FIRST OTTAWA BURLESQUE FESTIVAL FUNDRAISER
In an effort to raise money for an Ottawa Burlesque Festival next year, the burlesque community has come together to put on an intriguing fundraiser involving local burlesque performers and music by DJ Lowpass. Proceeds from the event will help to fun a a three-day bilingual celebration of art, sensuality, and diversity. $10 tickets at the door. Must be 19. Sunday, May 26 at 8 p.m. Held at Yuk Yuk’s, 292 Elgin St.
JEFF ELLIOTT AT YUK YUK’S
Known for his “clean” and canny comedy, Jeff Elliott has become a major talent in the Canadian comedy scene. Jeff also writes for MSN.ca, freelances for major advertising companies, and can be seen in a number of commercials. Warning: you may find yourself laughing in an uncontrollable manner. Tickets at $18. 379 Preston St., Friday, May 24 at 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, May 25 at 8 p.m. 292 Elgin St. Saturday, May 25 at 9:30 p.m. www.yukyuks.com
BIRDS WITH SKYMIRRORS AT THE NAC
A pioneer in the evolution of Pacific contemporary dance, Lemi Ponifasio and his company MAU will be performing their internationally renowned production of Birds With Skymirrors at the NAC this weekend. Inspired by an event where Ponifasio witnessed birds carrying magnetic videotape in their beaks, this dramatic performance will challenge audiences to reflect on the future of the environment. Sit back, relax, and take in this provocative and enchanting 90 minute multi-media production. Tickets starting at $38. Friday, May 24 and Saturday, May 25 at 7:30 p.m. National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin St. www.nac-can.ca
TIRED PAWS AND WEARY WINGS (FREE!)
This exhibit pays hommage to the cats of the Parliament Hill sanctuary. Ottawa artist Gwendolyn Best is well known for her ability to capture the spirit of dark creatures, especially cats, through her paintings. Her upcoming show pays tribute to Parliament Hill’s recently dismantled cat sanctuary. Exhibit runs from Thursday, May 23 to Sunday, June 9. Orange Art Gallery, 233 Armstrong St. www.orangeartgallery.ca
GREAT GLEBE GARAGE SALE (FREE!)
Whether you’re on a mission to find that perfect item at that low-low price or you just want to be surrounded in a fun and vibrant atmosphere with your friends and family, the Glebe is the place to be this Saturday. This fantastic annual community event, which raises money for the Ottawa Food Bank, takes place rain or shine. Saturday, May 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Located in the Glebe, between Bronson Avenue, the Queensway (Hwy. 417), and the Rideau Canal. www.glebeca.ca
ALCATEL-LUCENT SUNDAY BIKEDAYS (FREE!)
Grab your helmet and pump up those bike tires because the 43rd season of Alcatel-Lucent Sunday Bikedays is back! This is a great opportunity to get some safe exercise in without the frustration of dodging vehicular traffic. Three Ottawa parkways — Sir John A. Macdonald Parkway (5.5 km), Colonel By Drive (7.6 km), and Rockcliffe Parkway (7.5 km) — are reserved for not only cyclists, but also in-line skaters, runners, walkers, and people with mobility aids. Every Sunday morning until Labour Day weekend. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
~ Jessica Nasrallah