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TODAY

Friday, March 29

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Slowdown

March 2005

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Bloc Party, Ponys @ Metro

England's Bloc Party, the buzz band to beat in '05, hits the Metro in the wake of the stateside release of their debut full-length Silent Alarm, which dropped March 22 allowing those of us with high morals and a healthy fear of the RIAA to finally hear what those internet downloaders have been talking about for months (see Pfork wetness here). Local hotness The Ponys open. 9pm, 18+, 3730 N. Clark. Tickets are $13 at Hi-Fi Records adjacent to the Metro or, y'know, more through the usual suspects.
GB staff member KV will be in attendance.

Theater Thursdays: Take Me Out

The League of Chicago Theatres' Theater Thursdays event visits Take Me Out (About Face at Steppenwolf Upstairs). Appropriately for a play about baseball, tonight's pre-show reception features hot dogs and beer; stay after the show for a discussion with director Eric Rosen and the designers and cast. Pre-show event starts at 6:30pm, show at 7:30. Tickets are $20. Call 312-335-1650 and mention "Theater Thursdays."

Manhunter @ Film Center

As part of its celebration of the films of Michael Mann, the Siskel Film Center presents Mann's 1986 film Manhunter, the first film version of a Thomas Harris novel featuring Hannibal Lecter (played by Brian Cox, not Anthony Hopkins). See the Film Center's site for a complete list of Mann films that are screening as part of the film series. The movie shows tonight at 6:00 PM. Tickets are $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Chicago Horror Film Festival

Boo! The Chicago Horror Film Festival creeps into the 3 Penny Cinema for the next three days. More horror films than you can shake a stick at (a SCARY stick!), plus a special appearance by Ari Lehman (you know, the original Jason from the Friday the 13th films). Tonight from 6pm to midnight, the line-up is Reaper Madness, Separation Anxiety, Unreal, Body 82, The Raven, In the Dark, Latchkey, 2 Minutes 25 Seconds, Feast of Souls and Side F/X. The festival runs through April 3rd; see the website for a full schedule and to purchase tickets.

Arts for Life Fundraiser @ Open End

Tonight at Open End Gallery, 2000 W. Fulton, there's a benefit for Arts for Life, a nonprofit that "provides adults with developmental disabilities an environment to experience personal growth. In addition to being a working arts studio arts of life is a collective of artists dedicated to promoting self respect, developing personal independence and artistic skills."

There will be a silent auction, raffle prizes, interactive art and performances by The Church Animals, Violence Ammunition and two other bands* whose names we can't tell you. Doors open at 9pm, and there's a $7 minimum donation.


*We can hint, though. We hear one's a group of religious detectives, and the other's a shit machine.

World Kitchen Class: Think Spring - Cocktail Party

World Kitchen is a state-of-the-art culinary teaching facility offers the opportunity to learn and experience the true pleasures of food for people at any level of cooking experience. Classes are hands-on, lectures or demonstrations. Instructors, unless otherwise noted, are World Kitchen staff members Rick Delby, Judith Dunbar Hines and Jennifer Manning. All World Kitchen classes are $30 and require pre-registration. Reservations for all classes can be made by phone, on-line or visit the box office located at the Gallery 37 Center for the Arts, 66 E. Randolph St. The box office is open Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 6pm.

Tonight's class is titled, "Think Spring - Cocktail Party" and runs from 6-8:30pm and will be Hands-on. Class description: "Nothing is more appealing when spring arrives than a celebratory gathering of friends for a casual cocktail party. Kim Shambrook of Bespoke Cuisine leads class through a menu of all-veggie appetizers, including great tips on serving and garnishing."

NIN Listening Party @ Metro

The new Nine Inch Nails album, "With Teeth," doesn't come out until May 3, but you can hear it tonight at Metro, 3730 N. Clark. Doors for this free, all-ages listening party open at 6pm, with the music supposedly starting at 7pm. Everyone in attendance will receive a "special limited edition NIN gift," and Tower Records will be on hand to take pre-orders for the album. It's first come, first served, so get there early.

Thief @ Film Center

As part of the Siskel Film Center's retrospective of the films of Michael Mann, the center will be screening the 1981 film Thief, which features James Caan's screen debut as an expert thief who works for a Chicago gangster. See the Film Center's site for a complete list of Mann films that are screening as part of the film series. The movie shows tonight at 8:30 PM. Tickets are $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Karim Rashid @ SAIC

Designer Karim Rashid will give a talk at the School of the Art Institute today at 4:30pm in the SAIC auditorium, 280 South Columbus Drive. Admission is $5 for the general public, $3 for SAIC alumni, students and seniors, and free for current students/faculty/staff. For more information call 312/443-3711 or check here.

James Roosevelt, Jr. on Social Security

James Roosevelt, Jr., the former associate commissioner of the Social Security Administration and grandson of Franklin D. Roosevelt, will speak today on the present and future of the Social Security program. This free lecture is part of a series of "fireside chats" taking place at Roosevelt University. The event begins at 4:30pm in the Congress Lounge located at 430 S. Michigan Ave. Call 312-341-3500 for more information.

Star and Garter Burlesque

Franky and Michelle and the Lavender Cabaret present "Star and Garter Burlesque", an all-new burlesque review.  Michelle L'amour will be doing some fantastic new striptease numbers, and Candy Moneysworth will be taking the striptease stage for the first time! 

The Slingerland Ride will be providing the opening soundtrack and hip hop poet Deep will be bumpin' and grindin' for all you booty shakers.  There will be plenty of new striptease talent, including Titi Touche, Betty Hoop and the Sugarbabies.

Our special guest Rachel Shteir (author of "Striptease-The Untold History of the Girlie Show") will be in attendance to sign books and chat it up with burlesque fans. 

The show is at Subterranean, located at 2011 W. North Avenue at Chicago. It begins at 9:30 and costs just $5.

Learn Basic Sushi Making at Dirk's

Dirk's is having a sushi class on Tuesday, March 29th from 7:30 to 9:30 pm. This is a class for people interested in learning to make maki rolls. Do not eat dinner before coming to class, as we will be munching on miso soup and tuna avocado salad while we talk about sushi, rice, equipment, and ingredients. Also, the Wine Discount Center will be here sampling wine and saki. This is a hands on class so be prepared to roll at least 3 different rolls and eat them all. Cost for the class is $75.00 per person or $120.00 per couple. Students must be 21 or older. Class size is limited so please call ahead and reserve your space. Dirk's Fish & Gourmet Shop is located at 2070 N. Clybourn Ave; call for reservations: (773) 404-3475.

Keeping It Hot for the Long Haul

Felice Newman will appear at Women and Children First to celebrate the release of the revised and expanded second edition of The Whole Lesbian Sex Book—her detailed, empowering, comprehensive guide, which Bust magazine recommends “to every woman: bi, lesbian, almost queer, totally straight, or boy-girl.” Tonight at 7:30 she’ll talk about how lesbian and bisexual women can create and maintain relationships that stay sexy for the long haul. Co-sponsored by Early to Bed, the woman-friendly sex shop at 5232 N. Sheridan.

Ping Pong New Release Party

The Onion, Reckless, and Schubas present Reckless' New Release Ping Pong Party VII featuring Beck - "Guero" (Deluxe Edition), Nick Cave - "B-side & Rarities", The Decemberists - "Picaresque" and Out Hud - "Les Us Never Speak of it Again" tonight. Reckless Records bring CDs and LPs to sell that will include a festering mix of all the things new and potentially interesting. You can come to Schubas and play ping pong to your heart's desire, look at and listen to an iPod spin all that is new, and drink things cheaply and safely in the self-involved world of your ping pong obsessed mind. Win some prizes, and then leave more innocent, if possible, than when you entered. Tonight's contest features Beck's "Guero" (Deluxe Edition), Nick Cave's "B-side & Rarities" 3 disc set on Mute and The Decemberists' "Picaresque" on Kill Rock Stars. Schubas Tavern is located at 3159 N. Southport (at Belmont), Chicago.

Backstreet Boys @ House of Blues

I don't know what's most amazing about this concert: the fact that the Backstreet Boys are still around, the fact that they're playing the House of Blues, or the fact that the show is sold out. Well, to each his own. House of Blues: 329 N. Dearborn.

