What We're Watching:
|
|
|
Thursday, July 10, 2014
NEW RELEASE: DEVO The Men Who Make The Music / Butch Devo & The Sundance Gig available on DVD and Digital Formats on August 12
HELP OUT: Inaugural Family Gala on July 12 Seussapalooza at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre
Chicago Shakespeare Theater Producers’ Guild hosts
Inaugural Family Gala on July 12
Seussapalooza
Benefitting Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks
Chicago—June 26, 2014—Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s (CST)
Come ChiIL out with Chicago Shakespeare Theatre and ChiIL Mama. We can't wait to experience both Seussical AND Seussapalooza this Saturday! And all this fun will funD another true treasure, Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks. Break out your funkiest Dr. Seuss attire and help out. You can say you were there at the FIRST CST Family Gala EVER. Tickets start at a reasonable $45 and the event is family friendly, with stage combat demos, crafts, hands on activities, and more!
CST’s inaugural Family Gala, Seussapalooza on July 12, 2014, 11:00 a.m. at the Theater’s home on Navy Pier. This family-friendly event invites guests to enjoy the summer musical production of Seussical in CST’s Courtyard Theater, followed by a lively reception with hands-on activities and crafts for all ages. In keeping with the Producers’ Guild’s mission to support access to Shakespeare for all, funds raised will benefit the celebrated Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks program, which brings a free Shakespearean production to neighborhood parks across Chicago in the summer.
Click here for Shakespeare in the Parks 2014 dates/locations and ChiIL Mama's photo filled review of the show.
Click here for Shakespeare in the Parks 2014 dates/locations and ChiIL Mama's photo filled review of the show.
Seussapalooza guests will first be treated to a performance of Seussical in CST’s magnificent Courtyard Theater. This 75-minute Broadway musical comedy brings the humor and magic of Dr. Seuss to life onstage. Playful, energetic and full of whimsy, Seussical engages the imagination with clever lyrics and melodies, unforgettable characters and the vibrant rainbow of Dr. Seuss’s colorful world.
The Cat in the Hat (Alex Goodrich) shows JoJo (Emily Chang) that, through the power of her imagination, anything can happen in the song “It’s Possible” in Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s Seussical, directed by Scott Weinstein, in CST’s Courtyard Theater now through August 17, 2014. Photo by Michael Brosilow.
Following the performance, attendees will proceed to a whimsical reception taking place throughout the Theater’s 6th floor lobbies and performance spaces, featuring a delicious luncheon, vivid décor and soaring views of the city’s skyline. Hands-on activities for children of all ages will include stage combat demonstrations by professional fight choreographers, a photo booth with theatrical props and artful face painting, as well as crafts and other games. A silent auction with exclusive family fun packages will further support Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks.
 |
Proceeds from Seussapalooza will fully fund a designated park on this summer’s Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks tour of the wildly popular A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which will travel to 18 neighborhood parks across the city, July 18–August 17, 2014. Since its inception in July 2012, this annual summer tradition has touched over 27,000 audience members on the north, south and west sides of the city. At each stop on the citywide tour, families and neighbors come together to share in the delight of a professional Shakespearean production.
CST’s Producers’ Guild, led by Rachel Bronson and Justine Jentes, is a dynamic auxiliary board for emerging leadership in Chicago’s cultural community that advocates and supports CST’s work on the Theater’s stages, in the community and abroad. The Family Gala is co-chaired by Karen and Tuey Connell and Robin and Timothy Sheehan.
CST’s Producers’ Guild, led by Rachel Bronson and Justine Jentes, is a dynamic auxiliary board for emerging leadership in Chicago’s cultural community that advocates and supports CST’s work on the Theater’s stages, in the community and abroad. The Family Gala is co-chaired by Karen and Tuey Connell and Robin and Timothy Sheehan.
Seussapalooza Lead Sponsors include Beecken Petty O’Keefe & Company, Biagio Events, the Butler Family Foundation and Make It Better Magazine.
Tickets for the Seussapalooza event begin at $45. To join Chicago Shakespeare Theater in celebration of Seussapalooza, please contact Margaret Reeder at 312.667.4951 or mreeder@chicagoshakes.com.
Tickets for the Seussapalooza event begin at $45. To join Chicago Shakespeare Theater in celebration of Seussapalooza, please contact Margaret Reeder at 312.667.4951 or mreeder@chicagoshakes.com.
