CONCERTS

FOLK/POLITICAL/SOCIAL CONCERT SERIES—The Peoples’ Voice Café, an alternative coffeehouse, organizes weekly concerts and events celebrating humanitarian issues and concerns. The cafe is run as a not-for-profit collective and concerts are held Saturdays from 8-10:30 p.m. at The Community Church of New York Unitarian Universalist, 40 E. 35th St. (between Madison and Park Aves. Wheelchair-accessible.) Suggested donation: $20; $12 for PVC members; more if you choose; less if you can’t; no one turned away. For more information, call (212) 787-3903 or visit peoplesvoicecafe.org.

Sept. 14 at 8 p.m., Jaeger & Reid and Lizzy Hershon & The Living Room Singers

JAZZ IN THE PARK—Alex Nguyen & Friends returns to Stuyvesant Square Park on Sundays this August. The last concert will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. in West Stuyvesant Park by the south flagpole on Sun., Aug. 25. Come listen to jazz under the trees and watch the sun set behind the clouds. For updates and more information, visit spnanyc.org and follow the SPNA on Facebook and Instagram.

JAZZ—Jazz Standard, 116 East 27th St., presents the following concerts:

Aug. 23-25 at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Danilo Pérez Global Messengers, $35.

Aug. 26 at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Mingus Big Band, $30.

Aug. 29-Sept. 1 at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Orrin Evans Trio with special guest Kevin Eubanks, $30.

Sept. 2, closed for Labor Day.

Sept. 3 at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., Rufus Reid Trio with Sirius Quartet, $30.

For tickets, visit jazzstandard.com.

ROCK & MORE—The Gramercy Theatre, 127 E. 23rd St., presents the following concerts:

Aug. 23 at 9 p.m., Yamaneika Saunders, $20-$35.

Aug. 24 at 8 p.m., Thorgy and the Thorchestra, $40-$75.

Aug. 27 at 8:30 p.m., Orange Goblin, $37.

Aug. 30 at 8 p.m., Freedom (Tribute to George Michael & Wham!), $15.

Aug. 31 at 8 p.m., Arkona, $20-$40.

Visit thegramercytheatre.com for tickets.

THEATER

DREAM UP FESTIVAL—Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave. between 9th and 10th Sts., presents Dream Up Festival 2019, running from Aug. 25-Sept. 15. Theater for the New City will present a lineup of wide-ranging and original theatrical visions embracing drama, poetry, music, and dance in the summer of 2019 from performing artists representing theater and performance companies in our theater complex in downtown New York. Tickets prices can range from $12 to $20. For more information, visit theaterforthenewcity.net.

“Carrier Pigeon,” running from Aug. 25-31. Beginning on the one year anniversary of her survival of a mass shooting, Joy battles Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, agoraphobia, borderline alcoholism, and the feelings of intense, irremediable loneliness. To cope, Joy locks everyone out except for sexual partners, her occasionally intrusive sister, Lauren, Mom, and Peter, the carrier pigeon that delivers letters from a mysterious Jordan. With the return of her father’s cancer, her sister’s impending wedding and the allure of a not-so-distant pen pal and potential romantic partner, Joy must decide whether or not her shut-in/shut-out lifestyle is truly sustainable, or if there is more to living than merely surviving. Tickets are $15.

“The Father,” running from Aug. 25-Sept. 2. The Dream Up Festival offers Robert Greer’s brand new translation of August Strindberg’s 1887 tragedy, in which a wife uses her erotic influence over her doctor and her readiness to claim that her family lawyer is her child’s father to drive her husband into madness. The play offers a proto-Freudian explanation of the unreasonable hatred that can exist between husbands and wives. Greer’s translation mines the hidden sexual meanings in the original Swedish dialogue (bowdlerized in many translations) that seem to drive the play. Tickets are $18.

“EEEEEEEEE,” running Aug. 25-29. Is celebrity worship, in itself, Theater of the Ridiculous? “EEEEEEEEE,” written and directed by Emily Abrams, would have you think so. Emilia, Emily, Emmy and Eleanor belong to polyamorous cult that praises Ellen DeGeneres as its god, but are set on their collective heads when their idol rejects them. The piece, performed in Playhouse of the Ridiculous style, holds a mirror up to the crazyness we tolerate in TV culture and the celebrity racket. Tickets are $15.

“Dangerous to Dance With,” running Aug. 30-Sept. 5. The guests of a brilliant yet paranoid playwright are forced to put up with his verbal abuse as he manipulates them like characters in one of his plays. “Dangerous to Dance With” is a dark comedy about greed, deception and taking things way too far. Tickets are $18.

