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Showing posts with label dance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dance. Show all posts

Friday, March 7, 2025

REVIEW: DREAM at Governors State University, Feb. 28 - March 1, 2025 and 29th Season Lineup

DREAM 

at Governors State University

Feb. 28 - March 1

The GovSt Dance Company Presents an Evening of Dance 

Inspired By Dr. Martin Luther King’s Most Famous Speech

MYANNA DREAM AIE

Photo courtesy of Governors State University


GUEST REVIEW

By Alicia Starr

I brought my high school age daughter to see opening night of DREAM at Governors State University on Feb. 28th. When we arrived I felt very welcomed. The attendants were helpful in many ways. The auditorium was larger than I expected and very up to date. It was filled with many supporting families and friends, that responded to the performances in positivity. The audience was engaged and attentive. Visibility was no problem at all, and their sound system is great. There were even viewing screens in the lobby with a full bar. 

Every setting, background scene, lighting, and colors correlated well with the dance at hand. All elements combined to amplify the feelings that the dancers were evoking nonverbally. Though united by the common DREAM theme, it was clear that every dance had a different message, so nothing ever seemed redundant. You could really see the passion in the dancers eyes as they moved to the rhythm of each song. In the end it was very uplifting and spirited, as all the dancers came together, representing great unity. I would definitely recommend catching more of Governors State University’s 29th season lineup at The Center for Performing Arts. 


DREAM at Governors State University and 29th Season Lineup

Governors State University’s (GovState) The Center for Performing Arts (The Center), 1 University Parkway, University Park, continues its 29th season with DREAM, presented by the GovSt Dance Company, Friday, Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, March 1 at 2 p.m.

Inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic "I Have a Dream" speech, witness an inspiring evening of dance that explores the enduring power of dreams. Experience breathtaking contemporary, liturgical, and jazz performances that celebrate the resilience of the human spirit and the beauty of hope.

Tickets for DREAM are $15 general admission and may be purchased by calling 708.235.2222 or visiting CenterTickets.net. Patrons may also make purchases at the box office. Box office hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Thursdays: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and two hours prior to all performances. 

For more information on Governors State University’s 29th season visit www.GovSt.edu.

 

UPCOMING SHOWS:


UPTOWN

Sat March 08, 2025


Fusing Bruno-Mars-caliber stage presence with top-tier vocals and wall-to-wall choreography, the men of UPTOWN combine the smooth stylings of R&B with the fresh hits of today in a unique and modern show that will get you on your feet! From New York City, the epicenter of contemporary Pop and Soul, every single member of UPTOWN is a world-class soloist, with frequent comparisons to the artistry of icons like Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye; when they come together as one collective, the resulting remix creates “the most electrifying show you’ll see this decade!”


ARTRAGEOUS® The Electrifying Art & Music Circus!

Sat March 15, 2025 - Sat March 15, 2025


Step into this outrageous adventure of arts: the ONLY show where you can witness the fusion of live art, rock concert, imaginative movement, vocal performance, comedy, blacklight Bunraku, Artpunk wear, and inclusion in one magical experience. Feel the anticipation to see if the artist will complete the painting in time and guess what is being created until the very last brushstroke. Artrageous is a high-energy, immersive theater experience that encourages audience participation with music, dance, puppetry, storytelling, and speed-painted visual art! ARTRAGEOUS for ALL AGES at 2pm! This is an abridged 45-minute matinee version of the performance, perfect for everyone from the youngest of Picassos to the most seasoned Van Gogh enthusiasts! 



Rosie and the Rivets

Sun March 23, 2025


An electrifying female-fronted retrospective tribute to the first ten years (1954-1964) of Rock & Roll. Along with early Rock & Roll favorites, you’ll hear Girl Group, Rockabilly, R&B, Surf, and British Invasion featuring Rosie’s powerful and versatile voice and backed by a band with extensive theater/tribute/roots music experience (members of the Rivets have worked in The Million Dollar Quartet, Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, and The Fab Four: Beatles Tribute).  


DOG SEES GOD 

by Bert V. Royal

Thu April 03, 2025 - Sun April 06, 2025


When CB’s dog dies from rabies, CB begins to question the existence of an afterlife. His best friend is too burnt out to provide any coherent speculation; his sister has gone goth; his ex-girlfriend has recently been institutionalized; and his other friends are too inebriated to give him any sort of solace. But a chance meeting with an artistic kid, the target of this group’s bullying, offers CB a peace of mind and sets in motion a friendship that will push teen angst to the very limits. “Drug use, child sexual abuse, suicide, eating disorders, teen violence, rebellion, sexual relations, and identity are among the issues covered in this haunting and hopeful homage to the works of Charles M. Schulz. Ages 17+ and up. Children below the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult. 



Mimosas and Melodies: A Mother’s Day Brunch

Sun May 11, 2025


Join Opera Up Close favorites John Concepcion, Mike Cavalieri, and their friends for this vocal tribute to Mothers. Spanning Broadway to Classical and Opera, celebrate Mother’s Day with this mimosa-fueled, musical extravaganza!



Into the Woods Jr (Camp Registration)

Wed July 02, 2025


Step into a world of imagination and creativity at our Performing Arts Summer Camp! This exciting program invites campers to explore the magic of bringing stories to life through movement, music, and performance. Campers will dive into the art of storytelling, learning how to craft and express captivating tales on stage. They'll also develop dance skills to enhance their performances and gain the tools needed for musical theatre, from singing to acting. Whether they’re creating their own characters or performing beloved stories, campers will build confidence, teamwork, and creativity in a fun, supportive environment. By the end of the camp, they’ll take center stage with a final performance of the hit Broadway musical, Into the Woods that showcases their hard work and artistic growth. Perfect for aspiring performers ready to shine!


