OPENING: Chimera Ensemble's Sister Cities at The Den Benefits ALS Foundation

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar: CHIMERA ENSEMBLE PRESENTS THE CHICAGO PREMIERE OF INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED PLAYWRIGHT  COLETTE FREEDMAN’S SISTER CITIES,  AUGUST 20 – SEPTEMBER 18, AT THE DEN The Hit of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Ashley Neal directs this Dark Comedy About Four Estranged Sisters Confronting the Sudden Death of their Mother  Artistic Director Rainee Denham and Chimera Ensemble are proud to present the Chicago premiere of Colette Freedman’s Sister Cities, directed by Ashley Neal, August 20 – September 18 at The Den, 1333 N. Milwaukee.  Previews are Saturday, Aug. 20 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 21 at 3 p.m. (with talk back following the show) and Wednesday, Aug. 24 at 7:30 p.m. Opening night and reception is Thursday, Aug. 25 at 7:30 p.m.  Four estranged sisters, as different as the cities they are named after, face their mother’s recent and sudden death in Sister Cities. Freedman’s Sister Cities was the hit of the 2008 Edinburgh Fringe Festival and has earned strong critical acclaim around the world, including productions in Paris (Une Ville, Une Soeur), Rome (Le Quattro Sorelle) and recently in Melbourne, Australia. A film version is currently in post-production and stars Jacki Weaver, Alfred Molina, Jess Weixler, Stana Katic, Michelle Trachtenberg, Amy Smart, Troian Bellisario, Tom Everett Scott and Kathy Baker. PARTNERSHIP WITH ALS FOUNDATION Chimera donates 10% of profits from this production to the ALS Foundation. ALS, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that destroys motor neurons. The ALS Foundation for Life are optimistic for the day when a cure or prevention for ALS is discovered, but are equally aware that we cannot sit back idly waiting for scientific research and FDA approvals. It is their goal to do whatever they can to ease the physical, emotional and financial burdens that accompany this diagnosis for the men and women in the community who are forced to battle this disease on a daily basis. POST SHOW DISCUSSIONS Chimera Ensemble, will host post show discussions throughout the run focusing on the production and, in conjunction with the ALS Foundation, the impact of ALS within the home and the community.  Sunday, Aug. 21, immediately following 3 p.m. performance – Playwright Colette Freedman Additional post show discussions, TBA.  Sister Cities runs Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Ticket prices are $14 -16 for previews and $22 - 26 during the run. Based on availability, industry tickets are $10 with a headshot and resume presented to the box office for all performances.  Tickets may be purchased at www.ChimeraEnsemble.com  or www.brownpapertickets.com.  The Den parking lot is at Division and Paulina, a parking pass is available at The Den Box Office.  The cast of Sister Cities includes Chimera Ensemble members Norma Chacon, “Baltimore;” Rainee Denham, “Mary,” Anna Donnell, “Dallas;” Nicole Fabbri, “Austin” and Katlynn Yost, “Carolina.” Sister Cities production team includes Catherine Allen, production manager; Raquel Romo, stage manager; Grant Sabin, set designer; Gwendolyn Wiegold, costume designer; Meghan Erxleben, light designer; Steve Labedz, sound designer; Sam Moryoussef, technical director; Murphy Mayer, dramaturg and Abbie Welsch, prop designer. ABOUT COLETTE FREEDMAN, playwright Colette Freedman is an internationally produced playwright, screenwriter and novelist who was named one of the Dramatist Guild’s “50 to Watch.” She has authored fifteen produced plays including Serial Killer Barbie, First to the Egg (Grand Prize Shorts, urban shorts festival), Bridesmaid # 3 (Louisville finalist 2008) and Ellipses… (Dezart Festival winner 2010), as well as a modern adaptation of Iphigenia in Aulis written in iambic pentameter. She was commissioned to write a modern adaptation of Uncle Vanya that is in preproduction and has co-written, with international bestselling novelist Jackie Collins, the play Jackie Collins Hollywood Lies, which is currently being launched for National Tour. And, in collaboration with The New York Times best selling author Michael Scott, she co-wrote the thriller The Thirteen Hallows. Her novel The Affair and its sequel The Consequences earned both critical and commercial success. Freedman also co-wrote the film And Then There Was Eve is currently in pre-production and begins principal photography this May.  ABOUT ASHLEY NEAL, director Ashley Neal is thrilled to be working with Chimera Ensemble on their inaugural production, Sister Cities. She is a proud member of Rivendell Theatre Ensemble where she has appeared in many productions, including: Wrens, 26 Miles, The Walls, Be Aggressive and others. Other credits include: London Wall, Men Should Weep, and Stage Door with Griffin Theatre, Red Handed Otter with A Red Orchid Theatre, The Life and Sort of Death of Eric Argyle with Steep Theatre, Reverb with Redtwist Theatre, 25 Saints with Pine Box, Holidaze with Step Up Productions, Scenes from the Big Picture with Seanachi as well as work with Chicago Dramatists, Jackalope Theatre, Victory Gardens, Strawdog, The Greenhouse Theatre and others. Neal is a graduate of Columbia College Chicago, The School at Steppenwolf and the Black Box Studio program. She is also a teacher at Columbia College, the School at Steppenwolf and Black Box Acting Studio.  ABOUT NORMA CHACON, “Baltimore” Norma Chacon was born in Zacatecus, Mexico and moved to Chicago as a child.  She has worked as a principal and supporting actress in several television shows and commercials, including Caso Cerrado, Chicago PD and the upcoming show Chop Chop on WCIU.  She holds a BFA from The Illinois Institute of Art. ABOUT RAINEE DENHAM, “Mary” Rainee Denham is the artistic director of Chimera Ensemble and returned to theatre after decades in the business world. She’s worked with Promethean Theatre, LezPlays, Reutan Collective, WTA, and has mounted two one-woman musical shows, The Promise of Spring and Dream.  She has appeared in six indie films, including a feature Mercy’s Girl, a web series “The Photographer” and had a co-starring role on Chicago PD.  ABOUT ANNA DONNELL, “Dallas”  Anna Donnell has worked with The Ruckus and The Whiskey Rebellion Theatre in Chicago, and The Oxford Shakespeare Festival, The Oxford Film Festival and Deer Run Media in Oxford, Mississippi.  Donnell is also a singer and performs with her folk duo “Chauncey and The Beast” all around Chicago.  She holds a BFA from The University of Mississippi.  ABOUT NICOLE FABBRI, “Austin” Nicole Fabbri recently returned to Chicago from Los Angeles and joined The Academy at Black Box for a five-month intensive training. Some of her favorite roles include Mae Pollit from Cat On A Hot Tin Roof, Agnes from Bug, Marks from Talking With…, Second Witch from Macbeth, Urania from Dax Dixon vs. The Moth Sluts from the Fifth Dimension, Jane from Death and The Kings Horseman, Beatrice from Serial Killer Barbie (The Musical), and Liesl from Schmutzigen Deutsche Kabarett. ABOUT KATLYNN YOST, “Carolina” Katlynn Yost is from Omaha, and has worked with Nebraska Shakespeare, Blue Barn Theatre, Brigit Saint Brigit Theatre and The Omaha Community Playhouse.  She holds a BA in Acting from The University of Nebraska.  She has spent two years spreading awareness about bullying and mental health issues to kids with RESPECT, a touring educational theater group.   ABOUT CHIMERA ENSEMBLE Dedicated to being storytellers that explore human behavior. Chimera Ensemble’s desire is to expose the universality of human conflict, the deeply negotiable values one fights to keep and to illuminate how love hurts, heals and conquers. Started during the 2015 Summer Academy at Black Box Acting where a deep bond built on honesty, courage and fearlessness was created among the members.  Chimera Ensemble is a community of actors that have chosen to unite with one artistic goal: “to create theater that touches the human soul.” Chimera’s vision is to ignite audiences with truthful theater set in an intimate space while producing socially relevant work, whether new, classic or contemporary plays, that resonant with a social conscience.  In addition, Chimera is a “theater with a conscience,” contributing to organizations that help the underserved and heal the broken by merging art and charitable causes that align with each production. Artistic Director Rainee Denham and Chimera Ensemble are proud to present the Chicago premiere of Colette Freedman’s Sister Cities, directed by Ashley Neal, August 20 – September 18 at The Den, 1333 N. Milwaukee.  Previews are Saturday, Aug. 20 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 21 at 3 p.m. (with talk back following the show) and Wednesday, Aug. 24 at 7:30 p.m. Opening night and reception is Thursday, Aug. 25 at 7:30 p.m. Sister Cities runs Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Ticket prices are $14 -16 for previews and $22 - 26 during the run. Based on availability, industry tickets are $10 with a headshot and resume presented to the box office for all performances.  Tickets may be purchased at  www.ChimeraEnsemble.com  or www.brownpapertickets.com. The Den parking lot is at Division and Paulina, a parking pass is available at The Den Box Office.

