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Showing posts with label opening. Show all posts

Sunday, November 5, 2023

BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL To Play Marriott Theatre November 1 Through December 31, 2023

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 


Peter Blair, Executive Producer 

Peter Marston Sullivan, Artistic Director 


Presents

 

Celebrating the soundtrack of a generation!

Here at ChiIL Live Shows, we adore BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL, and can't wait to see Marriott Theatre's take on this acclaimed production. Our guest critic, D'Arcy Mies will be out to see it on opening night, the 8th, so check back soon after for her full review.

The Tony and Grammy Award-winning Broadway mega-hit, which has thrilled audiences with the inspiring true story of one woman’s remarkable journey from teenage songwriter to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, closes out Marriott Theatre’s 2023 Season. Previewing Wednesday, November 1 at 7:30 pm, opening Wednesday, November 8 at 7:30 pm and closing December 31, 2023, this moving biographical musical will be directed by Jessica Fisch (Marriott Theatre debut! Drury Lane Theatre: Murder on the Orient Express; Writers Theatre: Athena; Northlight Theatre: Dear Jack Dear Louise), choreography by Christopher Windom (Marriott Theare debut! Film: RESPECT starring Jennifer Hudson as Aretha Franklin; The Vineyard Theatre: Kid Victory) and musical direction by Jeff Award Winner Ryan T. Nelson.

Featuring over two dozen pop classics, including “You’ve Got a Friend,” “One Fine Day,” “Up on the Roof,” “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling,” “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” and “Natural Woman,” this crowd-pleasing international phenomenon is filled with the songs you remember, and a story you’ll never forget. The bio-musical follows King’s rise to stardom, from her time as part of a hit songwriting team with husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history with Tapestry. BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL takes you back to where it all began – and takes you on the ride of a lifetime.

“Growing up my parents only kept a handful of tapes in the car, one of which was Tapestry, the best-selling album of Carole King,” said director Jessica Fisch. “Simply put I can’t remember a time in my life when Carole King wasn’t singing to me. She is part of the soundtrack of my life and that is true for so many people. It is a dream come true to get to direct this first made-in-Chicago production.”

BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL will star Kaitlyn Davis, who played the role in the First National Tour in 2015. Other National Tour credits include The Phantom of the Opera. Co-stars include Andrew Mueller as “Gerry Goffin” (Marriott Theatre: Man of La Mancha, For The Boys; Paramount Theatre: Rent); Erica Stephan as “Cynthia Weil” (Marriott Theatre: Damn Yankees; Porchlight Theatre: Cabaret); Justin Albinder as “Barry” (National Tour & New World Stages: Jersey Boys); Janet Ulrich Brooks as “Genie Klein” (Goodman Theatre: The Cherry Orchard; Drury Lane Theatre: Steel Magnolias); and Lawrence Grimm as “Don Kirshner” (Goodman Theatre: 2666; Timeline Theatre: My Name is Asher Lev); with Melanie Brezill, Christian Denzel Bufford, Caron Buinis, Ariana Burks, Dan Gold, Daryn Whitney Harrell, Kayla Kennedy, Adam LaSalle, Naiqui Macabroad, Michael E. Martin, Spencer Davis Milford, Yasir Muhammad, Juwon Tyrel Perry, Alexis J Roston, Maya Rowe, Aisha Sougou, and Alina Taber.

The artistic team features Scenic Designer Andrew Boyce, Costume Designer Sully Ratke, Lighting Designer Jesse Klug, Sound Designer Michael Daly, Media Designer Anthony Churchill, Props Designer Sally Zack, Production Manager Meg Love, Assistant Director Nora Geffen, Stage Manager Jessica Banaszak, Assistant Stage Manager Richard Strimer, Intimacy Choreographer Katie Johannigman, Dialect Coach Adam Goldstein, and Conductor Christopher Sargent.

BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL is scheduled to run Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., with select Thursday 1:00 p.m. shows. Ticket prices start at $55 (excluding tax and handling fees). Call for student, senior, and military discounts. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings there are a limited number of dinner-theatre packages available for purchase through the Marriott Theatre Box Office. To make a restaurant reservation, please call 847.634.0100. Reservations strongly recommended. Free parking is available at all performances. To reserve tickets, please call The Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or go to tickets.marriotttheatre.com. Visit www.MarriottTheatre.com for more information.



Monday, April 17, 2023

For World Circus Day, Cirque du Soleil Announces Global Cast of Corteo, Returning to Chicagoland After 4 Years

ChiIL Mama’s ChiIL Picks List

FOR WORLD CIRCUS DAY, CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

ANNOUNCES GLOBAL CAST OF CORTEO


Production represents 27 different nationalities, 18 languages,

and has toured to 20 countries

Here at ChiIL Mama, we've been covering Cirque du Soleil shows since 2008 and we missed their touring extravaganzas so much during the past few pandemic years. Both of my children grew up loving  Cirque du Soleil and their stellar shows inspired by kids to take circus arts at Actors Gymnasium, Cirque Esteem, and MSA. We've been fortunate to do many video interviews with Cirque du Soleil and shoot rehearsals as well as behind the scenes tours at many of their productions over the years. We adore the multicultural casts and world class skills of Cirque du Soleil shows. Corteo tickets are a great gift for all ages, and an excellent opportunity to make multigenerational memories. It's a short run, so don't miss this! I'll be catching opening night, so check back shortly after for my full review.

In honor of World Circus Day today, Cirque du Soleil announces the global cast of one of its most beloved productions, Corteo. This unique production, directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca, features cast and crew from 27 different countries around the world who speak in 18 different languages. First premiered in Montreal in April 2005, and debuted under the Big Top in Chicago the following year, Corteo has amazed over 10 million spectators, in 20 countries, on four continents. Cirque du Soleil returns to Chicago for the first time since 2019 with the joyous Corteo in five performances only, from Thursday, June 1 to Sunday, June 4, 2023 at the NOW Arena (5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates).

Corteo is an international, multicultural production that unites talent from around the globe. The nationalities represented among the Corteo cast and crew members include Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Belarus, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Finland, France, Italy, Hungary, Japan, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Romania, Russia, Ukraine, United States, United Kingdom, and Uzbekistan.

Corteo Artistic Director Alison Crawford says, “Corteo is a dive into the circus arts and the world of the clown, the favorite universe of its creator and director Daniele Finizi Pasca. We immerse ourselves in the images that say so much about the circus, the strength of its tradition, each day renewed.” 

The history of circus as a popular form of entertainment has roots in Europe, Asia, and North America. Reflecting the global origins of circus artistry, Corteo features rigging, costumes, and set design inspired by many different cultures that are manufactured and transported across numerous countries for the tour.

The show’s spectacular, Italian drape curtains—which are the largest in North America at 58 feet wide by 37 feet high—were inspired by the Eiffel Tower and hand-painted by Jean Rabasse, whose style is influenced by painters from France, Spain, and Italy. The curtains were sewn in Canada and sent to France to be painted.

Inspired by the Chartres Cathedral in France, the stage is central in the arena and divides the venue, with each half of the audience facing the other half, giving a unique perspective not only of the show, but also a performer’s eye view of the audience; an atmosphere like never seen before in Cirque du Soleil arena show.

The setting and story of Corteo come together to illustrate the humanity that is within each of us. Set in a magical world between heaven and earth, the show unravels as the clown pictures his own funeral taking place in a carnival atmosphere. Surrounded by angels who watch from above, Corteo juxtaposes the clown’s strength with fragility, the large with the small, the ridiculous with the tragic, and the magic of perfection with the charm of imperfection. Lyrical and playful music carries Corteo through a timeless celebration in which boundaries are blurred and illusion teases reality.

