WIDE MOUTH MASON
Got rainy-week angst? Canadian blues-rock standby Wide Mouth Mason is here to help. Since 1995 these guys have been putting out solid albums — they have veered into jazz and world music, but they’ve always offered a great live performance — and in 2010, the band released their first album in five years. They’re touring with The Stanfields (described as “the epitome of pub culture” and “The Clash meets Steve Earle”) as part of Prairie Scene. Saturday, April 30. 8 p.m. $15. Maverick’s. 221 Rideau St., 613-562-3941.
ROLLER DERBY MADNESS
Ottawa’s newest roller derby league, the Capital City Derby Dolls, kicks off its 2011 season with a bout against the Kingston Limestone Crushers. Sounds a little violent, non? Dolly Rogers captain Bella Lewkowicz (aka Delicate Plow’her) was quoted in a press release as saying that the local girls were more than prepared for the bout. Saturday, April 30. Doors open at 7 p.m.; bout at 7:30 p.m. $12 (kids $6). Jack Charron Arena, 10 McKitrick Dr. (Kanata), www.capitalcityderbydolls.wordpress.com
HIT N RUN III (FREE!)
Guy Berube and his crew are bringing back their popular Hit N Run group show. Throwing open the doors to his Lowertown gallery, Berube will be showing all manner of art, all mediums, all styles. The one-night event will also offer tunes, refreshments, and lots and lots of art. Plus, because the artists have to be in attendance to participate, it’s bound to be a happening night full of interesting people. And you never know, you might just find a piece of art you simply must have. Friday, April 29. 7-10 p.m. La Petite Mort Gallery, 306 Cumberland St. www.lapetitemortgallery.com
VEG FEST (FREE!)
The first asparagus and garlic scapes should be peeking through any day now. So seems like a good time for Veg Fest. Organized by the National Capital Vegetarian Association and sponsored by The Table Vegetarian Restaurant, Veg Fest bills itself as the veg lifestyle event of the year. Expect lots of food (as well as guest speakers and a silent auction). Star billing this year goes to the great NCVA Cupcake Challenge, where Ottawa’s vegan cupcake champion will be crowned. Sunday, May 1. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Glebe Community Centre, 175 Third Ave. www.ncva.ca. And while we’re on the topic of veggies, don’t forget that this Sunday marks the opening of the Lansdowne Farmers’ Market. Two veggie events within blocks of one another.
ANY ONE OF US: WORDS FROM PRISON
From Eve Ensler, the same playwright that brought the world The Vagina Monologues, comes a new series of monologues about women in prison, the circumstances that led them there, and their re-adjustment into society. A fundraiser for the Elizabeth Fry Society (a local organization that assists women and female youth who are, or may be, at risk of coming into conflict with the law), the event promises pain, drama, and awareness — as well as another side of the ‘tough on crime’ debate. April 29. 8 p.m. $15. Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Ave. www.jh-5.com
THE NATIONAL WOMEN’S SHOW
As anyone who works with, lives with, or is a woman knows we’re mighty good multi-taskers. This makes The National Women’s Show a no-brainer: get a gaggle of your favourite gal pals together, and make an excursion of it. Everyone may have their own missions, but with over 250 exhibits on everything from food and wine to wellness and beauty, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Highlights include a talk with Olympic silver medalist Elizabeth Manley, a fashion show featuring looks from Shepherd’s, and a chat with Biggest Loser contestant Arthur Wornum (BL fans: check out this People article in which Wornum dishes on the behind-the-scenes action). April 30 – May 1. $12. www.nationalwomenshow.com/ottawa