Bollywood Films

{ SOLD-OUT } *“A searing tale of a Mother’s devotion, defiance, and survival.”* Two decades after **Anusree Roy** wrote her hit play *Pyaasa*, she returns to **Theatre Passe Muraille** with a powerful sequel — *Through the Eyes of God*. Tickets are **$40 each**. *Reserve your own* at the link below. Venue only has 40 seats!! Chaya, the protagonist at the centre of the original play, is now a spirited young woman and mother, who is arrested for the desperate act of stealing rice to feed her young daughter. But soon she faces a far greater horror: her child, Krishna, has been trafficked to Delhi. Driven by primal love, she embarks on a gut-wrenching journey through the underbelly of a broken system, where every lead is a gamble and every choice is impossible. ***Through the Eyes of God*** is a piercingly emotional and sharply critical journey that asks: How far will a mother go to protect her child? A reminder on who **Anusree Roy** is: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anusree_Roy **Ticket link here: (for Sunday February 15th @ 2pm)** https://www.passemuraille.ca/through-the-eyes-of-god/ NOTE: this performance is taking place in the new smaller/intimate 'Back Space" at Theatre Passe Muraille. *Theatre Passe Muraille* is Canada's alternative theatre company for Independent and experimental theatrical work since 1968. Also--this Play has just been recommended as 'Not to be missed' by a local theatre reviewer! **Seating for 40 people only!** Plan ahead. Don't delay. I found this review from 2008--**PYAASA** (her original play about the outlawed caste system) https://www.stage-door.com/Theatre/2008/Entries/2008/10/27_Pyaasa.html

IMPORTANT Please add yourself to the waiting list. If you are selected, you will be contacted to pay $15 deposit to reserve your spot. Priority given to higher skill levels & good attendance. REFUND POLICY Refunds available with at least 24 hours notice. OTHER INFO Last-minute availability/questions? WhatsApp your volleyball level to +1 (905) 514-9499. Cost to be split among participants (e-transfer eriqyau@gmail.com or cash after the session) Level: Intermediate+ (can comfortably serve, bump and set) Number of courts: 1 Max participants : \~14 Each of the 2 teams will have 1-2 subs who will rotate in. Mix up the teams as often as possible. Photos/videos may be taken during the session, to be posted for the participants. LOGISTICS: 1. Upon arrival, the free parking (Lot S2/S3 closest) is between the main Hangar entrance and the large exterior aircraft door (where the side doors may be open as a shortcut). 2. The entrance is the main Hangar entrance. Upon entry go into the lobby and turn left at the first ramp, you will see a ball hockey rink, continue past the rink and you will see our 2 indoor volleyball courts. 3. No food or breakable containers on the court. No alcohol allowed in The Hangar 4. Clean indoor non marking footwear is required to be worn. Please do not wear the shoes you are going to play with while walking into the facility 5. Washrooms available but Change Rooms & Showers NOT available at The Hangar 6. We will provide your group with up to 2 volleyballs per court to use during the rental. We suggest you use our volleyballs as balls that get stuck up on the netting will only be retrieved once in a long while by Hangar staff. WELCOME MESSAGE Join GTA Volleyball for some exciting indoor volleyball, where you can showcase your skills, work on team building, and stay active! This event is a great opportunity to meet new people, socialize, and engage in friendly competition. Get ready for 2 hours filled with thrilling matches, laughter, and making new connections. Don't miss out on this chance to combine your love for volleyball with social networking and team work!

Join us at Leo Bar and Cafe for the biggest rivalry in sports! Watch India vs. Pakistan live on the big screen. $20 entry at the door. Breakfast, drinks, and high-energy vibes guaranteed. Wear your team colors and let’s enjoy the game together!

