5 Things to Do This Week: May 13-17

By Caitlin Nolan and Amy Sara Clark

Monday 

Grab the mic. The Rooftop Gangstas Open Mic touches down at the Branded Saloon tonight, where all artists get 6-7 minutes of stage time to showcase their talents, observations and energies. Head to the back room of the Branded Saloon, located at 603 Vanderbilt Ave., at 7:30 p.m. Free.

Tuesday

Take up Tai Chi. Learn Tai Chi fundamentals and a short beginner form in this ongoing weekly class. If you've been thinking about Tai Chi, this is a great way to get started. No previous experience required. Brooklyn Arts Exchange, 421 5th Ave., 7:30 p.m.
 
Wednesday

Encourage the up-and-coming. Heard to Launchpad for the monthly  Renegade Reading Series, where emerging writers share their work. Plus there's wine, cupcakes and your old and soon-to-be friends. LaunchPad, 721 Franklin Ave. 8 p.m. $5 donation suggested. 


Thursday

Catch a (local) film. The Art of Brooklyn Film Festival, a showcase of  emerging Brooklyn-born, Brooklyn-based and Brooklyn-centric filmmakers, began Wednesday  and will run through Sunday. St. Francis College, 180 Remsen St., $10..

Friday

Explore the park. Head to Nature on the Go, where a naturalist will lead children and families around the Prospect Park Audubon Center to explore what’s around the park. To get to the center, enter park at Lincoln Road and Ocean, 1–2 p.m., free.