REVIEW: Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble Presents Rachel Bublitz's "Funny Like an Abortion" MARCH 10 - MARCH 30, 2025

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

CHICAGO DANZTHEATRE ENSEMBLE PRESENTS THE CHICAGO PREMIERE OF 

FUNNY, LIKE AN ABORTION

MARCH 10 - MARCH 30, 2025 

GUEST REVIEW

By Barbara Belcore

How to Make Abortion Funny

Bianca Thompson (she/they) as “Monroe”

Photo by Anthony Robert La Penna Photography

I drove right past the theater address not realizing the performance of Rachel Bublitz's "Funny Like an Abortion" would take place in a church theater. Greeters guided me upstairs where chairs sat in rows in front of a stage set up as a slightly cluttered apartment that could be any vintage Chicago flat. The rest of the multipurpose room was staggered with facts about abortion history and key points in the history of reproductive rights. The audience was wonderfully diverse and the title of the play alone is fair warning of the darkly provocative and wholly political nature of the content.

(L to R): Saniafaith (she/her) as “Jade” and Bianca Thompson (she/they) as “Monroe”

Photo by Anthony Robert La Penna Photography

As the lights went down, A solo actress runs around the stage, talking to her home smart device, decorating for a party, inspiring laughs from the audience. A knock on the door signals one of several well placed opportunities for the performers to break character; This time to present a disclaimer directly to the audience NOT to try anything they see on stage at home. We then meet Monroe and Jade, two quirky best friends gathering to address an unwanted pregnancy in an all-too-real near future where it becomes clear that choice is not a word one can say out loud. 

(L to R): Bianca Thompson (she/they) as “Monroe” and Saniafaith (she/her) as “Jade”

Photo by Anthony Robert La Penna Photography

The characters are well written in a way any close friendship pair can relate to: Monroe, the quirky, free spirit who makes light of even the most morbid of topics, and Jade, the serious, career-focused rule-follower who needs a little help loosening up. The actresses had tremendous chemistry and clearly enjoyed playing their well rehearsed roles making it seem like a closing performance as opposed to opening night. The dialogue is both risky and compelling, allowing for laughter in the face of discomfort. 

(L to R): Saniafaith (she/her) as “Jade” and Bianca Thompson (she/they) as “Monroe”

Photo by Anthony Robert La Penna Photography

(L to R): Bianca Thompson (she/they) as “Monroe” and Saniafaith (she/her) as “Jade”

Photo by Anthony Robert La Penna Photography

The playwright did her research! As a midwife I found the topic both urgent and relevant. The facts were accurate and managed to be both grim and silly at the same time. Even the ending, which was true physical comedy genius, taught important lessons while leaving the finality gently up to interpretation. I strongly recommend anyone, regardless of your affiliation, go see this clever and thought provoking play.

Barbara is a Chicago-area home birth midwife, maker, theater enthusiast, avid reader, and mom of two quirky, creative teens. She is currently snuggling three cats who are perpetually convinced that they have never been fed. 

(L to R): Bianca Thompson (she/they) as “Monroe” and Saniafaith (she/her) as “Jade”

Photo by Anthony Robert La Penna Photography

Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble (CDE),  located at 1650 W. Foster Ave, in collaboration with Fat Theater Project will present Funny Like an Abortion March 10 - 30. Monday, March 10 at 7:30 p.m. will be the one preview performance with the press opening Tuesday, March 11, at 7:30 p.m. Written by Rachel Bublitz and directed by Eileen Tull, Funny, Like an Abortion, a Chicago premiere, takes place Fridays through Sundays at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are pay-what-you-can with a suggested donation of $30. NOTE: Doors will open at 7 p.m. for each performance as there will be a gallery exhibition that comments on the social aspects of the femme experience focusing on the rights of women and femmes that are now under attack.  A timeline of women’s history milestones will also be displayed. For additional information on participants and to purchase tickets visit DanzTheatre.org (https://www.danztheatre.org/funny-like-an-abortion.html).

(L to R): Saniafaith (she/her) as “Jade” and Bianca Thompson (she/they) as “Monroe”

Photo by Anthony Robert La Penna Photography

Set in a future America where even saying the word “abortion” is a crime, Monroe has just discovered that she is unexpectedly and unwantedly pregnant. She invites her best friend, Jade, over for a surprise abortion party in this darkly funny, devastatingly prescient play by Rachel Bublitz. Eileen Tull directs this searing Chicago premiere, co-produced by Chicago Danztheatre and Fat Theater Project.  

