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.
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TODAY
Saturday, April 20
Third Coast Festival ShortDocs: "Darkness"
Tonight you can hear the 2004 Third Coast Festival ShortDoc - four newly commissioned audio works on a single theme: DARKNESS, including: a reflection on post-mortem photography through the lens of one family, by independent producer Jude Fletcher, Producer Adam Burke's visit to a completely dark (pitch black!) restaurant in Switzerland staffed entirely by blind/visually impaired employees, a collaboration between author Rick Moody and electronic musician Jerome Schmidt, about the nature of blackness, a sound tapestry presenting the mysteriously non-human sounds made by newborns, in the night, by the BBC's Hugh Levinson. Join Gwen Macsai, acclaimed writer and host of the Third Coast Festival/Chicago Public Radio's new program "Re:sound" and Third Coast Festival director Johanna Zorn, for an evening of listening and discussion about the 2004 Third Coast Festival ShortDocs. Tonight from 7 - 8:30 p.m., at the Evanston Public Library, 1703 Orrington Avenue (Orrington and Church), Evanston, Illinois. Admission to this event is free! Questions? email info@thirdcoastfestival.org or call 312.948.4682.NYC's Soulive @ the Double Door
The NYC collective known as Soulive comes to the Windy City for a show at the Double Door (finally moving away from the HOB for a gig!) on Thursday, September 30th. Soulive is a funky organ trio covering a lot of ground stylistically, from jazz to hip-hop; they blend "a seamless funky concoction of '60s jazz-organ grooves, '70s funk, '90s acid-jazz, and fresh hip-hop that defies classification." Get your tickets at the box office, or try Ticketmaster.Going Forward in Reverse @ Sonotheque
Local promotional outfits Interrupt Media, Covalent, and Subsystence team up to present Going Forward in Reverse, a new electronic music series at Chicago's acclaimed Sonotheque. This installment features a DJ set from Columbus-based producer Titonton Duvante, the music of Matty from Untitled, as well as performances by Coleman Burditt and GB contributor Ken Meier. Doors at 9 pm, Tickets $6, $2 PBR. 21 and up. Sonotheque, 1444 W. Chicago Ave. 312-226-7600.Navigate the Debates @ Historical Society
The presidential election is fast approaching, and the Chicago Historical Society encourages Chicagoans to get involved. President George W. Bush and Senator John Kerry will debate issues of concern in a series of televised debates, all of which will be shown live at CHS. The first debate will take place tonight at 8 p.m. The CHS event will begin at 6 p.m. with a reception and a discussion by local journalists and scholars. Co-sponsored by CHS and the Chicago Council on Foreign Relations. Tickets are $5.00 at the door (no advanced tickets) and students are free with ID. Speakers include Don Wycliff, public editor, Chicago Tribune and Alan Gitelson, professor, Loyola University. The moderator will be Mark Jacob, editor, Chicago Tribune. This event runs from 6 to 10 p.m. tonight. The Chicago Historical Society is located on Clark Street at North Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60614. Call them at 312.642.4600 for more information.What's your sign?
Would you like to know what your rising sun is and what exactly you can expect when Mercury goes into Retrograde? Then Chicago Reclaiming has the class for you. Classes with Michael Foltz and River begin tonight at 7 pm at Chase Cafe. Cost is $50-$100 and decided on a sliding scale.Audrey Niffenegger @ Women & Children First
If you fell in love with it, if you want to give signed copies to all your friends - and especially if you haven't read it yet - don't miss this chance to hear Audrey Niffenegger read from her enchanting novel, The Time Traveler's Wife, about a Chicago couple whose lifelong love is forged, twisted, and tested by the husband's tendency to time-travel in moments of stress. The reading gets underway at Women and Children First bookstore, located at 5233 N. Clark at 7:30 p.m.First Coat, The Read Letter @ Double Door
Cheap and/or free live music tonight at the Double Door. The show features 4 bands for $5, and it's free with a printed out flyer from the First Coat website. Also up tonight are The Read Letter (who offer a $3 admission ticket on their site), Kristin Shout and Welcome to Ashley. The Double Door is located at 1572 N. Milwaukee in Wicker Park. Doors open at 8 p.m., the show starts at 9 p.m. and is 21 and over.
Rape Victim Advocates Fundraiser @ HotHouse
Join Gina Villalobos, Nikki Patin, and other special guests at a benefit for Rape Victim Advocates tonight from 7 to 11 p.m. at the HotHouse, at 31 E. Balbo. This event is open to all ages. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. For tickets, please call 312.663.6303. Rape Victim Advocates (RVA) does incredible work providing medical and legal advocacy to survivors of rape 24 hours a day, seven days a week. RVA has been doing this important work for the past 30 years, and needs your help to continue on its mission. A note about the music of Gina Villalobos from "The Nashville Scene" - May 13 2004: "...Villalobos combines the rootsy Americana of Lucinda Williams with the straight up rock of the Stones circa 1970, wrestling with Ryan Adams...If you've never heard of her you will soon."Deanna Varagona and The Potato Battery Experiment @ Schubas
Tonight is the long-awaited Chicago homecoming show for Deanna Varagona & The Potato Battery Experiment at Schubas. Ms. Varagona, coming back to the town she loves from a long world tour with the Nashville-based Lambchop, would be so very pleased to see you there. Also appearing are THE SILOS & The Great Crusades. All the bluegrass-born musical glory gets going at 9 p.m. at 3159 N. Southport. Call (773) 525-2508 for more information. Tickets are $10.Poet Louise Glück Reading @ Art Institute
Former Poet Laureate of the United States Louise Glück reads tonight with an introduction by Illinois Poet Laureate Kevin Stein at 6:30 p.m. at 112 South Michigan Avenue (the Ballroom of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago). $10 General Admission, Free for Poetry Center Members. Louise Glück is the author of nine books of poetry including The Seven Ages (Ecco Press, 2001), is a member of the American Academy & Institute of Arts & Letters and in 2003 was named as the new judge for the Yale Series of Younger Poets. Her first Yale Younger Poet choice was Peter Streckfus, who is reading for The Poetry Center in February. Tickets to Glück's reading go on sale a month prior to the event. For more information, check out the Poetry Center of Chicago's website.Post-Reading Benefit, 8:00 p.m. at the loft of Lynn and Allen Turner
The 5.6.7.8's @ Empty Bottle
Currently riding high on their appearance in the movie Kill Bill Volume 1, the Japanese band The 5.6.7.8's have been playing 50's-style rock/punk for years and years. They're stomping all over the Empty Bottle tonight, so put your glad rags on and join the fun! Also on the bill is The Fevers. Show starts at 10:00 PM; tickets are $10. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600."Solo Flight" workshop @ Early to Bed
"Solo Flight: Women's Masturbation & Sexual Pleasure" workshop at Early to Bed on September 28, at 7:30 pm. "In this workshop we will explore the intricacies of woman's sexuality. We'll talk about the fascinating female anatomy, the nature of women's orgasms, masturbation tips & techniques, including the use of sex toys and more! A great workshop for any woman interested in making her sex life even better." (This workshop is for women only.) All workshops take place at Early to Bed, 5232 N Sheridan Rd. Pre-registration is requested and there is a $10 fee. You can register by calling 773-271-1219 or email workshops@early2bed.com. You must be at least 18 years old to attend. Schedule subject to last minute changes.Chuck Palahniuk @ Harold Washington Library
Join Chuck Palahniuk as he tours in support of the paperback release of Diary. Chuck Palahniuk, the bestselling author of Fight Club, Choke, and Lullaby "continues his twenty-first-century reinvention of the horror novel in this scary and profound look at our quest for some sort of immortality." This FREE event, co-sponsored by Quimby's bookstore and the Chicago Public Library, will be at 6 p.m. at the Harold Washington Library, located at 400 S. State St. Chicago IL 60605. More information is at http://www.chuckpalahniuk.netTerry Gross @ Steppenwolf
Terry Gross, host of the NPR talk show Fresh Air, will give a talk tonight at 7:30 PM at Steppenwolf's Downstairs Theatre. She will also read excerpts from her forthcoming book, "All I Did Was Ask," and answer questions from the audience. Tickets are $40 (hey, it's Terry Gross!), and can be purchased online, or by calling (312) 335-1650. Steppenwolf: 1650 N. Halsted.Rhino Theater Fest: The Big Promise
As part of the Rhinoceros Theater Festival, "Bryn Magnus reads from his new novel, The Big Promise, the story of a morally disadvantaged father trying to redeem himself in the eyes of his teenage son. Specifically it's about a fringe playwright prone to tears and antisocial behavior whose son convinces him he might find redemption investigating the home invasion and robbery of a friend. Elmore Leonard meets Dave Eggers." 7pm, Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. $12 or pay what you can. Call 773-274-6660 for reservations.Hideout Block Party
This year's Hideout Block Party features some really stellar local music. Bands include Califone, Jesse Sykes & the Sweet Hereafter, Archer Prewitt, Andrew Bird, Kelly Hogan & the Wooden Leg, Manishevitz, and Swing Set, and that's not all. The proceeds from this 3-day party will benefit C.A.U.S.E.S./P.L.A.Y, Tuesday's Child, and Literacy Works. Check the website for a full schedule and more information. Tickets are just $10.
Rhino Theater Fest: Under Milk Wood
Part of the Rhino Theater Fest: "Thomas's play is back and at the Rhino! The Welsh poet's dreamy, funny world of owls, magic, and whiskey at nightfall on Larregub Hill where blind Captain Cat pulls the bell rope is brought back to life by three generations of voices. Milk Wood is part of the Rhino ’04 look-back to the masters who influenced Curious." 7pm, Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. $12 or pay what you can. Call 773-274-6660 for reservations.Pedal for Peace Bike-a-thon
Today is the 17th Annual Pedal for Peace Bike-A-Thon. Join the Chicago Metropolitan Sanctuary Alliance for a bike ride to support peace with justice in Guatemala and El Salvador. The event is sponsored by the Chicago Metropolitan Sanctuary Alliance, Chicago-Cinquera Sister Cities, Chicago-Guatemala Return Project, and the American Friends Service Committee. All gets going at 2 p.m. at Chicago’s Lakefront, from either the "Totem Pole" in Belmont Harbor or at 55th Street. Registration Fees are $10 individual, $15 Family (1 adult + children), $20 Family (2 adults + children), $5 Student/Senior/Low income. For more information, or to register, contact Chicago Metropolitan Sanctuary Alliance, 4750 N. Sheridan Rd. #429, Chicago, IL 60640 or call 773-293-3680.Muted Tones Kick-Off @ 3030
Tonight 3030 will host a party and performance to kick off the third volume of local label Tense Forms’ music series Muted Tones. The evening begins at 8pm, costs $6, and 3030 is located at 3030 West Cortland. Toronto’s Aidan Baker, Muted Tones’ newest curator, will be performing. The premise of the Muted Tones series is simple: seven curators, seven months, seventy minutes of music. Each month, from September to March is assigned to a curator, who is asked to fill ten minutes with the sounds of their choosing. They are invited to keep a log of their work online, as they create it. At the end of the month, their ten minute piece of music is made available on the web for streaming or download. Past curators include TW Walsh (Pedro the Lion), Amy Domingues (Telegraph Melts, Mary Timony), Alison Chesley (Poi Dog Pondering) and Anthony Burton (Palliard, 41 Rivers). See Tense Forms for more information.Women, Womyn, Grrls, and Kings
Estrojam Festival 2004, the annual music and arts festival that features female artists, presents an afternoon of music and discussion at the Chicago Historical Society (Clark Street at North Avenue). The program runs from 1:00 to 5:00, and features various panel discussions (on such topics as the historical impact of women's culture and Chicago's contribution to women's music) and performances by Kristin Lems, Surrender Dorothy and Big Smith. See the Estrojam Website for details.Alice @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present Alice, an adaptation of the Lewis Carroll books featuring a walking tour of 6 different Andersonville locations, original artwork & performances by various Neo-Futurists and local theater companies, and 5 rabbits. Admission is $15 ($10 for seniors and students). The show runs Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 1:00 PM, and continues through October 24. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland. (773) 275-5255. See the Neo-Futurist Website for further details and to purchase tickets.Cineme International Animation Festival
This weekend is the kickoff for the Cineme International Animation Festival held at the Illinois Institute of Art September 24–26. Cineme kicks off each fall in Chicago, and is dedicated to showcasing the best and brightest in animation and digital media through Film, Television, Music, 3D Design, Web, Gaming, Architecture and Technology. This year Cineme is bigger and better than ever with $25,000 in cash and prizes, plus Halo Tournament, Video Game Developer Summit, exclusive nightly parties, musical guests, celebrities, distributors, award-winning speakers and premieres. Check the website for more information.Vegan Potluck and Speaker
Tonight Erik Marcus will be speaking at the monthly EarthSave Chicago vegan potluck. Please bring your own table setting to reduce waste. The event will be held at Healing Earth Resources, located at 3111 N. Ashland at 6:30 p.m. This is a free event, but they request any donations if you can give. Erik is author of "Vegan: The New Ethics of Eating," and the new book, "Meat Market." He also runs a vegan website. For more information, please visit EarthSave Chicago.Naperville Wine Festival
Come to Naper Settlement to enjoy the second annual Naperville Wine Festival presented by Van Kampen Investments September 25th and 26th. The Festival hours are 1–9 pm on Saturday and 1–7 pm on Sunday. Sample wines from around the world as they showcase more that 130 different varieties. Enjoy cooking demonstrations by Chicago’s top chefs and musical entertainment throughout the weekend. For more information or to buy tickets please call (847) 382-1480 or visit the Naperville Wine Festival website. Tickets: $20 Adults, $10 Designated Driver, $5 21-and-under, children under 12 free. The Naperville Wine Festival gets going at the Naper Settlement, located at 523 S. Webster Street, Naperville, IL.Schadenfreude Radio Starts Up
Beginning tonight at 8:30 p.m. tune in every Sunday as the Chicago sketch comedy troupe Schadenfreude begins their second season on Chicago Public Radio. Listen to your favorite characters as Schadenfreude brings you their unique brand of irreverent social and political satire each and every week. For more information, check them out on Chicago Public Radio's website.Vandermark and Territory Band-3 @ Cultural Center
The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs welcomes the return of the Territory Band-3 to the Claudia Cassidy Theater of the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., today at 3 p.m. The concert is presented as part of the New Millennium/New Music series that showcases new and improvised music. The line up features a reed section comprised of Fredrik Ljungkvist, Dave Rempis and Ken Vandermark; brass section of Jeb Bishop (trombone) and Axel Doerner (trumpets); percussion by Paul Lytton and Paal Nilssen-Love; strings by Kent Kessler (bass) and Fred Lonberg-Holm (cello); Jim Baker (piano); and electronics by Lasse Marhaug. The Territory Band was developed by Ken Vandermark to deal with strategies for improvisation and composition for a large ensemble context. For more information on this free concert, call 312-744-6630 or visit the Cultural Center's website.Brookfield Zoo Run Run
Brookfield Zoo's annual 5K run and 3K walk happens today at the zoo. Interested runners should check out the registration Website, which includes full information on how to register and where to show up on the day of the event. All proceeds from the event go to helping take care of the zoo's animals.(Don't) Talk to Strangers @ UIC
A national symposium entitled "(Don't) Talk to Strangers" will be convened in Chicago by The Public Square, inviting activists, scholars, and artists from all over the country for a two-day event on the need to foster broad and deep public conversations.The symposium will take place at the University of Illinois Chicago on September 24th from 4 to 8 pm & September 25th from 9 am to 5 pm. These programs will seek to further the notion that discussion, debate, and dissent are cornerstones of democracy.