 

TICKET INFORMATION 

Tickets for Corteo at NOW Arena are available online at cirquedusoleil.com/corteo

 

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Thursday, June 1, 2023, at 7:30pm

Friday, June 2, 2023, at 7:30pm

Saturday, June 3, 2023, at 3:30pm & 7:30pm

Sunday, June 4, 2023 at 1pm


Follow #CORTEO and #cirquedusoleil on social media: TikTok | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube


OFFICIAL PARTNER Cirque du Soleil wishes to thank Air Canada, its official partner.

About Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil has redefined how the world views the circus; from small town talent to a household name. Based in Montreal (Qc), the Canadian organization went on to become a global leader in live entertainment with the creation of world-class immersive and iconic experiences, across 6 continents. Cirque du Soleil connects with audiences by being genuine, human and inclusive. Privileged to work with artists from 64 countries bring their creativity to life on stages around the world, the company aims to make a positive impact on people, communities and the planet with its most important tools: creativity and art. Over the years, more than 220 million people have been inspired, in over 70 different countries. For more information, visit cirquedusoleil.com

 


Thursday, March 16, 2023

REVIEW: TINA- THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL at the James M. Nederlander Theatre Through April 2, 2023

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

TINA- THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL

Produced in association with Tina Turner

Written by Tony Award nominee, Pulitzer Prize and Olivier Award-winner Katori Hall




REVIEW:

By Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

"This is literally the best show I've ever seen." My friend, Teresa exclaimed as the audience rose en masse, for a rousing standing ovation, at the press opening for TINA- THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL at Chicago's James M. Nederlander Theatre. 

Bonnie Kenaz-Mara, and sisters Catherine and Teresa Hellmann, at the press opening of  TINA- THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL at Chicago's James M. Nederlander Theatre

The energy was palpable and the kudos well deserved. It's no easy feat playing a living legend, particularly one with powerhouse vocals and such a striking presence. Tina Turner's real life story is at once as tragic and triumphant as any Shakespearian masterpiece and Zurin Villanueva and Ari Groover share the role to bring this tale to life in style. We caught Villanueva on opening night and she was stunningly talented in this challenging role.

Zurin Villanueva as ‘Tina Turner’ and the cast of the North American touring production of TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL. 

All Production Photos by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

Ike Turner (Garrett Turner) is also exceptionally well played as the villain we loved to hate. Though his audacious abuse is hard to watch and may be triggering for some, it's a story that can't be glossed over, and a cautionary tale of toxic masculinity that's still all too common an occurrence. 

Garrett Turner as 'Ike Turner' and Roz White as 'Zelma'

In the early years and again at curtain call, accompanying her older self, Young Anna-Mae (Ayvah Johnson) stole the show with her incredible voice and a confidence far beyond her years. Roz White as Zelma Bullock, Lael Van Keuren as Rhonda, and particularly Ann Nesby as Gran Georgeanna are standouts as well

Ayvah Johnson as 'Young Anna-Mae' and the cast of the North American touring production of 

TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL

Zurin Villanueva as ‘Tina Turner’ and Ann Nesby as 'Gran Georgeanna' 

One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner has won 12 Grammy Awards and her live shows have been seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history.

It's a joy to see a rags to riches story this empowering, where Anna-Mae/Tina, a child abandoned by both parents, a young woman physically and psychologically abused by her husband, and a single, middle aged mom struggling to make a comeback in a racist, sexist, agest industry, not only survives but thrives. Don't miss this! ★★★★ Four out of four stars.

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

Photo Credit: B. Kenaz-Mara


"Writer Katori Hall has created A MUSICAL THEATER MASTERPIECE.” 

– Amsterdam News


TINA - THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL, the electrifying production produced in association with Tina Turner and written by Katori Hall is now playing a limited engagement at the James M. Nederlander Theatre through April 2, 2023. Tickets are on sale at www.BroadwayInChicago.com. Additional ticket information and the performance schedule are below. 

The cast is led by Zurin Villanueva (The Lion King, Mean Girls, Shuffle Along, The Book of Mormon) and Ari Groover (TINA Broadway, Head Over Heels, Holler If Ya Hear Me) who will evenly share the role of Tina Turner, each playing four (of eight) performances a week. Groover will play the full run in Chicago, stepping in for Naomi Rodgers who is on a temporary leave from the show. Also starring are Garrett Turner as Ike Turner, Roz White as Zelma Bullock, Ann Nesby as Gran Georgeanna and Lael Van Keuren as Rhonda. 

Ann Nesby as 'Gran Georgeanna' 

All Production Photos by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade 


“MIND BLOWING AND LIFE CHANGING.

A story that needs to be shared, especially today.” 

– ABC News


The ensemble includes Daelyanna Kelly Benson, Antonio Beverly, Taylor A. Blackman, Karen Burthwright, Aliyah Caldwell, Lillian Charles, Max Falls, Zachary Freier-Harrison,  Reyna Guerra, Gordia Hayes,  Andre Hinds, Takia Hopson, Ayvah Johnson, Geoffrey Kidwell, Parris Mone’t Lewis, Nia Nelson-Williams, Gracie Phillips, Nicole Powell, Terance Reddick, Shari Washington Rhone, Jacob Roberts-Miller, Aniya Simone, Chris Stevens, Jeff Sullivan, and Carlton Terrence Taylor. 

“It has been years since I toured the US and I am very excited that my own musical can now bring my music and story to my fans in their home cities across America. It’s a homecoming and that is very special to me,” said Tina Turner.

“We are delighted to begin this next chapter for TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL. The North American tour will see the show enjoy its sixth production around the world since opening in the West End in 2018, which is testimony to Tina’s extraordinary legacy. This tour clearly has special resonance for Tina herself, and now more than ever we can’t wait to uplift audiences across America with her joyful and triumphant story," the producers, Tali Pelman from Stage Entertainment and Jimmy Nederlander said. “We can’t wait to introduce America to the two megawatt superstars—Ari Groover and Zurin Villanueva — who will share the role of Tina, Garrett Turner in the role of Ike, and the incredibly talented company who are hitting the road on tour!"

Garrett Turner as 'Ike Turner'


“PREPARE TO BE ECSTATICALLY BLOWN AWAY!” 

– The Daily Beast


Produced by Stage Entertainment, James L. Nederlander and Tali Pelman, in association with Tina Turner, TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL was written by Tony Award nominee and Pulitzer Prize winner Katori Hall with Frank Ketelaar and Kees Prins.

TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is directed by Tony Award nominee Phyllida Lloyd with choreography by Tony Award nominee Anthony van Laast, set and costume designs by Tony Award nominee Mark Thompson, musical Music Supervision, Arrangements & Incidental Music by Nicholas Skilbeck, lighting by Tony Award nominee Bruno Poet, sound by Tony Award nominee Nevin Steinberg, projection design by Tony Award nominee Jeff Sugg, orchestrations by Tony Award nominee Ethan Popp, wigs, hair and makeup design by Drama Desk Award winner Campbell Young Associates, and casting by The Telsey Office.  


“I’VE RARELY HEARD AN AUDIENCE WITH THIS MIGHTY A ROAR.” 

– NY Times


Zurin Villanueva performing _Higher_ as ‘Tina Turner’ and the cast of the North American touring production of TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL.

ABOUT TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL 

An uplifting comeback story like no other, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll.  

Zurin Villanueva as ‘Tina Turner’ and the cast of the North American touring production of 

TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL.

This new musical, based on the life of legendary artist Tina Turner and presented in association with Tina Turner herself, received its world premiere in April 2018 in London, where it opened to five-star reviews and has broken box office records at the Aldwych Theatre. In March 2019, the German production opened at Stage Operettenhaus in Hamburg, and the Dutch production opened at the Beatrix Theater, Utrecht, in February 2020. A third European production opened in the Fall of 2021 at the Teatro Coliseum in Madrid, Spain.

TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL originally opened on Broadway on November 7, 2019, and was nominated for 12 Tony Awards including Best Musical. The production reopened at Broadway’s Lunt-Fontanne Theatre on October 8, 2021, following the 18-month industry-wide shutdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Broadway production ended performances Sunday, August 14.

Produced by Stage Entertainment and Ghostlight Records and featuring the original London cast, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical: Original Cast Recording is available worldwide on CD, both online and in stores. The CD features a 20-page booklet, which includes liner notes, synopsis, and production and studio photography. The album was recorded in February 2019 at Angel Studios and RAK Studios, produced by the show’s Music Supervisor Nicholas Skilbeck and Kurt Deutsch and co-produced by Tom Kelly. To download or stream the album or order the CD, please visit http://www.ghostlightrecords.lnk.to/riverdeep-tinaturnermusical.

When she was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in October 2021, Tina Turner became one of only three women in the institution’s history to be inducted twice (she was initially inducted in 1991 alongside Ike Turner).

Garrett Turner as 'Ike Turner'

Zurin Villanueva performing as ‘Tina Turner’ and Garrett Turner as 'Ike Turner'

The Emmy-nominated feature documentary TINA is now available to stream on HBO Max. A revealing and intimate look at the life and career of musical icon Tina Turner, TINA charts her improbable rise to early fame, her personal and professional struggles throughout her life, and her even more improbable resurgence as a global phenomenon in the 1980s. The feature documentary is from Academy Award-winning directors Dan Lindsay, T.J. Martin, and Lightbox, the production company founded by Academy Award-winning producer Simon Chinn and Emmy-winning producer Jonathan Chinn, together with Emmy-nominated producer Diane Becker.


TICKET INFORMATION

Ticket prices range from $52.50 -$152.50 with a select number of premium tickets available. Individual tickets are available by visiting www.BroadwayInChicago.com, or going to any Broadway In Chicago venue box office. Tickets are available for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing GroupSales@BroadwayInChicago.com.

Follow @TinaBroadway on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.


ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO

Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 22 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 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, James M. Nederlander Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at the Auditorium Theatre.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Follow @broadwayinchicago on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok

@broadwaychicago on Twitter

#broadwayinchicago

 

Zurin Villanueva as ‘Tina Turner’ in the North American touring production of TINA – THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL.

Thursday, March 9, 2023

Congo Square Theatre Hosts 'Celebration of Healing' - Free Community Events Exploring Healthcare Inequality

Congo Square Theatre Company hosts Celebration of Healing programming in conjunction with 

World Premiere of How Blood Go

The Chi’s Yolonda Ross hosts FREE expert-led community events that raise awareness of racial disparities in health care.

Congo Square Theatre Company (Congo Square) proudly announces the latest iteration of its Celebration of Healing programming initiative, to be held in conjunction with the World Premiere of How Blood Go by Cleveland-based playwright Lisa Langford, presented at Steppenwolf’s 1700 Theater (1700 N. Halsted Street) as part of Steppenwolf’s LookOut Series March 11 - April 23, 2023. How Blood Go analyzes the past, present, and future of racial inequality in America’s healthcare system; the Celebration of Healing programming, will examine the real-world implications of the biases articulated in the play.

Founded during Congo Square’s production of What to Send Up When It Goes Down in Fall 2022, Celebration of Healing is an initiative that collaborates with Congo Square’s annual productions to provide audiences with a curated space geared toward individual and community healing. The Celebration of Healing is one of five artist projects commissioned by the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events for We Will Chicago – the first citywide plan since 1966. We Will is the first-ever plan to be rooted in equity and resiliency and to be drafted by residents and community leaders. The Celebration of Healing connects to the goals residents shared addressing systemic inequities in public health, and exemplifies how artists and cultural organizations bring attention and resources to the issues most important to Chicago communities.

These free in-person and digital events will take place during the run of How Blood Go and include film screenings, panel discussions and community conversations led by experts in the field. All Celebration of Healing events are free and open to the public, registration is required for all events. For in-person events, attendees without access to transportation can arrange to have free transport to the events through the registration link. To register for a Celebration of Healing event, visit steppenwolf.org/howbloodgo.

Celebration of Healing Events:

In-person Film Screenings + Community Conversations

 

Power to Heal

Date: March 29, 6:00 PM

Location: Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E Washington St., Claudia Cassidy Theater

Host: Yolonda Ross (The Chi & How Blood Go Cast)

Facilitator: Jhmira Alexander, MPH (Executive Director, Public Narrative)

Panelists: Barbara Berney, PhD (Producer, Power to Heal), Paris Thomas, MS, MCHES, PhD (Executive Director, Equal Hope at RUSH Medical University), Margie Schaps, MPH (Executive Director, Health and Medicine Policy)

Power to Heal is an hour-long public television documentary that tells a poignant chapter in the historic struggle to secure equal and adequate access to healthcare for all Americans. Central to the story is the tale of how a new national program, Medicare, was used to mount a dramatic, coordinated effort that desegregated thousands of hospitals across the country in a matter of months.


The Healthcare Divide

Date: April 5, 2023, 6:00 PM

Location: Equal Hope, 300 S Ashland Ave #202

Host: Yolonda Ross (The Chi & How Blood Go Cast)

Facilitator: Jhmira Alexander, MPH (Executive Director, Public Narrative)

Panelists: Laura Sullivan (Correspondent, NPR Investigates), Sista Yaa Simpson (Community Epidemiologist and Bioethicist, TACTS-The Association of Clinical Trials Services), Paris Thomas, MS, MCHES, PhD (Executive Director, Equal Hope) 

FRONTLINE and NPR investigate the growing inequities in American healthcare exposed by COVID-19. The Healthcare Divide examines how pressure to increase profits and uneven government support are widening the divide between rich and poor hospitals, endangering care for low-income populations.


Aftershock

Date: April 12, 6:00 PM

Location: TBD

Host: Yolonda Ross (The Chi & How Blood Go Cast)

Facilitator: Jhmira Alexander, MPH (Executive Director, Public Narrative)

Panelists: Anya Tanyavutti (Executive Director, Changing Worlds), Lakeesha Harris (Executive Director, Chicago Volunteer Doulas), Kalynn Dunn, MA, LPC (Assistant Executive Director, Caris Pregnancy Counseling and Resources), Jeanine Valrie Logan (Midwife & Lead Steward, Chicago Southside Birth Center)

Aftershock––Following the preventable deaths of their loved ones due to childbirth complications, two families galvanize activists, birth-workers and physicians to reckon with one of the most pressing American crises of our time – the US maternal health crisis.

 

Virtual Webinars

From March 23 – April 27, every Thursday at 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM, Public Narrative will present a webinar series dedicated to holistic public health conversations that generate solutions to improve health systems in Chicago. In this 6-part webinar training series journalists, researchers, care givers, patients and other community members will explore findings of Chicago-based community engaged research studies for communities experiencing health disparities and other implications to public health. To register for the webinar series, visit publicnarrative.org/events


Talk Forwards

In addition to these public events, audience members attending Sunday matinee performances of How Blood Go on March 26, April 2, and April 9 can participate in Talk Forward discussions with artists and community members immediately following the performance.

 

Partnerships

Celebration of Healing events are made possible through partnerships with DCASE, DPD, We Will Chicago, Public Narrative, Equal Hope at RUSH Medical Center, and the Center for Health Equity Transformation at Northwestern Medicine. How Blood Go and the Celebration of Healing are partially funded by The Celebration of Healing are partially funded by the Venturous Theatre Fund of the Tides Foundation. Additional funding for the webinar series comes from the MacArthur Foundation and Northwestern Medicine.

