HOW TO GET AWAY WITH MURDER
The University of Utah's Department of Theatre explores true political theatre with the play Self Defense, or Death of Some Salesmen. Besides being good theater, the play sparks discussion and generates awareness about domestic violence, abuse and deviant behavior. The play explores the story of a hitchhiking highway prostitute who is turned into a nationwide celebrity when she is arrested for the murder of seven men. It's inspired by the true story of Aileen Wuornos, a Florida serial killer who was executed in 2002. Experts will conduct a post-performance panel discussion on Oct. 22. Mature audiences only. University of Utah, Studio 115, Performing Arts Building, 240 S. 1500 East, 801-581-7100, Friday-Sunday, Oct. 21-23 & Thursday-Sunday, Oct. 27-30, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 29-30, 2 p.m., $8.50-$18, Tickets.Utah.edu
PARTY to Cure PTSD
Want to help a veteran in need, a veteran who might be considering suicide? The White Party is an opportunity to learn about the realities of post-traumatic stress disorder treatment and how Vets Care 4 Vets is working for viable solutions. Your attendance and donations can help prevent the more than 20 veterans each day commit suicide due to PTSD. Ticket price includes includes wine, beer, cocktails and dinner from the award-winning chefs at Cucina Toscana. Activities include dancing, a silent auction and a virtual reality demonstration. Cucina Toscana, 282 S. 300 West, 801-328-3463, Saturday, Oct. 22, 7 p.m.-midnight, $49.95 plus fees, VetsCare4Vets.org
MYSTERY BRUNCH
Was it Mrs. Peacock? If you're up for a whodunit this Halloween season, the Salt Lake Soroptimist Club has one for you. Its Murder Mystery Theater Fundraiser is 1940s-themed, so dress accordingly. You are a gangster or dame employed by the "boss" who's retiring. Who will be his successor? The brunch benefits the Single Moms' Breakfast with Santa program, which helps single mothers working to improve their ability to support their families. The project supports 150 mothers and 350 children annually. Café Madrid, 5244 S. Highland Drive, Holladay, 801-916-4836, pre-register by Oct. 20 to reserve a spot, Sunday, Oct. 23, 11:30 a.m., $100 minimum donation for ticket, SISLC.org