Whether you want to unwind with wine and jazz or escape from political turmoil with political comedy, there’s tons to do in Chicago this July Fourth weekend:
Fri 6/30: Harrison McEldowney and Mark Yonally present their own kind of “Space Oddity” with the David Bowie-themed sci-fi tap dance opera Changes at Stage 773 (1225 W. Belmont). Through movement and a score of newly arranged Bowie tunes, Changes tells the story of clashing aliens and a hero based on Major Tom. Turn and face the strange, friends. Fri and Sat 7:30 PM, Sun 3 PM, $23-$37
Fri 6/30: You’re cordially invited to the Sugar Ball, a delectable variety show with plenty of stand-up, sketch, singing, candy, and sugar (candy). Head to the Revival (1160 E. 55th) for feature acts Andel Sudik, Rebecca O’Neal, Sarah Squirm, and the classic comedic stylings of Werther’s Original. 7:30 PM, $10
Fri 6/30: Coco Picard discusses her new graphic novel Chronicles of Fortune, the story of a brilliant but apathetic superhero. She’s joined at Challenger Comics (1845 N. Western) by fellow novelists Neil Birdeau, Anya Davidson, and Jessica Campbell. 6 PM, free
Sat 7/1: Enjoy great wine, pizza, and music while making positive change at the Giving Back Block Party. Proceeds go toward making improvements for the Albany Park neighborhood. Oh, and there’s also a 50-foot tall bouncy house. Hosted by Angelo’s Wine Bar (3026 W. Montrose). 4-10:30 PM, $5 suggested donation
Sat 7/1: Minimalist guitar virtuoso Bill Frisell joins forces with improvisational jazz bassist Thomas Morgan at SPACE (1245 Chicago) for an evening of transcendent tunes. The musical duo are often praised for their partnership and enigmatic style. 8 PM, $25-$55
Sat 7/1: The International Festival of Life weaves together various African and Caribbean cultures through music, food, and art. Located at Union Park (1501 W. Randolph), the fest features performances by Capleton and the Prophecy Band, Lyfe Jennings, and Queen Ifrica. Noon-10 PM, $19-$400
Sun 7/2: City Winery (1200 W. Randolph) hosts Capitol Steps, a comedy group made up of current and former congressional staffers. The seasoned troupe finds humor in the insanity that is politics, and no one—regardless of party affiliation—is off limits. Get ready for some musical satirization of your favorite (and least favorite) politicians. 7 PM, $42-$52
Through Sun 7/2: It’s your last chance to see The King and I at the Oriental Theatre (24 W. Randolph). The critically acclaimed production includes stunning choreography and a brilliant score, telling the timeless story of culture clash and romance. 2 PM, $24-$90
For more stuff to do this weekend—and every day—check out our Agenda page.