Dr. Danielle Allen, Dean of the Humanities Division at the University of Chicago and 2002 MacArthur Fellow, will deliver the keynote address at 4 pm in the Cardinal Room at UIC Circle Center, 750 South Halsted Street. Dr. Allen will be available to autograph copies of her latest book, "Talking to Strangers: Anxieties of Citizenship since Brown v. Board of Education.
Hideout Block Party
This year's Hideout Block Party features some really stellar local music. Bands include Califone, Jesse Sykes & the Sweet Hereafter, Archer Prewitt, Andrew Bird, Kelly Hogan & the Wooden Leg, Manishevitz, and Swing Set, and that's not all. The proceeds from this 3-day party will benefit C.A.U.S.E.S./P.L.A.Y, Tuesday's Child, and Literacy Works. Check the website for a full schedule and more information. Tickets are just $10.Rhino Theater Fest: Hit Me Like a Flower
A new play by Beau O'Reilly for the Rhinoceros Theater Fest. "Hit Me Like a Flower continues O'Reilly's “Big Play” experiment: large casts, lots of story line, expanse. Sarah Wallace has come to an East-Coast waspish town to start her therapy practice and cast a watchful eye over her long-estranged college daughter Terry, known to her friends as “Oddhead.” Sarah’s patients: Arthur Moore, a psychopath with a bear suit and a 2 by 4; William Coughlin, a sometime novelist of minor fame who is recovering from a stroke; and Mrs. Chester, a woman who has been living on the streets but now is ready for a bus ride. Terry’s friends are Saul and Hannah, and they are in their 20’s, skating tough, and worried about the war." 7pm, Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. $12 or pay what you can. Call 773-274-6660 for reservations.Rhino Theater Fest: The Authentics
A new play by Paula Gilovich, as part of the Rhinoceros Theater Fest. "At the center of The Authentics is a plane crash from which only awkward, perverse David Wise has been pulled. The crash brings him Sarah Sharp, the reporter who covers his disaster, and a lost father looking for money. With the father comes a charismatic sidekick, and with Sarah comes a successful mother in the business of everyone's business. A wry look at the inherently absurd forces that create what's real, strange, funny, unromantic, fast, and furious is the universe of The Authentics. Sex, gender, death, disappointment, dismemberment, semi-celebrity, Chinese food, editors, and bus stations: this is life authentic." 9pm, Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. $12 or pay what you can. Call 773-274-6660 for reservations.Ralph Stanley @ Fermilab
What do particle physics and bluegrass have in common? The best time and place to investigate this pressing scientific inquiry would be at the Fermilab in Batavia, IL, as they host Dr. Ralph Stanley and his Clinch Mountain Boys. He is popularly known from his mournful cameo on the Coen Brothers film "O, Brother Where Art Thou." Dr. Stanley's art, however, runs much deeper. Considered by many to be among the founding fathers of bluegrass -- he's been performing since 1946 -- his influence on contemporary folk music is incalculable. Strangely, Dr. Stanley will be perfoming in an 847-seat amphitheater on the grounds of the Fermilab particle accelerator. Dr. Ralph Stanley & The Clinch Mountain Boys play tonight at 8 p.m. at the Ramsey Auditorium, in Wilson Hall of Fermilab (approximately 35 miles west of downtown Chicago, near the town of Batavia in the Fox River Valley). For more information call 630-840-ARTS (630-840-2787), Fax to (630)-840-5501, or email audweb@fnal.gov. Tickets are $23 and $12 for ages 18 and younger.Printers Row Speakeasy Tour
Head down to Printers Row from noon to 10:30pm for the first annual Speakeasy Tour, a restaurant and bar crawl through this historic neighborhood. Festivities include a '20s or '30s era costume competition at Blackie's, an art show and auction at Gourmand and specials and discounts at many restaurants, bars and stores in the district.A $20 donation gets you a wristband that lets you into participating venues and access to special food and drink deals; if you're not drinking, it's only $5. It's also only $15 if you wear a costume or with advance purchase. Check out the site for full details and schedule, or look below.
Blackie's (755 S. Clark) Wristbands Available at Door Noon-8pm HEADLINER: Tommy Guns will perform 1920-30's musical comedy sets (5:20, 6:20, 7:20 & 9:20 p.m.) and will judge a costume contest (8 p.m.) at one of the city's original, family-owned gin joints. SPECIALS: $2 Miller pints and 10% off all appetizers.
Dearborn Station (47 W. Polk) HEADLINER: From See the Merit Music School Honor Jazz Ensemble (12:30, 1:30 & 2:30 p.m.) and Multi-Cultural dance studio (1 & 2 p.m.)– all inside the station that saw Al Capone off to Alcatraz. SPECIALS: Printer's Roast Cafe 49-cent ice cream.
Bar Louie (47 W. Polk) SPECIALS: $3 Blue Moon pints, $3 Oktoberfest pints and 15% off food and drinks*.
Hackney's (733 S. Dearborn) SPECIALS: 15% discount on food and beverage*. Theme drinks: Bacardi Cocktails, Zombies, Gin Martinis/Gibsons, Pink Squirrels, Pink Ladies and Old Fashioneds.
Gourmand (728 S. Dearborn) HEADLINER: Printers Row Peek-A-Boo 1920-30's art show auction featuring Amanda Meyer, Gisele Farmer, Eve Curtis, Matt Geiger, Mike Barglik, Julie Boyko, Josh Ryder and Brit Peterson. Jazz by Rob Nicholas and A Moment's Notice (3:40, 6:40, 7:40 & 9:40 p.m.). SPECIALS: $1.75 Pabst Blue Ribbon and 10% off food and drinks*.
Printers Row Pharmacy (721 S. Dearborn) SPECIALS: Wine Tasting and 10% off selected wines.
Kasey's (701 S. Dearborn) SPECIALS: Have $3 Goose Island pints, $3 Absolut Vodka drinks, $4 Old Fashioneds in what was one of the longest running speakeasys in Chicago, with the "peephole" still operating in the '80s.
Trattoria (616 S. Dearborn) SPECIALS: Wine Specials 10% off. Wine and dine below the headquarters of the ultimate untouchable, Eliot Ness!
Specials valid on September 25, 2004 between noon-10:30 p.m. only for those with Speakeasy wristbands.
*Not valid with any other discount offers. Show times are subject to change.
Evanston Police Department Bike Auction
Saturday, Sept. 25 at 10 a.m., Preview at 9 a.m. Evanston Police Department, 1454 Elmwood Ave., NW corner of building. Only cash and checks accepted as payment. Proceeds from the bike auction will support the police pension fund. For further information, contact Fred at 847-866-5029.Going Forward in Reverse @ Sonotheque
Local promotional outfits Interrupt Media, Covalent, and Subsystence team up to present Going Forward in Reverse, a new electronic music series at Chicago's acclaimed Sonotheque. This installment features a live performance from NYC-based producer Archetype, an eclectic DJ set from collector Carlos Souffront, and opening-slot duties from Matthew Martin and Karl Meier. Doors at 10 pm (after the Ratatat show), Tickets $10, $2 PBR. 21+ only, please. Sonotheque, 1444 W. Chicago Ave. 312-226-7600.Alice @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present Alice, an adaptation of the Lewis Carroll books featuring a walking tour of 6 different Andersonville locations, original artwork & performances by various Neo-Futurists and local theater companies, and 5 rabbits. Admission is $15 ($10 for seniors and students). The show runs Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 1:00 PM, and continues through October 24. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland. (773) 275-5255. See the Neo-Futurist Website for further details and to purchase tickets.Spin's Octoberfest
Spin hosts an Octoberfest party with a queer bent. Performers include Patty Elvis, Three Dollar Bill, Jinx Titanic and Cathy Richardson Band. With food from Ann Sather and beer from Sam Adams. 1pm to 10pm at 969 W Belmont (the Ann Sather parking lot). Tickets are $10 at the door, or available in advance at Spin, 800 W Belmont. Call 773-327-7711 for more info.Cineme International Animation Festival
This weekend is the kickoff for the Cineme International Animation Festival held at the Illinois Institute of Art September 24–26. Cineme kicks off each fall in Chicago, and is dedicated to showcasing the best and brightest in animation and digital media through Film, Television, Music, 3D Design, Web, Gaming, Architecture and Technology. This year Cineme is bigger and better than ever with $25,000 in cash and prizes, plus Halo Tournament, Video Game Developer Summit, exclusive nightly parties, musical guests, celebrities, distributors, award-winning speakers and premieres. Check the website for more information.Chinese Autumn Moon Festival @ Montrose Beach
The Chinese Autumn Moon Festival is traditionally a time when millions of Chinese across the world celebrate the biggest and brightest full moon of the year – the harvest moon. To mark the occasion in Chicago this year, CMAA will host a free Moon Festival celebration tonight, between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. at Montrose Beach, on the lakefront (approx. 4200 north), Chicago. The event is also part of the City of Chicago’s Unity Month Celebration. Come join CMAA as it celebrates the Chinese Autumn Moon Festival with food, music, the lion dance, traditional Asian folk dances, martial arts demonstrations, moon-cake tasting, a full moon and much, much more! Guests will also be encouraged to light colorful paper lanterns at the event (as done in Asia), which promises to provide a charming and picturesque backdrop to the evening’s eclectic entertainment. For more information, take a look at this flyer (PDF).Quimby's 13th Year Exhibition @ Old Town School of Folk Music
Independent bookstore Quimby's becomes a man this year, as it enters its 13th year of being. Beginning with a party tonight, the Old Town School of Folk Music hosts a free exhibition (5-7pm), accompanied later by music and dancing. This evening, Old Town School and WLUW welcomes Over the Rhine with special guest Thea Gilmore. The Quimby's part of the evening is free, but the show is a separate event that you'll need to purchase tickets for, which you can do by calling 773-728-6000. The Old Town School of Folk Music is at 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625. This Quimby's and independent publishing exhibition will stay up until the end of October, so if you can't make it to the event, stop by and see it when you get the chance. For more info about the non-Quimby's portion of the evening, see the Old Town School of Folk Music's website.Diamanda Galas @ Park West
Touring in support of two double-albums ('Defixiones, Will And Testament' and 'La Serpenta Canta') recently released on influential British imprint Mute, Diamanda Galas is essential to the world of contemporary music for many reasons other than her famed 3.5 octave range. Incorporating influences from a variety of genres (such as Blues, Tape Music, Film Soundtracks, and Opera), Galas grafts her hauntingly powerful voice over subtle piano and electronics, creating a uniquely visceral and emotional listening experience. Doors at 8 pm, Park West, 322 W. Armitage, $30. Tickets available through (who else?) Ticketmaster.Naperville Wine Festival
Come to Naper Settlement to enjoy the second annual Naperville Wine Festival presented by Van Kampen Investments September 25th and 26th. The Festival hours are 1–9 pm on Saturday and 1–7 pm on Sunday. Sample wines from around the world as they showcase more that 130 different varieties. Enjoy cooking demonstrations by Chicago’s top chefs and musical entertainment throughout the weekend. For more information or to buy tickets please call (847) 382-1480 or visit the Naperville Wine Festival website. Tickets: $20 Adults, $10 Designated Driver, $5 21-and-under, children under 12 free. The Naperville Wine Festival gets going at the Naper Settlement, located at 523 S. Webster Street, Naperville, IL.The Gossip & Co.
