Christmas in June?-Radio City Christmas Spectacular

THE RADIO CITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR TO BRING AN ALL NEW PRODUCTION TO THE AKOO THEATRE AT ROSEMONT
DECEMBER 14-30, 2012

THE ROCKETTES TAKE CHICAGO ON AN UNPARALLELED
CHRISTMAS JOURNEY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON FEATURING
NEW SCENES, DAZZLING COSTUMES AND A 50-FOOT LED SCREEN COUPLED WITH SHOW STOPPING ROCKETTES PERFORMANCES

*Tickets On-Sale Friday, June 1 at 10am 

Are you one of those uber organized people who likes to get the Christmas list taken care of well in advance of Black Friday and avoid the rush?   Does summer's impending heat index have you nostalgic for a little chilly cheer?   Then this is the scoop for you.
                                                   
MSG Entertainment (MSGE) announces an all new production of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the Rockettes, as Chicago audiences will experience the magic of Christmas like never before. In this multi-faceted production, the Rockettes will dance their way through an awe-inspiring journey with new scenes, an array of glamorous new costumes, dramatic lighting effects, and a 50-foot LED screen that will enhance the show with breathtaking new imagery. The Christmas Spectacular will run at the Akoo Theatre at Rosemont from December 14-30, 2012. Tickets go on sale Friday, June 1 at 10am.

“We are thrilled to return to Chicago at the Akoo Theatre at Rosemont with an all new edition of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular,” said Don Simpson, executive vice president of productions, MSG Entertainment. “With new technological enhancements and show-stopping performance elements, the 2012 production offers a truly immersive experience like nothing Chicago audiences have ever seen before. Returning audiences will be amazed by the transformation of the Christmas Spectacular, and new fans will not want to miss this show.”

The Rockettes have a long-standing relationship with the Rosemont Theatre with the debut of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular in 1997.  This year marks the 11th season the Christmas Spectacular will perform at the Rosemont Theatre, the last production being in 2008.For many Chicago area families, seeing the Rockettes perform in the beloved holiday show has become a family tradition and this year audiences can experience the magic of the holidays with an all new production. While in Chicago, the Rockettes also become known as an embodiment of the spirit of giving and embracing the community by participating in many great local charitable initiatives including collecting coats and canned food for the needy, visiting children’s hospitals and helping to raise awareness for worthy causes.

This year, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular celebrates 85 magical years of the Rockettes, commemorating their past, present and future in this unprecedented milestone year. The Rockettes have remained a timeless tradition as American icons throughout their 85 year legacy.  They continue to take the Christmas Spectacular to new heights, dazzling audiences with their performance style as it continues to be both deceivingly complex and entirely glamorous.

This year’s production will feature a 50-foot LED screen that will transport the audience to Times Square and Santa’s Workshop with Santa and the Rockettes, using new technology with the Christmas Spectacular’s classic holiday numbers to enhance the production. The 2012 edition of the show will introduce new sets and special effects that will immerse audiences in the magic of Christmas like never before.

In addition to fan favorite scenes, including the high-energy, tap-infused number “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” the Rockettes will debut new numbers that will showcase their signature precision dance technique alongside challenging and dynamic new choreography. 

In a brand new scene, “New York at Christmas,” the Rockettes will board a life size double-decker tour bus, taking audiences on a guided tour through the streets of New York City.  This scene includes show-stopping choreography performed across the landscape of iconic New York City landmarks and culminates in the “crossroads of the world,” Times Square. 

Santa Claus will take center stage in two magical new scenes: “Magic is There,” in which Santa takes two young brothers on a journey to the North Pole, and “Here Comes Santa Claus,” a number that reveals how Santa can be in multiple places at once. These heartwarming moments highlight the true meaning of Christmas in a way that only Santa himself can convey.

A new Rockettes finale will honor and celebrate the stars of the Christmas Spectacular featuring dazzling new costumes and choreography. The Rockettes will sparkle from the stage in the finale performance “Let Christmas Shine,” wearing a costume featuring over 3,000 crystals. As the performance comes to a close, audiences will have the opportunity to lend their voices alongside the “Radio City Singers” in an energetic rendition of “Joy to the World.”

Beloved numbers such as “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers,” which continues to set the standard as the signature Rockettes number for precision performance, and “The Living Nativity,” both of which have been performed since the Christmas Spectacular’s inception, still remain a vital part of the show’s core.

In the Christmas Spectacular’s18-year combined history outside of New York, as well as the production at Radio City Music Hall, the show has played to more than 72 million people. The Christmas Spectacular continues to create memories that audiences have come to treasure, and this year will mark an all new Spectacular experience for Chicago.

Ticket Information
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, presented by Chase, plays at the Akoo Theatre at Rosemont during the 2012 holiday season for 34 dazzling performances, December 14-30, 2012.  A limited number of Premium seats are available for $79.00 - $89.00 and single ticket prices range from $30.00 - $75.50. Tickets for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular are on sale to the public at the Akoo Theatre at Rosemont box office, online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.  Groups of 10 or more may reserve tickets now by contacting Group Theater Tix at 312-423-6612.   

