WED 5/24
Sip ‘n’ slide
Nothing tops sipping cocktails in the sand. Except, that is, quieting the wave of swimsuit anxiety. This year, take a hint from confident, skin-exposed beach bods and grab a shot of liquid courage before you dive into the bronze age. Our pick: Sip into Summer at Le Passage. The mixer includes 10 Cane Rum cocktails, appetizers and DJ beats. RSVP now for the 6 p.m. Thursday bash. No cover. 937 N. Rush St. 312-832-6796.
The friend vs. the hottie
It’s an age-old battle of loyalty: Your buddy helps you empty the keg and nurse the hangover … but that beautiful specimen from last night keeps two-stepping into your thoughts. Enter playwright David Mamet. His take on the sitch comes in the form of “Speed-the-Plow,” a dark comedy about a manipulative Hollywood film producer who grapples between backing a friend’s surefire hit or a beautiful girl’s indie project. Let the internal debate begin. 8 p.m. Through July 1. See metromix.com for schedule. $12-$16. Theatre O Th Absurd at The Side Studio, 1520 W. Jarvis Ave. 773-419-5001.
You snooze, you lose
Disarming the alarm clock calls for a steady hand; one false move, and you’re eating breakfast for dinner while updating your resume. Don’t miss a reel chance to be early; catch an advance screening of “District B13,” Luc Besson’s film set in 2010 Paris. Includes an afterparty at Avenue M (695 N. Milwaukee Ave.) with cocktails and beer. 7 p.m. $15. Tickets: genart.org. AMC River East 21 Theater, 322 E. Illinois St. 312-229-1701.
THU 5/25
Packing it in
If the olive branch is a symbol of peace, the grapevine is a symbol for getting the hell outta town–or at least noshing global fare at a local restaurant. Head to a New Zealand Winemakers’ Dinner at John Bubala’s revamped spot, Timo. Includes a reception with appetizers and a three-course meal with pairings from Te Kairanga and Saint Clair Estate. 6:30 p.m. $65-$75. Timo, 464 N. Halsted St. 708-383-7543.
A quick study
Despite the continuing keg stands and lack of sleep, your college days are over. Before you assume the standard post-graduate pose (remote in one hand, beer in other), take a course you’re sure to ace: Wine University. This month, the class departs from the grape for a study on tequila. Includes a seminar, five-course dinner and (yes) study-guide sippers. 7:30 p.m. $50. RSVP recommended. MAS, 1670 W. Division St. 773-276-8700.
FRI 5/26
Singular sensation
Speaking of lessons, don’t discount last week’s excruciating first date (the one that ended in a daring exit via the bathroom window). These mishaps can be miracles in disguise. Get another take on relationships with “Four Single Guys Present: BROADS!!” The mockumentary aims to examine relationships, despite the fact the guys themselves “know nothing about them.” Sound familiar? 7:30 p.m. Through June 16. See metromix.com for schedule. $10. The Second City Skybox, Piper’s Alley, 1608 N. Wells St. 312-337-3992.
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rkpalmore@tribune.com
