Compiled by Rebecca Sirull, News Staff
Entry of the Week: Wednesday, Nov. 27
Different cultures have never been this delicious. Enjoy the convergence of the Jewish festival of lights and the American day of thanks at the Beat Hotel’s Thanksgivukkah celebration. Taking place on the eve of Thanksgiving, the event features special menu items like smoked beef brisket with challah stuffing and cranberry pumpkin tzimmes. While you treat your taste buds to some new cultural dishes, treat your ears to the vocal talents of contemporary jazz singer Tammy Scheffer. Raised in Belgium and Israel, her unique sound blends perfectly with the cross-cultural theme of the night. 5 p.m. – 12 a.m.; 13 Brattle St., Cambridge; free; beathotel.com.
Thursday, Nov. 21
It’s time to cut loose and kick off your Sunday, or Thursday, shoes. Berklee College of Music’s Musical Theatre Club presents its version of the musical Footloose. Originally released in 1984, the film tells the story of a city teenager (Kevin Bacon), who moves to a small town where music and dancing are banned. He and the other local teenagers rebel against this rule, through a series of catchy songs and captivating dance routines. Berklee’s production features over 50 students, including pit orchestra, cast and crew, who come together to bring this beloved story to life. 7:30 – 10:30 p.m.; 136 Massachusetts Ave.; $8-18; berklee.edu/events.
Friday, Nov. 22
Take a step back in time to the height of jazz music, raucous dancing and speakeasies. That’s right, the roaring 20s are making a comeback at the Speakeasy Circus. Admire the beautiful costumes and jaw-dropping spectacles as acrobats fly through the air and dancers twirl around the ring. Wear your best 20s duds and lace up your dancing shoes because the night ends with a giant dance party. It’s going to be a CharlesTON of fun, so don’t miss out. 18+; 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.; 2 Arrow St., Cambridge; $25; bostoncircusguild.com/speakeasy.
Saturday, Nov. 23
Get in the holiday spirit at Faneuil Hall’s annual tree lighting. This much-anticipated event is preceded by a day of festivities including singing and dancing performances and the arrival of Santa Claus. Mayor Thomas M. Menino will be in attendance, flicking the switch to start the beautiful light display. The tree will be decorated with over 350,000 lights, which flicker off and on in tune to song selections from the Boston Holiday Pops. The event always draws a huge crowd and is a must-see for any Bostonian. 7:30 – 8 p.m.; 1 Faneuil Hall Square; free; faneuilhallmarketplace.com/blink.
Sunday, Nov. 24
Get a taste of international culture without leaving the city at the International Fine Art Festival. Admire masterpieces from over 40 galleries in the US, Canada and Europe. Paintings, sculpture, photography, mixed media and a variety of other pieces will be for sale, or simply for admiration while at the event. The weekend-long festival features a different lecture each day, culminating in “Rediscovered Masters: Lost and Found” on Sunday, the last day of the festival. Forget the plane ticket to Europe and come enjoy some of the finest works of art in the world, all in your own neighborhood. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.; 539 Tremont St.; $15; fineartboston.com.
Monday, Nov. 25
Learn how to cope with the stress of finals week at a transcendental meditation workshop. Over five million people around the world practice this form of meditation, which has been proven to relieve stress and anxiety and improve health and wellness. The workshop will teach all participants why transcendental meditation is effective, how it works, how to start and why anyone can practice. Meditation experts will also be able to answer any questions the audience may have. Take a deep breath and let the stress melt away. 2 – 3 p.m.; 29 Farragut Road; free; tm.org/transcendental-meditation-boston.
Tuesday, Nov. 26
Abracadabra! The Mystery Lounge now presents, before your very eyes, a spectacular combination of magic and comedy. Featuring everything from classic card tricks to complex optical illusions, the show will keep you hooked all night, while still tickling your funny bone. The lineup consists of three magicians and a special guest comedian, who changes each week. The Lounge’s performers include nationally recognized magicians Joe Howard, Mike Bent and Jon Stetson. Prepare to be shocked and amazed; you never know what could happen next. 8 – 10 p.m.; 1238 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge; $12; mysterylounge.com.
