PrideArts to open 2024-25 season with the musical [title of show] August 23 – September 22, 2024

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

[title of show] 

Cast and production team announced, Jay Españo to direct, 

Robert Ollis providing music direction

PrideArts will present the off-Broadway and Broadway hit musical [title of show] to open its fall 2024-25 season. This musical about the writing of a musical was conceived by friends Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell during the spring of 2004 after Bell received an announcement for the inaugural New York Musical Theatre Festival. With the deadline just three weeks away, Bell began drafting the script with Bowen writing the lyrics and music. Bowen and Bell, determined to write an original musical rather than adapt an existing play or movie, discovered almost immediately that their conversations about what to write were more interesting than what they were actually writing, and decided their musical would document the creation of the show itself - a musical about two guys writing a musical about two guys writing a musical.

The production will be directed by PrideArts’ Artistic Director Jay Españo, with music direction by Robert Ollis and choreography by Britta Schlicht. [title of show] will be performed at Pride Arts Center, 4139 N. Broadway, from August 23 through September 22, 2024. I'll be out for the press opening August 26th, so check back soon for our full review.

Casey Coppess and Jonah Cochin will appear as the show’s writers Hunter and Jeff, respectively. Coppess returns to PrideArts, where they appeared in CASA VALENTINA in 2019. More recently, Coppess has been seen in THE GOLDEN GIRLS LOST EPISODES  for Hell in a Handbag Productions. Cochin’s past credits include THE APPLE TREE, NEW FACES SING BROADWAY 1947 for Porchlight Music Theatre,  SHE LOVES ME with Blank Theatre Company, and Matt in THE FANTASTICKS for Citadel Theatre Company. Hunter and Jeff’s friends Heidi and Susan will be played by Shannon McEldowney and Lexi Alioto. McEldowney recently toured North America in DIRTY DANCING IN CONCERT and THE BRITISH INVASION. Other credits include ALMOST HEAVEN (Theatre at the Center), MAMMA MIA (Drury Lane Oakbrook), and TRU (Stage 773). Alioto has previously worked with Theater Wit, The Second City, The Black Ensemble, First Folio, Lifeline Theater, The Annoyance, and more. She has notably toured with Second City’s hit show, SHE THE PEOPLE, at both San Diego Repertory Theater and Boston’s Huntington Theatre Company. Understudies are Chad Gearig (u/s Hunter), Jared Ritter (u/s Jeff), Sarah Obert (u/s Heidi), and Caitlin Preuss (u/s Susan).

PrideArts’ [title of show] production team includes Anshika Pathak (Scenic Designer), Ashley Benson (Costume Designer), Aidan Smith (Lighting Designer), Izadorius Tortuga (Props Designer), Val Gardner (Sound Designer), James Stone (Intimacy Director), Julia Witty (Stage Manager), Kate Schnetzer (Assistant Stage Manager), and Taylor Pasche (Assistant Director).

[title of show] premiered at the New York Musical Theatre Festival in 2004. A commercial production ran for nearly six months in 2006 at the off-Broadway Vineyard Theatre, and in 2008 a production was mounted on Broadway, where it earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Book of a Musical. It has additionally been produced in numerous countries around the world.

Performances will be at Pride Arts Center, 4139 N. Broadway, Chicago. Tickets are $35 for regular performances, and $25 for previews. Seniors and students receive a $5 discount off all performance prices. Tickets and more information at www.pridearts.org. 

Show Details:

August 23 – September 22, 2024

Previews Friday, August 23 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, August 25 at 3 pm

Press Opening Monday, August 26, 2024, at 7:30 pm

Regular run August 26 – September 22, 2024

Curtain times Thursdays–Saturdays at 7:30 pm, Sundays at 3 pm, plus Industry Night Wednesday, September 18 @ 7:30 pm

Pride Arts Center, 4139 N. Broadway, Chicago

Tickets $35 for regular performances, $25 for previews. Seniors and students receive a $5 discount off all performance prices. Tickets and more information at www.pridearts.org. 773-857-0222

Jeff and Hunter, two gay writers struggling to make it in New York, hear about a new musical theatre festival. However, the deadline for submissions is a mere three weeks away. With nothing to lose, the pair decides to try to create something new with the help of their friends Susan and Heidi; and Larry on the eighty-eights. With the cast in place, they make a pact to write up until the festival's deadline and dream about the show changing their lives. [title of show] -- taken from the space on the festival's application form which asks for the "[title of show]" -- follows Hunter, Jeff, Heidi, and Susan on their journey through the gauntlet of creative self-expression. In the span of 90 minutes, they write and perform their show at the festival and learn lessons about themselves as people, friends and artists. In this intelligent, playful, lovable musical, the audience is treated to an inside look at the tough work of being a creative artist. Frequently hilarious, occasionally heartbreaking, and thoroughly inspiring, [title of show] is a love letter to musical theatre, celebrating individuality and creativity and the joy of collaboration.



BIOS

Jay Españo (PrideArts Artistic Director) Born in Manila, The Philippines, he joined the prestigious Tanghalang Pilipino’s Actors Company in 1998, where he trained with acclaimed Filipino director Nonon Padilla. He acted in several commercials, television series and films. Notably, he was a regular cast member of Koko KwikKwak - a spin-off of Batibot (Philippine SESAME STREET). He toured The Philippines with that show’s mascots, performing for kids throughout the country. In 2000, Jay was one of many Filipino actors who were cast in the Action Theater Singapore’s hit musical CHANG AND ENG, which toured Asia for several years. 

Since moving to the Chicago area, Jay has worked with storefront theater companies such as Silk Road Rising, Prologue, Ghostlight, Halcyon, City Lit, and PrideArts. Most recently, he directed the musical GAY CARD for PrideArts, and City Lit Theater’s world premiere musical AZTEC HUMAN SACRIFICE. He has played the role of the King in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s THE KING AND I with various theater companies in the US and in Canada.

