Gapers Block published from April 22, 2003 to Jan. 1, 2016. The site will remain up in archive form. Please visit Third Coast Review, a new site by several GB alumni.
✶ Thank you for your readership and contributions. ✶
Thursday, October 16
Tonight is the final performance of Barrel of Monkeys’ That’s Weird, Grandma: The Holiday Special at 8:00pm at the Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. The ensemble adapts stories written by children into songs and sketches for your entertainment! Buy your tickets ($12 for adults; $6 for children) online to ensure you get a seat!
Self Publishers of Chicago pay tribute to the Sales Associate with retail-inspired horror stories tonight at Uncharted Books, 2620 N. Milwaukee Ave. Free jug wine at 7:00pm with the show starting at 7:30pm.
Tonight Uncharted Books, 2620 N. Milwaukee Ave., hosts monthly poetry open mic from 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Poets are invited to read 3 poems or for 5 minutes. The show is free, donations requested to pay the featured poets.
Kickapoo Joy Juice and Ramblin' Root Beer present The Incredibly Strange Holiday Spectacular...for the Needy tonight at Emporium Arcade Bar, 1366 N. Milwaukee Ave. The evening will feature America's Funnyman, Neil Hamburger; Everything Is Terrible's Holiday Humbug video show; pin-up Masuimi Max with the Ghost of Christmas Past, Present and Future; Maya Sinstress and Mark the Knife, Celine Neon and more. Troma Films' Sgt. Kabukiman NYPD emcees. Plus, free Kickapoo Joy Juice and Ramblin' Root Beer for everyone, and drink specials at the bar. Tickets are $20 -- or free if you donate a new, unwrapped toy at Taco In a Bag, 4603 N. Lincoln Ave. Doors open at 7:30pm. 21+
Two actors and a fiddle player will perform a staged reading of Beowulf & Grendel, adapted from the Old English epic, tonight at Chief O'Neill's Pub & Restaurant, 3471 N. Elston. Chicago author June Skinner Sawyers wrote the adaptation. Tickets are $15, available at the door; cash or check, please. Read our preview in A/C.
The Hideout presents a live performance of everyone's favorite Muppet TV special, Emmet Otter's Jugband Christmas, with live performance of the songs by local musicians. Show starts at 6:00pm. Full details and advance tickets available at the Hideout site. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Live comedy acts by some of Chicago's most promising artists will combine digital and physical forms tonight at the Mission Theater at iO Improv, 1501 N. Kingsbury. Performances will include poetry, magic, dance, music, video, improv and sketch. Metaverse, a multimedia variety show, will also include a demo by Cubicle Ninja, a Chicago virtual reality company. Audience members will be invited to try one one of three VR rigs after the show. Tickets for $5 can be purchased online, at the box office or by calling 312-929-2401.
Lies! Fiction Reading December is tonight at 8:00pm at Cafe Mustache, 2313 N. Milwaukee Ave. Hear Suzanne Scanlon, Kathleen Rooney, Cris Mazza, and Christopher Grimes. Facebook event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/772492786211313/.
WildClaw Theatre presents Deathscribe, their annual radio horror story competition, happening tonight at 8:00pm at Mayne Stage (1328 W. Morse). See the event page for details and advance tickets.
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, is back tonight at Mayne Stage in Rogers Park. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Beauty" from Mandy Aguilar, Robert Cornelius, Sarah Follmer, Dennis Frymire,
Maggie Jenkins, Carly Oishi, Jeremy Owens, Catharine Savage, and Julie Starbird . Doors open at 6:30pm and stories start at 7:30pm at Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave.Tickets are $15 online. There is no better way to celebrate Thanksgiving!
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, is back tonight at Mayne Stage in Rogers Park. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Beauty" from Kathleen Gibson, Clayton Guse, Kevin Lambert, Jeremy Owens, Adam Polak, Steven Strafford, and Malic White. Doors open at 6:30pm and stories start at 7:30pm at Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave. Tickets are $15 online. There is no better way to celebrate Thanksgiving!
You, Me, Them, Everybody celebrates its sixth anniversary with a live show at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. Cohosted by Brandon Wetherbee and Esmeralda Leon, guest performers include Stephanie Hasz, Goodrich Gevaart, The Puterbaugh Sisters, The k.i.d. and Jeremy Tromburg. Tickets are $6 in advance, $10 at the door, which opens at 7pm (show's at 8). 21+
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, is back tonight at Mayne Stage in Rogers Park. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Beauty" from Brooke Allen, Lily Be, Eileen Dougharty, Keith Ecker, Kate Harding, Jeremy Owens, Karen Shimmin, Megan Stielstra, and Natasha Tsoutsouris. Doors open at 6:30pm and stories start at 7:30pm at Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave.Tickets are $15 online. There is no better way to celebrate Thanksgiving!
Tonight at 6:30pm at the Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior St., celebrate the September, October, and November 2015 issues of Poetry magazine with performances, readings, music, and refreshments. Magazine issues will be available. This event is free!
This show, "50 States of Gay": Let Freedom (Cock)Ring!, will premiere at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W Newport Ave at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 ($10 for students) and can be purchased by calling (773) 270-3440 or online here.
Not quite upon a "midnight dreary," actors from Lifeline Theatre bring Edgar Allan Poe's chilling stories and poetry to life at Clarke House Museum, 1827 S. Indiana Ave. at 5:00pm and 8:00pm. Make your pre-paid reservation ($25 per person) by calling 312-326-1480.
Pop-Up Magazine stops in Chicago at Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave. tonight at 7:30pm. The line-up includes photographer Matt Black, Oscar-nominated director Sam Green, WBEZ radio reporter Linda Lutton, plus local guests for an all-ages performance! Tickets range from $25-$47 and can be purchased on Pop-Up Magazine's website.
This show 50 States of Gay: Let Freedom (Cock)Ring!, will premiere at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W. Newport Ave., at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 ($10 for students) and can be purchased by calling 773-270-3440 or online here.
Gapers Block presents 20x2 Chicago, a show in which 20 people from all different walks of creative life -- writers, musicians, filmmakers, web geeks and other bon vivants -- get two minutes each to answer the question of the day in whatever way they like. The results can be as varied as the emotions and reactions they evoke. This edition's question is "When did you know?" The lineup includes Gaylon Alcaraz, James Allenspach, Tim Barnes, Demetrio Cardona-Maguidad, Danette Chavez, Eamon Daly, Elizabeth Gomez, Felix Jung, Britt Julious, Amy Karatz, Rose Lannin, Sophia Madana, Parker Molloy, Dawn Xiana Moon, John Morrison, E.Oks (Evan Okun), Jenni Prokopy, Ron Slattery, Shawn Smith and Amy Sumpter; Andrew Huff hosts. The show is tonight at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave. Tickets are $10 online or at the door. Doors open at 6:30pm, show's at 7pm. All ages.
This show, "50 States of Gay": Let Freedom (Cock)Ring!, will premiere at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W Newport Ave at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 ($10 for students) and can be purchased by calling (773) 270-3440 or online here.
Michelle L'Amour's Belles and Whistles Burlesque Revue is at City Winery, 1200 W. Randolph St., tonight, featuring Brooklyn Britches, Lady Ginger, Lily Bloom, Charlie Scarlet and the return of Frenchie Kiss -- plus a special guest appearance by Burlesque Hall of Famer Jett Adore and the premiere of a new dance by Michelle L'Amour. Emceed by Sammy the Tramp. Doors open at 11pm, show starts at 11:30. Tickets are $20, $25 for VIP seating. 21+
Eileen Tull & Liz Baudler co-curate and host this monthly performance salon at Women & Children First Bookstore (5233 N. Clark), featuring expressions of queerness, gender and feminism. Tonight's show features musical duo Paper Crane Rain and performance artist Katherine Chronis and an open mic. Doors open at 7pm and admission is $7 to $10 which benefits the performers and the Women's Voices Fund. BYOB
This show, "50 States of Gay": Let Freedom (Cock)Ring!, will premiere at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W Newport Ave at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 ($10 for students) and can be purchased by calling (773) 270-3440 or online here.
Come for an inside look at this week's Theatre Thursdays for The Cheats. Complimentary wine and beer with cast members to learn about the process of a theatre production and after-production discussion and reception for only $20! Use code THTH to save $5 at checkout.
The Amazing Acro-Cats perform for four nights at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St. Watch the cats do a variety of circus tricks, play music and more. Tonight's performances are at 5 and 8pm. Tickets are $22, or $20 for seniors and students.
This show, "50 States of Gay": Let Freedom (Cock)Ring!, will premiere at Under the Gun Theater, 956 W Newport Ave at 7:30pm. Tickets are $15 ($10 for students) and can be purchased by calling (773) 270-3440 or online here.
The Amazing Acro-Cats perform for four nights at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St. Watch the cats do a variety of circus tricks, play music and more. Tonight's performances are at 5 and 8pm. Tickets are $22, or $20 for seniors and students.
The Amazing Acro-Cats perform for four nights at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St. Watch the cats do a variety of circus tricks, play music and more. Tonight's performance is at 8pm. Tickets are $22, or $20 for seniors and students.
The Amazing Acro-Cats perform for four nights at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St. Watch the cats do a variety of circus tricks, play music and more. Tonight's performance is at 8pm. Tickets are $22, or $20 for seniors and students.
Join Plucky Rosenthal, the Jewish Star of Stage...and Stage, for her inaugural one-woman show! Plucky, a quadruple threat (She sings! She plays guitar! She plays ukelele! She tells jokes!), will crack you up and warm your heart. Drawing from a wide range of vintage entertainment styles, The Plucky Rosenthal Show is guaranteed to be a raucous, charming Borscht-Belt-style good time! Limited run. More information here. At the Uptown Underground, 4707 N. Broadway in Chicago. Tickets are $15-$20 and are available here.
The Café Cabaret variety show is tonight at Café Ballou, 939 N Western Ave. Roberta Miles leads Cafe Cabaret, which features a rotating cast of characters. This month's show features music by Clara & the Great Goddamn, storytelling by Holly Beaudry and Don Hall, belly dance by Brywn Johnson, commedia dell'art by Noel Williams, and comedy by Aasia LaShay Bullock, Mona Aburmishan and Allen M. Green. Free. BYOB.
Story Lab Chicago celebrates new stories from fresh storytellers. Tonight Story Lab features: Hallie Rosen, Jordan Blythe, Steve Coombs, Paul Conrad, Sean Ewert, and Anna Besmann! Come to Black Rock Pub & Kitchen, 3614 N. Damen, to hear some great stories. Doors open at 6:30pm, stories start at 7:30pm. Free!
WRITE CLUB Chicago is 3 bouts of 2 writers with 2 opposing ideas presented in 7 minutes each where the audience chooses the winner. Themed "Class Warfare," WRITE CLUB is all the nerdery you could ask for the low price of $10 cash (there is an ATM on the premises) tonight at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia starting at 7pm.
Tonight from 5-9pm, Chelsea Knight will be featuring video and performance work at Aspect/Ratio. The gallery is located at 119 N. Peoria St., 3D.
Eileen Tull & Liz Baudler co-curate and host this monthly performance salon at Women & Children First Bookstore (5233 N. Clark), featuring expressions of queerness, gender and feminism. Tonight's show features comedian and co-founder of the Windy City Rollers Elizabeth Gomez and writer and artist Riva Lehrer. Doors open at 7pm and admission is $7 to $10 which benefits the performers and the Women's Voices Fund. BYOB
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, returns to Mary's Attic. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear funny & touching stories on the theme "Rites of Passage" from Kat Barker, Mike Blumberg, Kristin Davis, Kelly Duff, Jennie Ellman, James Finn Garner, Willy Nast, Jeremy Owens AND Elsa Perez. Doors open at 7:00pm and stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 North Clark. Tickets are $15 online.
Michelle L'Amour presents Wiggle Room All-Stars, a burlesque show featuring L'Amour, Michelle Treyger, Russel Bruner, Marty DeRosa, Ali Clayton and the Chicago Starlets, tonight at the Abbey, 3420 W. Grace St. Comedian Adam Burke hosts. Tickets are $15 general admission, $20 for balcony seating, $25 for main floor seating. Doors open at 9pm, show's at 9:30pm. 21+
The Loop Alliance presents ACTIVATE tonight from 5 to 10pm in Haddock Place Alley, Enter on State Street just north of theWit Hotel. Curated by Missy Perkins, Stuart Hall and Keith Brownlee, ACTIVATE presents Steampunk Journey through Time and Space, featuring fire installations and fire spinners, aerial acrobatics, live body painting, tarot cards, a steampunk-inspired fashion show featuring Iridium Clothing Co., and art by more than two dozen artists. There's an afterparty on the roof of theWit, 201 N. State St., beginning at 10pm. Admission is free; RSVP on Do312 for a free drink ticket.
40 of Chicago's best barbacks compete in Fernet-Branca's Barback Games. A gladiator stye battle to crown Chicago's best barback. Featuring DJs: Matt Roan and Dave Mata (of Soul Summit). 21 and over. Free. 8:00 pm. Thalia Hall 1807 S. Allport St.
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, returns to Mary's Attic. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear funny & touching stories on the theme "Rites of Passage" from DeeAnn Duli, Jo Gilbride, Adrianne Gunn, Brenna Kearney, Arlene Malinowski, Jeremy Owens, Jennifer Peepas, and Parker Stockman . Doors open at 7:00pm and stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 North Clark. Tickets are $15 online.
The air will be hazy and the mood will be lazy with reggae-rock legends Sublime With Rome in town tonight at First Merit Bank Pavilion on Northerly Island. Doors open at 6:00 pm and you'll get to hear performances from Rebelution, Mickey Avalon, and Pepper before the headliners take the stage. Tickets, which you can purchase here, start at $35. The secondhand high comes free.
Chicago's top dance companies will come together tonight in a performance to benefit Dance for Life, an event held each year to support organizations and dance community professionals managing critical health issues, including HIV/AIDS. The companies participating in the event include: Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, the Joffrey Ballet, Giordano Dance Chicago, River North Dance Chicago, C5, the Chicago Human Rhythm Project, and Same Planet Different World Dance Theater. The funds raised through the event will benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago and The Dancer's Fund. The performance will be held at the Auditorium Theatre, located at 50 E. Congress. Tickets for the performance range from $15-$75.
There will also be a gala reception held prior to the performance at 5pm at the Hilton Chicago, located at 720 S. Michigan. Admission to the gala ranges from $250-$600, and includes prime seating at the performance.
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, returns to Mary's Attic. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear funny & touching stories on the theme "Rites of Passage" from Eileen Dougharty, Drew Durfee, Marina Murphy, Karen O'Donnell, Jeremy Owens, Jason Smith, Eileen Tull and Gina Watters. Doors open at 7:00pm and stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 North Clark. Tickets are $15 online.
The Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, in conjunction with Arts + Public Life and Center for the Study of Race, Politics & Culture, will be hosting an event tonight entitled, "Ma(s)king Her" from 7-10pm. The event includes the Honey Pot Performance and a special screening of "Futurewoman". Free and open to the public. The Logan Center is located at 915 E. 60th St.
The Aura Curiatlas Physical Theater will be performing their new piece, DREAM LOGIC, at 7pm tonight. The company combines acrobatics, dance, and theatre to create compelling storytelling through movement. DREAM LOGIC will present a series of short stories fused with comedy, ritual, romance, and struggle. Tickets will be $16 online, $20 at the door, and will be $12 for students and seniors. Links Hall is located at 3111 N. Western.
The Aura Curiatlas Physical Theater will be performing their new piece, DREAM LOGIC, at 7pm tonight. The company combines acrobatics, dance, and theatre to create compelling storytelling through movement. DREAM LOGIC will present a series of short stories fused with comedy, ritual, romance, and struggle. Tickets will be $16 online, $20 at the door, and will be $12 for students and seniors. Links Hall is located at 3111 N. Western.
For one night only at Aloft, 2041 W. Carroll, a circus showcase fundraiser for the Sol family will help raise money to cover the medical costs incurred from treatments for lymphoma. Eat fancy-appetizers, buy one-of-a-kind art and delight in various performances, including one from Hanna and Josef Sol to their parents. MC Mary Beth Brennan (of Chicago's The Baby Magic and Girls Rock! Chicago) will host, featuring duo trapeze by Skye E. Geerts and Greta Humphrey, dance by Courtney Prokopas, Juggling Pogo-a-Go-Go by Chloe Zabicki and Kelly McDowell, aerial silks by Jensine Fitzgibbons, duo trapeze and clown acts by Pete Gilbert and Carmen J. Kingsley, single-point trapeze work by Chloe, lyra by Kristi Taff and a unique trapeze act by Whitni Battle. Tickets are $20 for a chair, $15 for a picnic-style floor seat. There will be no sales at the door. Doors open at 5pm, show starts at 6pm.
The circus students of The Actors Gymnasium will perform their Summer Intensive Performance Showcase today and Sunday, featuring two completely unique shows. The Actors Gymnasium shows are lively, full of themes, costumes and innovative work by the circus artists. Both shows are directed by Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi.The Intensive II is Saturday at 4:30 and 7:30pm, and Intensive I is Sunday at 1 and 4pm. Tickets can be purchased online for $15.The Actors Gymnasium is located at Noyes Cultural Arts Center 927 Noyes St. in Evanston.
The Aura Curiatlas Physical Theater will be performing their new piece, DREAM LOGIC, at 7pm tonight. The company combines acrobatics, dance, and theatre to create compelling storytelling through movement. DREAM LOGIC will present a series of short stories fused with comedy, ritual, romance, and struggle. Tickets will be $16 online, $20 at the door, and will be $12 for students and seniors. Links Hall is located at 3111 N. Western.
Chicago Summer Opera mounts a full production, with orchestra, of A Midsummer Night's Dream tonight at Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave., today at 7:30pm. Tickets are $20. Doors open at 6:30pm.
Chicago Summer Opera mounts a full production, with orchestra, of A Midsummer Night's Dream tonight at Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave., today at 2pm. Tickets are $20. Doors open at 1pm.
If you like your country music old-school, the place to be tonight is Whiskey Myers' show at Joe's on Weed Street (940 W. Weed Street). Doors open at 10 and the blistering Skynyrd-esque southern rock starts at 11. You can get general admission tickets for $10 here.
Mortified!, the show of embarrassing personal moments, returns to Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 7pm. The show features pieces by Paula Ann Lopez, Max Wastler, Nora Targonski-O'Brien, Kimball Allen, and Brook Allen. Hosted by Shay DeGrandis. Tickets are $20. Doors open at 6pm. 21+
Vaudeo Motion II, a multidisciplinary event featuring interactive dance, music, and video, will be performed tonight at 9pm at High Concept Labs, located at 2233 S Throop. Ben Baker-Smith, Evan Kuhl, and Nora Sharp comprise the trio Vaudeo Motion, and use feedback loops of audio, video, and motion signals in their performance to transform spaces into a "unified system." See the show tonight yourself -- tickets are only $5.
The US Air Guitar Chicago Regionals are tonight at the Double Door, 1551 N. Damen Ave., at 8pm. See guitar heroes pick, shred and finger the air as they compete to represent Chicago in the national championships, in hopes of going on to Finland and conquering the world. Past World Champion Nordic Thunder performs at halftime. Tickets are $15. 21+
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is hosting Danny Volk's on-going project, "Made-Up with Danny Volk" today at 3pm. While interviewing artists, Danny simultaneously allows them to do his makeup. For this particular interview, Faheem Majeed will discuss his life and art while applying makeup to the host. The event is free.
Today at 3pm, Terri Kapsalis and Anne Elizabeth Moore perform Not to Be Taken, a work of artistic action as part of Ellen Rothenberg's exhibition elsetime at Sector 2337, 2337 N. Milwaukee Ave. Admission is free.
Amy Schumer, Judd Apatow, and several other hilarious fiends will be performing tonight at 7:30pm at the Harris Theater, located at 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $100, and the show's proceeds will benefit the local groups Youth Guidance and YMCA Chicago's Urban Warriors.
The National Circus of Puerto Rico will be in Chicago performing several shows that fuse circus and theater while crossing cultures with their creative and joyful tales! Shows are June 18th & 21st at 7pm at Instituto Cervantes located at 31 West Ohio Street. Tickets are $10, kids 5 and under are free. More details and tickets are available on Facebook.
TThe Chicago Contemporary Circus Festival kicks off its truly international festival with the Magmanus Show, a couple of guys from Sweden doing street circus in style. They promise some Bollywood juggling, teeterboard stunts, dancing, comedy, interacting with the crowd and even a g-string finale. You can see it all for free at Wrigley Square in Millennium Park today from 1 to 2pm. Pray for good weather! Free.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago debuts their second program solely comprised of pieces created by Resident Choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo. Cerrudo became the company's first Resident Choreographer in 2009, and has since choreographed 13 pieces with Hubbard Street. The Series will feature a wide range of Cerrudo's pieces, including the world premiere of his 14th piece created for the Company. Today's show starts at 3pm at the Harris Theater at 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $25-94.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago debuts their second program solely comprised of pieces created by Resident Choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo. Cerrudo became the company's first Resident Choreographer in 2009, and has since choreographed 13 pieces with Hubbard Street. The Series will feature a wide range of Cerrudo's pieces, including the world premiere of his 14th piece created for the Company. Tonight's show starts at 8pm at the Harris Theater at 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $30-99.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago debuts their second program solely comprised of pieces created by Resident Choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo. Cerrudo became the company's first Resident Choreographer in 2009, and has since choreographed 13 pieces with Hubbard Street. The Series will feature a wide range of Cerrudo's pieces, including the world premiere of his 14th piece created for the Company. Tonight's show starts at 8pm at the Harris Theater at 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $25-77.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago debuts their second program solely comprised of pieces created by Resident Choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo. Cerrudo became the company's first Resident Choreographer in 2009, and has since choreographed 13 pieces with Hubbard Street. The Series will feature a wide range of Cerrudo's pieces, including the world premiere of his 14th piece created for the Company. Tonight's show starts at 7:30pm at the Harris Theater at 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $25-94.
To celebrate what would have been Saul Bellow's 100th birthday, the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame has brought several large names together tonight to honor the Nobel Prize winner. Scott Turow will be discussing Bellow's legacy and impact on the Chicago literary scene. The Vitalist Theatre will also recognize Bellow by performing a scene from Joanne Koch's adaptation of The Silver Dish, as well as readings from other classics.
The event starts at 6pm in the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium. Admission is free, but seating is limited to 385, and is first come first served. The library is located at 400 S. State St.
Here, Chicago is a show designed to bring Chicagoans of all walks of life together to find some common ground and share some good grub. The event will begin with a potluck dinner at 7:30 pm. There will then be a performance at 8pm featuring true stories from some major Chicago influencers, including former Obama Campaign Specialist Ashwin Chugh, Educator and Violence Prevention Expert Karli Johnson, Moth Grand Slam Winner Lily Be, and Variety Show Producer Danny Black.There will also be five open-mic spots that anyone can use to share a story. Admission to the event is $9, or $1 if you bring a dish to share. The Theater Wit is located at 1229 W. Belmont.
From 8pm until 12am, Elastic Arts, is inviting the public to view Victoria Martinez's evolving installation. Following this exhibition, Martinez will exhibit at the Comfort Station in July and create site-specific sculptures with teenagers from the Logan Square Neighborhood Association. Elastic Arts in located at 3429 W Diversey Ave #208. The exhibition is on view until August 30th.
The Ballet Chicago Studio Company performs a new program today at 2pm and 7:30pm. The program is composed of five works, including a world premiere by Resident Choreographer Ted Seymour. Illuminate will be performed at the Harris Theater, located at 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $25-50.
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include DJ Taye (Teklife), Gel Set and Khaki Blazer. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
The Museum of Contemporary Art presents Notes on Empty Chairs, a series of interactive performances by Chicago-based artist Kirsten Leenaars exploring themes of empathy, loss, and remembrance. Tonight's performance is from 6 to 7pm in the MCA Studio, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Free with museum admission.
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Quicksails. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
Anti-consumerism activist Reverend Billy and The Stop Shopping Choir brings his "Faster! Monsanto Die! Die!" tour to the Preston Bradley Center, 941 W. Lawrence Ave., tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $8 in advance, $12 at the door ($10 for students and seniors). Presented by the Guild Literary Complex and the Peoples Church of Chicago.
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include ONO, Mind Over Mirrors, Potions and TalSounds. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Tim Kinsella, Matt Lux, Alex Ingilzian, Adam Vida, Ben Lamar Guy, Will Faber, Leroy Bach and Ben Boye. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
The Museum of Contemporary Art presents Notes on Empty Chairs, a series of interactive performances by Chicago-based artist Kirsten Leenaars exploring themes of empathy, loss, and remembrance. Tonight's performance is from 6 to 7pm in the MCA Studio, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Free with museum admission.
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Ed Schrader's Music Beat, Maurice [Paper Mice] and Kyle Kaos. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
Manifest Urban Art Festival is an all-day event (noon to 9pm) hosted by Columbia College and its students. With live performances, gallery exhibitions, fashion shows, original game design and literary readings, it's a don't-miss event. If you can't make the free event in the South Loop, log into FrequencyTV for exciting all day coverage!
More than 20 artists will be displaying their circus and burlesque prowess tonight at Untitled, 111th W. Kinzie St., as a fundraiser for the 2nd annual Chicago Contemporary Circus Festival. Live music by Lowdown Brass Band and a DJ at the all night dance party following the show. Doors open at 7pm, show begins at 9pm. Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 at the door.
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Diamond Terrifyer and Patrick Higgins. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Zs and Greg Fox. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Chris Crack and New Deal Crew, Mic Terror, Palace Sound and DJ Phil. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
The You Are Here Festival, aka The Maze, makes its Chicago debut at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., May 7-24. The festival takes place inside a maze, immersing attendees in the experience that includes light shows, art installations, audio experiments and live performances. Tonight's performers include Bitney / Bach / Hatwich and Bruce Lamont. The fest runs from 9pm to midnight. Tickets are $10. 21+
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, is back tonight in its new home at Mayne Stage. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Appetite" from Blair Chavis, Randall Colburn, Shannon Cason, Jennie Ellman, Mary Lorenz, Jeremy Owens, Adam Polak, and Jeremy Schaefer. Doors open at 6:30pm and stories start at 7:30pm at Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave.Tickets are $15 online. There is no better way to celebrate spring!.
The S+S Project presents Currency Exchange, an evening of video, performance and hustlin'. RSVP for the address at withinthebody@gmail.com. Video works by Jaycee Conaway, Ben McCoy, Sofia Moreno, Project Rage Queen and many more. Performances by Kiam Marcelo Juno, Isabelle Mcguire, La Spacer and many more as well. The evening begins at 7pm.
The 160th anniversary of the Lager Beer Riot, Chicago's first incident of civil unrest, will be celebrated tonight with a dodgeball reenactment and beer tasting to benefit Benton House, 3052 S. Gratten Ave. The Lager Beer Riot, protesting a new "law and order" city council, took place at the Clark Street bridge on April 21, 1855. The event will include play-by-play broadcasting, historical referees, live music, and beer from a dozen Chicago breweries. Tickets start at $30, which gets you admission to the Lager Beer Riot and 10 beer tickets for samplings from Half Acre, Revolution, and Marz Community Brewing (among many others -- well, 14), a commemorative glass, and a game of dodgeball with WBEZ's "Strange Brews" podcasters Alison Cuddy and Andrew Gill providing color commentary. Proceeds will benefit Benton House, the historic Bridgeport community center. Telephone 773-927-6420 for more info. The event is part of Version Festival 15.
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, is back tonight in its new home at Mayne Stage. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Appetite" from Brooke Allen, Molly Brennan, Erin Diamond, Amanda Drenth, Katie Liesener, Ruth McCormack, and Jeremy Owens. Doors open at 6:30pm and stories start at 7:30pm at Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave.Tickets are $15 online. There is no better way to celebrate spring!
Paola Coletto presents an evening of: Storytelling, Melodrama, Tragedy, Bouffon, Grotesque character & Clowning featuring her second year students (from 5 nations) at the School for Theater Creators this coming Saturday at MSA & Circus Arts at 1934 N. Campbell Avenue. The will be a Q&A session with the students and faculty about The School and its new nine month program which will start in September 2015. TO RSVP and reserve tickets email rsvptheschool@paolacoletto.com. Space is limited.
Defibrillator Gallery is presenting, a performance convergence tonight from 7-10PM. Five performance artists will be featured this evening at 1463 W. Chicago Ave. *Please bring an object that reminds you of your mother.
Turkish artist, Deniz Gül, is presenting 5 Person Bufet this evening at 6:30 PM. The event is a collaborative experimental music performance which is free and open to the public. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Avenue.
Young Chicago Authors holds the team finals for its annual Louder than a Bomb youth poetry festival tonight at the Arie Crown Theater, 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr., tonight at 6pm. In addition to the teams competing for top honors, Chance the Rapper will be the guest performer at halftime. Tickets are $20, or $10 for students with ID.
Funny Ha-Ha returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight with "Hope Springs Eternal," featuring stories from Tyler Snodgrass, Kim Bellware, Samantha Irby, Carly Oishi and Rebecca Hanson, films by Steve Delahoyde and host Claire Zulkey. The show is at 6:30pm, and it'll cost you $10 at the door. 21+
Megon McDonough and Susan O'Halloran will celebrate St. Patrick's Day with "Pot of Gold: Irish Stories and Songs from Two of Chicago's Own" tonight at SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston. Doors at 6pm. Singer-songwriter McDonough and story artist O'Halloran will weave together stories and songs about the pleasures and pitfalls of being raised Irish-American. The concert will include classics such as "Danny Boy" as well as original tunes. Tickets are $17-32 and can be purchased online or by calling Ticketweb at 866-468-3401. For more info, call SPACE at 847-492-8860.
The Pentagon Theater in The Flat Iron Arts Building presents Faces of Eurydice, a performance piece by the CUBE Ensemble. Dance, opera and theater will be retelling the myth of Orpheus with choreographic work by Hope Goldman and music by Hope Littwin. Faces of Eurydice will premiere from March 12 at 7:30PM until March 21 at 9:30PM. Resale Tickets are $25 admission; $10 industry/student; Regular Tickets are $35 admission; $15 industry/student. The Flat Iron Arts Building is located at 1575 N Milwaukee Ave.
The Apollo Chorus will perform Lauridsen's Lux Aeterna and Schubert's Mass in A-flat in partnership with Renovo String Orchestra at 7:30 tonight at the U of C Rockefeller Chapel, 5850 S. Woodlawn Ave. Music director Dr. Stephen Alltop will give a pre-concert talk at 6:45pm. Tickets are $30 and $10 for students. Music teachers can receive free tickets by presenting their school ID at the box office. Tickets can be bought online or by calling 312-427-5620.
Tonight at 6PM, FLATSstudio located at 1050 West Wilson Avenue, will be presenting their first exhibition of 2015 with Underground and Unseen. The launch of VAM, a Chicago based magazine, is celebrating the night in conjunction with FLATS. Beverages will be provided by KOVAL Distillery and Lakeshore Beverage. Artists include: Krista O'Meara, Todd Diederich, Alison Van Pelt, Misha Khokhlov, Ali6, AntiBodyCorp, and Owen Bones. Don't forget to RSVP by Thursday, February 19th to rsvp@flatschicago.com; free and open to the public.
Chicago Her HRC presents Va-Va-Vaudeville at Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave., tonight, featuring burlesque dancers, comedians, jugglers, magicians, musicians, sword swallowers, painted ladies, belly dancers and more. Gwen La Roka hosts. Doors open at 6pm for VIPs, 6:30pm general admission; show starts at 7pm. Tickets are $20-35. 21+
Michelle L'Amour's Big SEXY Show runs Friday and tonight at City Winery, 1200 W. Randolph St. The show features modern burlesque, live music and variety acts. Doors open tonight at 11pm, show's at 11:30pm. General admission tickets are $30; VIP tickets are $60 and include a pre-show cocktail party from 9 to 10pm at the Everleigh Social Club, 939 W. Randolph St. 21+
Michelle L'Amour's Big SEXY Show runs tonight and Saturday at City Winery, 1200 W. Randolph St. The show features modern burlesque, live music and variety acts. Doors open tonight at 11pm, show's at 11:30pm. General admission tickets are $30; VIP tickets are $60 and include a pre-show cocktail party from 9 to 10pm at the Everleigh Social Club, 939 W. Randolph St. 21+
You're Being Ridiculous is back this month with an all-new cabaret version of their long running story telling show. The show, musically directed by Allison Hendrix, features stories AND SONGS exploring LOVE from Allison Hendrix, Bill Howes, Jeremy Owens and Allison Shoemaker. The show begins at 8:00pm at Davenport's Piano Bar (1383 N. Milwaukee). Tickets must be reserved online and are $18 with a two drink minimum. There is no better way to end your winter blues.
You're Being Ridiculous is back this month with an all-new cabaret version of their long running story telling show. The show, musically directed by Allison Hendrix, features stories AND SONGS exploring LOVE from Allison Hendrix, Bill Howes, Jeremy Owens and Allison Shoemaker. The show begins at 8:00pm at Davenport's Piano Bar (1383 N. Milwaukee). Tickets must be reserved online and are $18 with a two drink minimum. There is no better way to end your winter blues.
Tonight at 7pm, the Poetry Foundation, 61 W. Superior St., presents "Language Matters with Bob Holman: A Celebration of Mother Tongues," an evening of poetry, film clips and discussion related to Language Matters, a documentary by filmmaker David Grubin and poet Bob Holman exploring the what we lose when a language dies and what it takes to save a language. The event will feature Grubin and Holman as well as poets Peter Cook and Parsino Carlos Peynetsa. A reception will follow. Admission is free, on a first-come, first-served basis.
The 39th annual Do-It-Yourself Messiah is performed Sunday and tonight at the Harris Theater for the Performing Arts, 205 E. Randolph St. Sunday's performance is sold out, but $15 tickets are still available for tonight's 7pm show.
The 39th annual Do-It-Yourself Messiah is performed today and Monday at the Harris Theater for the Performing Arts, 205 E. Randolph St. Today's performance is at 3pm, and $15 tickets are now sold out, but tickets are still available for Monday's 7pm show.
No Media is a realtime performance, media, and improvisational art event held at High Concept Laboratories in Mana Contemporary, 2233 S. Throop St., tonight at 8pm. The event consists of matching random artists who are registered on the No Media website and given ten minutes to perform. Sign up is free and open to all artists.
Schadenfreude brings Ed Bus back to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., for another edition of "53rd Ward: After Dark" tonight at 6:30pm, with special guests comedian Jamie Campbell and journalist Mark Konkol. Tickets are $10. 21+
Full Disclosure Live, the sex-positive variety show, is live at the Whistler, 2421 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight from 8 to 10:30pm. The lineup includes standup by Ali Clayton and David Drake, burlesque by Mo Less, the Laser Comedy Show with Chris J. Fair and more, hosted by Eric Barry and Mary Zee. No cover, 21+
Daviel Shy's The Ladies Almanack is still a work in progress, but throughout the coming year, The Nightingale's Follow Focus program will present excerpts in four installments while giving viewers a peek behind the scenes. The first screening takes place tonight at 7pm, at 1084 N. Milwaukee and will include a presentation from Shy and dramatic readings from the novel. For the $15 ticket price, you'll even get a souvenir: part of a Ladies Almanack tarot deck designed by Jess LeMaster, also to be released gradually over the course of the series.
Michelle L'Amour stars in the All I Want for Christmas Holiday Burlesque Spectacular, hosted by Victoria DeVille and the World Famous Chicago Starlets tonight at the Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave. There are two shows, at 8pm (doors at 7) and 10pm (doors at 9). Tickets to each are $23.
If you see only one psychologically bizarre, and fantastically creepy opera this month, make it Bartok's Bluebeard's Castle tonight at 8:30pm at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport Ave. The one-act opera opens as Bluebeard and his new wife, Judith, arrive at the castle following their elopement. Faced with seven doors, Judith discovers her new husband's dark, horrific past. This visually-arresting opera features acclaimed soloists Andrea Silvestrelli (bass) and Kara Shay Thomson (soprano) in Bartok's gripping score. Francesco Milioto conducts the New Millennium Orchestra. Tickets start at $10.
The Holiday Club (4000 N. Sheridan Rd.) hosts monthly Live Lit show Story Club tonight with featured performers Jen Bosworth, Jared Crum, and James Gordon. This month's theme is Happy Frickin' Holidays. Doors and open-mic sign up are at 7:30 p.m.; the show starts at 8:00 p.m. Though there is no cost to attend, a $10 donation is suggested.
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra presents Pixar In Concert, a performance of songs from the animation studio's beloved films, Nov. 28-30 at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. Today's show is at 3pm, and tickets are $57-165 online or through the box office at 312-294-3000.
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra presents Pixar In Concert, a performance of songs from the animation studio's beloved films, Nov. 28-30 at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. Tonight's show is at 8pm, and tickets are $57-165 online or through the box office at 312-294-3000.
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra presents Pixar In Concert, a performance of songs from the animation studio's beloved films, Nov. 28-30 at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. Tonight's show is at 8pm, and tickets are $57-165 online or through the box office at 312-294-3000.
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, is back tonight in Andersonville. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Confession" from Jim Bennett, Margaret Dunn, Dennis Frymire, Jonathan Mayo, Jeremy Owens, JH Palmer, and Stephanie Sack. Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Tickets are $15 online or at the door. There is no better way to avoid your family.
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, is back tonight in Andersonville. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Confession" from Lily Be, Sarah Hollenbeck, Brenna Kearney, Andrew Marikis, Dana Norris, Jeremy Owens, Megan Stielstra, and James Sweeny. Stories start at 8:00pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.
At 8pm tonight, LaTasha N. Nevada Diggs will bring words, sounds, and video in her performance at the Renaissance Society, 5811 S. Ellis Ave. in Hyde Park. The event is associated and programmed through the Center for the Study of Race, Politics & Culture at the University of Chicago. Free.
Gapers Block presents 20x2 Chicago ! Come to Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave., tonight to see 20 people from all different walks of creative life -- writers, musicians, filmmakers, web geeks and other bon vivants -- take two minutes each to answer the question of the day. The results can be as varied as the emotions and reactions they evoke. This edition's question is "How do you do?" The featured speakers this time around are Brandy Agerbeck, Gaylon Alcaraz, Bobby Biedrzycki, Jayson Brooks, Jasmine Davila, Melissa Du Prey, Mike Ewing, Hannah Gamble, Fuzzy Gerdes, James Gordon, Darryl Holliday, Leah Jones, Felix Jung, Coya Paz, Melissa Pierce, Erica Reid, Monica Reida, Eden Robins, Jack Silverstein and Jeff Solin. GB Publisher Andrew Huff hosts. Tickets are $10 online or at the door. Doors open at 6:30pm, and the show will start at 7pm. RSVP on Facebook. 21+
CHIRP Radio presents the latest in its First Time reading series, First Fight, tonight at Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., at 8pm. Hosted by CHIRP DJ Jenn Sodini, the lineup this time includes rapper ShowYouSuck, writer Ian Belknap, film critic Nathan Rabin, comedian Martin Morrow, storyteller Katie Prout, storyteller Erin Diamond, and CHIRP DJ
Jessi D. As always, the First Time Band will perform covers of songs related to each reader's story. Tickets are $10. 21+
Theater Oobleck presents the latest in their ongoing series Baudelaire in a Box, "Episode 7: King of Rain." Part of an ongoing attempt to translate the French poet's works, the show features performances and music accompanying the translations. The performance runs through October 18 at Charnel House, 3241 W. Fullerton Ave.; full details and advance tickets at the Theater Oobleck site.
Salonathon is back at the Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Ave., tonight at 8pm, showcasing art and performances of all types. No cover, 21+.
The Chicago all-female performance variety revue, Beast Women, kicks off its new season at The Den Theatre, 1333 N. Milwaukee Ave, at 10:30pm. Performers include sword dancers Jeanette Daft & Viktoria, singer Elle Cassaza and storytelling stalwart, Lily Be. Tickets are $20.
It's the final week of the Impress These Apes talent competition at ComedySportz, 929 W. Belmont Ave., at 8pm. Eight contestants compete in various talent challenges each week, attempting to earn points with the judge panel of "hyperintelligent apes from the future." Tonight, see who wins the title of "Least Pitiful Human," plus $500 cash and other goodies. Tickets are $12 online or at the door. 21+
Got 12 hours to spare and a hankering for Sophocles? All Our Tragic is an epic, 12-hour cycle of all 32 surviving Greek tragedies performed by The Hypocrites. 11am-11pm at the Den Theater, 1329 N Milwaukee. $90 (includes snacks). Read our review.
Got twelve hours to spare and a hankering for Sophocles? All Our Tragic is an epic, twelve-hour cycle of all thirty two surviving Greek tragedies performed by The Hypocrites. 11am-11pm at the Den Theater, 1329 N Milwaukee. $90 (includes snacks).
It's week seven of the Impress These Apes talent competition at ComedySportz, 929 W. Belmont Ave., at 8pm. Eight contestants compete in various talent challenges each week, attempting to earn points with the judge panel of "hyperintelligent apes from the future." Tickets are $12 online or at the door. 21+
Circus and theater converge with Aloft's production, Dinner of Our Discontent at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division Street. Directed and conceptualized by Aloft artistic director Shayna Swanson, "Dinner" follows five estranged sisters as they return to the home they grew up in after their parents' sudden deaths. Aloft is a Chicago-based physical performance company dedicated to telling original stories through world-class circus arts. Show runs August 14-24, show times: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 7pm. Tickets are $25 and available at Brown Paper Tickets. For more information visit Aloft Circus Arts or Chopin Theatre.
Ties & Tassles presents Queerpocalypse tonight at Mayne Stage, 1330 W. Morse Ave. See drag, ca mp, burlesque, circus, song and dance performances by an international cast. Tickets are $23. Doors are at 9pm, show's at 10pm. 18+
Circus and theater converge with Aloft's production, Dinner of Our Discontent at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division Street. Directed and conceptualized by Aloft artistic director Shayna Swanson, "Dinner" follows five estranged sisters as they return to the home they grew up in after their parents' sudden deaths. Aloft is a Chicago-based physical performance company dedicated to telling original stories through world-class circus arts. Show runs August 14-24, show times: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 7pm. Tickets are $25 and available at Brown Paper Tickets. For more information visit Aloft Circus Arts or Chopin Theatre.
Circus and theater converge with Aloft's production, Dinner of Our Discontent at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division Street. Directed and conceptualized by Aloft artistic director Shayna Swanson, "Dinner" follows five estranged sisters as they return to the home they grew up in after their parents' sudden deaths. Aloft is a Chicago-based physical performance company dedicated to telling original stories through world-class circus arts. Show runs August 14-24, show times: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 7pm. Tickets are $25 and available at Brown Paper Tickets. For more information visit Aloft Circus Arts or Chopin Theatre.
Circus and theater converge with Aloft's production, Dinner of Our Discontent at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division Street. Directed and conceptualized by Aloft artistic director Shayna Swanson, "Dinner" follows five estranged sisters as they return to the home they grew up in after their parents' sudden deaths. Aloft is a Chicago-based physical performance company dedicated to telling original stories through world-class circus arts. Show runs August 14-24, show times: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 7pm. Tickets are $25 and available at Brown Paper Tickets. For more information visit Aloft Circus Arts or Chopin Theatre.
It's week six of the Impress These Apes talent competition at ComedySportz, 929 W. Belmont Ave., at 8pm. Eight contestants compete in various talent challenges each week, attempting to earn points with the judge panel of "hyperintelligent apes from the future." Tickets are $12 online or at the door. 21+
Circus and theater converge with Aloft's production, Dinner of Our Discontent at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division Street. Directed and conceptualized by Aloft artistic director Shayna Swanson, "Dinner" follows five estranged sisters as they return to the home they grew up in after their parents' sudden deaths. Aloft is a Chicago-based physical performance company dedicated to telling original stories through world-class circus arts. Show runs August 14-24, show times: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 7pm. Tickets are $25 and available at Brown Paper Tickets. For more information visit Aloft Circus Arts or Chopin Theatre.
Circus and theater converge with Aloft's production, Dinner of Our Discontent at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division Street. Directed and conceptualized by Aloft artistic director Shayna Swanson, "Dinner" follows five estranged sisters as they return to the home they grew up in after their parents' sudden deaths. Aloft is a Chicago-based physical performance company dedicated to telling original stories through world-class circus arts. Show runs August 14-24, show times: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 7pm. Tickets are $25 and available at Brown Paper Tickets. For more information visit Aloft Circus Arts or Chopin Theatre.
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, is back tonight in Andersonville. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Fear" from David Allen, Randall Colburn, Kelly Duff, Kestutis Nakas, Jeremy Owens, Allison Shoemaker, and Steven Strafford. Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.
Circus and theater converge with Aloft's production, Dinner of Our Discontent at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division Street. Directed and conceptualized by Aloft artistic director Shayna Swanson, "Dinner" follows five estranged sisters as they return to the home they grew up in after their parents' sudden deaths. Aloft is a Chicago-based physical performance company dedicated to telling original stories through world-class circus arts. Show runs August 14-24, show times: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 7pm. Tickets are $25 and available at Brown Paper Tickets. For more information visit Aloft Circus Arts or Chopin Theatre.
Circus and theater converge with Aloft's production, Dinner of Our Discontent at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St. Directed and conceptualized by Aloft artistic director Shayna Swanson, "Dinner" follows five estranged sisters as they return to the home they grew up in after their parents' sudden deaths. Aloft is a Chicago-based physical performance company dedicated to telling original stories through world-class circus arts. Show runs August 14-24, show times: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 7pm. Tickets are $25 and available at Brown Paper Tickets. For more information visit Aloft Circus Arts or Chopin Theatre.
It's week five of the Impress These Apes talent competition at ComedySportz, 929 W. Belmont Ave., at 8pm. Eight contestants compete in various talent challenges each week, attempting to earn points with the judge panel of "hyperintelligent apes from the future." Tickets are $12 online or at the door. 21+
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, is back tonight in Andersonville. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Fear" from Eileen Dougharty, Jill Howe, Mary Lorenz, Kelly Loris, Elise Mayfield, Jeremy Owens, and Parker Stockman. Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.
This evening David Schalliol will be presenting his work on his Isolated Building Studies, along with two projects that started on Gapers Block, "To be Demolished" and "The Area." The conversation will be hosted by Andres L. Hernandez, who is repurposing an underutilized space behind the Arts Incubator into "Hush Harbor," a pop-up, open-air forum inspired by historical accounts of bush arbors or hush harbors, which were covert outdoor spaces created by African-Americans for sacred and secular cultural activities. The event is free, but RSVP and get additional details on Facebook. The University of Chicago Arts Incubator is located at 301 E. Garfield Blvd, just off the Green Line.
It's week four of the Impress These Apes talent competition at ComedySportz, 929 W. Belmont Ave., at 8pm. Eight contestants compete in various talent challenges each week, attempting to earn points with the judge panel of "hyperintelligent apes from the future." Tickets are $12 online or at the door. 21+
You're Being Ridiculous, the sassy, funny and fun storytelling show created by Jeremy Owens, is back tonight in Andersonville. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Fear" from Julie Cowden, Ryan Duke, Keith Ecker, Brenna Kearney, Karie Miller, Dana Norris, and Jeremy Owens. Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.
The Impress These Apes talent competition goes into Week 3 at ComedySportz, 929 W. Belmont Ave., at 8pm. Tickets are $12 online or at the door. 21+
The Lounge Devils present Variety-Ville, a Vaudeville-inspired variety show, tonight from 7:30pm to midnight at the Portage Theater, 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave. The evening's entertainment will include lounge singers, comedians, magicians, hula hoopers, a strong man and more. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door.
The Museum of Contemporary Art, 200 E. Chicago Ave., hosts Word Weekend today and Sunday, featuring a variety of performances, installations and readings -- see the schedule for details. Activities run from noon to 10:30pm today; admission is free after 5pm.
In conjunction with 2nd Fridays, Clinard Dance Theatre hosts two free flamenco dance classes at 7:30pm and 8pm. Attendees will also get a sneak peek at Clinard Dance's latest original work, Chicago's Watershed: A 156-Mile Choreography. Clinard Dance Theatre, 1747 S. Halsted St, Rear House.
Impress These Apes holds a live callback audition for 16 potential contestants tonight at 8pm at ComedySportz, 929 W. Belmont Ave. See who makes the cut and who doesn't! Tickets are $10. 21+
El Circo Nacional de Puerto Rico and Theater Oobleck perform SOS: A Summer Clown Cruise Sunday and tonight in the Humboldt Park Boathouse, 1440 N. Sacramento Ave., at 7pm. Bring a blanket or chair and watch juggling, fire work, clowning and acrobatics performed out on the lagoon, accompanied by a nine-piece band and bilingual narration. Free.
El Circo Nacional de Puerto Rico and Theater Oobleck perform SOS: A Summer Clown Cruise tonight and Monday in the Humboldt Park Boathouse, 1440 N. Sacramento Ave., at 7pm. Bring a blanket or chair and watch juggling, fire work, clowning and acrobatics performed out on the lagoon, accompanied by a nine-piece band and bilingual narration. Free.
Tonight at 7:30pm at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Kevin Allison brings his Risk! podcase to life, with "true tales of the truly bold" from Shannon Cason, Allison and others. Tickets are $20.
In honor of William Shakespeare's 450th Birthday the Chicago Public Library will host a free performance of some of his works at the Logan Square branch. Actor Mark J. Shallow will perform some of Shakespeare's soliloquies and audience members can volunteer to participate in the scenes silently with him. The event begins at at 6 p.m. and the library is located at 3030 W. Fullerton Ave..
US Air Guitar holds its Midwest semifinals at the Metro, 3730 N. Clark St., tonight at 9pm. Watch the best of the region shred, with the top three going on to the national championship. Tickets are $16 in advance or at the door. Doors open at 8pm. 18+
Kick off the Puerto Rican Festival & Parade weekend with the Culture Creators Pop-Up Shop at 2628 W. Division St. Poet, playwright, and activist Michael Reyes hosts and performs alongside comedian Melissa DuPrey and spoken word artist Eddie Alvarado (The Prince of Pain). $15 tickets ($25 for admission and T-shirt). Drinks available for purchase.
Shame That Tune is back at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight at 6pm. Abraham Levitan and Brian Costello host an evening of interviews, readings and spontaneously composed songs. Tickets are $5 in advance, $7 at the door. 21+
You're Being Ridiculous is a group of real people telling real funny stories about their lives with a theme as their guide. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Change" from Brooke Allen, Elizabeth Gomez, David Lipowski, Ruth McCormack, Anita Mechler, Karie Miller, Dana Norris and Jeremy Owens. Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.
Set in the mid-century American Southwest and inspired by the music of Hank Williams, Roy Orbison and Patsy Cline, Lula Del Ray is a mythic reinvention of a classic coming-of-age story, performed with overhead projectors, shadow puppets, actors in silhouette, and live music. The event will be held at The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1015 N. Dearborn St., tonight at 7:30pm.
You're Being Ridiculous is a group of real people telling real funny stories about their lives with a theme as their guide. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Change" from Brooke Allen, Elizabeth Gomez, David Lipowski, Ruth McCormack, Anita Mechler, Karie Miller, Dana Norris and Jeremy Owens. Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.
If authentic mud wrestling and rock and roll are your thing, then the Chicago Mud Queens are here for you. Head over to Reggies at 2105 South State to cheer on Calamity Pain and Harlot O'Scara while jamming out to Get Up with the Get Downs: A James Brown cover band and Caveat Empire, to name a few. Tickets are available via Reggie's site and are $12 in advance, $15 at the door and $30 for VIP (a portion of the proceeds to local women-oriented charities) -- doors open at 7:30pm.
The Moth, WBEZ and Vocalo host Chicago's seventh GrandSLAM Championship
at Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave. The theme for this GrandSLAM is "The Showdown," and battling for the title are Renee Albrecht-Mallinger, Erica Clark, Erin Diamond, Susan Haarman, Arch Jamjun, Andi Nelson, Jim Padar, Jeffrey Qaiyum and MacKinzie Weaver. Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 8pm. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased by calling 1-800-514-ETIX, online, or at the Park West box office.
Come to Schubas (upstairs), 3159 N. Southport, tonight at 7pm for Chicago's boldest and most bad-ass storytelling event. This brave and bold live-lit show is hosted by Samantha Irby and Keith Ecker. Tonight's featured performers include Dana Norris, Johanna Stein, Jason Economus, Deanna Moffitt and Lisa Mrock. Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm. Free, 21+
You're Being Ridiculous is a group of real people telling real funny stories about their lives with a theme as their guide. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "Change" from Brooke Allen, Elizabeth Gomez, David Lipowski, Ruth McCormack, Anita Mechler, Karie Miller, Dana Norris and Jeremy Owens. Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.
Set in the mid-century American Southwest and inspired by the music of Hank Williams, Roy Orbison, and Patsy Cline, Lula Del Ray is a mythic reinvention of a classic coming-of-age story, performed with overhead projectors, shadow puppets, actors in silhouette, and live music. The event will be held at The Ruth Page Center for Arts, 1015 N. Dearborn St. tonight and May 30 at 7:30pm.
The Hideout hosts a "live performance/broadcast" of an episode of "Studs' Place," the TV show from the 1950s starring Studs Terkel. The performance will be done by Pocket Guide To Hell. Show starts at 7:00pm, doors open at 6:00, and admission is $10 at the door. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
The 25th Annual Chicago's Biggest Liar Contest takes place at The Ravenswood United Church of Christ, 2050 W. Pensacola Ave. Eleven of the city's most skilled storytellers will unleash their tallest tales and biggest whoppers in a Battle Royale of Bullshit for the legendary Hogwashe Cup. The city's only tall tale competition promises ridiculous surprises, top secret special guests, and lies of all sizes throughout the evening. Don Hall returns to defend his title against these bald-faced liars:Archy Jamjun, Marta Lee, GPA, Jason Lindner, Craig Fitzgerald, Adam Ziemkiewicz, Joe Janes, Angela Vela, Oba King, and Karen Genelly. Tickets are $19.43 in advance, $20 at the door.
Magician David London hosts Magic Outside the Box at Stage 773, 1275 W. Belmont Ave., tonight at 8pm. Tickets are $20, or $15 for students, seniors and wizards.
This year's Sister Spit tour lands at The University of Chicago's Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, 5801 S. Ellis, this evening at 7pm. Admission is free.
Curbside Splendor celebrates the release of three new books with Words+Music at The Empty Bottle. The "words" on the night's agenda will be provided by authors Bill Hillman (The Old Neighborhood), Megan Stielstra (Once I Was Cool), and Tim Kinsella (Let Go and Go On and On) and special guests Irvine Welsh and Tony Fitzpatrick. Walking Bicycles and More Gorgeous provide the music. RSVP to get in for free, or pay $8 at the door. 21+.
The local "chapter" of RAW:natural born artists helps kickstart spring at Bottom Lounge this Thursday with RAW Chi Town Presents: MOSAIC. The celebration will feature over 40 local artists, as well as a film screening, musical performance, fashion show, art gallery, performance art and a featured hairstylist and makeup artist.
Hosted by Victoria Messina, with music by Deejay Saccs. Event is 18+. Cocktail attire encouraged. $15 pre-sale, $20 at the door. You can get tickets here.
2nd Story holds their annual fundraiser at Revolution Brewing on Sunday, March 23 from 6pm-8pm. Game On: Stories of Turning It Up will feature seasoned storytellers Bobby Biedrzycki and Margaret Marion sharing tales of triumph and destruction. Tickets are $40, and include 2 hours of unlimited tasting of Revolution's signature food and brews. This event is 21+. Buy tickets here.
Seven local women writers and performers, including Tavi Gevinson of Rookie Magazine, will celebrate the lost art of letter-writing at Women of Letters tonight at 8pm at the Mayne Stage in Rogers Park. They will read letters written for the occasion. Two Australian writers created and are co-curators of Women of Letters and have published three collections of letters. This is their second US tour. Tickets are $20 general admission. More information is available here.
White Elephant and the Stockyard Institute present Great Fires, a "living museum of Chicago: the past, the present, the mythological," tonight at 7:30pm at the Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219-21 S. Morgan St. Explore six attractions concerning fires since the Great Chicago Fire with guide Mrs. O'Leary. Tickets are $10.
Tonight the Roman Susan Gallery, located at 1224 W Loyola Avenue, will be featuring the musician and performer Steven Snowden. His performances include the vibraphone and electronic sounds sampled from 1970s pay phones around the US. The event is free and open to the public; doors open at 7:30pm, performance begins at 8pm.
Come to Schubas (upstairs), 3159 N. Southport, tonight at 7pm for Chicago's boldest and most bad-ass storytelling event. This brave and bold live-lit show is hosted by Samantha Irby and Keith Ecker. Tonight's featured performers include Melinda McIntire, Greg Morelli, Chloe Johnston, Naomi Huffman, and Bob Stockfish. Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm. Free, 21+
Bottle Stories is tonight at 8pm (doors open at 6pm) at City Winery Chicago, 1200 West Randolph. Dan Morgridge hosts the storytelling and wine-drinking event wherein authors--including Mason Johnson, Kim Bellware, and Carly Oishi--share stories inspired by the wine of their choice. A paired flight of each author's chosen wine is available with the reading (hooray for audience participation!). Tickets are $25. 21+.
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., hosts a performance of "Studs' Place," a recreation of Studs Turkel's 1950s TV show. The cast (featuring special guests Rob Brenner, Liz Garibay and Bill Savage) performs in the front of the bar while the audience watches it on a screen in the back room. It's followed by a screening of a classic episode of the original series. $10 at the door. Doors open at 6pm, show's at 7pm. 21+
Interested in live music, dancing and visual art? The Core Project is an arts company which focuses on the art of storytelling. The event is tonight from 7:30 to 10:30, at 3101 N Sheffield Ave. Light snacks and drinks are provided. Prepay for $8 or pay $10 at the door tonight!
Join the party at the historic Flat Iron Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave, for tons of open artist studios and living spaces. The event takes place tonight from 6pm until 10pm. There is a suggested donation of $5.
Louder Than A Bomb is the largest youth poetry festival in the world. Throughout the year, the Young Chicago Authors lead workshops and poetry slams all over Chicago. They are having their annual mixtape release party tonight at Schubas, 3159 North Southport Avenue, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 and all ages are welcome.
Stand-Up Throw Down is a team of six Chicago stand-up comedians aiming to push stand-up to the front of the comedy scene. They will have a performance tonight at Township, 2200 North California Avenue. The doors open at 7 p.m. and tickets run for $5.
Old School, New School is a live lit event featuring Beth Horner - a 30-year veteran storyteller who has featured at the National Storytelling Festival, and Erin Diamond - an exciting new voice in the current wave of personal storytelling who has appeared on The Moth Mainstage. Together, they will weave the stories of their life experiences into a seamless, cohesive performance piece right on front of your eyes. Takes place at Mrs. Murphy & Sons Irish Bistro (3905 N. Lincoln). Tickets are $12 and can be purchased online at Brown Paper Tickets. Starts at 8pm.
The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., presents the "Wayne Brady: It's My Line Tour," tonight at 8pm. Brady, an all-around entertainer, will sing, perform improv and more. Tickets are $38.50-$58.50; for more information, call 312-462-6300.
Tonight at 7pm, the DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents composer Renee Baker's Suite DuSable: A Vision of Faith, an operatic, symphonic, and poetic tribute to Jean Baptiste Point DuSable. Tickets are $10-$20; for more information, call 773- 947-0600.
The Yale Club of Chicago will be performing Gershwin in Blue: A George and Ira Gershwin songbook celebration tonight at Jazz Showcase, 806 South Plymouth Court. Tickets are $20 in advance and $20 at the door.
The Belle Game, a punk rock band with jazzy undertones from Vancouver, is performing tonight at 8:30 p.m. at The Empty Bottle, 1035 North Western Avenue. Tickets are $10 and the show is open to those 21+.
Two of music's most renowned artists, Paul Simon and Sting, are making a stop in Chicago at the United Center, 1901 West Madison Street, tonight. The two are currently on a brief North American tour which began in February and will continue through March. The show begins at 8 p.m. and tickets are still available with prices ranging from $85 to $250.
Chicago - The Musical is on tour and the Tony Award Winning musical's first show back in the city is tonight at the Bank of American Theater, 18 W. Monroe St., at 7:30pm. Ticket prices vary from $89 to $306.
The heavy blues rock band The Midnight Ghost Train will be playing tonight at Abbey Pub, 3420 West Grace Street. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $8 for those 21+.
The final showing of Luck of the Irish will run today at Next Theatre Company, 927 Noyes St. in Evanston, at 2pm. The play is set in the 1950s and tells a tale about an African-American family seeking to purchase a home in an all-white Boston neighborhood, so they pay an Irish family to "ghost buy" the home on their behalf. Ticket prices vary from $30-$45.
Alejandro Escovedo has cultivated the kind of journeyman career that many singer-songwriters dream about, with help from a steady list of smart collaborations and inspired solo albums. R.E.M.'s Peter Buck solo material mines a similar vein of lost Americana, and his trademark pop chime remains intact on his new album I Am Back To Blow Your Mind Once Again out via Mississippi Records. Catch them both at Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln, at 9pm. Tickets are $27.50 in advance or at the door. 21+.
Wig out with Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks at Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln, and behold the breezy new collection of pop tunes from the Pavement frontman and his band of NBA fans/"indie guys trying to sound Memphis." Our Kranky locals Disappears will open, and the band's muscular new rhythm section pounding out jams behind Brian Case's ecstatic caterwaul is sure to kick things off finely. The show starts at 9pm, 21+. Tickets are sold out.
Story Club returns to Co-Prosperity Sphere , 3219 S Morgan St, tonight at 8pm. The theme this month is "shorts." This month's featured performers will have just 4 minutes to tell their stories. The show features stories from Emmy-award winner, playwright, and 90's comedian Joe Janes, You're Being Ridiculous founder and host Jeremy Owens, Story stylist-- most recently of Vocalo's Music & Stories Xavier Jordan, Actor, teaching artist, and founder of Knife & Fork Theatre Dani Bryant, Actor and story queen Maura Clement and Journalist and Story Club Magazine's web designer -- David Lipowski! There's also an open mic, signup for which begins at 7:30pm. $5 suggested donation.
The Actors Gymnasium presents The Magical Exploding Boy (local clown & mime actor Dean Evans) along with circus performers from the Actors Gym. The show opens this afternoon with performances at 4:30pm and 7:30pm, and runs through March 23. Tickets available online only through Actors Gym Website. Actors Gymnasium: 927 Noyes Street, Evanston. (847) 328-2795.
Tell It & Speak It & Think It & Breathe It: Short Plays Inspired By Great Lyrics will be at the Prop Thtr, 3502-4 N. Elston Avenue tonight at 7pm. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Six Chicago playwrights and some up-and-coming directors create landscapes for performance out of lyrics by artists such as The Chords, Arcade Fire, The Mekons and more.
Kickoff celebration for Chinese New Year, featuring food, dance and more. Happening at the Daley Center, 50 W. Washington. Beginning at 12 pm.
RAW: Chicago presents Pixels, a showcase of more than 40 local artists and performers, tonight at Bottom Lounge, 1375 W. Lake St., at 7pm. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door.
Clearance, a new-ish local "buzzy lo-fi indie rock" group (so-called by the Reader's Gossip Wolf), will be playing at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western, to mark the release of their new 7" EP, Greensleeve. Joining them are similarly buzzy groups Earring, mtvghosts, and Hollow Mountain. Tickets are $5 in advance or at the door. 9pm, 21+.
Wes Perry hosts Making Out With Wes Perry And Friends tonight at 8pm at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave. The show blends standup, improv, storytelling, performance art and more, and this time features the talents of Adam Cohen-Leadhølm, Suzanne Osman and Nicholas Liebman. $7 in advance or at the door, which opens at 7pm. 21+
The Logan Center for the Arts at University of Chicago, 915 E. 60th St., presents Wordless!, a collaboration between Pulitzer-winning cartoonist Art Spiegelman and jazz composer Phillip Johnston that combines slides, talk, film, and live music, in two performances today at 3pm and 8pm. Tickets are $20, $10 for students.
WBEZ reporters poets, comedians and storytellers are taking a stroll down memory lane tonight at 8pm at Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave. The show will go month by month through 2013, relaying stories, news and events that changed Chicago over the year. Tickets are $10 for students, $18 for members and $25 for general admission.