Bad ass indie band the Gossip headlines this year's Estrojam festival. Check out their show at the Metro on Saturday, Sept. 25. Also on the bill is the All-Girl Summer Fun Band and Pretty Girls Make Graves. Chicago's own Lickity Split Radical Cheerleaders and plus-sized ladies of burlesque the Hellcat Hussies make special appearances.Critical Mass
Chicago Critical Mass bike rides start from Daley Plaza, Dearborn & Washington at 5:30pm the last Friday of each month, regardless of season or weather. They are free and fun. All you have to do is show up with your bike.(Don't) Talk to Strangers @ UIC
A national symposium entitled "(Don't) Talk to Strangers" will be convened in Chicago by The Public Square, inviting activists, scholars, and artists from all over the country for a two-day event on the need to foster broad and deep public conversations.The symposium will take place at the University of Illinois Chicago on September 24th from 4 to 8 pm & September 25th from 9 am to 5 pm. These programs will seek to further the notion that discussion, debate, and dissent are cornerstones of democracy.
Dr. Danielle Allen, Dean of the Humanities Division at the University of Chicago and 2002 MacArthur Fellow, will deliver the keynote address at 4 pm in the Cardinal Room at UIC Circle Center, 750 South Halsted Street. Dr. Allen will be available to autograph copies of her latest book, "Talking to Strangers: Anxieties of Citizenship since Brown v. Board of Education.
Hideout Block Party
This year's Hideout Block Party features some really stellar local music. Bands include Califone, Jesse Sykes & the Sweet Hereafter, Archer Prewitt, Andrew Bird, Kelly Hogan & the Wooden Leg, Manishevitz, and Swing Set, and that's not all. The proceeds from this 3-day party will benefit C.A.U.S.E.S./P.L.A.Y, Tuesday's Child, and Literacy Works. Check the website for a full schedule and more information. Tickets are just $10!Spike & Mike's Twisted Animation @ Music Box
Whoah, Nelly! Is it time for another installment of Spike & Mike's Sick & Twisted Festival of Animation? Apparently so. The animation equivalent of the Jim Rose Circus hits town tonight, playing the Music Box Theatre for all it's worth. No word yet on what the films will be, but they're offering free 3-D glasses for use in one of the films. So that should be interesting. 18+ show only. Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.Rhino Theater Fest: Standards and Fake Standards
Jenny Magnus and Joe Tech in a musical performance for the Rhinoceros Theater Fest. "The song stylings of these old friends smack of lives lived, cigarettes smoked, drinks knocked back, and hearts broken. A wonderful, easy musical friendship that moves between the songs we all know and love, and the songs they know and you should love. Bring a date, preferably an ex, and Joe and Jenny will either rekindle something or remind you of why you’re apart." 9pm, Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. $12 or pay what you can. Call 773-274-6660 for reservations.Rhino Theater Fest: Cant
The Curious Theatre Branch's 16th annual Rhinoceros Theater Fest features Jenny Magnus's solo piece. "CANT is not not being able to. CANT is an edge, a brink that one can teeter on. Jenny Magnus returns to her familiar niche of solo performance with CANT, a new meditation on inclines and their slants when it comes to comfort, responsibility, and the terror of love. In her first new work in 2 years, Magnus uses her whining manner of speaking and vulgar slang to explore the relationship she creates with her doppelganger, a bag of rice the exact weight of her only child. When one’s concerns turn to having children, aging parents, and the inexorable passage of time, one must be careful of sudden movements which result in turning over or tilting up. Or so Magnus finds in her unique language, implying the pretended assumption of goodness. CANT is not not being able to. CANT is doing, in spite of whether one is able." 7pm. $12 or pay what you can. At the Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. Call 773.274.6660 for reservations.GB Get-Together
Gapers Block holds its monthly Get-Together at Danny's this month. Meet us there (1951 W. Dickens, at Damen) from 9pm on -- we'll be in the back, partying it up and enjoying the music.Cineme International Animation Festival
This weekend is the kickoff for the Cineme International Animation Festival held at the Illinois Institute of Art September 24–26. Cineme kicks off each fall in Chicago, and is dedicated to showcasing the best and brightest in animation and digital media through Film, Television, Music, 3D Design, Web, Gaming, Architecture and Technology. This year Cineme is bigger and better than ever with $25,000 in cash and prizes, plus Halo Tournament, Video Game Developer Summit, exclusive nightly parties, musical guests, celebrities, distributors, award-winning speakers and premieres. Check the website for more information.Registration closes for Black Protest Music Class
The University of Chicago's Graham School of General Studies has begun a collaboration with the DuSable Museum of African-American History, part of which involves co-sponsoring adult education courses open to all who want to register. The class below "Black Protest Music since 1965: Soul, Funk, and Hip-Hop" meets Oct. 2 thru Oct. 23 (10:30 a.m.—12:45 p.m) and is a bargin at $40. Registration closes on Sept. 24th, so if you’re interested, act quickly. The course is taught by Leniece Davis. According to the course listing: "This course explores African-American music of dissent and struggle, examining how the social, economic, and political events of recent decades produced the protest music styles of soul, funk, and hip-hop. We will seek to understand the role of the musical artist, the poet, and the performer in society, as well as the connection between art and politics. The course aims to cultivate ways of thinking about music as an integral dimension of human behavior and of liberal arts scholarship while focusing on the genres of soul, funk, and hip-hop and while explaining what makes this music so powerful." For more information, contact Bart Schultz at 773-702-8821.Thomas Brinkmann @ Empty Bottle
Thomas Brinkmann, German minimal techno glitch-maker extraordinaire, is playing at the Empty Bottle tonight as part of the Wire series. 1035 N. Western, 21+, 9pm, $15.Nature Yoga Studio: Yoga Trance Dance
Nature Yoga Studio, at 2021 W Division, is holding a Yoga Trance Dance event tonight and after the trance dance there will be late-night fire-spinning (FIRE SPINNING!) and drumming. The event takes place from 8 until 10:30 p.m., and there is a suggested donation but nobody will be turned away for lack of funds.Redmoon Theater: Sink Sank Sunk
Redmoon Theater presents "Sink Sank Sunk", an evening of performance at Ping Tom Memorial Park on the Chicago River. They're promising performances, songs by the Windy City Gay Chorus, and "a dreamlike lantern and fire procession." Sounds interesting. The show runs September 23-26. Each evening's performance begins at 6:00 PM, rain or shine. Ping Tom Memorial Park is at 300 W. 19th Street; Redmoon is suggesting that people take the train to get to the park, as parking is limited. For more information, check the Redmoon Website, or call (312) 850-8440.Robert Pinksy Lecture: Arts Resources in Teaching
Tonight at 6 p.m., former Poet Laureate of the United States (1997-2000) Robert Pinsky will speak in the Rubloff Auditorium at the Art Institute of Chicago at an event sponsored by Art Resources in Teaching and the Women's Board of the Art Institute of Chicago. His speech, titled "Exploring Connections: Arts, Creativity, and Education," will discuss how art is "deeply at the root of our intelligence and our capacity to learn." Pinsky's unprecedented three-year tenure as poet laureate was highlighted by his nation-wide Favorite Poem Project, which culminated in an archive of readings of poems for the Library of Congress. Since its launch, the Favorite Poem Project has been dedicated to celebrating, documenting, and promoting poetry's role in Americans' lives. Tickets to the lecture and reception are $150 each. Tickets to the lecture only are $25; $15 for full-time students with ID. Event sponsorships are also available. Purchase them online or call 312-332-0355 for more information or to be added to the invitation mailing list.Chitra Divakaruni Reads @ International House
Chitra Divakaruni will read from her new novel, Queen of Dreams, at 7 p.m. tonight at International House, 1414 E. 59th St. in Hyde Park. Chitra Divakaruni, award-winning author of "The Mistress of Spices", "Sister of My Heart," and "The Vine of Desire," brings her trademark fusion of the realistic and the cosmic to her riveting new novel. This event is sponsored by 57th Street Books and the International House Global Voices Program. It is free and open to the public. For more information, call (773) 684-1300 or visit the website.Illinois Poet Laureate @ St. Xavier University
Tonight, Illinois Poet Laureate Kevin Stein will make his first Chicago-area appearance since being named to his position. The program, "Gods of the Second Chance," is the first in a series begun by the university which will include former editor of Poetry Magazine, Joseph Parisi, Pulitzer Prize winner Lisel Mueller, and W.S. Merwin. The program begins at 7 p.m. at St. Xavier University, at 3700 West 103rd Street in Chicago.World Music Festival
Chicago's 6th annual World Music festival runs September 17–23. The 2004 World Music festival line-up features 70 events at 28 venues around the city, including more than 40 free events. Venues include the Chicago Cultural Center, the MCA, the Vic, the Old Town School of Folk Music, and the Borders on Michigan Avenue. Most events are free, but some do require tickets. For more information, see the festival website or call 312-742-1938.Rock for Kids Mix CD Auction
Rock for Kids, a non-profit that provides support, assistance and inspiration to children that are homeless or in need. Tonight is the organization's second annual Music Mixer, a silent auction of mix CDs created by musicians (e.g., Jimmy Chamberlin, Kelly Hogan, venue owners (Tim Tuten, Joe Shanahan), Deejays (James Van Osdol, Johnny Mars), rock critics (Jim DiRogatis, Greg Kot) and others -- including Gapers Block! -- check here for the full list. Proceeds will benefit Youth Jam, Rock For Kids music education program. At Smartbar, 3730 N. Clark, 6pm to 10pm. Suggested donation of $5. Call 312/255-9454 for more info.Adventures in Modern Music 2004
The Wire and the Empty Bottle present Adventures in Modern Music 2004, a five-day celebration of modern composition. Featured performers over the five days: Boom Bip, Borbetomagus, Double Leopards, Lasse Marhaug, Leafcutter John, Oxbow, Ssion, Thomas Brinkmann, Xiu Xiu, and so many more. Each night's show starts at 9:00. Tickets are $15, or $60 for an event pass. All shows at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western. See the Empty Bottle's Website for a complete schedule and more info.Writing Day at UIC Campus
Today is Writing Day! Writing Day is an event for writers (and those interested in writing) to celebrate and explore the art. It's a celebration and a chance for everyone to become excited about language, words, and community. It is a day-long event, and at night, the cafes on Taylor Street open their doors to showcase talented Chicago writers. Writing Day activities will begin on the UIC campus at 11 a.m. in 100 Douglas Hall with a welcome and introduction to the day, as well as a visit from Professor Tom Hall, the keynote speaker. From noon to 3 p.m. there will be outdoor activities in the Grant-Douglas-Lincoln Quad including "Giant Scrabble" and the "Poetry Machine". From 6–7 p.m., there will be an open mic at Che Cafe on Taylor Street about 1 block away from UIC and, from 7:00 to closing, there will be featured readers including Sirra Dollah-Said, Sammer Ghouleh, Kathy Goodkin, CJ Laity, and Charlie Newman at Jamoch's Cafe‚ 1066 W. Taylor. All are invited and welcomed to celebrate and participate in the day's events.Ben Doyle, Catherine Wagner, and Rebecca Wolff @ Danny's
