REVIEW: America's Sweetheart Stalker Returns in LOVE NEVER DIES at CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE 3/4/18

CHICAGO PREMIERE OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER'S LOVE NEVER DIES, SEQUEL TO THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA AT CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE 

Review: 

On my way to opening night of Love Never Dies in Chicago, my social media tweets were met with an instant reply:

I was intrigued. In nearly a decade of reviewing theatre I've never heard of a show with it's own hate group! It seemed like a lot of energy to put into dissing a show. After seeing Love Never Dies, I'm not quite ready to join up, but I do concede they have a point.

On the positive side, the score was lovely, and the show was cast well. Meghan Picerno as ‘Christine Daaé,’ Karen Mason as ‘Madame Giry,’ Sean Thompson as ‘Raoul,’ Mary Michael Patterson as ‘Meg Giry,’ and Casey Lyons and Jake Heston Miller sharing the role of ‘Gustave’ were all standouts. There were some lovely moments between mother and child and between the boy and the phantom. We adore circus and the macabre, so I was excited to see this production based on the photos. The costumes and freak show concepts were visually fun, but the set was fairly simplistic for a Broadway touring show, and the circus arts were minimal. 

On the down side, Christine needs a #metoo moment. The phantom, though not actively murderous in this production, is still a disturbing character. I found the original Phantom problematic as a great romantic figure since he's a mass murdering, stalker who lurked around, spying into women's dressing rooms without their knowledge and ultimately kidnapped Christine. This is criminal, not passionate, endearing behavior to be revered. 

In Love Never Dies, the phantom outdoes himself by kidnapping Christine's entire family, threatening to harm her 10 year old son if she doesn't sing, and tricking her husband into abandoning her. This is on top of his usual tricks of lurking behind dressing room mirrors spying on Christine, locking her in rooms, dominating and bullying her. If this is idealized as romantic love, our culture is doomed.

This production fails the Bechdel test, which asks whether a work of fiction features at least two women who talk to each other about something other than a man, miserably. Despite being a highly successful, world famous opera singer, Christine's entire existence and lyrics revolve around the phantom, her son, and her husband, in that order. 

Furthermore, the plot does contradict the closing scene of the original Phantom, which may bother super fans. The storyline also seems contrived and unbelievably convoluted. The best we can give this one is a somewhat recommended.

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER'S LOVE NEVER DIES MAKES ITS CHICAGO PREMIERE

THE SPELLBINDING SEQUEL TO THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE

FEB. 14th  through MAR. 4, 2018

Broadway In Chicago and Andrew Lloyd Webber's LOVE NEVER DIES are delighted to announce that LOVE NEVER DIES will play Chicago for the very first time in a limited three-week engagement at Broadway In Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph) February 14 through March 4, 2018.



Broadway In Chicago and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s LOVE NEVER DIES are delighted to announce the spellbinding sequel to The Phantom of the Opera, will play Chicago for the very first time in a limited three-week engagement at Broadway In Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph) February 14 through March 4, 2018.

Direct from the highly successful production of LOVE NEVER DIES in Hamburg, Germany, Gardar Thor Cortes will portray the man behind the mask, ‘The Phantom,’ with Meghan Picerno as ‘Christine Daaé,’ Karen Mason as ‘Madame Giry,’ Sean Thompson as ‘Raoul,’ Mary Michael Patterson as ‘Meg Giry,’ and Casey Lyons and Jake Heston Miller sharing the role of ‘Gustave.’ The trio of Phantom’s henchmen include Katrina Kemp as ‘Fleck,’ Richard Koons as ‘Squelch,’ Stephen Petrovich as ‘Gangle,’ Gardar Thor Cortes is appearing with the permission of Actors' Equity Association. The Producers gratefully acknowledge Actors' Equity Association for its assistance of this production.

The ensemble includes Chelsey Arce, Erin Chupinsky, Diana DiMarzio, Tyler Donahue, Yesy Garcia, Alyssa Giannetti, Michael Gillis, Tamar Greene, Natalia Lepore Hagan, Lauren Lukacek, Alyssa McAnany, Rachel Anne Moore, Bronson Norris Murphy, Dave Schoonover, Adam Soniak, John Swapshire IV, Kelly Swint, Lucas John Thompson, Correy West and Arthur Wise.


   
LOVE NEVER DIES is a dazzling new production, which takes audiences on a thrilling rollercoaster ride of intrigue, obsession and romance. Audiences will be seduced by the beautiful; sometimes magical and poetic; sometimes joyful; and occasionally melancholic score. Don’t miss this magnificent continuation of one of the world’s greatest love stories. The new touring production reflects an extensive re-working of the material by an Australian creative team for the original Australian premiere in 2011. Described by Chris Boyd in The Australian as “The best thing Lloyd Webber has written in the quarter century since The Phantom of the Opera”.

