5 Things

Ideas. Theater. Dancing. Singing. Art. Walking. Footballing. Beering. Oh it’s gonna be one of those weekends, all right.

January 31, 2013; 7:02 AM • by Susan Howson

1. TEDxRVA Open Mic Night

The TED conference is hard to describe, so if you’re not in the know, read about it here. I know, right?? It’s not about a guy named Ted! Not that there’s anything wrong with being named Ted. There will probably be many Teds at the TEDxRVA Open Mic Night this evening, only because there will be a ton of people there. This free event gives pre-registered speakers a chance to sell their idea to you, the discriminating public, for a shot at presenting this idea at the actual TEDxRVA in March. You will learn so much about the things in people’s heads, guys. Maybe too much? It’s scary in there.

Thurs. Jan. 31 • 7:00 PM
The Hippodrome, 528 N. 2nd St.
Free to attend, but bring cash for the bar

2. Henley Street Theatre presents: Faith Healer

I say this in all sincerity: Irish playwrights are intensely good. For reals! And Faith Healer by Brian Friel is just one of the items on that dude’s lengthy list of legit things to do with your time. Our own Henley Street brings to life the story of an alcoholic faith healer, his gal, and a promoter. Say, was this written about everyone I know? JK, all of those people! At once unsettling and funny, this mystery will keep you guessing all night long.

Sat. Jan. 31 – Feb. 23 • see site for times
SPARC Center for the Performing Arts, 2106-A N. Hamilton St.
$20-$30

3. Billy Elliot

Little boys who love to dance! Is there anything cuter or more disturbing to the parents of that little boy if that little boy belongs to a British working class family in the 1970s? I don’t think so! This musical, based on the 2000 film of the same name, takes us on a journey that reminds us how hard it is to be different when you’re an adolescent. It also reminds us of how awesome ballet is.

Fri. Feb. 1 – Sun. Feb. 3 • see site for times
Landmark Theater, 6 N. Laurel St.
$48-$73

4. First Fridays Art Walk

There are so many frigging things happening at this month’s First Friday. And if it doesn’t snow, you’ll be there doing every single one of them. From 1708 Gallery’s ice rink to GrowRVA’s delicious and portable cuisine to that guy who’s always shouting at everybody through a megaphone, the Art Walk is a not-to-be-missed tradition.