‘Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am’
In mourning the recent loss of the great writer, Proctors has extended the screening run of “Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am.” Follow along as the legendary storyteller examines her life, her works and the powerful themes she has confronted throughout her literary career. From book tours with Muhammad Ali in the ‘70s to working in the writing room with Angela Davis, the writer explores race in America and the human condition. If you miss out today, catch the film again at 7 PM on Friday, Aug. 16.
@ Proctors, Schenectady | 3 PM, 6:30 PM | $9 general admission, $6 students and seniors

Rockin’ on the River: Kiss the Sky – Jimi Hendrix Tribute, Soul Sky
Fronted by virtuoso guitarist and former Columbia recording artist, Jimy Bleu, Kiss the Sky gets that spot-on look and sound of both The Experience and The Band of Gypsys. Local opener Soul Sky is a blues/jam band for your body and soul.
@ Riverfront Park, Troy | 5 PM | Free

Salt-N-Peppa 
The original female rap crew will bring all their hits “Push It,” “Tramp,” “Shake Your Thang,” “Shoop” and “Whatta Man” to the Empire State Plaza. You’re going to bring your energy. Photo: David Burke
@ Empire State Plaza, Albany | 5:30 PM | Free

Improv Essentials 
“Yes, and…” Kick off this four-class monthly course focused on core improv basics. Get out of your comfort zone and celebrate those failures. Using interactive exercises, the practice will help–outside of developing your stage presence– to build listening and communication skills, heighten your awareness and learn how to be more playful, spontaneous and flexible. (No need to “be funny” or have a bunch of celebrity impressions tucked away. Trust yourself!) 
@ Mopco Improv Theatre, Schenectady | 7 PM | $100

Open Mic – Multidisciplinary Performances
Every second Wednesday of the month, bring your instruments, sheet music, poems, monologues, performance art or whatever you’d like to bring to the stage. CM has mics, a piano and whatever you need to plug in so you can show your skills and share your art. 
@ CM School of Fine Arts, Clifton Park | 7:30 PM | Free

Open Mic with featured poet Perry S. Nicholas
Formerly held at Arthur’s Market, this poetry open mic series hosted by Jackie Craven and friends offers writers a friendly, supportive space to share their work. Make sure to arrive a few minutes early to sign up for the open mic. Bring one or two short poems or one page of prose to share or sit back and listen to new works. This week, Buffalo poet Perry S. Nicholas shares some prose. Coffee, tea and hot chocolate are available with donation. 
@ C.R.E.A.T.E. Community Studios, Schenectady | 7:30 PM | Free, donations accepted