“50 Shades of Grey,” am I right, ladies? How crazy was that book? Now is your chance to see it be played out onstage in all of its musical glory. That’s not the only thing to get your motor running this weekend. If you think that’s hot, wait until you check out the Arisia Science Fiction convention.
| 1. | Jan. 16 – Allston-Brighton drinker’s guild |
Like drinking? Live in Allston? Is that the most obvious pairing ever? Probably, and that’s why The Silhouette in Allston is hosting the first date of a regular meet-ups for beer and cocktail enthusiasts of the Allston-Brighton area. If all else fails, just challenge a local to a game of darts and enjoy the free popcorn (6:30 p.m., free, 21+).
| 2. | Jan. 16 – Tony McMillen Book Talk |
Local writer and illustrator Tony McMillen will be at Trident Booksellers reading from his new novel “Nefarious Twit.” He will also be discussing the process of self-publishing, in case you’re looking to self-release a novel of your own (7 p.m., free, all ages).
| 3. | Jan. 17 – “Journey to the South Pacific” premiere |
Head to the Museum of Science and catch the premiere of the newest IMAX movie, “Journey to the South Pacific.” Narrated by Cate Blanchett, this film explores the seas surrounding West Papua, which over 2,000 species of aquatic life call home. Just to clarify, there will be no dope smoking permitted — I’m looking at you, everyone who owns “Planet Earth” on DVD (9 p.m., $10, all ages).
| 4. | Jan. 17 – “Cuff Me: 50 Shades of Grey” parody |
The Shubert Theatre hosts a musical reenactment of the hit novel, “50 Shades of Grey,” live onstage in Boston for one night only. Perfect for a girls night out, or I guess if you’re looking to meet some women who are partaking in a girls night out (8 p.m., $50-125, all ages).
| 5. | Jan. 17-20 – Arisia Science Fiction and Fantasy Convention |
Do you find yourself dressing up like your favorite superhero a lot? Have you forgotten to eat meals because you’re so wrapped up in a game of “World of Warcraft”? Do you regularly attend any of these game nights around Boston? If so, you will definitely love this sci-fi convention. Head to the Westin at the Boston Waterfront and enjoy all of the panel discussions, game tournaments, films, and guest of honor Tanya Huff that you can fit in one weekend (4 p.m., $60 ($30 for students), all ages).
| 6. | Jan. 18 – Boston Does Boston gallery opening |
Help launch a seventh annual Boston Does Boston art exhibit. Proof Gallery at the Distillery Building houses this display featuring the work of three Boston artists invited by Julia Hechtman, one of Proof’s co-founders. Those three Boston artists then each chose another Boston artist, with whom they share interests, to work with. The work that results reflects a wide arrange of artistic tastes, with a cool local twist (6 p.m., free, all ages).
| 7. | Jan. 18 – Mr. Hip Reading Series |
U-Forge Gallery in Jamaica plain will host the first reading series of the year, complete with the hippest in live poetry, spoken word, and musically-influenced recitations. This could potentially make a really good date night if you’d like to impress with both coolness and intellect (6 p.m., $6, all ages).
| 8. | Jan. 19 – Winterfest at the Landsdowne Pub |
What’s the best way to celebrate the winter? Drink enough that you forget that it’s actually winter, of course. Grab your drinking buddies and go to the Lansdowne Pub for a day of seasonal beers, live music, and $1 oysters (12 p.m., free, 21+).