Smile Politely

Weekender: September 28-30

As we’ve alluded to numerous times this week, it’s PYGMALION weekend. Therefore we are admittedly biased about what you should be doing this weekend. There’s a little something for everyone: music, poetry, podcasts, comedy, handmade wares, and much more. ICYMI, here’s what we as editors are looking forward to, and here are some food suggestions to consider while you’re out and about. However, there are other options for fun in C-U over the next few days should the events of PYGMALION not be your thing.

Friday, September 28th

Project 500: Commemorative Concert, Krannert Center’s Foellinger Great Hall, 7:30 p.m., $5

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Project 500, the U of I’s initiative to increase the number of black and Latino students on campus. This concert is a part of a weekend long celebration that will recognize the impact of Project 500 through music, dance, and theater performances. It will feature the UI Black Chorus, also celebrating it’s 50th year, and they are a group that you must see. They are amazing. Tickets are available here. (JM) Photo from Facebook

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Allerton Music Barn, 7:30 p.m., $10-28

Described by director Sarah Wigley as “90 minutes of hysterical laughter, silliness, and pure joy,” this is a unique opportunity to see Lyric Theatre at Illinois perform outside their usual space at the Tryon Festival Theater. The performance is a part of the larger Allerton Music Barn Festival, which you can find out more about here. (JM)

Saturday, September 29th

Go to the market, 7 a.m. to noon, Illinois and Vine, prices vary

We are nearing the end of farmer’s market season, with just about a month to go. Though it’s not the peak of growing season, there is still plenty of produce to be found, and it’s a lot less crowded this time of year, as people have slipped into fall mode. It’s going to be an absolutely lovely weekend, so take advantage and go have a stroll. Get some coffee, grab a donut (the lines will be shorter), maybe find some fall flowers, and soak in this wonderful time of year before everything is cold and gray and sad. (JM)

Tango in an art gallery, Krannert Art Museum, 12 to 3 p.m., free

Because why not? This is the first Tango at KAM of the season. There will be live music from Tangotta, and the dancing will happen on the Main Level in the Gelvin Noel Gallery. You don’t have to be an experienced tango-er (tangoist?) to attend, all are welcome to join. (JM) Image from KAM website

The Servant of Two Masters, Parkland Second Stage Theater, 7:30 p.m., $9-15

Parkland kicks off it’s new theater season with a show dubbed a “Bob Hope comedy written by Monty Python and performed with likes of Chaplin or Keaton.” Sounds like an entertaining way to spend your Sunday afternoon. For a bit more background on the show, check out our preview from this week. You can reserve your tickets here. (JM)

Sunday, September 30th

Rent a movie from the library and order take out, prices vary

Becoming one with your couch can feel completely liberating and refreshing, and after all the partying you’ve done this weekend at PYGMALION and whatever other debauchery you’ve gotten into, you’re probably tired. Sometimes, on Sundays, I like to go to the Champaign Public Library and pick out a movie (or two), then head across the street to Golden Harbor and get some take out. Generally there are enough leftovers for lunch on Monday, and I’ve spent time on the couch so I feel ready to take on the next week. (JH) Photo by Jessica Hammie

Go to a sausage party, Triptych Brewing, 4 to 7 p.m., $30

We told you about this party a while ago, but it’s now here and you should consider attending. Tickets get you food, a mug, and two beers. Get your ticket ahead of time. (JH) 

Cover photo from The Made Fest Facebook page.

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All event information is accurate to the best of our abilities, but sometimes we make mistakes and sometimes event information, times, prices, etc., change after we look them up. Whenever possible, we’ve provided a link to the original event page; you should always double-check the source before you make any firm plans. Thanks for your understanding.

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