Hidden agenda
On the agenda: “G.I.F.T.” at Firehouse Square, 459 N. Wolcott Ave., 312-226-9633; collaboraction.org
Check it out if you … believe watching theater doesn’t have to be a stationary experience, think a gift’s retail price is not a measure of its worth, are looking for a holiday show that doesn’t have any Christmas trees or reindeer.
The deets: “G.I.F.T.,” Collaboraction theater company’s premiere show in its new West Town venue, takes the audience on a tour of the 7,000-square-foot warehouse and soundstage. Viewers start by walking a rocky path lined by scented candles and listening to a recording of people discussing the nature of gifts. They then move into a room where performers dance, mime and hand out strange gifts such papier-mache objects that viewers eventually give back. After a walk past lamps outside, guests enter a more conventional stage space, where the production explores different types of gifts through theater games, skits, music and poetry. Dress warm; the play finishes with a bonfire outside. Show times are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 7 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 29. Tickets are $15-$25.
The payoff: A new way of thinking about gifts and theater.
Saturday
REDEYE/MMX PICK
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Magnificent Mile
After a full day of live music (11 a.m.-5 p.m.) featuring “Hannah Montana” co-star Mitchel Musso and pop group Plain White T’s, Mickey Mouse leads a street-lighting procession (5:30 p.m.) of more than 1 million bulbs along North Michigan Avenue. Other celebrities appearing in the ceremony include “Twilight” actress Ashley Greene and former Blackhawks star Tony Esposito. Stick around for a fireworks display (6:55 p.m.) over the Chicago River at Michigan Avenue. Michigan Avenue, from Oak Street to Wacker Drive. 312-409-5560. Free.
Turkey-carving class
Lincoln Square
Learn tips and tricks for how to neatly carve turkey and prepare gravy at this demonstration class. 2 p.m. The Chopping Block, 4747 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-472-6700. Free.
Night of Fallen Stars
Lakeview
Transgendered songstress Jaila Simms (as seen on MTV’s “Making His Band”) appears at this showcase for trans artists featuring music, dance, comedy and poetry, presented in recognition of Transgender Awareness Month. 5:30 p.m. reception; 7 p.m. performances. Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. 773-472-6469. $5 suggested donation.
Thanks-giving Doggy Day
Lakeview
Dress your pooch to impressat a benefit for no-kill humane center PAWS Chicago. All beers are $1 off, and there is a costume contest at 2:30 p.m. 1 p.m. Jake’s Pub, 2932 N. Clark St. $5 donation.
Sunday
REDEYE/MMX PICK
Warm Up & Bear Down Chili Cook-off
Wicker Park
Take in some live music and judge chili from 16 pro and amateur contestants, then stick around to watch the Bears take on the Philadelphia Eagles. Contest winners are announced during halftime of the game. 3-7 p.m. Moonshine, 1824 W. Division St. 773-862-8686. $10, or free with donation of a warm coat.
Bryan K. Osburn fashion show
Lakeview
Check out a fashion showcase from designer Bryan K. Osburn, followed by free salsa lessons and a live salsa band performance. 7 p.m. Cubby Bear, 1059 W. Addison St. RSVP at 312-961-8822 or makeupsue@gmail.com. Free.
Woodlawn Collaborative open house
Woodlawn
The WLC cultural and arts center holds an open house to showcase its partner groups, local performers and a panel discussion about the future of community organizing. 2-5 p.m. 6400 S. Kimbark Ave. 937-307-1838. Free.
All weekend
Open Books grand opening
River North
Open Books, a local non-profit literacy program for children and adults, debuts its bookstore this weekend with activities, author events and more. Visit open-books.org/events for a complete schedule. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 312-475-8243. Open Books, 213 W. Institute Pl.
The Gamer
Who’s playing at home
Northwestern vs. Wisconsin
2:30 p.m. Saturday, Ryan Field, Evanston
Wolves vs. Peoria
7 p.m. Saturday, Allstate Arena, Rosemont
Wolves vs. Texas
3 p.m. Sunday, Allstate Arena, Rosemont
Bears vs. Philadelphia
7:20 p.m. Sunday, Soldier Field