Robert Ollis (Music Direction) most recently music directed THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA at Palm Canyon Theatre in Palm Springs. Robert served as Music Director for PrideArts’ productions of GAY CARD, GIRLFRIEND, THE THINGS I COULD NEVER TELL STEVEN, A MAN OF NO IMPORTANCE, SOUTHERN COMFORT, YANK!: A WW II LOVE STORY, THE NANCE, PRISCILLA: QUEEN OF THE DESERT, THE BOY FROM OZ, SONGS FROM AN UNMADE BED, A HISTORY OF SUMMER, THE BOOK OF MERMAN, and  UNDER A RAINBOW FLAG. He served as Music Director for Underscore Theatre’s HAYMARKET: A NEW FOLK MUSICAL. Robert received a Jeff Award for musical direction of KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN, in addition to his nominations for seven other shows.  Robert is the music director and co-creator of JUDY AND LIZA: THE LONDON PALLADIUM CONCERT — A TRIBUTE and accompanies other notable cabaret performers in New York City, Palm Springs, CA, and Chicago venues.

Britta Schlicht (Choreographer) is elated to return to PrideArts, where she choreographed GAY CARD in 2023. Other Chicago choreographic credentials include SPRING AWAKENING, THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD, NINE (Blank Theatre); AZTEC HUMAN SACRIFICE (City Lit); THE LITTLE MERMAID, GYPSY, PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT, NEVERMORE (Jedlicka); and BEERS (Prop Thtr).

Jeff Bowen (Music and Lyrics) wrote the music and lyrics for and starred in the Broadway musical [TITLE OF SHOW] (Obie Award). Additionally, he has written music and lyrics for NOW. HERE. THIS. (Vineyard Theatre), VILLAINS TONIGHT! (Walt Disney Company), and the theme songs for the web series THE [TITLE OF SHOW] SHOW and SQUAD '85. His songs can be heard on the original cast albums of [TITLE OF SHOW] and NOW. HERE. THIS., as well as BROADWAY BARES OPENINGS AND OVER THE MOON: THE BROADWAY LULLABY PROJECT. He is a proud member of ASCAP, AEA, the Writers Guild, the Dramatists Guild and the National Audubon Society. He serves as a faculty member of the National Theatre Institute at the Eugene O'Neill Theatre Center.

Hunter Bell (Book) earned an Obie Award, a Drama League nomination, and a Tony nomination for Best Book of a Musical for the Broadway musical [TITLE OF SHOW]. Other credits include books for NOW. HERE. THIS., FOUND (Drama Desk Nomination, Outstanding Book of a Musical), SILENCE! THE MUSICAL (Lucille Lortel Nomination, Outstanding Musical), BELLOBRATION! (Ringling Bros. Circus), VILLAINS TONIGHT! (Disney Cruise Lines), OTHER WORLD, and Julie Andrews' THE GREAT AMERICAN MOUSICAL. He is a co-creator of the web series "THE [TITLE OF SHOW] SHOW" and has developed television with ABC Studios. Hunter is a proud graduate and distinguished alumnus of Webster University's Conservatory of Theatre Arts, a member of the Dramatists Guild, Writers Guild, and a MacDowell Fellow. @huntbellABOUT PRIDEARTS

PrideArts tells queer stories on a variety of platforms, including both live and virtual performances. Since its founding in 2010, PrideArts has had several chapters, including operating as an itinerant theater for their first six seasons, and as the developer and primary tenant in the Pride Arts Center from 2016 to the present. 

The company produces full seasons of plays and musicals, as well as events including cabaret, and more. The company has earned 39 Jeff Awards and nominations, and six nominations in the 2019 ALTA Awards from the Alliance of Latinx Theater Artists of Chicago. Programming has reflected the diversity of queer communities by including work made by and illuminating the experiences of women, gay men, transgender people, and BIPOC.

PrideArts is supported by Illinois Arts Council, a State Agency; City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), Alphawood Foundation, MacArthur Foundation, Arts Work Fund, Driehaus Foundation, The Saints.

PrideArts is a member of Buena Park Neighborhood Association, Uptown United, League of Chicago Theaters, Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce of Illinois.

For more information and to donate, visit www.pridearts.org. or call 1.773 857 0222.

REVIEW: Circus HAMLET Via The New York Circus Project at Chicago's Studebaker Theater Through August 18th, 2024

This Tragedy's a Triumph!

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List

 

Circus meets Shakespeare in cutting-edge production 

Geared toward adults but recommended for all ages 4+

90 minutes/no intermission

REVIEW

By Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

A 90 minute circus arts filled Hamlet?! Yes please! Last night I had the pleasure of ChiILin’ at New York Circus Project’s Hamlet, at Studebaker Theater, and I was absolutely gobsmacked by this powerful production. This is the first Chicago visit for The New York Circus Project, and we fervently hope it won't be the last! I belatedly found out about the production, and I'm so happy they were able to squeeze me in to review on this short run. Get thee to the Studebaker. Fans of Circus Arts, Shakespeare, and actors performing super human feats, don't miss this! Highly recommended. ★★★★ Four out of four stars.

Here at ChiIL Mama, we're no strangers to circus arts or Shakespeare. Since 2008, we've been covering Cirque du Soleil, Ringling, and other modern and traditional circuses from around the world, and right here at home. In fact, my son and daughter were cast in numerous youth circus arts show at Chicago's Actors Gymnasium, and were on the circus performance team at Circesteem. They also took classes at MSA and Aloft. So, I can attest to the talent and skills of this company. I've also been a theatre critic for 16 years, reviewing a plethora of professional productions of The Bard's works, including multiple Hamlets. This one is completely unique, highly entertaining, and a must see!

 

We were wowed by the aerial arts, partner acro, and sheer variety of circus skills rolled into this fast paced production. The hour and a half flew by. Everything was stellar from the actors, to the set, choreography, lighting, and song choices. The music spanned decades, from classics to contemporary, and added much. I want the playlist! 

My only criticism is that I wish the dialogue was as loud as the music. We were about halfway back on the main floor, and when the actors were upstage or turned away, it was a struggle to hear all the lines. This may be a venue issue. As much as we adore the art deco charm of The Studebaker Theatre, it was built in 1898... Still, it seemed as if the actors were not wearing mics, or if they were, they need to be turned up. It's a cavernous space to project in with only stage amplification! 