About MSG Entertainment
MSG Entertainment (MSGE) is one of the country’s leaders in live entertainment.  MSG Entertainment creates, produces and/or presents a variety of live productions, including the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, starring the Rockettes.  MSG Entertainment also presents or hosts other live entertainment events such as concerts, family shows and special events in MSG’s diverse collection of venues.  These venues include Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the Theater at Madison Square Garden, the Beacon Theatre, the Chicago Theatre and the Wang Theatre.  More information is available here.

About The Akoo Theatre at Rosemont
Opened in 1995, the 4,400-seat theater is known as one of the Chicago areas best venues for music and theatrical performances and special events. Located at 5400 N. River Road in the Rosemont region, the venue has one of the largest stages in the area, with a superior sound and lighting system, sizable backstage and roomy dressing rooms. Audiences appreciate the theater’s unobstructed sightlines, comfortable seating and extra-wide aisles. Additional amenities include a multi-level grand lobby featuring a beautifully paneled mahogany staircase and glittering French crystal chandelier, ample concessions areas, a multi-level VIP Suite and parking lots and sheltered garages adjacent to the theatre. The theater is easily accessible by car or public transit and is within easy walking distance of numerous hotels, restaurants and the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

Award Winning Brit Flicks at Music Box

No need to pop for airfare to London’s West End or even Broadway:

CHICAGO’S MUSIC BOX THEATRE PRESENTS SCREENINGS OF TWO NATIONAL THEATRE OF GREAT BRITAIN HITS:

2012 TONY© AWARD-NOMINATED ONE MAN TWO GUVNORS, JUNE 16 & 21,
AND  DANNY BOYLE’S SMASH STAGE PRODUCTION OF FRANKENSTEIN, STARRING JONNY LEE MILLER & BENEDICT CUMBERBATCH, JUNE 18-19, & JULY 22, 25-26

The Music Box Theatre, Chicago’s year round film festival located at 3733 N. Southport Avenue, is proud to present limited engagement screenings of two National Theatre of Great Britain hits this summer:  the 2012 multiple Tony Award-nominated One Man Two Guvnors, featuring the current Broadway cast that transferred from the National, and Danny Boyle's smash hit stage production of Frankenstein, starring Jonny Lee Miller and Benedict Cumberbatch, who alternate in the roles of The Creature and Victor Frankenstein.   

The screenings are produced by National Theatre Live, a groundbreaking initiative of London’s renowned National Theatre to broadcast the best of British theatre to cinemas around the world, both live and in “encore screenings” (repeats of the live performances that are recorded and replayed without losing any of their magic and immediacy). The first season of events, which began in June 2009 with the acclaimed production of Phèdre starring Helen Mirren, was seen by over 165,000 people on 320 screens in 22 countries.
 
The comedy sensation One Man, Two Guvnors stars British breakout comic actor (and Tony nominee for Best Performance by an Actor in a Lead Role in a Play) James Corden as Francis Hensall (“One Man”).  Always famished and easily confused, Henshall agrees to work for a local gangster as well as a criminal in hiding (“Two Guvnors”), both of whom are linked in a web of schemes, extortions and romantic associations…none of which Francis can keep straight. He has to do everything in his power to keep his two guvnors from meeting, while trying to eat anything in sight along the way.  Simple.  Falling trousers, flying fish heads, star-crossed lovers, cross-dressing mobsters and a fabulous on-stage band are just some of what awaits at this most “deliriously funny” (Daily Telegraph) play.  

Richard Bean’s side splitting comedy, directed by Tony- and Olivier-award winning director Nicholas Hytner, is nominated for seven Tony awards for its Broadway engagement, following a sold-out run in London’s West End at the National Theatre.   Encore screenings of One Man, Two Guvnors take place at the Music Box Theatre Saturday, June 16, at 2pm and Thursday, June 21, at 7:30pm. Tickets, priced at $15 (advance) and $18 (day of), can be purchased at the Music Box Theatre box office or online at www.musicboxtheatre.com.

Academy Award© -winning film director Danny Boyle returned to the stage with an electrifying production of Mary Shelley’s classic 1818 novel Frankenstein about a scientist and his creation.  Called “the most viscerally exciting and stunning show in town,” (Daily Telegraph), Frankenstein enjoyed a sell-out run at the National Theatre in 2011, and went on to win awards including the 2012 Olivier Award for Best Actor for Benedict Cumberbatch ( PBS TV’s “Sherlock Holmes”) and Jonny Lee Miller (“Trainspotting”), who alternate the roles of Victor Frankenstein and the Creature.  

Of note, the British Boyle (127 Hours, Slumdog Millionaire), who is orchestrating the $42 million Opening Ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games in London, has recently been quoted as saying he took some inspiration from the “Frankenstein” story while formulating his Olympic plans.  Encore screenings of Frankenstein take place at the Music Box Theatre, Monday and Tuesday, June 18 and 19, at 7:30 pm; Sunday, July 22 at 6 and 8:30 pm; and Wednesday and Thursday, July 25 and 26 at 7:30 pm.  There are two versions - Miller and Cumberbatch alternate as Victor Frankenstein and the Creature; for specific casting, please visit www.musicboxtheatre.com.  

