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TODAY

Friday, March 29

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Slowdown

May 2005

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Jeff Libman @ Women and Children First

Local author Jeff Libman will appear at Women and Children First to read from his book An Immigrant Class: Oral Histories from Chicago's Newest Immigrants. There is a suggested donation of $10 for the 7:30pm reading, with all proceeds benefitting Literacy Works, a non-profit organization supporting Chicago literacy programs. Women and Children First is at 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-369-9299 for more information.

2005 Pritzker Architecture Prize Ceremony

Chicagoans and visitors alike are invited to Millennium Park to join in the celebration and awarding of the 2005 Pritzker Architecture Prize. This is the first year that the public has been invited to take part in the ceremony, which will feature an award presentation by Thomas Pritzker and an acceptance speech Thom Mayne, this year's Laureate. Special guests include Frank Gehry, Renzo Piano and Ada Louise Huxtable. The ceremony will take place at 6:30pm in the Park's Jay Pritzker Pavilion. For more information call 312-742-1168.

Art Institute Groundbreaking Ceremony

Join the Art Instutite today as they celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Renzo Piano wing. Beginning at 8:30am, there will be performances in the North Garden, followed by a viewing of Mr. Piano's exhibition, Zero Gravity, at the top of the Grand Staircase. Throughout the day there will be lectures and gallery talks on modern art and architecture. It's shaping up to be a busy day for what will surely be remembered as an historical event.

4th Annual Lakeshore Marathon

All runner-, walker- and jogger-types and people who want to volunteer to help those types, sign up to participate in the 4th Annual Lakeshore Marathon. The lakeside run starts and finishes just south of McCormick Place Lakeside Center, in the wee hours of the morning. Registration is required, with $80 the going price for the full-marathon and $50 for the half-marathon if you register by May 21st. After that, registration will be $95 and $65, respectively. Call 773-765-9030 and ask for Mark Cihlar for more information, or email info[at]lakeshoremarathon[dot]com.

Bike the Drive!

Chicagoland Bicycle Federation's annual benefit, Bike the Drive, will take place bright and early this morning. Lake Shore Drive will be car-free from 5:30-10am, meaning you can see what that morning commute would be like without the traffic, all while getting a good work-out and supporting CBF's efforts to make the city more bike-friendly. There are 15 and 30 mile rides, or you can select your own distance. This event is especially good for families, as the participation fee for children under 13 is only $5. Pre-registration is required, and more details can be found at bikethedrive.org. You can also call 312-427-3325. A post-ride festival will take place in Grant Park, where you can get information about cycling, health, and safety, or just chow down on some pancakes and sausage.

PURPLEFUNK Festival

Just how big of a Prince fan are you? Are you ready for two days of Prince convention? Well, ready or not, here it comes: The PURPLEFUNK Festival hits the Crown Plaza Hotel O'Hare, 5440 N. River Rd. in Rosemont, this Saturday and Sunday.

"2 Dayz of Wild Fashion show, Games & Prizes, including a Limo Ride givaway, Big Screen concert and music videos, Christopher Traci Solo Piano Performance, NPD DJ Juan "Tor're" De La Sanz Spinning ur favorite Prince Jams, Late Night Dancing, Special Prince Drinks The Purple Revolution Prince Tribute Band! Memorabillia Show (Buy Sell Trade) A special appearance and performance by former member of NPG (now gone solo), KIP BLACKSHIRE, also look for special performances by BET Celebrity Comedians and more!!!"

Tickets range from $15 for Sunday only to $35 for both days. More information is available here, or by emailing purplefunkfest<at>yahoo<dot>com.

"Big Love" Opening

Charles Mee's "Big Love" opens tonight with Experimental Theatre Chicago at Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division. The play is "a re-imagining of Aeschylus' 'The Suppliant Women,'" with fifty sisters scheming to break free of their arranged marriages. It is "a contemporary tale linking modern and ancient ideas about love, marriage and the differences between men and women." This evening's opening begins at 4pm and tickets are $30 -- this includes the post-show reception with a traditional Italian-American dinner. Call the box office at 312-388-7660 or email etchicago[at]hotmail.com.

Nightclubbing: Greatest Hits @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Nightclubbing: Greatest Hits, a 60-minute documentary taken from the "Nightclubbing" New York cable TV show of the 1970s, containing the best footage from the "Nightclubbing" programs that have been shown all this past month. Expect to see Blondie, Talking Heads, the Dead Kennedys, DNA, Iggy Pop, The Cramps, Pylon, and many more. The doc is preceded by excerpts from the film Looking For A Thrill, produced by local label Thrill Jockey. Ths event is part of a month-long program of excerpts from Nightclubbing, and is part of the Film Center's Music Movies series. The directors of "Nightclubbing", Pat Ivers and Emily Armstrong, will be attending tonight's screening. The film screens tonight at 7:45 PM, and also Thursday, June 2nd at 8:30 PM. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Jim and Jennie Record Release Show

Bloodshot artists Jim and Jennie are playing a record release show for their new album, Rivers Roll On By, at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western, this afternoon. The show is at 4pm "so you'll have plenty of time to digest from your afternoon BBQ before heading out later in the night to do some heavy drinking."

Up Our Sleeve @ Open End

The folks at Dublab have put together a show based on the work of over 500 artists who've created album covers for records that, well, don't really exist. Entitled Up Our Sleeve, this unique show has already been to the coasts, Europe, and the Far East, and will end here at Chicago's very own Open End Gallery. Be sure to check it out soon, though — it's only around from Friday 'til Sunday.

Chicago Antique Market

Today is the first Chicago Antique Market of the year. Held from 8am to 4pm on the last Sunday of the month on Randolph St. between Ada and Ogden, it's the perfect way to spend an afternoon entertaining your parents this Memorial Day weekend. Admission is $8, children under 12 free.

PURPLEFUNK Festival

Just how big of a Prince fan are you? Are you ready for two days of Prince convention? Well, ready or not, here it comes: The PURPLEFUNK Festival hits the Crown Plaza Hotel O'Hare, 5440 N. River Rd. in Rosemont, this Saturday and Sunday.

"2 Dayz of Wild Fashion show, Games & Prizes, including a Limo Ride givaway, Big Screen concert and music videos, Christopher Traci Solo Piano Performance, NPD DJ Juan "Tor're" De La Sanz Spinning ur favorite Prince Jams, Late Night Dancing, Special Prince Drinks The Purple Revolution Prince Tribute Band! Memorabillia Show (Buy Sell Trade) A special appearance and performance by former member of NPG (now gone solo), KIP BLACKSHIRE, also look for special performances by BET Celebrity Comedians and more!!!"

Tickets range from $15 for Sunday only to $35 for both days. More information is available here, or by emailing purplefunkfest<at>yahoo<dot>com.

Toy Design and the Toy Industry

Today at Mess Hall, from 2-4pm, toy designer Suzy Y. Chang will discuss all aspects of toy design, from the moment the designer has an idea to the moment of production. Learn how toys become mass manufactured, marketed, packaged and consumed in the "huge industry which produces the mainstream cultural environment of our children." Chang herself has worked on such well-known toys as Hot Wheels, Barbie and Sesame Street. (Due to other committments, David Gutterman and Andrew Sineni will not be able to participate in the discussion.) Mess Hall is located at 6932 N. Glenwood. Call 773-465-4033 or email messhall8[at]yahoo[dot]com for more information.

Sleepwalk Magazine Release Party

Sleepwalk Magazine is celebrating the release of their new issue with a party at the Hideout with a slew of cool readings and music from Watchers. Among the names to appear: John McNally, Joe Meno, Elizabeth Crane and Jonathan Messinger. The Hideout is located at 1354 W. Wabansia; 9pm.

Too Much Light Kids!

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.

Dark Alternative Dance Night

Nocturna presents Dark Alternative Dance Night with DJ Scary Lady Sarah at the Bottom Lounge, 3206 N. Wilton. The party lasts from 9pm-3am, with cover charges at $6 for 21+ and $8 for ages 18-20. There will be CD promos and giveaways, too, so go and get your goth/darkwave/death rock/dark indie groove on.

Up Our Sleeve @ Open End

The folks at Dublab have put together a show based on the work of over 500 artists who've created album covers for records that, well, don't really exist. Entitled Up Our Sleeve, this unique show has already been to the coasts, Europe, and the Far East, and will end here at Chicago's very own Open End Gallery. Be sure to check it out soon, though — it's only around from Friday 'til Sunday.

Up Our Sleeve @ Open End

The folks at Dublab have put together a show based on the work of over 500 artists who've created album covers for records that, well, don't really exist. Entitled Up Our Sleeve, this unique show has already been to the coasts, Europe, and the Far East, and will end here at Chicago's very own Open End Gallery. Be sure to check it out soon, though — it's only around from Friday 'til Sunday.

