FUN FACT: Tomorrow is both Ice Cube’s birthday AND World Juggling Day. This weekend is pretty much destined for greatness. Herewith, the top five things to do with your body/brain/time:
Bloomsday in Berkeley
Bloomsday in Dublin is an annual event that celebrates the life of author James Joyce on the day that the events of his epic novel Ulysses are set. It’s traditionally filled with readings, dramatizations, and a retracing of Ulysses protagonist Leopold Bloom’s route around Dublin —essentially a theatrical pub crawl in Edwardian attire. While attendees of the Bloomsday in Berkeley at the Garden Gate Creativity Center (2911 Claremont Ave., Berkeley) won’t be able to walk the same streets as those in Joyce’s tome, the event will include staged readings, a performance of the theater piece Portrait of the Artist’s Mother by Dublin artist Marion McEvoy, and plenty of Joyce love. Sat., June 15, 5-10 p.m. and Sun., June 16, 2-6 p.m. $20-$25 — Azeen Ghorayshi
Bells Atlas: Bewitching!
Oakland’s self-described “Afro-indie soul” group Bells Atlas draws from a wide range of influences, including hip-hop, samba, R&B, indie rock, and pop, to craft its unique, lush sound. Nigerian-American lead vocalist Sandra Lawson-Ndu’s smooth, sensual voice twinkles, lilts, and lifts, anchored by polished guitar stylings and steady drum beats. The band’s music captivates and bewitches with a balance of jazz and pop beats, invoking good feelings and the urge to move. The band sounds even better live, which is why you should check out its upcoming show, which will celebrate the release of its debut self-titled album, at The New Parish (579 18th St., Oakland), along with seven-piece Bay Area band The Seshen, whose own dreamy vocals, mix of live and electronic instrumentation, and Afro-Caribbean vibes will serve as a perfect introduction. With DJ Treat-U-Nice. Fri., June 14, 9 p.m. $7, $10 — Madeleine Key