Directed by Simon Phillips (Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical) with new set and costume designs by Gabriela Tylesova, choreography by 2011 Astaire Awards winner Graeme Murphy, lighting design by Nick Schlieper and sound design by Mick Potter, the show is one of the few instances of a major West End musical being given a complete makeover for subsequent productions.
Lloyd Webber said he knew about five minutes into seeing its first run-through that he and the new production team had achieved something special. “I have the great joy of being able to say that I think this production is probably the finest one I could ever, ever hope for.”

LOVE NEVER DIES features music by the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber, lyrics by Glenn Slater, book by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Ben Elton, additional lyrics by Charles Hart, and orchestrations by David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

The year is 1907. It is 10 years after his disappearance from the Paris Opera House and The Phantom has escaped to a new life in New York where he lives amongst the screaming joy rides and freak shows of Coney Island. In this new, electrically charged world, he has finally found a place for his music to soar, but he has never stopped yearning for his one true love and musical protégée, Christine Daaé.

Now one of the world’s finest sopranos, Christine accepts an invitation to travel from Paris to New York to perform at a renowned opera house. Christine's marriage to Raoul is suffering at the hands of his drinking and gambling and they desperately need the financial rewards that America can give them.

In a final bid to win back Christine’s love, The Phantom lures her, Raoul, and their young son Gustave, from Manhattan to the glittering and glorious world of Coney Island - not knowing what is in store for them.

Since its premiere in 2010, LOVE NEVER DIES has enjoyed productions worldwide in London, Australia, Denmark, Japan and Germany, as well as multiple recordings including a concept album and a London cast recording. A DVD release of the Australian production has delighted fans globally, and now the North American tour brings the musical to the US for the first time.
For more information, please visit www.loveneverdies.com.


PERFORMANCE DATES
Tuesdays at 7:30PM
Wednesdays at 2:00PM & 7:30PM
Thursdays at 7:30PM
Fridays at 7:30PM
Saturdays at 2:00PM & 8:00PM
Sundays at 2:00PM
*No matinee on Wed., Feb.14
*Additional matinee on Thurs., Feb. 15 & evening performance on Sun., Feb. 18



TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets for LOVE NEVER DIES at the Cadillac Palace Theatre will go on sale Friday, Dec. 8 and range from $35-$100 with a select number of premium seats available. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710.  Tickets are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St., 18 W. Monroe St. and 175 E. Chestnut), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line at (800) 775-2000 and online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.  



ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 17 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining well up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago's Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.
Facebook @BroadwayInChicago Twitter @broadwaychicago Instagram @broadwayinchicago #broadwayinchicago

OPENING: CHICAGO PREMIERE OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER'S LOVE NEVER DIES, SEQUEL TO THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA AT CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE 2/14-3/4/18

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER'S LOVE NEVER DIES MAKES ITS CHICAGO PREMIERE

THE SPELLBINDING SEQUEL TO THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE

FEB. 14th  through MAR. 4, 2018

Here at ChiIL Mama & ChiIL Live Shows, we've reviewed Broadway touring productions of Phantom of the Opera many times over the years. Yet the sequel is coming to Chicago for the first time ever. Catch this 3 week limited engagement at the iconic, opulent Cadillac Palace

Broadway In Chicago and Andrew Lloyd Webber's LOVE NEVER DIES are delighted to announce that LOVE NEVER DIES will play Chicago for the very first time in a limited three-week engagement at Broadway In Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph) February 14 through March 4, 2018.



Broadway In Chicago and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s LOVE NEVER DIES are delighted to announce the spellbinding sequel to The Phantom of the Opera, will play Chicago for the very first time in a limited three-week engagement at Broadway In Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph) February 14 through March 4, 2018.



Direct from the highly successful production of LOVE NEVER DIES in Hamburg, Germany, Gardar Thor Cortes will portray the man behind the mask, ‘The Phantom,’ with Meghan Picerno as ‘Christine Daaé,’ Karen Mason as ‘Madame Giry,’ Sean Thompson as ‘Raoul,’ Mary Michael Patterson as ‘Meg Giry,’ and Casey Lyons and Jake Heston Miller sharing the role of ‘Gustave.’ The trio of Phantom’s henchmen include Katrina Kemp as ‘Fleck,’ Richard Koons as ‘Squelch,’ Stephen Petrovich as ‘Gangle,’ Gardar Thor Cortes is appearing with the permission of Actors' Equity Association. The Producers gratefully acknowledge Actors' Equity Association for its assistance of this production.

The ensemble includes Chelsey Arce, Erin Chupinsky, Diana DiMarzio, Tyler Donahue, Yesy Garcia, Alyssa Giannetti, Michael Gillis, Tamar Greene, Natalia Lepore Hagan, Lauren Lukacek, Alyssa McAnany, Rachel Anne Moore, Bronson Norris Murphy, Dave Schoonover, Adam Soniak, John Swapshire IV, Kelly Swint, Lucas John Thompson, Correy West and Arthur Wise.


