TUE 5/6
Along came Molly
Have a soft spot for the ’80s? Bring back the Brat Pack — without resorting to late-night channel surfing — at “Mollywood,” a new musical satire of John Hughes-Molly Ringwald films by actor-writers Scott Bradley and Jonny Stax (“Carpenters’ Halloween”). 8 p.m. Through May 21. $15. Hamburger Mary’s, 5400 N. Clark St. The show also is in production at The Spot (4437 N. Broadway) starting Friday. Reservations: scootyjojo.com
Reading up
If you spent the winter curled up with a classic, ring in spring with fresh work from local literati during The Parlor Reading Series. The monthly event features 30-minute performances, which are taped for podcast. Stick around afterward for discussions. On Tuesday, hear author James Lower read from his memoir “Where the Woods Meet the Water.” 7 p.m. Free. The Green Lantern, 1511 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-235-0936.
WED 5/7
Ladies’ choice
Can’t wait until “Sex and the City” hits the big screen? Unleash your inner Carrie Bradshaw with complimentary manicures and massages and specials on champagne and Stoli cocktails during Ladies’ Night Out at DOC Wine Bar. 7 p.m. No cover. 2602 N. Clark St. 773-883-6000.
Magic touch
Waving a wand might not make your annoying ex disappear, but you can still believe in the proverbial art of illusion at Magic Chicago. Monthly performances include mind reading by Robert Charles and sleight of hand by Benjamin Barnes, along with appearances by a rotating roster of guests. This month’s featured performer is award-winning magician Arthur Trace. 7:30 p.m. $20. City Lit Theater Company, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., inside the Presbyterian Church building. 773-984-3817.
THU 5/8
Get smart
If you’ve got the de rigueur fluorescent but you’re hazy about what comes next, go beyond the bulb at the Museum of Science and Industry’s new “Smart Home: Green + Wired” exhibit. Afunctioning sustainable house constructed on the museum grounds features energy-saving technologies and eco-friendly materials. Highlights include guided tours of the house, rooftop garden and garage. 9:30 a.m. Through Jan. 4. $5-$10 in addition to general admission, $9-$13. 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive. 773-684-1414.
Wine of the times
Love wine, but hate attitude? Ditch the snooty set and take your own notes at Enjoying Wine the Mark Phillips Way. The TV host and self-described “everyday wine guy” reveals secrets and debunks myths about vino while covering topics such as asfreezing and microwaving wine, conventional wine ratings and why expensive wines may not be a good value. Includes a sampling of six wines with cheese pairings. 6:30 p.m. $40. Stan Mansion, 2408 N. Kedzie Ave. 312-533-4727. Registration required: markphillipswine.com
———-
metromix@tribune.com
