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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Wednesday, May 8
Chef Uzma Sharif, of Love in Disguise Chocolate, joins Kitchen Chicago, 4664 N. Manor, to give a class on the wonders of chocolate. From 3-4:30pm she will explore how the sweet stuff is made, the differences between types of chocolate and will lead a chocolate tasting. It's a chocolate extravaganza! The class is $25 per person, 30 people max, so get your reservations in soon. Call 630-292-2196 or email loveindisguisechocolate[at]yahoo.com.
Tonight, Charles Blackstone reads at Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., from his book The Week You Weren't Here. The book centers on a writer preparing to leave Chicago while analyzing and deconstructing all of his past loves. Blackstone, a teacher of short and long form prose at the University of Chicago's Graham School of General Studies, has received comparisons to Proust and the book has been described as "a poignant and wry portrait of a young writer closing in on the last of his undergraduate days." So that's got to be a good thing. (Not that I've read Proust.) Catch the free reading at 7pm; call 773-342-0910 for more information.
Teatro Vista, featuring emerging and established Latino playwrights, is holding a free play reading series at Cafe Mestizo, 2133 S. Ashland Ave. Participants are encouraged to come and eat while discussing the night's play with the director. The feedback received during these dinners will help the theater determine which plays to produce in the near future. Today's plays are Rosa de Dos Aromas by Emilio Carballeido and director Laura Crotte at 2pm, Cry of the Bronx by Migdalia Cruz and director Anthony Moseley at 4pm, and Massacre by Jose Rivera and director Chuck Smith. Seating is limited for the readings, so RSVP by calling 312-494-5767.
The Neo-Futurists present "Too Much Light Kids!", a family-friendly version of their long-running late-night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. GB's Alejandra Valera reviewed the show when it ran last December; read the review here. Appropriate for ages 6 and up, "Too Much Light Kids!" happens at 2:00 PM on Saturday afternoons through June 25 at the Neo-Futurarium. Admission: kids get in for $1-6 ($1 x the roll of a six-sided die), adults get in for $8-13 ($7 + the roll of a six-sided die). Group rates available; call (773) 878-4557 for details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). General show details: (773) 275-5255.
These days, any children's adventure book is compared to Harry Potter. In same ways, the Artemis Fowl series deserves the comparison, rife with fairies, leprecons, and trolls that invade the human world. But, in every other way, Eoin Colfer's stories are so much better. Where else do you get a sympathetic anti-hero who is an evil, masterminded, child genius? Colfer appears today at Barbara's Bookstore UIC, 1218 S. Halsted, 11am, to sign copies of the latest in his series The Opal Deception. Call 312-413-2665 for more information.
The Red Rover Series of "readings that play with reading" holds its inaugural event tonight. Experiment #1, as they're billing it, is "a reading that is a 3-act play" featuring Chicago writers Luba Halicki, Marcy Henry, and Sheryl Ridenour. 7pm at SpareRoom, 2416 W. North Ave, with a suggested donation of $3.
Join Gapers Block staff at the GingerMan, 3740 N. Clark, for drinks and maybe some pool at our monthly GB Get-Together. We'll be there from 9pm till midnight.
On Friday, April 29, a diverse array of Chicago promoters and electronic musicians come together to present an evening of abstract techno and forward-thinking house. Featuring performances from globe-trotting artists such as Detroit legend Anthony 'Shake' Shakir (in his first Chicago performance), Residual Records owner Titonton Duvante, and underground electro producer Silicon of Vmax fame, this will be a refreshingly varied dance music showcase. Local favorite Karl Meier and Detroit DJ Israel Vines open. Happening at Sonotheque, 1444 W. Chicago Ave, near Ashland. Tickets are $7 before 11 PM, and available at the door. Show starts promptly at 9 PM.
GB staff member KM will be in attendance.
Mess Hall and the creators of "The Labor Trail: Chicago's History of Working-Class Life and Struggle" are giving a virtual tour of the history and neighborhoods of Chicago's working people. The award-winning map helps to showcase the areas where "generations of dramatic struggles and working-class life" have given the city the rich history that it has today. Feel free to bring snacks and beverages to share at the free tour, 8-10pm. Mess Hall is located at 6932 N. Glenwood Ave. Call 773-412-2501 for more information.
The Lincoln Square Pottery Studio, at 4150 N. Lincoln Ave, is hosting their 2nd Anniversary Student Sale and Show. From 6pm-10pm, student work will be on display, contests will be thrown, and food and drinks will be provided for all. 773-248-4430 for more information.
The Siskel Film Center presents Michael Cimino's legendary 1980 film Heaven's Gate. Is it really as bad as legend says? You get to find out this week, as the Film Center screens the original cut of the film. It's 219 minutes long, with a 10-minute intermission. Showtimes: weeknights at 6:30 PM, Saturday at 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM, and Sunday at 2:00 PM. The film runs at the Film Center through May 5th. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
As part of the 2005 Nebula Awards weekend, there's going to be a huge multi-author book signing event this evening at the Borders on State Street. Listen to this line-up: Catherine Asaro; Donald J. Bingle; Robert Buettner; James L. Cambias; Ellen Datlow; Scott Edelman; Eileen Gunn; Joe Haldeman; Tina Jens; Ellen Klages; E.E. Knight; Anne McCaffrey; Mike Moscoe; Jody Lynn Nye; Ruth Souther; Jennifer K. Stevenson; Sean Stewart; and possibly more! The event starts at 5:30 PM, and only runs two hours, so you'd better get in line pretty early. Borders: 150 N. State. (312) 606-0750.
Don't miss the brilliantly strange Animal Collective tonight at the University of Chicago's Ida Noyes hall, along with Ariel Pink and popular local band Health & Beauty. Admission is FREE. Doors open at 8 pm. This show is delightfully all-ages.
Teatro Vista, featuring emerging and established Latino playwrights, is holding a free play reading series at Cafe Mestizo, 2133 S. Ashland Ave. Participants are encouraged to come and eat while discussing the night's play with the director. The feedback received during these dinners will help the theater determine which plays to produce in the near future. Tonight's play is Adnakiel by Tanya Saracho and director Coya Paz. Seating is limited for the 7pm reading, so RSVP by calling 312-494-5767.
It's no secret that architecture is a great part of Chicago's cultural history, but have you thought about how the city's libraries play into that? Jack Brown, director of the Art Institute's Ryerson and Burnham Libraries, explores how libraries help "shape the city's social and intellectual development" in "The Book in the City Beautiful: Libraries at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Shaping of a Cultural Institution." This free lecture takes place at 6pm in the Art Institute's Fullerton Hall. Call 312-443-3600 for general information.
Join the Illinois Democratic Network for their Progressives Social, held today from 6:30-9pm at Frankie Z's, 435 N. Clark St. Admission is free, save for a progressive sense of mind and an unapologetic desire to discuss world issues from this point of view. For more info, email social[at]illinoisdemnet.com.
The annual event Dining Out For Life, in which restaurants donate a portion of the day's proceeds to various HIV/AIDS charities, happens today at lots of restaurants around Chicago; see the Dining Out For Life Website for a list of participating restaurants. Proceeds from this year's event once again go to AIDSCare, a non-profit residence and servie organization for people living with HIV and AIDS. See the Websites for further details on the day's events.
Michelle L'amour and her Fabulous Sugarbabies stop at Subterreanean, 2011 W. North Ave., for their new show Star and Garter Burlesque. There will be stripteases, variety acts, pagentry and more. The show costs $8 and doors open at 9pm. Contact franky[at]lavendercabaret.com for more information.
Tonight Redmoon Theater continues its critically acclaimed show The Cabinet (an adaptation of the classic silent film The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari which features a massive stage set, great puppetwork and amazing sets and scenery). The original run of this show was at the Viaduct Theater near Western & Belmont, but an extended run has been scheduled for Redmoon's main space (1463 W. Hubbard). The Cabinet runs through June 5th, and space at the shows are very limited, so be sure to make your reservations well in advance through the Redmoon site.
Chicago author and blogger Wendy McClure appears tonight at Women and Children First, to start her tour for her brand-new book I'm Not The New Me. Come by and wish her well! The event starts at 7:30, and is free and open to the public. Women and Children First: 5233 N. Clark. (773) 769-9299.