Overall, this is an excellent pick for multigenerational fun. All the circus skills are hella impressive. And we were completely entranced by Ophelia’s gorgeous, water contortion death scene! This abridged version retains all the key plot points, famous lines, and favorite characters, while keeping the action flowing fast. Yes, everyone dies, so don't expect a lighthearted fluff piece of a circus show. Still, it's a great, fast paced, playful way to introduce the littles (and Bard-wary adults, too) to a love of Shakespeare. Flippin' fantastic! ★★★★ Four out of Four Stars 

Bonnie is a Chicago based writer, theatre critic, photographer, artist, and Mama to 2 amazing adults. She owns two websites where she publishes frequently: ChiILLiveShows.com (adult) & ChiILMama.com (family friendly).

“ …dramatizing the inner conflict of the characters through dance and circus created a fundamentally different viewing experience than most productions of the play…utterly creative and original” (Columbia Bwog)

“Breaking the boundaries of art forms and time, ‘Hamlet’ ultimately traversed the lines of what a Shakespeare play should look like—revealing an undiscovered terrain within the arts world waiting for interdisciplinary talents to fill it with color.” (Columbia Spectator)

“...immensely effective in forwarding the tense, psychological themes at the heart of Hamlet”(The Blue and White)

The New York Circus Project brings HAMLET, an innovative, circus-infused retelling of the Shakespearean classic to Chicago, IL as the final stop in its premier touring season.

HAMLET upends what audiences expect of Shakespeare by blending theater with circus arts to arrive at a unique iteration of a well-known tragedy. The production’s fast-paced, abbreviated script is balanced with circus acts that change the story’s tempo and allow for deeper exploration of the internal, emotional conflict at hand. 

Hamlet’s delirium materializes in an explosive group acrobatic tableau, Ophelia’s life flashes before her eyes during a last-breath contortion performance in a water filled basin, and the ghost of Hamlet’s father’s famous monologue is reimagined as a solo aerial dance act.

By oscillating between scenes with dialogue and circus performance, the lines between realism and internal monologue blur. Comparable to the use of song to emphasize emotional or narrative beats in musical theater, this interdisciplinary approach fills Shakespeare’s Hamlet with new color and life.

HAMLET opens at Studebaker Theater from August 15th to August 18th. 

Tickets are on sale now! Website: newyorkcircusproject.org

Evening performances are at 8pm, with matinees on Saturday and Sunday. 

Tickets are priced between $49 and $79.

New York Circus Project is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to producing contemporary circus shows in New York City and the United States, using acrobatics as a medium for presenting classic texts in a visually striking and unique way. Additionally, New York Circus Project produces free-to-the-public, family friendly circus cabaret performances on the streets of New York City. 

Reminiscent Circus' Way Home July 19-21 Only at Aloft Circus Arts

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Check Out Some Short Run Circus Fun 

From Chicago's Newest Contemporary Circus Company

"Maybe home is something we are always making, building, collectively dreaming into being" 

- Raven See

Way Home runs 90 minutes with an intermission and is family friendly. 

WAY HOME is a full-length work of contemporary narrative circus presented by Reminiscent Circus, written/directed/produced by Kristi Alyssa, and co-produced by Aloft Circus Arts. It premieres July 19-21 at Aloft Circus Arts, 3324 W. Wrightwood in Chicago. Tickets on sale now.

Reminiscent Circus is a new company dedicated to the professional and ethical treatment of performers, and to active mentorship of aspiring professionals and circus students. Led by Kristi Alyssa,  director of youth programming and manger of the professional training program at Aloft Circus Arts, Reminiscent Circus is a showcase for both experienced professionals and emerging artists of all ages, with a focus on LGBTQ visibility and the creation of circus stories in which others may see themselves reflected.

For more see @reminiscentcircus on Instagram, or reminiscentcircus.com. 

Check Out The VIDEO TRAILER HERE

Cast and Crew of Way Home:

Director/Writer/Producer/Lighting and Sound Design: Kristi Alyssa

Assistant Director: Chloe Zabicki

Dance Choreographer: Luke Greeff

Stage Manager: Martha Bayne

Backstage Manager: Laila Ruangpan

Poet: Raven See

Set Design: James Taff

Performers: Kristi Alyssa, Daisy Coleman, Taylor Fost, Luke Greef, Nick Grischow, Noa Kim-Cohen, Benjy Radinski, Valeria Rosero, Laila Ruangpan, Courtney Sendzimmer, Camille Swift, Eleana Suazo, Lyla Taraska, and Chloe Zabicki

About co-producer Aloft Circus Arts:

Located in a church built in 1908 in Chicago's beautiful Logan Square Neighborhood, Aloft features 6000 square feet of studio space, making it the third largest circus training space in America. Founded in 2005 by Shayna Swanson, Aloft’s unique vision embodies the innovation of the new circus movement, the daring of the traditional big top shows, and the joy and comedy of vaudeville. We look to have a direct emotional dialogue with our audience, and due to our accessible nature, everyone regardless of education, age, culture, or background can be engaged.

Steppenwolf Theatre Presents RACHEL BLOOM: DEATH, LET ME DO MY SHOW August 14 - 24, 2024

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

From the Co-Creator and Star of “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend”…

Steppenwolf Theatre Presents the One-Woman Musical Comedy  

RACHEL BLOOM:

DEATH, LET ME DO MY SHOW

August 14 - 24, 2024 in the Downstairs Theater

Rachel Bloom performs "Death, Let Me Do My Show." Photo by Emilio Madrid

"With signature panache and zero regard for propriety, Bloom ties her shambolic musings into one neat, colorful, hilarious bow." — New York Stage Review

Steppenwolf Theatre is pleased to present Rachel Bloom’s sell-out off-Broadway hit Death, Let Me Do My Show, playing a limited engagement August 14 - 24, 2024 in the Downstairs Theater, 1650 N. Halsted St. in Chicago. Tickets are now on sale at steppenwolf.org/RachelBloom or by calling the Box Office at (312) 335-1650.

From the co-creator and star of Crazy Ex-Girlfriend comes a one-woman musical comedy that is definitely NOT about the ever-present specter of death. Directed by Seth Barrish, Bloom’s new show is filled with raunchy and escapist material that will in NO way explore the pandemic and all the tumultuous events that ensued in her personal life. NOTHING will stop Rachel from partying like it’s 2019!