Into the Woods Jr - Final Performance

Wed July 02, 2025


For more information on Governors State University’s 29th season visit www.GovSt.edu.

 

Thursday, January 9, 2025

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to The Auditorium March 7-9

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater 

returns to The Auditorium March 7-9

The Auditorium proudly presents the 2025 Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Chicago season featuring two programs packed with premieres March 7-9, 2025

New works abound by Hope Boykin, Lar Lubovitch, and Matthew Rushing, plus 25th anniversary restaging of Ronald K. Brown’s rapturous Grace, and new production of Elisa Monte’s mesmerizing duet Treading.

Alvin Ailey’s Cry pays tribute to the late Artistic Director Emerita Judith Jamison on opening night, while Ailey masterpiece Revelations concludes both programs.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, one of the world’s most popular dance companies, returns to The Auditorium, Chicago’s landmark stage at 50 E Ida B. Wells Drive, in four performances only, Friday-Sunday, March 7-9, 2025 as part of a coast-to-coast 2025 United States tour in a season celebrating the life and legacy of Artistic Director Emerita Judith Jamison (1943-2024). I'll be out for opening night on Friday the 7th, covering for ChiIL Live Shows.

Led by Interim Artistic Director Matthew Rushing, the passionate spirit and extraordinary technique of Ailey’s dancers will be showcased in two exciting programs featuring a trio of Chicago premieres alongside compelling new productions and beloved Ailey Classics including Alvin Ailey’s must-see signature masterpiece Revelations. Tickets start at $39.00 and are now available at AuditoriumTheatre.org. or by calling The Auditorium’s Ticket Service Center at 312.341.2300.

“Auditorium audiences welcome Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater with great enthusiasm each Spring, knowing a joyful experience awaits, and this year’s programming will be no exception. In this, the Company’s 56th visit to The Auditorium, we are saddened by the recent passing of the legendary Ailey dancer and Artistic Director, Judith Jamison, with whom we collaborated many times, but are pleased to pay tribute with a special opening night performance featuring an excerpt of Cry, the exuberant Ailey work that became her signature,” said The Auditorium CEO Rich Regan. “And in addition to our public programming, we are proud to be offering two student performances by the Company this year, enabling The Auditorium to introduce thousands of students to this inspiring, dynamic company.”

Chicago’s own Vernard J. Gilmore will celebrate his farewell hometown engagement with Ailey, taking his final bow after 28 seasons with the Company. Currently the longest tenured Company member, the Englewood native began his professional dance training at Curie Performing and Creative Arts High School before receiving a scholarship to The Ailey School, performing with Ailey II, and joining Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1997.

In addition to the inspiring finale of Revelations for all performances, the programs for the 2025 Chicago engagement of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater are as follows:  Friday, March 7 at 7:30pm & Sunday, March 9, at 3pm

Grace (1999, Chicago Premiere of 25th anniversary production) Set to Duke Ellington's classic "Come Sunday," Peven Everett’s hit "Gabriel," and the irresistible pulse of Fela Kuti's Afro-Pop, Ronald K. Brown’s spellbinding work depicts individuals on a journey to the promised land, expanding from a single angel-like figure in white to the fireball intensity of 12 powerful dancers. Here, the secular and sacred meet in a tour-de-force connecting African and American dance.

Finding Free (2024, Chicago Premiere) by former Company member Hope Boykin who returns to explore personal freedoms in this collaboration with pianist Matthew Whitaker who is composing an original score. This insightful work uses Boykin’s movement-language and Whitaker’s jazz- and gospel-influenced music to examine the challenges and restrictions throughout life’s peaks and valleys that propel the journey forward.

*Friday only: Special Opening Night excerpt of Cry as a tribute to Ms. Jamison.  

Cry excerpt (1971) Alvin Ailey choreographed the solo ballet, Cry, as a birthday present for his mother; it went on to become an enduring work of American art. First danced by the legendary Judith Jamison, an excerpt of this powerful work dedicated to "all black women everywhere - especially our mothers" will be performed on the opening night program (Friday, March 7) as a tribute to Ms. Judith Jamison, the beloved Company dancer and Artistic Director Emerita who passed away in late 2024.


Saturday, March 8 at 1pm & 7:30pm

Sacred Songs (2024, Chicago Premiere) by Matthew Rushing features music used in the original 1960 premiere of Alvin Ailey’s seminal Revelations but later omitted when the piece was edited into the current version that has captivated audiences for decades. Drawing inspiration from the roots of Mr. Ailey’s most venerated and consummate creation, this stirring new work will resurrect and reimagine those spirituals—with the collaboration of musical director Du’Bois A’Keen—as an offering to our present need for lamentation, faith, and joy.

Treading (1979, Chicago Premiere of new production) by Elisa Monte is a sculptural, mesmerizing duet featuring fluid, intricate movements that combine with Steve Reich's evocative music to create an aura of mystery and sensuality.

Many Angels (2024, Chicago Premiere) by Lar Lubovitch in his first premiere for the Company, features the native Chicago choreographer’s renowned lush choreography and musicality set to Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 5.  Many Angels is inspired by a question posed by 13th century theologian St. Thomas Aquinas, “How many angels can dance on the head of a pin?,” illustrating that some questions have no logical response but are understood as a question of faith.

