THEO UBIQUE TAKES ON THE CLASSIC GODSPELL June 10-July 31st, 2022

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Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre closes its 2021–2022 season with GODSPELL, the Stephen Schwartz and John-Michael Tebelak beloved and timeless tale of friendship, loyalty, and love, based on the Gospel of St. Matthew. At the helm will be an award-winning creative team including Theo’s Managing Director Christopher Pazdernik (Director), Jenna Schoppe (Choreographer), and Jeremy Ramey (Music Director). GODSPELL will be performed June 10 – July 31. 

One of the most-produced musicals of all-time, GODSPELL’s sung-thru structure offers an eclectic mix of jazz, rock opera, pop, and gospel songs to journey audiences through a meaningful story of connection. Theo Ubique’s adaptation will take inspiration less from the parables of which the show is inspired and instead embrace a more modern thematic line of storytelling.

"As composer Stephen Schwartz has often said, GODSPELL is essentially about community. We look forward to leaning into that theme for our production at Theo, following a group of people who have been 'othered' by society in some way, coming together in their search for shared values and chosen family,” said Director Pazdernik. “This show was originally selected to honor GODSPELL’s 50th Anniversary in 2021 and I am thrilled to be able to still honor that anniversary with our production, albeit delayed. Additionally, the theater will be transformed into an urban park setting, making it the perfect summer destination for joy, togetherness, and of course, that incredible iconic score!" 

The cast offers audiences an inspiring group of emerging Chicago artists including Austin Nelson, Jr. (he/him), Anna Marie Abbate (she/her), Bryce Ancil (he/him), Izzie Jones, (she/her), Nathe Rowbotham (they/them), Alix Rhode (she/her), Laz Estrada (they/them), Matthew Hunter (he/him), Ashley Saul (she/they), Hannah Efsits (she/her), Juan Gonzalez Machain (he/him), Chamya Moody (she/her), Jon Parker Jackson (he/they), and Anna Blanchard (she/her). 

To build the world of the story, Theo welcomes designers Yeaji Kim (she/her; Scenic Designer), Maggie Fulliulove-Nugent (she/her; Lighting Designer), Rueben Echoles (he/him; Costume Designer), Lonnae Hickman (she/her; Properties Designer) and Stefanie Senior (she/her; Sound Designer). The production team also includes Jordan Ratliff (he/him; Assistant Director/Choreographer), Nicholas Reinhardt (he/him; Production Manager) and Kaitlyn Souter (she/her; Stage Manager).

Completing the Theo Ubique experience, Evanston’s La Cocinita, known for their Latin American street food, will be offering a 3-course meal available for an additional $29.00 per person. 

Single tickets for GODSPELL are on sale online or via phone 773-939-4101. Prices are $35.00 for previews June 10 – June 20, and $42.00 - $54.00 for regular performances June 21 – July 31. 

 

ABOUT GODSPELL

GODSPELL was the first major musical theatre offering from three-time Grammy and Academy Award winner, Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin, Children of Eden), and it took the world by storm. Led by the international hit, "Day by Day," GODSPELL features a parade of beloved songs, including "Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord," "Learn Your Lessons Well," "All for the Best,” "All Good Gifts," "Turn Back, O Man" and "By My Side."

A small group of people help Jesus Christ tell different parables by using a wide variety of games, storytelling techniques and hefty doses of comic timing. An eclectic blend of songs, ranging in style from pop to vaudeville, is employed as the story of Jesus' life dances across the stage. Dissolving hauntingly into the Last Supper and the Crucifixion, Jesus' messages of kindness, tolerance and love come vibrantly to life.

Boasting a score with chart topping songs, a book by a visionary playwright (John-Michael Tebelak) and a feature film, GODSPELL is a sensation that continues to resonate with audiences, and has become a staple of theatre companies, large and small.

 

ABOUT THE CREATIVE TEAM

Christopher Pazdernik (any) Director: Who's Holiday (Theatre Wit), Colors of My Life (CCPA/Roosevelt University), Wonder Women (Chicago Musical Theatre Fest), Big River (Round Barn), Carrie (Ohio Northern University), former Artistic Director of Refuge Theatre Project (Jeff Awards, Best Director & Best Production, High Fidelity), multiple Porchlight Revisits. Casting: Sex Tips for Straight Women from a Gay Man (Chicago Premiere), Miracle (World Premiere; Royal George), The Nutcracker (add'l Casting; The House), Porchlight Music Theatre, CPA Theatricals. Currently: Managing & Casting Director for Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre, where he directs Godspell this summer. An openly HIV+ artist, Christopher is the founder and producer of Belting for Life, an annual benefit concert for Howard Brown Health, and co-captain of Team Option Up! for AIDS Run/Walk Chicago. 

Jeremy Ramey (He/Him, Resident Music Director) is a concert pianist, conductor and music director based in Chicago. In 2019, Jeremy received his tenth Jeff nomination and sixth Jeff Award for his work on The Bridges of Madison County. He had previously received Jeff awards for The Light in the Piazza, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, RENT, and The Most Happy Fella, all with Theo Ubique. In 2016, he won his second Broadway World Award for Music Direction for his work on Bette: Live at the Continental Baths with the production company Hell in a Handbag. He received his training in piano performance and music at Rhodes College, Northwestern University and The Juilliard School of Music.