Production Details:

Dates: Wednesday, August 14 - Saturday, August 24, 2024

Performance schedule: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 7:30 pm; Saturday at 3 pm & 7:30 pm; and Sunday at 3 pm.

Tickets: $59 - $119. Tickets are now on sale at steppenwolf.org/RachelBloom or by calling the Box Office at (312) 335-1650.

"Rachel Bloom Shines! The songs are the highlights here. Bloom is especially good at puncturing emotion with surreal detail.” — New York Times

About Rachel Bloom

Rachel Bloom is an actress, comedian, producer, singer/songwriter and author.

Bloom is perhaps best known from the CW musical dramedy Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, which she co-created, executive produced, and starred in as ‘Rebecca Bunch.’ Bloom won the 2016 Golden Globe for Best Actress in a TV Series – Musical or Comedy, Critics’ Choice Award for Best Actress in a TV Comedy and TCA Award for Individual Achievement in Comedy. In 2019, she won an Emmy Award for Original Music and Lyrics along with her songwriting partners Adam Schlesinger and Jack Dolgen for “Antidepressants Are So Not A Big Deal.” The series was also awarded a Gotham Independent Film Award for Breakthrough Series.

Most recently, Bloom performed her own one-woman musical comedy, Death, Let Me Do My Show to sold-out audiences off Broadway at the Lucille Lortel Theatre and the Orpheum Theatre. The show originally toured as a comedy special in spring/summer 2023 to theatres in London, Chicago and Boston, among other cities. She will be performing an encore engagement of the show at the Williamstown Theatre Festival this summer. Rachel, alongside her collaborators Eli Bolin and Jack Dolgen, is nominated for the 2024 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Lyrics.

Recently, Bloom can be seen in the guest starring role of ‘Elaine Levitch’ in season two of the Max series, Julia, which premiered on November 16, 2023. She also co-starred as up-and-coming indie film screenwriter ‘Hannah Korman’ in the Hulu comedy series Reboot alongside Keegan-Michael Key, Judy Greer, Johnny Knoxville, Paul Reiser, Calum Worthy and Krista Marie Yu. The series, which first premiered in September 2022, was created by Steven Levitan, and was nominated for a Critics Choice Award for Best Comedy Series, and Bloom was nominated for a 2023 HCA TV Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Streaming Comedy Series.

In February 2023, Bloom appeared as ‘Scarlet’ in the Netflix original film Your Place or Mine, alongside Reese Witherspoon, Ashton Kutcher and Jessie Williams. In October 2022, Bloom appeared as ‘Honora’ in Paul Feig and Netflix’s The School for Good and Evil and in November 2022, she starred as ‘Chelsea’ in Bar Fight alongside Melissa Fumero for IFC.

In 2019, Bloom sold out Radio City Music Hall performing Crazy Ex-Girlfriend: Live as well as at The London Palladium, the latter of which earned her a five-star review from The Guardian. She also wrote and performed in Yes: It’s Really Us Singing: The Crazy Ex-Girlfriend Concert, which aired after the series finale on the CW. She also starred in her own solo tour, “What Am I Going To Do With My Life Now?” in 2019, which included a week-long residency at Just For Laughs.

Her feature voiceover credits include the role of ‘Barb’ in Trolls 2: World Tour opposite Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake, ‘Silver’ in The Angry Birds Movie 2 opposite Jason Sudeikis, ‘Batgirl’ in Batman vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles opposite Darren Criss, ‘Op’ in Extinct opposite Adam Devine and Ken Jeong, and in Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers. Bloom can also be seen in the SXSW comedy, Most Likely To Murder. Additional television guest credits include Portlandia, Ridley Jones, Close Enough, The Simpsons, Bojack Horseman, RuPaul’s Drag Race and iCarly.

Rachel is a mental health activist. In addition to her film and television work, in 2020, she published her book “I Want To Be Where The Normal People Are,” a collection of personal essays and poems on the subjects of insecurity, fame, anxiety, and much more.

“Sprightly and enjoyable! Bloom and her director are more than up to the task of finding the funny in the bleakest moments.” — Vulture 

Accessibility

Steppenwolf is committed to making the theatergoing experience accessible to everyone. Assistive listening devices are available for every performance and all our spaces are equipped with an induction hearing loop. Our building features wheelchair accessible seating and restrooms, push-button entrances, a courtesy wheelchair and all-gender restrooms, with accessible counter and table spaces at our bars. For additional information regarding accessibility, visit steppenwolf.org/access. If you have questions or would like to make a specific request, email access@steppenwolf.org or call our box office at 312-335-1650.

Sponsor Information

United Airlines is the Official and Exclusive Airline of Steppenwolf. Steppenwolf is also grateful for the significant season support from lead sponsors Allstate Insurance Company, Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, Crown Family Philanthropies, Caroline and Keating Crown, Good Chaos, Joyce Foundation, Lefkofsky Family Foundation, Ron and Paula Mallicoat, Northern Trust, Anne and Don Phillips, John Hart and Carol Prins, Robert Rivkin and Cindy Moelis, Shubert Foundation, Inc, Walder Foundation, and Zell Family Foundation. Steppenwolf also acknowledges generous support from premier sponsors Anonymous, ArentFox Schiff, Andrew and Amy Bluhm, Michael and Cathy Brennan, Ann and Richard Carr, Chicago Community Trust, Steven and Nancy Crown,  CRC Group, Rich and Margery Feitler, Julius Frankel Foundation, FROST CHICAGO, Goldman Sachs, Shmaila Tahir and Asheesh Goel, Bob and Amy Greenebaum, Kirkland & Ellis, Harold and Mimi Steinberg Charitable Trust, Christopher and Eileen Murphy, The Orlebeke Foundation, PNC, Polk Bros. Foundation, Bryan Traubert and Penny Pritzker, Sacks Family Foundation, Smart Family Foundation of Illinois, Gary Sinise Foundation, Elliot A. Stultz, and Vinci Restaurant. Steppenwolf also acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency. This project is partially supported by a CityArts 