Tickets, priced at $15 (advance), $18 (day of), and $20 to see both versions (advance sale only) can be purchased at the Music Box Theatre box office or online at www.musicboxtheatre.com


About the Music Box Theatre:
For nearly 30 years the Music Box Theatre has been the premiere venue in Chicago for independent and foreign films, festivals and some of the greatest cinematic events in Chicago. It currently has the largest theater space operated full time in the city. The Music Box Theatre is independently owned and operated by the Southport Music Box Corporation. SMBC, through its Music Box Films division, also distributes foreign and independent films in the theatrical, DVD and television markets throughout the United States. www.musicboxtheatre.com.  

SAVE THE DATES AND BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT:

Download the entire Music Box Theatre Summer Calendar here: http://www.musicboxtheatre.com/assets/calendars/MusicBox_Summer2012.pdf

ChiIL Out With ChiIL Live Shows at Do Division This Fri-Sun

Check out the 2012 Line Up at Do Division Fest!

*ChiIL Live Show's particular favorites & must sees are in red

Damen Stage:
Programmed by Empty Bottle Presents
& Hosted by Comedian Peter O'Connell

Friday, June 1st
Black Belles 8:30 pm
BBU 7:15 pm
Moon Furies 6:00 pm
Hosted by Peter O'Connell [Wham City Comedy] 4:45 PM

Saturday, June 2nd
Peanut Butter Wolf 8:30 pm
Besnard Lakes 7:00 pm
Craig Finn 5:30 pm
Mannequin Men 4:00 pm
Peter O'Connell 3:50 / intro
In Tall Buildings 2:30 pm
Chris Connelly 1:00 pm

Sunday, June 3rd
The Antlers 8:30 pm
Pinebender 7:00 pm
Cory Chisel & The Wandering Sons 5:30 pm
Teengirl Fantasy 4:00 pm
People's Temple 2:30 pm
Eiren Caffall 1:00 pm

Leavitt Stage:
Programmed by Subterranean and House Call Entertainment

Friday, June 1st
JC Brooks and the Uptown Sound @ 8:30 pm (just back from rockin' Summer Camp Music Festival)

Todd Hembrook & The Hemispheres @ 7:15 pm

The O’My’s @ 6:15 pm (check out our past photo filled coverage of the O'My's sold out show at Reggie's right here)

Saturday, June 2nd
Le Butcherettes @ 9:00 pm
O’ Death @ 7:45 pm
White Mystery @ 6:45 pm
Brown Bird @ 5:45 pm
The Blind Staggers @ 4:45 pm
Magic Milk @ 3:45 pm

Sunday, June 3rd
Murder By Death @ 8:00 pm
The Soft Pack @ 6:45 pm
Gypsyblood @ 6:00 pm
Mutts @ 5:00 pm (highly recommended!!)
Young Jesus @ 4:00 pm


Got punk kin, banger babies, & lil folk?

We'll have our own tent in the Family Fun Fest all weekend, with ChiIL Mama's Rock Tots Photo Spot/Dress Up Area, so swing by and say hey.    ChiIL Mama and 11 year old, Du-Jay, will be there in person.

FAMILY FUN FEST

DO DIVISION FAMILY FUN FEST 2012-Saturday and Sunday June 2-3 2012

“The Shedd Aquarium comes to Division Street”, along with old favorites such as face painting, and rocking kids' music.

Do Division Street Fest & Sidewalk Sale, a neighborhood festival that attracted over 60,000 people in 2011, has partnered with Friends of Pritzker School and LaSalle II PTO to create Do Division Family Fun Fest. Do Division Family Fun Fest, Saturday June 2nd noon-6pm, and Sunday June 3rd noon-5pm, has quickly become one of the premier family-friendly festivals in the city. Just off the main drag of Division Street, where the main festival is being held, there will be activities for the kids including ChiIL Mama's Rock Tots Photo Spot/ Dress Up Area, drumming, pony rides and hallmark vendors like Psychobaby, who will be transforming kids’ hair into punk hairdo’s.

This year, we will continue to occupy a two-block stretch of Hoyne Avenue, from Division Street and the fest north to Potomac. New this year is our sponsor the Shedd Aquarium, who will bring several of their popular games such as the Penguin Plunge and the Polar Playzone as well as an opportunity to see some of their animals up close and personal throughout the weekend. We are also excited to have the Great Lakes Initiative, an organization that is focused on conservation and education about our most precious water source. We will continue with Fun Facts about the Great Lakes and a quiz that promises to be an adventure in the neighborhood.


We're bringing back many of the popular activities including The Easel Art Studio Craft Tent, punk rock hair styling by Psycho Baby, face painting, the Children's Learning Place Toddler Zone, a bounce house, dunk tank and pony rides. And you can win prizes from Building Blocks' famous Carnival Wheel.

 
Here are ChiIL Mama's kid friendly recommendations at the main stage!   See the full schedule below.