A musical adventure through the world of Dr. Seuss
Seussical
Directed by Scott Weinstein
Chicago Shakespeare Theater brings the humor and magic of Dr. Seuss to life onstage this summer for young audiences and their families in the Broadway musical comedy Seussical. Playful, energetic and full of whimsy, this 75-minute musical adventure engages the imagination with clever lyrics and melodies, unforgettable characters and the colorful world of Dr. Seuss. Every performance features special opportunities for audiences to interact with the actors for one-on-one conversations and photos. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, CST partners with the Chicago Children’s Museum (CCM) to offer hands-on craft activities in CST’s Lobby. Seussical is being presented in CST’s Courtyard Theater now through August 17, 2014.
|
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
ACT OUT: OPENING A Horse of A Different Color Presents the World Premiere of Fairytales: Not Suitable for Children August 2014
Fairytales:
Not Suitable for Children
Directed by Morgan Ashley Madison
Musical direction and composition by Anthony Sanders
Hysterical and heartwarming, this immersive and irreverent musical experience turns the myths of yesteryear completely on their heads.
Three Week Run ONLY
A Horse of A Different Color is proud to present the world premiere of Fairytales: Not Suitable for Children, created by Morgan Ashley Madison, at Emerald City Theatre Company’s The Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport Ave. in Chicago. The opening is Saturday, August 9 at 8pm, and the show will run Fridays at 10:30PM and Saturdays at 8PM with a special discounted Restaurant and Artist Industry night on Monday, August 18 at 10:30pm. The show runs from August 9-23.
“With this production I harken back to what folks must have felt like when they saw Steppenwolf or Lookingglass for the first time,” Ernie Nolan, Emerald City’s Artistic Director, says, “Something that is so unique and so intrinsically Chicago. Fairytales has all the things I love when I go to the theater: laughs, entertainment value, but I also think of an amazing amount of heart and that’s what Fairytales really leaves you with at the end.”
*Due to some adult content and humor, Fairytales: Not Suitable for Children is, in fact, not recommended for children.*
The cast features Isabella Karina Coelho, Casey Morris, Alex Seeley, and Erik Strebig.
The design and production team of Fairytales: Not Suitable for Children includes Katrina Dion (Assistant Director), M.E. Barker (Choreographer), Daniel Friedman (Lighting Designer), Jacob C. Shuler (Dramaturg), Mina Slater (Stage Manager), Morgan Greene (Assistant Stage Manager), and Dean Corrin (Artistic Consultant).
About the Play
This immersive musical spectacle propels audiences back into the joyful and carefree days of childhood. While audiences watch their most beloved tales go to new extremes they can leave “happily ever after” at the door and say hello to uproarious musical numbers, confetti canons, fairies in drag, magic, out of this world circus tricks, often inappropriate humor, and some good old fashioned catharsis.
Tickets:
$10 general admission
$8 students and seniors
$6 Industry night and preview
Available at:
Photos by Morgan Madison. Erik Strebig, Isabella Karina Coelho, Casey Morris, Alex Seeley
WHAT: A Horse of A Different Color presents the World premiere of Fairytales: Not Suitable For Children created and directed by Morgan Ashley Madison
WHERE: Emerald City Theatre Company’s The Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport Ave. in Chicago. A short walk from the Wellington Brown Line Stop and Ashland Bus (#9).
WHEN: THREE WEEKS ONLY: August 9-23
Fridays at 10:30PM, Saturdays at 8:00PM, and a discounted Industry Night performance on Monday, August 18 at 10:30 PM
TICKETS:
$10 general admission
$8 students and seniors
$6 Industry night
Available @ fairytales2014.wix.com/theexperience
Cast:
Isabella Karina Coelho, Casey Morris, Anthony Sanders, Alex Seeley, Erik Strebig
Production Team:
Composer/Music Director: Anthony Sanders
Choreographer: M.E. Barker
Assistant Director: Katrina Dion
Stage Manager: Mina Slater
Lighting Designer: Daniel Friedman
Assistant Stage Manager: Morgan Greene
Artistic Consultant: Dean Corrin
Photos by Morgan Madison. Isabella Karina Coelho, Casey Morris, Erik Strebig, Alex Seeley
FLASH GIVEAWAY: 25% Discount To Brain Arts Theatre Camp & Final Production Video #Chicago #TheatreArts #ChiILPicksList #sponsored
"Please sign me up for Brain Arts Camp again, Mom! It's THE best camp I've ever been to." effused my oldest son. Those words were music to my ears. Of course he's going back for two weeks this summer. We were thrilled with the quality and creativity of this camp and highly recommend it.
