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POSSIBLY GET THE COURAGE TO ATTEND... A benefit production of Eve Ensler's "Vagina Monologues" at Portland State University in the Smith Memorial Student Union Ballroom tonight or tomorrow for $8 (student price). The event is an effort to both raise money for the Tri-County Sexual Task Force and spread awareness to stop violence against women. And while the V-word might send you running, you could just relive Oprah's beat-around-the-bush "Va-jay-jay" every time it is mentioned.
DRESS UP TO WATCH... "Rodelinda," an opera performed at the Keller Auditorium today and Saturday for $41.75 at 7:30 p.m. Granted, the experience may dive further into a pocketbook that's most likely already empty. But turn it into a black tie affair by going out to dinner dolled up in a tux and gown and the night is worth it. "Rodelinda" features the heartwarming Baroque pieces of George Frideric Handel at the hands of conductor George Manahan and lead performer Jennifer Aylmer. It is the triumphant story of Rodelinda, the wife of a deposed and presumably dead king, who plays at the game of Machiavellian politics and succeeds, all the while remaining faithful to her husband. This Italian opera (with projected English translation) is the stuff V-day season is made of.
LISTEN TO... Vampire Weekend's self-titled debut LP, released last month. Refreshingly so, they're a blend of Afrobeat, chamber pop, ska and New Wave tones, and of course it's pretty good: 11 tracks fill up a seemingly brief hour. Their ideas aren't alarmingly innovative or original, but their sound and content still make for a great listening experience. They may be Columbia University grads, but they haven't left the classroom. At some point, there is mention of chemistry and grammar. And they're just as charming on tape as they look - these gentlemen would make for great wallpaper.
DON'T... Go anywhere near the multiplex this week. It's mid-February, and that means movie execs are airing out their studios, letting go of such stinkers as "The Hottie and the Nottie" and "Fools Gold." Of course, if you want to spend your hard-earned cash to allow Hollywood to insult your intelligence, then head downtown to catch Paris Hilton attempting to find her ogre-inspired best friend a date. You might find a laugh or two. Maybe. If you truly feel compelled to go to the movies, try an Oscar contender like "Atonement" or "Juno." Or, save a few dollars and rent "Gone Baby Gone," out this week on DVD.
-LUCILLE ROLLINS, SARAH BIGELOW