Chinese dinosaurs @ Field Museum

The Field Museum opens a temporary exhibit today, Dinosaur Dynasty: Discoveries from China. Among the animals on display will be Mamenchisaurus (the longest-necked animal that ever lived) and Caudipteryx (a feathered dinosaur). Plus, you'll be able to touch a real dinosaur leg bone! Can't pass that up! The exhibit runs through April 23 of next year. See the Field Museum Website for full details on the exhibit and ticket information. The Field Museum: 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive. (312) 922-9410.

"Him" Opening

"Him," a play written by e.e. cummings, opens tonight at the Viaduct Theater. The play incorporates a series of vaudeville skits and circus acts and centers on two characters, Him and Me, a playwright and his girlfriend, respectively. The opening show is at 8pm, at 3111 N. Western Ave. Call 773-296-6024 to purchase tickets.

The History of the Flaming Lips

She might not use jelly, but she'll definitely want to see the Chicago premiere of The Fearless Freaks, a documentary tracking the Flaming Lips from their art school origins to Yoshimi and her battles against the Pink Robots. The film will be screened tonight at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N Noble St. You can watch a trailer and/or buy tickets at the site. According to flavorpill, "if the 7pm showing sells out, a 9pm show will be added." Be there or be square.

Nightclubbing: Danceteria Video Lounge @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Nightclubbing: Danceteria Video Lounge, a 60-minute documentary taken from the "Nightclubbing" New York cable TV show of the 1970s, containing performance footage from the New Wave club and video lounge. Performances by the Go-Go's, Suicide, Kid Creole and the Coconuts, Pylon, the Feelies, Human Sexual Response, and more more more! The doc is preceded by excerpts from the film Looking For A Thrill, produced by local label Thrill Jockey. Ths event is part of a month-long program of excerpts from Nightclubbing, and is part of the Film Center's Music Movies series. The film screens tonight at 8:30 PM. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Sketchbook 5 Launch Party

Sketchbook 5 is celebrating the commencement of this year's festival with a launch party at Four, 1551 W. Division, 9-11pm. Music by DJ Joe Vor-tech and special Sketchbook artists, with a sampling of the festival's artists, musicians, actors and writers set to perform. The $10 cover includes free drinks. Sketchbook 5 opens June 14 and 15 at the Chopin Theatre.

Out of the Vault Film Festival

Fans of the cinema will be interested in the upcoming Out of the Vault Festival next week, put on by the new Chicago Film Archive. The festival (and the organization) features educational, industrial and experimental films made in the Midwest. The festival runs through today in the Chicago Cultural Center's Cassidy Theater,
77 E. Randolph, with showings at 7pm and 8:45pm each night. Tonight's line-up includes Carniverous Plants, Elsa and Her Cubs, Secrets of the Underwater World and Boabab: Portrait of a Tree at 7, Sad Song of Yellow Skin at 8:45. Free. More information available here

AHS -- For the Youth, For the Future

The Asian Human Services Associate Board, in conjunction with the NAAP-Chicago, is hosing a fundraising for the AHS's youth programs. The AHS and the affliated Passages Charter School work to serve low-income children from Chicago's immigrant and refugee communities. The fundraiser will be held at the Aria Restaurant & Bar in the Fairmont Hotel, 200 N. Columbus Dr., from 6-9pm. A $10 donation is requested. For more information email Deepak Sevak at dssevak[at]gmail[dot]com.

20% Chicago Fundraiser @ T's

Chicago's 20% Theatre Company is hosting its "A Mother's Guide to Social Drinking" fundraising event at 7pm tonight at T's (at Clark and Winnemac). 20% promotes women in traditionally male-dominated offstage theater roles such as writing, direction and technical work. (An estimated 20% of participants in these roles are women... Hence: "20% Theatre Company." Clever, eh?) There's no cover for this worthy event; a portion of alcohol sales goes to 20%--so come on in and drink up! 21+.

John McNally @ Columbia College Bookstore

John McNally, author of The Book of Ralph, stops by the Columbia College Bookstore for a signing. The novel focuses on suburban Chicago in the 1970s and the misadventures of two boys on the verge of adolescence. Come by the Torco Building, 624 S. Michigan Ave., from 12-2pm to get your copy signed. Call 312-427-4860 for more information.

AfroFolk @ Old Town School of Folk Music

AfroFolk Live, celebrating the music and culture of the African Diaspora, is making weekly visits to the Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. The concerts are free, but a donation of $5 is encouraged for the 8:30-10:30pm shows. AfroFolk will showcase contemporary and historic African traditions including music, dance, theater, poetry, storytelling and religion. Tonight's concert, "International Tap Dance Day," celebrates Bill "Bo Jangles" Robinson's dance legacy with dance and music performances. M.A.D.D. Rhythms will host the evening of traditional and modern tap dance. Call 773-728-6000 for more information.

Out of the Vault Film Festival

Fans of the cinema will be interested in the upcoming Out of the Vault Festival next week, put on by the new Chicago Film Archive. The festival (and the organization) features educational, industrial and experimental films made in the Midwest. The festival runs through tomorrow in the Chicago Cultural Center's Cassidy Theater,
77 E. Randolph, with showings at 7pm and 8:45pm each night. Tonight's line-up includes Game, The Badge and the Bottle and Chuck Hansen -- One Guy at 7, I Was a Ninety Pound Weakling, The Runner, Contouring Your Figure and Ski the Outer Limits at 8:45. Free. More information available here

Vocal Journeys: Ian Greenlaw and Alan Darling

Tonight, baritone Ian Greelaw and pianist Alan Darling perform in the Preston Bradley Hall of the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St. The performance is part of Vocal Journeys, a free monthly series presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs featuring vocalists from the classical tradition. For more information call 312-744-6630. The performance begins at 6pm.

Challenging the Misconceptions of Prostitution

Today at noon, at the University of Chicago, in the School of Social Service Administration Building at 969 E. 60th Street, Room: WIII, join other interested folks for a forum on "Challenging the Misconceptions of Prostitution". From the session leaders: "Women in prostitution face endemic amounts of violence, abuse and rape, yet society tends to blame these women for what happens to them. Consequently, limited attention has been paid to securing resources for women in prostitution and implementing initiatives to curb demand for the sex trade. This presentation will focus on the different misconceptions surrounding the sex trade, will discuss how Chicago is responding to issues of prostitution, and will recommend steps to both reduce demand and offer holistic supportive services to help women exit prostitution." For more information, please contact Meghan Foster at: meghanfoster{at}gmail.com or Rachel Durchslag at rdurchslag{at}gmail.com.

Out of the Vault Film Festival

Fans of the cinema will be interested in the upcoming Out of the Vault Festival next week, put on by the new Chicago Film Archive. The festival (and the organization) features educational, industrial and experimental films made in the Midwest. The festival runs today through the 26th in the Chicago Cultural Center's Cassidy Theater,
77 E. Randolph, with showings at 7pm and 8:45pm each night. Tonight's line-up includes Ballet Robotique, The Detached Americans and Future Shock at 7, The Anderson Platoon at 8:45. Free. More information available here

Women's Theatre Alliance Open House

The Women's Theatre Alliance of Chicago offers an open house at Soliloquy Bookstore, 1724 W. Belmont. From 5:30-7:30pm find out what the Alliance is all about, how you can be involved with their cause and feel free to network by distributing your resume and headshot. The open house is free and open to both members and non-members.

Leon Despres @ Hyde Park Art Center

Leon Despres will make a stop at the Hyde Park Art Center to celebrate the release of his autobiography Challenging the Daley Machine: A Chicago Alderman's Memoir. The free book signing is at 5307 S. Hyde Park Blvd., from 1-3pm. Call 773-324-5520 for more information.

Heroes of Wicker Park

Enjoy the warming weather and come see Heroes of Wicker Park, a free art event taking place in, you guessed it, Wicker Park. There will be puppetry, music and art to be taken in throughout the afternoon. When a large-scale mastodon puppet enters the park at 7pm, you'll know that the evening's performance is about to begin. Located at 1425 N. Damen Ave., this celebration is hosted by Manifest Theater. Call 773-297-2122 for more information.

Nightclubbing: Danceteria Video Lounge @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Nightclubbing: Danceteria Video Lounge, a 60-minute documentary taken from the "Nightclubbing" New York cable TV show of the 1970s, containing performance footage from the New Wave club and video lounge. Performances by the Go-Go's, Suicide, Kid Creole and the Coconuts, Pylon, the Feelies, Human Sexual Response, and more more more! The doc is preceded by excerpts from the film Looking For A Thrill, produced by local label Thrill Jockey. Ths event is part of a month-long program of excerpts from Nightclubbing, and is part of the Film Center's Music Movies series. The film screens tonight at 5:15 PM, and also Thursday, May 26th at 8:30 PM. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Medium Cool @ Music Box

In honor of the new documentary on legendary cinematographer Haskell Wexler (Tell Them Who You Are, directed by his son Mark), the Music Box Theatre is screening Wexler's 1968 classic film Medium Cool, shot during the infamous 1968 Democratic convention in Chicago. Definitely a film to see if you've never caught it before. The film screens Saturday and Sunday morning at 11:30. Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.