Tonight at 7:30 p.m., Fence and Danny's Reading Series presents Ben Doyle, Catherine Wagner, and Rebecca Wolff at Danny's Tavern , located at 1951 W. Dickens Chicago, IL. Call 773-489-6457 for more information.World Music Festival
Chicago's 6th annual World Music festival runs September 17–23. The 2004 World Music festival line-up features 70 events at 28 venues around the city, including more than 40 free events. Venues include the Chicago Cultural Center, the MCA, the Vic, the Old Town School of Folk Music, and the Borders on Michigan Avenue. Most events are free, but some do require tickets. For more information, see the festival website or call 312-742-1938.May Contain Nuts
The Hideout hosts a book party tonight celebrating the release of "May Contain Nuts: A Loose Canon of American Humor," which is the third of the Mirth of a Nation anthologies. That show will be hosted by editor Michael J Rosen and will feature Kevin Guilefoile, Amy Krouse Rosenthal, Stephanie Brooks and Sara Hope Anderson. The cover is $12, which includes a copy of the book -- quite a deal, considering you'll pay $15.95 in a bookstore. Or the show is free, compared to what you'd spend on Amazon. Anyway, the laughs start at 9pm. 1354 W Wabansia.Wicker Park Garden Club Lecture
On Wednesday, September 22, from 7-8:30 p.m. the Wicker Park Garden Club hosts a lecture at the Wicker Park Fieldhouse, 1425 N. Damen entitled: "Pink Flamingos, Tidy Topiaries, or Orange Echinecea: Cultural Influences on YOUR Garden Design" by Anne-Marie St. Germaine, Chicago Botanic Garden Master Gardener and Food Preserver. For more information and lecture registration, email wpgarden@aol.com, call (773) 278-9075 Doug Wood or check out the website. There's a $5 fee for the lecture.Trouble in Paradise @ Film Center
The Siskel Film Center presents the Ernst Lubitsch film Trouble in Paradise tonight at 6:00 PM, as part of their American Film Comedy series. Considered the best of Lubitsch's films, it stars Herbert Marshall & Miriam Hopkins as expert jewel thieves who fall in love. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.Roy Andersson short films @ Film Center
Swedish director Roy Andersson, whose 2000 masterpiece Songs from the Second Floor recently screened at the Siskel Film Center (you saw it, right?), is the subject of a 70-minute program of short films that screens tonight at 6:00 PM. Two short subjects will be screened, followed by a half-hour selection of his commercials, which were called the best in the world by none other than Ingmar Bergman. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.Poetry Workshop @ WCCA
Poetry Workshops taught by GB's own Anne Holub begin tonight and run each Tuesday night at 7:30 p.m. thru November 16th at the Women's Center for Creative Arts. Classes are cheap ($5 suggested donation) and welcome interested writers of all abilities. For a full schedule of Women's Center fall events, check their website. The center is located at 5514A W. Lawrence Ave., Chicago, IL 60630, (773) 412-9257.World Music Festival
Chicago's 6th annual World Music festival runs September 17–23. The 2004 World Music festival line-up features 70 events at 28 venues around the city, including more than 40 free events. Venues include the Chicago Cultural Center, the MCA, the Vic, the Old Town School of Folk Music, and the Borders on Michigan Avenue. Most events are free, but some do require tickets. For more information, see the festival website or call 312-742-1938.Rhino Magazine Get Out the Vote Reading
Rhino poetry magazine invites writers and lovers of writing to join them at the Evanston Public Library, located at 1703 Orrington (Church Street & Orrington), in the Large Community Room (1st floor), Evanston, IL 60201, from 7-8:30 p.m. tonight for a "Get Out the Vote" reading. This "lively, non-partisan event" will feature four poets whose work has appeared in RHINO: Steven Schroeder, Susanna Lang, Greg Grummer and Tony Trigilio will read work on the themes of voting, activism and the power of free speech. An open poetry mike will follow: Rhino invites audience members to share their poetry on this same theme. They encourage passionate poetry from writers of all ages, while discouraging highly partisan rants. Folks will also be on hand to sign up unregistered voters. For more information call (847)866-0300.Estrojam 2004 opening night party
Estrojam Festival 2004, the annual music and art festival that focuses on female artists, kicks off tonight with an opening night party at the W Hotel (172 W. Adams). Among the artists appearing at the party: Callie Lipkin, Flynn, Celesta Danger and Jennifer Catlin. See the Estrojam Website for more details.Rhino Theater Fest: The Big Promise
As part of the Rhinoceros Theater Festival, "Bryn Magnus reads from his new novel, The Big Promise, the story of a morally disadvantaged father trying to redeem himself in the eyes of his teenage son. Specifically it's about a fringe playwright prone to tears and antisocial behavior whose son convinces him he might find redemption investigating the home invasion and robbery of a friend. Elmore Leonard meets Dave Eggers." 7pm, Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. $12 or pay what you can. Call 773-274-6660 for reservations.World Music Festival
Chicago's 6th annual World Music festival runs September 17–23. The 2004 World Music festival line-up features 70 events at 28 venues around the city, including more than 40 free events. Venues include the Chicago Cultural Center, the MCA, the Vic, the Old Town School of Folk Music, and the Borders on Michigan Avenue. Most events are free, but some do require tickets. For more information, see the festival website or call 312-742-1938.Young Feminist Potluck
Once a month young feminists get together at Women and Children First to discuss feminist books that they've picked out. Twice a year they meet to bring in a selection of food and choose 6 books. Show up tonight at 6 pm with a dish (or a bottle of wine) to share and a book that you'd love to discuss with feminists.Celtic Fest Chicago
It doesn't have the draw of the Milwaukee Irish Fest, and the music has a decidedly more traditional bent, but the Chicago Celtic Festival is always a grand way to cap off the city's festival season. Headliners include Mary Black, The Saw Doctors, and a 21-piece (!) French (!) pipe band (!). And, hey — sheepherding! September 18-19, 11:00am-9:30pm. Free admission, as always.Rhino Theater Fest: Under Milk Wood
Part of the Rhino Theater Fest: "Thomas's play is back and at the Rhino! The Welsh poet's dreamy, funny world of owls, magic, and whiskey at nightfall on Larregub Hill where blind Captain Cat pulls the bell rope is brought back to life by three generations of voices. Milk Wood is part of the Rhino ’04 look-back to the masters who influenced Curious." 7pm, Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. $12 or pay what you can. Call 773-274-6660 for reservations.The Finger Open Mic @ Early to Bed
The Finger Open Mic Monthly queer open mic at Early to Bed. Poetry, spoken word and more! Anyone 18 & over is welcome. Every third Sunday of the month. Free. Early to Bed is located at 5232 N Sheridan Rd. Gets going at 7 p.m.Renegade Craft Fair
This year's Renegade Craft Fair takes place over two days, Saturday and Sunday, in Wicker Park (rain or shine) from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm. Featuring over 100 crafty types from all over the country this year, the fair will provide handmade wares for anyone and everyone from the hip to the chic. Check out a full list of vendors, including links to their sites, a vendor map, and directions at the Renegade Craft Fair website. Wicker Park is located at 1435 N. Damen, near the Damen blue line El stop.Alice @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present Alice, an adaptation of the Lewis Carroll books featuring a walking tour of 6 different Andersonville locations, original artwork & performances by various Neo-Futurists and local theater companies, and 5 rabbits. This weekend is the premiere weekend; admission is $15 or pay what you can. The show runs Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 1:00 PM, and continues through October 24. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland. (773) 275-5255. See the Neo-Futurist Website for further details and to purchase tickets.World Music Festival
Chicago's 6th annual World Music festival runs September 17–23. The 2004 World Music festival line-up features 70 events at 28 venues around the city, including more than 40 free events. Venues include the Chicago Cultural Center, the MCA, the Vic, the Old Town School of Folk Music, and the Borders on Michigan Avenue. Most events are free, but some do require tickets. For more information, see the festival website or call 312-742-1938. Highlights from the 2004 schedule include performances at the new Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park by the acclaimed Chicago Immigrant Orchestra, an ensemble of culturally diverse musicians; Tortoise, the Chicago avant-rock group that combines a number of musical genres to create a unique sound; and dZihan & Kamien, the Viennese duo experimenting with their own musical and ethnic backgrounds to produce a global dance groove. Boban Markovic & the Serbian Orkestar and Esma, both highly praised gypsy bands, will perform the first of two double bills at the Park West. The second double bill at the Park West will feature Peruvian singer Eva Ayllon and tango marvel Katie Viqueira and Deep Tango. Other headlining performances include a concert at the Vic Theatre presented in conjunction with the Chicago Turkish Festival featuring Balik Ayhan, the most sought-after darbuka player in Turkish music, and Algerian multi-instrumentalist, Abdelli.Indiana Dunes Harvest Festival
This weekend is the Indiana Dunes Harvest Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The admission is $6.00 per car and all proceeds go toward preserving the historic site and the Indiana Dunes. The festival site is an old farmstead and fur-trading post, (circa 1800s) which has been restored. There are: sheep and geese herding demos, hayrides, music, old people doing almost forgotten crafts and lots more. All out in nature (!!). For more information, check out the offical Dunes site or call 219-926-7561 x.225 ; ask about the Harvest Fest.Chicago Half Marathon
Today's the day for the Chicago Half Marathon, a 13.1 mile course that runs on Lake Shore Drive, with the start and end points at the Museum of Science and Industry. Online registration is $30; check the link for complete registration information. The race starts at 7:30, and is expected to take about 3 hours to run completely. If you won't be participating, keep an eye out for runners if you're driving on Lake Shore this morning.Evanston Ice Cream Social
Calling all flappers and cool cats! The 1920s will come alive on Saturday, Sept. 18, from noon to 4pm when the Evanston Historical Society hosts a Roaring Twenties Ice Cream Social (rain or shine). Everyone is invited to the Charles Gates Dawes House, 225 Greenwood St., to enjoy old-fashioned music, carnival games, face painting, vintage autos, free ice cream, and lots more. Admission and most activities for this family-friendly afternoon are free.The Society will also be offering an "Antiques and Heirlooms Appraisal" from 1:30 to 3:30; the cost to have something appraised is $10. More information here.