Heat @ Film Center

As part of its celebration of the films of Michael Mann, the Siskel Film Center presents Mann's 1995 film Heat, featuring powerful performances by Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, and some classic action sequences. See the Film Center's site for a complete list of Mann films that are screening as part of the film series. The movie shows tonight at 6:30 PM. Tickets are $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

An Evening of Free Advice

Tonight at the Abbey Pub, "I'm Glad You Asked: An Evening of Free Advice" hosted by NPR's very own Susan Stamberg. "From the Bintel Brief to Dear Abby to Drs. Ruth and Laura, advice mavens have used mass media to dispense commonsense wisdom and voyeuristic entertainment. National Public Radio's Susan Stamberg hosts an evening of dramatic readings of some of the best advice you'll ever get. Stamberg was co-host of All Things Considered for 14 years and is now a special correspondent for NPR." Free and open to the public, the advice starts flowing at 7:30pm. To register for free tickets go to Nextbook or call (888) 621-2230. The Abbey Pub is located at 3420 W. Grace (at Elston), 773-478-4408.

Who Put the M in Manchester?

Morrissey's concert film, Who Put the 'M' in Manchester, is playing just one night only on March 28 at 600 N. Michigan Ave. The film, which documents his legendary sold out homecoming/birthday show in Manchester last year, will be shown in Hi-Definition and 5.1 Dolby Surround Sound.

Kent Johnson and Daniel Borzutzky @ Myopic Books

As part of its Myopic Poetry Series, Myopic Books (1564 N. Milwaukee, 2nd Floor) is hosting Kent Johnson and Daniel Borzutzky tonight at 7pm. Johnson is noted for editing Doubled Flowering: From the Notebooks of Araki Yasusada and Immanent Visitor: Selected Poems of Jaime Saenz. Borzutzky is promoting his new work, Daniel Borzutzky’s Arbitrary Tale.

The Last of the Mohicans @ Film Center

As part of the Siskel Film Center's retrospective of the films of Michael Mann, the center will be screening the 1992 film The Last of the Mohicans, starring Daniel Day-Lewis and Madeleine Stowe. See the Film Center's site for a complete list of Mann films that are screening as part of the film series. The movie shows tonight at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Tragic Beauty show closes

"Tragic Beauty," a site-specific installation by Juan Chavez, Mike Genovese, Cody Hudson and Chris Silva, ends its run today at Open End Gallery, 2000 W. Fulton. The gallery will be open from noon to 6pm; ring buzzer 310 for admittance.

Easter Egg Hunt @ Chicago Women's Park

The Chicago Women's Park and Gardens presents an Easter egg hunt for children 12 and under. Games, raffles, light refreshments, and a visit from the Easter bunny. The even happens today from noon to 2:00 PM. Admission: $10 per child, $2 per adult. Tickets can be purchased at the Glessner House Museum (1800 S. Prairie Avenue). Chicago Women's Park and Gardens: 1827 S. Indiana Ave. For more information, call the Glessner House Museum: (312) 326-1480.

Michael Mann films @ Film Center

As part of their tribute to director Michael Mann, the Siskel Film Center is presenting a series of Mann's films all this month. Today they're presenting a trio of stellar films: Thief from 1981, with James Caan and Tuesday Weld; Heat from 1995, with Al Pacino and Robert De Niro; and Manhunter from 1986, with William Petersen (and Brian Cox as Hannibal Lecter, the first time this character is portrayed in a film). Check the Film Center's site for showtimes for today, and additional dates for each of these and other Mann films. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Kiss Me Deadly @ Music Box

The Music Box Theatre continues its film noir festival with a showing this weekend of the classic Robert Aldrich film Kiss Me Deadly. Private eye Mike Hammer picks up a hitchhiker (Cloris Leachman), who draws him into a labyrinthine plot centering around a mysterious suitcase (which provided inspiration for a certain 1994 Quentin Tarantino film). The movie shows today and tomorrow at 11:30. Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.

GB Get-Together

March's GB Get-Together storms Konak Pizza & Grill, 5150 N. Clark in Andersonville, tonight at 9pm. We'll be toward the back. Come meet staffers, have a beer, and perhaps enjoy the bar's famous "chicken chops." Check the Proprietors page for staff photos (so you can pick us out of the crowd) and our Flickr account for photos of past events.

(No, we didn't plan to coincide with Chicagoist's Happy Hour; we do this on the last Friday of every month. You can plan ahead if you like -- the next one will be April 29.)

The Last of the Mohicans @ Film Center

Tonight the Siskel Film Center begins a week-long retrospective of the films of Michael Mann. The retrospective kicks off with the 1992 film The Last of the Mohicans, starring Daniel Day-Lewis and Madeleine Stowe. See the Film Center's site for a complete list of Mann films that are screening as part of the film series. The movie shows tonight at 8:00 PM, and also on Sunday the 27th at 5:30 PM. Tickets are $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Columbia College Story Week: alumni open mic reading

As part of Columbia College's week-long literary festival Story Week, there will be an open mic reading tonight at Smart Bar (3730 N. Clark) featuring graduates from Columbia's fiction writing department. Among the alumni scheduled to read are Dennis Foley (author of The Streets and San Man's Guide to Eats), Rea Frey (A Woman's Ring), and Shelli Johnson (Small As A Mustard Seed). This is a 21+ show. The reading starts at 5:30 PM. See the Story Week site for full details on this and other events happening throughout the week.

Beyond the Machine @ Smart Bar

On Thursday, March 24, a diverse group of Chicago promoters and electronic musicians come together to present an evening of abstract techno and forward-thinking house. Featuring live performances from globe-trotting artists such as Canadian producer Echoplex, Background Records owner Andy Vaz (direct from Dusseldorf, Germany), and the Windy City's very own Warmdesk, this will be a refreshingly varied dance music showcase. Local favorites Josh Werner and Dave Siska open. Beyond the Machine takes place at Smart Bar, 3730 N. Clark St., underneath Metro. Tickets are $7, available online or from the Metro box office. Doors open promptly at 10 PM.

GB staff member KM will be in attendance.

Columbia College Story Week: author John Schultz

As part of Columbia College's week-long festival Story Week, author John Schultz will give a reading this afternoon at 3:00 PM at the Ferguson Theater (600 S. Michigan). The event is free and open to the public. See the Story Week site for a full schedule and further details on the events.

In previews: Take Me Out, About Face Theatre

About Face Theatre presents the midwest premiere of 2003's Tony-winning best play, Take Me Out. Richard Greenberg's love letter to baseball explores what happens when the biggest superstar player on New York's pinstriped "Empires" comes out of the closet. Previews start tonight at Steppenwolf's Upstairs Theatre, through May 1. Tickets are $20-35, available Steppenwolf's website or by calling 312-335-1650.

Andrew Morgan record release @ Schubas

Andrew Morgan plays a show at Schubas to mark the U.S. release of his debut album, Misadventures in Radiology (Sonic Boom). Released abroad last year, Misadventures was named one of the "Best of 2004" by Uncut. Smallwire and Gray open. 9pm, $8.

Dave Eggers, Kaylie Jones, Joe Meno @ Metro

Part of Columbia College's Story Week Festival of Writers 2005, Dave Eggers, Kaylie Jones and Joe Meno will make an appearance at the Metro, 3730 N. Clark St., for The Politics of Story: Literary Rock & Roll (scroll down to the date). Admission is free to all ages and the doors open at 6pm for the 6:45pm reading. Call 773-549-0203 for more info.

Fela Kuti doc @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Music Is The Weapon, a 1982 documentary of Nigerian musician and politician Fela Kuti. Filled with live performances of Afro-beat (a term Fela coined) and footage of Fela's bid for presidency, this documentary should captivate music fans and followers of politics alike. Music Is The Weapon will be shown tonight at 8:30 PM. Tickets are $9 for the general public, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Transforming a Rape Culture @ Women and Children First

Join Chicago NOW for a discussion of Transforming a Rape Culture at 7pm at Women and Children First Bookstore, located at 5233 N. Clark Street, Chicago (in Andersonville). Admission is free and this event is open to the public.From the introduction to the revised edition, "Transforming a Rape Culture involves imaginative leaps from our present state of institutionalized violence to a future that is safer and more just.  We must summon our imaginations for this task, because history and society have so few precedents for us." All are welcome to join Chicago NOW at this empowering event, which will address the different aspects of the problem of sexual violence against women and what we can do to change the "rape culture" we live in. This event is co-sponsored by Rape Victim Advocates, Chicago NOW, and Thousand Waves.

