WOMEN FULLY CLOTHED
Four female comedians team up to present a hilarious social satire on friendship, family dynamics, and self-preservation. The show explores all the angles of being a woman through sketch comedy and razor-sharp wit. Robin Duke (Saturday Night Live), Jayne Eastwood (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), Kathryn Greenwood (Whose Line Is It Anyway?), and Teresa Pavlinek (History Bites) inspire an evening of knowing-nods and laughter. Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2. 8 p.m. $59.50. Centrepointe Theatre, 101 Centrepointe Dr., 613-580-2700. www.womenfullyclothed.com
ONE ON ONE WITH ETGAR KERET
The Ottawa International Writers Festival has orchestrated an evening of prose and conversation with best-selling Israeli writer and filmmaker, Etgar Keret. Hailed as the voice of young Israel and one of its most radical and extraordinary writers, he has won numerous awards and accolades. Arrive early and watch a screening of Keret’s directing debut — winner of the Camera d’Or prize for best first feature — Jellyfish. Sunday, April 3. Film at 5 p.m., conversation at 7 p.m. $10, $7 seniors. The Mayfair Theatre, 1074 Bank St., 613-730-6552. www.writersfestival.org
A TASTE OF NOVA SCOTIA
The east coast brings its culinary A-game to the capital, pairing hard-to-find wines with a multi-course gourmet menu prepared by renowned chef Michael Howell. Sommelier Debbie Trenholm shares wine-related experiences and knowledge with diners and discusses the future of wineries in Nova Scotia. Don’t be shellfish; bring a date or a group to share in the fun! Friday, April 1. 6:30 p.m. $95, $720 for groups of eight, advance tickets only. Panorama Room, National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin St., 613-728-8926. www.savvycompany.ca
THROWDOWN IN O-TOWN
After three long years, Thai boxing is back. Recently re-sanctioned in Ontario, Thai boxing is a popular type of mixed martial arts, and this event is approved by the Council of Amateur Sport Kickboxing. Many of the Ottawa Academy of Martial Arts’ top athletes will be participating in this all-ages event, which organizers say will give local hopefuls a place to put their training to use and work their way to a professional level. Witness history in the making — it may be the newest piece of history founded by shirtless men. Saturday, April 2. First event 3 p.m. $35 at the door, $30 pre-order. Tailgators (up the stairs), 1642 Merivale Rd., 613-224-0249. www.tailgators.ca
RETRO, FUNK, PUNK AND DISCO BINGO WITH CHINA DOLL
This isn’t your Grandma’s bingo game, but she can certainly tag along. Get out your favourite dabber and most reliable good-luck charm for an evening of games, music, and prizes. DJ Baby Bok Choy is spinning disco, funk, punk, and a little bit of the ‘80s to set the mood for play. Fabulous prizes include candles, Easter-themed chocolate, two-ply toilet paper, and much more. Friday, April 1. 9 p.m. $5 for two bingo cards. Shanghai Restaurant, 651 Somerset Street W., 613-233-4001. www.shanghaiottawa.com
OTTAWA WEDDING SHOW (FREE!)
For the newly-betrothed — or the nuptially-curious — the Ottawa Wedding Show is the ideal place to peruse venue options, decorating ideas, and even snag a great deal on your dream wedding gown. This event covers everything from invitation etiquette to honeymoon travel. Check out their fabulous bridal fashion shows and dress your entire wedding party. Saturday, April 2 and Sunday, April 3. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ottawa Civic Centre, Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St., 613-829-6764. www.ottawaweddingshow.co
TRAVEL & VACATION SHOW
Over 45 countries from around the world are in the capital to make planning your destination trip easy and fun. Ask country representatives questions, attend free seminars, and learn from travel photography workshops for amateurs and pros. Four visiting celebrity chefs are performing in the demonstration kitchen to share their secrets and offer a taste of their regional cuisine. Not looking to leave the land of lakes and forests? Exhibits from Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Ontario are available to provide you with every inter-commonwealth need. Saturday, April 2 and Sunday, April 3. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $8. Aberdeen Pavilion, Lansdowne Park, 1015 Bank St., 613-567-6408. www.travelandvacationshow.ca