 

About How Blood Go

How Blood Go weaves the present and past together to explore the strained relationship between the healthcare system and African Americans in this country. Just when Quinntasia is ready to take her wellness program, Quinntessentials, to market, she learns that her healthy body is not the product of her hard work, but of a futuristic experimental device—activated without her consent—that makes her appear White to doctors and nurses. She must decide if she’s willing to give up her Blackness to make her dream come true. Meanwhile, Bean and his brother, Ace, experience unethical medical treatment in the American South (the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment 1930-1970). Under the direction of Tiffany Fulson, the How Blood Go cast features Congo Square Ensemble Member Ronald L. Conner (Ace) and The Chi star Yolonda Ross (Didi). I'll be out for the press opening March 19th, so check back soon for my full review.

How Blood Go will be performed March 11 - April 23. Tickets, priced at $25 for preview performances and $35 for all other performances ($20 for seniors and students), are now on sale by calling 312-335-1650 or visiting www.steppenwolf.org/

Congo Square continues its radical generosity model partnering with community organizations throughout the city to donate up to half of all tickets for every performance. To learn more about discounted community partner tickets, please email communitypartner@congosquaretheatre.org

 

About the organizations

Congo Square Theatre Company is an ensemble dedicated to producing transformative work rooted in the African Diaspora. Congo Square is a haven for artists of color to challenge and redefine the theatrical canon by amplifying and creating stories that reflect the reach and complexities of Black Culture. https://www.congosquaretheatre.org

Public Narrative is a Chicago-based nonprofit that facilitates training, programming and resource building focused on cultivating media literacy, uplifting community voices in media, and shifting narratives around public health, public safety, and public education. https://publicnarrative.org

LookOut is Steppenwolf’s performance series that presents the work of artists and companies across genre and form, emerging artists and performance legends, quintessential Chicago companies and young aspiring ensembles, familiar Steppenwolf faces and new friends. steppenwolf.org/lookout

We Will Chicago is Chicago’s first citywide plan since 1966. The plan is a strong, community-driven, and data-informed 10-year vision for Chicago that is rooted in the principles of equity and resiliency. Drafted by hundreds of residents, community based organizations, and city staff, the plan was adopted unanimously by the Chicago Plan Commission in February 2023. “We Will Chicago” consists of more than 40 goals and 150 objectives to guide the City’s governance across eight “planning pillars” for the next decade. The pillars include Arts & Culture; Environment, Climate & Energy; Housing & Neighborhoods; Lifelong Learning; Public Health & Safety; Transportation & Infrastructure; Civic & Community Engagement; and Economic Development. To learn more and read the plan, visit wewillchicago.com.

Tuesday, February 28, 2023

THE REVOLUTIONISTS Via Oil Lamp Theater March 16-April 30, 2023

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

THE REVOLUTIONISTS

Written by Lauren Gunderson

Directed by Elizabeth Mazur Levin



PLOT: Imagine if four badass, very real women, who lived boldly in France during the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror had met and exchanged ideas before losing their heads? What if former queen Marie Antoinette,  playwright Olympe De Gouges, assassin Charlotte Corday, and Haitian rebel Marianne Angelle, uncensored and full of ideas, grappled together with how to change the world? Oh…and it’s a comedy!

CAST (in order of appearance):

Olympe De Gouges: Hannah Hammel

Marianne Angelle: Noelle Klyce

Charlotte Corday: Ksa Curry

Marie Antoinette: Lisa Dawn

Olympe De Gouges (understudy): Abby Gilster

Marianne Angelle (understudy): Jasmine Robertson

Charlotte Corday (understudy): Maddie Powell

Marie Antoinette (understudy): Emma Soden


CREATIVE TEAM:

Director: Elizabeth Mazur Levin

Stage Manager: Reina McGonigle

Assistant Director: Ashley Greenwood

Costume Designer: Emily N. Brink

Lighting Designer: Trey Brazeal

Properties Designer: Ellen Markus

Technical Director: Greg Korak

Scenic Designer: Liz Hadden

Sound Designer: Jay Pastucha

Wig Stylist: Karen Procopio


DATES:

March 16 - April 30


SHOWTIMES:

Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 7:30pm

Saturday, Sunday: 3:00pm


PRICE:

Previews (March 16, 17, 18 3:00pm): $30 adults / $20 student

Run (March 18, 7:30pm - April 30): $45 adults / $28 student

Buy tickets HERE

The performance runs approximately two hours with an intermission.


ABOUT THE DIRECTOR:

Now serving as the Artistic Director of Oil Lamp Theater, Elizabeth Mazur Levin's Oil Lamp Theater directing credits include Now and Then, Bad Dates, Beau Jest, Love, Loss, and What I Wore, It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play (2017 & 2020), Motherhood Out Loud, and two seasons of On the Road—Oil Lamp’s touring series. She will also be directing this summer’s production of Collected Stories by Donald Margulies. Other credits include work with Theater D, Taslitz/Reichenbach Productions, Citadel Theatre, Ouroboros Big Noise Theatre, Bowen Park Theatre, Phoenix Ascending, Centerlight Sign and Voice Theatre, Weathervane Repertory, and Apple Tree Theatre. Proud graduate of Miami University (B.F.A and B.A.) and Loyola University Chicago (M.Ed.) Many thanks to the “E’s”.


"You may notice that there is a blend of historical and contemporary elements throughout [The Revolutionists] from themes, to language, to design choices. While these women are people from long ago, what they are saying and feeling is eerily current to the times in which we are living. They laugh, and share bonds, and live in the moment. If you listen closely, their struggles are similar to the plights we are facing today. These figures are smart, and witty, and authentic, relatable, and all too human."

-- Elizabeth Mazur Levin

Where Theater Welcomes You Home

Oil Lamp Theater is an award-winning sixty-seat storefront theater located in the heart of downtown Glenview. We produce six mainstage theatrical plays per year, and offer special events such as our Speak Easy Nights. When you arrive at the theater, you are personally welcomed by our friendly box office staff. Our lobby features warm decor and comfortable seating, reminiscent of a home. Our theater’s intimate space and ambitious productions connect the audience and performers to create a truly unique experience. To top it all off, we offer complimentary cookies at all mainstage shows.

Friday, February 17, 2023

REDTWIST THEATRE ANNOUNCES THE CAST AND CREATIVE TEAM FOR JACQUELINE GOLDFINGER’S BABEL, MARCH 23 – APRIL 30, 2023

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Redtwist Theatre Presents

Jacqueline Goldfinger's dark comedy 

Babel

MARCH 23 – APRIL 30, 2023



Redtwist presents the winner of the Smith Prize For Political Theater and the Generations Award, the dark comedy Babel, written by Jacqueline Goldfinger and directed by Redtwist Associate Artistic Director Rinska Carrasco-Prestinary, March 23 – April 30, at Redtwist Theatre, 1044 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. I'll be out for the press opening on March 26th, so check back soon for my full review.

Redtwist Theatre, currently presenting the world premiere of The Great Kahn through February 26, announces the second production of its 2023 season, Babel, written by Jacqueline Goldfinger and directed by Redtwist Associate Artistic Director Rinska Carrasco-Prestinary, March 23 – April 30, at Redtwist Theatre, 1044 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. The current running time is 90 minutes with no intermission. Previews are Thursday, March 23 - Saturday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m. 

The performance schedule is Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for previews and $40 for all other performances with student, military and senior discounts available at RedtwistTheatre.org or by emailing reserve@redtwist.org.

Jacqueline Goldfinger’s Babel paints a dystopian society in the not-so-distant future. Provocative and unsettling, Babel follows two couples as they try to get pregnant in a world in which eugenics is the reality. This dark comedy explores the value society places on a child, on one’s free will and the future generations of the human race. Goldfinger dares to ask questions that press the audience to think deeply about what is really important: our imperfect humanity or the progression of a perfect society? How far are we willing to go and what is the cost of perfection?