Roy Andersson short films @ Film Center
Swedish director Roy Andersson, whose 2000 masterpiece Songs from the Second Floor recently screened at the Siskel Film Center (you saw it, right?), is the subject of a 70-minute program of short films that screens tonight at 5:15 PM. Two short subjects will be screened, followed by a half-hour selection of his commercials, which were called the best in the world by none other than Ingmar Bergman. The program also screens on Tuesday the 21st at 6:00 PM. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.Rhino Theater Fest: 16 Grandmothers
Part of the Rhinoceros Theater Fest. The Curious Theatre Branch "offers a special program of 16 short pieces by a variety of performers, all waxing poetic on the subject of Grandmothers. Some actual grandmothers will participate, some artists with grandmothers, and others merely riff on the concept. Including Lee Riley, Melissa Walker, Mary Cross, Amy Eaton, Matt Wilson, Jennifer Harris, David Isaacson, Kat McJimsey, Winifred O’Reilly, Mareiane Brun, Max Greenberg, Bab Magnus, Sheila Donahue, Michael Anania, Mary Beth Burns, and more! A one-time-only event in 2 sets. Curated by Beau O’Reilly." 6pm and 8pm at the Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. Call 773-274-6660 for reservations.Rhino Theater Fest: The Authentics
A new play by Paula Gilovich, as part of the Rhinoceros Theater Fest. "At the center of The Authentics is a plane crash from which only awkward, perverse David Wise has been pulled. The crash brings him Sarah Sharp, the reporter who covers his disaster, and a lost father looking for money. With the father comes a charismatic sidekick, and with Sarah comes a successful mother in the business of everyone's business. A wry look at the inherently absurd forces that create what's real, strange, funny, unromantic, fast, and furious is the universe of The Authentics. Sex, gender, death, disappointment, dismemberment, semi-celebrity, Chinese food, editors, and bus stations: this is life authentic." 9pm, Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. $12 or pay what you can. Call 773-274-6660 for reservations.Renegade Craft Fair
This year's Renegade Craft Fair takes place over two days, Saturday and Sunday, in Wicker Park (rain or shine) from 10:30 am to 5:30 pm. Featuring over 100 crafty types from all over the country this year, the fair will provide handmade wares for anyone and everyone from the hip to the chic. Check out a full list of vendors, including links to their sites, a vendor map, and directions at the Renegade Craft Fair website. Wicker Park is located at 1435 N. Damen, near the Damen blue line El stop.Alice @ Neo-Futurarium
The Neo-Futurists present Alice, an adaptation of the Lewis Carroll books featuring a walking tour of 6 different Andersonville locations, original artwork & performances by various Neo-Futurists and local theater companies, and 5 rabbits. This weekend is the premiere weekend; admission is $15 or pay what you can. The show runs Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 1:00 PM, and continues through October 24. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland. (773) 275-5255. See the Neo-Futurist Website for further details and to purchase tickets.World Music Festival
Chicago's 6th annual World Music festival runs September 17–23. The 2004 World Music festival line-up features 70 events at 28 venues around the city, including more than 40 free events. Venues include the Chicago Cultural Center, the MCA, the Vic, the Old Town School of Folk Music, and the Borders on Michigan Avenue. Most events are free, but some do require tickets. For more information, see the festival website or call 312-742-1938. Highlights from the 2004 schedule include performances at the new Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park by the acclaimed Chicago Immigrant Orchestra, an ensemble of culturally diverse musicians; Tortoise, the Chicago avant-rock group that combines a number of musical genres to create a unique sound; and dZihan & Kamien, the Viennese duo experimenting with their own musical and ethnic backgrounds to produce a global dance groove. Boban Markovic & the Serbian Orkestar and Esma, both highly praised gypsy bands, will perform the first of two double bills at the Park West. The second double bill at the Park West will feature Peruvian singer Eva Ayllon and tango marvel Katie Viqueira and Deep Tango. Other headlining performances include a concert at the Vic Theatre presented in conjunction with the Chicago Turkish Festival featuring Balik Ayhan, the most sought-after darbuka player in Turkish music, and Algerian multi-instrumentalist, Abdelli.Indiana Dunes Harvest Festival
This weekend is the Indiana Dunes Harvest Festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The admission is $6.00 per car and all proceeds go toward preserving the historic site and the Indiana Dunes. The festival site is an old farmstead and fur-trading post, (circa 1800s) which has been restored. There are: sheep and geese herding demos, hayrides, music, old people doing almost forgotten crafts and lots more. All out in nature (!!). For more information, check out the offical Dunes site or call 219-926-7561 x.225 ; ask about the Harvest Fest.Celtic Fest Chicago
It doesn't have the draw of the Milwaukee Irish Fest, and the music has a decidedly more traditional bent, but the Chicago Celtic Festival is always a grand way to cap off the city's festival season. Headliners include Mary Black, The Saw Doctors, and a 21-piece (!) French (!) pipe band (!). And, hey — sheepherding! September 18-19, 11:00am-9:30pm. Free admission, as always.Chicago Turkish Festival
This week brings the 2nd annual Chicago Turkish Festival, running September 13–18th in downtown Chicago. Events include a fashion show, live music, rug weaving demonstrations, and cultural programs galore. You can even enter to win a free trip to Turkey. Free events take place in Daley Plaza (55 W. Randolph) downtown, and others are ticketed and in various downtown venues. For more information, check out the festival website. Events run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the plaza. Email info@chicagoturkishfestival.com for more information.Affordable Housing Seminar
Learn more about cooperative housing. The Pratt-Ashland Cooperative, Chicago Mutual Housing Network, and Rogers Park Community Action Network invite you to a free seminar Saturday, Sept. 18. From 10 a.m. to noon, they will cover a variety of topics on cooperative housing including: types, financing, housing vouchers, and more. Please call the Pratt-Ashland Cooperative at 312-458-9448 to RSVP. The meeting will be held at the Pratt-Ashland Cooperative Meeting Room at 6805 N. Ashland.Chibots Robot Builders Day Out
Chibots, the Chicago Area Robotics Group, is having their Robot Builders Day Out this Saturday in southern Wisconsin. Robot enthusiasts (of the human variety I take it) of all kinds are encouraged.The Blues Brothers @ Music Box
"They broke my watch!" Admit it, you haven't seen this classic of cinematic excess on the big screen, have you? Well, now's your chance; The Blues Brothers is one of the films for this weekend's midnight screening at the Music Box Theatre. We'll even throw in the black keys for free. Showtimes: tonight and tomorrow at midnight. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.Trouble in Paradise @ Film Center
The Siskel Film Center presents the Ernst Lubitsch film Trouble in Paradise tonight at 6:15 PM, as part of their American Film Comedy series. Considered the best of Lubitsch's films, it stars Herbert Marshall & Miriam Hopkins as expert jewel thieves who fall in love. The film will also be shown on Tuesday the 21th at 6:00 PM. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.Bush's Brain @ Music Box
Not the actual brain, of course, but an incredible simulation! Bushs' Brain is a documentary about Karl Rove, and his rise to a position of unprecedented (un-Presidented?) power. Just in case you weren't already mad enough at the state of American politics... The film opens tonight at the Music Box Theatre; check local listings for showtimes. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.Rhino Theater Fest: The Authentics
A new play by Paula Gilovich, as part of the Rhinoceros Theater Fest. "At the center of The Authentics is a plane crash from which only awkward, perverse David Wise has been pulled. The crash brings him Sarah Sharp, the reporter who covers his disaster, and a lost father looking for money. With the father comes a charismatic sidekick, and with Sarah comes a successful mother in the business of everyone's business. A wry look at the inherently absurd forces that create what's real, strange, funny, unromantic, fast, and furious is the universe of The Authentics. Sex, gender, death, disappointment, dismemberment, semi-celebrity, Chinese food, editors, and bus stations: this is life authentic." 9pm, Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. $12 or pay what you can. Call 773-274-6660 for reservations.Early to Bed Third Anniversary Party
Come join the good folks at Early to Bed while they celebrate their third year of success! Punch, cake, and one night only sale items!! The party runs 7-10 p.m. Check out our audio feature on Early to Bed here.Rhino Theater Fest: Cant
The Curious Theatre Branch's 16th annual Rhinoceros Theater Fest opens with Jenny Magnus's solo piece. "CANT is not not being able to. CANT is an edge, a brink that one can teeter on. Jenny Magnus returns to her familiar niche of solo performance with CANT, a new meditation on inclines and their slants when it comes to comfort, responsibility, and the terror of love. In her first new work in 2 years, Magnus uses her whining manner of speaking and vulgar slang to explore the relationship she creates with her doppelganger, a bag of rice the exact weight of her only child. When one’s concerns turn to having children, aging parents, and the inexorable passage of time, one must be careful of sudden movements which result in turning over or tilting up. Or so Magnus finds in her unique language, implying the pretended assumption of goodness. CANT is not not being able to. CANT is doing, in spite of whether one is able." 7pm. $12 or pay what you can. At the Curious Theatre Branch, 7001 N Glenwood. Call 773.274.6660 for reservations.Goodman Theatre Open House
Visit the Goodman Theatre September 17 from 5 to 7 p.m. for complimentary hors d' oeuvres from the Theatre's preferred vendors like Petterino's, Atwood Cafe, Fuse and more. Plus, enjoy beer wine and soda while taking in the antics of local comedy troupe Schedenfreude.Lillstreet Art-A-Thon
Stop by Lillstreet Art Center tonight to create your own piece of art with clay, paint, metal, fiber and more at the 2nd Annual Lillstreet Learning Center Art-A-Thon. A $5 donation will get you entry, food, drink and the DJ stylings of Omar Vera. Family-friendly art activities will cost $5 or $10 each. All donations benefit Lillstreet's outreach program to communities in need. Art-A-Thon is on from 5-10 pm tonight, 4401 N. Ravenswood (Ravenswood and Montrose).World Music Festival
Chicago's 6th annual World Music festival runs September 17–23. The 2004 World Music festival line-up features 70 events at 28 venues around the city, including more than 40 free events. Venues include the Chicago Cultural Center, the MCA, the Vic, the Old Town School of Folk Music, and the Borders on Michigan Avenue. Most events are free, but some do require tickets. For more information, see the festival website or call 312-742-1938. Highlights from the 2004 schedule include performances at the new Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park by the acclaimed Chicago Immigrant Orchestra, an ensemble of culturally diverse musicians; Tortoise, the Chicago avant-rock group that combines a number of musical genres to create a unique sound; and dZihan & Kamien, the Viennese duo experimenting with their own musical and ethnic backgrounds to produce a global dance groove. Boban Markovic & the Serbian Orkestar and Esma, both highly praised gypsy bands, will perform the first of two double bills at the Park West. The second double bill at the Park West will feature Peruvian singer Eva Ayllon and tango marvel Katie Viqueira and Deep Tango. Other headlining performances include a concert at the Vic Theatre presented in conjunction with the Chicago Turkish Festival featuring Balik Ayhan, the most sought-after darbuka player in Turkish music, and Algerian multi-instrumentalist, Abdelli.Chicago Turkish Festival
This week brings the 2nd annual Chicago Turkish Festival, running September 13–18th in downtown Chicago. Events include a fashion show, live music, rug weaving demonstrations, and cultural programs galore. You can even enter to win a free trip to Turkey. Free events take place in Daley Plaza (55 W. Randolph) downtown, and others are ticketed and in various downtown venues. For more information, check out the festival website. Events run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the plaza. Email info@chicagoturkishfestival.com for more information.Flirt Talk @ FLIRT
Head to FLIRT, 3449 N. Southport, tonight between 7pm and 9pm to see Jill Spiegel, author and self-proclaimed "flirtologist." She'll be giving a talk on flirting, and if you're lucky she'll also give you some one-on-one advice. Free. Call 773/935-4789 for more info.Chicago Turkish Festival
This week brings the 2nd annual Chicago Turkish Festival, running September 13–18th in downtown Chicago. Events include a fashion show, live music, rug weaving demonstrations, and cultural programs galore. You can even enter to win a free trip to Turkey. Free events take place in Daley Plaza (55 W. Randolph) downtown, and others are ticketed and in various downtown venues. For more information, check out the festival website. Events run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the plaza. Email info@chicagoturkishfestival.com for more information.Funny Ha-Ha: Blogger reading @ Hideout
Blogger and author Claire Zulkey, frustrated at never being invited to any of the blogger readings around town, has put together "Funny Ha-Ha," a night of readings by bloggers and authors at The Hideout. Reading at tonight's event are Kevin Guilfoile of Modern Humorist, Nathan Rabin of the Onion, Mark Bazer of the Red Eye, the comedy troupe Schadenfreude, and many more. The event runs from 8:00 to 10:00 PM, it's a 21+ show, and the suggested donation is $5. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.Chicago Turkish Festival