**🏐 Drop-In Volleyball at the Miles Nadal JCC** Come bump, set, and spike your way into a great game — right in the heart of the Annex! Join us for **friendly, casual volleyball** at the Miles Nadal JCC, just steps from Spadina Station. With two full courts available, this is a great opportunity to stay active, meet new people, and enjoy some light competition in a welcoming environment. \*\*\* **🏐 Event Details:** 📍 **Location:** 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through the Spadina doors) 🛑 **Check-In:** Stop by security and check in at the front desk when you arrive \*\*\* **🏐 Registration & Payment (Required in Advance):** RSVP on Meetup **does not reserve your spot**. To participate in Drop-In Play, you must register and pay in advance through our system. 👉 **[Register here](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=xq5Va95)** 📞 **Or register by phone:** 416-924-6211 🔢 **Space is limited** and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once full, no additional participants can be accommodated. \*\*\* **🏐 Other Info:** • Volleyballs are available for loan at the front desk with a $20 cash deposit and valid ID • Designed for **beginner-level players** with some familiarity with the rules and scoring • Games are self-organized with regular rotation to ensure everyone gets time on the court • Friendly, inclusive atmosphere \*\*\* Come ready to play, connect, and have fun — we can’t wait to see you on the court!

## 👠✨ STEP INTO STYLE: BATA SHOE MUSEUM + BRUNCH HANG ✨👞 **History • Fashion • Culture • Great Company** Ever thought a shoe museum could be *this* cool? 👀 Join us for a fascinating (and surprisingly fun!) visit to the **Bata Shoe Museum** — one of Toronto’s most unique cultural gems and a total conversation-starter of a place. Designed by renowned architect **Raymond Moriyama**, this stunning four-storey museum takes you on a journey through **4,500+ years of footwear history**. From ancient Egyptian sandals and Chinese bound-foot shoes to chestnut-crushing clogs, sky-high platforms, and iconic celebrity footwear — it’s history, fashion, and storytelling all rolled into one stylish walk. 💫 With four impressive galleries and rotating exhibitions, there’s *always* something new to discover. Even if you’ve been before, this visit will feel fresh. 👟🌍 And because no great outing should end abruptly… we’ll head over to **The Duke of York** afterward for **brunch, drinks, and relaxed conversation**. 🍳🥂 The perfect way to keep the connections going. *** ### ⏰ Meetup Details 🕦 **Meetup Time:** 11:45 AM 📍 **Meetup Location:** Outside the Bata Shoe Museum 🦌 I’ll be wearing my **Moose Hat** — you can’t miss me! 🎟️ **Museum Admission:** **FREE** 🙌 *** ### 💰 Costs 💵 **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person **or** e-transfer 📲 Send to: **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com** *** ### 🥂 After the Museum 🚶‍♂️ We’ll walk a few blocks north to **The Duke of York** 🍽️ Food & drinks optional — still brunch time! 📖 **Menu:** [Click Here!](https://dukepubs.ca/duke-of-york/) ⏳ **Leaving Time:** Anytime you like — stay as long (or as little) as you want. *** ### 📱 Stay Connected 👉 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t)⭐ Good to Know ✔️ You can **just show up** or sign up the day of if you’re unsure ⚠️ Sometimes things happen and events may be cancelled — please keep an eye out for updates *** 👤 **Organizer:** Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email **torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com** *** 👠✨ Come for the shoes, stay for the stories, and leave having met some great people.

**🏐 Drop-In Volleyball at the Miles Nadal JCC** Come bump, set, and spike your way into a great game — right in the heart of the Annex! Join us for **friendly, casual volleyball** at the Miles Nadal JCC, just steps from Spadina Station. With two full courts available, this is a great opportunity to stay active, meet new people, and enjoy some light competition in a welcoming environment. \*\*\* **🏐 Event Details:** 📍 **Location:** 750 Spadina Ave. (enter through the Spadina doors) 🛑 **Check-In:** Stop by security and check in at the front desk when you arrive \*\*\* **🏐 Registration & Payment (Required in Advance):** RSVP on Meetup **does not reserve your spot**. To participate in Drop-In Play, you must register and pay in advance through our system. 👉 **[Register here](https://app.amilia.com/store/en/miles-nadal-jcc/api/Activity/Detail?activityId=yn6XJ5L)** 📞 **Or register by phone:** 416-924-6211 🔢 **Space is limited** and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once full, no additional participants can be accommodated. \*\*\* **🏐 Other Info:** • Volleyballs are available for loan at the front desk with a $20 cash deposit and valid ID • This session is intended for **intermediate players and above** — participants should have a solid understanding of volleyball rules, scoring, and gameplay, and maintain proper court positioning in both serve, receive and transition play • Games are self-organized with regular rotation to ensure everyone gets time on the court • Friendly, inclusive atmosphere \*\*\* Come ready to play, connect, and have fun — we can’t wait to see you on the court!

