WED 8/30
The handyman can
Summer art fairs sparked our DIY fantasies, and now we’re collecting everything from bottle caps to insect wings. Before spending a fortune on soldering irons and sewing machines, get crafting tips from YarisWorks Chicago. Workshops range from guitar playing and flipbook making to light-switch covering and organic cooking. A block party punctuates the fete. Illustration and guitar classes at 11 a.m. Schedule at metromix.com. Free. Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen Ave. Contact: info@yarisworks.com.
A real score
History was never our best subject, but these notes could offer redemption. Historical musical “Thrill Me: The Leopold and Loeb Story” traces the emotions of a Chicago teen killer as he tells his parole board about a 1924 murder. Based on true events. Previews start 8 p.m. Show continues through Oct. 8. $15-$30. Bailiwick Repertory Arts Center, 1229 W. Belmont Ave. 773-883-1090.
Give yourself a hand
Autumn conjures up wholesome images of apple-picking for some, but we’ve got a different design in mind. Create a custom handbag with help from 1154 Lill Studio (904 W. Armitage Ave.). You pick the style and the fabric, and they finish the job and ship your creation to you in three weeks. Also, get $5 Ketel Citroen martinis and $10 manis. 7 p.m. No cover; handbag prices vary. Sheffield’s, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. 773-281-4989.
THU 8/31
Med-head
A Mediterranean lifestyle is hard to maintain when Chicago’s unforgiving temps enter the equation, but you can daydream of island life at the “Es Vive Ibiza 2006” CD Release Party. DJ Eric Kupper spins tracks from the new compilation and singer Bonnie Bailey performs live. Unlimited sushi and champagne from 9 to 10 p.m. seal the deal. With dancers, giveaways and videos on multiple screens. 9 p.m. $10-$20. Reduced admission before 11 p.m. with RSVP: rsvp@funkycouture.net. Victor Hotel, 311 N. Sangamon St. 312-224-9118.
‘Talent’ show
Admit it: Not only did you watch “America’s Got Talent” with nail-biting fervor, you also voted online and paid 50 cents a pop to text your votes. No? Alright, we’ll ‘fess up. See show contestant Michelle “Toots” L’amour in the flesh (and then some) at the Star and Garter Burlesque. TJ Miller hosts the cabaret style striptease and stand-up revue. 9 p.m. $10. Fizz Bar & Grill, 3220 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-348-6088.
FRI 9/1
Star gazing
Now that Pluto’s been demoted, what’s next? Get up to speed on the order of the universe at American Science and Surplus’ Star Party. Use telescopes, binoculars and your own, naked eyes to check out our celestial neighbors, then browse the shop’s collection of odds and ends, such as sculpting foam and invisible ink markers–perfect tools for use later at the bar. 7 p.m. Free. 5316 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-763-0313.
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rkpalmore@tribune.com