   
LOVE NEVER DIES is a dazzling new production, which takes audiences on a thrilling rollercoaster ride of intrigue, obsession and romance. Audiences will be seduced by the beautiful; sometimes magical and poetic; sometimes joyful; and occasionally melancholic score. Don’t miss this magnificent continuation of one of the world’s greatest love stories. The new touring production reflects an extensive re-working of the material by an Australian creative team for the original Australian premiere in 2011. Described by Chris Boyd in The Australian as “The best thing Lloyd Webber has written in the quarter century since The Phantom of the Opera”.

Directed by Simon Phillips (Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical) with new set and costume designs by Gabriela Tylesova, choreography by 2011 Astaire Awards winner Graeme Murphy, lighting design by Nick Schlieper and sound design by Mick Potter, the show is one of the few instances of a major West End musical being given a complete makeover for subsequent productions.
Lloyd Webber said he knew about five minutes into seeing its first run-through that he and the new production team had achieved something special. “I have the great joy of being able to say that I think this production is probably the finest one I could ever, ever hope for.”

LOVE NEVER DIES features music by the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber, lyrics by Glenn Slater, book by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Ben Elton, additional lyrics by Charles Hart, and orchestrations by David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

The year is 1907. It is 10 years after his disappearance from the Paris Opera House and The Phantom has escaped to a new life in New York where he lives amongst the screaming joy rides and freak shows of Coney Island. In this new, electrically charged world, he has finally found a place for his music to soar, but he has never stopped yearning for his one true love and musical protégée, Christine Daaé.



Now one of the world’s finest sopranos, Christine accepts an invitation to travel from Paris to New York to perform at a renowned opera house. Christine's marriage to Raoul is suffering at the hands of his drinking and gambling and they desperately need the financial rewards that America can give them.

In a final bid to win back Christine’s love, The Phantom lures her, Raoul, and their young son Gustave, from Manhattan to the glittering and glorious world of Coney Island - not knowing what is in store for them.

Since its premiere in 2010, LOVE NEVER DIES has enjoyed productions worldwide in London, Australia, Denmark, Japan and Germany, as well as multiple recordings including a concept album and a London cast recording. A DVD release of the Australian production has delighted fans globally, and now the North American tour brings the musical to the US for the first time.
For more information, please visit www.loveneverdies.com.



PERFORMANCE DATES
Tuesdays at 7:30PM
Wednesdays at 2:00PM & 7:30PM
Thursdays at 7:30PM
Fridays at 7:30PM
Saturdays at 2:00PM & 8:00PM
Sundays at 2:00PM
*No matinee on Wed., Feb.14
*Additional matinee on Thurs., Feb. 15 & evening performance on Sun., Feb. 18



TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets for LOVE NEVER DIES at the Cadillac Palace Theatre will go on sale Friday, Dec. 8 and range from $35-$100 with a select number of premium seats available. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710.  Tickets are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St., 18 W. Monroe St. and 175 E. Chestnut), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line at (800) 775-2000 and online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.  



ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 17 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining well up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago's Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.
Facebook @BroadwayInChicago Twitter @broadwaychicago Instagram @broadwayinchicago #broadwayinchicago

SAVE THE DATES: 2 Days Only THE ILLUSIONISTS PRESENT ADAM TRENT at Cadillac Palace Theatre 3/16 & 17 2018

ADAM TRENT BRINGS NEXT GENERATION OF MAGIC TO CHICAGO

BREAKOUT STAR FROM WORLD’S BEST-SELLING MAGIC SHOW, “THE ILLUSIONISTS,”

PLAYS CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE

MARCH 16-17, 2018

Broadway In Chicago and the producers of the world’s best-selling touring magic show, THE ILLUSIONISTS, are delighted to announce that Broadway and television star Adam Trent will bring his signature brand of magic and illusion to Chicago in THE ILLUSIONISTS PRESENT ADAM TRENT, an immersive entertainment extravaganza of magic, comedy and music designed to entertain the entire family. The stage spectacle is touring more than 60 cities and will play Broadway In Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph) for a limited two-day engagement March 16 and 17, 2018. Individual tickets will go on sale at a later date.

Showcasing his “futuristic” brand of magic, Trent has mesmerized live audiences around the globe, in person and as a featured guest on America’s Got Talent, The Today Show, Ellen, the Travel Channel and Disney Channel among countless other TV appearances. The 31-year-old also stars in his own recently launched 10-episode TV series ‘The Road Trick’ on Red Bull TV.



Trent inaugurated the first 2 years of THE ILLUSIONISTS’ record breaking Broadway runs, which served as a launching pad for his own live show and tour. “I am so excited to hit the road and bring an entirely new show to audiences around the world,” says Trent, who has always thought that magic should be entertaining first and tricky second. He doesn’t want people to remember “tricks” as much as the laughs and memories made with the performance. “This will be a show like you’ve never seen.”