Culminating each program will be Alvin Ailey’s must-see American masterpiece Revelations, acclaimed around the world for sending hearts soaring and lifting audiences to their feet with its perfect blend of reverent grace and spiritual elation. Since its debut in 1960, Revelations has been moving audiences with its powerful storytelling and soul-stirring music, evoking timeless themes of determination, hope, and transcendence. An intimate reflection of Mr. Ailey’s childhood memories of growing up in the South and attending services at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Texas, Revelations pays homage to the rich cultural heritage of the African American community and explores the emotional spectrum of the human condition. 

2025 Chicago program & performance schedule

Friday, March 7 at 7:30pm & Sunday, March 9, at 3pm

Grace, Finding Free, Cry* (excerpt), Revelations 

*Friday only: Special Opening Night excerpt of Cry as a tribute to Ms. Jamison.  

Saturday, March 8 at 1pm & 7:30pm

Sacred Songs, Treading, Many Angels, Revelations

In addition to these four public performances, the Company will present two student matinees at The Auditorium, reaching thousands of youths with an inspiring program of Ailey Classics on Thursday, March 6 and Friday, March 7 at 11am. 

About Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, recognized by U.S. Congressional resolution as a vital American “Cultural Ambassador to the World,” grew from a now-fabled March 1958 performance in New York that changed forever the perception of American dance. Forged during a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement, the Company was established to uplift the African American experience while transcending boundaries of race, faith, and nationality with its universal humanity. Founded by Alvin Ailey, the posthumous recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom—the nation’s highest civilian honor. Before his untimely death in 1989, Mr. Ailey named Judith Jamison as his successor, and for 21 years she led the Company to unprecedented success. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has performed for an estimated 25 million people in 71 countries on 6 continents—as well as millions more through television broadcasts, film screenings, and online platforms—promoting the uniqueness of the African American cultural experience and the preservation and enrichment of the American modern dance tradition. In addition to being the Principal Dance Company of New York City Center, where its performances have become a year‐end tradition, the Ailey company performs annually at The Auditorium; Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts; the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC; The Fox Theatre in Atlanta; Zellerbach Hall in Berkeley, CA, and at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark where it is the Principal Resident Affiliate, and appears frequently in other major theaters throughout the United States and the world during extensive yearly tours. The Ailey organization also includes Ailey II (1974), a second performing company of emerging young dancers and innovative choreographers; The Ailey School (1969), one of the most extensive dance training programs in the world; Ailey Arts in Education & Community Programs, which brings dance into the classrooms, communities, and lives of people of all ages; and Ailey Extension (2005), a program offering dance and fitness classes to the general public, which began with the opening of Ailey’s permanent home—the largest building dedicated to dance in New York City, the dance capital of the world—named The Joan Weill Center for Dance, at 55th Street at 9th Avenue in New York City. For more information, visit ailey.org.

The compelling story of the life, work, and legacy of Alvin Ailey is the subject of Portrait of Ailey, a new eight-part documentary series available for free on PBS LearningMedia. Created by Ailey II Artistic Director Emerita Sylvia Waters, Portrait of Ailey uses rare historical film and still images as well as contemporary footage to create a sweeping narrative of Mr. Ailey as a performer, choreographer, celebrity, teacher, social activist, arts advocate, and the creator of an enduring institution. All eight chapters are currently available online.

About The Auditorium

The Auditorium, located at 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive in Chicago, is an Illinois not-for-profit organization committed to presenting the finest in international, cultural, community, and educational programming to all of Chicago and beyond as The Theatre for the People. The organization also is committed to the continued restoration and preservation of this National Historic Landmark that originally opened in 1889. The Auditorium’s 2024-25 performance season features a dynamic mix of cultural events from ballet to rock and roll and everything in between. For more information on The Auditorium and a complete listing of events at The Auditorium, please visit AuditoriumTheatre.org.




Saturday, June 8, 2024

REVIEW: ARTISTIC BRAVURA Ensemble Español's "Flamenco Passion" Program Superb

 Chi, IL Live Shows On Our Radar 

ENSEMBLE ESPAÑOL SPANISH DANCE THEATER’S 2024

 “FLAMENCO PASSION” CONCERTS

SHOWCASE WORLD PREMIERES CREATED BY ACCLAIMED INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS AT THE NORTH SHORE CENTER JUNE 7-9

LaLupi with musicians Diego Alvarez, Jose Diaz El Chachito, Curio de Maria, 
Jose Moreno and Jose Alconchel.  Photo by Dean Paul

Exciting Premieres Include “Viejos Aires” / Flamenco Tango by Award-winning Choreographer Antonio Najarro 

“Resliencia” / Resilience and “El Bolero de Puerta de Tierra” by Former Principal Dancer with the National Ballet of Spain, Raquel Gomez; and 

“Compas de Seda” / Silk Rhythm by Flamenco Superstar La Lupi


Guest Review 

by Flo Mano

ARTISTIC BRAVURA 

Ensemble Espanol at North Shore Center for performing Arts opened to dramatic lighting, marigold costumes, and jazz fusion that gave a modern feel to "Sur",  choreographed by guest artist Raquel Gomez.

