Thursday, Jan. 2
“Diary of a Tap Dancer” at 2 and 7:30 p.m. at Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge (and continuing through Jan. 4). $109 to $150. Trailblazing tap dancer and choreographer Ayodele Casel and director Torya Beard premiere a play inspired by Casel’s roots in the Bronx and Puerto Rico. Information is here.
Sam Reid & The Riot Act at 3 p.m. at Remnant Brewing Satellite, 877 Cambridge St., Wellington-Harrington, Cambridge. Free. Acoustic guitar-driven rock band with traditional bluegrass elements that’s also inspired by Irish fiddle tunes and newgrass music. Information is here.
Fiber Arts Circle from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Cambridge Public Library Central Square Branch, 45 Pearl St. Free. Bring your own project and drop in to crochet, sew, embroider, knit, cross stitch, spin, mend and more with other crafters. Information is here.
“The Umbrellas of Cherbourg” (4K restoration) at 4, 6 and 8 p.m. at The Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $13. Screw the new year and dwell in the past a little bit longer with this gem of a musical from 1964 that’s screening through Jan. 9. Information is here.
L’Chaim Laugh Fest from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Rockwell, 255 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $10 to $15. Natalie Rose hosts local Jewish comedians doing stand-up, including Marleah Rose, Dan Bomba, Steph Dalwin, Tooky Kavanagh and Dan Crohn. Information is here.
The Adventure Time Trio at 7:30 p.m. at Aeronaut Brewing, 14 Tyler St., near Union Square, Somerville. Free. Adventurous modern jazz drawing from Brooke Sofferman’s extensive original material and some jazz standards reimagined. Information is here.
Thursday Goofs comedy show from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at Goofs Comedy Club, 432 McGrath Highway, Prospect Hill, Somerville. $10 to $15 and 21-plus. Favorite local headliners and comedians, plus a full bar (drinks start at $4) and a Wade BBQ menu. Information is here.
Comedy Night at the Sea Hag from 10 to 11:20 p.m. at The Sea Hag Restaurant & Bar, 49 Mount Auburn St., Harvard Square, Cambridge (and most Thursdays). Free. Salty talk from professional and up-and-coming comics working in New England. Information is here.
Drag Me Out Thursdays from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. at ManRay, 40 Prospect St., Central Square, Cambridge (and the first Thursday of every month). $15 and 19-plus. Bossí Boots and House DJ Harlow Havoc welcome local drag performers and headliner Lily Rose Valore to this monthly open stage drag show. Information is here.
Friday, Jan. 3
East Branch Book Group from 11 a.m. to noon at the Somerville Public Library East Branch, 115 Broadway. Free. The group discusses “Fiona and Jane” by Jean Chen Ho. Pick up a copy in person or download the audio or e-book copy on Libby and Overdrive. Information is here.
Cuban Dance with Boston Rueda from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge (and most Fridays). $15. No partner or experience necessary to learn this group dance to Cuban and other salsa music involving the changing of partners. Information is here.
Munde and Doctor Ill perform at 7 p.m. at The Burren, 247 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $20 to $25. Psychedelic rock jams from two area bands (one danceable and one improvisational). Information is here.
Vortex Ecstatic Dance from 7 to 10 p.m. at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville. $23. An intention ritual (for the new year) and a little contact improv provide the warmup for a bright beats-filled dance adventure. Features DJ Luminus. Information is here.
Hereboy performs from 7 to 10 p.m. at Lilypad, 1353 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge. $10 to $15. The indie band’s first hometown show since its label signing and debut single release (via Happen Twice) of the catchy “Moonblue.” Also playing: locals Tiberius and Intac. Information is here.
“Diary of a Tap Dancer” (continued) at 7:30 p.m. at Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $100 to $129. Information is here.
Dave Herlihy music release party at 8 pm. at Club Passim, 47 Palmer St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $28 to $30. The Boston rocker’s new song, “If I Only Had One Train,” is “a bluesy shuffle featuring Kevin Barry on electric guitar, together with Dave’s unmistakable gravel and honey voice.” Herlihy’s solo set is followed by a performance with his O Positive band mates – Ken Hickey (drums), Dave Ingham, (bass) and Charlie Berman (electric guitars and keys) – and a special guest or two. Information is here.