SEUSSICAL—The 14th Street Y, 344 East 14th St., presents “Seussical,” running Aug. 23-25. A musical perfect for the whole family, Seussical takes us into the world of Dr. Seuss, where we revisist beloved characters including The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie, and JoJo. Charming Seussical teaches us the power being unique and the importance of fighting for your beliefs. General admission tickets are $20. For more information, show times or to purchase tickets, visit 14streety.org.

PLAYWRITING CONTEST WINNER—The 14th Street Y, 344 E. 14th St., presents a special reading of the 2019 National Jewish Playwriting contest winner, “In Every Generation” by by Ali Viterbi on Wed., Sept. 4 at 7:30 p.m. One family. One holiday. Four millennia. The Levi-Katz family celebrates Passover again and again (and again and again) and while times, location, and languages change, traditions stay the same. Over matzah ball soup and (vegan) brisket, the close-knit clan contends with questions of race, religion, and inter-generational trauma. The present echoes the past—and the past the present—as the family repeatedly reenacts the exodus from Egypt, each time asking themselves: must we define ourselves through trauma? Will we ever be free? And why is this night different from all other nights? Tickets are a $10 suggestion donation and can be purchased at 14streety.org/nowplaying/2019-2020-season.

PLAY READING—The 14th Street Y, 344 E. 14th St., presents a workshop reading of 2019 National Jewish Playwriting contest finalist, “Dox Modern Middle” by Megan Pope on Thurs., Sept. 5 and Fri., Sept. 6 at 7:30 p.m. Raphaela, a young Modern Orthodox Jew, is outed and suddenly sent to Israel to heal, but the Holy Land has its own surprises – a new friend, a new community and Video Pub, the only drag club in Jerusalem. Tickets are a $10 suggestion donation and can be purchased at 14streety.org/nowplaying/2019-2020-season.

INTERACTIVE PLAY—This Is Not A Theatre Company presents Play!, with new text by Charles Mee, opening on Sept. 8 at TheatreLab, 357 West 36th Street, 3rd floor. Play! is an interactive homage to the importance of radical play for a healthy society. What do mass murderers have in common? They are play-deprived. What happens to lab rats when you deprive them of play? They die. The answer to inefficiency is not more work, it’s play. And the opposite of play is not work, it’s depression. Play! is an interactive dance-theatre piece co-created by Charles Mee, Erin B. Mee, Jonathan Matthews, and Ezra Brain, with additional text by Stuart Brown, Frederick Winslow Taylor, and Buzzfeed. Performed by Jonathan Matthews. Play! runs through Sept. 29. Tickets are $25 with $5 off for students. Tickets can be purchased at https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/dept/1957/1567310400000.

STREET THEATER—Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave., presents “No Brainer or the Solution to Parasites,” running Aug. 3-Sept. 15. A rip-roaring musical which portrays our road to national madness as a bad trip to Hades. Free performances will tour parks, playgrounds and closed-off streets throughout the five boroughs through Sept. 15. Performances are free to the public. The next local performance will be on Sun., Sept. 15 in Tompkins Square Park, E. 7th St. and Ave. A, on Sun., Sept. 15 at 2 p.m. Visit theaterforthenewcity.net for more information on additional performances.

HISTORICAL PLAY—The 14th Street Y, 344 E. 14th St., presents “Бабушка (BAb(oo)shka),” showing from Sept. 26 to Oct. 6. “Бабушка” tells a true story about Jewish life in the USSR onstage—in Russian. Her story is live translated into klezmer music, gibberish, poetic text, and puppetry, creating a meta-conversation on the act of translation and historization. Tickets ($25 for general admission, $15 for students/seniors) are available at 14streety.org/nowplaying/2019-2020-season. 

OTHER PERFORMANCES

MONICA LEWINSKY CABARET—Horse Trade Theater Group presents “Monica Lewinsky Sings Your Heart Out” on Thurs., Aug. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at The Kraine Theater, 85 E. 4th St. Monica Lewinsky has changed America’s minds about her and now she’s coming for your hearts. Written and performed by comedian Amanda Hunt (UCB, Wedding Belles, various basements and backs of bars in New York City and Beyond), this cabaret features characters from recent American history, song parodies from recent American musicals, and wigs from recent American Amazon orders. There will be another show on Thurs., Aug. 22. Tickets are $20 in advance online. For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, visit horsetrade.info.