Chicago cast of HAMILTON To Include Tony Award-winner KAREN OLIVO MIGUEL CERVANTES and ALEXANDER GEMIGNANI

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

Tony Award-winner KAREN OLIVO

MIGUEL CERVANTES

and

ALEXANDER GEMIGNANI

head the Chicago cast of

HAMILTON

This looks like a stellar cast for the Chicago run! Got your tickets yet?

OLIVO, who electrified audiences with her Tony Award-winning portrayal of Anita in the 2009 Broadway revival of WEST SIDE STORY, returns to the stage as the brilliant and beautiful Angelica Schuyler in the Chicago production of HAMILTON, it has been announced by producer Jeffrey Seller.  Joining Ms. Olivo in Chicago are Broadway veterans MIGUEL CERVANTES as Alexander Hamilton, and ALEXANDER GEMIGNANI as King George III. 

 Tony Award-winner KAREN OLIVO as the brilliant and beautiful Angelica Schuyler

MIGUEL CERVANTES as Alexander Hamilton

 ALEXANDER GEMIGNANI as King George III. 

Mr. Cervantes’ Broadway roles include in the musicals IF/THEN, AMERICAN IDIOT and THE 25^th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE.  Mr. Gemignani starred as Jean Valjean in the 2006 revival of LES MISERABLES, and performed in Stephen Sondheim’s ASSASSINS, SWEENEY TODD and SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE, all on Broadway. 

Other principal roles in HAMILTON in Chicago will be played by a talented young company comprised of ARI AFSAR as Eliza Hamilton; CHRIS LEE as Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson; JOSEPH MORALES as Mr. Cervantes’ alternate; JOSE RAMOS as John Laurens/Phillip Hamilton; WALLACE SMITH as Hercules Mulligan/James Madison, and SAMANTHA MARIE WARE as Peggy Schuyler/Maria Reynolds. 

