Vocal Harmonies

**Hiya. I'd like to invite you to join in my choir!!!** We are welcoming the Summer with some singing! We meet on Wednesdays from 6:00 - 7:30pm in a community centre a short walk from Chancery Lane or Farringdon station(s) in Central London, and we sing folk music from Latin America & Spain (in Spanish). \*\*\* No need to speak the language to join \*\*\* DATES: **May:** 27 **June:** 3, 10, 17, --- **July:** 1, ---, 15, 22, 29 \* Informal Concert on July 29 FEE: ​£12 / £9 (concessions) per session or £90 if paying for the whole term upfront VENUE: Allen Hall (Chancery Lane / Farringdon Tube) Portpool Lane, EC1N 7AA \*\*\* FREE for residents local to Allen Hall \*\*\* See you there!!! ​ \- \- \- ​ More info, videos, pictures, etc. on the choir's website: **​ www.lolchoir.com**

**PLEASE VISIT THE WEBSITE TO CONFIRM SESSION DETAILS AND LET US KNOW YOU PLAN TO ATTEND. THIS IS MANDATORY.** **Want to do something useful with your exercise? GoodGym is no ordinary gym. We're a group of people who get fit by doing good - helping out local charities and community groups with physical jobs like shifting compost and planting trees.** **📍 We meet at** **Blue House Yard, 5 River Park Road, London, N22 7TB** **at 6:45pm.** **🏃‍♂️ At 7:00pm we'll run, walk or cycle to do a 30-40 minute task.** **🏃‍♂️ Then we'll head back to where we started by 8:45pm, do some stretches and maybe grab a beverage?** It's FREE. It's fun. It's fulfilling. And we're a very friendly bunch. 🍇 — **BOOK ONTO THE SESSION** **To come to the session click here:** https://www.goodgym.org/v3/sessions **You will need to confirm your attendance on the GoodGym website** (this includes creating an account with us if you haven’t already - it only takes a few mins). The link above takes you to the session listings in your area - if this session doesn’t fit your schedule, you may find something that does so check it out. p.s. GoodGym is a charity and you will be asked whether you’d like to donate when first creating an account. The choice is yours and does not affect your ability to attend a session. — **FAQ** Not sure you'll keep up? GoodGym is for everyone (18+). Whether you've never run before, or are chasing a marathon PB, you are 100% welcome. We always have a back-marker so no one gets left behind. 70% of GoodGym members start as non-runners so if you're new to this kind of thing you will be supported by people who are all on the same journey. 👍 What do I need to wear? Most of us wear gym/running gear. Make sure you're prepared for the weather. Don't feel like you're fit enough? Our tasks are simple and fun. There are easy jobs as well as more challenging things for those who want a workout! The choice is always yours. Do I need to bring anything? Gardening gloves are really useful for a lot of GoodGym tasks. And a head torch too if it’s likely to get dark. Please bring some if you can but there’s no requirement 🧤💡🧤 What is GoodGym? We're a (really lovely) group of people who use our energy to make a difference in our local community (and in communities across the UK!). We often meet on a weeknight, at least once a week, for a session to do good and get fit. We'd love you to come and join us. Any questions, just pop a comment below or send me a message. Find out everything you need to know at goodgym.org

