Five Reasons to Leave the House this Weekend


Saul Levine image

A still from Saul Levine’s “Whole Note.” (Image courtesy of the ICA.)

Film
International Experimental Cinema Exposition
According to Wikipedia, “an experimental film is often characterized by the absence of linear narrative, the use of various abstracting techniques — out-of-focus, painting or scratching on film, rapid editing — the use of asynchronous sound or even the absence of any sound track. The goal is often to place the viewer in a more active and more thoughtful relationship to the film.” Sound up your alley? This Coloradobased, non-profit expo seeks to call out experimental artistry in film. Founded by Christopher May (supported by Stan Brakhage), screenings will include a shorts from New England filmmakers Jonathan Schwartz and Saul Levine.
$11–$13, 4 p.m., Sunday, April 1, Institute of Contemporary Art, 100 Northern Ave., Boston, 617-478-3103, icaboston.org.

Music
Gotye
In case you’ve been living under a rock, Australia’s Belgian-born Gotye has been burning up the interwebs with his single, “Somebody That I Used to Know” (see the vid below, then check out this sweet cover version) from last year’s album, Making Mirrors. His voice smacks of Sting and Peter Gabriel (have a listen and tell me you don’t agree), while his style is all over the map — running the gamut from quiet ballads to synth-y, atmospheric works to neo-soul-infused numbers.
$25–$35, Thursday, March 29, 8 p.m., House of Blues, 15 Lansdowne St., Boston, 888-693-2583, houseblues.com.

Wellness
Violet Spa Spring Wellness Event
This Brookline spa is kicking off a week of discounted products and services with a free seminar on health and wellness. Meredith Mills, health counselor and founder of trunourish.com will speak about the connection between food, mood, and health, while Katherine Bicer, the founder of Om in the Office, will talk about ways to include yoga, meditation, and relaxation into your everyday life. Violet’s Organic Flax Seed Facial, Green Tea Purifying Facial, and Lemon Body Glow Treatment will all be $30 off, while skin care products will be on sale, too.
Free, Sunday, April 1, 12 p.m.-6 p.m., Violet Skin Boutique, 1362 Beacon St., Brookline, 617-264-7546, violetskinboutique.com.

Tech
Together Boston
So technically this is next week, but forgive me the technicality in exchange for advance notice of Together, Boston’s week long, electro-fabulous amalgamation of all things music, art, technology, and production. This year has an even bigger roster of acts, including RJD2 and Dubfire, and events like an installation competition, a demonstration of Sonotron — a 13-foot spherical, steel sculpture with speakers and amplifiers — and oodles of free tech seminars.
Monday, April 2 – Sunday, April 8, check the schedule here, togetherboston.com.

Beer
Five Napkin Burger Beer Dinner
If you’re not familiar with Stone Brewing, the San Diego-based brewery known for its hoppy brews, then a four-course dinner pairing with their Levitation Ale, IPA, Arrogant Bastard Ale, and Smoked Porter is a great place to start. The menu includes hors d’oeuvres like pork taquitos and spicy salmon wontons followed by gruyere mac ‘n cheese, a burger (or a veggie burger), and cheesecake with strawberry glaze.
$45, 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 3, Five Napkin Burger, 105 Huntington Ave., Boston, 617-375-2277, buy tickets here.