Don't miss the brilliantly strange Animal Collective tonight at the Empty Bottle (21+, $12). If you can't make it out tonight, or if you're under 21, they'll be reappearing on Friday, April 29th at the University of Chicago's Ida Noyes hall.
Fans of Stereolab should congregate at aliveOne, 2683 N. Halsted, at 9pm to listen to the band's latest CD, "Oscillons from the Anti-Sun." Afterwards, it's Radio Free Chicago Night, featuring sets by DJ Damienone, DJ Rufo (WHPK), DJ Personal Bankruptcy (WHPK), dj popscum (WLUW), DJ JuiceBoxx (WLUW) and DJ Lucifer Sam (RFC). 21 and over. More info here.
Part of the Chicago Improv Festival, Schadenfreude and Funny Ha-Ha join forces to present "Alternative Comedy Night." The show will feature the growing underground literary scene with readings and performances from such names as Aaron Freeman, Claire Zulkey and Mark Bazer. The 9pm event will be at the Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee Ave., and costs $8. Call 773-489-3160 for tickets and info.
Every Wednesday night, Smartbar and DJ Pogo bring you "Panic," Indie/Britpop/and New Wave music, starting at 10pm. Tonight, Panic offers an exclusive DJ Set from New Order’s Peter Hook along with dj's Joe Shanahan and Brad Owen as well as nifty giveaways for New Order's new record "Waiting For The Siren's Call". Tickets are $10, and the event is 21 & over. (And hey, since the New Order show at the Aragon on May 3, is sold out, this is a sweet deal.) Smartbar is located beside the Metro at 3730 N. Clark, Chicago.
Camille Paglia, author of such pop cult texts as Sexual Personae, reads from her new book Break, Blow, Burn at International House. The book features essays that "seek to renew in her readers both love of poetry and appreciation of criticism." The 7pm reading, at 1414 E. 59th St., is hosted by the Seminary Co-op Bookstore.
How about, instead of watching all those shows on what women want and reading Cosmo for ten ways to drive your guy wild, you actually ask your partner what he or she likes? That's part of the idea behind Early to Bed's workshop More Thrills, Less Skills that is "designed to help participants shift their thinking from performance-based sex to pleasure-based sex by encouraging them to get in touch with what feels good (and tastes good and sounds good!), and what truly turns them on." There is a $10 fee for the 7:30pm workshop, with pre-registration required. Call 773-271-1219 or email workshops[at]earlytobed.com to do so. Ages eighteen and above and open to all genders and orientations. Early to Bed is located at 5232 N. Sheridan Rd.
Smartbar is showing Richard Linklater's films Before Sunrise and Before Sunset tonight, starting at 8:15 PM. Obviously they lifted the idea from the Siskel Film Center, who recently screened this pair of films at their theater. The Smartbar screening is free, although it's a 21+ show, since it's in a bar, durrr. Smartbar: 3730 N. Clark. (773) 549-0203.
Did you know that today is World Intellectual Property Day? So don't go try to make silent Velcro or anything. Seriously, though, the Chicago Chapter is meeting tonight at Monk's Pub, 205 W. Lake St, 6pm, to meet people who care as much about intellectual property laws as they do. Bring the copyrights back to the people! The intellectuals control the means of production! Email info[at]copynight.org for more information.
Another chance to learn all about sushi at Dirk's; Dirk's is having a basic sushi class on Tuesday, April 26th 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 you will be munching on miso soup and tuna avocado salad during class. 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 $125.00 per couple. Class size is limited so please call ahead to reserve space. Dirk's Fish & Gourmet Shop is located at 2070 N. Clybourn Ave; call for reservations: (773) 404-3475.
Can't get enough of that good old fashioned queer folk-rock? Good--'coz neither can we. Alix Olson and Pamela Means are hittin' it hard at Schubas tonight at 8pm. Ms. Olson has graced the cover of Ms. Magazine and her music has been profiled by most of the major queer mags (Out, The Advocate, Girlfriends, The Lesbian Review of Books, and more). All of that, and she's twice headlined Russel Simmons's Def Poetry Jam on HBO. Her opener, Boston performer Pamela Means, is no less fiery: Means's fierce performance style has knocked a hole in her guitar (which she continues to play). Ms. Means has garnered several accolades herself from the folky circles: Falcon Ridge Folk Festival's #1 "Most Wanted New Artist" and a nomination for a Boston Music Award. Expect good times. Tickets are $12 and doors open at 730pm. 21 and over.
The Chicago Council on Foreign Relations stops at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport, for "Gods & Government," a debate the on the role religion should play in government and its role in US foreign policy, among other related topics (scroll down to date). The 7-9pm talk will be moderated by Josh Shapera of 8th Grade & Rax Trax Studios with speakers Father James Halsted of DePaul University and Dr. Michael McDuffee of Moody Bible Institute. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased here.
A Red Orchid Theatre, 1531 N. Wells, announces the opening of Brett Neveu's 4 Murders. Directed by Guy Van Swearingen, the play centers around a "quiet, unassuming, and very personable," man named Joel. Buy tickets for the 7pm premiere here or call 312-943-8722 for more information. The play runs through June 5.
The League of Women Voters of Chicago hosts a "Politics in the Mix" cocktail reception to kick off its yearlong "I Am the Government" project, focused on building civic involvement in the city's 18-29 population. The League says this event "is for young and old, north-siders and south-siders, political operatives and the apolitical, the well-to-do and well-wishers, all in an effort to raise awareness, raise money, and raise the bar for the political engagement of Chicago's young adults." All of the city's aldermen, state and federal representatives, and Mayor Daley have been invited; could be worth it just to see who shows up. Tickets are $20 ($30 if you're over 30). 6pm-8pm at the Microsoft offices, 77 W. Wacker Drive, 23rd Floor. RSVP (by April 22, please) to Chris Miller, 312-939-5935 x24, or online here.
Jonathan Safran Foer--author of Everything is Illuminated and Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close--reads at the Darkroom (2210 W. Chicago) tonight at 730P. Foer has won numerous awards and props from Rolling Stone and Esquire for Everything is Illuminated. His new book is told from the perspective of a 9 year old child coping with the loss of a father in the World Trade Center attacks. Stop by New City to RSVP for yourself and one other guest. 21 and over.
A Red Orchid Theatre, 1531 N. Wells, is hosting a $10 preview of Brett Neveu's 4 Murders. Directed by Guy Van Swearingen, the play centers around a "quiet, unassuming, and very personable," man named Joel. Buy tickets for the 8pm show here or call 312-943-8722 for more information. The play opens April 25 and runs through June 5.
It's a night of burlesque, bands and drag at the Empty Bottle tonight. Scheduled to perform: NYC drag king Rod Thruster; Heartless B!tch Entertainers; Hellcat Hussies; Logic of Elliott; The Sonnets; and quite a few more. The show is a benefit for the Mobtown Moxie Revue, a group of Chicago performers. Tickets are $8 (available on the Empty Bottle site), the doors open at 9:00 PM, and the show is at 10:00. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Tonight the Hyde Park Art Center hosts an opening reception for INterACTION, their new exhibiton addressing "the social disconnect inherent to the digital age by producing works that encourage viewers to get involved." Admission to the reception is free and lasts from 3-5pm, with an orchestrated performance at 4pm. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5307 S. Hyde Park Blvd. Call 773-324-5520 for more information.
The Arlington Heights Bicycle Association is sponsoring this year's Bike Swap, offering hundreds of bikes and related items to buy and sell. The Swap is free and open the public -- anyone who needs to sell or buy used bikes and things is welcome to attend. Visit Pioneer Park, 500 S. Fernandez, Arlington Heights to join in the fun. Check here for hours of operation and terms of sale; email swap[at]cyclearlington.com for further information.
A Red Orchid Theatre, 1531 N. Wells, is hosting a $10 preview of Brett Neveu's 4 Murders. Directed by Guy Van Swearingen, the play centers around a "quiet, unassuming, and very personable," man named Joel. Buy tickets for the 8pm show here or call 312-943-8722 for more information. The play opens April 25 and runs through June 5.