We’re excited to launch Amplify Her Monthly Co\-Working Sessions in collaboration with The Ministry \| Workspace & Members’ Club\. After high demand, we’re so excited to announce the launch of our **Amplify Her Monthly Co-Working Sessions**, in collaboration with **The Ministry\, Borough \| Workspace & Members’ Club**. These monthly co-working days are designed to give our community a dedicated space to **connect, create, and get things done**. Each session brings Amplify Her members together in an inspiring environment to co-work side by side, share ideas, collaborate on projects, and support one another’s growth within the music industry. Whether you’re writing, planning, producing, marketing, or simply need focused time around like-minded creatives, these sessions offer the perfect balance of **productivity, accountability, and community**. **[Make sure to grab your ticket on our website, so that you receive a QR code to use upon arrival.](https://www.amplifyher.co.uk/event-details/amplify-her-monthly-co-working-sessions-2026-06-17-10-00-1)** **Want to join?** **All In Pass** The **All-In Pass** offers full access to everything Amplify Her provides, plus personalised mentorship support. This is our most comprehensive membership option and is designed for artists and music professionals ready to fully invest in their growth. All-In Pass includes: * Access to industry events * Entry to workshops * Attendance at live music events * Full access to music industry courses * Monthly co-working sessions in collaboration with The Ministry, Borough * Access to industry opportunities, including: * Sync placement opportunities * Gig opportunities * Songwriting camps * Other professional development opportunities * 3 hours of one-to-one mentorship, offering personalised guidance, strategy, and industry insight * Access to the Amplify Her community network for collaboration and support **Amplify Her Pass** The Amplify Her Pass is perfect for those looking to stay connected, informed, and actively involved in the music industry while being part of a supportive community. Amplify Her Pass includes: * Access to industry events * Entry to workshops * Attendance at live music events * Full access to music industry courses * Monthly co-working sessions in collaboration with The Ministry, Borough * Access to industry opportunities, including: * Sync placement opportunities * Gig opportunities * Songwriting camps * Other professional development opportunities * 3 hours of one-to-one mentorship, offering personalised guidance, strategy, and industry insight * Access to the Amplify Her community network for collaboration and support At Amplify Her, we welcome everyone at every stage of their journey — whether you’re just starting out, finding your voice, or building a sustainable career in the music industry. Our mission is to create inclusive, supportive spaces where women and gender-marginalised creatives feel empowered, connected, and equipped with real opportunities to grow. Through community, education, collaboration, and access to industry pathways, Amplify Her exists to ensure no one has to navigate the music industry alone. Wherever you are on your journey, there is space for you here. **Follow us here:** [https://www.instagram.com/amplify_herLive/](https://www.instagram.com/amplify_herLive/ "https://www.instagram.com/amplify_herLive/") [https://www.amplifyher.co.uk/](https://www.amplifyher.co.uk/ "https://www.amplifyher.co.uk/") [https://www.linkedin.com/company/amplifyher/](https://www.linkedin.com/company/amplifyher/ "https://www.linkedin.com/company/amplifyher/")

*THIS EVENT IS OUTDOORS & WEATHER DEPENDENT. THE INSTRUCTOR WILL CONFIRM IF THE EVENT GOES AHEAD ON THE DAY VIA THE EVENT CHAT/MESSAGES ON MEETUP* Absolutely THE best and most effective way to improve your Muay Thai, Kicking Power & Fitness is the Sharkzilla Club! Content. Plyometrics club lasts about 45mins and focuses on improving: * Fitness & Conditioning * Plyometric Exercises Objectives. This class is geared towards achieving: * Athletic Physique * Explosive Power * Sports Positive Mindset * Strong Legs and Lower Body Muscles Required. Following equipment required: * Decent pair of Trainers * Muay Thai Shorts * Bottle of Water * Travel/train light. Don't carry too much! Meet point is **OUTSIDE** Wandle Rec, starts 6pm prompt and lasts about an hour Latecomers can (try) to find us next door in King George's Park, next to Wandle gym (follow the **RED** arrow in the image). Don't ring us if you're late, we can't answer the phone when session starts! If you're looking for that Fighter's Body, thinking of competing or developing explosive power, this is the class to aim for Hope to see you there!

Hello again, We have gone back to being bang up to date this month, with two recent releases . . . . as well as going back almost fifty years. The Monochrome Set - Volume, Contrast, Brilliance: Sessions and Singles, Volume 1 (1979) Yello - One Second (1987) Lime Garden - Maybe Not Tonight (2026) Fakemint - Terrified (2026) Have fun listening. Phil

