For our (unconscionably high) rent money, the best thing about living in NYC is its endless supply of fun, odd, and inspired cultural events — especially during the summer months. But with so many options, it can be hard to know where to even begin. To help you make sense of it all, Flavorpill Deputy Editor Mindy Bond shares the very best of what’s on offer this week. It’s just a taste of what you can find on the new Flavorpill, so if you like what you see, be sure to sign up.
Monday, July 15
COMEDY: A Conversation with Jeff Garlin We aren’t sure if it’s a publicity stunt or just a funny coincidence, but a month prior to the release of his second feature Dealin’ with Idiots, Garlin was arrested for smashing someone’s car window over a parking spot dispute at a CVS. Luckily, no one is pressing charges, and the man we’ve come to know and love as Larry David’s manger on Curb Your Enthusiasm is able to appear tonight to discuss his career in writing, directing, acting and performing stand-up with Academy Award winner Michael Moore. As for Dealin’ with Idiots, which is set to release at IFC Center and on VOD on Wednesday, the film steers clear of parking perils, but rather takes on the absurdity of sports parents and stars Gina Gershon, Jami Gertz, and Bob Odenkirk, among others. — Mindy Bond
Tuesday, July 16
Wednesday, July 17
BOOKS: Love, Dishonor, Marry, Die, Cherish, Perish: A Marathon Reading The late humorist David Rakoff, who succumbed to cancer last August, is celebrated tonight as over 60 of his friends come together to perform his final novel, Love, Dishonor, Marry, Die, Cherish, Perish, in verse. Henry Alford, Ira Glass, Sarah Vowell, and Augusten Burroughs are just some of those slated to participate. — Mindy Bond
Thursday, July 18
MUSIC: MoMA Nights with Mikal Cronin
BOOKS: FSG, GQ, and Flavorpill present The Originals Series featuring Lindsay Hunter and Holly Miranda This ain’t your auntie’s book party. FSG Originals, GQ, and Flavorpill have teamed up to bring you a livelier, funnier, and more fascinating author exploration. Led by comic David Rees, every night features an insightful and freewheeling convo, cocktails, and a musical performance. Tonight, Rees chats with author Lindsay Hunter, a rising star in the short story, fast fiction world, known for bold, sexy, and often violent prose. Local singer/songwriter Holly Miranda also takes the stage, herself a force to be reckoned with. You may have caught her as an opener for Tegan and Sara or the xx. Bring a friend, grab a drink, and enjoy a thoroughly original evening. Click through to RSVP. — Leah Taylor
Friday, July 19
FESTIVAL: Music Frees All Festival
THEATRE: Summer Shorts Neil LaBute, Paul Weitz, and Tina Howe are just a few of the writers you’ll find with new plays in the 2013 edition of the Summer Shorts Festival. A celebration of American one-acts, the Throughline Artists-produced series, now in its seventh year, features original work by both established and emerging writers. Spilt into two programs, this year’s lot includes Breaking the Spell; a refurbished version of Sleeping Beauty; Change, about three college friends who get reacquainted; and Falling Short, which looks at one woman’s quest to make a human connection. In all, six plays make their world premiere at this theatrical fete. — Mindy Bond
Saturday, July 20
SPORTS: New York Tomato Battle
ART: New Museum Block Party The New Museum takes over Sara D. Roosevelt Park for an afternoon block party that probably isn’t like any block party you’ve been to before. Featuring performances and workshops inspired by the museum’s current exhibits, this day-long happening also includes free admission to the museum. If you haven’t been down to see the Llyn Foulkes or Ellen Gallagher shows, this is your perfect opportunity. Or, if walking aimlessly around the LES is more your style, this block party is a great way to get started. — Jason Diamond
Sunday, July 21
PERFORMING ARTS: The Last Aerial and Variety Show If you’re a fan of aerial acrobatics, then you may have heard the sad news: Anya Sapozhnikova and the House of Yes that she built on Maujer Street are in need of new digs. In the words of Jimmy McMillan, “the rent is too damn high,” even in Bushwick. But before Sapozhnikova and her flying circus pack up their base of the last five years, they have one more variety show up their sleeves. In addition to Sapozhnikova, Jelly Boy the Clown, the Love Show, Lisa Natoli, and a host of others, take one last lap at this high-ceilinged performance space. — Mindy Bond