Join us on Valentine's Day for **She Loves Me,** a warm romantic comedy that might just be the most charming musical ever written! ***You can use our promo code to purchase discount tickets for any performance.*** **THE PLAY:** Set in 1930s Budapest, *She Loves Me* follows Amalia and Georg, two parfumerie clerks who aren’t quite the best of friends. Constantly bumping heads while on the job, the sparring coworkers can’t seem to find common ground. But little do they know the anonymous pen pals they’ve both been falling for are…each other! Will love continue to blossom once their identities are finally revealed? It’s an intimate and touching show with an endearing innocence and a touch of old-world elegance. Based on Miklós László’s play *Parfumerie*, it has inspired many adaptations, including *The Shop Around The Corner* with Jimmy Stewart and *You’ve Got Mail* starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. *Recommended for ages 12 and up.* \*\*\* **PRICE** **Discount Tickets:** $30 (includes all fees) *** **HOW TO PURCHASE** Sign up on this event page and use the promo code **THUMBSUP** to get your discount tickets. Use the code to purchase your tickets **[online](https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?ticketing=tscar&rd=1)** or call the box office at (416) 267-9292. ***You do not have to attend with our group. You may use our promo code THUMBSUP to purchase discount tickets for any performance.*** **Seating Arrangements:** Seating is reserved so members may not be able to sit together. However, we will get together before, during and after the show. Belinda will be seated in C-B29. *** **DETAILS** **When:** Saturday, February 14, 2026 **Time:** Show starts at 8 p.m. Meet Belinda at 7:30 p.m. at the theatre. **Where:** Scarborough Village Theatre, 3600 Kingston Road, Scarborough **Runtime:** About 2 hours, 30 minutes with intermission *** **MEETUP ARRANGEMENTS** Meet Belinda at 7:30 p.m. in the theatre lobby beside the box office. Belinda will is very short and will be wearing a pink Los Gatos baseball cap and pink eyeglass frames. Cell # (416) 879-7575 for use on day/time of performance only. **Intermission & After-Show Meetup Spots:** Meet Belinda beside the box office in the same place as you met her before the show. **\*\*\*** **[THUMBS UP CELLPHONE POLICY:](https://www.meetup.com/Thumbs-Up-Theatre-Toronto/events/243426512/)** Cellphones must be turned off, or kept in silent or flight mode (no sound and no vibration), and MUST NOT be pulled out or used under any circumstances during shows.

**Please Book Using The Link** **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/south-asian-singles-salsa-mixer-mississauga-ages-25-38-tickets-1974984083559?aff=meetup)** **This Valentine’s season, skip the rushed speed-dating scene and step into something warmer, more romantic, and a lot more fun.** Our Valentine’s Salsa Singles Mixer brings South Asians together for genuine conversations, playful icebreakers, and a beginner-friendly salsa class — the perfect mix of chemistry and rhythm. ## **Event Flow** Valentine's ### **🕛 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM: Valentine Icebreakers & Fun Games** Start the afternoon with light, engaging games designed to help everyone relax and connect naturally. Our hosts will guide you through simple, playful activities that set the tone for the rest of the event. ### **🕧 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Open Mingling + Find Your Salsa Partner** Chat, explore, and meet as many people as you like at your own pace. Use this time to discover who you naturally vibe with — you’ll choose your salsa partner right before the class begins. ### **🕐 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Salsa Class (Beginner Friendly)** Once the class begins, you’ll start dancing with the partner you’ve chosen — but here’s the Valentine twist: 💃 **You can switch partners every 15 minutes** 🕺 **Or keep dancing with the same partner the entire class** It’s completely up to you. Whether you want to meet more people or build a deeper rhythm with one partner, both options are encouraged. Expect laughter, movement, and a warm Valentine's energy as you learn the steps together. ## **What Makes This Mixer Special** ❤️ A chilled, romantic space to meet other South Asian singles ❤️ No speed dating — just real, unhurried conversations ❤️ Valentine-themed games to break the ice instantly ❤️ Hosts make warm introductions to keep conversations flowing ❤️ Partner selection happens naturally during open mingling ❤️ A flirty, fun way to spend Valentine’s season ## **Valentine Dress Code: Red Theme ❤️** Everyone is encouraged to wear **something red** — bold, subtle, or stylish — your choice. 👔 **Men:** Red shirt, red tie, red sweater, or even a touch of red in accessories 👗 **Women:** Red dress, red jumpsuit, red top, or elegant red accents (heels, lipstick, jewelry) A little red goes a long way — it sets the vibe and makes the Valentine theme come alive on the dance floor. ### **House Notes** * Limited capacity — RSVP early to secure your spot * No Refunds or Credits if you can't make it. * We often take pictures and videos at the events for marketing purposes. * Please email us at southasiansocials@gmail.com or message us on Instagram @southasiansocials if you want to remove any of your pictures. ## Curious about Private Matchmaking?Select guests may be invited to explore our matchmaking services after the event, based on compatibility and interest. [Private Matchmaking](https://forms.zohopublic.ca/southasiansocials1/form/PrivateMatchmakingForm/formperma/1-dqyD6vb6C_dNYbA3pUqjYMniMlyT8wrf9HXHjvtks "https://forms.zohopublic.ca/southasiansocials1/form/PrivateMatchmakingForm/formperma/1-dqyD6vb6C_dNYbA3pUqjYMniMlyT8wrf9HXHjvtks")

