You may have seen her face plastered in the tabloids, or accidentally caught a clip of her drunk at The People's Choice Awards, but if you haven't heard the glass shattering falsetto from Mariah Carey in a while, its because up until this year shes been MIA from the states and touring internationally for the last three years. But no more, as she makes her return to the windy city! Her Angels Advocate tour began December 31st and Mariah is making her way through 19 cities in 2 months--The Chicago Theater is number 15 on Mariah's to-do list. For more information and to purchase tickets click here.

Insider Info: You don't have to be a mega fan to know that Mimi's got a repertoire of albums as large as her singing range. Don't let the tinkling jewelry-box-names fool you. Whether it's Daydream, Butterfly, Rainbow, Charm Bracelet or Imperfect Angel; Mariah always manages to smoothly don honey-coated grinding R&B, hard hitting hip hop, syrupy love songs and gospel ballads. The opening act to Carey will be RydazNrtist, a new R&B group signed to Nick Cannon's NCredible Entertainment.

The sole survivor of the Smashing Pumpkins, (and perhaps of his own ego) Billy Corgan will be playing to his hometown in a benefit concert at LaSalle Power Company. Jesting aside, this is Billy Corgan. I don't care if he is/was dating Jessica Simpson-- he is the man that, to my sixteen year old self at least, perfectly captured all that was raw, beautiful, heart-wrenching and delicate about life. With Corgan's shoegazey gothy rock, a generation was defined. So before I start seriously waxing nostalgic and digging up old notebooks filled with Pumpkins lyrics, get tickets to this event and witness one of Chicago's great contributions to rock music.

Insider Info: So no matter how recollective you may feel, $150 a ticket is steep. Keep in mind this is a benefit for Kellogg Cancer Care Center at Evanston Hospital. But if you can't make it, you can always re-kindle your nostalgia by stalking Corgan online. The ex-Pumpkins frontman is known for his tweets. My personal favorite stalker-story came from a local friend who was a huge Pumpkins fan at 14. He and a girlfriend went to Billy's house and knocked on the door. A blonde woman (not Darcy) answered and said sweetly that he wasn't home. They lingered on his door-step a bit longer then went home, pretty pleased with themselves.

NYC based, Japanese, Asobi Seksu is bringing their fuzzy guitars and etheral vocals for a noisy, dreamy pop-rock  show in Chicago. If you've not heard their bubble-gum-for-the-ears tracks, do so now. Their collection of tracks are performed in a mix of Japanese and English and both are equally unique and stunning, perfectly formulated for a mix of frothy fun. You just might find that you recognize Asobi Seksu's sound, their sparkling songs have been on Skins, Ugly Betty and The L Word.

Insider Info: Asobi Seksu in colloquial Japanese means "playful sex." I think this is a great term to capture the energy of the band, perhaps best illustrated by sexy, slight front woman, Yuki Chikudate song-birding "put your tongue up to my battery" in upbeat track, Nefi + Girly.

We hear a lot about the hardships of refugees lately and their quest to find a safe place to call home. The School of the Art Institute’s Betty Rymer Gallery’s latest exhibition is timely and engaging. For his ongoing project, Breathing is Free, Japanese-American-Vietnamese artist Jun Nguyen-Hatsushiba is going way, way beyond standard marathon training (or Iron Man or even Forrest Gump!) by running the distance equivalent to the earth’s diameter (12,756.3 km/7,926.28 miles).  His epic run is a memorial to refugees who travel the world seeking a new home.  Chicago is the first U.S. city featured among global locations in this story of cultural displacement.

Insider Info: The show is at SAIC’s Betty Rymer Gallery (on S. Columbus, east of the Art Institute), one of two professional exhibition spaces operated entirely by The Student Union Galleries Program (SUGs).  Students here are involved in every facet of a gallery's operation, from administration and program design to the selection of exhibitions, curating, advertising, installation, and de-installation. Not only is the artist accomplishing an amazing feat by running the distance of the earth, but his fellow young SAIC contemporaries are making every part of this Chicago exhibition happen. The opening reception for the show takes place January 29, 4:30-7pm.