Hot and Heavy Burlesque presents an evening of Nine Inch Nails live band burlesque tonight at 10pm at Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., featuring the NIN tribute band Now I Am Nothing and headlining dancer Michelle L'Amour. Tickets are $15. 21+
Come to Powell's Bookstore, 2850 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 7pm for Chicago's boldest and most bad-ass storytelling event. This brave and bold live-lit show is hosted by Brooke Allen and Keith Ecker. Tonight's featured performers include Danny Black, Randall Colburn, Eileen Dougharty, Robyn Okrant, Sarah Terez Rosenblum. Free.
Enrollees in Mac and Cheese Productions' Fear Experiment perform a capella and step routines tonight at the Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave. Tickets are $25. Doors open at 6:30pm, show's at 8pm. 18+
A Month Of is a monthly open-mic storytelling series where the audience selects the event's theme online before the show starts. Open mic slots are 5-7 minutes long, all story types and forms are welcome. The show is every second Wednesday at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., and runs from 7:30 to 10pm. Tickets are $10 for audience members, free for storytellers (or with a food donation). Help select a topic by visiting heresthestory.org.
Come to Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Avenue, tonight for Solo in the 2nd City at 8pm to witness a hand full of Chicago's talented writers, comedians and authors tell stories of being single, dating and sex in the Windy City. The show is hosted by Carly Oishi and Melinda McIntire. Tonight's featured performers include Brooke Allen, Patrick Allen Carberry, Neil O'Callaghan, Jeremy Owens and Katie Prout. The event is FREE but donations will be collected to benefit Chicago Women's Health Center. (21 +)
Oracle Theatre presents the latest in their series of recreations of old-time radio programs, The Revenge of Radio Goggles. Actors lip-sync to vintage radio dramas, to unusual effect (the Reader calls them "eerie, robotic performances"). Tonight's performance is at 8:00pm; the show runs through December 14. Admission is free, so reservations are recommended. Full details at the Oracle Theatre Website. Oracle Theatre: 3809 N. Broadway. (773) 2244-2980.
Tonight at 7pm in Roosevelt University's Ganz Hall (430 S. Michigan), The Chicago Literary Hall of Fame will honor six historical writers inducted this year. The program will also explore the ways that the honorees' visions of the city reverberate with its current writers and other assorted arts-adjacent figures--presenters range from Joe Meno and Thomas Dyja to Sex and the City actor David Eigenberg.
Enhancing the sense of eras colliding, the awards themselves will be accepted by relatives, descendants, and friends of the inductees, including Baum's grandson and Wilder's nephew. Guests can reserve a seat at the strange and wondrous festivities for free online.
You're Being Ridiculous is a group of real people telling real funny stories about their lives with a theme as their guide. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "heroes." Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic (5400 N. Clark), tickets are $15 at Brown Paper Tickets.
Come to Powell's Bookstore, 2850 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 7pm for Chicago's boldest and most bad-ass storytelling event. This brave and bold live-lit show is hosted by Samantha Irby and Keith Ecker. Tonight's featured performers include Ian Belknap, Jen Anne Coffeen, Jeremy Owens, Katie Prout and Diana Slickman. Free.
Local lo-fi pop lads Clearance will appear at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western, to preview tracks from their upcoming 7" EP, Greensleeve. Richard Album & The Singles have been winning over basements and rock dives throughout the Windy City for a short while now with sheer matinee-idol charm and searing garage pop tunes. School Dance (PHI) and Melk Belly open. Tickets are $5, doors at 9pm. 21+.
You're Being Ridiculous is a group of real people telling real funny stories about their lives with a theme as their guide. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "heroes." Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic (5400 N. Clark), tickets are $15 at Brown Paper Tickets.
A Month Of is a monthly open-mic storytelling series where the audience selects the event's theme online before the show starts. Open mic slots are 5-7 minutes long, all story types and forms are welcome. The show is every second Wednesday at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., and runs from 7:30 to 10pm. Tickets are $10 for audience members, free for storytellers (or with a food donation). Help select a topic by visiting heresthestory.org.
A staged reading of A Damp Drizzly November in My Soul: A Tribute to Melville's Moby Dick will be performed at 8pm tonight at The Grafton Pub in Lincoln Square. The script was written by June Skinner Sawyers, based on Moby Dick by Herman Melville and Ahab's Wife or the Star-Gazer by Sena Jeter Naslund. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the door (cash or check only). More info here.
You're Being Ridiculous is a group of real people telling real funny stories about their lives with a theme as their guide. With three shows this month, there's sure to be a date that matches your calendar. Come out tonight to hear stories on the theme "heroes." Stories start at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic, 5400 N. Clark St. Tickets are $15 online or at the door.
Come see Story Club tonight at the Holiday Club, 4000 N Sheridan Ave. The theme this month is "Thanks" and features readings from writer Sarah Hollenbeck, Chicago Writers Conference creator Mare Swallow, filmmaker and advice columnist Jennifer Peepas. Open mic slots are also available for storytelling hopefuls. Open mic signup starts at 7:30, show beings at 8pm.
More than 30 storytellers have come together for this three-week Festival of Storytelling at the Side Project Theatre (1439 W. Jarvis Ave.) First-time and experienced tellers will weave together stories of connecting, or not, with strangers. This week's headlining teller is Kim Morris. The festival runs Sundays through Wednesdays through November 6. Show begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $15.
The Third Coast International Audio Festival presents its latest in its Listening Room series, "Who Killed Lolita?", tonight at 6:30pm at the Alliance Française, 54 W. Chicago Ave. Paris-based ARTE Radio cofounder Silvain Gire and reporter Mehdi Ahoudig will be present to discuss Ahoudig's audio documentary about the death of an immigrant woman and her two children in Marseille, France. The program will be played in French, with English transcripts provided. Admission is $10 and includes a glass of wine.
More than 30 storytellers have come together for this three-week Festival of Storytelling at the Side Project Theatre (1439 W. Jarvis Ave.) First-time and experienced tellers will weave together stories of connecting, or not, with strangers. This week's headlining teller is Kim Morris. The festival runs Sundays through Wednesdays through November 6. Show begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $15.
More than 30 storytellers have come together for this three-week Festival of Storytelling at the Side Project Theatre (1439 W. Jarvis Ave.) First-time and experienced tellers will weave together stories of connecting, or not, with strangers. This week's headlining teller is Kim Morris. The festival runs Sundays through Wednesdays through November 6. Show begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $15.
More than 30 storytellers have come together for this three-week Festival of Storytelling at the Side Project Theatre (1439 W. Jarvis Ave.) First-time and experienced tellers will weave together stories of connecting, or not, with strangers. This week's headlining teller is Kim Morris. The festival runs Sundays through Wednesdays through November 6. Show begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $15.
More than 30 storytellers have come together for this three-week Festival of Storytelling at the Side Project Theatre (1439 W. Jarvis Ave.) First-time and experienced tellers will weave together stories of connecting, or not, with strangers. This week's headlining teller is Amy Sumpter. The festival runs Sundays through Wednesdays through November 6. Show begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $15.
More than 30 storytellers have come together for this three-week Festival of Storytelling at the Side Project Theatre (1439 W. Jarvis Ave.) First-time and experienced tellers will weave together stories of connecting, or not, with strangers. This week's headlining teller is Amy Sumpter. The festival runs Sundays through Wednesdays through November 6. Show begins at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $15.
The Pit will be a staged version of a scene from Frank Norris' 1903 novel, The Pit, about 1890s futures traders. The one-hour event will be presented at the Chicago Board of Trade building by Pocket Guide to Hell tours. It's part of the Chicago Architecture Foundation's Open House Chicago event. Details here. 3pm at 141 W. Jackson Blvd. Free; donation suggested.
Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St., presents "Hot Seat: Spoken Word (Re) Generations," from 6pm-7:30pm tonight. This event, partnered by Young Chicago Authors and in conjunction with the Illinois Humanities Council, will feature performances of original works on race, culture, and society by spoken word artists including Kevin Coval, Kelly Zen-Yie, Tsai, and more. After each performance, the artists will engage in a "hot seat" session, with interviews by fellow artists. Admission is free; online or email registration is required. For more information, call 312-422-5580.
Come to Powell's Bookstore, 2850 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 7pm for Chicago's boldest and most bad-ass storytelling event. This brave and bold live-lit show is hosted by Samantha Irby and Keith Ecker. Tonight's featured performers include Megan Stielstra, Suzy Krueckeberg, Josh Zagoren, John Loos and Angela Benander.
Come see Story Club tonight at the Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S Morgan St) The theme this month is "Are We Uncomfortable Yet?" and features readings from actor and solo performer Jane deLaubenfels, Writer and Host of The Encyclopedia Show Patrick Allen Carberry and Storyteller Extraordinaire Lara Levitan. Open mic slots are also available for storytelling hopefuls. Open mic signup starts at 7:30, show beings at 8pm. Entrance is free and a suggested $5 donation is greatly appreciated
Signs of Life, a musical drama based on the true story of the Czech ghetto, Terezin, has come to Chicago for a limited run at Victory Gardens Theater (2433 N. Lincoln.) Universally acclaimed by the Sun-Times, Reader and the New York Times, Signs of Life runs through October 27 with performances on Wednesdays at 2pm and 7:30pm, Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 5pm and 8:30pm, and Sundays at 3pm. This week only: enter the code WOLFIE at checkout for $15 tickets. Regular pricing is $45-$65.
Signs of Life, a musical drama based on the true story of the Czech ghetto, Terezin, has come to Chicago for a limited run at Victory Gardens Theater (2433 N. Lincoln.) Universally acclaimed by the Sun-Times, Reader and the New York Times, Signs of Life runs through October 27 with performances on Wednesdays at 2pm and 7:30pm, Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 5pm and 8:30pm, and Sundays at 3pm. This week only: enter the code WOLFIE at checkout for $15 tickets. Regular pricing is $45-$65.
Signs of Life, a musical drama based on the true story of the Czech ghetto, Terezin, has come to Chicago for a limited run at Victory Gardens Theater (2433 N. Lincoln.) Universally acclaimed by the Sun-Times, Reader and the New York Times, Signs of Life runs through October 27 with performances on Wednesdays at 2pm and 7:30pm, Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 5pm and 8:30pm, and Sundays at 3pm. This week only: enter the code WOLFIE at checkout for $15 tickets. Regular pricing is $45-$65.
Signs of Life, a musical drama based on the true story of the Czech ghetto, Terezin, has come to Chicago for a limited run at Victory Gardens Theater (2433 N. Lincoln.) Universally acclaimed by the Sun-Times, Reader and the New York Times, Signs of Life runs through October 27 with performances on Wednesdays at 2pm and 7:30pm, Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 5pm and 8:30pm, and Sundays at 3pm. This week only: enter the code WOLFIE at checkout for $15 tickets. Regular pricing is $45-$65.
in conjunction with The Poetry Foundation, the Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St., celebrates the 59th annual Poetry Day, at 6pm tonight with a performance of Robert Pinksy's "PoemJazz," a fusion of poetry and music, with an emphasis on jazz. A book and CD signing follows. Free. For more information, call 312-747-4300.
Solo in the 2nd City brings together writers, comedians, and performers to explore what it is to be single, dating, and sexy in Chicago. This month's edition will be Wednesday, October 9th at 8pm. The stories are told within the glitter walls of Beauty Bar, at 1444 W. Chicago Avenue. Event is free and 21+. This month features veteran storytellers Don Hall, Janna Sobel, Judi Goshen, JH Palmer, and Note Sangern. Hosts are Carly Oishi and Melinda McIntire. Donations will be collected to benefit Chicago Women's Health Center.
A Month Of is a monthly open-mic storytelling series where the audience selects the event's theme online before the show starts. Open mic slots are 5-7 minutes long, all story types and forms are welcome. The show is every second Wednesday at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., and runs from 7:30 to 10pm. Tickets are $10 for audience members, free for storytellers (or with a food donation). Help select a topic by visiting heresthestory.org.
Signs of Life, a musical drama based on the true story of the Czech ghetto, Terezin, has come to Chicago for a limited run at Victory Gardens Theater (2433 N. Lincoln.) Universally acclaimed by the Chicago Sun-Times, the Chicago Reader, and the New York Times, Signs of Life runs through October 27 with performances on Wednesdays at 2pm and 7:30pm, Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 5pm and 8:30pm, and Sundays at 3pm. This week only: enter the code WOLFIE at checkout for $15 tickets. Regular pricing is $45-$65.
In another exciting edition to the run of local free Monday night shows at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., the Mac Blackout Band will be headlining a night of Chicago junk-pop all-stars including Le Tour and The Sueves. Each group has been making considerable waves throughout our fair city's DIY basement circuit and we're excited to see them all on the same bill. Plus, it's free, so, really, there's no excuse not to come see these venerable noiseniks in person. SkyMaul open. Show starts at 9pm, no cover. 21+.
Pink Frost return to the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., to mark the release their latest long-player, Sundowning, put out jointly by local labels BLVD Records and Notes & Bolts. Not unlike a roughed-up version of their namesake, the band combines a knack for garage pop and shoegaze-era walls of noise (not unlike their brothers-in-psych-crime Outer Minds, who support.) Touched By Ghoul open. Tickets are $8 at the door or free with RSVP. Show starts at 9:30pm, 21+.
Hitting the Bottle to mark the release of their new LP, The Affliction, local mainstays Bare Mutants return for a triumphant night of tightly wound garage pop, fronted by the ever-dashing Jered Gummere. Yeah, they've spent the better part of the last year or so opening for some of the best garage rockers around (Thee Oh Sees, Ty Segall, et. al.), but tonight they're the ones topping the bill. Verma and VLLLAGE open. Show starts at 9:30pm, tickets are $10 in advance and are available here.
The Solo in the 2nd City Reading Series starts on its new night, the 2nd Wednesday of the month, tonight at 8pm at Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Ave. A handful of writers, comedians, and authors tell their stories on being single, dating, and sex in Chicago. This month will feature authors from Curbside Splendor Publishing. Authors and readers include Samantha Irby, Meaty, Chris Terry, Zero Fade, Megan Stielstra, Once I Was Cool , Jacob Knabb, Senior Editor at Curbside, and James Tadd Adcox, Editor and Writer, Artifice. Some titles will be available for purchase. Hosts are Carly Oishi and Melinda McIntire. Event is free and 21+.
A Month Of is a new monthly, open-mic storytelling series where the audience selects the event's theme online before the show starts. Open mic slots are 5-7 minutes long, all story types and forms are welcome. The show is every 2nd Wednesday at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., and runs from 7:30 to 10pm. Tickets are $10 for audience members, free for storytellers (or with a food donation). Help select a topic by visiting heresthestory.org.
Pechakucha returns to Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 8pm. Ten speakers tell a story over 20 slides, each of which appears for just 20 seconds. Tickets are $10 online or at the door. 21+
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than two dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage today, beginning at 2:30pm; see the schedule for details. The festival closes tonight with its Anti-Oscars awards ceremony, to be held at Fringe Central (Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave.) at 10pm. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than two dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage today, beginning at 2:30pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than a dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage tonight, beginning at 7pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than a dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage tonight, beginning at 7pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than two dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage today, beginning at 2:30pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than two dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage today, beginning at 2:30pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
Replicants meet Archandroids in this musical mash-up the 1982 science-fiction epic Bladerunner with R&B maestro Janelle Monae's 2010 album, which runs Aug. 29-31 at The Den Theatre, 1333 N. Milwaukee Ave. Bar opens at 10pm, show begins at 10:30. Tickets are $15 and available online.
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than two dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage today, beginning at 11am; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
Replicants meet Archandroids in this musical mash-up the 1982 science-fiction epic Bladerunner with R&B maestro Janelle Monae's 2010 album, which runs Aug. 29-31 at The Den Theatre, 1333 N. Milwaukee Ave. Bar opens at 10pm, show begins at 10:30. Tickets are $15 and available online.
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than a dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage tonight, beginning at 7pm; see the schedule for details. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
The Chicago Fringe Festival runs Aug. 29-Sept. 8 at several venues in the Jefferson Park neighborhood. More than a dozen performances of theater, sketch comedy, spoken word and other experimental works stage tonight, beginning at 7pm; see the schedule for details. There's also an opening night reception at 6pm at "Fringe Central," Fischman's Liquors, 4780 N. Milwaukee Ave. Admission buttons are $5 (they're required to get into any show); tickets are $10 per show. You can also buy five- and 10-ticket packs for $45 or $80, respectively, or go to everything for $180.
Barrel of Monkeys is an ensemble of actors/educators who hold creative writing workshops with Chicago Public School students and perform their pupils' imaginative stories. The result is That's Weird, Grandma, their weekly show presented every Monday at the Neofuturarium in Andersonville. The show is wackily witty, fast-paced, laugh-a-minute, and truly a thrill for all ages, and has been hailed by chicagotheater.com as "part pep rally, part musical theater extravaganza - and one of the most real, uplifting and engaging theatrical experiences in town." $10 for adults, $5 for children, tickets available at the box office or on the BOM website.
This month's Solo in the 2nd City Reading Series features author Joe Meno, Tequila Tales host Isaac Paul, comedian Bobby Hill, and storyteller Dena Saper. The performers share stories of single, sex, and dating in our fair city. Hosts are bloggers and storytellers Carly Oishi & Melinda McIntire. Event starts at 8:00 PM at Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Avenue. The event is 21 and over and free. Donations are collected for Chicago Women's Health Center.
Story Club's South Side chapter has a list theme tonight at Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S. Morgan St. Aubrey Henretty, Gwynn Fulcher and Paul Whitehouse tell true stories involving lists of some sort, as do three people who sign up at the event. Andrew Marikis hosts. Doors open and sign-up starts at 7:30pm, show starts at 8pm. Free, but $5 donation requested. BYOB.
Barrel of Monkeys is an ensemble of actors/educators who hold creative writing workshops with Chicago Public School students and perform their pupils' imaginative stories. The result is That's Weird, Grandma, their weekly show presented every Monday at 8pm at the Neofuturarium in Andersonville, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. The show is wackily witty, fast-paced, laugh-a-minute, and truly a thrill for all ages, and has been hailed by chicagotheater.com as "part pep rally, part musical theater extravaganza -- and one of the most real, uplifting and engaging theatrical experiences in town." $10 for adults, $5 for children, tickets available at the box office or on the BOM website.
Honey Pot Performance presents "The Guidebook Sessions," an interactive performance inspired by The Negro Motorist Green Book, an independently published guidebook for African-American travelers in the 1930s and '40s. Honey Pot Performance is creating a contemporary version of the Green Book as a resource for the unemployed and working poor, and will distribute copies of the chapbook to participants. The performance takes place in the Polish Triangle at Division, Ashland and Milwaukee from 5 to 5:50pm, then move to the Western Blue Line stop from 6 to 7pm. Free.
Barrel of Monkeys is an ensemble of actors/educators who hold creative writing workshops with Chicago Public School students and perform their pupils' imaginative stories. The result is That's Weird, Grandma, their weekly show presented every Monday at the Neofuturarium in Andersonville. The show is wackily witty, fast-paced, laugh-a-minute, and truly a thrill for all ages, and has been hailed by chicagotheater.com as "part pep rally, part musical theater extravaganza - and one of the most real, uplifting and engaging theatrical experiences in town." $10 for adults, $5 for children, tickets available at the box office or on the BOM website.
The Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts Performance Hall, 915 E. 60th St., presents award-winning poet Marc Bamuthi Joseph's Words Become Flesh, tonight at 7:30pm. Written and directed by Bamuthi Joseph, this hip hop theatrical performance, through a mix of dance, spoken word and music, explores gender and race in America through the eyes of a young single father. Tickets are $15-$25 and may be purchased online, at the box office, or by phone, 773-702-2787.
Barrel of Monkeys is an ensemble of actors/educators who hold creative writing workshops with Chicago Public School students and perform their pupils' imaginative stories. The result is That's Weird, Grandma, their weekly show presented every Monday at 8pm at the Neofuturarium in Andersonville, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. The show is wackily witty, fast-paced, laugh-a-minute, and truly a thrill for all ages, and has been hailed by chicagotheater.com as "part pep rally, part musical theater extravaganza -- and one of the most real, uplifting and engaging theatrical experiences in town." $10 for adults, $5 for children, tickets available at the box office or on the BOM website.
A potluck/featured readers/open mic storytelling event, Here's The Story takes place the first Sunday of the month at Stage 773 (1225 W. Belmont). Tickets are $10 or free with a potluck dish. Doors open at 7:30pm, stories start at 8pm.
Aloft runs two performances of its El Circo Cheapo Cabaret circus variety show tonight at 2041 W. Carroll Ave. The 7pm set is kid friendly; the 10pm set is not. Seats on the floor (on mats) are $10, seats in chairs are $15; children under 5 get in free. Reserve tickets here.
The Interview Show is back at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight at 6:30pm. Host Mark Bazer talks with author Nicole Knepper, hot dog impresario Doug Sohn, chef Andrew Zimmerman and filmmaker Joe Swanberg. Admission is $8. 21+
It's the last Tuesday of the month, time for the Moth at Martyrs (3855 N. Lincoln), for another open mic storytelling contest, this time on the theme of "Lost." Come with your best 5 minute story (memorized, no pages allowed onstage) and put your name in for the chance to tell a story. Who knows, you could be the next Moth StorySLAM winner. Hosted by Brian Babylon. Tickets ate $8 at the door, $16 online. Doors open at 5pm, stories start at 8pm.
Barrel of Monkeys is an ensemble of actors/educators who hold creative writing workshops with Chicago Public School students and perform their pupils' imaginative stories. The result is That's Weird, Grandma, their weekly show presented every Monday at 8pm at the Neofuturarium in Andersonville, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. The show is wackily witty, fast-paced, laugh-a-minute, and truly a thrill for all ages, and has been hailed by chicagotheater.com as "part pep rally, part musical theater extravaganza -- and one of the most real, uplifting and engaging theatrical experiences in town." $10 for adults, $5 for children, tickets available at the box office or on the BOM website.
US Air Guitar holds its Midwest Semifinals tonight at Metro, 3730 N. Clark St. Watch regional winners from 2012 as well as 2013 qualifiers from Chicago, Denver, Des Moines, Houston and Minneapolis compete to be the final three who will move on to the finals Aug. 17 in LA. Air Guitar legends Bjorn Turoque and Hot Lixx Hulahan will be on hand to host and judge, respectively, and Hot Lixx will also do a special air guitar performance with the current World Air Guitar Champion, Chicago's own Nordic Thunder. Plus special half time performances by other legends of air guitar. Tickets are $15 in advance or at the door. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 9pm. 18+
Printer's Ball, Chicago's largest annual celebration of literary and print making culture, runs today from noon to 6pm at the Hubbard Street Lofts, 821 W. Hubbard St. This year's theme is "Trip & Return." See Tony Fitzpatrick in conversation with Fred Sasaki, printshop demos with Brad Vetter & Alex Valentine, free jazz performances curated by Elastic Arts Foundation and much, much more! Free.
A pairing of much buzzed-about bands from both sides of the Atlantic, namely London's hyper-serious Savages and Brooklyn psych-punkers Parquet Courts, will appear as part of a live taping of WBEZ's Sound Opinions in anticipation of each group's set at Pitchfork. Interviews from hosts Jim Derogatis and Greg Kot are planned, along with live performances from each band. Tickets are available July 1, via the Sound Opinions website.
Come to Beauty Bar (1444 W. Chicago) for Solo in the 2nd City: Hot Child in the 2nd City. where storytellers will share moments of being single, sex, and the city. Tonight's lineup includes: Erin Kahoe, Barrie Cole, Lily Be, Danny Black, and DJ Continental. Hosted by Melinda McIntire and Carly Oishi. Doors open at 7:30pm, stories at 8pm, free. 21+
Kurt Vile fans miffed that the Philly songsmith won't be making a local summer festival appearance now have reason to rejoice—Vile will be appearing at the Metro to play a set with his Violators, not even a full two months since his last Chicago show. Tickets $23, 18+, available here.
Reading Under the Influence meets the SECOND Wednesday this month due to the 4th of July holiday. Listen to drink-inducing stories by the likes of Brian Hieggelke, editor of NEWCITY; Ian Belknap, founder and overlord of WRITE CLUB!; Tina Jens, author of The Blues Ain't Nothin'; and Columbia College adjuct faculty, Germania Solorzano. This month's theme is Under Construction, and there will be trivia contests with prizes. Located in the back-back room off the courtyard patio at Sheffield's, 3258 N. Sheffield Ave. Doors open at 7 p.m.; readings start at 7:30 p.m. $3 cover.
It's the second Monday of the month, time for the Moth at Haymarket (737 W. Randolph), for another open mic storytelling contest, this time on the theme of "Only in Chicago." Come with your best 5 minute story (memorized, no pages allowed onstage) and put your name in for the chance to tell a story. Who knows, you could be the next Moth StorySLAM winner. Hosted by Don Hall. Tickets ate $8 at the door, $16 online. Doors open at 5pm, stories start at 8pm.
Solo in the 2nd City Reading Series is back for the monthly reading at Beauty Bar, 1444 W. Chicago Avenue at 7:30 PM. Solo in the 2nd City is a collective of stories of single, sex, and dating centered in our fair city. Music starts at 7:30pm by DJ Continental and readings begin at 8pm. The event is free and collects donations for Chicago Women's Health Center. This month's edition features Jen Bosworth, Angela Benander, Whit Nelson, Linda Montgomery and AJ Aronstein. The event is hosted by bloggers Melinda McIntire and Carly Oishi.
Mortified, the storytelling show about horribly embarrassing moments, is at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave., tonight at 7pm. The Blue Ribbon Glee Club also performs. Tickets are ,a href='http://www.schubas.com/Shows/06-08-2013+Mortified">$12 in advance, $15 at the door. 21+
The Revelettes '60s Go-Go Spectacular runs Saturday nights in May at the Prop Theater, 3502 N. Elston Ave., at 10:30pm. This full-length spectacular features go-go troupe The Revelettes performing dance numbers inspired by the surf and sci-fi movies of the 1960s, with house band the Reveltones, multi-talented curio-collector host Andy Somma and many special guests, including comedienne Mary Zematis, juggler extraordinaire Brad French, retro singer John Connors, and Vaudevillians the Gentlemen Follies. Tickets are $15 in advance or at the box office. BYOB or hit the concession stand.
Milwaukee hardcore legends Die Kreuzen bring their high-speed squall to the Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee, marking their first Chicago stop since reuniting in May 2012 after two decades apart. Vocalist Dan Kubinski and co. will comb through the tracks that defined their genre-bending '80s heyday with restless songs and blistering screech intact, proving that their particular brand of highly influential hardcore still holds sway. We Are Hex and Canadian Rifle open. Tickets $17, available here.
Solo in the 2nd City features stories of single, dating, sex, and the like in our fine city. Event begins at 7:30 PM with music by DJ Continental and readings begin at 8:00 PM. Featured readers include Nico Lang, Shantell Jamison, Joel Kim Booster, Rachel L.C., and Jill Neumann. Jasmine Davila appears as a guest host. The event is produced by Solo in the 2nd City bloggers, Melinda McIntire and Carly Oishi. Event is free and charitable donations will be collected for the Chicago Women's Health Center. Event is 21+ at Beauty Bar Chicago, 1444 W. Chicago Avenue.
The Revelettes '60s Go-Go Spectacular runs Saturday nights in May at the Prop Theater, 3502 N. Elston Ave., at 10:30pm. This full-length spectacular features go-go troupe The Revelettes performing dance numbers inspired by the surf and sci-fi movies of the 1960s, with house band the Reveltones, multi-talented curio-collector host Andy Somma and many special guests, including comedienne Mary Zematis, juggler extraordinaire Brad French, retro singer John Connors, and Vaudevillians the Gentlemen Follies. Tickets are $15 in advance or at the box office. BYOB or hit the concession stand.
The Revelettes '60s Go-Go Spectacular runs Saturday nights in May at the Prop Theater, 3502 N. Elston Ave., at 10:30pm. This full-length spectacular features go-go troupe The Revelettes performing dance numbers inspired by the surf and sci-fi movies of the 1960s, with house band the Reveltones, multi-talented curio-collector host Andy Somma and many special guests, including comedienne Mary Zematis, juggler extraordinaire Brad French, retro singer John Connors, and Vaudevillians the Gentlemen Follies. Tickets are $15 in advance or at the box office. BYOB or hit the concession stand.
The Revelettes '60s Go-Go Spectacular runs Saturday nights in May at the Prop Theater, 3502 N. Elston Ave., at 10:30pm. This full-length spectacular features go-go troupe The Revelettes performing dance numbers inspired by the surf and sci-fi movies of the 1960s, with house band the Reveltones, multi-talented curio-collector host Andy Somma and many special guests, including comedienne Mary Zematis, juggler extraordinaire Brad French, retro singer John Connors, and Vaudevillians the Gentlemen Follies. Tickets are $15 in advance or at the box office. BYOB or hit the concession stand.
Composer/songwriter Daniel Knox and photographer John Atwood premiere the first two installments of their latest work, 14 15 111, at Intuit: the Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave., Thursday and tonight at 7pm. See MartinJon's preview in A/C. Tickets are $15.
Funny Ha-Ha returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., tonight from 6 to 8pm. The guests this time are Shannon Cason, Molly Backes, Erin Kahoa, Steve Gadlin, Scott Smith and filmmaker Steve Delahoyde. Claire Zulkey hosts. $5 admission benefits the Neighborhood Writing Alliance. 21+
Composer/songwriter Daniel Knox and photographer John Atwood premiere the first two installments of their latest work, 14 15 111, at Intuit: the Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight and Friday at 7pm. See MartinJon's preview in A/C. Tickets are $15.
Martyrs' presents Michelle L'Amour's Old time Strip Show, with a cavalcade of burlesque talent taking the stage tonight starting at 9:00pm. Advance tickets available at the Martyrs' Website. Martyrs': 3855 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-9494.
Logan Square arts mentorship collective Ag47 (previously profiled on Gapers Block) holds its fourth annual showcase at Hairpin Arts Center, 2800 N Milwaukee, from 7 to 10pm. For the event, youth artists and their adult mentors collaborated to create art that explores the questions "How does the world infect you? How will you infect the world?" The suggested donation for the event is $10, which supports Ag47's arts mentorship programming with girls aged 11-17. Live poetry, performance, and multimedia art exhibits promise an infectious evening.
Today Columbia College continues its free #DocYourWorld documentary panels and screenings from noon until 9:30pm in their Film Row Cinema on the 8th floor of 1104 S. Wabash Ave.
Today Columbia College continues its free #DocYourWorld documentary panels and screenings from noon until 9pm in their Film Row Cinema on the 8th floor of 1104 S. Wabash Ave.
This afternoon, Gallery Cabaret (2020 N. Oakley Ave.) hosts Chicago historical reenactment group Pocket Guide to Hell as they put up their second installment of The Chicago Television Project: The Chicago Children’s TV Show. In the style of a variety hour revue, Pocket Guide performers incorporate a Magician, a Clown, the Young Stracke All-Stars, cartoons by local artists, and much more in this celebration of children’s entertainment past and present. There will be two performances: one at 3 pm for kids and family, and one at 5 pm for everybody else. Free! RSVP to pocketguidetohell@gmail.com.
Comedy Duo Sweethearts returns for their second installment of sketch shows tonight at Upstairs Gallery (5219 N. Clark St.) at 8 pm. As always, the pair will perform a brand new set of sketches, with each show based around a different theme. This week, treat yourself to a night of "Bliss"-themed comedy, brought to you by comedians Adam Schreck and Ben Ryan. BYOB, free.
Newly-Minted Comedy Duo Sweethearts kicks off a five-week sketch series tonight at Upstairs Gallery (5219 N. Clark St.) at 8 pm. Each week the pair will perform a brand new set of sketches, with each show based around a different theme. This week, comedians Adam Schreck and Ben Ryan debut the series with sketches fittingly based around the theme of "Hello". BYOB, free.
Trans 100, a show giving an overview of the breadth and diversity of work being done in, by and for the transgender community across the United States, debuts at the Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave., tonight. Presale tickets are sold out, but a limited number of tickets will be available at the box office, which opens at 5:30pm. The show starts at 7pm. 21+
Lo-fi luminary/folk-hero Bill Callahan will be appearing at the historic Garfield Conservatory on Monday, May 6, as part of a short spring series of performances that marks his first live return since touring on the back of 2011's excellent Apocalypse. Callahan will be playing material from that record, but listeners should be advised for a stray Mickey Newbury cover. Tickets $25, available here.
The Pocket Guide to Hell hosts the First Ward Ball tonight at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave., featuring everything from burlesque to the murder of Marshall Field, Jr. Show up in 1900s period dress for a chance to enter a costume contest. Admission is $10, doors open at 7pm and the party gets rolling at 8pm. See our preview in Book Club.
In an intimate "after party" setting, this show features a blend of musicians, comedians, dancers, singers and variety performers. The After Party Show runs Saturdays at Studio Be (3110 N. Sheffield Ave.) until March 30, with two different shows each night, beginning at 10pm and 11:30pm. The show is BYOB and tickets are $12 or $20 for both.
The U of C's new Arts Incubator in Washington Park is having its first big open house from 3pm-6pm at 301 E. Garfield. There will be free tours of the new space, music and a new exhibition, "Feedback." See more on Facebook.
Story Club, a live lit show and open mic hosted by Dana Norris, hosts their March show on Thursday, March 7 at 7:30 PM at the Holiday Club, 4000 N. Sheridan. Open mic sign up starts at 7:30 pm with three slots available. The theme this month is "In Like a Lion," with featured performers Ray Teresi and The Moth host Don Hall. Admission is free.
Come to a free staged concert presentation of Signs of Life, a new drama with music based on the true story of the Czech ghetto, Terezin, tells one of the most fascinating and least known stories of the Holocaust. Originally a military town, Hitler transformed it into a so-called "model city for the Jews" to house prominent European artists and musicians. With favorable reviews from the New York Times and other publications, full production scheduled to open in Chicago September 18, 2013 at the Zacek McVay Theater at Victory Gardens. Admission is free but reservations are requested. There will be a post-performance talkback followed by a reception. RSVP to: Joanliman@hotmail.com. Performance begins at 7pm at Victory Gardens Theater (2433 N. Lincoln).
The Shakespeare Project of Chicago performs a dramatic reading of Twelfth Night at the Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton St., today at 10am. Free.
Vaudezilla's burlesque beauties take to the stage at this free event at Lincoln Tap Room, 3010 N. Lincoln Ave. Featuring performances by seasoned burlesque dancers as well as newbies to the scene, the show always promises a raunchy good time. The show features two different sets: one at 9pm and one at 11pm. Get there early; the venue fills up fast! 21+
Roberta Miles, Jillian Erickson, and Erin Lane, collectively known as Loose Chicks, perform their spoken word show based on real life experiences at The Lincoln Loft (3036 N. Lincoln Ave., 2nd Fl.) tonight at 8pm. Special guest: GB staffer J.H. Palmer. Suggested donation $10, BYOB. Performance is about an hour long.
John Malkovich stars in The Infernal Comedy: Confessions of a Serial Killer, a performance incorporating monologues and musical arias of Mozart, Vivaldi, Beethoven and more to tell the true story of murderer Jack Unterweger, at 8pm tonight and Saturday at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $35-75, with a limited number of $10 student tickets available.
Kiss Kiss Cabaret is celebrating their second anniversary and their 100th performance with a blow-out bash featuring their burlesque dancers, the Kiss Kiss Coquettes.
The company's full cast, including its comedians, magicians, jugglers, and hosts will also be performing at the show, February 1, at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. There will also be cake.
KKC suggests this event only for an 18+ audience. Tickets are $15 in advance at $20 at the door.
John Malkovich stars in The Infernal Comedy: Confessions of a Serial Killer, a performance incorporating monologues and musical arias of Mozart, Vivaldi, Beethoven and more to tell the true story of murderer Jack Unterweger, at 8pm tonight and Saturday at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $35-75, with a limited number of $10 student tickets available.
The Chicago Sinfonietta presents "A Concert Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." tonight at 7:30pm. Led by noted music director Mei-Ann Chen and held at the Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., the concert will pay tribute to the late civil rights leader with opera and choir selections. Tickets are $10-$50; for more information, call 312- 236-3681.
The Writers' Theatre, in conjunction with the Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., hosts the 7th annual The MLK Project: The Fight for Civil Rights, today at 12pm. Directed by Jimmy McDermott and starring Caren Blackmore, this one-woman show, featuring poetry, music and multimedia, is the story of a Chicago student's experience with studying the events of the Civil Rights Movement. Free. For more information, call 847-242-6000.
Collaboraction, a groundbreaking Chicago arts organization, along with acclaimed burlesque sensation Angela Eve, cordially invite you to the Metropolis Ball 2012: a decadent and interactive night filled with Burlesque, art, music, dancing, physical theater, fashion and a sexy circus. Monday, December 31, 2012 @ 8:30pm Collaboraction Speakeasy Space,3rd floor of the Flat Iron Arts Building 1579 N. Milwaukee. Tix- $75 and up.
Chicago Slam Works presents the final "Dead or Alive" performance at The Raven Theatre (6157 N. Clark), featuring actors portraying deceased poets such as Gwendolyn Brooks (Paulette McDaniels), Langston Hughes (Shannon Matesky), Etheridge Knight (Jared Grant), Jonathan Swift (Robbie Q. Telfer), and Anne Sexton (Rebecca Levine). The actors will perform the poems in a mock slam against Chicago poets Sage Morgan Hubbard, Raych Jackson, Kevin Kern, Sharrieff Muhammad, Emily Rose and Fatimah Asghar. Show starts at 8pm, tickets are $14 and can be purchased online or by calling 847-556-8679
Three songwriters, three powerful voices: Chicago natives Sima Cunningham, Macie Stewart (Kids These Days) and Alaina Stacey bring together an array of younger luminaries from throughout the city's music scene for a night that seamlessly blends rock, jazz, and R&B (often all in the same song) at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport. Show starts at 7pm, tickets available here for $10. All ages.
Chicago Slam Works presents the second of three "Dead or Alive" performances at The Raven Theatre (6157 N. Clark), preceded by "Slammin' in the Footlights," a benefit to celebrate CSW's new home at the Raven Theatre and to raise awareness of CSW programs. "Dead or Alive" features actors portraying deceased poets such as Gwendolyn Brooks (Paulette McDaniels), Langston Hughes (Shannon Matesky), Etheridge Knight (Jared Grant), Jonathan Swift (Robbie Q. Telfer), and Anne Sexton (Rebecca Levine). The actors will perform the poems in a mock slam against Chicago poets Sage Morgan Hubbard, Raych Jackson, Kevin Kern, Sharrieff Muhammad, Emily Rose and Fatimah Asghar. Show starts at 8pm, benefit tickets are $50 and can be purchased online or by calling 847-556-8679
Chicago Slam Works presents the first of three "Dead or Alive" performances at The Raven Theatre (6157 N. Clark), featuring actors portraying deceased poets such as Gwendolyn Brooks (Paulette McDaniels), Langston Hughes (Shannon Matesky), Etheridge Knight (Jared Grant), Jonathan Swift (Robbie Q. Telfer), and Anne Sexton (Rebecca Levine). The actors will perform the poems in a mock slam against Chicago poets Sage Morgan Hubbard, Raych Jackson, Kevin Kern, Sharrieff Muhammad, Emily Rose and Fatimah Asghar. Show starts at 8pm, tickets are $14 and can be purchased online or by calling 847-556-8679
Neighborhood Writing Alliance is hosting an evening of performance art and creative expression featuring adult students from their writing workshops. The theme is "Body Wisdom" and will focus on movement, creating community and sharing personal stories. The event is free and open to the public from 6-8pm tonight at the Pritzker Auditorium at Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State.
Legendary hip-hop duo Pete Rock and CL Smooth bring their Anniversary tour to The Shrine, 2109 South Wabash Avenue, to celebrate 20 years since the release of "Mecca and the Soul Brother," an album indisputably ranked among the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. Tickets are $22 and can be purchased online or at the door, but it is highly recommended they be purchased in advance. Doors open at 9pm. 21+
Local rockers The Canoes bring their folk-informed take on garage rock to Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western, to celebrate the release of their new LP, Slim Century. Joining them will be Tom Schraeder and local power-poppers Mooner, who will each be debuting new releases of their own. Hospital Gardens open. Tickets are $8 or free with RSVP when buying online before 5pm (limit of one), link here. Doors at 9pm, 21+.
Local country-rockers Exit Ghost will stop by Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee, opening for Canadian indie rockers Rah Rah. Frontman Evan Holmes has a proven knack for melody and pop songwriting, and brings tracks from the band's recent Move Alone to life with a three-guitar attack.Tickets are $7 at the door, $5 in advance online and are available here.
One of Milwaukee's finest folk songwriters, Hayward Williams, will be at Space, 1245 Chicago Ave. in Evanston, tonight at 7pm on the back of his excellent new LP, Haymaker. Appearing in support of Kris Delmhorst, Williams's soul-drenched Americana evokes equal parts early Springsteen and modern folk acts like Ray LaMontagne or Sam Beam, with a rocker's attention to volume and spontaneity. He's strongest, however, in the kinds of intimate performance settings that Space has built its name upon, so be sure to catch his set there on Sunday night. Tickets are $15.
The Glessner House Museum, 1800 S. Prairie Ave., hosts a performance of Virtuoso: The Life of Clara Schumann today at 4:30pm. The performance will be given by Betsey Means of WomanLore with the musical performance by Karen Berk Barak on the Glessners' 1887 Steinway piano. Tickets are $35; call 312-326-1480 for reservations.
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents Henry Rollins in a three-night "The Long March" tour series of spoken word shows. The shows take place each night at 8pm in the school's main performance hall at 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets are $26, $24 for members and $22 for seniors and children, available in advance from the school's website, or call 773-728-6000.
Tonight at 7pm, the DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents 7 Shades of Man, a musical narrative that explores the lives and relationships of seven different men. Tickets are $25; for more information, call 708-714-2050.
The Old Town School of Folk Music presents Henry Rollins in a three-night "The Long March" tour series of spoken word shows. The shows take place each night at 8pm in the school's main performance hall at 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets are $26, $24 for members and $22 for seniors and children, available in advance from the school's website, or call 773-728-6000.
Art collective Lucky Pierre presents AMERICA/N, a 13-hour discussion and performance of the US Constitution at the Defibrillator Gallery (1136 N. Milwaukee). Starting at 6am a slate of performers and authors will discuss each article of the Constitution, each performance followed by a discussion. See the Lucky Pierre Website for a full schedule of performers. The event is free and open to the public.
Here's the Story presents unscripted, old-fashioned storytelling -- as well as a potluck -- the first Sunday of every month at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Tonight's show features Tara DeFrancisco, Caitlin Bergh, Robert Brown, Tom Wolferman and Cory O'Brien, plus five readers who sign up at the show. The potluck starts at 7:30pm, and the show starts at 8pm. Admission is $5 or free if you bring food.
Lampo, in conjunction with the Graham Foundation, presents a duo concert by cellist Okkyung Lee and electronic composer David Behrman tonight at 8pm at the Graham Foundation's Madlener House, 4 W. Burton Pl. Includes an extended cello improvisation from Lee, while Behrman performs his "View Finder" (guitar and electronics) and "Freeze Dip" (violin and electronics). Together, they present "Open Space with Cello / Open Space with Guitar," pieces related to Behrman's "Open Space with Brass" music commissioned for the final performances of the Merce Cunningham Dance Company at the Armory in New York in December 2011. Admission is free, but RSVP is required. See also Friday's free workshop featuring Lee and Behrman at the same location. Preview in Transmission.
The Great Fire: a Traveling Truck Show pulls into Pilsen today, setting up its stage in the Growing Station Community Garden, 945 W. 21st St. A sideshow featuring local vendors and performers begins at 6pm, with the main stage acts beginning at 7pm. Free. More details here.
The Great Fire: a Traveling Truck Show pulls into West Town today, setting up its stage at 1837 W. Hubbard St. A sideshow featuring local vendors and performers begins at 6pm, with the main stage acts beginning at 7pm. Free. More details here.
The Great Fire: a Traveling Truck Show pulls into Roscoe Village today, setting up its stage in Richard Clark Playlot Park, 3400 N. Rockwell St. A sideshow featuring local vendors and performers begins at 4pm, with the main stage acts beginning at 5pm. Free. More details here.
The 5th annual Chicago Battle of the Jug Bands at Logan Square Auditorium, 2539 N. Kedzie Ave., features nine bands that will each have 15 minutes to win the audience members over. Reigning champs Strictly Jug Nuts will open, followed by the battle between Deep Fried Pickle Project, The Hump Night Thumpers, The Jubilee Jug Band, Mr. Mayor and the Highballers, Otisco, The Schticklers, The Wampler Jug Stompers, and Whiskey Bob Taylor & The Twelve Steps. Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm. Tickets are $9 at the door, all proceeds will go to the Old Town School of Folk Music. 21+
Shambles, 2050 W. Division, hosts "The Shit Show" tonight at 8:30pm. This free show, hosted by Rasa Geirstikas and Ever Mainard, is a hybrid of stand-up, storytelling, improv, features Kate Duffy, Brian Babylon, Kristin Clifford, Ted Tremper and more. For more information, call 773-486-0200.
Oktoberfest kicks off in the West Lakeview neighborhood at St. Alphonsus Church, 1429 W. Wellington Ave., with German food, music, arts & crafts, and of course, beer. Join the fun to celebrate Deutschland the Chicago way. Festivities begin at 5pm, and end at 11pm. $5 admission.
Main Stage
5:30 - The Bratwurst Brothers
7pm - 'Stache!
8:30 - Wedding Banned
Beer Hall
7:15 - The Bratwurst Brothers
9pm - Dot Dot Dot
The Anita Davis Dance Theater presents The Monologues of My Nappy Hair tonight at 8pm. This multi-character "dance drama" highlights the history of hair as it relates to the culture and image of African-American women. The performance takes place at Portage Theater, 4050 N. Milwaukee; tickets are $10-$35. For more information, call 773-807-3546.
The Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave., presents an evening of burlesque tonight at 7:30pm and 10pm. Both shows will feature Burlesque Hall of Famers Michelle L'amour, Imogen Kelly, Dirty Martini and many more. Also in attendance as the guest of honor, burlesque legend (and Russ Meyer film star) Kitten Natividad. For full details and to purchase tickets please see the Music Box website. Call 773-871-6604 for more info.
Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave., hosts a live-audience installment of the Chicago Center for Literature and Photography's "Podcast Dreadful" serial literary anthology tonight at 7pm. The performance will feature not only readings from local authors Davis Schneiderman, Jacob Knabb, Jason Fisk and CCLaP founder Jason Pettus, augmented by live radio-style sound effects. Complementary refreshments will be served. Free.
A Nude Hope: A Star Wars Burlesque, presented by Gorilla Tango's Geek Girl Burlesque, premieres in Bucktown at the Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight. The show continues every Saturday night at 9pm until Dec. 29. Tickets are $20. R-rated.
The Chicago, I Love You festival continues at Lilly's, 2515 N. Lincoln Ave., with a special edition of the Windy City Story Slam hosted by Alex Bonner. Show starts at 9pm. Free, 21+.
Part of a busy month of diverse events, the Sunday night Uptown Poetry Slam continues with slam originator Marc Smith (so what!) at the helm. The Green Mill provides the space, the poets bring the funk and you bring the noise. Tonight from 7-10pm, $6. 21+over. The Green Mill Jazz Club, 4802 N. Broadway.
As part of the Poetry Foundation's ongoing series of events, the first Tuesday of every month means a group of talented writers reading their stuff for our enjoyment. Tonight from 7-9pm at Quenchers, 2041 N. Western Ave, Free and open to the public.
The next Chicago Moth StorySlam will be held at Martyrs' at 3855 North Lincoln Avenue
6:00pm Doors / 8:00pm Stories begin, 21+
A limited number of presale tickets will be available for $16, $8 tickets at the door.
The Moth is an acclaimed not-for-profit organization dedicated to the art and craft of storytelling.
The DuSable Museum, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents "Here's To The Red, Black, & Green," tonight from 7pm-9pm. The performance, held in conjunction with the museum's "Word, Shout, Song" exhibit, features famed Chicago spoken word artists and HBO "Def Poetry Jam" staples Red Storm, Triple Blak, and M'Reld Green. Tickets are $5-$10; for more information, call 773-947-0600.
Vaudzilla remounts its show Rollin’ Outta Here Naked: A Big Lebowski Burlesque starting tonight at the Viaduct Theatre, 3111 N. Western Ave. The show features burlesque parody sketches of the film The Big Lebowski with Logan Conner, Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Trixie Sparx as The Nihilist, Mister Junior, Mia D. Vine, Viva La Muerte, Kyle Greer and more performing. The show runs Friday and Saturday nights at 10pm from Aug. 17 to Sept. 22. Tickets are $17.
Prop Thtr, 3502 N. Elston Ave., is the setting for Catzilla!, a cat-themed performance and art show this weekend, Aug. 17-19. Check out cat art in the exhibition starting at 6:30pm tonight, then stick around for feline cabaret performances beginning at 8pm. Exhibition and performances continue on Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 3pm. Admission is $15 or pay what you can, with proceeds benefiting the theater.
Hot & Heavy Burlesque presents a tribute to the band Journey tonight at 10:30pm at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Hosted by Fake Steve Perry (Sanjula Vamana), the evening will feature Exotic World title holders The Dolls of Doom as well as world-renowned circus performer Miss Pussykat of Daredevil Circus, Viva La Muerte, Red Rum, Scarlett DeVille, Dahlia Fatale, Lola Getz, Miss Vine, Cruel Valentine and Bella Bathory, performing to classic Journey hits like "Don't Stop Believing," "Open Arms," "Separate Ways," "Wheel in the Sky" and more. Tickets are $15 online or at the box office. 21+
The Encyclopedia Show hosts is annual Anthology show tonight at 7:30pm at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St. The organizers, Robbie Q Telfer and Shanny Jean Maney, have pulled one reader from their past year to give a best of variety show. Talent includes Lynda Barry, an interview with Joaquin Vieira, LeKeja Dawson, David Kodeski and musician Naomi Ashley, Peter Cook (ASL performance poet), Jamila Woods, Chris Bower, Dan Shapiro and Janna Sobel. Tickets are $9, $6 for students.
The University of Chicago's Logan Center, 915 E. 60th St., presents "Youth Arts Showcase," today from 2pm-4pm. This free showcase, designed for ages 12 and up, will feature community youth in an exchange of dance, poetry, music, visual art, and an open mic. Special appearances by Kuumba Lynx, M.A.D.D. Rhythms, University of Hip Hop and more. RSVP to logancenter@uchicago.edu; for more information, call 773-702-ARTS (2787).
The annual Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival continues three days of music, art, theater, dance and food in Logan Square. Events run from 11am-10pm today on Milwaukee Ave. between California and Kimball.
Chicago Slam Works presents "In Any Tongue," a bilingual poetry event in German and English, at the Vittum Theater (1012 N. Noble.) Tickets are $14, $10 for students. For more information visit Chicago Slam Works or call 866-811-4111
The annual Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival continues three days of music, art, theater, dance and food in Logan Square. Today events run from 11am-10pm on Milwaukee Ave. between California and Kimball.
The annual Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival kicks off three days of music, art, theater, dance and food in Logan Square. Events start this afternoon at 4pm and run all weekend on Milwaukee Ave. between California and Kimball.
The third annual Windy City Burlesque Fest is at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Friday and tonight, with three different performances at 8pm, 10pm and midnight each night. See performers from around the world, including Jo Boobs (New York), Kristina Nekyia (LA), Coco Lectric (Austin), Tiffany Carter (Las Vegas), Penny Starr, Jr. (Hollywood), Kitten De Ville (LA), Foxy Tann (Minneapolis) and Chicago's Stage Door Johnnies. Tickets are $30 for each performance; $150 gets you a pass for all six.
The third annual Windy City Burlesque Fest is at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., tonight and Saturday, with three different performances at 8pm, 10pm and midnight each night. See performers from around the world, including Jo Boobs (New York), Kristina Nekyia (LA), Coco Lectric (Austin), Tiffany Carter (Las Vegas), Penny Starr, Jr. (Hollywood), Kitten De Ville (LA), Foxy Tann (Minneapolis) and Chicago's Stage Door Johnnies. Tickets are $30 for each performance; $150 gets you a pass for all six.
The third annual Windy City Burlesque Fest kicks off with two free shows at the Lincoln Tap Room, 3010 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight starting at 9pm. Shirley Knot hosts, with performances by Boobs Radley, Cruel Valentine, Lucy Flawless, Patsy Blue Ribbon, Po' Chop, Saucy Jack, Dirty Devlin, Josephine Shaker, Lady India de Minuit, Miss Alyssa Kitt, Red Rum, Special K, Titty Perkins and more. 21+
Ties & Tassels is joined by more than 20 performers tonight to support fellow performer Spiffy Kins (aka Mae the bellydancer) and her partner after a fire destroyed their home and many of their belongings. Doors open at 6p.m. at Lizard's Liquid Lounge, 3058 W. Irving Park Road. Admission is $5 at the door (or more if you're so generously inclined).
Kristen Studdard performs a one-night-only preview of her solo show, Small Victories, about "the lies we tell ourselves to get through the day," tonight at 9:30pm at The Annoyance Theater, 4830 N. Broadway. Tickets are $10 online or at the door. All ages.
Mixed Mamas is an autobiographical choreo-poem about motherhood, diversity, womanhood, growing up and everything in between. Tonight and tomorrow at 8PM, Sunday at 7PM at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield, Suite 20. Tickets available online with student and senior discounts.
To celebrate its 3-year anniversary, The Shrine, 2109 S. Wabash, presents the legendary hip-hop trio, De La Soul, tonight. Coming straight out of Long Island, NY, Posdnuos, Dave, and Maseo, as De La, make up one of the Native Tongues movement originals alongside the Jungle Brothers and A Tribe Called Quest. The group has pushed the good tunes and positive vibes for nearly twenty-five years and surely plan to continue that tradition tonight. Presale tickets are $25. Doors open at 8pm. 21+
Spektral Quartet and High Concept Laboratories present Theatre of War, an evening of music, film, performance and poetry on the subject of war. The event happens tonight and tomorrow night at 7:30pm at the Chopin Theatre building (1543 W. Division). Tickets are $30, or $20 for students with ID, and can be purchased through the Spektral Quartet's Website.
Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St., celebrates the 100th birthday of Studs Terkel with a one-night-only performance of Will the Circle Be Unbroken: Death, Rebirth, and Hunger for a Faith, an excerpt from the stage adaptation of Terkel's book by the same name, at 7pm tonight. Ian Barford, Robert Breuler, Ora Jones, Martha Lavey, Alan Wilder, Anthony Fleming III, Justin Hayford, Rick Kogan, L. J. Slavin, Mary Ann Thebus, Guy Van Swearingen, Andrew White and Dennis Zacek will read. Tickets are free, available by calling 312-335-1650.
New local brewery Arcade Brewery hosts their first fundraising event tonight at the Threadless Headquarters (1260 West Madison). Running in conjunction with their Kickstarter campaign, this fundraiser includes a dj set by Martin Atkins; performances by Ones Bent to Zero, Prom Band, and sketch comedy group Comedy Think Tank; and haircuts from Rock Razors Scissors. Guests may bring their own beer for a "beer potluck." A suggested donation of $20 goes toward startup costs for the brewery and the event runs from 7 to 11pm. 21+.
What's better than one free burlesque show on a Friday night? How about two free burlesque shows? Vaudezilla takes over The Lincoln Tap (3010 N Lincoln Avenue) tonight, Friday May 11th to perform two free shows at 9pm and 11pm. Hosted by Booty Garland, several starlets will be shimmying and shaking for your enjoyment including Jeez Loueez, Trixie Sparx, Po' Chop, and Anita Lilmore. For more information and to see the full line up of burlesque broads, visit Vaudezilla's website.
The young poets of Young Chicago Authors have turned poems into short plays and will perform them in partnership with Victory Gardens Theater "Poets to Playwrights Conservatory" that, hence the name, aims to turn slam poets into playwrights. The plays will be performed as staged readings, directed by professional Chicago artists, this afternoon from 3-6pm at Young Chicago Authors, 1180 N. Milwaukee Ave. The event is FREE and open to the public. You can email poets2playwrights@gmail.com for more information.
CHIRP's "My First Time" reading series tackles "First Digs" tonight at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont Ave., at 8pm. Readers include GB's own Andrew Huff, Steve Forstneger of Illinois Entertainer, Ingrid Graudins, Sondra Morin, Jessi Langsen, Scott Hess and host Jocelyn Geboy, telling stories of their first homes, followed by a related song performed by the First Time Band. Admission is $10. 21+
Solo in the Second City, all about the joys and woes of being single in Chicago, is back at the Cobra Lounge for it's second run.
This months readers include:
Kelsie Huff
Scott Whitehair
Charlotte Hamilton
Blake Dinwiddie
Carly Oishi
Melinda Mcintire
8:00 PM at Cobra Lounge (235 N. Ashland)
Free
21+
solointhesecondcity.com
Looking for an antidote to the typical boring Saturday night? How about shaking up your usual dive bar crawl with an up close and personal glimpse of a human block head? Steampunk Chicago and the Squidling Brothers Circus present Gearbox Fantastique II tonight, Saturday April 14th at 8pm at Reggie's Rock Club (2109 South State Street; 312-949-0121). The 18+ show promises to "shock and amaze" and will include glass walking, aerial flesh suspension, burlesque sword swallowing, and other wicked sideshow attractions. Tickets are $15 in advance at Reggie's Rock Club's website, $20 at the door, and $40 for VIP passes (21+ only; a VIP ticket will get you an exclusive event pin and complimentary two hour open bar from Tipton spirits).
This month's edition of Urban Sandbox is out to make you laugh. Hosted by Dan "Sully" Sullivan, April's installment of the monthly performance series will feature comedian Cameron Esposito as well as a preview of the "Ten x Ten Project" featuring Defcee, Animate Objects, Tomorrow Kings & more. It all goes down tonight starting at 8pm (doors at 7:30) at Comfort Station, 2579 N. Milwaukee Ave. $5. All ages. Open mic sign-up at the door.
Stop by Exit (1315 W North Ave) tonight, Friday March 30th, to watch Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe Vaudezilla shimmy and shake in Broadzilla! The Burlesque Beast. The free show has been running for nearly three years now and features two performances (10:30 pm and 1 am) populated with a bevy of beauties including Anita Lilmore, Hedy Wallbanger, Po'Chop, and hosted by Shirley Knot. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers.
If you've enjoyed getting to know the characters from New Colony theater productions over the last few years (particularly FRAT and Five Lesbians Eating a Quiche), you may want to check out the Colonists' first annual Board Fundraiser, featuring favorite characters from shows past as well as The New Colony's upcoming production in partnership with Bailiwick Chicago, Rise of the Numberless. $40 ticket includes live entertainment, hors d'oeurves, wine and beer, games, and silent auction; group discounts available, booked over email. 8pm, The Dank Haus, 4740 N. Western Avenue, 6th Floor.
Tonight at 6pm, the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior) invites you to watch a modern interpretation of William Blake's Songs of Innocence and of Experience, performed by Billy Blake and the Vagabonds. Using folk, pop, country, and gospel music, so it's a must see! Especially considering attendees will receive a free edition of the April 2012 Poetry magazine and an Edie Fake print of "The Little Vagabond" by William Blake. The event will also celebrate Billy Blake and the Vagabonds release of Billy Blake and the Vagabonds Live in Concert.
Admission is free, and you can save yourself a seat here.
Kimya Dawson plays two shows today at the Old Town School of Folk Music (4544 N. Lincoln Ave.) Bring the kids for the 4pm concert, or leave them at home with a babysitter for the 7pm concert, featuring Your Heart Breaks. Tickets for the early show are $14 for members, $16 for the general public; tickets for the 7pm show are $19 for members, $21 for the general public, $17 for kids and seniors. For tickets and info visit Old Town School of Folk Music or call 773-728-6000
Columbia College's Story Week culminates with a reading of Chicago classics at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., from 6pm to 8pm tonight. Hosted by Rick Kogan, the evening will include readings by Audrey Niffenegger, Adam Levin, Elizabeth Berg, Kevin Coval and many more. Admission is free, but reservations are strongly recommended.
Mortified Chicago: Special Filmed Event!
WHEN: Tuesday, March 20, 2012
TIME: 8:00 PM
VENUE: Lincoln Hall
ADDRESS: 2424 N Lincoln Ave, 60614
Tickets available here.
Columbia College's Story Week kicks off with a party at Buddy Guy's Legends, 700 S. Wabash Ave., tonight at 6:30pm. Hosted by 2nd Story's Megan Stielstra and Bobby Biedrzycki, the evening will feature storytelling by Devon Polderman, Kathie Bergquist, Lisa Schlesinger and Germania Solorzano, as well as music by Seeking Wonderland. A reception precedes the event from 5:30pm to 6:30pm. Free. 18+ until 9pm, 21+ thereafter. Details here.
The DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th St., presents "11 Jazzy Divas," tonight from 7:30pm-10:30pm. This event, which celebrates Women's History Month and features 11 Chicago-based vocalists including Julia Huff, Joan Collaso and Maggie Brown, pays tribute to legendary African-American women in jazz. Tickets are $25-$30; for more information, call 773-947-0600.
As the new biannual Chicagoan magazine gains steam, editor-in-chief J. C. Gabel shuts a door: to the former Stop Smiling storefront. As founder of the late Stop Smiling magazine (and current publisher of Stop Smiling Books), Gabel hosts one last hurrah in the the space at 1371 N. Milwaukee Ave., starting at 7:30 on March 2.
Poets Jill Magi, Amaranth Borsul, and Michael Robbins; fiction writers Danielle Dutton and Justin Taylor; photographer Erica Baum; and more present work in which "they re-envision the form of 'the book' itself."
But that isn't all, promises Gabel: "Dance party afterward."
The South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. South Shore Dr., hosts the South Shore Opera Company of Chicago's The March: A Civil Rights Opera Project, today at 4pm. Held in conjunction with the Chicago Park District and composed by Jonathan Stinson, the opera centers on the people and events surrounding the 1963 March on Washington, with characters including Martin Luther King, Jr., John F. Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, and more. Free and open to the public. For more information, call 312-742-7529 or email opera@southshoreopera.org.
The Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph, hosts the Fulcrum Point New Music Project's Afro-Beats!, today at 2pm. This family-friendly, interactive performance explores West African culture in a multimedia performance, where audience members can participate in African dancing, drumming circles, and music. Tickets are $10; for more information, call 312-334-7777.
Jon Langford and Martin Billheimer launch Story Night at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6m to 8pm. They'll read "Chapter One: Plague Of Darkness," a Gothic horror story, aloud -- with atmospheric music by James Elkington and Sally Timms, sound effects by Brian Keigher and visuals by the Hideout's SS Panto crew. Tickets are $10. 21+
To celebrate the release of their well anticipated mixtape, bell hooks, local low key hip-hop group BBU will be on stage at Schubas, 3159 North Southport Avenue, tonight at 7pm. Also featured for the evening will be, Show You Suck, along with live DJ sets by STV SLV, Stephen Ponce, and MattBoyWhite. General admission tickets are $5. VIP tickets, that include a T-shirt and CD, are $20.
The Harold Washington Cultural Center, 4701 S. King Dr., presents Operation Safe Passage's "A History Lesson: A Celebration of Black History's Past, Present & Future," featuring skits, dance, and musical performances celebrating black history. Show times are 11am (matinee, students only) and 7pm (general public); tickets are $8-15. Call 773-979-2383 for more information.
Starting at 10am today, Chicago high school students who made it to the Regional Poetry Out Loud finals will compete for a chance to go all the way to the National finals in Washington DC in May. The event is free and is held at the Poetry Foundation (61 W Superior) and is open to the public, with standby tickets opening up an hour before the start time. Come support the students as they flex their mental memorization and recitation muscles!
The Music Box presents a Valentine's Day burlesque show hosted by Michelle L'amour. A group of performers, including Toronto comedy duo Parker & Seville, the burlesque group Chicago Starlets, and beatbox artist Yuri Lane, will perform two shows this evening, one at 8:30pm and one at 11pm. Tickets are available in advance; see the Music Box Website for details. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
The DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents Something About Oscar, a one-man show dedicated to Chicago native, Oscar Brown, Jr. Directed by Chuck Smith and starring Brown's protégé Morris Gearring, the performance features the music, poetry and social commentary of Brown. Guest starring famed poet Nikki Giovanni, The Koco Brunson Quartet and Brown's daughter, singer Maggie Brown. Show times are 10:30am (students/seniors) and 8pm (general audience); tickets are $7-$30. For more information, call 773-947-0600.
