Incoming

Singer-guitarist Rhett Miller, who’s been impressive as a solo artist as well as a member of The Old 97’s, will be conducting an online class titled Songwriting Is Magic: The Rhett Miller Lyrics Workshop via The Old Town School Of Folk Music on March 24. According to an email from the Chicago venue, “He will discuss the lessons, theories. concepts, and ideas he’s learned in his three-plus decades of songwriting.” Not to mention he can easily switch from humor to heartfelt observations. Miller’s class is part of a virtual series that also includes lessons from banjo player Tony Trischka; Steely Dan guitarist Jon Herington; and bluegrass fiddle player Amy Alvey.

Life is like a roomful of typewriters. You never know when you’ll donate one for a worthy cause. Writer Doug George had an article in Monday’s Chicago Tribune about the Chicago-based Shattered Globe Theatre Company’s online raffle to celebrate its 30th Anniversary. Actor Tom Hanks has donated a typewriter from his collection to help out. The article explains how Shattered Globe Theatre would even be on the mega-star’s radar, and it’s a testament to the well-known amiable nature of Mr. Hanks. (He and Shattered Globe co-founder Joe Forbrich met ages ago while performing a Broadway play and have stayed friends.) The Shattered Globe raffle runs through March 8, and if you’re considering a bid on the Hanks typewriter, he also included a handwritten note with his donation.

As noted in an informative and entertaining article by Misha Davenport in today’s Chicago Sun-Times, a new exhibit titled Marvel: Universe Of Super Heroes will open this Sunday, March 7 at The Museum of Science and Industry. Fans of Iron Man, Spider Man, Black Panther, and other super heroes comics and films will find a lot to explore among the 300 items on display. Davenport highlighted some Chicago-related heroes who will also be featured. Marvel: Universe Of Super Heroes runs through October 24. I have no idea if there will be any Marvel-related items in the museum's gift shop, but that would be cool.

If you like those tuxedo t-shirts that mimic formal apparel, you’ll probably appreciate the  concept behind a new line of hoodie sweatshirts from GearPow inspired by Doctor Who. Especially if you’ve always wanted a less complicated way to dress up like your favorite variation of The Doctor. If I was inclined to wear hoodies, the Fourth Doctor (played by Tom Baker) hoodie would be my choice since it’s one of the most recognizable. It makes you look like you’re wearing a jacket, vest, ascot, and of course, that incredibly long scarf.