Getting it Out There

The Story Week Publishing Panel hosts "Getting it Out There," a discussion on the all important arts of submission and publication. Panelists include New Rivers Press's Alan Davis, Granta's Ian Jack, and Booklist's Donna Seaman. The discussion will tak place at Columbia College Chicago Residence Hall, 731 S. Plymouth Court, at 1pm. For more info, contact the Fiction Writing Department at 312-344-7611 or fictionwriting[at]colum.edu.

Lauren Bacall @ Borders

Lauren Bacall posed as the cover model of Harper's Bazaar at age 18, and she's never looked back. Hollywood and the New York stage may have made her a star, but her marriage to Humphrey Bogart, her innate charm, and her congenital class have made her a legend. Bacall will be signing copies of her newly revised autobiography, By Myself and Then Some (available March 1) at Borders, located at 830 N. Michigan Ave., at 7pm.

Jamie O'Neill @ Harold Washington Library

Irish author Jamie O'Neill - At Swim, Disturbance - will participate in a 6pm reading, Q&A, and signing at the Harold Washington Library's Cindy Pritzker Auditorium, 400 S. State St. Part of Columbia College's Story Week Festival of Writers 2005, Columbia professor Andrew Allegretti will join in the discussion. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.

Flirting for Nerds 102

Early to Bed, the grrl-positive erotic shop at 5232 N. Sheridan Rd., is holding a class tonight at 7:30pm called "Flirting for Nerds 102." It's a more advanced version of the store's popular intro course, and promises to help even the most un-suave person make a pass. $10 at the door, 18 and over. More info on Early to Bed's calendar, or by calling 773-271-1219. By the way, they tell us there may be a film crew taping for a "documentary on nerd culture." You've been warned.

Columbia College Story Week: Censorship discussion

As part of Columbia College's week-long festival Story Week, there will be a panel discussion titled "Censorship: The Menace of Story" today at 1:00 PM at the Columbia College Library. Among the scheduled attendees: Story Week guest author Jamie O'Neill; author John Schultz; and F Magazine editors Tom Popp and Deb Lewis. The event is free and open to the public. Columbia College Library: 624 S. Michigan, 3rd floor. See the Story Week site for further details.

Young Feminist Book Discussion Group @ Women and Children First

The monthly Young Feminist Discussion Group meets tonight at Women and Children First to discuss Manifesta, "a Gen X take on feminism for the new era". The authors of the book, Jennifer Baumgardner and Amy Richards, will attend and also discuss their latest book, Grassroots: A Field Guide for Feminist Activism. You get 10% off of either title when you buy it for the discussion. The event starts tonight at 7:30 PM. New members welcome. See the Women and Children First Website for full details. Women and Children First: 5233 N. Clark. (773) 769-9299.

Sandra Cisneros @ Harold Washington Library

Sandra Cisneros, author of Caramelo and The House on Mango Street, will be at the Harold Washington Library's Winter Garden to read from her body of work and answer questions from Booklist's Donna Seaman. A book signing will follow the interview. The reading begins at 6pm at 400 S. State St. Call 312-747-4300 for more information.

Japan Girls Nite US Tour @ Bottom Lounge

Benten/Sister Records, the excellent Japanese record label that features all female bands, presents the Chicago stop of the Japan Girls Nite US Tour 2005. Featured in the lineup: hard rockers Fantasy's Core; garage rockers Titan Go Kings; rocking enigma Tsu Shi Ma Mi Re; Japanese punks Puppypet; and the amazing ukulele duo, Petty Booka. The show is at the Bottom Lounge tonight at 9:00. Tickets are $9 in advance, $10 at the door. Doors open at 8:00, show starts at 9:00. Be there or be non-entertained. Bottom Lounge: 3206 N. Wilton (near Belmont). (773) 975-0505.

Fela Kuti doc @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Music Is The Weapon, a 1982 documentary of Nigerian musician and politician Fela Kuti. Filled with live performances of Afro-beat (a term Fela coined) and footage of Fela's bid for presidency, this documentary should captivate music fans and followers of politics alike. Music Is The Weapon will be shown tonight at 7:15 PM, and will also be shown on Wednesday, March 23rd, at 8:30 PM. Tickets are $9 for the general public, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

DeMille's King of Kings @ Music Box

The Music Box Theatre presents a Palm Sunday screening of Cecil B. DeMille's classic 1927 film The King of Kings, with live organ accompaniment by Mark Noller. The film will be shown at 4:30 PM. Tickets are avilable in advance by calling the Music Box at (773) 871-6607. Large groups can get a discount by calling (815) 468-0435.

Chicago anti-war doc @ Healing Earth Resources

This afternoon at 4:00, there will be a screening of the documentary Where We Stood: Chicago's Resistance to the US War on Iraq at Healing Earth Resources (3111 N. Ashland). This film discusses the events of March 20, 2003, when more than 500 people were arrested in a Chicago anti-war rally. The screening is sponsored by Peace Pledge Chicago, and reservations are strongly recommended. Call (312) 494-5480 for details.

Lessons of Iraq @ Chicago Temple

This afternoon at 3:00 PM, the local group United for Peace: Faithful Citizenship presents a program of speakers on the subject of the Iraq war. Among those scheduled to speak: Lila Lipscomb (featured in the documentary Fahrenheit 9/11; Rabbi Bruce Elder, congregation Hakafa; Abdul Malik Mujahid, president of the Council of Islamic Organizations in Greater Chicago; Deyar Gamil, Iraqi citizen; and Debbie Lucey, sister of Jeffrey, a Marine who committed suicide shortly after returing from Iraq. There will also be a short procession to an outdoor flag lowering and silent vigil. The event is free and open to the public. Chicago Temple: 77 W. Washington.

Lush Spring Equinox Party

Come down to crazy good body care store LUSH Chicago for a wonderful spring party. They'll all be dressed as fairies and goddesses....and don't mind if you come dressed up as well. Plus enjoy hand massages, skincare consultations, lots of demos and refreshments; plus we'll be giving away a Karma gift set. The pampering gets going from 5:30pm - 8:30pm. Please RSVP to LUSH Chicago, 859 W. Armitage, 773.281.5874 (do it by the 18th and get a free goodie bag).

24th Annual Women in the Director's Chair Festival

The Women in the Director's Chair Annual Festival is the longest-running women's film and video festival in the United States. This year the five-day festival kicks off with "An Evening with Miranda July" at the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center. The free program begins at 7pm on March 16. For complete schedule information for the rest of the festival, visit the official Women in the Director's Chair website.

One Night Stand: Crafty Style

If you've wished you could combine going out for the night with seeing what's new and hip on the local craft scene while contributing money to a nonprofit, then this is a One Night Stand that won't have you doing the walk of shame. Ten Chicago crafters are gathering in the basement at InnJoy (2051 W. Division) to sell their new spring wares while donating 10% of their proceeds to Marwen. You'll not only help the local economy by buying a handmade, card, bag, necklace, shirt, or plush toy, you'll also help raise money to ensure that under-served Chicago youth continue to receive art training, college preparation, and career development. The wonderful organizers and proprietors of Sugarpunch and Ladicakes have even arranged food and drink specials.

24th Annual Women in the Director's Chair Festival

The Women in the Director's Chair Annual Festival is the longest-running women's film and video festival in the United States. This year the five-day festival kicks off with "An Evening with Miranda July" at the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center. The free program begins at 7pm on March 16. For complete schedule information for the rest of the festival, visit the official Women in the Director's Chair website.

Chicago anti-war march/rally

Today marks the two-year anniversary of the Iraq war, and the March 19 Chicago Coalition is organizing a march at noon from Oak Street (between Michigan and Rush) to a rally at Federal Plaza at 2:00. There are several feeder marches planned for the morning (see the coalition's Website for a full list), so turnout should be big. Check the site for full details and contact information.

Note: The city has warned that anyone attending this rally may be arrested, because no permit was granted for it.

