FRIDAY 23

THEATER - Frankenstein
The Hypocrites’ production officially opens tonight, just in time for the haunting season. Based on Mary Shelley’s novel; this promenade production places the audience on an extended MCA stage, against the backdrop of James Whale’s 1931 film. Museum of Contemporary Art, 7:30pm, $25, $10 students.

NIGHTLIFE: Go Bang!: Shit Robot
One of the most forward thinking parties in the city currently, Jordan Z has been unwavering in his support of cutting edge dance music, bringing artists and DJs, the likes of which Chicago wouldn’t otherwise see, to Sonotheque monthly. In the past the Rapture, Optimo DJs, Amanda Blank and Arnaud Rebotini of Black Strobe fame have all graced the glass DJ booth for this party. Tonight, Z does it yet again, welcoming DFA’s German counterpart Shit Robot in to flex his disco-informed techno style. Also on deck is Philly’s electro-rockers Tigersapien, on board for a live set. Sonotheque. 9pm; $10, free with R.S.V.P. to rsvp@emptybottle.com.

FILM - Don’t Look Now
We’re testing a theory; if we keep recommending Facets Cinematheque’s midnight screenings, eventually everyone in the city will show up there, creating a massive traffic jam. Tonight, the worthy film is Don’t Look Now, Nicolas Roeg’s creepy psychological thriller about grieving English parents who think the spirit of their dead child might have pursued them to Venice. Everybody, mob the theater. Facets Cinematheque, 1517 W Fullerton Ave between Greenview and Bosworth Aves (773-281-4114). El: Red, Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Fullerton. Bus: 9 Ashland (24hrs), 74 Fullerton. Fri 23 at midnight. $5.

DANCE - Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago
A definite must-see on this program is a major new work by Philly-based hip-hop choreographer Rennie Harris, commissioned by GJDC for the company’s repertoire. The bill also includes Gravity, a duet choreographed by company dancer Lindsey Leduc Brenner and commonthread, a new work by former Giordano company member Autumn Eckman. Harris Theater, 205 E Randolph St (312-334-7777, harristheaterchicago.org). El: Red to Lake; Blue to Washington; Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs), Brown to Randolph. Bus: 3, 4, 60, 145, 147. 8pm, $15–$60.

ART & DESIGN - “The Yield: 2009 Resident Exhibition.”
Chicago nonprofit Harold Arts presents new work by its 50-plus resident artists. Heaven Gallery, 1550 N Milwaukee Ave, and Johalla Projects, 1561 N Milwaukee Ave, second floor. 7–11pm. FREE!

SATURDAY 24

MUSIC/FILM - You Weren’t There
Chicago’s punk scene may not be the stuff of legend but it still deserves a documentary—we did, for example, host the first American punk DJ night/dance party. And bands such as Naked Raygun pioneered a tough, working-class sound that stands in stark contrast to what came out of Los Angeles and New York in the early ’80s. Portage Theater, 7pm, $10. Head to the Empty Bottle afterwards for the release party.

NIGHTLIFE - Ben Watt
While Ben Watt has taken a step back from the spotlight in the last decade, putting his days as part of Everything But the Girl behind him, he hasn’t stopped his love affair with indie music. Growing increasingly infatuated with the nuances of electronic music Watt launched his Seminal Lazy Dog parties in London in ‘98 which eventually led to the birth of Buzzin’ Fly, his deep house and techno label. Respected around the globe, Buzzin’ Fly has led to a healthy DJ career for Watt, which brings him to Smart Bar tonight alongside Brad Owen. Smart Bar. 10pm, $15.

AROUND TOWN/SHOPPING & STYLE/ART & DESIGN - Costume Creations
Halloween costumes don’t have to be expensive or trashy! Work with area artists to create a piece of wearable art at this workshop. Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave (312-443-3600). El: Red, Blue to Jackson; Orange, Green, Pink, Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Adams. 10am–3:30pm; free with $18 museum admission, students and seniors  $12, kids under 14 free.

DANCE - Joffrey Ballet, Othello
This abstract version of the Othello tale made popular by Shakespeare is choreographed by Lar Lubovitch, combining balletic and modern styles. This production includes the entire 42-strong company of Joffrey dancers and music, by film-score composer Elliot Goldenthal, performed live by the Chicago Sinfonietta. Auditorium Theatre, 50 E Congress Pkwy (800-982-2787, auditoriumtheatre.org). El: Red, Blue to Jackson; Orange, Brown, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Library. Bus: 7, 10, 145, 146, 147. 2, 7:30pm, $25–$145.

FILM - Pierrot le Fou
Yes, we’re in the habit of recommending the films of Jean-Luc Godard whenever they are shown. We’re right to do so, as you will agree after you see Pierrot le Fou. Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N State St at Randolph St (312-846-2600). El: Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to State/Lake; Red to Lake; Blue to Clark/Lake. Sat 24 at 5:30pm. $9, students $7, members $5.

SUNDAY 25

FILM - Léon Morin, Priest
Jean-Pierre Melville takes a break from thrillers, but he still thrills in Léon Morin, Priest, a fascinating drama about the friendship between a woman and a priest during the Nazi occupation of France. Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N State St at Randolph St (312-846-2600). El: Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to State/Lake; Red to Lake; Blue to Clark/Lake. Sat 24 at 7:45pm; Sun 25 at 3pm. $9, students $7, members $5.

AROUND TOWN - Halloween for Dogs
The only thing spookier than a person in disguise is a masked pet. More than 400 costumed canines compete for the titles of scariest, funniest and most glamorous. Costume contest entry is $10. Proceeds benefit PAWS Chicago. Tails in the City, 1 E Delaware Pl (312-649-0347). 11am–1pm, free.

MUSIC - Lincoln Hall Grand Opening: Ted Leo & The Pharmacists
A proud product of the ABCNoRio punk scene, the University of Notre Dame and D.C.’s fertile ’90s scene, Ted Leo still has passion and energy to spare. Onstage, he’s a uniquely stirring presence, making him an ideal choice to top this “official” grand-opening bash for the brand new Lincoln Park venue. Lincoln Hall, 8pm, $15, 18 and older.

GAY & LESBIAN - Thriller vs. Purple Rain
Berlin adds the best of Jacko to its monthly Prince night. Berlin, 954 W Belmont Ave (773-348-4975). El: Red, Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Belmont. Bus: 8, 77. 10pm, FREE!

ART & DESIGN - “Marginal Waters” Catalog Release Reception
The new catalog of Doug Ischar’s Belmont Rocks photographs, taken during the Chicago gay beach’s 1980s heyday, includes essays by David J. Getsy and Steve Reinke, and an interview by John Neff. GOLDEN, 816 W Newport Ave, #1. 3–6pm. FREE!