Velvet Lounge Relocation Benefit @ Hothouse

The Velvet Lounge, one of the city's legendary jazz clubs, has to move, and owner Fred Anderson is throwing a ">benefit show at the Hothouse, 31 E. Balbo, to help raise the $100,000 needed for construction at the new location. Performers at today's show include Malachi Thompson, Jim Baker, Nicole Mitchell's Black Earth Ensemble, David Boykin Expanse, AACM Chamber Ensemble, GAM Squad, SPider Trio, Damon Short and Mwata Bowden. The show starts at 1pm. Tickets are $20, available in advance here.

Early to Bed: Stitch n' Bitch

If you've ever wanted to do your crafty thing amongst like-minded people in a cool and relaxed atmosphere, this is your chance. Early to Bed, at 5232 N. Sheridan Rd., offers the return of Stitch n' Bitch, an evening of stitching, knitting, and other crafty things. The evening is free and participants are welcome to bring snacks to share. 6pm. Call 773-271-1219 for more information.

Heroes of Wicker Park

Enjoy the warming weather and come see Heroes of Wicker Park, a free art event taking place in, you guessed it, Wicker Park. There will be puppetry, music and art to be taken in throughout the afternoon. When a large-scale mastodon puppet enters the park at 7pm, you'll know that the evening's performance is about to begin. Located at 1425 N. Damen Ave., this celebration is hosted by Manifest Theater. Call 773-297-2122 for more information.

Trash or Fertilizer: The Uses (or Not) of History in Type Design

In conjunction with the exhibit "Disbound and Dispersed: The Leaf Book Considered," the Newberry Library presents "Trash or Fertilizer: The Uses (or Not) of History in Type Design." Type designer John Downer will address "the use of historical type in contemporary settings" and, following the lecture, the Monotype Foundation will lead a panel discussion on issues raised in the lecture. The 10am discussion is free and open to the public and will be held at the Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton St. Call 312-255-3691 for more information.

Queer is Folk 5

The fifth annual Queer is Folk Festival hits the Old Town School. The adorably badass Jill Sobule headlines, with additional performances by Nedra Johnson, Dudley Saunders, Namoli Brennet, Coat with Libby Reed, Anthony Whitaker & Shelley Miller. Hosted as always by Mr. Scott Free. 8pm at Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N Lincoln Ave (6:30 wine reception before the show). $20 in advance, $22 day of show. For tickets call 773-728-6000 or order online through TicketWeb.

Too Much Light Kids!

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.

Chinese-American Museum of Chicago grand opening

Today Chicago's newest museum, the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago, officially opens at 1:00 PM. Their debut exhibition is called "Paper Sons: Chinese in the Midwest, 1870-1945", and is the first exhibition anywhere to focus on early Chinese immigrants in the Midwest area. See the museum's site for full details. Chinese-American Museum of Chicago: 238 W. 23rd. (312) 949-1000.

Bloomingdale Trail Spring Cleanup & Picnic

Friends of the Bloomingdale Trail and the City of Chicago Departments of Streets and Sanitation and Environment are organizing a Spring Cleanup & Picnic of the proposed Bloomingdale Trail. The cleanup will start in parking lot of McCormick YMCA, 1834 N. Lawndale, will last from 10am-2pm, and will be followed by a picnic at Yates Elementary. The cleared ground will soon be transformed for use as a park and multi-use trail. For more information or to volunteer, call Ben at 773-677-7970 or send an email to info[at]bloomingdaletrail[dot]org.

Gross Park Sculpture Invitational opening

Gross Park, a block-long stretch of green that you might mistake for a really wide median strip, is the site of the surrounding neighborhood's 6th annual sculpture show, a reception for which happens today from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A dozen artists have created sculptures for the show's theme, "The Flora and Fauna of Chicago". In addition to the reception, there will be a poetry reading at 5:00, a performance by the dance company Perceptual Motion at 6:00, and even an opportunity to participate in a Raku ceramic firing starting at noon (a nominal fee for this activity). The sculptures will be on display at Gross Park through July 17th, so if you miss the reception you can still see the sculptures. The opening is free and open to the public, and proceeds from the event will benefit the Gross Park Neighbors Foundation, which maintains the park. Gross Park: 1700 West Henderson (3300 North).

Medium Cool @ Music Box

In honor of the new documentary on legendary cinematographer Haskell Wexler (Tell Them Who You Are, directed by his son Mark), the Music Box Theatre is screening Wexler's 1968 classic film Medium Cool, shot during the infamous 1968 Democratic convention in Chicago. Definitely a film to see if you've never caught it before. The film screens Saturday and Sunday morning at 11:30. Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.

Lesbian Rights @ Early to Bed

Chicago NOW's Lesbian Rights Issue Team is hosting a Wine and Cheese Reception at Early to Bed tonight, from 9pm-midnight. Meet the women of Chicago NOW's Lesbian Rights Issue Team while shopping at a sex-positive, feminist owned sex toy store!  Learn about recent state and local lesbian rights initiatives while you examine all the nifty new toys on the market. Come for the free food, wine and conversation, and then stay for the company and raffle prizes.  The event is free and open to the public (donations are encouraged). Early To Bed is located at 5232 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago.

Gapers Block 2nd Anniversary Party

Come to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight to help celebrate Gapers Block's second anniversary! From 9pm to midnight (and probably later), we'll listen and/or dance to the sounds of DJs Atomly and Ken Meier, as well as enjoy the following diversions:

• We'll debut the winning design from our GB Button Contest! It'll be available for purchase along with t-shirts, posters and other GB merchandise at special in-person prices.

• Ron Slattery of BigHappyFunhouse and Slats.org -- as well as a new GB column, "Old Style," which runs every other Sunday -- and Nick Osborn of The Boat Lullabies will be showing a collection of found photos for you to tell a story about. The best stor(y/ies) will win special prizes!

• A reading by The Critics.

• "Public Notice" columnist Shylo Bisnett will have a special booth where you can have her write a Missed Connection or other classified ad just for you!

• Play GB Staffer Bingo! Fill a line on the special bingo card and win a signed photographic print from artist and musician Sam Prekop!

All this will only set you back $8 at the door, assuming you're 21 or older. (If you're under 21, we're sorry you won't be able to join us. Stay tuned for an all-ages event later in the year.)

We look forward to seeing you there!

Dwight Nights

Apparently, it’s not kitschy enough to put on a weekly alternative stand-up comedy and variety show in the Lincoln Restaurant (4008 N. Lincoln Ave). The fez-festooned organizers of the Lincoln Lodge (5 years and counting, y'all!) are kicking it up a notch with “Dwight Nights” (starting at 9 pm) featuring the performers voted the most popular and free giveaways (commemorative T-shirts, trucker caps, and “Jesus Clocks” from Uncle Fun) to the first 60 attendees of each show (one each so don't go getting greedy). The show is 18 and over and cover is $7 with a one-drink minimum.

Nicole Krauss @ Barbara's

Nicole Krauss makes a stop at Barbara's Bookstore UIC, 1218 S. Halsted, to read from her book The History of Love. The latest pick for the Today Show book club, the book tells two parallel stories, one of a man who lost his home, his love and his child, and the other of a girl who was named for a character in a book, (possibly) written by that man. The reading starts at 7:30 pm. Call 312- 413-2665 for more information.

Pure Pop for Now People

Pure Pop gears up for their monthly dance night, featuring New Wave, Power Pop, Post Punk and Indie Pop for all you pop-loving dance people. Hit the Underground Lounge, 952 W. Newport, from 9pm-2am, to dance the night away. No cover, 21+.

Virtue and Vandalism: The Ethics of Breaking Books

In conjunction with the exhibit "Disbound and Dispersed: The Leaf Book Considered," the Newberry Library presents "Virtue and Vandalism: The Ethics of Breaking Books." The panel will include all manner of book people -- curator, educator, law professor, bookseller, book collector -- discussing "the ethics and economics of breaking old books to make fine press leaf books." The 1pm discussion is free and open to the public and will be held at the Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton St. Call 312-255-3691 for more information.

Louis Sullivan doc @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Tall: The American Skyscraper and Louis Sullivan, an 82-minute documentary on the famous architect. Expect lots of shots of pretty buildings (and drawings and plans of pretty buildings). The movie starts running tonight, and shows through Thursday, May 26. See the Film Center's calendar for showtimes. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

"Gossip" by Kara Mallett

West Loop gallery ThreeWalls hosts the opening of "Gossip," an exhibition by Vancouver artist Kyla Mallett. Mallett has been in residency throughout the month of May, collecting anonymous tips to be reperformed and recorded for this sound installation. The exhibit opens tonight, with a reception from 6-9pm, and continues through June 25th. Hear this ultramodern soundtrack at 119 North Peoria St. #2a or call 312/432-3972 for more information.