PISTIL Release Party and Gallery Exhibit

PISTIL Magazine will celebrate the release of "Idol," it's fifth issue at the Hothouse, 31 E. Balbo, with a gallery exhibit and silent auction benefiting the American Red Cross. Featured artists include Jamie Elizabeth, Matt Granstrom, and Kimberly Hoffman, with music by Mannequin DJs and DJ M.T.M. The doors open at 9:30pm and stay that way until 2am. Contact info[at]pistilmag.com for more information.

Purepop Dance Party

Purepop For Now People is back at the The Underground Lounge, 952 W. Newport Ave., to deliver the best in indie-pop, mod, power pop and more. There'll be everything "from Martha Reeves to Joy Division with Belle & Sebastian and The Smiths thrown in for good measure." There will also be free candy. Free candy! Whoo! The 9pm show is for ages 21 and over and is free of cover.

Final weekend for Ibsen play @ Neo-Futurarium

This is the final weekend for the Neo-Futurists' amazing new play, The Last Two Minutes of the Complete Works of Henrik Ibsen. See six actors tackling the endings of 26 plays in a two-hour Ibsenfest that answers once and for all the question, "Can you present the endings of all of Ibsen's plays and come up with a show?" Showtimes are tonight and tomorrow night at 8:00 PM. Tickets are $15 ($10 for seniors and students with ID). Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 275-5255. Call for reservations or see the Neo-Futurists' Website for online reservations.

The Passion of Joan of Arc @ Music Institute of Chicago

Carl Dreyer's silent film The Passion of Joan of Arc will be presented tonight at the Evanston campus of the Music Institute of Chicago. The musical accompaniment will be provided by the choral troupe Jubilate, accompanied by a full orchestra. For more information on the event, please see the site of one of the co-producers of the event, The Silent Film Society of Chicago.

Hood, Zelienople, and Morning Recordings @ Empty Bottle

Local band Morning Recordings opens tonight (with their brand new CD) at the Empty Bottle, starting at 10pm. Zelienople plays second followed by Hood (all the way from England!) From the Bottle: "In the middle to late nineties, English group Hood was quietly issuing some of the decade's most groundbreaking material -- singles and full-lengths that keenly predicated the musical trends that followed. The compositions included stark melodic laments paired with experimental loops and odd bits of electronics, bolstered by acoustic and electric instrumentation of all types. That the rest of the world has now caught up with them (perhaps because of them) does little to detract from the elemental freshness of their craft. The group are still a musical force to be reckoned with, as evidenced by their latest Domino release Outside Closer. Subtle, psychedelic dronerockers Zelienople will play second, and lush chamber pop ensemble Morning Recordings will open. Tickets are $10 at the door or online. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western Avenue (773.276.3600).

24th Annual Women in the Director's Chair Festival

The Women in the Director's Chair Annual Festival is the longest-running women's film and video festival in the United States. This year the five-day festival kicks off with "An Evening with Miranda July" at the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center. The free program begins at 7pm on March 16. For complete schedule information for the rest of the festival, visit the official Women in the Director's Chair website.

The Pioneers of Hip Hop @ Metro

You'll want to get your fly honeys and funky fresh self into the Metro tonight for The Pioneers of Hip Hop Tour starring...(deep breath now)... KRS One, Kool Moe Dee, Melle Mel, Busy Bee, Kool Herc, Grandmaster Caz, The Temple of Hip Hop Museum, Mass Hysteria, Longshot, DJs Cooperpot, Sape La Rock, and Rude One and hosted by Profound with special guest Diverse! Tickets are a bargain $23, and this show is 18 & over. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 9pm. Word to your mother.

Musichaikupod Release Event @ Quimby's

Tonight at Quimby's: Musichaikupod: a Companion Release Event at 7pm (FREE). Jeff Wiinkowski is a poet, record producer, publisher, founder of Imperfect Music and Literature, former singer of Blackwall Hitch, and melotrome player for the Violent Femnes. Winkowski is also co-author of "Musichaikupod: a Companion" and will read some of his haiku forms of record reviews and play each record that inspired the review. He doesn’t tear records apart. He will play a record and then read a corresponding poem. Funny? Yep, sometimes. But he is totally serious about this. He will also lecture on the history and significance of the haiku. Quimby's is located at 1854 W. North Ave., Chicago, in Wicker Park.

24th Annual Women in the Director's Chair Festival

The Women in the Director's Chair Annual Festival is the longest-running women's film and video festival in the United States. This year the five-day festival kicks off with "An Evening with Miranda July" at the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center. The free program begins at 7pm on March 16. For complete schedule information for the rest of the festival, visit the official Women in the Director's Chair website.

Sam Prekop Record Release @ Empty Bottle

Tonight, vocalist and musician Sam Prekop will celebrate the release a new Thrill Jockey full length Who's Your New Professor. A longtime pillar of the local underground cultural community, Prekop has been involved in two of Chicago's most beloved ensembles, Shrimp Boat and The Sea & Cake. Despite his longstanding contributions to independent music, Professor is only the second album released under his own name, and for it Prekop again employed the able services of bassist Josh Abrams, cornetist Rob Mazurek, guitarist Archer Prewitt, and drummer Chad Taylor. Former Scissor Girl and Bride of No-No frontgal Azita will perform second, and experimental art ensemble Michael Columbia will open. Tickets are an easy $10, and music starts at 10pm. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western Ave., Chicago.

24th Annual Women in the Director's Chair Festival

The Women in the Director's Chair Annual Festival is the longest-running women's film and video festival in the United States. This year the five-day festival kicks off with "An Evening with Miranda July" at the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center. The free program begins at 7pm on March 16. For complete schedule information for the rest of the festival, visit the official Women in the Director's Chair website.

Panic Night @ Smartbar

This week @ PANIC they're celebrating the new release from ASH. From DJ Pogo: "Now, I know all of you uber Anglophiles imported the disc months ago, but 'Meltdown' finally came out in the U.S. last week. Thanks to the good folks at Filter Magazine for providing LOTS of fun ASH stuff to give away, including full-lengths, and CD samplers!! Come check out some of the new ASH tunes (they rock) and grab some free stuff!" Panic happens every Wednesday night at Smartbar, next to the Metro, located at 3730 N Clark, Chicago. Indie/Britpop/nu-wave/classic alt./English '80s from 10pm-late (21+) $5.

Spook Who Sat By The Door @ HotHouse

The HotHouse presents the latest in its Patchwerx series of film and video screenings. This month's film: the 1973 drama The Spook Who Sat By The Door, based on the book by Sam Greenlee and directed by Ivan Dixon. Doors open tonight at 6:00, and the film begines at 7:00. Tickets are a very reasonable $2. You may purchase tickets at the HotHouse Website or at the door. HotHouse: 31 E. Balbo. (312) 362-9707.

Devil in a Woodpile @ Hideout

Local acoustic quartet Devil in a Woodpile brings their blend of blues, ragtime, hillbilly and jazz to the Hideout tonight as they promote the band's new album, In Your Lonesome Town. The show begins at 9:30pm, and donations are being accepted for admission. The Hideout is located at 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. in Chicago. Call 773-227-4433 for more information.

Striptease Open Mic

Join Michelle L'amour of the Lavender Cabaret for Strip-Tease Open Mic at the Funky Buddha Lounge. Here's your change to show off your burlesque skills and earn cash and adoration. Open to all over 21, but remember, burlesque is not pole dancing!

Not ready to peel down to pasties? Come on out to the Funky Buddha and get an eyeful of the many eager participants.

Q and Not U DJ @ Rodan

Liz Armstrong, of The Reader's "Chicago Antisocial" column, is deejaying at Rodan, 1530 N. Milwaukee, tonight starting around 10pm. 21 and over, no cover.

UPDATE: Liz is not appearing. The band Q and Not U is deejaying instead.

Can We Really End Homelessness in Chicago?

Patricia Crowley, O.S.B., the former executive director of Deborah's Place, a non-profit organization serving homeless women in Chicago, will be giving a free public lecture titled, "Can We Really End Homelessness in Chicago?" The lecture begins at 7:30pm at Madonna della Strada Chapel on the Rogers Park campus of Loyola University Chicago. For more information, call 312-915-7660. More information here.