Anne Elizabeth Moore, a cultural interventionist, will lead a talk and discussion on DIY media and youth activism. All ages are encouraged to attend the talk, where Moore will also discuss her media guidebook for mid-schoolers Hey Kidz, Buy This Book! and her recent work on the American Girl company. Moore appears at Mess Hall, 6932 N. Glenwood Ave. from 1-3pm. Call 773-368-5875 for more information. Learn more about Moore through her blog Pocket Full of Wishes.
Returning to the US to share thoughts and experiences on the war in Iraq, independent street reporter Dahr Jamali visits Chicago to present photos and video from inside Fallujah, as well as give an analysis of the "mainstream media's successful efforts to whitewash the Iraq catastrophe for the Bush administration." Jamali's dispatches have been recognized as an important media resource and he is now writing for the Inter Press Service, The New Standard and many other outlets. His reports have also been published with The Nation, The Sunday Herald and Islam Online. Jamali's dispatches and hard news stories have been translated into Polish, German, Dutch, Spanish, Japanese, Portuguese, Indonesian, French, Chinese and Arabic. On the radio, he is a special correspondent for Flashpoints and reports for the BBC, Democracy Now!, and numerous other outlets around the globe. The event happens this Saturday, April 23rd at Sonotheque, 1444 W Chicago Ave, near Ashland [view map]. The free talk begins at 6 PM, but you must be 21 to enter. Donations are gladly accepted. More information available through Voices in the Wilderness.
The Neo-Futurists present "Too Much Light Kids!", a family-friendly version of their long-running late-night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. GB's Alejandra Valera reviewed the show when it ran last December; read the review here. Appropriate for ages 6 and up, "Too Much Light Kids!" happens at 2:00 PM on Saturday afternoons through June 25 at the Neo-Futurarium. Admission: kids get in for $1-6 ($1 x the roll of a six-sided die), adults get in for $8-13 ($7 + the roll of a six-sided die). Group rates available; call (773) 878-4557 for details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). General show details: (773) 275-5255.
Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art presents a film by Jessica Yu, whose recent Henry Darger documentary In The Realms of the Unreal received great acclaim. The 1999 film The Living Museum documents the Creedmoor Psychiatric Center in Queens, where patients are invited to transform the grounds into works of art. The screening happens at 2:00 PM, admission is free, and refreshments will be served. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.
The Arlington Heights Bicycle Association is sponsoring this year's Bike Swap, offering hundreds of bikes and related items to buy and sell. The Swap is free and open the public -- anyone who needs to sell or buy used bikes and things is welcome to attend. Visit Pioneer Park, 500 S. Fernandez, Arlington Heights to join in the fun. Check here for hours of operation and terms of sale; email swap[at]cyclearlington.com for further information.
The annual Spring Art Sale continues today, featuring artwork from students of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Jewelry, paintings, sculpture, multimedia, prints, photos, and probably a few more categories of art will be for sale at the school's Ballroom, which is at 112 S. Michigan. Today's hours are 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. See the Spring Art Sale's site for full details.
A Red Orchid Theatre, 1531 N. Wells, is hosting a $10 preview of Brett Neveu's 4 Murders. Directed by Guy Van Swearingen, the play centers around a "quiet, unassuming, and very personable," man named Joel. Buy tickets for the 8pm show here or call 312-943-8722 for more information. The play opens April 25 and runs through June 5.
The wonderful and eloquent Kazuo Ishiguro, author of The Remains of the Day and When We Were Orphans, reads from his new book, Never Let Me Go at the Oriental Institute. The reading begins at 7pm, 1155 E. 58th St. I heard him read at the Newberry Library a few years ago and the sound of his voice alone was worth the visit. Then there were his words. Call 773-752-4381 for more information.
In the spirit of Earth Day, there will be a classical performance by the New Millennium Orchestra in the S.J. Gregory Auditorium at St. Andrew's Greek Orthodox Church, 5649 N. Sheridan Rd., to be immediately followed by a remix by club DJ's. The concert is sponsored by the Edgewater Chamber of Commerce, 48th Alderman Mary Ann Smith, the Chicago Department of Water Management, the church and neighborhood block clubs. The remixed pieces -- Beethoven's Symphony #4, Op. 60 and Handel's Water Music - will be accompanied by a projected video mix. The evening begins with a 7pm reception with the classical concert starting at 8pm, to be followed by the remix. Admission is free. Call 773-784-5277 for more information.
The 2004 documentary The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till, which uncovered evidence that more than a dozen suspects were involved in the kidnapping and murder of the 14-year-old African American boy from Chicago, begins a run at the Siskel Film Center tonight. Check the Film Center's site for showtimes. Siskel Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Austin, TX indie rockers ...And You Shall Know Us by the Trail of Dead give a free in-store performance today at 5pm at Reckless Records (3157 N. Broadway).
Team: Abunai, a Chicago-based art and electronic music group is celebrating the launch of their new website and compilation. The launch party, at Elastic Art Foundation's 3030, 3030 W. Courtland, is $5-$10 suggested donation at the door and BYOB. There will be live music and art on display with the Team: Abunai staff representing their work. Danger[at]teamabunai.org for more information.
The annual Spring Art Sale happens today and tomorrow, featuring artwork from students of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Jewelry, paintings, sculpture, multimedia, prints, photos, and probably a few more categories of art will be for sale at the school's Ballroom, which is at 112 S. Michigan. The hours are 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM today, and 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM tomorrow. See the Spring Art Sale's site for full details.
Stacey Ballis, author of the newly released Sleeping Over will appear at Barnes and Noble, Old Orchard Mall in Skokie, for a free reading, Q&A, and signing. The novel, which has been called "part Sex and the City, part Little Women," features five Chicago women in their thirties examining their romantic and platonic relationships. Go chick lit! The reading begins at 7:30pm. Call 847-676-2230 for more information.
I have no idea how our mother's generation came of age without Our Bodies, Ourselves. I know I snuck peeks at all the "naughty" sections when I was prepubescent and very confused. An edition for 2005 has just been released and you need to buy it. You can get that new copy signed at the UIC School of Public Health (1603 W. Taylor St.) today. From 3:30 to 5:30 there is a presentation, panel discussion, and book discussion. You'll get to meet one of the co-authors and you'll get to hear an amazing list of women talk about this book and women's health and how they have changed. For more information, and to R.S.V.P., please call 312-413-1924.
New York artist Patrick Killoran visits the Hyde Park Art Center to discuss his exploration of public and private space. With his art based in sculpture and installation, he "focuses on changing our perception of how we experience common objects or structures, often drawing more attention to how we see the world around us rather than the object itself." Admission to the 5pm event is free and will be held at Gallery 400, 1240 W. Harrison. Call 773-324-5520 for more information.
The Toronto-based Fluffgirl Burlesque Society struts into town to give the locals an eyeful. The girls will be at Subterranean tonight; the show starts at 9:00, and tickets are $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Hot cha! Subterranean: 2011 W. North. (773) 278-6600.
The Chicago Historical Society presents When the Magnificent Mile Was Called Fairytown and Bronzeville was Lavender, part of their Out at CHS program. Chad Heap of George Washington University will discuss gay life in 1930's Chicago when it played a prominent role downtown and in Bronzeville. The 6:30-8:30pm talk is preceded by a 5:30pm reception. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for CHS members and students. Purchase them here.
Jeff Smith, creator of the Bone comic series, makes an appearance tonight from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Chicago Comics, 3244 N. Clark. Smith will be in town to promote the new color edition of his comic, which will undoubtedly be on hand for fans to purchase. For more info, try calling Chicago Comics at (773) 528-1983.
Hyde Park's perennial favorite rockers, First Coat, are playing a show at the Subterranian tonight with Starlister and Spouse. The show gets started at 9 pm, and it'll cost ya merely $5 at the door. This show also doubles at a release party for the latest compilation record from Mr Hyde Records.
Former actress and acclaimed author of Hideous Kinky and the just released paperback Sea House, Esther Freud's novels draw inspiration from her family history, a lineage that includes her father Lucian Freud and her grandfather Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis. Nextbook.org hosts a talk with Ms. Freud tonight 7pm at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont, where she explores Jewish identity and family history. The show is free, but registration is encouraged. Standby tickets at the door as available. More information and online registration here.