Dwight Nights

Apparently, it’s not kitschy enough to put on a weekly alternative stand-up comedy and variety show in the Lincoln Restaurant (4008 N. Lincoln Ave). The fez-festooned organizers of the Lincoln Lodge (5 years and counting, y'all!) are kicking it up a notch with “Dwight Nights” featuring the performers voted the most popular and free giveaways (commemorative T-shirts, trucker caps, and “Jesus Clocks” from Uncle Fun) to the first 60 attendees of each show (one each so don't go getting greedy). The show is 18 and over and cover is $7 with a one-drink minimum. Each show features different performers and starts at 9pm and runs through Friday.

Nightclubbing: Modern Music @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Nightclubbing: Modern Music, a 60-minute documentary taken from the "Nightclubbing" New York cable TV show of the 1970s, containing rare performance footage by Teenage Jesus & the Jerks, DNA, Sun Ra, Contortions, Suicide, and James Blood Ulmer. The doc is preceded by excerpts from the film Looking For A Thrill, produced by local label Thrill Jockey. Ths event is part of a month-long program of excerpts from Nightclubbing, and is part of the Film Center's Music Movies series. The film screens tonight at 9:15 PM. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

J. Craig Venter @ MSI

J. Craig Venter, founder and chairman of the Institute for Genomic Research, will lead a special discussion at the Museum of Science and Industry. Sponsored by Wired magazine, the 7:30pm discussion will focus on Venter's "ongoing, around-the-world ocean expedition to study microbial diversity" -- research that could lead to solutions for a cleaner environment and alternative energy sources. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Call 773-753-6230 to get them. The Museum of Science and Industry is located at 57th St. and Lake Shore Dr.

Dwight Nights

Apparently, it’s not kitschy enough to put on a weekly alternative stand-up comedy and variety show in the Lincoln Restaurant (4008 N. Lincoln Ave). The fez-festooned organizers of the Lincoln Lodge (5 years and counting, y'all!) are kicking it up a notch with “Dwight Nights” featuring the performers voted the most popular and free giveaways (commemorative T-shirts, trucker caps, and “Jesus Clocks” from Uncle Fun) to the first 60 attendees of each show (one each so don't go getting greedy). The show is 18 and over and cover is $7 with a one-drink minimum. Each show features different performers and starts at 9pm and runs through Friday.

David Rakoff @ Abbey Pub

Author and This American Life regular David Rakoff will be doing a reading tonight at the Abbey Pub at 7:30 PM. David has a new collection of stories coming out this year (called Don't Get Too Comfortable), so he'll probably be pimping that new book. Admission for the event is free; see the readings page at nextbook.org to get tickets. Abbey Pub: 3420 W. Grace. (773) 478-4408.

AfroFolk @ Old Town School of Music

AfroFolk Live, celebrating the music and culture of the African Diaspora, is making weekly visits to the Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. The concerts are free, but a donation of $5 is encouraged for the 8:30-10:30pm shows. AfroFolk will showcase contemporary and historic African traditions including music, dance, theater, poetry, storytelling and religion. Tonight's concert, "Haitian Flag Day Celebration," focuses on the 1791 slave uprising that resulted in the Haitian Revolution. With Haitian music and dance performances to celebrate the day, the band Tchaka: Roots of Haiti joins AfroFolk for a special performance. Call 773-728-6000 for more information.

Reconstruction Room @ Black Rock

Get your "Balls to the Walls" at tonight's Reconstruction Room! The readings and performances this evening will focus on some of the most embarrassing moments our adolescent past: love letters, journal entries, epic (bad) poetry, and timeless fashion blunder photos (Mullets? Heavenly bangs? Crazy-bad Color Guard photos? Bring 'em on!). So get your brave on, dig up something embarrassing (the bigger the embarrassment, the more likely it is you'll earn a pity beer out of some audience member), and join the Rec Roomers around 8pm at the Black Rock (Damen and Addison) for an evening of fun. Free, 21+.

Early to Bed: What a Sensation!

Perhaps 50 Cent and The Game said it best with "Touch me, tease me, kiss me, please me..." Okay, maybe not. But there is something to be said for full sensory engagement. Early to Bed offers What a Sensation! The many incarnations of sensory play, a workshop focusing on the five senses and their inherent erotic natures. Participants are encouraged to bring any items they think relevant, in addition to an open mind. 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.

Savage Speaks

As a part of its Rainbow Week 2005, Northwestern University's Rainbow Alliance welcomes syndicated sex columnist Dan Savage home to Chicago. The event takes place at 7:00pm in the McCormick Auditorium of NU's Norris Center. Author of The Kid, Savage's latest book is Skipping Towards Gomorrah.

Vocal Journeys: Michelle Areyzaga and Jamie Shaak

Tonight, soprano Michelle Areyzaga and pianist Jamie Shaak perform in the Preston Bradley Hall of the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St. The performance is part of Vocal Journeys, a free monthly series presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs featuring vocalists from the classical tradition. For more information call 312-744-6630. The performance begins at 7pm.

Leadership and Change in Chicago's Universities

The Newberry Library is hosting a panel of university presidents for "Universities and the City," a lecture and discussion on institutions of higher learning in Chicago. Guests include Theodore Goss, president emeritus of Roosevelt University; Salme Harju, president of Northeastern Illinois University; and David Spadafora, president emeritus of Lake Forest College. The evening begins at 5:30pm with a reception, followed by the lecture at 6pm. The event is free and open to the public; reservations are not required but are strongly recommened. The Newberry Library is located at 60 W. Walton St.; call 312-255-3700 for more information.

Chicago Moves Day

At Daley Plaza today from 11:00 to 1:00, the second annual Chicago Moves Day is happening. The event features lunchtime workouts led by people from Bally Total Fitness, the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation, the Chicago Fire Department, the US Army, the YMCA of Greater Metropolitan Chicago, and others. Pilates, cardio kickboxing, stretching, yoga, cycling, and even Dance Dance Revolution! The event is free and open to the public.

Dick Dale @ Double Door

Yep, the king of surf guitar Dick Dale plays tonight at the Double Door. 'Nuff said. Opening acts: Frank Bang's Secret, and Stash. Doors open at 8:00, show's at 9:00. It's a 21+ show. Tix are $15, and can be purchased through the Double Door Website. Double Door: 1572 N. Milwaukee. (773) 489-3160.

Double shot of Thomas Frank

Thomas Frank, probably best known as the author of What's the Matter with Kansas?, will be in town for two events tonight. First, he'll be speaking at the Chicago Council on Foreign Relations, giving a talk on his book called "Examining the Red State Midwest." The lecture starts at 6pm, with discussion and a book signing to follow. More information and registration here.

Then, after that rather straitlaced affair, the busy fellow heads over to the Hideout for a homecoming party. (Chicago cred check: Frank did his PhD at U of C, has written for the Reader, and edits the locally-based journal, The Baffler.) Details on the site are sketchy, but the event is meant to get under way at 9pm, and performances by the Waco Brothers, Kelly Hogan, and others are promised. The Hideout, site of the upcoming Gapers Block 2nd Anniversary party, is located at 1354 W. Wabansia Ave.

Heroes of Wicker Park

Enjoy the warming weather and come see Heroes of Wicker Park, a free art event taking place in, you guessed it, Wicker Park. There will be puppetry, music and art to be taken in throughout the afternoon. When a large-scale mastodon puppet enters the park at 7pm, you'll know that the evening's performance is about to begin. Located at 1425 N. Damen Ave., this celebration is hosted by Manifest Theater. Call 773-297-2122 for more information.

Nightclubbing: Modern Music @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Nightclubbing: Modern Music, a 60-minute documentary taken from the "Nightclubbing" New York cable TV show of the 1970s, containing rare performance footage by Teenage Jesus & the Jerks, DNA, Sun Ra, Contortions, Suicide, and James Blood Ulmer. The doc is preceded by excerpts from the film Looking For A Thrill, produced by local label Thrill Jockey. Ths event is part of a month-long program of excerpts from Nightclubbing, and is part of the Film Center's Music Movies series. The film screens tonight at 5:45 PM, and also Thursday, May 19th at 9:15 PM. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

NPR's Scott Simon @ Chicago Temple

NPR weekend host Scott Simon appears this afternoon at 3:00 PM at the Chicago Temple (77 W. Washington) to discuss his new novel Pretty Birds. Simon will be interviewed by Chicago Public Radio's Richard Steele, and there will be a Q&A session following. Tickets for the event are $20, and can be purchased at the Chicago Public Radio site.

Turntablist workshop @ Old Town School

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.

StoryStudio Writing Cafe

Do you find yourself heading to the neighborhood coffee shop for inspiration or the space you need to get some writing done? Head to this Open Writing Session at StoryStudio from 11am-3pm today to find the quiet, the energy, and all the electrical outlets you need to be productive. When you're ready for a break, join fellow writers in the lounge to snack, refill your coffee and talk. Plus, StoryStudio will have a mini-workshop session for you to get some immediate feedback. The cafe is $10 which includes unlimited coffee, tea, soft drinks and snacks. (mmm, snacks) Pre-registration is not required, but it helps them know how many are planning on attending. StoryStudio is located at 3717 N. Ravenswood, #115, Chicago (near corner of Addison and Lincoln avenues). By El: StoryStudio is just three blocks from the Addison stop on the Brown Line El. Parking: There's a parking lot! Plus, there's plenty of street parking available.