 
Main Family Fun Fest Stage Schedule


Saturday, June 2nd:


12:00-12:20 Shakespeare All-Stars

12:30-1:00 ARCC

1:15-1:55 Mary Macaroni

2:00-2:20 Gingarte Capoeira

2:30-3:00 Sunny Side Up

3:10-3:40 Istvan & His Imaginary Band--(Highly recommended kindie rockers.   Check em out.)

3:50-4:10 Trinity irish dancers--(These talented kids are excellent.   Highly recommended.)

4:25-5:05 Sarah Parker

5:10-5:30 Mad Science or Changs Martial Arts Demo

5:35-6:00 Gracie Lou



Sunday, June 3rd:

12:00-12:30 Kids Science Lab

12:45-1:20 Fiddle Billies

1:30-1:50 My Gym

2:00-2:40 Rock’ s Cool Pritzker student band

3:00-3:40 Awkward Cousins

3:50-4:20 Changs Martial Arts Demo

4:20-5:10 Mary Macaroni

 
Proceeds from Do Division Family Fun Fest go to Friends of Pritzker School and LaSalle II PTO, two public elementary schools in Wicker Park.
 
LaSalle II Magnet School, a world language academy opened in 2008/2009 and serves PreK through grade 7. Expanding to grade 8 next year. Funds raised to support after-school programs, classrooms, and numerous enrichment programs for our children. Located at 1148 N. Honore Street at Division Street. An exciting Chicago public school alternative for the East Village and Wicker Park communities. Visit www.lasalle2pto.com/.
 
A.N. Pritzker School, A.N. Pritzker School is a Fine and Performing Arts Magnet school with a Regional Gifted Center that serves PreK through grade 8. Located at 2009 W. Schiller Street. A creative, stimulating public school serving Wicker Park and East Ukrainian Village. Visit www.friendsofpritzker.org.

Hurricane Harbor Water Park at Six Flags Great America to open for the 2012 season this Memorial Day Weekend

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor opens for another season Saturday, May 26th, 2012 at 11AM

Park offers a day of no waiting for U.S. military personnel with new water park virtual queuing system

*Sure waterparks aren't live shows per say, apart from the people watching....but there are live shows--music and theatre--included in every Six Flags Great America admission ticket, so we'll include the park on both ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows.
 

Get ready to splash, slide and surf at the Best Water Park in the Nation. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor water park at Six Flags Great America opens for the 2012 season this Memorial Day weekend. The 20 acre water park is free with admission to Six Flags Great America and boasts more slides and attractions than any other water park in the state.

 
New for the 2012 Season is The Flash Pass, a revolutionary new virtual queuing wristband for Hurricane Harbor. Guests wear a lightweight, waterproof RFID wristband that allows visitors to make ride reservations for their favorite slides. Using kiosks located throughout the water park, guests use simple touch screens to choose their next ride and then scan their wristband. The Flash Pass wristband shows the time they have to wait and counts down until they can ride, eliminating the need to physically stand in line. The Flash Pass wristband is available for rental inside Six Flags Hurricane Harbor.

 
United States military personnel are invited to try The Flash Pass for free this Memorial Day Weekend by presenting a valid military ID at The Flash Pass sales center. “We are extremely excited to offer The Flash Pass to our nation’s troops this weekend at Hurricane Harbor as a thank you for their dedication and service to our country,” said Hank Salemi, Park President of Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor.

 
Hurricane Harbor opened in 2005 and features nearly 30 slides, a lazy river, wave pool, wave rider and several interactive water play areas, including the all new Riptide Bay.



Be sure to check out ChiIL Mama's Original Video and interviews from the launch of X-Flight right here.  X-Flight is Six Flags Great America's exciting, exhilarating coaster.  Be one of the first to ride the first wing coaster in the nation!

 
About Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor
Two great parks, One low price. Located between Chicago and Milwaukee, Six Flags Great America offers endless adventures for the entire family with 14 heart-pounding roller coasters, a FREE 20- acre water park, spectacular shows, a nighttime illuminated parade and three children’s areas. Get ready to take flight! New in 2012, Six Flags Great America welcomes X Flight, a ground-breaking wing coaster with no track above or below. Click here to learn more about X Flight.

 
About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with approximately $1.0 billion in revenue and 19 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For more than 50 years, Six Flags has entertained millions of families with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions including up-close animal encounters, Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park. 



For more information visit SIX FLAGS MAIN SITE HERE.
Follow them at twitter.com/SFGreat_America    

Like them at facebook.com/SFGreatAmerica

The Local Tourist is Ten and You Get the Gifts!

Save the date and buy your ticket today...

THE LOCAL TOURIST CELEBRATES TEN YEARS WITH PASSPORT TO CHICAGO 

Each Passport comes complete with a CTA day pass and one free ride from Uber, the new car service that’s taken Chicago by storm. Those who purchase their passports in advance will also get an “I’m A Local Tourist” sling bag for free.


Passport To Chicago also provides exclusive access to the Official After Party. Chicago hot spot Public House is hosting the event with a complimentary premium cocktail and offering their late night menu at half-price. Attendees will mix and mingle with TLT’s host committee, a collection of some of Chicago’s most influential people, including ChiIL Mama.