Babel Cast includes:

First row: (L to R) Monique Marshaun and Shannon Leigh Webber

Second Row: (L to R) Michael Sherwin and Soleil Pérez


The cast of Babel includes Monique Marshaun (she/her/hers, Renee); Shannon Leigh Webber (she/her/hers, Dani); ensemble member Michael Sherwin (he/him/his, Jamie) and Soleil Pérez (she/her/hers, Ann).

The current creative team of Babel includes Rinska Carrasco-Prestinary (she/her/hers, director); Eileen Dixon (she/her/hers, assistant director); Haley Willits (she/her/hers, dramaturg); Jonathan Berg-Einhorn (he/him/his, scenic designer); Jeff Brain (he/him/his, property designer and technical director); Kathleen Gardin (she/her/hers, costume designer); Cat Davis (she/her/hers, lighting designer) and Jake Sorgen (he/him/his, sound designer).



Babel playwright Jacqueline Goldfinger


ABOUT JACQUELINE GOLDFINGER, playwright

Jacqueline Goldfinger (she/her/hers/them/they/theirs) is a playwright, librettist, poet and dramaturg who grew up in rural North Florida with a love of music and storytelling. Today, they are an artist who seeks out unique collaborations, working across disciplines to create singular works of theater and opera. They began their career as a teaching artist and teaching/mentorship is still a significant part of their process.


Babel director Redtwist Associate Artistic Director Rinska Carrasco-Prestinary

ABOUT RINSKA CARRASCO-PRESTINARY, director

Rinska Carrasco-Prestinary (she/her/hers) is a Dominican-American who is a proud member of SAG-AFTRA and Gray Talent Group. Carrasco-Prestinary’s previous Redtwist credits include: Isaac’s Eye, Death Tax and Between Riverside and Crazy. Other credits include Firefly Love (Something Marvelous); The River Ride (Halcyon) with other past selected production credits: Taming of the Shrew (assistant director, Barbara Gaines, director, Chicago Shakespeare) and Romeo and Juliet (directing intern, Marti Lyons, director, Chicago Shakespeare). When she is not directing you can catch her being silly with her baby. 

ABOUT REDTWIST THEATRE

Redtwist is an award-winning theatre company that stages up close and personal contemporary dramas annually in its intimate black box theatre housed proudly within the heart of Edgewater’s Bryn Mawr Historic District.

Intimate performances at Redtwist are designed to place the theatre patron in the midst of the stories being told, making them accessible and riveting. Redtwist strives for excellence with every project and proactively endeavors to take risks while offering opportunities for up-and-coming actors, designers and directors to work with established talent. Redtwist provides the very best Chicago storefront theatre experience from excellence on stage, to warm hospitality in a clean, friendly environment.



Saturday, January 14, 2023

Shattered Globe Theatre Presents the World Premiere of RADIAL GRADIENT January 27 – March 11, 2023 at Theater Wit

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Shattered Globe Theatre Presents the World Premiere of

RADIAL GRADIENT

By Jasmine Sharma

Directed by Grace Dolezal-Ng

January 27 – March 11, 2023 at Theater Wit



Pictured (left to right) Simran Deokule, Kianna Rose and Isabelle Muthiah in a publicity image for Shattered Globe Theatre’s world premiere of Radial Gradient. Photo by Jenn Udoni/Franco Images.

 

Shattered Globe Theatre is pleased to continue its 2022-23 season with the world premiere of Jasmine Sharma’s introspective and empowering play Radial Gradient, directed by Grace Dolezal-Ng. Developed through SGT’s Global Playwrights Series, Radial Gradient will play January 27 – March 11, 2023 at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave. in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood. Tickets are now on sale at sgtheatre.org/gradient by calling (773) 975-8150 or in person at the Theater Wit Box Office. Tickets are currently available through SGT’s two-show membership ($70) at sgtheatre.org/membership. I'll be out for the press opening, January 30th, so check back soon for my full review.

Three women enter a research study hoping to create positive change after a hate crime takes place at a liberal university in America. Timelines in 2017 and 2020 intertwine as participants unravel their complicated shared friendships and histories. Jasmine Sharma's new play challenges what complicity looks like – what do we do if it looks like us?

Comments SGT Producing Artistic Director Sandy Shinner, “Shattered Globe Theatre is very proud to present one of the winning plays selected from our inaugural Global Playwrights Series. The goal of the festival was to lift up the voices of new, diverse playwrights by developing their work with a commitment to produce, and to form long- term connections with these writers. SGT welcomes playwright Jasmine Sharma and director Grace Dolezal-Ng to begin this journey with us.”

The production team includes Sydney Lynne Thomas (Scenic Design), Hailey Rakowiecki* (Costume Design), Jason Lynch+ (Lighting Design), Christopher Kriz+ (Original Music and Sound Design), Parker Molacek (Projection Design), Rachel Watson (Properties Design), Yama Pouye, (Assistant Director), Judy Anderson* (Executive Production Manager), Richie Vavrina (Production Manager), Evan Sposato (Technical Director), JC Widman (Stage Manager) and Beckett Fowler (Assistant Stage Manager and Covid Compliance Officer) 

 *Denotes SGT Ensemble Member  +Denotes SGT Artistic Associate

COVID safety: Shattered Globe Theatre currently requires all patrons to wear masks during the performance, except when actively drinking beverages. Visit sgtheatre.org for the most up-to-date policy.

 

Chicago Theatre Week

Radial Gradient will be featured as part of Chicago Theatre Week, an annual celebration of the rich tradition of theatre-going in Chicago during which visitors and residents can access $15 or $30 value-priced tickets. As a program of the League of Chicago Theatres, in partnership with Choose Chicago, Chicago Theatre Week takes place February 16 – 26, 2023. Find more information at ChicagoTheatreWeek.com. Shattered Globe will offer a limited number of $15 tickets on Thursday and Friday and $30 tickets on Saturday and Sunday.


 

PRODUCTION DETAILS:

Location: Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago

Dates: Previews: Friday, January 27 at 8 pm, Saturday, January 28 at 8 pm and Sunday, January 29 at 3 pm.

Press Performance: Monday, January 30, 2023 at 7:30 pm

Regular Run: Thursday, February 2 – Saturday, March 11, 2023

Curtain Times: Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 8 pm; Sundays at 3 pm. Please note: there will be an added performance on Saturday, March 11 at 3 pm.

Touch Tour/Audio Description Performance: Friday, March 3 – 6:45 pm touch tour, 8 pm performance with audio description. $20 tickets available with code “ACCESS20.”

Global Perspectives: SGT will present a series of post-show discussions and events following select Sunday matinees.

Tickets: Previews: Friday: pay-what-you-can; Saturday & Sunday: $25 general admission, $10 students. Regular Run: $45 general admission. $15 students. $35 seniors. $25 under 30 years old. $15 industry tickets on Thursdays and Fridays with code “INDUSTRY.” Tickets are now on sale at sgtheatre.org/gradient, by calling (773) 975-8150 or in person at the Theater Wit Box Office. Tickets are currently available through SGT’s two-show membership ($70) and flexible membership ($115) at http://sgtheatre.org/membership. Group discounts are available by contacting groupsales@shatteredglobe.org or by calling (773) 770-0333.

Shattered Globe understands that ticket prices can pose a financial burden and, at times, an obstacle for theatregoers. A number of waived tickets are available on a first-come, first-serve basis for students and community members experiencing access barriers to theatre. If you would like to be added to SGT’s Waived Ticket Waitlist, please email lswanson@shatteredglobe.org. Please note: all requests must be completed by 12 pm the Friday before the performance you would like to attend. The e-mail will not be monitored at all on weekends or after 5 pm on weekdays.