A homegrown emcee with heavy buzz, the young Rockie Fresh will be celebrating the release of his Driving 88 mixtape at Reggies, 2105 South State Street, tonight. Tayyib Ali, Phil Ade, and Savemoney will also be gracing the stage at this all ages event. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Doors open at 7pm.
Four Monologues is an excerpt from author and poet Aram Saroyan's play, The Laws of Light, done as a staged reading. Taking place at the Poetry Foundation (61 W Superior) at 7pm, the reading coincides with a letterpress book release. The artist's book edition was created by students in the Book and Paper Arts MFA program at Columbia College Chicago. Reserve your spot here or call (312) 787-7070.
Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe, Vaudezilla, takes over Stage 773 (1225 W Belmont Ave.) for some retro style burlesque tonight Saturday, January 21st at 10:30 pm. They'll take the old adage "one man's trash is another man's treasure" literally as they shimmy and shake in this tribute to America's favorite pastime, garage sales. Junk in the Trunk will feature performances by Jeez Loueez, Trixie Sparx, Anita Lilmore, Mister Junior, and more. Check out Vaudezilla's website for the full line up and more details. Tickets are $18 and can be purchased on Stage 773's website.
WBEZ's fourth annual Winter Block Party for Chicago's Hip-Hop Arts is at the Metro, 3730 N. Clark St., today from noon to 11pm in two sets. From noon to six it's free, with a graffiti gallery, a screening of The People Speak and the preliminaries of the night's three-on-three dance battle. Then from 8pm to 11pm is the Legends of the BodyRock, an all-city three-on-three battle of hip hop dance teams. Tickets for the late show are $15, or $12 for WBEZ members or $10 for students. 18+
Tonight at 7pm, the University of Chicago's International House, 1414 E. 59th St., presents singer and performer Maggie Brown in "LEGACY: Our Wealth of Music." This one-woman show features Brown singing and performing in a tribute to the history and legacy of African-American music. Tickets are $7-$15 and are available online. For more information, call 773-270-1171.
New York singer-songwriter Jaymay will be at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave., tonight at 9pm. Her somber tune, Sea Green, See Blue, made its way to the background of an episode of the CBS sitcom, How I Met Your Mother and is likely to be a favorite for the night. Tickets are $10. 18+
The Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan, hosts the Chicago Sinfonietta's "The Journey, The Dream," tonight at 7:30pm. This annual tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., conducted by Mei-Ann Chen, features the premiere of renowned jazz flutist Nicole Mitchell's Harambee: Road to Victory and gospel selections from Apostolic Church of God Sanctuary Choir. Tickets are $26-$50. For more information, call 312-236-3681 x2.
The Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark, presents a Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration today from 10am-3pm. This family-friendly celebration includes activities as well as performances by the Chicago Chamber Choir and the Writers' Theatre's "MLK Project: Fight for Civil Rights." Free. For more information, call 312-642-4600.
Hip-Hop veteran Pharoahe Monch is bringing his conviction-filled sound to Double Door, 1572 N Milwaukee Ave., tonight at 9pm. Most known for his instant classic, Simon Says, his performance is sure to make everyone "Get the F* Up." Tickets are $20. 21+.
President Barack Obama will be at the UIC Forum, 725 W. Roosevelt Rd., today at 3pm with special guest Hill Harper and musical guest Janelle Monae. General admission tickets are available at $100 each.
Comedian Dan Telfer headlines tonight, Friday January 6, at the Mayne Stage (1328 W. Morse Avenue; 773-381-4554). Doors will open at 7pm and Chicago's favorite nerd will take the stage at 8pm. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $20 for reserved seating. Visit the Mayne Stage's website to buy tickets and follow Dan on twitter if you really like dinosaur-based humor.
The performance series, 2nd Story, will take place tonight at 7:30pm at Webster's Wine Bar, 1480 W. Webster Ave. Local writers Andy Bayiates, Molly Each, Richard Leslie, and Ilana Shabanov will share their musically accompanied stories, while guests enjoy the tunes, tales, and complimentary wine tasting. Tickets are $15 online or $20 at the door. 21+
Robin Thicke, a R&B crooner with a classic twist, is coming to The Mid, 306 N Halsted, tonight, as he continues his Love After War tour. Doors open at 7:30pm, at which time ticket sales will end. $25 for general admission. 21+
Tonight at Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., Michelle L'amour hosts Tease the Season, an evening of holiday burlesque. At 8pm there's a Studio L'amour student showcase, followed at 9:30pm by the Chicago Starlets. At 11pm the Studio L'amour Holiday Party gets started. Advance tickets to each show are $15, or $20 for the whole night; VIP seating is available for $30. Admission will be higher at the door. 21+
Mortified!, the show in which people share their miserable failures and embarrassments, returns to Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave., tonight at 7:30pm. This month features readings by Lindsay Adams, Oline Eaton, Michael Van Kerchove, Samantha Vincenty, Mary Zemaitis, Polina Zionts and GB's own Jessica Palmer. Shay DeGrandis hosts, with special guests The Blue Ribbon Glee Club.Tickets are $12 in advance or at the door. 21+
The Paper Machete this week features Madame Barker's Cabaret (Molly Brennan and John Fournier), Art and Nancy Brennan, Chad the Bird, Cameron Esposito, Kate James and Steve Waltien, Claire Zulkey and of course, host Christopher Piatt. Baby Teeth is the special musical guest. The action starts at 3pm at the Horseshoe at 4115 N. Lincoln Ave. Free. 21+
The Joffrey Ballet presents its opening night of The Nutcracker tonight at 7pm at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 East Congress Parkway. Tickets to this holiday classic range in price from $30-$115.
This theatrical performance is inspired by poet Anna Kamienska's "Notebooks" and brings together text, music, and dance to spotlight the work of making art. All Your Paths in a Single Pocket runs for three more days, tonight and December 9 and10 at 7:30pm at the Poetry Foundation (61 W. Superior). Admission is free but first-come, first-served!
The Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph, presents "Holliday for the Holidays," tonight at 7:30pm. This one night only performance stars Grammy and Tony award-winning actress and singer Jennifer Holliday, accompanied by the Soul Children of Chicago, in a concert to celebrate the holiday season. Tickets are $35-$55 and are available at the box office and online. For more information, call 312-334-7777.
For a decade, The Second City has enlisted Chicago's best improvisers and their musical counterparts in offering twenty-four consecutive hours of the best improvised live art you will see in the city. This unique event raises money and gives hope to disenfranchised Chicago families on Christmas Day. This year's improvisation will be spearheaded by TJ Jagadowski, Tim Baltz, and Brendan Jennings. More information. The event starts at 7pm on 12/6 and runs until 7pm 12/7. RSVP on Facebook.
Movieoke, tonight at The Whistler, 2421 N. Milwaukee Ave., welcomes all movie-scene-reciters to take the stage and reenact lines from their favorite films. 21+
The Paper Machete this week features readings by Stuart Dybek, Maggie Andersen, Josh Zagoren, Nicky Margolis, Amy Verdon, Katie Rich, Neil Verma and host Christopher Piatt, and musical performances by Alisa "Plucky" Rosenthal and Canasta, and more. At the Horseshoe, 4115 N. Lincoln Ave. Doors open at 2pm, show starts at 3pm. Free.
The University of Chicago's Center for the Study of Race, Politics and Culture presents "Reclaim the Power," today from 1pm-8pm. The program features a screening and lecture on The Black Power Mixtape, a documentary that explores the Black Power Movement during the post Civil Rights era. A concert featuring hip hop artists and activists including singer Dayna Lynn and rapper Rhymefest follows. This free event will be held at the International House, 1414 E 59th St. For more information, call 773-702-8063.
The Moth StorySLAM returns to Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 8pm. Watch people tell true stories up on stage -- and possibly even join them. The theme this time is "Reunion." Tickets are $8 at the door. 21+
The New York-based prose reading series, Sunday Salon, returns to Katerina's, 1920 W. Irving Park Rd., tonight at 6:30pm. Featured this evening, are writers and instructors, M. Molly Backes, Jennifer Ann Coffeen, Kate Harding, and Scott Onak from StoryStudio Chicago.
The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E. Congress Pkwy., presents Beyond Brokeback: A Staged Reading with Music, today at 2pm. The program will feature a screening of the award-winning film Brokeback Mountain, a panel discussion with Chicago film industry experts and staged readings of poetry and music inspired by the film. Tickets are $15-$25 and are on sale online or at the theater box office. For information, call 312-922-2110.
The DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., hosts The Congo Square Theatre Company's tribute to the museum's late founder, Dr. Margaret Burroughs. This free program, which features staged readings of works written by Burroughs, musical performances, poetry and a film screening of What Shall I Tell My Children Who Are Black?, takes place from 12pm-5pm today. For more information, call 773-947-0600.
The Chicago Gay Men's Chorus presents "Lipstick & Lyrics," an evening of performances by some of the city's best singing female impersonators. This year's theme is "Girls Night Out." It's at Mayne Stage, 1328 W. Morse Ave., tonight at 9:30pm; doors open at 8pm. Tickets are $25 or $50 for reserve seating in the front row. 18+
The Interview Show returns to The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm. This month host Mark Bazer talks with pro wrestler Colt Cabana, singer-songwriter Tony Rogers and the editors of Chicago Home magazine. Plus, comedian Kelsie Huff does stand-up and the Wagyu Wagon food truck will be outside waiting for your order. Admission is $8. 21+
The Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Road, will have an afternoon full of spooky Halloween tricks and fun for everyone with Halloween Magic. An old deserted mansion on "Boo Street" will be the backdrop for this year's show and at midnight the mansion comes alive with eerie residents. Also included in the program is "Quick Change." An amazing act of non-stop excellently executed dance with rapid costume transformations in seconds. 100% of proceeds from ticket sales will go to Salute, Inc. a non-profit organization that provides financial support for military men and women and their familes. Tickets are on sale now, $20 for adults 13 and older, $10 for children 12 and under, $30 for VIP. For more information call (800) 745-3000. Show starts at 2pm.
The Moth StorySLAM returns to Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 8pm. Watch people tell true stories up on stage -- and possibly even join them. Tickets are $8 at the door. 21+
Funny Ha-Ha returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, from 7pm to 8:30pm. The show features readings and performances by "The Interview Show" host and WBEZ blogger Mark Bazer, "The Kates" host Kelsie Huff, "Paper Machete" host Christopher Piatt, "Reading Under the Influence" host Amy Guth, "So You Think You Have Nerves of Steel?" host Jacob Knabb, "Shame That Tune" host Abraham Levitan, all under the theme "Heavenly Hosts." Hosted by Claire Zulkey $5 suggested donation at the door; proceeds benefit the Neighborhood Writing Alliance. 21+
Marking the 140th anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire (October 8-10, 1871), Chicago improv group Octavarius is putting the oft-blamed perpetrator of the fire on trial. The Trial of the O'Leary Cow will " finally bring this villain to justice," with the audience as the jury. Tonight, 7pm at ComedySportz (929 W. Belmont).
Join Sphinx Virtuosi at 3pm today at he Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph, as they celebrate 15 years of promoting diversity for youth in classical music. Tickets are only $10 and are available at the box office or online. For more information, call 312-334-7777.
Mortified! returns to Chicago with stories of deep humiliation tonight at Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave., at 7:30pm. More info on Facebook. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door. 21+
Jimmy Carrane hosts a weekly show starting this Sunday at Stage 773 (1225 W. Belmont) featuring monologues by the host, interviews of improv actors (this week's show he interviews Susan Messing), and an exploration of improv comedy. Show starts at 7:30pm and runs every Saturday through November 27, no show October 16. Tickets are $15, for more info call (773) 327-5252 or visit Stage 773.
Derrick May and Derrick Carter headline Mayhem at the Mid, 306 N. Halsted, tonight. Local DJs Fortune and Just Joey will round out the night. RSVP to Clubtix.com for free admission before 11pm, or purchase tickets for $10. Doors open at 10. 21+
Tonight, the Harold Washington Cultural Center, 4701 S. King Dr., presents the premiere of Dweebs, Geeks and Weird-Os, for two shows, at 4pm and 8pm. This musical "dramedy" follows the story of 3 socially inept youths and their quest to make it big in the music industry and the challenges they face along the way. Tickets are $20-$25; for more information, contact kingcalvi@gmail.com.
This epic, experimental, two-day art/performance fest in Little Village promises to deliver -- with interactive installations, live murals, combative performance, culinary experiments, sustainable fashion, fire-spitters, a skate park, a tattoo artist & the tamale guy (to skim the surface). If you're looking for a lively, unusual time, look no further. Tonight's event starts at 8:08pm. Treasure Town is located off the Pink Line at 2106 S. Kedzie. More more information, click here and here.
This epic, experimental, two-day art/performance fest in Little Village promises to deliver, with interactive installations, live murals, combative performance, culinary experiments, sustainable fashion, fire spitters, a skate park, a tattoo artist & the tamale guy (to skim the surface). If you're looking for a lively, unusual time, look no further. This event starts at 8:08pm tonight and basically continues on until about 3am on Satuday night. Treasure Town is located off the Pink Line at 2106 S. Kedzie. More more information, click here and here.
On the heels of the success of their first show in June, Interface returns to Steep Theatre (1115 Berwyn Avenue) in collaboration with This Much Is True, to bring to life an evening of live inspiration exploring the common boundaries of music, art and storytelling. Interface is an opportunity to watch inspiration as it happens, to be a part of the art as it develops. Storytellers of This Much Is True (with guest Robyn Okrant) will take the stage to share a personal tale, and at the conclusion of each story, jazz outfit The CEC Trio will play an original, improvised composition inspired by what they have just heard. For the duration of the show, digital artist Noah Ginex will be creating a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork inspired by everything he experiences throughout the evening. This unique work of art will be displayed, as it takes form, on five 40-inch plasma screens placed around the stage. Prints will be available for purchase after the show. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door, show starts at 8pm. For info and tickets visit Steep Theatre.
PechaKucha returns to Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight from 8pm to 11pm. This month, Bob Barber & Mark Rubenstein, Jessica Charlesworth, Tim Fawkes, Lucy Hilarides, Chris Neville, RoxAnne Rochester, Stephen Vick, Stephen Yas, Dawn Hancock, Evan Forrest, Amber Hawk Swanson and special guests will get 20 seconds to discuss each of 20 slides on the topic of their choosing. Tickets are $10 in advance or at the door. 21+
Tonight Julia V. Hendrickson will release a new book of poetry entitled Grow No Moss at the Andrew Rafacz Gallery, 835 W. Washington Blvd. Julia will read selections from the book alongside performances by Mairead Case, Zach Dodson, Denise Dooley and Gabriel Wallace. Books, zines, and prints will be available for sale. Doors open at 6:30pm, reading begins at 7pm.
The 56th Annual Ginza Holiday, a large Japanese cultural festival, will be presented by the Midwest Buddhist Temple (MBT) Aug. 12 - 14 at 435 W. Menomonee Street in Old Town. Flown in from Tokyo for this event, four master craftsmen (Waza) will demonstrate their generations-old skills creating unique crafts. The public will have the opportunity to meet the Waza and purchase their crafts. Several other exhibits and booths will be filled with Japanese dry goods, snacks, kimonos and jewelry. An abundance of traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered, from udon to kintoki. Featured in the festival will be ongoing stage performances with the energetic taiko drumming, classical dance, traditional and not-so-traditional music, martial arts and a ukulele group! Aikido, Judo and Karate schools will demonstrate self-defense tactics, while Kendo (Japanese fencing) will entertain the crowd. The chapel will be open for guests who are interested in observing the place of worship and learning the basics of Buddhism. During stage intermissions, Rev Ron Miyamura will deliver short Dharma talks. A benefit donation of $6 for adults, and $5 for students and senior citizens will be collected at the gate. Children under 12 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Details here.
The 56th Annual Ginza Holiday, a large Japanese cultural festival, will be presented by the Midwest Buddhist Temple (MBT) Aug. 12 - 14 at 435 W. Menomonee Street in Old Town. Flown in from Tokyo for this event, four master craftsmen (Waza) will demonstrate their generations-old skills creating unique crafts. The public will have the opportunity to meet the Waza and purchase their crafts. Several other exhibits and booths will be filled with Japanese dry goods, snacks, kimonos and jewelry. An abundance of traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered, from udon to kintoki. Featured in the festival will be ongoing stage performances with the energetic taiko drumming, classical dance, traditional and not-so-traditional music, martial arts and a ukulele group! Aikido, Judo and Karate schools will demonstrate self-defense tactics, while Kendo (Japanese fencing) will entertain the crowd. The chapel will be open for guests who are interested in observing the place of worship and learning the basics of Buddhism. During stage intermissions, Rev Ron Miyamura will deliver short Dharma talks. A benefit donation of $6 for adults, and $5 for students and senior citizens will be collected at the gate. Children under 12 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Details here.
The 56th Annual Ginza Holiday, a large Japanese cultural festival, will be presented by the Midwest Buddhist Temple (MBT) Aug. 12 - 14 at 435 W. Menomonee Street in Old Town. Flown in from Tokyo for this event, four master craftsmen (Waza) will demonstrate their generations-old skills creating unique crafts. The public will have the opportunity to meet the Waza and purchase their crafts. Several other exhibits and booths will be filled with Japanese dry goods, snacks, kimonos and jewelry. An abundance of traditional Japanese cuisine will be offered, from udon to kintoki. Featured in the festival will be ongoing stage performances with the energetic taiko drumming, classical dance, traditional and not-so-traditional music, martial arts and a ukulele group! Aikido, Judo and Karate schools will demonstrate self-defense tactics, while Kendo (Japanese fencing) will entertain the crowd. The chapel will be open for guests who are interested in observing the place of worship and learning the basics of Buddhism. During stage intermissions, Rev Ron Miyamura will deliver short Dharma talks. A benefit donation of $6 for adults, and $5 for students and senior citizens will be collected at the gate. Children under 12 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Details here.
CHIRP's "First Time" reading series tackles the issue of "The First High" at the Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont Ave., tonight at 8pm. Margaret Hicks, Jasson Perez of BBU, Marcus Gilmer of The A.V. Club
Jenn Sodini are confirmed to read, with more to be announced. Admission is $10. 21+
Chicago Poetry Brothel sets up shop at Ristorante al Teatro, 1227 W 18th St., tonight from 8pm to midnight. Watch "poetry whores read for your pleasure, with burlesque performances scattered throughout the show. The theme this month is "Saints and Sinners." $5 if dressed in Victorian(esque) garb, $10 if not.
The Encyclopedia Show puts on an anthology performance of the best work from the past season, featuring music, poetry, art and spoken word by Chris Bower, Kristana Colon, Kevin Coval, Molly Meacham and others, tonight at 7:30pm at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St. Tickets are $8 for adults, $5 for children and students.
The second Moth Chicago GrandSLAM comes to the Park West (322 W. Armitage), featuring past winners of the Moth StorySLAM, (including Gapers Block's own J.H. Palmer), and hosted by WBEZ's Peter Sagal. The Moth is a reading series that began in New York in 1997, has chapters in L.A., Chicago, and Detroit, produces "The Moth on The Road" shows all over the country, and The Moth Radio Hour. It is also one of the best known storytelling series around; buy your tickets early. For more info visit The Moth or Park West. Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 8pm. A word to the wise - buy your tickets in cash at the Park West box office (322 W. Armitage) or at the Vic box office (3145 N. Sheffield) ahead of time and avoid those annoying online surcharges (which come to a hefty $9.30 per ticket.)
The Paper Machete, the weekly "salon in a saloon," this week features Katie Rich, The History Girls Katie Watson and Lindsay Harrington, Aemilia Scott, Mark Bazer, Ken Barnard, Coya Paz and Ricky Gamboa of Barrel of Monkeys, Tim Sniffen and Brendan Dowling, and musical guest Will Phalen. The show starts at 3pm at the Horseshoe, 4115 N Lincoln Ave. Free, 21+.
The Paper Machete, a "weekly salon in a saloon," this week features actress Rondi Reed, playwright Will Nedved, Neo-Futurist Lisa Buscani, A.V. Club editor Marcus Gilmer, improver Peter Kremidas, writer/performer David Isaacson, and writer/performer Ali Weiss. Musical guests include Jessie FIsher and Erik Hellman, and Real Tits, the latest band from John Szymanski and John Bliss. The show starts at 3pm at The Horseshoe, 4115 N. Lincoln Ave. Free, 21+.
Tonight at 7:30pm, Magic Chicago's monthly show at the City Lit Theater, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., features New York's Ran'D Shine, Danish magician Jan Hellesoe and Chicago's own Tevell Rose. Tickets are $20 in advance or at the door.
You, Me, Them, Everybody's monthly talk show at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., is tonight from 9pm to 11pm. Brandon Wetherbee and Esmeralda Leon's guests this month include Chris Connelly, comedian Candy Lawrence, a special set from Rock Falls and other music by Jeremy Tromburg. Free, but donations appreciated. 21+
Four youth artists -- winners of Graffiti Zone's Next Top Artist Contest will be honored tonight at GZ's Spring Fundraiser. The event will take place at Chicago Urban Arts Society: 2229 S. Halsted from 6 to 9pm. Hosted by Chicago hip hop performer Philip Morris, described as "one of the ultimate word smiths of hip-hop (Skope Magazine)," the evening will feature catering by Green Cuisine, open bar, silent auction and performances by Opera-Matic with sound by Mark Messing. Ample free parking is available behind the building, off of Cermak. Tickets are $35 at the door, or online at graffitizone.org. All proceeds to benefit Graffiti Zone, a non profit arts organization serving the 29th ward.
Make Music Chicago is a live, one-day, completely free music festival on the first day of summer, inspired by France's "Fête de la Musique," a national musical holiday marking its 30th anniversary this year. People of all ages, music of all genres, and musicians of all levels are invited to gather throughout the day in Chicago's public spaces to engage in spontaneous music-making. These events go on all day: 7am to 5pm culminating to a grand finale concert from 5:15 to 9pm at St. James Cathedral Commons. This event takes place at public spaces citywide, including Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington), Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington), Alliance Française (810 N. Dearborn) and St. James Cathedral Commons (65 E. Huron). For details, visit makemusicchicago.com.
The last time Mortified dared to show its face at the Beat Kitchen, the show sold out and people were turned away at the door, so buy your tickets now! Featured on NPR's "This American Life", and hailed as "embarrassing, hilarious and just plain wrong!" by Bust magazine, this unique show, in which performers read from diary entries and other ephemera from their youth, once again teams up with the Blue Ribbon Glee Club for an unforgettable evening of teen angst and humiliation (on the part of the performers, that is.) Show starts at 7:30pm, doors open at 7pm, tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door. Buy your tickets online at Mortified. Beat Kitchen is located at 2100 W. Belmont.
Join Scott Whitehair, producer of the storytelling series This Much Is True
and Story Lab, for the premiere of Interface, a new series that combines storytelling, music, and art. Interface starts at 8pm at Steep Theatre (1115 W. Berwyn). Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door, and can be purchased online or at the box office.
The Moth StorySLAM returns to Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight; the theme for this month is "Confusion." See what stories people tell off the top of their heads tonight starting at 8pm; get there early to assure a seat. $8 at the door, 21+.
WNEP Theater presents the 12th annual SKALD storytelling competition with a week of storytelling events for all ages. This evening's competition features hopefulls who have successfully auditioned for a spot. Tickets are $20, competition starts at 7:30pm. Purchase tickets online. The DCA Theater is located at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington).
WNEP Theater presents the 12th annual SKALD storytelling competition with a week of storytelling events for all ages. This afternoon's KIDSKALD competition features storytellers aged 8-16. Free to the public, reservations are recommended, competition starts at 3pm. Secure tickets at DCA Theater. The DCA Theater is located at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington).
WNEP Theater presents the 12th annual SKALD storytelling competition with a week of storytelling events for all ages. Tonight's MAELSTROM storytelling competition features improvised stories told by hopefuls who have successfully auditioned for this competition. Tickets are $15, competition starts at 7:30pm. Purchase tickets online. The DCA Theater is located at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington). Check the DCA Theater website for details.
Hey beer lovers, tonight three of the country's most rad craft breweries are hosting a double event in Bridgeport: One at Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar (960 W. 31st St.) and a simultaneous event takes place two blocks away at the Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S. Morgan St.). These events are being held to celebrate Chicago Craft Beer Week. Half Acre, Three Floyd's and Dogfish Head will be stocked at Maria's, with some rare beers on draft. 7pm til 2am. No cover.
The event at Co-Prosperity Sphere takes place from 8pm to 11pm. Admission is $10, which entitles you to complimentary craft beers. There are no online or presale admission tickets. Meet the staff of your favorite breweries: Three Floyd's Gregg Alzinga will be on the decks. Lord of the Yum Yum will perform at both venues. Proceeds will go to the non-profit arts organization Public Media Institute.
CHIRP's First Time Show returns with an evening of readings and songs on the theme "First Concert" tonight at 8pm at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont Ave. Readers/perfomers will be Matt Priest of Canasta; musicians Zapruder Point, Gerald Dowd, and Dag Juhlin; writers Leah Jones, Amy Hayden and Karl Klockars; and more. Tickets are $10; 21+.
Mayoral Tutorial, the local site that was an indispensable reference during the recent mayoral race, holds a relaunch party to celebrate the soon-to-star Rahm Emanuel era. The party starts tonight at 7pm at the Heartland Cafe (7000 N. Glenwood) and features contributions by local authors, speakers, activists and performers. The show will be hosted by Mayoral Tutorial's own Don Washington, and runs until the last attendee leaves.
"The Cannon," a monthly event starting tonight, (and part of Logan Square's "Strongworks" performance programming) will feature six Chicago actors
performing short stories chosen by Will Litton, fiction editor of the literary magazine
Wag's Revue, and Sam Nyhart, company member of Strong Works. Readings will be "performative, polished and punchy," according to Amanda Rozmiarek, production manager of Strong Works. Tonight's event will be held at Bonny's (2417 N. Milwaukee Ave.) from 9 to 10. Afterward, the Strong Works jazz band will play, followed by DJs, dancing and drinks. A $5 donation will be gently suggested at the door to keep their otherwise entirely unfunded season going.
The Northwestern Student-Athlete Advisory Council is hosting the inaugural Student-Athlete Talent Show at 7pm tonight in the Ryan Family Auditorium, inside the Technological Institute (2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston). The event will include student-athletes in every act, ranging from musical performances to comedic skits. A suggested donation of $3 will be taken at the door, with all proceeds going to the Kathryn Mahoney Fund to support the recovery of paralyzed Michigan State gymnast Kathryn Mahoney.
LifeSpeak premieres as part of NEXT 2011. Additional performances include a reprise of Shirley Mordine's 2009 work Illuminations, work from guest company RE|Dance featuring Lucy Vurusic Riner and Michael Estanich, as well as work from Alitra Cartman, selected to participate in Mordine & Company Dance Theater's 2011 Emerging Artist Mentoring Program. The performances begin at 8pm at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, located at 1016 North Dearborn. Tickets ($20 in advance, $22 at the door, and $15 for students and seniors) are available online or by calling (800) 838-2006.
The Chicago Story Collective is proud to present their newest storytelling showcase, "High School Horror Stories" at Town Hall Pub (3340 N. Halsted) for an evening of tales that will remind you why the best years of your life were also your worst. Readers include Essay Fiesta's Keith Ecker and Alyson Lyon, Story Club's Dana Norris, Stories at the Store's Jen Bosworth, This Much Is True's Scott Whitehair, Moth Grand Slam champion Shannon Cason, and comedian Kelsie Huff. Show starts at 8pm, with a suggested donation of $10.
LifeSpeak premieres as part of NEXT 2011. Additional performances include a reprise of Shirley Mordine's 2009 work Illuminations, work from guest company RE|Dance featuring Lucy Vurusic Riner and Michael Estanich, as well as work from Alitra Cartman, selected to participate in Mordine & Company Dance Theater's 2011 Emerging Artist Mentoring Program. The performances begin at 8pm at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, located at 1016 North Dearborn. Tickets ($20 in advance, $22 at the door, and $15 for students and seniors) are available online or by calling 800-838-2006.
The improv troupe Chicagoland kicks off the Chicago Improv Festival at the Annoyance Theater (4830 N. Broadway) along with fellow improv troupe 4 Horsemen. Tickets are $8 and can be purchased in advance at The Annoyance Theater or by calling 773-561-4665. For more information visit Chicago Improv Festival.
The Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St., presents the Roosevelt University Singers, conducted by Linden Christ, as they entertain the audience with a performance of Broadway show tunes and popular songs. The Singers are accompanied by pianist Lina Song. This free event is at 12:15pm in the library's Pritzker Auditorium. For more information, contact 312-747-4300.
Polish your tiaras! Before Prince William and Kate Middleton tie the knot across the pond, About Face Theatre is throwing its own royal wedding at WONKA BALL 2011. AFT's premier fundraising event will be held tonight at the School of the Art Institute Ballroom, 112 S. Michigan Ave., at 6:30pm with a VIP reception at 5:30pm. Tickets are currently available at www.aboutfacetheatre.com or 773-784-8565. The evening will include a silent auction, open bar, mouth-watering edibles from some of Chicago's best restaurants including Atwood Café, Garrett Popcorn, J&L Catering, Polo Café, Terry's Toffees and more. WONKA BALL wouldn't be complete without plenty of music, dancing, entertainment and of course lots of surprises--including a "Wonka-style" visit from Queen Elizabeth herself! Tickets are a steep $250/VIP reception or $150/general admission. Details here.
The Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St., presents "Exploring Händel Through Movement/Exploring Movement Through Händel,"performed by Chicago harpist Claire Happel. Happel explores German composer Händel's Harp Concerto in B-flat through a series of choreographed dance movements by post-WWII choreographers including Twyla Tharp, Merce Cunningham, Pina Bausch, and Mark Morris. This free event takes place at 12:15pm in the library's Pritzker Auditorium. For more information, contact 312-747-4300.
The Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St., hosts the Sammy Dyer School of the Theatre's performance, Society on a String: A Musical Dance Production, today at 12:15pm. This free event will be held in the library's Pritzker Auditorium. For more information, contact 773-651-3210.
Curtiss Hall, 410 S. Michigan Ave., presents Poetry Off the Shelf, an "experimental piano series," with a performance inspired by the poetry of Ed Roberson and Christina Pugh, with music provided by Chicago jazz pianist Ari Brown and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The evening will also feature a solo performance by pianist Mabel Kwan, who uses poetry by Rachel Jamison Webster and Reginald Gibbons as her muse. The program starts at 7pm; tickets are $10-$20 and can be purchased online. For more information, call (312) 291-0291.
"Gala Undone" is Urban Gateway's 50th anniversary party, hosted by New Arts Forum. The party will feature an open bar, snacks, and silent art auction. There will also be a performance by UG group, BAM!, live mural art by UG artist James "Casper" Jankowiak and tunes by DJ Mister Wolf (of Only Children). 21+. Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door. The party is from 9:30pm to midnight tonight at Venue One: 1044 W. Randolph. More information and tickets can be found at urbangateways.org.
You, Me, Them, Everybody returns to the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., tonight at 9pm, featureing author Claire Zulkey, comedian Ricky Carmona, a music by Michael Lux. Hosted by Brandon Wetherbee and Esmeralda Leon. Free, but donations appreciated. 21+
The DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., presents "UnTill Emmett Till," today from 4pm to 7pm. Created by jazz saxophonist and composer Ernest Dawkins, this work, in conjunction with the museum's For All the World to See: Visual Culture and Struggle for Civil Rights exhibit, pays tribute to the anniversary of Till's 1955 murder. Two Chicago artists, spoken-word poet Khari B. and jazz singer Dee Alexander accompany Dawkins in the performance.
Tickets are $25 and are available online. For more information about the performance, contact (773) 947-0600.
Brought to you by The Graham Foundation and Lampo, Jon Satrom presents Prepared Desktop as part of the Lampo Performance Series. Turning normal computer applications, programs, and desktop features into a strange(ly awesome) audio/video experience. 8pm, 4 West Burton Place (Madlener House). Get on the waitlist and find out more information here.
Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., presents collision_theory, a series of collaborative music and dance improv performances by dancers from Julia Mayer & Co., with music by Dhalgre. Live discussions follow. The show runs tonight at 7:30pm; tickets, $12 general admission/$10 students and seniors. For more information, contact 773-281-0824.
Windy City Burlesque Fest puts on not one but three showcases of dancers from around the the United States and beyond Saturday and tonight at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. Tonight's 8pm show features LA's Lux LaCroix, the 10pm show features Chicago's own Michelle L'Amour, and the midnight show features Seattle's Miss Indigo Blue. Tickets are $20, available online or at the door. A $100 festival pass gets you into all six shows.
Mar(t)ch Madness is an art show and event conceived in the spirit of a certain famous collegiate basketball tournament, organized by Lion vs. Gorilla. The show will begin with artwork from 16 established and emerging artists. Over the course of four bracketed rounds, viewers will vote to narrow down the playing field to their two favorite artists, and those artists will then compete for the championship trophy. Artists can (and will!) do whatever they can to court votes from audience members, to increase their odds of victory. There will be a half-time show, featuring Chicago's own cheerleading team, The Chicago Spirit Brigade. After the crowning of the Mar(t)ch Madness Tournament champion, there will be a tailgate reception, with refreshments and live music by Ludus Lovestyle. This is going to be a high-energy, fun event, and it is an opportunity for members of Chicago's arts community to come together and celebrate some of the amazing work being produced in this city. This event begins tonight at 8pm tonight at the Fulton Street Collective: 2000 W. Fulton. $5 suggested donation. Part of the proceeds will go to The Howard Brown Health Center.
Windy City Burlesque Fest puts on not one but three showcases of dancers from around the the United States and beyond tonight and tomorrow at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. Tonight's 8pm show features Seattle's Indigo Blue, the 10pm show features Chicago's own Michelle L'Amour, and the midnight show features LA's Lux LaCroix. Tickets are $20, available online or at the door. A $100 festival pass gets you into all six shows.
Windy City Burlesque Fest kicks off with a free show at Hydrate, 3458 N. Halsted St., tonight, featuring the Stage Door Johnnies and more than a dozen dancing guys and dolls. Doors open at 9pm, show starts at 10pm. 21+.
The DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., celebrates Women's History Month today from 3pm to 5pm with Simone, a tribute to the late jazz singer Nina Simone. The performance is a day of dance and song with Suite Nina, performed by the Muntu Dance Theatre and a vocal tribute by Chicago jazz songstress Dee Alexander. Tickets are $20 and are available at the box office. For more information, contact (773) 947-0600.
Critically acclaimed improv comedy troupe Octavarius is premiering a new show series titled "Octavarius: Battle for the Belt," tonight at 7pm at Stage 773: 1225 W. Belmont Ave. Additional performances will take place on March 20 & 27. Colt Cabana, former WWE and current Ring of Honor superstar, is a special guest of the series, making an in-person appearance on night two (the 20th) and video appearances on night one and three. "The Ego" Robert Anthony, CZW Heavyweight Champion, will make a surprise appearance on the final night of the series (the 27th). Tickets are $15 per show, or $25 for a ringside pass to all three nights. Audience members are encouraged to make a sign cheering or jeering their favorite Octavarius superstars, and receive tickets at a discounted rate of $12. For more information, visit Octavarius.com.
Sean Flannery's one-man show, Never Been to Paris, follows up a sold-out run last fall with a second run this spring at the Chicago Center for Performing Arts, 777 N. Green St. Catch him every Friday in March and April at 9pm; tickets are $12 and can be purchased here. Read an interview with Flannery in A/C.
The Good Evening Poetry Reading Series features ABI STOKES, TATIANA M. UHOCH, & BRIAN MORNAR. The open mic begins at 7pm and the featured readers at 7:45pm. Free & open to the public! BYOB! Mess Hall is located at 6932 N. Glenwood Ave.
Columbia College Chicago, 600 S. Michigan, presents performance artist Karen Finley as she reads from her latest book, The Reality Shows . Finley takes the audience on an artistic tour of the wild world of politics and culture during this century's first decade. This free event begins at 6:30pm and will be held in Ferguson Lecture Hall. Contact 312-369-8829 for more information.
Tonight, Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., presents "Nasty, Brutish and Short," a "puppetry slam" designed for performers to showcase their new works for the first time in front of an audience. Puppeteers include The Noah Ginex Puppet Company and Jessica Simon's The Talleys. Show time is at 7:30; tickets, $5 students and seniors/$8 general admission. For more information, contact 773-281-0824.
Most one-woman shows cover unrequited love over a cup of Earl Gray and draped in a sheer bathrobe, but Mo Welch isn't your normal gal. In fact, she's kind of a Weird Girl, conveniently the title of her new "one-human show." Instead of impersonating ex-lovers or neglectful children, she busts out Larry Bird and MCs. Check out the closing night at 9 p.m. at the Lincoln Lodge, 4008 N. Lincoln with comedian Aaron Weaver and international circus performer Amanda Crockett. Tickets are $10 and available here.
Sean Flannery's one-man show, Never Been to Paris, follows up a sold-out run last fall with a second run this spring at the Chicago Center for Performing Arts, 777 N. Green St. Catch him every Friday in March and April at 9pm; tickets are $12 and can be purchased here. Read an interview with Flannery in A/C.
Most one-woman shows cover unrequited love over a cup of Earl Gray and draped in a sheer bathrobe, but Mo Welch isn't your normal gal. In fact, she's kind of a Weird Girl, conveniently the title of her new "one-human show." Instead of impersonating ex-lovers or neglectful children, she busts out Larry Bird and MCs. Check out the premier at 9 p.m. at the Lincoln Lodge, 4008 N. Lincoln with comedian Cameron Esposito and international circus performer Amanda Crockett. Tickets are $10 and available here.
PechaKucha Night Chicago returns to Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., tonight at 8pm. The lineup includes activist and education reformer Bill Ayers, human beatbox Yuri Lane, architecture mapper Chris Botham, architects from the Studio Gang, spoken word artist Kevin Coval, journalist Melissa Harris, Pop-Up Loop's Michael Perry, furniture rep John Kim, the Young Architects Forum's Ania Jaworska and artist Dena Lyons each get 20 seconds to talk about 20 slides of their choosing. Architect Peter Exley and artist Andy Hall will emcee. Tickets are $10 in advance or at the door. More info here. 21+
The Ballad of Lula del Ray is a shadow puppet play following the journey of a young outer-space cowgirl. Watch it live at The Whistler, 2421 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight at 9pm. Oh+Ah perform with the play as well as on their own. No cover, 21+.
Buddy Wakefield is performing as a part of the noncompetitive events of Louder Than A Bomb. Tonight at 7pm at the 1104 Center, Columbia College (1104 S. Wabash Ave.), you're lucky enough to see him as an extended feature set of the Silver Tongue Reading Series. Admission is free!
You, Me, Them, Everybody does their monthly thing at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont Ave., tonight at 9pm. Guests include Interview Show host Mark Bazer, comic Mike Lebovitz, The Clams, and Jeremy Tromburg as musical interludist. No cover, 21+.
The South Shore Opera Company of Chicago honors Black History Month
with "Celebrate Black History Month," tonight at 5:30pm. This free concert, which will pay homage to African-American composers, will consist of a mix of opera and musical theater, along with a performance by the Deeply Rooted Dance Theater. The concert takes place at the South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. South Shore Drive. For more information, contact Gary Ossewaarde at opera@southshoreopera.org.
The Near North Library, 310 W. Division St., presents The Power of Glamour, a tribute to the 83rd Annual Academy Awards, today at 2pm. Featuring a performance by solo dramatist Roberta Randall, this program celebrates the "golden era" of Hollywood and five of its legendary actresses: Katharine Hepburn, Tallulah Bankhead, Greta Garbo Joan Crawford and Marlene Dietrich. For more information, contact (312) 744-0991.
Lupe Sanchez performs his "semi-falsified, autobiographical one-man performance", PORQUE NO COMES, tonight at Gorilla Tango Theatre (1919 N. Milwaukee Ave). PORQUE NO COMES (Because You Don't Eat) is the comedic story of a Latino boy (Lupe himself) growing up in a white suburb (Schaumburg to be specific), and his journey to find understanding and identity. Show starts at 9:30pm. Tickets are $10.
Strut on over to the Greenhouse Theater (2257 N. Lincoln Avenue; 773-404-7336) tonight at 11pm for the Show & Tell Cabaret. Presented by Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe Vaudezilla, the show promises "the Best of the Best" of burlesque and variety performances. Starring Red Hot Annie, Donna Touch, RenZena, Cherry Brandi, The Dolls of Doom, and Stage Door Johnnies, the show is expected to sell out and tickets ($15) can be purchased on the Greenhouse Theater's website.
Schadenfreude (Chicago's critically acclaimed comedy group) is performing tonight at the Gallery Cabaret in Bucktown. The comedic variety show will focus on the upcoming mayoral election in Chicago. Alderman Ed Bus (53rd) is running for mayor. He will host. Guests include Alderman Scott Waguespack (32nd Ward), former 42nd Ward Alderman Burt Natarus, Grammy Award winner and 20th Ward candidate Rhymefest, Cook County Social Club (2010 Best Comedy Group, Chi Reader), Comic and future Chicago Wingman: Ernest Wilkins, Beatbox sensation Yuri Lane and Paul Thomas (Rum Emanuel). Gallery Cabaret is located at 2020 N. Oakley St. Admission is $10. Show starts at 9pm.
Lupe Sanchez performs his "semi-falsified, autobiographical one-man performance", PORQUE NO COMES, tonight at Gorilla Tango Theatre (1919 N. Milwaukee Ave). PORQUE NO COMES (Because You Don't Eat) is the comedic story of a Latino boy (Lupe himself) growing up in a white suburb (Schaumburg to be specific), and his journey to find understanding and identity. Show starts at 9:30pm. Tickets are $10.
Schadenfreude (Chicago's critically acclaimed comedy group) is performing both Friday and Saturday night (Feb. 18 &19) at the Gallery Cabaret in Bucktown. The comedic variety show will focus on the upcoming mayoral election in Chicago. Alderman Ed Bus (53rd) is running for mayor. He will host. Guests include Alderman Scott Waguespack (32nd Ward), former 42nd Ward Alderman Burt Natarus, Grammy Award winner and 20th Ward candidate Rhymefest, Cook County Social Club (2010 Best Comedy Group, Chi Reader), Comic and future Chicago Wingman: Ernest Wilkins, Beatbox sensation Yuri Lane and Paul Thomas (Rum Emanuel). Gallery Cabaret is located at 2020 N. Oakley St. Admission is $10. Show starts at 9pm.
The Paper Machete is back this week at Ricochets Tavern (4644 N. Lincoln) with another knockout lineup: Neo-Futurist Bilal Dardai; arts & crafts aficionado Phil Dawkins; The History Girls, a.k.a. Katie Watson and Lindsay Harrington; Entertainment Weekly's Margaret Lyons; Susan Messing and Tim Baltz; Time Out Chicago's Christopher Shea; Second City's Steve Waltien; Mel Evans, a.k.a. Lincoln Square's most self-absorbed mommy, Elise Winston-Offenbeck. All this and music too! House band Drowsy, Pills and Hash are the musical guests this week. The Paper Machete starts at 3pm, and is free. For more info visit The Paper Machete.
Lupe Sanchez performs his "semi-falsified, autobiographical one-man performance", PORQUE NO COMES, tonight at Gorilla Tango Theatre (1919 N. Milwaukee Ave). PORQUE NO COMES (Because You Don't Eat) is the comedic story of a Latino boy (Lupe himself) growing up in a white suburb (Schaumburg to be specific), and his journey to find understanding and identity. Show starts at 9:30pm. Tickets are $10.
The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, hosts a meeting of The Dil Pickle Club, the revival of Chicago's legendary arts society, tonight from 7pm til 2am. The evening will be presented in two acts on the theme of "LOVE/DEATH," followed by a DJ dance party. The first act will feature singer Melanie "George" Decelles, Faces of Death of Precious Moments Figurines by artist Jenny Benevento, and paintings by Ned Broderick; the second act will feature works by Sayward Schoonmake, Richard Lindberg and Jerry Boyle. A variety of other musical interludes and sideshows will be presented throughout the evening. Admission is $5-10, and entry will be through the alley for the evening -- look for the orange door with the green light. 21+
Find a Place and Hold It for a While is a cyclical performance of labor, documenting moments of various weaving processes, addressing how loss can create opportunities for transformation through the construction and deconstruction of a hand-woven cloth. The artist, Lauren La Rose, is a BFA candidate at SAIC. She has installed a giant loom in the gallery and will be working on the cloth during the opening tonight and for several weeks thereafter. A video of the performance as it has been done before will be projected on the wall in the gallery. The opening reception is from 7 to 10 tonight at Peanut Gallery: 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. Rm. 345. All ages and breeds are welcome.
Roar! BROADZILLA! The Burlesque Beast attacks The Exit (1315 W. North Avenue; 312-395-2700) tonight with two free shows at 10:30pm and 1am. Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe, Vaudezilla, brings the tease with a bevy of beauties including Donna Touch, Mia D. Vine, Jenny Sasi-Quoi, and Paris Green. The show is free and hosted by Cherry Brandi. For more information and a complete list of performers, visit Vaudezilla's website.
The DuSable Museum of African American History (740 E. 56th Pl.) presents "Dr. King Day Celebration," today from 10am-5pm. This family-friendly, event-filled tribute to the late Civil Rights leader features a full program with film, spoken word, children's storytelling and theatrical and dance performances from the Chocolate Chips Theatre Company, the Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre and more. Admission is $10 adults, $5 for children age 12 and under. For more information, call (773) 947-0600.
The Music Institute of Chicago welcomes Brotherhood Chorale, for its 7th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at 5pm today at Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave, Evanston. Led by conductor Brian C. Rice, this 180-member, all male choir from Chicago performs a free jazz and gospel concert in honor of the legendary Civil Rights leader. For more information visit musicinst.org or call (847) 905-1500, ext. 108.
The Black Jew Dialogues, a comedy that explores race and culture in society, returns to Chicago for a special performance in honor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday tonight at 8pm at the Greenhouse Theater, 2257 N. Lincoln. The Chicago performance marks the kick-off of the show's Black History Month tour. Tickets are $17.50-$25; for more information, visit the theater's website or call (773) 404-7336.
Visit The Hungry Brain tonight for a live podcast recording of "You, Me, Them, Everybody" hosted by Brandon Wetherbee and Esmeralda Leon. Writer, co-founder of the Chicago Underground Library, and comedian Emerson Dameron will perform. Known more for his zine writer, he's contributed to The 2nd Hand and Chunklet. He's also published many of his own zines including Wherewithal. There will also be a special solo set from Mike Pritchard, the lead singer of Otter Petter. Following YMTE Live! will be a screening of "A Proud Tradition" featuring Ned Hepburn, narration by Emerson Dameron and music by Daniel Knox. View the trailer here. 21+. No Cover. Doors open at 8pm and the show starts at 9. The Hungry Brain in located at 2319 W. Belmont Ave.
For Children, By Children (FCBC) returns with "Expressions of MJ," a dance musical honoring the musical legacy of Michael Jackson, tonight at 7pm at the CICS-Longwood, 1309 W. 95th St. Written and directed by Rod Lewis, FCBC pays tribute to the late entertainer with all new songs, skits and dance routines to some of the singer's greatest hits. Tickets are $5-$7 for students; $7-$10 for adults. For more information, call (708) 769-9880.
The Baltimore-born "Pope of Trash" brings his version of holiday spirit to Chicago tonight with the acclaimed A John Waters Christmas, a series of rapid-fire monologues employing his trademark dark humor and hilariously inappropriate wit. 7:30pm, 205 E. Randolph Drive (Millennium Park). Tickets $35 - $65, and can be purchased at the Harris Theater box office (Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Dr.), by calling (312) 334-7777, or online.
Join the rest of the art school elite and bohemian set this Friday for ACRE's Winter Benefit at Heaven Gallery. ACRE needs your support to continue to provide resources for and programming by emerging artists from Chicago and beyond. Hang out with some sheep and chicks in the Petting Zoo! Deck yourself in plaid and grab a corn cob pipe for the photo booth! Sip some home-made hard cider from our new ACRE mugs! Sign up for the cake eating contest with a spin, led by Industry of the Ordinary. Try your luck on our prize wheel! Get some great deals on art by local and national contemporary artists at the art auction and sale.
Keep that warm feeling going and join us for an after-party a few doors down at The Crocodile (1540 N Milwaukee Ave) featuring DJs and dancing, starting at 11pm. Heaven Gallery is located at 1550 N Milwaukee Ave. on the second floor. Admission is $20 ($10 for students) suggested donation, and includes 3 raffle tickets. More details here.
Stop Smiling hosts the release party for See Me Improving, Travis Nichols' latest collection of poetry, tonight at its storefront at 1371 N. Milwaukee Ave. from 6:30pm to 9:30pm. The event will include found videos from seemeimproving.com and performances by Patrick Culliton, Jacob Knabb, Kathleen Rooney, Catherine Halley, Gretchen Kalwinski, Emerson Dameron, Monica Fambrough and more, plus a reading by Nichols from the book. Refreshments will be served. More info and RSVP on Facebook. Free.
So You Think You Have Nerves of Steel?, a new "literary variety show" from THE2NDHAND, debuts tonight at 8pm at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W Belmont Ave. The evening will feature music by house band Good Evening, puppetry by Brandon Will, and performances by Natalie Edwards, Mary Hamilton and Lindsay Hunter; Matt Bell and Michael Czyzniejewski; and Michael Zapata with our own Ramsin Canon. Hosted by Harold Ray and Kate Duva. More info on Facebook. Free, 21+.
Poet Austin Kleon's "Newspaper Blackout Poems," poems created by blacking out certain words from any newspaper page, will be set to music tonight by Chicago's Access Contemporary Music. The performance takes place at 7:30pm at Roosevelt University's Ganz Hall, 430 S. Michigan Ave., 7th Fl. Tickets are $5-$20; contact 773-334-3650 for more details.
Hubbard Street 2 will present "Harold and the Purple Crayon: A Dance Adventure," an hour-long, interactive dance program based on the beloved childrens' book, 3pm at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. Tickets to the program, which is sponsored by Target, are only $5 each, and may be purchased online at harristheaterchicago.org or by phone -- (312) 334-7777.
Sad Brad Smith is the musical guest this week at The Paper Machete, a weekly live magazine that takes place at 3pm most Saturdays at Ricochets Tavern (4644 N. Lincoln Avenue) Admission is free. For more information, check out The Paper Machete or Ricochets Tavern.
"On the Tip of My Tongue" is a theatrical performance based on food and memory, and is written, performed, and presented by Neighborhood Writing Alliance participants. Award-winning Affrilachian Poet Parneshia Jones provides artistic direction. Event is free, but reservations are required -- call (773) 684-2472 to reserve your seats.
--Gorilla Tango Theater, 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave.
The Chicago Human Rhythms Project (CHRP) will conclude its 20th season during Thanksgiving weekend performances at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. When you purchase a ticket to any of these performances, you'll be giving back to Chicago area non-profits through the Thanks 4 Giving program. You will receive a ten percent discount just by mentioning an area non-profit when purchasing your ticket. Plus, CHRP will donate 50 percent of the revenue from your ticket purchase to the organization you mention. The performance begins at 3 pm. Tickets are $15-55 and are available by calling 312-334-7777 or visiting harristheaterchicago.org.
The Chicago Human Rhythms Project (CHRP) will conclude its 20th season during Thanksgiving weekend performances at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. When you purchase a ticket to any of these performances, you'll be giving back to Chicago area non-profits through the Thanks 4 Giving program. You will receive a ten percent discount just by mentioning an area non-profit when purchasing your ticket. Plus, CHRP will donate 50 percent of the revenue from your ticket purchase to the organization you mention. Performances take place at 3 pm and 7 pm. Tickets are $15-55 and are available by calling 312-334-7777 or visiting harristheaterchicago.org.
The Chicago Human Rhythms Project (CHRP) will conclude its 20th season during Thanksgiving weekend performances at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. When you purchase a ticket to any of these performances, you'll be giving back to Chicago area non-profits through the Thanks 4 Giving program. You will receive a ten percent discount just by mentioning an area non-profit when purchasing your ticket. Plus, CHRP will donate 50 percent of the revenue from your ticket purchase to the organization you mention. The performance begins at 7 pm. Tickets are $15-55 and are available by calling 312-334-7777 or visiting harristheaterchicago.org.
Matt Skiba & Brendan Kelly will perform tonight at the Bottom Lounge, 1375 W. Lake St. The doors open at 8pm, show starts at 9pm. Must be 17 years old or older. $16.
Join authors and sisters Ntozake Shange and Ifa Bayeza for an evening of spoken word and music from 6pm-9pm tonight at the DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl. Shange, author of the acclaimed For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Is Enuf (and from which the recently-released film For Colored Girls is based) and Bayeza will read excerpts from their new novel Some Sing, Some Cry, with accompaniment by some of Chicago's finest musicians. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 773- 947-0600.
Today through Saturday, Chicago based musicians, visual and performance artists of all ages and variations will present their work for the 4th annual Pilsen extravaganza. Budding young artist Katie Literall will stage her solo debut and Matthew Barny approved Yale alumna Heather Marie Vernon is directing an original performance specifically for Garbage Fest. Alexandra Subak and her Laboratory Dancers are sure to entreat along with body sculpture work from Joseph Ravens and a sound installation from Jeff Kolar is surely not to be missed. Line-up, times, and more information on the 20+ artists featured found here. Garbage World 4 is located at 2106 S. Kedzie. $5 Donation requested.
The First Annual Whistler Talent Show: So You Think You Can Talent? has an arsenal of entertainments for the casual observer. They put our hosts through a rigorous selection process. Even their panel of celebrity judges, led by America's internet sweetheart David Perez, will have you rolling with laughter and deluding your craft cocktails with tears of joy. There will be judges, there will be an Applause-o-Meter, there will be prizes of value awarded at random. This is a celebration, not a competition. You are the big winners here; you don't have to compete, because you've already won. The show is from 8 to 11 tonight at The Whistler: 2421 N. Milwaukee Ave. No Cover. 21+. More info here.
Cock & Bull Theatre presents the final weekend of splatter fest Axe Lizzie & The Possession of Alice Von Truskin, written and directed by Chris Garcia Peak. Performances are for ages 18 and over only, and take place at Prop Theatre, 3502 N Elston, 8pm. Tickets are $20 -$25 (student discount available), and may be purchased at cockandbulltheatre.org, theatremania.com, or (866) 811-4111.
Join America's first all female mariachi ensemble, Mariachi Reyna de los Angeles, for an energetic performance. This 12-member ensemble is Grammy-nominated and continues to break stereotypes and shape new cultural traditions. The performances begins at 5pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $25-45 and may be purchased at the Harris Theater website or by calling (312) 334-7777.
The Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago presents the Chicago debut of Hiroshima-born choreographer Yasuko Yokoshi. Yokoshi's work "Tyler Tyler," offers a contemporary perspective on Kabuki Su-odori dance, a stripped-down form of Kabuki that has been revered for its purity and simplicity. Chicagoans can take advantage of this rare opportunity to view Kabuki Su-odori through a contemporary lens at 8 pm, at The Dance Center, 1306 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $26-30, and may be purchased via The Dance Center website.
Cock & Bull Theatre presents the final weekend of splatter fest Axe Lizzie & The Possession of Alice Von Truskin, written and directed by Chris Garcia Peak. Performances are for ages 18 and over only, and take place at Prop Theatre, 3502 N Elston, 8pm and 10pm. Tickets are $20 -$25 (student discount available), and may be purchased at cockandbulltheatre.org, theatremania.com, or (866) 811-4111.
The Chicago Sinfonietta celebrates and pays tribute to Maestro Paul Freeman in his final year as Music Director In a special concert, commemorating the Mexican holiday Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). The concert takes place at 7:30pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $10-50, and may be purchased at the Harris Theater website or by calling (312) 334-7777.
The Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago presents the Chicago debut of Hiroshima-born choreographer Yasuko Yokoshi. Yokoshi's work "Tyler Tyler," offers a contemporary perspective on Kabuki Su-odori dance, a stripped-down form of Kabuki that has been reverred for its purity and simplicity. Chicagoans can take advantage of this rare opportunity to view Kabuki Su-odori through a contemporary lens at 8 pm, at The Dance Center, 1306 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $26-30, and may be purchased via The Dance Center website.
Cock & Bull Theatre presents the final weekend of splatter fest Axe Lizzie & The Possession of Alice Von Truskin, written and directed by Chris Garcia Peak. Performances are for ages 18 and over only, and take place at Prop Theatre, 3502 N Elston, 8 pm. Tickets are $20 -$25 (student discount available), and may be purchased at cockandbulltheatre.org, theatremania.com, or 866-811-4111.
See the South Shore Opera Company of Chicago's concert performance of George Gershwin's legendary opera Porgy and Bess tonight at 7pm at the South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. South Shore Dr. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online. Contact 773-684-8514 for more information.
Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba lights up Roosevelt University's Auditorium Theatre with flamenco, ballet and contemporary dance set to Spanish and Afro-Cuban rhythms. The company, made up of eighteen female dancers, celebrates the uniqueness of Cuban culture in this lively engagement. The performance takes place at 8 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets run $30-69 and may be purchased by phone at 800.982.ARTS (2787), online at Ticketmaster.com, or at the Auditorium Theatre Box Office, 50 E. Congress Parkway.
The Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago presents the Chicago debut of Hiroshima-born choreographer Yasuko Yokoshi. Yokoshi's work "Tyler Tyler," offers a contemporary perspective on Kabuki Su-odori dance, a stripped-down form of Kabuki that has been revered for its purity and simplicity. Chicagoans can take advantage of this rare opportunity to view Kabuki Su-odori through a contemporary lens at 8pm, at The Dance Center, 1306 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $26-30, and may be purchased via The Dance Center website. There will be a post-performance discussion with the artists following this performance.
Cock & Bull Theatre presents the final weekend of splatter fest Axe Lizzie & The Possession of Alice Von Truskin, written and directed by Chris Garcia Peak. Performances are for ages 18 and over only, and take place at Prop Theatre, 3502 N Elston, 8 pm. Tickets are $20 -$25 (student discount available), and may be purchased at cockandbulltheatre.org, theatremania.com, or 866-811-4111.
Following the Contemporary Authors and the Artistic Process panel event, theater group The Anatomy Collective (TAC) was given about three weeks to develop an exclusive puppet show that blended the tracings, clippings, ephemera and writing generated and collected by Darger with the book collectively created by attendees of CUL's panel. The resulting performance today showcases TAC's talents and resourcefulness in a whimsical epic that re-interprets Darger's (home) life and (studio) work and the readers and viewers it continues to inspire. Admission: donations. 6pm. Intuit is located at 756 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba lights up Roosevelt University's Auditorium Theatre with flamenco, ballet and contemporary dance set to Spanish and Afro-Cuban rhythms. The company, made up of 18 female dancers, celebrates the uniqueness of Cuban culture in this lively engagement. The performance takes place at 7:30 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets run $30-69 and may be purchased by phone at 800.982.ARTS (2787), online at Ticketmaster.com, or at the Auditorium Theatre Box Office, 50 E. Congress Parkway.
This program, entitled "The Complete CCM," features Dohnányi's Sextet in C Major, Op. 37 for wind, strings, and piano, Bartók's String Quartet No. 2 in A minor, Sz. 67, and Schumann's Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 47. The concert takes place at 7:30pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $10-40, and may be purchased at the Harris Theater website or by calling the box office at (312) 334-7777.
The Venice Baroque Orchestra, one of Europe's premiere ensembles devoted to period instrument performance, performs Vivaldi's Four Seasons on Baroque-style instruments and then uses modern instruments for Philip Glass' Violin Concerto No. 2: The American Four Seasons. American violin virtuoso Robert McDuffie will perform as both soloist and leader. The performance takes place at 3pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $45-75 and may be purchased through the Harris Theater website.
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 2 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performances take place at 2 pm and 7:30 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago presents their fall engagement, featuring three world premieres in "LiveLife.Dance." The performance begins at 8pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $15-$60, and may be purchased through the Harris Theater website.
Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago presents their fall engagement, featuring three world premieres in "LiveLife.Dance." The performance begins at 8 pm at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $15-60, and may be purchased through the Harris Theater website.
In conjunction with Pentagon gallery, Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219 S. Morgan St.) presents THE LEVEL EATER, opens up tonight at 8pm. This exhibition features the work of Jeriah Hildwine, Luke Willard, Michael Garcia, Nick Bahr and Sam Sieger. This three day event combines two worlds, turning gaming into art and art into gaming. Games of Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer, Magic: The Gathering and "unique" fantasy games to explore, view and participate in. If you are still interested in participating in this event as a player or want to run a little adventure please email pentagon961@gmail.com. To RSVP, please click here.
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 7:30 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 7:30 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
The internationally acclaimed Sphinx Chamber Orchestra returns to Chicago for a one-night performance. The program also features the Harlem Quartet, and includes works by Bach, Vivaldi and Mozart, alongside seldom-presented works by Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson, George Walker, Michael Abels and Astor Piazzolla. The performance beings at 7:30 pm, at the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph Dr. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased online at the Harris Theater website.
CCPA's musical theatre undergraduate students present ane evening of musical selections. The event takes place at Miller Studio Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. at 2 pm. Tickets are $6. Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 2 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
CCPA's musical theatre undergraduate students present an evening of musical selections. The event takes place at Miller Studio Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. at 2 and 7:30pm. Tickets are $6. Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
The Newberry Library Center for Renaissance Studies presents its first Shakespeare Project of Chicago staged reading of the 2010-11 season. The center will perform a reading of Measure for Measure at 10am at the Newberry Library, 40 W. Walton St. The performance is free and will be followed by a discussion with the director and cast. No tickets required.
Luna Negra Dance Company celebrates its first season led by Artistic Director Gustavo Ramirez Sansano, featuring contemporary Latino dance including "Toda una Vida" by Gustavo Ramírez Sansano, the world premiere of "Bate" by Fernando Melo, and the North American premiere of "Deshár Alhát" by Eduardo Vilaro. The performance takes place at 6:30pm at Harris Theater in Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Dr. Tickets are $22-55, and can be purchased by calling (312) 334-7777, or visiting www.harristheater.org for tickets.
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performances take place at 2 pm and 7:30 pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
CCPA's musical theatre undergraduate students present an evening of musical selections. The event takes place at Miller Studio Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave., at 7:30pm. Tickets are $6. Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars," a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 7:30pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
CCPA's musical theatre undergraduate students present an evening of musical selections. The event takes place at Miller Studio Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. at 7:30pm. Tickets are $6. Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
The Joffrey Ballet opens their 2010-2011 Season with "All Stars", a performance featuring George Balanchine's Stravinsky Violin Concerto (1972), an homage to Igor Stravinsky; Balanchine's brief but explosive pas de deux Tarantella; Christopher Wheeldon's After the Rain (2005); and Jerome Robbins' charming and hilarious The Concert (1956). The performance takes place at 7:30pm at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Tickets are $25-145, and available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet's official Box Office, located in the lobby of 10 E. Randolph Street, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University box office, all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, by phone at (800) 982-2787 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes," a contemporary rock ballet based on Greek myths such as The Birth of Zeus, The Creation and Destruction of Medusa, The Sirens, and Orpheus and Euridice, set to music by popular artists including Pink, Feist, Coldplay, and Beck. The performance takes place at 2:30pm at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. Tickets are $20 for adults, or $15 for students and seniors. To purchase tickets visit www.theaterwit.org, call (773) 975-8150, or purchase at the box office on the day of the performance.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare are long, so Mainstage Theatre presentsa 90-minute roller coaster of Shakespeare. The performance begins at 2 pm at O'Malley Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $6 for students, $10 for adults.
Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
The Music Institute of Chicago (MIC) presents its second annual Brazilian Music Festival, featuring MIC ensemble-in-residence Orquestra de Samba performing the music of Brazilian giants Pixinguinha, Antonio Carlos Jobim, and Heitor Villa Lobos. Brazilian guest artist Dill Costa, along with MIC faculty artists Jim Setapen, Julia Miller, and Fiona Queen, will explore the relationship between Brazilian popular and classical music. The program takes place at 3pm at Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston.Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for students, and are available at musicinst.org or (847) 905-1500 ext. 108.