**Space is limited so book and pay early to avoid disappointment.** This evening workshop provides a perfect opportunity to experience the deep and insightful Systemic Constellations process in an intimate group setting. A unique and powerful therapeutic method for self-exploration, understanding core behaviours, removing blocks, and reintroducing movement and growth. It is used as a major resource in supporting healthy relationships, working through trauma, and assisting in depression treatment. **Issue Holder (client) and Representative spaces are available, please follow the link to book:** **For Representative (Participant) Booking £35** **[https://calendly.com/illiadato/in-person-family-constellations-evening-workshop](https://calendly.com/illiadato/in-person-family-constellations-evening-workshop)** **For Issue Holder (Client) Booking £175:** If you wish to attend as an Issue Holder at this workshop and have your own Constellation done please email your request to: [ih@londonconstellations.uk](http://ih@londonconstellations.uk/) Read comments of workshop participants here: [https://bit.ly/33Asprs](https://bit.ly/33Asprs) **WHAT ARE SYSTEMIC CONSTELLATIONS?** The Systemic Constellations method is a unique therapeutic process of exploration of the forces that move us in life. Such forces are often appearing as difficulties or a sense of being 'stuck' in life, affecting our behaviour, relationships, career, health/wellbeing, or even financial circumstances. This method provides a three-dimensional ‘map’ of one’s life as it is at present. It is a simple yet powerful way to explore entanglements and blockages in our personal life and our family history. The method brings awareness and clarity into personal challenges by focusing the client on the root cause of such difficulties. Constellations provide an opening for a positive life shift and present ways for deep healing processes to occur. **WHAT HAPPENS IN A CONSTELLATION SESSION?** In Constellations work the ‘client’ is referred to as the ‘Issue Holder’. The method uses workshop participants as ‘Representatives’ to stand in for key people in the client’s life such as family members, colleagues, partners, ex-partners, etc., sometimes ‘abstract’ concepts such as an emotion, country of origin, religion, or destiny are also represented. All participants are invited to take part as Representatives. Workshop participants often report (see reviews: [https://bit.ly/33Asprs](https://bit.ly/33Asprs)) experiencing profound insights into their own lives by simply witnessing the process, regardless of how they choose to take part. **WHY DOES THIS WORK?** Scientific research shows that the experiences of your ancestors can determine your behaviour today and affect future generations.\*\* Recent scientific research into DNA reveals that a component named epigenetics is embedding the effect of a traumatic experience by altering the genetic structure. It means that some of our behaviour patterns can be attributed to traumatic events in our family history. This notion has always been one of the guiding principles of Systemic / Constellations Therapy, a form of work that is dedicated to exposing and dealing with issues emerging from our family system. *“It is only now that science is catching up with what is evident in Systemic Constellations work and visible in every one of our therapy sessions; trauma in the family history directly affects future generations' behaviour"* Illi Adato MD Our group provides a safe space where deep personal work is done and where maintaining confidentiality and respect for each other's privacy is paramount. **\*\* DNA research paper and news articles:** Discover - Grandma's Experiences Leave a Mark on Your Genes [https://bit.ly/3dLwEkK](https://bit.ly/3dLwEkK) BBC News - "Memories" pass between generations [http://bbc.in/1dNShPe](http://bbc.in/1dNShPe) **Facilitated by Illi Adato** MA Lon\. Inst\. SQHP\. Crt\(HYP\)\. Crt\(COACH\)\. Systemic\, Organisational & Family Constellations member of ISCA \| Hypnotherapy member of GHR \(UK\) & IHF \(USA\) \| Tune\-In Counselling \| Advanced NLP Therapeutic Specialist™ *** 💬**Personal one-to-one counseling** can be combined with group work. **Book here: [https://calendly.com/illiadato/1st-personal-session](https://calendly.com/illiadato/1st-personal-session)** **VIDEO COURSES** 📌 Watch anytime \| 📩 Instant access after payment **Becoming a Bridge - Working with Death As a Key Resource In Constellations** £19 Explore the transformative power of death in Systemic Constellations with Illi Adato in this recorded 1.5-hour video course. Designed for facilitators, practitioners, and those drawn to deep experiential learning, this session offers practical insights into holding space for loss and transition. **🛒ACCESS HERE: [https://calendly.com/illiadato/becoming-a-bridge-video-course](https://calendly.com/illiadato/becoming-a-bridge-video-course)** **Constellations, Systemic Principles & How They Affect Us - Video Crash Course** £6 Explore the hidden forces shaping your life with this **recorded mini-course** by Illi Adato. Learn the **Orders of Love**, uncover deep-rooted patterns, and experience a guided **HypnoConstellations™** process for personal healing. **🛒ACCESS HERE: [https://calendly.com/illiadato/systemic-principles-crash-video-course](https://calendly.com/illiadato/systemic-principles-crash-video-course)** Have questions? Reach out: [office@londonconstellations.uk](http://office@londonconstellations.uk/) Looking forward to another moving experience of learning together! London School of Systemic & Family Constellations

