The snow-bubble has burst, Chicago, and but that's not all that hurt us this week: our wallets are aching after exuberant holiday shopping, and our Congressmen are sore from running away from us. If seeing our former governor get 14 in the clink didn't shake us enough, our city's impending identity crisis sure might. But with so few weekends of freedom left to celebrate, we think Blago--and the rest of us--deserve a little fun.
ALL WEEKEND
Tidings of Tap!
Add some rhythm and funk to your usual collection of Christmas carols with "Tidings of Tap." Chicago Tap Theatre will be performing to seasonal favorites like "Carol of the Bells" performed by a live band. Don't miss the special snow-filled finale. (Be sure to bring the kids--they'll be welcomed onstage at the end!)
Where: UIC Theater, 1044 W. Harrison St., Chicago
When: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9 and Saturday, Dec. 10, 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11
Price: $35
Magic at the Mansion
Travel back in time with a vaudeville magic show in the style of the greats at Chicago's 1893 Columbian Exposition, performed in a setting befitting of that time. Sean Masterson combines storytelling, illusions and audience participation at the late-19th century Nickerson Mansion, hosted by the Driehaus Museum.
Where: Driehaus Museum, 40 E. Erie St., Chicago
When: 1 p.m. and 3 p.m Saturday, Dec. 10 and Sunday, Dec. 11
Price: $12 adults $8 kids; includes museum admission
FRIDAY
Naked Girls Reading
Few things are better than the heartwarming traditions of the holiday season, like time-honored Christmas stories, carols and cartoons. Adding naked girls, though, probably counts as an upgrade. Sip hot chocolate and take in some unclothed literature at the third annual “Naked Girls Reading: A Christmas Carol.” Hot ladies in their skivvies will read from the Charles Dickens classic and lend their derrieres as the backdrop for screenings of classic holiday films.
Where: Everleigh Social Club, 939 W. Randolph, Chicago
When: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9
Price: $20, two tickets for $35
ACRE Country Fair: Winter Benefit
Support Artists' Cooperative Residency and Exhibitions (ACRE) at their winter benefit, the ACRE Country Fair. Bid at an art auction to the down-home tunes of the Golden Horse Ranch Band, stuff your face at a cornucopia eating contest and sit for a portrait with ACRE artists.
Where: Heaven Gallery, 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago (second floor)
When: 7 p.m. - 12 a.m. Friday, Dec. 9
Price: $40
SATURDAY
Chance of a Lifetime Gala
Take it to the streets this Saturday and jam along with The Doobie Brothers to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at the Chance of a Lifetime Gala. The event, hosted will also feature a three-course dinner and one of the city's largest silent auctions.
Where: McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
When: 5:30 p.m. - 11 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10
Price: $375
BrrrrrLESQUE
Need something to warm you as winter's chill sets in? See Michelle L'amour's lovely ladies heat up Martyrs' with "BrrrrrLESQUE," a seasonal burlesque show with Chicago Starlets who know how to weather the Windy City's cold.
Where: Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10
Price: $15-30
SUNDAY
Schadenfreude Bears Show
While Chicago football may be no laughing matter, when the Bears' performance is downright comical, you may need a mood-lightener. Enter Schadenfreude's Bears Show, and let Chicago's long-running, critically acclaimed sketch comedy ensemble provide running commentary through Sunday's game. (Hint: the flowing drink specials will help cushion the blows, too.)
Where: Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago
When: 3 p.m. SUnday, Dec. 11
Price: $5
NEDtalks
Love the inspirational vibe of TEDtalks but intimidated by the brilliance behind them? Give your ego a break and head to "NEDtalks: Spreading Worthless Ideas." Local comedians Kellen Alexander and Seth Dodson skewer the Silicon Valley version at the Hideout, with the all-powerful Powerpoint to back them up.
Where: Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave, Chicago
When: 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11
Price: $5