Winifred Haun & Dancers are hosting a flash mob in Oak Park today as part of Oak Park's annual Artrageous!. One performance will take place on the steps of the Hemingway Museum (aka Arts Center), 339 N. Oak Park Ave., at 11am, and the other on the plaza of the Oak Park Public Library, 834 Lake St. at 12pm. Come out and watch! Or join the flash mob! To find out how, visit WinifredHaun.org, email wini@winifredhaun.org, or call (773) 454-9843.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare are long, so Mainstage Theatre presentsa 90-minute roller coaster of Shakespeare. The performance begins at 7:30pm at O'Malley Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $6 for students, $10 for adults.
Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes," a contemporary rock ballet based on Greek myths such as The Birth of Zeus, The Creation and Destruction of Medusa, The Sirens, and Orpheus and Euridice, set to music by popular artists including Pink, Feist, Coldplay, and Beck. The performance takes place at 8 pm at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. Tickets are $20 for adults, or $15 for students and seniors. To purchase tickets visit www.theaterwit.org, call 773-975-8150, or purchase at the box office on the day of the performance.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare are long, so Mainstage Theatre presentsa 90-minute roller coaster of Shakespeare. The performance begins at 7:30 pm at O'Malley Theatre, 430 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $6 for students, $10 for adults.
Call (312) 341-3831 for reservations.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes," a contemporary rock ballet based on Greek myths such as The Birth of Zeus, The Creation and Destruction of Medusa, The Sirens, and Orpheus and Euridice, set to music by popular artists including Pink, Feist, Coldplay, and Beck. The performance takes place at 8 pm at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. Tickets are $20 for adults, or $15 for students and seniors. To purchase tickets visit www.theaterwit.org, call 773-975-8150, or purchase at the box office on the day of the performance.
Xiang Zou, one of the leading pianists of his generation in China, performs Schubert, Liszt, Messiaen and more. The concert is free and takes place at Ganz Hall, 430 S. Michigan Ave. at 8pm.
The Chicago College of Performing Arts Wind Ensemble features Eugene Bozza's Children's Overture, Richard Strauss Serenade in Eb, Op. 7, Paul Hindemith's Konzertmusik fur Blasorchester, Op. 41, Benjamin Britten's The Courtly Dances from Gloriana, Op. 53, and American composers Frank Ticheli's Postcard and Walter Mays' Dreamcatcher . The performance is free and takes place at 7:30 pm at Ganz Hall, 430 S. Michigan Ave.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents "Gods, Monsters, and Heroes," a contemporary rock ballet based on Greek myths such as The Birth of Zeus, The Creation and Destruction of Medusa, The Sirens, and Orpheus and Euridice, set to music by popular artists including Pink, Feist, Coldplay, and Beck. The performance takes place at 8 pm at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. Tickets to this performance are $10 each. To purchase tickets visit www.theaterwit.org, call 773-975-8150, or purchase at the box office on the day of the performance.
Cliff Colnot conducts this performance featuring new music performed by musicians from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Meet the composers nad musicians during a post-performance reception with free food and drink. The performance starts at 7 pm at the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph. Tickets are $10-20. Purchase tickets at the Harris Theater website or by calling the box office at 312-334-7777.
You can catch HSDC's "Fall Series" at 3 pm. The company presents a series of four distinctive contemporary dance works. The performance takes place at Harris Theater in Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $25-94 and may be purchased online through HSDC's website, or by calling the Harris Theater box office at 312-334-7777.
Orion Ensemble marks the opening of its 18th season, with Schumann's Fantasy Pieces for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 73, Piazzolla's tango-influenced Four Seasons of Buenos Aires for Violin, Cello and Piano (1965), and Beethoven's Trio in C Minor for Violin, Viola and Cello, Op. 9, No. 3. Orion Ensemble will perform at 7:30pm at the Music Institute of Chicago's Nicholas Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave, Evanston. Tickets are $26. Senior tickets are $23, student tickets are $10, and children ages 12 and under are free. To purchase tickets or learn more, visit orionensemble.org, or call (630) 628-9591.
Come out tonight to Nightingale Theater, 1084 N Milwaukee Ave at 7pm to experience a night of the GLI.TC/H Festival! Featuring works and performances by Theo Darst, Jon Satrom, Ben Baker-Smith, Evan Kuhl, Jimmy Joe Roche and many more. For more information, please click here and RSVP here.
You can catch HSDC's "Fall Series" at 8 pm. The company presents a series of four distinctive contemporary dance works. The performance takes place at Harris Theater in Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph St. Tickets are $25-94 and may be purchased online through HSDC's website, or by calling the Harris Theater box office at 312-334-7777.
Links Hall in Lakeview presents this unusual recitation of Walt Whitman's poetry performed in the nude by a diverse cast of more than 20 people. Conceived by Northwestern alumnus Jeremy Bloom, this choral reading event celebrates the bodily themes in Whitman's work. Performances take place at 7:30 and 10 pm; tickets are available online. Further information is available at Leaves of Grass Unbound.
The Chicago Independent Radio Project presents The First Time, a reading series focusing on first times of all sorts, tonight at 8pm at The Spot, 4437 N. Broadway Ave. Local bloggers, writers and performers will read original pieces referencing the monthly theme -- this round the theme is "Back to School" -- and a piece of music, and a live band will perform said music directly afterward. Admission is $10, with proceeds benefiting CHIRP. 21+
The Encyclopedia Show is a variety show that has its participants perform pieces on encyclopedia topics. Silver Tongue is Columbia College Chicago's student-run reading series. Watch them come together tonight at The Conway Center (1104 S Wabash) at 7pm and define the topic "bears" with poetry, film, music, and anything else they can think of. Admission is free!
Enjoy "A Night of Comedy" tonight at Columbia College's Getz Theater, 62 E. 11th St., with Chicago native Erica Watson, as she brings her one-woman show, Fat Bitch!, back to town. The play hilariously tackles perceptions surrounding race, weight and images in society. Doors open at 7:30pm; show is from 8pm-9:30pm. Tickets are $15 and can be reserved online. Contact (312) 369-8640 for more information.
Preservation Chicago's annual fund-raising event will be held this evening at the historic Sears Power House in Chicago's Lawndale neighborhood, 931 S. Homan Avenue. The party will run from 7pm-10pm, with an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, music by the Corey Wilkes quartet, tours of the building and a silent auction. Tickets are $85 in advance or $100 at the door. Free valet parking will be provided.
Come out tonight at 8:00pm to Roxaboxen/No Coast, 2130 West 21st Street. Alexis Gideon performs his one-man video opera, Video Musics II: Sun Wu-Kong. To RSVP, please click here.
It's first event over the summer was a success (really, poetry + brothel -- who wouldn't love it?!), so the Chicago Poetry Brothel is here to stay. Check out their second costume party/poetry reading/performance art tonight in the Foundation Room at the House of Blues (329 N. Dearborn), starting at 8pm. Tickets at the door are $10, unless you "come dressed Victorian," then you only have to shell out $5.
Famed choreographer, Lar Lubovitch, will bring his internationally acclaimed dance company to Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph, 7:30pm. The Lar Lubovitch Dance Company headlines Harris Theatre's See the Dance series with "North Star," "Dogs of War" (2010), "Nature Boy: Kurt Elling" (2005), and "Calvalcade" (1980). Tickets are available at the Harris Theater box office, 205 E. Randolph Dr., or by calling (312) 334-7777, or via the Harris Theater website.
Orion Ensemble marks the opening of its 18th season, with Robert Schumann's Fantasy Pieces for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 73, Astor Piazzolla's tango-influenced Four Seasons of Buenos Aires for Violin, Cello and Piano (1965), and Ludwig Van Beethoven's Trio in C Minor for Violin, Viola and Cello, Op. 9, No. 3. The performance takes place at Roosevelt University's Ganz Hall, 430 Michigan Ave., at 7:30pm. To purchase tickets or learn more, visit orionensemble.org, or call (630) 628-9591.
Famed choreographer Lar Lubovitch will bring his internationally acclaimed dance company to Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph, at 7:30pm. The Lar Lubovitch Dance Company headlines Harris Theatre's See the Dance series with "North Star" (1978), "Duet from Meadow" (199), "Coltrane's Favorite Things" (2010), and "Marimba" (1976). Tickets are available at the Harris Theater box office, 205 E. Randolph Dr., by calling (312) 334-7777, or via the Harris Theater website.
20x2 is a show in which 20 people are each given two minutes to answer the same question, in whatever way they choose. The question for this show, the first in Chicago for this long-running Austin show, is "Who Knew?" The 20 people are Veronica Arreola, Adrienne Canzolino, Ricky Carmona, Eamon Daly, Steve Delahoyde,
Lord of the Yum Yum plays Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar with Lazer Crystal guest spinning all night. Lord of the Yum Yum will go on at 11pm. Maria's is located at 960 W 31st Street. Admission is free. 21+. For details, visit Maria's website.
Come out tonight at 8pm for the finale of shows at The Bakery, 1854 W 21st Pl! The bands featured in this final performance are Tiger Hatchery, Heat Death, Criminals, Billington/Laughlin Duet, Wyoming, Brain Forest and many more. Come on kids, lets finish this! Don't miss out! Admission is free, donations are suggested. To RSVP, please click here!
Come out tonight to at 6pm to the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave, for their First Fridays! This issue is fashion focused, featuring a cinematic performance with Ben Russell and Joe Grimm entitled MAZES. Tickets are $18 at the door and $13 in advance, available through the MCA Box Office at (312) 397-4010 or online. Guests must be 21 or older to enter.
The For Children, By Children (FCBC) youth theater troupe honors the musical legacy of Michael Jackson tonight at 7pm at the DuSable Museum of African-American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., with "Expressions of MJ." Written and directed by Rod Lewis, FCBC pays tribute to the late entertainer from his early days with The Jackson 5 and through his solo career with dance routines and skits that include a medley of popular tunes like "ABC," "Dancing Machine," and "Billie Jean." Tickets for "Expressions of MJ" are $10-$15 for students; $15-$20 for adults. For more information, contact (708) 769-9880.
Chicago's favorite sweetheart Michelle L'amour's Superstars of Burlesque continues this Saturday night, August 21st, at The Music Box Theatre (3733 N. Southport). The show features an all-star lineup with every act carrying a winning title including the Chicago Starlets (2010 World's Best Burlesque Group), Hot Toddy (2009 King of Boylesque), and Michelle L'amour herself, Queen of Burlesque 2005. The doors open at 10pm and the fun starts at 10:30pm. Tickets are $20 or two for $35. For more details, a complete line-up of acts, and to buy tickets, visit their website.
Chicago Slam Works brings you the best of The Encyclopedia Show, a regular series of artists and writers presenting a verbal encyclopedia entry. Today's show features a dozen faces from the past season of the show, including Rachel Claff, Joel Chmara, Amy Johnson, Mike Argol, Diana Slickman, and many more. The show starts tonight at 7:30pm at the Vittum Theatre (1012 N. Noble Street); tickets are $6 at the door.
Chicago's favorite sweetheart Michelle L'amour presents the Superstars of Burlesque tonight and Saturday night, at The Music Box Theatre (3733 N. Southport). The show features an all-star lineup, with every act carrying a winning title. This includes the Chicago Starlets (2010 World's Best Burlesque Group), Hot Toddy (2009 King of Boylesque), and Michelle L'amour herself, Queen of Burlesque 2005. The doors open at 10pm and the fun starts at 10:30pm. Tickets are $20 or two for $35. For more details, a complete line-up of acts, and to buy tickets, visit their website.
Lifeline Theater (6912 N. Glenwood) and Live Bait Theater (3914 N. Clark Street) move into the fourth and final week of the Fillet of Solo Festival at The Artistic Home (3914 N. Clark). At 7pm performer, actor, and activist Tekki Lomnicki performs three pieces in The Best of Tekki Lomnicki: Thanksgiving; Clothing Optional; and Mr. Sandman. Tickets are $10, for more information call 773-761-4477 or visit Lifeline Theater.
Sean Flannery -- voted Best Standup Comedian by readers of The Reader -- debuts his one-man show, "Never Been to Paris," tonight at The Lincoln Lodge. The solo show weaves video, audio and animation to string together stories of the last dozen or so times he has nearly killed himself "by drinking, partying or flat-out, not paying attention." The show opens at 9 pm tonight, and goes up again Aug. 27, Sept. 3 and Sept. 10. Get your $10 tickets here.
Sean Flannery -- voted Best Standup Comedian by readers of The Reader -- headlines Comedy At The Mette tonight, hosted by Dan Polydoris and featuring C.J. Sullivan. The show's equal parts taste-test and warm-up for the debut of his one-man show, "Never Been to Paris," and is a collaboration between The Wilmette Theater and Chicago Underground Comedy. Doors open at 9:30 pm, and $12 tickets are available here. The theater sells beer and wine, so it's a 21+ show.
Mabel Stark, world famous tiger trainer from the 1920s, is hosting a variety show based around the ideas of improbable histories and hyperbolic figures. With a handmade time machine that doubles as a players' stage, Mabel will take us through history in an effort to prevent her true love's death. Along the way, she discovers an odd cast of characters who share their stories through word, song, sound, and movement. Acts include: a puppet show, sing-song storytelling, poetry, comedy, music performances, tiger wrestling, and more. The performance starts at 6:30pm, followed immediately by a (pot luck) dinner at 8pm. This event is FREE and open to the public--just bring a dish to share. The Op Shop 3 is located at 5226 S. Harper Ave. For more info contact Kayce Bayer: (773) 827-7502, kaycebayer [at] yahoo.com.
Lifeline Theater (6912 N. Glenwood) and Live Bait Theater (3914 N. Clark Street) present Nicole Hollander, the author of the syndicated cartoon strip Sylvia, in The Sylvia Chronicles: 30 years of Graphic Misbehavior from Reagan to Obama . This is a free event, for more information call 773-761-4477 or visit Lifeline Theater.
Dust Congress plays Ball Hall (1621 N Kedzie Ave #3) tonight with Shiny Around the Edges, Distractions and Mines. Visit Ball Hall's website for details.
This show, organized by The Chicago Metaphysical Circus, features a slew of good bands from Chicago and the Detroit including The Great Society of Mind Destroyers, Sisters of Sunshine Vapor, Hands of Hydra, Black Wyrm Seed, Michael Michael Motorcycle, and DJ Psychadelix. BYOB or you can get some homemade sangria there. All ages. Donation at the door. This event is from 9pm to 2am at Locked Out (3951 W Fullerton.)
Psyching out at 9:00pm tonight, The Chicago Metaphysical Circus presents: PSYCHAPALOOZA! At Locked Out, 3951 W Fullerton The Great Society of Mind Destroyers create a psychotic wall of groove rock & roll, hailing from Detroit Sisters of Your Sunshine Vapor rock groovy sights and sounds, the droney Hands of Hydra, the weighty dreams of Black Wrym Seed, garage rock of Micheal Micheal Motorcycle & DJ Psychedalex spins grooves all night. BYOB, Donations are welcome and tickets will sold at the door. For more information please click here!
Lifeline Theater (6912 N. Glenwood) and Live Bait Theater (3914 N. Clark Street) move into the second week of their 14th annual Fillet of Solo festival with a 7pm performance by Dorothy Milne entitled "Grown Up", followed by 8pm readings by 2nd Story writers Kim Morris, Doug Whippo and John Wilson. Tickets are $10 for each performance, for more information call 773-761-4477 or visit Lifeline Theater.
Dust Congress plays The Mopery (2734 N Milwaukee Ave.) tonight with Shiny Around the Edges, Verma, Basshaters and Spanyurd. Show starts at 10pm. Visit The Mopery's blog for details.
Please come out tonight at 9:00pm to support the community darkroom! The Negative Space, 1000 N. Milwaukee invites you to a dance party fundraiser. Music by East of Eden's Soul Express, A.D.D.J and Sweet D. There will be dancing, music, art and $10 open bar and $5 for admission.
The monthly reading series Reading Under the Influence takes over Sheffield's (3258 N. Sheffield) with tonight's theme: "Gods". Readers include local authors Josh Wilker, Marc Paoletti, and Simon Smith, as well as Windy City Story Slam all-city champion Alex Bonner. Original pieces will be read, as well as trivia segments related to the theme, with prizes. Doors open at 7pm, reading starts at 7:30pm, $3 cover charge. For more info call 773-281-4989, or or visit Reading Under the Influence or Sheffield's.
BROADZILLA! The Burlesque Beast attacks tonight (10:30pm and 1am) at Exit (1315 W. North Avenue). The free event is hosted by Backdoor Aly and features two full-length, completely different shows by Chicago's finest burlesque dancers, along with straight-out-of-Detroit special guest star Lushes LaMoan. Presented by Vaudezilla, tonight's line-up including Red Hot Annie, Siren Jinx, The Revelettes, and Viva La Muerte. For a complete list of burlesque beauties and more Vaudezilla events, visit their website.
Starting at 7:00pm, the SGI-USA Peace Concert Series presents The Clif Wallace Quartet at the SGI-USA Chicago Culture Center, 1455 S. Wabash. The Clif Wallace Quartet is comprised of Dudley Owen on saxophone, Quentin Coaxum on trumpet and John Tate on bass. Doors open at 6:30pm, for more information please call 312.913.1211. Free parking and there is no admission fee.
2nd Story continues their monthly live storytelling series at Morseland (1218 W. Morse Ave.) tonight featuring Julia Ganey, Khanisa Foster, and Margot Bordelon. Live music by The Homoticons. Doors open at 7, music begins at 7:30pm, storytelling starts at 7:45. Tickets are $10, available online or at the door. For more information visit 2nd Story or Morseland.
At Sullivan Galleries, 33 S. State, 7th Floor at 5:00pm Devening Projects + Editions, Peregrine Process, Julius Caesar, Suitable Gallery, Parking Space and Club Nutz come together to celebrate Art World Chicago.They offer a unique opportunity to participate in a condensed version of the social and geographic structure of an art scene by experience of over a dozen artists' original work in an environment conducive to the discussion of our braided expectations of venue, reputation, biography and community. Exhibiting artists include Christopher Michlig, Michael Pfisterer, Joseph Grigely, Thomas Roach, Kozue Hasegawa, Mike Schuh, Matt Hanner, Hot Can and many more. Don't miss it!
At 1:00pm at School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 280 S. Columbus Dr.in room B-012, you are invited to attend presentations that are a response to the form of the Chautauqua Assembly, a popular traveling rural adult education institution from the late 1800s. The twenty-five participants with teachers Matthew Goulish, Lin Hixson, Mark Jeffery, and TA James Smith create four presentations perfomances of expert lectures, educational and entertainment that share the theme of useful knowledge entitled Abandoned Practices. An informal reception will follow. For more information, please contact Mark Jeffery at mjeffe@saic.edu.
Today at 1:00pm, you are invited to attend presentations devised in response to the form of the Chautauqua Assembly, a popular traveling rural adult education institution from the late 1800s. Held at School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 280 S. Columbus Dr. in Room B-12. In alternating presentational modes of expert lecture, traveling exhibition, educational and entertainment performance which share the theme of useful knowledge, the four presentations of 18 or 21 minutes in length. The twenty-five participants will include parcipitation from teachers Matthew Goulish, Lin Hixson, Mark Jeffery and TA James Smith. An informal reception will follow. For more information, please contact Mark Jeffery at mjeffe@saic.edu.
The second annual MAAF continues today (for its final day) in Logan Square, featuring curated art galleries filled with eclectic works in all media, live music on three stages boasting diverse and critically-acclaimed line-ups, theater, dance, film, vaudeville and other live performances, an indoor art market, a community mural, children's activities, local cuisine and Magic Hat craft brews, and last but not least, a freaking trolley! Most importantly, don't forget to stop by the Gapers Block booth. The festival is from noon to 11pm today. It runs along Milwaukee between Kimball and California Ave. in Logan Square.
Starting at 1:00am latenight OUT OF TIME FESTIVAL, a micro festival of time based arts kicks off at Happy Dog Gallery, 1542 N Milwaukee Ave! This three day fest is In celebration of the Mayan Day Out Of Time to rub out the calendars of the boards of the earth for ever and features works by Balta Pena, William Amaya, Sebasitian Alvarez, Instinct Control, Marissa Perel, Nick Edelberg, Justin Cabrillos, NIcholas Monsour, Tessa Siddle, Emily Smith, Heather Marie Vernon, Jedediah Logsdon, Max Alexander and The North. Bring a sleeping bag because this is a sleepover! For more information, check Facebook.
Come out tonight one and all for Frankenjew Records Compliation Release Show at Maman Cave, 6448 N. Greenview Ave. Starting at 7:00pm, this musical performance features the punks of Culo, the gritty garage noise of Lake Breeze, the minimalism of And Jesus Was a Sailor, the eradicating keyboards of M3thlaab, the stoner jams of Geffika and the hardcore punk of Poor Choice, Harshest Realm and Morbid Obesity. Donations are encouraged, check Facebook for more information.
Starting at 8:30pm tonight, OUT OF TIME FESTIVAL, a micro festival of time based arts kicks off at The Epiphany Church, 201 S Ashland Ave.! This three day fest is In celebration of the Mayan Day Out Of Time to rub out the calendars of the boards of the earth for ever and features works by Balta Pena, William Amaya, Sebasitian Alvarez, Instinct Control, Marissa Perel, Nick Edelberg, Justin Cabrillos, NIcholas Monsour, Tessa Siddle, Emily Smith, Heather Marie Vernon, Jedediah Logsdon, Max Alexander and The North. For more information, check Facebook.
The South African trio Die Antwoord comes to the Double Door tonight (1572 N. Milwaukee). The band mixes elements of Zef, a South African term that describes a modern, trashy style mixed with out of date cultural elements, with rap, hip-hop, and other genres. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 9pm. Tickets are $20-$30. For more information call (773) 489-3160 or visit Double Door.
From MCA: "This summer, the popular performative art exhibition Here / Not There returns, and asks how participatory actions within structured events can encourage a collective act of creation. The viewer, rather than the artist, is the focus as guests are encouraged to participate in performing and creating works." Free tonight at 7 p.m. at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave.
Opening tonight at 10:30pm and running through August 22nd at the Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave. Beast Women showcases female strength, beauty and individuality through sexy, cutting edge and thought-provoking performances. Hosted by Michelle Power and curated by Jillian Erickson, this highly entertaining and inspiring show features a variety of genres including music, erotic poetry, belly dancing, clown acts, burlesque, stand-up comedy, magic and more! Tickets are $15, for more information and line-ups, call (773) 278-1212.
The Mo Show's second season closes out with a bang tonight, bringing in comedians from Denver, San Francisco and Chicago's own backyard. The lineup includes Brian P. Dailey, Aaron Weaver, Sam Tallent, Nathan Lund, Abbey Jordan and Jet Eveleth. The $5 show (with free cookies) is hosted by Ms. Mo Welch and starts at 9:30 pm at The Reversible Eye Gallery, 1103 N. California.
Story Club, a monthly open mic storytelling series, combines the spontaneity of an open mic with featured readings at Uncommon Ground (3800 N. Clark). Tonight's featured readers are Harz Sondericker & JT Berg. Open mic sign-up at 8pm, go time at 8:30. This event is free. For more information visit Uncommon Ground or Story Club.
Tonight the Stockyard Institute's exhibit, Nomadic Studio opens at the DePaul University Art Museum (2350 N. Kenmore). Nomadic Studio is a four and a half month exhibit about the artist and non-traditional studio spaces. For the month of July, they are focusing on the musician and the home studio. They have built a replica of the Rumpus Room in the center of the gallery. As the event progresses, the space will be transformed every month to reflect a new theme, as well as to feature different artists and spaces. Doors open at 5pm. At 6pm is a performance by Steve Albini. At 7pm there will be live music by Bric-a-Brac, onono, and Small Awesome. Music performances will take place in the Rumpus Room, a fully-functioning 'home' recording studio. All three bands consist of musicians that have rehearsed or recorded in the Rumpus Room. For more information, click here.
Running through the 11th, Club Nutz performs Here/Not There with Scott Reeder, Tyson Reeder and Elysia Borowy at the MCA, 220 East Chicago Ave. Here / Not There asks how participatory actions within structured events can encourage a collective act of creation. The viewer, rather than the artist, is the focus as guests are encouraged to participate in performing and creating works. $12 for general admission, $7 students and seniors, free for MCA members, children under 12, and members of the military; Tuesdays are free.
A fully improvised hour-long comedy show, complete with singing, dancing, a live band, and lots of audience participation. After the musical, (willing) audience members are the subjects of of shorter musical acts. Tickets are $15 for 10:30 p.m. at the Apollo Theater, 2540 N Lincoln Ave. Tickets and more info
After departing for their respected schools nationwide, The Caldwells and
Fishermans return to shore with a special midsummer performance at the unique
community center, Mess Hall. The Caldwells are a gang of four who send out good
vibrations with their 60's pop and garage rock sound. Perfect companions,
Fishermans provide an enchanted journey with their diverse instrumentation
including trumpets and electronic samples that give way to heart-filled group
sing-a-longs. Both groups are looking forward to sharing new material, baked
goods and some good ol' fashioned fun.
The show is at Messhall (6932 N. Glenwood Ave.) from 7 to 10 tonight and is free!
The Armando Diaz Experience is long-form improvisation in which a monologist tells personal stories that provides the inspiration for the resulting scenes. The cast is often joined by guests from MADtv, Saturday Night Live, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, The Second City and more. Tickets are $12 for 8:30 p.m. at iO Theater, 3541 N. Clark St. Tickets and info here.
From 10am to 10pm, Intelligent Minds presents Chica-Goa, an electronic picnic featuring the performance of Herbal, Pinche Cowboys, Wyser, Oswpatch, Rapha, Cest lavie vs. Eye Contact, Machi, Robyo, Shai, Zita Zie, Psyckohazzard and Medical Grade. Please consult facebook event prior to receive exact location of the event or call the info line at (312) 473-5521.
At 6:30pm this evening, please join acclaimed jazz singer, Grazyna Auguscik in her salute to composer Frederick Chopin in an evening of visionary interpretations of the composer's masterpieces at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, 55 N Michigan Ave. Entitled Chopin 200: Grazyna Auguscik's World Sound, Auguscik has won the praise and admiration of music critics with her unorthodox approach to rewriting classic works as an adventure into uncharted territory.
Darkest hearts desire darkest pleasures. Gertie Garbage, will once again host a night of performance art featuring the return of Bargain Hunter, Ishtar Bukkake and Heather-Marie Vernon and introducing Heather Lynn, BorderClinic, Charles Mahaffee and Natalee Decker at Mortville, 2106 S Kedzie at 9:00pm. Donuts will be provided, fluids shall be shared. The night will end with dancing, $5 donation is encouraged.
Blues legend Buddy Guy performs at Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Rd in Highland Park, at 7:30pm. JJ Grey and his band Mofro open and celebrate the release of their very first vinyl LP, The Choice Cuts. Tickets are $65 reserved and $22 for lawn.
The day before they hit the Taste of Randolph Street Festival on Sunday, June 20th, Califone will play a free in-store performance at new Logan Square record store Saki on Saturday afternoon. Likely strumming some favorites from their latest album/soundtrack/movie project All My Friends are Funeral Singers, Califone brings an exciting ensemble cast of guitarists, percussionists, and singers to the stage with each performance. The music starts at 2pm. Saki is located at 3716 W. Fullerton Ave., 773-486-3997.
Winner of a 2009 Orgie Theatre Award, The Encyclopedia Show presents its season finale (and biggest show ever) tonight at The Vittum Theatre (1012 N Noble St). Showcasing visual art, comedy, music and spoken word on a wide variety of subjects related to this month's topic of "the circus", The Encyclopedia Show draws its novice and notable talent from Chicago Area and National Artists in the Slam, Academic and Youth artists' communities. The all-ages event starts at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $6 at the door.
Come out tonight at 9:00pm to the Empty Bottle, 1035 North Western Ave. and get stained. Steven Koozer, Cheap Smokes, The Motley Crew and Dumpster Babies play a great show. Afterwards come to Stella's Tap, 935 North Western Ave. for Old Style beers.
Tonight come see the Oistrach Symphony Orchestra Summer Quartet perform
Haydn Opus 76 Quartet No. 2 in D Minor "Quinten" and Mozart String Quartet No. 15 in D Minor K.421 at the Church of the Three Crosses, 333 W. Wisconsin Street in Lincoln Park. This is an open house concert, no tickets are required. A post concert wine and cheese reception and musician discussion follows. For more information e-mail info@oistrachsymphony.org.
The French Musique Concrete composer Lionel Marchetti, at once inscrutable and endlessly fascinating, will perform at the Graham Foundation, Madlener House (4 West Burton Place, Chicago). Cost is FREE, but space is limited -- RSVP to rsvp@grahamfoundation.org for tickets. For more information, visit the Lampo web site.
Come out tonight at 7pm to Sapere Art in the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 Milwaukee Avenue, 3rd Floor Studio, 341. Bay Area Figurative and Plein Air Painter Eulalio Fabie de Silva will be performing live painting. Friday night will be spontaneous works on paper modeled after masters works and Saturday will be a live model setting.
Who doesn't want to see a live burlesque performance set to the tune of Spinal Tap's "Big Bottom"? That's just one of the numbers offered tonight by Hot and Heavy Burlesque at the opening night of their live theatrical tribute to This is Spinal Tap. The show runs for four nights at the Viaduct (3111 N. Western Ave.), and tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.
Come out tonight to Saki, 3716 W. Fullerton Ave. for some good tunes! Saki is a music store with art, books and zines for your reading pleasure. For your listening pleasure, Chicago's very own Hollows open at 6pm and the psychedelic trance outfit, Sadhu Sadhu follow at 7pm - for full listings visit Saki.
At Chicago Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., at 12:45pm The Betty Haag Academy of Music presents a concert by The Magical Strings of Youth, with collaboration from world-renowned violinist Ilya Kaler. The Magical Strings of Youth are a talented group of young violinists from Chicago who have toured extensively from Europe to Carnegie Hall. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased in advance by calling 847-382-7925, or at the Symphony Center box office on the day of the show.
Tonight Robert K. Elder will talk about his forthcoming book Last Words of the Executed. Rob Warden, executive director of the Center on Wrongful Convictions, says "this is a powerful, haunting book. Whether you favor or oppose the death penalty, you won't think about it the same way after reading the last words of the condemned - some remorseful, some spiteful, some humorous, all tragic. Most horrifying is the realization that some of those who claimed innocence until the end probably were telling the truth." Actors will be performing dramatic readings of some of the more famous cases. Tonight's reading is part of the Leon Despres Memorial Lectures series. Blackstone Library, 4904 S. Lake Park Ave., (312) 747-1105, 6pm.
At The Jazz Showcase, 806 S. Plymouth, sets at 8pm and 10pm. John Goldman, Chicago altoist, and his band Quaderangle celebrate the release of their new album Outside the Box. Outside the Box has been heralded as an eclectic fusion of jazz and psychedelia. This performance will feature guests from the album such as Leslie Beukelman, Kendall Moore and Victor Garcia, a Latin jazz trumpeter. For general admission, tickets are $10 and $5 dollars for students and musicians.
StoryStudio Chicago is hosting their annual Writers Read Showcase at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 20 at Lincoln Square restaurant 42 N. Latitude, 4500 N. Lincoln Ave. Readers from our Writing the Personal Essay, Advanced Fiction Workshop, and Fiction II courses will be reading their work, along with Writing the Novel instructor Elizabeth Wetmore.
Readers include Tina Boyer-Brown, Lindsay Tigue, Thomas Haffner, Michael Greenwald and Elizabeth Wetmore. There was a standing-room only crowd for this event last year so get there early!
Are you missing Bea Arthur, and reruns of the Golden Girls on the We network just aren't cutting it? Cabaret Chanteuse Carla Gordon honors the iconic actress of stage and screen in Queen Bea - A Tribute To Beatrice Arthur at the Skokie Theatre, 7924 Lincoln Avenue. 2pm. Tickets $20 in advance / $25 at the door.
The seventh installment of The Mo Show goes up tonight, featuring some of Chicago's top standups, sketch comedians, musicians and circus performers. Tonight's episode includes Jet Eveleth, Ken Barnard, Lyndsay Hailey, Puterbaugh Sisters, Ricky Carmona, Tia Ayers, Crockett and Subhah Agarwal. Read our interview with creator Mo Welch here, or just straight check out The Mo Show at 9:30 pm at The Reversible Eye Gallery, 1103 N. California.
Quickies!, created by Mary Hamilton and Lindsay Hunter to showcase very short prose, asks writers to read 4 minutes of prose the second Tuesday of every month. This month features Sara Levine, Matt Trupia, Jonathan Messinger, Natalie Edwards, Amanda Marbais, Barry Graham, and Sam Pink. It's free and starts at 7:30pm. 1935 W. Thomas St.
Legendary Swedish text-sound composer and performer Sten Hanson will perform at the Graham Foundation, Madlener House (4 West Burton Place), 8pm. FREE, but space is limited -- RSVP to rsvp@grahamfoundation.org for tickets. For more information, visit the Lampo web site.
Sadly, due to health problems, Sten Hanson has had to cancel this performance. There are plans to reschedule...more info will be posted as it becomes available.
This evening is the latest Ukulele Cabaret evening at Silvie's Lounge (1902 W. Irving Park), where ukulele players are invited to show up and play songs related to the evening's theme. Tonight's theme is UKE SOUNDTRACKS: television, movie, theater music, they're all allowed. The evening starts at 9pm tonight, and there's no cover charge. Players that RSVP before tonight will be given priority, so you might want to check in with the group's Facebook or MySpace page before tonight.
Mortified Chicago shares hilarious childhood devastation and self-deprecating memoirs tonight at Beat Kitchen (2100 W. Belmont). The 21+ performance features "a comic excavation of adolescent writing, art and media" and starts at 9P (doors open at 8P). Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 if you wait.
DJs King Hippo, Gogo, Shazam Bangles and Tony Junior play a solid spring set of Latin funk, salsoul, Tropicália, bossa nova, boogaloo and samba at the second annual Florecita Soul event tonight at Darkroom (2210 W. Chicago Ave). Proceeds from this year's dance party fundraiser benefit Beyondmedia's nonprofit documentary work and programming initiatives. The music starts at 9pm with a suggested donation of $10 at the door. RSVP via Facebook. 21+
Chicago folk band Them Damn Kids headline Schubas Tavern (3159 N Southport Avenue) tonight as part of the New York Songwriters Circle, a collaborative performance of five distinct artists. Admission ($10) includes a signed, advance copy of their new EP. Show starts at 8pm.
The Neo-Futurists present their latest prime-time show, Crisis! A Musical Game Show. Inspired by classic game shows of the past, Crisis! invites the audience to take a Scantron multiple-choice exam at the start of the evening; the highest scores are that evening's contestants, with actual cash prizes on the line (contestants can win a percentage of the evening's door sales, so the more people in the audience the more cash to win). The show opens tonight and runs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm through June 5. Championship rounds are on June 11 and June 12! See the Neo-Futurist Website for full details and to purchase tickets. Neo-Futurarium: 5153 N. Ashland (at Foster). (773) 275-5255.
The Pigeons, written by Joe Zarrow and directed by Cassy Sanders, asks, "Can artists, yuppies, pigeons or anybody escape gentrification?" The real estate farce opens tonight at 8pm and continues Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays through June 7. Tickets are a suggested donation of $10 to $15. Swim Cafe, 1357 W. Chicago Ave. Find out more here.
Spoken word performers Michelle Renae and Sondra Morin read at Transistor, 5045 N. Clark, as part of "Friday Night Live," April 30 at 8pm. The event is BYOB with a suggested donation of $5. Transistor is an eclectic, "arty" space, selling quality, well-chosen books, music, and electronics, encouraging community interaction through classes, performances, podcasts, and more.
Brain Surgeon Theater's reinterpretation of a Hans Christian Anderson fairy tale opens tonight and runs through May 16. The show, which involves talking ravens, sorcery, puppets, original music and a very small witch and is at 8pm Fridays and Saturdays and 2pm on Sundays, at the Prop Thtr, 3502 N Elston Ave. Buy tickets at ovation tickets or at the door.
Chicago DJs King Hippo, Gogo and Tony Junior play funk, soul, Brazilian, psychedelia, boogie and deep disco tonight at Rodan (1530 N. Milwaukee Ave). In conjunction with their spring set, the trio will also show experimental and avant-garde film/video on the lounge's massive projection screen. The night starts at 10pm and is totally free. RSVP via Facebook. 21+
Ke Ali`i Victoria Ka`iulani Hawaiian Civic Club and 'Uke Nation present a kanikapila (Hawaiian jam session) at the Grafton Pub (4530 N. Lincoln) this afternoon from 3pm to 5pm. Musicians, dancers and singers are invited to join in a two-hour get-together to celebrate the music of the Pacific Islands. Admission is a suggested contribution of $5, which goes to the local branch of the Hawaiian Civic Club, a nonprofit community-based organization. Full information available at the Facebook event page.
If you like art or arty music you need to go to this event. This year's Version Fest Kicks off tonight at Co-Prosperity Sphere with a wild party, an art installation, and a slew of great local live music. Tonight, Telefantasy Studios will create a temporary soundstage for performance. Please come in costume as a Sci-Fi/fantasy character to be filmed, photographed, interviewed, and auditioned. Best Costume wins a surprise. Also! Browse the 15 Minute Museum (ephemera, drawings, costumes, and models exhibited by Telefantasy Studios), enjoy a Hornswaggler retrofuturist concoction at Tech Noir Bar (by Image Search LTD and Nick Bahr, with light fixtures by Kevin Rhee), gawk at a new installation of silkscreened sculptural forms and prints by super art duo Seripop, be amazed by Go.Go!, a "Fuck-n-Go" performative installation (by Adam Van Eeckhout and Zihan Loo) and freak out with SWERVE, a dance duo from outer disco space. At 8pm: World Premier of Multinauts (episode 2) (Click here for a trailer for epsiode 1.) Finally, there will be live performances by Chandeliers, Mahjongg, Brilliant Pebbles, Mr666, Extreme Animals and D J+J+J. This event is at Co-Prosperity Sphere (3219-21 S Morgan St) from 8pm to 2am tonight.
Contratiempo literary center, DePaul University and Northeastern Illinois University present Poesía en Abril, (Poetry in April), the 3rd annual Spanish Language Poetry Festival celebrating Poetry Month and the booming Spanish language poetry scene in Chicago. Twenty five local and international poets from as far as Venezuela and the Dominican Republic participate in the festival. The festival takes place April 24-May 1, 2010. $10 donation benefits Contratiempo magazine. Visit the website for a complete festival program, which includes dates and locations.
A Dress of Steel Mesh explores the role of women's words and silences in surviving intimate violence. Relayed by a chorus of three female voices, A Dress of Steel Mesh "offers hope to those inspired to forge a new beginning from a labyrinth of lost dreams." Performances are April 21, 28 and 29 at 7PM at Recital Hall, Northwestern illinois University (3701 W. Bryn Mawr Ave). Tickets are $10.50. For info and tickets call 773-442-4636.
Hosted by Worldview's Jerome McDonnell, Chicago Public Radio Presents... is thrilled to again present this remarkable celebration - complete with food, music and over 100 Chicago-area Global Activists, all featured guests of Worldview's Global Activism Series. On the air for seven years now, the series continues to be inspirational, and bringing everyone together for this Expo has quickly become an annual event. This event is free and takes place from noon to 6pm. Click here for all the juicy details.
Hold on to your pasties and tighten your corset, Vaudezilla and Belmont Burlesque are bringing American burlesque back where it all began with the Windy City Burlesque Fest! The three day event concludes tonight with a performance at the historic Greenhouse Theatre's Main Stage (2257 N Lincoln Avenue) at 8pm. The show includes performances from over a dozen bawdy broads, including Minneapolis' Foxy Tann, Hollywood's Penny Starr Jr., Toronto's Tanya Cheex, and several of Chicago's shimming stars. Admission is $20. Visit the Windy City Burlesque Fest's website for a complete listing of events, featured performers, and to buy tickets.
Japanese multi-disciplinary composer Tomomi Adachi will inaugurate the Spring season of long-running Chicago experimental music organization Lampo. This performance will take place on the campus of Columbia College (916 S. Wabash, Room 214), 8 p.m., and the cost is $10 ($5 for students). More information at Transmission.
This opening night event is designed to complement the two shows upstairs (Friese Undine and Ian Weaver). It's a curated show of global street banner paintings culled from the
tradition of Cantastoria. Performers Dave Buchen and Chris Schoen will perform a "scrolly" show, which consists of pictures on a scroll, which is unwound as a singer sings the narration. Clare Dolan will present a short sung history of the form using brightly colored illustrations painted on her dress, and Spiro Dousias, a Chicago puppeteer, will perform a short sung piece with pictures as well. Meredith Miller will also perform. Golosá is Chicago's premiere Russian folk choir, founded in 1997 at the University of Chicago. They will enhance this evening and sing sacred and secular Russian folk songs a capella, and will perform at various points through the night. This event is from 5-10pm tonight at Packer Schopf Gallery: 942 W. Lake St.
Hold on to your pasties and tighten your corset, Vaudezilla and Belmont Burlesque are bringing American burlesque back where it all began with the Windy City Burlesque Fest! The three day event continues tonight with a performance at the historic Greenhouse Theatre (2257 N Lincoln Avenue) at 10pm. The show includes performances from over a dozen bawdy broads including Yorkshire's Anna Fur Laxis, New Orleans' Perle Noire, Montreal's Scarlett James, and several of Chicago's shimming stars. Admission is $20. Visit the Windy City Burlesque Fest's website for a complete listing of events, featured performers, and to buy tickets.
Hold on to your pasties and tighten your corset, Vaudezilla and Belmont Burlesque is bringing American burlesque back where it all began with the Windy City Burlesque Fest! The three day event begins tonight with an opening night party at the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue) featuring two tassel-shaking shows at 10pm and 11:30pm. The free shows include performances from over a dozen bawdy broads including Hollywood's Penny Starr Jr, New Orleans' Perle Noire, Vancouver's Madame Mae I, and several of Chicago's shimming stars. Visit the Windy City Burlesque Fest's website for a complete listing of events, featured performers, and to buy tickets to other performances.
The folk and bluesy sound of The Low Anthem comes to Lincoln Hall tonight, (2424 N. Lincoln Avenue). Appearing with the band will be Nathaniel Rateliff, who has appeared at SXSW. His debut album, Memory Loss, is scheduled to be released this month. Show starts at 9pm, tickets are $14. For tickets and information call 773-525-2501 or visit The Lincoln Hall.
In preparation for a fresh new bigger-than-ever Version Fest this year, the folks behind this amazing shindig need to find the money to pay for it all. There will be a silent auction, an art raffle, live bands, and a cash bar. Click here for details. Co-Prosperity Sphere is located in Bridgeport at 3219 S. Morgan St. and this event will take place from 7pm to 1am tonight.
Humboldt Park's Rumble Arts Center will host "Mercadito," a craft fair featuring creations and demonstrations from many local artists and crafters, as well as a trunk show and performances by students and teachers at the center. Admission is free, and there will be music and refreshments. 11am-4pm, 3413 W. North Ave.
Tired of all those good girls on Good Friday? Foxy Goat has the cure with Sinful Saturday! Tonight, seven of Chicago's loveliest burlesque girls will be showing their sins at the Risque Café (3419 N. Clark Street). Each girl will be performing as one of the seven deadly sins including Natasha Minsk, Red Hot Annie, Miss Ellie Noise, and more. The show begins at 10:30pm but the doors open at 9pm for raffles, trivia, music by DJ 5/16, and a deadly sin costume contest. The event is 21 plus and the cover is $5 at the door ($7 after 11 pm). For more information including a full list of performers, visit Foxy Goat's Facebook page.
Local actor and mime artist Dean Evans presents a remount of his fantastic show Magical Exploding Boy at Next Theatre in the Noyes Cultural Arts Center (927 Noyes Street, Evanston). If you don't think you want to see an evening of wordless mime, you're wrong; Evans has the ability to tell a compelling story through body language, some cleverly chosen props, and a heaping tablespoon of talent. The show runs tonight and tomorrow night at 8pm.
IN>TIME is a Chicago performance series of local, national, and international artists. Developed as a collaboration between DCA Theater and the Chicago Performance Network, the event features practitioners working with ideas of time and body, crossing the performing body with text, objects, sounds, visual art, and technology. This year's showcase event is co-sponsored by The School of the Art Institute of Chicago's Performance Department and features performances by Justin Cabrillos, Angela Ellsworth, Every House has a Door and Jessica Hannah. This event will take place at the Cultural Center (78 E. Washington) tonight from 6 to 9.
Local actor and mime artist Dean Evans presents a remount of his fantastic show Magical Exploding Boy at Next Theatre in the Noyes Cultural Arts Center (927 Noyes Street, Evanston). If you don't think you want to see an evening of wordless mime, you're wrong; Evans has the ability to tell a compelling story through body language, some cleverly chosen props, and a heaping tablespoon of talent. The show runs tonight and tomorrow night at 8pm, and Sunday afternoon at 2pm.
Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe Vaudezilla attacks tonight with 'Broadzilla! The Burlesque Beast!' Stop by the Exit (1315 W North Avenue) tonight for two totally different burlesque sets chock-full of twirling tassels and sequined panties at 10:30pm and 1am. There is no cover and no reason not to show up since the show features some of hottest acts since the Chicago fire including Wham Bam Pam, Jeez Loueez, Bonny Babs, and more. Visit Vaudezilla's website for a full list of dancers as well as other upcoming events.
Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe Vaudezilla is doing their spring cleaning with their newest bar top burlesque show 'All Lathered Up' tonight at the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue). Grab your brooms and feather dusters (but leave the polishing to the girls) and belly up to the bar at 10pm sharp. The show is free, hosted by the always unpredictable Wham Bam Pam, and features Red Hot Annie, Bonny Babs, The Flaming Dames, and other fearless broads. Visit Vaudezilla's website for a full list of dancers as well as other upcoming events.
Enjoy a night of jazz as The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E. Congress Pkwy., presents "Vivid '10," with music from Broadway's Sweet Charity. The Chicago College of Performing Arts and cast members from Sweet Charity will perform selections including "Big Spender" and "Rhythm of Life." This event is free; reserve tickets online or contact the box office at 312-922-2110. Show time is at 7:30pm.
Tonight at 8pm the University of Chicago hosts this electro-acoustic concert of improvised music, inspired by space, place, and energy. The combined credits for the three musicians playing reads like a who's who in experimental music, both home and abroad. Moments of combustion. Moments of meditation. Their work can revolve around a gestural dynamic one minute and a serendipitous serenity the next. This concert will take place in Bond Chapel, 1050 East 59th Street (directly east of Cobb Hall). Admission is free.
The Annual Real St. Patrick's Day Parade is today! It will kickoff between 3-5pm and go 'till 4am, or come at noon to help with floats (2025 S Halsted -- enter through back alley). All -- people, costumes, floats, music, intoxicants -- are welcome. So are kids, but if you bring them you are responsible for their safety at the Whale, in the Tetanus Garden, and on the street.
The Sometimes Family, a five-piece band whose range of styles include rock, blues, do-wop and soul, will be performing at Beat Kitchen (2100 W. Belmont). Also appearing will be Age of Animals and Bakelite Army. Doors open at 10pm, show starts at 10:30. Tickets are $8, for information and tickets call 866-468-3401 or visit TicketWeb.
This should be a floaty/trippy/creamy/illustrious/heavenly/magical show. Animal Collective's Deacon headlines and Glitter Bones and Netherfriends open. The show starts at 9:30pm; admission is $12. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western Ave. 21+.
The goal of E.M.P.A.C.T. is to spread culture, diversity, and knowledge of community issues while providing a common ground for activists, educators, artists, and community organizers to celebrate the commonality of their struggles. Tonight's party is a fundraiser for the Latino Union of Chicago. MC Luis Tubens will perform and there will also be live music from Magic Carpet, Matt Ulery's Loomand as always the People's DJs Collective spinning dance tunes. $5 donation, 21+. The Wicker Well is located at 1637 W North Ave. This party goes from 9pm to 2am tonight.
Take a peek at the lives of inhabitants and the transgressions they commit in the privacy of their little homes in this gallery installation by Ania Greiner-- 3 Card Molly and a sound performance at 7pm by Joseph Kramer. The reception is tonight from 4:30-8:30pm at The (Con)temporary Art Space: 208 S Wabash. The installation will stay up through March 24.
Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe Vaudezilla is doing their spring cleaning with their newest bar top burlesque show 'All Lathered Up' tonight at the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue). Grab your brooms and feather dusters (but leave the polishing to the girls) and belly up to the bar at 10pm sharp. The show is free, hosted by the always unpredictable Wham Bam Pam, and features Red Hot Annie, Jeez Loueez, Bonny Babs, Lula Houp-Garou, and other fearless broads. Visit Vaudezilla's website for a full list of dancers as well as other upcoming events.
The riveting off-Broadway musical Celia: The Life and Music of Celia Cruz, premieres tonight at 7:30pm at Athenaeum Theatre (2936 N. Southport Ave). Kicking off a one-week engagement with International Latino Cultural Center, Cruz takes audiences on a 60-year journey through the life and music of Celia Cruz--from her humble beginnings in Cuba to her international super stardom. Featuring a superb ensemble of 16 singers, dancers and musicians, the musical highlights the global icon's greatest hits. Tickets range from $35-$100.
Hot & Heavy Burlesque presents 'The Sunday Sizzler' tonight, Sunday March 14th at 7 p.m. at the Metal Shaker (3394 N Milwaukee Avenue). For a $10 donation, sample all the heavy metal burlesque you can handle from Viva la Muerte, Cruel Valentine, Natasha Minsk, Barrett All, and more. You'll also be treated to live music from Hail the Horizon, sideshow performances, belly dancing, and a hardboard guitar contest! For more information, visit Hot & Heavy Burlesque's website.
The Belmont Burlesque Revue presents 'Crime and Punishment' tonight, Saturday March 13th at The Playground Theater (3209 N Halsted) at midnight. Tickets are $10 and the show features several of Chicago's favorite performers including Natasha Minsk, Viva La Muerte, Red Hot Annie, Bonny Babs, and more! Visit the Belmont Burlesque Revue's website for more information.
Today at 7pm, the UIC Student Outreach Services presents the University's annual production of Eve Ensler's "Vagina Monologues," a theatrical performance to celebrate women - and end violence. Profits from the show go to local agencies, groups and organizations involved in the struggle to end violence against women. Hosted at the Theatre, Education, Performing Arts & Social Work (EPASW), 1040 W. Harrison Street. Cost is $8 for students & UIC community, $10 for the general public. Get additional information and performance/ticket details, email for more info or call (312) 413-1025.
The Encyclopedia Show is a monthly extravaganza of music, visual art and spoken word, and the theme for March is fast food. The show features 19 artists and starts tonight at 7:30 pm at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St. Tickets are $6 at the door.
Singer/Songwriter Laura Veirs performs an acoustic set at Corbett vs. Dempsey today. With a personal songwriting sensibility and fantastical lyrics that emanate from her native Portland, Oregon, Veirs has carved a unique niche for herself. She'll start her set at 5:30pm. The event is free, but space is limited so go early, and be prepared to sit on the floor. It will be worth it! Corbett vs. Dempsey Gallery is located at 1120 N. Ashland Ave. #3.
Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe Vaudezilla invades The Exit (1315 W. North Avenue) tonight February 26th with BROADZILLA! The Burlesque Beast! The girls will perform two free, different shows at 10:30 pm and 1:00 am. Red Hot Annie and Wham Bam Pam host as a bevy of burlesque beauties perform including Bonny Babs, Donna Touch, Jeez Loueez, The Flaming Dames and more! Visit Vaudezilla's website for a complete list of dancers as well as other upcoming events.
Michele Feder-Nadoff's chayah drawings are large suspended pieces, viewed from both the front and rear. They engage the viewer like manuscript sheets or layers of tanned skin, unattached to walls and wafting in the air currents stirred up by passers by. The opening reception will run from 6-9pm and features a musical performance by Douglas Ewart at 7. Experimental Sound Studio is located at 5925 N. Ravenswood. Call them at 773-769-1069 for more information.
Sonic terrorists Agents of Change bring their funkified political punk rock to the southwest suburb of Morris at the Korova, 425 E. US Rt. 6. If there is a riot, at least there will be a good soundtrack. Also performing Lethal Scriptures, Sicken With You, AllGood, and Black Matt. $8 cover. RSVP on Facebook.
Is it a flash mob, or a zany way to enjoy the free day at the Art Institute? Find out at 111 S. Michigan Ave on February 25, 2010 at 6 PM.
Organizers are encouraging people who show up to wear colors that correspond with your school.
Chicago's favorite burlesque troupe Vaudezilla warms up the chilly winter night with their bar top Heartbreakers Burlesque tonight at 10pm at the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue). The show is free and features Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Jeez Loueez, and other fearless broads. Visit Vaudezilla's website for a full list of dancers as well as other upcoming events.
The Poetry Foundation presents a staged reading of Aristophanes' comic masterpiece, first performed in 411 B.C.E. during the 20th year of the Peloponnesian War. Lysistrata leads the women of Athens to deny sex to their husbands until they end the war, a tactic that turns out to be as frustrating to them as to their mates. The Greeks had few language taboos and no problems with phallic imagery. These characteristics add to the startling humor and poignancy of the play, even in our uncensored age. Bernard Sahlins of Second City fame directs.
Show starts at 7:30pm, tickets are $20, $10 for students. 2433 North Lincoln Avenue. For tickets and information call (773) 871-3000 or visit Victory Gardens.
The Poetry Foundation presents a staged reading of Aristophanes' comic masterpiece, first performed in 411 B.C.E. during the 20th year of the Peloponnesian War. Lysistrata leads the women of Athens to deny sex to their husbands until they end the war, a tactic that turns out to be as frustrating to them as to their mates. The Greeks had few language taboos and no problems with phallic imagery. These characteristics add to the startling humor and poignancy of the play, even in our uncensored age. Bernard Sahlins of Second City fame directs.
Show starts at 7:30pm, tickets are $20, $10 for students. 2433 North Lincoln Avenue. For tickets and information call (773) 871-3000 or visit Victory Gardens.
This is a collaborative reading performance by a bunch of local, young, super-creative creative writers featuring art installations and snacks donated by Bleeding Heart Bakery. They are asking for a $5 donation to benefit The International Medical Alliance Relief Effort in Haiti. This event is from 7-9pm at Workshop (818 W. 18th St.).
Calling all Big Daddies and fast Kittens: The Ripettes Burlesque is back with a totally neat-o show, Rockabilly: Rebels Without a Blouse, tonight at 7:30pm at Mary's Attic (5400 N. Clark Street, above Hamburger Mary's). The hep show features the beautiful bettys Trixie Darling, Dixie More, Jeez Loueez, and Sushi Martinez and is hosted by Mickey LaRue with (some) help from Horhay Sexteban. Tickets are $15 at the door but if you dust off your best James Dean or Bettie Paige threads, you'll save $3. It's going to be straight-from-the-fridge ice cool, you dig?
Go the the Empty Bottle tonight for an evening of cheap drinks and great tunes from three times zones, starting with State Champion, followed by a set of newly arranged gems by locals Animal City. The talented Weatherbox from San Diego play after that. Headliners Ed Mar (Co-Prosperity Sphere co-founder) and Kenny Z's karaoke brain child, Members Only, will have you dancing the beer off 'till 2am. The doors open at 8:30pm tonight at The Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western.) Tickets are $8 at the door. 21+.
This is the last show of their Cobra Residency, and afterward they're taking time off to work on new stuff for the James Brown birthday party in a few months. Elev8or opens for them at 9:30pm and then it's a night of jumpin', screamin', and dancin'. Good times to be had. The Cobra Lounge is located at 235 N. Ashland. 21+.
Sweden's Wildbirds and Peacedrums performs at Metro (3730 N. Clark) tonight, with Brooklyn's St. Vincent headlining. Doors open at 8pm. The show starts at 9pm and is 18 and over. Tickets are $16 in advance, $18 day of show.
Animal trainer Samantha Martin brings her troupe of trained felines to Gorilla Tango Theatre for two shows tonight. Cats aren't the only animal Martin has trained in her career; her previous work includes chickens in the award-winning documentary Natural History of the Chicken, which led to an appearance, with chickens, on The Tonight Show. Martin's cats perform a variety of entertaining tricks involving wheels, hoops, and a musical act called The RockCats.
The cats will be performing today at 1919 N. Milwaukee Ave at 4pm and 5:30pm, tickets are $15. For tickets and info call (773) 598-4549 or visit Gorilla Tango Theatre's website. To view a clip of Martin and her charges, visit YouTube.
Yep. That's all. D. Rider, I Kong Kult, and Avagami play the Hideout tonight. Should be a wild show. Starts at 10pm. The Hideout is located at 1354 W. Wabansia.
At 6pm tonight about 40 local artists -- many of them artists-in-residents at the Flat Iron -- unveil interconnected murals throughout the building's hallways and then, at 10pm, destroy the work by painting over it. While you're there, visit the open galleries to see more of the artists' work. A $5 donation for admission includes snacks and booze. The Flat Iron Arts Building is located at 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Tired of snow drifts, runny noses, and frozen fingers? Let the vixens of Varietease Cabaret thaw you out and warm you up tonight, Friday February 5th, at the Lakeshore Theater (3175 N. Broadway). The show features live music by Johnny Roger and some of the hottest burlesque broads on the scene today including Natasha Minsk, Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, and cabaret host Backdoor Aly (not to mention the Lakeshore Theater's full bar!). The show starts at 10:30 pm and tickets are $15. Visit the event's website for more information.
The General Washingtons, "Chicago's first and only all white, all male comedy group," will be performing Thursdays @ 10:30pm through January 28 at the Greenhouse Theater (2257 N Lincoln Avenue). Tonight they'll be joined by local improv group Golden Tee. $6 at the door. $5 with one of their postcards. (Hint: They bear the image of one of our Founding Fathers. I'll let you guess which one.)
Though (Baby) its cold outside, the broads of Vaudezilla are heating up the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue) with their 'Out with the Clothes, in with the Nudes' Bar top Burlesque Revue. Dig yourself out of a snow drift this Thursday January 28th and visit the bevy of beauties including Red Hot Annie, Paris Green, Donna Touch, the Flaming Dames, and more! The show is free and starts at 10:00 pm sharp. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers.
The General Washingtons, "Chicago's first and only all white, all male comedy group," will be performing Thursdays @ 10:30pm through January 28 at the Greenhouse Theater (2257 N Lincoln Avenue). Tonight they'll be joined by local improv groups "Fred + Sharon" and The Surrogates. $6 at the door. $5 with one of their postcards. (Hint: They bear the image of one of our Founding Fathers. I'll let you guess which one.)
E.M.P.A.C.T.- Everyone's Music Politics Art and Community Throwdown, is a monthly series that showcases live band's and DJ's while fundraising for deserving not-for-profits and community organizations. The goal of E.M.P.A.C.T. is to spread culture, diversity, and knowledge of community issues while providing a common ground for activists, educators, artists, and community organizers to celebrate the commonality of our struggles. Tonight's live music includes EveryPeople Jazz Workshop, Rebel Rhythm Collective, and DJ David Marques. The show starts at 9pm and ends at 2am at The Music Lounge: 3017 W. Armitage. $5 donation, benefiting the Rumble Arts Center.
Though (Baby) its cold outside, the broads of Vaudezilla are heating up the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue) with their 'Out with the Clothes, in with the Nudes' Bar top Burlesque Revue. Dig yourself out of a snow drift this Thursday January 21st and visit the bevy of beauties including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Jeez Loueez, Donna Touch, and more! The show is free and starts at 10:00 pm sharp. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers
New Orleans Black Metal giant Goatwhore performs at the House of Blues (329 N. Dearborn) tonight, as part of the Bound by the Road tour with DevilDriver, Suffocation and Thy Will Be Done. Doors open at 5pm. The show starts at 5:30pm and is all ages. Tickets are $15 in advance, $18 day of show.
Mental Graffiti presents an open mic and open poetry slam followed by readings by featured poet Eboni Hogan at the Butterfly Social Club (728 W Grand) at 8pm. $5 donation, 21 and up.
As part of Schubas' five-day Tomorrow Never Knows festival, The Paul Green School of Rock will showcase student musicians playing cover songs at the Women Who Rock show. The school, founded in 1998 in Philadelphia and now in 49 locations around the country, is grounded in the belief that the best way to learn is by doing. Catch the Women Who Rock show today at 2pm. For tickets and information call (773) 525-2508 or visit Schubas Tavern.
Hot & Heavy Burlesque presents a spectacular tribute to the iconic Pink Floyd album, The Wall. The classic album will be performed, in its entirety, by a bevy of burlesque beauties including Viva La Muerte, Red Hot Annie, and Donna Touch. 'The Wall' finishes its run tonight, Saturday January 16th, at the Viaduct Theater (3111 N. Western Avenue). Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and to purchase tickets.
As part of Schubas' five-day Tomorrow Never Knows festival, The Paul Green School of Rock will showcase student musicians playing cover songs at the Women Who Rock show. The school, founded in 1998 in Philadelphia and now in 49 locations around the country, is grounded in the belief that the best way to learn is by doing. Catch the Women Who Rock show today and tomorrow at 2pm. For tickets and information call (773) 525-2508 or visit Schubas Tavern.
Hot & Heavy Burlesque presents a spectacular tribute to the iconic Pink Floyd album, The Wall. The classic album will be performed, in its entirety, by a bevy of burlesque beauties including Viva La Muerte, Red Hot Annie, and Donna Touch. 'The Wall' continues tonight, Friday January 15th, and finishes its run tomorrow Saturday January 16th at the Viaduct Theater (3111 N. Western Avenue). Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and to purchase tickets.
Though (Baby) its cold outside, the broads of Vaudezilla are heating up the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue) with their 'Out with the Clothes, in with the Nudes' Bar top Burlesque Revue. Dig yourself out of a snow drift tonight and visit the bevy of beauties including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Siren Jinx, Donna Touch, and more! The show is free and starts at 10pm sharp. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers.
Verbatim Verboten, the evening of dramatic readings of off-the-record conversations, convenes once again tonight at Hamburger Mary's Attic in Andersonville (5400 N. Clark). The show begins at 7pm; tickets are available through Brown Paper Tickets.
Hot & Heavy Burlesque presents a spectacular tribute to the iconic Pink Floyd album, The Wall. The classic album will be performed, in its entirety, by a bevy of burlesque beauties including Viva La Muerte, Red Hot Annie, and Donna Touch. 'The Wall' continues tonight at 10 pm and runs Friday January 15th and Saturday January 16th at the Viaduct Theater (3111 N. Western Avenue). Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and to purchase tickets.
Hot & Heavy Burlesque presents a spectacular tribute to the iconic Pink Floyd album, The Wall. The classic album will be performed, in its entirety, by a bevy of burlesque beauties including Viva La Muerte, Red Hot Annie, and Donna Touch. 'The Wall' opens tonight, Friday January 8th at 10 pm and runs Saturday January 9th, Friday January 15th, and Saturday January 16th at the Viaduct Theater (3111 N. Western Avenue). Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and to purchase tickets.
Chicago's beloved gypsy-circus-punk-marching-band Mucca Pazza return to The Empty Bottle tonight to tear through their raucous set with a gaggle of trombones, trumpets, woodwinds, and cheerleaders. The thirty-some piece group is known for putting on memorable shows, occasionally with members perched atop bars and cheerleaders swinging from rafters. Fellow local stop-and-go post-punkers Paper Mice are expected to put on an equally impressive performance. Andrew Taylor opens. The show starts at 10pm and admissions is $12. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western Ave. 21+.
The General Washingtons, "Chicago's first and only all white, all male comedy group," will be performing Thursdays @ 10:30pm through January 28 at the Greenhouse Theater (2257 N Lincoln Avenue). Tonight they'll be joined by local improv group Ayn Rand Soup Kitchen. $6 at the door. $5 with one of their postcards. (Hint: They bear the image of one of our Founding Fathers. I'll let you guess which one.)
Though (Baby) its cold outside, the broads of Vaudezilla are heating up the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue) with their 'Out with the Clothes, in with the Nudes' Bar top Burlesque Revue. Dig yourself out of a snow drift this Thursday January 7th and visit the bevy of beauties including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Natasha Minsk, the Flaming Dames, and more! The show is free and starts at 10:00 pm sharp. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers.
