamudio, Kim Watt, Jason Shields, Michael Senise, Alisa Duda, David Bozic, Lauri Apple, Rex Flodstrom, Katie Cooper, Jennifer Ho, Clarence Lindsey, Selena Vallejo, and Michelle Emerson. The bands include Melissa Genova, Graham Smith, GUN, and The Hoosier Daggers. Organized by FarragoUnderground, which is dedicated to bringing emerging and established artists to the common public in alternative places (bars, basements, cafes, etc) for one night themed art and music events. 8 p.m. 415 S. Dearborn St. For more info, visit the Website.
Phoebe Fisher and Kime Buzzelli Opening @ Heaven Gallery
Works by these two talented artists. 7 p.m. 1550 North Milwaukee, 2nd floor. For images of featured works, visit the Website.
Great Books Trivia @ Book Cellar
Shimer College holds its monthly great books trivia game from 8:30pm to 10pm tonight at the Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. Free.
Artists' Reception for Current Exhibitions @ HPAC
Join the Hyde Park Art Center for an artists' reception for a number of current shows. Free. 3-5 p.m. Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 South Cornell Ave. 773-324-5520. For more info, visit the Website.
Open House Dance Collective @ Vittum Theater
Open House Dance Collective, a division of HouseHold Arts Collective, invites community members--regardless of training or skill level--to come rehearse with professional choreographers. They perform professionally every summer, and this weekend's "OHD 5" is this year's culmination. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Inspiration Cafe, which provides restaurant-style meals, life skills training, case management, and other services at their Uptown location to help men and women overcome the causes of their homelessness. Come see your neighbors-cum-professional dancers, as well as an appearance by Jump Rhythm Jazz Project.
July 31, August 1, August 2 at 8:00 p.m. at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago. Tickets are $15, and reservations are highly recommended (they've sold out 4 years running). Click here or call 773-342-4141.
SOLVE Tribute Show @ Oh No! Doom
Oh No! Doom, 2955 W. Lyndale, hosts a show in tribute to murdered street artist SOLVE from 7pm to 10pm tonight. Works by more than a dozen street artists will be featured in a "sticker silent auction" to benefit the Madison East Art Department on SOLVE's behalf. and Dee-Eye-Zee's new album, Say Uncle will be available, with 50 percent of the proceeds going to the cause.
Open House Dance Collective @ Vittum Theater
Open House Dance Collective, a division of HouseHold Arts Collective, invites community members--regardless of training or skill level--to come rehearse with professional choreographers. They perform professionally every summer, and this weekend's "OHD 5" is this year's culmination. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Inspiration Cafe, which provides restaurant-style meals, life skills training, case management, and other services at their Uptown location to help men and women overcome the causes of their homelessness. Come see your neighbors-cum-professional dancers, as well as an appearance by Jump Rhythm Jazz Project.
July 31, August 1, August 2 at 8:00 p.m. at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago. Tickets are $15, and reservations are highly recommended (they've sold out 4 years running). Click here or call 773-342-4141.
FRAMED: A Group Exhibition @ 32nd & Urban
Brings together 59 artists, designers, photographers, illustrators, graphic designers, painters, collage makers, muralists, installation-based artists, street artists, printmakers, graffiti artists, comic book artists, and other art makers. Artists are given wooden frames of various sizes for - 4x6, 5x7, 8x10 and 11x15- over 150 frames presented. These frames are simple in design. Each artist is encouraged to create their piece(s) with two ground rules in mind: 1) leave the wooden frame alone and 2) produce work with the idea of presenting ‘great, affordable art’. It is through this exhibit that the gallery owners and art makers hope to attract collectors of all salary ranges. Creating an environment free of pretension this exhibit celebrates the uniqueness of each artist talent while promoting their art work as sellable and desirable items for all types of individuals in all types of settings. Curated by Peter Kepha, artist and principal gallery curator. 6-11 p.m. (Official Gallery after-party at Subterranean, 2011 W. North Avenue, 9:30pm-2am. Featuring sounds by Deejay Pickel, DJ Trew and DJ Intel. Presented by OkayWithUs. Discounted admission with flyer or password ‘FRAMED’. $4 Stoli cocktails, Free Miller High Life 9:30pm-10:30pm.) Through Aug. 30. 3201 South Halsted. For more info, visit the Website.
Atomic Sketch Event @ Evil Olive
Once a month, local art triumvirate, BCD Collaborative, hosts the Atomic Sketch Event at Wicker Park's Evil Olive, which is an evening of live art-making by both established and emerging artists of various disciplines. Throughout the evening, finished works are placed on the sale wall at prices set by the artists. Typically, artists who often have work selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars will be selling for less than 100 dollars. It's a great way for experienced collectors or first-time buyers to procure unique pieces at affordable prices. In addition to the panel, artists of all stripes are welcome to "drop-in" and bring materials to sketch/paint on the sidelines and hang their work on the wall to try and sell as well. 6-9 p.m. 1551 W. Division St.
Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout
It's ladies night at Funny Ha-Ha, which returns to The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight at 7pm with an (almost) all-female lineup! The show will include readings by author/blogger Wendy McClure, renowned blogger Mimi Smartpyants, 2nd Story reading series curator Megan Stielstra, Chicagoist editor and Time Out critic Margaret Lyons, How Far is the Ocean from Here author Amy Shearn, plus comedy from Lincoln Lodge regular Cameron Esposito and short films (with a feminine bent) by Steve Delahoyde. Hosted by local blogger Claire Zulkey. $5 suggested donation with proceeds benefiting the Neighborhood Writing Alliance. 21+
A Throw of Dice @ Pritzker Pavilion
The Grant Park Music Festival presents the U.S. premiere of the 1929 Indian silent film, A Throw of Dice, with original musical arrangement by Asian DJ/multi-instrumentalist Nitin Sawhney and led by guest conductor Stephen Hussey, tonight at 9pm in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. Free.
"The Ritual of Critique" @ Cultural Center
Join DirectorsLabChicago for "The Ritual of Critique," an in-depth conversation between some of the city's most prominent directors and critics as they explore their separate roles in the world of theatre and their influence on one another. 7pm tonight in the Claudia Cassidy Theater at the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. Free.
Portraits from the Mind: The Works of William Utermohlen, 1955-2000 @ Chicago Cultural Center
Held in conjunction with the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease (ICAD), this dramatic and powerful art exhibit chronicles an artist’s life and his journey before and after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. “Portraits From the Mind” will be the largest, most comprehensive retrospective of the work of William Utermohlen to date, featuring pieces from 1955 to 2000. The exhibit includes a series of self-portraits, which poignantly document the course of his disease from his diagnosis in 1995 to 2000. The exhibit is supported by Myriad Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Through Aug. 3. 78 E. Washington St. For more info, visit the Website.
Goat Island Summer School Symposium @ SAIC's 012 Performance Space
This July features the 10th and final Goat Island Summer School hosted by the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. This year’s session concludes with a free public one-day symposium. Stephen Bottoms (University of Leeds, UK) presents the keynote on The Avant-garde and the Midwest. Panelists Carol Becker (Columbia University), Abhay Ghiara, Marin Blazevic (University of Zagreb, Croatia), and Judd Morrissey (SAIC) address the subject Community without Unity; and panelists/Summer School alumni Rebecca Groves, Judith Leemann, and Jorge Lucero address the statement What I have learned cannot be generalized, but it can be shared. Goat Island members present a collaborative lecture, and artist and Summer School alumna Sara Schnadt presents a performative installation. Lunch is provided. In the evening, a program of work by artists and Summer School alumni features video by Dani Leventhal, and live performances by Deva Eveland, and Brian Torrey Scott and friends. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 280 S. Columbus Dr. For more information, contact John Rich at goatislandperformance@gmail.com.
Queer Porn-ucopia @ Leather Archives
Sex writer Amy Andre and adult toy store Early to Bed co-present Queer Porn-ucopia, an evening of "the sexiest scenes of queer lust ever caught on film," tonight at 7pm at the Leather Archives & Museum, 6418 N. Greenview Ave. Tickets are available at the door, or in advance at Early To Bed, 5232 N. Sheridan, for a suggested donation of $8 - $10 (no one turned away for lack of funds). 21+
Twilight on the Rooftop (Hubbard Street Dance Chicago) @ East Bank Club
A summer twilight rooftop party where vintners pour their own wines while members of one of Chicago's favorite dance companies teaches you Bossa Nova moves from one of their popular works. No, this isn't a fantasy; this is Twilight on the Rooftop, the latest event from Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. There will be hors d'oeuvres, fine wines from nine Napa Valley wineries, and a raffle including a "Napa Valley winery experience." Yum! If this sounds fabulous to you, be sure to RSVP by July 15.