 

About the Artists:

Jasmine Sharma (Playwright, she/her) is a South Asian-American actor/writer/activist based in Los Angeles. She aims to focus her work at the intersection of race, femininity and Americanness. Bonus points if it’s community driven. And if we’re paying everybody. Plays include Radial Gradient (upcoming World Premiere at Shattered Globe Theatre, Eugene O’Neill NPC Semi-Finalist, Kennedy Center ACTF, Lime Arts Productions, Samuel-Lancaster Productions, Avalanche Theatre Company at The Den Theatre, Mad Cow Theatre, NextStage Theatre Company, Permafrost Theatre Collective), For Your Consideration (Moxie Arts NYC), Cancelled/Cancel Me (The Road Theatre, Ashland New Plays Festival), VIRGINS: A Madonna Bootcamp (Jackalope Theatre Company), Kids Club/Club Kids (SERIALS by The Fled Collective), Gut Punch (AlterTheater Ensemble First Acts commission), Leaving Wonderland (Access Theater NYC, American Blues Theater Finalist, The Athena Project Semi-Finalist, Aston Rep) and Hot Dogs and Feminism (Mayo Performing Arts Center, The Valdez Last Frontier Theatre Conference), among others. Recent acting credits include Wives (Aurora Theatre Company) and The Wolves (McCarter Theatre Center). Jasmine has also contributed to @iWeigh and worked with the @24HourPlays, both as an actor and a writer. Sometimes, she Script PAs Broadway musicals. Jasmine is a 2022-23 Reel Sisters Fellow and a member of The IAMA Emerging Playwrights Lab 2022-2023. Bachelor of Science in Communications: Northwestern University (2021). jasminesharma.org | @jasminesharmaa

Grace Dolezal-Ng (Director, she/her) is a Chicago based director/actor who is passionate about building empathy and generating empowerment through visceral storytelling in live theatre. She is honored to be making her Shattered Globe debut! Chicago credits include It Came From Outer Space (Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Assistant Director); Athena (Writers Theatre, Assistant Director); Roe (Goodman Theatre, Assistant Director). Other credits: The Great Leap (Asolo Repertory Theatre, Assistant Director), Despierta! (Lime Arts Productions, Director) and Death For Sydney Black (Independent Production, Director). Grace graduated from Northwestern University, majoring in Theatre, in June of 2020. She is a proud recipient of the Herb Alpert Emerging Young Artist Award. www.gracedn.com

 

About Shattered Globe Theatre

Shattered Globe Theatre (Sandy Shinner, Producing Artistic Director) was born in a storefront space on Halsted Street in 1991. Since then, SGT has produced more than 80 plays, including nine American and world premieres, and garnered an impressive 42 Jeff Awards and 114 Jeff Award nominations, as well as the acclaim of critics and audiences alike.

Shattered Globe Theatre seeks to discover new connections between story, artist and audience by exploring drama from bold, challenging perspectives, and continuously redefining what it means to be an ensemble theater.

SGT’s values are rooted in a commitment to racial equity, respect for all artists and support for the ensemble, while creating new opportunities to amplify traditionally marginalized voices and collaborate in all aspects of our work. Through initiatives such as the Protégé Program, Shattered Globe creates a space which allows emerging artists to grow and share in the ensemble experience.

Shattered Globe Theatre is partially supported and funded by generous grants from The Shulman-Rochambeau Charitable Foundation, The James P. and Brenda S. Grusecki Family Foundation, Bayless Family Foundation, The Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, The MacArthur Fund for Arts & Culture at The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, the Illinois Arts Council, The Shubert Foundation, the Chicago Community Foundation, and The Saints.

For more information on Shattered Globe Theatre, please visit www.sgtheatre.org.

Friday, January 13, 2023

OPENING: World Premiere of VILLETTE Via Lookingglass Theatre Company February 8 – April 23, 2023

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

Lookingglass Theatre Company Announces Cast  

for the World Premiere of 

VILLETTE  

Written by Artistic Associate Sara Gmitter 

From the Book by Charlotte Brontë, 

Directed by Ensemble Member Tracy Walsh 

 


 Taken by renouned photographer, Sandro

2 hours 30 minutes including 1 intermission 

Lookingglass Theatre Company announces the cast for the World Premiere of Villette by Sara Gmitter, adapted from the Charlotte Brontë novel. The cast features Mi Kang as Lucy Snowe, Mo Shipley as Ginerva Fanshawe, Helen Joo Lee as Madame Beck, Renée Lockett as Mrs. Bretton, Ronald Román-Meléndez as John Graham Bretton, and Debo Balogun as Paul Emmanuel.  

Villette is Charlotte Brontë’s undiscovered gem, featuring one her most modern heroines, Lucy Snowe, on a solitary journey full of romance and intrigue. Ensemble Member Tracy Walsh directs Artistic Associate Sara Gmitter’s riveting adaptation of this novel by the author of Jane Eyre, running February 8 – April 23, 2023. Lookingglass Theatre is located in the Water Tower Water Works building, 821 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611. Tickets are on sale now! 

The creative team includes Yu Shibagaki (Scenic Design), Ensemble Member Mara Blumenfeld (Costume Design), John Culbert (Lighting Design), Deon Custard (Sound Design), and Amanda Herrmann (Properties). 

 

Click HERE for tickets

Phone: (312) 337-0665 

In Person: 165 E Pearson, Chicago, IL 60611  

The box office is open (phone and in-person) Tuesdays-Saturdays, 12PM-4PM. 

 

February 8 – April 23, 2023 

Lookingglass Theatre in Water Tower Water Works 

 

Charlotte Brontë’s undiscovered gem, Villette, offers a hero unlike any you’ve encountered before. Newly without means but freshly full of courage, Lucy Snowe travels alone to an unfamiliar land, determined to carve a path for herself. She is soon drawn into a maze of multiple doorways leading towards fulfillment or peril, in Artistic Associate Sara Gmitter’s haunting adaptation, directed by Ensemble Member Tracy Walsh. 


Villette Performance Schedule 

Previews  

February 8 – 17, 2023 

Wednesdays – Saturdays 7:30PM 

Sunday 2PM 

 

Regular Run 

February 18 – April 23, 2023 

Tuesdays 7PM 

Wednesdays 7PM 

Thursdays 2PM & 7PM 

Fridays 7PM 

Saturdays 2PM & 7PM 

Sundays 2PM 

 

Please see the performance calendar on the website for full calendar and details. Click HERE for tickets


About the Artists 

Sara Gmitter (she/her/hers) (Writer; Lookingglass Artistic Associate) is a longtime Artistic Associate with Lookingglass Theatre. Sara’s playwriting credits include: A Long Fatal Love Chase (Translation and Adaptation Reading Series at Remy Bumppo); Sizzle: A Global Warming Comedy, co-written with Jason Burkett (New Suit Theatre Company at the Raven Theatre); In the Garden: A Darwinian Love Story (Lookingglass Theatre Company & Malvern Theatre Company in Melbourne Australia). In the Garden was nominated for a Jeff Award for Best New Work. In 2022, the Adrienne Shelly Foundation named Sara as the first recipient of their Playwright’s Award.  

Sara has also served as a teaching artist, mentor, director, and playwright for the Lookingglass Young Ensemble. In Santa Fe, she has twice collaborated with the organization Creativity for Peace (now called Tomorrow's Women), first to devise Voices from Israel, Palestine, and New Mexico, and then with additional collaboration from students at the Institute of American Indian Arts, to create Tearing Down Walls: Voices from the Middle-East and Santa Fe.  

She has a BA in Theatre from the College of William and Mary and a Masters in Peace Education from the UN Mandated University for Peace in Costa Rica. She joined the Dramatist Guild in 2019. 

She earned a B.A. in Theatre from the College of William and Mary and an M.A. in Peace Education from the UN mandated University for Peace in Costa Rica. She currently serves as Program Assistant for Girls Inc. of Santa Fe and is also the co-clerk of the American Friends Service Committee’s Nobel Peace Prize Nominating Task Group. Sara is the recipient of the Adrienne Shelly Foundation Inaugural Playwrights Award.  