Andreas Fischer exhibition, Ghost Town, is a long installation of about twenty paintings with the title Sunday Best. Each painting is small-averaging 10"x8"-and is loosely painted with an expressive application of oil paint that ranges from thin washes to thick applications showing the brush strokes. The figures are based after historical figures during the Gold Rush.  Most of them have abstract backgrounds with exaggerated colors. A second exhibition of former Artadia Grant recipient Andreas Fischer is on exhibition at the College of Dupage, featuring a series of landscape paintings. Fischer will have a gallery talk of his artwork on Sunday April 11th, 3pm where he will be able to field any questions about techniques, research and any other intriguing questions posed.

Insider Info: Andreas Fischer's official opening will be on Valentine's Day, Sunday, February 14th 3-5pm in Gallery 2 along with Aspen May's opening in the Cleve E. Carney Gallery, Stan Chishom in Gallery 5 and Diane Chritiansen & Shoshanna Utchenik in Gallery 1 & The Jackman Goldwasser Catwalk Gallery.

Before the movie won Jennifer Hudson an Oscar and gave hope to Idol runners-up everywhere, Dreamgirls was a smash-hit Broadway show from some of the biggest names in musical theater. The new touring production co-starring (surprise) former Idol runner-up Syesha Mercado, incorporates elements from both the show and the film with incredibly successful results.  About a fictional 60s-era girl group a la the Supremes, the show has plenty of glitz with the guts to back it up–definitely one of the better Broadway in Chicago shows this season.

Insider Info: Those expecting a fluff musical, look elsewhere. I (admittedly) hadn’t seen the movie, and was surprised at the grit and emotional heart that emerges from the show’s sleek veneer. The show pretty much has everything – dazzling costumes, a heartbreaking plot and some of the best singing you’ve ever heard. I’ve been told that Chester Gregory’s Jimmy is better than Eddie award winning performance (he steals every scene he is in), and Moya Angela as Effie can go toe-to-toe with J-Hud any day of the week. Check out my review here.

So most events we cover entice people with drinking (and for good reason), but this time the drinks are the mere afterthought to the actual menu. The menu for this lovely dinner party includes roast ‘laquered’ aged moulard duck with confit cockscombs (which are comb of the rooster marinated in a substance for flavor and preservation). This night will be rife with fanciness, but don’t let it scare you, attendees will be just as inquisitive and hungry as you. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore different foods and drinks that—if learned correctly—will give you the dinner party that everyone talks about. The courses have been hailed as classic winter fare and will stick in your memory as such. During the dinner, you will be imbibing the drinks your friends can only dream of, including Lychee tea infused Don Julio Blanco with peach sorbet, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar.

Insider Info: Naha hosts dinners for every season that sell out because of the imminent nature of them.  This classy joint likes to stay fresh and help you grow in your culinary tastes. Their mission is to help you learn more about food and spirits than you ever thought you needed to know. If you want to come here on a regular day however, the menu is fairly expensive, so I think this is the best time to come experience fancy food at a decent price.

It’s no surprise that Drinks Over Dearborn, Chicago’s premier Specialty Beer, Wine, and Spirits Boutique  was featured in world renowned Food & Wine magazine. In honor of the occasion, they’ll be hosting a night that would make any foodie's heart palpitate. You can’t have a true food & wine-inspired party without some amazing food.  They’ll have a surprise guest chef on hand who will be whipping up bites specially created for the evening. This will truly be an amazing night of food and drink that you won’t want to miss – so grab a glass and toast to Drinks Over Dearborn’s first taste of the national limelight!

Insider Info: Celebrated mixologist, Peter Vestinos, will be shaking up fabulous Hendrick’s Gin, Milagro Tequila, and Stolichnaya Vodka cocktails. As if that weren’t enough, one of the foremost names in the whiskey field, Glenfiddich U.S. Brand Ambassador Freddy May, will lead tastings of Glenfiddich 12, 15, 18, and 21-year old Scotch Whiskey.

You know that old cliche of just going to the grocery store to find a significant other? Well, if you've ever tried it, you know talking up a stranger as you buy your dairy proves to be a daunting and awkward task... yet the idea remains romantic. *Sigh*, ever wish it were just as easy as going grocery shopping? Well, now the old pipe-dream is even closer. You can can roam the aisles of Whole Foods to stock up on groceries and meet local singles at the Singles Mingle on Friday, January 29th. Not only will you be able to openly express your passion for food, but there will be music and refreshments to set the mood. The event is free, but you must register by phone or inside at the Customer Service Desk in order to participate.