Performances begin September 27 at The PrivateBank Theatre in Chicago (18 W. Monroe).  For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

With book, music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, direction by Thomas Kail, choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler, music direction/orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, HAMILTON is based on Ron Chernow’s biography of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton.  The musical won eleven 2016 Tony Awards including Best Musical, Score, Book of a Musical, Direction of a Musical, Choreography and Orchestrations.  Mr. Miranda received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for HAMILTON.

Karen Olivo won the Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical in WEST SIDE STORY, having created the role of Vanessa both on and Off-Broadway in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Tony Award-winning Best Musical IN THE HEIGHTS in 2008.  She also appeared on Broadway in RENT and BROOKLYN.  She performed Off-Broadway in Lynn Nottage’s play BY THE WAY, MEET VERA STARK, had a recurring role in the hit television series THE GOOD WIFE, and was a series regular on HARRY’S LAW. 

Miguel Cervantes previously performed on Broadway in IF/THEN, AMERICAN IDIOT and THE 25^th ANNUAL PUTNAM SPELLING BEE, and Off-Broadway in HAPPINESS at Lincoln Center and as Angel in GIANT at the Public Theatre.  He has also been seen on Television in:  MADAM SECRETARY, PERSON OF INTEREST, ROYAL PAINS & THE BLACK LIST.  He holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Emerson College.

(In preparation for his Chicago debut as Alexander Hamilton, Mr. Cervantes will play the role on Broadway on July 13 matinee, July 18 and July 25.) 

Alexander Gemignani’s Broadway credits: VIOLET, CHICAGO, LES MISERABLES, SWEENEY TODD, ASSASSINS, THE PEOPLE IN THE PICTURE and SUNDAY IN THE PARK WITH GEORGE.  Off-Broadway:  ROAD SHOW, 1776 and AVENUE Q.  Concerts: The N.Y. Philharmonic at Avery Fisher Hall, The N.Y. Pops at Carnegie Hall, and The L.A. Philharmonic at The Hollywood Bowl and the American Songbook Series at Lincoln Center.  Mr. Gemignani is a graduate of the University of Michigan.  

Ari Afsar is a former AMERICAN IDOL 8 contestant, and placed in the top 10 finalists as Miss California in the 2010 Miss America Pageant.  A native of San Diego, she attended UCLA. 

Chris Lee has performed in regional theatre productions of TARZAN, THE WIZ and IN THE HEIGHTS. 

Joseph Morales appeared in the national touring productions of IN THE HEIGHTS (in the leading role of Usnavi), IF/THEN and BOMBAY DREAMS.  He performed in the original Los Angeles cast of ROCK OF AGES. 

Jose Ramos is a songwriter/singer.  HAMILTON marks his professional stage debut.  In New York he performed in BROADWAY’S RISING STARS at Town Hall, and in THE TRAVELS at the New York Musical Theatre Festival. 

Wallace Smith made his Broadway debut as Simba in THE LION KING, followed by the revival of RAGTIME, AMERICAN IDIOT, GODSPELL and ROCKY: THE MUSICAL.  He recently completed a year’s run on Broadway as Enjoras in LES MISERABLES. 

Samantha Marie Ware portrayed Nabulungi on Broadway and in the national tour of THE BOOK OF MORMON.  She had a recurring role as the smart and sassy Jane Hayward in the 6th season of GLEE.

HAMILTON is the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War, and was the new nation’s first Treasury Secretary.  Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and Broadway, HAMILTON is the story of America then, told by America now.

The musical is produced by Jeffrey Seller, Sander Jacobs, Jill Furman and The Public Theater.

The HAMILTON Original Broadway Cast Recording – recipient of the 2016 Grammy for Best Musical Theatre Album and a regular on numerous Billboard top 10 lists – is available everywhere nationwide.

HAMILTON: The Revolution, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Jeremy McCarter’s book about the making of the musical, is on sale and has been a selection on The New York Times Best Seller List. 

The musical celebrates its 1^st anniversary on Broadway at the Richard Rodgers Theatre on August 6.  A touring production begins a 21-week run in San Francisco in March 2017, followed by a 21-week engagement in Los Angeles.  A London production will be mounted, also in 2017.   For further information about the Chicago production which begins September 27 at The PrivateBank Theatre, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Get Social:

For information on HAMILTON, visit www.HamiltonOnBroadway.com, www.Facebook.com/HamiltonMusical, www.Instagram.com/HamiltonMusical and www.Twitter.com/HamiltonMusical.  

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO

Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 16 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining well up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres.  Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including its newly named The PrivateBank Theatre, the Oriental Theatre, Cadillac Palace Theatre, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com

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

OPENING: TIMELINE THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS BAKERSFIELD MIST AT STAGE 773

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar

TIMELINE THEATRE COMPANY LAUNCHES 20TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON 

WITH THE CHICAGO PREMIERE OF 

BAKERSFIELD MIST, 

DIRECTED BY KEVIN CHRISTOPHER FOX AND STARRING 

CHICAGO LEGEND MIKE NUSSBAUM WITH JANET ULRICH BROOKS, PRESENTED AUGUST 19 - OCTOBER 15, 2016 AT STAGE 773

TimeLine Theatre Company opens its 20th anniversary season with the Chicago premiere of BAKERSFIELD MIST. Inspired by a true story and featuring TimeLine Company Member Janet Ulrich Brooks (TimeLine’s The Apple Family Plays and 33 Variations; Goodman Theatre’s 2666) and TimeLine Associate Artist Mike Nussbaum (TimeLine’s THE PRICE and THE APPLE FAMILY PLAYS; Goodman’s SMOKEFALL) in the two-person cast, BAKERSFIELD MIST is “a perfect marriage of emotion and ideas that is rare indeed” (Los Angeles Times).