THE ILLUSIONISTS PRESENT ADAM TRENT is produced by MagicSpace Entertainment and The Works Entertainment. “Adam Trent is unlike any magician working today, a funny, witty and accomplished entertainer — the next David Copperfield meets Justin Timberlake,” says creative producer Simon Painter. “He has a knack for electrifying giant television and theatre audiences with his unique brand of magic.”

For more information and a tentative tour schedule, visit AdamTrent.com. Follow @AdamTrentMagic on all social media platforms for tour info.



ABOUT MAGICSPACE ENTERTAINMENT
MagicSpace Entertainment is headed by Lee D. Marshall, Joe Marsh, John Ballard, Steve Boulay and Bruce Granath and has been producing and presenting national tours, Broadway shows, concerts and museum exhibits worldwide for over 30 years. Consistently one of the top promoters in North America, MagicSpace Entertainment typically produces and presents more than 250 events in 75 cities per year.  They have offices in Park City and Salt Lake City, UT. www.magicspace.net

ABOUT THE WORKS ENTERTAINMENT
The Works Entertainment established and led by Creative Producer Simon Painter and Executive Producer Tim Lawson, is one of the most successful live entertainment companies in the world, creating, presenting and producing first class entertainment throughout over 300 cities and 30 countries.  Their award-winning shows including The Illusionists, Le Noir and Circus 1903 have smashed box office records multiple times around the world from Sydney to Mexico to London and Broadway. 

TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets for THE ILLUSIONISTS PRESENT ADAM TRENT at the Cadillac Palace Theatre will go on sale at a later date. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710.  Tickets are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St., 18 W. Monroe St. and 175 E. Chestnut), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line at (800) 775-2000 and online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.  For more information, visitwww.BroadwayInChicago.com.

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 17 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining well up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Tickets On Sale December 3rd: T H E H U M A N S at Cadillac Palace 1/30/18-2/11/18

Chi IL Live Shows On Our Radar:

T H E H U M A N S

*WINNER* BEST PLAY - 2016 TONY AWARD

*WINNER* BEST PLAY - 2016 NEW YORK DRAMA CRITICS AWARD

*WINNER* BEST PLAY - 2016 DRAMA DESK AWARD

*WINNER* BEST PLAY - 2016 OUTER CRITICS CIRCLE AWARD

*WINNER* BEST PLAY - 2016 DRAMA LEAGUE AWARD

  

INDIVIDUAL TICKETS GO ON SALE

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3

Broadway In Chicago is pleased to announce that individual tickets for the most acclaimed American play in recent memory,  The Humans, will go on sale Sunday, Dec. 3. The Humans plays Broadway In Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre for a limited two-week engagement Jan. 30 – Feb. 11, 2018.

The cast of The Humans will feature Richard Thomas as Erik, Pamela Reed as Deirdre, Daisy Eagan as Brigid, Lauren Klein as Momo, Therese Plaehn as Aimee, and Luis Vega as Richard.

Garnering the most ecstatic reviews of any play in recent memory, and heralded in 2016 as “The Best Play of the Year” by The New York Times, New York Magazine, The Washington Post, The Chicago Tribune, The Record, Time Out New York, The Hollywood Reporter, Deadline, and The Wrap, the tour will feature the entire creative team from the Broadway production, led by Tony Award-winning director Joe Mantello and including Tony Award-winning scenic designer David Zinn, costume designer Sarah Laux, lighting designer Justin Townsend, and sound designer Fitz Patton.

The angst, anguish and amity of the American middle class are first coaxed–then shoved–into the light in this uproarious, hopeful, and heart-breaking play that takes place over the course of a family dinner on Thanksgiving. Breaking with tradition, Erik Blake has brought his Pennsylvania family to celebrate and give thanks at his daughter’s apartment in lower Manhattan. As darkness falls outside the ramshackle pre-war duplex, and eerie things start to go bump in the night, the Blake clan’s deepest fears and greatest follies are laid bare. Our modern age of anxiety is keenly observed, with humor and compassion, in this new American classic.

The Humans is the recipient of 4 2016 Tony Awards including Best Play (Author, Stephen Karam), Best Featured Actress in a Play (Jayne Houdyshell), Best Featured Actor in a Play (Reed Birney), and Best Scenic Design of a Play (David Zinn), 4 Drama Desk Awards including Outstanding Play, Outstanding Lighting Design of a Play (Justin Townsend), Outstanding Sound Design in a Play (Fitz Patton), and a 2016 Special Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Ensemble. In 2016, The Humans was named the Best Play of the Year by the New York Drama Critics’ Circle, the Outer Critics Circle, and the Drama League. The Obie Awards honored Stephen Karam with a 2016 Award for Playwriting and Jayne Houdyshell with a 2016 Award for Performance.

The Humans, a 2016 Pulitzer Prize Finalist, is Stephen Karam's second play commissioned by Roundabout Theatre Company, following his Pulitzer Prize Finalist Sons of the Prophet (his first Roundabout commission; 2011) and the hugely acclaimed premiere of Speech & Debate (2007).