Stories on Stage @ MCA

Chicago Public Radio continues its live reading series Stories on Stage with a program titled "It's All Relative". The program features stories by Lynn Freed, Andre Dubus and Elizabeth McKenzie. Stories on Stage happens today at 3:00 PM at the theater of the Museum of Contemporary Art. See the Chicago Public Radio site for full details. Museum of Contemporary Art: 220 E. Chicago. (312) 280-2660.

South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade

Considered the largest community St. Patrick's Day parade outside of Dublin, the 27th Annual South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade begins today at Noon. The parade route stretches up Western Avenue from 103rd to 115th Streets, but get there early as up to 300,000 spectators are expected to turn out for this annual event. Visit the official website for more information.

Last Day for Gerber/Hart Library Sale

Gerber/Hart Library, at 1127 W. Granville Ave., is having their first book sale of the year. The sale promises to offer thousands of LBGT related titles as well as ones of general interest, all at awesome prices. Call 773-381-8030 or e-mail info[at]gerberhart.org for more information. The final day's hours are 12pm-4pm.

Songwriting workshop with Christine Lavin @ Old Town School

The Old Town School of Folk Music presents a songwriting workshop with singer and songwriter Christine Lavin. This is the ideal workshop for aspiring songwriters, as Christine shares her experiences and offers tips on how to turn your ideas into finished songs. The workshop starts this afternoon at 3:00 PM at the Old Town's classrooms at 4544 N. Lincoln. See the class registration page for further details.

Olson & Louris (of The Jayhawks) @ Park West

I have all of my old Jayhawks albums on tape (on cassette tape, people), and sadly, ever since Olson left the group in the mid-1990s, things just haven't been the same. But, lucky for you and me, songwriters Mark Olson and Gary Louris have decided to so an acoustic tour this spring. They'll be at the Park West tonight for the last night of their tour, and tickets are $22 on Ticketmaster. There might just be a reincarnation on the horizon. (Update: At last check, this show has sold out. If you want tickets, you're gonna have to pay.)

Gerber/Hart Library Sale

Gerber/Hart Library, at 1127 W. Granville Ave., is having their first book sale of the year. The sale promises to offer thousands of LBGT related titles as well as ones of general interest, all at awesome prices. Call 773-381-8030 or e-mail info[at]gerberhart.org for more information. Today's hours are 10am-4pm.

Margaret Cho @ Chicago Theater

I know Margaret Cho is supposed to be the feminist's comedian or some such nonsense like that, but I've never really gotten into her act. However, I do hear that she's pretty well-liked, which is probably why House of Blues is presenting Margaret Cho - The Assassin Tour, at the Chicago Theater. The doors open at 7pm, the show begins at 8pm, and tickets range from $29.50-$43.50. Get them here or through your friendly, neighborhood Ticketmaster location.

PAC/edge Performance Festival

The third annual PAC/edge Performance Festival begins tonight at the Athenaeum Theatre, and runs through April 10. Plenty of performing arts represented: theater, multimedia, dance, spoken word, sound/music art installations, panel discussions, etc., etc. Many local artists and theater companies are represented; check the festival's Website for a full schedule and ticket information. Athenaeum Theatre: 2936 N. Southport. For group sales and other discounts: (773) 722-5463.

St. Baldrick's Cure for Children's Cancer Benefit

St. Baldrick's Foundation raises funds to find cures for cancers affecting children. To raise money for their event, participants shave their heads to show solidarity with those affected and to collection donations to help the foundation. There are multiple events in Illinois, though I personally know a former neighbor of mine Pete Anderson will be at the event downtown at Fado's Pub.

Interpol @ Aragon

Matador recording artists Interpol take the stage at the Aragon Ballroom tonight, with Q and Not U opening. Tickets are $24, and are available at the boxoffice or through the usual methods. The Aragon is located at 1106 W. Lawrence Avenue (near Broadway).

Behind the scenes of Oprah's Book Club @ Women and Children First

Emerson college professor Kathleen Rooney presents "Reading With Oprah: The Book Club That Changed America", a behind-the-scenes look at Oprah's Book Club, tonight at Women and Children First. The free presentation begins at 7:30 PM. See the Women and Children First Website for full details. Women and Children First: 5233 N. Clark. (773) 769-9299.

Killjoy Confetti @ Beat Kitchen

A killer lineup of live music gets going tonight at 8:30pm at the Beat Kitchen in Roscoe Village.
Playing tonight:
Killjoy Confetti
The Read Letter
Vagenius (Los Angeles, CA)
and The Logic of Elliott

Tickets are a measly $7 . The Beat Kitchen is located at 2100 W. Belmont Ave. Chicago. Call them up at (773) 281-4444.

Scared to Dance @ Liar's Club

Tonight sees another installment of Scared to Dance, the Opaque Project's monthly dose of debauchery at the Liar's Club. Expect DJs Johnny Love, Chamberweed, Hunter Husar, and Joel Brown to drop everything from no-wave to rio funk, booty house to disco, hip hop to grime, glam rock to acid house. Liar's Club, 10pm, 1665 W. Fullerton, 21+, no cover, $1 PBR.

DWR Champagne Chair Tour

Design Within Reach, the fancypants furniture catalog and outlet company, recently sponsored a contest to create a chair prototype featuring elements of a Champagne bottle. The winners are currently on tour to DWR's stores across the country.

On Thursday, from 6pm to 8pm, you can see the winners. DWR will be providing complimentary Champagne and hors d' oeuvres in their historic Hill & Woltersdorf space at 10 East Ohio.

RSVP to treestudio@dwr.com by Tuesday, March 8.

Gerber/Hart Library Sale

Gerber/Hart Library, at 1127 W. Granville Ave., is having their first book sale of the year. The sale promises to offer thousands of LBGT related titles as well as ones of general interest, all at awesome prices. Call 773-381-8030 or e-mail info[at]gerberhart.org for more information. Today's hours are 6pm-9pm.

Millions sneak preview @ Film Center

Danny Boyle, director of the killer zombie flick 28 Days Later, returns with his new film Millions, which shows what happens when two boys go on a spending spree after a bag of money literally drops from the sky. The Siskel Film Center presents a sneak preview of this film tonight at 6:00 PM as part of its annual European Union Film Festival. Tickets are $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Third Coast Listening Room w/ "Ask Amy"

The Third Coast Festival presents "Ask Amy: Radio about Relationships and Romance (and Sex)," featuring Chicago Tribune advice columnist (and former NPR producer) Amy Dickinson on stage to listen to and discuss a variety of radio stories about the joys, challenges, rewards and pitfalls of romantic (and/or not-so-romantic) relationships. As a special bonus, Dickinson will be reading a few of the wilder letters she's received at the paper. The show is from 7pm to 9pm at the Garage Theater at Steppenwolf, 1650 N. Halsted. Admission is $6 ($4 for students and Chicago Public Radio members).

Tickets will be available at the door, and/or you can reserve them by
contacting info<at>thirdcoastfestival<dot>org or 312/948-4682.

Women in Ancient Egypt

Emily Teeter, a Research Associate at the Oriental Institute, is giving a free public lecture tonight at Breasted Hall in the Oriental Institute. The slide lecture will address the role of women in ancient Egyptian society, including education, legal status, occupations and home life. The lecture begins at 8pm. The Oriental Institute is located at 1155 East 58th St. in Chicago. Visit the website for more details.

Steve Lantner Quartet @ Empty Bottle

Tonight, the Empty Bottle Jazz Series presents The Steve Lantner Quartet with Steve Lanter, Kent Kessler, Dave Rempis, and Michael Zerang. The Empty Bottle Jazz Series welcomes regarded improviser and pianist Steve Lanter for a special concert program. Based in Boston, Lanter has drawn on a wide range of influences to create innovative, original compositions and improvisational schemes. "All About Jazz" has remarked of him, "No doubt, Lanter is an inventor who pushes his craft to the limits." For this performance, Lanter will be joined by capable accompanists Kent Kessler, Dave Rempis and Michael Zerang, on bass, reeds and percussion, respectively. Tickets are $6 and music starts at 9:30pm. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western Ave., Chicago.