Tuesday, July 22, 7-10 p.m. on the Rooftop of the East Bank Club, 500 N. Kingsbury St. $75 per person, or get a VIP ticket for $125, which includes reserved seating with table-side wine service by the vintners themselves. Proceeds benefit HSDC. RSVP by phone at 312-850-9744, x164 or online.
Chicago Poetry Slam Grudge Match
Are you ready for a poetic rumble!?!? The 2008 Chicago Poetry Slam Grudge Match takes place tonight at the Funky Buddha Lounge, 728 W. Grand. Teams from The Green Mill & Mental Graffiti and The Chicago All-Stars will compete to see who's the best poetry slam crew. An open mic precedes the battle. Doors open at 7:30pm, $5 cover, 21+.
Tumbleweeds Art Project
Build geodesic structures out of unwanted CDs at Rooms Gallery, 645 W. 18th St., from 11am to 3pm. More details here.
Life as a Legend: Marilyn Monroe Exhibit @ Chicago Cultural Center
Life as a Legend visually celebrates the many sides of this 1950s glamour goddess and immortal legend by exploring both the celebrity of, and the woman behind, one of the world's most recognizable icons. This exhibition presents a lively dialogue between art and media representation, and explores the range of artists' individual engagement with the Marilyn persona and how that impacted their art. It captures the spark, sex appeal and sensation that was Marilyn through the art of Andy Warhol, Allen Jones, Peter Blake, Richard Avedon, Bert Stein, Henri Cartier-Breson, Mel Ramos, and many others using a broad range of media. Through Sept. 21. 78 E. Washington. For more info, visit the Website.
Beth Reitmeyer Opening Reception and Summer Show @ Zg Gallery
Reitmeyer's artwork strives to be physical manifestation of the cherished yet unseen parts of our relationships: hopes, dreams, wishes, and love. It highlights the seasons and rituals of life such as gift giving, holidays, and time spent making memories in specific rooms of one’s home. Installations and paintings. Through Aug. 30. Also displaying new works by Zg artists. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 300 W. Superior St. For more info, visit the Website.
Daniel Danger @ Rotofugi
New works by this talented poster artist. Daniel will be in town for the opening, so come by and say howdy. 6-9 p.m. 1953-55 W. Chicago Ave. For more info, visit the Website.
Dee Alexander @ MCA
Dee Alexander, Chicago's resident jazz vocal diva, hits the Museum of Contemporary Art's Tuesday on the Terrace series tonight. Anyone who witnessed her breathtaking tribute to Nina Simone and Dinah Washington last summer in Millennium Park can attest to the fact that Dee's got it going on, in every sense of the phrase. Her powerful vocals have the unique ability to connect with every listener in the audience at once. What better way to spend a Tuesday happy hour in July than listening to her serenade the beautiful outdoor Terrace while sipping on some cocktails and enjoying the weather? Dee Alexander plays the MCA Terrace on Tuesday, July 15th from 5:30 - 7 PM, 220 E. Chicago, no cover.
The Story of Francis & Wild Gil @ Gorilla Tango
A play in which two bank robbers escape from jail so they can start their lives over and build rockets to the moon in the back yard; top-notch physical comedy. More info here. Tickets: $12; Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N Milwaukee Ave. 5pm.
Sister Carrie: Women in the Modern American City @ Smart Museum
This summer, the Smart Museum of Art and 57th Street Books present a series of discussions that relate the Ashcan artist John Sloan’s images of New York to classic literary works connected to Chicago. Discuss Theodore Dreiser’s 1900 novel Sister Carrie and compare the book’s representation of women at work and rest on the streets of Chicago to Sloan’s depiction of female figures in turn-of-the-century New York. Poet and cultural historian Matthias Regan will lead the conversations amidst Sloan’s artwork in the Smart Museum’s galleries. Free. 2pm. Smart Museum of Art. 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. Call 773-702-0200 for more information.
Talking With Your Mouth Full: New Language for Socially Engaged Art @ ThreeWalls
Small Publications Book Fair with local publications by The Green Lantern Press, InCUBATE, AREA Chicago, Lumpen, and others. InCUBATE hosts Sunday Soup. The more art slides between convention and social action, sculpture and public performance, art and the everyday, the more complicated it is to talk about. As socially engaged art rides the boundaries of multiple subjects simultaneously, historians, critics, and other artists must develop multifaceted responses. To discuss projects that include a broad and unfolding web of topics such as art, racial politics, and gender is to speak in many voices all at the same time. The aim of Talking with Your Mouth Full is to contribute language to the critical framework for these projects in an effort to refine discussions around socially engaged art. Through tomorrow. 1-5 p.m. 119 N. Peoria, #2D. For more info, visit the Website.
Ruth Ann Borum @ Medicine Park
Borum is from Norman, OK and paints freakish-looking medusa-like ladies with four eyes, among other things. This year she's channeling the inner totem -- come see what that looks like! Through Aug. 3. 8 p.m. 2659 W. Chicago Ave. For more info, visit the Website.
Interview Show @ The Hideout
Mark Bazer's "Interview Show" returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm. Tonight's lineup includes interviews with Rick Perlstein, author of Nixonland, Jon Langford of the Mekons and Waco Brothers, and John Williams, WGN Radio midday talk-show host. Hip hop artist C.O. and Langford will perform. Just $5 at the door. 21+
Lumpen 17th Anniversary Action
Lumpen turns 17 with a party at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., tonight from 7pm to 2am. Pick up issue #109, the 1968-2008 redux issue, and check out an installation of all the past issues and related projects, as well as 1968 ephemera and posters. Plus videos, karaoke, performances by Pure Magical Love, Fought and a secret special guest, and more. $5 donation requested.
10 Years of Magical Thinking @ within(Reason)
Mixed media, video and installation exploring the beautiful, curious, mystifying elements of the aftermath of a death. 6-10 p.m. 1932 S Halsted St. #408. Through Aug. 1. For more info, visit the Website.
Jay Byrnes: "Go With The Flow" Opening @ Threadless
Showcasing his experience as both graphic artist and illustrator, Byrnes’ art focuses on urban life, blending graffiti-like characters with elements of popular culture, and using color and collage. "The street, people watching, experiences as I travel and just letting my mind wander” is what artist J. Byrnes says inspired the work in his one-man show. “My work reflects my surroundings. I can get ideas just walking through my neighborhood, or riding on the el train. And like with people you meet and places you’ve been, there are many layers underneath the surface if you choose to look deeper.” 7-9 p.m. 3011 N. Broadway. For more info, visit the Website.
Mathias Spider Schergen & Rena V Schergen @ Phaiz
Chroma Designs and backstroke fashion. 7-11 p.m. 673 N. Milwaukee. For more info, visit the Website.
Great Books Trivia Night @ Book Cellar
Test your knowledge of the great books tonight from 8:30 to 10pm at the Book Cellar, 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. For more information, call 312-235-3543 or email info@shimer.edu.
John Joe @ Mitchell Museum of the American Indian
Joe is one of four contemporary Native artists featured in the Mitchell Museum’s new “Transfusion” exhibit, on view through September 4. All are in their mid-30s and are of mixed Native and European or Asian heritage. 1 p.m. 3001 Central St., Evanston. For more info, visit the Website.
Mini Film Festival @ Mini Dutch Gallery
The first-ever Mini Film Festival to showcase a broad selection of original film and video works five minutes and under. Festivities to take place after dark under the stars in the backyard. Works include pieces by Kenny Reed, Clayton Flynn, Rebecca Schoenecker, Justin Meredith, Damian Bishop, John Kannenberg, Chris Heffner and Annette Sonnewend. Curated by Liz Hood and Lucia Fabio. Suggested donation of $2. 9p.m.-midnight. 3111 W. Diversey, first floor. For more info, visit the Website.
Schadenfreude @ Theater on the Lake
In honor of its 10th anniversary, Schadenfreude is performing its original sketch comedy show from 1998 at Theater on the Lake, Fullerton & Lake Shore Drive in Lincoln Park, tonight at 6:30pm. The show runs June 25-29. Tickets are $17.50, call 312-742-PLAY for reservations.
Nancy Picks and Chooses Screening
A 20-minute narrative illustrating the struggles of a young woman searching for her identity through sexual exploits, misguided at times. This ain't no sick chick flick, but a lovely little tale that showcases not only awesome outfits, but historically rich Chicago scenery and a host of talented Chicago actors. Free. 7 p.m. 1072 N. Milwaukee.
Schadenfreude @ Theater on the Lake
In honor of its 10th anniversary, Schadenfreude is performing its original sketch comedy show from 1998 at Theater on the Lake, Fullerton & Lake Shore Drive in Lincoln Park, tonight at 7:30pm. The show runs June 25-29. Tickets are $17.50, call 312-742-PLAY for reservations.