The celebration doesn’t end there.  This all-inclusive package is just $35. For more information on TLTen and Passport To Chicago, including beneficiary charities and businesses, visit http://passporttochicago.com.


Over the last ten years The Local Tourist has grown from a business directory of River North into a comprehensive resource that covers the neighborhoods of Chicago and beyond. Millions have visited the site to figure out places to go and things to do. Robust content is added daily by the TLTeam of contributors, by businesses posting information about what they offer, and by locals and tourists sharing their valuable opinions, comments, and photos.


To celebrate a decade online, The Local Tourist is inviting visitors and residents to tour Chicago like a Local Tourist with “Passport To Chicago”. On June 3 they’ll enjoy exclusive events and deals at destinations all over Chicago, getting their pages stamped at each place they visit.


There are so many places to go and things to do that there's no way to do them all in one day. That's why the Passport To Chicago is good for a whole year! From June 4, 2012 to May 31, 2013, these businesses are offering even more special discounts.

 
All of this exploring is also for a good cause. The Local Tourist is donating a portion of every Passport to participating local charities!
What:  A Roving Celebration of all things Chicago! Each “Local Tourist” will receive a Passport To Chicago and will travel the city, getting pages stamped at each place they visit.


When:  June 3, 2012 “Destinations” all over Chicago!
The day culminates with an awesome after party at Public House
Beginning June 4 attendees will bring their Passport To Chicago to participating locations for special discounts or privileges!


Each passport comes with a fold-out map of participating venues, a description of each venue’s offer, and a CTA day pass. Uber will also provide each attendee with a ride in their car service.


Each Passport purchased online receives a free “I’m A Local Tourist” sling bag.
A portion of every passport is being donated to local charities that have been featured on Charity Chat!



Participating Businesses: 
Absolutely Segway Berghoff's Bleeding Heart Bakery Sideshow Blue Frog's Local 22 Bobby's Bike Hike Brasserie By LM Cafe Con Leche Candyality Casey Moran's Chicago Architecture Foundation Chicago Children's Museum Chicago Elevated Chicago Pizza Tours D'Noche Dank Haus Deuces & The Diamond Fitness Formula Club Frill Hot Tix Jokes & Notes Landshark Beer Garden Laugh Factory M Burger Mad River Bar & Grille Mars Gallery Pizzeria Via Stato Redhead Piano Bar Riva Rockit Bar & Grill Rockit Burger Bar Simply Thalia Sunda Thalia Spice Tour Through A Lens Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar
 
Beneficiary Charities:
Advocates for Adolescent Mothers Aparecio Foundation Aspire of Illinois Bear Necessities Chicago Photography Center Connections for Abused Women & Their Children GiGi's Playhouse Girls In The Game Global Alliance of Artists Imerman Angels Kartemquin Films One Brick
PAVE Promoting Awareness Victim Empowerment Purple Asparagus The Red Pump Project

Count Down To SCamp-Chi-Town Favs

ChiIL Live Shows original shots of Cornmeal's late night set at Summer Camp 2011

*Cornmeal Summer Camp Sets Thurs 9:30pm, Fri 6pm, Sat 2:30 all on the Sunshine Stage

Tomorrow's pre-party day at Summer Camp Music Fest and we'll be there to bring the whole "four day weekend" to you in all it's colorful glory!    Here's a final few of our Chi-Town favs to look out for.   Look for our earlier pre-fest features on the following:

Midwest Hype, Van Ghost

Click here for set times, band bios, video clips and more

Chi-Town Bands Rock:

JC Brooks & The Uptown Sound , Mathien, Indigosun, Cornmeal, Sexfist, Henhouse Prowlers, This Must Be The Band, Jaik Willis, Greensky Bluegrass,  Future Rock, Common, Chicago Farmer.

Highly Recommended:

*JC Brooks & The Uptown Sound

Summer Camp Set Sat 1:30-Starshine Stage

*Mathien
Summer Camp Set Friday 9-10pm at E. Camping Stage 
 
We're working on setting up an interview with Mathien.   Although we haven't heard them live we have it on good authority they're ones to watch. 

 

The nucleus of the band was formed at Southern Illinois University Carbondale around the magnetic personality of singer/songwriter/guitarist Chris Mathien. Bassist Mike Schiff and drummer Aaron Bouslog were initially drawn to Mathien’s sharply observed lyrics and eclectic musical influences. After signing with Midwest Music Group, relocating to Chicago and releasing their debut “Hello Again” the band took to the road and became a formidable live act selling out venues in Chicago and throughout the Midwest. 

In the fall of 2010 with the addition of keyboardist Peter Wilkins the band returned to the studio to begin work on their latest release “The Night I was an Alpha Male”. The album is available in CD format through the band’s official website here.

X-Flight Wing Coaster Xtreme Xcitement at 6 Flags Great America

Check out X-Flight--the innovative wing coaster, new for 2012, right here at 6 Flags Great America.  ChiIL Mama was invited to the ribbon cutting and had the opportunity to interview Hank Salemi, Six Flags Great America Park President, Park V.P., a professional Air Show Wing Walker and one of the first wave of riders who also writes for TLT.  Check out our 4 exclusive interviews along with original footage of the opening ceremony/ribbon cutting and X-Flight in action above.