Heroes of Wicker Park

Enjoy the warming weather and come see Heroes of Wicker Park, a free art event taking place in, you guessed it, Wicker Park. There will be puppetry, music and art to be taken in throughout the afternoon. When a large-scale mastodon puppet enters the park at 7pm, you'll know that the evening's performance is about to begin. Located at 1425 N. Damen Ave., this celebration is hosted by Manifest Theater. Call 773-297-2122 for more information.

Dave DaVinci Saves the Universe opening

The House Theatre opens their newest original work tonight. Dave DaVinci Saves the Universe is a sci-fi time travel romance. Or something. House shows are hard to categorize. Co-author Jake Minton says it's "the story of a famous Chicago scientist fighting time and insanity to hold his marriage together in the face of a family tragedy. In order to succeed, he must invent a time machine to win back his wife, a famous musician, from the more put together future version of himself, and then travel back to prevent the tragedy from ever occurring in the first place." Wooo, heady. Tonight at 8pm, then Thu-Sat 8pm and Sun 7pm through July 9. $10-19. At the Viaduct, 3111 N Western Ave. Call 773-251-2195 for reservations.

Too Much Light Kids!

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.

Clean & Green 2005

The Chicago Park District invites you to come out, meet your neighbors, and help beautify your park at Mayor Daley's Clean & Green 2005, hosted by the City of Chicago. We will be planting flowers, mulching trees, painting, sweeping, raking, and picking up trash. Please dress for the weather and bring work gloves. Tools will be provided. Meet at the fieldhouse at any of these parks.

Free Wine & Beer Tasting @ In Fine Spirits

Andersonville wine shop In Fine Spirits will offer a Free Wine & Beer Tasting today, from 3-6pm. Feel free to drop in anytime during the tasting to sample 3 different wines and 3 beers and check out the cute shop. For more information contact Jill & Shane Kissack at 773.506.9463 or email jill@infinespirits.com. In Fine Spirits is located at 5418 N. Clark Street, Chicago.

Annual Fiddler's Picnic and Fiddle Contest

Today the University of Chicago is holding the Folklore Society's Annual Fiddler's Picnic and their 1st Annual Fiddle Contest. Lest you worry about being confined to contest rules, there will also be plenty of time for "spontaneous jam sessions," so bring along whatever stringed music-makers -- fiddles, mandolins, guitars, etc. -- that strike your fancy. Entry fee for the contest is $5, with a $150 first prize, and will be judged by fiddlers Jennifer Jeffries and Charlie Walden. Head down to Hutchinson Courtyard, behind the Reynold's Club at 57th St. and University Ave., from 11am-4pm. The contest begins at noon. Call 773-702-9793 for more information.

El Barrio Clocks Our Beatz N Rhymez Phase III @ Truman College

This is the last day for El Barrio Clocks Beatz N Rhymez Phase III, the current Hip Hop Theatre production at Truman College in Novar Hall Room #3246 (1154 W. Wilson) Billed as a Chicago-rooted journey "fusing the elements of spoken word, urban dance, turntabilsim, social commentary, rhythm, and personal stories... [blending] humor and emotional truth," El Barrio Clocks should be a challenging show. Performances at 1pm and 6pm. Tickets are $10, $5 for student matinees.

Dynamite Family's Mini Movie Fest

Dynamite Family, an art group based in Grand Rapids, MI, presents more than 60 films no longer than 60 seconds long -- all shot using the "movie" function of digital cameras. 8:30pm to 10pm at Messhall, 6932 N. Glenwood (near the Morse Red Line stop). Also on display will be the group's exhibition, "Potential Energy," which compiles proposals from over a dozen other artist groups. Free.

Mexican fandango workshop @ Old Town School

The Old Town School of Folk Music presents an evening of dancing, poetry and fandango with three sets of musicians: Mono Blanco from Veracruz; Los Caracuaros from Michoacan; and Chicago's own Sones de Mexico. These musicians are performing in tomorrow's Festival de Son Mexicano 2005 concert, so this evening you'll get a special sneak preview! The workshop runs from 7:00 PM to 11:00. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. You can sign up at the Old Town School Website. Old Town School: 4544 N. Lincoln. (773) 728-6000.

One Missed Call @ Facets

Facets presents the Chicago debut of One Missed Call, the latest Japanese horror film that combines elements of the Ring and Grudge films. People are receiving phone calls from themselves that foretell how they will die. Weird. Anyway, if you love Japanese horror films, you'll probably want to check it out. The film starts tonight, and runs through May 19th; see the Facets site for showtimes and ticket purchase. Facets: 1517 W. Fullerton. (773) 281-9075.

Moog documentary @ Film Center

The 2004 documentary Moog, a look at synthesizer inventor Bob Moog, plays at the Siskel Film Center this week. Among the people interviewed for the film are Keith Emerson, Rick Wakeman, DJ Spooky, Monkey Mark, and Mix Master Mike. The film plays at the Film Center through May 19th; check the Film Center's site for showtimes. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Kathy McGinty release party @ Gallery Hamburger

Chicago is the home of one of the more notorious phone pranksters of recent years. That would be the infamous Kathy McGinty, which was actually Chicago artist Derek Erdman and his friend Julia Rickert trolling chat boards round about 2001, looking for horny guys to call them up and unknowingly interact with a series of audio samples ("I think you might be racist"; "I want to have your retarded babies"). The Kathy McGinty CD is finally getting an official release, and the release party is tonight from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM (!) at Gallery Hamburger, and will feature music by Common Factor and Meaty Ogre. Be there or be unfulfilled. Gallery Hamburger: 1909 S. Halsted. No phone number for the gallery given, but I don't think you want to be calling Derek up.

4Art Printmakers Opening Reception

"The Printmaker is not just an Artist, but a craftsman, a hands-on Laborer who's intensive process adds a new dimension to an original piece of artwork, transforming a mere drawing into something more sublime through one or another of the processes or techniques: etchings, woodcuts, silkscreen, lino cuts, etc." So says 4Art's press release for their new Printmakers show. Tonight's opening reception, from 6-10pm, will feature artists Maureen Warren, Ned Broderick, and Alex Carroll, among others, with special guest Mr. Nathanial, DJ. The show will run through June 3. Call 312-850-1816 for more information. 4Art Inc. is located at 1932 S. Halsted #100.

the Mountain Goats @ Logan Square Auditorium

Don't miss the Mountain Goats tonight at the Logan Square Auditorium at 8:30 pm. Tickets will cost you $12. Shearwater opens up.

GB Staffer RH will be in attendance

Hollo and Reddy read at The Discrete Series @ 3030

Once again, the Discrete Series brings two great poets to 3030 W. Cortland tonight. Anselm Hollo is the author of more than thirty books, most recently "Braided River:New and Selected Poems 1965-2005" (Salt Publishing, 2005). A native of Helsinki, Finland, he has lived in the United States since 1967, teaching poetics and translation at colleges and universities. He is Professor of Writing and Poetics at Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado, where he lives with his wife, visual artist Jane Dalrymple-Hollo. Also reading is Srikanth Reddy. Reddy's first collection of poetry, "Facts for Visitors," was published by the University of California Press in Spring 2004. His work has appeared in various journals, including APR, Grand Street, Fence, jubilat, and Ploughshares. He currently teaches at the University of Chicago. This event is funded in part by Poets & Writers and a grant it has received from an anonymous donor. 3030 is a former Pentecostal church located at 3030 W. Cortland Ave., one block south of Armitage between Humboldt Blvd. and Kedzie. Parking is easiest on Armitage. $5 donation suggested, BYOB. For more information about this or upcoming events, email j_seldess@hotmail.com or kerri@lavamatic.com , or call the space at 773-862-3616.

Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Adaptation

In 1982, three friends decided to remake Raiders of the Lost Ark shot by shot. Seven years and $5,000 later, they finished it, and now you can see the product of their work. Raiders of the Lost Ark, the Adaptation will make its Chicago premiere this Friday at 8:30pm at Columbia's Film Row Cinema, 1104 S. Wabash, 8th floor, as part of the Future Filmmakers Festival. Two of the filmmakers, Chris Strompolos and Eric Zala, will be in attendance. Tickets are $20/$10 students.

El Barrio Clocks Our Beatz N Rhymez Phase III @ Truman College

El Barrio Clocks Beatz N Rhymez Phase III, the current Hip Hop Theatre production at Truman college, is being held today at Truman College's Novar Hall Room #3246 (1154 W. Wilson) at 10am and 7pm. Billed as a Chicago-rooted journey "fusing the elements of spoken word, urban dance, turntabilsim, social commentary, rhythm, and personal stories... [blending] humor and emotional truth," El Barrio Clocks should be a challenging show. Tickets are $10, $5 for student matinees.