TimeLine’s Chicago premiere is presented at Stage 773 and runs August 26 – October 15, 2016 (previews 8/19 – 8/25). 

Written by Stephen Sachs and directed by Kevin Christopher Fox, BAKERSFIELD MIST is a provocative and hilarious look at what makes art—and people—authentic. Maude, an unemployed bartender living in a trailer park, has bought the ugliest thrift store painting she could get her hands on as a gag gift. However, when she is told that it might in fact be the “find of the century”—an undiscovered work by the famed Jackson Pollock—she invites a world-class art expert to decide if it’s a forgery or the real thing, worth millions.

BAKERSFIELD MIST had its world premiere at the Fountain Theatre in Los Angeles in 2011 and was named Best New Play by StageSceneLA. It has since enjoyed a run on London’s West End at the Duchess Theatre starring Kathleen Turner and Ian McDiarmid. TimeLine is proud to present the Chicago premiere.

“Sachs’ short, clever play is a battle of wits,” said The New York Times. And the Orlando Sentinel declared that it is a “thought-provoking and cleverly funny examination of the value of art, self-worth, people’s ability to create their own reality, society’s reliance on ‘experts’ and the nature of criticism.”

“TimeLine is thrilled to welcome two of Chicago’s finest actors, Mike Nussbaum and Janet Ulrich Brooks, back to TimeLine to launch our 20th Anniversary season with BAKERSFIELD MIST,” said Artistic Director PJ Powers. “This hilarious and provocative play captures the class divide which permeates our country, while also exploring the nature and value of art. It’s a play that will surely get you thinking and talking—two of the goals that have fueled TimeLine for two decades. I can’t wait to see what TimeLine’s roaring 20s will hold."

TimeLine’s production of BAKERSFIELD MIST will be presented at the company’s alternate location, Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Avenue in Chicago. Previews start August 19. Press Preview is Thursday, August 25 at 7:30 p.m. 

Performances run through October 15. For tickets and information, visit timelinetheatre.com or call the Stage 773 Box Office at (773) 327-5252.

The production team for BAKERSFIELD MIST includes Jeffrey D. Kmiec (Scenic Designer), Jared Gooding (Lighting Designer), Christine Pascual (Costume Designer), Andrew Hansen (Sound Designer), Mary O’Dowd (Properties Designer), Maren Robinson (Dramaturg) and Jinni Pike (Stage Manager).

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE/EVENTS

PREVIEWS: Friday, August 19 at 8 pm.; Saturday, August 20 at 8 p.m; Sunday, August 21 at 2 p.m.; no show Monday, August 22; Tuesday, August 23 at 8 p.m.; and Wednesday, August 24 at 8 p.m.

PRESS PREVIEW: Thursday, August 25 at 7:30 p.m.

OPENING NIGHT: Friday, August 26 at 7:30 p.m.

REGULAR RUN: Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m., through October 15, 2016. EXCEPTIONS: No performance on Saturday, August 27 at 4 p.m.; additional performance on Tuesday, October 11 at 7:30 p.m.

DISCUSSION & ACCESSIBILITY EVENTS:

• Post-Show Discussions: A brief, informal post-show discussion hosted by a TimeLine Company Member and featuring the production dramaturg and members of the cast on Wednesday, August 31, Thursday, September 8, Sunday, September 18, and Thursday, October 6.
• Pre-Show Discussions: Starting one hour before these performances, a 30-minute introductory conversation hosted by a TimeLine Company Member and the production dramaturg with members of the production team on Wednesday, September 14 and Sunday, October 2.
• Captioned Performance: The performance on Saturday, September 10 at 4 p.m. will be open captioned, with a text display of all of the words and sounds heard during the performance. Captioned performances are supported by Theatre Development Fund. 
• Company Member Discussion: A post-show discussion with the collaborative team of artists who choose TimeLine’s programming and guide the company’s mission on Sunday, September 11.
• Sunday Scholars Panel Discussion: A one-hour post-show discussion featuring experts on the themes and issues of the play on Sunday, October 9.         

All discussions are free and open to the public. For further details about all planned discussions and events, visit timelinetheatre.com/events/bakersfield-mist.

BUYING TICKETS

Only TimeLine FlexPass Subscribers enjoy priority access to tickets to BAKERSFIELD MIST. 4-Admission FlexPass Subscriptions for TimeLine’s 2016-17 season are now on sale, priced from $80 to $204. For more information and to purchase FlexPass Subscriptions, call (773) 281-TIME (8463) or visit timelinetheatre.com.

Single ticket prices are $38 (Wednesday through Friday), $46 (Saturday evenings) and $51 (Saturday and Sunday matinees). Preview tickets are $22. Student discount is $10 off regular price with valid ID. Military Service Discount is $5 off regular price with valid military/veteran ID. Discounted rates for groups of 10 or more are available. Ticket buyers age 18-35 may join TimeLine’s free MyLine program to obtain access to discounted tickets, special events and more. Visit timelinetheatre.com/myline for details.

