Free things to do this week ft. In Camera, Potluck BBQ + more

David Gledhill and Nicholas Royle at Anthony Burgess Foundation
In Camera is a new book by artist David Gledhill and writer Nicholas Royle taht tackles the pressing issue of surveillance. Gledhill invited Royle to contribute short fiction pieces to accompany his paintings, which drew their inspiration from a trove of family photos Gledhill rescued from Stasi-era East Germany. In this talk at the Burgess Foundation, they’ll be running through the book and talking about their inspiration. There’ll also be an opportunity to pick up a fresh copy of the volume.
Tue 3 May, International Anthony Burgess Foundation, 3 Cambridge Street, Manchester M1 5BY, 7pm, www.eventbrite.com 

New Open Mic at Odd Bar (pictured)
For the month of May, Odd Bar have branched out into this new night: An open mic. Before you get all clammy imagining a string of amateurs stinking up your Tuesday evening, we can reassure you that this night is in the capable hands of local musician Franco and the Dreadnought, fresh from a year working and recording in LA. He’s bringing some guests along and this first night including Courteeners support Ryan Jarvis and local scene veteran Tom Buckley. There’ll also be open mic slots, because everyone’s got to start somewhere.
Tue 3 May, Odd Bar, 30-32 Thomas Street, Manchester M4 1ER, 8pm – 11pm, www.oddbar.co.uk 

Potluck BBQ at Islington Mill
The sun is starting to shine (sort of) as we slip into BBQ season and Islington Mill are jumping in with both feet, interrupting their regular schedule of pot luck dinners to bring a flame-grilled special. It’s free entry, but if you’re interested in taking part you’ve got to bring something for the dinner. Something to chuck on the grill? Potato salad? The choice is yours.
Wed 4 May, Islington Mill, 1 James Street, Salford M3 5HW, 6pm – 9pm, www.islingtonmill.com

Cinnamon Press Book Launch at Portico Library
On Thursday, the Portico Library plays host to this triple book launch organised by publishers Cinnamon Press. Equinox by Sheila Wild, Painting the Spiral by Anne Caldwell and Going for Broke by Jo Howard are the three titles being pushed out this evening – the first two are poetry collections, the latter a coming-of-age novel. The three authors will be reading from their new works and copies will be available to purchase.
Thu 5 May, Portico Library, 57 Mosley Street, Manchester M2 3HY, 7pm, www.eventbrite.co.uk