Friday / February 6
Three men’s friendship is questioned in Yasmina Reza’s Olivier Award–winning play Art when one friend buys an expensive piece of modern art that appears to be a white canvas. The comedy, now playing at The Steppenwolf, explores the intricacies of friendship as well as the definition of art in a social context. (1650 North Halsted Street, 7:30 p.m., $40)
In addition to a soprano, clarinet, and piano ensemble, the Chicago Opera Vanguard’s performance of Orpheus and Euridice will also feature a vibrant costume ensemble designed by former Project Runway contestant Steven Rosengard. The Vanguard’s adaptation has Orpheus enchanting Euridice on his clarinet with the music of Ricky Ian Gordon. (2000 West Fulton Avenue, 8 p.m., $20)
Follow Bill Maher as he confronts the various manifestations of religion in Religulous. Maher’s adventure takes him everywhere from a Muslim gay bar to Hyde Park, London, to preach Scientology. (Max Palevsky Cinema, 11:15 p.m., $5)
Saturday / February 7
The Music Department presents the British Composers Showcase as performed by the University Chamber Orchestra. Works of British composers between 1887 and 1911 will be played; the performance will also include a preview of the upcoming March production of Ruddigore. (Fulton Recital Hall, 8 p.m., free)
Sunday / February 8
The American Theatre Company’s current lineup of American classic repertory includes a performance of the play True West by Sam Shepard. The play tells the story of two estranged brothers, originally played by Gary Sinise and John Malkovich at The Steppenwolf. The brothers, a screenwriter and a drifter, reunite while house-sitting for their mother. (1909 West Byron Street, 3 p.m., $35)
Monday / February 9
Russian artist and co-founder of the Soviet Pop and Conceptual Art movement, Vitaly Komar, will conduct a workshop on contemporary art at Cochrane Woods Art Center. Komar is known for his past collaborations with painter and performance artist Alexander Melamid. (5540 South Greenwood Avenue, 5 p.m., free)
Tuesday / February 10
The preacher of the Trinity United Church of Christ who caused President Obama grief during the campaign will be speaking at Rockefeller Chapel as part of a series of race and religion workshops. A half hour Q&A session will follow the Reverend Jeremiah Wright’s speech. (Rockefeller Chapel, 4:30 p.m., free)
Wednesday / February 11
For those of us too awkward to approach the objects of our affection, ORCSA offers its annual Flirting for Nerds seminar. The seminar, led by Rebecca Steinmetz, will offer tips on how to read body language and how to flirt like a player. (Ida Noyes, 7 p.m., free)
Friends alum David Schwimmer brings Grover’s Corners to life as George Gibbs in the Lookingglass Theatre Company’s production of Our Town. The plight of the small Midwestern town that resonates with just about everyone is directed by Tony Award–winner Anna D. Shapiro and performed on a stage with no set. (821 North Michigan Avenue, 7:30 p.m., $20)
Thursday / February 12
Celebrate Abe Lincoln’s 200th birthday in style at the Chicago History Museum. Our 14th president’s party will include photo opportunities with Lincoln, an exhibit of artifacts from his life and, of course, birthday cake. In the spirit of Lincoln, admission to the museum will only be one penny. (1601 North Clark Street , noon, 1¢)