Advance purchase is recommended as performances may sell out. For tickets and information, visit timelinetheatre.com or call the Stage 773 Box Office at (773) 327-5252.

LOCATION/TRANSPORTATION/PARKING/ACCESSIBILITY

BAKERSFIELD MIST will take place at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. Stage 773 is located one-half block west of the corner of Belmont and Racine and immediately east of Theater Wit in Chicago’s Lakeview East neighborhood. The theater is accessible via the CTA El stop at Belmont (Red/Brown/Purple lines). CTA bus #77-Belmont stops at Racine. Valet parking is available for $10 and there is also limited free and metered street parking nearby. Visit timelinetheatre.com for complete directions and parking information. Stage 773 is accessible for people with disabilities.

BIOGRAPHIES

Playwright Stephen Sachs is an award-winning playwright, director, and the co-Artistic Director of the Fountain Theatre in Los Angeles, which he co-founded with Deborah Lawlor in 1990. He is the author of 11 produced plays, including HEART SONG (Fountain Theatre, Florida Rep), CYRANO (LA Drama Critics Circle Award – Best New Play), BAKERSFIELD MIST (2012 Elliot Norton Award – Best New Play), MISS JULIE: FREEDOM SUMMER (Fountain Theatre, Vancouver Playhouse), GILGAMESH (Theatre at Boston Court), OPEN WINDOW (Pasadena Playhouse, Media Access Award), CENTRAL AVENUE (PEN USA Literary Award Finalist), SWEET NOTHING IN MY EAR (PEN USA Literary Award Finalist, Media Access Award), MOTHER’S DAY, THE GOLDEN GATE (Best Play Award – Dramalogue), and THE BARON IN THE TREES. He wrote the teleplay for SWEET NOTHING IN MY EAR for Hallmark Hall of Fame, which aired on CBS. Directing credits include the LA premiere of MY NAME IS ASHER LEV; the U.S. premieres of Athol Fugard's THE BLUE IRIS, THE TRAIN DRIVER and VICTORY (NAACP Award – Best Director); the world premiere of Fugard’s EXITS AND ENTRANCES (Ovation Award, LA Drama Critics Circle Award – Best Director); the West Coast premiere of Fugard’s COMING HOME (Best Director – LA Weekly Award); the LA premiere of Fugard’s THE ROAD TO MECCA; Itamar Moses’ COMPLETENESS; Warren Leight's SIDE MAN; a three-city China tour of TOP SECRET (LA Theatre Works); Conor McPherson's SHINING CITY (LA Premiere); the world premiere of MISS JULIE: FREEDOM SUMMER; Arthur Miller's AFTER THE FALL (Ovation Award – Best Director); BAKERSFIELD MIST; SWEET NOTHING IN MY EAR; the inaugural production of HIPPOLYTOS; and many others. Sachs has twice been nominated for the SDC Zelda Fichandler Award, which recognizes outstanding directors who make unique and exceptional contributions to theatre in their region.

Director Kevin Christopher Fox returns to TimeLine after having directed the critically acclaimed production of WIDOWERS’ HOUSES by George Bernard Shaw, as well as multiple new play workshops and readings. Recent Chicago directing highlights include the Chicago premiere of THE BOOK CLUB (16th Street), the world premiere of ASSASSINATION THEATER in its five-month commercial run (Russell Lane, LLC at Museum of Broadcast Communications); the world premieres of GRAVEYARD OF EMPIRES, THE GUN SHOW, PULL OF THE MOON and ACCIDENTAL RAPTURE (16th Street Theater, where he is also an Artistic Associate); LAY ME DOWN SOFTLY and HUGHIE (Irish Theatre of Chicago/Seanachai); WIDOWERS’ HOUSES and ANDROCLES AND THE LION (ShawChicago); ST. CRISPIN’S DAY (Strawdog, four Jeff Award nominations, including Outstanding Production); ARMS AND THE MAN and BETRAYAL (Oak Park Festival); THE LAST DAYS OF JUDAS ISCARIOT (Gift Theatre); BEGGARS IN THE HOUSE OF PLENTY (Mary-Arrchie); and his debut BUICKS (Precious Mettle). Regional highlights include the world premieres of THE SPIRITUALIST and SUNDOWN TOWN, THE FALL OF THE HOUSE and MACBETH (TheatreSquared); MACBETH (Montana Shakespeare in the Parks, Shakespeare in the Schools, adapted and directed) and THE STUDY (William Inge Festival and Center for the Arts). He has directed numerous new play development workshops for TheatreSquared and Chicago Dramatists, among others. 

ABOUT TIMELINE THEATRE COMPANY

TimeLine Theatre Company, recipient of the prestigious 2016 MacArthur Award for Creative and Effective Institutions, was founded in April 1997 with a mission to present stories inspired by history that connect with today's social and political issues. To date over 19 seasons, TimeLine has presented 67 productions, including nine world premieres and 27 Chicago premieres, and launched the Living History Education Program, now in its 10th year of bringing the company's mission to life for students in Chicago Public Schools. Recipient of the Alford-Axelson Award for Nonprofit Managerial Excellence and the Richard Goodman Strategic Planning Award from the Association for Strategic Planning, TimeLine has received 52 Jeff Awards, including an award for Outstanding Production 11 times. 