In her solo world premiere, "Resilencia", Raquel Gomez was impassioned. Her exceptional dancing within the perimeters of a movable geometric rectangle to square was impressive to see. I enjoyed the lighting from above by Dustin L. Derry.

“El Bolero de Puerta de Terra”, a world premiere, was a feather like flamenco on ballet slippers by the entire company, choreographed by Raquel Gomez, and inspired by Dame Libby‘s “Seguidillas”.

This piece was followed by Flamenco guitarist, Curro de Maria, with “Mi Andalusia”.

Jonathan Pacheco with Ensemble Espanol Company Dancers in Fantasia Suite Regional-Tribute to Juanjo Linares. Photo by Dean Paul

Folklore legend Juanjo Linares’ “Fantasia Suite Regional” depicted exerpts from Galicia-Extremadura & Valencia, individual & intertwining seamlessly!

A stupendous performance of "Chamberi" was perfection, by guest artist La Lupi. Her mastery commanded the utmost attention, as the audience collectively held its breath, so as not to miss a second. Every precision move in her “Batas de Cola” was hypnotic, as she effortlessly tossed & swayed her long train dress. I was struck by the intensity of her jaleo sounds and facial expressions.

The musicians' synchronized percussion-palmas-Spanish guitar and singing transported one to Andalusia.

“Pasion Oculta" was danced by 5 couples to Escala electronic string quartet “Requiem for a Tower” & “Palladio” flawlessly, to loud applause!

"Compas de Seda", another world premiere choreographed by La Lupi, featured stylized fans & shawls. Flamenco Guajiras is a melange of Andalusian-Canary island and Afro-Cuban palo dance, and an amazing  ensemble piece. Loved the fade to silhouettes. 

La Lupi was superb in her solo “A Silvetio”!!! 

The final dance was a world premiere of Flamenco Tango, “Viejos Aires”, by multitalented Argentinian guest Artist Antonio Najaro, choreographer/dancer/costume designer extraordinaire! Very Impressive!! Astounding even!!!

Ensemble Espanol is stretching beyond in this exquisite production! They will be performing at old Town school of music & NEIU. 

DO NOT MISS!! Imbibe dance!!!

Florence Manolis (AKA: Flo Mano) is a Greek American CPS elementary teacher/librarian, hairdresser, and theater/dance/film fanatic who catches hundreds of Chicago shows annually. She volunteers at numerous film venues and theaters and has called Chicago home since she immigrated here from Greece in early elementary school. 

Jonathan Pacheco and Samantha Micklewright in Viejos Aires by Antonio Najarro. 
Photo by Casey Mitchell

Popular Works from Ensemble Español’s Repertoire in the Traditional and Contemporary Genres Complete the Program

Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater, in residence at Northeastern Illinois University, brings their popular “Flamenco Passion” performances to the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd., 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 7 and Saturday, June 8 and 3 p.m. Sunday, June 9. These performances are part of the company’s 48th multi-faceted American Spanish Dance and Music Festival (June 7-15).

“Flamenco Passion” program highlights include the world premiere of “Viejos Aires” / Flamenco Tango as reset on Ensemble Español by Antonio Najarro, award-winning choreographer and former artistic director of the National Ballet of Spain, choreographer of Disney movie "WISH.

” Najarro’s work features a fusion of Spanish classical style and Argentinean Tango and displays the sensuality, passion and elegance of Buenos Aires.

Additional world premieres include “Resliencia” / Resilience and “El Bolero de Puerta de Tierra” (Escuela Bolera) choreographed by Raquel Gomez, former principal dancer and Rehearsal Director of the National Ballet of Spain; and the Cuban influenced dance “Compas de Seda” / Silk Rhythm choreographed by Flamenco superstar La Lupi, to an original music composition by Curro de Maria.Works from Ensemble Espanol’s repertoire included in the program include “Sur” by Raquel Gomez (2015); “Fantasia Suite Regional” choregraphed by Juanjo Linares and Nana Lorca (1977) and “Pasion Oculta” /Hidden Passion choreographed by Ensemble Español Artistic Director Irma Suarez Ruiz (2019).Joining the members of Ensemble Español in performance will be guest dancer/choreographers includingRaquel Gomez, La Lupi and Antonio Najarro; and featured musicians including José Díaz “El Cachito”(singer), José Alconchel and Curro de Maria (guitarists); Diego “El Negro” Alvarez and José Moreno (percussionists).

“Every ‘Flamenco Passion’ festival performance is meant to entertain and highlight the timeless yet ever-evolving art that is Flamenco as performed by Chicago’s premiere Spanish dance company Ensemble Español,” says Executive Director and Associate Artistic Director Jorge Perez. “We also pride ourselves in our record of collaborating with some of the most exciting voices in Flamenco, Escuela Bolera, Classical and Folkloric as we maintain our important role as active participants in the continue evolution of this exciting music and dance form,” says Ruiz, Ensemble Español Artistic Director.

The “Flamenco Passion” performances are part of Ensemble Español’s 48th American Spanish Dance and Music Festival which also features these related events:

● VIP-Pre-Opening Night Reception: Preceding the Saturday, June 8 performance there will be a “Meet

the Artists” VIP Pre-Opening Night Reception in the North Shore Center on the 2nd level. Tickets are

$65 (includes VIP seating for that evening’s performance). To purchase tickets and for more information

visit NorthShoreCenter.org/ee/ or call 847.673.6300.