The Office @ Smart Bar

Smart Bar continues its Tuesday evening film screenins with a marathon screening of the entire BBC series The Office. Yes, that's going to be something like 8 hours of material. A perfect way to prepare for the American version of the show, set to premiere later in the month. The show starts at 8:00 PM, and admission is free. Smart Bar: 3730 N. Clark. (773) 549-4140.

Deadline to register for suburban Cook Co. election

Today is the last day to register to vote in the April 5 Cook County consolidated general election. If you live in suburban Cook County, check with the county clerk's office to make sure you're registered, view a sample ballot, and find your polling place.

Pub Quiz for MS @ Globe Pub

The Globe Pub features a pub quiz tonight and every Tuesday night at 8pm. Teams of up to five people compete for prizes and the glory of being the best nerds in the room. Entry fee is $5 per person, and is donated to the Greater Illinois chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Plus: $3 Sierra Nevada drafts! The Globe Pub (formerly Lyon's Den) is at 1934 W. Irving Park Rd.

The American Astronaut

Fans of The Billy Nayer Show, rejoice! The band is in town to celebrate the DVD release of their 2001 film The American Astronaut, and they're doing three separate events today. First at 5:00, an in-store appearance at Tower Records (2301 N. Clark). Next, a screening of the film at 7:00 at Facets (1517 W. Fullerton). And finally, a 10:00 gig at Schubas (3159 N. Southport). Whew!

Kevin Guilfoile @ Book Stall

Local writer Kevin Guilfoile is best known for his contributions to McSweeney's, Salon, The New Republic and other publications. Tonight he appears at the Book Stall at Chestnut Court to promote his first thriller, Cast of Shadows, as part of the shop's "Suspense and Thriller Day." The reading/signing begins at 7pm. The Book Stall is located at 811 Elm Street in Winnetka.

Elif Shafak @ U. of C.

Award-winning Turkish novelist Elif Shafak will be appearing at the University of Chicago tonight to promote her first English-language novel, The Saint of Incipient Insanities. This free event begins at 7pm on the U. of C. campus in Social Sciences 122, located at 1126 E. 59th St. For more information, call 773-834-8524.

Lefkow Memorial

The Edgewater/Andersonville community will meet tonight on the 5200 block of North Lakewood Ave. at 7pm to pay silent tribute to the murder victims of the Lefkow family and in support of the survivors. Bring your own candle. More information available from Nancy Meyerson of the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce at 773-784-5277.

Gerber/Hart Library Sale

Gerber/Hart Library, at 1127 W. Granville Ave., is having their first book sale of the year. The sale promises to offer thousands of LBGT related titles as well as ones of general interest, all at awesome prices. Call 773-381-8030 or e-mail info[at]gerberhart.org for more information. Today's hours are 6pm-9pm.

Chicago Polar Plunge

Today is the Chicago Polar Plunge (not to be confused with yesterday's Polar Bear Jump)benefiting Special Olympics Chicago. Registration at North Avenue Beach begins at 8:30am -- participants donate at least $125, but it's free to watch. A costume contest starts at 9am, then everyone jumps in the lake at about 9:15. A "melt-down party" at the North Beach Club, 1551 North Sheffield, follows from 10am to 2pm -- $25 in advance, $30 at the door. More info here.

Tristeza @ Bottom Lounge

The newly reformed Tristeza are on the road and make another stop in Chicago (they came in January) tonight. With two new members (co-founder Jimmy LaVelle has since gone on to concentrate on his solo project, The Album Leaf and co-mingling and touring with Sigur Ros), the band continues it's beautiful instrumental soundscapes that will make you cry. If you're into Sigur Ros, Explosions in the Sky, Godspeed You Black Emperor! and the like, then there's a sure chance you'd like Tristeza. At the Bottom Lounge, 8pm, 18 and up, $8 advance, $10 at the door.

Staff member NH will be in attendance.

ABBA Brunch

Ann Sather Restaurant in Wicker Park, 1448 N. Milwaukee, holds its monthly ABBA Brunch today, from 8am to 3pm. Eat at Chicago's favorite Swedish diner while listening to the tunes of Sweden's favorite supergroup. Giveaways and menu specials are also featured. More info and a coupon at AnnSather.com.

Gerber/Hart Library Sale

Gerber/Hart Library, at 1127 W. Granville Ave., is having their first book sale of the year. The sale promises to offer thousands of LBGT related titles as well as ones of general interest, all at awesome prices. Call 773-381-8030 or e-mail info[at]gerberhart.org for more information. Today's hours are 12pm-4pm.

Jens Lekman @ Schubas

Swedish and twee-ish singer-songwriter Jens Lekman visits Schubas on tour to support his first full-length, When I Said I Wanted to Be Your Dog. Think Stephen Merritt meets Morrissey meets Rufus Wainwright meets Sondre Lerche meets Belle & Sebastian, and when you're done thinking about all that, buy yo'self a ticket, fool. The Impossible Shapes and Palliard open. $8, 10pm, Schubas, 3159 N. Southport.

LVC Polar Bear Jump

The Lutheran Volunteer Corps is doing their annual Polar Bear Jump today at 1pm at Foster Beach. The event (not to be confused with tomorrow's Polar Plunge) raises money to fight homelessness, intolerance and injustice.

Lutheran Volunteer Corps) to me at 1400 W Devon Ave #258, Chicago IL
60660. And as always, many many many thanks!

Girlie-Q Variety Show

The Girlie-Q Variety Show, in celebration of International Women's Day, is excited to present an evening of devilish drag, bodacious burlesque and precocious performance! Enjoy this sensational evening featuring the tempting dance stylings of Chicago burlesque performers Hellcat Hussies, Honey Maker, Lavender Cabaret, Miss vonLivid, and others, plus musical acts Kelly Hogan & Nora O'Connor, Luna Blues Machine, and more!

Join the ladies this Saturday, March 5 at the HotHouse, located at 31 East Balbo. Doors open at 6 pm; show starts at 7 pm. General admission is $20, but just $10 if you mention "Girlie-Q" at the door.

Millions sneak preview @ Film Center

Danny Boyle, director of the killer zombie flick 28 Days Later, returns with his new film Millions, which shows what happens when two boys go on a spending spree after a bag of money literally drops from the sky. The Siskel Film Center presents a sneak preview of this film as part of its annual European Union Film Festival this afternoon at 3:45 PM, and on Wednesday, March 9 at 6:00 PM. Tickets are $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Zine Reading @ MoJoe's

Tonight at Mojoe's Cafe Lounge, 2256 W. Roscoe, around 7:30pm there will be a free reading by authors of local zines. The theme is "transitions," and the evening will feature readings by:
Emerson Dameron (Wherewithal)
Jennifer Catlin (Goddess Quarterly)
Jeff Dissler (Time All At Once)
Alicia Dorr (Random Life In Progress)
Kate Sandler (Brainiac)
Leonard Pierce (ludickid.com)
Katherine Hodges (Thinking About Suicide)
Grant Schrieber (Judas Goat Quarterly)
Matt Vacant (Sanitary and Ship)
CT Ballentine (24 Hours)
Aaron Cynic (Diatribe)

Hosted by Brandon Whetherbee of Foul zine. More info available at DiatribeMedia.com.

Speed Zining @ Quimby's w/ HOTCAKES

Do You Want To Be Famous? Speed Zine™ with HOTCAKES tonight at Quimby's Bookstore at 7pm. (and hey, it's FREE)
 
Don’t miss this opportunity to meet the secret, underground, shadow society, the Hermeneutic Organization Toward Celebritification, Advancement and Knowledge of Everyday Subjects (HOTCAKES), in a rare, overground, indoor public appearance! HOTCAKES invites you to an evening of Speed Zining™ wherein participants will, in one night, spend five minutes at each member's station, becoming part of zine and audio project history (!) in as many as SIX different amazing published projects, to be presented at a later date.
  
Q: What is Speed Zining™? A: Speed Zining™ is based on the scientific strategies of speed dating, wherein individuals rotate five-minute conversations with each other in hopes of acquiring a suitable companion. Speed Zining™ is pioneered by Dr. Speed Zine, Emeritus, whose laboratory work at the Institute of Public and Personal Association for Non-Celebrity Advancement for Knowledge and Etymology (PPANCAKE) has resulted in chemical and biological advances in the fields of independent publishing and breakfast ingestion. Speed Zining™ differs from speed dating in that the goal of Speed Zining™ is to contribute to projects and increase personal fame and renown instead of acquiring a mate. Participation in a Speed Zine™ event will result in your inclusion in six research-based, multi-media projects, to be released and presented at a later date by the above mentioned HOTCAKES.

