Friday | October 25
Have you seen The Phantom of the Opera on Broadway or countless times on your couch? For a change of pace, see this classic in a whole new light at The Phantom of the Opera Silent Movie with Live Organ at Rockefeller Memorial Chapel. Travel back to 1925 and experience the power of a black-and-white silent film coupled with the dramatic effects of a live organ, played skillfully by Dennis James. The solemn expanse of the chapel provides the perfect backdrop. Be prepared to shield your eyes when you behold Erik (a.k.a. the Phantom) in all his raw, unmasked glory. Rockefeller Memorial Chapel. 7:30 p.m., free with UCID.
Live Blues and free food? Yes, please! Let the night fly by at Blues ’n’ Ribs, hosted by the Council on University Programming (COUP), where you can nod your head along to the tunes provided by Nublu and Granddaddy Band. Jazz and improv will also make appearances, via the Dirt Red Brass Band and Occam’s Razor, respectively.
If dancing’s more your thing, take advantage of the complimentary lessons from UChicago’s Swing Dance Society. Stay energized by gorging on (free) ribs, beverages, and comfort food classics, like potato salad and empanadas. Ida Noyes Hall, 9 p.m.–1 a.m., free.
Saturday | October 26
Fourth week was stressful. Let those creative juices flow again by checking out the Albany Carroll Arts Building’s 14th Annual Open House Event in East Garfield Park. The event highlights the work of more than 30 artists, who receive viewers into their respective studios, allowing for a more personal and enlightening experience. Feel free to browse the studios or even purchase a piece to bring back with you. A variety of media, from jewelry and photography to stained glass and origami, will be represented, guaranteeing an engaging experience for all who attend. 319 North Albany Street, 12 p.m.–5 p.m., free.
Students here are serious about their Scav, but need some practice for the real thing? Bring your skills to the Second Annual Lincoln Park Zoo Scavenger Hunt, where you’ll search the grounds for various photo ops and answers to interesting questions about everything zoo-related. So bundle up, grab a few friends, and head up to Lincoln Park for a day of quick-paced fun and bonding (plus, you’ll coo over King, the adorable baby rhino). A TBA prize awaits the winners of the hunt. 2001 North Clark Street 10 a.m.–5 p.m., free.
Sunday | October 27
UChicago and the magnificent 1893 World’s Fair go way back: In case you’ve forgotten, the first Ferris Wheel was located right on our very own Midway. Beginning this weekend, you can relive the fun and excitement of this iconic event at the Field Museum’s new exhibition, Opening the Vaults: Wonders of the 1893 World’s Fair. The museum pulls out all the stops and presents viewers with the opportunity to behold uncommon, old, and just plain weird paraphernalia (think: a previously chained meteorite). Opening the Vaults combines our very own Chicago with a larger global background, guaranteeing an interesting and relevant viewing experience. 1400 South Lake Shore Drive. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., $19 with student ID.
