KNOW WHEN TO HOLD 'EM: Play for your spot at the 2009 World Series of Poker in Las Vegas at the "Charity Poker Championship" hosted by the Horseshoe Casino tonight. The event, which takes place at the River East Art Center, also includes unlimited barbecue from Sweet Baby Ray's, a top-shelf open bar and a Nintendo Wii lounge. Proceeds benefit Children's Oncology Services. Registration begins at 5PM, tournament starts at 6PM; $250 entry fee for players, $50 for spectators.
WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE: Flirty Girl Fitness presents "Grrrrrl's Night Out," an event benefitting ALIVE Rescue. Meet pets up for adoption and take an hourlong pole-dancing, striptease or salsa class. The $40 admission fee includes a pink boa (but of course), appetizers and a raffle. 7-10:30PM, $40.
DOG-AND-PONY SHOW: Celebrate Dog & Pony Theatre Company's fifth anniversary tonight at the Hideout with an intriguing entertainment showcase. You'll get to see a staged reading of "Toxoplasmosis," which tells the timeless tale of the meeting between Britney Spears and aliens, as well as live music from beatboxer Yuri Lane, Baby Teeth bandmember Abraham Levitan and DJ Aay Preston-Myint. 8:30PM, $10.