Nightclubbing: Roots of Hard Core @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Nightclubbing: Roots of Hard Core, a 60-minute documentary taken from the "Nightclubbing" New York cable TV show of the 1970s, containing performances by Bad Brains, the Dead Boys, and the Dead Kennedys. The doc is preceded by excerpts from the film Looking For A Thrill, produced by local label Thrill Jockey. Ths event is part of a month-long program of excerpts from Nightclubbing, and looks to be one of the cooler attractions in the Film Center's Music Movies series. The film screens tonight at 8:15 PM. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Sneak Preview Estrogen Fest 2005

Tonight, join the Storefront Theater and Prop Theater for an After Work Cocktail Party and Sneak Preview Benefit Performance of Estrogen Fest 2005: Changing the Rules! The preview features the fest's Program B, "We're Still Here." Gallery 37, 66 E. Randolph St., will offer cocktails, hors d'oeurves and live music at 6pm with performances beginning at 7:30pm. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased online or by calling 312-742-8497. Visit the website for more information and descriptions of the performances.

Wendy McClure @ Barnes & Noble

Chicago author and blogger Wendy McClure appears tonight at the Barnes & Noble bookstore at Webster Place to promote her brand-new book I'm Not The New Me. Come by and say howdy! The event starts at 7:30, and is free and open to the public. Barnes & Noble: 1441 W. Webster. (773) 871-3610.

Scared to Dance @ Liar's Club

Tonight marks another installment of Scared to Dance, The Opaque Project's monthly night at Liar's Club. The theme this month is "A coming of age story"; the last theme party they threw at the Jerkstore brought out droves of costumed hipsters. DJ's for tonight are Johnny Love, Joel Brown, and Matt Roan. 1665 W. Fullerton, 21+, 10pm, no cover, $1 PBR.

Secret Handshake @ Darkroom

Secret Handshake Designs is hosting Euphone, Stag Party and DJ Foulmouth at the Darkroom, 2210 W. Chicago. The design team will also have their latest T-shirts for sale. Five bucks gets you in to the 9pm show, so come check out some cool shirts by local artists while listening to some good music. If you've got questions, direct them to Joe at joe[at]secrethandshakedesigns[dot]com.

TRANSCONTINENTAL FLUX v. THE2NDHAND

TRANSCONTINENTAL FLUX v. THE2NDHAND. Tonight's event features Corey Frost (of Montreal) v. Todd Dills (chic.il) and Jeb Gleason-Allured (chic.il) in a bout of readings and short films. From THE2NDHAND: "TRANSCONTINENTAL FLUX: from the sheep-dotted hills of New Zealand and the snow-covered hills of Canada comes a lively and unique writer-performer, Corey Frost, combining theatricality, narrative, and poetry in short bursts of pure mesmerism. Corey is from Montreal and the author of My Own Devices and The Worthwhile Flux. v. THE2NDHAND: Dills and Gleason-Allured have been in this filthy city for a long, long time, and have become so enamored of the crowd that comes to its readings that they just can't stop, and so here's another other. get out there. get out there." The bell dings at 8:15pm at The Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont, Chicago, pay what you like.

Passerines Record Release @ Hyde Park Records

Hyde Park's favorite songbirds the Passerines celebrate the release of their debut EP with a release show tonight at Hyde Park Records at 8 pm. Hyde Park Records is located at 1377 E 53rd St in Hyde Park.

Gee's Bend Quilting Bee

This afternoon, from 1 to 4pm, hear stories from and see demonstrations by the famous quilters from Gee's Bend, Alabama, at the Field Museum. The event is free with admission, and more details are available via the Field's website. If you can't make it, other quilts and textiles are always on display at the Art Institute.

Sneak Preview Estrogen Fest 2005

Tonight, join the Storefront Theater and Prop Theater for an After Work Cocktail Party and Sneak Preview Benefit Performance of Estrogen Fest 2005: Changing the Rules! The preview features the fest's Program A, "History, Fantasy & Myth." Gallery 37, 66 E. Randolph St., will offer cocktails, hors d'oeurves and live music at 6pm with performances beginning at 7:30pm. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased online or by calling 312-742-8497. Visit the website for more information on the fest and descriptions of the performances.

Talk Arts: The Legalities of Arts

The Evanston Arts Council announces the third free installment of Talk Arts, a series of informational gatherings for artists of all disciplines. This evening's event focuses on Legal Basics and will address legal issues concerning the creative and performing arts. A panel of lawyers, accountants and others will discuss intellectual property laws, the protection of creative expression, taxes and accounting for artists and the legal limits of marketing creative expressions. Stop by Noyes Cultural Arts Center in Evanston, 927 Noyes St., Room 106, to join in the 6:30-8:30pm discussion. For more information contact Valerie Calloway at valerie.calloway[at]kraft.com or Brent Rizel at 847-866-3696, brentritzel[at]yahoo.com.

AfroFolk @ Old Town School of Music

AfroFolk Live, celebrating the music and culture of the African Diaspora, is making weekly visits to the Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. The concerts are free, but a donation of $5 is encouraged for the 8:30-10:30pm shows. AfroFolk will showcase contemporary and historic African traditions including music, dance, theater, poetry, storytelling and religion. Tonight's concert, "Steelpans of Trinidad," focuses on jazz, calypso and reggae music, with the calypso and jazz band Steelin' Jazz. Call 773-728-6000 for more information.

Kevin Guilfoile @ Lincoln Park Library

Kevin Guilfoile reads from his book, Cast of Shadows, at the Lincoln Park branch of the Chicago Public Library, 1150 W. Fullerton Ave., at 7pm. Free. For more information, please contact Joanna Hazelden at the Lincoln Park Branch at 312/744-1926.

Adam Langer @ Barbara's

Adam Langer, author of Crossing California and the June pick for the GB Book Club, stops to read at Barbara's Bookstore UIC, 1218 S. Halsted St. The story focuses on three families in West Rogers Park, coming of age during the Iran hostage crisis. The reading starts at 7:30 pm. Call 312- 413-2665 for more information.

Early to Bed: Tickle His Pickle

I once received a Dove Promise that read, "There is joy in giving back." I thought, replace "back" with "head" and you've got it about right. I'm guessing the ladies at Early to Bed would agree, and you might too after going to their latest workshop Tickle His Pickle: Raise Your Penis I.Q. For those wanting instruction on the art of the BJ, the workshop will "cover male anatomy, hand-job and blowjob techniques, ball handling, and even how to put on a condom with your mouth." 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, open to women only. Early to Bed is located at 5232 N. Sheridan Rd.

Run Lola Run @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents of a screening of the 1998 film Run Lola Run as part of its German Cinema series. The film will be accompanied by a lecture by Scott Curtis of Northwestern University. The screening starts at 6:00 PM. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Changing Worlds Annual Benefit

Changing Worlds, a non-profit educational arts organization, is holding their annual benefit "The Power of Story." Two Chicagoans will be honored for their "documentation of oral histories that deepen readers understanding of Chicago's rich ethnic mosaic." This year's honorees are Timuel D. Black, Jr., author of Bridges of Memory: Chicago's First Wave of Black Migration, and Jeff Libman, author of An Immigrant Class: Oral Histories from Chicago's Newest Immigrants. The benefit will also feature students' artwork and writing, dinner and a silent auction. Swing by UIC, Chicago Circle Center, 750 S. Halsted, from 5:30-8:30pm, to join in. Tickets are $50-$75. Call 312-421-8040 or email khook[at]changingworlds[dot]org to save your space.

Gapers Block Book Club meeting

This month's meeting of the Gapers Block Book Club takes place tonight at The Book Cellar at 4736 N. Lincoln Ave., where we will be discussing Upton Sinclair's The Jungle. The meeting begins at 7:30pm. And, join the book club email list for updates and important alerts about future meetings.

Jill Scott @ School of the Art Institute

The Poetry Center of Chicago invites you to a performance and party with Jill Scott, Grammy-Winning Singer/Songwriter and Poet Jill Scott, who will be performing work from her first book of poetry, "The Moments, The Minutes, The Hours," published by St. Martin's Press. Scott began her career with poetry, and gradually paired her words with music. Her debut CD "Who Is Jill Scott" went double-platinum. Scott will be performing tonight at the Rubloff Auditorium of The Art Institute of Chicago, at 230 South Columbus Drive, Chicago. Tickets are $25 general admission without after-party, $10 general admission for Poetry Center members and are available through Ticketweb.