POETRY SLAM—The Nuyorican Poets Cafe at 236 E. Third St., between Aves. B and C, presents its Friday Night Poetry Slam every week at 10 p.m. Host Phil Kaye curates the most popular and longest-running slam poetry series in New York City. $12 regular admission, $25 for a limited number of reserved seats. To order tickets, visit nuyorican.org. The next poetry slam will be held on Aug. 23. For more information, call (212) 505-8183. The cafe is wheelchair accessible, but calling ahead of time is recommended so staff can accommodate wheelchair users.

COMEDY/VARIETY—“No Name… & A Bag O’ Chips” comedy/variety show producer Eric Vetter presents a show at Otto’s Shrunken Head, 538 E. 14th St., on Fri., Aug. 23 at 7 p.m. The show features featuring Dave Lester, Chris Griggs, Liz Miele, Gabriel Pacheco and Mike Cannon. There will also be live music by The Summer Replacements, including Carl (BabyFreak) Fortunato and Fernando (Dr. Sandman) Morales Gonzalez. No cover, no minimum. Performers subject to change. For more information, call (212) 228-2240 or visit ottosshrunkenhead.com.

OPEN MIC—Merchant’s House Museum, 29 E. 4th St. presents and open mic night in the garden on Sat., Aug. 24 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. In the 19th century, literary salons gathered great thinkers, artists, and writers under one roof for a night of socialization and “improving conversation.” In that same spirit, the Merchant’s House celebrates the works of today’s new writers, performance artists and musicians. Come to share your work in an intimate, supportive environment, or simply enjoy the garden all abloom. If you’d like to perform, bring no more than four minutes of material. Sign-up available upon entry. Performances will run from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., with time for mingling and enjoying the garden after. No reservations. Admission is $10 (free for members). For more information, visit merchantshouse.org or call (212) 777-1089.

OPEN MIC—Horse Trade Theater Group presents “The Open Mic Under St. Mark’s” every Tuesday at 9:30 p.m. at Under St. Marks, 94 St. Marks Pl. Sign-ups get seven minutes to try anything in one of the most supportive rooms in New York City. Whether it’s a performance art piece, comedy, music, storytelling, dance or something entirely off the top of your head, you’ll find a home in the attentive welcoming community at Under St. Mark’s. The next open mic will be on Aug. 27. For more information or to purchase tickets ($4) in advance, visit horsetrade.info.

STORYTELLING—Horse Trade Theater Group presents “Odd Salon: Chutzpah” on Wed., Aug. 28 at 7 p.m. at The Kraine Theater, 85 E. 4th St. Join us on an adventure to find the far-out, far-flung, and forgotten people, places, and stories of the past. Odd Salon brings their evening series of cocktail hour mini-lectures to New York featuring short talks from the odd corners of history, science, art, and adventure. From legends of lost cities to masters of art forgery, engineering failures to murderous sideshow performers, daring heists, questionable taxidermy and tales of epic revenge. This installment of the Odd Salon will feature six tales of haughty boys and brassy babes, kids with moxie and audacious dames; fearless femmes and reckless men. Tickets are $20 in advance online. For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, visit horsetrade.info.

OPEN POETRY SLAM—The Nuyorican Poets Cafe at 236 E. Third St., between Aves. B and C, presents its Wednesday Night Slam Open. Crystal Valentine hosts this energetic event, the cafe’s proving ground for emerging poets and experienced artists who want to try out new work. Anyone can sign up for a performance slot, but only one winner per week will advance to the Friday Night Poetry Slam; $7 event takes place every Wednesday at 9 p.m., except for the first Wednesday of the month. The next open poetry slam will be on Aug. 28. To order tickets, visit nuyorican.org. For more information, call (212) 505-8183. The cafe is wheelchair accessible, but calling ahead of time is recommended so staff can accommodate wheelchair users.

BURLESQUE—Horse Trade Theater Group presents “Stand Up and Take Your Clothes Off” on Sun., Sept. 1 at 8 p.m. at The Kraine Theater, 85 E. 4th St. This is a fast paced, sexy show that each month features NYC’s funniest female comics and sassiest burlesque acts. Hosted by Kerryn Feehan and Jillaine Gill with DJ Stevie C and Stage Kitten Stockholm Filly. Cover is $15 ($10 in advance online). For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, visit horsetrade.info.

MULTICULTURAL SHOWCASE—The Nuyorican Poets Cafe at 236 E. Third St., between Aves. B and C, presents “Beatnix: Latinx Artists in the Beatnik Tradition” on Sept. 3. This monthly showcase features Puerto Rican and Nuyorican poets, musicians and other artists in performance and dialogue about cultural, artistic and political issues. The third installment of Beatnix will feature Iveliste Namaste (emerging poet), Luna Muni (violinist), Michael Reyes (feature) and Willie Perdomo (headliner). Hosted by Caridad de la Luz. To order tickets ($10), visit http://www.nuyorican.org. For more information, call (212) 505-8183. The cafe is wheelchair accessible, but calling ahead of time is recommended so staff can accommodate wheelchair users.