Jenna Schoppe (She/Her, Choreographer) Jenna’s previous choreographic endeavors include Yank!: A WWII Love Story (Pride Films and Plays - 2018 Jeff Award for Best Choreography), Nunsense, Call Me Madam, Do Re Mi and The Rink (Porchlight Music Theatre), MAMMA MIA!, (Highland Park Players), Bobbie Clearly(Steep Theatre) and The Producers (Nightblue Performing Arts - Jeff Award Nomination).

ABOUT THEO UBIQUE

Theo Ubique was founded in 1997 by Artistic Director Fred Anzevino. Productions were first staged at the Heartland Studio Theatre, and from 2004 to May 2018, at No Exit Café, where the company began focusing on musicals and revues, reigniting the cabaret theatre trend in Chicago. The company moved to the Howard Street Theatre, a venue owned and developed for Theo Ubique by the City of Evanston, in fall of 2018. Theo Ubique has produced more than 60 shows and won 64 Jeff Awards, having received 154 nominations. The company also earned three After Dark Awards. www.theo-u.com

Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY To Play Broadway In Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre June 28-July 10, 2022

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

LINCOLN CENTER THEATER’S

AWARD-WINNING, CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED PRODUCTION OF

LERNER & LOEWE’S

MY FAIR LADY

BROADWAY IN CHICAGO’S

CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE

JUNE 28-JULY 10, 2022

Broadway In Chicago is delighted to announce tickets for the North American tour of Lincoln Center Theater’s critically acclaimed production of Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY will go on sale Friday, April 29. Directed by Bartlett Sher, Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY will play Broadway In Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre for a limited engagement June 28-July 10, 2022.

Lincoln Center Theater’s production of Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY is the winner of five Outer Critics Circle Awards including Best Revival of Musical and was nominated for 10 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival, five Drama Desk Awards including Best Musical Revival and three Drama League Awards including Best Musical Revival.  The production, which premiered in the spring of 2018, ended its long run at Lincoln Center’s Vivian Beaumont Theater on July 7, 2019 after playing 548 performances.

"Thrilling! Glorious and better than it ever was!

A marvelous and transformative revival." - The New York Times

Adapted from George Bernard Shaw’s play and Gabriel Pascal’s motion picture Pygmalion, Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY, with a book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe, premiered on Broadway on March 15, 1956. The legendary original production won six Tony Awards including Best Musical and ran for 2,717 performances making it, at the time, the longest-running musical in Broadway history.

"A thing of beauty. A masterful piece of entertainment." - Entertainment Weekly

Boasting a score that contains such now-classic songs as “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “Get Me to the Church on Time,” “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly,” “On the Street Where You Live,” “The Rain in Spain,” and “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face,” Lincoln Center Theater’s production of Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY was hailed by The New York Times as “Thrilling, glorious and better than it ever was.  A marvelous and transformative revival.” New York Magazine described it as ‘Enthralling,” adding that “Bartlett Sher’s glowing revival proves that a beloved musical from another era can keep on kicking.” And Entertainment Weekly raved “A sumptuous new revival of the most perfect musical of all time. A masterful piece of entertainment.”

"Enthralling!

Bartlett Sher's glowing revival proves that a beloved musical from another era can keep on kicking, as long as it's got its eyes wide open." - New York Magazine

The North American tour of Lincoln Center Theater’s production of Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY features choreography by Christopher Gattelli, and has sets by Michael Yeargan, costumes by Catherine Zuber, lighting by Donald Holder and sound by Marc Salzberg.  Music Supervision is by Ted Sperling, featuring Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY’s original musical arrangements by Robert Russell Bennett and Phil Lang, and dance arrangements by Trude Rittmann.  Tour Orchestrations are by Josh Clayton and music direction is by John Bell.  It is produced by Nederlander Presentations, Inc.

Facebook: “My Fair Lady on Broadway”

Twitter/Instagram: @MyFairLadyBway

#MyFairLadyTour

www.myfairladyontour.com

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Performances are on Tuesday through Friday at 7:30 p.m. (with a Wednesday matinee at 2:00 p.m. on July 6), Saturdays at 2:00 p.m. & 8:00 p.m., and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. (with a 7:30 p.m. evening show on July 3).

TICKET INFORMATION

Individual tickets for the North American tour of Lincoln Center Theater’s production of Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY will go on-sale to the public on Friday, April 29, 2022 and range from $27.00 - $98.00 with a select number of premium tickets available. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing GroupSales@BroadwayInChicago.com. For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

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 more than 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, Auditorium Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place.

COVID-19  PROTOCOL

Our audiences are required to wear masks. For details or further requirements visit broadwayinchicago.com/covid19.

For more information and tickets, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

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

Rufus Wainwright Announces Special Guests For City Winery Shows in New York City (June 5, 7, 8, 10) and Chicago (June 16-17)

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

Rufus Wainwright Announces Special Guests 

For City Winery Shows

LAURA BENANTI (NYC, JUNE 5)

MX JUSTIN VIVIAN BOND (NYC, JUNE 8)

MOLLY RINGWALD (NYC, JUNE 10)

MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED

WIDE-RANGING LIVE SCHEDULE INCLUDES FULL BAND TOUR 

AND EXCLUSIVE RUFUS DOES JUDY RESIDENCIES 

AT CITY WINERY IN NEW YORK AND CHICAGO

2x GRAMMY® Award-nominated singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright will celebrate Garland’s centenary with a pair of exclusive live residencies, Rufus Does Judy at City Winery, set for City Winery in New York City (June 5, 7, 8, 10) and Chicago (June 16-17). Today, Wainwright and his band announced that the performances will feature special guests including Laura Benanti (June 5), Mx Justin Vivian Bond (June 8), and Molly Ringwald (June 10), with more to be announced in the coming weeks. Early sets will cover songs from “When You’re Smiling” to “San Francisco,” while late shows will feature “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love” to “Chicago,” with additional surprise numbers during both sets. For complete details and remaining ticket availability, please visit rufuswainwright.com/tour.