As part of the East-West Perspective lecture series, historian and geographer Dennis McClendon will explore the history of Chicago's Near South Side. Among the many things Mr. McClendon has done, his graphic design firm contributed all of the maps to the Encyclopedia of Chicago. The 7pm lecture, which is free, begins with a 6:30pm reception at 816 S. Michigan Ave. in the Fourth Floor Auditorium. Call 312-939-0111 for more information.
The landmark women's health book Our Bodies, Ourselves turns 35 years old this year, and a new revised edition has just appeared in bookstores. OBOS Executive Director Judy Norsigian and some Chicago-based contributors will be at Women & Children First for a discussion about new issues in women's health. The discussion happens tonight at 7:30 PM, and is free and open to the public. Women & Children First: 5233 N. Clark. (773) 769-9299.
Roger Ebert presents his 7th annual Overlooked Film Festival, which showcases a handful of films from the last year (and some classics) that haven't received that much attention. The festival starts tonight and runs through April 24th. The festival happens in Ebert's hometown of Champaign, IL, so you're going to have to drive a couple hours south of Chicago to attend. But if you're a big film fan like Ebert is, you'll totally want to attend. Check the festival Website for a complete list of films, ticket information, and a list of hotels in the area.
Don't miss Sam Beam's breathy, ethereal roots music tonight when Sam Beam makes a tour stop in Chicago: Iron & Wine performs at the House of Blues tonight at 9 pm. Tickets will run you $16.50 plus $15 in Ticketmaster fees.
Join local writers and performers for tonight's Reconstruction Room. The regular event promotes poetry and performance in the Chicago area. The Reconstruction Room meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at the Black Rock Bar at Damen and Addison. Tonight's reading features a collaborative performance between the Rec Roomers and PAC alums Hermit Arts. Free, 21 and over.
I love Todd Oldham's look and was so excited when his Target line debuted a couple of years ago. Colorful, linear and smooth, Oldham's style is great whether you've lived on your own for a while or you're just starting out with your first apartment. In Handmade Modern, the designer delves into his love for mid-century modern homes and DIY with 72 projects for his fans. Today Oldham will appear at Barbara's Bookstore in Marshall Field's, lower level, 12pm, to sign copies of his new book. Call 312-781-3033 for more information.
Richard J. Daley served as mayor of Chicago from 1955 until his death in 1976, and was a major figure in national politics throughout his career. At the center of interest for the Forum is the history of Chicago and of American cities during the period of the mayor's public service, and the issues that concerned him during his life and that concern urban policy-makers and scholars today. Speakers include current Mayor Richard M. Daley, former US Senator Walter Mondale, former US Senator Adlai Stevenson, former NYC Mayor Ed Koch, and journalists Carol Marin and Robert Novak.
Christie Hefner, Chairman and CEO of Playboy Enterprises, will be speaking tonight at DePaul about her political activism, her leadership of Playboy Enterprises, and how they intersect. It stands to be an interesting conversation dealing with role of women in the media, business, and politics. After her discussion, there will be a question-answer session led by three DePaul students. Sound interesting? Then head to this free event at Schmitt Academic Center, Room 154, 2320 North Kenmore Avenue from 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Once again, the DePaul Forum on Nature and Culture will be participating in Earth Week. This year's speaker is Lois Gibbs, the Executive Director for the Center for Health, Environment and Justice. She will give an address, titled "Lessons from the Love Canal," focusing on her work speaking for people harmed by hazardous waste sites. The 7pm address will be at DePaul Corteyou Commons, 2324 N. Fremont St., and is free and open to the public. View the pdf flyer here or call 773-325-4639 for more information.
Smartbar continues its Tuesday evening film screenings with a free showing of the movies Trainspotting (8:15 PM) and Lost In Trnslation (10:15 PM). Since it's in a bar, obviously it's a 21+ show. Smartbar: 3730 N. Clark. (773) 549-0203.
Chicago Public Radio presents the latest in its Stories on Stage series of live readings. Tonight's program is "Timewarp," which features a trio of stories containing flashbacks. The show is at the theater of the Museum of Contemporary Art at 7:30 PM; tickets are available through the MCA's box office or at the Stories on Stage page. Museum of Contemporary Art: 220 E. Chicago. (312) 280-2660.
Neil Gaiman, author of the best-selling DC Comics "Sandman" series, will be interviewed tonight at 7:00 at the University of Chicago's Court Theatre by WBEZ on-air personality Gretchen Helfrich. Tickets are $15, or $5 for students with ID. But really, if you've waited till tonight to get your tickets, you're very probably out of luck. For more information see the University of Chicago Website. Court Theatre: 5535 S. Ellis Avenue.
As an epilogue to Columbia College's literary festival Story Week, an evening of readings, performances and presentations celebrating the work of Illinois author Ray Bradbury will happen tonight at the Harold Washington Library at 6:00 PM. Bradbury will not be in attendance, although he will be answering questions through a phone connection during the event. The event is free and open to the public. Harold Washington Library: 400 S. State. See the Story Week site for more details.
The Old Town School of Folk Music starts another session of classes next week, but if you sign up for a class by the end of day today, you'll save $15 off the class price. You'll find a whole lot of music and dance classes at the Old Town School, from guitar to accordion to hula to ballet. Check out the Website; you're sure to see something that you've always been meaning to try. Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
Kick-ass author (and former Chicagoan) Ayun Halliday will be at Women & Children First this afternoon at 4:30 PM, to promote her new book Job Hopper: The Checkered Career of A Down-Market Dilettante. Women & Children First is up in Andersonville, where Ayun's old theater pals work and hang out, so expect a lively crowd. The event is free. Women & Children First: 5233 N. Clark. (773) 769-9299.
Andrew Bird's record release show is tonight at the Metro, 3730 N. Clark, with Archer Prewitt and Clyde Federal opening. It's 18 and over, tickets are $15 and doors open at 8pm. Skip the TicketMaster charges by getting your tickets at HiFi Records next door, 3728 N. Clark.
Working Bikes Cooperative volunteers celebrate their new storefront at 1125 S. Western Ave. and all of their past, present and future! Working Bikes welcomes all interested in volunteering to learn about their accomplishments, projects and plans for promoting bikes and the biking lifestyle. This afternoon's free reception last from 3-7pm, with a presentation at 4pm. Snacks and refreshments provided. Contact Paula at pa_skoodna[at]yahoo.com for more information.
Kick-ass author (and former Chicagoan) Ayun Halliday will be at Quimby's this afternoon at 4:00 PM, to promote her new book Job Hopper: The Checkered Career of A Down-Market Dilettante. No word on what Ayun has prepared for the event, but I betcha it's gonna be great. The event is free. Quimby's: 1854 W. North. (773) 342-0910.
This year's Fast Forward Film Fest competition screens tonight at 8pm at Open End Gallery, 2000 W. Fulton Ave. The show is free. More info here.
The Neo-Futurists present "Too Much Light Kids!", a family-friendly version of their long-running late-night show Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind. GB's Alejandra Valera reviewed the show when it ran last December; read the review here. Appropriate for ages 6 and up, "Too Much Light Kids!" happens at 2:00 PM on Saturday afternoons through June 25 at the Neo-Futurarium. Admission: kids get in for $1-6 ($1 x the roll of a six-sided die), adults get in for $8-13 ($7 + the roll of a six-sided die). Group rates available; call (773) 878-4557 for details. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). General show details: (773) 275-5255.
Kendall College hosts the 'Belgian Beer Celebration: A Discovery of Food, Culture and Drink' on April 15-16, 2005. The event will feature more than 100 beers, representing a majority of the many brands in the Chicagoland market. There will also be a selection of Belgian specialty foods, information, displays, seminars and beer items.
On Saturday, April 16, from 12:30-5 PM there is an open public tasting along with seminars presented by brewery experts covering: the beer styles and regions of Belgium, an evaluation of how certain beers age and develop, and the cuisine and gastronomy of Belgium-food and beer pairings.
For more information, please contact either Richard Cooper, Project Manager: 773-330-9886 or the Office of Wallonia Trade: 312-357-0992.