(L to R): Saniafaith (she/her) as “Jade” and Bianca Thompson (she/they) as “Monroe”

Photo by Anthony Robert La Penna Photography

The cast of Funny Like an Abortion includes Bianca Thompson (she/they, Monroe) and Saniafaith (she/her, Jade), Kit Kelly (they/them, Monroe - understudy) and Erin Feldmen (she/her, Jade - understudy). The production team includes Ellyzabeth Adler (she/her, CDE founder and producer), Eileen Tull (she/her, director and producer), Naomi Flores (she/they, CDE community engagement director), Gail Gallagher (she/her, sound designer), Joshua Paul Weckesser (he/him, lighting designer), Christine Marie (she/her, puppet designer), Taylor Owen (he/him, stage manager), Mary Moore (she/her, props designer), Shellie DiSalvo (they/she, assistant director) and Davon Suttles (they, them choreography)

ABOUT FAT THEATRE PROJECT

Founded in 2022 by Eileen Tull, Fat Theater Project seeks to tell stories by/about/for/with fat artists. Sometimes the company creates plays about living in a fat body. Sometimes they do plays that are about people with all bodies. Their work is imaginative, compassionate, and bold. Fat Theater Project strives to pay artists for their work while also keeping art accessible for audiences. 

Top: Saniafaith (she/her) as “Jade”

Bottom: Bianca Thompson (she/they) as “Monroe”

Photo by Anthony Robert La Penna Photography

ABOUT CHICAGO DANZTHEATRE ENSEMBLE 

Founded in 2001, Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble (CDE) is Chicago’s only multidisciplinary arts organization dedicated to social justice and socially conscious work that builds community through the arts “one voice, one story, one person at a time.” CDE’s mission is to engage, inspire, and challenge the community, both onstage and in the classroom, through innovative and collaborative multidisciplinary storytelling to illuminate aspects of social issues. We do this in the genre of Tanztheatre, "which unites all art media to achieve an all-embracing, radical change in humankind.” Through our school-based art and performance programs, CDE helps students in Chicago schools explore their own creativity, supporting their social and emotional learning. CDE provides a physical and emotional space where community conversation and cultural change can happen.

For our performance series, CDE is dedicated to creating performances that blend together dance, theatre and visual art to tell stories about the human condition. We give an artistic voice to those who are not always heard.

Dedicated since our founding to diverse casting of age, body type and ethnicity

Consistently listed as a “Top Theater and Dance Performance to See” 

by New City and Chicago Reader

Unique collaborations with the Veterans Art Museum, Poetry Center Chicago, Cantigny Museum, Neighborhood Writing Alliance, Voice of the City and numerous dance and theater companies

MacArthur Award Grantee for International Collaborations.  

Chicago Danztheatre Ensemble is supported by The Illinois Arts Council, a state agency; Bayless Family Foundation, The Saints Foundation,The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, The Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation; Innovation 80; Farny Wurlitzer Foundation; Mardi Gras Fund and the annual support of individual donors.

 

Acclaimed Obliteration Returns to Chicago at The Revival Theater April 10-May 4, 2025

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

The critically acclaimed hit production of

Obliteration

returns for a strictly limited run at The Revival Theater

April 10-May 4, 2025

Written by Andrew Hinderaker

Directed by Jonathan Berry

Performed by Michael Patrick Thornton and Cyd Blakewell 

Obliteration, LLC & The Revival Theater announce a limited engagement of Obliteration, written by Andrew Hinderaker, directed by Jonathan Berry, featuring Michael Patrick Thornton and Cyd Blakewell. Obliteration runs April 10-May 4, 2025, at The Revival Theater, 906 S Wabash Ave in Chicago.

Obliteration is a fusion of stand-up comedy and theater that tells the story of two comedians, Neal (Thornton) and Lee (Blakewell), trying to make sense of a world that's falling apart, even as their own lives are hanging on by a thread.

Obliteration played last summer to sold out audiences and rave reviews as part of Steppenwolf’s LookOut Festival and produced by The Gift Theatre in a production directed by Andrew Hinderaker. 

“I’ve loved stand-up comedy my whole life. But I’d never attempted to write it—I’m a playwright, not a comedian. Then a few years ago, I stumbled upon this quote from the brilliant Phoebe Waller-Bridge: ‘You get a lot for free from an audience if you can make them laugh.’ Immediately an idea for a play unspooled in my mind: a fusion of stand-up and theater that would tell the story of two comedians, whose lives were hanging on by a thread,” comments Andrew Hinderaker. 

Hinderaker continues, “I wrote the piece for two of my fellow ensemble members of Chicago’s Gift Theatre: Michael Patrick Thornton, with whom I’ve collaborated for over a decade; and Cyd Blakewell, with whom I’ve been desperate to work for years. Our process was simple: I’d write some pages, hoping they would make Cyd and Mike laugh and/or cry. Then they’d read the pages and make me laugh and cry. Over a year, we built the ‘play’ like this, gradually folding an audience into our process. And once we got people in the room, that’s when we realized, holy shit, there’s something here.”

“I’ve known all three of these artists for over 20 years and what I can say with certainty is that they are uncompromising in their pursuit of excellence in the art. It’s a privilege to return to this production as director and, because we’re in a very different moment, I’m sure the play and these actors will be in response to that. What hasn’t changed, is our need for laughter, our need for connection, and I am thrilled to create the opportunity for a new audience to experience that,” comments Jonathan Berry. 

The Revival Theatre’s John Stoops comments, “The Revival is thrilled to host the incomparable Michael Patrick Thornton and Cyd Blakewell in Obliteration. We can’t imagine a better way to celebrate our 10th year than to present this groundbreaking production that celebrates comedy and drama in equal measure.”