Recently, Wainwright shared “Puttin’ On The Ritz,” featured on his upcoming Rufus Does Judy at Capitol Studios and available now at all DSPs and streaming services. An official live performance video premiered Friday via YouTube.

Rufus Does Judy at Capitol Studios – an all-new performance of his groundbreaking tribute to Judy Garland, Rufus Does Judy at Carnegie Hall, recorded last year at Los Angeles’ famed Capitol Studios – arrives via BMG on Friday, June 10, celebrating the legendary Garland’s 100th birthday. Pre-orders are available now. 

RUFUS DOES JUDY AT CAPITOL STUDIOS ARRIVES VIA BMG

ON JUDY GARLAND’S 100TH BIRTHDAY,

FRIDAY, JUNE 10

WATCH “PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ”

STREAM “PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ”

PRE-ORDER RUFUS DOES JUDY AT CAPITOL STUDIOS

First presented last year as a virtual livestream concert event, Rufus Does Judy at Capitol Studios sees Wainwright using the very microphone Garland herself used while making her own historic recordings at Capitol Studios, backed by a four-piece jazz ensemble before a micro-audience comprised entirely of 2x Academy Award-winning actress Renée Zellweger, winner of 2020’s “Best Actress” Oscar for her spectacular performance as Garland in 2019’s Judy. Among the concert’s many highlights is a special duet rendition of “Happy Days Are Here Again/Get Happy” performed alongside award-winning Concord recording artist Kristin Chenoweth, as well as the concert highlight, “The Man That Got Away,” the latter available now at all DSPs and streaming services; an official live performance video is streaming now via YouTube.

Rufus Does Judy at Capitol Studios – which marked a rare complete performance of Wainwright’s now-legendary homage to 1961’s Judy Garland At Carnegie Hall – showcases a selection of standards spanning swing, jazz, and pop, including three songs by George & Ira Gershwin, two Rodgers & Hart classics, two from Howard Dietz & Arthur Schwartz, plus favorites by Harold Arlen, Yip Harburg, Irving Berlin, Noël Coward, and more. Highlights include such Garland signature songs as “The Man That Got Away,” “Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart,” “Swanee,” and of course, “Over The Rainbow.” 

WATCH “THE MAN THAT GOT AWAY”

“In terms of actually fundamentally knowing these songs, honestly feeling them in my bones, Judy Garland has always had a good 30 year leg up on me and despite my valiant attempts, she will always be the Queen,” says Wainwright. “Listening back to my latest renditions of some of these amazing numbers, I was slightly taken aback...in a good way. I don’t know if it’s the pared down arrangements, my own as well as the planet’s trials and tribulations, or the fact that everyone but myself were required to record these tracks with masks on (playfully emblazoned with Judy’s likeness mind you). But, there is a darker quality to these renditions, a measure of pain involved that in almost every other aspect of life can prove burdensome, except for in the act singing. I now know these songs and definitely feel them deep in my bones.”

ALL-NEW RECORDING AT HISTORIC L.A. STUDIO TO BE RELEASED 

IN CELEBRATION OF JUDY GARLAND’S CENTENNIAL

Wainwright will return to the road with his Unfollow The Rules Tour, beginning April 26 at Vancouver, BC’s Chan Centre for the Performing Arts and then travelling the world through November. The upcoming run will see Wainwright performing classic songs, fan favorites, and tracks from his highly praised new album, 2020’s GRAMMY® and Juno Award-nominated Unfollow The Rules, both solo and backed by his brand-new live combo, Brian Green (John Legend, Michael Bublé) as music director, guitar and backing vocals; Jacob Mann on keyboard, piano and backing vocals; and Alan Hampton on bass, guitar, ukulele and backing vocals. 

In addition, Wainwright will present his acclaimed 2018 opera, Hadrian, with a special one-night-only performance at Madrid, Spain’s historic Teatro Real on July 22. Wainwright will also team up the Los Angeles Phil for an exclusive performance set for L.A.’s Walt Disney Concert Hall on June 2, 2023.

Wainwright’s sixth full-length release and first live album, 2007’s Rufus Does Judy at Carnegie Hall was recorded and produced by Phil Ramone over two sold-out nights at Carnegie Hall, backed by a full 36-piece orchestra and special guest appearances from his sister Martha Wainwright, his mother Kate McGarrigle, and Garland’s daughter, Lorna Luft. The album proved an immediate cultural landmark, feted by worldwide media attention and critical acclaim while earning Wainwright his first-ever GRAMMY® Award nomination (for “Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album”). Due to popular demand, Wainwright recreated his momentous tribute to Garland with sold-out, star-studded performances at such renowned venues as Paris’ L’Olympia, Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl, and the London Palladium, the latter of which was filmed and released on DVD as Rufus! Rufus! Rufus! Does Judy! Judy! Judy!: Live from the London Palladium.