Cartoonists Aline Kominsky-Crumb and Peter Popalski will be at the Rhona Hoffman Gallery this afternoon from 1:00 to 3:00, to promote Popalski's new book on Aline's husband R. Crumb (you might have heard of him). And after this event, the pair will be off to Quimby's at 7:00 PM, where they will be hosting an R. Crumb look-alike contest! (I'm assuming James Urbaniak is disqualified from participating.) The grand prize is a dream date with Aline herself. So drag out your straw boaters and coke-bottle glasses, guys, because you've got a shot at a date with Devil-Girl! Rhona Hoffman Gallery: 118 N. Peoria. (312) 455-1900. Quimby's: 1854 W. North. (773) 342-0910.
Grammar-philes unite! The University of Chicago is presenting "From Me to You: The Significance of the Second Person," a two-day conference exploring implications of second-person address through literature, law, philosophy and other disciplines. This is where you'll get to discuss the relationship between "you" and "me" (and maybe learn some new pickup lines). The conference is open to the public and will be held in the West Lounge of Ida Noyes Hall, 1212 E. 59th St. Check out the schedule here.
Mikey! Brand! Chunk! Mouth! Andy! Stef! Data! If you know who these people are, then you will be thrilled to learn that The Goonies is screening this weekend at the Music Box Theatre. The 1985 film shows tonight and tomorrow night at midnight, as well as Saturday and Sunday morning at 11:30 AM. Chunk, I hope that was your stomach! Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
Sweet Jebus Melbo, Chicago loves it some Dirty FOUND. Another party to celebrate the publication of the NSFW cousin of the more respectable FOUND magazine happens tonight at The Hideout. Admission is $10, which includes a copy of the magazine, and there's going to be loads of activities. Bring your #2 pencil, if you catch my meaning. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Larry O. Dean reads from his new book of poetry, I Am Spam at the Lincoln Lodge, 4008 N. Lincoln inside the Lincoln Restaurant. The reading starts at 9pm, but dining is available from the restaurant's full menu from 8pm on. Call 773-296-4029 for more information. Oh, and it's poetry inspired by the the email variety. Not the meat.
The Siskel Film Center presents the Chicago premiere of The Girl From Monday, Hal Hartley's newest film about space aliens, the corrupt government of New York, and women with amnesia. The film starts screening tonight and runs through April 21. Check the Film Center's Website for screening details. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Author and This American Life correspondent Sarah Vowell reads excerpts from her new book "Assassination Vacation" this evening at the Harold Washington Library auditorium. The event starts at 6:00, and is free. Harold Washington Library: 400 S. State. (312) 747-4080.
Kendall College hosts the 'Belgian Beer Celebration: A Discovery of Food, Culture and Drink' on April 15-16, 2005. The event will feature more than 100 beers, representing a majority of the many brands in the Chicagoland market. There will also be a selection of Belgian specialty foods, information, displays, seminars and beer items.
On Friday, April 15, there is a trade, media and professionals open tasting session from 1:30PM - 5:00 PM. Following this, a dinner at 6:30 PM, featuring Belgian beer cuisine, will be created by Kendall faculty and students in consultation with noted Belgian food and beverage personality, Herwig Van Hove. Mr. Van Hove will be present throughout the event and to autograph his book, 'Beer at the dinner table.' Tickets for the dinner are $70.00 per person, by reservation only.
For more information, please contact either Richard Cooper, Project Manager: 773-330-9886 or the Office of Wallonia Trade: 312-357-0992.
Grammar-philes unite! The University of Chicago is presenting "From Me to You: The Significance of the Second Person," a two-day conference exploring implications of second-person address through literature, law, philosophy and other disciplines. This is where you'll get to discuss the relationship between "you" and "me" (and maybe learn some new pickup lines). The conference is open to the public and will be held in the West Lounge of Ida Noyes Hall, 1212 E. 59th St. Check out the schedule here.
Stacey Ballis, author of the newly released Sleeping Over will appear at Borders, 150 N. State St., for a free reading, Q&A, and signing. The novel, which has been called "part Sex and the City, part Little Women," features five Chicago women in their thirties examining their romantic and platonic relationships. Go chick lit! The reading begins at 5pm. Call 312-606-0750 for more information.
Sara Vowell, author of Take the Cannoli and contributer to NPR, reads from her new book Assassination Vacation at Barbara's Bookstore, UIC. The book, which is part history, part cultural exploration, and mostly Vowell's pointed wit, focuses on "how American death has been manipulated by popular culture in all of its strange forms." The reading begins at 7:30pm, 1218 S. Halsted St. Call 312-413-2664 for more information.
Amy Krause Rosenthal reads from her latest book, Encyclopedia of an Ordinary Life, tonight at 7pm at Transitions Bookplace, 1000 W. North Ave. Joining her will be Terri Smith, Steve Delahoyde, Wendy McClure, Claire Zulkey and Tony Rogers. Free. More info here.
The non-profit film organization Split Pillow announces the launch of their Challenge 3.0, an event in which teams collaborate on three short films over the course of this weekend. A team will shoot a script written for them, write a script for another team, and edit the footage shot by yet another team. This year's launch is at Improv Kitchen, 3419 N. Clark St., and begins at 6pm. Registration at the door, with a $10 suggested donation. Prizes will be given in the Competitive category, judged by members of the film community such as Gen Art and the Illinois Film Office. Call 312-946-0938 for more information.
The Siskel Film Center presents a screening of the 2004 documentary Big City Dick, a profile of Seattle street musician Richard Peterson who has somehow been able to work with local groups Stone Temple Pilots and The Young Fresh Fellows, as well as hang out with actors Jeff Bridges and Edward Furlong. Fans of Outsider Music will definitely want to catch this screening. The movie screens tonight at 8:00 PM. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
GB staff member JMA will be in attendance.
Northwestern University is hosting a library book sale in the third floor Ver Steeg Faculty Lounge of the Main Library, 1970 Campus Drive. Hardcovers will go for $3, paperbacks for $2 and mass-markets for $.50. There will also be CDs, VHS tapes and records in addition to the thousand volumes of NU Press overstock. Today's hours are from 10am-4pm and the sale is open to the general public, with major discounts taken off of all books. More than 50%. I quiver at the thought. Call 847-491-2932 for more information.
Wesley Stace, aka John Wesley Harding, has embarked on his literary career with Misfortune, a novel that was spawned from one of his songs. The story follows a rescued baby boy who is raised as a girl by an English lord until puberty forces him to examine his identity. Stace appears at Barbara's Bookstore UIC, 1218 S. Halsted, for a 7:30pm reading. Call 312-413-2665 for more information.
Smart Bar continues its Tuesday night film screenings this week with a screening of the 2001 film Amelie at 8:15, and the 1998 film Run Lola Run at 10:15. Admission for the films is free. Smart Bar: 3730 N. Clark. (773) 549-4140.
As part of the Chicago Historical Society's program Power and Promise: Chicago's Mayors, former mayor Jane Byrne will be interviewed this evening by Tribune reporter Ellen Warren. The event starts at 7:00 PM, and tickets are $10. Chicago Historical Society: 1601 N. Clark. (312) 642-4600.
Northwestern University is hosting a library book sale in the third floor Ver Steeg Faculty Lounge of the Main Library, 1970 Campus Drive. Hardcovers will go for $3, paperbacks for $2 and mass-markets for $.50. There will also be CDs, VHS tapes and records in addition to the thousand volumes of NU Press overstock. Today's hours are from 10am-4pm and the sale is open to the general public, with an additional 50% taken off all books. You do realize how cheap that will be, right? Try to control yourselves. Call 847-491-2932 for more information.
The Chicago Humanities Festival presents Jeanette Winterson for a reading and discussion of her latest novel, Lighthousekeeping. The story is told through the eyes of an orphan who is taken in by an eccentric lighthouse keeper. The reading begins at 6pm at Northwestern University of Law, Thorne Auditorium, 375 E. Chicago Ave. Admission is free, but reservations are required. Call 312-494-9509.
The movie Stranger Than Fiction, directed by Marc Forster and starring Wil Ferrell, begins shooting in Chicago April 25, and they're holding an open casting call for paid extras at Smartbar, 3730 N. Clark, tonight from 8pm to 11pm. People with tattoos and piercings and of any ethnicity are encouraged to show up with a recent color photograph -- it doesn't have to be a professional headshot. You do have to be 21 or older, but it's otherwise free.