Nightclubbing: Roots of Hard Core @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Nightclubbing: Roots of Hard Core, a 60-minute documentary taken from the "Nightclubbing" New York cable TV show of the 1970s, containing performances by Bad Brains, the Dead Boys, and the Dead Kennedys. The doc is preceded by excerpts from the film Looking For A Thrill, produced by local label Thrill Jockey. Ths event is part of a month-long program of excerpts from Nightclubbing, and looks to be one of the cooler attractions in the Film Center's Music Movies series. The film screens tonight at 5:15 PM, and also Thursday, May 12th at 8:15 PM. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Soul of a Clone

Upstream Theater with the Goethe Institut Chicago and Chopin Theatre present Soul of a Clone, a play inspired by Franz Kafka's "A Report of an Academy." Involving "a former chimp, a cloned human, and the music of Bach...the piece examines evolution, existentialism and the promise and limits of scientific experimentation." Tickets are $12, $8 with student ID, for the 4pm show. You can call the box office at 773-278-1500 or email them at info[at]chopintheatre.com. Chopin Theatre is located at 1543 W. Division.

DEPART-ment

The latest crafty get-together known as DEPART-ment happens this weekend at Open-End, 2000 W. Fulton #310. DEPART-ment gathers together a number of local artisans who make clothing, purses, wallets, artwork, and plenty other items to sell to people like you. Yes, YOU. DEPART-ment's hours today: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM. See the DEPART-ment site for full details. And bring cash or your checkbook, because they don't take credit cards.

Monkey Steals the Peach

Mars Gallery, 1139 W. Fulton Market, presents "Monkey Steals the Peach," new paintings and prints by Frank Kozik, Guy Burwell, FERG and Jay Ryan. Tonight's opening reception, 7-10pm, will also feature Skiaphonoi, a sound and video installation by Mark Walter, and all of the artists will be in attendence. The exhibit continues until May 25. Call 312-226-7808 for more information.

Zine Reading @ MoJoe's

Diatribe Media's monthly reading hits Mojoe's Cafe, 2256 W Roscoe, tonight around 7:30pm. This will be a release party for Living Proof #4 by Andrew Mall and will also feature readings by Michelle Aiello (Indigo), Emerson Dameron (Wherewithal), CT Ballentine (Red Lapel Pins), Jeff Disler (Time All At Once) and more. Free. More info available at Diatribe Media.

Too Much Light Kids!

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.

DEPART-ment

The latest crafty get-together known as DEPART-ment happens this weekend at Open-End, 2000 W. Fulton #310. DEPART-ment gathers together a number of local artisans who make clothing, purses, wallets, artwork, and plenty other items to sell to people like you. Yes, YOU. DEPART-ment's hours: May 7 & 8th: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM. See the DEPART-ment site for full details. And bring cash or your checkbook, because they don't take credit cards.

The Books @ U of C

Trek down to Hyde Park tonight to catch a super top secret show by The Books, with EKG (Ernst Karel + Kyle Bruckmann) at the University of Chicago's Hutch Commons (5706 S University Ave). Doors open at 9 pm, the show starts at 10 pm. As far as I can tell the show is free, although you may get shaken down for a dollar or two at the door. Who knows. The details are sketchy. It'll be an adventure.

DEPART-ment

The latest crafty get-together known as DEPART-ment happens this weekend at Open-End, 2000 W. Fulton #310. DEPART-ment gathers together a number of local artisans who make clothing, purses, wallets, artwork, and plenty other items to sell to people like you. Yes, YOU. DEPART-ment's hours: May 6, 7:00 - 11: 00 PM (opening party); May 7 & 8th: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM. See the DEPART-ment site for full details. And bring cash or your checkbook, because they don't take credit cards.

Run Lola Run @ Film Center

Remember that great time in 1999, when Run Lola Run was playing for months and months in Chicago, and everybody you knew went to see it 15 times, and you had that techno music playing in your head every time you were walking down the sidewalk? You've got a chance to relive those memories tonight, as the Siskel Film Center shows the 1998 film tonight at 6:15 PM, as part of its German Cinema series of films. The film will also be screened on Tuesday, May 10 at 6:00 PM, where it will be accompanied by a lecture from Scott Curtis of Northwestern University. Tickets are $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Double Dare @ Film Center

Double Dare is a documentary about two women working as stuntwomen in the film industry. The subjects are Hollywood veteran Jeannie Epper (who worked on the "Wonder Woman" TV series of the 1970s) and newcomer Zoe Bell (whose main clame to fame is being Lucy Lawless' double on the "Xena" TV series). The film follows Epper and Bell's friendship as Bell tries out for a part in the Kill Bill films. Double Dare shows at the Film Center through May 12th; see the Film Center's site for showtimes. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Aesthetic Apparatus Opening @ Foundation Gallery

Foundation Gallery, 700 N. Carpenter, is holding an opening party for new works by Aesthetic Apparatus, a team of artists from Minneapolis, from 6pm to 9pm tonight. It's free. For more info, check the site or call 312/860-0740.

Antje @ North Beach

Local band Antje recently won an honorable mention in Billboard Music's songwriting competition for its song, "What I Would Do" [MP3]. They'll play it and many others at their show tonight at North Beach, 1551 N. Sheffield, at 9pm.

Dollar Store @ The Hideout

This month's Dollar Store lineup features "Damnable Hairstyler Joe Meno, Silent Dignitary (and comedienne) Molly Hale, and Harbinger of the Reckoning (from IO) Beau Golwitzer." The trio will join co-hosts Jonathan Messinger and Sean Gardner for readings inspired by the purchases of a dollar. The show starts at 7pm at 1354 W. Wabansia. $1 donation is, appropriately, suggested.

Days of Rage @ 3030

The Discrete Series at 3030 presents Robert Quillen Camp's production of Days of Rage tonight at both 7pm and 8:30pm at 3030 W. Cortland. Featured in Time Out: Days of Rage is an audio performance for small audiences which combines headphones, speakers and live piano. It follows several would-be activists in present day New York as they try to orchestrate a contemporary equivalent to the Weatherman's failed 1969 "Days of Rage" Chicago riot. Strange and surreal, the narrative explores political alienation, the ethics of violence, and the distance between the sociopolitical climate of the sixties and today. Robert Quillen Camp creates interdisciplinary performance works that combine sound, music, installation, and theater. He is the founder and director of the Dodeska Performance Ensemble." There is a $5 suggested donation (BYOB). 3030 is a former Pentecostal church located at 3030 W. Cortland Ave., one block south of Armitage between Humboldt Blvd. and Kedzie. Parking is easiest on Armitage. Due to the nature of the work, each performance can accommodate only 32 audience members at a time. Email kerri at kerri@lavamatic.com to make a reservation.

Psycho-so-Matic

Walkabout Theater presents Psycho-so-Matic, a site-specific theatrical piece performed in a laundromat. The piece, created by the ensemble and director Simone Jubyna, "asks questions about the
nature of self and how one transcends or is confounded by routine,
[u]tilizing clown, architecture, and actual laundering techniques." Runs tonight and Fridays and Saturdays through June 4 at Speed Wash Laundromat, 4721 N. Damen. 9:30pm. Suggested donation of $15. For reservations, call 312-458-0566.

El Vez @ Subterranean

¡Dios mio! El Vez, the Mexican-American Elvis impersonator, rolls into town tonight to start his Cinco de Mayo 2005 tour at Chicago's Subterranean. El Vez shows are really something special; in addition to the songs (which are Elvis songs rewritten to include Latino culture and a grab-bag of musical references from Led Zeppelin to the Beastie Boys), you get a killer back-up band (the Memphis Mariachis), sexy back-up singers, and more costume changes than you can shake a pair of gold lamé trousers at. The show starts at 10:30, and tickets are available through the Subterranean site. Be there or be entertainment-free. Subterranean: 2011 W. North. (773) 278-6600.

Gen Art "Crash" Screening

It's the Ludacris movie! Luda! Well, I hear other people are in it, too. Gen Art presents a special advance screening of Crash, with Sandra Bullock, Matt Dillon, Don Cheadle and, yes, Ludacris. Head over to Loews 600 N. Michigan for the 7:30pm show and then to The Bella Lounge, 1212 N. State, for the 9:30-11:30pm after party. Tickets are complimentary for members, $15 for non-members. Call 312-229-1701 to reserve a spot or make your purchase here.

Salud Celebrates Cinco de Mayo

Salud Tequila Lounge is throwing their second annual Cinco de Mayo pary, featuring all night $4 Coronos and $3 frozen margaritas and live Mariachi music from 8-11pm. Doors open at 5pm and the party will spill out on to the lounge's sidewalk cafe where guests can order from the Mexican-inspired dinner menu. There is no cover for this event. Salud is located at 1471 N. Milwaukee. Call 773-235-5577 for more information.

Lincoln Park Zoo 20th Annual Spring Benefit Pre-Party

On June 3, the Lincoln Park Zoo Auxiliary Board will hold its 20th Annual Spring Benefit, but tonight the Auxiliary Board starts the fun early with a pre-party at Syn, 1009 N. Rush. Tickets are $30 each for the 6-8pm event. Call 312-742-2163 for more information and to buy your tickets, or purchase them here. Then come back in a month for the full scale, black tie event.

