Campus Picks: April 26, 2012

USG Movie: “The Secret World of Arrietty”

Were you captivated by the wondrous and whimsical world of Hayao Miyazaki’s “Spirited Away”? Well, Japan’s renowned Studio Ghibli is back with another Miyazaki production called “The Secret World of Arrietty.” The film follows the budding friendship between a lonely boy and an elfin Borrower he finds under his floorboard. Arrietty’s soundtrack and animation are, as expected, gorgeous. The film has been critically acclaimed as another addition to the emotionally tender and visually stimulating repertoire that Miyazaki has built over the years.

Princeton Garden Theatre

Thursday through Saturday, 11:30 p.m.

Drama: “Balancing Act”

“Balancing Act” is the first original play in BAC Drama’s history, featuring a musical composition written by Emi Nakamura ’13. This play follows the story of four young women who are forced to make major decisions about their class, relationships, race and desire as they push the boundaries of morality. Watch as these women face challenges boldly, navigating the dualistic dilemmas that ensnare them. A unique creation and production displaying the talents of the Princeton community, “Balancing Act” is an event you shouldn’t miss!

Class of 1970 Theatre in Whitman College

Thursday through Saturday, 9:30 p.m. Saturday, 4 p.m.

Comedy: Make Chai, Not War

Do you like peace? Do you like comedy? Do you dislike war? This Thursday, stand-up comedians Rajiv Satyal and Azhar Usman will be on campus spreading the love. This funny duo aims to bring audiences of diverse religions and ethnic backgrounds together so they can bond over laughter and jokes. Rajiv Satyal, also known as “The Funny Indian,” has opened for comedians Dave Chapelle, Daniel Tosh and Kevin James. Azhar Usman is the cofounder of the “Allah Made Me Funny — Official Muslim Comedy Tour,” which has toured over 20 different countries, earning him the nickname “Citizen of the World.” Through puns, jokes and general ridiculousness, the two will emphasize diversity and the importance of a global community. While there is still no word on whether there will be chai present, there will certainly be plenty of laughs!

McCosh 10

Concert: Princeton University Orchestra’s Stuart B. Mindlin Memorial Concerts 2012

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Need a tasteful night of some of the best classical music to restore your spirits? Come hear the first-rate Princeton University Orchestra play in its last concert of the year. The concert will be led by Michael Pratt and includes three scenes from Berg’s “Wozzeck” and the famous and revolutionary “Rites of Spring” by Stravinsky. Even if classical isn’t usually your thing, take a chance and come see PUO. You won’t regret it.

Richardson Auditorium

Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.

Art: Moan: The Monstrous Sublime by Jun Koh ’12

A solo senior thesis exhibition by art history major Jun Koh ’12 explores the intersection between divine sensuality and grotesque eroticism as manifested in the female body. Come to the opening reception on Thursday to meet the artist: Along with her in-situ, black-and-white photographic installations, cookies, pretzels and wine will be offered. If you miss the opening, you can scope out the exhibition until May 9 in the Chancellor Green Rotunda.

Chancellor Green Rotunda

Shursday, 8 p.m.

Campus Picks compiled by Michael Becker, Lakshmi Davey, Nick Ellis, Katie Bauman, Lillian Li and Neelay Patil.