Steppenwolf Theatre Company is the nation’s premiere Ensemble Theater with 49 members who are among the top actors, playwrights and directors in the field. Thrilling, powerful, groundbreaking productions — from Balm in Gilead and Grapes of Wrath to August: Osage County, Downstate and The Brother/Sister Plays — have made this theatre legendary. Founded in 1976, Steppenwolf started as a group of teens performing in the basement of a church. Today, the company's artistic force remains rooted in the original vision of its founders: an artist-driven theatre, whose vitality is defined by its appetite for bold and innovative work. Every aspect of Steppenwolf is rooted in its Ensemble ethos, from the intergenerational artistic programming to the multi-genre performance series LookOut, to the nationally recognized work of Steppenwolf Education and Engagement which serves nearly 15,000 teens annually. While grounded in the Chicago community, more than 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success nationally and internationally, including Broadway, Off-Broadway, London, Sydney, Galway and Dublin. Steppenwolf also holds accolades that include the National Medal of Arts, 12 Tony Awards, and more. Led by Artistic Directors Glenn Davis and Audrey Francis, Executive Director Brooke Flanagan and Board of Trustees Chair, Keating Crown — Steppenwolf continually redefines the landscape of acting and performance.

Steppenwolf’s Mission: Steppenwolf strives to create thrilling, courageous and provocative art in a thoughtful and inclusive environment. We succeed when we disrupt your routine with experiences that spark curiosity, empathy and joy. We invite you to join our ensemble as we navigate, together, our complex world. 

steppenwolf.org, facebook.com/steppenwolftheatre, twitter.com/steppenwolfthtr and instagram.com/steppenwolfthtr.

Rachel Bloom performs "Death, Let Me Do My Show." Photo by Emilio Madrid.

44 - THE unOFFICIAL, unSANCTIONED OBAMA MUSICAL at Chicago’s Epiphany Center for the Arts August 7-17, 2024

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

The hit musical comedy

44 - THE unOFFICIAL, unSANCTIONED OBAMA MUSICAL

(As Told Through the Hazy Recollection of Joe Biden),

brings humor to politics ahead of the DNC

Limited run August 7-17, 2024

at Chicago’s Epiphany Center for the Arts

The smash-hit comedy musical 44 - THE unOFFICIAL, unSANCTIONED OBAMA MUSICAL (As Told Through the Hazy Recollection of Joe Biden), direct from a sold-out engagement at L.A.’s The Bourbon Room, lands in Chicago just in time for the Democratic National Convention. 44 is a satirical look at the rise and presidency of Barack Obama, as well as the eccentric political characters he met along the way. 44 is written, composed, and directed by Eli Bauman, and is produced by Bauman alongside his partner and fellow Lead Producer, Monica Saunders-Weinberg (Hana Black Productions), as well as Producer Kevin Bailey (Annie Get Your Gun, The Lion King), in association with Steve McKeever (Hidden Beach Recordings), Toni Isreal (REALEMN Productions) and Martin Lawrence & Stacy Lyles (RunTelDat Entertainment). 44 will play August 7 – 17, 2024 at The Epiphany Center for the Arts, located at 201 S Ashland Ave.

Tickets range from $44 to $129 and are on sale now at 44ObamaMusical.com or https://epiphanychi.com.  Use the early bird discount code “44” for a 25% discount on full price tickets purchased by July 26.

Photo Credit: Mackenzie Hilton

Barack Obama's election changed history. And as we can clearly see, it also ended racism forever! But 44 is the story of Obama you won't read about in history books...because history books are now banned in most states. But also because 44 is the story of Obama as Joe Biden kinda sorta remembers it...

“As we careen toward the totally normal and stress-free 2024 election, we hope you’ll join us for a look back at the 44th Presidency of the United States - when the White House was full of hope, the President didn’t endorse a violent attack on his own Vice President, and the President’s largest scandal was wearing a tan suit,” comments Bauman.

Selling out runs in L.A. and New York City, 44 - THE unOFFICIAL, unSANCTIONED OBAMA MUSICAL quickly proved to be a must-see show, drawing in audiences that included Stevie Wonder, Martin Short, Congressman Adam Schiff, Martin Lawrence, Cheyenne Jackson, Wanda Sykes, Charlemagne Tha God, Tobey Maguire, Bill Burr and The Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Following its L.A. run, 44 took home seven 2023 BroadwayWorld L.A. Awards, including Best Musical, Best Ensemble, Best Direction of a Musical (Eli Bauman), Best Lead Performer of a Musical (T.J. Wilkins), Best Supporting Performer of a Musical (Chad Doreck), Best Musical Direction (Anthony Brewster) and Best Choreography (James Alsop). 

The musical satire features music, lyrics and book by a former Obama campaign organizer Eli Bauman ("NBC's Maya & Marty"), with additional songs co-written by Eli Bauman and Jon "Bowzer" Bauman (Sha Na Na). This brilliantly funny musical stars T.J. Wilkins (NBC's "The Voice") as ‘Barack Obama’ and Shanice (award-winning R&B artist - "I Love Your Smile" and OWN's "Flex & Shanice") as ‘Michelle Obama’ and Chad Doreck as ‘Joe Biden.' 

They are joined by Kevin Bailey as ‘John Boehner,’ Larry Cedar as ‘Mitch McConnell,' Marqell Edward Clayton as ‘Brother Abe Lincoln,' Kelley Dorney as ‘Hillary Clinton,' Summer Nicole Greer as ‘Voice of the People,' Jane Papageorge as ‘Sarah Palin,' Dino Shorté as ‘Herman Cain,' Jeff Sumner as ‘Lindsey Graham,' and Michael Uribes as ‘Ted Cruz.' Celeste Butler is the understudy for the roles of ‘Voice of the People' and ‘Michelle Obama,' Ally Dixon understudies ‘Hillary Clinton' and ‘Sarah Palin,' and Scott Kruse understudies ‘Joe Biden,' ‘Mitch McConnell,' ‘Lindsey Graham,' and ‘Ted Cruz.'

44 will feature legendary L.A. band House of Vibe as “The Andrew Jackson Five” with Anthony “Brew” Brewster (keyboards), Phillip “Fish” Fisher (drums), Corey Cofield (bass), Conrad Bauer (guitar), and Greg Raymond (keyboards).