Location: The Revival Theater, 906 S Wabash Ave in Chicago

Dates: April 10-May 4, 2025

Previews: April 10, 11, 13, and 16, 2025

Opening: April 17, 2025 

Performance schedule: Thursdays-Sundays at 8pm

by: Jonathan Berry

Cast: Cyd Blakewell and Michael Patrick Thornton 

Production team: Matthew Chapman (sound designer), Sheryl Williams (intimacy director), Jenn Thompson (production coordinator), Sarah Luse, (stage manager)

No performances April 12 or 19, 2025

Tickets: https://www.the-revival.com

Previews: $25, $20 students

Regular run: $35, $25 students

About the Artists

Andrew Hinderaker (Playwright) most recently served as an Executive Producer and Showrunner of Black Rabbit, an upcoming Netflix series starring Jason Bateman and Jude Law. He previously created and showran the Showtime series, Let the Right One In, starring Oscar Nominee Demián Bichir, as well as the Netflix series, Away, starring Oscar Winner Hilary Swank. Additional TV writing credits include Penny Dreadful and The Path, but Hinderaker’s heart and soul belong to the theater, where he specializes in writing plays that are (nearly) impossible to produce. Recent projects include The Magic Play (Goodman Theatre; Actors’ Theatre of Louisville; Portland Center Stage) a five-year collaboration with a sleight-of-hand card artist; and Colossal, an epic theatrical event featuring full-contact football hits, a modern dance company, and a drum line. Colossal received a National New Play Network (NNPN) Rolling World Premiere from 2014- 2016, with its inaugural production at the Olney Theatre Center (DC) receiving numerous Helen Hayes Awards, including Best New Play. Hinderaker’s additional plays include Suicide, Incorporated; Dirty; Kingsville; and I Am Going to Change the World, all of which premiered in his hometown of Chicago before enjoying productions in NY and throughout the world. Hinderaker holds an MFA in Playwriting from the University of Texas at Austin, and is a proud ensemble member of the Gift Theatre Company in Chicago. Obliteration marks his seventh collaboration with Michael Patrick Thornton, and his first with Cyd Blakewell. They are two of his favorite artists in the world.

Jonathan Berry (Director), a Chicago director, producer and teacher, is the Artistic Director of Penobscot Theatre in Bangor, Maine. He spent five years as an Artistic Producer at Steppenwolf Theatre Company and he remains a proud ensemble member of both Steep Theatre and Griffin Theatre. Steppenwolf directing credits include: Lindiwe (Co-directed with Eric Simonson and featuring Ladysmith Black Mambazo), 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 productions include: Paris, 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 premiers 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 directed the NY premiere of Andrew Hinderaker’s Suicide, Incorporated for The Roundabout. His work has been honored with numerous Joseph Jefferson Award nominations, as well as frequent representation on the end of year Top Ten lists of the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun Times and TimeOut Chicago. He won the Joseph Jefferson Award for directing for his work on Simon Stephen’s Punk Rock.  

Berry served as Assistant Director for Anna D Shapiro’s Broadway productions of Of Mice and Men and This is Our Youth. At the Gift Theatre, he directed the world premieres of Andrew Hinderaker’s Dirty and Suicide, Incorporated. At the Goodman Theatre, he directed the New Stages productions of Martin Zimmerman’s The Solid Sand Below and Frances Ya-Chu Cowhig’s The World of Extreme Happiness. 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 Bumppo: The Marriage of Figaro, Theatre Mir: The Sea and Caucasian Chalk Circle, Lifeline Theater: The Piano Tuner (Afterdark Award – Best Production) He pursued his MFA in directing from Northwestern University under the tutelage of Anna D. Shapiro. He has taught acting, directing, and viewpoints at University of Michigan, Northwestern University, University of Chicago, University of Illinois – Chicago, Vagabond School, Act One Studios, and Columbia College Chicago. For 17 years he played an integral role in the esteemed ensemble training program The School at Steppenwolf, serving as director of the program from 2015-2019. 

Michael Patrick Thornton (Neal) has appeared on stages throughout the world, most recently on Broadway with Jessica Chastain in the acclaimed and Tony-nominated production of A Doll’s House, directed by Jamie Lloyd and adapted by Amy Herzog, for which Michael’s performance as “Dr. Rank” won the 2023 Actors’ Equity Foundation Joe A. Callaway Award for the best performance by an actor in a classical play in the New York metropolitan area. 

Thornton made his Broadway debut in Sam Gold’s production of Macbeth with Daniel Craig and Ruth Negga. Other highlights: The Gift Theatre’s Doubt at Steppenwolf’s 1700, Will Eno’s Title and Deed (Lookingglass—Time Out Magazine Best Actor Award) as well as Eno’s Middletown (Steppenwolf) the premiere of Andrew Hinderaker’s Colossal (Olney Theatre, Kennedy Center) Othello (The Gift, “Iago”) Our Town (Actors Theatre of Louisville) and the world premieres of Hinderaker’s Dirty and Suicide, Incorporated (The Git) for which Thornton was nominated for a Joseph Jefferson Award. During his 2016 performance in the title role of Richard III (The Gift, at Steppenwolf) Thornton became the first actor to ever act onstage while wearing a robotic exoskeleton, pairing not only an actor with a disability with a character with a disability, but furthermore using cutting-edge technology to theatrically complicate the character of Richard and its discussion around disability, ableism, and representation. This production continues to be the subject of podcasts, published essays, anthologies, and academic papers.