TimeLine Theatre’s 2016-17 season also includes: 

• The U.S premiere of THE LAST WIFE by Kate Hennig, a new play with a modern take on the story of Katherine Parr, sixth wife to England’s King Henry VIII, directed by TimeLine Associate Artistic Director Nick Bowling, September 21 through December 18, 2016 at TimeLine Theatre, 615 W. Wellington Avenue in the heart of Chicago’s Lakeview East neighborhood.
• The Chicago premiere of A DISAPPEARING NUMBER by Complicité, originally conceived and directed by Simon McBurney and devised by the original company, in a new production to be directed at TimeLine by Nick Bowling presented January 11 – April 9, 2017 at TimeLine Theatre.
• And the Midwest premiere of PARADISE BLUE, a dynamic and jazz-infused drama about what’s at stake when building a better future, written by Dominique Morisseau and directed by TimeLine Company Member Ron OJ Parson (the team behind TimeLine’s acclaimed production of Morisseau’s SUNSET BABY), April 26 – July 23, 2017 at TimeLine Theatre.

TimeLine is led by Artistic Director PJ Powers, Managing Director Elizabeth K. Auman and Board President John M. Sirek. Company members are Nick Bowling, Janet Ulrich Brooks, Behzad Dabu, Lara Goetsch, Juliet Hart, Mildred Marie Langford, Mechelle Moe, David Parkes, Ron OJ Parson, PJ Powers, Maren Robinson and Benjamin Thiem. 

Major corporate, government and foundation supporters of TimeLine Theatre include Alphawood Foundation, Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, Bloomberg Philanthropies, The Crown Family, Forum Fund, Lloyd A. Fry Foundation, Illinois Arts Council, Laughing Acres Family Foundation, MacArthur Fund for Arts and Culture at Prince, The Pauls Foundation, Polk Bros. Foundation and The Shubert Foundation.

TimeLine is a member of the League of Chicago Theatres, Theatre Communications Group, Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce and Chicago’s Belmont Theater District.

OPENING: C. S. Lewis Onstage: The Most Reluctant Convert AT THE MERCURY THEATER Through August 14th

C.S. LEWIS ONSTAGE, STARRING JEFF AWARD WINNER MAX MCLEAN, MAKES ITS MIDWEST PREMIERE

JULY 22-AUGUST 14 AT THE MERCURY THEATER

 C. S. Lewis Onstage: The Most Reluctant Convert

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

Adapted and performed by Max McLean

July 23-August 14, 2016

CSLewisOnstage.com

Mercury Theater

3745 N. Southport Ave., Chicago, IL 60613

Tickets: $55 on weeknights and Sunday evening; $59 for all Saturday shows and Sunday matinee; limited $30 under 30 tickets available to theatergoers age 30 and younger (with valid ID)

By phone: 773-325-1700

On the web: mercurytheaterchicago.com

Groups of 10 or more call 866-476-8707 or email andrew@FPAtheatre.com

New York City-based Fellowship for Performing Arts produces theater from a Christian worldview presented in leading performance venues nationwide and created to engage diverse audiences. For more information visit www.FPAtheatre.com.

After a seven-year absence, Fellowship for Performing Arts makes its triumphant return to Chicago with an all-new original production, starting next Friday, July 22. Equity Jeff Award winner Max McLean (Mark’s Gospel, The Screwtape Letters) stars in the one-man/one-act show C.S. Lewis Onstage: The Most Reluctant Convert, July 22-August 14 at Chicago’s Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport Ave. Tickets, $55-$59, are on sale now at CSLewisOnstage.com. “$30 under 30” tickets will be available to audience members age 30 and younger, subject to availability. 

Max McLean’s 2008 production of C.S. Lewis’ The Screwtape Letters was cited as “the most successful production in the history of the Mercury Theater,” and his one-man show Mark’s Gospel earned him the 2009 Equity Joseph Jefferson Award. This summer, he brings to life one of the most engaging personalities of our age in C.S. Lewis Onstage: The Most Reluctant Convert, a brand new one-man one-act taking audiences on Lewis’ fascinating journey from atheism to Christianity.

Adapted exclusively from Lewis’ writings, McLean inhabits Lewis from the death of his mother and his estranged relationship with his father to the experiences that led him from vigorous debunker to the most vibrant and influential Christian intellectual of the 20th century. C.S. Lewis Onstage is a joyous evening of Lewis’ entertaining wit and exhilarating insight, touted as “masterful…. spiritually invigorating and hugely moving” by The Washington Post.

“We are thrilled to return to Chicago with our latest production,” said McLean, FPA’s founder and artistic director who adapted and performs the show. “C.S. Lewis wrote more than 30 books that have sold more than 200 million copies, making him arguably the most influential religious writer of the past century. In The Most Reluctant Convert, we visit the agonizing events that led to his conversion.”

OPENING: Einstein’s Gift at the Athenaeum Theatre, Studio One

Chi, IL Live Shows On Our Radar:

A Rare Chicago Theatre event and one of the most eagerly anticipated productions of the summer.  Meet the cast of 

“Einstein’s Gift”

Chicago premiere from Genesis Theatrical Productions

Einstein's Gift begs the question, if you could return to a time and change everything, what would it be?

Here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows we're all about supporting and promoting women in the arts, so we're particularly excited about the works Genesis Theatrical Productions is bringing to fruition. We're particularly looking forward to their next offering, Einstein’s Gift. This award winning play from Vern Thiessen is running August 4-28 at the Athenaeum Theatre, Studio One. 