The performance schedule is as follows:

Weekday performances (Tues-Thurs) take place at 7:00pm. Friday and Saturday performances take place at 7:30pm (no performance Aug 9) and Sunday performances take place at 2:00pm and 7:00pm.

 

About the Creative Team

Eli Bauman (Writer, Composer, Director, Lead Producer) was born and raised in Los Angeles to his mother Mary, a therapist for special needs children, and father, Jon, also known as “Bowzer” from the retro 50's nostalgia TV show/most random band to play Woodstock, “Sha Na Na.” After enduring this not remotely strange childhood, Bauman graduated from Columbia University with a degree in English and Creative Writing. Upon graduation, Eli toured the country with his father, singing in casinos ranging from the 10,000 seat “Mohegan Sun Arena” to the utterly depressing “Boomtown Casino” in Biloxi, Mississippi. After moving back to LA in 2007 to pursue a career in Hollywood, Eli gave up the glamorous world of television production for the even more glamorous world of political campaigning, moving to Las Vegas' largest and hottest county to organize for radical fringe candidate, Barack Obama, whom we've never heard from since.

After the campaign, Bauman coordinated Veterans Affairs for Obama's 2009 Inaugural Committee and interned for ABC's Special Investigative Unit, where he was shoved by disgraced bamboozler, Bernie Madoff. Later, Bauman transitioned back to scripted television, writing episodes of FX's “Lights Out” and NBC's “Prime Suspect,” before moving onto variety television, including the Emmy nominated “ACLU: Stand For Rights with Tom Hanks and the Writer's Guild Award nominated “Maya and Marty” with Maya Rudolph and Martin Short. Most recently, Bauman has entered the highly lucrative world of musical theater and contributed material to the fraudulently “won” Biden 2020 campaign. He resides in Los Angeles with his far more talented wife, Joanna Calo, their spectacular daughter, Ivy (5), and their sweet yet destructive son, Charlie (3).

Monica Saunders-Weinberg (Lead Producer) has an extensive professional and creative portfolio – from business and real estate to philanthropy and the performing arts. Saunders-Weinberg has over 26 years of experience working on the board of The Terrace Tower Group where she is the Co-Owner and joint Deputy Chair. The Terrace Tower Group is a privately owned, leading property development company with various investments in Australia and the United States. A passionate philanthropist, Saunders-Weinberg collaborates with numerous charities globally. She is a founding partner of The Growth Project - an initiative that brings emerging charities and business leaders together for maximum positive social impact. She also heads her family's charitable arm - The Saunders Foundation, cultivating its mission for the last 25 years and spearheading its day-to-day operations. Monica chaired the Sydney Children's Hospital Gold Dinner Committee from 2019 – 2021, presiding over the largest charity event in Australia, and breaking several Australian fund-raising records. Saunders-Weinberg continues to work closely with a wide range of charities and is hugely passionate about philanthropy and the arts. Saunders-Weinberg recently teamed up with Award winning producer Bruna Papandrea's Made Up Stories to executive produce the feature film, Addition and to develop a film adaptation of Fiona McIntosh's bestselling book, The Pearl Thief. Monica resides in Sydney with her husband, Richard, where they are devoted parents to their three children.

Anthony “Brew” Brewster (Music Director) was born in Santa Monica, California. He developed an enriched soulful style by singing and playing the piano and trumpet in church. As a lead member in two of Los Angeles' most seminal acts, Fishbone and The Untouchables, Brewster showcased his wide range for developing, arranging and producing skills for some of today's top artists.

Miss James Alsop (Choreographer) most recently contributed choreography to the Renaissance World Tour and you can see her movement direction on Kim Kardashian and Emma Roberts on the most current season of “American Horror Story: Delicate.” The Whitney Houston biopic “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” marks her feature film choreographic debut. She choreographed the acclaimed Peacock musical TV series “Girls5eva,” executive produced by Tina Fey as well as the #1 Netflix series “Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story.” Her choreography has also been featured on “Pose,” “Soundtrack,” “Gossip Girl” and the upcoming season of “Emily in Paris.” Her work can also be seen in the Kerry Washington sitcom “Unprisoned.”

She began her career as co-choreographer of Beyoncé's videos, tour, and promotional materials for “Who Run the World (Girls),” “Dance For You” and “Love on Top.” She also assisted in choreographing “Booty” by Jennifer Lopez and worked with Paul Thomas Anderson for the HAIM music video “Just A Little of Your Love.” After choreographing the entire season of “Maya & Marty,” she was asked by Tina Fey and Jeff Richmond to choreograph season three of “The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt” and has since worked for shows on NBC, Showtime, Netflix, and others. When not working with top stars, she teaches around the country and world, educating young artists and dancers to be who they are in their art form and love it.

Kevin Bailey (Producer) is a Los Angeles based producer and performer with his company MB Artists, founded in 1992, with partner and husband, James J. Mellon. Since 2013 he has served as Executive Producer for the play Ann, written by and starring Holland Taylor, which he spearheaded from the play's inception at the NoHo Arts Center in North Hollywood, California. Ann made its Broadway premiere at Lincoln Center's Vivian Beaumont Theater and garnered a Best Actress Tony nomination for Taylor. It was presented by PBS “Great Performances” in the summer of 2020, and is currently available on Broadway HD.

MB Artists produced and represented Jaston Williams, Joe Sears, and Ed Howard and their four highly successful plays in the Greater Tuna cycle and continues to represent and produce the works of Jaston Williams. The world premiere of Williams' solo play I Saw The Lights about the Lubbock, Texas UFO sightings of 1951, was recently filmed in Austin, Texas, as was his holiday show, Blood and Holly – Christmas West of the Pecos. Kevin served as Executive Producer for the play God Looked Away, which starred Al Pacino and Judith Light. In addition to 44, projects in development include the new musical Belles Are Swingin' and the solo play White Lies, starring Annie Potts. MB Artists has created, produced, and general-managed over 50 theatrical productions, five films, and dozens of industrials.

As a performer, Bailey starred on Broadway and in Los Angeles in the original companies of The Lion King, and in the Broadway revival of Annie Get Your Gun with Bernadette Peters. He has performed in regional theaters from coast to coast and toured the country extensively performing with multiple productions of The Phantom of The Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, The Fantasticks, and The Foreigner, to name just a few. Bailey resides in Los Angeles with his husband of 33 years, James Mellon, their son William, and their lovable dogs Mia and Cooper.

