Justin Townes Earle
The country blues man stops by City Winery to play some tunes. His last two albums, the companion pieces Single Mothers and Absent Father, were released less than a year apart, adding to a quality discography that features records released on local label Bloodshot Records. Expect songs old and new tonight.
Brooklyn Brewery Mash Tour
Chicago folks normally don’t take too kindly to New Yorkers, but I think we can make an exception when tasty beverages are involved. The Brooklyn Brewery Mash Tour is a traveling beer, food, and arts festival featuring local chefs, artisans, craftsmen, and musicians. Citywide events include a rare-beer tasting with brew master Garrett Oliver and Michael Kiser of the blog Good Beer Hunting, a found-footage film festival, and an appearance by the alt-rock band Surfer Blood.
8/14-8/22: Thu-Mon, times vary; see website, Collaboraction, 1579 N. Milwaukee, firstfloortheater.com/kafkapalooza, $15.
Chicago Dancing Festival
Over the course of four days, some of the nation’s best companies perform and premiere new work, and it won’t cost a dime to see them. Hubbard Street, the Joffrey Ballet, and the Chicago Human Rhythm Project are among the local troupes; national companies include Martha Graham Dance Company and the Miami City Ballet performing Balanchine’s Allegro Brilliante. The festival closes with a gala honoring its founder and artistic director, Chicago dancer-choreographer Lar Lubovitch.
Sat-Sun 8/29-8/30, 11 AM-7 PM, Holstein Park, 2200 N. Oakley, bucktownartsfest.com, free.