Tonight is the night when women all over the country will be making signs, yelling in unison, and finding strength in numbers fighting violence. Chicago NOW and Northwestern University are teaming up for a march through the Streeterville neighborhood. The march will begin assembling at 5:15 at the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 East Chicago Ave.) and after the march there will be a reception and coffee bar at the student lounge. The speakers are Sasha Walters, Director or Advocacy Services, Rape Victims Advocates; Christa Desir (survivor testimonial); Lynne Johnson, Chicago Foundation for Women, and students from Roberto Clemente High School will be singing. For more information about violence against women, visit Chicago NOW's website.
Professor Mylan Engel, Jr. speaks tonight on the right of animals to live and not be harmed and whether that is comparable to the same rights accorded to humans. Professor Engel, who is a specialist in epistemology, animal ethics, environmental ethics and the philosophy of religion, will take the audience on a tour of this debate and will discuss what moral obligations humans possess therein. Loyola University will host the talk at their Water Tower Campus, Rubloff Auditorium, 25 E. Pearson, from 7pm-8:15pm. A Q&A will last until 9pm. Admission is free and open to the public. Call 708-531-8910 for more info.
Northwestern University is hosting a library book sale in the third floor Ver Steeg Faculty Lounge of the Main Library, 1970 Campus Drive. Hardcovers will go for $3, paperbacks for $2 and mass-markets for $.50. There will also be CDs, VHS tapes and records in addition to the thousand volumes of NU Press overstock. Today's hours are from 10am-7pm and the sale is open to the general public. Call 847-491-2932 for more information.
The first meeting of the Gapers Block Book Club takes place tonight at The Book Cellar at 4736 N. Lincoln Ave. This month we will be discussing Joe Meno's Hairstyles of the Damned. The meeting begins at 7:30pm. If you are planning to attend, please RSVP to Alice Maggio at librarian[at]gapersblock.com. And, please join the book club email list for updates and important alerts about future meetings.
Beat your Mondays with fancy ladies half-naked and awesome music. Join Michelle L'Amour and her striptease partners in crime at the Funky Buddha Lounge for Striptease Open Mic. That's right! You can get on stage and shake your own ass. The winner gets a spot on a burlesque bill at Subterranean next month. Striptease Open Mic will begin at 10 p.m. and is located at 728 W. Grand in Chicago. The cover is just $5, and includes a vodka cocktail.
If you've ever thought, "Hey, I'd like to knit for twenty-four hours straight!" this may be your chance. Join the Chicago crafters as they embark on the Chicago Stitchfest 2005, an all day knitting spree benefitting the Chicago Rape Crisis Hotline. The fest began yesterday and will run until 5pm today. You don't have to be a knitter either -- whether you're a beader, a painter, a crocheter, or a beginner who's interested in becoming crafty, all are welcome to participate. The event is at Stone Soup Cooperative, 4637 N. Ashland Ave. You can register here, or e-mail tjagernauth[at]yahoo.com for more information.
Looking for something low-key to do this evening? Well, look no further. About Sounds and Subsystence bring local DJs Atomly, Ken Meier and Matt Hellige to Wicker Park's very own Subterranean for an evening of abstract electronic music. Despite the location, the night should be surprisingly devoid of jukebox rock and hipster disco. No, honestly. And best of all, it's free. Subterranean is located at 2011 W North Ave, right underneath the Damen Blue Line stop. 21 and up, $4 mixed drink specials, doors open at 9 PM. Hope to see you there!
The annual WLUW Record Fair happens today at the Pulaski Park Auditorium (1419 W. Blackhawk, close to the Ashland/Division/Milwaukee six corners). See the site for a full schedule. Hours today are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is $7, or $5 with a postcard or ad for the fair.
If you've ever thought, "Hey, I'd like to knit for twenty-four hours straight!" this may be your chance. Join the Chicago crafters as they embark on the Chicago Stitchfest 2005, an all day knitting spree benefitting the Chicago Rape Crisis Hotline. The fest will begin today at 5pm and will run until tomorrow at the same time. You don't have to be a knitter either -- whether you're a beader, a painter, a crocheter, or a beginner who's interested in becoming crafty, all are welcome to participate. The event will be at Stone Soup Cooperative, 4637 N. Ashland Ave. You can register here, or e-mail tjagernauth[at]yahoo.com for more information.
The Neo-Futurists present their latest prime-time show, Patriots. Patriotism is examined, and two specific examples are highlit: Walt Whitman and Strom Thurmond. What do they have in common? See the show and find out. Patriots runs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM through May 14 at the Neo-Futurarium. See the Neo-Futurist Website for ticket information and purchasing by Paypal. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Local pop sensation The Passerines have a show tonight at Buddy Gallery (1542 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Wicker Park) opening for Calvin Johnson of K Records. The show starts at 9 pm. Donation suggested.
In case you missed it on the last go-round, the Neo-Futurists are bringing back the family-friendly version of "Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind," called "Too Much Light Kids." The first show is today at 2pm, and will be held every Saturday at 2 through June 25th. Tickets for kids are $1 plus the roll of a six-sided die; parents are $7 plus the roll. For more info, check out Alejandra Valera's review of the show from back in December, or visit neofuturists.org.
Rock writer and historian Greil Marcus shows up at the Old Town School of Folk Music this afternoon to discuss Bob Dylan with a panel of local music luminaries: Jon Langford and Sally Timms of The Mekons; Greg Kot of the Chicago Tribune; singer/songwriter Elizabeth Elmore; and Old Town School teacher and musician John Mead. The discussion happens from 1:30 to 3:30 in the concert hall, and is free and open to the public. See the Old Town School site for full details. Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
The Banana King celebrates the release of its second issue with a reading at Quimby's Bookstore, 1854 W. North Ave. Readings include Emerson Dameron, Taryn Rejholec and the zine's editor A.B. Drea. The 8pm reading is free and open to the public.
The Chicago Humanities Festival and the Canadian Consulate General in Chicago present Miriam Toews for the "Books and Brunch" series. The series offers intimate, in-person author discussions with Canadian literary talent. Today's event lasts from 10am-12pm at the Chicago Athletic Association, 12 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets range from $15-$50 and can be obtained by calling 312-661-1028x22 or by emailing greg[at]chfestival.org.
The annual WLUW Record Fair happens today and tomorrow at the Pulaski Park Auditorium (1419 W. Blackhawk, close to the Ashland/Division/Milwaukee six corners). Not only will there be loads of record and craft sellers there, but today Diatribe Media will be hosting a series of self-publishing workshops, from promotion to freelancing to zine readings. See the site for a full schedule. The record fair happens today from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and tomorrow from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is $7, or $5 with a postcard or ad for the fair. And if you show up this morning between 8:00 and 10:00, $20 gets you in the door for both days.
4Art Gallery is hosting the selected works of twenty-one Chicago Public Schools 2005 Portfolio Scholarship winners. The exhibition, which is organized by the Bureau of Cultural Arts, celebrates talent in the visual arts in CPS high school students. Tonight's reception will last from 4pm-10pm with the show running through April 30. Get yourself to 1932 S. Halsted #100, or call 312-850-1816 for more info.
Sonotheque presents an evening of DJ sets by the editors of Fader Magazine and Pitchfork Media. Proceeds go to help out musician Dax Pierson, who was critically injured in a car accident in February. Tickets are $10, doors open at 9:00, show starts at 10:00. Sonotheque: 1444 W. Chicago. (312) 226-7600.
The Neo-Futurists present a preview of their latest prime-time show, Patriots. The show's site says that Patriots "explores the concept of Patriotism by looking at the lives of two very different figures in American history: Walt Whitman and Strom Thurmond." The previews tonight is at 8:00 PM, and the show opens for real on Saturday April 9th. See the Neo-Futurist Website for ticket information and purchasing by Paypal. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Back by popular demand, the Siskel Film Center presents a weeklong screening of Richard Linklater's films Before Sunrise and Before Sunset. Yes, you do need to buy separate tickets for both movies, but if you buy tickets for both you'll get a reduced rate. See the Film Center's site for showtimes and ticket prices. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.
Rotofugi, a toy store specializing in urban vinyl, mini, and plush toys, offers Plushtastrophe: The Art of Plush -- Round 4. The event showcases 100 plush creations from a variety of artists. Tonight's opening reception lasts from 7pm-11pm, 1953 W. Chicago Ave., with drinks on the house and DJ Clayton rocking the beats. Call 312-491-9501 for more information.