Comedy Gold at 8 p.m. at The Comedy Studio in the basement at 5 John F. Kennedy St., Harvard Square, Cambridge (also Saturday). $20 to $26. A lineup of seasoned stand-up comedians. Information is here.
“The Slutcracker” at 8 p.m. at The Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square (and continuing through Jan. 5). $35 and 18-plus. Our area’s naughty holiday stage tradition is a burlesque version of “The Nutcracker” showcasing the talents of people from nearly every walk of life, body type and kink. Information is here.
Detention stand-up comedy with Emily Ruskowski at 8 and 10 p.m. at Goofs Comedy Club, 432 McGrath Highway, Prospect Hill, Somerville (and also Saturday). $16 to $25 and 21-plus. A weekend of performances by a Boston comedian whose perspective is informed by her day job as a social worker. There’s a full bar (drinks start at $4) and a Wade BBQ menu. Information is here.
Annie & The Fur Trappers performs for Boston Swing Central from 8 to 11:45 p.m. at Q Ballroom, 26 New St., Fresh Pond, Cambridge. $13 to $20. This social partner dance, which includes a lesson for beginners in the first hour, welcomes a band originally from St. Louis, Missouri, that is dedicated to preserving and performing music from the 1920s and 1930s with instruments ranging from trombone and banjo to washboard. No partner required. Information is here.
Frostbite Vampire Night from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. at ManRay, 40 Prospect St., Central Square, Cambridge. $12 to $15 and 19-plus. Elegance of the undead meets the chill of a winter’s night, with vampiric go-go dancers, DJ Andre Obin spinning beats and sessions with a dominatrix. “Don your most opulent vampire attire” (and mittens in case there’s a line outside). Information is here.
Saturday, Jan. 4
Balboa fundamentals crash course weekend from noon to 4 p.m. at Mango Studio, 112 Bishop Allen Drive, Central Square, Cambridge (and also Sunday). $15 to $30. All-levels workshops focusing on pure (close-embrace) Balboa on Saturday and different movements of Bal swing on Sunday. Wear shoes that allow you to pivot; no need to bring a partner. Masks required. Information is here.
Exhibition tour: “Made in Germany? Art and Identity in a Global Nation” from 1 to 2 p.m. at Harvard Art Museums, 32 Quincy St., near Harvard Square, Cambridge (also Sunday). Free, but check in at visitor services to join the talk. Take a tour during the exhibition’s final two days to learn about German art after 1980 and the artists from different generations and diverse backgrounds the exhibit features. Information is here.
Adventure Improv (family friendly) from 2 to 3 p.m. at The Rockwell, 255 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. Free to $20 and all ages. An interactive musical comedy experience presented by Nova Comedy Collective. Information is here.
Improv Gym from 2 to 4 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge. $10 suggested donation. Nova Comedy Collective helps you hone improvisational comedy skills with a group of enthusiastic and giving performers. No improv experience necessary. We wrote about it here. Information is here.
“Diary of a Tap Dancer” (continued) at 2 and 7:30 p.m. at Loeb Drama Center, 64 Brattle St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $100 to $129. Information is here.
Chess hour from 3 to 4 p.m. at Cambridge Public Library O’Neill Branch, 70 Rindge Ave., North Cambridge. Free. Players of all skill levels and ages welcome. Chess sets provided, or bring your own. Information is here.
Té making class from 3 to 5 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge. $40. Led by Alexis Jones, founder of TheTéSpa, participants mix their own blend of loose-leaf tea herbs to take with them and learn how to incorporate beneficial herbs into their daily lives. Information is here.
Way Underground (Vol. 1) at 7 p.m. at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville. $26. An immersive concert of experimental sounds of the U.K. rave culture blended with rappers, singers, producers and DJs from the United Kingdom and United States. Information is here.
