READINGS | Candlelight Open Back Poetry Night

Artists are welcomed to perform their poetry, songs, music, or written word with poet Deborah Priestly in the homey atmosphere of Out of the Blue Gallery. 8 p.m. sign-up, Out of the Blue Gallery, 106 Prospect St., Cambridge. (JW)

sun, oct 5

MUSIC | R.E.M.

With such classic singles as “Man On The Moon” and “It’s The End Of The World As We Know It,” it’s not surprising that R.E.M. has remained a student staple for over 15 years. Expect more of their signature folksy guitar sound at this concert, which renowned singer-songwriter Pete Yorn is opening. 7 p.m. $28.50-$65.  Tweeter Center, 885 South Main St., Mansfield. (TIH)

MUSIC | Rainer Maria

With their name taken from the German poet Rainer Maria Rilke, these Wisconsin indie rockers first scored with their critically acclaimed first album “Past Worn Searching.” 8 p.m. $12; 18+.  The Middle East Downstairs, 472 Massachusetts Ave. (TIH)

READINGS | Coritual Word Art Series

This multifaceted event is dedicated to the preservation and collaboration of the written and spoken arts. Also open to dancers and musicians, with live interviews with artists about their work, motivation, and future projects. 7 p.m. $7. Zeitgeist Gallery, 1353 Cambridge St. (WBP)

MISC | Going to Israel & Palestine

For anyone whose interest in the Middle East goes beyond politics, “Going to Israel & Palestine” promises to be an eye-opening event, combining Palestinian-Israeli food, music, poetry, dance, discussions, art, and more. Noon. Free. 5 Longfellow Park, Cambridge. (WBP)

DANCE | Shiv-Shakti

If years of ballet shows and jazz tap performances have left you seeking new dance thrills, these exotic and beautiful classical Indian dances, presented by the Triveni School of Dance, will delight you no end.  2 p.m. Free. MIT Kresge Auditorium, 48 Mass. Ave. (TIH)

weds, oct 8

FILM | Open Film Screening