The eclectic evening of fun is set for Dec. 17.
Every few months or so, The Elevens in Northampton transforms from a regular nightclub into multi-ring circus of sorts, all in celebration of the latest issue of the local literary and arts magazine, Meat For Tea.
The next one of these eclectic events, Cirque de Fantômes, will take place Dec. 17 at 9 p.m. The cirque will celebrate the release of the "Mince" issue of the magazine and will be emceed by Rob Murphy of Disturbed Theatre fame. The lineup of performers will include Dan Cashman's Video Mixtape, the Happy Hour Burlesque Troupe, live painting by Ramiro Davaro-Comas, and music by Them There Ghosts, Walking Ghosts, and Azwan and the Savages.
If you have never been to one of these nights, you should make an effort to do so. The cover charge is $7 at the door. Issues of the magazine will also be on sale. The Elevens is at 140 Pleasant St.
SCOUTING REPORT
--Smith's Billiards will will be hosting its third annual Christmas and customer appreciation party on Dec. 9. As has been the case at these events, the night will feature a sumptuous spread of food and a tasty tap list of beers chosen especially just for this party. Word has it that you should plan on arriving early as the event usually gets packed. Smith's is at 201 Worthington St.
--If you like Frank Zappa (and who doesn't?) you need to be at Bishop's Lounge on Dec. 14 and/or Dec. 28. That's when Beau Sasser (Hammond organ), Bill Carbone (drums), and Tim Palmieri (guitar) will be playing FZ's music from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m. The ridiculously talented Sasser is a mainstay at Bishop's and whoever he brings to play with him in various formats are always equally as gifted (which in this case they have to be, in order to play Zappa's music in a trio). Bishop's Lounge is on the third floor of 41 Strong Ave. in Northampton and there is no cover for these shows.
--A few months ago, I wrote about Paradise City Tavern's new "Tater Tots and Games Galore" night each Tuesday. Now bar manager Lisa Smith has found a way to have Tater Tots help human tots. A special "Tots for Toys For Tots" night will be held on Dec. 13. to help collect toys for the annual Toys for Tots drive. The deal is this: For every toy you donate, you will receive a coupon valid for any of the special tater tot dishes served on Tater Tot Tuesdays. Paradise City Tavern is at 1 Bridge Street in Northampton.