4/29/10: Today’s Tips: Thursday

MUSIC: Taina Asili and Gaetano Vaccaro @ Hudson Valley Community College’s Maureen Stapleton Theatre, Troy. Singer, poet and social activist Asili and multi-instrumentalist Vaccaro are back home in Nippertown after a whirlwind national tour in support of “War Cry!,” the brand new CD by Taina Asili y La Banda Rebelde. 12noon. Free.

FILM/DISCUSSION: “My Suicide” @ the Sanctuary for Independent Media, Troy. A dark, romantic teen comedy about Archie Williams, an isolated high school geek who becomes the most popular kid in the school when he announces he’s going to kill himself on camera for his final video class project. A discussion with the director David Lee Miller follows the screening. 5:30pm potluck dinner; 7pm screening. Suggested donation $10; students/low income $5.

DISCUSSION/MUSIC: Taylor Guitars Road Show @ Lillian’s, Saratoga Springs. As a warm-up to the Capital Region Guitar Show this weekend, stop by and chat with Taylor Guitar factory experts for an evening of guitar talk. Try out unique, one-of-a-kind guitar models. And maybe win some free prizes, too. Sponsored by Saratoga Guitar. 7pm. Free.

MUSIC: Erin Harkes @ Moon & River Cafe, Schenectady. Direct from her network television debut on “Late Night With Jimmy Fallon,” powerhouse singer-songwriter Harkes is joined by M.R. Poulopoulos for an evening of potent acoustic music. 8pm. Free.

FILM: “Orgasm, Inc.” @ MASS MoCA, North Adams. The final installment of the Lie! Cheat! Steal! Fake! Docs film series. The film explores Big Pharma’s race to redefine female health and sexuality in order to market new, lucrative drugs. Filmmaker Liz Canner will be on hand for a Q&A following the film. 7:30pm. $8; students $5.

MUSIC: Near Eastern Music Ensemble @ Williams College’s Brooks-Rogers Recital Hall, Williamstown. Traditional music and contemporary compositions performed by William Shaheen (oud, violin), Bassam Saba (flute, nay), Jamal Sinno (qanoun) and Dafer Tawil (percussion). 8pm. Free.

ART EXHIBIT/RECEPTION: “It’s Raining Cats and Dogs” @ North Adams Artists Coop Gallery, North Adams. A large member exhibition in the spirit of the spring season (It’s raining) as well as furry companions (cats and dogs). The exhibit runs through Sunday, May 23. Opening reception 5-8pm. Free.