Disclosure: ChiIL Mama is elated to partner up with Brain Arts Camp and thank them for providing a discount for our giveaway. We have been compensated to share their camp info with our readers. As always, all opinions are our own.
The first four of our readers to enroll kids ages 6-14 will get 25% off on a two week camp session for ANY session Brain Surgery Theatre is offering this summer, pending availability. (4 discounted spots per session available with the code ChiIL Mama so don't delay).
We've been raving about Brain Arts Camp for a couple years now. Click HERE to check out some of our past coverage. This is our last call for the 2014 season, and may be your lucky day.
Acting and Improv Intensives
For Young Artists Entering 3rd through 9th Grade
Acting and Improv - Beyond the Basics (2 Week Session)
Monday 8/4/14 through Friday 8/15/14 from 9 am to 3 pm
Showcase Friday 8/15/14 at 4 pm
Brain Surgeon Theater at Gorilla Tango Bucktown
1919 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago IL 60647
Delve deep into both your scripted onstage work and Improvisation guided by some of Chicago's most experienced artist-educators. Final showcases will feature every young artist in challenging, fun scripted roles and Improvisational scenes inspired by audience suggestions.
$650 for 2 week session
$1200 for sibling or friend pairs
Register Now
Mini-Movie Making Intensive (5 Days)Monday 8/18/14 through Friday 8/22/14 9 am to 3 pm
Final showcase Friday 8/22/14 at 4 pm
Brain Surgeon Theater at Gorilla Tango Bucktown
1919 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago IL 60647
Dive in and create digital shorts, music videos, and a mini-feature film in this 5 day movie-making intensive. Every camper will get behind the camera, onscreen, and in the editing room. A hands-on, completely original experience for burgeoning filmmakers ages 6 through 14.
$325 for 1 week session
$600 for sibling or friend pairs
Register Now
Disclosure: ChiIL Mama is elated to partner up with Brain Arts Camp and thank them for providing a discount for our giveaway. We have been compensated to share their camp info with our readers. As always, all opinions are our own.
The first four of our readers to enroll kids ages 6-14 will get 25% off on a two week camp session for ANY session Brain Surgery Theatre is offering this summer, pending availability. (4 discounted spots per session available with the code ChiIL Mama so don't delay).
My son as a juggling "were-icorn"
We've been raving about Brain Arts Camp for a couple years now. Click HERE to check out some of our past coverage. This is our last call for the 2014 season, and may be your lucky day.
There's a final production for each camp session. Here's the one from Sail Away Buttercup, the production my 12 year old son loved so much last summer. Check out their full show here:
"I've been through so many camps, I can't even pick a favorite show!" Evan Patrick, Brain Arts Camper
Rock Musical Camps
For Young Artists Ages 6 through 14
Rock Musical of Epic Proportions (2 Week Session)
Monday 7/21/14 through Friday 8/1/14 from 9 am to 3 pm
Performance Friday 8/1/14 at 4 pm
Brain Surgeon Theater at Gorilla Tango Bucktown
1919 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago IL 60647
It's yet to be titled because YOU could title it! Come create original characters, rock and roll song and dance numbers, and, if history is any guide, a surprise ending. Mornings will be structured around character development, playwriting, and scenework; afternoons focus on skill-building workshops including voice, movement, stage combat, and set and costume design. It's a wild ride that guarantees a summer to remember!
$650 for 2 week session
$1200 for sibling or friend pairs
Register Now
For Young Artists Ages 6 through 14
Rock Musical of Epic Proportions (2 Week Session)
Monday 7/21/14 through Friday 8/1/14 from 9 am to 3 pm
Performance Friday 8/1/14 at 4 pm
Brain Surgeon Theater at Gorilla Tango Bucktown
1919 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago IL 60647
It's yet to be titled because YOU could title it! Come create original characters, rock and roll song and dance numbers, and, if history is any guide, a surprise ending. Mornings will be structured around character development, playwriting, and scenework; afternoons focus on skill-building workshops including voice, movement, stage combat, and set and costume design. It's a wild ride that guarantees a summer to remember!