SMUTTY STORYTELLING—Horse Trade Theater Group presents “Smut Slam” on Wed., Sept. 4 at 9 p.m. at Under St. Marks, 94 St. Marks Pl. Smut Slam is a storytelling competition based in real life, real lust, real sex. With prizes from sponsors Njoy and Babeland, Smut Slammers sign up to tell a five minute dirty story, judged by a different panel of celebrity judges like sex party curators, erotica writers and storytelling hosts. For more information or to purchase tickets ($10) in advance, visit horsetrade.info.

STAND-UP SHOW—FRIGID New York at the Kraine’s Theater, 85 E. 4th St., presents “Funny Women of a Certain Age,” a stand-up show featuring women over 50 on the first Wednesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. Funny Women of a Certain Age is a show straight from the unfettered mouths and uninhibited minds of the funniest, most daring, most experienced people in comedy: the women that have seen it all. They’ve raised children both on and off the road with big hairy club bouncers cradling their babies while onstage. These women have stayed in comedy condos where you don’t want to use a blacklight on anything. They’ve been told women aren’t funny and asked to trade sexual favors for work. Tickets ($15) are available at horsetrade.info. 

FAMILY/CHILDREN

FILM SCREENING—Tompkins Square Library, 331 E. 10th St., presents one mroe all-ages film screenings this month.

Friday, Aug. 23 at 1 p.m. “Labyrinth” starring David Bowie.

All ages are welcome to attend. Children should be accompanied by a parent or guardian. For more information, call (212) 228-4747 or visit nypl.org.

ALL-AGES PLAY— Horse Trade Theater Group presents “Petunia and Chicken” on Fri., Aug. 23 at 8 p.m. at The Kraine Theater, 85 E. 4th St. Inspired by the works of Willa Cather, “Petunia and Chicken” is a 4 time award winning play for audiences of all ages that brings to life a heartwarming, funny and thrilling story of immigration and love on the turn-of-the-century prairie. Performed by just two actors and a violinist in Animal Engine Theatre Company’s unique physical style, they create sprawling fields of wheat, bustling train stations, rain-soaked kisses and more with just their bodies, a few props and folk song. Tickets are $15 in advance online. For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, visit horsetrade.info.

STORYTIME—Barnes & Noble, 33 E. 17th St., presents Baby & Me Storytime featuring “ABCs of Biology” on Sun., Aug. 25 at 11 a.m. Baby & Me Storytime continues for caregivers and children 0-24 months old. Join us as we read a book and participate in activities featuring sensory growth for your little ones. For information, visit bn.com or call (212) 253-0810.

FAMILY FRIDAYS—The Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., presents “Puzzling with Pentominoes” with Vince Matsko on Fri., Sept. 27 at 6:30 p.m. The pentominoes are the twelve geometric figures which can be made by gluing five squares together, edge-to-edge. Join mathematician and puzzle enthusiast Vince Matsko for an evening of intense puzzledom using these deceptively simple shapes. Family Fridays is designed to bring families together to enjoy a diverse array of engaging mathematical activities, promoting interest and enthusiasm among kids and adults alike. The activities are designed so that all attendees, regardless of age, can participate on an equal footing. Thanks to the generous support of Two Sigma, this program is free to attendees. Learn more and register at familyfridays.momath.org. 

TODDLER PLAYTIME—New York Public Library’s Tompkins Square Library, 331 E. 10th St., presents “Toddler Time” on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. Bring your toddlers to share fun and interesting stories, songs, rhymes and fingerplays. Recommended for children 18 months to three years of age. For more information, call (212) 228-4747.

ART WORKSHOP—The Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th St., presents “Family Sundays,” free activities from 1-4 p.m. Drop into the Education Center for some art-making, and there will be a 2 p.m. family exhibition tour, and go on your own thematic gallery search. Ages 3 and older with accompanying adults. For more information, visit rubinmuseum.org or call (212) 620-5000.  

CUB/BOY SCOUTS PACK 422—Scout Pack 422 is part of the Greater NY Councils and the Big Apple District and is sponsored by The Epiphany R.C. Church at 373 Second Ave. off of 21st St. Meetings are held in the Parish Hall. Cub Scouts meet on Wednesdays at 7 p.m., Boy Scouts meet on Thursdays at 6:45 p.m. Parents and new scouts are invited to meetings. For more information, call Maureen Riley at (917) 837-3311.

