TUE 1/16
Flick and slack
We know: There’s a party wherever you go. But sometimes a little planning doesn’t hurt to keep things moving. Gen Art does all the legwork for this midweek combo. First, see an advance screening of post-Civil War flick “Seraphim Falls” (due for release Jan. 26) starring Pierce Brosnan and Liam Neeson. Then, head to hip Lakeview Broadcasting Company (3542 N. Halsted St.) for beer and cocktails, included in the ticket price. How’s that for a plan? 7:30 p.m. $15. Tickets: genart.org. Piper’s Alley Theater, 1608 N. Wells St. 312-229-1701.
Don’t stop
Speaking of parties, we like the kind that last for days. Saint Xavier University keeps the spirit of celebration going with a bash honoring Martin Luther King Jr. a day after his birthday. The annual event, Simply to Be, features speakers, music, a reception and a performance by the Emerson Dance Alliance of “Nubian Odyssey,” a cross-continental journey in dance highlighting African-American experiences. 1 p.m. Free. 3700 W. 103rd St. 773-298-3881.
Strong words
You’ve been told that it’s better to be a good listener than a good talker–especially after you’ve had few drinks. Here’s a chance to work on your sip-and-listen technique: Journalist and author Alex Kotlowitz (“There Are No Children Here”) discusses poverty, racism and other social issues at benefit event the Power of the Pen. 6 p.m. $20-$35. Proceeds benefit Jewish Council on Urban Affairs. Jefferson Tap, 325 N. Jefferson St. 312-663-0960. Tickets: jcua.org.
Dive in
You keep meaning to visit Chicago’s celebrated museums and landmark institutions, but things like work, laundry and nightlife always seem to get in the way. Don’t miss an opportunity to explore the life aquatic–without shelling out big bucks–during Shedd Aquarium’s Discount/Free Week. Get free general admission, and $10 to $15 entry to “Wild Reef” and Oceanarium exhibits. 9 a.m. Through Friday. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive. 312-939-2438.
WED 1/17
Let’s go out
Contrary to your grammar school memories, museums don’t just house screaming kids and dusty replicas of pterodactyls. Enter the Chicago History Museum, heating things up with the return of its Out at CHM series, featuring author and historian Richard Meyer discussing “Art, Sex and Censorship.” Learn about the visibility and suppression of GLBT art from the 1930s until today. The evening starts with a cocktail hour. Cash bar. 5:30 p.m. cocktails; 6:30 p.m. presentation. $5-$10. 1601 N. Clark St. 312-642-4600. RSVP: chicagohistory.org.
On the double
If your interest in going out trumps “out” art, get on the fast track with other flirty types for a DateandDash Singles Speed Dating Party. You might not find a Brad or Angelina to complement your heroic traits, but we know of a least one perfect pairing for the night: fast dates and appetizers. Cash bar. 8 p.m. $32. Registration required: dateanddash.com. The Ivy on Clark, 3462 N. Clark St. 800-957-3274.
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rkpalmore@tribune.com