Tabu, The Sadistic Art of Pleasure @ Ageless Arts Tattoo
A look at erotic art and sadistic art, including an anime-style Red Light District series: portraits of people after they've been in car accidents. The show features over eight artists with varying styles. Beverages and a DJ to get in the mood! Hosted by Cecilia Vasquez and Charles Lopez. Through July 31. 7-11 p.m. 2410 S. Kedzie. For more info, visit the Website.
Schadenfreude @ Theater on the Lake
In honor of its 10th anniversary, Schadenfreude is performing its original sketch comedy show from 1998 at Theater on the Lake, Fullerton & Lake Shore Drive in Lincoln Park, tonight at 7:30pm. The show runs June 25-29. Tickets are $17.50, call 312-742-PLAY for reservations.
Mapping: Cartographies of Learning Opening Reception @ C33 Gallery
As part of the City of Chicago's Festival of Maps, this exhibition showcases multi-media arts installations from Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education and Columbia College Chicago's Center for Community Arts Partnerships. It is a culmination of curricular and conceptual explorations of map-making from students in nine Chicago Public Schools, representing student artists from kindergarten to high school. The installations, directed by professional artists and teachers, feature compelling social and cultural histories as well as visionary images of students' sense of place in their neighborhoods and the world. Through Aug. 8. 5-7 p.m. Columbia College, 33 East Congress. For more info, call 312-870-6140.
Jessica Abel & Matt Madden @ 57th Street Books
Jessica Abel and Matt Madden will be at 57th Street Books to talk about their book Drawing Words & Writing Pictures: Making Comics from Manga to Graphic Novels. Free. 6pm. 1301 E. 57th St. Call 773-684-1300 for more information.
Schadenfreude @ Theater on the Lake
In honor of its 10th anniversary, Schadenfreude is performing its original sketch comedy show from 1998 at Theater on the Lake, Fullerton & Lake Shore Drive in Lincoln Park, tonight at 7:30pm. The show runs June 25-29. Tickets are $17.50, call 312-742-PLAY for reservations.
THE2NDHAND Release Party @ Ronny's
THE2NDHAND celebrates the release of its 28th issue with a shotgun wedding tonight at 8pm at Ronny's, 2103 N. California. Chicago Editor C.T.Ballentine will preside over the ceremony, alongside Fred Sasaki, Jacob Knabb, Jill Summers, Susie Kirkwood, Chris Bower and our maid of honor, Lauren Pretnar. The Spectacles will be the wedding band, and there're $2 PBR cans at the "reception" afterwards. It's $6 at the door, 21 and over.
Mortified @ Green Mill
Mortified, an evening of true stories of painful experiences, comes to the Green Mill, 4802 N. Broadway, tonight at 8pm. The lineup has yet to be announced, but it's sure to be good. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. 21 and over.
Tuesdays on the Terrace @ MCA
Tuesdays on the Terrace, the Museum of Contemporary Art's free evening jazz concert series, presents Julia Huff tonight from 5:30pm to 8pm on the museum's terrace and sculpture garden. Enjoy cocktails while listening to lovely jazz. Free. 220 E. Chicago
"Freeze" Opening @ Second Bedroom
"Freeze," an installation by artist Adam Farcus, is the first show at Second Bedroom, a new art space within Apartment 4R at 3216 Morgan St., Apt. 4R. The exhibitions opens tonight with a reception from 7pm to 11pm, and runs through July 20th.
CHIRP Benefit @ Rodan
Hit Rodan, 1530 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight between 10pm and 2am for a benefit for the Chicago Independent Radio Project. DJs Carrie Weston and Chris Widman spin some of the best electronic, and drink specials include $2 PBR and $5 ruby red yachtsmans. No cover, but 15 percent of the bar will go to CHIRP.
Josh Berman @ MCA
Tuesdays on the Terrace at the Museum of Contemporary Art rolls on with local cornetist and composer Josh Berman. Berman has established himself as a unique voice on the scene as both an instrumentalist and with his various groups, one of which, Josh Berman and His Gang, will perform at this year's Chicago Jazz Festival. Today his Quartet plays on the MCA Terrace, a band that will include a variety of other top notch players on the Chicago scene. Josh Berman plays the MCA Terrace on Tuesday, June 17th, from 5 - 8 PM. No cover. 220 E Chicago.
Mental Graffiti Poetry Slam @ Funky Buddha
Mental Graffiti presents an open mic and open poetry slam at the Funky Buddha Lounge, 728 W. Grand., featuring poet, musician, author and slam champion Bonafide Rojas. Poet Jon Sands will read after the slam. Doors open at 7:30pm, show starts at 8pm. $5 cover, 21+.
The Jungle: Labor and Leisure in the Modern American City @ Smart Museum
This summer, the Smart Museum of Art and 57th Street Books present a series of discussions that relate the Ashcan artist John Sloan’s images of New York to classic literary works connected to Chicago. Hear excerpts from Upton Sinclair’s 1906 novel The Jungle and take part in an informal conversation comparing the novel’s representation of work and working-class life in Chicago to John Sloan’s depiction of life on the streets of turn-of-the-century New York. Poet and cultural historian Matthias Regan will lead the conversations amidst Sloan’s artwork in the Smart Museum’s galleries. Free. 2pm. Smart Museum of Art. 5550 S. Greenwood Ave. Call 773-702-0200 for more information.
LumbArt @ Splat Flats
The Splat Flats artist studios holds its annual LumbArt show in and around the Miller Lumber Yard, 1815-25 W Division St., today from 3pm to 10pm. Check out art, poetry, music and film throughout the afternoon and evening; full lineup here. Free, but donation requested. (Enter on Honore.)
Fred Camper Exhibition Opening @ Caro d'Offay Gallery
Includes examples from Camper's Accretions, Details, and Permutations series. These collections of juxtaposed photographs encourage viewers to refute our society's consumerist, object-worshiping culture, allowing us to cast aside subjective preferences, to interact with multiple interconnections and discover new ways to perceive. 6-10 p.m. 2204 W. North Ave. For more info, visit the Website.
Ray Pride Opening Reception @ Medicine Park
The photographs in "Enter Dream" anatomize the geography of Chicago night, forbidding and delicious as these streets might be to a runaway child. Things left behind. Escape routes. Mute facades. Fearful horizons. Landscapes both bright and dark. The creatures that populate threatening places and moments familiar to ghosts, insomniacs and those who fear sleep and dreams to come. Pride's work has been exhibited in group shows at the Cultural Center and Zolla-Lieberman Gallery and site-specific solo shows at Rainbo Club and Atomix Café. His portraits have been published in Newcity and Cinema Scope, among other places, and he contributes photo essays to Sharkforum and Variety. DJ Lapple Pietunes (aka Lauri Apple) spins. Through July 9. 8 p.m. 2659 W. Chicago Ave. For more info, visit the Website.
Second Friday @ Fine Arts Building
The galleries and studios in the Fine Arts Building,410 S. Michigan Ave., will be open tonight from 4:30pm to 9:30pm. Come check out fresh art, impromptu musical performances and even a little theater. Free.
Screenprinters Show @ Letterform Space
Letterform Space, 4043 N. Ravenswood #104, celebrates the opening of "The Sound: Silkscreen Prints & Other Works" tonight from 7pm to midnight. The show features works by Alana Bailey, Delicious Design League, Dan Grzeca, Keith Herzik, Kathleen Judge, Gina Kelly, Johnny Sampson, Superkonductor and Steve Walters. Miles Raymer of the Reader DJs. Free.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago @ Dance Center of Columbia College
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, one of our city's top dance companies, presents its annual "Inside/Out" Choreographic Workshop Performance, an evening of works-in-progress that could become part of the company's repertoire. Some of today's fan favorites had their beginnings at "Inside/Out." Perfect if you like to be "in the know" before the rest of the city.
June 6 & 7, 8:30 p.m., Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago, 1306 S. Michigan Ave. $20 general admission ($35 reserved section). To guarantee your seats (they sold out last year), call 312-850-9744 (ext. 166), or visit the website for an order form.
Opening: David Schalliol @ Cafe Latakia
Stop by Cafe Latakia, 3204 N. Broadway, from 6:30pm-9:30pm tonight to check out photographs by David Schalliol. Selections from Isolated Building Studies, Five Versus Five and other series will be displayed. Free. (It's hot, so you'll probably enjoy that Cafe Latakia sells ice cream too.)
Opening: Gretel Garcia and Frank Wick
"Crazy," a showing of works by Gretel Garcia and Frank Wick, opens tonight at antena, 1765 S. Laflin St., with a reception from 6pm to 10pm. The pieces will be on display through July 5. Call 773-344-1940 for more info.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago @ Dance Center of Columbia College
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, one of our city's top dance companies, presents its annual "Inside/Out" Choreographic Workshop Performance, an evening of works-in-progress that could become part of the company's repertoire. Some of today's fan favorites had their beginnings at "Inside/Out." Perfect if you like to be "in the know" before the rest of the city.