Singles Dance Party Celebrating Valentines in February **Saturday February 14th** 7.30pm -12.30 **The Old Mill** **21 Old Mill Rd.** February is the month of love and friendship, so lets celebrate with a special event at The Old Mill on Saturday February 14th. Gifts and roses will be given out and room will be decked out. Wear some red for added fun!. So show some love at our redo of Valentines and what it represents. Please, no running shoes or jeans. The cost is only $25.00. [Singlesparies.com](http://singlesparies.com/) or call 416-236- 8222 for more info. Hope to see you then!

{ SOLD-OUT } Destined to be one of the great choral events of the decade, the world-renowned **Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir (EPCC**), led by esteemed founder and conductor Tõnu Kaljuste, returns to Toronto for a tribute to **Arvo Pärt’s 90th birthday**. A favourite of Toronto audiences, the EPCC has captivated listeners under Soundstreams’ auspices since 2000, with concerts that regularly sell out. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to ***experience their luminous sound in the acoustic splendor of Yorkminster Park Baptist Church***. (Yonge & St. Clair) https://www.epcc.ee/en/ Ticket link below. **$22-$90** (any seat is a great seat for this sacred concert) https://soundstreams.ca/events/estonian-philharmonic-chamber-choir-arvo-part-at-90/ The program features some of Pärt’s most celebrated works, alongside works by Philip Glass, Evelin Seppar, Luciano Berio, and others. It also includes the world premiere of a new Soundstreams commission by Estonian-Canadian composer Riho Esko Maimets — adding a special local touch to this celebration of the legendary Estonian composer. **Concert Program:** Luciano Berio – *Cries of London* Veljo Tormis – *Piiskop ja pagan* Esko Maimets – *World premiere* Evelin Seppar – *Iris* Philip Glass – *Father Death Blues* Intermission Arvo Pärt – *Magnificat* Arvo Pärt – *Which was the Son of* Arvo Pärt – *The Deer’s Cry* Arvo Pärt – *Dopo la Vittoria* Arvo Pärt – *Kontakion, Ikos, Prayer After the Canon* **Ticket link here**-- https://www.rcmusic.com/event-calendar/soundstreams-estonian-philharmonic-chamber-choir-arvo-part-at-90