 

Photo Feature and Review: Crane Wives at Chicago's Thalia Hall 6-29-24

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

INDIE/ALT ROCK BAND

THE CRANE WIVES

LIVE AT THALIA HALL IN CHICAGO, IL ON JUNE 29, 2024

All Photos by Dugan Kenaz-Mara ©2024 

Guest Review

by Dugan Kenaz-Mara

It was almost exactly two years ago that one of my best friends introduced me to the Crane Wives’ music. He played me “Curses” and I put it into my playlist immediately. From that point I slowly gathered more of their music for myself, discovering all throughout that many of my friends loved their songs. I started noticing it in the background music of our lives - during car rides and hangouts - and began feeling how much emotion their songs brought into every space they touch. I’m happy to report that the emotions The Crane Wives pump into their music are felt tenfold live. 

The best part of the show was undoubtedly the community the performers have cultivated. There was a strong queer presence in the crowd, with multiple members showing pride flags and folding fans. I particularly loved that everyone was able to bond even when the band wasn’t on stage. During the changeover between the opener and headliner, an audience member pulled up pictures of a pride flag and a UK flag, which the rest of the audience cheered or booed respectively. They also sang along to ‘Red Wine Supernova’ by Chappell Roan and traded friendship bracelets. 

One of the lead vocalists recounted a story about how the band had, years ago, performed at a nearby restaurant for an audience of 3. The same restaurant where they dined before this concert. She emphasized how much the band appreciates their audience and the immense support they receive, and it was evident the audience's impact on the band is as immense as the Crane Wives' on their fans. Eagle-eyed fans might even be able to spot friendship bracelets around the bands’ wrists, highlighting further the bond between audience and performer.

In comparison to other live concerts I’ve had the pleasure to shoot, the audience was near the top of my list for energy and enthusiasm. The entire audience belted along to favorite songs like “Take Me To War” and “Steady Steady” during the set, sharing wholeheartedly in the Feminine Rage release session that the band created space for. 

Chicago Set list:

Nobody

Allies or Enemies

Take me to War

Empty Page

The Well

Queen of Nothing

Never Love an Anchor

Daydreamer

Scars

Steady Steady

The Moon Will Sing

Arcturus Beaming

Bitter Medicine

The Hand That Feeds

Tongues and Teeth

Curses

How to Rest

The Crane Wives performed not one, but two currently unreleased songs from their upcoming album Beyond Beyond Beyond, coming September of this year. “Scars” and “Bitter Medicine” were like treats for the audience, prompting them to explore grief and vulnerability in a safe space. These songs were complimented by their newest release “Arcturus Beaming”, which explores hope and healing—imagining a better future while holding space for distress. Something I’m sure all of us can use a little of right now. 

Dugan Kenaz-Mara is a designer, photographer, educator, and recent graduate of 

Northwestern University.

Crane Wives 

NORTH AMERICAN SUMMER TOUR STARTS JUNE 5: GET TICKETS HERE

ANNOUNCE LUSH FIFTH STUDIO ALBUM

BEYOND BEYOND BEYOND

DUE OUT SEPTEMBER 6

PRE-ORDER THE LP HERE

"The Crane Wives charmed us again this year with its harmony-laced folk-rock..polished sound and dynamic energy..proves just how much fun the band is having with its music.”

"The Crane Wives are a four-piece band that have an uncanny ability at crafting goose-bump inducing three-part harmonies.”

"They’re an impeccable band with incredibly tight instrumentation and harmonies that, paired with an inclination for catchy hooks and scintillating lyricism, make a strong case for their burgeoning popularity.”

Grand Rapids, Michigan based indie rock band The Crane Wives announce their self-produced, rousing fifth studio album Beyond Beyond Beyond due out September 6 and available for pre-order now. Alongside the announcement, the band shares the first taste with anthemic, empowering track and lyric video “Arcturus Beaming” out now. Plus, The Crane Wives will embark on a summer tour across North America kicking off tomorrow in Milwaukee, WI. See a full list of dates below and get tickets now here. Their first project since 2016, Beyond Beyond Beyond sees the band evolve into a guitar-driven, self-assured group who is unafraid to experiment and explore new territory.

Beyond Beyond Beyond, the fifth studio record by The Crane Wives, explores the mixture of fear, joy, and deep vulnerability that occurs when a person is on the cusp of changing the course of their life. The eleven track album is a circular journey that asks heavy questions of the listener: Am I strong enough to change? Am I brave enough to take the risk? Do I deserve the chance to be happy? It offers the listener momentum to move forward, a guide through dark spaces with shimmery other-worldly melodies and an encouraging push to venture forth into the unknown. 

Beyond Beyond Beyond is an electric departure from the Crane Wives’ previous releases, prominently highlighting the lead guitar work of songwriters and singers Kate Pillsbury and Emilee Petersmark. Drummer Dan Rickabus contributes darker, stormy and dynamic rhythms to this record, while bassist Ben Zito creates narrative movement in the songs with his rooting, counter-melodic approach. The album is self-produced by the four-piece collaboration, and engineered & mixed by Zito at his studio, Centennial Sound. The band invited guest violinist Samantha Cooper and guest cellist Jordan Hamilton to help portray a distinct emotional voice. The album was mastered by Heba Kadry. The band’s longtime collaborator, visual artist Rebecca Green returned to create her fifth piece of album artwork for the project.

Rickabus shares that the band collaborated like never before throughout the album creation process. “We tried to challenge ourselves to shake loose from our old patterns and explore what is possible between the four of us. Those brave experiments mean even more to me when I think about the lyrical content of the album. The album begins with inner-conflict, and moves through a very human process of growth toward a bold belief in possibility, and an attempt to create change. So, that sense of creative experimentation really resonates.”   

“Arcturus Beaming” is a triumph of curiosity and bravery, expressing a journey to uncharted spaces through swooping vocals and anthem-esque rhythms. With an exhilarating determination, Kate Pillsbury’s evocative lyrics invite the listener to wonder what is possible beyond their preconceived notions and norms. The song’s building energy culminates in a realization of personal empowerment. “Nothing will change until I change.”