June 6 @ 8:30 and June 7 @ 6:00 and 8:30, Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago, 1306 S. Michigan Ave. $20 general admission ($35 reserved section). To guarantee your seats (they sold out last year), call 312-850-9744 (ext. 166), or visit the website for an order form.
Banick & Holubow Photography @ Darkroom
The Chicago Photography Center - Traveling Gallery presents photography by Laura Banick and Eric Holubow, at the Darkroom, 2210 W. Chicago Ave. The show opens with a reception tonight at 8pm. The show will be on display through July 27.
Streets of Chicago Fashion Show @ Victor Hotel
Sine Qua Salons is sponsoring a fashion show fundraiser for Preservation Chicago. Jeff Millbern, Anna Fong, Wolfbait & B.Girls will show clothing alongside a design by Steven Rosengard of "Project Runway." The event is in the Victor Hotel, 311 N Sangamon. The cocktail reception starts at 6:30pm with the hair and fashion show beginning at 8pm. Tickets are $25 and available online. All proceeds will benefit Preservation Chicago.
CAC Paint-a-Thon
The Chicago Artists' Coalition is holding a paint-a-thon today, with more than a dozen artists painting from 1pm to 4pm to raise money for the organization. A live auction will be held from 4pm to 6pm -- go bid on your favorite piece!
Do-Division Street Fest & Sidewalk Sale
Local music, food, and goods are on the agenda for this weekend-long street festival. DJs spinning at Wicker Park Car Wash will provide the soundtrack while you visit some of Division Street’s finest restaurants and shops. In addition to dining and shopping, there will be a chess tournament and plenty of kid-friendly activities. In the evening, Southern rockers Lucero will take the stage to bring it on home. On Division Street between Ashland and Leavitt from noon to 10 pm May 31 and June 1. Admission is $5.
National Tap Day Festival @ Old Town School
To celebrate the official U.S. holiday National Tap Day, the Old Town School presents their National Tap Day Festival. Tappers from Chicago and beyond will be on stage, including grand marshals Reggio “The Hoofer” McLaughlin and nonagenarian tap man Ernest “Brownie” Brown.
May 31, 8 p.m., Gary and Laura Maurer Concert Hall, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets are $20 ($18 for Old Town School members; $16 for students and seniors) and can be purchased via the box office (773.728.6000) or on the Web.
Indie Arts Market @ Schubas
The Indie Arts Marketwants you to know that if you've got bare space on your wall or your body, they've got some cool stuff to fill it. Clothing and handbags by I'm Smitten! Zombie stationary and journals by Re-Concieved! Crochet hats and earrings by (who else?) Crochet Girl! And that's just a few of the more than 30 artists that will be on hand to showcase the handmade at Schubas Tavern, 3159 N. Southport, from 11am to 3pm.
Zanie's 30th Anniversary
Zanies Chicago, 1548 N. Wells St., is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a special deal: People older than 30 will get free admission to the 8:30pm show, and those younger than 30 will get in free to the 10:30pm show. If you're exactly 30, you can get in free to either show. Proper ID required; tickets are $21 otherwise. Tim Walkoe headlines, with Drake Witham and Faye Canale.
Tre Femme Reception @ Palette and Chisel Academy of Fine Art
Visually eclectic art exhibition showcasing the works of three nationally recognized artists: Audry Cramblit, Nancy Pirri, and Ted Preuss. This collection represents three varied perspectives on the female form, featuring innovative techniques in figurative sculpture, ceramic print methods, and platinum photography. A percentage of sales will be donated to Union League Civic & Arts Foundation. Martinis from 6:30-8:30 sponsored by Qino One Vodka. 6-10 p.m. Open house Sat., May 31 from 2-7 p.m. 1012 N. Dearborn. For more info, call 312-642-4400.
Gapers Block 5th Anniversary Party
Gapers Block is five! Come help us celebrate tonight at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, from 9pm till close. We'll entertain you with performances by Bossa Saravah and The Revelettes go-go dance troupe, plus sets by DJs Arpad and James Vane -- plus a secret special guest! There'll also be games, giveaways and prizes, not to mention drinks and other fun. Admission is just $10 at the door! More details here.
The Only Moving Thing @ Harris Theater
Features two significant new musical compositions that eighth blackbird commissioned from four composers. Steve Reich’s Double Sextet comprises the program’s first half, and a collaboration by three composers – Bang on a Can's 2008 Pulitzer Prize winner David Lang, Michael Gordon, and Julia Wolfe – entitled "singing in the dead of night," comprises the second half, which is stage directed by innovative dancer/choreographer Susan Marshall. 7:30 p.m. For more info, visit the Website.
Live Through This: On Creativity and Self-Destruction @ Women & Children First
Editor Sabrina Chapadjiev will be at Women & Children First to talk about her book Live Through This: On Creativity and Self-Destruction, which collects stories from women writers sharing the way they have "used their art to survive madness, abuse, incest, depression, and the impulse towards self-destruction." Free. 7:30pm. 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.
Reader Book Swap
The Reader's annual Book Swap is tonight from 6pm to 9pm at Cobra Lounge, 235 N. Ashland Ave. Bring your used books and pick up new ones, watch a performance by The Janes go-go troupe, meet other Reader readers and possibly win a door prize. Everything is free except the drinks.
Aloft Aerial Dance @ The Aloft Loft
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Aloft Aerial Dance @ The Aloft Loft
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Elements Contemporary Ballet @ Ruth Page Center
Elements Contemporary Ballet produces dance that is truly ballet (the ladies wear pointe shoes, the movements come from a ballet vocabulary), yet truly contemporary (hey, ballerinas aren't supposed to stick out their hips like that!). ECB's Spring Concert features premieres of "Baroque Compositions" (set to Bach) and "Angel." A free reception following the Saturday show includes an opportunity to meet the dancers, staff, and board of ECB, a wine and cheese tasting, and a raffle.
May 23 & 24, 7:00 p.m. at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $17.50 general admission ($15 students and seniors). Click here for tickets, or call the box office at 312-337-6543.
Aloft Aerial Dance @ The Aloft Loft
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Elements Contemporary Ballet @ Ruth Page Center
Elements Contemporary Ballet produces dance that is truly ballet (the ladies wear pointe shoes, the movements come from a ballet vocabulary), yet truly contemporary (hey, ballerinas aren't supposed to stick out their hips like that!). ECB's Spring Concert features premieres of "Baroque Compositions" (set to Bach) and "Angel." A free reception following the Saturday show includes an opportunity to meet the dancers, staff, and board of ECB, a wine and cheese tasting, and a raffle.
May 23 & 24, 7:00 p.m. at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $17.50 general admission ($15 students and seniors). Click here for tickets, or call the box office at 312-337-6543.
Blewt! Sings @ Trader Todd's
Blewt! Sings!, a karaoke festival featuring your favorite characters and comics from Don't Spit the Water, hits Trader Todd's, 3216 N. Sheffield, tonight from 8pm to 10pm. $40 gets you drinks and food, plus the pleasure of hearing a bunch of comedians sing (you're invited to join in behind the mic, if you dare). Proceeds will be used to get the crew out to LA for a performance at the Comedy Central Stage on May 28th. Click here for more information or to purchase tickets.
Milan Furniture Fair Talk @ DWR Evanston
Helen Maria Nugent, co-owner of Haelo Design and associate professor of design at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), will be at Design Within Reach Evanston, 1710 Sherman Ave., tonight from 6pm to 8pm for a visual presentation of highlights from the 2008 Milan Furniture Fair, held April 16-21. The Milan Fair is the premier event for designers, both emerging and established, to showcase the latest innovations in form, function and material uses. The presentation will focus on what's new and notable in the fields of lighting and furniture design, and SAIC student work featured during the fair will be on display. Refreshments will be served. Free, but RSVP to evanston@dwr.com or 847-424-0881 by May 21.
Aloft Aerial Dance @ The Aloft Loft
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Moscow Virtuosi Chamber Orchestra @ Orchestra Hall
Led by internationally-renowned violinist and conductor Vladimir Spivakov, in celebration of its 30th anniversary. Russian piano virtuoso and 2001 Van Cliburn Gold Medalist Olga Kern joins the orchestra, comprised of top-ranking soloists and former principal chairs of the great orchestras of Russia. Works by Shostakovitch, Gulda and others. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, priced from $30-$75, on sale at the Symphony Center Box Office; at 312-294-3000; or at the Website.
