Peacemaking is the very best reason to get together and rejoice.
This week you won’t be wanting for something to do, I can promise you that, and I suggest you top your list with the launch of Peace Under Fire, a new book documenting the work of the International Solidarity Movement (ISM). ISM is a Palestinian-led movement of international activists working toward peace in Israel. The Montreal launch features live music by the super Sam Shalabi, and a film screening and presentations by ISM activists including a reading by Radhika Sainath, a New York-based activist and one of the editors of the book. It all happens tomorrow night, Oct. 15, at Café Esperanza, 7 p.m., for a mere $3.
If you want to get a jump-start on your weekend, though, and need to blow off steam quick, do it at the same place tonight, Thursday, for Fishpiss‘s 10th issue launch. Café Esperanza hosts the festivities starting at 6 p.m. for free, promising "a 45 r.p.m. DJ party"… in a coffee shop? That warrants a look-see. The theme is inspired by their 164-page large current issue featuring coverage of Amon Tobin, Sixtoo, Kid Koala, the Dirtbombs and more musical madness. Check it out.
And lastly but not leastly: There’s a fresh reason to gawk at flesh in town thanks to Montreal’s new retro burlesque troupe, Blue Light Burlesque. Their inaugural show happens at the appropriately atmospheric Lion d’Or on Monday, Oct. 18, doors at 9 p.m., $12. The night was inspired by ’40s- and ’50s-type burlesque and promises to put the "tease" back in "striptease" thanks to a bevy of girl- and boy-next-door beauties doing torrid tangos, exotic belly dance and classical ballet, but sexy. Retro-wear is suggested.
4 comments
So much to choose from in this city, but Blue Light Burlesque is a novelty that on a boring Monday night, looks like an interesting option. I remember my parents talking about the burlesque clubs they used to frequent in the 50′s, the ladies who performed were legends in their day. I think it’s wonderful to have this type of art brought back and to have a retro dress code, even more fun!
I hope Cafe Esperanza was peaceful last evening with its launch of the new book Peace Under Fire. Activists can be far from peaceful yes?…..a hot spot…..I won’t be there. Peace in Israel…….gotta a long way to go…..a mere $3……
Fishpiss’s 10th issue launch sounds more fun. A free DJ party….woohooo…pass the cafe latte….dirtbombs et al…….someone will enjoy this….right?
Blue Light Burlesque will attract the gawkers……anything for a little striptease with the TEASE put back into it. Torrid sexy tangos…what more can you want. Garters in gear….go retro.
I can’t say that these are the highlights of hot spots for these few days but if your into it…..go for it…..there is always something to do!
I find it really odd that they’re bringing back the burlesque shows from the 50s and 60s. I taught that those shows were instinct and would never happen again until I saw it in a Marylyn Manson video on Much music. I think why people would find a burlesque show fun to watch because for me personally I don’t see and hear anything interesting about it except for woman who are selling their bodies for money. I don’t see any art at all in a burlesque show so be sure to skip it because it’s a waste of time and money.
Burlesque shows seem to be a lost art, save for the few troupes like Blue Light! For those who want to be more entertained and have more of a theatrical setting then they would in a strip club, it’s great. For those who don’t like strip clubs, it might be great, too!
And you know what? I’d go see it. In fact, I’d take a role on stage happily. Burlesque shows aren’t just about booty; they’re about the performers having fun onstage, being heightened, sexy versions of themselves.
Ok, that’s it. Where do I sign up? I want to play too!