RUFUS WAINWRIGHT UNFOLLOW THE RULES TOUR 2022

APRIL

26 – Vancouver, BC – Chan Centre for the Performing Arts

28 – Kirkland, WA – Kirkland Performance Center

29 – Edmonds, WA – Edmonds Center for the Arts

30 – Portland, OR – Aladdin Theater

MAY

16 – Toronto, ON – Massey Hall

17 – Buffalo, NY - Asbury Hall Babeville (Babeville)

19 – Ottawa, ON – Babs Asper Theatre, National Arts Centre

20 – Quebec City, QB – Palais Montcalm

21 – Montreal, QB – Salle Wilfred-Pelletier

29 – Reykjavik, IS – Harpa Center

JUNE

5 – New York, NY – City Winery (Two Shows) *

7 – New York, NY – City Winery

8 – New York, NY – City Winery

10 – New York, NY – City Winery (Two Shows) *

14 – Los Angeles, CA – The Ford

16 – Chicago, IL – City Winery (Two Shows) *

17 – Chicago, IL – City Winery (Two Shows) *

23 – Worthing, UK – Worthing Assembly Halls

25 – Bath, UK – Bath Forum

26 – Rhyl, UK – Rhyl Pavilion Theatre

30 – Zaragoza, ES – Parque Grande José Antonio Labordeta

JULY

6 – Dublin, IR – National Concert Hall

7 – Kassel, DE - Kulturzelt

11 – Amstelveen, NL – Amsterdamse Bostheater (SOLD OUT)

19 – Frankfurt, DE – Palmengarten

27 – Madrid, ES – Teatro Real †

30 – Glasgow, UK – Kelvingrove Bandstand

SEPTEMBER

14 – Dallas, TX – Majestic Theatre

15 – Austin, TX – The Paramount Theatre

17 – Houston, TX – The Heights Theater

OCTOBER

9 – Hammondsport, NY – Concerts at Point of the Bluff Vineyards

11 – Annapolis, MD – Rams Head On Stage

12 – Alexandria, VA – The Birchmere

NOVEMBER

12 – Kansas City, MO – Kauffmann Center For The Performing Arts

JUNE 2023

2 – Los Angeles, CA – Walt Disney Concert Hall ‡

* Rufus Does Judy at City Winery

† Hadrian

‡ w/The LA Phil

Rufus Wainwright

Rufus Does Judy at Capitol Studios

(BMG)

Release Date: Friday, June 10

TRACKLIST

Come Rain Or Come Shine

Alone Together

I Can’t Give You Anything But Love

Puttin’ On The Ritz

The Man That Got Away

A Foggy Day

How Long Has This Been Going On?

Just You, Just Me

You’re Never

Happy Days Are Here Again/Get Happy (Feat. Kristin Chenoweth)

Medley: You Made Me Love You/For Me And My Gal/The Trolley Song

Over The Rainbow

CONNECT WITH RUFUS WAINWRIGHT

OFFICIAL | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM

REVIEW: BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest in The Chicago Circus & Performing Arts Festival 2022 at The Den Theatre

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest

Friday 5:30-7, Saturday 9:30-11 (13+)

REVIEW:

By Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

When folks think of contemporary circus arts, many think of Europe or French Canadian companies, but circus arts are alive and well right here in the midwest, and include plenty of talented BIPOC performers. Circus skills are a powerfully visual way to explore collective trauma and joy of the lived experiences of people of color today.  

I caught the BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest's lineup for The Chicago Circus & Performing Arts Festival and it's well worth a look. The ceiling may be low at The Den, but the bar is high, and BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest's aerial arts are hardly less impressive for happening close to the ground, instead of in the peak of a bigtop tent dozens of feet above. This intimate performance space provides great sight lines and a personal connection to the artists and the content behind their superhuman feats. 

The diverse lineup has a bit of everything from powerful duo acts to a family who incorporated their infant into their straps act! Performers range from a teen juggling/acro act from Actors' Gymnasium, to older performers in the highly impressive and entertaining FUNKBOTNOTS act. We particularly loved the lyra act. The artists were thought provoking, talented, silly, sexy, and deep in turn, providing a full range of interesting, creative acts. Don't miss this. Their show repeats one more time Saturday night. Check it out. 

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

Our show will be a themed cabaret that tracks the lives of People Of Color as they learn to re-start their lives and re-engage with the outside world two years after the onset of a global pandemic. This is a collection of individual stories depicting a range of human emotions and unique challenges faced by POC in the contemporary American landscape. This show will be stripped down, human, and honest, focusing on communicating feelings through movement. Disciplines will include rope, straps, aerial hammock, diabolo, and silks. Show content is PG-13. Purchase tickets at The Den box office or in advance HERE: https://ci.ovationtix.com/35386/production/1106355.

Lineup:

FUNKBOTNOTS

Valeria Rosero

The Actor's Gymnasium Teen Ensemble

Jessica Bailey

Cruz 

Eric Rodney Robinson

Chris, Amy, & CJ Rooney

Nick Ng

​

BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest 

The BIPOC Circus Alliance Midwest (BCAM) is a collective of circus practitioners and performing artists dedicated to creating more supportive, inclusive, and representative circus communities by:

- Advocating for equity and inclusion in training, teaching, and performance spaces

- Partnering with circus organizations to implement policy changes designed to increase BIPOC representation and inclusion within customers/students and staff

- Celebrating and amplifying BIPOC stories in circus

- Creating community, support, and mutual positive encouragement for BIPOC circus practitioners and performers

- Creating opportunities for circus practitioners of color to create, collaborate, and perform together

Since our formation in 2020 we have produced performances, facilitated discussions on race and circus with over 20 circus organizations, and provided focused consultation to circus organizations looking to diversify their spaces. 

