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

Improv on Stage!

The Goldfish Tank Comedy Show

The Lincoln Lodge, 2040 N. Milwaukee Ave., presents The Goldfish Tank comedy show on October 22 from 9:30-11 p.m. This performance is their own version of the show, “Shark Tank,” a TV show that lets entrepreneurs pitch their business proposals to "sharks" - sucessful entrepreneurs - who choose whether or not they want to invest. During this show, comedians will come up with their own pitches for products they are selling to a panel of "Goldfish" investors. Who knows what products these comedians will come up with! Tickets cost $10 and can be purchased under the calendar section at thelincolnlodge.com.

Campy Halloween Fun!

‘I Bought a Vampire Motorcycle’: Movie Screening

The Martin, Tarnish, and Split-Rail are partnering to host a movie screening of “I Bought a Vampire Motorcycle,” on October 24 from 7-9:30 p.m. The film is a 1990 comedy horror movie about a motorcycle becoming possessed by a vampire’s spirit. This unrated film will show at The Martin, 2500 W. Chicago Ave., a woman-owned creative space. You can make reservations for dinner before the show at Split-Rail, a co-sponsor, which is a woman-owned restaurant that specializes in New Americana cuisine. Of course, what is a motorcycle movie without motorcycles? Tarnish is a woman-owned motorcycle boutique, selling motorcycle gear, clothes, and accessories (for you and your bike). This screening is a great way to support local businesses and celebrate the Halloween spirit. Tickets cost $5 and can be purchased at eventbrite.com.

Win Big!

Bingo at the Bottle

The Empty Bottle,1035 N. Western Ave., is having a free bingo night on October 24 at 7 p.m. There will be live music courtesy of Old Timey, a band that performs vintage music from the 1920s to 1950s. Prizes include gift cards to local restaurants, bars, and shops in the Ukrainian Village and Humboldt Park. The Empty Bottle is also asking everyone to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test at least 72 hours before the event. 21+. Registration for this event is not necessary but highly encouraged, and you can RSVP at emptybottle.com.

If it ain't Baroque, don't fix it!

Vivaldi & Friends

Music of the Baroque presents Vivaldi and Friends at the Harris Theatre for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph St., on October 18 at 7:30 p.m. Baroque music is classical music from the 1600s. The era is known for its introduction of the concerto, sonata, and opera. Antonio Vivaldi is one of the greatest Baroque composers. He helped popularize Baroque music and contributed to the trend. Vivaldi's best known composition is "The Four Seasons." John Butt, the conductor (pictured), will play Vivaldi’s Bassoon Concerto in C Major, as well as Corelli, Albinoni, and Bach’s Orchestral Suite No. 1. Butt is paying tribute to the Baroque musicians who inspired him to pursue music. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased at baroque.org.

The Beauty of Nature!

First Flight Butterfly Release

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, hosts a First Butterfly Release on October 20 from 2 - 2:30 p.m. at the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven. Swallowtails, longwings, other types of butterflies and moths will be taking flight for the first time! Visitors can also learn about the life cycles of butterflies and moths, and learn to identify those in your area. Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience first-time flight. The butterfly release is a free and a relaxing way to spend an afternoon.

Day of the Dead!

Day of the Dead Show

The McKinley Park FieldHouse, 2210 W. Pershing Road, is throwing a Day of the Dead Show on October 23 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., featuring local artists such as La Rosa Noir, Lisa Vasquez, and Solde T. There will also be local vendors selling Day of the Dead art and traditional Mexican art. This day will be filled with music, food, and dancing. There will also be a Day of the Dead arts and crafts show, where artists will be able to showcase their work. This show is free and open to the public. There is no registration necessary before the event.

Fitness & Fun!

Roller Skating Under the Stars

Come spend a night rolling skating under the stars at Midway Plaisance Park, 1130 Midway Plaisance North, on October 21 from 4-8 p.m. There will be live music courtesy of DJ EDUB. You must bring your own skates. W.hat a great way to spend a Thursday night outdoors with friends and family before it gets too cold. You can bring a picnic – or just enjoy skating in the park. Midway Plaisance Park is asking everyone to wear a mask regardless of vaccination status. It is completely free to skate and no registration is required.

Show your Green Thumb!

Chicago Bonsai Club

The Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave., is hosting the Chicago Bonsai Club on October 20 from 6-7:30 p.m. This club is open to all bonsai tree enthusiasts. The experience level ranges from none to expert. This club is to teach about tips and tricks for caring for a bonsai tree. This is an optional BYOBT (bring your own bonsai tree), or you can show up to learn more about bonsai trees. You will even have the chance to plant your own bonsai tree, as potting soil and wire will be provided for free, but some pots and planting materials will be available for an additional cost. No reservations or costs required for this club.

Thrills & Chills!

OTV Presents: Queer Horror Showcase

Open Television is hosting a Queer Horror Showcase at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., on October 19 from 7-9 p.m. Open Television is a non-profit media organization that helps promote intersectionality among artists by showcasing those who have felt marginalized and oppressed in their communities. The Queer Horror Showcase will take place in the outdoor garden at the Music Box Theatre, so be sure to dress for the weather! There will be a showing of four short horror films, “Black Pill” (pictured), “Flock,” “35,” and “Hell by any Other Name.” After the films, there will be a brief panel discussion with the directors of “Black Pill” and “35.” The Music Box Theatre allows guests to bring food to the venue but drinks must be bought there. They are requiring everyone to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test at least 72 hours before the screening. This event is free, and for more information on the films and to register for the event, please visit eventbrite.com.

-Compiled by Paige Bialik