CUB/BOY SCOUTS PACK 414—Scout Troop 414 is part of the Greater New York Councils and the Big Apple District and is sponsored by the Immaculate Conception Church, 414 E. 14th St. Meetings are held in the school auditorium every Tuesday evening from 6:30-8 p.m. Parents and new Scouts are invited to meetings. For more information, visit troop414nyc.org.  

EVENTS AT LIBRARY FOR BABIES, TODDLERS AND OLDER CHILDREN—New York Public Library’s Epiphany Library, 228 E. 23rd St. between Second and Third Aves., presents the following programs for children:

“Color Time.” Crayons and coloring pages will be available in the children’s room on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3-5 p.m.

TEENS/TWEENS

FILMS ON MUSIC—Tompkins Square Library, 331 E. 10th St., presents one more film about music this month.

Wed., Aug. 28 at 5 p.m. “The Devil and Daniel Johnston”

For more information, call (212) 228-4747.

STUDY PREP—Tompkins Square Library, 331 E. 10th St., presents Specialized High Schools Admissions Test study prep on Tuesdays, 1-2:30 p.m. Are you going to be an 8th grader in the fall? Come to one of our SHSAT study prep sessions. SAT questions or homework questions also welcome. For more information, call (212) 228-4747.

3D DOODLING—New York Public Library’s Tompkins Square Library, 331 E. 10th St., presents “3Doodler!” every other Monday at 4 p.m. The next events will be on July 29, Aug. 12 and Aug. 26. 3Doodler is a 3D doodling pen that allows you to create objects from drawing in the air or on surfaces. Participants will create physical structures from 3Doodler pens. Ages 8-12 and teens only.

GAMING—New York Public Library’s Tompkins Square Library, 331 E. 10th St., presents “Game On for Tweens/Teens!” on Wednesdays at 3:30-4:30 p.m. Gamers ages 8-18 play PS4, Wii, and Retro games in the basement. No registration needed. Ages: 8 and up. For more information, call (212) 228-4747.

ANIME/MANGA CLUB—New York Public Library’s Tompkins Square Library, 331 E. 10th St., presents an Anime and Manga Club on Tuesdays at 4 p.m. Read Manga. Watch Anime. Earn and win prizes. No registration necessary. For more information, call (212) 228-4747. 

AUTHOR EVENTS  

DAN RATHER—Barnes & Noble, 33 E. 17th St., presents Dan Rather reading from his new book, “What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism,” on Thurs., Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. At a moment of crisis over our national identity, journalist Dan Rather has emerged as a voice of reason and integrity, reflecting on—and writing passionately about—what it means to be an American. Now, with this collection of original essays, he reminds us of the principles upon which the United States was founded. Looking at the freedoms that define us, from the vote to the press; the values that have transformed us, from empathy to inclusion to service; the institutions that sustain us, such as public education; and the traits that helped form our young country, such as the audacity to take on daunting challenges in science and medicine, Rather brings to bear his decades of experience on the frontlines of the world’s biggest stories. For information, visit bn.com or call (212) 253-0810.

DISCUSSIONS

FINANCIAL GUIDANCE SERIES—The New York Public Library’s Science, Industry & Business Library, 188 Madison Ave. at 34th St., presents the following series of financial help discussions. Seating is limited and on a first come, first-seated basis at the lower level conference Room 018. For information on the following programs, call (917) ASK-NYPL (917-275-6975) Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Thurs., Aug. 22 at 3:15 p.m. “Protecting Your Privacy & Security.” Need a security check-up?  This class covers the best practices for keeping your information safe online and your computer virus free.  Class will run approximately 2 hours.  Presented by SIBL Staff.

Tues., Aug. 27 at 1:15 p.m. “Bond Basics.” Get an introduction to bonds and the best of SIBL’s print and electronic resources, as well as public websites, for researching bonds and bond mutual funds. Presented by SIBL Staff.

Tues., Aug. 27 at 3 p.m. “Managing Student Loan Debt.” Does the debt from your college days seem overwhelming? Developing a plan to manage your student loans is critical to your long-term financial health. William Wu, CFP® , discusses how to get your student debt under control. Presented by the Financial Planning Association of Metro NY.

Wed., Aug. 28 at 1:15 p.m. “Planning a Successful Retirement.” Where will the money come from?  Learn about the variety of tax advantaged accounts that you can setup to help you acquire the nest egg necessary for retirement.  Presented by SIBL Staff.