Teen Poetry Slam and Fest

Check out "Louder than a Bomb," the fifth annual Chicago teen poetry slam and festival. Semifinals are March 5th-7th at Columbia College and Finals are March 10th at the Metro from 6-9 pm.Teens from Chicago and suburbs will take part in this Olympic-style contest for the chance to represent Chicago at the National Youth Poetry Contest. Visit Young Chicago Authors for more information, to register or volunteer.

Radio documentary premiere @ Intuit

Chicago Public Radio presents a public premiere of "The Enchanted Highway", a 30-minute documentary profiling artist Gary Greff. The documentary will be played this afternoon at 2:00 PM at Intuit: the Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art. Gary Greff will appear at the event, and will be offering gifts from his Enchanted Highway Gift Shop. Admission to the event is free. If you miss the event today, you can hear the documentary on Chicago Public Radio tomorrow evening at 6:00 PM. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee (at Chicago Ave.). See the Chicago Public Radio Website for more details.

GB staff member JMA will be in attendance.

Newberry Mystery Book Fair

Today is the second day of the Newberry Library's 13th annual Mystery & More Book Fair, offering mystery lovers all of the books can handle, including true-crime, whodunits, mystery classics, mysteries of the heart (aka "romances") and science fiction. 9am-2pm, admission is free. The Newberry Library is at 60 W. Walton. For more information, call 312/255-3510.

Roger Ebert @ Borders

Meet Roger Ebert at 2pm today at the Borders at 830 N. Michigan Ave. The Pulitzer Prize–winning film critic has now followed his earlier book, The Great Movies, with 100 additional essays in The Great Movies II. Stop by and Ebert will share his opinions with you when he signs copies of this book. Call 312-573-0564 for more information.

Gerber/Hart Library Sale

Gerber/Hart Library, at 1127 W. Granville Ave., is having their first book sale of the year. The sale promises to offer thousands of LBGT related titles as well as ones of general interest, all at awesome prices. Call 773-381-8030 or e-mail info[at]gerberhart.org for more information. Today's hours are 10am-6pm.

Funny Club Show @ Rotofugi

Straight from the mouths of Rotofugi, a monster show! --

Rotofugi Designer Toy Store & Gallery is pleased to announce they will host the first full showing of The Funny Club Show 2005, a traveling art exhibition of customized toy figures. The show will be open for viewing at the gallery, located at 1953 W. Chicago Avenue, beginning March 4, 2005. An opening reception will be held from 7 pm until 11 pm on Friday, March 4, 2005.

The show includes approximately 140 artists from several countries and features the "Funny Club" figure by Taiwan toy designer B.B. Birdy. The figures are customized by a diverse group of artists from toy designers to rock poster artists to graffiti writers and traditional fine artists. Among those participating are Gary Baseman, Frank Kozik, Jermaine Rogers, MAD, Damon Soule and UrbanMedium. Also participating in the traveling show are Chicago-based artists Shawn Smith (Shawnimals), James Liu (Fizziefuzzie), Grace Montemar (Spasmodica), Eric Broers (Phoneticontrol), James Kern and Tom Sinnamond (No Hope No Fear Tattoo Studio) and others.

The various artists were all provided a blank Funny Club figure to alter however they saw fit and the results are a wide range of customizations varying from simple painted figures to elaborate constructions. The figures that are part of the traveling exhibit, which will travel to galleries in Los Angeles and Taiwan after showing at Rotofugi, are not for sale.

However, at the Rotofugi showing there will be an approximately 50 additional hand-customized figures commissioned by the toy store that will be available for purchase. These 50 figures, primarily by Chicago-based artists such as Jay Ryan, Mat Daly, Dianna Sudd (all three of Birdmachine), eThos, Revize CMW, Justin Goh, Paul Nudd, JoJo, Vaugnda Johnson, Jeremiah Ketner, Joey Potts & Krista Peel can be purchased and will be available to the buyers at the end of the Rotofugi exhibit in early April.

The opening reception for the Funny Club Show at Rotofugi will be held from 7 pm to 11 pm on Friday, March 4. Funny Club designer and artist B.B. Birdy will be in attendance to sign figures. Also attending will be artist Tony Shiau (aka Nakanari), who has designed several of the Funny Club toys that are currently in production, and other participating artists. Complimentary beer and wine will be served and Tobias (lovetobias.com, syne.tv) will handle music duties and is sure to have the store bumping!

Jeff Tweedy @ The Vic

Jeff Tweedy at the Vic! Of course it's already sold out, but maybe if you hang out in front of the Vic, Jeff will come out of his tour bus and play you a song or two. Hey, it never hurts to dream! The Vic: 3145 N. Sheffield. (773) 472-0449.

EU Film Festival @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents its 8th annual European Union Film Festival, which starts tonight with the film Gilles' Wife from Luxembourg (the country which currently holds the EU presidency). The festival runs through March 24, and features films from all over the EU. See the Film Center's site for full details and schedule. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Tragic Beauty

With the support of Bucket Rider Gallery and Chicago Public Art Group, four leading Chicago artists have embarked on a collaboration of unprecedented scale and scope. Tragic Beauty, as envisioned by Juan Chavez, Mike Genovese, Cody Hudson, and Chris Silva, will transform Open End Space into an engaging and innovative environment of found materials, natural elements, and multi-media constructions. Tragic Beauty will then be reassembled on the street where installations will take on added dimension and new meaning. Drawing from past collaborations together as well as individual artistic pursuits, Juan Chavez, Mike Genovese, Cody Hudson, and Chris Silva will host Tragic Beauty at Open End Space in March, 2005.

Tragic Beauty will be a site-specific installation at Open End Space. Selected for its high ceilings and large open areas, Open End gives the artists the freedom to create work on greater scales without limitations. The flexibility at Open End allows the artists to create an alternative space rather than fill a given space. The artists will have the ability to produce an art installation that uniquely co-functions as a set, a stage, and a venue.

Through innovative use of found material, the space will examine the dichotomies that exist in everyday living—revealing creation within destruction, hope within despair, and beauty within tragedy. An assembled shipwreck will provide a platform for bands to perform and add a musical component to the month long show. Bands and artists scheduled to perform during the tragic beauty music series are Ulrich Schnauss (City Centre Office, Domino) [Germany], Montag (Carpark) [Canada], Kate Simko, Panthers (Vice), Zombi (Relapse), Pit er Pat (Overcoat Recordings, Thrill Jockey), Icy Demons (Cloud) & Babyteeth. Also at the opening reception, Tony Janda, Qualls, Ben Fasman, John Herndon will be djing.

Juan Chavez, Mike Genovese, Cody Hudson, and Chris Silva share a belief in the intersection of art and life and the potential for art and experience. They have established themselves as individual artists both in their studio work and their public work. Each artist pursues an individual career while maintaining strong ties and interests in collaborative work. Together, the artists of Tragic Beauty have backgrounds in street collaborations, graffiti, public art, graphic design, painting, and gallery installations. Their work reflects a unique urban consciousness and understanding. For them, this project provides an opportunity to expand the scope of their work and the scope of their audiences. Juan, Mike, Cody, and Chris are eager to see the realization of Tragic Beauty’s potential as an art object and as a community venue.

Tragic Beauty Music Series schedule:

Friday, March 4th : opening reception with dj’s:
Tony Janda
Qualls
Ben Fasmen
John Herndon

Friday, March 18th
Ulrich Schnauss (City Centre Office, Domino) [Germany]
Montag (Carpark) [Canada]
Kate Simko

Tuesday, March 22nd
Panthers (Vice)
Zombi (Relapse)

Friday, March 25th
Pit er Pat (Overcoat Recordings, Thrill Jockey)
Icy Demons (Cloud)
Babyteeth

www.tragicbeauty.org
www.mudstudios.com
www.genovesestudios.com
www.struggleinc.com
www.chrissilva.com

Newberry Mystery Book Fair

Today and tomorrow, the Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton, holds its 13th annual Mystery & More Book Fair, offering mystery lovers all of the books can handle, including true-crime, whodunits, mystery classics, mysteries of the heart (aka "romances") and science fiction. Today 12-6pm and tomorrow 9am-2pm. Admission is free. For more information, call 312/255-3510.