The Humans is produced by Scott Rudin, Barry Diller, Fox Theatricals, James L. Nederlander, Roy Furman, Jon B. Platt, Eli Bush, The John Gore Organization, Jack Lane, Barbara Whitman, Jay Alix & Una Jackman, Sonia Friedman, Amanda Lipitz, Peter May, Stephanie P. McClelland, The Shubert Organization, Diana DiMenna. Joey Parnes, Sue Wagner, and John Johnson serve as Executive Producers.

www.TheHumansOnBroadway.com  
www.twitter.com/TheHumansPlay  



PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Tuesdays at 7:30PM
Wednesdays 7:30PM (Added 2PM matinee on Feb. 7)
Thursdays at 7:30PM
Fridays at 7:30PM
Saturdays at 2:00PM & 8:00PM
Sundays at 2:00PM (Added 7:30PM performance on Feb. 4)

TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets for The Humans range from $25 - $98. A select number of premium seats are also available for many performances. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710. Tickets are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St., 18 W. Monroe St. and 175 E. Chestnut), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line at (800) 775-2000 and online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 17 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theatre District entertaining up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place as well as presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.  For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

 Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

SAVE THE DATES: MOTOWN THE MUSICAL TO PLAY CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE OCT. 3-8, 2017

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

  

RETURNS TO CHICAGO BY POPULAR DEMAND

CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE

OCT. 3-8, 2017

TICKETS NOW ON SALE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC 

Here at ChiIL Live Shows, we caught MOTOWN THE MUSICAL when it played Chicago several years ago and it was phenomenal. With a real life backstory custom made for a Broadway musical, this plots a keeper. And the hits just keep coming. The audience was holding hands and grinning ear to ear. Don't miss this. 

Broadway In Chicago and Producers Kevin McCollum, Doug Morris and Motown Founder Berry Gordy are delighted to announce that individual tickets for the return of MOTOWN THE MUSICAL will go on sale on Friday, July 28, 2017. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL, which launched its first national tour in Chicago, will play at the Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph) for a limited one-week engagement that runs October 3-8, 2017.



Featuring more than 40 classic hits such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” MOTOWN THE MUSICAL tells the story behind the hits as Diana, Smokey, Berry and the whole Motown family fight against the odds to create the soundtrack of change in America.

Directed by Charles Randolph-Wright, MOTOWN THE MUSICAL is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye and so many more.

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL features staging by Schele Williams, choreography by Patricia Wilcox (A Night with Janis Joplin) and Warren Adams (Toy Story), scenic design by David Korins (Bring It On: The Musical, Annie), costume design by Tony Award® nominee Emilio Sosa (The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, “Project Runway”), lighting design by Tony Award® winner Natasha Katz (Once, Sister Act), sound design by Tony Award® nominee Peter Hylenski (Rock of Ages, The Scottsboro Boys), projection design by Daniel Brodie (Aladdin), hair and wig design by Charles LaPointe (Memphis) and casting by Wojcik | Seay Casting.

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL’s arrangements and orchestrations are by Grammy and Tony Award® nominee Ethan Popp (Rock of Ages), who also serves as music supervisor in reproducing the classic “Sound of Young America,” with co-orchestrations and additional arrangements by Tony Award® nominee Bryan Crook (“Smash”) and dance arrangements by Zane Mark (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels).

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL is produced by Tony Award® winning producer Kevin McCollum (Rent, In the Heights, Avenue Q), Chairman and CEO of SONY Music Entertainment Doug Morris and Motown Founder Berry Gordy, in association with Work Light Productions.

For more information, visit www.MotownTheMusical.com




PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Tuesday, October 3 - 7:30PM
Wednesday, October 4 - 7:30PM
Thursday, October 5 - 7:30 PM  
Friday, October 6 - 7:30PM
Saturday, October 7 - 2:00PM & 8:00PM
Sunday, October 8 - 2:00PM & 7:30PM

TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets for MOTOWN THE MUSICAL at the Cadillac Palace Theatre begin at $30. A select number of premium seats are also available for many performances. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710.  Tickets are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St., 18 W. Monroe St. and 175 E. Chestnut), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line at (800) 775-2000 and online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.  For more information, visitwww.BroadwayInChicago.com.

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 17 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining well up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres.  Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including The PrivateBank Theatre, Oriental Theatre, Cadillac Palace Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

HELP OUT: Tonight Disney's Aladdin Cast Members Hold Side Track Benefit For Broadway Cares

CAST MEMBERS FROM DISNEY’S ALADDIN NORTH AMERICAN TOUR PRESENT

CLUB AGRABAH: A CABARET EVENT

MONDAY, JULY 31, 7PM – 9PM

AT SIDETRACK

ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT BROADWAY CARES/EQUITY FIGHTS AIDS

Cast members from Disney’s Aladdin will present CLUB AGRABAH: A CABARET EVENT, a live cabaret-style concert, on Monday, July 31, 2017 from 7-9PM at Sidetrack Video Bar (3349 N. Halsted St., Chicago).