Detention stand-up comedy with Emily Ruskowski (continued) at 7 and 9 p.m. at Goofs Comedy Club, 432 McGrath Highway, Prospect Hill, Somerville. $16 to $25 and 21-plus. Information is here.
Radio Brass from 7 to 10 p.m. at Lilypad, 1353 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge. Cover charge TBD. Brooklyn-based, but Boston-bred, trumpet player and composer Matt Hull leads this ensemble employing acoustic instruments, portable radios and other electronic odds ‘n’ ends. Features Max Ridley on bass and Tim Wolf on drums. Boston noise-jazz crooners The Blues Dream Box join. Information is here.
The Emotional Rollercoasters perform at 8 p.m. at The Jungle, 6 Sanborn Court, Union Square, Somerville. $10 and 21-plus. Garage punk rock originals and classics from this Boston-area band. Information is here.
The Sheila Divine at 8 p.m. at The Sinclair, 52 Church St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $20. The Boston post-punk revival band performs songs from its new album “I Am the Darkness. We Are the Light.” Also playing: Baabes and Teardrops. Information is here.
“The Slutcracker” (continued) at 8 p.m. at The Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square. $35 and 18-plus. Information is here.
“Hyperfixation Celebration (A Comedy Info Dump)” from 8 to 9 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge. $15. During this part stand-up comedy, part TED Talk, comedians Rachel Dunbar and Nick Martucci bring their funny friends to teach about the weird niche topics they know and care way too much about. Featuring Rob Crean, Liz Estey, Amma Marfo and Nick Ortolani. Information is here.
The Femmes: Pop Punk Night from 8 to 11 p.m. at Somerville Theatre’s Crystal Ballroom, 55 Davis Square. $15 to $25. This all-woman and nonbinary band featuring veteran musicians and Berklee alumni covers favorite pop punk songs with the group’s usual riotous levels of energy. Information is here.
Comedian Django Gold at 10 p.m. at The Comedy Studio in the basement at 5 John F. Kennedy St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $15 to $20. A visit from “Late Show with Stephen Colbert” staff writer and performer. (Before that he was a senior writer for The Onion.) Information is here.
Sunday, Jan. 5
Adults with Hobbies: Intro to fiber arts with crochet from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge. $20 to $40. Try a different hobby each week in a series with educator and activist Nicole Hicks and friends. Information is here.
Elton John drag brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Summer Shack, 149 Alewife Brook Parkway, Alewife, Cambridge. $20. Wear sequins, enjoy a meal and sing along as host Kori King and a talented cast pay tribute to the bespectacled superstar. Information is here.
Art and Access: “The Importance of the Human Touch through the Lens of Film” workshop from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge (and most Sundays through Jan. 26). $30 and 18-plus. This fifth of seven parts about art practices discusses “the artist vs. the influencer” and the importance of human touch in film and photo. All levels welcome. Instructor: Simone Holland. Information is here.
Burlesque brunch at 11:30 a.m. at The Burren, 247 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $20 to $25 and 18-plus. Enjoy a midday meal and watch some of New England’s best performers showcase classic burlesque in all its forms. (Brunch not included in ticket price.) Information is here.
Drum and song circle from noon to 1 p.m. at The Foundry, 101 Rogers St., East Cambridge (and most Sundays through Feb. 9). $10 to $35. All levels are welcome at this circle led by a music therapist and music teacher. No experience required; instruments provided, or bring your own. Information is here.
Game day from noon to 10 p.m. at the New England Science Fiction Association clubhouse at 504 Medford St., Magoun Square, Somerville. Free. A variety of board, card and role-playing games for all tastes and abilities. Or bring a game and teach others how to play. (Masks optional.) Information is here.
Balboa fundamentals crash course weekend (continued) from noon to 4 p.m. at Mango Studio, 112 Bishop Allen Drive, Central Square, Cambridge. $15 to $30. Information is here.