For more info check out: https://www.facebook.com/BCAMSupporters/

Chicago Premiere of THE MAGNOLIA BALLET Via About Face Theatre May 12 through June 11, 2022 at the Den Theatre

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

About Face Theatre Brings Local Playwright Terry Guest’s


THE MAGNOLIA BALLET 

To Chicago

About Face Theatre continues its 27th season with the Chicago premiere of Terry Guest’s haunting new drama THE MAGNOLIA BALLET, running May 12 through June 11, 2022, at the Den Theatre. Following the story of a young Black man in Georgia who finds a shocking discovery among his grandfather's letters, THE MAGNOLIA BALLET explores the need to tear down the rules that are killing us in order to finally live. Associate Artistic Director Mikael Burke premiered this new work in March 2022 at Phoenix Theatre in Indianapolis and now brings the play to Chicago with playwright Terry Guest in the lead role. I'll be out for the press opening Friday, May 20th, so check back shortly for my full review. 

Pictured left - right: Terry Guest, Wardell Julius Clark, Sheldon D. Brown, Ben Sulzberger.

PERFORMANCE TIMES

Previews:  Thursday, May 12 – Thursday, May 19

Press Opening:  Friday, May 20

Performance Run: Saturday, May 21 – Saturday, June 11

Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 3:00pm

TICKETS

Tickets are on sale now online at AboutFaceTheatre.com, by calling 773.697.3830, or in-person at the Den Theatre box office. Ticket prices range from $5 to $35.

AFT offers a ticket pricing system that allows each patron to decide the price that they can comfortably afford to pay for a ticket. Ultimately, About Face wants everyone who wants to attend a show to be able to do so. Please note, there are limited quantities available at each pricing level.

Left-right: Sheldon D. Brown, Terry Guest, Wardell Julius Clark. 

Photo by Nathanael Filbert

THE PLAY

Ezekiel is a Black teenager with a secret that threatens to destroy his already broken home. He’s haunted by the ghosts of racism, homophobia, and toxic masculinity–the same ghosts that have plagued men in Georgia for generations, including his emotionally distant father. But when he discovers a trove of forbidden love letters among his late grandfather’s belongings, Ezekiel  begins to believe that the only way to fight these multi-generational ghosts is to burn everything to the ground. The Magnolia Ballet is a Southern Gothic fable that melds high drama, dance, poetry, and spectacle to explore masculinity, racism, and the love between a queer kid and his father.

“As a queer Black man raised in the American south, this play is hugely important to me,” says director Mikael Burke. “No young person should ever be made to feel the way I did, like they are wrong simply for existing. This play forces all of us to reckon with the legacies of toxic masculinity and racism in this country. It’s a play that demands that we all wrestle with the ghosts of our prejudices and recognize where the rules we once set in order to survive have become the killers of a new generation.”

CAST

Terry Guest as Ezekiel “Z” Mitchell VI

Wardell Julius Clark as Ezekiel Mitchell V

Sheldon D. Brown as Apparition

Ben Sulzberger as Danny

PRODUCTION TEAM

Assistant Directing and Dramaturgy by Vic Wynter, Choreography by Jenn Freeman, Intimacy and Violence Choreography by Jyreika Guest, Scenic Design by Steven Abbott, Scenic Design Advising by Regina Garcia, Lighting Design by Eric Watkins, Sound Design by Brian Grimm, Costume Design by Jos N. Banks, Properties Design by Caitlin McCarthy, Stage Management by Lucy Whipp, Assistant Stage Management by Cecilia Koloski, Production Management by Audrey Kleine, Technical Direction by Becca Venable.

ARTIST BIOS

TERRY GUEST (he/him): Playwright, Ezekiel “Z” Mitchell VI

Terry Guest is a Chicago based playwright, actor and teaching artist. He wrote and starred in AT THE WAKE OF A DEAD DRAG QUEEN, which was the recipient of the 2018 Out Front Spectrum Series Grant and had its World Premiere in Chicago at The Story Theatre (directed by Mikael Burke). Other work includes: A GHOST IN SATIN (The Williamstown Theatre Festival, directed by Wardell Julius Clark), MARIE ANTIONETTE AND THE MAGICAL NEGROS (The Story Theatre), THE MADNESS OF MARY TODD (Goodman Theatre Playwrights Unit Commission), MICHAEL JACKSON AND THE DEVIL’S BOOK (Jackalope) and ANDY WARHOL PRESENTS: THE COCAINE PLAY. More in for at terrycguest.com

MIKAEL BURKE (he/him): Director

Mikael is a Chicago-based director and educator, and About Face Theatre’s Associate Artistic Director. A Princess Grace Award-winner in Theatre and Jeff Award-nominated director, Mikael’s most recently worked with Victory Gardens Theatre, Northlight Theatre, Jackalope Theatre Company, Windy City Playhouse, About Face Theatre, First Floor Theater, American Theatre Company, Chicago Dramatists, and The Story Theatre in Chicago, and regionally with Indiana Repertory Theatre, Asolo Repertory Theatre, Geva Theatre Center, and Phoenix Theatre. For About Face, he has directed KICKBACK, an all-virtual play festival, and THIS BITTER EARTH. Other recent directing credits include the world premiere of THE MAGNOLIA BALLET by Terry Guest; FIREFLIES by Donja R. Love; MRS. HARRISON by R. Eric Thomas; WE ARE CONTINUOUS by Harrison David Rivers; KILL MOVE PARADISE by James Ijames; THE AGITATORS by Mat Smart. mklburke.com