Northwestern University is hosting a library book sale in the third floor Ver Steeg Faculty Lounge of the Main Library, 1970 Campus Drive. Hardcovers will go for $3, paperbacks for $2 and mass-markets for $.50. There will also be CDs, VHS tapes and records in addition to the thousand volumes of NU Press overstock. Today's hours are from 10am-4pm and the sale is open only to Northwestern students, faculty, staff and alumni; a valid ID is necessary for entry. Call 847-491-2932 for more information.
The 21st annual Chicago Latino Film Festival starts tonight and runs through April 20th. A number of Latino films will be shown at various venues around the city. See the festival's site for a complete schedule and list of venues.
Getting ready to graduate from college? Looking to transition into a different job? Maybe this will help. Come to Roosevelt University (430 S. Michigan Ave, Congress Lounge, 2nd Floor) today from 1-5 and meet with more than 15 organizations in the Chicago area. Find out what you can do with that Women's Studies degree from 1-2 pm, find out about how to get an internship, applying for graduate school, or get some interview skills from 2-4 pm, and attend the networking session for women's and gender studies activists at 3:15. To get more info, and to RSVP (the event is free) send an email to WGS_InternshipFiar@hotmail.com.
Shelly Young from The Chopping Block will appear at Scents and Sensibility for a meet and greet and wine tasting. Scents and Sensibility, a Jane Austen inspired boutique, is located at 4654 N. Rockwell; call 773-267-3838 for more information.
The Neo-Futurists present a preview of their latest prime-time show, Patriots. The show's site says that Patriots "explores the concept of Patriotism by looking at the lives of two very different figures in American history: Walt Whitman and Strom Thurmond." Previews are tonight and tomorrow night at 8:00 PM, and the show opens for real on Saturday April 9th. See the Neo-Futurist Website for ticket information and purchasing by Paypal. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 275-5255.
Journalist Sam Weller reads from his new book The Bradbury Chronicles, the first authorized biography of Ray Bradbury, tonight at 8:00 PM at Sonotheque (1444 W. Chicago). DJ Sean Hernandez will provide the soundtrack, and Barbara's Bookstore will be selling the book. Doors open at 7:00, and the event is free.
Gen Art presents an advance screening of Winter Solstice, starring Anthony LaPaglia, Allison Janney and Ron Livingston. The 7pm show will be at Loews 600 N. Michigan. Tickets are complimentary for members, $15 for non-members and can be obtained online or by calling 312-299-1701. The screening will be followed by an after party, 9pm-11pm, at The Motel Bar, 600 W. Chicago Ave.
Spring Formal is a group show for artists Kayde Anobile, Lisa Caplan, Daylene Christensen, Christa Holka, Lia Koo, Morrison Lyman, Alex Mcquilkin, Liz Nielsen, Danielle Paz and Tsurechka at Highschool Space, 1542 N. Milwaukee, tonight from 8pm to midnight. To further your pleasure, Bellafea, Blueberry and DJ QBOT perform. $5 donation gets you in the door. More info here.
Alt-Country rockers Jesse Sykes & The Sweet Hereafter play tonight at Schubas. From Schubas: "In 1998 Singer/songwriter Jesse Sykes met guitarist Phil Wandscher (original guitarist of Whiskeytown) at Hattie's Hat bar in Seattle. Soon after they began their musical journey performing as a duo, until they got the attention of violinist Anne Marie Ruljancich. Ruljancich was most known for her session work with various bands the latest being her work on the Shins' "Chutes Too Narrow". Shortly after upright bass player Bill Herzog and drummer Kevin Warner joined the group, creating the haunting Americana and beyond sounds of Jesse Sykes and the Sweet Hereafter." Bloodthirsty Lovers open. (How cool sounding is that?) Doors at 9pm, $10 (cheap!).
Andrew Winston, author of Looped, reads from the book at the Uptown Borders, 4718 N. Broadway, tonight at 7:30pm. Free; call 773/334-7338 for more info.
Chicago Symphony Orchestra violinist Fred Spector joins the Newberry Library's Wednesday Club for "Freddy's Fiddles and Things: Treasures from the Fred Spector Collection." Spector will share a lifetime of collecting violins and violin-related antiques, including such oddities as a mute that once belonged to Mozart. Tickets for the 5:30pm event are $12 and include refreshments. The Newberry Library is at 60 W. Walton St. Call 312-255-3510 to register or do it here.
Elizabeth Crane makes a stop at Barbara's Bookstore Oak Park, 1100 Lake St., to read from her new book All This Heavenly Glory. The story follows a woman from junior-high through adulthood, telling of all the relationship disasters, abuse, career choices and parental woes that occur along the way. The reading begins at 7:30pm. Call 708-848-9140 for more information.
Stacey Ballis, author of the newly released Sleeping Over will appear at Barnes and Noble, 1441 W. Webster, for a free reading, Q&A, and signing. The novel, which has been called "part Sex and the City, part Little Women," features five Chicago women in their thirties examining their romantic and platonic relationships. Go chick lit! The reading begins at 7pm. Call 773-871-3610 for more information.
Bob Dylan's in town! If you get a chance, check out Dylan with Merle Haggard at the Auditorium Theatre April 1-5th. Tickets range from $30-$70, but can be had cheaper on craigslist.
A memorial for Robert Creeley (1926-2005), Beat poet and educator will take place from 7pm-8pm, tonight at Danny’s Tavern, located at 1951 W. Dickens in Bucktown. The program will serve to memorialize and celebrate the work and life of one of this century’s most innovative and influential poets with brief talks and readings of Creeley’s work by Ray Bianchi, Bob Von Hallberg, Margaret Sloan, Kerri Sonnenberg, Jesse Seldess and John Tipton. Read about Creeley at Conjunctions, MetaFilter, and here.
Hot on the heels of Flirting for Nerds, Early to Bed, 5232 N. Sheridan Rd, presents Everything but the Kitchen Sink. This time, the erotic shop offers budget-conscious ways to enhance your romance. The 7:30pm workshop costs $10. You can call to reserve a space, but walk-ins are also welcome. 773-271-1219. Must be over 18.
As part of the Chicago Humanities Festival, Andrea Levy appears today at the Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton St., to read from and discuss her new novel Small Island. The book has been awarded the Orange Prize and the Whitbread Book of the Year and follows the story of a Jamaican couple's relationship with the white British family with whom they share a home. The 6pm reading will be followed by a signing. Admission is free, but reservations are required. Call the CHF ticket office at 312-494-9509.
On Tuesday, April 5th, Interrupt Media Group and Subsystence present the next installment of their monthly INFLUENCE night at Sonotheque, this time with a focus on the local art and design community. Cody Hudson, Ray Noland, Chris Silva, and Juan Chavez will DJ after an informal preshow discussion about the state of the Chicago creative scene. Panelists will include Jim Coudal, Brian Ulrich, Michael Coleman, Elizabeth Cline, and GB's very own Naz Hamid and Andrew Huff. Sonotheque is located at 1444 W Chicago Ave, a few blocks east of Ashland. This event is free of charge, but only open to those 21 and up. For more information, or to download a copy of the poster, visit the INFLUENCE website.
GB staff members KM, AH, NH, and JD will be in attendance.
Ben Lee and Har Mar Superstar play at the Bottom Lounge tonight at 7:00. Many messenger bags and ironic T-shirts will be seen. Tickets available at the Bottom Lounge site. Tickets are $12, and the show is 18+. Bottom Lounge: 3206 N. Wilton (near Belmont). (773) 975-0505.
Bob Dylan's in town! If you get a chance, check out Dylan with Merle Haggard at the Auditorium Theatre April 1-5th. Tickets range from $30-$70, but can be had cheaper on craigslist.
Chicago Public Radio's Stories on Stage presents a reading of Stuart Dybek's "Orchids," a short story from his novel I Sailed with Magellan. Three actors -- Joe Dempsey, Rob Riley and Judy blue -- will read the complete story, expected to last two and a half hours, including intermission. From the press release: "Set in Chicago's south side during the Cold War, 'Orchids' is the story of two boyhood friends Perry and Stosh, whose get-rich scheme to finance an adventure trip to get to Mexico goes awry." Tickets for the 3pm event, at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., are $14 for CPR and MCA members, $17 for non-members. Purchase them online or call 312-397-4010.