It was so much fun to be one of the first to check out X-Flight, shoot the coaster, and hear everyone's take on the best spot to sit on the ride. Join us for an exhilarating sneak peek, then go ride the ride this summer. X-Flight is xtreme fun.

Revolutionary Wing Coaster officially open to the public at Six Flags Great America

Get ready to take flight! Six Flags Great America has added a state-of-the-art roller coaster for the 2012 season. X-Flight
is a ground-breaking wing coaster featuring cutting-edge technology.
The Gurnee theme park has the first wing coaster
in the U.S. 

X-Flight takes riders on a flight that defies gravity, with no track above or below them. Riders sit in pairs, suspended on either side of the track with their feet dangling, as they begin their climb up a 12-story plunge launching them into speeds of 55mph through 3,000 feet of intense drops and five inversions, including a barrel roll and zero-g roll. One of the most adrenaline-pumping
moments on the ride is an extreme fly-through where the coaster speeds
straight toward a structure, before making a last-minute vertical flip
to fit through a keyhole cut-out.

“Six Flags Great America has a long history of introducing legendary
rides and first-of-its-kind roller coasters,” said Hank Salemi, Six
Flags Great America Park President. “What makes X-Flight
so unique is soaring through 3,000 feet of high-speed drops, loops and
turns, with nothing above or below you. The coaster’s train actually
looks like a plane with seats suspended on either side of the track.
It’s like nothing you have ever experienced before. We are thrilled to
bring this revolutionary wing coaster to our guests for the 2012
season.”

X-Flight is designed by acclaimed Swiss manufacturer
Bolliger & Mabillard, who also designed Six Flags Great America
favorites: Raging Bull, SUPERMAN: Ultimate Flight and BATMAN: The Ride. The wing coaster will make its home in the County Fair section of the park.

Six Flags Great America is located between Chicago and Milwaukee and
offers fun for the entire family with 14 heart-pounding roller coasters,
a free 20-acre water park, spectacular shows, a nighttime illuminated
parade and three children’s themed areas. Soar on X-Flight
all season long with a 2012 Season Pass, now on sale for $64.99 for
four or more. Buy now and get a 2012 Season Parking Pass free. Sale ends
October 30, 2011. For more information including video of X-Flight and all the upcoming 2012 Six Flags attractions, visit www.sixflags.com/2012news.

# # #

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional
theme park company with 2010 revenue of nearly $1.0 billion and 19 parks
across the United States, Mexico and Canada. Six Flags Over Texas, the
company’s flagship location, just celebrated its 50th anniversary season
in 2011.

SCamp Countdown-Van Ghost @SummerCampFest

 Summer Camp Music Fest:
*Van Ghost is playing this Thursday 5-6pm & Friday 4:30-5:30pm at the Starshine Stage both days.* 

ChiIL Live Shows has shot Van Ghost at so many great shows over the past year.   They're a lot of fun to see live, especially when they jam out with major players like Allie Kral from Cornmeal.   Even on their Allie free gigs, they're worth a listen, just to see uber talented Jennifer Hartswick (Trey Anastasio Band)!   


Here at ChiIL Live Shows/ChiIL Mama, we gave away free tixs to their House of Blues gig and to Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Fest, where they played The Congress Theatre.   We also gave away free tickets to Northcoast Music Fest where they rocked the stage and we got more smokin' shots.   We recommend checkin' em out at Summer Camp this weekend.

Download their EP right HERE for free

Click the links below for more ChiIL Live Shows' Van Ghost Shots

◦    Allie Kral LIVE at Summer Camp 2011 
◦  Van Ghost-Mellow Yellow Monday HOB Feature

Here's their bio from the Summer Camp site:

ARTIST WEBSITE

With an exquisite 5 piece band flavored with psychedelic guitars, an earth shattering rhythm section, & haunting guy/girl harmonies, the band played it’s debut show before a packed audience at Chicago’s revered Metro in January 2008. It was an auspicious beginning for one of world’s most promising new acts.

For nearly a decade Michael Harrison Berg of Van Ghost was a behind the scenes type of guy. Having poured his energy into his ventures as a concert promoter and band manager, little was left over for personal creative endeavors.

That all changed in 2007 when Berg’s close friends encouraged him to revisit the acoustic guitar he put down in his younger days and asked him to perform a song at their wedding. Melding the inspiration from the many talented bands he has worked with and his own passion for music, the singer returned to his roots. He began writing songs, drawing from his life experiences, creating a heartfelt and staggeringly honest perspective. After building up a solid repertoire of poppy folk ballads, gritty Americana tunes and classic rock laced jams, Berg called on his dear friend Jennifer Hartswick (Trey Anastasio Band), and they collectively assembled an all-star cast of musicians and named the project Van Ghost.

With an exquisite 5 piece band flavored with psychedelic guitars, an earth shattering rhythm section, & haunting guy/girl harmonies, the band played it’s debut show before a packed audience at Chicago’s revered Metro in January 2008. It was an auspicious beginning for one of world’s most promising new acts.

