Looking for events happening in a ‘hood near you? We’ve got you covered, Chicago! To learn about these upcoming events, or to add your own events to our digital calendar, visit The Scene on The TRiiBE. It’s free!
Prayers have been answered and sunlight, accompanied by a heat wave in the 70s and 80s, has hit Chicago, making this weekend one of the most highly anticipated of the year. I’m a true believer that weather has a positive influence on our minds, sparking good energy and creativity.
That being said, Chicago continues to be a hub for artistic uniqueness, offering us many options when it comes to the arts and entertainment. This week, The Scene focuses on the arts, entertainment and social justice events in Chicago to help you find your TRiiBE.
1. The Magnolia Ballet
Who said Black people can’t enjoy the opera? Come out to The Den Theatre to see a Black masterpiece, The Magnolia Ballet, presented by the About Face Theatre. This ballet is described as a southern gothic fable, melding high drama, dance and poetry while also exploring masculinity and racism. At the core of the plot, it explores the love between a queer Black kid and his father. It sounds very interesting and I always love to see Black excellence in the arts. The Den Theatre is located at 1131 N. Milwaukee Ave. and the show runs from May 12 to June 11. Show time is 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $35, but a limited quantity are available at pay-what-you-can rates starting at $5.00 to encourage attendance.
2. No Cap Comedy Tour
This group of Black excellence knows how to have a good time, and will leave you with laughter and good memories. This installment of the comedy tour features comedian and radio personality Corey Holcomb, and Chico Bean and Karlous Miller from “Wild ‘N Out” and “85 South Show,” respectively. Although B. Simone, comedian and social media personality, and 85 South Show co-host and comedian DC Young Fly (who both also appear on “Wild ‘N Out”) are advertised to be there. Nonetheless, the laughs will be had at the Arie Crown Theater, located at 2301 S. Jean Baptiste Pointe Du Sable Lake Shore Dr. on Friday, May 13. Show time is set for 8:00 p.m. with tickets available starting at $67.
3. Nationwide United Protest
We are in a pivotal time in our nation’s history. In light of controversy in our country concerning a woman’s right to choose, this protest calls out to all, to come out and exercise your right to protest the right to an abortion. Chicago has a rich history in social justice, and this Saturday at Millennium Park from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., that tradition continues. Come out, wear green, and stand with our women as they fight for their right to choose.
4. Dream Chaser Film Screening
This documentary is the triumphant story of Carl Montgomery, a Chicago native who despite falling short of playing in the NBA, still overcomes all odds, finding peace and his path to the American dream. Showing this Saturday, May 14, at The Showplace Icon Theater, located at 1011 S. Delano Court, the screening will begin at 6:00 p.m. ending at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $15.
5. American Writers Festival
Come out this Sunday, May 15 to the American Writers festival. The festival coincides with the American Writers Museum’s fifth anniversary. The festival is free, and will be held at four stages inside the Chicago Cultural Center and one stage at the museum. It will feature more than 75 artists, playwrights and contemporary authors addressing their opinions on controversial topics such as, racism, immigration, book censorship and equality through themes within their literature. Come down to the Cultural Center at 78 E. Washington St. Festivities begin at 10:00 a.m. ending at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are free. but seating is first come, first serve.