Based on a true story, German scientist Fritz Haber is renouncing his faith, fearing persecution from an increasingly oppressive and militaristic government. In this award winning play, Haber's friend, Albert Einstein, fears Haber's work has taken a dangerous turn. While Einstein sees science as a discipline which transcends national boundaries as a force for good, Haber's work has become a deadly tool of the state. Einstein makes a desperate and emotional appeal that will resonate for generations and define the course of history. With daunting forces arrayed against him, Einstein is prepared to risk everything; his life, his work and his reputation against a building storm threatening to engulf the world in war. 

Acclaimed Chicago Director Elayne LeTraunik, Associate Artistic Director of Genesis, unveils the Chicago premier of “Einstein’s Gift” a timely and powerful play for the first time before Chicago audiences. Written by award winning Canadian playwright Vern Thiessen, Einstein’s Gift features a seasoned cast, including local standouts, Chris Saunders, Guy Wicke, Nick Hodge, Glenn Garrabrant, James McGuire, Darryn Glass, Vered Hankin and Becky Lang. 

In addition to an auspicious cast, the designers include Harrison Ornelas (Sets/Props), Jeremy Hollis (Lights), Paula Kenar (Costumes), JJ Porterfield (Sound), Brian LeTraunik (Fight Choreography) and Patrick Murphy (Stage Manager).

Performances are August 4-28 at the Athenaeum Theatre, Studio One, 2936 N. Southport, in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood.  Performance days and times are Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 3pm.  Tickets are $30 with discounts for students, seniors and groups of 10 or more.  Discounted tickets are also available on Goldstar and Hot Tix.  For tickets call 773-935-6875 or go to www.athenaeumtheatre.org.

Chicago Director and Producer Elayne LeTraunik

Elayne LeTraunik and Genesis brings to life a story that resonates in today’s headlines “I did a staged reading of this play more than 10 years ago,” says Elayne LeTraunik, “and I have been wanting to do a full production ever since.  I think the issues it examines including the perverted use of science by government, the horror of war and the danger of ultra-nationalism are issues that are still prevalent today.”

Elayne is a native Chicagoan, involved in the Chicago Theatre scene since the 1970s.  A graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago, she received a B.A. Degree with honors in History and Theatre.  She continued her acting studied at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art (now part of the Central School of Drama) in London, England. Elayne has worked extensively both as an actress and a producer/director and starred in the Chicago premieres of “Nuts” and “Extremities.”  She also appeared in “Beyond Therapy” which featured Skipp Sudduth and Carmen Roman. Elayne is a member of Actors’ Equity, Chicago Women in Philanthropy and the League of Professional Theatre Women

As a producer, she has overseen a number of award winning and critically acclaimed productions including the Chicago premiere of “A Dybbuk” directed by Curt Columbus and a revival of “Class Enemy” directed by Steve Scott.  She has produced and/or directed such productions as “Today I am a Fountain Pen,” “The Stroop Report,” “From Generation to Generation,” and “Tunnel Rat.”  The Genesis production of “The Last Cyclist” received 4 stars from Chicago Theatre Beat.  Elayne directed “On Holy Ground” in 2014 and in 2015, directed “Creation’s Birthday,” “Jihad,” “Zelda at the Oasis,” and co-directed with Patrick Murphy “Hope Throws Her Heart Away.”  Three of the aforementioned plays were written by women.

Helping Women in the Arts

Genesis Theatrical Productions has worked since 2006 to empower and educate through dynamic and unique theatrical works with exclusive Chicago, Midwest or World premieres, placing a multicultural focus on playwrights, and emphasizing social justice and community responsibility.

In addition, Genesis promotes the place of women in theater at all levels. It’s program, Athena’s Wisdom, emphasizes their efforts and talents, and works to inspire other women to achieve their artistic goals.  Genesis develops, creates and produces.  We feed the mind. In 2014, Genesis received a 50/50 award from the International Centre for Women Playwrights in recognition of its work in promoting the work of women playwrights.

About the Playwright

Vern Thiessen’s plays have entertained audiences across Canada, the US, Asia, UK, and Europe, including Einstein’s Gift, Blowfish, Lenin’s Embalmers, Bird Brain, Vimy, Shakespeare’s Will, Apple and Of Human Bondage. He has had four plays produced off-Broadway. Thiessen is the recipient of the Sterling and Dora Awards for Outstanding New Play, The City of Edmonton Arts Achievement Award, the University of Alberta Alumni Award for Excellence, The Carol Bolt Award, the Alberta Playwriting Competition, the Canadian Jewish Playwriting Competition, and the Governor General’s Literary Award. He is Past President of both the Playwrights Guild of Canada and the Writers Guild of Alberta. He is currently at work on commissions from Epic Theatre Ensemble, Ensemble Studio Theatre, Concrete Theatre/L’Uni Theatre, and Touchstone Theatre/Patrick Street Productions. In 2014, Vern was appointed as Artistic Director of Workshop West Playwrights’ Theatre.

REVIEW: The Odd Couple at Munster's Theatre at the Center Through August 14th

*Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

Theatre at the Center's 
The Odd Couple
through August 14th


*Just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago in Munster, Indiana

Talk about type casting...  Norm Boucher and George Keating were made for these roles, and each are equally hilarious bringing the infamous opposites, Oscar and Felix, to life on stage. This production had the whole audience in stitches over the misadventures of these rudderless BFFs, navigating the choppy waters of divorce, absentee fatherhood, housemate drama, suicidal tendencies, and dating fiascos.  Highly recommended for a nostalgic night out and a good laugh. 