This week brings the 2nd annual Chicago Turkish Festival, running September 13–18th in downtown Chicago. Events include a fashion show, live music, rug weaving demonstrations, and cultural programs galore. You can even enter to win a free trip to Turkey. Free events take place in Daley Plaza (55 W. Randolph) downtown, and others are ticketed and in various downtown venues. For more information, check out the festival website. Events run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the plaza. Email info@chicagoturkishfestival.com for more information.Chicagoland Folding Bike Society
Flying to a foreign destination and wish you could take you bike with you? Want to visit a suburban destination on Metra and wish you could peddle those few miles instead of drive? Folding bikes give you freedom and flexibility that many other bikes don't. The Chicagoland Folding Bike Society meets tonight to talk about food, nutrition and cycling as well as, well, obviously folding bikes. Meet other folding bike enthusiasts and drink beer at the Handlebar. Starts at 7pm and runs til 9ish.Modern Times @ Film Center
The Siskel Film Center presents the classic Chaplin film Modern Times tonight at 6:00 PM, as part of their American Film Comedy series. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.Chicago Turkish Festival
This week brings the 2nd annual Chicago Turkish Festival, running September 13–18th in downtown Chicago. Events include a fashion show, live music, rug weaving demonstrations, and cultural programs galore. You can even enter to win a free trip to Turkey. Free events take place in Daley Plaza (55 W. Randolph) downtown, and others are ticketed and in various downtown venues. For more information, check out the festival website. Events run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the plaza. Email info@chicagoturkishfestival.com for more information.Marjane Satrapi @ Women and Children First
Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood creator Marjane Satrapi appears at Women and Children First today at 7:30 pm to promote the publication of its sequel, Persepolis 2: The Story of a Return, following "her journey to high school in Vienna in 1984 and her return to her native Tehran four years later."Songs from the Second Floor @ Film Center
The Swedish film Songs from the Second Floor screens at 6:00 PM at the Siskel Film Center. One of the strangest films that you will ever see, this 2000 film by Roy Andersson invites comparisons to Bergman, Buñuel, Terry Gilliam, even the ghastly portraits by local artist Ivan Albright. A plot synopsis wouldn't help you; a film like this is all about the outrageously bizarre scenes, which are usually self-contained masterpieces of Surrealist imagery. The final scene, with all the people suddenly appearing (you'll know it when you see it), is one of the most fantastic images that I've seen in the last few years at the movies. Most highly recommended for the adventurous movie-goer. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.Chicago Turkish Festival
This week brings the 2nd annual Chicago Turkish Festival, running September 13–18th in downtown Chicago. Events include a fashion show, live music, rug weaving demonstrations, and cultural programs galore. You can even enter to win a free trip to Turkey. Free events take place in Daley Plaza (55 W. Randolph) downtown, and others are ticketed and in various downtown venues. For more information, check out the festival website. Events run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the plaza. Email info@chicagoturkishfestival.com for more information.Around the Coyote Arts Festival
Tonight's the last night of the 15th annual Around the Coyote Arts Festival which takes place this weekend in Wicker Park and Bucktown. Check out the website for a full listing of the participating galleries that will be open late to showcase local artists' work, poetry readings, participating restaurants, and other cool activities that run all weekend long.Golden Age of Gangsters
Meet real mobsters' kids, pretend mobsters and the people who obsess about mobsters at the Golden Age of Gangsters Convention this weekend in Itasca. This event is open to the public and will feature tons of gangster memorabilia, descendents of famous mobsters Capone and Giancana, actors Joe Gannascoli and John Fiore from "The Sopranos," special displays about the St. Valentine's Massacre and The Prohibition years, a guided tour of Chicago gangster history, and several historians and authors who have made gangster history their life's work. Friday-Sunday, Holiday Inn in Itasca. Admission is $15 per day or $40 for the weekend.Obama Get Out the Vote Rally
Come out and see and hear Barack Obama speak at a Get Out the Vote! Rally in Northbrook on Sunday, September 12, 2004 at 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. There will be tables set up for volunteers to get involved in activities in their area. The rally will be held at the Renaissance North Shore Hotel (9333 Skokie Boulevard). If you can attend, please email David LeBreton at dlebreton@obamaforillinois.com. If you have questions, you can email or call (312) 427-6300.Boulevard Lakefront Tour
While not of the bacon, lettuce and tomato kind, the BLT aka The Boulevard Lakefront Tour is brought to you by the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation. From the site: "Join us for the 16th Annual Boulevard Lakefront Tour! One of Chicago's favorite bike rides, the BLT explores our great city's 'emerald necklace' — the parks, boulevards and historic places on the South and West Sides." It goes down Sunday, Sept 12th and you'll need to pre-register. Your choice of 10 mile or 35 mile ride. How many people did this last year? Over 2,200.Neo-Preview Party
The Neo-Futurists are starting their 2004-2005 prime time season at the end of this week, and you're invited to a preview party! See a preview of Alice, the first production in the new schedule, as well as glimpses of other upcoming shows. In addition to show previews, there will be a theater-wide tour of all the secret spaces of the Neo-Futurarium, as well as refreshments. This is an excellent chance to learn more about the theater company, and talk to your favorite Neo-Futurist(s)! The preview starts at 2:00 PM, and tickets are $20 ($15 for seniors and students with ID). See the Neo-Futurist Website for more details and to purchase tickets. The Neo-Futuriarium: 5153 N. Ashland. (773) 275-5255.Midwest Literary Festival
The 2nd Annual Midwest Literary Festival runs Saturday and Sunday in Aurora, IL. Featured speakers include former poet laureate Billy Collins and author Karen Joy Fowler, among many others. Panels and activities include a Romance Author Tea, a panel on self-publishing, finding a writing group, playwriting, as well as a separate program just for kids. Billed as a "family-friendly event," the activities are open to the public. For more information, directions and a map, and a full event schedule, check the website.Choice Cycle '73
Choice Cycle '73 is a Chicago-to-Libertyville bike ride that celebrates the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision, and also supports the work of Personal PAC, a bipartisan political action committee dedicated to electing pro-choice candidates to state and local office. The event begins this morning at 7:00 at the Evanston Ecology Center. For more details, see the Choice Cycle '73 site, or contact Emily Elbring of Personal PAC at (312) 422-0005.Lil' Roy & the Weird Sisters
The Seldoms, an interdisciplinary theatre group, perform Lil' Roy & the Weird Sisters at Architectural Artifacts, 4325 N. Ravenswood, tonight and tomorrow at 8pm. The play is about "three unique characters who battle anti-heroes named Doily, Bingo and Cotton Candy," according to Chicago Social. Should be interesting. Tickets are $15 ($10 for students), or payy $30 and get into the afterparty. Call 312/328-0303 for more info.Guinness Oyster Festival
Guinness and oysters: a classic combination. Come down to the New City YMCA, 1515 N. Halsted, between 4pm and 11pm tonight for fresh oysters, lots of Guinness and bands on two stages -- Cake headlines tonight at 9:15pm. Tickets are $10 at the door ($7 if you thought to buy them in advance). More information at ChicagoEvents.com.Around the Coyote Arts Festival
The 15th annual Around the Coyote Arts Festival takes place this weekend in Wicker Park and Bucktown. Check out the website for a full listing of the participating galleries that will be open late to showcase local artists' work, poetry readings, participating restaurants, and other cool activities that run all weekend long.Golden Age of Gangsters
Meet real mobsters' kids, pretend mobsters and the people who obsess about mobsters at the Golden Age of Gangsters Convention this weekend in Itasca. This event is open to the public and will feature tons of gangster memorabilia, descendents of famous mobsters Capone and Giancana, actors Joe Gannascoli and John Fiore from "The Sopranos," special displays about the St. Valentine's Massacre and The Prohibition years, a guided tour of Chicago gangster history, and several historians and authors who have made gangster history their life's work. Friday-Sunday, Holiday Inn in Itasca. Admission is $15 per day or $40 for the weekend.9/11 Documentaries @ Facets
This weekend, Facets Cinematheque will feature the double feature "Collateral Damage" and "WTC: The First 24 Hours", both documentaries by Étienne Sauret dealing with 9/11. Sauret and two of the firemen who appear in one of the films will be at Facets for the first three shows on Saturday 9/11 for Q&A. The two firemen are from Engine 6. One of the firemen is the only survivor of a team of five that climbed up the North Tower before getting the order to turn back. Facets is located at 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information, call 773-281-9075 or check out this website (Contrary to what might be printed on that web page, one film is 60 minutes long and one is 30 minutes long, leaving about 30 minutes for Q&A between screenings). Admission: $9 non-members, $5 members.Logan Square House and Garden Walk
Logan Square Preservation announces its twenty-second annual Logan Square Boulevards Historic District House & Garden Walk on Saturday, September 11, 2004 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Guided tours through the interiors of select residences and churches will emphasize architectural ornamentation, furnishings, and the life-styles of Chicago citizens in the early 1900's. This year Palmer Square is being featured. Advance tickets are available from Logan Square Preservation, 3024 West Logan Blvd., Chicago, IL. 60647-1708; (773) 252-4859. Cost is $10.00 ($8.00 for Seniors 60+) in advance and $12.00 ($10.00 for Seniors 60+) the day of the Walk. Ticket price includes gardens as well as homes. For horticultural enthusiasts who wish to visit the gardens only, the ticket price is $4.00. Orders received after September 1st will be held for pickup at the starting point, 2157 N. Humboldt Boulevard (St. Sylvesters Church at the corner of Humboldt and Palmer Boulevards.) Participants should allow four hours to complete the tour at a leisurely pace.TOJO Gallery Opening
Around the Coyote brings lots of people to the area who don't come there on a regular basis. It can be fun (and stuffy and crowded) wandering through the live/work studios. So if you want to get away, hit some of the area galleries and revel in more art, and less stuffiness. Tojo Gallery is opening up this weekend and seems like a great new place to pop by for ideas, and maybe a beautiful photo, a sculpture, or a unique fused-glass bowl. They're having a special reception tonight beginning at 8 p.m, so stop by 1418 W. Division.Buddhism Lecture Series Begins
Beginning today, there's a lecture series on Buddhism beginning 9/11 at Zen Buddhist Temple, located at 1710 W Cornelia (773-528-8685). This series runs for 5 consecutive Saturdays starting at 2:30 pm,and will be given by Joe Schumann formerly of Harvard and U.of C. Donations of $10.00 are optional. This is an opportunity to understand this non-theistic option to Abrahamic religion. Topics include: on 9/11-Buddha's first Teachings, on 9/18-the 3 Jewels,9/25-Sex,drugs,red meat and violence, on 10/2-Religion without God, and on 10/9-Karma of corporate culture. Contact: Ken at 847-793-6327 for more information.Vice Mag "DOs & DON'Ts" @ Quimby's
DOs & DON'Ts" compiles every do and don't ever published in Vice Magazine. Author and magazine co-founder Gavin McInnes presents a slideshow of his 20 favorite DOs & DON’Ts from the book and answers audience questions tonight at Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., at 8pm. And it's free!Children-created Films @ Peace Museum
The Peace Museum, 100 North Central Park Ave. (second floor the Garfield Park Field House), will screen three short peace-themed movies made by children in Garfield Park today at 11am. Made during Split Pillow's fast-filmmaking workshop for the Garfield Park 10, 11, and 12 year-olds on August 28, volunteer counselors from Chicago's film industry taught the children how to write, direct, shoot, act in and edit short digital video movies in one day. The event will also include a performance of The Neo-Futurists' critically acclaimed "Evidence." Free.Marshall Field's Day of Music
The eagerly-anticipated eighth annual Marshall Field’s Day of Music will welcome thousands of music lovers to enjoy hours of FREE classical, jazz, world music, and family entertainment presented throughout Symphony Center. The event will kick off at 2 p.m. today with a performance by Sir Andrew Davis and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and will continue until 10 p.m. For a full schedule (PDF), check the website, or call (312) 294-3000 for more information. Symphony Center is located at 220 South Michigan Avenue.Midwest Literary Festival
The 2nd Annual Midwest Literary Festival runs Saturday and Sunday in Aurora, IL. Featured speakers include former poet laureate Billy Collins and author Karen Joy Fowler, among many others. Panels and activities include a Romance Author Tea, a panel on self-publishing, finding a writing group, playwriting, as well as a separate program just for kids. Billed as a "family-friendly event," the activities are open to the public. For more information, directions and a map, and a full event schedule, check the website.Lil' Roy & the Weird Sisters
The Seldoms, an interdisciplinary theatre group, perform Lil' Roy & the Weird Sisters at Architectural Artifacts, 4325 N. Ravenswood, tonight and tomorrow at 8pm. The play is about "three unique characters who battle anti-heroes named Doily, Bingo and Cotton Candy," according to Chicago Social. Should be interesting. Tickets are $15 ($10 for students). Call 312/328-0303 for more info.Guinness Oyster Festival