**Calling all straight singles ages 34-43!** You must purchase a ticket to attend this event - [https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-straight-speed-dating-age-34-43-feb-14-tickets-1980388363907?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/toronto-straight-speed-dating-age-34-43-feb-14-tickets-1980388363907?aff=oddtdtcreator) **Speed Dating Events in Toronto! Here’s what to expect!** 🎟️Purchase your ticket! A ticket confirmation will be sent to your inbox. 🤩Dress code: Dress to impress - Our best advice is to dress in something you'll feel comfortable and confident in. ⏰Be on time! We recommend arriving 15 minutes early to check in with our host. Take this time to mingle, grab a drink, and meet the other singles. **So…how does speed dating work?** 💬Each speed dating event starts with a quick and fun game to help everyone meet and break-the-ice. ⏳In 8 minute intervals you’ll spend time getting to know each potential match. 📝Once you’ve spoken to everyone, you’ll fill out your scorecard and hand it back to our host. ❤️‍🔥Within 48 hours our team will reach out via email with excited news about your potential matches from our event. **Want to make a great first impression?** Our dating coaches can help you charm, chat, and totally crush it. From boosting confidence to prepping for first dates, we’ve got you covered. 💌 Book a 1-on-1 [Dating Coaching Session](https://flareevents.store/pages/dating-coaching) for expert guidance, first impression tips, and support. **Looking for something more tailored?** 💘Prefer personalized introductions? Explore our premium [Matchmaking Service](https://flareevents.store/pages/matchmaking) to find curated matches made just for you. \*Must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a ticket. Our events allow for a 2-year leeway on the age range listed (so long as you are 18 years of age at the time of the event). \*\*Please note - we have zero tolerance towards poor etiquette of any kind, including leaving an event at any point prior to its completion. By purchasing a ticket, you are committing to staying for the entire duration of the event and participating in each speed date.

Join us for a fun day of speed dating downtown Toronto right on the Harbourfront! We have events for ages 35-45 and 45-55. See you there! **Tickets here:** https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/toronto-downtown-speed-dating-events-4800164

Hello everyone, Please join us for our a great afternoon with **IMPROV and ACTING in the PUB.** \*Joined by my other groups too; so we can anticipate a great afternoon \*\*Stick around after as well for our weekly traditional Sunday Dinner Party-no extra charge- others will be joining us to for dinner (optional) Event details below: Sincerely Steve Flemming (Organizer/Host) Event Details: **IMPROV and ACTING in the PUB (with Optional Dinner Party After)** This is a well organized event filled with Improv games, skits and of course lots of hilarious scenes that we will create. -A fun afternoon for all Improv enthusiasts and newbies of Improv! \*No experience required; just an open mind and a desire to meet some wonderful people, laugh and have fun! \*Joined by my other groups too so we can anticipate a fabulous turn out \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Event Fee:** 10 dollars (Cash only) (HST is included) or e transfer in advance to [[steveflemming11@gmail.com](http://steveflemming11@gmail.com)] \*Includes Dinner Party after at no extra charge :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Friendly Reminders:** **Date:** **Sunday, February 25th** **Arrival Time:** Arrive between 4:00 pm and 4:30 pm **Where to Meet us?** **Location: La Carnita - Good Fortune Bar (Main Floor)** **Address:** 130 Eglinton Ave. Toronto, ON M4P 2X9 \-\-\-\-\- **Parking Available:** \***Plenty of free street parking on Eglinton** and (Residential area south/east of venue for free) **Close to Subway Station:** \*Also just a three minute walk east from the Yonge/Eglinton subway station

Join us for the inaugural gathering of the DC Creative Collective for Film, TV, and Theater — a welcoming space for filmmakers, writers, actors, and creative enthusiasts across the DMV to connect and create together. This first meetup will be an introduction to the collective’s vision, followed by networking, artist introductions, and an open discussion where members can share their creative interests, experience levels, and the kinds of projects they hope to collaborate on. We will also host a casual table read and idea exchange, giving participants a chance to hear scripts, workshop concepts, and meet potential collaborators for future productions. Whether you are experienced in the industry or just beginning your creative journey, come ready to build community, share stories, and help shape a collaborative artistic home where ideas move from imagination to stage and screen.