Malcolm X College is hosting the 15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program today, starting at 10am. This is the last day of the largest known seven-day celebration of Kwanzaa in the country publicly held in an institution of higher learning. Admission is free. For more information contact Jessica Holloway: Kwanzaa Chairperson at 312-850-7472 or arhoden@ccc.edu. Malcolm X College is located at 1900 W. Van Buren. For more information, including the schedule, check out this press release.15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program at Malcolm X College today, starting at 10am. This is the last day of the largest known seven-day celebration of Kwanzaa in the country publicly held in an institution of higher learning. Admission is free. For more information contact Jessica Holloway: Kwanzaa Chairperson at 312-850-7472 or arhoden@ccc.edu. Malcolm X College is located at 1900 W. Van Buren. For more information, including the schedule, check out this press release.
The Fiery Furnaces celebrate the new year with a new album and a performance at Lincoln Hall tonight. The show starts at 9pm and admission is $20, or $25 at the door. 21+. Lincoln Hall is located at 2424 N. Lincoln Ave.
The amazing Reversible Eye Gallery is hosting what will surely be a wild New Year's Eve party tonight. Aerial acrobatics from Aloft will be performed throughout the evening, and breakfast and mimosas will be served at 5am New Years Day. Bands performing includeSpires that in the Sunset Rise,Loto Ball Show,ReDeMer,Loto Ball Stupid Dans,The Funeral and the Twilight, and Grace Kulp. Admission is $25 in advance and $30 at the door--not bad if you consider all the live entertainment and the free food and booze 'till dawn. The party starts at 9:30pm. Reversible Eye Gallery is located at 1103 N. California. Call them at (773) 862-1232 or email info@reversibleeye.com for more information.
Each year Kaplan's Liquors hosts a New Years Eve party, and this year is no different, but they're expecting quite a crowd. There will be free Korean and Polish Food and a Youtube Karaoke performance with VJ Eddie Gymkata of the 80's performance art band, Members Only, among other things. Korean ladies, mutants, and sexy co-eds will be mingling with intellectuals, art fags, old men, and union guys. Should be pretty fun. Should be free, too, except for the booze. The party will be from 8:30pm to 2am. It's a bar, so only go if you're 21+. Kaplan's Liquors is located in Bridgeport at 960 W. 31st. St. Call them at 773-890-0588 for information.
The Fiery Furnaces are on tour to promote their new album, I'm Going Away. They headline tonight at Schubas and Cryptacize opens (if you miss this show they're playing at Lincoln Hall tomorrow). The show starts at 9pm and admission is $15. 18+. Schubas is located at 3159 N. Southport.
Buried under a blanket of Chicago snow? Lady Jack will help you thaw out as she presents Carnival Burlesque at the Debonair Social Club (1575 N. Milwaukee Avenue) tonight December 30th. There will be two different shows, 10pm and midnight, and no cover (and therefore no excuse not to show up). Come early at 9pm to sip free champagne and mingle with the lovely performers including Natasha Minsk, Vicky Sin, Kitty Victorian, and Jolie. For more information, call 773-227-7990 or visit their website. Email rsvp@debonairsocialclub.com to RSVP to the champagne reception.
National, non-profit storytelling show, The Moth's Chicago chapter, will be hosting a story slam tonight at Martyr's, 3855 N. Lincoln Ave.
The idea is for participating audience members to tell a conflict/resolution story within the time allocated based on the night's theme with the goal to captivate.
The theme for submission is "Cars" (previous themes have been "firsts" and "blunders"). The story slam begins at 8pm and there's a $7 cover at the door. For more information check out the full story in A/C.
Malcolm X College and the Bolozi Wazee (Council of Elders) - Shule Ya Watoto (School for Children) are celebrating 15th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program at Malcolm X College, starting today and continuing through Kwanzaa every day starting at 10am, until January 1. This is the largest known seven-day celebration of Kwanzaa in the country publicly held in an institution of higher learning. Admission is free. For more information contact Jessica Holloway: Kwanzaa Chairperson at (312) 850-7472, or arhoden@ccc.edu. Malcolm X College is located at 1900 W. Van Buren. For more information, including the schedule, check out this press release.
Unicycle Loves You plays at the Empty Bottle tonight. Pet Lions and We Will Eat Rats to Survive open. DJ Screeble Dee will mix up the jams between sets. Show starts at 10pm, admission is $10 at the door. 21+. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western.
Tonight, female bands pay homage to their favorite rock, new wave, and punk bands to benefit the CAWC Greenhouse Shelter. The musicians include members of The Mekons, The Dials, The Venom Lords, Kim, WLUW DJs, etc. They'll cover songs from bands like The Cars, Kiss, David Bowie, and The Breeders. The music styles range from alt-country to new wave to Hawaiian to rock and roll. This fun benefit is MCed by Rattina, the rat puppet co-host of "Chic-A-Go-Go." The show starts at 8pm and admission is $12. 18+. Lincoln Hall is located at 2424 N. Lincoln.
Chicago indie staple Joan of Arc plays at the Empty Bottle tonight. Male, My Empty Phantom, and Victor Villarrel open. It should be a good show, and it's only 3 dollars! The show starts at 8pm. 21+. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western.
Closing night for The Factory Theater's spoof of George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. Eric Roach directs. Located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Show starts at 8pm, tickets are $20. For information and tickets call (312) 409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
Chicago Afrobeat Project plays tonight at Martyrs. Bombay Beatbox and Get up with the Get Downs open. You will need to bring your dancing shoes to this one. Admission is $12 in advance and $15 at the door. The show starts at 10pm. Martyrs is located at 3855 N. Lincoln Ave. 21+.
The Factory Theater spoofs George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. Eric Roach directs. Located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Showtimes: Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and Sundays at 7 through December 19th. Tickets are $20. For information and tickets call (312)-409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
Justin Petertil of Love Raid and Office hosts the Songwriter Showcase, featuring Madsen Minax of Actor Slash Model and Juliet Mizicko with LaRaie Zimm. Minax's music is Americana Roots music for contemporary lives. Acoustic and sparse, it's powerful with strong lyrical strokes and pithy vocals. The show starts at 9pm, and they're asking for a $7 donation to get in. Elastic Arts is located at 2830 N Milwaukee.
For the past two years Public Media Institute and Proximity magazine have been collaborating with Trendbeheer.com, a Rotterdam-based Arts initiative, to bring artists and projects to each others' cities. This exhibition, mounted by Thendbeheer, coincides with issue 6 of Proximity magazine, themed (An)Other Worlds. Issue 6 includes an expansive Rotterdam Section and artists interviewed in the issue will be present in Chicago for the Trendbeheer Meets Proximity exhibition. The opening reception is from 7-9pm, performances begin at 9 and go on until 1am. Co-Prosperity Sphere is located at 3219 S. Morgan St.
Operation Safe Passage, a nonprofit association dedicated to ending youth violence, will put on an encore performance of its stage play, Dreams Deferred.
Also, during intermission, the organization will honor three Chicagoans for their tireless efforts against violent crime: CLTV's Garrard McClendon, Ron Holt (father of slain Chicago teen, Blair Holt), and Clara Kirk, founder of the West Englewood United Organization.
Dreams Deferred is playing at the Illinois Institute of Technology's Hermann Hall Auditorium, 3241 S. Federal St., Chicago. Advance tickets are $20 for adults; $10 for high school students with a photo ID. Doors open at 6:30pm; show time is at 7:30pm. For more information, visit the Save Our Dreams website or call 773-979-2383.
The broads of Vaudezilla are back on the Blue Bayou's bartop for a night of free burlesque! Stop by 3734 N. Southport Avenue tonight for their weekly 10pm show. Hosted by Dick Dijon, the show features a bevy of beauties including Wham Bam Pam and Maria May I. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers.
Redmoon Theater Company collaborates with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to re-imagine Tchaikovsky's "The Snow Maiden" and "Swan Lake." The show includes array of handcrafted shadow puppets, live puppetry, and giant video projections. Beginning at 6:30pm, there's no intermission, so you can be outta there by 8. Or, stay and enjoy free wine at the post-performance reception. Mingle with other concertgoers and partake in a Q&A with guest artists and CSO musicians. Tickets are $25. Online patrons: enter promo code 10591. Phone and Box Office Patrons (312-294-3000): Mention code "Special $25." $10 Student tickets are also available. Symphony Center: 220 S. Michigan.
Three ballsy bands play the Bottle tonight. Like my alliteration? We Were They headlines what is supposed to be their last show tonight, Chicago Stone Lightning Band and Hollows open. Admission is $3 in advance and $5 at the door. Show starts at 9:30pm. 21+. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western.
Quimby's Bookstore is hosting an off-site event called the Cabinet of Curiosities at the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 East Chicago Avenue) at 6pm in Puck's Cafe. The Cabinet of Curiosities series is a curated "variety show." Artists and performers featured in this month's theme, Dystopias vs. Enchanted Forests, include Ed Marszewski (Lumpen, Proximity, Co-Prosperity Sphere), Kate Sheehy (puppeteer), Joe Mason (pop culture specialist), Oscar Arriola (street art archiver and documentarian), and Jon Resh (Viper Press, Amped).
Good, free, and all-local garage rock show tonight at The Empty Bottle. The Yolks headline, I believe, and Tyler Jon Tyler and Sleepovers open. The show starts at 9:30pm. 21+. The Empty Bottle is located at 1035 N. Western.
The Factory Theater spoofs George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. Eric Roach directs. Located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Showtimes: Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and Sundays at 7 through December 19th. Tickets are $20. For information and tickets call: 312-409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
Choreographer Kenneth Von Heidecke brings this holiday classic to Francis W. Parker School for a matinee performance. Additional performances the following week at the McAninch Arts Center at the College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, featuring the New Philharmonic and Music Director and Conductor Kirk Muspratt. Performance at 2pm, tickets start at $25. For info and tickets to today's performance call (800) 838-3006 or visit Brown Paper Tickets. For info and tickets to Glen Ellyn performances call (630) 942-4000 or visit the McAninch Arts Center.
The Ripettes are taking over Christmas this year with a burlesque and comedy revue that will definitely make the naughty list! A Nightmare Before XXX-Mas invades Mary's Attic (above Hamburger Mary's at 5400 N Clark Street) tonight, 7:30pm. The show is hosted by Mickey LaRue and features the beautiful Trixie Darling, Miss Jeezloueez, Dixie More, Sushi Martinez, and Horhay Sexteban (good luck under the mistletoe). Tickets are $15 at the door but discounted to $12 if you bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the Chicago Anti-Hunger Federation. Visit The Ripettes website for more details.
The Factory Theater spoofs George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. Eric Roach directs. Located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Showtimes: Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and Sundays at 7 through December 19th. Tickets are $20. For information and tickets call: 312-409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
The broads of Vaudezilla have better presents for you than anything you'll find in Santa's sleigh! They take over The Exit (1315 W North Avenue) tonight, December 12th, with The Absolut Holidaze show featuring two different programs full of holiday-inspired burlesque acts at 11 pm and 2 am. Hosted by Wham Bam Pam and Maria May I, there will be $3 Absolut drink specials and feature acts from The Flaming Dames, Viva La Muerte, and Red Hot Annie. There's no cover charge and, therefore, no reason not to show up. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a full list of performers.
Live music and art. And snacks. Bands include Michael Michael Motorcycle, Amen & The Hell Yeahs, Pretty Boy Thorson & the Falling Angels, and Altar Eagle. There are too many artists participating to list. Sorry. Art viewing time is from 6-8pm with DJ Stylings of Geppettoboner.org (Mr. Ian Floetl with Mr. Vito Nusret.) Bands start at 8pm. Ronny's is located at 2101 N. California. 21+.
The One Night Only Magazine is a new quarterly journal where each issue is structured around a theme, dictating the design and content, so that each full issue may stand alone as a complete multimedia art object of its own. For $10 at the door you will get a copy of the CD magazine, free drinks, and performances by One Night Only contributors in between the following bands: Glittermouse, Ragged Claws, and Jordan E. Ramsier. Pre-orders of the magazine are available through One Night Only's website for $7.50. A pre-order gets you free admission to the party-- which, by the way, starts at 8pm. Reversible Eye Gallery is located at 1103 N. California. Call them at 773-862-1232 for more information.
The Factory Theater spoofs George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. Eric Roach directs. Located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Showtimes: Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and Sundays at 7 through December 19th. Tickets are $20. For information and tickets call: 312-409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
Rick Bayless is hitting the stage with local ensemble 500 Clown for The Madam Barker Holiday Variety Show at Prop Thtr. Along with the holiday-themed music, dancing, magic and comedy, Bayless will be on stage creating edible concoctions.
Tickets are $10, available at the door only, so expect the same sorts of lines you find at other Bayless businesses around town--though the 11pm start time might cull the crowd a bit.
Prop Thtr is at 3502 N Elston.
Party in the AIC's Modern Wing tonight and go on tours of the newly expanded architecture and design galleries. DJ sets by Dark Wave Disco and Midnight Conspiracy, a live performance by Gemini Club, and immersive performances from Collaboraction. Hosted by Moneypenny with a GlitterGuts photo booth. Cash bar & free appetizers. Admission is $25, $20 if you're an AIC member or a student. For advance tickets, visit museumtix.com or call 877-307-4AIC. The party is from 6-10pm.
The broads of Vaudezilla are back on the Blue Bayou's bartop for a night of free burlesque! Stop by 3734 N. Southport Avenue tonight for their weekly 10pm show. Hosted by Dick Dijon, the show features a bevy of beauties including Red Hot Annie and Siren Jinx. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers.
The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs presents the classic holiday story of George Bailey, Clarence the angel, and the town of Bedford Falls. Performed live by AFTRA/SAG radio voice actors, sound effects artists and musicians. Free at the Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington Street. Show starts at 7pm. For more information visit The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs' website.
Malcolm X College and the Bolozi Wazee (Council of Elders) - Shule Ya Watoto (School for Children) are celebrating 14th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program at Malcolm X College, starting today and continuing through Kwanzaa, everyday starting at 10am, until January 1. This is the largest known seven-day celebration of Kwanzaa in the country publicly held in an institution of higher learning. Admission is free. For more information contact Jessica Holloway: Kwanzaa Chairperson at 312-850-7472 or arhoden@ccc.edu. Malcolm X College is located at 1900 W. Van Buren. For more information, including the schedule, check out this press release.
Jink's On Sundrun, uses the quintessentially English game of cricket to explore post-colonialism, ritual and memory. The exhibition will include sculpture, film, location sound recordings of cricket matches, and a performance in the gallery space during the opening reception. Jinks explores cricket as an enactment of the mythology of cultural identity and the effects of transposition and assimilation. The opening reception is tonight, from 5-8pm. The show will be up through Jan. 16 at Gallery 400: 400 S. Peoria. Visit the gallery's website for more information or call them at (312) 996-6114.
Grammy award-winning sextet eighth blackbird performs Pierrot Lunaire, Arnold Schoenberg's 1912 piece that sets poetry to music. Tickets are $30, two for one if you buy them through the eighth blackbird website. Show starts at 7:30 at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205. E. Randolph.
The Factory Theater spoofs George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. Eric Roach directs. Located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Showtimes: Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and Sundays at 7 through December 19th. Tickets are $20. For information and tickets call: 312-409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
If you've never seen a live performance of West African Dance, you're missing out; if you've never seen the Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago, you're missing out on one of life's greatest joys. This week Muntu brings The Sankofa Project to the Gary Comer Youth Center, 7200 S Ingleside Avenue. The performance features key works from Muntu's history as well as new work showcasing the choreography of Amansu Eason, feature dancer for Muntu Dance Theatre and principal artist for Indiana's South Shore Dance Alliance, and Abdel Salaam, Executive Director of Forces of Nature.
Showtimes and ticket prices: December 3 @ 7:30, $15; December 5 @ 8pm, $27.50; and December 6 @ 3pm, $27.50. Additionally, there will be a gala reception and silent auction on December 4 @ 6pm, tickets are $75. Discounts for groups, children and seniors available. For tickets and information call 773-241-6083 or visit Muntu.
The eighth annual Dance-Along Nutcracker begins with an 11am workshop for a 12pm performance, with a second workshop at 2pm for a 3pm performance. Workshops will teach basic ballet, and if dancing isn't your thing there will be juggling, acrobatics and other skills taught as well. Free at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington. For more information visit the Chicago Cultural Center.
If you've never seen a live performance of West African Dance, you're missing out; if you've never seen the Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago, you're missing out on one of life's greatest joys. This week Muntu brings The Sankofa Project to the Gary Comer Youth Center, 7200 S Ingleside Avenue. The performance features key works from Muntu's history as well as new work showcasing the choreography of Amansu Eason, feature dancer for Muntu Dance Theatre and principal artist for Indiana's South Shore Dance Alliance, and Abdel Salaam, Executive Director of Forces of Nature.
Showtimes and ticket prices: December 3 @ 7:30, $15; December 5 @ 8pm, $27.50; and December 6 @ 3pm, $27.50. Additionally, there will be a gala reception and silent auction on December 4 @ 6pm, tickets are $75. Discounts for groups, children and seniors available. For tickets and information call 773-241-6083 or visit Muntu.
The Factory Theater spoofs George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. Eric Roach directs. Located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Showtimes: Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and Sundays at 7 through December 19th. Tickets are $20. For information and tickets call: 312-409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
The Factory Theater spoofs George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. Eric Roach directs. Located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Showtimes: Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm and Sundays at 7 through December 19th. Tickets are $20. For information and tickets call: 312-409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
Rick Bayless is hitting the stage with local ensemble 500 Clown for The Madam Barker Holiday Variety Show at Prop Thtr. Along with the holiday-themed music, dancing, magic and comedy, Bayless will be on stage creating edible concoctions.
Tickets are $10, available at the door only, so expect the same sorts of lines you find at other Bayless businesses around town -- though the 11pm start time might cull the crowd a bit.
Prop Thtr is at 3502 N Elston.
The hilarious and engaging standup comic Cameron Esposito lays down tracks for her first comedy album Grab Them Aghast, produced by Rooftop Comedy Records. The second (and final!) night of the live recording happens tonight at the Lincoln Lodge and comes packaged with Dizzy Lizzy Delicious, a delightful young woman who jumps around on a pile of razor-sharp broken glass. Adam Burke hosts the 9pm, $10 show at the Lincoln Lodge, 4008 N. Lincoln. Call 773-251-1539 or click here for more.
The broads of Vaudezilla are back on the Blue Bayou's bartop for a night of free burlesque! Stop by 3734 N. Southport Avenue Thursday December 3rd for their weekly 10 p.m. show. Hosted by Dick Dijon, the show features a bevy of beauties including Red Hot Annie, Maria May I, Wham Bam Pam, and Jolie Roberson. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers.
Join Lincoln Park neighbors for festive beverages and caroling with local choirs, sponsored by the Clark Street SSA. Following the 6 pm tree lighting, free photos with Santa will be available in "Santa's Workshop" at 2338 N. Clark until 8 pm. Further info is available on the event page.
If you've never seen a live performance of West African Dance, you're missing out; if you've never seen the Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago, you're missing out on one of life's greatest joys. This week Muntu brings The Sankofa Project to the Gary Comer Youth Center, 7200 S Ingleside Avenue. The performance features key works from Muntu's history as well as new work showcasing the choreography of Amansu Eason, feature dancer for Muntu Dance Theatre and principal artist for Indiana's South Shore Dance Alliance, and Abdel Salaam, Executive Director of Forces of Nature. 7:30pm, $15.
Additional showtimes and ticket prices: December 5 @ 8pm, $27.50; and December 6 @ 3pm, $27.50. Additionally, there will be a gala reception and silent auction on December 4 @ 6pm, tickets are $75. Discounts for groups, children and seniors available. For tickets and information call (773) 241-6083 or visit Muntu.
The Food Network's Guy Fieri comes to the Rosemont Theater tonight @ 7pm for what his website says is "food, rock n' roll, and everything they won't let me do on TV! " I don't know what that means but am too polite to make a suggestion. Doug Sohn of Hot Doug's will join him. Tickets start at $45. 5400 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL.
The hilarious and engaging standup comic Cameron Esposito lays down tracks for her first comedy album Grab Them Aghast, produced by Rooftop Comedy Records. The live recording happens tonight and tomorrow at the Lincoln Lodge and comes packaged with Dizzy Lizzy Delicious, a delightful young woman who jumps around on a pile of razor-sharp broken glass. Adam Burke hosts the 9pm, $10 show at the Lincoln Lodge, 4008 N. Lincoln. Call (773) 251-1539 or click here for more.
An all-female improv group presents this women-centric "dramedy," Slippery Handles. The first show is tonight, and performances will continue through December 16. Gorilla Tango Theater is located at 1919 N. Milwaukee. Tickets are $10; to purchase tickets call 773-598-4549 or visit Gorilla Tango Theater's website.
Tonight's Homolatte performance at Big Chicks in Uptown gets going at 7:30pm. Tonight's show features performance activist and "vigilante" poet Sarwat Rumi and musician Bird Megan Sieberg. More in Transmission. Big Chicks is located at 5024 N. Sheridan Rd. 773-728-5511
The Factory Theater spoofs George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. On Thanksgiving weekend tickets are 2 for 1 for both 1985 and Factory's late night show, Hunky Dory, and on Monday $5 will buy you a seat for the 8pm performance of 1985. Chase those post-Thanksgiving blues with a night of homegrown theater. Eric Roach directs.
The Factory Theater is located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Showtimes for 1985: Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm (except the day after Thanksgiving); Sundays at 7, and a special Monday night performance at 8pm November 30th. Show runs through December 19th. Tickets are $20, two-for-one on November 28th & 29th, and $5 November 30th. For information and tickets call: 312-409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
The Factory Theater spoofs George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. On Thanksgiving weekend tickets are 2 for 1 for both 1985 and Factory's late night show, Hunky Dory, and on Monday $5 will buy you a seat for the 8pm performance of 1985. Chase those post-Thanksgiving blues with a night of homegrown theater. Eric Roach directs.
The Factory Theater is located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Showtimes for 1985: Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm (except the day after Thanksgiving); Sundays at 7, and a special Monday night performance at 8pm November 30th. Show runs through December 19th. Tickets are $20, two-for-one on November 28th & 29th, and $5 November 30th. For information and tickets call: 312-409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
In partnership with the Breast Cancer Network of Strength, playwright Melody Swink's homage to cleavage comes to the Gorilla Tango Theatre. Seven characters, all portrayed by actor Sara Tode, come to life on the stage and explore the complicated relationship that women have with their breasts. The piece touches on issues of size, surgical augmentation, and mother/daughter dynamics; and features original music, including "The D-Cups Theme Song" and "Unfasten Me." Mark Contorno directs.
Showtimes at 8pm November 27 and 28, and 8pm Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays December 10-19. Tickets are $20. For information about the show visit The D-Cup Diatribes. For tickets and information call 773-598-4549 or visit Gorilla Tango Theatre.
The Factory Theater spoofs George Orwell's classic 1984 with a distinctly mid-decade Chicago Bears twist. On Thanksgiving weekend tickets are 2 for 1 for both 1985 and Factory's late night show, Hunky Dory, and on Monday $5 will buy you a seat for the 8pm performance of 1985. Chase those post-Thanksgiving blues with a night of homegrown theater. Eric Roach directs.
The Factory Theater is located at 3504 N. Elston, between Albany and Kedzie. Showtimes for 1985: Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm (except the day after Thanksgiving); Sundays at 7, and a special Monday night performance at 8pm November 30th. Show runs through December 19th. Tickets are $20, two-for-one on November 28th & 29th, and $5 November 30th. For information and tickets call: 312-409-3247 or visit The Factory Theater.
In partnership with the Breast Cancer Network of Strength, playwright Melody Swink's homage to cleavage comes to the Gorilla Tango Theatre. Seven characters, all portrayed by actor Sara Tode, come to life on the stage and explore the complicated relationship that women have with their breasts. The piece touches on issues of size, surgical augmentation, and mother/daughter dynamics; and features original music, including "The D-Cups Theme Song" and "Unfasten Me." Mark Contorno directs.
Showtimes at 8pm November 27 and 28, and 8pm Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays December 10-19. Tickets are $20. For information about the show visit The D-Cup Diatribes. For tickets and information call 773-598-4549 or visit Gorilla Tango Theatre.
Start a new tradition this Thanksgiving Eve with Vaudezilla's "Ruffle Your Feathers" burlesque show. Stop by Betty's Blue Star Lounge (1600 W Grand Avenue) at midnight to see a cornucopia of burlesque beauties, including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, and Titi Touche (we promise they'll be less prim than Pilgrims). Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Visit Vaudezilla's website to buy tickets and for a complete list of performers.
Chicago twang metal favorites Galactic Inmate play their last show for two years tonight, with Son of Cops. The show is at Cal's Bar: 400 S. Wells. $5 at the door. 9pm. 21+
Come see some Vaudevillian tease, queer burlesque, old-fashioned kink, informative sex talk from the folks at Early 2 Bed, belly dance and more, directed by Mae Phillips.
8:30pm and 10:30pm at the EP Theater in Pilsen,1820 S Halsted St., Chicago, IL 60608. Tickets are $15 at the door. For more info: maethebellydancer@gmail.com
Kick off the Select Media Fest at the Co-Prosperity Sphere with the group show that is sure not to disappoint, uh, I mean, it should be Super Bad Ass.
Featuring:
Juan Angel Chavez
Dayton Castleman
Stephen Eichorn
Aron Gent
Jeremy Tubbs
Hilary Olson
Tom Torluemke
Gunsho (James Quigley)
Berry Sander
Montgomery Perry Smith
Hui-Min Tsen (with dozens of participants)
Justin B. Williams
Friday, November 20, 2009, 7 pm to 1am
Co-Prosperity Sphere, 3219 S Morgan St.
Admission: $8 after 9pm
The broads of Vaudezilla are back on the Blue Bayou's bartop for Naughty November, a night of free burlesque! Stop by 3734 N. Southport Avenue Thursday November 19th for their weekly 10 p.m. show. Hosted by Dick Dijon, the show features a bevy of beauties including Red Hot Annie, Donna Touch, and Siren Jinx. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a complete list of performers.
This cocktail hour is designed to be an opportunity for Chicago area young professionals to meet up after work to drink, eat, and hear a little music. The event includes a short opera performance by Chicago Opera Theater Young Artists, Leila Bowie and Martin Woods. Guests will have their choice of Rock Bottom's locally handcrafted beers, fine selection of wine, and some light appetizers. There will be a complimentary business card raffle with prizes that include a pair of Opera Underground subscriptions to Chicago Opera Theater's 2010 Spring Festival Season. 6-8pm. Rock Bottom Brewery: 1 W. Grand. Admission is $25 per person in advance and $35 at the door. Admission includes unlimited beer/wine and light appetizers. Call (312) 704-8414 for tickets and information or visit Chicago Opera Theater's website.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Our Own Devices, a concert of ten eclectic dance pieces from eight choreographers. Innervation's theatrical roots bloom in this concert: each piece unquestionably tells a story. And while some of the dances are more literally narrative than others, dance aficionados and novices alike will come to know each character and empathize with that character's experiences. Much of the music - from Etta James to John Lennon, from Bob Seger to Metallica - will also draw in those audience members who might otherwise dismiss the art form as inaccessible. Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL. Tonight @ 7:00 p.m. $15 ($10 students and seniors). Click here or call 773.281.0824 for tickets.
The broads of Vaudezilla have been working on their shtick and are debuting their Absolut Comedy Show tonight at Exit Chicago (1315 W North Avenue). The evening consists of two completely different, completely free burlesque shows at 11pm and 2am. The cabaret features some of the best burlesque dancers Chicago has to offer, including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Natasha Minsk, Siren Jinx, and The Ripettes. For more details and a complete list of performers, visit Vaudezilla's website.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Our Own Devices, a concert of ten eclectic dance pieces from eight choreographers. Innervation's theatrical roots bloom in this concert: each piece unquestionably tells a story. And while some of the dances are more literally narrative than others, dance aficionados and novices alike will come to know each character and empathize with that character's experiences. Much of the music - from Etta James to John Lennon, from Bob Seger to Metallica - will also draw in those audience members who might otherwise dismiss the art form as inaccessible. Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL. Tonight @ 8:00 p.m. $15 ($10 students and seniors). Click here or call 773.281.0824 for tickets.
Devo are back in action, whipping up an album of all new material planned for release next year. Their current tour, however, celebrates their early days and the recent re-release of their 1978 debut, Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!, and their 1980 synth-pop masterpiece, Freedom of Choice. The band is playing back-to-back nights at the Vic, performing both albums in their entirety (Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo! on 11/12 and Freedom of Choice on 11/13), plus assorted favorites. 3145 N. Sheffield Ave. (773) 472-0449.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Our Own Devices, a concert of ten eclectic dance pieces from eight choreographers. Innervation's theatrical roots bloom in this concert: each piece unquestionably tells a story. While some of the dances are more literally narrative than others, dance aficionados and novices alike will come to know each character and empathize with that character's experiences. Much of the music - from Etta James to John Lennon, from Bob Seger to Metallica - will also draw in those audience members who might otherwise dismiss the art form as inaccessible. Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago, IL. Tonight @ 8pm. $15 ($10 students and seniors). Click here or call (773) 281-0824 for tickets.
Devo are back in action, whipping up an album of all new material planned for release next year. Their current tour, however, celebrates their early days and the recent re-release of their 1978 debut, Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo!, and their 1980 synth-pop masterpiece, Freedom of Choice. The band is playing back-to-back nights at the Vic, performing both albums in their entirety (Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo! on 11/12 and Freedom of Choice on 11/13), plus assorted favorites. 3145 N. Sheffield Ave. Call (773) 472-0449 for more information.
Funny Ha-Ha returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight from 6:30pm to 8pm. Tonight's show features Tribune TV critic Maureen Ryan, members of the AV Club, author Kevin Guilfoile, Bruised Orange Theater Company's "I Saw You", and films by Steve Delahoyde. Hosted as always by author Claire Zulkey. Admission is $5, benefitting the Neighborhood Writing Alliance.
Corbett vs. Dempsey continues its series of unaccompanied instrumentalists with a visit from the brilliant Swiss reed player Hans Koch. Koch joins us during an American tour that brings him to Chicago to perform at the Umbrella Music Festival. The performance begins at 4pm. Corbett vs. Dempsey is located at 1120 N. Ashland, #3. Admission to this event is free. Call the gallery at 773-278-1664 for more information, or visit their website.
Grab the torches and sharpen the pitchforks! This Halloween, Vaudezilla presents the inaugural graduation ceremony for Monster Burlesque Academy. Several bewitching broads will invade the Portage Theater (4050 N Milwaukee Avenue) this Saturday, including Red Hot Annie, Donna Touch, Coo d'Twat, and special guest Lady Lillith. The pomp and circumstance begins at 10pm, but come early to haunt the lobby and peruse costumes, adult goodies, and for a chance to win gift bags. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. For more details and a complete listing of the devilish dancers, visit Vaudezilla's website.
Starting today at noon, the Wicker Park Halloween Prowl kicks off at the Polish Triangle (at Ashland, Milwaukee and Division) and marches up through Wicker Park. Sponsored by WPB, the inaugural civic event gives local families an opportunity to join a 20-person theatrical procession of dancers, actors, musicians, vampires and mummies led by Chicago's Collaboraction Theatre. The free, all-ages parade will make stops to trick-or-treat, dance and cavort at local parks and businesses along the way. The Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce and other neighborhood partners are sponsoring other "Boo-Palooza" activities throughout the afternoon, including pumpkin decorating, face painting and a Monster Mash Music Bash. Bring your noise makers and wear your costumes!
The Moth is back! The thirteen-year-old New York based storytelling institution is coming to the Windy City for a StorySLAM, and your story could be the winner! Come prepared with a five-minute story to be performed without notes, and drop your name into a hat. Ten lucky people will have their names called out loud and have a chance at storytelling greatness onstage at Martyr's, 3855 N. Lincoln Avenue.
StorySLAMS are held once a week in New York and twice a month in L.A. to sold out crowds. Tonight's SLAM will focus on the theme of "firsts", so get your story down on paper, and rehearse it out loud until you can tell it to a roomful of people without looking at your notes.
Tickets are $7, doors open at 7:30pm, storytelling begins at 8pm. Information on future StorySLAMS here.
Trunk Show: Luggage, Travel & Place opens tonight from 7-10pm at Barbara & Barbara Gallery, 1021 North Western Ave. The group show includes nearly 20 artists, including Pete Cuba, Julia Hendrickson, Scott Reinhard, David Schalliol, Chris Sykora and Hannah Zurko. Opening night music will be provided by Ben Bontempo, Julia Hendrickson & Marie Barker (with Chris Gingrich), Anna Vogelzang and Vintage Gramma. The show runs from October 23 until November 17.
Prog legends Cheer-Accident play at Reggie's tonight. Arriver and Three Cheers for One Dead Man open. 9pm. Tickets are $12, or $8 in advance. 2105 S. State St. (312) 949-0120. 21+.
Neo-Futurist Dean Evans presents a darkly comic physical performance that reaches beyond the limits of language to turn the conventions of mime and clown on their heads. From a child with mind control powers, to an amoeba struggling for life, to a man cast helplessly adrift in outer space, this unique new show transforms space to present an original story with a refreshingly offbeat and existential voice all its own.
For tickets: magicalexplodingboy.com
3421 W. Fullerton
October 10, 11, 16, 17 at 8pm
It looks like Packer Schopf will be the place to be Sunday night if your into the art scene at all. Industry of the Ordinary have invited thirty-nine people within the category "cultural workers," which I understand as writers, teachers, art advocates and anything else you can think might loosely fit into that genre. Some of the names being dropped for this show include Dawoud Bey, Inigo Manglano-Ovalle, Tony Tasset, Natasha Egan, and Paul Klein. Each of these "cultural workers," were given a different verb, and each will be displaying, performing, reciting or whatever else the will do to expose you to whatever they decided to do for that verb they were given. This should prove to be a fun time, I am excited to see how it all turns out, I even heard that there will be a priest taking confessions via text messages.
Sunday Oct 11th
5pm - 8pm
Neo-Futurist Dean Evans presents a darkly comic physical performance that reaches beyond the limits of language to turn the conventions of mime and clown on their heads. From a child with mind control powers, to an amoeba struggling for life, to a man cast helplessly adrift in outer space, this unique new show transforms space to present an original story with a refreshingly offbeat and existential voice all its own.
For tickets: magicalexplodingboy.com
3421 W. Fullerton
October 10, 11, 16, 17 at 8pm
This performance event, part of the Chicago Calling Arts Festival, features the Brooklyn-based experimental jazz trio Yuganaut performing while video artist Selina Trepp mixes video in real time. Videos by Jayve Montgomery, Mikey Peterson, and other Chicago-based filmmakers and video artists will be projected. 9:30-11:30pm. Admission is $15. Velvet Lounge, 67 E. Cermak. For more information, call (312) 791 9050.
This is a collection of some of the loudest, weirdest, most entertaining and energetic bands in the Chicagoland area. Their music spans across the Electro/Garage/Punk/Thrash/Ghetto-tech arenas. Go if you want to dance and let loose. Don't go if you don't want to get pummeled by sweaty punk rock dudes. The lineup includes Fuckface Unstoppable, Superfun Yeah Yeah Rocketship, Hood Kicks, Heart Shaped Hate, Puking Pearls, Eyes, and The Names That Spell. Show starts at 7pm. Tickets are $5. Reggies Music Joint: 2105 S. State St. 312-949-0120.
The Pain-Kurst Girls use their sexual magic and belief in the power of femininity to entertain and captivate audiences. Be one of the captivated audience members tonight. 10pm. Debonair social club : 1575 N Milwaukee Ave. Call 773-227-7990 for more information.
The Music Box Theatre and WildClaw Theatre present the second annual Deathscribe Horror Radio Festival, an evening of short radio plays performed live in front of the audience. The event starts at 8pm tonight; tickets are $15 in advance and can be purchased through Ticketweb. Music Box: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.
This year's art walk includes over 50 venues and the art work of over 150 working, professional and emerging artists and performance groups. Start at 4256 N. Ravenswood. There, you will see one piece from each artist showing which will help you plan your route, based on your tastes. (Don't miss "The Blago Project" taking place in the former wire tapped offices of the Friends of Rod Blagojevich: 4147 N. Ravenswood.) This event is happening on the 3rd and the 4th from 11am to 6pm. Admission is free.
Kathleen Puls Andrade's one-woman show chronicling the trials and tribulations of conception is enjoying a run on stage at The Greenhouse Theater Center. The show is directed by Andrew Eninger, whose work includes the improvised performance piece "Sybil" and is a founding member of GayCo Productions, Chicago's Gay & Lesbian Sketch Comedy theater. As a sperm donor, Eninger is uniquely qualified to collaborate with Andrade in this endeavor.
Showtimes: Wednesdays at 8pm, Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 3pm and 7pm through October 25th. Tickets are $22. for more information visit JourneyToTheCenterOfTheUterus.com, for tickets call 773.404.7336 or visit GreenHouseTheater.org.
Chris Hardwick may have made his mark as the quirky co-host on "Singled Out," but now, he is @nerdist, hear him tweet! Today, the multi-talented comedian is a writer, producer and host of "Web Soup" on G4, as well as a frequent guest on "Attack of the Show," "Chelsea Lately" and almost every comedy podcast you can get your hands on. In addition to touring, he is also writing a book on time management. Go figure. This show includes a special appearance by his musical comedy partner, Mike Phirman. 3175 N. Broadway. (773) 472-3492. $22.50. 7:30pm & 10:30pm.
The fictional rock band Marilyn's Dress, originally the product of a homework assignment in 2002 which led to the creation of a full length mockumentary replete with 15 songs, will be performing at Gorilla Tango Theatre starting Saturday, October 3rd. The band stars Jeremy M. Eden, Dan Eden and Kevin Kirchman as Talon St. Lee, Cyrus Long and Brodie the Roadie. Join the band for an unprecedented look back on the ups and downs of their time together, with never-before-released footage and songs, and special guest appearances.
Marilyn's Dress will be performing at Gorilla Tango Theatre on Saturdays from October 3-17 at 10pm, tickets are $10. For more information and tickets call 773-598-4549 or visit: Gorilla Tango Theatre
This event, part of the Chicago Calling Arts Festival, includes Vibrational Sound Narratives, a collection of artworks by Alpha Bruton, poetry readings, and musical performances. Artists and projects include:
Eric Elshtain (Chicago) and Greg Fraser (Georgia) -- poetry collaboration
Satya Alliance (Satya Gummuluri (voice), Douglas Brush (percussion), Joel Wanek (upright bass), and Dan Godston (trumpet)). This performance includes poetry by Divik Ramesh (New Delhi).
Trio with Gino Robair (percussion / Oakland), Andrew Royal (violins / Chicago), and Aaron Zarzutzki (electronics / Chicago)
Vibrational Sound Narratives, a collection of new paintings by Alpha Bruton
Jamie Kazay -- poetry
Textaport Project
Wayne Allen Jones (Chicago) and Duane Vorhees (Bangkok) -- poetry collaboration
Bauhaus9090 performance
other performances / projects TBA
7-11pm. $12 suggested donation. Elastic Arts Foundation, 2830 N. Milwaukee, 2nd Floor. For more information, call (773) 772 3616.
This event begins at 1pm with a panel discussion involving people in New Orleans and Chicago discussing the arts, curation, and the roles of the arts in society. The panelists in New Orleans and Chicago will be connected over the internet, using Skype. A large ensemble performance of Gino Robair's Divination will begin at 2:30pm. The event will be held at the Claudia Cassidy Theater, on the 2nd Floor of the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington. 1-4pm. Admission is free.
This year's art walk includes over 50 venues and the art work of over 150 working, professional and emerging artists and performance groups. Start at 4256 N. Ravenswood. There, you will see one piece from each artist showing which will help you plan your route, based on your tastes. (Don't miss "The Blago Project" taking place in the former wire tapped offices of the Friends of Rod Blagojevich: 4147 N. Ravenswood.) This event is happening on the 3rd and the 4th from 11am to 6pm. Admission is free.
My only complaint about Monotonix, Tel-Aviv's boisterous garage rock trio, is that the sets always seem to get cut short because the drum kit has fallen apart completely in the audience and someone has a concussion. That said, those fifteen minutes of ruckus might be the most fun fifteen minutes you've ever had at a rock show. Just go. Turbo Fruits and Ga'an open. 9pm. Admission is $15. Logan Square Auditorium: 2539 N. Kedzie.
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. This weekend's performers are: Peter Carpenter, Hedwig Dances, The Humans, Ayako Kato/Art Union Humanscape, and The Seldoms.
$12-$15, 7:30 p.m., Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call 773.880.5402 for tickets.
This event features two sets of sound, music, and film. First, a performance by Chicago Phonography. Second, Chicago-based musicians perform while films by out-of-town filmmakers are projected. Performers include Gregory O'Drobinak (Arc of the Oven), Ritwik Banerji (saxophone), Jayve Montgomery (saxophones and percussion), Saalik Ziyad (vocals), Williwaw (amplified ukulele), Jon Godston (soprano saxophone), Michael Staron (bass), Jimmy Bennington (drums), and other TBA performers. 10pm-12am. Brown Rice, 4432 N. Kedzie. $5 suggested donation.
Chicago artist Maria Gaspar will publicly celebrate public celebrations with a large, body-like sculpture that will parade through the MCA in a performance and exhibit called, Oblation For A Parade. October's First Fridays theme is "Myth" and guests may view a Rag and Bone fashion show, create wearable tattoo sleeves at the Creation Station, participate in a scavenger hunt for Constellations, play cornhole in the sculpture garden, and dance to beats mixed by DJ Duke Shin and DJ Nate Mano. 6-10pm. Tickets are $11 in advance, $16 at the door, and $8 for MCA members. 220 E. Chicago. 21 & up. Contact the box office at (312) 397-4010.
This event, part of the Chicago Calling Arts Festival, features performances by Chicago-based artists, mostly poets, in collaboration with artists who live outside of Chicago. Artists include Vittorio Carli, Carolyn Curtis Magri, Elizabeth Harper, Faux Paul, Rachel Javellana, Donna Collins, Elizabeth Marino, Janina Ciezadlo, Leonard De Montbrun, Don Coorough, Cathleen Schandelmeier, Sid Yiddish, The Clean Boys, and other TBA artists. Mercury Cafe has a bunch of vegan treats, too, for all you animal lovers. This event is free. 6-9pm. Mercury Cafe, 1505 W. Chicago. For more information, call (312) 455-9924.
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. This weekend's performers are: Peter Carpenter, Hedwig Dances, The Humans, Ayako Kato/Art Union Humanscape, and The Seldoms.
$12-$15, 7:30 p.m., Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call 773.880.5402 for tickets.
The Moth is landing in Chicago! The twelve-year-old New York based storytelling institution is coming to the Windy City for a StorySLAM, and your story could be the winner! Come prepared with a five-minute story to be performed without notes, and drop your name into a hat. Ten lucky people will have their names called out loud and have a chance at storytelling greatness onstage at Martyr's, 3855 N. Lincoln Avenue.
StorySLAMS are held once a week in New York and twice a month in L.A. to sold out crowds, and Tuesday's SLAM will be the first in a series of four here in Chicago.
Tickets are $7, doors open at 7:30pm, storytelling begins at 8pm. Information on future StorySLAMS here.
Chicago punk-funk staple and talk show host, Ian Svenonius has a new-ish band, Chain and the Gang. They perform tonight at the Beat Kitchen. D. Rider and The Love of Everything open. Bring your dancing shoes, it should be a wild show. 9pm. $10. Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont. 17+.
It's Cagney & Tracy -- Tracy Baim, that is, founder of veteran LGBT newspaper Windy City Times), at Siskel Film Center today through Oct. 1. Baim's debut feature film project as executive director is Hannah Free, written by Victory Gardens playwright-in-residence Claudia Allen, directed by Wendy Jo Carlton, and starring Emmy-awardee Gless, in a "passionate lesbian drama...about a lifelong love affair between an independent spirit and the woman she calls home." Gene Siskel Film Center of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 164 N. State. Times vary; see the website for showtime and ticketing details.
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. This weekend's performers are: Breakbone DanceCo, Cindy Brandle Dance Company, Dance COLEctive, Matthew Hollis, Mordine & Co. Dance Theater, and Janet Schmid.
$12-$15, 7:30 p.m., Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call 773.880.5402 for tickets.
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. This weekend's performers are: Breakbone DanceCo, Cindy Brandle Dance Company, Dance COLEctive, Matthew Hollis, Mordine & Co. Dance Theater, and Janet Schmid.
$12-$15, 7:30 p.m., Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call 773.880.5402 for tickets.
Dozens of Chicago's hottest DJs compete in the third (and final) round of preliminary battle tonight at Ohm Nightlife (1958 W. North Ave). Winners from this and the previous two prelims will advance to the Final Round and face-off later this month. Hosted by Chicago start-up RemixGalaxy, the Rockstar-sponsored event promises USB drive giveaways and loads of free energy drinks. Showcase starts at 10PM. 21+
Get ready to re-live the heydey of electronic music in Chicago with Raver Rewind 2000 on Saturday September 19 at Ai Lounge. Four Chicago-based DJs who've experienced the scene firsthand back in the day will be playing records only from 1992-2000 for an authentic soundtrack.
What's not prohibited is getting into the "raver spirit" by dressing the part--phat pants, bright colors, ravey t-shirts, and bringing some PLUR and good vibes. For some of us who were there in the scene, it will be a night heavy on nostalgia, and will bring back the joy of hearing classic tracks that we remember fondly.
For the newer recruits into the contemporary electronic music scene, it will be educational to hear the tracks, trends and products of available technology that influenced the kind of music being made today.
Arrive early to nosh on Ai Restaurant's AMAZING Japanese food & killer sushi. Valet is available for $10 all night. 358 W. Ontario, Chicago, 10pm-2am. 21+
Popkan (Old school House)
Cesario Magnifique (Italo / electro / disco)
Gianna Hardt (House / techno)
Tim Kasper (Vintage techno)
Live Visuals by DREAMDAZE (www.dreamdaze.org)
Official Site: http://www.subvariant.com
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. Performers at tonight's show are: Chicago Moving Company, Lucky Plush Productions, Molly Shanahan / Mad Shak, and Same Planet Different World Dance Theatre.
$12-$15, 7:30 p.m., Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call 773.880.5402 for tickets.
Since 2002, the Chicago Moving Company has been providing an annual venue for Chicago dance companies to present their work, and for Chicago audiences to sample more than a dozen different artists and groups at The OTHER Dance Festival. Performers at tonight's opening night show are: Chicago Moving Company, Lucky Plush Productions, Molly Shanahan / Mad Shak, and Same Planet Different World Dance Theatre.
$12-$15, 7:30pm, Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Click here or call (773) 880-5402 for tickets.
Dozens of Chicago's hottest DJs compete in the second round of preliminary battle tonight at Ohm Nightlife (1958 W. North Ave). Hosted by Chicago start-up RemixGalaxy, the Rockstar-sponsored event promises USB drive giveaways and loads of free energy drinks. Showcase starts at 10PM. 21+
Smart Bar in association with In Your System & Electric Deluxe welcome...
SPEEDY J
JOHN JOHR
JOHNNY ARMSTRONG
DROOPY
Tickets: $10 before midnight, $15 after midnight
21 & over
Doors: 10pm / Show: 10pm
Saturday, August 29 1-10pm
Vintage vendors LUM and Style 4 Food are hosting a trunk show along with musical acts Empty Heads, Retainers, DJ Youthinasia and DJ Willie. Also vegan treats from 143 Kitschen at 1519 N. Claremont Ave., Apt. #1 in the backyard. Please bring cash.
Thank the girls of Vaudezilla for the sudden Chicago heat wave! They'll continue their Thursday night reign at The Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Ave, 773-871-3300) with their free Summertime Sizzle Revue tonight August 27th. The burlesque, served bar top, starts at 10 p.m. sharp and features Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Donna Touch, and Natasha Minsk. Tonight only, the girls welcome special guest stars Penny Starr, Jr. from Hollywood and Rose Darling from Dallas). For a complete list of performers and more information, visit Vaudezilla's website.
Dozens of Chicago's hottest DJs compete in the first round of preliminary battle tonight at Ohm Nightlife (1958 W. North Ave). Hosted by Chicago start-up RemixGalaxy, the Rockstar Energy Drink-sponsored event promises USB drive giveaways and loads of free energy drinks. Showcase starts at 10pm. 21+
The Chicago Dancing Festival again brings together some of the biggest names in American dance, and all for us lucky Chicagoans to enjoy for free! Tonight's "Celebration of American Dance" will showcase such heavy hitters as Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Lar Lubovitch Dance Company, and American Ballet Theater. Bring your picnic baskets and blankets and start camping out early because this is sure to draw an enormous crowd. Saturday, August 22, 7:30 p.m., Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park.
Thank the girls of Vaudezilla for the sudden Chicago heat wave! They'll continue their Thursday night reign at The Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Ave, 773-871-3300) with their free Summertime Sizzle Revue tonight. The burlesque, served bar top, starts at 10pm sharp, and features Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Donna Touch, and Bonnie Babs. For a complete list of performers and more information, visit Vaudezilla's website.
Vaudezilla, the Burlesque Beast, attacks tonight Saturday August 15th with The Absolut Sexy Show at the Exit (1315 W North Avenue, 773-395-2700) featuring two different performances at 11 pm and 2 am. Tonight's burlesque bad girls include Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, and Maria May I. There will be a punk rock red carpet from 10 pm- 11 pm where you pose for pictures with your favorite vixens. For more information and a complete list of performers, visit Vaudezilla's website.
Thank the girls of Vaudezilla for the sudden Chicago heat wave! They'll continue their Thursday night reign at The Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Ave, 773-871-3300) with their free Summertime Sizzle Revue tonight August 13th. The burlesque, served bar top, starts at 10 p.m. sharp and features Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Donna Touch, and Siren Jinx. For a complete list of performers and more information, visit Vaudezilla's website.
BROADZILLA! The Burlesque Beast will be unleashed tonight, Friday July 31st at Exit (1315 W North Avenue). The Vaudezilla Vixens with be strutting their stuff in two different shows at 10 p.m. and 1 a.m. Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, Donna Touch are some of the featured performers in this free show. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more information and a full list of dancers.
The beautiful broads from Vaudezilla continue declaring their "independence from their clothes" this Thursday July 30 at 10 p.m. Stop by and catch their "Red, White, and Boobs" bar top burlesque at the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue, 773 871-3300). The show is free so there's no excuse to not witness the revolution against modesty! Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a list of performers.
Celebrity rapper/crafter Leslie Hall brings her sass and her songs to the Subterranean for this eclectic queer variety show and dance party, featuring some of Chicago's best and boldest performers.
Curated by Paula Gilovich & Jane Beachy
Monday July 27, 2009 8:00pm (Doors 7:30pm)
Subterranean (2011 North Avenue)
$15 Advance, $20 at the Door
The beautiful broads from Vaudezilla continue declaring their "independence from their clothes" this Thursday July 23 at 10 p.m. Stop by and catch their "Red, White, and Boobs" bar top burlesque at the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue, 773 871-3300). The show is free so there's no excuse to not witness the revolution against modesty! Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a list of performers.
The Varietease Cabaret takes over the Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway, tonight at 10:30pm. Produced and hosted by the hottest legs and dirtiest mind in town, Backdoor Aly, the show will also feature all-star special guests like Miss Tamale, Mae the Bellydancer, The Honey Buns, Dizzy Lizzy Delicious, Lyra Belecqua, Pearl Pistol, Red Hot Annie, Dolls of Doom and more. Tickets are $15. 21+
The beautiful broads from Vaudezilla continue declaring their "independence from their clothes" tonight at 10pm. Stop by and catch their "Red, White, and Boobs" bar top burlesque at the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue, 773 871-3300). The show is free so there's no excuse to not witness the revolution against modesty! Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a list of performers.
The beautiful broads from Vaudezilla are declaring "independence from their clothes" this Thursday July 9 at 10 p.m. Stop by and catch their "Red, White, and Boobs" bar top burlesque at the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Avenue, 773 871-3300). The show is free so there's no excuse to not to join the revolution against modesty! Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a list of performers.
Stop by the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Ave; 773-871-3300) on Thursday June 25th for some good old fashion burlesque served bar top. The pasties start twirling at 10 p.m. sharp so get there early for a good seat. Presented by Vaudezilla, the free show features some of Chicago's favorite bawdy babes including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, and Donna Touch. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details.
Be a star for a minute and join Appetite Theatre for SCENEOKE! (just like karaoke, only for film.) Browse from an extensive list of scripts and choose from your favorite timeless classic films, 80's brat pack flicks, and current Oscar bound movies. $15 at the door gives you an all-access pass to the stage. Get there early (between 8-9pm) to receive all the FREE beer, wine and cocktails you need to improve your acting.
Proceeds from this event go to towards Appetite Theatre Company's summer production Jinx, adapted for the stage by Company Member Basia Kapolka from the novel by Theophile Gautier.
The Spot
4437 N. Broadway
8pm - 11pm
$15
* All attendees must be 21 or over.
Innervation Dance Cooperative's Classic Rock Ballet Everyman, with an all-female cast and 100% Led Zeppelin soundtrack, tells the allegory of Everyman. We enter on her live-for-the-moment life just before she receives a visit from Death, and our heroine begs to be given more time. She spends the rest of the ballet searching for a companion for the inevitable journey. IDC has retained the message of the medieval morality play -- to take stock of one's life, to make choices based on how you define a life well lived -- while telling a story with moments of humor, an enormous amount of love, emotional highs and lows, and a sense of catharsis. The music of Led Zeppelin emphasizes the epic nature of the story, while providing the dancers and the audience a reason to rock!
Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble, 2:00 p.m, $18 ($15 student/senior). Click here for tickets and more info.
Innervation Dance Cooperative's Classic Rock Ballet Everyman, with an all-female cast and 100% Led Zeppelin soundtrack, tells the allegory of Everyman. We enter on her live-for-the-moment life just before she receives a visit from Death, and our heroine begs to be given more time. She spends the rest of the ballet searching for a companion for the inevitable journey. IDC has retained the message of the medieval morality play, while telling a story with moments of humor, an enormous amount of love, emotional highs and lows, and a sense of catharsis.
Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble, 8pm, $18 ($15 student/senior). Click here for tickets and more info.
Tonight Only: "Your Turn to Tango" benefit @ Ritz Tango Cafe, just blocks from the theater, immediately following the show. $60 includes a ticket to the show, open bar, hors d'oeuvres, desserts, and a tango lesson! Come mingle and dance with the IDC dancers. Contact info@innervationdance.org for benefit tickets.
Fashion :: Sex :: Music -- hosted by GodsGirls.com [NSFW!]
And, yes, VERY sexy! It will be hosted by http://www.godsgirls.com [NSFW!], a few of whom who will be in lingerie all night (maybe even dancing?). If you're not familiar, the site is like Suicide Girls except a bit more DIY, has actual pr0nz, and it's totally hot. It's only $5 all night--a steal considering you get to listen to techno, electro, funk and disco while ogling gorgeous women.
Liz Revision (Chicago, minimal-techno / electrohaus / tech-house / dance)
Fathom (Chicago, dance)
Avi Sic (Chicago, dance)
Hilary Rawk (Chicago, disco-funk-dance)
FASHION AND MIXED MEDIA INSTALLATION BY
MBH Mafia: Creating Cross Disciplinary Art Through Collaboration
@ Sonotheque, 1444 W Chicago, Chicago IL, 9pm - 2am, $5
Innervation Dance Cooperative's Classic Rock Ballet Everyman, with an all-female cast and 100% Led Zeppelin soundtrack, tells the allegory of Everyman. We enter on her live-for-the-moment life just before she receives a visit from Death, and our heroine begs to be given more time. She spends the rest of the ballet searching for a companion for the inevitable journey. IDC has retained the message of the medieval morality play -- to take stock of one's life, to make choices based on how you define a life well lived -- while telling a story with moments of humor, an enormous amount of love, emotional highs and lows, and a sense of catharsis. The music of Led Zeppelin emphasizes the epic nature of the story, while providing the dancers and the audience a reason to rock!
Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble, 8:00 p.m. Running all weekend. Special pricing for tonight only: $5 plus a roll of the dice. Or go here for tickets and more info.
You, Me, Them, Everybody presents "Celebrity Autobiographies": Adam Ant, Celine Dion, Rick James, Liz Renay, Barry Manilow, Joe Eszterhas, Bob Uecker. Read by Kristen Cox, gianofer fields, Dan Rybicky, Tim Reid, Joe Mason, Liz Mason, Brian Shapiro. Monday, June 15, 8:30pm (doors open 8pm) at Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont, 21+.
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
Vaudezilla brings Chicago another night of good old fashioned burlesque tonight at the Absolut Sexy Show at Exit (1315 W North Ave; 773-395-2700). The free event will feature two different shows at 11pm and 1am, a punk rock red carpet, and some of the best burlesque dancers the Windy City has to offer including Red Hot Annie, Donna Touch, and Maria May I. For a full list of all the bawdy broads performing and more details, visit Vaudezilla's website.
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8pm, the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
Preservation Chicago's spring fundraiser, "The Art of Preservation," takes place from 5:30 to 8:30pm tonight at 1835 S. Halsted Street in the Pilsen art district. Drinks and food from Pilsen restaurants will be provided, along with music by local Latin band Son Del Viento. Tickets are available for $25 in advance from http://www.preservationchicago.org or $30 at the door. Call (773) 334-8800 or email info@preservationchicago.org for more information.
Stop by the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Ave; 773-871-3300) tonight for some good old-fashioned burlesque served bar top. The pasties start twirling at 10 p.m. sharp so get there early for a good seat. Presented by Vaudezilla, the free show includes a rotating schedule of some of Chicago's favorite bawdy babes including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, and Donna Touch. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and plan on making it a Thursday night tradition. The girls will be performing again June 18th and 25th.
The Kit Kat's annual party celebrating the birth of the late screen goddess Marilyn Monroe features a special themed menu and $5 Monroe Martinis. Madame X will perform signature Monroe songs throughout the evening. 5:30pm to 2:00am, with performances to begin at 7:30pm. Call (773) 525-1111 to make a reservation. The Kit Kat Lounge & Supper Club, 3700 N. Halsted St.
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Today at 3:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
Stop by the Blue Bayou - 3734 N Southport Ave; (773) 871-3300- today for some good old fashion burlesque served bar top. The pasties start twirling at 10pm sharp, so get there early for a good seat. Presented by Vaudezilla, the free show includes a rotating schedule of some of Chicago's favorite bawdy babes including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, and Donna Touch. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and plan on making it a Thursday night tradition. The girls will be performing again June 11th, 18th, and 25th.
Melding visual art, comedy, music and spoken word, the Encyclopedia Show from Young Chicago Authors brings together creative and quirky Chicago stars for a new show each month. "Mythical Beasts" takes over the Chopin Theatre on June 3, and brings together big names to take on the chupacabra, banshee, chimera, centaur, and even the ever-so-creepy vagina dentata. Chopin Theatre, 1543 W Division, 7pm. Tickets $5 at the door. BYOB. All ages.
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Today at 3:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8:00 p.m., the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
The Vixens of Vaudezilla perform two free burlesque shows tonight Friday May 29th for your viewing pleasure. BROADZILLA! The Burlesque Beast begins at 10 p.m. and 1 a.m. at Exit Chicago (1315 W North Ave; 773-395-2700). Both shows are hosted by Chicago's own Red Hot Annie and Wham Bam Pam. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and a full list of performers.
Chicago Tap Theatre presents Little Dead Riding Hood, a "Fairy Tale Tap Dance Opera" that explores what happens when fairy tale characters discover themselves after tiring of acting out the same old stories. Tonight at 8pm, the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Tickets range from $18 to $30. Call CTT at (773) 655-1175 or the theatre at (773) 935-6860 for more info.
Stop by the Blue Bayou (3734 N Southport Ave; 773-871-3300) on Thursday May 28th for some good old fashion burlesque served bar top. The pasties start twirling at 10 p.m. sharp so get there early for a good seat. Presented by Vaudezilla, the free show includes a rotating schedule of some of Chicago's favorite bawdy babes including Red Hot Annie, Wham Bam Pam, and Donna Touch. Visit Vaudezilla's website for more details and plan on making it a Thursday night tradition. The girls will be performing again June 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th.
The Field Chicago and Chicago Moving Co. present the 14th annual Fieldtrips Performance Marathon. There are so many small or medium-sized dance companies in Chicago, and The Field has brought a bunch of them together for your viewing pleasure. Tonight, come check out performances by GI Alliance, Innervation Dance Cooperative, Mary Sue Miller, Prairieland Movement Project, and Marianne Schaefer/Gillian Holoroyd -- you just might find your new favorite Chicago dance company to follow!
7:30 at the Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Tickets are $15. For info and reservations, call 804.873.1018.
The Field Chicago and Chicago Moving Co. present the 14th annual Fieldtrips Performance Marathon tonight and tomorrow night. Tonight, come check out performances by Antibody Dance, Karla Beltchenko, Dim Sum Dance, Molly Jaeger, Kris Larsen & Leslie Stevenson, Solo Movement Collective, and Jessica Wright. Tomorrow there's a whole new batch of companies to sample. You just might find your new favorite Chicago dance company to follow!
7:30pm at the Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. Tickets are $15. For info and reservations, call (804) 873-1018.
Scott Free presents the annual ALT Q Festival at the Old Town School of Folk Music tonight, at 7pm. ALT Q features music and performance by LGBT artists and a portion of the proceeds will be given to a local LGBT organization to be named. Tickets are $20 General Public/$18 Old Town School Members/$16 Seniors & Children. 4544 N. Lincoln Ave (773) 728-6000
Young Chicago Authors presents The Encyclopedia Show, at the Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division, tonight at 7pm. Artists, performers and writers share works relating to theme "Vice Presidents," including Aaron Enskat; Naomi Ashley; Ryan Heneberry; Mary Fon; Lindsay Muscato; Jasmine Houston-Burns; Marty McConnell and Andi Strickland; Sarah Becan; Dan "Sully" Sullivan; Greg Pickett; Sarah Winters, Alice Thatcher and Raina Sun; Ashley Hart; Kurt Heinz; Tim Stafford; Joel Chmara; Evan Chung and Jilted Emily Rose. Tickets are $5 at the door. All ages.
A screening of 'THE LIVING PLANET' with a live score by
BENN JORDAN
with
POLYFUSE
BENN JORDAN (DJ set)
Sonotheque, 1444 W Chicago Ave
9pm - 2am
Free
Commercial music producer Benn Jordan (recording as The Flashbulb) stumbled upon David Attenborough's 1970s-era documentary series that was "more in touch with nature than any other." Along with the BBC he and his crew geared up for the endeavor--and they would risk their lives and careers to do so. The result, "The Living Planet." Benn loved the concept and the film, but stated that, "the only thing I'm not in love with about this series is the music. A bit too minimal and synthy when perhaps a more cinematic approach is needed." Taking it upon himself to re-invision the soundtrack, Benn--along with opener and visualist Polyfuse--will re-create live the score to the the first of The Living Planet series: "The Building Of The Earth." Benn will finish out the night DJing. For a free performance, it's innovative and a definite welcome to the respective film and electronic music communities.
Denis Leary's Rescue Me Comedy Tour comes to the Chicago Theatre tonight. The show starts at 8pm. and the Chicago Theatre is located 175 N. State Street and is just off the Red Line stop at Lake. Tickets are still available click here for more information
Queer cheerleading troupe Power of Cheer bring their cheerleading theatrical show "Let's Go Love" to The Court (731 S. Plymouth Ct.) at 7pm. The event is sponsored by Columbia College's Multicultural Affairs Office. Contact K. Bradford (phone: 312-369-8594) for more information.
Blaine Swen performs his fully-improvised one-man musical at 8:00 pm at iO (3541 N. Clark).
Appetite Theatre and The Book Cellar Present a FREE reading of the play Manuscript by Paul Grellongthis Saturday at 4PM!
Come early to browse the books, get a glass of wine, and settle in for a FREE sit-down reading series featuring some of Chicago's hottest emerging talent.
Manuscript: In the bedroom of a Brooklyn Heights brownstone, three ambitious college freshmen confront the discovery of an unpublished manuscript that can guarantee success. As the bright young things scrap over what to do with the manuscript, their plotting turns hilarious ...
The Book Cellar in Lincoln Square
4736 N Lincoln Ave
Q101 is sponsoring a free concert at the Hard Rock Cafe tonight at 9:30 p.m. Framing Hanley and Lights Out Vegas will be performing. It is an all ages show. The Hard Rock Cafe is located at 63 W. Ontario St. Click here to get your free printable tickets.
