After School Matters, the nonprofit that provides after-school and summer programs for Chicago teens (while offering them stipends), presents Spotlight on Peace, a performance featuring spoken word and dance, including hip-hop, ballet, jazz, African, and modern, from young artists. The free program runs 3-4:30 PM today at Navy Pier’s Lake Stage in Polk Bros. Park (600 E. Grand) No reservations required, but you can check for updates at navypier.org. (KR)
The monthly live talk show A Scientist Walks into a Bar is back in person tonight at the Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia). Science writer and host Kate Golembiewski will talk to astronomer Farhad Yusef-Zareh about his work and research focusing on the black hole at the center of our galaxy. Time to get spacey! Doors open at 6 PM with the program starting at 6:30 PM, and masks and proof of vaccination are requested at the door. Advance tickets are available here. (SCJ)
Deep head Leja Hazer—who’s worked at Gramaphone Records, booked talent for Smart Bar, and runs the label Hesperian Sound—is doing a free set at Punch House (1227 W. 18th) at 9 PM. Come for the deliciously imaginative and heady (no pun intended) menu—one Space Juice for Jared, please!—stay for the jazz-infused electronica of a DJ scene staple. Must be 21 or older. (MC)