**VERANO 2026: CANTA CON EL LOLCHOIR** Sesiones los miércoles >>> 6:00 - 7:30pm FECHAS: Mayo: 27 Junio: 3, 10, 17, --- Julio: 1, ---, 15, 22, **29** \* Concierto informal el 29 de julio Después de la corta pausa de luego del 'Term' de primavera, volvemos a nuestras actividades de Verano 2026, que comienza este miércoles 27 de mayo. Nuestro 'term' anterior estuvo hermoso y tuvimos un concierto inolvidable. Esta vez tendremos en total 8 sesiones (Concierto en la última fecha) Durante todas nuestras sesiones, aprenderemos canciones de la tradicionales de Latino América y España (en Castellano principalmente). No es necesario hablar el idioma para entrar al coro! El proceso de aprendizaje es "a oído". Se entregan letras y traducciones de las canciones, y ocasionalmente partituras si alguna pieza está escrita formalmente. ☛ SESIONES HÍBRIDAS: EN PERSONA & EN LÍNEA (AL MISMO TIEMPO) Los ensayos son en persona, pero algunas personas siguen conectándose en línea desde la pandemia. Todos bienvenidos! Se enviará el link privado a quienes se hayan registrado y hayan realizado el pago. Link de zoom para este term: \* Se compartirá a los que lo soliciten directamente. ☛ COSTO: Los participantes pagan £12 ó £9 (concesiones) por sesión vía PayPal, en efectivo ó por transferencia bancaria. (Promoción: £100 si se paga por las 9 sesiones por adelantado) ☀️ LINK PARA EL PAGO: http://www.menjuramusic.com/payment.html or 🌀 REGISTRO Y PAGO: http://www.menjuramusic.com/choirs-reg-and-payment.html ☛ DIRECCIÓN Ensayamos en un centro comunitario muy cerca de la estación de Chancery Lane. Allen Hall Portpool Lane London EC1N 7AA Las siguientes sesiones se harán en Allen hall como lo dice el poster. __ Camilo 😊 facebook.com/menjuramusic facebook.com/lolchoir menjuramusic.com

Looking for a relaxed, friendly board game night in London? Join us every Thursday at **Hiver Taproom**, one of the Top 20 London taprooms, just minutes from London Bridge and close to Bermondsey. Whether you're brand new to board games or a seasoned strategist, this is a welcoming space to meet people, try great games, and enjoy excellent craft beer. ## **🎲 What Happens on the Night?** We’ll have a wide variety of board games available to play — from light, social party games to deeper strategy favourites. ✔ Solo players and groups welcome ✔ An experienced boardgamer hosting and teaching games ✔ No need to bring anything, but you're welcome to bring your own games if you want! ✔ Friendly, inclusive vibe ✔ Great for after-work socialising Just turn up, grab a drink, and we’ll help you find a table. ## **🕯️ Featured Game: Blood on the Clocktower (Upstairs Room)** We’ll also be running a dedicated game of **Blood on the Clocktower** in our upstairs private room. If you enjoy social deduction games like Werewolf or Mafia, you’ll love this immersive experience filled with hidden roles, strategy, bluffing and dramatic reveals. Spaces for this game are limited, so check out our other [Meet Up](https://www.meetup.com/bermondsey-board-gaming/events/313537869/?recId=011e01f4-928d-46e7-8c80-a4f2bb539617&recSource=event-search&searchId=ef0f242b-9ae4-4596-ac34-a13066bd9b75&eventOrigin=find_page%24all) and please RSVP if you’d like to take part. ## **🍺 Why Hiver Taproom?** * One of London’s Top 20 taprooms * Known for craft beer brewed with British honey * Spacious tables perfect for gaming * Easy walk from London Bridge Station * Relaxed, community atmosphere ## **Who Should Come?** * Board game beginners * Experienced hobby gamers * People new to London looking to meet others * After-work socialisers * Anyone who prefers dice and strategy over noisy bars If you’re searching for a regular Thursday board game meetup near London Bridge, this is your new weekly spot. RSVP now and join us for great games, great beer, and great company. 🎲🍻

