DeKalb’s Weekender List: April 29

By Chris Krapek

DeKALB | We’ve almost reached the end.

Seriously, guys, there’s like one week left and then finals. As many of you go home for the summer, study abroad or move on to bigger and better things, take one last opportunity to do something cool in the Dirty D.

Here are my choice picks for what you should be doing this weekend:

What: Towers Literary and Creative Arts Magazine Launch

When: Tonight, 5 p.m.

Where: Music Building, Room 173

How much: FREE

Why: Aside for the Art Museum, Towers is perhaps the best kept secret on campus. Every year the magazine, which features poems, short stories and more from NIU students, is seemingly disregarded by non-English majors. Even if you don’t dwell in Reavis Hall and can’t quote James Joyce, check out how creative your peers really are. Tonight, the 2011 edition will be launched and two dramatic selections will be performed in their entirety. Artwork from the magazine’s “Gallery” section will also be on display. And you know refreshments WILL be served, yo.

What: Spring Awakening

When: Tonight, 8 p.m.

Where: Corner Theater, Stevens Building

How much: $5

Why: Tell me if this sounds awesome: “Spring Awakening” in an open space and not a stage. Actors move from one area to another as the scene moves. The audience stands and follows the actors wherever they move. Live soundscape, live band, live ukulele. Plus, the play is edgy and has been banned in places for the last 120 years. Looks like you have plans tonight after all.

What: Gay Jam

When: Saturday, 7 p.m.

Where: Cavan Auditorium, Gabel Hall

How much: FREE

Why: NIU’s LGBT student organization is once again presenting Gay Jam, its annual variety show. According to the event’s Facebook page, the following could be included in the show: drag kings/queens, dancers, singers, poets, comedy, bands, magic and burlesque acts. It sounds like a show in Vegas. Every year Gay Jam benefits a service project, and this year all proceeds will go to Youth Outlook in Aurora.