WARDELL JULIUS CLARK (he/him): Ezekiel Mitchell V

Wardell is an award-winning actor, director, producer, and activist who hails from Fairfield, Alabama, but now calls Chicago home. He earned his BFA from The Theatre School at DePaul University. Wardell is a Company Member with TimeLine Theatre. He is also an Ensemble Member at Sideshow Theatre. Select acting credits include GEM OF THE OCEAN (Goodman Theatre), FLYIN’ WEST (American Blues), SUDDENLY LAST SUMMER (Raven), SILENT SKY (First Folio), OTHELLO (Theater at Monmouth), and THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO JAMES (Victory Gardens). His television and film credits include PROVEN INNOCENT, SHAMELESS, and CHICAGO FIRE seasons 1 & 4. Wardell directed the world premieres of BLACK MOON LILITH, A GHOST IN SATIN, and DON'T GET GOT last summer as part of the Solo Play Festival Celebrating the Black Radical Imagination at Williamstown Theatre Festival. Select Chicago directing credits include KILL MOVE PARADISE (Timeline Theatre - 2020 Jeff Award Winner - Best Director, large), SHEEPDOG (Shattered Globe), HIS SHADOW (16th Street), THE SHIPMENT (Red Tape), DUTCH MASTERS (Jackalope), THE WATSONS GO TO BIRMINGHAM -1963 (Chicago Children's Theatre), INSURRECTION: HOLDING HISTORY (Stage Left). Wardell was the Newcity Magazine 2020 - Player of the Moment, and a recipient of the 2021 3Arts Foundation Make a Wave grant! wardelljuliusclark.com

SHELDON D. BROWN (he/him): Apparition

Sheldon is overjoyed to return to About Face where he previously performed in THIS BITTER EARTH and TIME IS ON OUR SIDE. His other credits include the TRAGEDY OF OTHELLO THE MOOR OF VENICE, OEDIPUS REX, and MAN IN THE RING (Court Theatre); A WONDER IN MY SOUL (Victory Gardens Theatre), THE SHIPMENT (Red Tape Theatre); 1980 (Jackalope Theatre) and more. He also has numerous credits in Boston including THE GRAND INQUISITOR, directed by Peter Brook through ArtsEmerson. His film/screenwriting credits include CICADA (Spirit Award Nominated, Best First Screenplay), THE CANYONLANDS, and MY NAME IS ALEX. Sheldon is also a queer educator having taught with Steppenwolf, Northlight Theatre, and The League of Chicago Theatres. Sheldon received his BFA in Acting from Emerson College and is a proud Artistic Associate at About Face!

BEN SULZBERGER: Danny

Ben is thrilled to be making his Chicago theatre debut in THE MAGNOLIA BALLET. He graduated from the University of Iowa in 2020 with a degree in theatre arts and cinema. Some of his favorite roles have included Christopher in THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME, Flute in A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM and Jason in SWEAT.

ABOUT FACE THEATRE advances LGBTQ+ equity through community building, education, and performance. AFT envisions an affirming and equitable world in which all LGBTQ+ individuals are thriving and free from prejudice and discrimination. About Face Theatre is also dedicated to being an intentionally and increasingly anti-racist organization. Due to the intersectionality of our identities, we understand our work to advance LGBTQ+ equity as directly connected to movements for racial justice.

REVIEW: Surface Tension at Chicago Circus & Performing Arts Festival 2022

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar:

Surface Tension

by to x for

(all ages)

Thursday 5:30-7, Friday 7:30-9

at The Den Theatre in Chicago's Wicker Park Neighborhood

Photos tag: @xav13rclaudio

REVIEW:

By Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

I caught this piece at the opening of the  Chicago Circus & Performing Arts Festival Thursday night and I was completely charmed by Surface Tension.  David and Liam, clad in overalls, embody the childlike curiosity and play of preschoolers, or puppies, with the adult twist of impressive circus skills and control. This lovely exploration of parallel play, competition, bonding, and friendship runs the gamut of positive and negative emotions. Surface Tension includes gift giving and forgiving, the pettiness of fighting and storming off, love, loss, and reconciliation. The friends take turns sharing time in the spotlight, creating, entertaining and supporting one another through juggling, diablo, movement, and partner acro. Highly recommended. Great for all ages. It's a playful, positive piece, full of genuine camaraderie, that's a joy to see. 

It was my pleasure to interview David Chervony as one of our five featured artists for the fest. Check it out, then keep an eye out for Surface Tension and/or ​to x for. I'm hoping this piece is just the first of many to come from ​to x for, contemporary circus company. 

Chicago Circus & Performing Arts Festival kicks off Thursday and runs through Sunday at The Den Theatre! We've picked 5 performers from the upcoming fest to feature and we're asking them all Six Quick Questions. Meet artist, David Chervony, whose show is one of the fest openers at 5:30 Thursday and repeats Friday night as well.

ChiIL Live Shows' Interview 

Your name/pronouns: David Chervony (He/They)

Your show(s) title/dates/times: Surface Tension, Thursday at 5:30p, Friday at 7:30p at the Bookspan Theater

1.  ChiIL Live Shows: Tell me something quirky or unique about yourself?

I have an encyclopedic knowledge of board games.

