Monsters are invading Mario’s Double Daughters’ Salotto (1632 Market St.) tonight. As part of this evening’s First Friday art celebrations across town, the arty downtown lounge will host “Subnatural Spin,” a special display of over 50 Horndribbles, a series of handmade – and very imaginative – plush monsters created by local artists Lucas Richards and his wife Sarah Cassidy.
The fuzzy monsters will be displayed in special rotating dioramas, and even the entertainers for the night are getting into the spirit. Downtempo artist UziEgo, hip-hop turntablist DJ Idiom, and writer Brett Duesing, who created clever fictional descriptions for each creature, will all be dressed up in plush monster costumes.
“There will be at least five or six other plushies walking around,” said Duesing. Anyone brave enough to break out their own rabbit or panda suit is welcome to dress the part. The free party starts at 6 p.m. , and includes pizza catered by Two-Fisted Mario’s along with monster-themed drink specials by Double Daughters.
Six funny Jewish stories
Need a break from Christmas carols and holiday cheer? Check out “Heeb Storytelling” next Thursday at Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret. Sponsored by Heeb Magazine, the self-proclaimed “new Jew review,” the event features six Jewish storytellers who take the stage for 7-minute comedic segments.
“It’s a really intimate experience, and you feel like you get to know the people telling the stories,” said Eric Elkins, one of the evening’s speakers who writes a blog about life and dating as a single father. “My piece is about the first time I brought someone home for dinner with my daughter. I had the consummate Jewish reaction. There was the love wrapped in guilt and the pessimism, but also the humor and storytelling.”
Denver comic Al Reifler will MC the event, which includes performances by theater critic Lisa Bornstein, political consultant Jennifer Coken, casting director Cathy Reinking, real estate broker Ean Seeb and theater critic Juliet Wittman.
“The timing is good since we’re just inundated with Christmas messages this time of year, so it’s a breath of fresh air,” Elkins said. “But it’s not just for Jewish people. Anyone with a sense of humor will enjoy this.”
Heeb Storytelling starts at 8 p.m. Thursday at Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret, 1601 Arapahoe St. The $5 suggested donation benefits Judaism Your Way, a Denver-based community outreach program.
Jet-set fashion
Curvaceous glamour model and blond bombshell Brooke Banx is in town this weekend to host a launch party and fashion show for Belleview Clothing at the Jet Hotel at 1612 Market St. Party promoter JFly Presents named Belleview Clothing as “Designer of the Year” – check out the latest of Belleview’s looks for free during the Saturday night show. There is no cover for the show and party, but organizers recommend guests arrive at the Jet Lounge early to avoid the post-10 p.m. lines.
Break out the bubbly
There’s no shortage of reasons to sip champagne this time of year: Holiday parties and events pop up nearly nightly. But if you need a few extra ideas on when and why to pop a cork, head to the Peaks Lounge inside the Hyatt Regency Denver tonight. The “Top Ten Reasons to Drink Champagne” tasting runs from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. this evening, with tastings of Laurent-Perrier champagnes.
Sample the Brut, the rosé, the Brut Vintage ’97, and Grand Siecle while watching the city lights from the hotel’s 27th floor. The view alone is reason enough for most people to reach for the bubbly. Tickets are $45 per person. Call the Hyatt Regency Denver at 303-486-4804 for reservations.
Kat Valentine writes about nightlife Fridays in 7Days. Reach her at kat@kingproduction.com or call 303-954-1568.