PHOTOGRAPHER DISCUSSION—Pop International Galleries, 195 Bowery, celebrates the 50th anniversary of “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” with photographer Lawrence Schiller on Thurs., Aug. 29 from 7 to 9 p.m. Pop brings you face-to-face with the iconic photographs taken by Lawrence Schiller – on and off set – during the filming of “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.” Schiller worked for LIFE Magazine, Paris Match, The Sunday Times, Time, Newsweek, Stern and The Saturday Evening Post. “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” also launched the award-winning photographer’s career as a director, when he was given the opportunity to direct the New York sequence at the heart of the film. This same week, LIFE Magazine will publish a special 50th-anniversary commemorative book, featuring a cover and 31 pages from Schiller’s lens. RSVP by emailing rsvpButchCassidy@popinternational.com.

YIDDISH WRITER—Center for Jewish History, 15 W. 16th St., offers a presentation in the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research on 19th-century author Jacob Dinezon from scholar Scott Hilton Davis on Tues., Sept. 3 at 7 p.m. In this image-filled presentation commemorating the 100th anniversary of Jacob Dinezon’s passing, Davis, an Emmy Award-winning filmmaker, author, and publisher, will share his 16-year journey to uncover the facts about Jacob Dinezon’s life and literary career and his ongoing efforts to restore this revered Jewish author to his rightful place in Yiddish literature. Also participating in the commemoration of Jacob Dinezon’s 100th yortsayt will be Tina Lunson, the English translator of Dinezon’s “Der shvartser yungermantshik” and “Zichroynes un bilder,” and the noted Yiddishist and teacher Sheva Zucker. Registration ($10 general admission, $5 YIVO members/students) is available at yivo.org/dinezon.

FINANCIAL PLANNING DAY—NYPL’s Fall Financial Planning Day will be held at the Science, Industry & Business Library at 188 Madison Ave. at 34th Street on Sept. 20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This day-long event will offer 12 workshops on a broad array of financial and life planning issues, free financial, Medicare and/or credit crisis counseling, the opportunity to ask questions of various government representative at our Financial Fair and the opportunity to learn how to use some of our financial databases. More information on each of the programs and all of Financial Planning Day can be found at NYPL.org/fpd.

ELECTORAL COLLEGE DEBATE— The Great Hall of The Cooper Union, 7 E. 7th St., presents a discussion on the electoral college on Fri., Sept. 20 from 6:30-8 p.m. During this free, open event, hear from leading voices in the debate about the Electoral College, including Neal Peirce, author of The People’s President, the reigning standard for reforming the voting process, John R. Koza, who drafted the National Popular Vote bill, which has been enacted into law in 15 states, Tara Ross, author of “Enlightened Democracy: The Case for the Electoral College,” and Trent England, a conservative legal scholar and policy expert. MSNBC’s Lawrence O’Donnell will moderate this discussion on whether the Electoral College is an essential element of our democracy or an obstacle to it.

EXHIBITS

TAXIDERMIED SEUSS CHARACTERS—This summer, Pop International Gallery will be showing the complete Dr. Seuss collection of “Unorthodox Taxidermy.” This special exhibit features several sold out and incredibly rare sculptures, together for the first time almost 90 years after Dr. Seuss began this creative adventure in the 1930’s. This is a special moment and opportunity, because also included is the “Seasick Walrus,” the latest release from the Estate of Dr. Seuss. Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m., or at any other time by appointment.

SUMMER EXHIBITION—The Salmagundi Club, 47 Fifth Avenue, presents a summer members’ show in the lower gallery through Aug. 23. Variety and diversity are the hallmarks of the “SCNY Members Summer Show,” an annual event open to all Salmagundi artist members. Taking its cue from the “mixed bag” characteristics of real life, this exhibit will show a variety of high quality paintings, sculptures, graphics and photography. The focus is to display not only the wide range of artistic techniques, but also to spotlight each artist’s own personal expressions and unique aesthetic vision. Visitors will be invited to view the show in the Salmagundi Club’s Upper Gallery and Lower Gallery. Viewing hours are Mon.-Fri, 1-6 p.m. and Sat.-Sun., 1-5 p.m. A members’ and guests’ reception will be held on Fri., Aug. 23, 6-8 p.m., with music by the Bob Trien Trio. For more information, visit salmagundi.org or call (212) 255-7740.