Bullet Journaling 101 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Somerville Public Library, 79 Highland Ave., Central Hill. Free. Learn about the history and types of bullet journals (task manager, calendar, journal, idea catcher, etc.) and use the materials provided to get started on a bullet journal to take home. Information is here.
Sarah Levecque Band at 4 p.m. at The Plough & Stars, 912 Massachusetts Ave., Riverside, Cambridge. Free. The monthly gig of this songwriter and guitarist whose Americana music is influenced in equal parts by early blues, country, folk and rock. Information is here.
“The Slutcracker” (continued) at 4 p.m. at The Somerville Theatre, 55 Davis Square. $35 and 18-plus. Information is here.
Craft Cafe from 6 to 8 p.m. at the cafe at Remnant Brewing in Bow Market, 1 Bow Market Way, Union Square, Somerville (and every Sunday). Free. Tiny Turns Paperie hosts this casual gathering. Bring a project you’re futzing with or something you’re seeking inspiration on. Information is here.
Rising Stars comedy at 7 p.m. at The Comedy Studio in the basement at 5 John F. Kennedy St., Harvard Square, Cambridge (also Wednesdays at 8 p.m.). $10 to $15. A twice-weekly lineup of Boston’s future headliners brings edgy-off-the-wall humor, some raunchier segments (with twists and turns) and razor-sharp takes on the chaos of modern attitudes. Information is here.
Lisa Bastoni at 7 p.m. at Club Passim, 47 Palmer St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $20 to $22. The Northampton, Massachusetts–based singer-songwriter was the 2019 New Folk winner at the esteemed Kerrville Folk Festival. She also teaches visual arts in Hatfield public schools. Information is here.
Comedian Joe Mande at 7 p.m. at Somerville Theatre’s Crystal Ballroom, 55 Davis Square. $25 and all ages. Mande wrote for the television shows “The Good Place,” “Parks and Recreation” and the Netflix series “Master of None” as well as “Kroll Show” on Comedy Central. He also appeared on the shows “Modern Family,” “Parks and Rec” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.” Information is here.
Bida contra dance from 7 to 10:30 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge, 1950 Massachusetts Ave., Porter Square, Cambridge. $5 to $25. The thrice-monthly dances of the Boston Intergenerational Dance Advocates start with a lesson in the first 30 minutes, switch up callers from dance to dance and alternate mask policies, too. Tonight: masks optional. Information is here.
First Sunday Blues dancing at 7:30 p.m. in the back room of The Burren, 247 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville (and continuing the first Sunday of each month). $20 to $25 and all ages. Each month, Amy Kucharik and Tiger Moan invite special guests and push the tables aside for dancing. This month, the band is taking requests. Arrive at 7 p.m. if you want a half-hour dance lesson (no partner required). Information is here.
Monday, Jan. 6
The Pleasures of Poetry from 1 to 2 p.m. in conference room 14E-304 in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Building 14, also known as Hayden Memorial Library, 160 Memorial Drive, in the MIT/Area II neighborhood, Cambridge (and continuing every weekday through Jan. 24 except for Jan. 20). Free. The Lit@MIT community has offered this Independent Activities Period for 30 years. Each session is devoted to a poet or two, often a close reading of a single poem. Everyone with an interest in a diverse range of poetry, regardless of experience level, is welcome to join. Information is here.
Fonda Lee and Shannon Lee discuss “Breath of the Dragon” at 7 p.m. at Porter Square Books, 1815 Massachusetts Ave., Porter Square, Cambridge. Free. A coming-of-age fantasy novel co-written by the award–winning author of the “Green Bone Saga” and by the daughter of the great martial artist Bruce Lee, whose wisdom and philosophy infuse the story. Roshani Chokshi, author of the middle-grade “Aru Shah” series, joins. Information is here.
Picture + Panel: Cosmic Misfits with Tyrell Waiters and Matt Smith from 7 to 8 p.m. at Aeronaut Brewing, 14 Tyler St., near Union Square, Somerville. Free to $15 and 21-plus. The monthly confab of graphic-novel creators sponsored by Aeronaut, Porter Square Books and the Boston Comic Arts Foundation brings in Waiters, a freelance illustrator, graphic designer and author of “Vern, Custodian of the Universe,” and Smith, whose work includes “Folklords,” “Barbarian Lord,” “Lake of Fire” and “Hellboy in Love.” Boston Public Schools chief of students Cory McCarthy moderates. Information is here.