Cajun Dance @ Portage Park Center for the Arts
The Chicago chapter of the Cajun French Music Association holds its monthly dance tonight from 8pm to 11pm at the Portage Park Center for the Arts, 5801 W. Dakin St. The Chicago Cajun Aces play live, and Cajun dance lesson during the band break. There will also be door prizes and a bake sale. Admission is $5 for members, $10 for non-members -- non-members can join the CFMA on the spot for $15 (plus $5 entry fee).
Aloft Aerial Dance @ The Aloft Loft
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Wicker Park Gallery Tour @ Around the Coyote
Led by Executive Director Allison Stites. Free tour of some of the best emerging art galleries in the historic Wicker Park neighborhood including Around the Coyote Gallery, Green Lantern, AllRise Gallery and Heaven Gallery. Apartment galleries, galleries in the historic Flatiron Arts Building, and other funky spaces. 12:30 p.m. Free. 1935 1/2 W. North Ave. For advanced registration and for more information, go here.
Flawed: New Work by Joan Hiller @ Medicine Park
Hiller explores the examination of topically cheery but inwardly dysfunctional mother-daughter relationships (after being bombarded by cheerful Mother’s Day commercial imagery in the wake of her own psychological struggles with the lasting effects of a mother’s illness, this seemed apropos) and inappropriately thought-out but acted-upon plans for fulfilling one’s heart and reconciling one’s identity. The show features works of businessmen, put-together and lustful women, mothers and daughters, and egomaniacal Vaudevillian superstar Eva Tanquay, whom the artist recently became enamored with via writer Jody Rosen’s paper at the 2008 EMP Pop Conference. This is a darker batch of work for Hiller, as she turns her thoughts to herself, although portraiture of others is the visual focus. Sparkling, witty conversation and copious amounts of booze! 8 p.m. 2659 W. Chicago. For more info, visit the Website.
Aloft Aerial Dance @ The Aloft Loft
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Manifest
Columbia College's Manifest Urban Arts Festival brings together a wealth of visual and performing arts spread across 14 galleries and four stages, all in one day. The event includes an artwalk and sale, music on four stages, screenings, readings, live radio, Web casts, the TICTOC Performance Art Festival, the Transmission art car exhibition, Spectacle Fortuna's parade of creativity, and a free concert by OK Go. Get the full schedule here.
Chip Kidd @ Quimby's
Writer and graphic designer extraordinaire Chip Kidd will be at Quimby's to talk about his book The Learners. Free. 7pm. 1854 W. North Ave. Call 773-342-0910 or visit the website for more information.
Marquez Dance Project & Nicole Gifford Dance @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Marquez Dance Project and Nicole Gifford Dance jointly present the dance concert Changing Flight. The two choreographers "narrate various occasions of change" through dance.
May 8 & 9, 7:30 p.m. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse, 3035 N. Hoyne. Get tickets at the door for $15. Call 312-952-3615 for more information.
Marquez Dance Project & Nicole Gifford Dance @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Marquez Dance Project and Nicole Gifford Dance jointly present the dance concert Changing Flight. The two choreographers "narrate various occasions of change" through dance.
May 8 & 9, 7:30 p.m. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse, 3035 N. Hoyne. Get tickets at the door for $15. Call 312-952-3615 for more information.
Rembrandt Chamber Players
The Rembrandt Chamber Players will present the first phase of The Mahler Project, Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 transcribed for chamber ensemble, in Gottlieb Hall at the Merit School of Music in Chicago at 5:30pm tonight. Guest artists include Jane Glover, Music Director of Chicago’s Music of the Baroque, conductor and soprano Christine Brandes. Tickets are $40 general admission, $15 for students. For further information or tickets, please call 312-360-3145 or visit rembrandtchamberplayers.org.
Inaside Chicago Dance @ Ruth Page Center
Inaside Chicago Dance has created an evening of dancing inspired by the drip period of Jackson Pollock's artwork. In the Painting will be a "multimedia dance experience," beginning with a short film about Pollock's life and art, and continuing with choreographed works that include a multimedia element.
May 2 @ 8:00, May 3 @ 2:00 & 8:00. Ruth Page Center for the Performing Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $20 general ($15 student/dancer/senior). Purchase tickets at the Ruth Page box office (312.337.6543).
Inaside Chicago Dance @ Ruth Page Center
Inaside Chicago Dance has created an evening of dancing inspired by the drip period of Jackson Pollock's artwork. In the Painting will be a "multimedia dance experience," beginning with a short film about Pollock's life and art, and continuing with choreographed works that include a multimedia element.
May 2 @ 8:00, May 3 @ 2:00 & 8:00. Ruth Page Center for the Performing Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $20 general ($15 student/dancer/senior). Purchase tickets at the Ruth Page box office (312.337.6543).
Innervation Dance Cooperative @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
Lethargy Art Walk
Neighboring artists Derek Erdman and Jim Newberry open up their studios at 2068 N. Leavitt today from 11am to 6pm for "Lethargy Art Walk." Check out art, sip beverages and generally enjoy a lazy day. Free.
Schadenfreude Rent Party @ Silvie's
Join Schadenfreude in celebrating their 10th year anniversary in Chicago with a series of shows at Chicago neighborhood dive bars. The shows are sponsored by PBR. Tonight the show is at Silvie's Lounge, 1902 W. Irving Park. Special guest comics include Susan Messing (Annoyance Theater), Hey You Millionaires (sketch), Jet & Holly (The Reckoning) and Lola Balatro (Paul Thomas). The show goes from comedy to rock and roll to country punk with The Jai Alai Savant and 500 Miles to Memphis. 9pm, $10 at the door.
Making Public Buildings - Chicago Architecture Foundation
The Chicago Architecture Foundation presents:
David Adjaye, Hon. FAIA
Principal Director, Adjaye Associates, London, England
(Passage below from the CAF site)
David Adjaye is among the most sought-after architects of his generation. His designs emphasize the experience and functionality of architecture. Adjaye explores scale, space, light, and material without adopting a signature style. In his lecture, Making Public Spaces, Adjaye focuses on his engagement with public space.
Friday, April 25, 5 to 7pm
5pm Reception
5:30pm Lecture
COST $15; $10 CAF members and students with ID
LOCATION Chase Auditorium, 10 S. Dearborn, Plaza Level, Chicago, IL
Go here to sign up.
Found & Vernacular Photos @ South Shore Arts Center
Found Magazine's Davy Rothbart brings the magazine's collection of found notes, photos and other ephemera to the South Shore Arts Center, 1040 Ridge Rd. in Munster, IN, in connection with the exhibit "Accidental Mysteries: Extraordinary Vernacular Photography from the collection of John and Teenuh Foster." Bring your own found photos and they'll be added to the installation. Tickets are $5, free for members. Call 219-836-1839 for more info.
Innervation Dance Cooperative @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
Innervation Dance Cooperative @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
Hopper & Burian Reading
Al Burian and Jessica Hopper read pieces they wrote where they wrote them -- at 1809 W. Ohio, the empty lot between their former residences -- at 3pm today. Free.
Innervation Dance Cooperative @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
Cajun Dance
The Chicago Cajuns throw another dance party tonight at the Portage Park Center for the Arts, 5801 W. Dakin St., featuring the music of Madison's Cajun Strangers. Dance from 8pm to 11pm for just $10 for nonmembers, $5 for members. Free dance lesson mid-way through the dance. Bring some pocket change for the bake sale.
Schadenfreude Rent Party
Schadenfreude kicks off its Rent Party season at the Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley, tonight at 9pm. In addition to the Schadenfreude crew, Team Submarine, Impress These Apes, Jimmy Carrane, Mike and Duane, and 80's Clown perform. Free food and really cheap beer. $10 at the door, 21 and over.
Armitage Gone! Dance @ Dance Center of Columbia College
Karole Armitage's newest creative force performs Ligeti Essays, a suite of concise jewel-like movements choreographed to music by the great Hungarian composer Gyorgy Ligeti, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century, renowned for musical ideas that offered penetrating insight into human consciousness. Each song consists of a short choreographic incident of different character, ranging from the humorous to the enchanted. Also on the program is Time is the echo of an axe within a wood, set to the music of Bela Bartok. The piece "samples" a range of choreographic styles, from yoga and bharata natyam to vogueing. When it debuted in 2004, Jennifer Dunning described it in the New York Times as "one of the most beautiful dances to be seen in New York in a very long time." Both pieces are designed by internationally acclaimed visual artist David Salle. $24-$28. 8 p.m. 1306 S. Michigan Ave. For tickets or info, call 312-344-6600 or visit the Website.