The local aerial circus center Aloft Loft (2041 W Carroll #306) is holding its monthly El Circo Cheapo, an event they call "the poor man's Cirque du Soleil, with world class acrobats, jugglers, puppeteers, aerialists, clowns, side show freaks and more". There are two shows, one at 7pm and one at 10pm; tickets are $10 or less (depending on how many pull-ups you can do) and can be purchased in advance here.
Celebrate the city's 172nd birthday party @ at the Chicago History Museumwith music, crafts, and birthday cake from 10am-pm General admission to the Museum is FREE. 1601 N. Clark St. Call (312) 642-4600 for more details.
Chicagoans get their first chance to witness trained insects in action as the Acme Flea Circus makes its Chicago premiere this weekend at Intuit, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave. Today's performances are at 2, 4 and 6pm. Admission is $12, $10 for students, seniors, and members, and $8 for children under 12. More information and tickets available here, or by calling 312-243-9088.
Chicagoans get their first chance to witness trained insects in action as the Acme Flea Circus makes its Chicago premiere this weekend at Intuit, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave. Tonight's performance is at 6:30pm. Admission is $12, $10 for students, seniors, and members, and $8 for children under 12. More information and tickets available here, or by calling 312-243-9088.
Chicagoans get their first chance to witness trained insects in action as the Acme Flea Circus makes its Chicago premiere this weekend at Intuit, 756 N. Milwaukee Ave., 6:30pm. Admission is $12, $10 for students, seniors, and members, and $8 for children under 12. More information and tickets available here, or by calling 312-243-9088.
Jordan Klepper and Steve Waltien perform their critically adored sketch show "Jordan and Steve are Steve and Jordan, Respectively" tonight at the iO Theater (3541 N. Clark) to showcase it for the Montreal Comedy Fest. The show begins at 6pm and is free. Call 773-880-0199 for more details.
Russian classical pianist Evgeny Kissin performs selections by Prokofiev and Chopin at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, 220 S. Michigan Ave., today at 3pm. Tickets are $36-$149. The performance was initially sold out, but stage seats have been added and are available by calling 312-294-3000. More information here.
Celebrate the history of our nation's presidents through storytelling, musical and dramatic performances, and craft activities at the Chicago History Museum from 10am till 2pm. 1601 N. Clark St. Call (312) 642-4600 for more details. Free!
The Rhinoceros Festival presents the return of Big Goddess Pow Wow, a group of women performers well-known in the Chicago theater and performing community. The evening will be hosted by Annoyance Theater's Susan Messing, co-curated by Paula Killen and Lisa Buscani, and will feature plenty of Pow Wow veterans from years gone by. The show happens tonight at 8pm at Acme Art Works (2215 W. North Avenue); tickets are $20 and can be purchased through the Viaduct Theatre box office at (773) 296-6024.
Formerly performing at the recently departed Kate the Great's Book Emporium, The Kates have moved their comedic solo performance pieces, monologues and crazy characters to the Book Cellar for a hilarious night of storytelling. Performers include Sarah Clark, Jennifer Ann Coffeen, Jillian Erickson, Kelsie Huff, Jant Kane, Tamale Sepp, Kendra Stevens and Amy Sumpter. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.
Bruno Pronsato [Hello?Repeat, Perlon, Orac, Musique Risquee] LIVE PA
Kate Simko [Spectral Sound, Kupei Musika] LIVE PA
DJ Jason Patrick [Klectik, Volatl]
Live interactive visual performance by Lavamatic
@ Sonotheque, 1444 W. Chicago Ave 9pm - 2am
Reduced admission with RSVP to info@volatl.com
Berlin-based Bruno Pronsato took the world by storm in 2008; voted by Resident Advisor as one of the top 10 albums of the year, Pronsato's Why Can't We Be Like Us took the art of experimental dance music to the next level. Meanwhile, his Half Hawaii project on Perlon with Sammie Dee has pushed the envelope of the genre. As RA writer Peter Chambers astutely states, "Pronsato has spared nothing in this work- there is nothing missing,lacking, insufficient.. the bar has just been raised." Not a DJ, Pronsato devotes all of his time to electronic music composition and live performances. Pushing the envelope using advanced programming software such as Max/MSP, Pronsato's live performance devastates audiences with its uniquely intricate yet psychedelic and soulful grooves.
Pronsato's Live Set, Discography + more
Chicago-based Kate Simko (Spectral) provides a live laptop set and Jason Patrick (Klectik) DJs.
Part of Theaster Gates' Temple Exercises exhibition at the MCA (a series of exercises that occur both at the MCA and around the city), DJ Madrid, Eric Williams, Sadie Woods and Sean Alvarez host a music listening and dance party that fuses global sounds with music inspired by the Black Church. At Sonotheque, 1444 W. Chicago Ave., tonight from 8pm-2am. Admission is $5 (21 and over only). Call (312) 226-7600 for more information.
This is the third and final weekend of storefront theater troupe Brain Surgeon Theater's Post Christmas Spectacular 1976. This tale, written by its cast of children and adult actors, features disco dancing, disco hair and the disco dreams of a teenage girl growing up in small-town Michigan. Playing at Trap Door Theatre, 1655 Cortland Street; Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm. Tickets are $10 for kids under 10 and $15 for adults, available online or at the door. Saturday matinee tickets are available for $5.
This is the third and final weekend of storefront theater troupe Brain Surgeon Theater's Post Christmas Spectacular 1976. This tale, written by its cast of children and adult actors, features disco dancing, disco hair and the disco dreams of a teenage girl growing up in small-town Michigan. Playing at Trap Door Theatre, 1655 Cortland Street; Fridays and Saturdays at 8, Saturdays and Sundays at 2. Tickets are $10 for kids under 10 and $15 for adults, available online or at the door. Saturday matinee tickets are available for $5.
MAKE Literary Productions presents: MAKE: A Chicago Literary Magazine Issue 7 "Property Lines" Release Party at Historic Polish Bar Zakopane featuring a performance based on Studs Terkel's Division Street: America from The Plagiarists; DJ Peter Margasak; Busy Beaver Button Booth; and readings from Issue 7 Contributors.
Friday, January 23, 2009, 8pm at Zakopane, 1734 W. Division St, $10 donation includes copy of the issue; 21 and over w/ID
This is the third and final weekend of storefront theater troupe Brain Surgeon Theater's Post Christmas Spectacular 1976. This tale, written by its cast of children and adult actors, features disco dancing, disco hair and the disco dreams of a teenage girl growing up in small-town Michigan. Playing at Trap Door Theatre, 1655 Cortland Street; Fridays and Saturdays at 8, Saturdays and Sundays at 2. Tickets are $10 for kids under 10 and $15 for adults, available online or at the door. Saturday matinee tickets are available for $5.
The Chicago Sinfonietta presents "The Dream Lives On," an annual tribute to Martin Luther King, Jr., at 7:30 pm at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. Tickets are $26-$96; $10 students and children. Available online or by calling 312-294-3000.
Commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with dramatic readings and gospel performances at the Chicago History Museum. 1601 N. Clark St. Admission is FREE. Call (312) 642-4600 for more details.
Vaudezilla presents "High Society Burlesque" at Debonair Social Club, 1575 N. Milwaukee Ave., tonight at 9pm. Red Hot Annie & Wham Bam Pam host a revue including, Miss Tamale, Pearl Pistol, Lady Jack, Backdoor Aly, The Honey Buns, Viva La Muerte, Donna Touch, Bizarre Sally, Bombshell Baby Debbie, Red Hot Annie herself and a special appearance by The Flaming Dames. Coldcock Jones & the Shithawks also perform. $10 gets you in the door, plus burlesque strip teases, party favors and swag bags. 21+. E-mail vaudezilla@yahoo.com with questions.
The General Washingtons, "Chicago's first and only all white, all male comedy group," will be performing Thursdays @ 10:30pm through January 28 at the Greenhouse Theater (2257 N Lincoln Avenue). Tonight they'll be joined by local improv group Old West Family Photo. $6 at the door. $5 with one of their postcards. (Hint: They bear the image of one of our Founding Fathers. I'll let you guess which one.)
Old Town School of Music
January 11th, 4 pm
@ the 4544 N. Lincoln location
Three of the Old Town School of Folk Music's finest folk troubadours and the Pickin' Bubs join forces for an evening of tradition. $20 for general public, $18 members/$16 senior & children. Call the box office @ 773.728.6000 or click on the above link for details.
Improv Everywhere's No Pants Subway Ride, originated in New York, has gone global, and Chicago's ride starts at the Granville Red Line stop today at noon. Show up a little early -- with pants on, but bring a bag or something to store your pants in -- and await further details. Free. More info on Facebook.
Nan Mason swings "Rocking Around The Christmas Tree" in the Chicago Cultural Center's Randolph Café, 78 E. Washington St. The performance begins at 12:15pm. Free!
Get your fill of the Yuletide spirit as The Chicago Chamber Choir presents Carols by Candlelight this afternoon at 4pm at Unity Lutheran Church,1212 W. Balmoral. This annual winter program features traditional and contemporary carols and is billed as a partial sing-a-long: they even trust the audience to do "Dona Nobis Pacem" as a round. Post-concert refreshments are included with admission. Tickets are $18 in advance for adults, $15 for children and students. Available online.
Get your fill of the Yuletide spirit as The Chicago Chamber Choir presents Carols by Candlelight tonight at Lincoln Park Presbyterian Church, 600 W. Fullerton, at 7:30pm. This annual winter program features traditional and contemporary carols and is billed as a partial sing-a-long: they even trust the audience to do "Dona Nobis Pacem" as a round. Post-concert refreshments are included with admission. Tickets are $18 in advance for adults, $15 for children and students. Available online.
Chicago Flair showcases a wide range of Chicago talent tonight at Martyr's, 3855 N. Lincoln Ave., starting at 8pm. The evenings entertainment includes burlesque performances by Viva La Muerte and Ms. Bea Haven, insanely funny video comedy skits by RookieTV, performance art by dominatrix Miss Maya Sinstress, fetish performance by the incomparable Miss Xena, spoken word by Miss Vine, magical illusions by Ron Fitzgerald, and a special appearance by Donna Smith from the movie SiCKO. DJ Lee Farmer spins house music and Chochise Soulstar of Paradox spits hip hop rhymes. There will also be a fashion show of latex clothes by House of Bias. The show is a benefit for Maria The Purple Goddess, a Chicago burlesque and fetish performer who had brain surgery earlier this year. Tickets are $15. 21 and over.
The Nut Tapper, the annual Christmas tap dancing spectacular, returns to the Athenaeum Theatre this afternoon at 4pm. Organized by local tap teacher Reggio McLaughlin, The Nut Tapper features not just tap but other sorts of dance, including flamenco, clog dancing, etc. The show happens this afternoon at 4pm. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster or from the Athenaeum box office. Athenaeum: 2936 N. Southport. (773) 935-6860.
Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker makes its Chicago debut yesterday and tonight at the Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave. The show is a "full-blown professional production of the holiday classic -- rendered in 1930s burlesque cabaret style" by professional burlesque dancers. There are two shows each night, at 7:30pm and 10pm; tickets are $30 in advance. 18 and over.
Land of the Sweets: The Burlesque Nutcracker makes its Chicago debut tonight and tomorrow at the Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave. The show is a "full-blown professional production of the holiday classic -- rendered in 1930s burlesque cabaret style" by professional burlesque dancers. There are two shows each night, at 7:30pm and 10pm; tickets are $30 in advance. 18 and over.
Comedians Michael Ian Black, Michael Showalter, and David Wain return in "Stella", their rather popular stand-up sketch comedy performance piece whatsis. Stella plays The Vic Theatre tonight at 7:30pm; tickets are available through Jam Productions' Website. The Vic: 3145 N. Sheffield (at Belmont). (773) 472-0366.
Weekly house / techno / etc night The End with resident James Lauer has played host to electronic luminaries such as Richie Hawtin, LCD Soundsystem, Telefon Telaviv, Julius The Mad Thinker, Diplo and many more. Tonight, rednofive highlights a handful of local DJs and producers working diligently in the underground to keep the city's subterranean electronic currents exciting.
NO COVER + FREE Pie-Eyed Pizza 10-11pm
$5 Effen Vodka
$5 Jameson Whisky
$125 EFFEN BOTTLES
Pie-Eyed Pizzeria
NOV 30 - Dave Powers, Jason Patrick, Matt Main, James Lauer
@ rednofive
440 N. Halsted | 10pm-LATE | 21+
Skinny Puppy's Nick Ogre and his band, ohGr, will be bringing their unique electro/industrial/metal/pop sound to the Double Door tonight. Tickets are $20 and the show starts at 9pm. Opening up will be Chicago's own industrial Scotsman, Chris Connelly. This show promises to be at times a dance party, at times a head-banding mauling. Only those open to something different need apply.
Global Voices Program presents Jerusalem: A World of Music. The performance, free and open to the public, features the Middle East Music Ensemble "performing a diverse selection of music from the Old City of Jerusalem." Check Transmission for a preview. 6pm. 1414 E. 59th St., 773-753-2275.
3175 N. Broadway
10:30pm
$20.00/ $25.00 VIP
You know Aziz Ansari. He is one of the creators of the hit MTV sketch comedy show,Human Giant, and the racist fruit vendor from HBO's Flight of the Conchords (don't worry, it's only acting). You may also know him as one of the illustrious Comedians of Comedy. In 2009, he will appear in the new spinoff of The Office on NBC with Amy Poehler, so come and see him before he gets too famous to tour the country any more!
Join the cast of Adventure Stage Chicago as they perform scenes from their upcoming staging of Louis Sachar's Holes at the Book Cellar. There will be a Q&A session with the director and cast and you can enter to win free tickets to the full production. Free at 7pm at 4736-38 N. N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.
A host of notable performers will come to the Steppenwolf Theatre for a tribute to the recently departed Studs Terkel. Included in the cast are David Schwimmer, Rick Kogan, Joyce Piven, Martha Lavey, Alan Wilder and more. Admission to the 7:30pm show are free, but reservations are required. Get them by calling 312-335-1650. Steppenwolf is located at 1650 N. Halsted St.
Innervation Dance Cooperative brings together dancers and choreographers with varied backgrounds, mixes 'em up, and creates an eclectic contemporary dance aesthetic on stage. Featuring seven world premieres and three re-staged pieces from nine different choreographers, with dances ranging from introspective to comedic to joyful, you're sure to find something to your liking at their fall concert, "Nothing in Common."
Two performances today, at 3pm and 7pm The Galaxie, 2603 W. Barry. Tickets are $15 ($12 students/seniors/artists with resumes). Email info@innervationdance.org or call Innervation at 773.230.2168.
This month's installment of Women & Children First's lesbian salon night welcomes queer Latina spoken word collective La Dulce Palabra. DJ SpinNikki will provide music. Admission is on a sliding scale, $7-$10, and includes food and wine. Proceeds from the event will benefit the artists performing tonight and to Women & Children First's Voices Fund. 7:30pm at 5233 N. Clark St. Call 773-769-9299 for more information.
Innervation Dance Cooperative brings together dancers and choreographers with varied backgrounds, mixes 'em up, and creates an eclectic contemporary dance aesthetic on stage. Featuring seven world premieres and three re-staged pieces from nine different choreographers, with dances ranging from introspective to comedic to joyful, you're sure to find something to your liking at their fall concert, "Nothing in Common."
Two performances today, at 6pm and 9pm The Galaxie, 2603 W. Barry. Tickets are $15 ($12 students/seniors/artists with resumes). Email info@innervationdance.org or call Innervation at 773.230.2168.
Experience video games on every level in this multimedia concert event featuring music and video clips from video games past and present, audience participation with special interactive segments, and Halo composer Michael Salvatori. The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State Street . Tickets $34.50-$72.00, visit the website for special offers and more information.
Innervation Dance Cooperative brings together dancers and choreographers with varied backgrounds, mixes 'em up, and creates an eclectic contemporary dance aesthetic on stage. Featuring seven world premieres and three re-staged pieces from nine different choreographers, with dances ranging from introspective to comedic to joyful, you're sure to find something to your liking at their fall concert, "Nothing in Common."
Tonight's show is the annual Benefit Concert. Tickets are $30, which includes open bar and appetizers, 7-8pm, show at 8pm, and a post-show cocktail reception until 10pm.
The Galaxie, 2603 W. Barry. For tickets, email info@innervationdance.org or call Innervation at 773-230-2168.
The Poetry Center and the Chicago Poetry Project present this reading by Tom Raworth, author of more than 40 books and pamphlets. Tickets are $8 to $10. 112 S Michigan, 6:30pm. For more information, call 312-899-1229 or visit the website.
3175 N. Broadway
10pm
$15.00
W/ Larry Murphy & Kumail Nanjiani
Eugene Mirman has made stand-up appearances on Late Nite with Conan O'Brien, Comedy Central's Premium Blend and Jump Cuts, VH1, Third Watch, Cartoon Network's Home Movies, and more. Help provide the laugh track as he records a brand, spankin' new CD/DVD at the Lakeshore on November 7th and 8th. His last album, The Absurd Nightclub Comedy of Eugene Mirman, was voted one of the Best Albums of 2004 by both The Onion and Time Out New York.
3175 N. Broadway
10pm
$15.00
W/ Larry Murphy & Kumail Nanjiani
Eugene Mirman has made stand-up appearances on Late Nite with Conan O'Brien, Comedy Central's Premium Blend and Jump Cuts, VH1, Third Watch, Cartoon Network's Home Movies, and more. Help provide the laugh track as he records a brand, spankin' new CD/DVD at the Lakeshore on November 7th and 8th. His last album, The Absurd Nightclub Comedy of Eugene Mirman, was voted one of the Best Albums of 2004 by both The Onion and Time Out New York.
The monthly Chicago-based talk show The Interview Show, hosted by Mark Bazer, is back at The Hideout (1354 W. Wabansia, 773-227-4433), 6:30-8pm. Doors open at 6. Admission is $5. This month: Interviews with filmmaker Steve Conrad (writer/director of "The Promotion," writer of "The Pursuit of Happyness" and "The Weather Man); Keith Huff (award-winning playwright, "A Steady Rain," "Pursued by Happiness"); and Chicago sketch-comedy troupe Schadenfreude (www.schadenfreude.net). Plus: performances by Schadenfreude.
BCD Collaborative hosts another Atomic Sketch Event tonight at Wicker Park's Evil Olive. The Halloween-themed evening of live art-making showcases established and emerging artists of various disciplines and offers finished works for sale at prices set by the artists. It's a great place to test your costume and cop original pieces at affordable prices. In addition to the panel, practicing artists and illustrators are welcome to drop-in with their own materials to sketch/paint on the sidelines and hang their work on the wall too. 6-9 p.m. 1551 W. Division St.
Radiolab, a spectacular WNYC radio program, comes to Chicago for two nights of shows. Their topic: "Martian Invasion", specifically the legendary "War of the Worlds" radio broadcast of 1938. "Martian Invasion" runs tonight and tomorrow night at the Victory Gardens Biograph Theater (2433 N. Lincoln) at 7:30pm. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased through the Victory Gardens Website or by calling the box office at (773) 871-3000.
Local and acclaimed artists Charlie Owens, Angel D'Amico, veggiesomething, Blütt and Risk contribute artwork elements that can be remixed and silk screened live as one-of-a-kind shirts, and display wall mural/installations based on these designs. Complimentary drinks and appetizers. Music by E6 and Matt Rowan. FREE. 1904 W. North Ave, 7pm-10pm. Additional Hours October 25 and 26, 11am-7pm. For artist biographies and more information visit the website.
The mission of Banafsheh Sayyad and her company NAMAH is to bring Iranian (and world) performing arts to a broad audience. This weekend's performance is a rare opportunity to see Persian dance outside of Iran, where women are banned from dancing in public. The dancing will be accompanied by Zarbang, a Persian and Middle Eastern percussion and woodwind group.
$24-$28. October 16, 17, 18 @ 8 p.m. Dance Center of Columbia College, 600 S. Michigan. To purchase tickets and for more information (including a video), visit Columbia's performances site. Or call the ticket office at 312.344.6600.
The mission of Banafsheh Sayyad and her company NAMAH is to bring Iranian (and world) performing arts to a broad audience. This weekend's performance is a rare opportunity to see Persian dance outside of Iran, where women are banned from dancing in public. The dancing will be accompanied by Zarbang, a Persian and Middle Eastern percussion and woodwind group.
$24-$28. October 16, 17, 18 @ 8 p.m. Dance Center of Columbia College, 600 S. Michigan. To purchase tickets and for more information (including a video), visit Columbia's performances site. Or call the ticket office at 312.344.6600.
The mission of Banafsheh Sayyad and her company NAMAH is to bring Iranian (and world) performing arts to a broad audience. This weekend's performance is a rare opportunity to see Persian dance outside of Iran, where women are banned from dancing in public. The dancing will be accompanied by Zarbang, a Persian and Middle Eastern percussion and woodwind group.
$24-$28. October 16, 17, 18 @ 8 p.m. Dance Center of Columbia College, 600 S. Michigan.
To purchase tickets and for more information (including a video), visit Columbia's performances site. Or call the ticket office at 312.344.6600.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago presents its Fall Program: Fold by Toru Shimazaki (world premiere), Minus 16 by Ohad Naharin (audience -- and this writer's -- favorite), and Extremely Close by Alejandro Cerrudo. You can't go wrong with this show. This is the one to bring your friend to -- you know, that friend who swears she hates to watch dance and needs to be pleasantly surprised! Check out HSDC's FootNotes or their repertoire for more description of the dances.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance at Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Drive. Thursday 10/9 @ 7:30 p.m., Friday 10/10 @ 8 p.m., Saturday 10/11 @ 8 p.m., and Sunday 10/12 @ 3 p.m. Tickets are $25 to $86 (the $25 tix are only available on Saturday). HINT: There's no such thing as a bad seat at the Harris. Click here to purchase tickets, or call 312-334-7777.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago presents its Fall Program: Fold by Toru Shimazaki (world premiere), Minus 16 by Ohad Naharin (audience -- and this writer's -- favorite), and Extremely Close by Alejandro Cerrudo. You can't go wrong with this show. This is the one to bring your friend to -- you know, that friend who swears she hates to watch dance and needs to be pleasantly surprised! Check out HSDC's FootNotes or their repertoire for more description of the dances.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance at Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Drive. Thursday 10/9 @ 7:30 p.m., Friday 10/10 @ 8 p.m., Saturday 10/11 @ 8 p.m., and Sunday 10/12 @ 3 p.m. Tickets are $25 to $86 (the $25 tix are only available on Saturday). HINT: There's no such thing as a bad seat at the Harris. Click here to purchase tickets, or call 312-334-7777.
Vaudezilla Productions presents Broadzilla! the Burlesque Beast Returns. Featurning such acts as Red Hot Annie, Ms Bea Haven, Backdoor Aly, Pearl Pistol, The Honey Buns, Chasity Chaos and many more. The shows, 10pm and 1am are 21 and over and free. Exit is located at 1315 W North Ave, 773.395.2700 for more info or email.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago presents its Fall Program: Fold by Toru Shimazaki (world premiere), Minus 16 by Ohad Naharin (audience -- and this writer's -- favorite), and Extremely Close by Alejandro Cerrudo. You can't go wrong with this show. This is the one to bring your friend to -- you know, that friend who swears she hates to watch dance and needs to be pleasantly surprised! Check out HSDC's FootNotes or their repertoire for more description of the dances.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance at Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Drive. Thursday 10/9 @ 7:30 p.m., Friday 10/10 @ 8 p.m., Saturday 10/11 @ 8 p.m., and Sunday 10/12 @ 3 p.m. Tickets are $25 to $86 (the $25 tix are only available on Saturday). HINT: There's no such thing as a bad seat at the Harris. Click here to purchase tickets, or call 312-334-7777.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago presents its Fall Program: Fold by Toru Shimazaki (world premiere), Minus 16 by Ohad Naharin (audience -- and this writer's -- favorite), and Extremely Close by Alejandro Cerrudo. You can't go wrong with this show. This is the one to bring your friend to -- you know, that friend who swears she hates to watch dance and needs to be pleasantly surprised! Check out HSDC's FootNotes or their repertoire for more description of the dances.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance at Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph Drive. Thursday 10/9 @ 7:30 p.m., Friday 10/10 @ 8 p.m., Saturday 10/11 @ 8 p.m., and Sunday 10/12 @ 3 p.m. Tickets are $25 to $86 (the $25 tix are only available on Saturday). HINT: There's no such thing as a bad seat at the Harris. Click here to purchase tickets, or call 312-334-7777.
Join the actors from Steppenwolf Theatre for a dramatic reading of selections from Tom Wolfe's The Right Stuff, the current One Book, One Chicago selection. Archival footage from NASA also will be used to show how the media covered the launches of Project Mercury. The event is free from 7pm-8:30pm in the Steppenwolf Upstairs Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St., however reservations are required. Call 312-335-1650 to reserve your spot.
Quennect 4 Gallery
2716 W. North Ave.
8:00pm - 21+
Windy City Story Slam, the brainchild of local writer Bill Hillmann, features artists, musicians and slammers of all ages and backgrounds from around Chicago. October Slam competitors will share the stage with very special feature storyteller and guest, Irvine Welsh (Trainspotting, Filth, Crime, etc.).
Scrappers is a feature-length documentary that tells the stories of three Chicago men who comb the city streets in search for people's discarded-yet-valuable resources, such as iron and aluminum. Still in production, the film is the focus of this evening's benefit from 6-10pm at The AV-aerie, 2000 W. Fulton. In addition to scenes from the film, there will be video installations, words from the filmmakers and subjects, and musical performances by Scrappers composer Frank Rosaly, the Jonathan Crawford/Frank Rosaly/Michael Zerang percussion trio and the Friction Brothers. There is a $10 suggested donation. RSVP required to scrapmovie@gmail.com.
The Third Coast International Audio Festival presents highlights from its "Radio Ephemera" challenge tonight at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, from 7pm to 9pm. Admission is $8, $6 if you're a Chicago Public Radio member.
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
The wine-fueled wonderfest that is 2nd Story is back tonight at The Spot in Uptown. Combining storytelling, wine, and music into one dramatic, hilarious, sometimes a little awkward night, tonight's 2nd Story will feature the works of Kim Morris, Debbie Hogan, Bobby Biedrzycki and Matt Miller. The Spot is located at 4437 N Broadway. Doors open at 7pm. $10. Advanced tickets are available here.
Humboldt Park's 15th Annual Fiesta Boricua -- the Midwest's largest Ethnic Music Festival -- will take place on Division between Paseo Boricua's giant metal flags. Three stages will feature top talents in Salsa, Plena, Reggaeton and House plus over 100 food, arts and crafts vendors. The all-day event will also include a health fair, skateboard demo area, art gallery and cultural performances. Everyone's invited to come celebrate Chicago's Puerto Rican community! Division Street (between Western & Mozart). 11AM to 8PM.
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
The 30th annual Chicago Jazz Festival gets underway this evening with a kick-off performance by saxophone colossus Sonny Rollins. One of the greatest musicians of the bebop era, Rollins hasn't slowed down all that much in recent years. Anyone who's seen him perform lately can attest to the 77 year-old tenorist's ability to wow the crowd and sometimes leave younger sidemen eating his dust. Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. The show starts at 6:30 and is free to the public. See the Jazz Institute of Chicago's website for the full schedule of this year's Festival.
The "De-evolution of MUDWOMAN (an evening of dance exile, fashion, and humor)" from Breakbone DanceCo begins with a "superficial poptart diva"--representing today's female role models--who de-evolves into the primordial female, complete with head-to-toe mud. In this process, Breakbone will mock themselves, mock a lot of the heavy-handed social commentary out there, and encourage the audience to laugh, all while "de-mystifying" the "objectification of women." The show is filled with entertainment, including a couture fashion show and videography, and is punctuated by commentary from three "expositors" who critique the goings-on throughout the evening. The choreography will use Breakbone's unique, athletic style.
August 28, 29, 30, and September 4, 5, 6--all shows at 9:00. $18 ($15 students and seniors). Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago. Click here for tickets or visit Breakbone's website for more information. (Also see the GB A/C page for more info.)
The third night of the Chicago Dancing Festival. "A Celebration of American Dance" in Millennium Park is a free evening of performances by some fantastic companies, including the American Ballet Theater (performing the Black Swan pas de deux from Swan Lake--you can't get any better than that) and Chicago's Hubbard Street Dance, Joffrey Ballet, and Muntu Dance Theater. It's not often you get the opportunity to see all of this dancing in one night, for FREE, while taking advantage of the best part of Chicago summers: sitting outside with your family or friends and a bottle of (ahem) grape juice with the skyline rising above you.
August 20, 7:30 p.m., Pritzker Pavilion, Michigan Ave. and Randolph St. No reservations necessary, but get there early for a good spot!
Local author and playwright Joe Meno comes to the Book Cellar today to offer a performance of his play Lady into Fox. The play was adapted from the David Garnett novel of the same name and follows a husband whose wife has suddenly and mysteriously turned into a fox. Free at 3pm, 4736-38 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-293-2665 for more information.
After girls ages 9 to 16 learn how to rock out in a week-long summer camp, the girls play The Metro, 3730 N. Clark St.. The program, run by Girls Rock! Chicago, teaches the creative and technical aspects of musician ship, including hands-on instrument instruction, composition, song-writing, daily band practice and guest speakers in the rock biz. Girls Rock! Chicago is a non-profit working to foster girl's creative expression, positive self-esteem and community awareness through rock music. Doors are at 3pm, show starts at 3:30pm. $6. Open to everyone.
Open House Dance Collective, a division of HouseHold Arts Collective, invites community members--regardless of training or skill level--to come rehearse with professional choreographers. They perform professionally every summer, and this weekend's "OHD 5" is this year's culmination. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Inspiration Cafe, which provides restaurant-style meals, life skills training, case management, and other services at their Uptown location to help men and women overcome the causes of their homelessness. Come see your neighbors-cum-professional dancers, as well as an appearance by Jump Rhythm Jazz Project.
July 31, August 1, August 2 at 8:00 p.m. at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago. Tickets are $15, and reservations are highly recommended (they've sold out 4 years running). Click here or call 773-342-4141.
Open House Dance Collective, a division of HouseHold Arts Collective, invites community members--regardless of training or skill level--to come rehearse with professional choreographers. They perform professionally every summer, and this weekend's "OHD 5" is this year's culmination. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Inspiration Cafe, which provides restaurant-style meals, life skills training, case management, and other services at their Uptown location to help men and women overcome the causes of their homelessness. Come see your neighbors-cum-professional dancers, as well as an appearance by Jump Rhythm Jazz Project.
July 31, August 1, August 2 at 8:00 p.m. at the Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago. Tickets are $15, and reservations are highly recommended (they've sold out 4 years running). Click here or call 773-342-4141.
Are you ready for a poetic rumble!?!? The 2008 Chicago Poetry Slam Grudge Match takes place tonight at the Funky Buddha Lounge, 728 W. Grand. Teams from The Green Mill & Mental Graffiti and The Chicago All-Stars will compete to see who's the best poetry slam crew. An open mic precedes the battle. Doors open at 7:30pm, $5 cover, 21+.
Celebrate the grand opening of 2nd Nature Yoga (1750 N. Kingsbury) on July 19th, 2008 with:
"Daytime workshops for all ages, Creative Learning Environments, Entertainment, Delicious Food and Family Fun glide into an early evening Sunset Yoga Session, followed by; Death Defying Circus Artisty, Spectacular Performances, Acrobatic Wonders, Live Art & Craft, World Class D.J. sets, Live Music Performances, Mind Body & Spirit Healers, Catered Food & Drink, Visionary Arts, Face & Body Painting, Fire Arts, Photo Shoots and more. All in an immaculate venue offering a Chill Space, Sacred Space, Open Air Space, Dance Floors, and Plenty of Room to Explore with a River View."
Tickets range from $15 - $40. More information can be found here.
A play in which two bank robbers escape from jail so they can start their lives over and build rockets to the moon in the back yard; top-notch physical comedy. More info here. Tickets: $12; Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N Milwaukee Ave. 5pm.
Chicago's performance poetry future is headed to the National Youth Poetry Slam in Washington, D.C., but before they go they're holding a book release party and showcase at Young Chicago Authors, 1180 N. Milwaukee Ave., at 7:30 p.m. Their chapbook, Big Booty Poetry, will be on sale for $5
Mortified, an evening of true stories of painful experiences, comes to the Green Mill, 4802 N. Broadway, tonight at 8pm. The lineup has yet to be announced, but it's sure to be good. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. 21 and over.
The 2nd Story monthly performance series holds another evening of stories, wine and music tonight at Webster's Wine Bar (1480 W. Webster). The theme of the evening is Father's Day, and among the scheduled artists are Larry Kerns, Deb Lewis, Kimberlee Soo and Khanisha Foster. Doors open at 7:00 PM. Admission is $10. For more information see the 2nd Story Website.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, one of our city's top dance companies, presents its annual "Inside/Out" Choreographic Workshop Performance, an evening of works-in-progress that could become part of the company's repertoire. Some of today's fan favorites had their beginnings at "Inside/Out." Perfect if you like to be "in the know" before the rest of the city.
June 6 & 7, 8:30 p.m., Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago, 1306 S. Michigan Ave. $20 general admission ($35 reserved section). To guarantee your seats (they sold out last year), call 312-850-9744 (ext. 166), or visit the website for an order form.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, one of our city's top dance companies, presents its annual "Inside/Out" Choreographic Workshop Performance, an evening of works-in-progress that could become part of the company's repertoire. Some of today's fan favorites had their beginnings at "Inside/Out." Perfect if you like to be "in the know" before the rest of the city.
June 6 @ 8:30 and June 7 @ 6:00 and 8:30, Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago, 1306 S. Michigan Ave. $20 general admission ($35 reserved section). To guarantee your seats (they sold out last year), call 312-850-9744 (ext. 166), or visit the website for an order form.
Experience a special installment of 2nd Story, Serendipity Theatre Collective's hybrid performance series, benefitting the 2008 Bike MS: Tour de Farms. Featuring stories about—what else?—bikes! Storytellers Kim Morris, Aimee Perkins, and Shiow-Jiau Yung are doing the two-day, 175-mile ride, and they’ll perform along with Doug Whippo. Doors at 7 pm. Stories at 7:45 pm. The Spot—4437 N. Broadway. Tickets: $15, available at the door.
To celebrate the official U.S. holiday National Tap Day, the Old Town School presents their National Tap Day Festival. Tappers from Chicago and beyond will be on stage, including grand marshals Reggio “The Hoofer” McLaughlin and nonagenarian tap man Ernest “Brownie” Brown.
May 31, 8 p.m., Gary and Laura Maurer Concert Hall, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. Tickets are $20 ($18 for Old Town School members; $16 for students and seniors) and can be purchased via the box office (773.728.6000) or on the Web.
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Elements Contemporary Ballet produces dance that is truly ballet (the ladies wear pointe shoes, the movements come from a ballet vocabulary), yet truly contemporary (hey, ballerinas aren't supposed to stick out their hips like that!). ECB's Spring Concert features premieres of "Baroque Compositions" (set to Bach) and "Angel." A free reception following the Saturday show includes an opportunity to meet the dancers, staff, and board of ECB, a wine and cheese tasting, and a raffle.
May 23 & 24, 7:00 p.m. at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $17.50 general admission ($15 students and seniors). Click here for tickets, or call the box office at 312-337-6543.
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Elements Contemporary Ballet produces dance that is truly ballet (the ladies wear pointe shoes, the movements come from a ballet vocabulary), yet truly contemporary (hey, ballerinas aren't supposed to stick out their hips like that!). ECB's Spring Concert features premieres of "Baroque Compositions" (set to Bach) and "Angel." A free reception following the Saturday show includes an opportunity to meet the dancers, staff, and board of ECB, a wine and cheese tasting, and a raffle.
May 23 & 24, 7:00 p.m. at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $17.50 general admission ($15 students and seniors). Click here for tickets, or call the box office at 312-337-6543.
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Come see some acrobatic dancers create a story in the air using ... giant lampshades. And picture frames and clotheslines and boots, oh my! Aloft Aerial Dance presents The Dinner of our Discontent, in which they tell the story--which "veers from heartbreaking to hilarious"--of five estranged sisters returning home after the sudden deaths of their parents.
May 16-18 and 23-25, 8:00 p.m. at the Aloft Loft, 941 N California Ave. (down the alley, in the back). $20-$30 tickets at Brown Paper Tickets
Columbia College's Manifest Urban Arts Festival brings together a wealth of visual and performing arts spread across 14 galleries and four stages, all in one day. The event includes an artwalk and sale, music on four stages, screenings, readings, live radio, Web casts, the TICTOC Performance Art Festival, the Transmission art car exhibition, Spectacle Fortuna's parade of creativity, and a free concert by OK Go. Get the full schedule here.
Presented by Vocalo and Chicago Pubic Radio, this talent show features user uploaded content (video/audio) to the Vocalo site. Tonight the finalists (including Jessica Hardy of Avant/Chicago and the Revelettes) perform their pieces live. The show takes place at 7 p.m. at the Chicago Center For The Performing Arts.
Griel Marcus wrote the book Lipstick Traces in 1989, and the work has since been adapted into a play that's making its Midwest debut at the AV-aerie. The play dissects punk movements throughout the ages and their influence on twentieth century countercultures. Produced by Pavement Group (a local theater collective), the play is a unique look at our culture. Shows run Friday-Sundays until June 1 and starting time is at 7:30.
Singer Mirah teams up with Seattle-based band Spectratone International to present an evening-length show/spectacle/song cycle with original stop motion animation inspired by the fantastical insect drawings of French entomologist Jean-Henri Fabre, with a little bit of Kafka's Metamorphosis thrown in for good measure. Part of the 2008 Children's Humanities Festival. 7:30 PM, Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble at Augusta Blv, $5. More info: www.chfestival.org.
Marquez Dance Project and Nicole Gifford Dance jointly present the dance concert Changing Flight. The two choreographers "narrate various occasions of change" through dance.
May 8 & 9, 7:30 p.m. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse, 3035 N. Hoyne. Get tickets at the door for $15. Call 312-952-3615 for more information.
Marquez Dance Project and Nicole Gifford Dance jointly present the dance concert Changing Flight. The two choreographers "narrate various occasions of change" through dance.
May 8 & 9, 7:30 p.m. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse, 3035 N. Hoyne. Get tickets at the door for $15. Call 312-952-3615 for more information.
Inaside Chicago Dance has created an evening of dancing inspired by the drip period of Jackson Pollock's artwork. In the Painting will be a "multimedia dance experience," beginning with a short film about Pollock's life and art, and continuing with choreographed works that include a multimedia element.
May 2 @ 8:00, May 3 @ 2:00 & 8:00. Ruth Page Center for the Performing Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $20 general ($15 student/dancer/senior). Purchase tickets at the Ruth Page box office (312.337.6543).
Round two of the nation's first dusk until dawn artistic celebration gets started at 5pm on Friday, May 2nd night and keeps going through Saturday morning at a host of venues throughout the Loop.
For more information check out the Looptopia website.
Inaside Chicago Dance has created an evening of dancing inspired by the drip period of Jackson Pollock's artwork. In the Painting will be a "multimedia dance experience," beginning with a short film about Pollock's life and art, and continuing with choreographed works that include a multimedia element.
May 2 @ 8:00, May 3 @ 2:00 & 8:00. Ruth Page Center for the Performing Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $20 general ($15 student/dancer/senior). Purchase tickets at the Ruth Page box office (312.337.6543).
4:00pm guided house tour with a CAF docent
5:00pm reception
5:30pm chamber music concert by CCM artists
The Claude Seymour House
The Home of John and Karen Baca
817 W. Hutchinson Street
Chicago, IL
Tickets: $75 per person
Space is limited. Please reserve your tickets
in advance by calling CCM at 312.819.5800
Street parking available.
CCM PROGRAM
Haydn String Quartet No. 67
in F Major, Op. 77 No. 2
Debussy String Quartet
CCM ENSEMBLE ARTISTS
Joseph Genualdi, violin
Jasmine Lin, violin
Rami Solomonow, viola
Katinka Kleijn, cello
ABOUT SOUNDS AND SPACES
A partnership of Chicago Chamber Musicians (CCM) and Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF), Sounds and Spaces presents performances of great works of the chamber repertoire in architecturally significant spaces. Each concert event features a CAF docent-guided tour, a CCM concert and a reception and discussion with the docents and artists.
ABOUT THE CLAUDE SEYMOUR HOUSE
Built in 1913, the Claude Seymour House is architect George Washington Maher's (1864-1926) final house on Hutchinson Street on Chicago's North Side–where one of the largest concentrations of Maher-designed homes exists. Maher is considered to be one of the most important Prairie School-style architects who practiced during the late-19th and early-20th centuries, and is known for blending traditional American house styles with more progressive European Arts & Crafts-style designs.
ABOUT CAF
Founded in 1966, The Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing public interest and education in architecture and design. CAF presents a year-round program of tours,exhibitions, lectures, and adult and youth education activities, all designed to enhance the public's awareness and appreciation of Chicago's outstanding architectural legacy.
ABOUT CCM
The Chicago Chamber Musicians (CCM) is renowned for its trademark intimate music and exceptional artistry. The GRAMMY-nominated ensemble boasts 15 internationally acclaimed artists. Every year, CCM reaches more then half a million music lovers with innovative programs that enhance Chicago's reputation around the world as a premier musical capital.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
You want timely? Check out The Suicide Kings' In Spite of Everything, a performance which utilizes hip hop, poetry, and personal experiences to explore the complicated befores-and-afters of a high school shooting. Performance ensemble Kuumba Lynx will follow, and Yuri Lane will close the night with excerpts from his performance, From Tel Aviv to Ramallah: A Beatbox Journey, an original approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. 7:30pm @ MCA. Buy tickets online or call the box office at 312.397.4010.
Reggie Watts, aka Reginald Lucien Frank Roger Watts, aka the only American with a 10 octave vocal range, will be performing his comedic onslaught Disinformation tonight, as a part of the MCA's four-day exhibition, Hip Hop Live + Reel. Watts will be joined by 2007 Louder Than a Bomb finalist Deja Taylor and Teatro Luna, Chicago's All-Latina Theater Company. And HEY! There's a FREE AFTER PARTY at the Funky Buddha Lounge. Just mention MCA. $16members/$20 non-members for all shows; student prices are available. Performances start at 7:30pm. Call 312.397.4010 for more information.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
2nd Story kicks off its stories-and-wine festival tonight and this weekend. Hear good stories. Drink good wine. Make sure you buy ahead online, as the evening often sells out in advance. Tickets (buy online here) are $15 and include a wine flight.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
Schadenfreude kicks off its Rent Party season at the Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley, tonight at 9pm. In addition to the Schadenfreude crew, Team Submarine, Impress These Apes, Jimmy Carrane, Mike and Duane, and 80's Clown perform. Free food and really cheap beer. $10 at the door, 21 and over.
Karole Armitage's newest creative force performs Ligeti Essays, a suite of concise jewel-like movements choreographed to music by the great Hungarian composer Gyorgy Ligeti, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century, renowned for musical ideas that offered penetrating insight into human consciousness. Each song consists of a short choreographic incident of different character, ranging from the humorous to the enchanted. Also on the program is Time is the echo of an axe within a wood, set to the music of Bela Bartok. The piece "samples" a range of choreographic styles, from yoga and bharata natyam to vogueing. When it debuted in 2004, Jennifer Dunning described it in the New York Times as "one of the most beautiful dances to be seen in New York in a very long time." Both pieces are designed by internationally acclaimed visual artist David Salle. $24-$28. 8 p.m. 1306 S. Michigan Ave. For tickets or info, call 312-344-6600 or visit the Website.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
Karole Armitage's newest creative force performs Ligeti Essays, a suite of concise jewel-like movements choreographed to music by the great Hungarian composer Gyorgy Ligeti, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century, renowned for musical ideas that offered penetrating insight into human consciousness. Each song consists of a short choreographic incident of different character, ranging from the humorous to the enchanted. Also on the program is Time is the echo of an axe within a wood, set to the music of Bela Bartok. The piece "samples" a range of choreographic styles, from yoga and bharata natyam to vogueing. When it debuted in 2004, Jennifer Dunning described it in the New York Times as "one of the most beautiful dances to be seen in New York in a very long time." Both pieces are designed by internationally acclaimed visual artist David Salle. Through April 19. $24-$28. 8 p.m. 1306 S. Michigan Ave. For tickets or info, call 312-344-6600 or visit the Website.
Innervation Dance Cooperative presents Everyman, a contemporary dance interpretation of the 15th-century morality play, sans religion, and all set to music by Led Zeppelin. Everyman begs her friends, family, Wealth, Beauty, Strength, and others to accompany her on her journey to Death.
April 17, 19, 24, 25 @ 7:30, and April 20, 27 @ 2:30. Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. $15 ($10 students/seniors). Purchase tickets at the door or contact Innervation at info@innervationdance.org or 773-230-2168.
Karole Armitage's newest creative force performs Ligeti Essays, a suite of concise jewel-like movements choreographed to music by the great Hungarian composer Gyorgy Ligeti, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century, renowned for musical ideas that offered penetrating insight into human consciousness. Each song consists of a short choreographic incident of different character, ranging from the humorous to the enchanted. Also on the program is Time is the echo of an axe within a wood, set to the music of Bela Bartok. The piece "samples" a range of choreographic styles, from yoga and bharata natyam to vogueing. When it debuted in 2004, Jennifer Dunning described it in the New York Times as "one of the most beautiful dances to be seen in New York in a very long time." Both pieces are designed by internationally acclaimed visual artist David Salle. Discussion with the artists takes place following today's performance, free to ticket holders. Through April 19. $24-$28. 8 p.m. 1306 S. Michigan Ave. For tickets or info, call 312-344-6600 or visit the Website.
Artist Laurie Anderson makes a rare Chicago appearance at the Harris Theater to show her new work Homeland, which the theater's Website describes as "[a]n exploration of American obsessions with security, the relationship of fear and freedom, an increasing acceptance of violence, and the persistent new language of war". Homeland begins tonight at 7:30 PM. Tickets are between $30 and $65 and can be purchased through the Harris Theater Website. Harris Theater: 205 E Randolph, at the north end of Millennium Park. (312) 334-7777.
Appetite Theatre presents a public reading of Mia McCullough's new script Household Spirits.
Sat April 12th
The Book Cellar, 4736 N.Lincoln (in Lincoln Square), Chicago, IL
6:00 pm
FREE!
Appetite Theatre presents a new reading
series at a favorite independent book store, The
Book Cellar. (The company's favorite for its ecclectic selection and
its offerings of tasty snacks and wine!)
Household Spirits by Mia McCullough
A newly blended family
spends a nearly disastrous holiday together as they
grapple with sexual harassment, the onset of
schizophrenia, and the early easy of recovery from
alcoholism. A very dark comedy about mental illness,
doll molestation and household spirits...be they
alcoholic, ethereal, or detergent.
FREE! Wine and snacks will be available for purchase.
The Seldoms present Monument, a dance piece about individual acts of consumption that lead to the "accidental social sculpture" of the landfill. Each performance will be followed by a discussion led by representatives of groups that address human consumption and waste. For more info, see the GB interview. Th, Fri, Sat, @ 8:00, Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $19 ($13 student/senior). Click here for tickets.
The Seldoms present Monument, a dance piece about individual acts of consumption that lead to the "accidental social sculpture" of the landfill. Each performance will be followed by a discussion led by representatives of groups that address human consumption and waste. For more info, see the GB interview. Th, Fri, Sat, @ 8:00, Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $19 ($13 student/senior). Click here for tickets.
Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane, one of America's major dance companies, presents Chapel/Chapter. This retelling of three stories--two high-visibility news stories and one confession from a company member--touch on humanity, morality, violence, and the "mediatization" of our world. The multi-media dance performance includes live music, video, and the spoken word.
Th., Fri., and Sat. @ 7:30 at the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave. $35-$40 ($28-$32 for MCA members). For tickets and more information, including a video preview, visit the MCA's website.
The Seldoms present Monument, a dance piece about individual acts of consumption that lead to the "accidental social sculpture" of the landfill. Each performance will be followed by a discussion led by representatives of groups that address human consumption and waste. For more info, see the GB interview. Th, Fri, Sat, @ 8:00, Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. $19 ($13 student/senior). Click here for tickets.
Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane, one of America's major dance companies, presents Chapel/Chapter. This retelling of three stories--two high-visibility news stories and one confession from a company member--touch on humanity, morality, violence, and the "mediatization" of our world. The multi-media dance performance includes live music, video, and the spoken word.
Th., Fri., and Sat. @ 7:30 at the MCA, 220 E. Chicago Ave. $35-$40 ($28-$32 for MCA members). For tickets and more information, including a video preview, visit the MCA's website.
The Third Coast International Audio Festival presents "Wait for the Beep," an evening of radio stories inspired by the telephone and "the messages people leave behind". The event is hosted by Johanna Zorn and Julie Shapiro, and will feature scenes from Steppenwolf Theatre Company’s production of Dead Man’s Cell Phone by Sarah Ruhl, as well as an audio installation in the lobby.
7pm at the Steppenwolf: 1624 N. Halsted St.; Tickets: $5/$7
Reserve your ticket via e-mail: info@thirdcoastfestival.org or call 312.948.4682
Chicago Underground Comedy features a 45-minute set by its own Jared Logan tonight at Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont. Adam Burke and Chad Briggs open, and Carrie Callahan MCs. Doors open at 8:45pm, show starts at 9:30pm. The show is free, but 21 and over.
This continually-evolving reading series is founded on the grimace-and-grin theory that, though we've been through some foolish times in the past, we're ok with that. At least, ok enough to share it with an audience of strangers laughing at our expense. Molly Each, Megan Stielstra, Zach Dodson and Jaime Calder will perform their hand-penned tales of humility. Musician Angie Ma, whose previous performances have
included Kermit the Frog covers and crowd sing-a-longs to "Jesse's Girl", will open. OOPS! will be making its comeback at Heaven Gallery (1550 N. Milwaukee, second floor). Show starts at 7pm. BYOB. $5 or pay what you can.
A two-act, multi-discipline, live on-stage performance that spotlights energetic dialogue between visual art and modern dance. Benno Hubner dances in front of a large screen on which the paintings of Tali Farchi are projected, even as they are being created live. The connection between the two disciplines develops a conversation that is playful, passionate and at times intimate, with music that ranges from classical to hip hop. After a brief intermission, a rotating line up of jazz musicians are invited for a session of total improvisation where just about anything can happen and very often does. Daniel Godston, Steve Cohn, Yuganaut, and painter Royce Deans join. $15. 8 p.m. 1806 West Cuyler, 2nd Floor. For more info, visit the Website. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online.
A two-act, multi-discipline, live on-stage performance that spotlights energetic dialogue between visual art and modern dance. Benno Hubner dances in front of a large screen on which the paintings of Tali Farchi are projected, even as they are being created live. The connection between the two disciplines develops a conversation that is playful, passionate and at times intimate, with music that ranges from classical to hip hop. After a brief intermission, a rotating line up of jazz musicians are invited for a session of total improvisation where just about anything can happen and very often does. Daniel Godston, Steve Cohn, Yuganaut, and painter Royce Deans join. $15. Through April 2. 8 p.m. 1806 West Cuyler, 2nd Floor. For more info, visit the Website. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online.
A two-act, multi-discipline, live on-stage performance that spotlights energetic dialogue between visual art and modern dance. Benno Hubner dances in front of a large screen on which the paintings of Tali Farchi are projected, even as they are being created live. The connection between the two disciplines develops a conversation that is playful, passionate and at times intimate, with music that ranges from classical to hip hop. After a brief intermission, a rotating line up of jazz musicians are invited for a session of total improvisation where just about anything can happen and very often does. Daniel Godston, Steve Cohn, Yuganaut, and painter Royce Deans join. $15. 8 p.m. 3435 N. Sheffield. Visit the Website.
Chicago Sinfonietta celebrates the contributions women have made in classical music in honor of International Women's Month, dedicated to the economic, social, cultural and political achievements of women. Maestro Paul Freeman graciously hands over the baton as Cuban-born Tania Leon takes the podium as guest conductor. Leon leads the Sinfonietta in Ellen Zwilich's rich and dramatic Prologue & Variations, followed by the eclectic Irlande, poeme symphonique scored by Augusta Holmes. Also performed is Leon's Horizons. Concludes with a rousing performance of Chen Yi's abstract and spirited Ge Xu (Antiphony). $26-$40. 2:30 p.m. Dominican University, 7900 W. Division in River Forest. Call 312-236-3681 x2 or visit the Website.
After a showing of their Puglilist Specialist show about four US soldiers on their mission in the Middle East, Red Tape Theatre is holding a panel discussion about Jean Baudrillard's book The Gulf War Did Not Take Place. In the book, Baudrillard argues that the Gulf War did not happen, but was a media event or a "virtual" war. The show starts at 3pm and the discussion will follow at the Studio Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph. Tickets are $10 general admission and $8 for students and seniors. Call 312-742-8497 or visit www.dcatheater.org for tickets and information.
An urban dance showcase featuring hip hop, breaking, footwork, and urban tap companies from Chicago and surrounding states. $9-$16, 7:30 p.m. at the Athenaeum Theatre. Tickets available by calling the Athenaeum (312.902.1500) or through Ticketmaster.
Luna Negra Dance Theater, a Chicago dance company that blends ballet, contemporary dance, and Latin and Afro-Caribbean forms, will be presenting Nuevo Folk (new visions of cultural legacies through contemporary dance). This is a one-night-only performance of "contemporary works inspired by folk traditions of Latin America, exploring the richness and complexity of Latino cultures today." 8:00 p.m. at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph, in Millennium Park. Tickets $25-55. Box Office: 312-334-7777.
Nine companies and artists interpret this year's festival theme, Milestones. Kate McIlvain, Shabam! Productions, The Core Project, Shahina, Christy Munch, Soul Theatre, Perceputal Motion, Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble, and Wannapa Pimtong-Eubanks will perform. This is "where dance, theatre, art, and film collide," and the subject matter ranges from a Baptist church, to a night in a bar, to political correctness, to West Side Story Redux. See the entry in our A/C section for more details. $15 ($10 students), March 13 and 14 at 7:30 at the Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. 773-486-8261
In the words of Director Mark Hackman: "For God's sake, it's not a dance concert! It's a rock concert for dance!" And they mean rock concert, right down to the live music, the hand stamp, the coat check, and the standing-room-only. Chicago Dance Crash's ballet-capoeira-acrobatics-breakin’ -hip-hop style is always uniquely entertaining, but when CDC makes the Viaduct their "own personal rock club," it's sure to be a one-of-a-kind experience. March 7, 8, 14, 15. $16 "cover" at the door. 3111 N. Western Ave. Doors open at 8:00 p.m., with the after-party ending at midnight. No advance reservations and only cash is accepted at the door.
Nine companies and artists interpret this year's festival theme, Milestones. Kate McIlvain, Shabam! Productions, The Core Project, Shahina, Christy Munch, Soul Theatre, Perceputal Motion, Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble, and Wannapa Pimtong-Eubanks will perform. This is "where dance, theatre, art, and film collide," and the subject matter ranges from a Baptist church, to a night in a bar, to political correctness, to West Side Story Redux. See the entry in our A/C section for more details. $15 ($10 students), March 13 and 14 at 7:30 at the Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne. 773-486-8261
AMEBA is Chicago's acrobatic and aerial dance company that uses suspended fabrics, ropes, bungee cords, swings, and rope ladders to choreograph images in the air. On March 6-8 and 13-16, they will present On the Edge, a collection of new works expressing "a variety of instances where our human nature brings us to the edge." $15-20. The Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. Tickets available through AMEBA's website. NOTE: They are also offering an in-theater aerial dance workshop. ($50, March 15 only, see their website for more details.)
DePaul welcomes performance artist and author E. Patrick Johnson for "Pouring Tea: Black Gay Men of the South Tell their Tales," a one man shows using ethnographic performance to tell the stories of the black gay men of the south. The show explores issues of sexuality, identity, family, religion, violence, class, racism and homophobia and is drawn from Johnson's forthcoming book Sweet Tea: An Oral History of Black Gay Men of the South. Johnson is also Professor and Chair of Northwestern's Department of Performance Studies. Free from 6pm-8pm in the Student Center, Room 120B, 2250 N. Sheffield. Call 773-325-7346 for more information.
This ultimate evening of Irish music consists of fiery dance tunes and rousing ballads, complemented by a full orchestra and chorus with three of Ireland’s sensational soloists. Based on the famous tune by The Irish Rovers, "If You’re Irish…" presents some of the most amazing talent in the world, directly from the Emerald Isle. Irish music superstars, including tenor Derek Moloney, soprano Deirdre Shannon and fiddler Cora Smyth, perform. $38, $48, $58 and $68. 8 p.m. 75 N. State. Tickets on sale through The Chicago Theatre box office at 312-902-1500 and online. Group tickets available by contacting tickets@smart-arts.net.
In the words of Director Mark Hackman: "For God's sake, it's not a dance concert! It's a rock concert for dance!" And they mean rock concert, right down to the live music, the hand stamp, the coat check, and the standing-room-only. Chicago Dance Crash's ballet-capoeira-acrobatics-breakin’ -hip-hop style is always uniquely entertaining, but when CDC makes the Viaduct their "own personal rock club," it's sure to be a one-of-a-kind experience. March 7, 8, 14, 15. $16 "cover" at the door. 3111 N. Western Ave. Doors open at 8:00 p.m., with the after-party ending at midnight. No advance reservations and only cash is accepted at the door.
AMEBA is Chicago's acrobatic and aerial dance company that uses suspended fabrics, ropes, bungee cords, swings, and rope ladders to choreograph images in the air. On March 6-8 and 13-16, they will present On the Edge, a collection of new works expressing "a variety of instances where our human nature brings us to the edge." $15-20. The Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn. Tickets available through AMEBA's website. NOTE: They are also offering an in-theater aerial dance workshop. ($50, March 15 only, see their website for more details.)
The Theatre School at DePaul University sponsors The Antigone Cabaret, an evening of performances and readings, as part of the Philosophy Department's Year of Antigone's Project. Pieces will reflect and meditate on Antigone's resonance today and one's relationship between the individual and the state. March 5 from 7:30-9:30 pm at Cortelyou Commons, 2324 N. Fremont Street, between Corcoran and McCabe Halls. This is a free event.
Fagan is best-known for his Tony-Award winning choreography for The Lion King, and the company's performances at the Harris Theater mark their first return to Chicago in nearly a decade. 11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. $10-$75. 205 E. Randolph Dr. For more info, visit the Website.
The fifth installment from the GroundUp Theatre Company presents a look at the breakup of romantic relationships through the use of spoken word, music and theatrical performance. Material is taken from actual breakup letters submitted to the group. Free. 8pm. 2319 W. Belmont Ave. 773-935-2118.
Fizz Bar & Grill showcases up-and-coming local comedians every Wednesday through April 9. Besides the funny stuff, it's also Tiki night, so order a tropical drink and pray for spring. 9:45pm. $8. 3220 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-348-6000.
Pegasus Players & Live Bait Theater bring the GB Book Club's August 2005 selection, Eric Klinenberg's Heat Wave, to the stage. Using Klinenberg's sociological study of the 1995 heat wave that claimed the lives of hundreds of Chicagoans, playwright Steve Simoncic recreates the havoc wrought between medical examiners, health officials, reporters, politicians and citizens. Tickets for tonight's 8pm opening performance can be purchased by calling 773-878-9761. The show will take place at Pegasus Players, 1145 W. Wilson Ave. in the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.
Read all about this Chicago jazz legend's latest album with his 12-piece group Project Project at Transmission, then head out for their Delmark CD-release gig on Sunday, February 24th at the Hungry Brain, 2319 W. Belmont. Two sets start at 10pm.
Pegasus Players & Live Bait Theater bring the GB Book Club's August 2005 selection, Eric Klinenberg's Heat Wave, to the stage. Using Klinenberg's sociological study of the 1995 heat wave that claimed the lives of hundreds of Chicagoans, playwright Steve Simoncic recreates the havoc wrought between medical examiners, health officials, reporters, politicians and citizens. Tickets for today's 3pm preview performance are $15 and can be purchased by calling 773-878-9761. The show will take place at Pegasus Players, 1145 W. Wilson Ave. in the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.
Pegasus Players & Live Bait Theater bring the GB Book Club's August 2005 selection, Eric Klinenberg's Heat Wave, to the stage. Using Klinenberg's sociological study of the 1995 heat wave that claimed the lives of hundreds of Chicagoans, playwright Steve Simoncic recreates the havoc wrought between medical examiners, health officials, reporters, politicians and citizens. Tickets for tonight's 8pm preview performance are $15 and can be purchased by calling 773-878-9761. The show will take place at Pegasus Players, 1145 W. Wilson Ave. in the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.
Pegasus Players & Live Bait Theater bring the GB Book Club's August 2005 selection, Eric Klinenberg's Heat Wave, to the stage. Using Klinenberg's sociological study of the 1995 heat wave that claimed the lives of hundreds of Chicagoans, playwright Steve Simoncic recreates the havoc wrought between medical examiners, health officials, reporters, politicians and citizens. Tickets for tonight's 8pm preview performance are $15 and can be purchased by calling 773-878-9761. The show will take place at Pegasus Players, 1145 W. Wilson Ave. in the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.
Pegasus Players & Live Bait Theater bring the GB Book Club's August 2005 selection, Eric Klinenberg's Heat Wave, to the stage. Using Klinenberg's sociological study of the 1995 heat wave that claimed the lives of hundreds of Chicagoans, playwright Steve Simoncic recreates the havoc wrought between medical examiners, health officials, reporters, politicians and citizens. Tickets for tonight's 8pm preview performance are $15 and can be purchased by calling 773-878-9761. The show will take place at Pegasus Players, 1145 W. Wilson Ave. in the O'Rourke Center at Truman College.
The Poetry Center of Chicago"s second annual Anti-Valentine"s Day Show, No Love for Love, stars sexpert Dan Savage with a cast of local writers, poets and musicians, discussing love or their lack of it. The show starts at 8 pm at The Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave. Regular tickets are $20; VIP seating is $50. Tickets are available by calling The Apollo box office at 773-935-6100 or at TicketMaster. All proceeds benefit The Poetry Center of Chicago.
The official Chicago Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade celebrating the arrival of the Year of the Rat starts at 1pm Sunday and will include marching bands, floats, lion teams, a100' Mystical Dragon, and Miss Friendship Ambassador. The parade runs on Wentworth from 24th St. to Cermak Rd. Take the Red Line to Cermak-Chinatown and you're there!
Starting at 11:30am Saturday on Argyle Street and Broadway Ave., check out a spirited parade and festivities welcoming in the Year of the Rat this Lunar New Year. Look for specials at area businesses which include a plethora of Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese restaurants and shops. Public transportation is easy, just take the Red Line to Argyle Street in Uptown, and you're there! Free!
Chicago Public Radio examines the art of good personal storytelling in "Secrets, Whispers & Lies" at the Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont. Find out what separates a compelling story from a yawner and how a seemingly mundane tale can captivate its audience. The event is hosted by Gwen Macsai of Re:sound, along with Canada's very own Neil Sandell, senior producer of CBC's Outfront. Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm. Call 312-948-4600 for more info.
On the first Friday of every month, dancer Julia Mayer opens her weekly Friday morning solo movement practice to the public. The Coffee Dance series of engaged, informal performances continues this morning at 9:30. Her performance will last approximately 20 minutes, with discussion time afterward. Free, but bring your own coffee to Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield.
The team from Leaving Iowa presents a new comedy that celebrates a small town with big dreams. The media invades Mattoon Illinois as a reverend, a bagel inspector, and a stranger in a hat compete to win a Chevy van while the community prepares to break the Guinness record for World’s Largest Bagel.The Theatre Building - North Theatre.1225 W Belmont Ave. Call 773-327-5252 for tickets. Jan 25 - Feb 3. Fri performance at 7:30pm. $20.
Dancing With the Stars, that Emmy-nominated gem of prime time television, will be strutting its stuff at the Allstate Arena. Doors at 6:30pm; dancers take the floor at 7:30pm. Mindblowing celebrity dancers will include Wayne Newton, Cheryl Burke, Joey Fatone, Mark Ballas, and Joey Lawrence, among others. Woah. Purchase tickets here.