Guinness and oysters: a classic combination. Come down to the New City YMCA, 1515 N. Halsted, between 4pm and 11pm tonight for fresh oysters, lots of Guinness and bands on two stages -- Marcy Playground headlines tonight at 9:45pm. Tickets are $10 at the door ($7 if you thought to buy them in advance). More information at ChicagoEvents.com.Songs from the Second Floor @ Film Center
The Swedish film Songs from the Second Floor screens at 7:45 PM at the Siskel Film Center. One of the strangest films that you will ever see, this 2000 film by Roy Andersson invites comparisons to Bergman, Buñuel, Terry Gilliam, even the ghastly portraits by local artist Ivan Albright. A plot synopsis wouldn't help you; a film like this is all about the outrageously bizarre scenes, which are self-contained masterpieces of Surrealist imagery. The final scene, with all the people suddenly appearing (you'll know it when you see it), is one of the most fantastic images that I've seen in the last few years at the movies. Most highly recommended for the adventurous movie-goer. The film also screens at the Film Center at 6:00 PM on Monday the 13th. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.La Dolce Vita @ Music Box
The classic 1960 Fellini film La Dolce Vita opens tonight at the Music Box Theatre. Haven't seen it? Go see it. That's all. Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.Modern Times @ Film Center
The Siskel Film Center presents the classic Chaplin film Modern Times tonight at 6:00 PM, as part of their American Film Comedy series. The film will also be shown on Tuesday the 14th at 6:00 PM. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.Around the Coyote Arts Festival
Tonight's the opening night for the 15th annual Around the Coyote Arts Festival in Wicker Park and Bucktown. Check out the website for a full listing of the participating galleries that will be open late to showcase local artists' work, poetry readings, participating restaurants, and other cool activities that run all weekend long.Golden Age of Gangsters
Meet real mobsters' kids, pretend mobsters and the people who obsess about mobsters at the Golden Age of Gangsters Convention this weekend in Itasca. This event is open to the public and will feature tons of gangster memorabilia, descendents of famous mobsters Capone and Giancana, actors Joe Gannascoli and John Fiore from "The Sopranos," special displays about the St. Valentine's Massacre and The Prohibition years, a guided tour of Chicago gangster history, and several historians and authors who have made gangster history their life's work. Friday-Sunday, Holiday Inn in Itasca. Admission is $15 per day or $40 for the weekend.9/11 Documentaries at Facets
Starting Friday 9/10, Facets Cinematheque will feature the double feature "Collateral Damage" and "WTC: The First 24 Hours", both documentaries by Étienne Sauret dealing with 9/11. Sauret and two of the firemen who appear in one of the films will be at Facets for both shows on Friday 9/10 and the first three shows on Saturday 9/11 for Q&A. The two firemen are from Engine 6. One of the firemen is the only survivor of a team of five that climbed up the North Tower before getting the order to turn back. Facets is located at 1517 W. Fullerton. For more information, call 773-281-9075 or check out this website (Contrary to what might be printed on that web page, one film is 60 minutes long and one is 30 minutes long, leaving about 30 minutes for Q&A between screenings). Admission: $9 non-members, $5 members.Art of the Cinnamon Roll Benefit
Ann Sather, 929 W. Belmont, hosts "The Art of the Cinnamon Roll," a silent auction and cocktail reception to benefit The Children's Place Association, tonight from 7:30pm to 11pm. The silent auction will feature "cinnamon roll inspired" artwork created by local artists. Tickets are $25 at the door. For more information, contact Julie Hall at Children's Place, 773/826-1230 ext. 27.DEPART-ment
Stock up on your unique objects and fabulous crafty things at the latest DEPART-ment, kicking off tonight from 7-11 and going on Saturday and Sunday from 11-5. DEPART-ment takes place at Open End Gallery, located at 2000 W Fulton.Sneaker Pimps
Sneaker Pimps comes to Chicago! Tinta Roja gallery will be hosting the Sneaker Pimps exhibition, which will feature a collection of rare, limited, vintage and artist designed sneakers, as well as sneaker inspired art. The opening night festivities are from 8pm until late. Tinta Roja is located at 2701 W Division.TOJO Gallery Opening
Around the Coyote brings lots of people to the area who don't come there on a regular basis. It can be fun (and stuffy and crowded) wandering through the live/work studios. So if you want to get away, hit some of the area galleries and revel in more art, and less stuffiness. Tojo Gallery is opening up this weekend and seems like a great new place to pop by for ideas, and maybe a beautiful photo, a sculpture, or a unique fused-glass bowl. They're having a special reception tonight beginning at 8 p.m, so stop by 1418 W. Division.Cody Hudson @ Bucket Rider gallery
"The Life and Times of Cody Hudson Volume 2 b/w The Parrot on Your Shoulder" opens tonight at Bucket Rider. The reception is from 6-9, and the show will be up through October 16. To see some more of Cody Hudson's work visit his website here."I Am Spam" reading @ Quimby's
Larry O. Dean reads spam-inspired poetry from his new book, I Am Spam, at Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., tonight at 8pm. Free.Discrete Reading Series @ 3030
Tonight at 9 pm at 3030 W. Cortland enjoy the fine writing of Diane Williams and Laura Sims as a part of the Discrete Reading Series. Diane Williams's most recent book of fiction is "Romancer Erector", out from Dalkey Archive Press. Some stories of hers are featured in this summer's BOMB magazine. She is the founder and editor of the literary annual NOON. Laura Sims lives in Madison, Wisconsin where she teaches English and Creative Writing. Her poems have appeared in many journals, most recently "3rd Bed," "26," "gam," "Bird Dog," and "Columbia Poetry Review." In the summer of 2004, Sims was the recipient of the Fence / Summer Literary Seminars Prize in poetry, providing her a month's stay in St. Petersburg, Russia. 3030 is a former Pentecostal church located at 3030 W. Cortland Ave., one block south of Armitage between Humboldt Blvd. and Kedzie. Parking is easiest on Armitage. The Discrete Series will present an event of poetry/music/performance/something on the second Friday of each month. For more information about this or upcoming events, email j_seldess@hotmail.com or kerri@conundrumpoetry.com , or call the space at 773-862-3616. There is a $5 suggested donation, BYOB.1929: the Year in Film @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special program of films from the year 1929, as part of the theater's 75th anniversary celebration. On the program tonight: Alfred Hitchcock's Blackmail (at 5:15); Ernst Lubitsch's first talkie The Love Parade (showtime not published); Laurel and Hardy in Big Business (at 7:00); and the Marx Brothers in The Cocoanuts (at 9:30). Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.Third Coast Festival ShortDocs 2004
Third Coast Audio Festival's September Listening Room will premiere the 2004 TCF ShortDocs, four new audio works based on the theme, "dark." From the festival site: "From a sound tapestry of a newborn baby in the night to an exploration of post-mortem photography through the lens of one family's experiences, these short documentaries show the power of radio to tell intimate stories of everyday life."At Steppenwolf's Garage Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted. 7-9pm (doors open at 6:30pm). $5 for general admission, $3 for Chicago Public Radio members and students; call 312/948-4682 for reservations or more information, or email info<at>thirdcoastfestival<dot>org.
Learn about Teaching Visual Art @ Cultural Center
The fall 2004 Artists at Work Forum, Learning Teaching, will feature a candid discussion with four visual artists who have extensive teaching careers on the various career paths available in Chicago for artists who want to educate as well as create. Speakers include: Cynthia Weiss, a painter and public artist who has worked with Chicago public schools for more than 20 years; Bibiana Suarez, an Associate Professor of Art and Art History at DePaul University, and was Artist in Residence and Visiting Associate Professor, Center for the Study of Race, Politics and Culture at the University of Chicago; Tracy Van Duinen, who has worked as an Art Director for seven years on national advertising campaigns for Hewlett-Packard, Coca-Cola and Sega Genesis before returning to school for a degree in Art Education; and Barlow, a practicing professional visual artist, arts advocate, arts educator/consultant and the founding artistic director of the Violent Injury Prevention Center at Children's Memorial Hospital (1995-2000) in Chicago, Illinois. The event takes place Thursday, Sept. 9 at 6 p.m. in the fifth floor southwest meeting room of the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St. The event is admission free and open to the public. For more information on this event, call 312-744-6630 or visit the Chicago Cultural Center.Around the Coyote kickoff bash
The Around The Coyote Fall arts festival gets underway tonight with the annual opening night party at 1935 1/2 W. North Avenue. Check out the Curators' Choice exhibits and performances by National Poetry Slam winner Lisa Buscani and "human beatbox" Yuri Lane, plus music by DJs professor hood, ae, and steve ecks. 8pm-midnight; $20 tickets at the door include food and beer. Check out www.aroundthecoyote.org for the full weekend's festival schedule.TENbyTEN Release Party
TENbyTEN magazine will be celebrating the release of their Romance issue in style at the Chicago Theater from 8pm-12am. Aluminum Group, Plastic Crimewave Sound, and Princess will be performing. General admission is $20, which includes a copy of the magazine, complimentary drinks and all sorts of fabulous entertainment.Defiant Theatre opens "A Clockwork Orange"
Defiant Theatre opens its performance of A Clockwork Orange tonight at Gallery 37’s Storefront Theater at 66 E. Randolph. Tickets can be bought at the door, or thru Ticketweb. The show runs thru October 16, 2004. (Glass o' milk not provided.)The Second Hand @ The Hideout
Local alternative zine The Second Hand hosts an event tonight at The Hideout, located at 1354 W. Wabansia, starting at 9:30 p.m. The evening's part of their Hipster Hellspawn Tour (PDF), which features Todd Dills, Susan Bustos, Joe Meno, and Jim Munroe. Tonight's show also features the music of The Like Young and PALS. Call the Hideout at 773.227.4433 or check the websites for more info. or directions.Sing-a-long Wizard of Oz @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special presentation of the family classic The Wizard of Oz, as part of the theater's 75th anniversary celebration. You'll be encouraged -- nay, required -- to sing along with the songs, cheer for the heroes and hiss at the villains, and all sorts of things you probably don't want to do unless you're either going with your kids, or you're a friend of Dorothy. Showtimes at 5:00 and 8:00 tonight. Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.Local Comics Scene Talk & Film Screening
In conjunction with the exhibit "Raw, Boiled & Cooked: Comics on the Verge," local guitarist and artist Archer Prewitt of The Sea & Cake will be joined by Alex Wald, tonight at 6 p.m. to provide a brief overview of the local comics scene before a screening of the films "Hooked on Comix, Volumes 1 & 2" at the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center.Bridge release party @ Rodan
Join the staff and editors of Bridge Magazine at Rodan restaurant tonight to celebrate the release of Bridge 11. Afterwards, get down to DJ Plastique thumping out her favored deep house and minimal techno (with overtones of 80s jams and tribal beats). Bridge's August/September issue brings their readers the latest in art and cultural news from throughout the Midwest. Bridge 11 includes a feature essay from Milan-based critic Michele Robechi on installation art; and an interview by Editor in Chief Michael Workman with Chicago-based artist Deborah Stratman. Also included are an essay by Scottish writer Brian McNair on the fear of pornography; poetry by James Shea, Joshua Grey, and Erica Bernheim; fiction by Jonathan Messinger and Becky Bradway. The party lasts from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. with limited complimentary beverages from 6 to 8:30 p.m. by Two Brothers Brewery. Rodan is located at 1530 N. Milwaukee, Chicago. Admission: $5 (suggested donation) and Bridge 11 will be available for $8 (Cover Price).Buster Keaton films @ Film Center
The Siskel Film Center presents a program of Buster Keaton films at 6:00 PM, as part of their American Film Comedy series. The films are Cops (1922) and College (1927). The program will have live piano accompaniment. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.Audience Choice Day @ Music Box
The Music Box Theatre presents a special program of movies selected by audience members, as part of its 75th anniversary celebration. The three films selected, Metropolis, Rear Window and Brazil, will screen today in a triple feature that will cost you a mere $8.75. How can you beat that? You can't, so don't even try. Just go and check it out. Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604. Check local listings for showtimes.Ping Pong New Release Party @ Schubas
Reckless Records and Schubas bring back the Ping Pong Release Party tonight. There will be ping pong to play, beer to drink, things to win, and some mighty fine music to be heard. The new release Ping Pong party artists are: Bjork, Paul Westerberg, Black Keys, John Cale, Medesky Martin & Wood, Clinic, Melvins, Mike Watt, Tara Jane O'Neal, Joan of Arc, Nora O'Connor, The Libertines, Guided By Voices, and Mouse on Mars. 21-and over, but no charge for admission. It gets going at 9:30 p.m., at Schubas, located at 3159 N. Southport.Fox Valley Folk Festival
The 27th Annual Fox Valley Folk Festival runs through Monday in Island Park in downtown Geneva, Illinois. Admission is $15 per day Adults, $10 Teens & Elders, and children under 12 are free. (Free Parking At Kane Co. Government Ctr, 719 S. Batavia Avenue (IL Rt. 31), between IL Rt. 38 & Fabyan Parkway). For a complete schedule, check the website. There'll be music, workshops, storytelling, and other folky fun to be had. If you don't drive, you can always take Metra there (The Chicago & Northwestern METRA Railway station is located three blocks west of the festival's entrance).Issac Hayes @ African Festival of the Arts
Issac Hayes (!!) performs at the African Festival of the Arts today, in Washington Park (at 51st and Cottage Grove). The festival runs all Labor Day weekend, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. Tickets are $10 and weekend and family passes are available. For more information, and a full schedule, check out the Africa International House Organization or call (773)955-ARTS (2787).Big Wig's Last Night