Following up their debut record, “Melodies For Lovers”, on Split Red Records, the band headed down to Nashville, TN to begin the tracking of their next release “The Domino Effect” for Dustimmoff Records (a start up label with Split Red owner Timm Martin & 8 time Grammy winning Producer/Engineer/Mixer Justin Niebank). With Justin Niebank at the helm the bands sound continues to develop and expand. Berg has established that he is as comfortable operating under the spotlight as he is behind the curtain. With Van Ghost, he sets out to inspire music fans the same as other artists have inspired him – one song at a time.

EDWARD SHARPE & THE MAGNETIC ZEROS NEW ALBUM STREAM

Check out ChiIL Live Shows original live show shots of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros from Chicago Bluegrass & Bluesfest 2011 right here. 

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros are currently streaming their forthcoming album in its entirety via NPR Music. Listen to the band's second release a week before its available everywhere on May 29th.

NPR First Listen: http://www.npr.org/2012/05/20/152292529/first-listen-edward-sharpe-and-the-magnetic-zeros-here
iTunes pre-order: http://bit.ly/esmzhere  (includes an instant download of "That's What's Up")
Soundcloud: http://soundcloud.com/edward-sharpe-mag-zeros

*CHI, IL LIVE SHOWS ALERT--CATCH EDWARD SHARPE & THE MAGNETIC ZEROS LIVE THIS WEEK AT THE RIVIERA, MAY 24TH

Pitchfork Music Fest New Additions, Free Kids Under 10 and More

ChiIL Live Shows/ChiIL Mama has been rockin' Pitchfork bands all year.  We've been sharing their tours, forwarding their free downloads and posting their new videos all year long.   We've also been shooting their live shows in Chi-Town and shooting original band video interviews.   Now it's just about time again for summer festival season, so get your Pitchfork tickets and come get your groove on and rock Union Park.   

Last year, my son Du-Jay who was 10, had the opportunity to go behind the scenes and interview a number of the musicians at Pitchfork himself!   He came with a class full of kids from 826CHI, one of our fav non profits for free creative writing classes.  Pitchfork's known for hosting awesome info booths for most of our city favorites like Girls Rock Chicago, 826CHI, and roller derby!   They have an excellent, eclectic assortment of crafts, collectable posters, vinyl and more.   And the food booths are a multicultural bonanza of tasty treats.


**The best news for families is kids under 10 are FREE with a paying adult!!   Put those little tax deductions to work saving you even more green and come rock out with the punk kin.**

We've gone AND taken the kids just about every year and they have a blast!!


Here's what Pitchfork has to say:

In its seventh year, the Pitchfork Music Festival continues to be one of the most well regarded and exceptional festivals in the country.  Consistently praised for its discerning lineup, inviting and laid back environment, reasonable prices, wide array of activities, and much more, there is very good reason why people across the world return year after year! This year’s event, happening Friday, July 13 – Sunday, July 15 at Chicago’s Union Park, is now less than two months away. A limited number of single day tickets for each day of the fest are still available for $45 at www.ticketweb.com. As previously noted, prices have stayed the same this year!

We are thrilled to be adding two more bands to this year’s fest -- Japandroids will be playing Friday, and Chromatics will perform on Saturday! As previously announced, this year’s excellent lineup introduces a creative range of emerging bands while honoring already beloved and internationally renowned acts, including A$AP Rocky, The Atlas Moth, Beach House, Big K.R.I.T., Chavez,  Dirty Projectors, Feist, The Field, Flying Lotus, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Hot Chip, Iceage, Nicolas Jaar, Kendrick Lamar, Lotus Plaza, The Men, Olivia Tremor Control, Oneohtrix Point Never, Purity Ring, Ty Segall, Schoolboy Q, Sleigh Bells, Vampire Weekend, Wild Flag, and so many more. See the full lineup below.

In addition to its musical offerings, the fest also features a wide array of other activities, including 50 individual vendors, plus specialty fairs, for attendees to enjoy. News regarding these festival elements will be announced in the coming weeks.

This year, we are excited to introduce “The PMF Upgrade Challenge.”  For one hour, once a week, Chicago radio station and festival partner WXRT 93.1 will present “The PMF Upgrade Challenge” for festival ticketholders. 2012 attendees are invited to participate for a chance for them and a friend to be upgraded to VIP for the entire festival weekend. Even if you just have a single day pass, you and a friend will be upgraded for the entire weekend! To participate, keep an eye on WXRT and the Pitchfork Music Festival Facebook pages where contests will be presented in the forms of questions and other challenges.  Winners will be chosen based on their responses to these contests. This will be happening at one random hour each week, and each week, two pair of tickets will be upgraded to VIP for the entire weekend.

Visit www.pitchforkmusicfestival.com for more information on the 2012 festival, and to purchase tickets. Stay up on festival related news via the ChiIL Live Shows Facebook page and Twitter & Pitchfork Music Festival Facebook page and Twitter.
 