Innervation Dance Cooperative @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
Armitage Gone! Dance @ Dance Center of Columbia College
Karole Armitage's newest creative force performs Ligeti Essays, a suite of concise jewel-like movements choreographed to music by the great Hungarian composer Gyorgy Ligeti, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century, renowned for musical ideas that offered penetrating insight into human consciousness. Each song consists of a short choreographic incident of different character, ranging from the humorous to the enchanted. Also on the program is Time is the echo of an axe within a wood, set to the music of Bela Bartok. The piece "samples" a range of choreographic styles, from yoga and bharata natyam to vogueing. When it debuted in 2004, Jennifer Dunning described it in the New York Times as "one of the most beautiful dances to be seen in New York in a very long time." Both pieces are designed by internationally acclaimed visual artist David Salle. Through April 19. $24-$28. 8 p.m. 1306 S. Michigan Ave. For tickets or info, call 312-344-6600 or visit the Website.
Innervation Dance Cooperative @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
Sustainable Games: Chicago 2016 - AIA Chicago
(Passage below from the AIA Chicago website)
What sustainable features are included in Chicago's bid for the Olympic and Paralympic Games? Hear about the bid's planning and venue design principles from Sean Kinzie, AIA, of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP, coordinating architect for the Chicago 2016 bid, and from environmental consultant Steven R Moylan of Abbott. They will also review proposed and actual sustainable strategies employed in recent Games.
This event is sponsored by Young Architects Forum
When: Tuesday, April 15, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Location: AIA Chicago (33 E. Wacker Drive) Suite 250
Member price: 0 Non-member price: $15.00
Appetite Theatre reads a new play by Mia McCullough @ The Book Cellar
Appetite Theatre presents a public reading of Mia McCullough's new script Household Spirits.
Sat April 12th
The Book Cellar, 4736 N.Lincoln (in Lincoln Square), Chicago, IL
6:00 pm
FREE!
Appetite Theatre presents a new reading
series at a favorite independent book store, The
Book Cellar. (The company's favorite for its ecclectic selection and
its offerings of tasty snacks and wine!)
Household Spirits by Mia McCullough
A newly blended family
spends a nearly disastrous holiday together as they
grapple with sexual harassment, the onset of
schizophrenia, and the early easy of recovery from
alcoholism. A very dark comedy about mental illness,
doll molestation and household spirits...be they
alcoholic, ethereal, or detergent.
FREE! Wine and snacks will be available for purchase.
The Seldoms @ Ruth Page Center for the Arts
The Seldoms present Monument, a dance piece about individual acts of consumption that lead to the "accidental social sculpture" of the landfill. Each performance will be followed by a discussion led by representatives of groups that address human consumption and waste. For more info, see the GB interview. Th, Fri, Sat, @ 8:00, Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $19 ($13 student/senior). Click here for tickets.
Creative Chicago Expo: Space/Housing/Business/Community
This free day-long fair features free workshops and info on resources, services and spaces for Chicago's art community -- including dance, music, theater, fashion, design, visual art, writing/spoken word, film and new media. "Artists are small businesses, and the expo is a place you can find out what you need for your business to thrive." 10am to 4pm today at the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. Call 312-744-6630 or click here for more info.
The Seldoms @ Ruth Page Center for the Arts
The Seldoms present Monument, a dance piece about individual acts of consumption that lead to the "accidental social sculpture" of the landfill. Each performance will be followed by a discussion led by representatives of groups that address human consumption and waste. For more info, see the GB interview. Th, Fri, Sat, @ 8:00, Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $19 ($13 student/senior). Click here for tickets.
Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane @ MCA
Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane, one of America's major dance companies, presents Chapel/Chapter. This retelling of three stories--two high-visibility news stories and one confession from a company member--touch on humanity, morality, violence, and the "mediatization" of our world. The multi-media dance performance includes live music, video, and the spoken word.
Th., Fri., and Sat. @ 7:30 at the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave. $35-$40 ($28-$32 for MCA members). For tickets and more information, including a video preview, visit the MCA's website.
The Seldoms @ Ruth Page Center for the Arts
The Seldoms present Monument, a dance piece about individual acts of consumption that lead to the "accidental social sculpture" of the landfill. Each performance will be followed by a discussion led by representatives of groups that address human consumption and waste. For more info, see the GB interview. Th, Fri, Sat, @ 8:00, Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $19 ($13 student/senior). Click here for tickets.
Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane @ MCA
Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane, one of America's major dance companies, presents Chapel/Chapter. This retelling of three stories--two high-visibility news stories and one confession from a company member--touch on humanity, morality, violence, and the "mediatization" of our world. The multi-media dance performance includes live music, video, and the spoken word.
Th., Fri., and Sat. @ 7:30 at the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave. $35-$40 ($28-$32 for MCA members). For tickets and more information, including a video preview, visit the MCA's website.
Short Film Brigade @ Hideout
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, hosts the season premiere of the Short Film Brigade. Catch 10 short films from Poland via Helsinki, London, Toronto, Latvia, California, Chicago, Seattle and New York for just $8. 8:30pm, 21 and over. The same films will also be shown on April 13.
Third Coast Festival Listening Room @ Steppenwolf Garage
The Third Coast International Audio Festival presents "Wait for the Beep," an evening of radio stories inspired by the telephone and "the messages people leave behind". The event is hosted by Johanna Zorn and Julie Shapiro, and will feature scenes from Steppenwolf Theatre Company’s production of Dead Man’s Cell Phone by Sarah Ruhl, as well as an audio installation in the lobby.
7pm at the Steppenwolf: 1624 N. Halsted St.; Tickets: $5/$7
Reserve your ticket via e-mail: info@thirdcoastfestival.org or call 312.948.4682
This American Life on the Big Screen
"This American Life," the radio and TV show, will be broadcast live from New York to movie theaters nationwide, including the Kerasotes City North 14, 2600 N. Western Ave., tonight at 7pm. Tickets are $20.
Chicago Underground Comedy
Chicago Underground Comedy features a 45-minute set by its own Jared Logan tonight at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont. Adam Burke and Chad Briggs open, and Carrie Callahan MCs. Doors open at 8:45pm, show starts at 9:30pm. The show is free, but 21 and over.
A Sharp Eye
Through June 29, the Chicago Cultural Center hosts Dean Sharp: Photographs of the Chicago Picasso, a free exhibition of black and white photos on display at its Michigan Avenue Galleries. Curated by Assistant Curator of Exhibitions Sofia Zutautas, and organized by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, the exhibit displays photos that Sharp took in 1967, while a student at the in Milwaukee. In wrapping up his final project, Sharp paid a visit to Chicago and was struck by the facial expressions of people who passed by the then brand-spanking new Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza. Camera in tow, he began photographing the faces he saw. His work serves as both documentation of human nature as well as a comment on the role and impact of public art. On Tuesday, April 17, at 12:15 p.m., Sharp will appear at the Center for a free talk. (Viewing hours are Mondays through Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Fridays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturdays 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Center is closed on holidays.)
Children of Leningradsky @ Chopin Theatre
Chopin Theatre's 7 ½ Cinema presents Children of Leningradsky, a 2004 Academy Award nominee for best short documentary about homeless children in Moscow, tonight at 7:30pm. Director Hanna Polak will share her
filmmaking experiences at a reception after the film. The showing is free, but reservations are recommended:
info@chopintheatre.com or 773-278-1500 .
Bella Voce @ St. James Cathedral
Bella Voce performs at St. James Cathedral, 65 E Huron, tonight at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15-$35.
Artreach at Lillstreet Benefit
Artreach at Lillstreet provides low-cost, high-quality arts education and public arts programs to those in need. Equipped with a "Clay Mobile," this group of devoted artists drives around Chicagoland to schools, nursing homes and hospitals, offering affordable hands-on creative workshops and programs. This is its first-ever benefit, "Get Your Smock Out!" A fun, artsy evening with workshops & demos, music, food, a silent auction and drinks. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 in advance/$40 door; all funds benefit Artreach. For tickets, call 773-907-0842 or email skye@artreachatlillstreet.org.
Mo(ve)ment @ Peter Jones Gallery
A two-act, multi-discipline, live on-stage performance that spotlights energetic dialogue between visual art and modern dance. Benno Hubner dances in front of a large screen on which the paintings of Tali Farchi are projected, even as they are being created live. The connection between the two disciplines develops a conversation that is playful, passionate and at times intimate, with music that ranges from classical to hip hop. After a brief intermission, a rotating line up of jazz musicians are invited for a session of total improvisation where just about anything can happen and very often does. Daniel Godston, Steve Cohn, Yuganaut, and painter Royce Deans join. $15. 8 p.m. 1806 West Cuyler, 2nd Floor. For more info, visit the Website. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online.
Cajun Dance Night
The Chicago chapter of the Cajun French Music Association is holding a dance tonight from 8pm to 11pm at the Portage Park Center for the Arts, 5801 W. Dakin. Denise and Earl Thompson, Stu Greenspan and Dennis Nuccio perform. Don't know how to dance Cajun? Not to worry, there's a free lesson during band break. $10 for non-members, $5 for members. More info here.