Aladdin cast members will perform a selection of their favorite songs, and the concert will be followed by Sidetrack’s signature ‘Musical Monday’ which features show-tune videos that play throughout the bar until 2AM.

There is a $20 suggested donation at the door for CLUB AGRABAH: A CABARET EVENT. To learn more about Sidetrack Video Bar, visit www.sidetrackchicago.com.

All donations and money raised go to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, one of the nation’s leading industry-based, nonprofit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organizations. By drawing upon the talents, resources and generosity of the American theatre community since 1988, BC/EFA has raised more than $225 million for essential services for people with AIDS and other critical illnesses across the United States. To learn more, visit www.broadwaycares.org.

Disney’s ALADDIN is currently playing Broadway In Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre through September 10, 2017.

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO 
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 17 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining well up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including The PrivateBank Theatre, Oriental Theatre, Cadillac Palace Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.

For more information, visit www.broadwayinchicago.com.

Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

SAVE THE DATES: WAITRESS AT CADILLAC PALACE JULY 3 – 22, 2018

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

WAITRESS

TO PLAY BROADWAY IN CHICAGO’S

CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE

THREE WEEKS ONLY!

JULY 3 – 22, 2018

Broadway In Chicago is thrilled to announce WAITRESS will play the Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph) for a limited three-week engagement July 3 – 22, 2018. 

WAITRESS will join the line-up of performances at the annual Broadway In Chicago Summer Concert, sponsored by ABC 7 Chicago and hosted by Janet Davies, ABC 7 Chicago’s entertainment reporter and host of the entertainment and lifestyle program 190 NORTH on ABC 7. The Broadway In Chicago Summer Concert will take place on Monday, August 14, 2017 at 6:15 p.m. at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park (201 E Randolph St).

Brought to life by a groundbreaking all-female creative team, this irresistible new hit features original music and lyrics by 6-time Grammy® nominee Sara Bareilles ("Brave," "Love Song"), a book by acclaimed screenwriter Jessie Nelson (I Am Sam) and direction by Tony Award® winner Diane Paulus (Hair, Pippin, Finding Neverland).

Inspired by Adrienne Shelly's beloved film, WAITRESS tells the story of Jenna - a waitress and expert pie maker, Jenna dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town's new doctor may offer her a chance at a fresh start, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes for happiness. But Jenna must summon the strength and courage to rebuild her own life.

"It's an empowering musical of the highest order!" raves the Chicago Tribune.  "WAITRESS is a little slice of heaven!" says Entertainment Weekly and "a monumental contribution to Broadway!" according to Marie Claire.  Don't miss this uplifting musical celebrating friendship, motherhood, and the magic of a well-made pie.



Ticket Information
WAITRESS will be part of the next Broadway In Chicago season, on sale this fall.  Group tickets for 10 or more for WAITRESS are available now by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710. Individual tickets for will go on sale at a later date.  For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 17 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining well up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres.  Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including The PrivateBank Theatre, the Oriental Theatre, Cadillac Palace Theatre, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place.  For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Casting Change Announcement #BroadwayInChicago

COOPER GRODIN TO ASSUME THE TITLE ROLE IN THE SPECTACULAR NEW PRODUCTION OF

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

BEGINNING JANUARY 9 AT THE CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE IN CHICAGO

CHICAGO 

The producers of the spectacular new national touring production of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA announced today that Cooper Grodin will assume the title role in the musical beginning January 9 in Chicago at the Cadillac Palace Theatre. Grodin steps in for Mark Campbell, who is no longer touring with the production due to personal reasons. He joins Julia Udine as ‘Christine Daaé,’ Ben Jacoby as ‘Raoul,’ Jacquelynne Fontaine as ‘Carlotta Giudicelli,’ Craig Bennett as ‘Monsieur Firmin,’ Edward Staudenmayer as ‘Monsieur André,’ Linda Balgord as ‘Madame Giry,’ Frank Viveros as ‘Ubaldo Piangi’ and Hannah Florence as ‘Meg Giry’.

Produced by Cameron Mackintosh and The Really Useful Group, the spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is directed by Laurence Connor (the 25th Anniversary production of Les Misérables coming to Broadway March 2014, Jesus Christ Superstar) with choreography by Scott Ambler, set design by Paul Brown, Tony Award-winning original costume design by Maria Björnson, lighting design by Tony Award-winner Paule Constable, sound design by Mick Potter and musical supervision by John Rigby. The production is overseen by Matthew Bourne and Cameron Mackintosh. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has music by Andrew Lloyd Webber; lyrics are by Charles Hart (with additional lyrics by Richard Stilgoe) and the book is by Richard Stilgoe and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Orchestrations are by David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

With newly reinvented staging and stunning scenic design, this new version of PHANTOM, the most successful musical of all-time, will be performed by a cast and orchestra of 52, making this one of the largest productions on tour in North America. THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA will play Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W Randolph) January 9, 2014 through March 2, 2014.