The man behind the car is dead, but the indy band with a (kinda) similar name is here in town! Check out Dolorean at Schubas tonight. From Schubas: "What started as a solo folk performance at The Jasmine Tree Chinese Restaurant in 1999, became a collaboration of friends and musicians performing the songs of Al James as Dolorean. The exciting dynamic created was stripped down folk songs as personal and strong as those written years ago. Dolorean's latest album, 'Violence in the Snowy Fields', holds songs that hold raw emotion and enchantment." Michael Cane and Jeff Hanson also perform. $8, doors at 9pm.
Bob Dylan's in town! If you get a chance, check out Dylan with Merle Haggard at the Auditorium Theatre April 1-5th. Tickets range from $30-$70, but can be had cheaper on craigslist.
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents the latest in a series of workshops designed to give students a two-hour introduction to a musical style or dance method. This afternoon, it's the return of the highly popular Turntablist workshop, taught by Danny the Wild Child, a battle DJ who has performed with DJ Qbert. There will be a lecture portion, after which you'll get to work on basic techniques on the wheels of steel. Bring a notebook and a tape recorder. The workshop costs $30, and will probably fill up quickly, so sign up now! Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.
Update: this class is full. See Slowdown for May 15 for another class.
Boo! The Chicago Horror Film Festival creeps into the 3 Penny Cinema winds up today. 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 11pm, the line-up is Broadcast 23, Lightfoot, Peephole, The Key, Midnight Confession, Futile, Hollow, Juliet, Clearance, We All Fall Down and Graves End. See the website for a full schedule and to purchase tickets.
The LaSalle Bank Shamrock Shuffle is set to take place Sunday, April 3, 2005 in Grant Park. More than 20,000 Chicagoans and several world-class athletes will compete for bragging rights in this favorite spring running tradition which kicks off the running season into high gear. Registration is available until the 22nd of March for $37. Other fees and costs include a 5K Fitness Walk for $20 and the Quarter-Mile Kids Shuffle for $10. Pre-race weekend registration for all events is available online and will completely close at midnight on March 22nd, and there will be no weekend or race day registration available for the 8K race and 5K walk. The 8K race starts at 9:30am followed by the 5K walk at 10am and the kids’ race at 11am. All events start and finish in Grant Park.
The School of the Art Institute's 2005 Undergraduate Exhibition Opening Reception takes place tonight from 5pm to 8pm at the school's G2 gallery at 847 W. Jackson. It's free, and you better get there early, because it's hard to make it through three warehouse floors of amazing work by more than 280 young artists in that little time.
Glorious Noise presents a CD release party for the latest release on Glorious Noise Records: "At the End of the American Century" by Riviera. Opening for Riviera will be Quasar Wut-Wut (also on Glorious Noise Records) and Paper Airplane Pilots. The show starts tonight at 10:00 at Schubas; tickets can be purchased in advance at the Schubas site. If you want to hear the Riviera CD before the show, it's streaming live at the Glorious Noise site. Rock! Schubas: 3159 N. Southport. (773) 525-2508.
Eagles of Death Metal, a side project by Queens of the Stone Age frontman Josh Homme, hit the stage at the Bottom Lounge tonight. Opening acts are Suffrajett and The Sleepers. Doortime is 10:00 PM, tickets are $10 (available for purchase at the Bottom Lounge site), and the show is 18+. Bottom Lounge: 3206 N. Wilton (near Belmont). (773) 975-0505.
The Chicago Force is ready to make their 3rd season a winner, just like their previous two. If you wanna see a winning sports team in Chicago, head down to St. Rita's High School (79th and Western) today at 3pm. After the game you can head over to Hedgehogs (6915 Pershing Road, Stickney, Il) for a beer or glass of white wine with the team. If you can't make it to the game, you'll be able to get a webcast of the game at 7:30.
Cinnamon Cooper, GB staff member, will attend.
Boo! The Chicago Horror Film Festival creeps into the 3 Penny Cinema. 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 10pm to 2am, the line-up is An Evening With Ivan Gorsky, The Suffering: Static, Gay by Dawn, Fear of Clowns and Night Fangs. The festival runs through April 3rd; see the website for a full schedule and to purchase tickets.
More than 80 exhibitors, as well as workshops and seminars addressing the living and work space needs of artists and arts organizations, will be presented at the second annual Chicago Artists Space and Housing Expo. Co-sponsored by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and the Department of Housing, the expo will offer comprehensive information on topics such as home ownership, affordable housing, studio safety, investment property, health insurance, rehearsal and shared space, city codes and services and much more. This year’s expanded expo will offer information on buying tax delinquent properties, green design and more information on health insurance and City space initiatives for artists. Exhibitors and presenters will be drawn from art service organizations; government housing agencies; local community housing and housing counseling organizations; major banks and lending institutions; Chicago Association of Realtors and individual brokers who specialize in artists space; developers, construction firms and other companies that specialize in housing-related goods and services. A special category of exhibitors, Neighborhoods Seeking Artists, will showcase opportunities around the city. The expo takes place on Saturday, April 2; 10am - 4pm at various Locations at the Chicago Cultural Center at 78 E. Washington St., Chicago. Admission is free.
Inter-American Magnet School, 919 W. Barry, hosts Noche Cultural, an evening of music, dance performances, food and children's art activities to celebrate Latin American cultural heritage. The event will also serve to raise funds for Inter-American public elementary school. Performances will include music from the Afro-Caribbean Jarocho ensemble Tarima Son and dance from Tierra Colombiana Dance Company. Tickets will be sold at the door: $5 for adults, $2 for children, and free for children under five. 6pm-8:30pm. Contact Glynnis Lessing, Entertainment Chairperson, 773-755-4460 for additional information.
The 3rd annual Chicago International Documentary Film Festival starts tonight. The festival devoted exclusively to documentaries runs for 10 days at various film venues throughout the city. Tonight's opening ceremonies are at Doc Films (an opening night reception with the film The Real Dirt on Farmer John), the Gallery Theatre (a panel discussion on "teaching documentary;" not sure if that's teaching students about documentary films or how to make them), and the Block Cinema (the film This Ain't No Heartland will be screened). There's a lot of screenings happening, so check out their Website for a full schedule and information on how to get tickets.
Heaven Gallery, 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave. 2nd Flr., hosts Lumpenthology, "the first annual celebration of artists whose work is featured in Lumpen magazine." The theme of the show is intervention, graphic activism, and subversive communications. Work by Melina Ausikaitis, Adam Berninger (The Heft Trade), Ethos, Silas Dilworth, Justin Fines (DEMO), Michael Freimuth, Wyeth Hansen, Joe Marianek, Anne Elizabeth Moore, Aaron Pedersen (C2AK), Alex Rearic (C2AK), Mike Renaud, Daniela Rosner, Kayo Takasugi, Jane Verwys, Chris May & David Weik (Souvenir) and Ryan Waller & Harsh Patel (ThingMaking) will be on display. Copies of the freshly minted Lumpen issue #95 and "other fine goodies" will be handed out to attendees. (This is free, as far as we can tell.)
The exhibition is concurrent with a special Lumpenthology-buddY performance zone. Small Bathroom Fire, Safety Pin, Rotten Milk and DJs Logan Bay and Elisa Harkins perform. Beverages and apps will be provided. Your $10 donation goes towards funding the Version>05 Festival.
Boo! The Chicago Horror Film Festival creeps into the 3 Penny Cinema for the next four 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 10pm to 2am, the line-up is Marburg, Detained, Something Waits, S.O.S., The Box, Herbie!, Human No More, Whatever Happened to the Zombie Killers and Zombie Honeymoon. The festival runs through April 3rd; see the website for a full schedule and to purchase tickets.
The Dollar Store Reading Series returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, for another round of stories (and more?) about items found at a dollar store. This month, writer/kingmaker Pete Coco, photographer Nathan Keay and bearded
comedian John Pattavina will join co-hosts Jonathan Messinger and Sean Gardner for some cheap, low-brow literary hi-jinx. 7pm, 21 and over, $1 donation gets you in.