Tonight marks the opening of the month-long Method to Madness Festival, a combination of puppetry, performance, film and sound. This weekend's selection includes a puppetry performance about the first animal launched into space, improvised music on circuit bending devices, and a short documentary film about how puppeteers came to their chosen art form. 8pm. $12 adults, $10 students and seniors. See the Links Hall website for additional details and performance dates throughout January. 3435 N. Sheffield. 773-281-0824.
The Annoyance Theatre & Bar presents Cheap Beer Improv, two short improv sets featuring Annoyance students. 8pm. Tickets are $2 and must be purchased in person at the theatre box office. 4830 N. Broadway. 773-561-4665.
What's that? You haven't heard dozens of tubaists perform Christmas Songs? Perhaps you'd even like to join in? Then TubaChristmas is for you. Registration for performers starts at 11am but the performance is at 2:30pm at the Palmer House Hilton, 17 East Monroe Street, Upper Exhibition Hall between the 3rd & 4th floors. For more information visit the TubaChristmas website.
The comic gives Chicago a taste of his laughter-producing. Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway. 8 p.m. Tickets are $20 and $25 and are available by calling (773) 472-3492 or by visiting the Website.
Artists and companies from Chicago's dance, performance art, and theatre communities join forces for The 800 lb. Gorilla in the Room: (What we're not talking about), answering the question, "What aren't we talking about? As a nation, as a people, as individuals?" Performers include Mordine & Co. Dance Theater, LiveWire Chicago Theatre, Breakbone Dance Co., 3 card molly, HIJACK, and Cristal Sabbagh. Tickets are $20, $15 for students and seniors. Show starts at 8 pm at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn.
Artists and companies from Chicago's dance, performance art, and theatre communities join forces for The 800 lb. Gorilla in the Room: (What we're not talking about), answering the question, "What aren't we talking about? As a nation, as a people, as individuals?" Performers include Mordine & Co. Dance Theater, LiveWire Chicago Theatre, Breakbone Dance Co., 3 card molly, HIJACK, and Cristal Sabbagh. Tickets are $20, $15 for students and seniors. Show starts at 8 pm at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn.
Artists and companies from Chicago's dance, performance art, and theatre communities join forces for The 800 lb. Gorilla in the Room: (What we're not talking about), answering the question, "What aren't we talking about? As a nation, as a people, as individuals?" Performers include Mordine & Co. Dance Theater, LiveWire Chicago Theatre, Breakbone Dance Co., 3 card molly, HIJACK, and Cristal Sabbagh. Tickets are $20, $15 for students and seniors. Show starts at 8 pm at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn.
Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's the troupe's second annual DB Holiday Pageant. The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.
If you see a lot of guys in red suits, it's only SantaCon 2007, the annual day of debauchery by Santa-suited lotharios bent on putting the "X" back in "Christmas". SantaCon starts at 2:00 PM when a bunch of Santas will meet up at the Congress Hotel bar (520 South Michigan Avenue), and then move on to wherever the Christmas spirit takes them. More information available at the SantaCon site.
Expand your conception of radio drama by checking out this performance by the AFTRA/SAG Senior Radio Players, a group dedicated to "keeping alive the uniqueness of radio as the theater of the imagination." This evening's performance includes a ghost story and a Christmas story. Free, at the Claudia Cassidy Theater. 78 E Washington, 7 PM. For more information, call 312-573-8081 or visit the website.
"SNL" castmember and iO alum Horatio Sanz brings a gaggle of friends to the Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway, for an evening of long-form comedic improv tonight at 8pm. Tickets are just $15.
Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show, "DB Soup," features the best performances of 2007. The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.
As part of a series on comedy in Chicago, a 60-minute discussion is followed by a 30-minute show put on by performers from The Second City. 6:30 PM, $12. 1601 N Clark. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 312-642-4600 or visit the website.
Site-specific performance pieces and installations, created especially for the Cultural Center and curated by performance artist Julie Laffin, comprise this one-night festival that takes place throughout the rooms, halls, and stairwells of this beautiful beaux arts building. Wander around from 6 PM to 9 PM. Free. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
The folks behind the Umbrella Music Festival brought together a solid clustering of cutting-edge artists this year, but their biggest score was that of getting Czech violinist, vocalist, and composer Iva Bittová. She'll be preforming for free in the Preston Bradley Hall of the Chicago Cultural Center tonight. See out Transmission page for details. And for info on other artists performing at the Center this evening, check the UMF website for the full schedule. 78 E. Washington St., 7:15pm.
Ephemera Festival is a one-day event that recognizes and celebrates D.I.Y. culture in its many forms, including zines, comics, handmade crafts, live demonstrations, readings by independent writers and more. The Festival takes place today from 11 am - 5 pm at the DePaul University Student Center, 2250 N. Sheffield Ave. For more info, contact ephemerafestival@gmail.com.
Celebrate the one-year anniversary for Two Slaps Radio -- WLUW's Monday late-night show featuring "funk/soul and its roots or derivatives" -- at this party featuring glamour-pusses, sleazers, mods and other characters. Go-go girl dancers The Revelettes, soul scenesters The Uptown Sound and jazz/hip-hop hybrids Harlet Star provide the entertainment. The fun begins at 7 pm and costs $7. Seven is the luckiest number, after all. 2210 W. Chicago Ave.
An international movement is afoot, and it involves lots of regular Joes and Joannas singing away their nags and gripes. It's the Complaints Choir, a project initiated by Finnish couple Tellervo Kalleinen and Oliver Kochta-Kallleinen in 2005. In the past few weeks, dozens of Chicagoans have been getting together to practice singing their complaints, and today you can hear the results during two performances at the Museum of Contemporary Art, starting at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. 220 E. Chicago Ave. Later in the evening, the Choir heads north to the Empty Bottle for an 8 p.m. show. 1035 N. Western Ave. Tomorrow, the Choir will perform on various locations in Chicago without prior notice.
The multimedia performer offers a program of original works featuring voice, electronic processing, video, and found text in this event, which begins at 8 PM. Tickets ($12) go on sale 1 October. 1601 N Clark. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the website.
Comedy group Buffoons will perform at the Lakeshore Theater tonight as part of their Upright Citizens Brigade-hosted weekly series. Performances are at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.
The "Scariest Night of Our Lives," a Halloween-themed scary story reading, will be held tonight at the Lakeshore Theater tonight as part of their Upright Citizens Brigade-hosted weekly series. Performances are at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. BOO!!!!!!!!!
Ladyfest returns to Chicago with a four-day festival of art, music, film, spoken word, and activism. Tonight's opening night extravaganza features an art show, film and video shorts, and performances by Clare Chase, the Winks, Anni Rossi, and Diane Cluck, all at Heaven Gallery, 1550 N. Milwaukee. Festival passes are available for $30 or you can pay $7 at the door for this event.
Improv group Reuben Williams plays at the Lakeshore Theater tonight as part of the Upright Citizens Brigade-hosted weekly series. Performances are at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.
Part of One Book, One Chicago, tonight's Third Coast Festival program combines a staged reading from Arthur Miller's The Crucible with brief audio documentaries about American-ness. 1624 N Halsted, 7 PM. $5; reservations are encouraged: call 312-948-4682 or email info [at] thirdcoastfestival [dot] org. For more information, visit the website.
Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show, "Elephantitis," considers the GOP and its presidential candidates. The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.
"Magical Sack of Dump," the brainchild of Matt Besser, one of the founding (and perhaps most handsome) members of the Upright Citizens Brigade, plays at the Lakeshore Theater tonight as part of the UCB-hosted weekly series. Performances are at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.
This year's Bruschetta: Comedy and controversy in bite-sized pieces, features 6 new short plays chosen from over 460 submissions. The 2007 production challenges ideas on religion, public education, political campaigns, intimacy, and celebrity through dark comedy and a little snack.
Act One Studios 640 N LaSalle St. Suite 535.
Friday and Saturday at 8pm.
Reservations: 312-787-9384. $15.
FREE bruschetta from Fox and Obel and FREE wine from H2Vino at intermission.
This year's Bruschetta: Comedy and controversy in bite-sized pieces, features 6 new short plays chosen from over 460 submissions. The 2007 production challenges ideas on religion, public education, political campaigns, intimacy, and celebrity through dark comedy and a little snack.
Act One Studios 640 N LaSalle St. Suite 535.
Friday and Saturday at 8pm.
Reservations: 312-787-9384. $15.
FREE bruschetta from Fox and Obel and FREE wine from H2Vino at intermission.
The Touring Company of the Upright Citizens Brigade plays at the Lakeshore Theater tonight as part of the UCB-hosted weekly series. Performances are at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.
Dignity Waits, the solo show by Jamie Buell, winner of the first season of the acclaimed Impress These Apes contest earlier this year, will show its final performance tonight at 8:00 p.m. at the the Playground Theater, 3208 N. Halsted Street.
From 6:30pm to 9:30pm Preservation Chicago hosts their autumn benefit at the former scene studio and warehouse of the Lyric Opera of Chicago, the Opera Lofts, 2545 S. Dearborn Street. Advance tickets are $50 ($65 at the door) and provide you with complimentary drinks, hors d' oeuvres, a guided tour, live opera, entrance to the silent auction and a view from the roof. Additional details and tickets are available via their website. Call 773.489.0300 for other options and information.
"You F-ed Up Family," a performance by the improv group Death by Roo Roo, plays at the Lakeshore Theater tonight as part of the Upright Citizens Brigade-hosted weekly series. Performances are at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.
Dignity Waits, the solo show by Jamie Buell, winner of the first season of the acclaimed Impress These Apes contest earlier this year, will be performed tonight at 8:00 p.m. at the the Playground Theater, 3208 N. Halsted Street, and will be running each Monday through October 1.
Comedian and solo performer Ian Belknap will write and perform a new comedy show each night of this Rhinoceros Theater Festival event. And he'll have a fresh crop of guest stars each night to help him make the funny using sketch, improv, monologue, and stand-up -- whatever it takes to make you laugh, man. Tonight at 9:00: Jim Carrane (Studio 312), Jonathan Messinger (The Dollar Store), Jay Torrence (Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind), and Sirens, the city's all-lady sketch troupe. At the Athaneum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport, $15 or pay-what-you-can. Call 312-902-1500 for tickets.
Comedian and solo performer Ian Belknap will write and perform a new comedy show each night of this Rhinoceros Theater Festival event. And he'll have a fresh crop of guest stars each night to help him make the funny using sketch, improv, monologue, and stand-up -- whatever it takes to make you laugh, man. Tonight at 9:00: long-form improv superstars David Pasquesi and TJ Jagodowski (TJ & Dave). At the Athaneum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport, $15 or pay-what-you-can. Call 312-902-1500 for tickets.
This year's Bruschetta: Comedy and controversy in bite-sized pieces, features 6 new short plays chosen from over 460 submissions. The 2007 production challenges ideas on religion, public education, political campaigns, intimacy, and celebrity through dark comedy and a little snack. Act One Studios 640 N LaSalle St. Suite 535. Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm through Oct 6. Reservations: 312-787-9384. $15.
Jonathan Messinger and Julie Shapiro host this Third Coast Festival presentation of Dollar Storeys that incorporate "one of three items purchased at a dollar store – a 4-pk of wooden mousetraps, a bicycle bell, and a ceramic mug bearing the sentence: 'Well-behaved women rarely make history.'" If you attend, you could win a door prize (from a dollar store, of course). The show starts at 7 PM, 1624 N Halsted. Admission is $1 at the door, but reservations are requested: email info [at] thirdcoastfestival [dot] org or 312-948-4682.
The Estrojam Music and Culture Festival celebrates its fifth year with six days of music, art, workshops, and film at various locations around the city. The fest kicks off tonight with an Outdanced Panty Party at Funky Buddha Lounge, 728 W. Grand, featuring Theo (Lunachicks), Michael T., and Peppermint Gummybear.Buy tickets online.
New York-based sketch comedy and improv troupe Hot Sauce plays at the Lakeshore Theater tonight as part of the Upright Citizens Brigade-hosted weekly series. Performances are at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.
Dignity Waits, the solo show by Jamie Buell, winner of the first season of the acclaimed Impress These Apes contest earlier this year, will be performed tonight at 8:00 p.m. at the the Playground Theater, 3208 N. Halsted Street, and will be running each Monday through October 1.
Comedian and solo performer Ian Belknap will write and perform a new comedy show each night of this Rhinoceros Theater Festival event. And he'll have a fresh crop of guest stars each night to help him make the funny using sketch, improv, monologue, and stand-up -- whatever it takes to make you laugh, man. Tonight at 9:00: Alyson Lyon, Bryn Magnus (Curious Theatre Branch), Mike Olson, and Kate & Sandy (Schadenfreude). At the Athaneum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport, $15 or pay-what-you-can. Call 312-902-1500 for tickets.
Comedian and solo performer Ian Belknap will write and perform a new comedy show each night of this Rhinoceros Theater Festival event. And he'll have a fresh crop of guest stars each night to help him make the funny using sketch, improv, monologue, and stand-up -- whatever it takes to make you laugh, man. Tonight at 9:00: Alison Leber, Robert Buscemi, and Ben Seeder. At the Athaneum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport, $15 or pay-what-you-can. Call 312-902-1500 for tickets.
Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show, "Donkey Kong," considers the Democratic presidential candidates. The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.
The debut of the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre's weekly residence at the Lakeshore Theater is tonight, with their signature show ASSSSCAT kicking off the series. Shows are at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.
Dignity Waits, the solo show by Jamie Buell, winner of the first season of the acclaimed Impress These Apes contest earlier this year, will be performed tonight at 8:00 p.m. at the the Playground Theater, 3208 N. Halsted Street, and will be running each Monday through October 1.
Comedian and solo performer Ian Belknap will write and perform a new comedy show each night of this Rhinoceros Theater Festival event. And he'll have a fresh crop of guest stars each night to help him make the funny using sketch, improv, monologue, and stand-up -- whatever it takes to make you laugh, man. Tonight at 9:00: Brennan Buhl (Barrel of Monkeys), Greg Mills, Kumail Nanjiani (Unpronounceable), and Tanya Saracho (Teatro Luna). At the Athaneum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport, $15 or pay-what-you-can. Call 312-902-1500 for tickets.
As part of Millennium Park's Blockbuster Weekend, Steppenwolf Traffic has put together this program of poetry and song observing and imagining America. Free in the Pritzker Pavilion, 6:30 PM. For more information, visit the website.
Chicago's African Festival of the Arts runs throughout Labor Day weekend in Washington Park (51st & Cottage Grove). For more details check out the website.
Monday September 3rd Entertainment highlights:
Main Stage
1:45 PM Trinity
3:00 PM Phil Cochran & The Circle of Sound Reunion
5:00 PM Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars
7:00 PM MUNTU Dance Theare
8:00 PM Dwele, Stylistics & Cameo
World Stage
3:00 PM KRC Ensemble
4:30 PM Mina Agossi
6:30 PM James Cotton
Hip-Hop Stage
3:45 PM Lord Shrewd
4:15 PM Team All City featuring Joe Grande
5:00 PM Que Billah
5:30 PM Dat Boy Hot 2 Def
6:00 PM Twone Gabbz featuring DJ B-Side
6:30 PM Mikkey
7:00 PM EPMD
8:00 PM Kurtis Blow
Chicago's African Festival of the Arts runs throughout Labor Day weekend in Washington Park (51st & Cottage Grove). For more details check out the website.
Sunday September 2nd Entertainment highlights:
Main Stage
2:00 PM Sueno Con Cuba Ensemble
3:00 PM Poncho Sanchez
5:00 PM Hugh Masekela
7:00 PM George/Brothers Johnson, Sir Nose, Switch, Slave & Mary Jane Girls
World Stage
3:00 PM Rolad Brown
4:30 PM Brazil by Samba 1
6:30 PM Afro-cuban Review by Yunior Terry's Son de altura's Afro-cuban Review
Hip-Hop Stage
1:00 PM Urbanized Music
1:45 PM Longshott
2:15 PM The Molemen Family
3:00 PM Triple Darkness featuring Drama Ward
3:45 PM Primeridian
4:05 PM Pugzlee Adams
4:25 PM Poetree Chicago
4:45 PM Dr. Groove
5:15 PM Jitu the Jugganot
5:45 PM GLC
6:15 PM JUICE
7:00 PM All Natural, Inc.
Chicago's African Festival of the Arts runs throughout Labor Day weekend in Washington Park (51st & Cottage Grove). For more details check out the website.
Saturday September 1st Entertainment highlights:
Main Stage
2:00 PM Big Chief Bo Dollis & the Wild Magnolias
4:30 PM Leela James
6:00 PM Randy Weston
8:00 PM United We Funk -- Dazz Band, Con Funk Shun & barkays
World Stage
3:30 PM Walt Chris
5:00 PM Dee Alexander
6:30 PM East Harlem's Jimmy Delgado All Stars
Hip-Hop Stage
3:45 PM M'rald & Verbal Balance
4:15 PM Amina
4:45 PM NuSense
5:15 PM Ang 13
5:45 PM Teefa
6:15 PM Monie Love
6:50 PM Yo Yo
7:30 PM MC Lyte
Chicago's African Festival of the Arts runs throughout Labor Day weekend in Washington Park (51st & Cottage Grove). For more details check out the website.
Friday August 31st Entertainment highlights:
Main Stage
5:30 PM SPIRIT
6:30 PM Jimi Heath Big Band
8:30 PM Goapele with Yonnek
World Stage
3:30 PM Ron Carter
5:00 PM Rafo International
7:00 PM 911 / Latin Street Dance
Hip-Hop Stage
6:00 PM Sam the Basket Case
6:30 PM Carl "KING" Lewis
7:00 PM Lisa Lust
7:30 PM Sam I Am
7:45 PM Dutch Devillian
8:15 PM No.Try.Do Sincere
8:35 PM SB
9:00 PM Naughty By Nature
Dignity Waits, the solo show by Jamie Buell, winner of the first season of the acclaimed Impress These Apes contest earlier this year, premieres tonight at 8:00 p.m. at the the Playground Theater, 3208 N. Halsted Street, and will be running each Monday through October 1.
Think Pink Radio and the publishers of CHILL Magazine are bringing a big ol' Queer Fest to the third coast. Musical performers will include Katastrophe, The Ex-Members, Office, Actor Slash Model and many more. There will also be video-art by Sadie Benning, Dylan Mira, Latham Zearfoss and Bruce La Bruce; paintings by Zack Stiglicz, Grant Schexnider and Terrance Koh; "self-homoerotic" photography from Sean Fader; the creative concepts of Will Harrison and Kean O'Brien; and a confessional documentary about HIV by Charles Lum. Event runs from noon to 8pm at Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, with an afterparty TBA. Tickets are $16 in advance, $20 day of. More info here.
Don't miss Kumail Nanjiani's one-man comic biography "Unpronounceable," which follows his life from Karachi, Pakistan to rural Iowa. The July show sold out, so make sure you get your $15 tickets soon. The event starts at 8 pm at the Lakeshore Theatre, 3175 N. Broadway. Call the box office at 773-472-3492.
Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show is "DB4Kids: A Show for the Entire Family." The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.
Throughout the park today (10 AM to 8 PM), musicians, singers, storytellers, dancers, and other performers from throughout Illinois do their stuff. The evening closes with a Pritzker Pavilion concert showcasing "The Best of the State" at 6:30 PM. Free. For more information, visit the website.
Music, food, art and trolley rides (my fave!) will be abundant at the fourth annual Palmer Square Boulevard Art Festival, which will be held today at Palmer Square Park (3100 West Palmer). The festival begins at noon each day, and ends at 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, and 9:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Throughout the park this afternoon and evening (11 AM to 10 PM), musicians, singers, storytellers, dancers, and other performers from throughout Illinois do their stuff. Free. For more information, visit the website.
Throughout the park this afternoon and evening (3:30 PM to 10 PM), musicians, singers, storytellers, dancers, and other performers from throughout Illinois do their stuff. Free. For more information, visit the website.
Some people love it, some people hate it. If you love it, head down to the Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park at 6:30pm to watch and listen to this Chicago-grown NPR news quiz comedy show. It's a switch from the program's usual digs at the Chase Auditorium at 10 S. Dearborn, and it's FREE! Plus, U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald to be the "Not My Job" guest this week. For more information, visit the website.
Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/ happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show is called "Pilgrim's Progress: The Immigration Show." The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.
Radio-a-Go-Go presents Denver's Hot IQs, along with Unicycle Loves You, STAR and DJ Brian J at The Kinetic Playground, 1113 W. Lawrence. The show is $8 and doors open at 9pm.
Chicago's own pysch-goth combo Spires That In The Sunset Rise play at the Hyde Park Art Center this afternoon. As part of the HPAC's "Speaker Project," the band will be playing inside of Juan Angel Chavez's "sounding-sculpture" that is currently installed in the Center's main exhibition space. 5020 S. Cornell Avenue. 3-4pm. Free to the public.
On the occasion of the 800th Anniversary of the great humanist, mystic, poet and theologian Mawlana Jalal ud-din Muhammad Rumi, UNESCO has declared 2007 as the year of Rumi. Well-known vocalist Ahmet Ozhan, one of the leading interpreters of Rumi’s songs and other Sufi music, makes a rare appearance in the United States, performing with his 40-member music and dance ensemble. The Whirling Dervishes of Turkey follow Ozhan’s performance. Presented in cooperation with the Consulate General of Turkey in Chicago and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Turkey. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, 6:30-8:00 PM.
Democracy Burlesque -- "where only the politics are naked" -- is a monthly variety show/revue/cabaret/happening aimed at liberal and progressive artists, fans, and sympathizers. Tonight's show, "Theocracy Burlesque," celebrates the marriage of church and state. The show starts at 8 pm at the No Exit Cafe, 6970 N. Glenwood. Tickets are $10.
In anticipation of the release of their new album From The River To The Ocean, AACM founder and local jazz legend Fred Anderson and percussionist Hamid Drake will perform tonight at the HQ of Stop Smiling magazine in Wicker Park. Joining them on accompaniment will be Harrison Bankhead, Jeff Parker, and Josh Abrams, who also played on the new album. The event will be moderated by music journalist, musician, and artist John Corbett, who'll be interviewing the players between songs. Those interested in attending are requested to RSVP. Stop Smiling HQ, 1371 N. Milwaukee, 7-9pm. RVSP here.
SilkRoad Chicago officially ends with this performance of the fable, "The Stone Horse," which is accompanied by 550 Chicago Public School students, members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Civic Orchestra of Chicago, and (not least) Yo-Yo Ma. 6:30 PM. For more information, visit the website.
Teatro Luna and Jane Addams Hull-House Museum collaborate in OYE- LISTEN! a new performance series of works by women of color. Tonight's performance will feature Lani T. Montreal and Yolanda Nieves and Sandra Santiago-Posadas as Brown Girls Singing. The event takes place at 7pm @ Jane Addams Hull-House Museum, 800 S. Halsted Residents' Dining Hall (south building). This event is FREE and will have FREE food. Reservations are NOT required, but recommended: 312 412 5353
Globe Gong Idol -- yes, it's the hilarious mashup of American Ido and the Gong Show -- returns to the Globe Pub (1934 w. irving park (the old Lion's Den) on Monday Night.
Sign up for a spot at 8PM. The show starts at 8:30PM.
To get a sense of what you're in for, check out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1A2g2rEHbQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X84teR5Uf5I
This Kids 4 Kids production retells the legend of how Annie Moses became Annie Oakley, the legendary sharpshooter and cowgirl. The hour-long performance at the intimate Gorilla Tango Theater features both kids and adults, and a handful of snappy, familiar tunes. Performances Fridays at 6 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 3 p.m.; tickets are $10. Through May 27.
Join Schadenfreude for the final Rent Party of the spring. Schadenfreude is taking off for the summer and have put together one last show. They have put together the ultimate "your mama" slam tournament between the local alternative media. Chicagoist, TimeOut Chicago, the Chicago Reader and of course, Gapers Block. It's a winner-take-all put-down contest. The show also features comic Andy Ross, Mike & Duane and IO's Jet and Holly. At the Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley, 10 bucks, 8:30pm. Free wings and beef.
The Public Square of the Illinois Humanities Council presents this "intra-generational community conversation" featuring dance and slam poetry performances by young women from Global Girls Inc. and Applied Arts Science Technology Academy as well as a panel discussion. Free, but reservations are recommended: email events [at] thepublicsquare [dot] org or call 312-422-5580. 1 PM, 170 N Dearborn. For more information, visit the website.
BoyGirlBoyGirl (Chicago authors/actors Diana Slickman, Edward Thomas-Herrera, Stephanie Shaw, David Kodeski & Susan Karp) appear as part of the Hyde Park Center's For Public Consumption group show. Poet and video artist Richard Fox is the host for the evening. The performance happens tonight from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Hyde Park Arts Center (5020 S. Cornell); the event is free.
Expand your conception of radio drama by checking out this performance by the AFTRA/SAG Senior Radio Players, a group dedicated to "keeping alive the uniqueness of radio as the theater of the imagination." This evening's performance includes a hard-boiled murder mystery and the story of a boy and his (lost) dog. Free, at the Claudia Cassidy Theater. 78 E Washington, 7 PM. For more information, call 312-573-8081 or visit the website.
Smartmouth, a new multi-media, multi-gendered queer performance event focusing on words and text, debuts tonight at HotHouse, 31 E. Balbo. JT Newman of Dyke Mic and the Girlie-Q Variety Hour hosts. The line-up includes: Kathryn Bergquist, Richard Fox, Anne Elizabeth Moore, Marian Runk, Elena Jimenez, Brian Kirst, Don Bapst, Rebecca Grady, Sarah Haas, Sam and PJ, Michelle Renae and Jack Slowriver. Doors open at 7pm, admission is $10. 21+
Schadenfreude, Chicago's critically acclaimed sketch group, is hosting the closing night party for The Chicago Improv Festival. Schadenfreude is presenting a "Cover Set", where a slew of Chicago comedians will cover sketches from SNL, Kids in the Hall, Mr. Show, etc. Special guests include: Bassprov (Joe Bill, Mark Sutton), Susan Messing, Mike and Duane, Pimprov, Pat O'Brien and Jet Evelyth (IO), Gay Co., Gillian Vigman, Jill Benjamin and Jon Barinholtz and Rob Belush. BONUS: The band Tributosaurus will play a set. The show is at Martyrs, 3855 N. Lincoln. 8pm, 10 bucks.
This Saturday afternoon at 3 PM The Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western Ave) will host another edition of the live talk show, The Brian Costello Show with Brian Costello. As always, admission is free and the bloody marys are excellent.
Guests to include Max Glaessner (writer and recovering Satanist), Chris Deguire (Wisconsin aficionado), and The Screaming Yellow Zonkers (Chicago rock and roll outfit). Sidekick, Matt Flaiz and houseband, The Tony Sagger One Man Band join Costello for an afternoon of candid interviews, hearty laughs and foot-tapping music. And bloody marys.
Says Costello, "If you attend just one Brian Costello Show with Brian Costello this year, this is the one to attend!"
Collaboraction launches their 7th Annual Sketchbook Festival tonight with a party at Rednofive, 440 N. Halsted. Admission is free, but donations are accepted and encouraged. Sounds will be provided by Peach Fuzz and Jeff from the Champagne Brothers. 9pm-12am. The festival will run May 31-July 1 at the Steppenwolf Garage Theatre, 1624 N. Halsted, and will feature two programs with eight pieces nightly. Call 312-26-9633.
To escape the horrors of watching American Idol's results show, go to the Apollo Theater for a night of ha-has hosted by the Chicago Comedy Series. Performances from Andy Ross, Ben Seeder, Fried Green Durbins and Fox Force 5 will begin at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $12-$15. Click here for more information.
Chicago Scriptworks presents this staged reading of Susan Klos' screenplay about a divorced screenwriter coping with her daughter's mental illness. In the Studio Theater, 78 E Washington. 7 PM. $5 donation requested; make a reservation by emailing rsvp [at] chicagoscriptworks [dot] org or call 312-264-0123. For more information, visit the website.
Check out a film and video retrospective of this 10-year-old festival as well as a live improv performance. Free, in Preston Bradley Hall, 7 PM. 77 E Randolph. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
Reconstruction Room presents "Love-Letters between a Noble-Man and his Sister," inspired by Aphra Behn's 17th epistolary novel of the same title.. Performers include Erin Teegarden, Della Watson, Jenny Walton-Wetzel, Joshua Dumas, Mary Hamilton, Robert Kowalczyk, Saray Guernsey and Tina Post. Free at 8pm, 3614 N. Damen Ave. Email recroom[at]recroomers[dot]com for more information.
As part of the Chicago Improv Festival, this panel discussion covers Chicago's improv scene from the perspective of actors, directors, teachers, and producers. In the Fifth Floor Garland Room, 6:30 PM. Free. 77 E Randolph. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
Join Lumpen and Version Fest for a spring fashion and performance night entitled "The Secret of the Ranger" at their new space, now dubbed "The Co-Prosperity Sphere" @ 3219 S Morgan. The action starts at 930pm-1am and the $10 cover goes to support this year's Version 07 Festival "The Insurrection Internationale." Designers and performers include Ajax, Alternative Conformity, Faux Pas, Frei, Mizmy, and Mississippi Jackie Hurt.
Join Kuumba Lynx for their spring production "WORD" on Sunday at either 1pm or 4pm. This show has a new cast of Kuumba Lynx members representing Chicago's North, West & South Side communties. KL's shows are politically charged and feature incredible footwork and will also include skateboarding, graff artists, the Connect Force Break-Dancing crew, and new video work. The cost for the show will be $12 for adults & $ 8 for children & students. The show will take place at Alternatives 4710 N. Sheridan, a block south of Lawrence. If you have any questions, you may e-mail Jae Villegas julio_jae@yahoo.com or call her at (773) 590-1382.
Reconstruction Room presents "Songwriters-in-the-Round," featuring six local songwriters playing small sets while sharing the stage with two other artists. Performers include Maritza and Belinda Cervantes, Narciso Lobo, Jeff Harms, Sarah Potenza, Maggie Kubley and Aaron Johnson. Free at 8pm, 3614 N. Damen Ave. Email recroom[at]recroomers[dot]com for more information.
The "In One Ear" open-mic poetry event begins at 9pm every Wednesday night at the Heartland Cafe (7000 N. Glenwood Ave.) in Rogers Park. Be a part of one of the city's longest-running open-mic poetry series. Cover is $3. Must be 18+. Call 773-465-8005 or visit the website for more information.
Reconstruction Room presents "Theatrical Poetical," a mix of performance, theater, visual art, poetry and all the efforts of the Rec Room performers combined into one "strange and beautiful evening." Performers include Liz Cross, Meg Barboza, Kathleen Power, Jessica Wigent and more. Free at 8pm, 3614 N. Damen Ave. Email recroom[at]recroomers[dot]com for more information.
Schadenfreude, Chicago's critically acclaimed sketch comedy group, is branching out to the suburbs with their successful "Schadenfreude Rent Party". This performance will be recorded for a special broadcast on Chicago Public Radio. You can be part of a live studio audience.
Schadenfreude Rent Party
Saturday, March 3rd at 8pm.
Featuring: Schadenfreude, Mike and Duane, Beatbox sensation Yuri Lane, RedEye columnist Mark Bazer, IO's Jet and Holly and films by Steve Delahoyde (the regrets series). Tickets at the Wilmette Theatre or call 847-484-1881.
Celebrate the art, dance and writings of some of the nation's premier burlesque artists, smut actors, and sex activists at the Chicago stop of the Sex Workers' Art Show Tour.
On March 1 at 7:30 pm, the Abbey is playing host to an amazing evening of poetry, performance and talent featuring acclaimed Whitney Biennial artist Julie Atlas Muz; award-winning author of How I Learned to Snap Kirk Read;
international burlesque sensation Miss Dirty Martini; and many more.
The show is an eye-popping evening of visual and performance art created by people
who work in the sex industry to dispel the myth that they are anything short of
artists, innovators, and geniuses! The $20 ticket price benefits the Young Women's Empowerment Project.
The "In One Ear" open-mic poetry event begins at 9pm every Wednesday night at the Heartland Cafe (7000 N. Glenwood Ave.) in Rogers Park. Be a part of one of the city's longest-running open-mic poetry series. Cover is $3. Must be 18+. Call 773-465-8005 or visit the website for more information.
In celebration of African-American History Month, storyteller Kucha Brownlee discusses African and American folktales, fables and proverbs, uses dialect in her performance-art to bring these stories to life. Suitable for children 5-9 years. Bring your family to the Cindy Pritzker Auditorim in the lower level of the Harold Washington Library at 11am to participate. Call 312-747-4200 for more information.
"War Is Bad: Sock Puppet Euripides" condenses three classic Greek plays about war to 20 minutes each to get to the essential point that war is bad.
The show will be at Martyr's (3855 N. Lincoln) at 6:30. Tickets are $12. For more information call 773-404-9494 or visit the website.
Profits will be donated to humanitarian relief in Iraq.
Join Reverend Lou Della Evans-Reid and the Fellowship Baptist Church Choir to celebrate the publication of their new CD, Celebrating the Life, Love, and Legacy of Dr. Lou Della-Evans-Reid. Copies of the CD will available for sale and signing after the performance. Free at 6pm in the auditorium of the Woodson Regional Library, 9525 S. Halsted St. Call 312-747-6921 for more information.
The "In One Ear" open-mic poetry event begins at 9pm every Wednesday night at the Heartland Cafe (7000 N. Glenwood Ave.) in Rogers Park. Be a part of one of the city's longest-running open-mic poetry series. Cover is $3. Must be 18+. Call 773-465-8005 or visit the website for more information.
Chicago Scriptworks presents this staged reading of Stanley F. Werse's screenplay about a man "caught between his tragic past and dreams of a music career." In the Studio Theater, 78 E Washington. $5 donation requested; make a reservation by emailing rsvp [at] chicagoscriptworks [dot] org or call 312-264-0123. For more information, visit the website.
One of the best voices in jazz, Dianne Reeves visits the CSO as part of the AT&T Jazz at Symphony Center series. Tickets are available from the CSO site, from calling the box office at (800) 223-7114. Show begins at 8pm.
The "In One Ear" open-mic poetry event begins at 9pm every Wednesday night at the Heartland Cafe (7000 N. Glenwood Ave.) in Rogers Park. Be a part of one of the city's longest-running open-mic poetry series. Cover is $3. Must be 18+. Call 773-465-8005 or visit the website for more information.
The Robben Island Singers, former South African political prisoners turned musical ambassadors, will perform at the UIC Theater (1044 W. Harrison Street) at 4pm. The event is co-sponsored by the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum. For more information call (312) 413-5353 or visit the website.
The "In One Ear" open-mic poetry event begins at 9pm every Wednesday night at the Heartland Cafe (7000 N. Glenwood Ave.) in Rogers Park. Be a part of one of the city's longest-running open-mic poetry series. Cover is $3. Must be 18+. Call 773-465-8005 or visit the website for more information.
Expand your conception of radio drama by checking out this performance by the AFTRA/SAG Senior Radio Players, a group dedicated to "keeping alive the uniqueness of radio as the theater of the imagination." Free, at the Claudia Cassidy Theater. 78 E Washington Street, 7 PM. For more information, call 312-573-8081 or visit the website.
The Chicago Public Library brings African-American History Month alive for children by retelling the story of Rosa Parks's arrest and the bus boycott that helped bring Martin Luther King Jr. to the limelight. Storytell Lynn Rymarz will be at the helm, helping the audience to learn the true meaning behind the saying, "one person can make a difference." Suitable for children 5-10 years; reservations are required for the 11am program in the 2nd floor Thomas Hughes Children's Library Program Room of the Harold Washington Library. Call 312-747-4200 for reservations and information.
The "In One Ear" open-mic poetry event begins at 9pm every Wednesday night at the Heartland Cafe (7000 N. Glenwood Ave.) in Rogers Park. Be a part of one of the city's longest-running open-mic poetry series. Cover is $3. Must be 18+. Call 773-465-8005 or visit the website for more information.
Theatre Building Chicago is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a one-night performance of a work in progress, DESPAIRadise. The production is described on their website as: "Nihilist European art film makers learn the meaning of despair when their director discovers love and happiness." The show starts at 7:00 PM and tickets are $10. A reception will follow. Tickets may be ordered at the Theatre Building Chicago box office (773.327.5252), which is located at 1225 W. Belmont Ave.
Join Rick Kogan and Music Institute of Chicago faculty for a presentation about the 1893 Columbian Exposition along with period music performances. The event starts at noon at the Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue in Evanston. For more information visit the Music Institute of Chicago's calendar.
Author Aaron Belz is this year's first reading in the Series A schedule at the Hyde Park Art Center. This free reading starts at 7:00 PM in the 4833 Conference Room/Thurow Digital Lab at the Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Avenue. For more information, visit the Hyde Park Art Center's calendar for more information.
The Sissy Butch Brothers present their Gurlesque Burlesque show at The Vic. Tonight's high-profile guest is none other than Margaret Cho, who met the Sissy Butch Brothers while they were working on their burlesque documentary. Also in tonight's show: Julie Atlas Muz from New York; burlesque legend Satan's Angel; Alotta Boutté from Harlem Shake Burlesque; Miss Indigo Blue; and an array of Chicago burlesque stars. There are two performances tonight, at 7:00 PM and at 10:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster, at The Vic's box office, and at other locations in the neighborhood; see the Sissy Butch Brothers Website for details. The Vic: 3145 N. Sheffield (near Belmont). (773) 472-0449.
Snubfest kicks off its 2007 season with six stand up performers at Cornservatory, 4210 N Lincoln Ave. The show begins at 8:00pm. For more information about the night as well as other Snubfest events visit the Snubfest calendar.
Clyde Productions presents Flesh Tones Burlesque, an evening of naughty entertainment. The host of the evening is Miss Tamale, the star of the show is Cherish the Burlesque Goddess, and there will be a supporting cast of many more burlesque performers, musicians, and other exciting people. See the Flesh Tones Burlesque site for the line-up. Flesh Tones Burlesque happens tonight at 8:00 PM at the Lakeshore Theatre. Tickets are $20, and can be purchased online. Lakeshore Theatre: 3175 N. Broadway. (773) 472-3492.
The Hideout Players present The First Annual Hideout Christmas Pyrate Panto in which are revealed the adventures of Catfish Girl amongst pyrates and mermaids featuring Jon Langford, Kelly Hogan, Janet Bean, Tim Tuten and a glittering host of Hideout Regulars written and directed by Sally Timms
Pirate dress encouraged. In keeping with British Christmas tradition, the Hideout will present its first pantomime telling the story of Catfish Girl, her adventures on the High Seas with villanous pirates and her search for the lost mermaid treasure of Pirate Island. Expect plenty of cross dressing, bad pirate jokes, ribald humor, sea shanties and salty tails. Details: In the role he was born to play,Jon Langford stars as Mrs. Hammerhead, pantomime dame and proprietress of the Mariner's Leg Tavern and Grill, Kelly Hogan stars as Cap'n Skate King of the Pirates, Janet Bean as the Mermaid Queen and Tim Tuten appears as Tuttons, the chatty fishmonger. Newcomer Callie Roach will play the role of Catfish Girl. Introducing for the first (and probably last) time a glittering galaxy of Hideout regulars masquerading as pirates, mermaids and pantomime whales.Seating is strictly limited to 60 people per show. Floor seating so bring your own cushions. Advance ticket purchase highly recommended.
Two shows nightly (7pm show all ages and family friendly, 10pm show over 21 only and less friendly) doors open 30 minutes before each show. Admission $12 adults, $5 under 16s.
Versage Productions presents "Naughty or Nice", a Drag King & Drag Queen show at the Lakeshore Theater. There will be about 20 drag performers in tonight's show, and you will be able to have a picture taken with the cast after the show. Tickets are $10, the show starts at 10:00 PM, and can be purchased through the Lakeshore Theater Website. Lakeshore Theater: 3175 N. Broadway. (773) 472-3492.
Hear Haley Bonar with Chicagoans Via Tania and Dave Fischoff at Schuba's, 3159 N. Southport Ave. The show is $10 and starts at 9pm. For more information or to buy tickets, visit http://schubas.com.
Sketch comedy ensemble Schadenfreude will perform their monthly new content showcase at 8 PM at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley in Chicago’s Bucktown. The suggested donation is $10. Visit www.schadenfreude.net or call 773.489.5471 for more information.
Low and The Astronomer will perform at 8pm in the Old Town School of Folk Music's American Airlines Concert Hall at 4544 N Lincoln Ave. $18 for members, $20 for non-members.
Gabrielle Bell (Lucky), Kevin Huizenga (Curses) and Anders Nilsen (Big Questions, Don't Go Where I Can't Follow) discuss their new work from Drawn & Quarterly with Anne Elizabeth Moore of Punk Planet. Event begins at 7:00 PM at Quimby's, 1854 W. North Ave. For information, visit the Quimby's event page.
Bring your tutu for this annual event, which welcomes you to dance, and sing, along with music from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite. Two performances: 12 N and 3 PM, preceded by a tutu- and mask-making workshop. Free, in Preston Bradley Hall. 78 E Washington. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
Caustic comedian Lisa Lampanelli performs two shows at the Vic Theatre tonight. It's 18+ and, unlike most music events at the Vic, it's reserved seating First show: doors open at 6:30, show at 7:30. Second show: doors open at 9:30, show at 10:30. $28.50, tickets available at the Vic box office or via Ticketmaster (first show, second show).
Sketch comedy ensemble Schadenfreude will perform their monthly new content showcase at 8 PM at Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley in Chicago’s Bucktown. The suggested donation is $10. Visit www.schadenfreude.net or call 773.489.5471 for more information.
Tonight at the Hideout you can enjoy three Euripides plays performed by puppets of different kinds. The plays: Hecuba (performed by sock puppets); Lysistrata (performed by actors wearing masks of anti-war celebrities); and The Persians (performed by the troupe with a Balinese shadow puppet). The show starts at 6:00. Tickets are $12, and all proceeds will go to humanitarian relief in Iraq. See the Hideout site to order tickets. Hideout: 1354 W. Wabansia. (773) 227-4433.
Democracy Burlesque, the monthly cabaret/revue show, presents its post-election show tonight at 8:00 PM at the No Exit Cafe (6970 N. Glenwood). Tickets are $10 or pay-what-you can. You can also get $2 off the ticket price with some "2006 election detritus" (a yard sign, flyer, button, voting receipt, etc.). For more details and a schedule of more upcoming shows, see the Democracy Burlesque site.
Blindfaith Theatre presents Gorey Stories, a musical adaptation of various stories written by Chicago-born artist Edward Gorey. The play opens tonight at the Viaduct Theatre (3111 N. Western) and runs Thursdays through Saturdays until December 17. Tickets are $20, or $18 for students and seniors. For more information, visit the blindfaith Website or call (773) 250-7130.
WNLO's Mahogany Blue Show presents this review of the African American contribution to entertainment through live music and storytelling, highlighting North Lawndale's role. 1 PM. Free, but reservations are requested: call 773-250-7500 or email wnloradio [at] yahoo [dot] com. 224 S Michigan. For more information, visit the website.
Aurea, a Rhode Island ensemble, presents War Music, a performance piece based on Christopher Logue's adaptation of The Iliad. Free, 8 PM, 38 S Peoria. For more information, visit the Poetry Foundation website.
Come get a sneak preview of Blindfaith Theatre's "Gorey Stories," a show that brings Edward Gorey's drawings to life. At this special Halloween benefit there will be live performances, drinks, hors d'oeurves and a silent auction. Come dressed as yourself or wear your most fabulous costume. Tickets are $35 in advance (you can get them here) and $45 at the door. 7-11pm at Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont. The full "Gorey Stories" show will run November 11 through December 17 at the Viaduct Theater, 3111 N.
On October 29, 30, and 31 the Apollo Theater presents Haunting History, a history, mystery and magic event guided by David Parr. Tickets are available to those 17 and older for $25; 7:30pm. The Apollo Theater is located at 2540 N. Lincoln Avenue. Call the box office at (773) 935-6100 or visit their website for more information.
On October 29, 30, and 31 the Apollo Theater presents Haunting History, a history, mystery and magic event guided by David Parr. Tickets are available to those 17 and older for $25; 7:30pm. The Apollo Theater is located at 2540 N. Lincoln Avenue. Call the box office at (773) 935-6100 or visit their website for more information.
Come to the Ackerman Center at 2225 W. Irving Park Road for the Ravenswood Community Orchestra's Halloween concert. Conductors Richard Corrigan and Foster Beyers will lead the musicians through rounds of "Night on Bald Mountain," "Peer Gynt Suite," "Coriolanus Overture" and medleys from Harry Potter and Star Wars. You can even wear your costume if the mood strikes you. The 4pm concert is free, although donations are requested. Email ravenswoodorch[at]sbcglobal[dot]net for more information.
On October 29, 30, and 31 the Apollo Theater presents Haunting History, a history, mystery and magic event guided by David Parr. Tickets are available to those 17 and older for $25; 7:30pm. The Apollo Theater is located at 2540 N. Lincoln Avenue. Call the box office at (773) 935-6100 or visit their website for more information.
Bad things happen to brides-to-be in this Strange Tree production. Even if you're not big on creepy stuff, the trapeze action will likely be enthralling. Performances run through 31 October at 8 PM and tickets cost $13. 937 N California. For more information, call 773-317-1195 or visit the website.
Starting with "Descent into the Maelstrom," a one-man show exploring Edgar Allen Poe's personal journals and letters, Glessner House is celebrating 20 years of Edgar Allen Poe Readings. The show starts at 8pm with the reception at 9:30pm. Free at open to the public, 1800 S. Prairie Ave. Call 312-326-1480 for more information.
Starting at noon today at the Picasso statue in Daley Plaza poet and artist Jennifer Karmin will begin a public recitation of submitted poems, short stories, essays and letters about various places in Chicago, using the pieces as her map for the afternoon. Once read out loud, each piece will be given away to passing pedestrians. "A gesture similar to Pablo Picasso's, who gave his sculpture as a 'gift to the people of Chicago' and refused a fee for this work. " The Walking Poem is being sponsored by "Chicago Calling: a 24-Hour Arts Festival," a series of collaborative art events taking place throughout Chicago on October 25th. October 25th was chosen as the date of "Chicago Calling" because it is Pablo Picasso's birthday. The complete schedule of events is available online. The Walking Poem performance begins at noon at the Picasso statue in Daley Plaza at 50 W. Washington Street and is free.
Schadenfreude, Chicago's indie comedy ensemble, hosts a comedy variety show to help pay the month's rent. This month? Comedians Robert Buscemi, Peter Grosz and musical act Mike and Duane. Show starts @ 8pm-ish at the Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N. Oakley. $10, free food.
Acclaimed physical theater company, Plasticene, presents the premiere of One Fal$e Note, or How to Rob a Bank at the Storefront Theater (66 E. Randolph). The show, which opens this evening at 7:30pm, runs through November 5. Directed by Dexter Bullard. Tickets are $15-20. For more information visit the website.
This month, The Dollar Store, the reading series inspired by junk features Justin Kaufmann of Schadenfreude, writer Claire Zulkey (Girls, Girls, Girls) and Sports Action Team's Katie Nahnsen (the first performer to do the Dollar Store Show while on a national television show). As always, co-hosts Jonathan Messinger and Jeremy Sosenko will perform. Check it out on Friday, October 6 at 7pm. It's just $1 and is located at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia.
The Third Coast Audio Festival presents selections from its "99 Ways to Tell a Story" project in conjunction with its annual Short Docs presentation. The show is in Steppenwolf's Garage Theatre, 1624 N. Halsted, tonight from 7pm to 9pm. Tickets are just $6 -- $4 if you're a student or Chicago Public Radio member. More information here.
Renowned author Joyce Carol Oates will speak at 7:30pm at Barbara's Bookstore, 1218 South Halsted Street. Call 312.413.2665 for details.
As part of the city's official commemoration of the fifth anniversary of September 11, 2001, this performance combines storytelling and song to explore what it means to be a citizen: of one's city, one's country, and the world. It's a collaboration among Steppenwolf Theatre, the Chicago Children's Choir, and Steppenwolf for Young Adults, featuring Steppenwolf ensemble members and other special guests. 6:30, Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park. Free.
Performance artists Mark Jeffrey and Sara Schnadt have curated a full day of site-specific performance in the Lurie Gardens at Millennium Park. From 11am to 5pm, seven performance art projects will be going on simultaneously. Docents will be on hand to field questions about the large wooden military tank, conspicuous public displays of affection, the fellow who is pacing in the fountain, and the ice cubes--shaped like hands--that are slowly melting in the flowerbeds. Presented as a part of Great Performers of Illinois, September 6-9. For more information visit the website.
Presented by the Silk Road Theater Project, this staged reading of a play about race and romantic aspiration begins at 12:30 PM. Free, 77 W. Washington. For more information, call 312-236-6881.
Samantha's Amazing Acro-Cats perform tonight at Caro d'Offray Gallery, 2204 W. North Ave., tonight at 6:30pm and 8pm. Watch Chicagoland's only domestic cat performing troupe ride skateboards, ring bells, roll barrels, climb ladders, walk a high-wire and even play in a rock band. Special guest Rusty the raccoon shoots hoops! $5 cover, all ages.
The Chicago Office of Tourism, in conjunction with Silk Road Chicago, presents this Sanskrit and Balinese-influenced production of Mozart's classic opera in Preston Bradley Hall at 7 PM. Free, but tickets are required: call 312-742-8497. 77 E Randolph. For more information, visit the website.
If you live around the West Ridge neighborhood, check out this live performance of highlights from Mozart's Magic Flute. 2500 W. Lunt Ave. Free, 7 PM. For more information, visit the website.
The Chicago Office of Tourism, in conjunction with Silk Road Chicago, presents this Sanskrit and Balinese-influenced production of Mozart's classic opera in Preston Bradley Hall at 7 PM. Free, but tickets are required: call 312-742-8497. 77 E Randolph. For more information, visit the website.
The Chicago Office of Tourism, in conjunction with Silk Road Chicago, presents this Sanskrit and Balinese-influenced production of Mozart's classic opera in Preston Bradley Hall at 7 PM. Free, but tickets are required: call 312-742-8497. 77 E Randolph. For more information, visit the website.
The Chicago Office of Tourism, in conjunction with Silk Road Chicago, presents this Sanskrit and Balinese-influenced production of Mozart's classic opera in Preston Bradley Hall at 7 PM. Free, but tickets are required: call 312-742-8497. 77 E Randolph. For more information, visit the website.
Master puppeteer Blair Thomas presents The Ox-HerderTale, a simple story about a man searching for a bull that he must capture, tame and ride home, told with full-size bunraku puppets, masked actors, stilt walkers and shadow puppetry. Composer Michael Zerang performs sound and music, accompanied by fellow percussionist Hamid Drake. This evening at 8pm, at the Zen Buddhist Temple (1710 W. Cornelia). For more information about this free performance, call 773-722-3248 or visit the website.
If you work downtown, bring your lunch to Millennium Park and check out a live performance of highlights from Mozart's Magic Flute in Wrigley Square. The performance runs from 12:15 PM to 1 PM. Free. For more information, visit the website.
Chicago ScriptWorks presents a staged reading of John Loprieno's new screenplay, which won this year's IFP/Chicago-CSW contest, at 7 PM in the Claudia Cassidy Theater. $5. RSVP suggested: call 312-264-0123 or email rsvp [at] chicagoscriptworks [dot] org.
Laplanders raise reindeer, don't they? To get beyond the stereotypes and learn about Sami (or Laplandic) culture, including its mythology, dance, and music, check out this production by Shakura World Theatre. Free, 3 PM, 5211 N. Clark. For more information, call 773-275-7372.
Laplanders raise reindeer, don't they? To get beyond the stereotypes and learn about Sami (or Laplandic) culture, including its mythology, dance, and music, check out this production by Shakura World Theatre. Free, 7:30 PM, 5211 N. Clark. For more information, call 773-275-7372.
Live music and comedy, as well as hors' d'ouvres and an open bar, are included in the $25 to $35 ticket price of this new monthly event, which starts at 6 PM. Tonight's musical talent is Steve Hines and comedy is provided by GayCo Productions. To purchase advance tickets (which are cheaper), call 312-222-3026. For more information, visit the website.
A collobarative print exhibition will be showing at 2418 W. Bloomingdale, Studio 207 on the 28th-30th with contributers from The Girl Skateboard Co. Art Dump. A portion of the project will then be exhibited from August-September, 2006 at Uprise Skateshop, 1820 N. Milwaukee, Chicago IL. Don't miss the big reception on Friday, with Chocolate Industries recording artists Ghislain Poirier, Diverse and Kovas.
"Darknight Gallery 3," a series of plays written in the theme of the Rod Serling's Twilight Zone and Night Gallery, will run on weekends from July 28th to August 27th at the UIC Theater, 1440 W. Harrison St. General admission tickets will cost $15 and "industry" tickets will cost $10 on Sundays (bring headshot or resume). For more information, call 708.492.0273 or visit www.dtpsite.org.
Don't Spit the Water is gearing up for their New York trip during which they'll participate in the New York International Fringe Festival. To help get them there, come to this benefit show at the Town Hall Pub, 3340 N. Halsted. Regulars Jared Logan, Robert Buscemi, Tony Sam and everyone else will perform sets. $15 for the show, which also enters you into a raffle. 7:30-10pm. Email info[at]blewt[dot]com for more information.
Queen of Comedy Mo'Nique returns to Park West tonight, with Tony Sculfield and Rodney Perry, to do a show for geared to the African-American gay community. 8pm. $30 in advance, $35 at the door. 322 W Armitage. Call 773-779-2399 for more info.
Tense Forms and South Union Arts holds Saturation Series on the third Friday of every month, showcasing new writing, film, music and thought. This month's series is "Youth, Innocence & Doubt" in celebration of the "joys and troubles of childhood." Jenny Walton-Wetzel will read a short story, Kate Raney will screen her cut paper animation and music will be provided by bands Casiotone for the Painfully Alone, This Song is a Mess but So Am I, This Story, and Arrah and the Ferns. Come to South Union Arts at 1352 S. Union at 8pm. Email brian[at]southunionarts[dot]com for more information.
Come see the first full showcase of all female stand-up comedy group, Spitfire, at the Cornservatory, 4120 N. Lincoln. The Comedy Power Hour features the performances of Kara Buller, Fay Canale, Hannah Gensen, Becky Garcia, Renee Gauthier, Joselyn Huges, Allison Leber and Hattie Snide, as well as special guests the Star and Garter Burlesque Dancers and the Lanie & Emmy Show. 8pm. Tickets are $10 general admission, $5 for students. Call 219-916-1710 or email spitfirecomedy[at]gmail[dot]com for more information.
The Def Poetry Jam veteran performs at 7 PM in the Claudia Cassidy Theater, in conjunction with the Gay Games. Free. 77 E Washington. For more information, visit the website.
Zanies hosts three out comediennes: Poppy Champlin, Sapna Kumar, and Michele Balan. 9:30pm. $21 + a two-item food/drink minimum. 1548 N Wells. 312-337-4027.
Zanies hosts three out comediennes: Poppy Champlin, Sapna Kumar, and Michele Balan. 8:30pm. $21 + a two-item food/drink minimum. 1548 N Wells. 312-337-4027.
Lesbian comic and activist Kate Clinton, also appearing at the Gay Games opening ceremony, does a set at Park West tonight to benefit the Human Rights Campaign. $35. 7pm. Park West, 322 W Armitage.
Sharp-edged comic legend Sandra Bernhard does an improvised set as an affiliated event of the Gay Games. $65 in advance, $75 at the door. 8pm. HotHouse, 31 E Balbo. 312-362-9707.
Gay icon and super-activist Margaret Cho hits the Chicago Theatre for a Gay Games best-of show—don't be surprised to hear classic bits like "fag hags are the backbone of the gay community" and "Ass Master." 8pm. $46.50. 175 N State. 312-462-6300.
Out comedian Suzanne Westenhoefer, who you may have seen on just about all of the VH1 talking head shows, puts in a Gay Games appearance at Park West. 7:30pm. $30 advance, $35 at the door; advance tickets are available in person at Women & Children First, 5233 N Clark, or by phone at 773-779-2399. Park West is at 322 W Armitage.
The Windy City Rollers are offerering you quick and direct access to the bout in Cicero and after-party at Liars Club. For a measly $5, you don't have to spend money on gas, get mildly frustrated with other drivers or worry about finding that primo parking spot. Meet up at Liars Club at 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 9th, and then head over to the bout at 4 p.m. Then hop on board for the after-party! Buy tickets now.
Jello Biafra, former lead singer of the Dead Kennedys and founder of the classic punk label Alternative Tentacles, will be performing at the Lakeshore Theater tonight at 7:00 PM. Biafra has made a career for himself as a spoken word performer, speaking out against government injustice and hypocrisy wherever it exists. Tonight should be an interesting and informative evening of spoken word. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased online. Lakeshore Theater: 3175 N. Broadway. (773) 472-3492.
Nationally-renowned slam poet, public radio essayist, and Green Mill regular Daniel Ferri is retiring from his job as a schoolteacher in the western suburbs and moving abroad. But before he leaves, he's teaming up with comedian, journalist, and fellow Eight Forty-Eight contributor Aaron Freeman for one last hurrah. They'll perform at Chicago Public Radio's studios on Navy Pier on Thursday, June 29, at 7 pm. Tickets are $10, and the show will be taped for ChicagoPublicRadio.org and possible broadcast. Get all the details here.
In partnership with the Silk Road Theatre Project, Chicago ScriptWorks presents a reading of Gitanjali Kapila's new screenplay this evening at 7 PM. In Pierce Hall of the First United Methodist Church, 77 W Washington. $5 donation is requested. To RSVP, email rsvp [at] ChicagoScriptWorks [dot] org or call 312-264-0123. For more information, visit the website.
The Black Factory bills itself as a "mobile social service experiment". During their day-long performance, audience participants will be fed, cajoled, and provoked, all in the name of starting a new dialogue about race and community in America. William Pope.L, the CEO and mastermind behind the project, will sell you one of his "Twice-Sold Goods" and accept donations of your favorite black object. The Factory's caravan will arrive at Gallery 400 (400 S Peoria St @ UIC) this morning. For more information, visit the the website.
The Black Factory bills itself as a "mobile social service experiment". During their performances, audience participants will be fed, cajoled, and provoked, all in the name of starting a new dialogue about race and community in America. William Pope.L, the CEO and mastermind behind the project, will sell you one of his "Twice-Sold Goods" and accept donations of your favorite black object. This evening at 6pm, Black Factory performers join Darby English, assistant professor, art history, University of Chicago for a free panel discussion at Gallery 400 (400 S Peoria St @ UIC). For more information, visit the the website.
The Girlie-Q Variety Hour presents its latest show this evening at the HotHouse. The Girlie-Q shows combine drag, striptease, burlesque, vaudeville and performance art to provide a unique entertainment experience. Featured performers: Strawberry Fields, Oosha Boom, Maiden Sacrifice, Bloody Belle, Dixie Darlin', Clare De Lune, Bit O'Honey, Fanny Tastic and many more. The show starts at 8:00 PM. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the HotHouse site. HotHouse: 31 E. Balbo. (312) 362-9707.
The Black Factory bills itself as a "mobile social service experiment". During the five hour performance, audience participants will be fed, cajoled, and provoked, all in the name of starting a new dialogue about race and community in America. William Pope.L, the CEO and mastermind behind the project, will sell you one of his "Twice-Sold Goods" and accept donations of your favorite black object. The Factory's caravan will arrive at the Hyde Park Art Center (5020 S. Cornell Ave) today at 12pm. For more information, visit the the website.
Hot hootchies! Dirty dancing! Salacious songs! And lots and lots of gaiety! The latest installment of the Girlie-Q Variety Hour, a local burlesque troupe of gay, straight and all-around fabulous performers. Come on down to the HotHouse located at 31 E. Balbo on Pride Sunday. Doors at 7, show at 8. All this hot sexiness for only $10.
This afternoon at 3 PM, a shadow puppet master from central Java, Purbo Asmoro, presents a Javanese puppet drama (wayang) accompanied by a 20-piece orchestra, or gamelan. Free, in Preston Bradley Hall. 78 E Washington St. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
This year marks the 41st year for Andersonville Midsommarfest. They've got the standard neighborhood festival's "eat meat on the street" thing going on, with a smattering of fine local Clark Street vendors from up in the 'ville. Plus, this year's got a really great and eclectic music lineup like Mucca Pazza, The Waco Brothers, and Elevation (the U2 tribute band). And, who doesn't like seeing the Jesse White Tumblers? Plus, there's tons of traditional Swedish-themed activities like a Maypole dance, Come out, and support (yet another) great neighborhood cause. The summer's just getting warmed up. The festival runs from 11am-10pm June 10th and 11th on Clark Street starting at Foster Avenue (closest El stop: Berwyn on the Red Line).
Goat Island presents a free work-in-progress showing of their new, yet-to-be-titled performance this evening at the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E Washington), starting at 6pm. For more information call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
If you're into good slam poetry and want to see a great show, tonight at 8pm at the Holiday Club (4000 N. Sheridan Rd.) see National Slam Poet award winner Anis Mojgani. Show starts at 8pm, $5 cover. See Holiday Club's website for club details.
Hosted by James Asmus and Kristen Sutdard, Variety Revival is a weekly showcase of comedy, magic, ventriloquism and rock and roll. Every Tuesday at 8pm at the Apollo Theater Studio (2540 N. Lincoln), through June 27. Tickets are $10. For more information call 773-935-6100 or visit the website.
Chicagos CandleOpera celebrates Mozarts 250th birthday with this free performance of an abridged version of the celebrated opera at 7 PM. In the Claudia Cassidy Theater. 78 E Washington St. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
Expand your conception of radio drama by checking out this performance by the AFTRA/SAG Senior Radio Players, dedicated to "keeping alive the uniqueness of radio as the theater of the imagination." Tonight, the group recreates Lux Radio Theater, among the most popular radio programs of the 1930s and 1940s. Free, at the Cassidy Theater. 78 E Washington Street, 7 PM. For more information, visit the website.
Kunqu is one of the oldest Chinese operatic traditions. In the Claudia Cassidy Theater. Free, 7 PM. 78 E Washington St. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
This new festival features "live performances by artists who stretch, invent, and combine theater, dance, spoken word, and live music sampling." Local artists, including members of Young Chicago Authors and Congo Square Theater Company, are presented alongside performers from throughout the US and Canada. Shows start at 7:30 PM, through 6 May. Tickets are $10 to $22, with discounts for multiple shows. 220 E Chicago Avenue. For more information, call 312-280-2660 or visit the website.
Theater Oobleck's Dave Buchen and Argentinean puppeteer/musician Sebastian Paz team up for Natural History in which they "compress 37 volumes of Pliny the Elder's manuscripts on the working of the universe into a box of interactive scrolls and songs." Featuring eleven original songs in bolero, flamenco and other styles. 8pm at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield; $12 if you can pay it, free if you can't. Call 773-347-1041 for more information.
Theater Oobleck's Dave Buchen and Argentinean puppeteer/musician Sebastian Paz team up for Natural History in which they "compress 37 volumes of Pliny the Elder's manuscripts on the working of the universe into a box of interactive scrolls and songs." Featuring eleven original songs in bolero, flamenco and other styles. 8pm at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield; $12 if you can pay it, free if you can't. Call 773-347-1041 for more information.
Theater Oobleck's Dave Buchen and Argentinean puppeteer/musician Sebastian Paz team up for Natural History in which they "compress 37 volumes of Pliny the Elder's manuscripts on the working of the universe into a box of interactive scrolls and songs." Featuring eleven original songs in bolero, flamenco and other styles. 8pm at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield; $12 if you can pay it, free if you can't. Call 773-347-1041 for more information.
If you're stuck in rush hour traffic tonight, you might see Bill Shannon fly by on a skateboard, propelling himself forward with crutches. Audience members board an ordinary looking CTA bus that's tricked out with video screens and a sound system. DJ Excess will mix music on the bus. See Traffic this evening at 6pm; the bus departs from the MCA (220 E. Chicago). Tickets are $22. For more information, call 312-397-4010, or visit the website.
Tonight at 8:30pm, Comedy Central and the Empty Bottle presents the Comedians of Comedy featuring: Patton Oswalt, Brian Posehn, Maria Bamford and Eugene Mirman at the Logan Square Auditorium. If you're unfamiliar with the series the "Comedians of Comedy", surely you'll recognize Patton Oswalt from his standup on Comedy Central and HBO. You might know Brian Posehn through performance and writing turns on The Jon Stewart Show and the groundbreaking HBO series Mr. Show. Maria Bamford has been on Comedy Showcase, The Conan OBrien Show and Premium Blend, among others. And Eugene Mirman rounds thing out, an artist we first introduced to Chicago with the Stella Comedy show. Tickets for this show ($18 advance; $20 day of show) will fly, so act fast.