The Ensemble includes Adam Bashian, Nick Cartell, Dan Debenport, Amy Decker, Mark Emerson, Michael Thomas Holmes, Celia Hottenstein, Christopher Howard, Merritt David Janes, Amy Justman, Edward Juvier, Dustin Layton, Luke Lazzaro, Jay Lusteck, Katie McCreary, Grace Morgan, Christy Morton, Quinto Ott, Eric Ruiz, Allan Snyder and Marguerite Willbanks. The Corps de Ballet includes Morgan Cowling, Anjelica Bette Fellini, Ramona Kelley, Abigail Mentzer, Lily Rose Peck, Tara Sweeney and Micki Weiner.

Cooper Grodin has recently been seen in Shakespeare in the Park’s Into The Woods, the Drama Desk-nominated Best Revival of The Golden Land and across the country in the National Tour of Les Misérables. His debut original album “It’s The Little Things” was released in 2012. Julia Udine makes her touring debut with PHANTOM. Regionally, she starred as Maria in West Side Story and appeared on “Law and Order SVU.” Chicago native, Ben Jacoby has performed at the Marriott Theatre, Milwaukee Rep, Maine State Music Theatre and the Utah Shakespeare Festival.

There are currently six productions of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA around the world: the flagship London production (27 Years and counting), New York (approaching 26 years), Budapest (Hungary), Hamburg (Germany), the Asian Pacific Tour and the all-new North American Tour.

Based on the classic novel Le Fantôme de L’Opéra by Gaston Leroux, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA tells the story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it. He falls madly in love with an innocent young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to creating a new star by nurturing her extraordinary talents and by employing all of the devious methods at his command.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

The performance schedule for THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is as follows: Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays at 2 & 7:30 p.m. (Note: no 2 p.m. performance on January 15) Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. (additional 2 p.m. performance on January 16) Fridays at 7:30 p.m.

Saturdays at 2 & 8 p.m. Sundays at 2 p.m. (additional 7:30 p.m. performances on January 12 and January 19)

Please note: Ticket prices and performance schedule are subject to change.

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710. Tickets are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St., 18 W. Monroe St. and 175 E. Chestnut), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line at (800) 775-2000, all Ticketmaster retail locations and online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com or www.ThePhantomOfTheOpera.com/ustour

ACT OUT OPENING: Phantom of the Opera at Cadillac Palace #BroadwayInChicago

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA

IN A SPECTACULAR NEW PRODUCTION BY

CAMERON MACKINTOSH

 TO PLAY CHICAGO’S CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE

JANUARY 9 – MARCH 2, 2014

Broadway In Chicago, Cameron Mackintosh and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Really Useful Group are delighted to announce the opening of the spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA. With newly reinvented staging and stunning scenic design, this new version of PHANTOM, the most successful musical of all-time, will be performed by a cast and orchestra of 52, making this one of the largest productions on tour in North America.  THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA will play Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W Randolph) January 9, 2014 through March 2, 2014.

Mark Campbell portrays the man behind the mask, ‘The Phantom,’ with Julia Udine as ‘Christine Daaé,’ Ben Jacoby as ‘Raoul,’ Jacquelynne Fontaine as ‘Carlotta Giudicelli,’ Craig Bennett as ‘Monsieur Firmin,’ Edward Staudenmayer as ‘Monsieur André,’ Linda Balgord as ‘Madame Giry,’ Frank Viveros as ‘Ubaldo Piangi’ and Hannah Florence as ‘Meg Giry’.

Mark Campbell has been seen across the country in the National Tours of Mamma Mia! and Guys & Dolls. His regional credits include The Old Globe, Cape May Stage, Virginia Stage Company and Arkansas Rep.  Julia Udine makes her touring debut with PHANTOM. Regionally, she starred as Maria in West Side Story and appeared on “Law and Order SVU.” Chicago native, Ben Jacoby has performed at the Marriott Theatre, Milwaukee Rep, Maine State Music Theatre and the Utah Shakespeare Festival.  Jacquelynne Fontaine’s stage and opera credits include The Student Prince (Kathie, Pittsburgh CLO), A Little Night Music (Charlotte, Indiana Rep), La Traviata (Violetta) and was Miss California 2006.  Craig Bennett’s Broadway credits include A Tale of Two Cities, South Pacific and Miss Saigon. Edward Staudenmayer’s Broadway credits include Wonderland, Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me and Beauty and the Beast (1^st National Tour).

Linda Balgord received a Drama Desk Award nomination for The Pirate Queen and has also been seen on Broadway in Gypsy, La Cage Aux Folles, Cats and Passion.  Frank Viveros originated the roles of Bloat The Blowfish in Disney’s Finding Nemo: The Musical and Iron Chef in Yellow Brick Road.  Hannah Florence appeared in Scandalous (Broadway) as well as Where’s Charley (Encores!), Anna Nicole (NYC Opera/BAM) and Mary Poppins (1^st National Tour). 

