Mar 24–29
APRIL Festival 2015
Now in its fourth year, the Authors, Publishers and Readers of Independent Literature Festival hasn’t let go of the scrappy outsider’s edge that’s a hallmark of the indie publishing scene. There are few other events that can bring together dozens of readers, competitive storytelling, and a Twin Peaks cover band while making it all seem natural and lively. Various Locations, Free–$10 

Mar 25–Apr 25
Best of Enemies
At first glance, the premise of Best of Enemies seems like cartoonish fiction intent on making a broad moral point: A Ku Klux Klan leader and a strong black woman becoming friends while on a community committee about desegregating schools in the 1970s? Please. But the story of C. P. Ellis and Ann Atwater’s bonding is true and speaks to the power of opening minds. Taproot Theatre, $20–$40

Thru May 1
Maïmouna Guerresi: Light Bodies
Italian and Senegalese artist Maïmouna Guerresi kicks off a new era for the M.I.A. Gallery, which has been rebranded as the Mariane Ibrahim Gallery. Guerresi’s exhibit Light Bodies explores religion and iconography through photographs and mixedmedia installations inspired by the Sufi women she encountered in her travels to Africa. The luminous works express the spiritual balance of the female soul and a quiet sense of dignity. M.I.A. Gallery, Free

Thru May 3
Funky Turns 40
For better or worse, kids learn a lot from cartoons. It was certainly for the better when, in the 1970s, cartoons finally started including positive portrayals of black characters. Funky Turns 40 takes a look at how animated characters from Fat Albert to Valerie on Josie and the Pussycats helped instill black children with pride and self-esteem while changing the way children of other races perceived African Americans. Northwest African American Museum, $7

Sat, Mar 28
Pancakes and Booze Art Show
At Pancakes and Booze, an LA-based artist movement, the "pancake batter is sizzling, beer froth is flowing, and bare flesh is slathered in paint." The event will be showcasing indie musicians, DJs, live body painting, and graffiti, complete with all-you-can-eat pancakes. (Unfortunately, booze isn't free. Sorry!) From the looks of how other Pancakes and Booze events went, Seattle's installment is going to be a party you won't want to miss. El Corazon, $5