Michael won the 2006 Jeff Award for Solo Performance for The Good Thief (The Gift).

On camera, Thornton has acted opposite Oscar Winners Jessica Chastain, J.K. Simmons, Hilary Swank, Alicia Vikander as well as Oscar nominees Jude Law and Demián Bichir. For two seasons, he played the love interest of six-time Tony Award winning legend Audra McDonald on Private Practice. 

In addition, Thornton’s acclaimed improv show—You & Me—premiered at Steppenwolf and has since played for over a decade throughout Chicago, the country, as well as Dublin, Ireland. You & Me most recently had the honor of making its New York debut at Lincoln Center with Michael’s comedy partner for life Susan Messing. The Chicago Reader has called the show and Thornton’s improvisation “masterful.”

Select Film/TV: Ponderosa, The Last Day, The Savant, Black Rabbit, NCIS, The Good Doctor, Let The Right One In, Chicago Party Aunt, 61st Street, A Million Little Things, Away, All Rise, Madam Secretary, The Red Line, Counterpart, Elementary, and The View From Tall. 

Select Awards: Actors’ Equity Foundation Joe A. Callaway Award; Irish Books and Music Festival (iBAM!) Award Recipient; Best Actor: 2017 Midwest International Film Festival (The View From Tall); Tree of Life Award: Shirley Ryan Ability Lab; 3Arts Artist Award; Northlight Theatre’s Jack Springer Award for Outstanding Performance; The Tim Meier and Helen Coburn Meier Foundation Achievement Award; The Second City Foundation’s Jim Zulevic Chicago Arts Award; The Joseph Jefferson Award for Solo Performance, and induction into The University of Iowa and St. Patrick High School Halls of Fame.

Cyd Blakewell (Lee) is living her best life working on this incredible project with this fantastically dreamy team. She is a proud ensemble member of The Gift Theatre, where she is also the Casting Director. Gift Shows: The Locusts, The Pillowman, Doubt, A Life Extra Ordinary, Good For Otto, Body + Blood, Broadsword, Mine and multiple episodes of TEN. Chicago theatre credits: The Brightest Thing in the World (About Face); Birthday Candles (Northlight); The Snare (Jackalope); Balm In Gilead and Port (Griffin); Buddy Cop 2, breaks & bikes and MilkMilkLemonade (Pavement Group); Sweet Confinement and Ivanov (SiNNERMAN Ensemble); Orange Flower Water (Interrobang); Lies & Liars and Mimesophobia (Theatre Seven)d; Rewind (The Side Project). She recently wrapped a short film called Fairground and can also be seen in Jeri’s Grille. Cyd got her BFA from Southwestern University in Georgetown, TX, is a graduate from the School at Steppenwolf and is represented by Promote Talent Agency. She is married to Keith Neagle and mother to Wesley, who give her an endless amount of love and support.

Parsons Dance returns to Chicago after 30 years, at The Auditorium, April 12, 2025

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The Auditorium proudly presents

Parsons Dance

One Night Only: Saturday, April 12 at 7:30 PM

Internationally renowned contemporary dance company returns to Chicago for first time in 30 years

The Auditorium (Chicago’s Landmark Stage® at 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive) proudly presents a special evening with Parsons Dance, the New York-based contemporary American dance company founded in 1985, and internationally renowned for its athletic ensemble work, boundary-pushing artistry and life-affirming joy. This performance will mark the company’s first in Chicago in thirty years. Parsons Dance performs at The Auditorium, 50 E Ida B. Wells Drive, one night only, Saturday, April 12 at 7:30 PM. Tickets start at $30.00 and are available at auditoriumtheatre.org or by calling The Auditorium’s Ticket Service Center at 312.341.2300.

The mixed repertory program demonstrates the range and athleticism of the dancers featuring choreographic highlights from the company’s deep canon. The program begins with Wolfgang (2005), a work for six dancers set to the music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart followed by a solo work Balance of Power (2020) set to a commissioned percussive score by Giancarlo de Trizio. Closing out the first half is Nascimento (1990), a full company work honoring five-time Grammy-Award winning Brazilian musician Milton Nascimento. After seeing the company perform during a tour in Brazil, Nascimento gifted the work’s musical score to the company and the resulting collaboration has become a fan-favorite of the Parsons repertory. Nascimento will be preceded by a new Milton Nascimento tribute video by videographer Joe Locorro.

The second half of the program begins with Juke (2024), the sole piece on the program not choreographed by Parsons Dance Founder and Artistic Director David Parsons. Juke, by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater alum Jamar Roberts, is a jazzy full company number set to a score by Miles Davis. Next on the program is Parsons’ signature work Caught (1982), a solo featuring an extraordinary 150 jumps in five minutes! This iconic solo, a gravity-defying feat of strobe-light illusion, has remained a staple of modern dance for four decades.  The energetic finale, Shining Star (2004), is a full company number paying tribute to 1970’s power group Earth, Wind & Fire.