This is something you always wanted to do...Just not alone! Come explore India and Dubai with us! We’ll wander through the colorful streets of **Delhi**, take in the beauty of the **Taj Mahal**, and soak up the royal vibes of **Jaipur.** To top it all off, we’ll celebrate Holi—the festival of colors—like locals do, in an authentic and joyful way! **But that’s not all!** After India, we’ll enjoy a bonus 3-night stay in the glamorous city of **Dubai**, one of the world’s most fascinating cities. From jaw-dropping skyscrapers to desert sunsets, Dubai is the perfect mix of modern luxury and deep-rooted tradition. This isn’t your typical tour. It’s a Meetup-style journey filled with curiosity, connection, and shared experiences. We’ve done this trip before, and every time it’s been more than just a vacation—it’s been eye-opening, transformative experience that connects you to new perspectives, cultures, and unforgettable memories with new friends. *What is included in India* ➢ 2 Nights’ stay in Delhi ➢ 2 Nights’ stay in Agra ➢ 3 Nights’ stay in Jaipur ➢ Meals : 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners ➢ Round trip airport transfers by air-conditioned vehicle ➢ Local English-speaking guides for sightseeing ➢ Entrance fees to monuments as per itinerary ➢ Rickshaw ride at Chandini chowk (ancient bazaar) in Delhi ➢ Elephant ride in Jaipur (subject to availability) ➢ Old and New Delhi sightseeing included Rickshaw ride ➢ Agra sightseeing included Magnificent Taj Mahal and Agra fort ➢ Jaipur sightseeing included with Amer fort, Hawa Mahal and Jal Mahal ➢ Holi celebration in Agra ➢ All taxes, driver allowances, parking etc. *What is included in Dubai* ➢ 3 Nights’ accommodation in Dubai with breakfast ➢ Meals: 3 breakfast, and 2 dinners ➢ Round trip airport transfers in Dubai on private basis ➢ Driver/Guide in Dubai ➢ Half day Dubai City Tour (Includes Photo Stop at Burj Al Arab, Photo stop at the Atlantis at the Palm Island, Visit to Gold and Spice Souks etc.) ➢ Dhow Cruise with Buffet Dinner ➢ Desert Safari with BBQ dinner (4x4 sharing vehicle) & Arabian Tanoura dance show and belly performance ➢ All taxes and tourism Dihram *What is not included:* ➢ Any International/Internal Airfare ➢ Visa, insurance ➢ Any meals other than specified in cost include ➢ Porterage, tips, laundry, beverages, cost of personal nature like telephone charges ➢ Any sightseeing not mentioned in inclusions **Cost:** * **$3990 per person (based on room sharing)—we offer easy roommate matching!** * **Prefer a room to yourself? Solo supplement is $1500 for a total of $5490** RSVP with your email address to receive detailed Day-by-Day itinerary or [fill out this form](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8). **If you wish to attend, deposit of $250 is the only way to secure your spot. Please pay the deposit through this secure [Deposit Link](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/4XM44PYUEYJEJ).** Deposits are refundable up to 90 days before departure. **Airfare is not included**, but we are holding a group space from Los Angeles for $1299 including all taxes and the flight from Delhi and Dubai. To secure you airfare from LAX submit a **nonrefundable $200 deposit [HERE](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/W5DSZYQWFTBEQ)** **If you are not in LA, we can help you arrange the airfare from any other city.** **Space is limited** and this event is cross posted to our sister groups. RSVPs on this post do not reflect actual number of participants. Don’t wait—this trip will sell out fast! \*\*\*[Click Here ](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8)\*\*\**to fill out our google info request form for detailed itinerary on this or any of our other international events.* Got questions? [Click Here](https://www.meetup.com/members/14363992/) to message Ekaterina direct with any questions. Still have questions? We do a monthly [Q&A Travel Zoom](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/297487010/) on all our events. **We believe in good decent social!** We have a set of sister groups where we post our local free events, local/regional camping getaways, and our overseas trips too. ***[Click Here](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events)***[ to see all our events](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events) Our events create and foster community and a sense of discovery. We welcome and are inclusive of all. ***Live the adventure instead of only dreaming it!*** SOT 2000318-10

Join us as we host our next screening of Alma’s Rainbow (1994) by Ayoka Chenzira! This film is 85 minutes and an optional short discussion with the group will follow. **This event will tentatively be hosted at the MLK Library.** Synopsis: A rediscovered treasure of independent cinema, this incisive comedic drama follows Rainbow Gold (Victoria Gabrielle Platt), a teenager coming of age in Brooklyn, as she looks to two vastly different models of womanhood: her straitlaced mother, Alma (Kim Weston-Moran), who runs a hair salon in the parlor of their home and disapproves of her daughter’s newfound interest in boys; and her free-spirited, larger-than-life aunt Ruby (Mizan Kirby), who has just returned from Paris after a ten-year absence and whose presence shakes up the household. Bursting with the bold Day-Glo colors of nineties fashion, this dazzling feature from feminist filmmaker and animator Ayoka Chenzira grapples with questions of Black women’s sexuality, agency, and self-image from a multigenerational perspective. (Criterion)