Insider Info: Whole Foods Market always hosts events or classes for the public. Just visit their website for more details. The store is open daily from 8 A.M. until 10 P.M. providing front door deliveries from 11 A.M. to 6 P.M. They can even cater your next big event.

Many people take alcohol for granted when they go out and get smashed every weekend at the clubs; they don’t think about the frustrated writers at home drinking their gin and forcing their pens to paper.  Every week, the Drinking and Writing Brewery hosts classes at Hopleaf Bar to explore the connection between alcohol and creativity.  This installment is called ‘To Cure a Hangover,’ and explores the possible cures to the “unpleasant consequences of the bibulous life” through a performance/lecture given by Steve Mosqueda and Sean Benjamin.  They explain different ways to come back from yet another bender (other than drinking another beer), which include eating Pedialyte frozen pops instead of chugging Gatorade and having sex to release much-needed endorphins.  Benjamin’s best quote is “drinking less is not the cure.  That’s the cure for not getting drunk.”

Insider Info: Although the event costs money, audience participation is rewarded with free drinks!  Who would expect anything less from the Drinking and Writing Brewery?  If you miss this event, you can also listen to their radio show on Feb. 7 here.  Also, from April 14 to May 12, there will be another set of classes happening for everyone to enjoy.  Keep up with their events here.

Break out the lycra tops and over-sized tubes of strawberry lip smackers 'cuz it's disco night at Berlin! But don't come expecting to only hear the radio friendly, repetitive diva-hits we all know and love. This party is going to be chock full of disco of all flavors: from classic disco-pop to italo disco to underground nu-disco tracks. If you are shaking your head at the idea of "nu-disco", I know, but I also promise it is not as bad as the "nu" preface makes it out to be. To get an idea dig into New York record label Italians Do It Better. Or just check out one of my personal favorite acts, Glass Candy, who deliver a high dose of addictive sugary-electro-nu-disco, straight to your dancin' gams.

Insider Info: The man behind this event is DJ Zebo, who just might be the hardest working DJ in the city. All those hours spent behind the decks really show because this guy is great.  A set by Zebo can really make a night out. If you are still undecided because of pricey Lakeview drinks, rest assured as $2 PBRs will be freely flowing.

It's time to let out the funk this Thursday night as the Green Dolphin is hosting a 70's throwback shindig. DJ Mwelwa, who hand picks the freshest World & African Dance delights will be playing throughout the night as Nguzo, a three-piece live band will perform a couple sets, rockin' their reggae-soul original tracks. DJ Supreme Court, of the world famous Funk Night monthly at Danny's will spin dusty cuts to close out the evening. Remember to come dressed in 70's inspired attire or you'll have to pay extra to get inside and for more information click here.

Insider Info: Funk nights in Chicago tend to fare well. The aforementioned Danny's night still goes on but draws a shoulder-to-shoulder crowd of aging hipsters and Wicker Park newcomers alike. Unlike Danny's which is a small, almost hobbit-sized tavern, Green Dolphin is a spacious club. If they've got the doors open be sure to wander out to the back-yard area where there is a gazebo and romantic views of the city.

In most cases, shrinkage is not something that’s bragged about, unless it pertains to the Lakeview Polar Bear Club’s annual “Celebration of Shrinkage.” On January 30th, some brave souls will take an icy dip at Oak Street Beach for a good cause. The event will help the Lakeview Polar Bear Club raise money for two local families facing significant medical or educational expenses. If staying toasty sounds more enticing, head over to the event’s after party at Galway Bay (500 W. Diversy) from 9pm to Midnight.  Tickets are $2 each.

Insider Info: For the past nine years, the ‘Celebration of Shrinkage’ has been a catalyst for helping Chicago families in need. Those partaking in this year’s event should be at Oak Street Beach by 11:30 (the plunge starts at noon). According to the Polar Bear’s website, participants should pack an old pair of tennis shoes, warm boots for afterwards, plenty of towels, a robe, and a blanket to sit on. It might not be a bad idea to throw in a thermos of hot chocolate too.

You made the New Years resolution to get in shape, but now after a month your dedication is dwindling. This could be part due to the 30 minute wait now for any cardio machine at the gym or the fact that you just need that little added guidance as to the best way to reach your summer goal. Well, your solution is here. Total Wellness Systems was started by Linden Mathurin and between him and his team of experts, you not only can get the guidance and the plan you need, but there is never a wait for any equipment. Your workouts are private but for those that want it even closer to home, he and his team do make house calls. His proven results are why many of Chicago’s elite have known about this great secret for years. 

