Why you should brave the Big Freezy this week


I saw the Phunny Phorty Phellows from the relative warmth and comfort of the excellent Avenue Pub last night. I even went outside to get a throw. I’m pretty sure that’s the last time I intend to go outside anywhere this week, but if you are so inclined, there are some fun things happening between now and Friday.
1 Watch Gil Scott Heron blow DC's mind
At 7pm tonight (Jan 7), the Musically Speaking series, hosted by DJ Soul Sista, shows Black Wax, a documentary that follows the life of funk/blues/poet/auteur Gil Scott Heron. The screening is free, and goes off at NOLA Comedy Theater
(formerly the La Nuit Theatre) ay 5039 Freret. Image courtesy of Gil Scott Heron
2 Watch the Pelicans play
The Pelicans have a busy week. They’re in Miami tonight to take on the Heat, and are hosting the Washington Wizards at 7pm tomorrow (Jan 8). They’ll also be playing the Dallas Mavericks in New Orleans on Friday (Jan 10) at 7pm. Image courtesy of the Pelicans.
3 The Oblivion Atlas at
On Wednesday (Jan 8), local author Michael Allen Zell reads from and speaks on The Oblivion Atlas. It’s a short story collection, yes, but also a multimedia presentation, with design and illustrations by local artist team Louviere+Vanessa. At Octavia Books at 6pm. Image courtesy of Michael Allen Zell.
4 NOLA's own variety show
If you’re a fan of talk shows, late night TV and local theater, see all three elements come together on Jan 8 at The Goodnight Show with John Calhoun, the city’s own variety show and live onstage party. The Goodnight Show is a monthly event that showcases the city’s local lights; Wednesday’s guests include Dwight Henry, John Richie, Kevin Griffin, Alexey Marti and Ariel Elia. At 7pm at Café Istanbul in the Healing Center (2372 St Claude). Images courtesy of The Goodnight Show.
5 Buckwheat Zydeco at Rock 'n'Bowl
If you like zydeco – hell, if you don’t like zydeco but just like good music – go see Buckwheat Zydeco at the Rock ‘n Bowl on Thursday (Jan 9). I can safely say, without hyperbole, that the man is one of Louisiana’s living legends, a genuine talent and a performer who puts on a hell of a good show. The show gets going at 8:30pm.