We’re continuing our Best of Bars series with a unique twist — a meetup at Dhoom in Tysons Corner Center! This isn’t your average bar — it’s a vibrant Indian restaurant & social spot with a full bar serving beer, wine, spirits, and creative cocktails, all wrapped in a warm and lively atmosphere perfect for a night out with friends or new people. 🍹🍺 Whether you’re craving bold flavors or interesting drinks, Dhoom brings something different to the meetup scene.  🍽️ Food & Drinks: Dhoom’s menu mixes tapas‑style Indian small plates and shareable classics like Butter Chicken, Tandoori Wings, Chicken Tikka Flatbread, and Paneer Tikka Masala, alongside fusion favorites like Chicken Tikka Tacos — excellent for sharing and sparking conversation. The full bar has refreshing beverages and unique cocktails like the Chak De! India spicy mango marg and Mumbai Mule during happy hour. 🍛🍸  🤝 Meet & Mingle: This hangout is all about the social vibe — chatting, laughing, and meeting other young professionals while enjoying great food and drinks. Whether you’re flying solo or with friends, it’s a relaxed, friendly spot to connect and make new friends. 🅿️ Parking & Transit: Parking is easy in Tysons Corner Center lots 🚗, and if you’re taking transit, the closest Metro is Tysons Corner (Silver Line) 🚇 — a short walk from the mall so you can come stress‑free. Come for the flavors, stay for the connections, and let’s keep the Best of Bars series rolling with great vibes and good company! 🍻✨

**Joyful Mind Zendo** is happy to invite you to our **first film night** screening the Wim Wenders Oscar nominated film, **Perfect Days**. **Details:** * Come at **6:00 PM** to the **basement Zendo (back door)** to help set up. * Bring pizza, popcorn, dips, or beverages to share. * The screening will begin promptly at **6:30 PM**. * The films running time is 2hrs 4min, and will be followed by a short break and discussion. * Our evening will end by 9:30 PM. * Here is the [trailer](https://youtu.be/QzZBbX5A1FA?si=zTjQF8_t4oDzz3pd). * **See you soon and invite a friend!** | | | --- | | Perfect Days follows Hirayama, a middle-aged man living a life of humble simplicity in Tokyo. His days are governed by a meticulous routine: he wakes at dawn to the sound of a street sweeper, tends to his maple saplings, and drives his small van through the city to his job cleaning public toilets. Despite the seemingly lowly nature of his work, Hirayama performs his duties with the grace and precision of a master craftsman, finding deep contentment in the order and service he provides. | The core of Perfect Days is a celebration of presence and the dignity of labor\. Director Wim Wenders suggests that a meaningful life is not found in grand ambitions or material wealth\, but in the intentional appreciation of the here and now\. The film posits that true freedom comes from accepting life's limitations and finding 'perfection' in the subtle\, fleeting moments of harmony between humanity and nature\, encapsulated in the Japanese concept of Komerobi\. \|

Based on the *Ramayana*, a Sanskrit epic from roughly 500BC, this animated feature is as close to the work of one person as possible. Writer/director/animator Nina Paley starts with the classic tale of Sita, a long-suffering woman in a world where men deny much to her, demand much of her, and take much from her. She’s married to and deeply in love with the mighty hunter and warrior Rama. The heroine remains resilient and hopeful even as she occasionally sings about how she’d like things to be a bit better. Interspersed with this story are scenes from modern times based on Paley’s own experiences, and the visuals – animated in a variety of styles – are accompanied by songs from the 1920s. The narrative is clear, the conflicts well defined, and the visuals wildly imaginative. The result is a dazzling and easy-to-follow adventure despite the many characters and locations. If ever a film could be called Oddball Required Viewing, this is it! ■ Title — *Sita Sings the Blues* ■ Director — Nina Paley ■ Cast — Annette Hanshaw, Aseem Chhabra, Bhavana Nagulapally ■ Unrated, suitable for general audiences ■ ©2008 \| 1h 22m \| Animation\, Comedy\, Fantasy\, Music\, Musical\, Romance