George Keating (Grand Hotel and Meet Me in St. Louis at Theatre at the Center) stars as Felix along with Norm Boucher (The 39 Steps and Big Fish at Theatre at the Center) as Oscar. 

 Norm Boucher (left) stars as Oscar Madison and George Keating (right) as Felix Unger. ©Theatre at the Center, 

All Photos by Michael Brosilow

The supporting cast of poker night pals were a hoot too! Additional cast include Larry Adams (Spamalot and A Christmas Carol The Musical) at Theatre at the Center) as Roy; Brett Tuomi, who has appeared at Goodman Theatre in A Christmas Carol and The Iceman Cometh, as Murray the Cop, is making his Theatre at the Center debut; Ray Andrecheck, whose television credits include Chicago P.D., as Speed, is also making his Theatre at the Center debut; and Geoff Rice (A Christmas Memory and Leading Ladies at Theatre at the Center) plays Vinnie.






Kudos to the Pigeon sisters, Colette Todd (Gwen) and Jocelyn Adamski (Cecily), for the over the top laughter, and wonderful characters as well. Jeff Award winner Colette Todd (Big Fish and Beverly Hillbillies, the Musical at Theatre at the Center) plays Gwen. Jocelyn Adamski, who plays Cecily, has performed at Carnegie Hall and most recently appeared singing and dancing in Wheaton Drama’s production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, is making her debut at Theatre at the Center.







Sure, Chicago has stellar theatre in the city, but Theatre at the Center hits the mark, and is well worth the drive. Highly recommended! 


My son and I ended up sharing a table with Theatre at the Center’s full time props designer, Brittney O’Keefe. She confirmed our gut feelings about the whole vibe of Theatre at the Center being like one big, supportive family. She also said this show was fun to design props for, with the quick apartment transitions from slovenly to neat freak sheek. 

I wish my home had revolving book cases where I could stash all my junk when relatives and friends come to visit! Short of that, I might have to trade my long suffering husband and kids in for a clean freak housemate like Felix. Although I do think his hypochondriac ways would get old fast. 






Finally, we love that Theatre at the Center has jumped on the Signature Show Cocktails wagon. I tried "The Oscar", an awesomely strong dirty vodka martini. They also have "The Felix", a sweet apple martini with a cute parasol garnish. (*available on Friday & Saturday evening performances only). Theatre lovers are social creatures, and show themed drinks make the lively pre and post show conversations and socializing even more fun. They do know how to rock a theme! 

It took us a few years, but here at ChiIL Mama/ChiIL Live Shows we finally ventured out to Theatre at the Center a few months back, on the rave reviews and heartfelt recommendations of some of our fellow theatre critics. Now I'm a convert! Theatre at the Center is simple to navigate to from Chicago and took less drive time than many of our closer theatre haunts where we have to battle cross town traffic. They have plentiful, free parking and a great space. Their 410 seat auditorium is quite spacious and comfortable, while remaining intimate. They even have an art gallery and a gift shop filled with local artisans' works where you can leisurely linger with all the extra pre show time you never expected to have! Furthermore, the talent pool is deep and the shows are professional productions on every front. 


About The Odd Couple

One of Broadway’s most successful comedies and an enduring audience favorite, The Odd Couple is set on the hot summer streets of 1965 New York.   It follows the adventures of two mismatched roommates, Felix Unger, a neurotically neat and fussy news writer, and Oscar Madison, a slovenly sports writer.   The men attempt to adapt to each other’s idiosyncrasies, all the while trying to rekindle their social lives with side-splitting results.

Actors Norm Boucher and George Keating play the leads in Theatre at the Center’s cast for the famous comedy classic The Odd Couple, the 1965 Broadway hit by iconic playwright Neil Simon. Directed by Larry Wyatt, The Odd Couple runs from July 14 to Aug. 14.  

Performances are 2 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays; 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Sundays; and select Thursday and Sunday evenings and Saturday matinees.   Individual ticket prices range from $40 - $44.   To purchase individual tickets call the Box Office at 219-836-3255 or Tickets.com at 800-511-1552.   Group discounts are available for groups of 11 or more and gift certificates are also available.   For more information on Theatre at the Center, visit www.TheatreAtTheCenter.com.

Director Larry Wyatt’s credits include Some Like It Hot and Over the Tavern at Theatre at the Center. 

Norm Boucher (seated) stars as Oscar Madison and George Keating (standing) as Felix Unger in “The Odd Couple,” the 1965 Broadway hit by iconic playwright Neil Simon. 

© Theatre at the Center, Photo by Michael Brosilow

The Odd Couple production team includes scenic design by Angie Miller, costume design by Brenda Winstead, lighting design by Denise Karczewski, props design by Brittney O’Keefe and sound design by Barry G. Funderburg. The production manager is Ann Davis with Dennis Galbreath as assistant technical director.   Matt McMullen is the stage manager. Richard Friedman is general manager and Linda Fortunato is Theatre at the Center’s new artistic director.

Founded in 1991, the 410-seat Theatre at the Center is a year round professional theater at its home:   The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Indiana.   Theatre at the Center is the only professional theater company in Northwest Indiana, offering downtown caliber performances in an accessible venue with plenty of free parking.   Theatre at the Center is located off I-80/94, just 35 minutes from downtown Chicago.