Alive Tonight @ Uncle Joe's

Back in my day we called it the "upstairs coffee shop" or "the second floor coffee shop." Now it's "Uncle Joe's." I guess it decided to get all fancy and claim agency over its nomenclature...or something. Whatever you want to call it, tonight Uncle Joe's Coffee Shop, located on the second floor of the University of Chicago Reynolds Club at 5706 S. University Ave., is hosting "Alive Tonight," a night of live acoustic music. Come hear James Moore, Mike Reeb, and Samathana Twigg Johnson from 8-10pm. Call 773-955-2455 for any questions.

Lucha Va Voom Cinco de Mayo Spectacular

What do you get when you combine Mexican wrestling and burlesque? Lucha VaVoom! How could you resist? The troupe invades the Congress Theater, 2135 N. Milwaukee, for a Cinco de Mayo blowout show that's sure to entertain more than the mariachi band at your local taqueria. Tickets are $40 ringside, $20 general, available through TicketWeb. Check the site for details.

CODEPINK founder Jodie Evans @ Women & Children First

Come out tonight for a special event celebrating CODEPINK's ground-breaking new book, Stop the Next War Now:  Effective Responses to Violence and Terrorism," at 7:30pm at Women and Children First, located at 5233 N. Clark St. in Andersonville. Jodie Evans, CODEPINK co-founder, will be there to share stories from the book about courageous women speaking truth to power and working to shape a more loving, more compassionate and just world. For more information about the book or local chapter of CODEPINK contact caporusso@yahoo.com.

Nightclubbing: CBGB's @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Nightclubbing: Live from CBGB's, a 60-minute documentary taken from the "Nightclubbing" New York cable TV show of the 1970s, containing performances in the legendary NYC punk club from 1975 and 1977. The band featured are: Blondie; Talking Heads; and the Dead Boys. The doc is preceded by excerpts from the film Looking For A Thrill, produced by local label Thrill Jockey. Ths event is part of a month-long program of excerpts from Nightclubbing, and looks to be one of the cooler attractions in the Film Center's Music Movies series. The film 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.

AfroFolk @ Old Town School of Folk Music

AfroFolk Live, celebrating the music and culture of the African Diaspora, is making weekly visits to the Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. The concerts are free, but a donation of $5 is encouraged for the 8:30-10:30pm shows. AfroFolk will showcase contemporary and historic African traditions including music, dance, theater, poetry, storytelling and religion. Tonight's concert, "Conscious MCs," focuses on hip-hop, with the hip-hop duo All Natural (DJ Tone B. Nimble and MC Capital D). Call 773-728-6000 for more information.

Alinea opens

Alinea, the latest venture by Chicago chef Grant Achatz and possibly the most highly anticipated restaurant opening in recent years, officially opens tonight. You're not getting in, not anytime soon (reservations are already booked through June), so you might as well start saving up now for the experience. (For a preview, see this article at Food and Wine magazine.) Alinea: 1723 N. Halsted. (312) 867-0110.

Lawrence Hall Youth Services Luncheon

Lawrence Hall Youth Services is announcing View from the Hall, their 2005 Spring Luncheon. The service, which is dedicated to helping abused and neglected children, welcomes Mike "Coach K" Krzyzewski as this year's keynote speaker at the Fairmont Chicago, 200 W. Congress. The lunch will last from 12pm-2pm, with tickets priced at $150 before April 11 and $175 thereafter (and at the door, if available). All proceeds go toward further Lawrence Hall's cause. Seating is limited, so call 312-456-2497 to reserve your space.

Millennium Park: One Year Later

The Newberry Library's Wednesday Club will take a look at Millennium Park and its place as the city's newest spot to enjoy architecture, outdoor concerts, festivals, public art and stunning seasonal visuals. Edward Uhlir, the director of design, architecture and landscape for the Park, will discuss the Park's developement and its future in the city. Admission is $12, including refreshments. The talk begins at 6pm, but doors open at 5:30pm. Call 312-255-3510 for more information or register here.

Reconstruction Room @ Black Rock

Join local writers and performers for Wednesday'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. Organizers Della Watson and Erin Teegarden have invited Kerry Nevel (poetry), Brandon Heckman (fiction), and Laura Pretnar (performance) to share their work. 8pm, 21+.

Chicago NOW's Stitch and Learn event

Chicago NOW's Educational Fund is organizing events at local coffee shops geared to get crafters politically educated and maybe organized and most definitely fired up. Their first Stitch'n'Learn event will take place tonight at Mo Joe's Cafe (corner of Roscoe and Oakley) beginning at 7 pm. Bring along your knitting, crocheting, cross-stitch or other crafty project so you can be crafty while The University of Illinois' Women's Reproductive Health, Research and Policy Project, an organization that promotes social policies, trains practitioners, and conducts research on reproductive issues, will be facilitating the discussion on Illinois laws surrounding abortion and Medicaid coverage of abortion. The talk will focus specifically on the Child Custody Protection Act, the Prevention First Act, and the Unborn Child Pain Awareness Act. The issue of framing the abortion debate for success will also be addressed.

GB staffer Cinnamon Cooper will be in attendance.

Girl's Night: Back to Bikinis

It's that time again...time for sandals, flip-flops and, eventually, bikinis. If it isn't snowing, I mean. Join The Chopping Block, the small Lincoln Park culinary school at 1324 W. Webster Ave., for Girl's Night: Back to Bikinis. Come taste healthy, flavorful party treats like mango ceviche and sesame ginger salmon bites, and take some recipes home with you. Registration for the 7:00-9:30pm class is $50 and there is a 24 hour cancellation policy. Call 773-472-6700 or email info[at]thechoppingblock.net for more information.

INFLUENCE. @ Sonotheque

Tonight is a special edition of the Influence monthly, as it celebrates the launch of the new issue of Subsystence, entitled Balance. DJs on the night will include Mark Nelson (aka Pan American), Steven Hess, Leo Prescott, as well as Mike Weis and Matt Christensen (of Zelienople). The event starts at 9 PM and takes place at Sonotheque, 1444 W Chicago Ave, near Ashland. There is no cover, but you must be 21 to get in.

GB staff member KM will be in attendance.

Philip Caputo @ Barbara's

Philip Caputo stops at Barbara's Bookstore Oak Park, 1100 Lake St., to read from his book 13 Seconds, a journalistic memoir of the 1970 events at Kent State University. Caputo was a reporter with the Tribune at the time, sent to cover what looked like a normal college uprising. The book details his memories of those events. The reading begins at 7:30pm. Call 708-848-9140 for more information.

Speed Dating with The Cupid Players

The Cupid Players, a non-profit theater comedy dedicated to the art of musical sketch comedy, stops by T's for an evening of speed dating. If you're between the ages of 25-39, you're welcome participate in an evening of three-minute dates with thirty singles, with The Cupid Players performing their "trademark savvy, salacious songs about relationships." Registration is limited to 30 men and 30 women and costs $30 -- call 773-539-4596 to save your spot. The dating fun begins at 6pm. T's is located at 5025 N. Clark St.

Nightclubbing: CBGB's @ Film Center

The Siskel Film Center presents Nightclubbing: Live from CBGB's, a 60-minute documentary taken from the "Nightclubbing" New York cable TV show of the 1970s, containing performances in the legendary NYC punk club from 1975 and 1977. The band featured are: Blondie; Talking Heads; and the Dead Boys. The doc is preceded by excerpts from the film Looking For A Thrill, produced by local label Thrill Jockey. Ths event is part of a month-long program of excerpts from Nightclubbing, and looks to be one of the cooler attractions in the Film Center's Music Movies series. The film screens tonight at 6:30 PM, and also Wednesday, May 4th at 8:00 PM. Tickets: $9, $5 for Film Center members, and $4 for SAIC students. Film Center: 164 N. State. (312) 846-2600.

Chicago Social Forum

The Chicago Social Forum, a "network of local social-movement organizations, peace and justice groups, NGOs, representatives of civil society, activists and interested individuals," is meeting today from 9am-6pm at Jones High School, 660 S. State St. If you're interested in learning more about their cause or volunteering with the group, stop by. You can also contact Lilliana De Santiago at lilydesantiago[at]yahoo.com.

Tapas ala Teatro Vista

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 Adoration of the Old Woman by Jose Rivera and director Ricardo Gutierrez at 12:30pm and Sonia Flew by Melinda Lopez and director Cecilie Keenan at 3pm. Seating is limited for the readings, so RSVP by calling 312-494-5767.

Multi-author SF author signing @ Borders

As part of the 2005 Nebula Awards weekend, there's going to be a huge multi-author book signing event this afternoon at the Borders on State Street. Listen to this line-up: Kevin J. Anderson; Lois McMaster Bujold; Cory Doctorow; Eric Flint; Janis Ian; Geoffrey Landis; Todd McCaffrey; Jack McDevitt; Rebecca Moesta Anderson; Mike Resnick; Benjamin Rosenbaum; Steven H Silver; Laurel Winter; W.R. Yates; and possibly more! The event starts at 11:00 AM, and only runs two hours, so you'd better get in line pretty early. Borders: 150 N. State. (312) 606-0750.


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