Mon 11/13 The Reader‘s Peter Margasak writes of pianist and composer Vijay Iyer, playing Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s MusicNow series at the Harris Theater (205 E. Randolph): “Iyer and trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith will give the local debut of their stunning duo, performing A Cosmic Rhythm With Each Stroke, the centerpiece of their 2016 album of the same name. This shape-shifting seven-movement suite responds to an exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art by Indian artist Nasreen Mohamedi, who often blends abstraction and architectural precision in line-based drawings.” 7 PM, $28
Thu 11/16 Baldur Helgason, an Icelandic artist, showcases his portraits (which resemble the work of Picasso if he was on acid) for the exhibition “Three Wise Monkeys” at NYCH Gallery (643 W. 18th). Helgason is no stranger to the Reader, having designed illustrations for our Riot Fest coverage. Noon to 7 PMThu 11/16 If you woke up early enough on Monday, you had the opportunity to gaze upon the rare “Dance of the Planets” occurrence—when Venus and Jupiter appeared to rise very close together. If you’re like us and slept in, go to the Adler Planetarium instead and get your fill of everything cosmic. Admission is free through Friday for locals! 9:30 AM to 6 PM, free with proof of residencyThu 11/16 Time is running out to see Rooming House, a synthesis of theater and dance cocreated by Julia Rhoads (Lucky Plush Productions) and Leslie Buxbaum Danzig at Steppenwolf Theater (1700 N. Halsted). It begins with an onstage conversation (in both Spanish and English), then spins out into a movement piece inspired by the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. 8 PM, $40, $30 seniors and military, $15 students