“The last time Parsons Dance performed in Chicago was in 1995, and I’m incredibly excited about returning to this city whose great artistic legacy helped establish our company’s position in the dance community during its early years,” said Parsons Dance Artistic Director David Parsons. “We are especially delighted to appear at the iconic Auditorium, where we will take the stage with some of our most favorite works.”

“We are thrilled to present Parsons Dance in its triumphant return to Chicago,” said The Auditorium CEO Rich Regan. “Parsons’ unique blend of virtuosic, high-energy, and joyful dance creates such a fun atmosphere that must be experienced live.”

About Parsons Dance

Parsons Dance is a contemporary American dance company, internationally renowned for its energized, athletic ensemble work. Founded in 1985 by Artistic Director David Parsons and Tony Award-winning lighting designer Howell Binkley, the company has toured to more than 445 cities, 30 countries, and 5 continents and has performed at such notable venues as The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Sydney Opera House, Maison de la Danse, Teatro La Fenice, and Teatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro.  

Heralded by The New York Times as “one of the great movers of modern dance,” David Parsons has received many accolades throughout his career, including three Choreography Fellowship Grants from the National Endowment for the Arts; the American Choreography Award; the Dance Magazine Award; a Howard Gilman Fellowship; the Dance Masters of America Annual Award, and the Capezio ACE Award.  He has collaborated with iconic artists across all disciplines, including Dr. Billy Taylor, John Mackey, Kenji Bunch, Stephen Schwartz, Milton Nascimento, Allen Toussaint, Donna Karan, Annie Leibovitz, Ellsworth Kelly, and Alex Katz.  

About The Auditorium

The Auditorium, located at 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive in Chicago, is an Illinois not-for-profit organization committed to presenting the finest in international, cultural, community, and educational programming to all of Chicago and beyond as The Theatre for the People. The organization also is committed to the continued restoration and preservation of this National Historic Landmark that originally opened in 1889.

The Auditorium’s 2024-25 performance season features a dynamic mix of cultural events from ballet to rock and roll and everything in between. For more information on The Auditorium and a complete listing of events at The Auditorium please visit auditoriumtheatre.org.

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

DREAM 

at Governors State University

Feb. 28 - March 1

The GovSt Dance Company Presents an Evening of Dance 

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

MYANNA DREAM AIE

Photo courtesy of Governors State University

GUEST REVIEW

By Alicia Starr

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

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

DREAM at Governors State University and 29th Season Lineup

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

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

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

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

 

UPCOMING SHOWS:

UPTOWN

Sat March 08, 2025

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

ARTRAGEOUS® The Electrifying Art & Music Circus!

Sat March 15, 2025 - Sat March 15, 2025

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

Rosie and the Rivets

Sun March 23, 2025

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

DOG SEES GOD 

by Bert V. Royal

Thu April 03, 2025 - Sun April 06, 2025

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

Mimosas and Melodies: A Mother’s Day Brunch

Sun May 11, 2025

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

Into the Woods Jr (Camp Registration)

Wed July 02, 2025

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

Into the Woods Jr - Final Performance

Wed July 02, 2025

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

 

“HENRY JOHNSON,” DAVID MAMET’S NEWEST PLAY, TO MAKE ITS CHICAGO PREMIERE AT VICTORY GARDENS THEATER APRIL 8 – MAY 4

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar  

“HENRY JOHNSON” 

DAVID MAMET’S NEWEST PLAY, TO

MAKE ITS CHICAGO PREMIERE 

AT VICTORY GARDENS THEATER APRIL 8 – MAY 4 

Tickets go on sale today at 10 a.m.  

Victory Gardens Theater, in association with Relentless Theatre Group, will present the Midwest premiere of a new work by Pulitzer Prize-winner, filmmaker and former Chicago-based playwright David Mamet, “Henry Johnson.” Presented in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the founding of Victory Gardens, the production will be directed by Joseph Jefferson Award-winner Edward Torres (Co-founder and Artistic Director Emeritus at Teatro Vista) and will star acclaimed actors Thomas Gibson (TV’s “Criminal Minds”), Keith Kupferer (“Ghostlight”) Al'Jaleel McGhee and Daniil Krimer. Dennis Zacek, the Founder and Artistic Director Emeritus at Victory Gardens Theater, who led the company to receive a 2001 Tony Award for excellence in regional theater, will serve as Executive Producer.

“Henry Johnson,” which is being produced for the first time since its world premiere in Los Angeles in 2023, delves into the themes of manipulation and ethical ambiguity. The story follows Henry Johnson, a middle-aged man, as he navigates a series of encounters, both in the corporate world and in prison. As the play progresses, audiences are prompted to wonder: “What is the price of compassion?" 

The production features a lighting design by Jared Gooding, costumes by Stephanie Cluggish, set design by CODESIGN STUDIOS, props by Jeff Brain and fight choreography by David Woolley.