Capoeira class from 7 to 8 p.m. at Dance Union, 16 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville (and every Monday). First class free, $15 thereafter. Learn a workout based on the dynamic Afro-Brazilian art form that combines dance, music and martial arts. Information is here.
Chess night from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Somerville Public Library, 79 Highland Ave., Central Hill (and continuing monthly). Free. Players of all skill levels are welcome, and chess sets are provided. Information is here.
Figure-drawing basics from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Boston Figurative Art Center, 285 Washington St., Ste. 102, near Union Square, Somerville. $40. Illustrator, cartoonist and figure drawing instructor Chris O’Neill shares his approach to nailing proportions, making faster drawings, getting loose and having more fun at figure drawing. Information is here.
Belly dance lessons at 8 p.m. at The Dance Complex, 536 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge (and continuing Jan. 13, 20 and 27). $85 for four classes. Seyyide Sultan teaches the foundations of belly dance, including technique and combos suitable for beginner students. Information is here.
Laugh for Cash at 8 p.m. at The Comedy Studio in the basement at 5 John F. Kennedy St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $20 to $25. Sign up for this monthly comedy competition (with music) for a chance to win $500 at the end of April. Tonight, the host is Jonathon Gates, the music’s by Twin the Selecta, the headlining comedian’s Demetrius “Big D” Hullum (appearing after the open-mic contestants), the showcased artist is I93Carrion and the judges are Coach La and Jon Fernandez. Produced by Ultimate Entertainment Group. Information is here.
Jerry Bergonzi Quartet from 8:30 to 10 p.m. at Lilypad, 1353 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge (and continuing most Mondays). $10 to $15. Bergonzi brings his tenor sax mastery to this seated show with bandmates Phil Grenadier on trumpet and Luther Gray on drums. Information is here.
The Fringe at 10:30 p.m. at Lilypad, 1353 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge (and every Monday). $10 to $15. Remaining members of The Fringe (formed in 1971), tenor-saxophonist George Garzone and bassist John Lockwood perform contemporary jazz. Information is here.
Tuesday, Jan. 7
The Pleasures of Poetry (continued) from 1 to 2 p.m. in conference room 14E-304 in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Building 14, also known as Hayden Memorial Library, 160 Memorial Drive, in the MIT/Area II neighborhood, Cambridge. Free. Information is here.
Vision board crafting session from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Cambridge Public Library Central Square Branch, 45 Pearl St. Free. A cozy evening crafting your own vision board. Supplies are provided, just bring your merry self! Information is here.
Music Bingo from 6 to 8 p.m. at CanalSide Food + Drink, 100 CambridgeSide Place, East Cambridge. Free, but RSVP. Test your knowledge of diverse types of music during this game where you’ll mark off songs on your bingo cards as songs from various decades and genres are played; get five in a row and yell bingo to claim victory (or just have fun singing along). Information is here.
Knitting group from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Cambridge Public Library’s Boudreau Branch, 245 Concord Ave. Observatory Hill in Neighborhood 9. Free. Bring yarn and needles and find out what fellow knitters are up to. Information is here.
Kevin Prufer reads from “Sleepaway” and Jonathan Strong reads from “Endpapers” at 7 p.m. at Porter Square Books, 1815 Massachusetts Ave., Porter Square, Cambridge. Free. The poet Prufer’s debut novel is about invisible mists that fall and cause people to slip into dreamless slumber, from which most, but not all, awaken. The latest by Strong, who’s written 19 books, is two novels in one, depicting how youth and age come into close contact and understanding, even while made to cope with the concerns of a larger world. Information is here.
YA book club from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Side Quest Books & Games in Bow Market at 1 Bow Market Way, Union Square, Somerville. $5 and ages 14-plus (grown-ups very welcome). This time, discuss “Don’t Let the Forest In” by C.G. Drews. Information is here.
