Finally a Chance to Say "You Got Served!" in Real Life

Seattle takes itself much too seriously. We drive (badly) as if there are lives on the line. We go to shows, whether of the rock or DJ variety and stand, arms crossed, wearing our "impress me" faces. We cause big stinks over trivial incidents, bloviating ad nauseum with a sense of self-importance. Really, we just collectively need to lighten up. Luckily this week offers two prime opportunities to, as the kids might say, "act a fool."

Rebar builds on the trend of movies in bars tonight with the live performance of Flashdance as part of Brown Derby's Gotta Dance! theater series. Sounds entertaining even without the puberty-accelerating Jennifer Beals, but what makes this truly noteworthy is the Spazz360 dance competition (with prizes!) that follows. Certainly modeled in spirit as well as name after the syndicated television show Dance 360, this event promises to slap a grin on even the steeliest of facades. So come out and do your favorite impression of an iPod ad, or just show off all the moves you picked up from Darrin's Dance Grooves.

If you demand more structure in your foolishness, then wait until Friday and swing by the Lo-fi, which is holding Robots Don't Die in Airports, a popping and locking battle with a $100 first prize. If that weren't enough, the music will be a mix of electro, booty, acid and miami bass, all boisterous styles that are unfortunately rare in Seattle (this is probably your only chance this week to hear the classic "Watch out for the Big Girl.") If you're not familiar with those genres, don't be alarmed when your lower half starts to move in time with the music. It's normal, and can even be fun if you allow it. And we all really, really need to allow it.

FlashDance/Spazz360
Rebar, 1114 Howell St.
Wednesday October 19
Doors @ 7pm, Performance @ 8pm, $10
Dance competition @ 10pm, Free for dancers, $3 for gawkers, 21+

Robots Don't Die in Airports (flyer)
Lo-fi Performance Gallery, 429 Eastlake Ave. E.
Friday, October 21, 10pm-2am, Battle Signup at 10pm
$5 cover, 21+