TOP 5 FOR TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16
1. GZA At Howard Theatre
The Wu-Tang member will perform his classic album, "Liquid Swords" in its entirety. If that isn't enough reason to skip the debate, opener Killer Mike's new album "R.A.P. Music" will end up on a lot of critics best-of year-end lists. 8 p.m., all ages, $25
EVERYDAY IS HALLOWEEN PICK
2. "Nightmare Factory" At AFI Silver Spring
A documentary about the man responsible for the zombies in "The Walking Dead," "Day of the Dead," "Evil Dead 2" and other films and television shows where zombies look like zombies, Greg Nicotero. 7 p.m., all ages, $11.50
3. Jay and Silent Bob Get Old At Fillmore Silver Spring
Along with Adam Carolla and Chris Hardwick, Kevin Smith has turned podcasting into a full-time, high-paying gig. The writer-director is able to tour the country without a script, playing for packed theaters and rock clubs recording shows for his 'Smodcast.' Tonight's show will be a taping with Jason Mewes, better known as Jay from "Clerks." 8 p.m., all ages, $54
4. Watch The Debate With Us
Be prepared. 9 p.m.
5. "Mystic Pizza" At Comet Ping Pong
Or skip the debate and watch Julia Roberts in a movie that features pizza. In a pizza place. 7 p.m., all ages, no cover
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TOP 5 FOR THE NEXT 5 DAYS
Wednesday, October 17
Children's National Halloween Benefit Show at DC Improv
There are plenty of good toy drives for sick kids during the holidays, but what about Halloween? Every kid deserves a new costume. The DC Improv will stage its seventh annual Halloween-themed benefit show for Children's National Medical Center. Comedy fans will enjoy a show from DC Improv Comedy School Cast (THE DICSC) and donate new costumes for the little ones. Laugh and feel good in another way.
Thursday, October 18
OFF! at Black Cat
Keith Morris and Co. have made actual punk rock music sort-of mainstream thanks to opening for the Red Hot Chili Peppers in arenas, appearing on PRI's "Sound Opinions" and being pretty awesome. No frills, pretty awesome punk rock from guys that have been doing it 30+ years.
Friday, October 19
A Night of the Living Dead (Artist) at Hillyer Art Space
Dress as your favorite dead artist a weekend before most Halloween parties. Make the most of your costume. The event is hosted by Hillyer Art Space and St. Johns Community Services. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to SJCS to support their programming for artists with disabilities.
Saturday, October 20
The Capital City Showcase at DC Arts Center
Christian Hunt does a fine job bringing comics, improvisers and musicians on stage at the DCAC on a monthly basis. This particular edition gets our pick because of Baltimore comic and impressionist Randy Syphax.
Sunday, October 21
Three Tents at The Big Hunt
This bi-monthly reading series will present four authors reading from recently released independent books. Two locals and two writers on tour make up the bill. A good way to dip your toe in the D.C. lit scene.