● Free Ethnic Dance & Music Symposium 2024 at NEIU (June 10-12) Topics include: “The Complexities of Covering Ethnic Dance & Music” and “Arts Economic Ecosystem: The New Workforce Development Plan to Build Strong Community” (June 10); :Ethnic Arts Crossing Genres” and “Expanding Flamenco Musical Language” (June 11) and “It’s a Family Affair Ethnic Art, Oral Traditions, Art as a Way of Life” and “From Flamenco to Tap and All That Jazz” (June 12). All sessions take place at NEIU, 5500 N. St. Louis Ave. Admission is free, but reservations are requested. For more information and to register visit ensembleflamencopassion.org/symposium.

● Festival Spanish Dance Classes at Northeastern Illinois University Dance Studios NEIU, 5500 N. St. Louis Avenue (June 10-15) Over 100 Spanish dance and music classes in Flamenco, Classical, Escuela Bolera and Folklore. Single class rate $35. For more class information and registration visit ensembleflamencopassion.org/classes or email at Patricia Mendez at patricia.mendez@eesdt.org.

● Concerts at Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. –“Flamenco to Tap and All That Jazz” with Wendy Clinard, Bril Barrett, Diego "El Negro" Álvarez, José Moreno, José Diaz "Cachito", José Manuel Alconchel, 8 p.m. June 13; “Duende Flamenco” with La Lupi, Nino de los Reyes, Curro de María, Diego "El Negro" Álvarez, José Moreno and José Diaz "Cachito" 8 p.m. June 15. Tickets: $30.

For tickets visit oldtownschool.org/concerts.

About Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater 

Ensemble Español, founded in 1976 by Dame Libby Komaiko, is the premiere Spanish dance company and center in the U.S. with a professional and unique residency at Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago. Under the artistic direction of Irma Suarez Ruiz and executive leadership of Jorge Perez, the Ensemble continues its mission of preservation, presentation and promotion of Spanish dance and culture which also includes the exploration of the country’s history in the; Flamenco, Folkloric, Classical and Escuela Bolera styles and identifies its influence on Latin American art and dance in both traditional and contemporary formats. They forge ahead as the leaders in Spanish dance and culture with a commitment to our communities, via performances, education, school residencies, academic university programs, festivals and tours. They remain committed to their roots in education and mission of educational, artistic, and social development. Their incredibly rich history includes serving over 30,000 students annually, training over 90 company dancers, training over 160 Youth Company dancers from ages 12 to 18, over 90 international guest artists and musicians from Spain and the Americas, over 2,600 scholarships awarded to talented aspiring dancers, musicians and educators, tours and residencies of U.S., including Hawaii, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Poland, Australia, Canada, China and Spain. For more information on concerts, performances, classes and residencies, visit EnsembleEspanol.org.

Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theatre in residence at Northeastern Illinois University is grateful to thefollowing 48th Season Festival Partners and Sponsors: Northeastern Illinois University, Interim President, Katrina Bell-Jordan, Ph.D., NEIU Department of Music and Dance, Caerus Foundation, Hurvis Foundation, Illinois Arts Council, Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, Microsoft, Eugene Jarvis and Sasha Gerritson, Salme and Michael Steinberg, Sonia Florian,Estate of Gregory Ragsdale and the Ragsdale Family, FourStar Branding, The Nest, Jaleo by Jose Andres, Atzimba Catering and Events, Stonewolf Studios, Clinard Dance Theater, Instituto Cervantes, International Latino Cultural Center, Negocios Now, HMS Media and Chicago Dance Supply.

Special thank you to the Northeastern Illinois University Board of Trustees, NEIU Foundation, the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts and festival official hotel sponsor, Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago North Shore and O’Hare.


Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater 

“Flamenco Passion” Performances 

at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, June 7-9


Act 1

“Sur” / South (2015)

Choreographer and Costume Designer: Raquel Gomez, Guest Artist

Music: David Dorantes, Pianist and Composer

Costume Production: Luz Creations Lighting Designer: Original concept by Nathan Tomlinson

Lighting design reimagined in 2023 by Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Company

Raquel Gomez created this work that reaches back to the traditions of the Escuela Bolera (classical Spanish style) from the 18th Century, as it simultaneously embraces contemporary Flamenco music. “’Sur’ proves…that something with so much tradition and such deep cultural roots…can be current and keep its deepest history.” (Raquel Gomez)

Raquel Gomez performing her work Resiliencia. Photo by Dean Paul

“Resiliencia” / Resilience (Clasico Español), WORLD PREMIERE

Choreographer, Costume Design, Dancer: Raquel Gomez, Guest Artist

Music: Joni Fuller

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry

“The ability of the human spirit to overcome the obstacles that life challenges us with. It does not matter how much life challenges us with, what matters is how strong we become every time we get up.” (Raquel Gomez)


“El Bolero de Puerta de Tierra” (Escuela Bolera), WORLD PREMIERE

Choreographer: Raquel Gomez, inspired by Antonio Ruiz

Music: Isaac Albeniz (1860-1909)

Costume Design: Raquel Rodriguez Ruiz-Medrano

Costume Production: Luz Creations

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Sammi Micklewright, Abigail Mosquera, Jonathan Pacheco, Irene Sivianes Fernandez, Martina Wensell