Tracy Walsh (she/her/hers) (Director; Lookingglass Ensemble Member) is an Ensemble Member of Lookingglass Theatre Company where she has choreographed, appeared in and directed many productions including: The Old Curiosity Shop (Director), Acts of God, Blood Wedding, Around the World in 80 Days (Choreography), and The North China Lover (Actor/choreographer). Most recently, she choreographed dances for all productions of The Steadfast Tin Soldier and appeared in Her Honor Jane Byrne (Lookingglass). She was Movement Consultant for The Notebooks of Leonardo DaVinci (Goodman Theatre/Shakespeare Theatre Company) and was also an original cast member (Goodman Theatre/Seattle Repertory Theatre/Lincoln Center). She choreographed and appeared in Electra and Iphigenia in Aulis (Court Theatre/The Getty Villa) and choreographed Agamemnon (Court Theatre). She choreographed Don Giovanni and The Jewel Box (Chicago Opera Theatre) and directed, adapted & choreographed the recorded, live, original show All Wigged Out featuring musicians Marcy Marxer and Cathy Fink.  


About the cast 

Debo Balogun (he/him) (Paul Emanuel) Chicago credits include Measure for Measure (Chicago Shakespeare Theatre), Light Falls, Red Rex, Zurich (Steep Theatre Company), graveyard shift (Goodman Theatre), Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (Lookingglass Theatre Company), You Can’t Take It With You, Fair Maid of the West (Oak Park Festival Theatre), Moon Man Walk (Definition Theatre), Bobby Pin Girls (Nothing Without a Company). Regional credits include McCarter Theatre Center. FILM: The Christmas Pitch. Television credits include Power Book IV: Force (STARZ), Single Drunk Female (Freeform), Fargo (FX), Chicago Med (NBC), neXt (FOX). Debo is an Artistic Associate with Oak Park Festival Theatre and an Ensemble Member with Steep Theatre Company. He is represented by Gray Talent Group. 


Helen Joo Lee (she/her) (Madame Beck) is thrilled to be making her Lookingglass debut! Theatre credits include Sense and Sensibility (Indiana Repertory Theatre), The Great Leap (Asolo Repertory Theatre), Murder on the Orient Express (Asolo Repertory Theatre), Kentucky (The Gift Theatre), In the Canyon (Jackalope Theatre), You For Me For You (Sideshow Theatre). Film/TV credits include Power (Starz), Black Lightning (CW), Chicago Med (NBC), The Big Leap (Fox), Work in Progress (Showtime), The Chi (Showtime), Empire (Fox). She has lived in Melbourne, Seoul, and Rome teaching English as a second language. Big thanks to her agents at Stewart Talent for their warmth and encouragement!   

Mi Kang (she/her) (Lucy Snowe) is thrilled to be making her Lookingglass Theatre debut with Villette! Mi is a recent Northwestern MFA Acting graduate and select school credits include: Dance Nation, Peerless, and Hedda Gabler. Previous select theatre credits include: The Chinese Lady (TimeLine Theatre, Indiana Repertory Theatre), The Journal of Ben Uchida (Seattle Children’s Theatre), John (ArtsWest Playhouse), A Tale for Time Being, Jane Eyre (Book-It Repertory Theatre), and The Great Inconvenience (Annex Theatre). She is represented by Stewart Talent. 

Renée Lockett (she/her) (Mrs. Bretton) is thrilled to return to Lookingglass! Last seen in Her Honor Jane Byrne and First Floor Theater’s Jeff recommended Sugar in our Wounds. Other Chicago credits include: Familiar (Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Jeff nomination: Ensemble), Surely, Goodness and Mercy (Redtwist Theatre, Jeff nomination: Performer in a Drama, Black Theatre Alliance Award nomination: Best Actress), A Wonder in My Soul (Victory Gardens Theater), Crowns (Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre, Black Theatre Alliance Award nomination: Best Ensemble). Renee has also worked with Babes with Blades, Court Theatre, Northlight Theatre, MPAACT, Prologue Theatre, Collaboraction Theatre Company, Three Cat Productions, Black Ensemble Theater, ETA Creative Arts, and Black Lives, Black Words. Renee is an ensemble member of MPAACT and an Artistic Associate with Black Lives, Black Words. Most recent Film credits include: The Plow and Freelancers Anonymous, as well as TV roles on The Chi and a recurring guest star role on Comedy Central’s South Side. Renee is represented by DDO Artists Agency. 

Ronald Román-Meléndez (he/him) (John Graham Bretton) is an actor, musician, and songwriter from Guaynabo, Puerto Rico and is thrilled to be making his Lookingglass debut! Most recently, he spent two years in Spring Green, Wisconsin working with American Players Theatre as a member of their acting ensemble. Credits with APT include: Moises in The River Bride, Faulkland in The Rivals, Dumaine in Love’s Labour’s Lost, and The Messenger in An Improbable Fiction. Other Regional Credits include: Petruchio in Taming of the Shrew, Don Pedro in Much Ado About Nothing, Shag in Equivocation, Edward Ferrars in Sense & Sensibility, Fred/Earl in The Willard Suitcases, and Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol at American Shakespeare Center. He holds an MFA in Classical Acting from Illinois State University. Mil gracias a mami y a papi, y a mis amigos quienes me han apoyado en el medio de todo el caos—saben quienes son; ¡¡esta es para ustedes!! 

Mo Shipley (they/them) (Ginevra Fanshawe) is happy as a clam to be making their Lookingglass debut! Aside from acting, Mo is an arts administrator and visual artist. Previous credits include Clown 2 in Corduroy with Emerald City Theatre, Ellie Coutier in Windy City Playhouse's Southern Gothic, a puppeteer in Rough House/Adventure Stages' Stranger and The Shadow, and a collaborator/deviser within Free Street Theatre's 50 in 50! A City Wide Celebration. Mo has also worked with Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Forks & Hope, Red Tape Theatre, Trap Door Theatre, Haven, and Strawdog Theatre. You can view some of Mo's most recent work in I Didn't Mean to go Mental, a new comedy series from Carly Glenn and Almost Pi Productions. Mo is immeasurably grateful to their partner and chosen family for the boundless support and love.  


About the Designers 

Mara Blumenfeld (she/her) (Costume Designer; Ensemble Member) has designed costumes for over 40 Lookingglass productions, including such company favorites as Lookingglass Alice, The Arabian Nights, Metamorphoses, and Cascabel. Based in Chicago, she has designed numerous productions for Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Writers Theatre, and Court Theatre. A frequent collaborator with fellow Ensemble Member Mary Zimmerman, their credits include the Broadway and Off-Broadway productions of Metamorphoses, The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci at Second Stage Theatre, and Rusalka, Lucia di Lammermoor and La Sonnambula for the Metropolitan Opera. Regional credits include: 11 seasons with the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and numerous productions at the McCarter Theatre, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Huntington Theatre Company, Asolo Repertory Theatre, and the Weston Playhouse, among others. Internationally, her work has been seen in Canada (Stratford Shakespeare Festival), the UK (Barbican Center and Donmar Warehouse), France (Opera du Rhin), Italy (Teatro alla Scala), Australia (Melbourne Theatre Company), China (Wuzhen Theatre Festival), and Japan (K-Ballet and Disney TokyoSea). She is the recipient of four Jeff Awards, and was the 2012 recipient of the Michael Merritt Award for Excellence in Design and Collaboration. 