2. CLS: Why do you personally do circus arts/dance/performing arts?

I have a lot to say and have no idea how to say it. I love being with audiences, with them challenging me and I them. I love doing things that don't make sense. Circus (and all art) has allowed me to do these things.

3. CLS: How has the pandemic impacted and/or changed you as a performing artist?

I've been able to focus on how I want to create as an artist. It is easy to get entirely lost in solo work as a circus artist--especially with juggling, I can practice for hours and never interact with anyone else. But during the pandemic, I re-discovered how important the ensemble is for my creative process. Collaboration and trust allow me to tell stories I can't imagine telling without other artists.

4. CLS: Did you devise your own act or audition? If it’s your own, what sparked the idea for this piece? If it’s a collaboration, what made you want to be part of this act?

Liam Bradley and I first started working together late last year on an elementary school show. Originally, I thought it was just going to be a job--but very quickly, things evolved. We wrote massive amounts of material in a matter of days. We bonded over shared experiences and our thoughts about art. It was, as we both have said, the easiest creation process either of us have ever been in. We decided to create a full-length work, founded our grassroots collective, Company To X For, and debuted Surface Tension at Miniball Fest in Philadelphia in early April. It received a terrific reception and we are so excited to share this intimate, personal, and fun contemporary circus show in the Chicago Circus and Performing Arts Festival.

5. CLS: What type of audience do you envision seeing your show and why?

Our show is about a queer relationship. This show is for anyone who has ever had a close friendship or relationship. This show is for all ages. We truly believe this show has something for everyone.

6. CLS: Any words of wisdom for younger performers who want to follow in your footsteps?

Create what you want and what you need. Find what inspires you. Do things that scare you. And always, always, charge more money for your work. You're worth it.

For more info on the whole fest running this Thursday through Sunday, here's our feature: https://www.chiilmama.com/2022/02/chicago-childrens-theatre-to-present.html

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

Surface Tension takes a beautiful and daring look at a queer friendship. At points ecstatic, dark, searching, and joyful, this intimate circus show celebrates vulnerable connection through sincere juggling, acrobatics, weight-sharing, object manipulation, and dance. 

Purchase tickets HERE: https://ci.ovationtix.com/35386/production/1106356

Company Info: @CompanyToXFor

​to x for is a new contemporary circus company created by Liam Bradley and David Chervony.    We create intimate work through juggling, acrobatics, and dance that is driven by passion, connection, and pure excitement. We are currently in development of our first work, entitled Surface Tension. The initial iteration of the work was first performed this November, but we have plans to expand it much farther.

David Chervony is a circus artist and creator based in Chicago. He has performed nationally, notably with Midnight Circus, Cirque Us!, Masters of Gravity, and others. He directed AMAZE at the Mickey Gilley Grand Shanghai Theater in Branson, Missouri as well as writing and producing Life of the Party by Low Ceiling Circus. For more information, including his CV and videos, visit DavidDrops.com

Liam Bradley is a juggler, acrobat, and mover from Chicago, IL. Liam is a graduate of Circadium School of Contemporary Circus and he's currently excitedly working on circus projects in his hometown. Liam plays with rhythm, space, and convention to create unique manipulation and movement performances. He’s inspired by old school hip-hop, impressionist paintings, and over-priced food. His goal is to defy expectations and create entirely curious compositions.

Free Theatre: Strawdog Presents the World Premiere of ON THE GREENBELT Monday, April 25 – Saturday, May 28, 2022

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Free Performances!

Strawdog Theatre Company Presents the World Premiere of

ON THE GREENBELT

By Ensemble Member Karissa Murrell Myers

Directed by Jonathan Berry

April 22 – May 28, 2022 at Links Hall

Strawdog Theatre Company, Chicago’s newest free theater, returns this spring with the world premiere of On The Greenbelt, playing April 22 – May 28, 2022 at Links Hall, 3111 N. Western Ave. in Chicago. A semi-finalist for the 2021 Blue Ink Playwright Awards, On The Greenbelt is a serio-comic play that jumps between past and the present, written by ensemble member Karissa Murrell Myers* and directed by Jonathan Berry. Tickets for all performances are FREE with reservations opening Friday, March 25 at www.strawdog.org. I'll be out for the press opening, Sunday, April 24, so check back soon for my review.

On The Greenbelt will feature ensemble member Jamie Vann* with Kathryn Acosta, Lynne Baker, Jessica Ervin, Dan Lin and Alexis Ward.

Understudies: Rachel Bachar, Blake Dava, Daniel Vaughn Manasia, Koshie Mills, Laura Resinger and India Whiteside.

On The Greenbelt is an exploration of family, love, memory and the question of “How do we process loss and grief?” Jules saw something terrible in the Idaho hospital the night her mom died, but she’ll never say what it was. Not to her ex, Olivia, and especially not to her brother, Jake, who keeps trying to convince her to go with him to the Greenbelt to spread their mom’s ashes with their father, Alan. But try as she might, Jules can’t shake the memories of the past that haunt her like a gin-soaked hangover, and as the day unravels the past events surrounding her mother’s death come to light.

Comments Strawdog Artistic Director Kamille Dawkins*, “We really enjoy the story behind Karissa’s funny and wildly unpredictable family drama. It dives deep into emotional themes of love and illness with a fresh and inspiring look at family. We are also thrilled to have ensemble member Jamie Vann return to our stage and reunite with director Jonathan Berry.”