DECADE OF 1900s FASHION—Merchant’s House Museum, 29 E. 4th St. presents “The Changing Silhouette of Fashion: The Decade of the 1900s; Lingerie Dress,” running through Aug. 26. The Changing Silhouette of Fashion is series of exhibitions featuring a dress owned by a woman of the Tredwell family (the family that lived in the museum building) from each decade of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Taken together, these dresses show the changing silhouette of fashion over 100 years, and tell us about the women who wore them and the society in which they lived. If ever there was a woman’s garment representative of the first decade of the 20th century, it was the lingerie dress. Lingerie dresses, so named because they were embroidered and trimmed with lace, as was used for petticoats, chemises, and other forms of lingerie, were an essential component of the fashionable lady’s wardrobe. Worn largely as day wear during the summer months, they were also worn as informal evening wear. The exhibition is included in the price of museum admission (general $15, students and seniors over 65, $10, children under 12 free). For more information, visit merchantshouse.org or call (212) 777-1089. 

COLLAGE EXHIBIT—The Ottendorfer Library, 135 Second Ave., presents “Meows, Memories, Boxes and a Book,” an exhibition by Dottie Wilson running through Aug. 31. Located on the main floor of New York City’s very first library, this exhibit is a group of eight artworks in the form of collage, shadowbox, assemblage and photomontage. Each piece in the exhibition was created using recycled textiles, broken souvenirs, desecrated documents, books and paper, junk jewelry, damaged toys, found (and stolen) objects, elderly do-dads, you name it. Aside from glue and spray paint, few traditional art supplies were used. Most of the frames were discovered on the street or in the garbage. Five pieces pay tribute to a precious childhood book that had seen better days. Two others memorialize felines and their ‘for better or worse’ homes. One is about a garden and a farmer in a box. Visit nypl.org/locations/ottendorfer for more information.

SCHOOL OF VISUAL ARTS—The School of Visual Arts presents the following exhibitions:

“Robert Murray: Landscape and Abstraction,” at SVA Flatiron Project Space, 133/141 West 21st Street, ground floor. BFA Visual & Critical Studies presents an exhibition of paintings and prints by artist Robert Murray, which were inspired by the landscape as seen from the air. The exhibit will be on view through Sept. 3.

“Cut + Paste,” a juried exhibition of work by students in SVA’s undergraduate and graduate programs, at SVA Flatiron Gallery, 133/141 West 21st Street. A reception will be on Wed., Sept. 4 from 6-8 p.m. The exhibit will be on view Aug. 24-Sept. 7. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

“Look Both Ways: The Illicit Liaison Between Image and Information,” at SVA Chelsea Gallery, 601 West 26th Street, 15th floor. The exhibition will feature some 60 artists, curated by MPS Branding Chair Debbie Millman and will showcase the many ways in which words, text and information influence art, design, literature and music. A reception will be on Fri., Sept. 6 from 6-8 p.m. The exhibit will be on view from Aug. 24-Sept. 21. Hours: Mon.-Thurs., and Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

NEW EXHIBITIONS—Carter Burden Gallery, 548 W. 28th St., presents three new exhibitions: “On the Surface: A Ceramics Show” in the East Gallery featuring seven ceramic artists, “SkinOnSkin” featuring Barbara Herzfeld and “On the Wall” featuring Sue Koch. The exhibition runs from through Sept. 4. The gallery hours are Tues.-Fri., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat. from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Carter Burden targets artists over the age of 60. For more information, visit carterburdengallery.org.

OIL PAINTINGS— Lyons Wier Gallery, 542 W. 24th St., presents “As Above, So Below,” an exhibit from painter Michelle Doll, from Sept. 5-28. On the surface, Doll’s meticulous and lovingly rendered figures represent the familiar touch between a couple, the closeness between a mother and child and intimate moments of ecstatic love. Beneath the surface lies a deeper esoteric purpose hidden in the wrinkles of vibrating flesh and the weight of the interwoven forms. Her models are her close friends and family and there is a requisite trust and vulnerability between the artist and her subjects that is palpably visible in the compositions. These are real couples sharing moments of real love and tenderness with the artist and her audience. An artist’s reception will be held on Thurs., Sept. 5 from 6-8 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues.-Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. For more information, visit the website at lyonswiergallery.com or call (212) 242-6220.

FASHION HISTORY—The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology, Seventh Ave. at 27th St., presents ”Minimalism/Maximalism,” on view in the Fashion & Textile History Gallery through Nov. 16. In fashion, minimalism and maximalism define two extremes along the design spectrum. “Minimalism/Maximalism” explores the interplay between minimalist and maximalist aesthetics as they have been and continue to be expressed through fashion. Beginning in the eighteenth century, the exhibition examines how these aesthetic viewpoints are expressed over time and move fashion forward.