International Vintage Poster Fair @ Chicago Cultural Center
Exhibitors from the U.S., Canada, China, Israel and Western Europe offer thousands of original vintage posters for sale dated from the 1890s-1980s. Styles include classic Art Nouveau Belle Epoque images and increasingly popular Art Deco and Modernism posters. Posters offered will include food and liquor advertisements, WWI and WWII posters, film, travel and transportation, and sporting events. $15 for a weekend ticket. Through March 30. 10am-7pm. 77 E. Randolph. For more info, call 800-856-8069 or visit the Website.
Corpo Dance @ Ruth Page Center
Corpo Dance Company employs a "blend of urban, technical, and athletic movement styles." Like listening to a single then flipping the record to the b-side, Corpo's show b-sides will feature original choreography by Christopher M. McCray (set to Bjork, Amon Tobin, Radiohead) in Act I, then flip to "remixed" versions of those dances by several other area choreographers in Act II. A local radio DJ announces each piece as if on a live radio broadcast.
$20 in advance from the company's website, or $25 at the door. 8 p.m. on March 21, 22, 28, and 29; 2:00 matinee on the 22nd. Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn.
Graphic Thought Facility: Resourceful Design @ Art Institute
he exhibition—curated by Zoë Ryan, the museum’s Neville Bryan Curator of Design—showcases the work of the eponymous London-based graphic design studio, Graphic Thought Facility (GTF). With an installation commissioned by the Art Institute from GTF, this is the firm’s first solo museum exhibition, on view through August 17 in Gallery 24. 111 S. Michigan Ave. For more info, visit the Website.
Movies Without Cameras @ Film Center
The Gene Siskel Film Center presents CameraLESS Films, a programs of films made without cameras. Included in the program will be films made by Georges Méliès, Stan Brakhage, Len Lye, and may other experimental filmmakers. The program screens tonight at 6:00 PM. Tickets: $9, $7 for students, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
re:create @ Caro d'Offay Gallery
A night of creative fun, food and drink. Chicago artist Adelheid Mers presents a live mapping event of the Resource Center's programs, impact, and possibilities. Simultaneously, artists in neighborhood storefronts recreate a Mystery object from found materials, as part of Caro d'Offay's ongoing Textaport Projects. $35/person, benefiting Resource Center's Recycling, Composting, Creative Reuse, and City Farm Programs. 6–9:30 p.m. 2204 W. North Ave. Register online by March 22.
Sound of Silent Film Festival @ Chopin Theatre
Presented by Accessible Contemporary Music. Films include 2006 Tribeca Film Festival winner Native New Yorker by Steve Bilich, the eerily engrossing Elastic Stronghold by Justin Heim, Chicago Underground Film Festival semi-finalist Birdcatcher by Chris Hefner, The Purse Belongs to Her, by BJ Moore, Chicago filmmaker and Jeff Award-winning playwright Hurt McDermott’s Bajalica, two new one-minute Drew the Dramatic Fool shorts by Drew Peterson. Music composed by award winning composers William Susman, Demetrius Spaneas, Natasha Bogojevich and Amos Gillespie. BYOB. Free parking at Division and Noble. $10 if tickets purchased online, $12 at the door. 1543 W. Division. For more info, call 773-334-3650 or visit the Website.
Yves Francois and Ghanatta @ Viaduct Theater
Dance party featuring the rhythms of African and Afro Diaspora musics, then reggae, Hi-Life Sokous and Jazz. $8 in advance, $10 the day of the show. Doors at 9 p.m., show at 10 p.m. For more info, visit the Website.
Swan Lake @ Auditorium Theater
Russia's acclaimed Tchaikovsky Ballet and Orchestra returns with a limited engagement choreographed and directed by legendary Kirov Ballet superstar Natalia Makarova, with additional choreography by Sir Frederick Ashton. Featuring a full company of 70 dancers and a live orchestra from Russia. 8 p.m. $30-$85. Roosevelt University, 50 East Congress Parkway. 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets available by phone (312) 902-1500 or at www.ticketmaster.com. For more info, visit the Website.
Corpo Dance @ Ruth Page Center
Corpo Dance Company employs a "blend of urban, technical, and athletic movement styles." Like listening to a single then flipping the record to the b-side, Corpo's show b-sides will feature original choreography by Christopher M. McCray (set to Bjork, Amon Tobin, Radiohead) in Act I, then flip to "remixed" versions of those dances by several other area choreographers in Act II. A local radio DJ announces each piece as if on a live radio broadcast.
$20 in advance from the company's website, or $25 at the door. 8 p.m. on March 21, 22, 28, and 29; 2:00 matinee on the 22nd. Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn.
TheOne (Urban Dance Showcase) @ the Athenaeum
An urban dance showcase featuring hip hop, breaking, footwork, and urban tap companies from Chicago and surrounding states. $9-$16, 7:30 p.m. at the Athenaeum Theatre. Tickets available by calling the Athenaeum (312.902.1500) or through Ticketmaster.
Luna Negra @ Harris Theater
Luna Negra Dance Theater, a Chicago dance company that blends ballet, contemporary dance, and Latin and Afro-Caribbean forms, will be presenting Nuevo Folk (new visions of cultural legacies through contemporary dance). This is a one-night-only performance of "contemporary works inspired by folk traditions of Latin America, exploring the richness and complexity of Latino cultures today." 8:00 p.m. at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph, in Millennium Park. Tickets $25-55. Box Office: 312-334-7777.
Full Circle Danztheatre Festival @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater
Nine companies and artists interpret this year's festival theme, Milestones. Kate McIlvain, Shabam! Productions, The Core Project, Shahina, Christy Munch, Soul Theatre, Perceputal Motion, Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble, and Wannapa Pimtong-Eubanks will perform. This is "where dance, theatre, art, and film collide," and the subject matter ranges from a Baptist church, to a night in a bar, to political correctness, to West Side Story Redux. See the entry in our A/C section for more details. $15 ($10 students), March 13 and 14 at 7:30 at the Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. 773-486-8261
Chicago Dance Crash @ The Viaduct
In the words of Director Mark Hackman: "For God's sake, it's not a dance concert! It's a rock concert for dance!" And they mean rock concert, right down to the live music, the hand stamp, the coat check, and the standing-room-only. Chicago Dance Crash's ballet-capoeira-acrobatics-breakin’ -hip-hop style is always uniquely entertaining, but when CDC makes the Viaduct their "own personal rock club," it's sure to be a one-of-a-kind experience. March 7, 8, 14, 15. $16 "cover" at the door. 3111 N. Western Ave. Doors open at 8:00 p.m., with the after-party ending at midnight. No advance reservations and only cash is accepted at the door.
Full Circle Danztheatre Festival @ Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater
Nine companies and artists interpret this year's festival theme, Milestones. Kate McIlvain, Shabam! Productions, The Core Project, Shahina, Christy Munch, Soul Theatre, Perceputal Motion, Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble, and Wannapa Pimtong-Eubanks will perform. This is "where dance, theatre, art, and film collide," and the subject matter ranges from a Baptist church, to a night in a bar, to political correctness, to West Side Story Redux. See the entry in our A/C section for more details. $15 ($10 students), March 13 and 14 at 7:30 at the Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. 773-486-8261
AMEBA @ Ruth Page Center for the Arts
AMEBA is Chicago's acrobatic and aerial dance company that uses suspended fabrics, ropes, bungee cords, swings, and rope ladders to choreograph images in the air. On March 6-8 and 13-16, they will present On the Edge, a collection of new works expressing "a variety of instances where our human nature brings us to the edge." $15-20. The Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. Tickets available through AMEBA's website. NOTE: They are also offering an in-theater aerial dance workshop. ($50, March 15 only, see their website for more details.)
Susan Jacoby @ Chicago Public Library
The renowned author of Freethinkers discusses and signs her latest book, The Age of American Unreason. Combining historical analysis with contemporary observation, Jacoby dissects a new American cultural phenomenon -- one that is at odds with our heritage of reason, secular knowledge and science. According to Jacoby, the public's contempt for logic and evidence defines a malaise perpetuated by the mass media, infotainment, religious fundamentalism, mediocre public education, and a shortage of fair-minded public intellectuals on the right and the left. Free. 6 p.m. Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, Lower Level, at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St. For more info, visit the Website or call the Chicago Public Library Press Office at 312-747-4050.
Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago @ Harris Theater
Features the world premiere of Moanin' Low, a new work by former principal Joffrey Ballet dancer and independent New York based choreographer Davis Robertson. The piece is inspired by a scene in the early musical The Little Show (1929), in which Clifton Webb's erotically-charged dancing and Libby Holman's soulful singing broke new ground. Emotional content and the complexity of relationships across centuries are at the core of this eight-minute piece, which features three Giordano dancers performing to a recorded blues/jazz score. $25-50. 8 p.m. 205 E. Randolph Dr., in Millennium Park. Tickets available at the box office, at 312-334-7777 or at the Website.
