Theater events: Rex Havens comically looks at love, marriage at the Metropolis

At the Metropolis

Rex Havens, author of “Everything I Need to Know, I Learned From My Wife,” brings his solo show, “Bidding You a Fond ‘I Do,'” a comic look at love and marriage, to the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre for one show this weekend. Also this weekend is Metropolis' 15th anniversary fundraising gala hosted by Michael Ingersoll (“Jersey Boys”), producer of Artists Lounge Live. The event includes dinner along with live and silent auctions. “I Do” is at 8 p.m. Friday, April 24, at 111 W. Campbell St. $30. Anniversary gala is from 5:30 to 11 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at 2525. W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights. $125. (847) 577-2121 or metropolisarts.com.

Fringe fundraiser

In its inaugural year, the Elgin Fringe Festival attracted 60 artists and ensembles, about 2,000 audience members and generated $10,000 in revenue. Event organizers will be hosting a fundraising music and bowling party this weekend. Janus Theater, rockabilly band Koopa & Los Mysterios and Core Project Chicago are among the performers taking part. In addition, attendees can purchase a 2015 Elgin Fringe Festival button for $3. The buttons offset costs and allow fest-goers to purchase tickets to performances. Buttons also guarantee admission to festival parties. The Elgin Fringe Festival takes place Sept. 17-20. 7 p.m. Friday, April 24, at Bowlway Lanes, 810 Villa St., Elgin. $10. elginfringefestival.com.

ABT's ‘Side man'

Wheaton native John Gawlik joins American Blues Theater for its revival of the Tony Award-winning “Side Man,” the story of a fractured family told by the son of a self-absorbed trumpet player father and an alcoholic mother. ABT ensemble members Michael Mahler, Michael Ehlers and Kate Buddeke star in Warren Leight's drama. Jonathan Berry directs. Previews begin at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 24, at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. The show opens April 30. $19-$49. (773) 404-7336 or americanbluestheater.com.