Open mic from 7 to 10 p.m. at The Comedy Studio in the basement at 5 John F. Kennedy St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. An open mic for comedy where “there’s always some pros dropping in to test new material.” Information is here.
Magid Ensemble presents “Shterna & The Lost Voice” at 7:30 p.m. at The Burren, 247 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $25 to $30 and all ages. An immersive storytelling production based on Eastern European Jewish folklore and following a hero on an epic journey through the living world, the underworld and the immortal world to retrieve the lost voice of her friend. Information is here.
Smut Slam from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the café at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville (and the first Tuesday of every month). $10 suggested donation. An open mic invites participants to tell five-minute, real-life dirty stories. The top three slammers win sexy swag from Good Vibrations. Kat Sistare hosts. Information is here.
New Talent Tuesdays: American Ink, Munde and Scaffolding perform from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at The Rockwell, 255 Elm St., Davis Square, Somerville. $15 to $20. Three Boston bands: alt-rock that explores everything from hardcore punk to acoustic-driven balladry; experimental jam rock blending psychedelic, industrial and progressive elements; and a noise emo band. Information is here.
Wednesday, Jan. 8
“Patterns in Nature” art exhibit final day from noon to 4 p.m. at CAA@Canal, 650 E. Kendall St., Kendall Square, Cambridge. Free. Artists from around New England are part of this Cambridge Art Association show about the patterns that appear everywhere in nature. Information is here.
The Pleasures of Poetry (continued) from 1 to 2 p.m. in conference room 14E-304 in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Building 14, also known as Hayden Memorial Library, 160 Memorial Drive, in the MIT/Area II neighborhood, Cambridge. Free. Information is here.
“The Vasulka Effect” documentary film screening at 6 p.m. at MIT’s List Visual Arts Center, 20 Ames St., Building E-15, Kendall Square, Cambridge. Free, but register. A film about the life and work of the video art pioneers Steina and Woody Vasulka, who upon escape from Czechoslovakia during the Soviet invasion took refuge in New York City and founded The Kitchen, a legendary art and performance gallery. Pizza is provided. Information is here.
Collins Branch Book Group from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Cambridge Public Library Collins Branch, 64 Aberdeen Ave., West Cambridge. Free, but register. January’s title: “Memory Piece” by Lisa Ko. Information is here.
“Rooted” yoga experience from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at MIT Welcome Center at 292 Main St., Kendall Square, Cambridge. Free and beginner friendly, but register. Marlene Boyette and Malaika Bonafide lead a gentle yoga flow, followed by guided relaxation while Skooby Laposky plays the plants – reading biodata and turning those measurements into a composition of dreamy, ambient music. Bring a yoga mat and water bottle. Information is here.
Darning workshop with Jessamy Shay from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Somerville Public Library West Branch, 40 College Ave., near Davis Square. Free, but register. The local textile artist, whose work focuses on sustainability and handcrafting, shows how to visibly mend holes and weak areas in sweaters, socks and other knit fabrics using a mending technique that involves reinforcing or re-weaving a portion of fabric by hand. Beginners welcome. Information is here.
Books and Brews from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. at Aeronaut Brewing, 14 Tyler St., near Union Square, Somerville. Free, but register and 21-plus. A collaboration with the Somerville Public Library that this month explores “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt. Information is here.
Adam Haslett reads from “Mothers and Sons” at 7 p.m. at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Massachusetts Ave., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. The two-time Pulitzer finalist discusses his new novel about a mother and son, estranged for years, who must grapple with the shared secret that drove their lives apart in this story about family, forgiveness and how a fleeting act of violence can change a life forever. Information is here.
Hub Comics “Book Clhub” at 7 p.m. at Hub Comics, 19 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville. Free, but bring a copy of the book with you. January’s title: “Drafted” by Rick Parker. Information is here.
Tunefoolery at 7 p.m. at the café at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville. Free. Monthly coffeehouse with open mic for the mental health recovery community and general public. Information is here.