Gettin' It All Together: Ming + FS

Sonotheque and Silver Wrapper are proud to present the fourth installment of our monthly residency titled, "Gettin' It All Together - Music For Hips & Heads." Showcasing the undiscovered gems from the last 40 plus years "Gettin' It All Together" hopes to unearth those seemingly lost treasures of soul, funk, roots, reggae, hip hop and breakbeats.

New York City drum'n'bass duo Ming + FS pioneered their own self-described "junkyard" sound, deftly mixing and matching elements of old school hip-hop, jungle, electro, turntablism, and live instrumentation.

At Sonotheque on Friday, March 4th; doors open at 9 pm. Tickets available on the web.

The Dollar Store @ The Hideout

The show keeps getting better and weirder, which are two ways of saying one thing. This edition should be no different, as they feature: Neo-Futurist Diana Slickman, Annoyance Theatre's Susan Messing and The Banana King's Amber Drea. As always the show is co-hosted by Jonathan Messinger, editor of THISisGRAND.org and stand-up behemoth Sean Gardner. The Dollar Store Reading Series takes place at The Hideout located at 1354 W. Wabansia, Chicago. The hilarity starts at 7pm, there's an appropriate $1 suggested donation.

Midnight Yoga @ Bloom Yoga Studio

Once again, the first friday of the month brings Bloom Yoga Studio's Midnight Yoga class toinght from 10:30pm – Midnight. Midnight Yoga is an invigorating candlelit yoga class taught by Kerry Maiorca and accompanied by live music by local DJ Jesse Hozeny. The late-night mood, fun and challenging flow, and ambient beats combine to make a yoga class unlike any other. Following the class, Midnight Yogis relax in Bloom’s reception area for wine, light snacks, dessert, and good conversation. The workshop costs $20 and pre-registration is recommended. For more information or to register, visit Bloom. The studio is located at 4663 N. Rockwell St., Chicago, (773) 463-YOGA.

Gerber/Hart Library Sale

Gerber/Hart Library, at 1127 W. Granville Ave., is having their first book sale of the year. The sale promises to offer thousands of LBGT related titles as well as ones of general interest, all at awesome prices. Call 773-381-8030 or e-mail info[at]gerberhart.org for more information. Today's hours are 12pm-6pm.

Gen Art Screening of The Jacket

Gen Art is presenting a special screening of The Jacket, the latest psychological/horror flick starring Adrien Brody and Keira Knightley. The screening is at AMC River East, 322 E. Illinois St., starting at 7pm. The after party, going from 9pm-11pm, is set at Reserve, 855 W. Lake St. Tickets are complimentary for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP online or call 312-229-1701 for information.

GB staff member VCB will be in attendance.

Films by Stephanie Barber @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents a program of films by Milwaukee artist Stephanie Barber, who will be in attendance. The event is part of the Film Center's Conversations at the Edge program of visiting artist screenings and discussions. The program is tonight at 8:15 PM. Tickets are $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Theater Thursdays @ Neo-Futurarium

ChicagoPlays.com presents Theater Thursdays, a weekly focus on a stage show playing somewhere in town. This week, the focus is on the Neo-Futurists' current prime time show, The Last Two Minutes of the Complete Works of Henrik Ibsen. There will be a 7:00 reception and discussion before the show with the play's director, Greg Allen. Tickets for the Theater Thursday event are $15; see the ChicagoPlays.com site for full details, or call the Neo-Futurarium at (773) 275-5255 for reservations (don't forget to mention "Theater Thursdays").

1st Annual Printer's Ball @ Hothouse

The 1st Annual Printer's Ball gets its groove on tonight starting at 6pm at the HotHouse, located at 31 E. Balbo Ave., Chicago. A celebration of Chicago print, this event is co-sponsored by Another Chicago Magazine, The Bird Machine, Bridge, Chicago Review, Firebelly Design, FOUND Magazine, The Guild Complex, In These Times, Independent Press Association of Chicago, Lumpen, NewCity, Pistil, The Poetry Center of Chicago, Other Voices, Punk Planet, Quimby’s, The Reader, Stop Smiling, StoryQuarterly, TENbyTEN, THE 2ND HAND, TriQuarterly, and Venus. (WHEW!) The party was conceived of as an opportunity to celebrate and explore Chicago’s vibrant print scene, the event offers readers and writers a unique chance to sample publications and meet with editors and designers. The Printers’ Ball is open to the public (21+) and admission is free. For more information, please call 312.799.8005.

CTA Brown Line Closure Public Meeting

CTA Chairman Carole Brown and President Frank Kruesi will meet with North Side residents and business owners tonight to discuss the pending Brown Line station closures. The meeting will take place at the Lane Tech High School Auditorium, 2501 W. Addison, at 7pm. Also on hand will be Aldermen Gene Schulter (47th Ward) Tom Tunney (44th), Dick Mell (33rd), Vi Daley (43rd) and Ted Matlak (32nd); the Ravenswood Community Council; the Greater Rockwell Organization; the Ravenswood Industrial Council, the Lincoln Square Chamber of Commerce; and the Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce. More info here.

Elliott Smith Tribute @ Tonic Room

PAPERTREE LIVE MARCH 2, TONIC ROOM
Paper Tree will give a rare live performance on Wednesday, March 2 at the Tonic Room (2447 N Halsted St) in Chicago. The band will be playing selections from Elliot Smith's catalogue. Paper Tree will take the stage at 10:00. Never a cover; 2447 N. Halsted (773.248.8400).

Subsystence Radio

Playing a mixture of classic electronic music and more contemporary material, Subsystence Radio is focused on promoting a fusion of styles. Join us every other Wednesday night from 9:30-11 PM for a selection of music that moves us. Broadcasting live from 89.3 FM WNUR, the show features rotating DJ sets from Chicago's very own Ken and Karl Meier. You can also tune in online at WNUR.org.

Reel Deal @ Smartbar

Start your March off right as Smartbar brings you "The Reel Deal" on Tuesday nights, where they project a film (or pair of films) for your enjoyment. Best part is, it's free. Tonight's fare: starting at 8:15pm: "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," and at 10:15pm: "Monty Python's the Meaning of Life." Smartbar is located at 3730 N. Clark. (773) 549-0203.

INFLUENCE. @ Sonotheque

Running for nearly a year, this unique Chicago monthly is dedicated to providing local DJs, producers, and artists an outlet for their alternative musical interests. Disallowing traditional blending and mixing, INFLUENCE. encourages its guests to span multiple artists and genres, and demonstrate the variety of styles that have inspired them artistically. Tonight features performances from Ethan D'Ercole of The Watchers, Kevin Kujawa from Hi-Fi, Mike Broers of Ghost Arcade, as well as opening sets from friends of the cause Jeremy Horst and Aaron Bennett. Doors are at 9 PM and there is no cover. At Sonotheque, 1444 W Chicago Ave.

GB staff member KM will be in attendance.

Anna Deavere Smith @ U of C

Renowned actor, playwright, and professor Anna Deavere Smith brings her presentation "Snapshots: Glimpses of America in Change" to the University of Chicago tonight. It's the inaugural installment of the U of C's Presidential Fellows in the Arts Series. Smith is best known for her one-woman shows re-enacting interviews she's conducted with everyone from the owner of the corner store to the President of the United States: Fires in the Mirror, about the 1991 Crown Heights riots, Twilight: Los Angeles 1992, about the Rodney King riots, and House Arrest, about the American character and the White House. She's been a two-time Obie award winner, Tony nominee, a finalist for the Pulitzer, and a recipient of the MacArthur Foundation "genius" grant. Plus she plays the badass National Security Adviser on The West Wing and shows up in movies like Philadelphia and The Human Stain. This woman rocks. 7pm at Mandel Hall on the U of C Campus (1131 E 57th St). Tickets are $15; call 773-702-8080 or email concert-office@uchicago.edu for reservations.


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