7 on 8 Group Art Show @ Cafe Latakia
Seven Chicago artists -- six men and one woman -- display their work ... on International Women's Day! Featuring photography by David Szpunar, Kevin Eatinger and David Schalliol, paintings by Matthew Morgan, Lauri Apple, and John Geletka and screen prints by Phineas X. Jones. Eclectic music mix and birthday vibes by DJ Lapple Pietunes. 7 p.m.-midnight. 3204 N. Broadway. For more info, visit the Website.
Urban Bush Women/Compagnie JANT-BI @ the Dance Center at Columbia College
Senegal's all-male Compagnie JANT-BI and the U.S.'s all-female Urban Bush Women collaborated for two years to produce Les ecailles de la memoire (The Scales of Memory), a piece "about the importance of place and community, urban and rural life, and the diversity of the African and the African-American experience." The collaboration yields movement vocabulary that combines JANT-BI's nature-inspired technique with UBW's black-vernacular-influenced contemporary movement. Tickets and more information, including a video preview, are available at the website for the Dance Center at Columbia College. 8:00 p.m., March 6, 7, and 8. $24-28. 1306 S. Michigan Ave.
WPBGA Second Saturday Gallery Walk @ Wicker Park/Bucktown
The WPBGA is an organization of galleries in the Wicker Park and Bucktown neighborhood (roughly defined with the southern border at Division, the northern border at Fullerton, the western border at Western, and the eastern border at the Chicago River). 6-10 p.m. For more info, visit the Website.
On Naji al-Ali Reception @ Around the Coyote
Twenty years after the assassination of Palestinian cartoonist Naji al-Ali, the issues he sought to reveal continue to rage unchecked by the lack of a fair and peaceful agreement between the Israeli and Palestinian people. Curator Haseeb Ahmed and Around the Coyote Gallery present this major exhibition of politically oriented Palestinian artwork from some of the most influential contemporary artists from the Middle East. A selection of al-Ali's works from their original publications spanning two decades of bloody conflict between Israel and Palestine will be presented along with the contemporary work of New York/Ramallah based artist Emily Jacir and United Arab Emirates based artist Tarek al-Ghoussein. Through May 3. 6-10 p.m. 1935 1/2 W. North Ave. For more info, visit the Website.
Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago @ Harris Theater
Features the world premiere of Moanin' Low, a new work by former principal Joffrey Ballet dancer and independent New York based choreographer Davis Robertson. The piece is inspired by a scene in the early musical The Little Show (1929), in which Clifton Webb's erotically-charged dancing and Libby Holman's soulful singing broke new ground. Emotional content and the complexity of relationships across centuries are at the core of this eight-minute piece, which features three Giordano dancers performing to a recorded blues/jazz score. $25-50. 8 p.m. 205 E. Randolph Dr., in Millennium Park. Tickets available at the box office, at 312-334-7777 or at the Website.
First Fridays @ MCA
March's event features a "Traveling Star" theme. Guests can enjoy a sneak peek of "Bubble-rama," a comedic short filmed in Chicago. DJ Warp aka Brian Keigher spins music and the bar serves Journey-tinis and Cruising-Cosmos. Tickets include museum admission, live entertainment, and complimentary Puck's hors d'oeuvres. +21. Cash bar open until 9:30 p.m. 220 E. Chicago. 6-10 p.m. $15, or $7 for MCA members. Advance tickets are $10. Tickets through the MCA Box Office at 312-397-4010 or the Website.
Urban Bush Women/Compagnie JANT-BI @ the Dance Center at Columbia College
Senegal's all-male Compagnie JANT-BI and the U.S.'s all-female Urban Bush Women collaborated for two years to produce Les ecailles de la memoire (The Scales of Memory), a piece "about the importance of place and community, urban and rural life, and the diversity of the African and the African-American experience." The collaboration yields movement vocabulary that combines JANT-BI's nature-inspired technique with UBW's black-vernacular-influenced contemporary movement. Tickets and more information, including a video preview, are available at the website for the Dance Center at Columbia College. 8:00 p.m., March 6, 7, and 8. $24-28. 1306 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago Dance Crash @ The Viaduct
In the words of Director Mark Hackman: "For God's sake, it's not a dance concert! It's a rock concert for dance!" And they mean rock concert, right down to the live music, the hand stamp, the coat check, and the standing-room-only. Chicago Dance Crash's ballet-capoeira-acrobatics-breakin’ -hip-hop style is always uniquely entertaining, but when CDC makes the Viaduct their "own personal rock club," it's sure to be a one-of-a-kind experience. March 7, 8, 14, 15. $16 "cover" at the door. 3111 N. Western Ave. Doors open at 8:00 p.m., with the after-party ending at midnight. No advance reservations and only cash is accepted at the door.
Urban Bush Women/Compagnie JANT-BI @ the Dance Center at Columbia College
Senegal's all-male Compagnie JANT-BI and the U.S.'s all-female Urban Bush Women collaborated for two years to produce Les ecailles de la memoire (The Scales of Memory), a piece "about the importance of place and community, urban and rural life, and the diversity of the African and the African-American experience." The collaboration yields movement vocabulary that combines JANT-BI's nature-inspired technique with UBW's black-vernacular-influenced contemporary movement. Tickets and more information, including a video preview, are available at the website for the Dance Center at Columbia College. March 6, 7, and 8. $24-28. 1306 S. Michigan Ave.
AMEBA @ Ruth Page Center for the Arts
AMEBA is Chicago's acrobatic and aerial dance company that uses suspended fabrics, ropes, bungee cords, swings, and rope ladders to choreograph images in the air. On March 6-8 and 13-16, they will present On the Edge, a collection of new works expressing "a variety of instances where our human nature brings us to the edge." $15-20. The Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. Tickets available through AMEBA's website. NOTE: They are also offering an in-theater aerial dance workshop. ($50, March 15 only, see their website for more details.)
Funny Ha-Ha @ Hideout
Reading series Funny Ha-Ha is all new this month, with Chicago Tribune blogger and columnist Eric Zorn, Perfect From Now On author John Sellers, Schadenfreude, columnist and "Interview Show" host Mark Bazer, and films by Steve Delahoyde. Hosted, as always, by Claire Zulkey. 6-8pm tonight at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia. $5, 21+.
The Dances of Sybil Shearer On Film @ Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies
Hosted by the Morrison-Shearer Foundation. Includes a rare glimpse of Shearer dancing on the bucolic grounds of her Northbrook based home and studio, as shot by her longtime artistic collaborator, Helen Balfour Morrison. Included is footage of "Untitled Dances," works originally choreographed and performed by Shearer for one of her critically acclaimed New York solo engagements at the Carnegie Chamber Music Hall, and a selection of some never before shown films. Celebrates the release of Within This Thicket, the first volume of Sybil Shearer's long-awaited autobiography Without Wings the Way is Steep. 6-7:30 p.m. 610 S. Michigan Ave. Free, but seating is limited and reservations are highly recommended. For reservations or more info, phone 847-291-9161 or visit the Website.
Antigone Cabaret @ DePaul
The Theatre School at DePaul University sponsors The Antigone Cabaret, an evening of performances and readings, as part of the Philosophy Department's Year of Antigone's Project. Pieces will reflect and meditate on Antigone's resonance today and one's relationship between the individual and the state. March 5 from 7:30-9:30 pm at Cortelyou Commons, 2324 N. Fremont Street, between Corcoran and McCabe Halls. This is a free event.
Reading Under the Influence @ Sheffield's Beer & Wine Garden
In honor of RUI's birthday, all six RUI "regulars" (Julia Borcherts, Rob Duffer, Carly Huegelmann, Jesse Jordan, Amanda Snyder and Joe Tower) read their favorite pieces from past RUIs. For the published/trivia rounds, they pick their favorite works by their favorite authors. Food and raffles. $3. 7-10 p.m. 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. For more info, visit the website.
Works in Progress: Kristina Sparks @ MCA
Local artist Sparks shares her creative process in the museum space, creates new work and interacts with visitors. Sparks is a graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and her fashions draw upon a wide variety of influences, including her own background in dance. Her signature work blurs the line between art and fashion. 6-8 p.m. Free. 220 E. Chicago. For more info, visit the Website.
Lumpen Release Party @ Co-Prosperity Sphere
Lumpen celebrates the release of its special comics issue tonight at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., from 7 to 11pm. Pick up a copy of the magazine, see comics art from the issue and enjoy music by Wet Wallet and Oscillator Bug. Free.