Tickets, which range in price from $64-69, will go on sale today, March 7 at 10 a.m. at victorygardens.stagey.net/projects/12019. The performance schedule is Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 7 p.m. Saturdays at 3 and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. There will be no performances April 18 – 20.

David Mamet (Playwright)

Chicago-born David Mamet is the author of numerous critically acclaimed, award-winning plays including “American Buffalo,” “Speed the Plow,” and “Glengarry Glen Ross,” for which he was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for drama in 1984.

His films include “The Postman Always Rings Twice,” “Wag the Dog,” “The Verdict,” “ Hoffa,” “Ronin,” “The Untouchables,” “House of Games” (writer/director), “Oleanna” (writer/director), (writer/director), “Homicide” (writer/director), “The Spanish Prisoner” (writer/director), “State and Main” (writer/director), “Heist” (writer/director), “Spartan” (writer/director) and “Redbelt” (writer/director). His most recent books are “True and False,” “Three Uses of the Knife,” “The Wicked Son,” “Bambi vs. Godzilla,” “The Secret Knowledge," "Chicago” “The Diary of a Porn Star,” “Recessional: On the Death of Free Speech and the Cost of a Free Lunch,”  and the upcoming “The Disenlightenment: Politics, Horror, and Entertainment.” He directed the world premieres of his most recent plays, “Bitter Wheat,” starring John Malkovich, on the West End in 2019, and The Christopher Boy’s “Communion” at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles in February 2020. He recently wrote and directed the film “Henry Johnson,” available soon at HenryJohnsonMovie.com.

Edward Torres (Director)

Edward Torres is a director and performer whose work has been seen on stages across the country. As an actor, he most recently appeared in Bruce Norris’s "Downstate" at Playwrights Horizons, following acclaimed productions at the National Theatre in London and Steppenwolf Theatre Company.  He also received a Lucille Lortel nomination for Featured Outstanding Performance 2023 for his role in Downstate

As a director, Edward has led productions at The Old Globe, including "El Borracho," "Familiar," "Native Gardens" and "Water by the Spoonful." He was named one of The Old Globe’s Classical Directing Fellows in 2021 and directed the podcast adaptation of "Macbeth" for NEXT Chapter Podcasts and Play On Shakespeare. He helmed the world premiere of Kristoffer Diaz’s "The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity" at Victory Gardens Theater and Teatro Vista, a production that was named Best Play of 2009 by the Chicago Tribune and won five Joseph Jefferson Awards, including Best Production and Best Director.

Torres has also directed at several other prominent theaters, including Geffen Playhouse, Second Stage Theatre, Goodman Theatre, The Public Theater and Repertorio Español. His work has earned him accolades such as the Latin ACE Award for Best Musical and the Artistas de Teatro Independiente Award for Best Director. He is an associate Professor at University of Illinois -Chicago and serves as Artistic Director Emeritus at Teatro Vista

Thomas Gibson  (Gene)

Thomas Gibson hails from Charleston, South Carolina. At a young age, Thomas became interested in theater, and later moved to NY to become a member of Group 14 at Juilliard’s Drama Division.

He has worked extensively on stage in NY, including Shakespeare in the Park, Molière and Noel Coward on Broadway, as well as last year’s premiere of Ibsen’s “Ghost” by Charles Busch at Primary Stages. Thomas has also created roles in premieres by Romulus Linney, Anna Cascio, David Hare, and Howard Brenton, among others.

Thomas’ work in films and television includes the beloved “Tales of the City” series, as well as Kubrick’s “Eyes Wide Shut,” Whit Stillman’s “Barcelona,” Scorcese’s “Age of Innocence,” as well as “Love and Human Remains” and “Stardom,” both with Denys Arcand. He starred with Jenna Elfman in “Dharma and Greg,” for which he was twice nominated for a Golden Globe. He is also known for playing Aaron Hotchner on the series “Criminal Minds.” Thomas is an accomplished director both in the theater and on television, and recently produced and starred in “The Writer’s Bible,” a short film which he co-wrote with his son, JP, and which JP directed and produced.

Keith Kupferer (Jerry)

Keith Kupferer delivered a widely praised, powerhouse performance in "Ghostlight," directed by Alex Thompson and Kelly O'Sullivan, which premiered to critical acclaim at Sundance in 2024 and was later released nationwide by IFC Films. His work in the film earned him multiple prestigious end-of-year nominations, including recognition from the Gothams and Independent Spirit Awards. He was awarded Best Actor in a Comedy by the Satellite Awards and named the "2025 Chicagoan of the Year in Film" by the Chicago Tribune.

A veteran of Chicago’s theater scene, Kupferer has performed at many of the city’s most esteemed institutions, including Steppenwolf, Goodman Theatre, Victory Gardens, Writers Theatre, Lookingglass Theatre, Northlight Theatre, A Red Orchid and Chicago Shakespeare Theater. A founding member of Rivendell Theatre Ensemble—now celebrating its 30th anniversary—he has starred in critically acclaimed productions such as "A Mile in the Dark," "The Cake," "American Wee-Pie" and "Cal in Camo" (for which he won a Jeff Award for Supporting Actor). His other notable credits include "Support Group for Men," "God of Carnage" and "Sweat" (Goodman); "The Seagull," "The Great Leap," "The Qualms," "Good People" and "Middletown" (Steppenwolf); "Hillary and Clinton," "Never the Sinner" and "Appropriate" (Victory Gardens); "West Side Story" (Lyric Opera) and the world premiere of "The Humans" (American Theater Company).  He has also appeared in numerous films and television shows.