After seven years, Wicker Park's Big Wig is closing its doors. To celebrate (that somehow doesn't seem like the right word), the nightclub is throwing a five-day bash, culminating in this final night. DJs Brock, Chris May, Tobias and Trancid spin, and a raffle of the club's decorations, including the hairdryer lamps and even the neon sign, will be held. Doors open at 8pm and it's free all night before the doors close for good. 21 and over.1st Annual Chicago DJ Softball Tournament
With our city's love affair with house music, it's seems only fitting the Chicago House Music Association lauches on a grand scale. Join fellow DJ's and fans for the 1st Annual Chicago DJ Softball Tournament. DJ's will battle it out on the diamonds, not behind the decks, on Sunday, September 5th, 2004, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the New City YMCA's Cubs Care Park (1515 N. Halsted Avenue) and is open to the public for free. Follow the link for more details, including who's spinning the national anthem before the game, and who will be playing sets during the game. Fun for all ages!!Chicago Jazz Festival
This year's Jazz Fest marks the centennial births of legendary jazz musicians Count Basie, Coleman Hawkins and Fats Waller, September 3–5 respectively. The full festival runs September 2-5 (yes, that's Labor Day weekend) so mark your calendars and head out for some great music. Here's the full schedule. Also, for a pretty great breakdown of the performances with artist bios, check out the WBEZ festival site here.ABBA Brunch @ Ann Sather
Ann Sather once again holds its ABBA Brunch at the Milwaukee location today from 8am to 3pm. Listen to the Swedish supergroup's hits while you eat Swedish pancakes, omelets and those amazing cinnamon rolls. Also, register to win tickets to see Mamma Mia! when it returns to Chicago in November. At 1448 N. Milwaukee. Call 773/394-1812 for more info or to get on the waiting list ahead of time.Spontaneous guitar class @ Old Town School
If you're a guitar player, and want the ability to play along to any song, then you're in luck! Charles Kim, long-time instructor at The Old Town School of Folk Music, is teaching a two-hour seminar today on spontaneous guitar. Sounds pretty snazzy to me! The class is $20, and you need to have some significant guitar skills to attend. Check the class sign-up page for further details. Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.Last Skokie Swift Catenary Ride
You know the wire system above the Skokie Swift trains? That's called a "catenary system," and the Skokie Swift is the last CTA line to use it. Well, the catenary system has fallen into disrepair, and instead of fixing it, the CTA is replacing it with the more conventional third-rail system. In honor of this passing, the Central Electric Railfans' Association is hosting three last trips on the line, on CTA Historic Trains, Sunday, September 5. Three two-hour trips will depart from the Yellow Line Dempster stop at 9 am, 12 pm and 3 pm. Tickets are $20. Info on reserving seats can be found on CERA's site.Fox Valley Folk Festival
The 27th Annual Fox Valley Folk Festival runs through Monday in Island Park in downtown Geneva, Illinois. Admission is $15 per day Adults, $10 Teens & Elders, and children under 12 are free. (Free Parking At Kane Co. Government Ctr, 719 S. Batavia Avenue (IL Rt. 31), between IL Rt. 38 & Fabyan Parkway). For a complete schedule, check the website. There'll be music, workshops, storytelling, and other folky fun to be had. If you don't drive, you can always take Metra there (The Chicago & Northwestern METRA Railway station is located three blocks west of the festival's entrance).African Festival of the Arts
Dianne Reeves, and many others, perform at the African Festival of the Arts today, in Washington Park (at 51st and Cottage Grove). The festival runs all Labor Day weekend, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. Tickets are $10 and weekend and family passes are available. For more information, and a full schedule, check out the Africa International House Organization or call (773)955-ARTS (2787).Big Wig Closing Party
After seven years, Wicker Park's Big Wig is closing its doors. To celebrate (that somehow doesn't seem like the right word), the nightclub is throwing a five-day bash, tonight through Sunday. Each night will feature an all-star DJ line-up -- tonight it's Diz, Justin Long, Lady D. and Dayhota -- and a raffle of the club's decorations -- including the hairdryer lamps and even the neon sign. Doors will open at 8pm each night, with a $5 cover kicking in at 10pm -- except Sunday, when it's free all night before the doors close for good. 21 and over.Orphan Burn
SynchroniCityis hosting an Orphan Burn for all those midwesterners so unfortunate they won't be on the playa this year. The Orphan Burn is on Saturday September 4th at the Wild Life Refuge just across the border in Wisconsin (about 50 minutes north of Chicago). The event starts at 2pm and goes until noon the next day. We'll burn an effigy so get up there early to decorate it. Wear a costume if you have any class! There will be music, fire, and lots of bitching and moaning. Maybe hugs and beer too.For more info, email chicago@burningman.com.
Hispanic Heritage Night @ Chicago Fire Game
Tonight is the Chicago Fire's night to host Hispanic Heritage Night during their match against D.C. United. A season-long feature, which is honored at each MLS stadium throughout the year, this evening's entertainment includes a special t-shirt giveaway, 50 honored Hispanic heros (nominate one here) as well as a special double-header match after the Fire/D.C. United game: America vs. Pachuca (a Mexican Football League team). Get your tickets here for one of the few last home Fire matches this season.Chicago Jazz Festival
This year's Jazz Fest marks the centennial births of legendary jazz musicians Count Basie, Coleman Hawkins and Fats Waller, September 3–5 respectively. The full festival runs September 2-5 (yes, that's Labor Day weekend) so mark your calendars and head out for some great music. Here's the full schedule. Also, for a pretty great breakdown of the performances with artist bios, check out the WBEZ festival site here.African Festival of the Arts
The African Festival of the Arts continues today, in Washington Park (at 51st and Cottage Grove). The festival runs all Labor Day weekend, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. Tickets are $10 and weekend and family passes are available. For more information, and a full schedule, check out the Africa International House Organization or call (773)955-ARTS (2787).Transfigured Transformers @ Rotofugi
"The next show in the Rotofugi Gallery is by Chicago artist Jefrey Lacson. Titled Transfigured Transformers, the show will exhibit several of Lacson’s large format prints and constructions based upon Transformer toys. We’ve seen about half of the work that is going into the show and are super excited to have this in our gallery. Very cool stuff. Think Transformers turned into religious icons and mandalas. The show will up for viewing beginning August 31, and the opening reception (where you can meet and hang out with Jefrey) will be September 3 beginning at 7pm. Free drinks. Oh yeah." —kk (Rotofugi).Big Wig Closing Party
After seven years, Wicker Park's Big Wig is closing its doors. To celebrate (that somehow doesn't seem like the right word), the nightclub is throwing a five-day bash, tonight through Sunday. Each night will feature an all-star DJ line-up -- tonight it's Boogieman, Lego and Paul Johnson -- and a raffle of the club's decorations -- including the hairdryer lamps and even the neon sign. Doors will open at 8pm each night, with a $5 cover kicking in at 10pm -- except Sunday, when it's free all night before the doors close for good. 21 and over.First Fridays @ MCA
At First Fridays at the Museum of Contemporary Art, visitors can unwind after work and enjoy an intriguing mix of culture, ranging from live music and performance art to experimental films and hands-on art stations. Not to mention see and be seen by all kinds of young, hip, arty singles looking for love.First Fridays tickets, which include Museum admission, live entertainment, and complimentary Wolfgang Puck hors d’oeuvres, are $14. Doors are open 6–10 pm. A cash bar is available until 9:30 pm. Guests must be 21 or older to enter.
4 Poets in Search of a Venue
Four of Chicago's best poets read in a gallery atmosphere. Not for the sedate or the sedated. Gregorio Gomez, J. J. Jameson, C.J. Laity, and Shelly Nation. Hosted by Charlie Newman.September 3rd from 8-9:30 pm at DvA Gallery (2568 N. Lincoln)
No cover, no tickets, no minimum, no $ in any way, shape or form.
Buster Keaton films @ Film Center
The Siskel Film Center presents a program of Buster Keaton films at 6:15 PM, as part of their American Film Comedy series. The films are Cops (1922) and College (1927). The program will also be shown on Tuesday the 7th at 6:00 PM, with live piano accompaniment (tonight's program will be accompanied by recorded music). Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.The Brown Bunny @ Landmark's Century Centre
Lord help us, Vincent Gallo's The Brown Bunny opens today at Landmark's Century Centre. If you've been waiting for this controversial film ever since the uproar at the most recent Cannes film festival about how bad it is, now's your chance to decide for yourself. Landmark's Century Centre: 2828 N. Clark. (773) 444-3456.Chicago Jazz Festival
This year's Jazz Fest marks the centennial births of legendary jazz musicians Count Basie, Coleman Hawkins and Fats Waller, September 3–5 respectively. The full festival runs September 2-5 (yes, that's Labor Day weekend) so mark your calendars and head out for some great music. Here's the full schedule. Also, for a pretty great breakdown of the performances with artist bios, check out the WBEZ festival site here.Metalheadz
Tonight at the Metro Bass By The Pound presents the Metalheadz World Tour featuring Goldie, Photek, Total Science, MC Armani and DJ Acucrack. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the show. The doors open at 11pm.African Festival of the Arts
The Mighty Dells, and many others, perform at the African Festival of the Arts today, in Washington Park (at 51st and Cottage Grove). The festival runs all Labor Day weekend, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. Tickets are $10 and weekend and family passes are available. For more information, and a full schedule, check out the Africa International House Organization or call (773)955-ARTS (2787).Big Wig Closing Party
After seven years, Wicker Park's Big Wig is closing its doors. To celebrate (that somehow doesn't seem like the right word), the nightclub is throwing a five-day bash, tonight through Sunday. Each night will feature an all-star DJ line-up -- tonight it's Uncle Milty, Andre Harris, Mark Grant -- and a raffle of the club's decorations -- including the hairdryer lamps and even the neon sign. Doors will open at 8pm each night, with a $5 cover kicking in at 10pm -- except Sunday, when it's free all night before the doors close for good. 21 and over.Legendary Stardust Cowboy doc @ Film Center
Cotton Pickin' Smash! The Story of the Legendary Stardust Cowboy (2004), a documentary about the wild Texas singer/songwriter/rebel yeller whose 1968 single "Paralyzed" is one of the most cacophonous rock'n'roll records ever recorded, shows tonight at 8:15 PM at the Siskel Film Center. Fans of Outsider Music are urged to attend. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.Chicago Jazz Festival
This year's Jazz Fest marks the centennial births of legendary jazz musicians Count Basie, Coleman Hawkins and Fats Waller, September 3–5 respectively. The full festival runs September 2-5 (yes, that's Labor Day weekend) so mark your calendars and head out for some great music. Here's the full schedule. Also, for a pretty great breakdown of the performances with artist bios, check out the WBEZ festival site here.Big Wig Closing Party
After seven years, Wicker Park's Big Wig is closing its doors. To celebrate (that somehow doesn't seem like the right word), the nightclub is throwing a five-day bash, starting tonight through Sunday. Each night will feature an all-star DJ line-up -- tonight it's Bass by the Pound, Dub Frequency and Further Sound -- and a raffle of the club's decorations -- including the hairdryer lamps and even the neon sign. Doors will open at 8pm each night, with a $5 cover kicking in at 10pm -- except Sunday, when it's free all night before the doors close for good. 21 and over.Chicago Kings: Beach Blanket Bingo
The Chicago Kings present "Bingo at the Beach," a final chance to sport your beach wear this summer. The show starts at 8:00 PM at T's pub (5025 N. Clark). Proceeds benefit the International Drag King Extravaganza, which is happening in Chicago next month. See the Drag Kings Website for details on this and other upcoming events.Last Tango in Paris @ Film Center
The 1973 Bernardo Bertolucci film Last Tango in Paris screens tonight at 6:00 PM at the Siskel Film Center, as part of the Film Center's tribute to the late Marlon Brando. The film, infamous for its violent sex scenes and Brando's rambling monologues, was the subject of a recent essay by Roger Ebert in which he reflects on Brando's performance and what the film represented at the time of its release. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.Archer Prewitt: Raw, Boiled & Cooked Concert
Archer Prewitt, Sof' Boy artist and guitarist for The Sea & Cake and formerly for The Coctails, will be joined by bassist Mark Greenberg for a special admission-free concert tonight at 7 p.m. in the Randolph Café of the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. The concert is held in conjunction with Raw, Boiled & Cooked: Comics on the Verge, an exhibition inspired by Raw, the ground-breaking magazine of the 1980s. Animations, computer-generated graphics, toys, paintings, prints and panels from comic books by close to 40 artists such as Lynda Barry, Charles Burns, Julie Doucet, Bill Griffith, Art Spiegelman and Chicago's own Archer Prewitt and Chris Ware will be on view at the Michigan Avenue Galleries of the Cultural Center through Oct. 3. "Raw, Boiled & Cooked" was organized by Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, San Francisco, and guest curated by Paul Candler. The exhibition is presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs with support from Bank One. Admission to the exhibition and related programming is free. Call 312-744-6630 for more information or visit The Chicago Cultural Center.