THU 9/20
Funny business
Remember how Mom always used to remind you that, ahem, “there’s a time and a place for clowning around”? Well, that time has come. See clowns, aerialists, acrobats, dancers, contortionists and other agile artists at the 14th annual UniverSoul Circus. The big top show, set in Washington Park, showcases traditional circus arts with an urban edge and features performers from Argentina, China, Russia, South Africa, the U.S. and elsewhere. 7:30 p.m. Through Oct. 14. See metromix.com for full schedule. $10-$35. Washington Park, 5531 S. King Drive. 800-316-7439.
Block party
Most neighborhood parties spread out over a street, an intersection or a park. The River North Rendezvous takes on an entire district. Explore the neighborhood’s renowned gallery district (a four-block radius bordered by Huron Street, Wells Street, Chicago Avenue and Franklin Street), when 12 art galleries showcase new fall exhibitions. Includes food and cocktails at each gallery, plus live music and a rooftop afterparty at Lightology (215 W. Chicago Ave.) with more food and drinks. 5:30 p.m. $50-$75. Ticket pickup: 233 W. Huron St. 312-645-1047.
Get a move on
Chicago Moving Company won’t haul your couch across town, but it hopes to help you relocate for at least one night. Check out the dance company’s annual performance extravaganza The Other Dance Festival, showcasing 16 local dance groups and artists. On Thursday, see The Dance COLEctive, Jyl Fehrenkamp, JulieAnn Graham, Lucky Plush Productions and Thread Meddle Outfit. 7:30 p.m. Through Friday. $12-$15. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse, 3035 N. Hoyne Ave. 800-838-3006.
Second wind
Don’t let your late-afternoon slump segue into a dull evening at home. Instead, shake a leg for the Girls on the Run Fall Wine Tasting. The benefit mixer includes wine and appetizers, plus raffle prizes from Nike and Dove. 7 p.m. $35. Proceeds benefit Girls on the Run, an organization fostering self-respect in preteen girls. Lush Wine and Spirits, 1306 S. Halsted St. 312-266-8200.
Seven up
Pop quiz: Can you name all seven deadly sins? Maybe it’s time for a refresher. Learn about the history and philosophy of bad behavior at the “Seven Deadly Sins Sampler” book release party, hosted by Chicago Public Radio personality Al Gini, who wrote the anthology’s forward. Includes wine and appetizers. 5:30 p.m. Free. Loyola University Museum of Art, 820 N. Michigan Ave. 312-332-5870 ext. 241.
FRI 9/21
Jerk alert
We’ve all had them: friends who enthusiastically agree — and repeatedly fail — to return borrowed money, clothes and favors. But we still love them, right? Explore the phenomenon these so-called “Friends Without Benefits” during a new sketch comedy revue at The Second City Skybox. 7:30 p.m. Through Oct. 5. $8-$10. 1608 N. Wells St. 312-337-3992.
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