Catch some brand-new indie rock
Grab last-minute tickets to see soft-voiced British indie rockers The xx in Uptown tonight. The band is touring behind their new record, I See You. (Aragon Ballroom, 1106 W Lawrence Ave, Mon 6:30pm. $57)
Dive into Lakeview’s Latinx history
Before the yuppies, before Boystown, Lakeview was a vibrant Latino community, and La Havana Madrid was its epicenter. Explore the history of gentrification and Latinx Chicagoans in the new play, La Havana Madrid. (Steppenwolf Theatre Company, 1650 N Halsted St, Wed–Fri 8pm. $35–$45)
Take in Chicago’s young talent
See the works of young talented artists at the 12th annual CineYouth, where filmmakers under the age of 23, from all over the world, showcase their submissions. (Music Box Theatre, 3733 N Southport Ave, Thu, Fri 2pm–9pm. Free)
Tickets are still available to see mouse-eared Canadian DJ Joel Zimmerman—a.k.a. Deadmau5—live in concert at the Aragon this week. The mascot of EDM culture certainly knows how to put on a show. (Aragon Ballroom, 1106 W Lawrence Ave, Thu, Fri 9pm. $76 and up)
Drink in a galaxy far, far away
The Whistler is bringing back its Star Wars cantina for (when else?) May the 4th. Take in the Logan Square bar’s lineup of Star Wars-themed cocktails for one night only. (The Whistler, 2421 N Milwaukee Ave, Thu 6pm. Free)
Laugh at the Internet IRL
The writers of ClickHole, the Onion’s clickbait-oriented sister site, host their monthly live sketch and stand-up show this week. See more from the minds that crafted gems like this. (The Hideout, 1354 W Wabansia Ave, Thu 9pm. $10)
Head to Logan Arcade's monthly queer night, Night Names, for free pinball, bar specials and beats from DJ Essential Logic. If dance parties aren’t your thing but you’re looking for a queer party, this is a perfect option. (Logan Arcade, 2410 W Fullerton Ave, Thu 9pm. Free)
Swing by the first in a series of LGBTQ movie nights, Cinema QVI, this Friday at the Center on Halsted. This week’s movie is the Wachowski’s V For Vendetta. (Center on Halsted, 3656 N Halsted, Fri 6:30pm. Free)
Take in a new British invasion
See original British shoegazers Slowdive as they bring their first album in 22 years to Chicago. They’re joined by Japanese Breakfast, headed by Philadelphia singer-songwriter Michelle Zauner. (Vic Theatre, 3145 N Sheffield Ave, Wed 8pm. $45)
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo a little early
What’s better than tacos? Free tacos. Head to Begyle Brewery for free (free!) tacos with an assortment of intriguing global spices from Urban Accents. Plus, of course, specials on Begyle’s delicious brews. (Begyle Brewery, 1800 W Cuyler St, Thu 6–9pm. Free)
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