Randy Ross reads from “The Squid and the Spaceman” at 7 p.m. at Porter Square Books, 1815 Massachusetts Ave., Porter Square, Cambridge. Free. The Boston-area literary event producer and author of “God Bless Cambodia” discusses his comedic novel set in 2015 Boston in which two tone-deaf 50-somethings, unhappy with how biotech hipsters and artisanal pickle shops have taken over the city, meet and fall in love. Information is here.
Poets John Hodgen, Jennifer Martelli and Kevin Prufer from 7 to 8 p.m. at Grolier Poetry Book Shop on 6 Plympton St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $5 to $10, but register. With an introduction by Martha Collins. Information is here.
Somerville Knit Club & Fiber Arts Night from 7 to 8:15 p.m. at Somerville Public Library, 79 Highland Ave., Central Hill. Free. Bring your knitting, crocheting, embroidery, felting, hand stitching or any other fiber art project. All ages and experience levels welcome. Information is here.
Brewery Book Club from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Lamplighter Brewing, 284 Broadway, The Port, Cambridge. Free, but RSVP and 21-plus. A collaboration with the Cambridge Public Library that this month discusses “The Ministry of Time” by Kaliane Bradley. Information is here.
Sparkle Soiree at Dancing Fools from 7 p.m. to midnight at George Dilboy VFW Post 529, 351 Summer St., Davis Square, Somerville. $6 to $12. The first dance of 2025 gets a sparkling start. Beginners are welcome for the 101 class at 8:15 p.m. Social dancing in West Coast Swing begins 9:15 p.m. Wear sequins, glitter, rhinestones or anything shimmery. Information is here.
Niall Connolly at 8 p.m. at Club Passim, 47 Palmer St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $18 to $20. The Cork, Ireland–born storytelling songwriter performs his tuneful tales. Warren Malone opens. Information is here.
Thursday, Jan. 9
Thursday Morning Talks: “Public Service Journalism: The Promise in Peril” from 10:15 a.m. to noon at Holy Trinity Armenian Church, 145 Brattle St., West Cambridge. $20 or $125 (suggested donations for individual talk or series subscription), and registration is required. The chief executive of WBUR, Boston’s National Public Radio, speaks on the importance of public media in Boston and nationally. The January and February lecture series is a fundraiser for Mount Auburn Hospital in its 88th year. Information is here.
The Pleasures of Poetry (continued) from 1 to 2 p.m. in conference room 14E-304 in the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Building 14, also known as Hayden Memorial Library, 160 Memorial Drive, in the MIT/Area II neighborhood, Cambridge. Free. Information is here.
Fiber Arts Circle from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Cambridge Public Library Central Square Branch, 45 Pearl St. Free. Bring your own project and drop in to crochet, sew, embroider, knit, cross stitch, spin, mend and more with other crafters. Information is here.
“Science and Democracy: What They Are and Why They Need Each Other” at 6 p.m. at the the Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, Boston, on the Cambridge border. Free with pre-registration. Danielle Allen of Harvard’s Allen Lab for Democracy Renovation and David Kaiser, MIT physics professor, discuss polarization and misinformation and how can we come together to create a new era of scientific and democratic participation. Museum of Science president Tim Ritchie moderates. Also via livestream. Information is here.
Vernon Street Studios 50th Anniversary Retrospective exhibit closing reception from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Nave Gallery, 155 Powderhouse Blvd., near Teele Square, Somerville. Free. Last day to see the exhibit featuring more than 50 artists and the Vernon Street documentary “A Matter of Light.” Information is here.
After Dark Series: DIY from 6 to 9 p.m. at The MIT Museum, 314 Main St., Kendall Square, Cambridge. $10 to $20 and 21-plus. Explore the art of making with tinkerers, creators and innovators. Design your own sew-able electronics, build with mechanical metamaterial and make collaborative modular origami sculptures. Plus, check out the work of ingenious local makers, including DIY pinball machines, a Fab-in-a-Box digital fabrication kit and more. Handmade lasagna from Mostly Pasta and crafts beers from Arlington Brewing are available to buy. Information is here.
