THU 2/8
Deux it, deux it
Comedians dare to tread where water cooler conversations and government officials only dream to dabble. We’re talking race, class and American politics. Enter the new show by Kevin Douglas, Inda Craig-Galvan and Carla Stillwell (“Blaxploitation: The Remix”), “Blaxploitation 2: You Know How We Deux.” 8:30 p.m. Through March 18. See metromix.com for schedule. $19.50-$22.50. Victory Gardens Greenhouse, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-871-3000.
True colors
Picture it: You’re at a party, ogling cuties left and right, pondering their relationship status and wondering if they’re doing the same. Dare to share your availability at a color-coordinated Children’s Memorial Hospital benefit. It’s easy: Sport a ribbon to indicate whether you’re single (green), taken (red) or in-between (yellow). Includes appetizers and vodka, wine and beer. 5:30 p.m. $25. Partial proceeds benefit Children’s Memorial Hospital. Rockit Bar and Grill, 22 W. Hubbard St. 312-645-6000.
Sweet charity
Speaking of benefits, some warm eats would do your glacial body temps a world of good. Heat up your week at the Chicago Lighthouse Young Philanthropists Board’s Sweets for Sight at the Melting Pot. (And who couldn’t use some melting right about now?) The perks are twofold: You get to sip bubbly and chocolate martinis, nibble fondue and bid on silent auction items; your ticket fee raises funds for the Seeing is Believing program. 6 p.m. $20-$25. 609 N. Dearborn St. 312-997-3679.
FRI 2/9
Critical caffeine
In order to take in this year’s Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival (Friday through Sunday, see metromix.com for details), you’ll need some fuel. OK, a lot of fuel. Stop by Mercury Cafe in West Town for a one-two punch: hot java and the cool Critical Mass Art Show 2007. The 10th annual exhibit celebrates bicycles as community builders and a solution to congestion and pollution. Opening reception from 7-10 p.m. Continues through Feb. 23. Free. 1505 W. Chicago Ave. 312-455-9924.
SAT 2/10
Pet names
You’re not the only one who could use some lovin’ this Valentine’s Day. Your cuddly pet needs attention too–beyond cleaning out the litter box. Let them know you care at the Mercy For Animals Vegetarian Valentine Benefit. Wear crimson, scarlet or any shade of red and dig into vegan sweets. DJs Microbe, Veganinblack and Peter Propaganda spin. Includes drinks, raffle prizes and a silent auction. 8 p.m. $15-$20. Framing Mode and Gallery, 1526 S. Wabash St. 312-566-0027.
Smooth moves
We’ve all rolled our eyes at the saccharine side of Valentine’s Day. But here’s something we can appreciate: Big Theater romance play, “The Yes! Yes! Valentine’s Day Show,” mimics the risks and rewards of throwing yourself into something new (like a hookup, perhaps?) by the process of the play’s own creation. Tonight’s debut reflects work done just 24 hours before the show. 8 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday. $10. Swim Cafe, 1357 W. Chicago Ave. 248-921-8869.
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rkpalmore@tribune.com
