WED 8/15
Screen scene
Can’t beat the heat? Go underground. The 14th annual Chicago Underground Film Festival opens Wednesday with a world premiere screening of Tim Kinsella’s futuristic drama “Orchard Vale.” Head to AV’aerie (formerly Open End Gallery, 2000 W. Fulton St., suite 310) for an afterparty with live music by Pillars and Tongues and others. See metromix.com for festival schedule and additional screening location. 10 p.m. film. $7 film; $10 party. Tickets: cuff.org. Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St. 773-278-1500.
One love
We can never remember which anniversary gift comes first. Paper? Plastic? Good thing you only need to remember to bring your party hat to Zocalo’s first anniversary bash. The fiesta includes an open bar and complimentary appetizers (6-8 p.m.), plus live music and drink specials. Also, enter your name for a chance to compete in the margarita-making contest for prizes (9 p.m.). No cover. 358 W. Ontario St. 312-302-9977.
THU 8/16
Shanghai surprises
Jet setters don’t think twice about having dinner in New York City followed by brunch in Paris. But you, savvy reader, know that international adventures need not cost more than cab fare. Case in point: A Night in Shanghai. Indulge your senses with a fashion show, cocktails, Asian beers and appetizers, chocolate desserts and more. 6 p.m. $30-$50. Tickets: ticketweb.com (keywords “Peninsula Chicago”). Shanghai Terrace, 108 E. Superior St. 312-642-5097.
Highs and toes
Being called an amateur isn’t really flattering, but being one has its perks. Amateur dancers can compete for prizes, including domestic airline tickets, at the Chicago SummerDance Showdown. Sign up in advance for one of two remaining contests in swing (Thursday) and ballroom (Aug. 24). Thursday includes an hourlong dance lesson as usual (6 p.m.), followed by live music by Lesley Byers & the Jazz Cats (7:30 p.m.). Contest kicks off at 8:30 p.m. Free. Sign up to compete: chicagosummerdance.org. Grant Park, Spirit of Music Garden, 601 S. Michigan Ave. 312-742-4007.
FRI 8/17
Hoff and on
You could call it the Lollapalooza of drama: The Abbie Hoffman Died For Our Sins Theater Festival marks the anniversary of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair with three days of non-stop entertainment by more than 30 theater groups and performers on two stages. The fest kicks off at 2 p.m. in Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington St.) with a peaceful march to the theater’s Lakeview home. Performances start at 7 p.m. Friday. $10-$25. Mary-Arrchie Theatre, 735 W. Sheridan Rd. 773-871-0442.
Delighted, we’re sure
Is it Gwyneth Paltrow’s swanlike neck or her graceful British manner that most appeal to her admirers? We’re not sure. Maybe it’s the new Estee Lauder fragrance, Pleasures Delight, she’s wearing. Meet the actress when she introduces the perfume and signs purchased bottles. Noon. Free. Macy’s, 111 N. State St. 312-781-5445.
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rkpalmore@tribune.com