Watch: "Arcturus Beaming" (Official Lyric Video)

Vocalist and guitarist Kate Pillsbury shares the track was born while she found herself moving through a crucial healing process as she learned to listen to herself, be gentle with herself and take actions to mitigate her problems. “‘Arcturus Beaming’ is about holding grief and gratitude simultaneously as I have stumbled forward through the pain. In an era when it’s justifiably easy for many of us to gravitate toward doom and gloom, 'Arcturus Beaming' is about holding strong to a radical imagining of a better future, and doing the work to cultivate that future, which I believe requires healing ourselves on an individual level so that we can be fortified in the work required to heal our communities.” 

This summer, The Crane Wives will captivate audiences throughout North America. First through the Midwest, including an already sold out show in Madison, WI, then to Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, down the East Coast, including another sold out show in Hamden, CT, and concluding in their home state in Ann Arbor, Michigan. See a full list of dates below and get tickets now.

The Crane Wives formed in 2010 and have captivated audiences across hundreds of stages around the U.S. since. The band has built a global community and has amassed over 1M Spotify monthly listeners and 100M total streams with their unparalleled, spirited live show, evocative lyricism and glimmering harmonies. The group has shared stages with The Avett Brothers, Lake Street Dive, Rusted Root, The Dead South, Joseph, and more. In 2017, they won JBL’s “Best American Band Contest” and were named one of Paste Magazine's “12 Michigan Acts You Should Be Listening To Now,” Featured by Michigan Radio and NPR’s “All Songs Considered”, the band has been the recipient of several local accolades such as the WYCE Best Rock/Pop album for their 2016 full-length studio record, Foxlore. Now, in 2024, The Crane Wives prepare to enter an all-new, dynamic phase of their artistic identity where they learn to trust themselves, dive deeper lyrically and take sonic risks like never before.

"Arcturus Beaming," is a sweeping, healing journey of self-improvement where the group balances grief and gratitude at once. Beyond Beyond Beyond, the lush fifth LP by The Crane Wives is due out September 6 and available for pre-order now. Don't miss The Crane Wives live this summer across North America with tickets on sale now here. Connect with the rising rockers now on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X and YouTube.

The Crane Wives

Live Across North America

Summer 2024

06/05 - Turner Hall - Milwaukee, WI

06/06 - Majestic Theatre - Madison, WI (SOLD OUT)

06/07 - Amsterdam Bar & Hall - St Paul, MN

06/08 - Englert Theatre - Iowa City, IA

06/09 - Slowdown - Omaha, NE

06/11 - Recordbar - Kansas City, MO

06/13 - Rose Music Hall - Columbia, MO

06/14 - Delmar Hall - St Louis, MO

06/15 - Hi-Fi Annex - Indianapolis, IN

06/29 - Thalia Hall - Chicago, IL

07/15 - Axis Club - Toronto, ON

07/16 - Club Saw - Ottawa, ON

07/17 - La Sala Rosa - Montreal, QC

07/19 - Higher Ground Ballroom - Burlington, VT

07/20 - State Theatre - Portland, ME

07/21 - Royale - Boston, MA

07/23 - Lark Hall - Albany, NY

07/24 - Space Ballroom - Hamden, CT (SOLD OUT)

07/26 - Levon Helm Studio - Woodstock, NY

07/27 - Iron Works - Buffalo, NY

07/28 - Mr Small’s - Pittsburgh, PA

08/15 - The Black Sheep - Colorado Springs, CO  (SOLD OUT)

08/16 - Washington’s - Fort Collins, CO

08/17 - Gothic Theatre - Denver, CO

08/18 - Strings Pavilion - Steamboat Springs, CO

08/20 - Soundwell SLC - Salt Lake City, UT  (SOLD OUT)

08/21 - Treefort Music Hall - Boise, ID

08/23 - Wonder Ball Room - Portland, OR  (SOLD OUT)

08/24 - South Sound Block Party - Olympia, WA

08/29 - Sonic Lunch - Ann Arbor, MI

Beyond Beyond Beyond (LP) Tracklist

01. Scars

02. Bitter Medicine

03. Higher Ground

04. Predator

05. Say It

06. Mad Dog

07. Arcturus Beaming

08. Time Will Change You

09. Black Hole Fantasy

10. Red Clay

11. River Rushing

The Crane Wives Bio

Born of the 2010’s folk boom and now comfortably stationed in their rock and roll era, The Crane Wives epitomize the evolving sound of the indie genre. Having performed hundreds of shows on stages across the country, they gravitate toward high-energy melodies while their lyrics extol the shadow side of the human condition, delving into mythology and themes of darkness and inner conflict. The band has amassed over 1 million monthly listeners on Spotify, racking up over 100 million streams on their most popular songs and accumulating listenership from far-flung corners of the US to the UK, Australia, Germany, Brazil, Poland, Mexico, and the Philippines.

Winners of the JBL’s “Best American Band Contest” in 2017 and named one of Paste Magazine's “12 Michigan Acts You Should Be Listening To Now,” The Crane Wives have 5 full-length albums under their belts and have performed over 600 shows across the US, sharing stages with acts such as The Avett Brothers, Lake Street Dive, Rusted Root, The Dead South, Joseph, and many more. Featured by Michigan Radio and NPR’s “All Songs Considered”, the band has been the recipient of several local accolades such as the WYCE Best Rock/Pop album for their last full-length studio record, “Foxlore.”

The pulse of the Crane Wives, Ben Zito (bass) and Dan Rickabus (drums) create a groovy backdrop integral to the band’s sound, while co-leads Emilee Petersmark and Kate Pillsbury duel on electric guitar and strongly-belted vocals. The band softens the blows of their emotional candor with soulful three-part vocal harmonies, like a 21st century Cerberus, the hound of Hades reimagined as an emotional support animal. To date, they have released five full length albums, including their 2020 live album, “Here I Am.” 

Their new album, Beyond Beyond Beyond arrives September 6th.

For more information on The Crane Wives, please visit: Website | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | Facebook | Twitter/X | Soundcloud | Bandcamp

All Photos by Dugan Kenaz-Mara ©2024