Off the couch!
Got the Monday blahs? Trade in your remote for a fork at A Cure for the Monday Night Blues. Each session of the new dining series includes a three-course meal with wine pairings and a discussion of one ingredient. Monday, Matt Parker from The Cheese Stands Alone (4547 N. Western Ave.) talks about — you guessed it — cheese. 6:30 p.m. Through July 16. $50; includes tax and tip. Erwin, 2925 N. Halsted St. 773-528-7200.
Give us a break
Whether you restrict your singing to the shower or belt out showtunes aboard the CTA, isn’t it about time for your Big Break? Croon for judges and an audience for the chance to win a $15,000 grand prize. The nine-round competition, open to the first 500 registrants, starts Monday. 8 p.m. No cover. Duffy’s Bar and Grill, 420 1/2 W. Diversey Pkwy. 773-868-8073. Sign up online to compete: bar1sbigbreak.com.
Once upon a time …
Think you tell a good story? See professionals in action at SKALD 8: The Eighth Annual Storytelling Competition. Ten performers compete for a panel of judges in Saturday’s title event. Workshops and a forum round out the festivities. On Monday, attend a free storytelling workshop. Presented by WNEP Theater. 7 p.m. See metromix.com for complete schedule. Studio Theater of the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St. 312-742-8497.
No generics allowed
Nuts about your iPod and your North Face jacket? You’ll be able to relate to HeadCheese Fat Boss Productions’ new show “Brand New Bag” — though you might end up tossing your possessions after the show. The hourlong riff on commercialism and corporate sponsorship incorporates sketch comedy and film. 8 p.m. Through Aug. 20. $6-$12. Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-935-6100.
Culture club
Why wait until Friday to get festive when you can keep your party hat on all week? Head to Humboldt Park to celebrate Puerto Rican culture at Fiestas Puertorriquenas. The six-day fest showcases food, crafts music and dancing. Don’t miss the Saturday parade! 2 p.m. Through Sunday. Free. Humboldt Park, 1400 N. Sacramento Ave. 773-292-1414. Parade details at metromix.com.
Water fall
Washing the car, the dishes and the dog prompts a few growls, but it could be stirring up real drama. Get schooled on international water issues and DIY water-saving projects at the “Dam Nation” book release party. Contributing writers Andrea del Moral, Qilo Matzen and Kari Lydersen read environmental essays from the book, published by Soft Skull. Copies are available for purchase at the event. 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. Decima Musa, 1901 S. Loomis St. 773-544-0804.
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