 
FRIDAY JULY 13, 2012 LINEUP - GATES OPEN AT 3PM
  

Feist
Dirty Projectors
Big K.R.I.T.
The Olivia Tremor Control
A$AP Rocky
Clams Casino
Tim Hecker
Purity Ring
Japandroids**
Lower Dens
Willis Earl Beal
Outer Minds

 
SATURDAY JULY 14, 2012 LINEUP - GATES OPEN AT 12PM


Godspeed You! Black Emperor
Hot Chip
Sleigh Bells
Wild Flag
Flying Lotus
Cults
Atlas Sound
Grimes
Nicolas Jaar
Chromatics**
Danny Brown
Youth Lagoon
Schoolboy Q
Liturgy
Cloud Nothings
Lotus Plaza
The Atlas Moth
The Psychic Paramount


SUNDAY JULY 15,  2012 LINEUP - GATES OPEN AT 12PM

Vampire Weekend
Beach House
Chavez
AraabMUZIK
King Krule
Real Estate
Ty Segall
Thee Oh Sees
Unknown Mortal Orchestra
Kendrick Lamar
The Men
The Field
Iceage
Dirty Beaches
Milk Music
Oneohtronix Point Never
A Lull

 
 **Just Announced
 
 For more information, please visit: www.pitchforkmusicfestival.com

SCamp Countdown-Midwest Hype @SummerCampFest

ChiIL Live Shows original shots of Midwest Hype live at The House of Blues, Chicago 2/23/12




HEY SCampers!!   In JUST THREE DAYS the colorful pre-party Thursday crowd will descend on Three Sisters Park for FOUR days of music filled fun.   


We highly recommend checkin' out Chi-Town favs, Midwest Hype.   We shot their sold out CD release party at Schubas and shot stills when they opened for Badfish at House of Blues, Chicago.   Check those shots out here.  We also gave away HOB tickets to one lucky reader.   Want in on our sweet give aways and more?  Follow us by entering your e-mail in the sidebar, or by RSS feed.  Or like/follow our FB page, for the latest ticket and CD give aways, free downloads, world wide tour news, original video band interviews, and loads of live show shots.   We never spam, share or sell your info.


Midwest Hype is danceable in day glow, barefoot beats, and utterly original.   My husband jokingly calls their sound "hippie hop" but their enticing blend of jam, funk and hip-hop is no joke.




CHECK 'EM OUT LIVE AT SUMMER CAMP MUSIC FEST:
SATURDAY 9-10PM AT E. CAMPING STAGE


Here's their bio from their site:


Midwest Hype defines urban garage jazz. Hip-hop flow, unforgettable vocal melodies, punching horn lines, immaculate jazz improvisation, dance floor mayhem, tight pocketed compositions, a spectrum of all colors, a refreshing youthful breath in today's digital world. A celebration and motivation to create a better life, make the day glow.

Midwest Hype has had a string of successes recently.  Starting with a slot at Summer Camp 2010 they have played the Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Fest, the Indianapolis 500, Green Music Festival, opened for the Wailers and GIRL TALK, and performed at this year's North Coast Music Festival with Thievery Corporation, Wiz Kalifa, David Guetta and more.

Their EP, Dayglow, produced by Steve Gillis (formerly of Filter) at Chicago's Transient Studios is available now.

"Successfully incorporates keys, trumpet, flute, saxophone and percussion to highlight the originality...I can’t help but visualize live crowd participation...If I had to sum this album up in one word, I’d go with Energy"
Mike Patti - The Pier

"It’s common with this album to be swallowed into an energetic rollercoaster of pure music, as an influential result of Jazz, Swing, Hip Hop, Funk and Blues with the occasional rudeboy mosh pit kicking music reminiscent of the Ska craze from the 90s"
Mike Patti - The Pier

"an absolutely ruthless explosive jam-funk driven sound with flashes of reggae, hip-hop, and even prog rock." - Fraizer, Chicago Jam Scene (Jan. 2011)

"Midwest Hype...The Mousetrap dance floor was thick for the duration of two full sets and crowd activity was high. Through happy music that never drags and personalities that keep a smile on every face, the band makes sure that fun is had by all. "
Danielle Look- Indymojo.com

"“…their music boils down to a highly agreeable, danceable, and versatile weave of ska, rock, jazz, and hip-hop qualities and melodies played by talented musicians” "
- Shaun Christensen, The Preface (Mar 11, 2009)

"The HYPE IS REAL: Midwest Hype may be this area’s next Umphrey’s McGee. The band’s that good and, maybe, that driven. Midwest Hype blends funk, jazz and hip-hop into an exhilarating, dynamic mix of styles to create a refreshing, compl"
- Andrew S. Hughes, South Bend Tribune (May 17, 2008)

SHORE Magazine's Best of 2008:
"Best Local Band About to Make It Big" 

Instrumentation

George Matthew Prellwitz - Lead Vocals, Electric Guitar
Justin "Ideal" Diehl - Emcee/Vocalist
Max Kepler - Drums
Nathan Miller - Bass
Kevin Krizmanich - keyboards
Ben Morrissey - Saxophone
Scott Whitford - Trumpet

Discography

Dayglow - 2012
Colorful Love - 2008

Links

• Official Website
• Facebook
• Twitter
• MySpace
• Youtube