Al'Jaleel McGhee (Mr. Barnes)

Al'Jaleel McGhee is a dynamic actor whose work spans stage and screen. He recently toured nationally with the Broadway production of "A Soldier’s Play" and has performed extensively in Chicago’s top theaters. His credits include "Noises Off" at Steppenwolf, "Intimate Apparel" and "Fireflies" at Northlight Theatre, "Hamlet" at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, "Graveyard Shift" at the Goodman Theatre’s New Stages Festival, "Paradise Blue" at TimeLine Theatre, and "Blues for an Alabama Sky" at Court Theatre.

Beyond Chicago, Al'Jaleel has appeared in regional productions such as "Noises Off" at the Geffen Playhouse and "Toni Stone" at the Huntington Theatre. On screen, he can currently be seen in "Lady in the Lake" and "Shining Girls" (Apple TV+), "61st Street" (AMC), and "POWER Book IV: FORCE" (Starz).

Al'Jaleel holds an MFA from Northwestern University and studied at the University of Illinois Chicago and North Carolina Central University. He is represented by Gray Talent Group.

Daniil Krimer (Henry Johnson)

Daniil Krimer is an actor and theatermaker whose work spans stage and screen. In New York, he appeared in "Really Really" with Normal Ave Productions. His regional credits include "Sherlock Holmes" at West Virginia Public Theatre, while in Chicago he has performed in "Romeo and Juliet" and "Twelfth Night" at Kane Repertory Theatre.

On television, Daniil has been seen in "FBI" and "Chicago P.D." He holds an MFA in Acting from Northern Illinois University and is the co-founder and former Artistic Director of Kane Repertory Theatre. He is grateful to David Mamet for the opportunity to bring his work to his hometown and to his family for their unwavering support.

About Dennis Zacek

Dennis Zacek is Artistic Director Emeritus of Victory Gardens Theater where he held the position of Artistic Director for 34 years. He, his wife Marcelle McVay, and Sandy

Shinner accepted Victory Gardens’ 2001 Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre.

He also accepted the Actors Equity Association (AEA) Spirit Recognition Award on

behalf of Victory Gardens. The Spirit Award is given to institutions that “have made

nontraditional casting a way of life.” Among other awards are a Jeff Award for

Outstanding Achievement in Chicago Equity Theatre, an Artistic Leadership Award from the League of Chicago Theatres, the Rosetta Lenoire Award from AEA and the Sidney R. Yates Arts Advocacy Award from the Illinois Arts Alliance (now Arts Alliance Illinois). Zacek is Professor Emeritus at Loyola University and was included on Utne Reader’s list of “Artists Who Will Shake the World.” Currently he works at The Studios of Key West as a teacher during the winter. He has directed more than 250 productions in his career.

About Relentless Theatre

Relentless Theatre Group believes great theater challenges the mind. Our mission is to offer a theatrical home for public discourse, freedom of expression, and brilliant creation.

About Victory Gardens Theater

The Victory Gardens Theater, established in 1974, stands as a beacon of innovation and artistry in the theater community. With a record of producing more world and Chicago premieres, collaborating with more living playwrights, and exporting new plays for production elsewhere than any other theater in the region, we are proud to lead the way in the evolution of contemporary theater. Our mission is to cultivate and present powerful, new works that capture the diverse narratives of our world, enriching the American theater landscape. Through our productions, we ignite important conversations that drive meaningful civic change and foster an inclusive theater experience that invites everyone to partake.

Our achievements over the past 50 years were recognized in 2001 when we received the prestigious Tony Award® for Outstanding Regional Theatre at New York's Radio City Music Hall. This esteemed award honors our unwavering commitment to artistic excellence and our significant contribution to the growth of theater on a national scale. As we celebrate our past, we look forward with determination to the next 50 years, remaining steadfast in our values of integrity, diversity, innovation, and excellence. Together, we will continue to inspire and transform the theater experience for audiences everywhere. 

World Premiere Raven and Rivendell Co-Production GORGEOUS Announces Cast & Crew For May 1- June 7, 2025

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

RAVEN THEATRE COMPANY ANNOUNCES CAST AND PRODUCTION TEAM FOR 

“GORGEOUS”

Previews May 1 - 4, Full Run May 7 - June 7, 2025

Running Time: approximately 90 minutes with no intermission

Here at ChiIL Live Shows, we're inordinately excited for a little R & R-- Raven and Rivendell that is! These two storefronts are legendary for excellent, thought provoking productions, and giving voice to women through artistic recognition of their lives. We've seen Stephanie Shum (actor, arts administrator, and all around badass) and Tara Mallen* (actor, director, and Producing Artistic Director at Rivendell, most recently seen in the Ghostlight film, alongside her husband and daughter, Katherine) in many shows over the years and adore their work. What's more, this female powered two hander is directed by Kirsten Fitzgerald (Artistic Director at A Red Orchid, talented director, and actor on stage and screen). As if all that isn't great enough, GORGEOUS is written by female screenwriter/playwright/performer, Keiko Green, and Chicago gets the world premiere! I'll be out to catch the press opening so check back shortly after for my full review.