The Ensemble includes Adam Bashian, Nick Cartell, Dan Debenport, Amy Decker, Mark Emerson, Cooper Grodin, Michael Thomas Holmes, Celia Hottenstein, Christopher Howard, Merritt David Janes, Amy Justman, Edward Juvier, Dustin Layton, Luke Lazzaro, Jay Lusteck, Katie McCreary, Grace Morgan, Christy Morton, Quinto Ott, Eric Ruiz and Marguerite Willbanks. The Corps de Ballet includes Morgan Cowling, Anjelica Bette Fellini, Ramona Kelley, Abigail Mentzer, Lily Rose Peck, Tara Sweeney and Micki Weiner.

For more information on the production, please visit www.ThePhantomOfTheOpera.com.

Andrew Lloyd Webber said, “It’s wonderful to have a new production of PHANTOM touring America in the same year that the show celebrates 25 years on Broadway.  Director Laurence Connor has done an amazing job and this production has received huge critical acclaim in the UK.”

Cameron Mackintosh said, ''After a glorious celebration of 25 phenomenal years on Broadway with no end in sight, I'm delighted to be able to bring this dazzling new production of PHANTOM -- which has been phenomenally well-received by both audiences and critics in the U.K this past year  -- to North America.  With an exciting new design and staging, retaining Maria Björnson’s amazing costumes, I am confident North American audiences will fall in love with the PHANTOM in his new guise -- for the first time or all over again.”

The new production of PHANTOM has been an enormous hit on its inaugural UK tour with audiences and critics alike…

“An intense and spectacular new production with a stunning new design,

fresh drama and added momentum.”

“Cameron Mackintosh’s flawless new PHANTOM is the best production of this musical ever.”

“Take a deep breath and prepare to be dazzled; this kind

of gorgeous escapism is exactly what audiences need.”

“A PHENOMENON.”

“Andrew Lloyd Webber’s luscious music - a great theatrical experience PHANTASTIC.”

This new production of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is directed by Laurence Connor (the 25^th Anniversary production of Les Misérables coming to Broadway March 2014, Jesus Christ Superstar) with choreography by Scott Ambler, set design by Paul Brown, Tony Award-winning original costume design by Maria Björnson, lighting design by Tony Award winner Paule Constable, sound design by Mick Potter and musical supervision by John Rigby. The production is overseen by Matthew Bourne and Cameron Mackintosh.  THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has music by Andrew Lloyd Webber; lyrics are by Charles Hart (with additional lyrics by Richard Stilgoe) and the book is by Richard Stilgoe and Andrew Lloyd Webber.  Orchestrations are by David Cullen and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA continues its record-breaking runs in London and on Broadway. There are currently five productions around the world: the flagship London production (26 Years and counting), New York (25 years and counting - PHANTOM celebrated its 25^th Anniversary on Broadway on January 26 of this year), Budapest (Hungary), Kyoto (Japan, also celebrating 25 years and counting), and Seoul (Korea).

Since its debut, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA has grossed over $5.6 billion worldwide, with over 65,000 performances that have been seen by 130 million people in 29 countries and 150 cities in 13 languages. The show has won more than 70 major theater awards.

The new touring production of THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA will be the first to tour the U.S. in three years.   There have been three previous U.S. National Tours that grossed over $1.5 billion in combined box office sales and played 216 engagements in 77 cities for an unprecedented total of 36 years and over 14,500 performances to 31 million people.

Based on the classic novel Le Fantôme de L’Opéra by Gaston Leroux, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA tells the story of a masked figure who lurks beneath the catacombs of the Paris Opera House, exercising a reign of terror over all who inhabit it.  He falls madly in love with an innocent young soprano, Christine, and devotes himself to creating a new star by nurturing her extraordinary talents and by employing all of the devious methods at his command.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

The performance schedule for THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA is as follows:

Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m.

Wednesdays at 2 & 7:30 p.m. (Note: no 2 p.m. performance on January 15)

Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.  (additional 2 p.m. performance on January 16)

Fridays at 7:30 p.m.

Saturdays at 2 & 8 p.m.

Sundays at 2 p.m. (additional 7:30 p.m. performances on January 12 and January 19)

Please note: Ticket prices and performance schedule are subject to change.

TICKET INFORMATION

Tickets for THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA at the Cadillac Palace Theatre range from $23-$93.  A select number of premium seats are also available for many performances.  Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710.  Tickets are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St., 18 W. Monroe St. and 175 E. Chestnut), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line at (800) 775-2000, all Ticketmaster retail locations and online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com. 

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com or www.ThePhantomOfTheOpera.com.

EXTENDED DUE TO EARLY INTEREST & POPULAR DEMAND!