John Culbert (he/him) (Lighting Designer) John Culbert returns to Lookingglass Theatre where he previously designed Argonautika and S/M.  Other Chicago credits include: Arsenic and Old Lace, The Tragedy of Othello, The Moor of Venice, The Adventures of Augie March, The Hard Problem, All My Sons, Caroline Or Change, and Carousel at Court Theatre; White Guy on the Bus and A Civil War Christmas at Northlight Theatre; Twelfth Night and Arcadia at Writer’s Theatre; Regina at Lyric Opera of Chicago; Having Our Say, Two Trains Running, and Objects in the Mirror at the Goodman Theatre. Regional credits include productions with: Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Long Wharf Theatre, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, McCarter Theatre and Shakespeare Theatre Company. International credits include productions with Singapore Repertory and Opera National du Rhin. Other projects include the lighting design for the Chicago Park District’s Buckingham Fountain. John served as a faculty member and Dean of The Theatre School at DePaul University for many years.    

Deon Custard (he/him) (Sound Designer) After completing BAs in English and Theatre (Directing) at Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, Custard graduated in the spring of 2021 and began PhD study at Northwestern University. In addition to his work as a PhD student, Deon is a freelance director, lighting & sound designer, dramaturg, and teaching artist who has worked with Steppenwolf, the Goodman, and Underscore Theatre Company, among others. 

Amanda A Herrmann (they/them) (Props Supervisor) Lookingglass credits include: The Steadfast Tin Soldier (2018, 2019, and 2022 productions), Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, Act(s) of God, 20,000 Leagues Under the Seas, Plantation!, Hard Times, Moby Dick, Beyond Caring, Mr. and Mrs. Pennyworth, and Life Sucks. Other credits include: Anna Karenina (Joffrey Ballet); How to be a Rock Critic (Steppenwolf Theatre Company); W;t (The Hypocrites); The Hollow, The Tin Woman (Peninsula Players Theatre); Hang, Pirandello’s Henry IV, Fallen Angels (Remy Bumppo Theatre Company); The Book of Will, Miss Bennet (Northlight Theatre); Montauciel Takes Flight, A Wrinkle in Time, Velveteen Rabbit (Lifeline Theatre); This Way Outta Santaland, Naperville (Theater Wit); Balm in Gilead (Griffin Theatre). Amanda is a graduate of Ripon College with a B.A. in Theater and Art. 

Yu Shibagaki (she/her) (Scenic Design) is a NYC based set designer, originally from Nagoya, Japan.  Recent designs include 1919 (Steppenwolf for Young Adults); Heroes of the Fourth Turning (Studio Theatre); Dishwasher Dreams (Hartford Stage); Her Honor Jane Byrne (Lookingglass Theatre); America v.2.1 (Definition Theater); School Girls; Or, the African Mean Girls Play (Goodman Theatre); I, Banquo, I, Cinna (Chicago Shakespeare Theater); and more. http://www.yushibagaki.com/ 


Become A gglasspass Member 

See yourself here, Chicago. In the Lookingglass.  

A partnership with one of this city’s leading Black theatre companies. A homegrown holiday hearth warmer. Two original CHI-made works each featuring unconventional central characters. A twirl around five extraordinary homespun districts (from Englewood to Edgewater to Avalon Park and more). And a transcendent summer sunset ritual that draws us all back waterside.   

Distinct. Unique. Reflecting is our function.   

Become a member and come see yourself at Lookingglass. 

The 2-play package includes two World Premiere productions, Villette and Lucy and Charlie’s Honeymoon. Members also get the best seats at the best prices, and enjoy a bounty of benefits including priority seating, no ticket fees, unlimited ticket exchanges, savings when purchasing additional tickets for friends or family, a discount at our online store, and more!  

Visit lookingglasstheatre.org/flex-passes to learn how to book your 2022-23 membership! 


Thank You to Our Season Sponsors  

BMO  

Hearn  

HMS Media  

Shirley Ryan Ability Lab  

Waldorf Astoria   

 

Thank you to our Villette Sponsor 

The National Endowment for the Arts 

 

Thank you to our Villette Celebration Night Sponsors 

360 Chicago  

Food for Thought 

 

Become A Scene Maker 

Inside our 190-seat storycastle we work tirelessly to produce unique theatre that leaves YOU changed, charged, and empowered. Theatre making takes meticulous attention to detail and years of work, often unseen. We could not take that initial spark of an idea to the wonder we finally see on stage without you. While you might not be IN the room, you too are an artist and vital to the process. Through your support you play YOUR role in shaping a flourishing, arts-driven tomorrow. Become a Scene Maker, today. 

Become a Scene Maker and support Lookingglass at lookingglasstheatre.org/ scene-maker 

 

About Health and Safety  

The health and safety of our audiences, artists, and staff are a top priority and we have invested our resources accordingly. As guidelines are constantly evolving, all policies are subject to change.  

As of September 1, 2022, Lookingglass Theatre Company will no longer require audiences to provide proof of vaccination.  

Facial coverings are currently recommended, but not required. 

We encourage you to confirm our current protocols prior to your visit to the theatre. Please refer to the health and safety page for more information about our current policies and safety measures regarding COVID-19. 

 

About Accessibility 

Lookingglass Theatre offers ground floor seats for all patrons who use a wheelchair or a scooter, or patrons who cannot walk stairs. Assisted listening devices are available at the patron's request. Dates for shows for hearing and visually impaired audiences to be announced. 

 

Groups of 10 or More 

Bring a group to Lookingglass and save up to 25% off regular ticket prices. 

A trip to Lookingglass is the perfect outing for your school group, office, in-town visit, retirement community, social group, book club, scout troop, religious group, or alumni organization! To book a group, email groups@lookingglasstheatre.org. 

For more information, visit lookingglasstheatre.org/groups. 


About Lookingglass Theatre Company   

Inventive. Collaborative. Transformative. Lookingglass Theatre Company, recipient of the 2011 Regional Theatre Tony Award, was founded in 1988 by eight Northwestern University students. Now in its 35th Season, Lookingglass is home to a multi-disciplined ensemble of artists who create story-centered theatrical work that is physical, aurally rich and visually metaphoric. The Company, located in Chicago’s landmark Water Tower Water Works, has staged 70 world premieres, received 161 Joseph Jefferson Award Nominations, and produced work all across the United States. In 2016, Lookingglass received the MacArthur Award for Creative and Effective Institutions and in 2017, was the recipient of the League of Chicago Theatres’ Artistic Achievement Award.    

Lookingglass continues to expand its artistic, financial, and institutional boundaries under the guidance of Artistic Director Heidi Stillman, Executive Director Rachel L. Fink, a 29-member artistic ensemble, 22 artistic associates, an administrative staff, and a dedicated board of directors led by Chair Diane Whatton.   

For more information, visit lookingglasstheatre.org.     

Engage with us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn. #LookingglassTheatre 


About Chicago Theatre Week 

Chicago Theatre Week is an annual celebration of the rich tradition of theatre-going in Chicago during which visitors and residents can access value-priced tickets. As a program of the League of Chicago Theatres, in partnership with Choose Chicago, Chicago Theatre Week takes place February 16-26, 2023.  

Lookingglass Theatre Company’s Villette is proud to participate in Chicago Theatre Week! Tickets for select performances from February 16-26 are now available for the special price of $30, while supplies last. Find more information at ChicagoTheatreWeek.com. 

In Charlotte Brontë’s Villette, Lucy Snowe -- newly without means but freshly full of courage -- leaves home to carve a path for herself. An eclectic carousel of characters (and one mysterious ghost!) draws her towards multiple doorways of opportunity – but which door should she choose? 

Previews  

February 8 – 17, 2023 

 

Regular Run 

February 19 – April 23, 2023 

Tuesdays 7PM 

Wednesdays 7PM 

Thursdays 1:30PM & 7PM 

Fridays 7PM 

Saturdays 2PM & 7PM 

Sundays 2PM 

 

Tickets start at $45. Please see the performance calendar on the website for full calendar and details. Click HERE for tickets


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