Chicago’s Raven Theatre Company, in a co-production with Rivendell Theatre Ensemble, today announced the cast and production team for Keiko Green’s World Premiere of GORGEOUS, directed by Kirsten Fitzgerald. The show holds previews May 1 - 4 and runs May 7 - June 7, 2025, on Raven Theatre’s stage at 6157 N. Clark St. Tickets ($45, $30 previews) on sale April 1, 2025 at www.raventheatre.com. 

(L-R): Stephanie Shum and Tara Mallen

Jenny has a simple life; she takes care of the elderly and shows dogs professionally. When her just-a-little-bit-older boyfriend Bill dies in the middle of a dog show, all Jenny wants is to get rid of his stuff and continue to show his champion Bulldog, Gorgeous. But then his ex-wife, Bernie, shows up talking about taking back the house…and the dog. Amid the boxes of things that made up Bill’s life and rants about his shortcomings (both are numerous), Jenny and Bernie must find a way forward for themselves and the dog. This funny and complicated world premiere of GORGEOUS asks questions about forgiveness and accountability in the face of grief.

GORGEOUS, written by Keiko Green and directed by Kirsten Fitzgerald, features Stephanie Shum (Jenny) and Tara Mallen* (Bernie). The production team includes Caroline Uy (Dramaturg); JC Widman* (Stage Manager); Theo Wampuszyc (Asst. Stage Manager); Mara Ishihara Zinky (Scenic Designer); Paloma Locsin (Props Designer); Maegan Pate (Costumes Designer); Seojung Jang (Lighting Designer); Connor Wang^ (Sound Designer); Catherine Miller (Raven Casting Director); Glenn Obrero (Rivendell Casting Director); Ruby Lowe (Master Electrician); Lucy Whipp (Production Manager)

* Member of Actors Equity Association

^ Member of USA 829, a labor and professional association of Designers, Artists, Craftspeople, and Department Coordinators.

Cast: Stephanie Shum (Jenny) and Tara Mallen* (Bernie)

Production Team: Keiko Green (Playwright); Kirsten Fitzgerald (Director); Caroline Uy (Dramaturg); JC Widman* (Stage Manager); Theo Wampuszyc (Asst. Stage Manager); Mara Ishihara Zinky (Scenic Designer); Paloma Locsin (Props Designer); Maegan Pate (Costumes Designer); Seojung Jang (Lighting Designer); Connor Wang^ (Sound Designer); Catherine Miller (Raven Casting Director); Glenn Obrero (Rivendell Casting Director); Ruby Lowe (Master Electrician); Lucy Whipp (Production Manager)

* Member of Actors Equity Association

^ Member of USA 829, a labor and professional association of Designers, Artists, Craftspeople, and Department Coordinators.

Dates: May 7 - June 7, 2025 (Previews May 1 - 4, 2025)

Press Opening: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

Schedule: Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Sundays at 3 p.m.

Location: Raven Theatre (6157 N. Clark St.)

Tickets: General Admission: $45; Previews $30. Discounts for students, seniors, military, and groups of 6 or more, are available. 

Box Office: www.raventheatre.com

ABOUT RAVEN THEATRE COMPANY:

Raven Theatre tells stories of today and the past that connect us to our cultural landscape. Through its plays, as well as its educational programming, Raven is committed to serving our communities’ needs through the arts. Raven Theatre Company is funded in part by The Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, JCCC Foundation, Paul M. Angell Foundation, Polk Bros Foundation, S&C Electric Company Fund, and The Shubert Foundation. This project is partially supported by a CityArts grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. This programming is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency. For more information visit www.raventheatre.com. 

ABOUT RIVENDELL THEATRE ENSEMBLE:

Now celebrating its 30th anniversary, Rivendell Theatre Ensemble (RTE) continues to make a tangible difference in the world by giving voice to women through artistic recognition of their lives, by developing new works that center women's stories and producing those plays along with the support of an award-winning ensemble of artists. Since its inception in 1994, Rivendell has become recognized as a national force in new play development and as a home for women theatre artists, engaging over 200 artists and 3,000+ audience members each year through its mainstage season, new work development, and community engagement programs. 

For more information about Rivendell Theatre Ensemble, visit http://rivendelltheatre.org. Follow Rivendell on Facebook at Facebook.com/rivendelltheatre and on Instagram at @rivendelltheatre.

Rivendell Theatre Ensemble is supported by generous grants from: SIF Fund at The Chicago Community Trust; TERRA Foundation for American Art, Paul M. Angell Family Foundation; Shubert Foundation; Illinois Arts Council Agency; The Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation; Sarah and the 2 C Dogs and Amazing Edibles.