“My inspiration when putting together this choreography was the great teacher and dancer Antonio Ruiz. Ruiz was one of the first major artists to implement classical ballet in Spanish dance companies. This style and choreography requires great technical experience and artistry of classical ballet. My second inspiration was Ensemble Español’s beautiful and elegant choreography, ‘Seguidillas,’ performed by Dame Libby Komaiko. The work was set in 1977 by former artistic director of the National Ballet of Spain, Nana Lorca, to the Spanish zarzuela (light opera) music of ‘El Nino Judío’ by Pablo Luna.” (Raquel Gomez)


“Mi Andulicia”

Flamenco Guitarist: Curro de Maria

“Fantasia Suite Regional”

- Tribute to Juanjo Linares (1977)

Choreography by Nana Lorca, former artistic director of the National Ballet of Spain and (1984-2000): Juanjo Linares

Music: Traditional; Fernando Arias, Milladoiro, M. Padilla, Ginet, Guidi & Caserio

Costume Design: Juanjo Linares

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Company

Maestro Juanjo (Sept.1933 -Nov. 2009) created 25 works for the full company from 1984 through 2000. As Spain’s foremost authority on folklore, Juanjo’s detail to the style, customs and celebration of the people of each region in Spain made him the legendary master on this art form. Now Ensemble Español honors his legacy by presenting excerpts from the regions of Galicia, Extremadura, and Valencia. Ensemble Espanol’s Irma Suarez Ruiz and Jorge Pérez have both performed and been a part of Juanjo’s works with the Ensemble Español since his first residency to Chicago in 1984.


“Chamberí” (Flamenco Caracoles) (2023)

Choreographer & Dancer : La Lupi, Guest Artist

Music: Curro de Maria & Pedro Medina

Musicians: Curro de Maria, Jose Alconchel, guitarists; Jose Diaz El Cachito, singer; Diego “El Negro” Alvarez, percussionist; José Moreno, singer, percussionist

Costume Design: La Lupi & Enrique Vicent

Lighting Design: Carlos Rodriguez

Chamberí, the oldest train station in Madrid. The cante por Caracoles, conceived by the singer D. Antonio

Chacón, pays tribute to the city as a key point for Andalusian artists who arrived and left for the capital. Madrid, with its open arms, welcomed these artists in a warm and hospitable way.


“Pasion Oculta”/ Hidden Passion (2019)

Choreographer and Costume Designer: Irma Suarez Ruiz, Artistic Director

Music: Escala

Costume Production: Luz Creations

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Company

This Flamenco contemporary work, set on five couples of Ensemble Español Company dancers by artistic director, Irma Suarez Ruiz, portrays the hidden passions of love and desire. Ruiz set this sensual work to two songs by the all-female electronic string quartet, Escala: “Requiem for a Tower” and “Palladio.”


Act 2

“Compas de Seda” / Silk Rhythm, WORLD PREMIERE

Choreographer & Costume Designer: La Lupi, Guest Artist

Music Composition: Curro de Maria

Costume Design & Production: Enrique Vicent

Lighting Design : Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Nalanie Molina, Sammi Micklewright, Abigail Mosquera, Irene Sivianes Fernandez, Maria Lujan,

Catherine Beza, Jose Torres, Juan Carlos Castellon, Luis Beltran, Jonathan Pacheco, Sergio Rojas, Miguel Conde

This work, in the Flamenco Guajiras palo/style dance, is based on the sung genre of Cuban music, a poetic art with music. A guajira is simply a song for voice and guitar with a series of similar letras. It became popular in the western and central regions of Cuba in the 17th century and consolidated as a genre in the 18th century. It has Andalusian and Canary Islands origins, and it integrated African elements in Cuba. The Flamenco guajira is the adaptation to Melos Flamenco of the Cuban point, the peasant point, a genre that brings together a series of songs called Guajiros that are grown in the rural areas of the island of Cuba.


“Duende Flamenco”

Music: Curro de Maria, Jose Alconchel, guitarists; Jose Diaz El Cachito, singer; Diego “El Negro” Alvarez, percussionist; José Moreno, singer, percussionist

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry


“A Silverio” (2022)

Choreographer and Dancer: La Lupi

Music: Curro de Maria and Livio Gianola

Costume Design: Enrique Vicent

Lighting Design: Tito Osuna

“…a bravura showcase of Flamenco Abandolaos and Serrana styles” (WTTW).


“Viejos Aires” / Flamenco Tango, WORLD PREMIERE

Choreographer, Dancer, Costume Designer: Antonio Najarro, Guest Artist

Music: Astor Piazzolla (1921-1992)

Costume Production: Enrique Vicente

Lighting Design: Dustin L. Derry

Dancers: Section 1: “Otoño Porteno” - the Company; Section 2: “Fuga y Misterio” - Antonio Najarro, Guest Artist


Antonio Najarro performs a solo in his Viejos Aires. Photo by Dean Paul

Section 3: “Viejos Aires” – the Company

“Choreographing my creation 'Viejos Aires' on the Ensemble Español dancers represented a personal reunion with the repertoire of my own dance company. ‘Viejos Aires’ has a choreography that has given me numerous successes throughout its presentation and performances in the best theaters around the world. Irma and Jorge’s invitation to set this work on the Ensemble Español as part of their extensive repertoire was exciting. I wanted to merge two very different styles in terms of technical elements: Argentinean tango and Spanish dance, including my own personal style. In Ensemble Español, I clearly saw a company with great desire and enthusiasm to assimilate, face and interpret this complex work. ‘Viejos Aires,’ from my point of view, is a timeless passionate choreography that speaks from the heart to the heart. (Antonio Najarro)






Thursday, October 19, 2023

Hot Weekend Picks: Sideshow Villains New EP, Claws for Breakfast and Deviant Cabaret at Alhambra Palace Sunday, October 22, 2023

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Get Your Tricks And Treats On With Chicago's Own 

"Criminal Cabaret" Group Sideshow Villains


This Sunday, I'll be ChiILin' with the villains, reviewing for ChiIL Live Shows. Ready for some adult fun? Sideshow Villains will be performing their new EP, Claws for Breakfast, a compendium of tunes about revenge, addiction, and murder set to an eclectic mix of Americana musical styles, in the lush setting of the Alhambra Palace's main hall on Sunday, October 22 at 6PM CST. 

