Hecklers Wanted

By Margaret Lyons in News on Jul 30, 2004 5:54PM

Watching the Democratic Convention has made Chicagoist want to give a speech. Like, super-badly. And lucky for us, now's our chance. Tonight and tomorrow afternoon, the Bughouse Square Debates will give hippies, hecklers, historians and political types a chance to vent.

Festivities kick off tonight at 6 p.m. in Washington Square Park with historical reenactments of famous orators who once participated in the lively debate scene. You can catch Lucy Parsons, Emma Goldman, Clarence Darrow and others to help you get geared up for the open mic that starts at 7:30. Tomorrow at 1 p.m., be ready for more soapbox action; don't forget, heckling is encouraged. After some scheduled speakers, the debate on "Is Gay Marriage the Next Step in Civil Rights?" opens up to the public. Bring your A-game because prizes will be awarded for best speech and best heckling.

The Bughouse Square Debates are sponsored by the Newberry Library as part of its 20th annual book fair. Lots of books are priced under $2, so it's easy to stock up for end-of-the-summer reading.