The production team includes Yeaji Kim* (scenic design), Gregory Graham (costume design), Trey Brazeal (lighting design), Daniel Etti-Williams (sound design), Patty Meier (props design), Sam Hubbard* (fight director), Tristin Hall (intimacy designer), Aja Singletary (assistant director), Caitlyn Garrity (stage manager) and Michelle Locke (assistant stage manager).

Covid protocols: Masks and proof of vaccination for individuals ages 5 and up, OR a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of entry is required for entrance. Rapid antigen or at-home tests are not accepted as proof of negative COVID-19 status. For additional details about these policies, acceptable forms of documentation and ongoing health and safety measures visit linkshall.org/covid19.   

*Denotes Strawdog ensemble member

Cast (in alphabetical order): Kathryn Acosta (Jules), Lynne Baker (Lydia), Jessica Ervin (Mallory), Dan Lin (Jake), Jamie Vann* (Alan) and Alexis Ward (Olivia).

Understudies: Rachel Bachar, Blake Dava, Daniel Vaughn Manasia, Koshie Mills, Laura Resinger and India Whiteside.

Location: Links Hall, 3111 N. Western Ave., Chicago.

Dates: Previews: Friday, April 22 at 7 pm and Saturday, April 23 at 7 pm

Press performance: Sunday, April 24 at 7 pm

Regular run: Monday, April 25 – Saturday, May 28, 2022

Curtain Times: Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 7 pm: Please note: there will be an added performance on Monday, April 25 at 7 pm

Understudy Performance: Wednesday, May 18 at 7 pm

Tickets: Free. Reservations open Friday, March 25 at www.strawdog.org.

About the Artists

Karissa Murrell Myers* (Playwright, she/her) is a hapa Filipino American theatre artist originally from Boise, Idaho and is currently based in Chicago, where she works professionally as a playwright, actor, casting director and producer. She has a MFA in Performance from University of Hawaii at Manoa, a BA in Theatre Arts from Boise State University and is a graduate of The School at Steppenwolf. Her autobiographical play Fragmented was filmed and released through Our Perspective: Asian American Plays. Her most recently produced play, How Do We Navigate Space?, was filmed and released through Strawdog Theatre Company, where she is the current Casting Director and ensemble member. Proud member of SAG-AFTRA, represented by Gray Talent Group. www.kmurrellmyers.com.   

Jonathan Berry (Director) is a director and teacher in Chicago, a proud ensemble member of both Steep Theatre and Griffin Theatre and a former Artistic Producer at Steppenwolf Theatre Company. He directed the Steppenwolf productions of Lindiwe, The Children, You Got Older, Constellations and the SYA productions of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime, The Crucible and A Separate Peace. Steep Theatre Company: Red Rex, Earthquakes in London, Posh, The Life and Sort of Death of Eric Argyle, If There Is I Haven’t Found it Yet, The Knowledge, Festen, Moment, The Hollow Lands and The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui. At Griffin, productions include: The North American premieres of Simon Stephens Punk Rock (Jeff award Director, Lead Actor and Ensemble), Port and On the Shore of the Wide World, as well as The Harvest, Winterset, Pocatello, Balm in Gilead, Golden Boy, The Burnt Part Boys, Spring Awakening, Company, Picnic, Time and the Conways, Dead End, The Hostage and Journey’s End.  

He was the Assistant Director for Anna D. Shapiro’s Broadway productions of Of Mice and Men and This is our Youth. Gift Theatre: the world premieres of both Dirty and Suicide, Incorporated, as well as Othello. Goodman Theatre: The Solid Sand Below and The World of Extreme Happiness for their New Stages Festival. Other work includes: American Theatre Company: Kill Floor, American Blues: Little Shop of Horrors and Sideman; Redtwist: Look Back in Anger and Reverb, Chicago Dramatists: I am Going to Change the World, Jackalope Theatre: The Casuals, Strawdog: Conversations on a Homecoming, Remy Bumpo: The Marriage of Figaro, Theatre Mir: The Sea and Caucasian Chalk Circle, Lifeline Theater: The Piano Tuner (After Dark Award – Best Production). He pursued his MFA in directing from Northwestern University. He has taught acting, directing and viewpoints at University of Michigan, Northwestern University, University of Chicago, Act One Studios, Columbia College and served as the director for the ensemble training program The School at Steppenwolf.

About Strawdog Theatre Company

Strawdog Theatre Company was founded as a small ensemble based Chicago storefront theatre in 1988 by founders, Lawrence Novikoff and Paul Engelhardt. Since then, Strawdog has grown and redefined what storefront theatre and ensemble work means by elevating the craft of intimate storytelling through innovative collaborative work in all genres. Our ensemble and guest artists are encouraged to bring out of the box thinking to create worlds and immersive theater experiences in a little black box. As one of the oldest, most well-respected storefront theaters of Chicago, we foster career growth and artistic experimentation to theater artists of all disciplines. We make theater more accessible to the community by providing free admission to our productions. We give our ensemble the support to create exciting, new and unusual work in our late night, off night, mainstage and virtual spaces, garnering us a special non-equity Jeff Award for 30 years of provocative ensemble work.

Strawdog Theatre Company is supported in part by The MacArthur Fund for Arts & Culture at the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, The Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, The Illinois Arts Council Agency, The Small Business Association and The Saints Grant Commission.