**This is a paid event, tickets available [here via eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/workshop-the-sacred-geometry-of-sound-tickets-1990188956744?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1*6our0c*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTIzNzU4NTQxLjE3Nzk0ODUzNTk.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3Nzk0ODUzNTgkbzEkZzEkdDE3Nzk0ODYxMjUkajQxJGwwJGgw&keep_tld=true).** **3-hour workshop will explore how the harmonious intervals of music serve as a model for universal structural principles.** There is a long history of connection between music, mathematics, science and philosophy. From the ancient idea of the *music of the spheres* to the cosmological reflections of Kepler, Leibniz, Fludd, Newton and later thinkers such as Hans Kayser, sound and harmony have been understood not only as a musical phenomenon, but as a geometrical pattern inherent in nature. Myths across many cultures also express the concept that the universe was created by sound, and according to modern quantum field theory matter and energy fundamentally behave like vibrating waves. The aim of this workshop is to share these ideas with a wider audience and popularize the interdisciplinary field called *harmonic research* or *harmonics*, in which the harmonious intervals of music serve as a model for universal structural principles. **Content:** * Fundamental harmonic principles in music and mathematics, including practical demonstrations on the monochord * Harmonic proportions in nature and architecture * The concept of harmony as a universal organizing principle and how we can apply this to our individual and collective lives * The workshop leader, Sabine Leitner, has an MA in music and completed the 2-year course 'Fundamental Research into Harmonics' at the Hans Kayser Institute at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna (1990-1992). She also has an MA in Philosophy and an MA in Leadership Coaching. She is the director of the New Acropolis School of Philosophy in London. This workshop has been organized to celebrate the International Day of Music and to promote the theme of 'Philosophy and Science'. **Admission:** £50 (concessions £30) There will be 2 breaks of 15 minutes (refreshments included in the price)

We've been working this term on some new material for our summer concert. Come and see what we are about. Supporting The Harington Scheme - harington.org.uk **Tickets at take twenty.co,uk**

I am proud to announce that we having our jam at the Temple Of Art & Music in Elephant & Castle!! Chord Flow: A structured improvisation session where players explore a shared chord progression and key, creating music organically in the moment. Lineup (on stage together): • 2 guitarists • 1 bass • 1 drummer • 1–2 singers • 1 additional instrument (sax, trumpet, percussion, etc.) How It Works: 1. A simple chord progression and its key are written on a whiteboard opposite the stage. 2. The group has 5 minutes on stage to explore the progression together. 3. Tempo, time signature, style, and chord changes are left open — the music’s direction is determined by the group. 4. When the timer starts, the music begins. Musicians respond to each other in real time, building the flow organically. 5. No planning or discussion — focus on listening, reacting, and creating a shared musical experience. 6. After 5 minutes, the group rotates and a new set of musicians begin. The Temple Of Art and Music is a live music venue and bar in Elephant & Castle so I encourage anyone attending to bring friends as it will be great fun for them even if they are not playing. The venue has a PA system, drum kit, mics and guitar/bass amps. There is no guarantee that there will be cymbals or drum accessories with the drum kit at the venue. Drummers please being your own if you can. Like all our other jams it will be a chance to jam with other musicians playing the music that you love in a gentle environment with no judgement and no pressure. This jam also uniquely gives the opportunity to play in front of a crowd! Tickets are **£10 online** message us let us know what instrument you play and we will confirm if there is space and send you the Eventbrite link for the jam. Please do not hesitate to contact me for more information about this jam and London Jam Sessions. At London Jam Sessions we have an active community on WhatsApp where we all discuss the upcoming jams and future events. Everyone in the community is encouraged to ask questions and bring forward new ideas. Dm me and I can add you to our Whatsapp group.

We have curated a beautifully classy night of female. singer-songwriters in the lovely setting of Piano Smtifhfield, Barbican. Three VERY DIFFERENT but super complimentary artists share the stage. Saachi Sen, an Asian-British artist will bring her band, to celebrate her new music release, and is joined by special guests Itialian alt-pop artist Lilla Shy and dreamgaze meets ameriana-pop Nottingham singer-songwriter Leah Wilcox. Join us at 7pm Live Music at 7.30pm Mumbai born Londoner **SAACHI SEN** weaves her cross-cultural roots and mathematical mind into emotive, lyrical, meticulously crafted alt-pop. Drawing on formative years spent in classical training, jazz collectives and world famous choirs, her post-pandemic project saachisen arrives at a sound that is truly hers – imaginative and diverse pop exploring themes from identity to science fiction. Recorded at the likes of Apple Music’s PLATOON and Abbey Road Studios, her award-winning songs have gained industry support from BBC Introducing, Atwood Magazine, Earmilk, CLASH, and more. A past resident artist of the iconic London Roundhouse and a joyous live performer, Saachi has performed widely, notably at Cambridge Junction, Oslo Hackney The Southbank Centre, a sold-out headline show at the Indian Embassy in Berlin, Elderflower Fields, Cambridge Big Weekend and Pride in Trafalgar Square, London. In 2025, Saachi won Best Emerging Artist at the Eastern Eye ACTAs and performed her song “The Gap” live onstage together with multi-platinum-selling artist Tom Odell. She is currently working on her debut EP. With special guests **LILLA SHY** is a London based singer, songwriter and producer. Her self-produced debut album “Layers” gained support from John Kennedy at Radio X, BBC Introducing and and BBC5Live, plus multiple Spotify and Apple editorial playlists. **LEAH WILCOX** is a rising singer-songwriter from Burton-on-Trent who is attcracting ever greater interest. A fascinating blend of shoeglaze, jazz, indie and americana - shes a true original. As ever we have discounted tickets for our LONDONLIVE members. Just use code **LONDONLIVE** when booking your tickets here, for £9 **[BOOK TICKETS](https://link.dice.fm/pd88cca21bfa)** This should be a fabulous evening - Im really excited for fhis one! Lorraine xx