Interspersed between songs, the audience will witness the Villains' accomplices in the Deviant Cabaret, a mix of dance, circus, and cabaret acts designed to disturb and delight. Attendees are encouraged to arrive in their most exquisite Halloween finery and may be asked to assist Mark the Knife, the "World's Most Dangerous Comic."

The music featured on Claws for Breakfast evokes 70’s film soundtracks, Hollywood westerns, and vaudevillian burlesque acts with all tracks written or co-written by Sideshow Villains band leader Dante Ingram. 

 The Deviant Cabaret will feature Ingram on vocals and silks, MC and comedian Mark Faje, aerialist and juggler Benjy Radinsky, trapeze/aerial sling artist Camille Swift, aerial artist Chris Rooney, guitarist Chris Siebold, dancer Cristal Sabbagh, aerial rope artist Dalia Shafie, percussionist Dan Leoli, bassist Greg Nergaard, trumpet player Jaime Ruiz, aerialist Michael House, multi-instrumentalist Paul Mutzabaugh, and performance artist Spitfire. Sarah Kroth will be stage managing the event.








Ticket prices range from $25 for students to $65 for premium seats and Alhambra Palace is located at 1240 W Randolph St in Chicago's West Loop. 

For more information and tickets, click here:

https://sideshow-villains-deviant-cabaret.ticketleap.com/sv-deviant-cabaret/

https://sideshowvillains.bandcamp.com/album/claws-for-breakfast

https://sideshowvillains.com/

 

Wednesday, March 8, 2023

FLASH GIVEAWAY: WIN Tickets To The Chicago Circus and Performing Arts Festival March 9-12, 2023, at Wicker Park’s Den Theatre

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar   

Chicago Circus and Performing Arts Festival

FLASH GIVEAWAY: 

ENTER AT THE END OF THIS POST FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A Pair of Tickets to Any Adult Circus Act! and/or 

A Family 4 Pack of Tickets to Any Family Show 


March 9-12 at Wicker Park’s Den Theatre, Opening Gala March 9

Chicago-Based Ensembles Offer Circus, Burlesque, Dance & Comedy

Chicago Circus & Performing Arts Festival, the Windy City’s newest multidisciplinary fest, will run March 9-12, 2023, at Wicker Park’s Den Theatre at 1331 N. Milwaukee. Thirteen unique performances from Chicago-based companies include traditional circus acts, avant-garde sideshow and burlesque offerings, family-friendly juggling and clowning shows, queer-themed work, plus several evening-length pieces that also include dance. Several shows are double features: twice the fun for the same price!

Single tickets are $15-40 and are available online or at 773-697-3830. The lobby features cashless cocktails from the newly renovated Haven Lounge before and after performances. The Opening Gala is on March 9, from 6-10 PM and includes vendor tables from local businesses and Chicago circus schools, door prize giveaways, and a silent auction. Exclusive previews for media and donors will be performed throughout the night. Metered street parking is available, and the apps ParkChicago, Spot Hero, Park Whiz, and Parq Ex are recommended to secure a spot. The venue is also accessible to the Blue Line (north of Division, south of Damen stops) and via various bus routes. The Festival’s media sponsors are The Actors Gymnasium and CircusTalk.

 

SCHEDULE

Thursday, March 9

Heath Mainstage & Lobby: 

6:00-10:00 pm Opening Gala: Show previews for media and donors, silent auction, local vendors.

 

Friday, March 10

Bookspan Stage: 

6:00-7:30 pm Creature Double Feature by Such Creatures (circus + dance fusion, queer-themed)

7:45-9:15 pm BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest (classic circus cabaret, all BIPOC cast)

9:30-11:00pm the Back Side Show by Yes Ma’am Circus (side-show, burlesque, circus, ages 18+)

 

Saturday, March 11 

Bookspan Stage: 

12:45- 2:15 pm Distillations & Don't Try This At Home- Double Feature by Luther Bangert & Dinder Brothers’ Circus (juggling solo show, family circus troop, side-show, family friendly)

2:30- 4:00 pm Double Feature- Poised & The Reluctant Mind Reader by Raphael Entertainment (solo juggling + solo magic, family friendly)

4:15- 5:45 pm BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest (classic circus cabaret, all BIPOC cast)

6:00- 7:30 pm Autobiography of a Late Bloomer by Lucid Banter Project (dance, queer-themed, ages 13+)

7:45- 9:15 pm Circus Dungeon Crawl by Yes Ma’am Circus (circus cabaret, burlesque, nerd-themed, ages 18+)

9:30- 11:00 pm Queer Double Feature: And They Were Shipmates, A Queer Pirate Romance Adventure & Queer Dance Freakout by Counterfeit Combat & Gender Fucked Productions

 

Sunday, March 12 

Heath Mainstage: 