Insider Info: Now Total Wellness Systems is opening their doors to you. On Saturday January 30^th, from 11am-3pm; stop by the open house for Complimentary Wine and Hors d’oeurves and meet some of the incredible staff. From Massage therapists, pilates instructors, to just your cross trainers- there is something for everyone.

Want a bonding experience with your friends that is celebratory, positive and useful? This full-day event aims to provide women with "the tools to increase happiness, success and overall well-being for the mind, body and soul." And ChiGuide readers get an extra boost, when you enter the code ChiGuide, you'll enjoy 15% off! If you made any resolutions to become a happier, healthier you this year the expo is just in time. This event will include nationally celebrated speakers: Stacy Nadeau from Dove’s “Real Women” ad campaign (as seen on Oprah, Today Show, CNN, Ellen, Dr. Phil, Tyra), Bevin Lynch (Life and Business Coach),  Duong Sheahan (Live Healthier and Happier), Angela Rose, founder of PAVE (as profiled by CNN, The Today Show, TIME Magazine, The Montel Williams Show, The John Walsh Show, CosmoGirl, Girl’s Life Magazine).

Insider Info: Ticket price ($45 before discount code) includes full day of speakers and lunch provided by Basil Leaf Cafe who get pretty stellar reviews (and were featured on Check Please!) for their Italian fare and fresh baked bread. Don't forget to grab your goodie bag worth over $300 and a ticket to the after-event cocktail party at Dragonfly.

Getting tired of boring chocolates and cheesy gifts? If you're looking to spice up Valentine's Day, schedule a fabulous photo shoot and surprise your sweetheart with some very fine photos from Vavoom Pin-ups. As Chicago's premier pinup and boudoir photography company, the Vavoom ladies are experts in making you look your best. You can choose from a Vargas Girl, 1950s pin-up shoot, a more intimate boudoir shoot or both! Your basic package includes one outfit, either pin-up or boudoir, professional hair and make-up, pose coaching, 5 prop choices, 9 – 10 poses, one complimentary 8X10 photo of your choice and a private online viewing of all of your proofs. From their you can order additional prints, books, calendars, whatever you want! And, fellas, this makes an amazing gift that both of you will enjoy.

Insider Info: Some friends and I did Vavoom photo shoots last year, and it was some of the most fun I've ever had. Not only is Heather, Vavoom founder, photographer and goddess, an expert at making you look fabulous, but she makes sure you feel completely comfortable. I would recommend this to absolutely anyone.

Logan Square's eclectic but understated storefront indie bar, The Whistler, regularly hosts readings and music alike. This Tuesday evening, several writers for The Nervous Breakdown will read from their work while listeners sip cocktails. The Nervous Breakdown is a web site which describes itself as "an online literary publication type deal," or more succinctly, "Literature. Art. Rants. Raves." This is the perfect ironically serious literary event. Readers include Claire Bidwell Smith (Life in Chicago blog), Justin Benton, Greg Boose (writing appearing in everything from NFL.com to The Huffington Post), and Billy Lombardo (How to Hold a Woman). The evening will be hosted by Amy Guth, author of Three Fallen Women and founder of Pilcrow Lit Fest. After the readings, there will be live jazz to calm you down before heading home.

Insider Info: The Whistler isn't just a great bar: it is also an indie artist record label who host a ton of great local artists. Check out their blog for free mixes and tracks. Also, the bar caters to diverse tastes. Whether you prefer a $2 PBR or an $8 Sazerac, you'll find it at The Whistler.

The name of this event pretty much says it all: Bye Bye Liver: The Chicago Drinking Play! This event brings together a killer combination: comedy and alcohol. This is an interactive, comedic show that explores the pitfalls, perils, and hilarity of drinking. It features interactive drinking games that can pit male against female, audience versus the cast, or any other number of insane combinations. TimeOut Chicago says that it’s impossible not to have a good time at this event, so if you enjoy letting loose I’d suggest checking this one out!

Insider Info: This event does require that tickets be purchased ahead of time, so go here for more details.  The performances are held at the Fizz Bar & Grill on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 and 10 P.M, and there’s also a one-time only performance at the Royal George Theater being held on January 23. It’s received some amazing reviews and the shows are held in Lakeview, so there’s plenty to do and see once the show gets out!