The Alliance is part of the Greater Central Ohio Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. We are an all-voices chorus dedicated to providing an inclusive environment for all those who love to sing, regardless of their race, gender identity, sexual orientation or musical background. The Alliance is the first and only all-voices barbershop chorus in Central Ohio. **Who:** Anyone with a passion for singing at a high level. Previous barbershop chorus/quartet experience not required. **When:** The Alliance rehearses weekly on Thursdays from 7pm-10pm. **Where:** Lord Of Life Lutheran Church: 2480 W Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 To become a full member of The Alliance, we welcome you to start by visiting us for a few rehearsals to experience the group and sing with us! Then, you may begin the 2-part audition process for membership: the assessement, and audition. We strive to make our auditions as stress-free as possible to help you let your best singing self shine.

Start your week the right way with Manic Mondays. Giving you an enjoyable Bachata lesson with a push of cool moves. The second hour has Beginner/Intermediate Salsa on 1. You must understand basic Salsa skills to participate. 730pm-830pm Bachata Cool Moves 830pm-930pm Salsa On 1 (Beginner/Intermediate) 15 for One Class 20 for Both Free Parking & Plenty of Dance Space. Viva Dance Columbus 2809 Festival Lane Dublin OH 43017

Welcome, readers! Our June read is ***Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible*** ***Voyage*** **by Alfred Lansing.** A work of nonfiction, and one of the most astonishing survival stories in history, we follow Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew after their ship is crushed by Antarctic ice. Stranded in one of the harshest environments on Earth, the men endure months of isolation, freezing temperatures, and near starvation—yet refuse to give up hope. Lansing brings their ordeal to life through vivid detail and firsthand accounts, capturing both the brutality of nature and the resilience of the human spirit. At its core, the story is a powerful testament to leadership, perseverance, and the unbreakable will to survive against impossible odds. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **all** **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

Welcome to Drunken Philosophy, a casual, curious, social discussion club. Come grab a drink and a seat at The Oracle. **Optional topic for this meetup: Where is everybody?** In 1950 the physicist Enrico Fermi was talking about aliens over lunch and asked a question that still has not gone away: if the universe is so vast and so old, and even a fraction of those billions of stars have planets, where is everyone? By the numbers the galaxy should be crowded with civilizations. Instead we look up and hear silence. That gap between "they should be everywhere" and "we see no one" is the Fermi Paradox. One of the most unsettling answers is the idea of a **Great Filter**: somewhere on the road from dead chemistry to a galaxy-spanning civilization, there is at least one step that is almost impossible to get past. Maybe the filter is behind us. Maybe life starting at all, or simple cells becoming complex, or intelligence ever evolving, is the freak accident, and we already cleared the hard part. Or maybe the filter is ahead of us, and advanced civilizations reliably wipe themselves out before they spread. Here is the part that messes with people. If we ever found life somewhere else, even pond scum on Mars, most people would call it the greatest discovery in history. But it might be the worst possible news. It would mean life is common, the early steps are easy, and the hard step is still in front of us. So the eerie silence overhead might actually be the best sign we could ask for. **Questions to wrestle with:** * Is it better to be alone? Would you rather we find alien life and learn we are not special, or find nothing and quietly improve our odds of surviving? * Where do you bet the filter sits, behind us or ahead of us, and why? * If it is ahead of us, what is it? Nuclear war, climate collapse, AI, something we cannot even picture yet? And can we do anything about a filter we cannot see coming? * Does any of this change how you live, or how humanity should be spending its time and money right now? As always the prompt is optional. Come for the conversation, stay for the drinks, and bring your own questions.