ARTS & (HOME) ENTERTAINMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

Since being stuck inside, which shows have you been watching? Which movies? Have you read any good books lately? Any new music releases have you dancing in your living room? StreetWise vendors, readers and staff are sharing what is occupying their attention during this unprecedented time.

To be featured in a future edition, send your recommendations of what to do at home and why you love them to Creative Director / Publisher Dave Hamilton at dhamilton@streetwise.org

Be Inspired!

Only the Clothes on Her Back: Meet the Author Laura F. Edwards

On February 15, the Newberry Library is hosting another virtual Zoom event led by historians Laura Edwards and Margaret Storey as they discuss Edwards’ new book “Only the Clothes on Her Back: Clothing and the Hidden History of Power in the Nineteenth-Century United States.” Join Edwards and Storey as they unravel the hidden stories woven into the very fabric of everyday clothing, linens, and cloths. Enter into the conversation on how such articles can reshape our understanding of law, economy and the stories of ordinary people living insightfully in a material world. Event starts at 5 p.m. and is open to the public at no cost. A live stream will also be available on YouTube and the Newberry Facebook page. Register now at newberry.org.

Rock Out!

Porchlight Music Theatre Revisits 'Passing Strange'

Rock out to the comedy-drama musical “Passing Strange” that follows the restless dreams and spiritual awakening of a young musician who journeys all the way from L.A. to Amsterdam and Berlin. Sing along as he rebels against his conventional and conservative upbringing, shattering expectations one soulful lyric at a time. "Passing Strange" is the recipient of both the Tony and Drama Desk Awards and has been made into a motion picture by Spike Lee. Tickets are on sale at PorchlightMusicTheatre.org for $49. Performances take place February 16 at 7 p.m. and February 17 at 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Porchlight Music Theatre, 1016 N. Dearborn St.

All of Your Senses!

All Together Now: Sound x Design

What do designers and musicians have in common? Lots, apparently. Join the Design Museum of Chicago, 72 E. Randolph, from now until April 3 to find out how each relies on rhythm, melody, form, harmony, texture and dynamics to communicate and express their ideas. The exhibit will feature work of 24 artists, designers and musicians from across the country and will illustrate how different art forms and fields can create something entirely new. Museum is open daily from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free to the public. More information about the exhibit can be found at designchicago.org.

There is Still Time!

Weinberg/Newton Gallery Extends 'Human/Nature'

Feeling the effects of climate change yet? The Weinberg/Newton Gallery’s “Human Nature” exhibit has been extended through April 16. Learn how you can take immediate action by exploring this scientific and artistic exhibit that investigates how our choices now affect our paths moving forward. Gallery hours are Thursdays and Fridays 1-5 p.m. and Saturday 12-4 p.m. The exhibition is free to attend but registration is requested at exploretock.com. The museum is located at 688 N. Milwaukee Ave. For further discussion of the pieces, join the Human/Nature Artist Panel as they discuss the intersection of art and activism. The virtual discussion is at 1 p.m. February 19. More information at weinbergnewtongallery.com

Preview the World!

Travel and Adventure Show

Relaxing on the warm beaches of Costa Rica? Walking the cobblestone streets of Paris? Gazing at the glittering skylines of Hong Kong? Get out of your cramped apartment and see how the Travel & Adventure Show can help you plan your next adventure. Designed to give you insight and invaluable tips from some of the best travelers in the world, the Travel & Adventure show is hosting three keynote speakers for its 17th annual show on February 19 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and February 20 from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Speakers include Pauline Frommer, Peter Greenberg and Andrew McCarthy. You won’t want to miss this pre-getaway adventure. Event takes place at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center (Hall F), 5555 N. River Rd. Tickets are $11-18 and can be purchased at travelshows.com.

Family Fun!

Downtown Evanston Hygge Fest

Hygge, pronounced “hue-gah,” is a Danish expression that emphasizes finding joy in the little, everyday moments we often overlook. Downtown Evanston’s Hygge Fest invites you to get hygge with them in a celebration of coziness, warmth, family and the continual practice of mindfulness and well-being. The Hygge Fest will take place throughout the month of February and will partner with local businesses to host a wide range of events that invite participants to embrace creativity, exploration and gratitude. Events range from weaving classes, sourdough bread baking, board game open houses, fun runs, printmaking, high teas and coffee and cinnamon roll days. While some events are free, others require tickets. For more information about dates, prices and events, visit downtownevanston.org to see their full roster of February fun.

Don't Cry For Me!

Drury Lane 'Evita' opens

Clear your calendars for this award-winning rags-to-riches musical from Broadway dream team Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Follow the story of Eva Perón as she becomes the First Lady of Argentina, using her popularity and politics to serve her people and create change. The musical showcases Webber’s iconic song “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina” and was adapted into a 1996 film. Performances will be held at the Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, until March 20 at various times. Tickets are $64 at drurylanetheatre.com.

Shop 'til You Drop!

Rogers Park 2nd annual 'Shop Where Your Heart Is'

The Rogers Park Business Alliance has a new shop local campaign, “Shop W.here Your Heart Is,” until February 28 for businesses between Devon and Howard, Ridge and the lakefront. Shoppers can enter their receipts of $25+; each receipt counts for one entry, and there is no limit to how many entries a single customer can submit. Three winners will be announced each Wednesday; the first place winner will receive two $50 gift cards from a Rogers Park restaurant of their choice. Second place will receive one $50 gift card, and third place gets a $25 gift card, all from a Rogers Park business of their choice. A Grand Prize winner of $1,000 will be announced at the end of the month. For more information about entries, prizes, and dates, see rpba.org.

Notorious R.B.G!

'When There Are Nine'

Visit the Pride Arts Center, 4139 N. Broadway, to watch the world premiere of “W.hen There Are Nine,” a new dream play that follows the mind and memory of Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s last day on Earth. Written by award-winning screenwriter, playwright, and journalist Sally Deering, the play recalls the ups and downs of RBG’s relationships and professional challenges while highlighting her journey to becoming the first female Jewish Supreme Court Justice. Battling sexism and advancing equality on all fronts, RBG’s life is celebrated in this hilarious, yet touching testament to her character, strength, and legacy. The play runs through March 13, Thursdays - Saturdays at 7:30 p.m as well as Sundays at 3 p.m. An additional performance will be on March 9. Tickets are $15-$30. Seniors and students can receive a $5 discount. More information can be found at pridearts.org.

-Compiled by Cora Saddler