Adam Ross reads from “Playworld” at 7 p.m. at Harvard Book Store, 1256 Massachusetts Ave., Harvard Square, Cambridge. Free. The author of “Mr. Peanut” and editor of The Sewanee Review discusses his novel about a transformative year in the life of a child actor coming of age in 1980 Manhattan. Dan Chiasson, the poet, critic and author of the forthcoming “Bernie for Burlington: Sanders in a Changing Vermont,” joins. Information is here.
Bruce Schneier on “AI and Trust” at 7 p.m. in room 32-G449 (Kiva) on the fourth floor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Building 32, also known as the Ray and Maria Stata Center, at 32 Vassar St., Cambridge. Free. The internationally renowned security technologist discusses how the companies behind the current generative AI systems are poised to exploit the difference between personal and impersonal trust, and that democratic governance is how we create social trust in our society. Also via Zoom. Information is here.
Sebastian Smee reads from “Paris in Ruins: Love, War and the Birth of Impressionism” at 7 p.m. at Porter Square Books, 1815 Massachusetts Ave., Porter Square, Cambridge. Free. The Pulitzer-winning art critic at The Washington Post and the author of “The Art of Rivalry” discusses how artistic genius emerged from the darkness and catastrophe of the “Terrible Year” in Paris (the summer of 1870 to the spring of 1871) and led to the rise of Impressionism. “The Bear” author Andrew Krivák joins. Information is here.
Lady Lee and the New Awakening Band from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Cambridge Public Library Central Square Branch, 45 Pearl St. Free, but register. As part of the Dr. MLK Jr. Day Lecture Series 50th anniversary, a celebration in the branch’s Lewis Room – the original location of the lecture series. Listen to a live reggae band, check out the branch’s Black Voices Collection, learn the history of the lecture aeries and enjoy refreshments. Information is here.
Pub Sing from 7 to 10 p.m. at the café at Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Ave., Somerville (and the second Thursday of each month). Free. A pub-style singalong where anyone is welcome to lead – drinking songs, sea chanteys and any song with a singable chorus is appreciated! Information is here.
Blues Union January Dances from 7 to 11 p.m. at Dance Union, 16 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville (also Jan. 16, 23 and 30). $10 to $25. A lesson in the first hour, then an hour to socialize, rest or practice with a partner before two hours of social dancing. Wear shoes that allow you to pivot; no need to bring a partner. Information is here.
“Tom Dustin: Portrait of a Comedian” documentary film screening at 7:30 p.m. at Somerville Theatre’s Crystal Ballroom, 55 Davis Square. $25. Comedian Joe List shot this feature-length film about the veteran comedian and comedy club owner over one weekend in Key West, Florida. Information is here.
Dave Fox Trio performs at 7:30 p.m. at Aeronaut Brewing, 14 Tyler St., near Union Square, Somerville. Free. This modern jazz trio plays original compositions and arrangements inspired by John Coltrane, Joe Henderson, Chick Corea, Steve Swallow, Charles Mingus, Thelonious Monk and Wayne Shorter. Includes drummer Fox, bassist John Lockwood and rotating Boston-area musicians and composers. Information is here.
MexUp Comedy Showcase at 8 p.m. at Mex Taqueria & Bar, 500 Technology Square, The Port neighborhood near Kendall Square, Cambridge. $12 to $15 and 21-plus. A new biweekly show bringing comedians from New England and beyond into the three-level restaurant. Hosted by Jamie Aird and featuring Tooky Kavanagh, Palombi, Ryan Ellington, Trent Wells and Guerby Laguerre. Information is here.
Office Hours comedy show from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at The Comedy Studio in the basement at 5 John F. Kennedy St., Harvard Square, Cambridge. $10 to $15. Jeremy Pearson – professor by day, comedian by night – hosts a show in which up-and-coming comedians cross highbrow concepts with lowbrow silliness. Information is here.
A stronger
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