If you're stuck in rush hour traffic tonight, you might see Bill Shannon fly by on a skateboard, propelling himself forward with crutches. Audience members board an ordinary looking CTA bus that's tricked out with video screens and a sound system. DJ Excess will mix music on the bus. See Traffic this evening at 6pm; the bus departs from the MCA (220 E. Chicago). Tickets are $22. For more information, call 312-397-4010 or visit the website.
In an evening emceed by Chicago performer Tekki Lomnicki, the Chicago Improv Festival presents Terry Galloway's Mean Little Deaf Queer, followed by the deaf improv ensemble ICE WORM. Interpreting will be provided for hearing audience members. The show starts tonight at 7 PM in Preston Bradley Hall. Free, 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
If you're stuck in rush hour traffic tonight, you might see Bill Shannon fly by on a skateboard, propelling himself forward with crutches. Audience members board an ordinary looking CTA bus that's tricked out with video screens and a sound system. DJ Excess will mix music on the bus. See Traffic this evening at 6pm; the bus departs from the MCA (220 E. Chicago). Tickets are $22. For more information, call 312-397-4010, or visit the website.
Chicago Scriptworks presents a staged reading of E.A. Bagbys new screenplay Bellham, tonight at 7 PM. Linger after the performance to talk with the director, writer, and cast. 1225 W. Belmont Ave. A $5 donation is requested. Email rsvp-at-chicagoscriptworks-dot-org to make a reservation or call 312-264-0123. For more information, visit the website.
The Chicago Improv Festival presents an evening of multidisplinary improvisation, "Colossal," starting at 7 PM tonight in Preston Bradley Hall. Free, 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
The Chicago Improv Festival presents an evening of multidisplinary improvisation, "Singularities," starting at 7 PM tonight in Preston Bradley Hall. Free, 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
See site specific work in an attic of a house in Logan Square (1732 N Humboldt Blvd), including Synch, a Busby Berkeley inspired synchronized swimming duo and Laura's Room, a video installation based on Twin Peaks. Dancer/choreographer Janet Schmid does The Solo Siamese Twin Act using prosthetic attachments and soundscapes and moving within a confined space. This evening at 7:30 and 9pm; suggested donation is $7. For more information call 773-531-2518.
After being shot and blinded in a bar in Hollywood at the age of twenty-three, Lynn Manning became an award winning playwright and actor, Paralympic Silver Medalist, and Blind Judo World Champion. He tells his story this evening through words and music. See WEIGHTS at 7:30pm at the MCA (220 E Michigan). Tickets are $22. For more information, call 312-397-4010 or visit the website. Presented as part of the Chicago Festival of Disability Arts and Culture.
Collaboraction presents Carnaval 2006, their third annual interactive theatrical dance party opera at Crobar. "Long Live Flesh!" is their motto and, if you've ever been to Crobar, a pretty fitting one at that. The performance will use a team of 75 performers, musicians, designers, break-dancers, body painters and more. 7-11pm at 1543 N. Kingsbury; 21+. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Call 312-226-9633 for more information.
See site specific work in an attic of a house in Logan Square (1732 N Humboldt Blvd), including Synch, a Busby Berkeley inspired synchronized swimming duo and Laura's Room, a video installation based on Twin Peaks. Dancer/choreographer Janet Schmid does The Solo Siamese Twin Act using prosthetic attachments and soundscapes and moving within a confined space. This evening at 7:30 and 9pm; suggested donation is $7. For more information call 773-531-2518.
After being shot and blinded in a bar in Hollywood at the age of twenty-three, Lynn Manning became an award winning playwright and actor, Paralympic Silver Medalist, and Blind Judo World Champion. He tells his story this evening through words and music. See WEIGHTS at 7:30pm at the MCA (220 E Michigan). Tickets are $22. For more information, call 312-397-4010 or visit the website. Presented as part of the Chicago Festival of Disability Arts and Culture.
Join Chicago Chorale, a 50-voice amateur choral ensemble, for a performance of Johann Sebastian Bach's Mass in B Minor. The performance goes on at 7pm at Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, 850 S. Woodlawn Ave. Regular tickets are $18; $12 for students. Purchase them online or at the door. Email info[at]chicagochorale[dot]org for more information.
Each year, Links Hall selects six performers for a 6-month LinkUp residency. This weekend, three residencies culminate with public performances. $15. 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., 7 PM. For more information, call 773-281-0824 or visit the website.
Each year, Links Hall selects six performers for a 6-month LinkUp residency. This weekend, three residencies culminate with public performances. $15. 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., 7 PM. For more information, call 773-281-0824 or visit the website.
The new music ensemble eighth blackbird, along with soprano Lucy Shelton, perform music by Arnold Schoenberg in a cabaret opera designed by Blair Thomas. Tickets are $18-22. 7:30 PM, 220 E Chicago Ave. For more information, call 312-397-4010 or visit the website.
Tonight is your last chance to see SKETCHCOREs "Urban Legends" continues tonight at 10:30 at The Oracle Theatre, located at 3809 N. Broadway Ave. Tickets are $10 general admission and $8 with student ID. To reserve tickets call 773.780.9174 or, for more information go to www.sketchcore.com or www.oracletheatre.org.
Each year, Links Hall selects six performers for a 6-month LinkUp residency. This weekend, three residencies culminate with public performances, starting at 7 PM tonight. $15. 3435 N. Sheffield Ave. For more information, call 773-281-0824 or visit the website.
The new music ensemble eighth blackbird, along with soprano Lucy Shelton, perform music by Arnold Schoenberg in a cabaret opera designed by Blair Thomas. Tickets are $18-22. 7:30 PM, 220 E Chicago Ave. For more information, call 312-397-4010 or visit the website.
The new music ensemble eighth blackbird, along with soprano Lucy Shelton, perform music by Arnold Schoenberg in a cabaret opera designed by Blair Thomas. A conversation with the performers and designer follows tonights program. Tickets are $18-22. 7:30 PM, 220 E Chicago Ave. For more information, call 312-397-4010 or visit the website.
SKETCHCOREs "Urban Legends" continues tonight at 10:30 at The Oracle Theatre, located at 3809 N. Broadway Ave. The show runs on Fridays until March 31st . Tickets are $10 general admission and $8 with student ID. To reserve tickets call 773.780.9174 or, for more information go to www.sketchcore.com or www.oracletheatre.org.
Open End Gallery hosts the Raizel Performances in The Piners Prom. A 50s-inspired dance concert, the prom "pairs original choreography from six choreographers with original music and revamped oldies covers from a live rock orchestra." Featuring all local talent, from the dancers to the musicians to the costume designers, notable contributers include Will Butler of The Arcade Fire doing music and Jay Ryan designing posters. $10 at the door, 2000 W. Fulton #310. Running March 10, 11, 17 and 18. Call 312-738-2140 or email raizelperformances[at]gmail[dot]com for tickets and information.
Open End Gallery hosts the Raizel Performances in The Piners Prom. A 50s-inspired dance concert, the prom "pairs original choreography from six choreographers with original music and revamped oldies covers from a live rock orchestra." Featuring all local talent, from the dancers to the musicians to the costume designers, notable contributers include Will Butler of The Arcade Fire doing music and Jay Ryan designing posters. $10 at the door, 2000 W. Fulton #310. Running March 10, 11, 17 and 18. Call 312-738-2140 or email raizelperformances[at]gmail[dot]com for tickets and information.
SKETCHCOREs "Urban Legends" continues tonight at 10:30 at The Oracle Theatre, located at 3809 N. Broadway Ave. The show runs on Fridays until March 31st . Tickets are $10 general admission and $8 with student ID. To reserve tickets call 773.780.9174 or, for more information go to www.sketchcore.com or www.oracletheatre.org.
Chicagos Department of Cultural Affairs, along with Mikey O Comedy Productions and other organizations, presents a multicultural lineup of standup comedy featuring Sean Flannery, Kumail, Frank Townsend, Joey Villagomez, and Maysoon Zayid. In Preston Bradley Hall at 7 PM. Free. 78 E. Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
Infamous Commonwealth Theatre is holding a fundraiser at Cherry Red, 2833 N. Sheffield. All who attend are encouraged to bring a copy of a heartfelt letter they're received, sent or written but not sent. ICT members will read the letters aloud, excluding all incriminating names and bit sof information, and the four best letters will be chosen as the inspiration for four short plays to be performed at the 24 Hour Project later in the year. A portion of the admission as well as the proceeds from a silent auction benefits ICT's next production. $10 for the first 20 people with letters, $20 for all others with a 3-hour open bar for all. 7pm. Call 312-458-9780 for more information.
Open End Gallery hosts the Raizel Performances in The Piners Prom. A 50s-inspired dance concert, the prom "pairs original choreography from six choreographers with original music and revamped oldies covers from a live rock orchestra." Featuring all local talent, from the dancers to the musicians to the costume designers, notable contributers include Will Butler of The Arcade Fire doing music and Jay Ryan designing posters. $10 at the door, 2000 W. Fulton #310. Running March 10, 11, 17 and 18. Call 312-738-2140 or email raizelperformances[at]gmail[dot]com for tickets and information.
Open End Gallery hosts the Raizel Performances in The Piners Prom. A 50s-inspired dance concert, the prom "pairs original choreography from six choreographers with original music and revamped oldies covers from a live rock orchestra." Featuring all local talent, from the dancers to the musicians to the costume designers, notable contributers include Will Butler of The Arcade Fire doing music and Jay Ryan designing posters. $10 at the door, 2000 W. Fulton #310. Running March 10, 11, 17 and 18. Call 312-738-2140 or email raizelperformances[at]gmail[dot]com for tickets and information.
SKETCHCOREs "Urban Legends" continues tonight at 10:30 at The Oracle Theatre, located at 3809 N. Broadway Ave. The show runs on Fridays until March 31st . Tickets are $10 general admission and $8 with student ID. To reserve tickets call 773.780.9174 or, for more information go to www.sketchcore.com or www.oracletheatre.org.
LISSENUP6, the sixth installment of Julie Shapiro's periodic presentation of audio pieces from around the world (often culled from Third Coast Audio Festival submissions), moves to the Corbett vs. Dempsey gallery space, 1120 N. Ashland, 2nd floor, today from 11am to 1pm. It's free. More details here.
Created by local comedians Jared Logan and Kumail Nanjiani, A Demon Who Never Appeared is a monthly variety show of sketches, live music and prizes, described as "a live version of The Muppet Show by way of those creepy old Vincent Price movies, with a dash of Forbidden Zone thrown in." Regular tickets are $10, with $5 for students, but on this inaugural night, everyone gets in for $5. Purchase them at the door or by emailing tickets[at]blewt[dot]com. 12:15am at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted. Presented by Blewt! Productions.
Chicago Scriptworks presents a staged reading of Cheryl Winkelmanns new screenplay The Newlywed Game, tonight at 7 PM in the Chicago Cultural Centers Studio Theater. Linger after the performance to talk with the director, writer, and cast. 77 E. Randolph Street. A $5 donation is requested. Email rsvp-at-chicagoscriptworks-dot-org to make a reservation. For more information, visit the website.
Dancers from the Cerqua Rivera Dance Ensemble, local musicians, and vocalists perform tributes to the great African-American artists this evening at 7 PM in the Claudia Cassidy Theater. Free. 78 E Washington Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
The Shakespeare Project puts on a free production of the bard's Love's Labours Lost at the Newberry Library. The prologue by Dorian Hadley starts at 9:45am and the show goes on at 10:00am. Ah...just in time for Valentine's Day. The Newberry Library is located at 60 W. Walton St. Call 312-255-3700 for more information.
Not only does Demetri Martin have a great half hour episode on Comedy Central's stand-up series, he's also been featured in Bust and has spent some time with The Daily Show. In "These Are Jokes," Martin tells joke, shows some of his drawings, and plays music. If you've ever seen him on TV, you know this is a show worth going to. 8pm on Friday and 7pm and 9pm on Saturday. Tickets are $20 each at the Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway. Call 773-472-3492 for more information.
SKETCHCOREs "Urban Legends" continues tonight at 10:30 at The Oracle Theatre, located at 3809 N. Broadway Ave. The show runs on Fridays until March 31st . Tickets are $10 general admission and $8 with student ID. To reserve tickets call 773.780.9174 or, for more information go to www.sketchcore.com or www.oracletheatre.org.
Not only does Demetri Martin have a great half hour episode on Comedy Central's stand-up series, he's also been featured in Bust and has spent some time with The Daily Show. In "These Are Jokes," Martin tells joke, shows some of his drawings, and plays music. If you've ever seen him on TV, you know this is a show worth going to. 8pm on Friday and 7pm and 9pm on Saturday. Tickets are $20 each at the Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway. Call 773-472-3492 for more information.
Head to Phyllis' Musical Inn, 1800 W. Division, tonight at 9pm for the first-maybe-annual Mrs. Meow's Talenza Bonanza Talent Show. Drink beer and watch folks flaunt off their various talents, including bellydancing, magic, a puppet show and more. Includes prizes for the best contestants and entertainment by DJ Dirty Cowboy. 21 and over. Free!
You don't care about the Super Bowl because, hey, there are no Bears in it. The obvious choice now is to sit down, beer in hand, beside the old radio and listen to The Drinking & Writing Brewery Radio Show, tonight at 6pm on WLUW, 88.7FM (or listen online). Featured tonight is the recently retired Chicago sports writing legend Bill Jauss. They'll also talk to brewer Rick Schmidt from the Mishawaka Brewing Company in Indiana about his award winning beer, Four Horseman Ale. Finally, the instructive, entertaining ramblings of Pete Crowley, Radio Brewmaster.
A Child's History of Bombing opens tonight at the Neo-Futurarium. This multi-media, interactive, live documentary takes a Neo-Futurist look at explosives, the advent of aerial bombing, and the role of racism in the development of "military ethics." Founding Director Greg Allen begins by using interviews with his uncle, a prominent chemist in the Manhattan Project, and moves on to examine Los Alamos, Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Bikini Atoll, Vietnam, and the current war in Iraq. Written and performed by Greg Allen and Donovan Sherman. Previews are tonight and tomorrow nights at 8pm. The show opens Feb. 4 at 8pm. Performances continue through March 11: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm. The Neo-Futurarium is located at 5153 N. Ashland. Pay-What-You-Can on Thursdays and during previews; $15 on Fridays and Saturdays ($10 for students/seniors). For more information call 773-275-5255.
Tense Forms, publisher/record label/etc., presents "800 Winters," a showcase of music, performance and art at the Subterranean, 2011 W. North Ave. The show features:
- The artwork of Nora McComiskey, Jen Haybach and Sangini Brahmbatt, along with an installation of 800 photographs by more than 20 artists.
- Music by the Notes and Scratches, Radiant Darling, Casey Meehan, Ben Clarke (of Lying in States) and Andy Wagner.
- The debut performance of Frost, a new short play by the House Theatre's Marika Mashburn, starring Mashburn and the House's Chris Matthews.
Doors open at 8:30pm with an $8 cover. 21 and over.
The two-man circus performs in the Claudia Cassidy Theater this afternoon at 3 PM and again this evening at 7 PM. Free. 77 E. Randolph Street. For more information, call 312-744-6630 or visit the website.
First they teach, then they share. Each Monday, Barrel of Monkeys presents "That's Weird, Grandma," critically acclaimed assortment of scenes and songs adapted by the ensemble from Chicago Public School students stories. The show changes each week according to audience votes (switching 2-3 sketches in and out each performance), and each show runs about one hour. Runs Mondays at 8pm at The Neo-Futurarium, 5153 N. Ashland. Special $2 off coupon available at the website.
This performance by artist and activist Jon Langford incorporates songs, theater, and visual art. Tickets are $22 (MCA members $18). 7:30 PM, in the MCA Theater, 220 E Chicago Avenue. For more information, visit the website.
Always hilarious and, usually, inappropriate, David Alan Grier gives a performance at The Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University. Tickets for the 8pm show range from $28-$37 and can be bought online or by calling 708-235-2222.
This performance by artist and activist Jon Langford incorporates songs, theater, and visual art. Tickets are $22 (MCA members $18). 7:30 PM, in the MCA Theater, 220 E Chicago Avenue. For more information, visit the website.
The Museum of Contemporary Art and Curious Theatre Branch team up to present No Danger of the Spiritual Thing: 100 Years of Beckett. The performance is a series of short plays to celebrate Samuel Beckett's 100th birthday. Each section of the museum, including elevators, stairwells and galleries, will feature a different short play performed by local theater companies and artists. The shows start at 7:30pm with a special presentation of Texts for Nothing at 3pm on Sunday. Tickets are $12 for MCA members, $15 for non-members. 220 E. Chicago Ave. Call 312-397-4010 for tickets and information.
The Museum of Contemporary Art and Curious Theatre Branch team up to present No Danger of the Spiritual Thing: 100 Years of Beckett. The performance is a series of short plays to celebrate Samuel Beckett's 100th birthday. Each section of the museum, including elevators, stairwells and galleries, will feature a different short play performed by local theater companies and artists. The shows start at 7:30pm with a special presentation of Texts for Nothing at 3pm on Sunday. Tickets are $12 for MCA members, $15 for non-members. 220 E. Chicago Ave. Call 312-397-4010 for tickets and information.
The Museum of Contemporary Art and Curious Theatre Branch team up to present No Danger of the Spiritual Thing: 100 Years of Beckett. The performance is a series of short plays to celebrate Samuel Beckett's 100th birthday. Each section of the museum, including elevators, stairwells and galleries, will feature a different short play performed by local theater companies and artists. The shows start at 7:30pm with a special presentation of Texts for Nothing at 3pm on Sunday. Tickets are $12 for MCA members, $15 for non-members. 220 E. Chicago Ave. Call 312-397-4010 for tickets and information.
Tonight the Neo-Futurists present a special New Year's Eve performance of "Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind." Doors open at 9:30pm for hors d'oeuvres and non-alcoholic beverages and the show starts promptly at 11pm. At midnight the group will toast the New Year with their signature pizza. Admission to the all-ages show is $30 and you must get your tickets in advance. The Neo-Futurarium is located at 5153 N. Ashland. Buy your tickets online or call 773-275-5255 for more information.
Tonight and every Monday night, you can head down to The Gin Mill for "No Cover, Just Comedy," an open mic stand-up showcase. The show gets going at 10pm. Get there a little early to sign up. Bonus: $2 Domestic drafts and 20-cent wings. The Gin Mill is located at 2462 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. 773-549-3232
Something Else! A Hanukkah Community Festival will feature performaces by celebrated human beat box artist and actor Yuri Lane, a science show by Mad Science and more. It happens today, Dec. 25, from 11am-2 pm, and it's free. The festival takes place at the Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies, 618 S. Michigan. (312) 322-1700
The Stand-Up Squeeze Comedy Showcase presents: "Not Everybody Celebrates Christmas So Come Out of the House for a Change" at Pressure Billiards and Cafe tonight. The Stand-Up Squeeze Comedy Showcase is a comedy showcase where the audience can give their unadulterated opinion on comment cards to direct the future of the show. Write nice things. Write mean things. The line-up for tonight is Dave Odd, Aaron Foster, Azhar Usman, and Rick March. There will also be music by Todd Kessler and free food from Buffalo Joe's of Evanston. Other things free: free parking, free raffle, free gift, and other fabulous prizes. Tickets are just $10, $5 for students. Pressure Billiards and Cafe is located at 6318 N. Clark St. 773-743-7665 The show starts at 8pm.
The 5 & Dime Comedy Hour is not your average sketch show. The 5 & Dime Comedy Hour = Megan Bell, Molly Hale, and John Pattavina. These three consider themselves old souls and their comedy comes from a love of "old-timey" pop-culture and painful loneliness. The show is directed by WNEP's infamous Don Hall. This is not the same sketch show you've seen where the lights come up, and punch line occurs and the lights go down. 5 & Dime has orchestrated a night of absurdist theatre that will thrill those new to and veterans of sketch comedy. Saturday nights @ 11pm, November 5th - December 17th @ The Trapdoor Theatre, 1655 W. Cortland St. (In Bucktown behind Jane's restaurant) $10 and BYOB! $5 for improvisers
Embarking on a new tradition, the Lincoln Lodge presents its first annual "Fresh Meat" showcase, featuring their favorite new stand-up comics. The even will fature Becky "Sweet Cuts" Garcia, David "Here's the Beef" Angelo and Heath and Andy performing "Super Mario's Poetry." All acts made their debut at the Lodge this year. Tickets are $8 with a one drink minimum. Doors open at 8pm for food and drinks before the 9pm show. The Lincoln Lodge is located at 4008 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-296-4029 for more information.
Embarking on a new tradition, the Lincoln Lodge presents its first annual "Fresh Meat" showcase, featuring their favorite new stand-up comics. The even will fature Becky "Sweet Cuts" Garcia, David "Here's the Beef" Angelo and Heath and Andy performing "Super Mario's Poetry." All acts made their debut at the Lodge this year. Tickets are $8 with a one drink minimum. Doors open at 8pm for food and drinks before the 9pm show. The Lincoln Lodge is located at 4008 N. Lincoln Ave. Call 773-296-4029 for more information.
Intuit: the Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art presents a performance by vocal artist Jaap Blonk, an artist combining poetry, spoken word, and the musicality of the human voice in his work. One of Blonk's best-known achievements is the ability to perform Kurt Schwitters' epic Dada sound poem "Ursonate" (original version here, Jaap Blonk's version here). This should be a very unusual and exciting performance. The opening act will be the Chicago group Spires That In The Sunset Rise. The performance begins tonight at 8:00 PM, and tickets are $5. You may call for reservations. Intuit: 756 N. Milwaukee. (312) 243-9088.
The 5 & Dime Comedy Hour is not your average sketch show. The 5 & Dime Comedy Hour = Megan Bell, Molly Hale, and John Pattavina. These three consider themselves old souls and their comedy comes from a love of "old-timey" pop-culture and painful loneliness. The show is directed by WNEP's infamous Don Hall. This is not the same sketch show you've seen where the lights come up, and punch line occurs and the lights go down. 5 & Dime has orchestrated a night of absurdist theatre that will thrill those new to and veterans of sketch comedy. Saturday nights @ 11pm, November 5th - December 17th @ The Trapdoor Theatre, 1655 W. Cortland St. (In Bucktown behind Jane's restaurant) $10 and BYOB! $5 for improvisers
The fourth-annual Letters to Santa 24-hour improv marathon starts tonight at 10:30 at the Second City e.t.c. Theatre, 1608 North Wells in Pipers Alley. $10 grants you admission to the entire 24 hours of improv, though you can come and go as you please. There will be special performances throughout the day including Jeff Tweedy of Wilco, Jason Molina of Magnolia Electric Co, and Robbie Fulks. All proceeds go toward providing Christmas presents for needy children, so go have some fun and do some good. More details at the Second City website.
From improv to dance to standup comedy, the 6th Annual Women's Performance Art Festival hosts a wealth of performance art written, directed and performed by women. Held at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., the show runs for three days, December 2-4, at 8pm. The performers tackle community needs, romanticism and love, Edward Gorey, identity and a whole lot more. Admission is $15; call 773-281-0824 to save your spot.
From improv to dance to standup comedy, the 6th Annual Women's Performance Art Festival hosts a wealth of performance art written, directed and performed by women. Held at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., the show runs for three days, December 2-4, at 8pm. The performers tackle community needs, romanticism and love, Edward Gorey, identity and a whole lot more. Admission is $15; call 773-281-0824 to save your spot.
The 5 & Dime Comedy Hour is not your average sketch show. The 5 & Dime Comedy Hour = Megan Bell, Molly Hale, and John Pattavina. These three consider themselves old souls and their comedy comes from a love of "old-timey" pop-culture and painful loneliness. The show is directed by WNEP's infamous Don Hall. This is not the same sketch show you've seen where the lights come up, and punch line occurs and the lights go down. 5 & Dime has orchestrated a night of absurdist theatre that will thrill those new to and veterans of sketch comedy. Saturday nights @ 11pm, November 5th - December 17th @ The Trapdoor Theatre, 1655 W. Cortland St. (In Bucktown behind Jane's restaurant) $10 and BYOB! $5 for improvisers
From improv to dance to standup comedy, the 6th Annual Women's Performance Art Festival hosts a wealth of performance art written, directed and performed by women. Held at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield Ave., the show runs for three days, December 2-4, at 8pm. The performers tackle community needs, romanticism and love, Edward Gorey, identity and a whole lot more. Admission is $15; call 773-281-0824 to save your spot.
Join the lovely Girlie-Q Variety Show performers for this month's sexy show: the Ho Ho Holiday Follies. These super-seductive acts will jingle your bells and jelly your cranberries, if you know what we mean. Head on down to the HotHouse at 31 E. Balbo on Sunday, November 27. Doors at 7 p.m., show at 8pm. Tickets are ONLY $10.
Glen Ellyn native and performance artist Laurie Anderson presents The End of the Moon, a piece created out of her experience as NASAs first artist-in-residence, in Fullerton Hall tonight at 7PM. 111 S Michigan. Tickets, which cost $50 (AIC members and students) and $65, are available by calling 312-575-8000 or clicking here .
Glen Ellyn native and performance artist Laurie Anderson presents The End of the Moon, a piece created out of her experience as NASAs first artist-in-residence, in Fullerton Hall tonight at 7PM. 111 S Michigan. Tickets, which cost $50 (AIC members and students) and $65, are available by calling 312-575-8000 or clicking here .
Lampo presents Berlin-based experiemntal artist Stephan Mathieu for his Chicago debut. His performance, "Radioland," is a suite of computer-processed live AM radio, accompanied by a fast, random video flicker of 256 colors.
The event is $12 and kicks off at 9pm on Saturday November 19th, at 6ODUM (2116 West Chicago Avenue). Read more about Mathieu at Lampo.org
The 5 & Dime Comedy Hour is not your average sketch show. The 5 & Dime Comedy Hour = Megan Bell, Molly Hale, and John Pattavina. These three consider themselves old souls and their comedy comes from a love of "old-timey" pop-culture and painful loneliness. The show is directed by WNEP's infamous Don Hall. This is not the same sketch show you've seen where the lights come up, and punch line occurs and the lights go down. 5 & Dime has orchestrated a night of absurdist theatre that will thrill those new to and veterans of sketch comedy.
Saturday nights @ 11pm, November 5th - December 17th @ The Trapdoor Theatre , 1655 W. Cortland St. (In Bucktown behind Jane's restaurant) 10$ and BYOB! $5 for improvisers
The Museum of Science and Industry presents its 64th annual Christmas Around The World festival, which features more than 50 Christmas trees decorated to reflect ethnic traditions from around the world, as well as daily programs of dancers and musicians from various cultures that will celebrate the winter holidays. The program starts today and runs through January 8 of next year. The program is free with admission to the museum; see the museum's site for full details. Museum of Science and Industry: 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive. (773) 684-1414.
Reconstruction Room's usual series of acting, reading and music performances takes an interesting turn as their latest show, Now See This," features the poems, wordplay and short pieces on the history deaf and hard of hearing writers, performed in American Sign Language. Held at the YWCA at 360 N. Michigan Ave., 8th Floor, the 7-9pm show suggests a $3 donation. Email recroomers[at]gmail[dot]com for more information.
The AFTRA/SAG Senior Radio Players are dedicated to keeping alive the uniqueness of radio as the theater of the imagination." At tonights performances of Life with Luigi (a sitcom about an Italian immigrant to Chicago) and Gunsmoke (a western), youll have a chance to see sound effects people, as well as usually invisible actors, at work. At the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E Washington Street, 7 PM. For more information, call 312-573-8081 or see the website.
Halloween-themed sexiness at HotHouse! Check out this show, chock-a-block with super-hot straight and queer performers shaking it at this variety show. And this is a monthly event, so be sure to return for Thanksgiving and Xmas shows. Doors at at 7 p.m. and the show is at 8 p.m. Cost is only $10. HotHouse is located at 31 E. Balbo.
Seriously, you've got to hot-foot it down to darkroom for tonight's spectacle -- Eve's Parlor Burlesque Velvet Rope Circus. Check out performers like Cherish (she's got a snake), Wise Women Fools, Lord Mike's Dirty Calypsonians and more. Be there. $12 in advance, $15 at the door. darkroom's at 2210 W. Chicago Ave. The show runs from 9 p.m. to at least midnight.
The Evanston Historical Society hosts An Evening of Halloween Ghost Stories at the historic Dawes House, 225 Greenwood St. A different storyteller will be situated in each room of the house, providing a different ghostly story as visitors pass through. Reservations are required for the hour-long program and tickets are $8 for EHS members, $10 for non-members. The show goes on at 7, 8 and 9pm. Call 847-475-3410 to save your spot and to get more information.
Looking for a Halloween experience? Try Twisted: An Experiment in Drag Gone Terribly Awry. Follow this motley crew of kings and creeping things as they penetrate the dark corners of the mind and soul. Come prepared to dance with the dead and make merry with the truly mad! Costumes strongly encouraged. The show is at Circuit at 3641 N. Halsted. Doors open at 9 p.m., and the show is at 10 p.m. And the cost is just $8.
Did you read our interview with Miss Exotic World Michelle L'Amour and now you've just gotta see her in person? Now you can! She's reprising her successful burlesque extravaganza Femme TV at the Lakeshore Theatre -- and tonight's opening night! The show is at 10:30 p.m., located at 3175 N. Broadway.
Chicago Scriptworks presents a staged reading of Sean Fitzpatricks new screenplay Black Friday, tonight at 7 PM at the Chicago Cultural Centers Studio Theater. 77 E. Randolph St. A $5 donation is requested. Call 312-802-8267 or email rsvp-at-chicagoscriptworks-dot-org to make a reservation.
This falls One Book, One Chicago pick is Pride and Prejudice, and this evening at 6 PM, members of the Steppenwolf Theater company will perform a staged reading of excerpts. This free event takes place in the librarys Cindy Pritzker Auditorium. For more information, visit the website.
Tired of the same drag shows at The Baton or The Kit-Kat Club? This weekend brings acclaimed cabaret performers Kiki and Herb to the MCA for two shows on Friday. Kiki and Herb channel the song stylings of duos like the Captain and Tennille to perform hits from yesterday and today. The 7:30 show is sold out, but you can still get tix for the 10 p.m. show for $35.
Beau O'Reilly, co-founder of Curious Theatre Branch, and Ira Glass, radio host of you know what, go toe-to-toe and deliver competing monologues defending their chosen professions. The event is part of the Rhinoceros Theater Festival, about which see here. The smackdown happens at the SAIC Ballroom at 112 S. Michigan. Tickets are $20, and for more information you should call (773) 267-6660.
Playground Theater member team, The Fling, presents an all new improv game show, Win a Date With Joe & Mandy, tonight. From The Fling: "Win a Date With Joe & Mandy is an Improvised Game Show where the audience can win a date with our lovely bachelorette, Mandy, or this guy, Joe. It is Love Connection meets Double Dare as audience members compete in a series of wacky challenges to win the affections of Joe or Mandy. The two audience-selected winners will be whisked away on all expenses paid dates with Joe & Mandy, complete with members of The Fling as chaperones. The dates will be filmed and clips will be shown to new audiences in subsequent weeks." Performances will be at 8pm at The Playground Theater, 3209 North Halsted, Chicago. Tickets are $10, call (773) 348-2209 for reservations.
Short Docs-Stories about Games, a presentation of the Third Coast International Audio Festival, is premiering at Steppenwolfs Garage Theatre tonight at 7 PM. Listen to four short radio pieces about gamesfrom tongue twisters to Goand participate in the subsequent discussion, moderated by Gwen Macsai, who hosts the Third Coast Festivals Re:sound program on Chicago Public Radio. The evening ends with a dessert reception. Tickets are $4 and $6, and can be reserved ahead or picked up a the door. 1650 N Halsted. For more information, visit the website.
The Chicago Composers Forum presents Musicircus, a four-hour performance piece featuring over 500 performers, each one doing their act simultaneously, as specified by composer John Cage when he first put together a Musicircus performance at the University of Illinois in 1967. The event runs from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the event is free and open to the public. Museum of Contemporary Art: 220 E. Chicago. See the Musicircus Website for full details.
The Girlie-Q Variety Hour is opening their fall season with the Back to School Episode at HotHouse, 31 E. Balbo. Doors open at 7pm for the 8pm show featuring a collection of performers from previous Girlie-Q shows and incorporating drag, burlesque, vaudeville, digital media, music and performance art. Tickets are $10, ages 21+. Later tonight you can catch the troupe at Estrojam at the Circuit Nightclub, 3641 N. Halsted. Doors open at 9pm and the girls go on at midnight. $5 before 10pm, $8 after.
Playground Theater member team, The Fling, presents an all new improv game show, Win a Date With Joe & Mandy, tonight. From The Fling: "Win a Date With Joe & Mandy is an Improvised Game Show where the audience can win a date with our lovely bachelorette, Mandy, or this guy, Joe. It is Love Connection meets Double Dare as audience members compete in a series of wacky challenges to win the affections of Joe or Mandy. The two audience-selected winners will be whisked away on all expenses paid dates with Joe & Mandy, complete with members of The Fling as chaperones. The dates will be filmed and clips will be shown to new audiences in subsequent weeks." Performances will be at 8pm at The Playground Theater, 3209 North Halsted, Chicago. Tickets are $10, call (773) 348-2209 for reservations.
Groping Towards Dance: Butoh and the Origins of Music, the only U.S. butoh festival that features emerging artists, continues tonight in the Sydney R. Yates Gallery of the Chicago Cultural Center at 7 PM. Butoh is an avant-garde dance form developed in Japan in the 1960s. The first public performances were wild and primal and shocked the conservative Japanese dance community. Performances in this free program will be followed by talk-backs with the artists. For more information, see the website or call 312-744-6630.
Groping Towards Dance: Butoh and the Origins of Music, the only U.S. butoh festival that features emerging artists, continues tonight in the Sydney R. Yates Gallery of the Chicago Cultural Center at 7 PM. Butoh is an avant-garde dance form developed in Japan in the 1960s. The first public performances were wild and primal and shocked the conservative Japanese dance community. Performances in this free program will be followed by talk-backs with the artists. For more information, see the website or call 312-744-6630.
Redmoon Theater's latest endeavor opens tonight on the south side of the Museum of Science and Industry. "Spectacle '05: Loves Me...Loves Me Not" features "75 choir singers, 31 plastic costumes, 4 pregnant women and 1 escape vehicle." Oh...and it takes place all on water. If you've ever seen a Redmoon production, you know that their ethereal and whimsical designs can only be enhanced by lagoon setting. The show starts at dusk, 7:30 pm. Tonight's performance is free for all; regular tickets cost $10 and the show will run through September 25. The Museum of Science and Industry is located at 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr. Call 312-850-8440x11 for tickets and for more information.
Playground Theater member team, The Fling, presents an all new improv game show, Win a Date With Joe & Mandy, tonight. From The Fling: "Win a Date With Joe & Mandy is an Improvised Game Show where the audience can win a date with our lovely bachelorette, Mandy, or this guy, Joe. It is Love Connection meets Double Dare as audience members compete in a series of wacky challenges to win the affections of Joe or Mandy. The two audience-selected winners will be whisked away on all expenses paid dates with Joe & Mandy, complete with members of The Fling as chaperones. The dates will be filmed and clips will be shown to new audiences in subsequent weeks." Performances will be at 8pm at The Playground Theater, 3209 North Halsted, Chicago. Tickets are $10, call (773) 348-2209 for reservations.
Groping Towards Dance: Butoh and the Origins of Music, the only U.S. butoh festival that features emerging artists, begins tonight in the Sydney R. Yates Gallery of the Chicago Cultural Center at 7 PM. Butoh is an avant-garde dance form developed in Japan in the 1960s. The first public performances were wild and primal and shocked the conservative Japanese dance community. Performances in this free program will be followed by talk-backs with the artists. For more information, see the website or call 312-744-6630.
If your idea of radio drama is Guy Noir on Garrison Keillors Prairie Home Companion, you might want to expand your horizons by checking out this performance by the AFTRA/SAG Senior Radio Players, a group dedicated to keeping alive the uniqueness of radio as the theater of the imagination." At tonights performances of Death Takes a Holiday (a romantic story) and A Good and Faithful Servant (a suspenseful one), youll have a chance to see sound effects people, as well as usually invisible actors, at work. At the Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E Washington Street, 7 PM. For more information, see the website.
Playground Theater member team, The Fling, presents an all new improv game show, Win a Date With Joe & Mandy, starting tonight. From The Fling: "Win a Date With Joe & Mandy is an Improvised Game Show where the audience can win a date with our lovely bachelorette, Mandy, or this guy, Joe. It is Love Connection meets Double Dare as audience members compete in a series of wacky challenges to win the affections of Joe or Mandy. The two audience-selected winners will be whisked away on all expenses paid dates with Joe & Mandy, complete with members of The Fling as chaperones. The dates will be filmed and clips will be shown to new audiences in subsequent weeks." Performances will be at 8pm at The Playground Theater, 3209 North Halsted, Chicago. Tickets are $10, call (773) 348-2209 for reservations.
Join Michelle L'amour (Miss Exotic World 2005) and her burlesque students as they take the stage for the first time presenting their own striptease routines. These girls have worked very hard to present an entertaining evening of burlesque. Come check out Chicago's newest burlesque talent. The show, at the Lakeshore Theatre, starts at 8:30. Tickets $5 at the door.
On August 26, come watch Tomas' Superfantabulous Variety Show at The Lakeshore Theater. Enjoy this magical evening featuring special guest stars Happy Dave, TJ Miller, Bob Rumba, burlesque ladies of The Lavender Cabaret and more! Show starts at 10:30 Tickets $10 at the door.
Known as "the leading ladies of lesbian comedy," the Hysterical Women are reuniting for one show tonight at Star Gaze, 5419 N. Clark. Founded in 1998, the group has made appearances at Pride festivals as well as colleges and women's gatherings. It's a $5 cover for the 8pm show. Call 773-561-7363 for more information. (The website doesn't seem to be working at the moment, but maybe it'll be up by the time you view this.)
Eve's Parlor puts on a "Bad Girl Rock Revue" tonight at The Note, 1565 N. Milwaukee. In addition to the dancing girls, the night includes performances by Flaming X and Jesus & The Devil, poetry, comedy, singers, DJs and a multimedia exhibit. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 9pm and runs till 4am. Tickets are $8, 21 and over.
On August 19, youll have more than two thumbs up as Star and Garter brings you At The Movies, a tribute to all things silver screen. See Miss Exotic World 2005, Michelle Lamour The Ass That Goes POW! and her fabulous Sugarbabies as they take it off to the sounds of Austin Powers, Rocky and Star Wars. All new striptease solos and magical variety acts. The show is at Subterranean and doors at 9:30 show @ 10pm. Only $8!
Nurse your sunburn and hangover in the cool confines of the Neo-Futurarium theater tonight and laugh yourself silly at Barrel of Monkeys' That's Weird, Grandma. Written by 3-6th graders at various Chicago Public Schools, silly stories come to life through the hilarious antics of a group of performers who also teach the kids creative writing during the school year. Take it from me, you'll bust a gut laughing. The show changes each week, so head back for more every Monday night. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids (and, psst, there's a $2 off adult coupon online). The Neo-Futurarium is located at the corner of Foster Ave. and Ashland Ave. at 5153 North Ashland Ave. Call (312) 409-1954 for tickets.
Tense Forms, a community of local artists, presents Heat: the second annual Tense Forms showcase. Music, visual art, film, poetry and performance by artists from Tense Forms. The event happens at Subterranean tonight; doors open at 7:30 PM, tickets are $8, and it's a 21+ show. See the Tense Forms site for full details. Subterranean: 2011 W. North. (773) 278-6600.
Tonight, at 8pm, the New Black Music Repertory Ensemble presents Black Banjo & Fiddle Traditions in the United States, a lecture and demonstration on these old school stylings. The lecture will feature appearances from Clif Ervin, Joe Thompson, James Leva and Cecelia Conway. Free and open to the public, tonight's event will be held at the South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 South Shore Drive.
Part of Stirring Things Up in Chicago, the Chicago Office of Tourism offers the Peel Me a Grape series, celebrating songs about food in a series of dinners and music performed by premier cabaret singers. Tonight's performance is at Thyme Restaurant, 464 N. Halsted, 7pm. Admission is $60. Call 312-226-4300 for reservations and more information.
After today's Dyke March (or maybe just after your work-out), pop behind Cheetah Gym Andersonville (5238 N. Clark) for the Back Lot Bash. The event promises food, beer and rock 'n' roll by acts including Three Dollar Bill, The Locals and TK04. You'll need your ID, 'cause the party is 21+; it runs from 3 to 10pm, and cover is $10.
Tonight at Joe's On Weed St. (number 940 W Weed, to be exact), see queer comedy for cause. "Proud to Laugh" features Chicago comedians Jessica Halem and Sapna Kumar, along with "special guest" Bill Cruz, and the event will benefit Gay Games VII. The doors are 7pm, show starts at 8, and tickets are available at several locations: the Gay Games office, 4753 N. Broadway Ste. 602; Women & Children First Books, 5233 N. Clark; Ticketmaster; or on the door. You can also call 773/907-2006 for reservations or more information.
This is the last day for El Barrio Clocks Beatz N Rhymez Phase III, the current Hip Hop Theatre production at Truman College in Novar Hall Room #3246 (1154 W. Wilson) Billed as a Chicago-rooted journey "fusing the elements of spoken word, urban dance, turntabilsim, social commentary, rhythm, and personal stories... [blending] humor and emotional truth," El Barrio Clocks should be a challenging show. Performances at 1pm and 6pm. Tickets are $10, $5 for student matinees.
El Barrio Clocks Beatz N Rhymez Phase III, the current Hip Hop Theatre production at Truman college, is being held today at Truman College's Novar Hall Room #3246 (1154 W. Wilson) at 10am and 7pm. Billed as a Chicago-rooted journey "fusing the elements of spoken word, urban dance, turntabilsim, social commentary, rhythm, and personal stories... [blending] humor and emotional truth," El Barrio Clocks should be a challenging show. Tickets are $10, $5 for student matinees.
Tonight, join the Storefront Theater and Prop Theater for an After Work Cocktail Party and Sneak Preview Benefit Performance of Estrogen Fest 2005: Changing the Rules! The preview features the fest's Program B, "We're Still Here." Gallery 37, 66 E. Randolph St., will offer cocktails, hors d'oeurves and live music at 6pm with performances beginning at 7:30pm. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased online or by calling 312-742-8497. Visit the website for more information and descriptions of the performances.
Tonight, join the Storefront Theater and Prop Theater for an After Work Cocktail Party and Sneak Preview Benefit Performance of Estrogen Fest 2005: Changing the Rules! The preview features the fest's Program A, "History, Fantasy & Myth." Gallery 37, 66 E. Randolph St., will offer cocktails, hors d'oeurves and live music at 6pm with performances beginning at 7:30pm. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased online or by calling 312-742-8497. Visit the website for more information on the fest and descriptions of the performances.
The Discrete Series at 3030 presents Robert Quillen Camp's production of Days of Rage tonight at both 7pm and 8:30pm at 3030 W. Cortland. Featured in Time Out: Days of Rage is an audio performance for small audiences which combines headphones, speakers and live piano. It follows several would-be activists in present day New York as they try to orchestrate a contemporary equivalent to the Weatherman's failed 1969 "Days of Rage" Chicago riot. Strange and surreal, the narrative explores political alienation, the ethics of violence, and the distance between the sociopolitical climate of the sixties and today. Robert Quillen Camp creates interdisciplinary performance works that combine sound, music, installation, and theater. He is the founder and director of the Dodeska Performance Ensemble." There is a $5 suggested donation (BYOB). 3030 is a former Pentecostal church located at 3030 W. Cortland Ave., one block south of Armitage between Humboldt Blvd. and Kedzie. Parking is easiest on Armitage. Due to the nature of the work, each performance can accommodate only 32 audience members at a time. Email kerri at kerri@lavamatic.com to make a reservation.
Join local writers and performers for Wednesday's Reconstruction Room. The regular event promotes poetry and performance in the Chicago area. The Reconstruction Room meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at the Black Rock Bar at Damen and Addison. Organizers Della Watson and Erin Teegarden have invited Kerry Nevel (poetry), Brandon Heckman (fiction), and Laura Pretnar (performance) to share their work. 8pm, 21+.
Michelle L'amour and her Fabulous Sugarbabies stop at Subterreanean, 2011 W. North Ave., for their new show Star and Garter Burlesque. There will be stripteases, variety acts, pagentry and more. The show costs $8 and doors open at 9pm. Contact franky[at]lavendercabaret.com for more information.
Part of the Chicago Improv Festival, Schadenfreude and Funny Ha-Ha join forces to present "Alternative Comedy Night." The show will feature the growing underground literary scene with readings and performances from such names as Aaron Freeman, Claire Zulkey and Mark Bazer. The 9pm event will be at the Double Door, 1572 N. Milwaukee Ave., and costs $8. Call 773-489-3160 for tickets and info.
It's a night of burlesque, bands and drag at the Empty Bottle tonight. Scheduled to perform: NYC drag king Rod Thruster; Heartless B!tch Entertainers; Hellcat Hussies; Logic of Elliott; The Sonnets; and quite a few more. The show is a benefit for the Mobtown Moxie Revue, a group of Chicago performers. Tickets are $8 (available on the Empty Bottle site), the doors open at 9:00 PM, and the show is at 10:00. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.
Join local writers and performers for tonight's Reconstruction Room. The regular event promotes poetry and performance in the Chicago area. The Reconstruction Room meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at the Black Rock Bar at Damen and Addison. Tonight's reading features a collaborative performance between the Rec Roomers and PAC alums Hermit Arts. Free, 21 and over.
In case you missed it on the last go-round, the Neo-Futurists are bringing back the family-friendly version of "Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind," called "Too Much Light Kids." The first show is today at 2pm, and will be held every Saturday at 2 through June 25th. Tickets for kids are $1 plus the roll of a six-sided die; parents are $7 plus the roll. For more info, check out Alejandra Valera's review of the show from back in December, or visit neofuturists.org.
Chicago Public Radio's Stories on Stage presents a reading of Stuart Dybek's "Orchids," a short story from his novel I Sailed with Magellan. Three actors -- Joe Dempsey, Rob Riley and Judy blue -- will read the complete story, expected to last two and a half hours, including intermission. From the press release: "Set in Chicago's south side during the Cold War, 'Orchids' is the story of two boyhood friends Perry and Stosh, whose get-rich scheme to finance an adventure trip to get to Mexico goes awry." Tickets for the 3pm event, at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., are $14 for CPR and MCA members, $17 for non-members. Purchase them online or call 312-397-4010.
The Dollar Store Reading Series returns to the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, for another round of stories (and more?) about items found at a dollar store. This month, writer/kingmaker Pete Coco, photographer Nathan Keay and bearded
comedian John Pattavina will join co-hosts Jonathan Messinger and Sean Gardner for some cheap, low-brow literary hi-jinx. 7pm, 21 and over, $1 donation gets you in.
I know Margaret Cho is supposed to be the feminist's comedian or some such nonsense like that, but I've never really gotten into her act. However, I do hear that she's pretty well-liked, which is probably why House of Blues is presenting Margaret Cho - The Assassin Tour, at the Chicago Theater. The doors open at 7pm, the show begins at 8pm, and tickets range from $29.50-$43.50. Get them here or through your friendly, neighborhood Ticketmaster location.
The Third Coast Festival presents "Ask Amy: Radio about Relationships and Romance (and Sex)," featuring Chicago Tribune advice columnist (and former NPR producer) Amy Dickinson on stage to listen to and discuss a variety of radio stories about the joys, challenges, rewards and pitfalls of romantic (and/or not-so-romantic) relationships. As a special bonus, Dickinson will be reading a few of the wilder letters she's received at the paper. The show is from 7pm to 9pm at the Garage Theater at Steppenwolf, 1650 N. Halsted. Admission is $6 ($4 for students and Chicago Public Radio members).
Tickets will be available at the door, and/or you can reserve them by
contacting info
The Girlie-Q Variety Show, in celebration of International Women's Day, is excited to present an evening of devilish drag, bodacious burlesque and precocious performance! Enjoy this sensational evening featuring the tempting dance stylings of Chicago burlesque performers
Join the ladies this Saturday, March 5 at the HotHouse, located at 31 East Balbo. Doors open at 6 pm; show starts at 7 pm. General admission is $20, but just $10 if you mention "Girlie-Q" at the door.
Cafe Finjan presents "Muslim and Jewish Comedy Nite" tonight from 7pm to 9pm at Jones College Prep Academy, 606 S. State St. "Mixing stand-up and sketch comedy, kippah and kufi, puns and politics - don't miss it!" Scheduled performers: Azhar Usman, Avi Lessing, Farheen Hakeem, Kumail Nanjiani and Triplette. More info here.
Co-sponsored by the Muslim Civil Rights Center, Jewish Council on Urban
Affairs, Muslim Bar Association and Inner-City Muslim Action Network. Tickets are $20 ($12 students), RSVP to zubairjd{at}ameritech.net or rsvp{at}jcua.org. Free Parking in the "Park 1" Lot at State and Balbo.
Stories on Stage, Chicagos dramatic short-story reading series, presents Synchronicity, featuring three stories about discovering or affirming love. The pre-Valentines Day performance takes place at 3 pm and the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. Stories on Stage is a production of Chicago Public Radio.
Ed Sobel directs Chicago actors reading the stories The Wonder Spot by Melissa Bank, Next of Kin by Lily Tuck and Small Degrees by Kevin Brockmeier.
This weekend marks the Around the Coyote Winter Arts Festival, with visual art, theater, performances and film screenings taking place Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in Wicker Park and Bucktown. Visual art can be viewed Friday 6-10pm, Saturday 11-10pm and Sunday 11-6pm. There will be exhibitions and performances by more than 100 visual artists exhibiting a diverse collection of photography, paintings, sculpture and mixed-media works in the Flat Iron Arts Building at 1579 N. Milwaukee. The ATC Winter Theatre Festival provides a venue to examine the unique collaboration between playwright and director. This festival features several short, raw plays--each of which has been born out of artistic partnerships between local playwrights and emerging directors. The ATC Short Film & Video will be held at Rodan, 1530 N. Milwaukee, on Friday and Sunday. They'll have some of the moviemakers at the screening both nights to field your comments and question. There will also be voting for the winter winner of the Audience Choice Award. We will show two sets each night, one nice and the other "naughty".
Second City comes home for a free performance at the University of Chicago's Mandel Hall for all university students, faculty, and staff (ID required). Co-founded by U of C alums, the group will take the stage at 7:30pm, but be sure to get there early, as doors open at 7pm and the theater is likely to be packed. (With any luck the group will invite Off-Off Campus, the U of C's student comedy group, to perform and the most hilarious part of the evening will be watching the aspiring comedians flounder about and be shamed by their far more apt guests.)
GroundUp Theatre presents Letters/X, a show of readings from break-up letters given to (or found by) the GroundUp performers and writers. The show runs at the Hungry Brain (2319 W. Belmont) through February 26; see GroundUp's site for a complete list of dates and further information.
Join local burlesque and comic artists for a night of funtacular entertainment at the Elbo Room. Acts include the plus-sized and sassified Hellcat Hussies, sexy burlesque artists, gender-bending drag kings and queens, plus comics and musicians. The Burlesque Variety Envening costs just $5 and will be held on January 20 at 8 p.m. The Elbo Room is located at 2871 N. Lincoln Avenue.
Actors Danny Glover and Felix Justice perform writings and speeches of Langston Hughes and Martin Luther King, Jr. tonight at 7:30pm at St. Sabina, 1210 W 78th Place. Tickets are only $10 ($5 for children). Call 773/483-4300 for more information.
The Second City presents their third annual 24-hour improv benefit, "The Second City That Never Sleeps: Letters To Santa." Second City performers and special guests take the stage for twenty-four hours straight, with the proceeds going to provide holiday gifts for needy Chicago-area families. Joining a team of Second City all-stars (including MAD TV's Keegan-Michael Key) will be guests including Steve Albini, Robbie Fulks, Jon Langford, Sally Timms, and Jeff Tweedy. (During Tweedy's set Tuesday night you can also bid in a silent auction for a private performance, in your home, with Tweedy doing twenty songs of your choice for you and twenty of your friends.) The show starts at 8:30pm Tuesday night and continues through 8:30pm tonight. The $10 ticket, available at the door, guarantees you entry for the entire period. At Second City e.t.c., in Pipers Alley, 1608 N. Wells Ave. For more information, please call 312-337-3992.
The Second City presents their third annual 24-hour improv benefit, "The Second City That Never Sleeps: Letters To Santa." Second City performers and special guests take the stage for twenty-four hours straight, with the proceeds going to provide holiday gifts for needy Chicago-area families. Joining a team of Second City all-stars (including MAD TV's Keegan-Michael Key) will be guests including Steve Albini, Robbie Fulks, Jon Langford, Sally Timms, and Jeff Tweedy. (During Tweedy's set tonight you can also bid in a silent auction for a private performance, in your home, with Tweedy doing twenty songs of your choice for you and twenty of your friends.) The show starts at 8:30pm tonight and continues through 8:30pm Wednesday. The $10 ticket, available at the door, guarantees you entry for the entire period. At Second City e.t.c., in Pipers Alley, 1608 N. Wells Ave. For more information, please call 312-337-3992.
Those crazy kids over at Barrel of Monkeys like to teach creative writing in the Chicago Public Schools. When they're done, they take the stories, and, word for word, produce them into short and hilarious performance pieces. For a mere $10 for adults and $5 for kids (coupon available online for $2 off) you can watch, listen, and laugh to their show That's Weird, Grandma every Monday night at 8 p.m. at the Neo-Futurarium, located at 5153 North Ashland Ave. (at Foster). And right now, until January 3, come see the "Very Special Holiday Show" of T.W.G. For Tickets, or more information, call them at 312-409-1954. It's all about the children!
Those crazy kids over at Barrel of Monkeys like to teach creative writing in the Chicago Public Schools. When they're done, they take the stories, and, word for word, produce them into short and hilarious performance pieces. For a mere $10 for adults and $5 for kids (coupon available online for $2 off) you can watch, listen, and laugh to their show That's Weird, Grandma every Monday night at 8 p.m. at the Neo-Futurarium, located at 5153 North Ashland Ave. (at Foster). And right now, until January 3, come see the "Very Special Holiday Show" of T.W.G. For Tickets, or more information, call them at 312-409-1954. It's all about the children!
It's 12:15 on a Saturday night. What are you doing? You're watching the Belmont Burlesque Revue at the Playground Theatre. For just $10, you'll enjoy lovely dancing, amazing magic tricks, and knee-slapping jokes. The Playground Theatre is located at 3209 N. Halsted.
Just in time for winter, a "Naked Poetry Anti-Slam" takes place tonight at 3829 N. Broadway (2 blocks South of Irving Park Road). The performance gets started at 8 p.m. followed by 11 p.m. dance party. This is what the organizers had to say: "The Naked Poetry Anti-Slamexerts a non-sexual, non-competitive maxim, encouraging authors toread as long as they'd like while audience patience is garnered by thefurthered honesty of the naked body. The Naked Poetry Anti-Slam showcases these beings, driven to the heights of vernacular from the simplest delights of the body as a blank canvas. Participate with Chicago's most fascinating performers, effecting our collective unconscious in rhapsody, in a redefined anatomy of being." There is a $10 donation requested. Poets and Musical Performers include: Ozkr Dragonflies DuSoliel, Barrie Cole, Aurora Danai, Ellie Maybe, Just Joking Jerry, Christine Phillips, Bob La Bla, Phaelan Levelle, Shawnecee Nation, I Like Action!, DJ Kenny Dread. For more information please contact Teri Vrakas by emailing teri@muralivegot.com or call (773) 292-0292. No cameras / No gropers / No drunken pukers, please!
Those crazy kids over at Barrel of Monkeys like to teach creative writing in the Chicago Public Schools. When they're done, they take the stories, and, word for word, produce them into short and hilarious performance pieces. For a mere $10 for adults and $5 for kids (coupon available online for $2 off) you can watch, listen, and laugh to their show That's Weird, Grandma every Monday night at 8 p.m. at the Neo-Futurarium, located at 5153 North Ashland Ave. (at Foster). And right now, starting tonight and running until January 3, come see the "Very Special Holiday Show" of T.W.G. For Tickets, or more information, call them at 312-409-1954. It's all about the children!
The Dollar Store, a new monthly reading series at the Hideout, will put up its second show tonight at 7 p.m. The Dollar Store is now a monthly show featuring some of Chicago's top literary and performance talents together. Each performer receives an item purchased from a local dollar store one month in advance, which they then use to craft a short story, monologue or performance piece. Each piece is written specifically for the show. This month's performers include "Partly Dave Show" Co-Host Christopher Piatt, Bridge Magazine Fiction Editor Mike Newirth, and Modern Mythologist and local writer John H. Matthews. The show is hosted by Jonathan Messinger, editor of THISisGRAND.org. The Hideout is located at 1354 W. Wabansia, Chicago. There is a $1 suggested donation for the show.
The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs presents "Rudolph, the Red-Hosed Reindeer" at the Loop Theater (8 E. Randolph St). The show opens today at 8 p.m. and runs through Friday, Dec. 31.
Tickets are $15 and $10 for students and seniors. All tickets can be purchased by phone at 312-744-LOOP (5667) or on-line at ticketweb.com.
"Chicago's favorite cross-dressing reindeer is back for its seventh
smash holiday season. Join Rudolph (Brannen Daugherty) and his misfit friends -- Herbie (Adam Keune), the "not gay enough" elf who wants to be a dentist and Yukon Cornelia (Lori Lee), the butch prospector with a deep, dark secret -- as
they search for happiness and attempt to outrun the horrifyingly tacky
Abominable Drag Beast (Ed Jones)."
For more information visit www.handbagproductions.org.
Tonight at the Beat Kitchen at 2100 W. Belmont, Chicago, enjoy a big showcase of bands as part of the Flabby Hoffman show. Beginning at 8:30 p.m. The Parc Du Cerfs (The Flabby Hoffman band), 9:15 p.m. Adam Zeisler, 9:30 p.m. The Apartment Burlesque Orchestra, 10:15 p.m. The Wandering Endorphin, 10:30 p.m. A Band Called Pharisee, 11:15 p.m. Adam Zeisler, 11:30 p.m. God Wafer. Call 773-281-4444 for more information. If you miss the live performances, you can watch the taped show on Flabby Hoffman's cable tv show, Thursday night on Chicago Cable Channel 19 from 11:30 p.m.12:30 a.m. $7 at the door.
More improv than you can shake a big funny stick at tonight at The Playground Theatre. Big Yellow Bus performs at 8 p.m. Tickets are a measly $6. Big Yellow Bus is an amalgam (if you will) of the best improv performers that The Playground theatre has to give. The Playground is located at 3209 N. Halsted, Chicago. BYOB.
Chicago Improv Anarchy (The CIA) presents their new improv show: "If...Then..." on Saturdays thru December 18, 2004 at the Strawdog Theater, located at 3829 N. Broadway. The show starts at 11 p.m. and tickets cost only $9. Call 773.419.4606 to reserve tickets. "If...Then... is an unscripted journey exploring the consequences of the decisions we make every day. Each week, based on an audience suggestion, a subject is faced with a decision. We then get to witness the direction this person's life takes following both paths, through the use of a doppelganger. Only fate and the talented CIA improvisers can determine what will happen next."
Tonight at 8 p.m. The Playground Theater presents four improv teams for just $10. Pimprov, Space Robbers, The Fling and Homey Loves Chachi perform for your amusement and general well-being. The Playground theater is located at 3209 N. Halsted, Chicago. Drinking is encouraged. BYOB.
Tonight, the Metro presents the Stella Comedy Show featuring Michael Ian Black, Michael Showalter and David Wain all of MTV's The State & Wet Hot American Summer fame. Special guest tonight is Eugene Mirman. The show is 18 & up, and tickets are $18 and can be purchased online. The show starts at 9 p.m. The Metro is located at 3730 N. Clark Street,Chicago.
Monday nights are alright for Barrel of Monkeys' That's Weird, Grandma at the Neo-Futurarium. After teaching creative writing in the CPS system, BOM's ensemble of actors, comedians, musicians and playwrights selects and adapts some of the thousands of stories generated by children for stage presentation. Trust me, this is 'bust a gut' funny stuff. The show starts at 8 p.m. and tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children (and hey, there's a coupon online). The Neo-Futurarium is located at 5153 North Ashland Ave (Ashland and Foster in Chicago). The show is about an hour and changes every week based on your vote so you can see TWG again and again. For tickets call 312-409-1954.
The show features a series of sketches poking fun at politics, race and everything in between. No one is safe, not even Jesus!
Final performance October 28th at 10:30pm at Donny's Skybox (1608 N Wells St) Tickets are $8 ($5 for students). Call 312-337-3992 for tix.
At Steppenwolf's Garage Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted. 7-9pm (doors open at 6:30pm). $5 for general admission, $3 for Chicago Public Radio members and students; call 312/948-4682 for reservations or more information, or email info
Now in its eighth season, Chicago SummerDance is proud to announce the expansion of the popular program with the addition of the DJ Series that focuses on the ever-growing genre of electronic dance music and celebrates the sounds of Chicago's own house music stalwarts along with special guests. This 10-week long Wednesday night series runs June 23 - August 25. Admission is free.
Opening the event, XChicago will be hosting an industry mixer with video artists and professionals, set to the rock/pop samplings of DJ Sanchez Ali. Next is an exploration of the visual and aural arts - a screening of "The Best of Art After Next TV." The AFX TV line-up includes:
• The experimental video art of Walter Wright (inventor of the music
video)
• The AFX interview w/ controversial punk rock group The Locust
• AMODAs (Austin Museum of Digital Art) experimental contemplative
audio performance series with Brent Fariss & Bill Thompson
• Select features from Illegal Art.
Following the video, The Passengers will give their live debut performance with a one-hour set, accompanied by digital artist Mason Dixon's live video mixing. There will also be raffle prizes, open to all, from Digital Juice, Magnet Media, and DV magazine that will help to fund future Art After Next and AE Chicago events.
It all starts at 7pm at Rodan, 1530 N. Milwaukee. No cover (donate what you can); 21 and over.
*See acrobats, jugglers, unicyclists, clowns, knife dancers and more! **Listen to a live and orginal score by P1xel and the Chronic Network! ***Enjoy a Midway-full of vendors and curiosities!
Saturday May 15th, the fair opens 3 pm, showtimes 4pm and 7pm.
*See acrobats, jugglers, unicyclists, clowns, knife dancers and more! **Listen to a live and orginal score by P1xel and the Chronic Network! ***Enjoy a Midway-full of vendors and curiosities!
Friday May 14th, the fair opens 4pm, showtime 7pm.
To be performed are "Ants," a 1949 episode from the Escape! series, and "It Pays to be Ignorant," a comedy featuring 1940s popular radio personalities competing on a quiz show. At the Chicago Cultural Center, Michigan and Washington Avenues, in the Claudia Cassidy Threater. Free. For more information, call 312/427-3325.
This performance will feature Jane Byrne's "Snowbirds" and Harold Washington's Dessert Bars. "One lucky audience member will get to sample Jane Byrne's pineapple-infused shrimp salad and in the fairer than fair grand tradition of Washington's grassroots campaign and administration, every audience member will get a piece of the pie. (actual pie not included, dessert bars instead)."
It's all free, but donations are appreciated, and copies of the cookbook will be sold for $10 cheap, with proceeds to benefit I-80 Drama Co. and The Lakefront Foundation.
From Pink Bloque:"On Sunday July 27, 2003 the bands [chosen on July 13 ] will play their new hit to an adoring crowd at the Empty Bottle. A Pink Bloque member will introduce each band and all the new Chicago rock favorites will play! All bands will get a chance to go nuts and play whatever kind of music they want with a whole new group of people! Also, dont miss your chance to see the one night performance of the Pink Bloque Rock Lotto Band, with never before seen outfits and dance moves. Plus, dance music for those boring in-between band times provided by DJ White Flight. Of course, all will be able to indulge on sweets at the Bake Sale!"
The evening begins at 9:30 PM; $8 in advance, $10 at door.