10:30 am- 12:00 pm Serious Cirque by Duo Refraction+ (circus, clown, family friendly)

12:15- 1:45 pm Circus Cabaret of Wonder by the Amazing Prizzini Brothers (classic circus cabaret, clowning, family friendly)

 

Bookspan Stage: 

12:15- 1:45 pm Double Feature- Poised & The Reluctant Mind Reader by Raphael Entertainment (solo juggling + solo magic, family friendly)

2:00- 3:30 pm Distillations & Don't Try This At Home- Double Feature by Luther Bangert & Dinder Brothers’ Circus (juggling solo show, family circus troop, side-show, family friendly)


SHOWS/ENSEMBLES

The Amazing Prizzini Brothers’ Circus Cabinet of Wonder: The Amazing Prizzini Brothers’ classic circus cabaret features family-friendly circus acts and clowning. The goal is simple: to make the audience complicit in the mischief. 

Autobiography of a Late Bloomer: Lucid Banter Project presents Autobiography of a Late Bloomer, a collection of work created over a span of 15 years, following the choreographer's coming-out journey. Following Paula, Lucid Banter Project's director, through professional growth, family drama, religious realizations, sexual awakenings, relationship highs and lows, injury, and emotional abuse, the audience is brought along through the experiences, emotions, and growth of a late bloomer lesbian.



BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest Showcase: This circus cabaret features circus artists of Color as they share individual stories that depict human emotions and unique challenges faced by POC in contemporary America. Disciplines will include rope, straps, aerial hammock, diabolo, and silks. For ages 13+


The Back Side Show: Produced by Yes Ma'am Circus, the Back Side Show features burlesque, sideshow, and variety acts from around Chicago. For ages 18+

Circus Dungeon Crawl: Yes Ma’am Circus’ longest running cabaret! Come see the Chicago debut of Circus Dungeon Crawl, previously only shown to the elite crowd of gamers at GenCon in Indianapolis! Journey with Marcus the Bard as they attempt to drink, seduce, and thieve their way through the Multiverse, along with a cast of aerialists, clowns, and burlesque dancers.


Creature Double Feature: Creature Double Feature brings you not one, but TWO new works by Such Creatures Co-Directors Luke Greeff & Ashaand Simone. Missile Kid by Luke Greeff shows a punk-rock apocalyptic horror movement suite on unmasking the Autistic soul within the confines of an Allistic world … or a dancey existential crisis to good tunes… you decide. intimate youniverse by Ashaand Simone transports the audience into an 8-bit arcade world where they’re in charge of helping the protagonist’s disparate parts work towards some amount of peace. In doing so, they will learn firsthand what it looks like to re-wire the brain away from the impacts of (Complex) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and towards acceptance of intimacy and connection.

Distillations & Don't Try This At Home- Double Feature: A family friendly double feature. A solo contemporary juggling show performed by Luther Bangert, Distillations takes the audience on a multimedia and multidimensional journey through the anatomy of a moment, investigating causality, and emerging into the ground state of the juggling universe. Dinder Brother's Circus is proud to present the "DONT TRY THIS AT HOME SHOW!!!" Seen across the midwest since 2015 this blend of circus, magic, and danger is sure to entertain anyone ages 4 and up!  With mystifying aerials, feats of death, and astounding illusions everyone will find something they enjoy.

Double Feature- Poised & The Reluctant Mind Reader: A funny and dazzling 1-man duo show! Welcome to an experience that aims to have you question the absolute limits of what is humanly possible. Brought to you by one of Chicago's top jugglers, Poised is a family friendly show full of laughs and amazing feats of balance and coordination. Then stay and watch as someone with the ability to read minds shows off his powers while talking about the pains and annoyances that come with always hearing what people are thinking. The Reluctant Mind Reader showcases how some gifts aren’t what they’re cracked up to be.

Serious Cirque: Serious Cirque is a not so serious deconstruction of contemporary circus performance. It transparently and unabashedly reveals the hilarity, failures, successes and discoveries that come out of circus creation. What happens when Siri tries to third wheel your adagio duet opener? What if the duo trapeze porter loses his flyer and must perform only with sock puppets?

Queer Double Feature- And They Were Shipmates, A Queer Pirate Romance Adventure & Queer Dance Freakout: First, Counterfeit Combat presents a gay pirate show full of fights and fun that you can’t miss! Join us onboard Calico Jack’s ship, The Ranger, as we follow the tale of the infamous female pirates, Anne Bonny and Mary Read. This occasionally true story based on historical facts will have you laughing, sighing, and gasping, oh aye! Then stick around for Queer Dance Freakout, an interactive, choose your own adventure spectacle produced by Gender Fucked Productions. This company of queer, trans, and nonbinary choreographers and storytellers will perform up to 30 dances that will have audiences booty shaking, grooving, and connecting with the queer community.

*Click HERE for your chance to WIN a FREE Family 4 Pack of Tickets to your choice of any family friendly show at the 2nd Annual Chicago Circus and Performing Arts Festival!

**Click HERE for your chance to WIN a FREE Pair of Tickets to your choice of any Adult Show at the 2nd Annual Chicago Circus and Performing Arts Festival!

Winners announced at noon Thursday, March 9th.

ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows are thrilled to partner up with the 2nd Annual Chicago Circus and Performing Arts Festival to give away A Family 4 Pack of Tickets to Any Family Show and/or A Pair of Tickets to Any Adult Circus Act!

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