Hours: Tues.-Fri. from noon-8 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun.-Mon. closed. For more information, visit fitnyc.edu/museum.

FOR SENIORS

PLAY READING  GROUP—The Stein Senior Center, 204 E. 23rd St., has launched a play reading group, led by Nancy Finn and Carmine Bracale. All are invited to group meetings on the first and third Fridays of each month from 10 a.m.-noon. Participants will be looking at plays from Shakespeare to modern. Scripts with large print will be supplied. No experience with the plays necessary. A contribution is requested.

ART HISTORY CLASS–The Stein Center, 204 E. 23rd St., offers an art history class every Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. Participants enjoy examples of visual arts, including painting, sculpture and architecture from around the world. Awesomely beautiful and culturally important art works are projected on a large screen accompanied by bold face printed text and spoken comments by leader Judy Collischan, Ph.D. Discussion, participation and interaction are encouraged. No experience with art or its history is necessary. A modest contribution is requested, and all are welcome to attend.

RUBIN MUSEUM PROGRAMS—Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th St., presents “Senior Mondays.  On the first Monday of the month from 11 a.m.-5 p.m., seniors (65 and older) receive free admission to the galleries. The day includes a range of free programs including a docent talk. For more information, visit rubinmuseum.org.

OTHER EVENTS 

CHARLES DICKENS BOOK CLUB—The Dickens Fellowship has been holding monthly meetings for the last 114 years to read and discuss “Great Expectations” by Charles Dickens. The next meeting will be discussing Chapters 40-41 at Epiphany Library, 228 E. 23rd St., on Sat., Sept. 14 from 1-4 p.m. For more information, contact President John Galazin at (646) 834-2824 or by emailing admin@dickensnewyork.com. The meeting schedule is online at dickensnewyork.com. 

ONGOING EVENTS 

CROCHET AND KNITTING GROUP—The New York Public Library’s Epiphany Library, 228 E. 23rd St., has a crochet and knitting group that meets bi-monthly on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a volunteer-led group. All are invited to participate and socialize with others and even pick up some extra tips and tricks as you work your own creations. Please bring your own supplies. Pattern books will be provided to peruse and borrow. For more information, call (212) 679-2645. 

FILM SCREENINGS—The Epiphany Library, 228 E. 23rd St., screens films every Thursday at 2 p.m. To contact the branch for more information, call (212) 679-2645. 

TOURS OF CENTER FOR JEWISH HISTORY—Center for Jewish History, 15 W. 16th St., offers free tours (exclusive of the YUM galleries) on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. Tours last approximately 1 1/2 hours and include the exhibitions of the American Jewish Historical Society, the American Sephardi Federation, the Leo Baeck Institute and the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research, as well as the Reading Room, Genealogy Institute and other public spaces. Tours for groups of 10 or more can be scheduled by calling (917) 606-8226.

UNION SQUARE WALKING TOURS—The Union Square Partnership presents free, weekly walking tours of Union Square. The 90-minute tour explores the social and political history of the neighborhood through discussions of the people, history, architecture and forces that have shaped this community. You’ll hear how Union Square got its name, see where the legendary Tiffany & Co. once stood and learn how to read the clock (yes, it’s a clock!) on “The Metronome” sculpture and so much more! The tour begins at the Abraham Lincoln statue by the 16th St. transverse in Union Square Park, Sat. at 2 p.m. Look for the guide holding a Union Square: Crossroads of New York sign. Reservations required for groups. For more information, call (212) 517-1826 or visit unionsquarenyc.org.

FLATIRON WALKING TOURS—The Flatiron/23rd Street Partnership Business Improvement District (BID) provides free, year-round historic walking tours of the district, led by local historian professional guides. The tours take place every Sunday starting at 11 a.m., and meet at the tip of the Flatiron Building (new location). No advance registration is required. The walking tour highlights some of the city’s most notable landmarks, including: the New York Life Insurance Building, the MetLife Clock Tower, the Appellate Courthouse and the Flatiron Building. Historians leading tours are: Miriam Berman, author of Madison Square: The Park and Its Celebrated Landmarks; Mike Kaback and Fred Cookinham. For more information visit www.flatirondistrict.nyc.

POETRY WORKSHOP—The Epiphany Poets group meets at the Muhlenberg Public Library at 209 W. 23rd Street, between Seventh and Eighth Aves. every third Friday of the month from 2-4 p.m. It is a workshop so each person brings a poem — bring 12 or 13 copies to hand to each person and then discuss each work. The group is helpful and collegial. If there is time, a second poem by those who have brought one can be discussed.