$650 for 2 week session
$1200 for sibling or friend pairs
Register Now
Acting and Improv Intensives
For Young Artists Entering 3rd through 9th Grade
Acting and Improv - Beyond the Basics (2 Week Session)
Monday 8/4/14 through Friday 8/15/14 from 9 am to 3 pm
Showcase Friday 8/15/14 at 4 pm
Brain Surgeon Theater at Gorilla Tango Bucktown
1919 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago IL 60647
Delve deep into both your scripted onstage work and Improvisation guided by some of Chicago's most experienced artist-educators. Final showcases will feature every young artist in challenging, fun scripted roles and Improvisational scenes inspired by audience suggestions.
$650 for 2 week session
$1200 for sibling or friend pairs
Register Now
Movie-Making Camps
For Young Artists Ages 6 through 14
Mini-Movie Making Intensive (5 Days)Monday 8/18/14 through Friday 8/22/14 9 am to 3 pm
Final showcase Friday 8/22/14 at 4 pm
Brain Surgeon Theater at Gorilla Tango Bucktown
1919 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago IL 60647
Dive in and create digital shorts, music videos, and a mini-feature film in this 5 day movie-making intensive. Every camper will get behind the camera, onscreen, and in the editing room. A hands-on, completely original experience for burgeoning filmmakers ages 6 through 14.
$325 for 1 week session
$600 for sibling or friend pairs
Register Now
Brain Arts camps cost less than most other Chicago Theatre Camps for kids and they're crazy creative. Best of all, they let the kids step up and have input in the writing, character development, props, costumes, staging and more. Enroll your budding Thespians and future Filmmakers today!
Disclosure: Once again, ChiIL Mama is elated to partner up with Brain Arts Camp and thank them for providing a discount for our giveaway. We have been compensated to share their camp info with our readers. As always, all opinions are our own.
Monday, July 7, 2014
FREE TICKETS RELEASE THIS WEEK, JULY 8 & 9 Chicago Dancing Festival: August 20-23, 2014
ADDITIONAL PROGRAMMING ANNOUNCED FOR
CHICAGO DANCING FESTIVAL
Chicago Dancing Festival founders Lar Lubovitch and Jay Franke are pleased to announce today additional works being added to the 2014 Festival lineup, including two more World Premieres, plus plans for a pre- and post-performance sponsors party around the “Celebration of Dance” Grand Finale performance, Saturday, August 23. Free tickets for the Festival’s indoor performances become available to the public this week, July 8 and 9. The 2014 Chicago Dancing Festival, featuring top ballet, modern and hip-hop companies from Chicago and across the country, is set to take place August 20 – 23.
;+photo+by+Cheryl+Mann.JPG)
The Joffrey Ballet
in 'Bells' by Yuri Possokhov
Dancers: Temur Suluashvili and Victoria Jaiani
Photo by Cheryl Mann
Additional Programming
Chicago-based choreographer Ron De Jesus, a former dancer with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and now Artistic Director of Ron De Jesus Dance, has been commissioned by the Dancing Festival to create a new duet for the dancing male pair of Ben Wardell (Nexus Project, Lucky Plush Productions, formerly Hubbard Street Dance Chicago) and Michel Rodriguez (Nexus Project, formerly Hedwig Dances). Transition Zone will premiere as part of the Festival’s “Dances for 2” at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., in two performances, Friday, August 22.
New York-based choreographer Darrell Grand Moultrie, who has set work on and collaborated with pop stars like Beyoncé as well as highly regarded institutions like The Juilliard School, the Alvin Ailey B.F.A. Program and tap legend Savion Glover, has been commissioned by the Festival to create a new work for the student dancers of After School Matters, to premiere on the Pritzker “Celebration of Dance” program, August 23.
These new commissioned works are in addition to the previously announced World Premiere the Festival has commissioned from New York mixed-genre choreographer Kyle Abraham for the dancers of Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, entitled Counterpoint. This work, to be performed at the Harris Theater as part of the “Classics and Creations” program August 20, is set to Tu Non Mi Perderai Mai by Peter Gregson and Brahms Piano Concerto No. 1 in D Minor: Third Movement, performed by Arthur Rubinstein. The full schedule of performances follows below.
“Last Dance” Sponsors Party
This year, the Chicago Dancing Festival hosts “Last Dance,” a party to acknowledge the sponsors whose support is crucial to keeping the Festival’s performances free for the public. “Last Dance” takes place Saturday, August 23, on the Terrace at the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph Street. The evening includes pre-show cocktails beginning at 6 pm followed by reserved seating for the performance at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, then a post-show picnic with cocktails and a chance to mingle with the artists. Those interested in donating or learning more about sponsorship opportunities can visit www.chicagodancingfestival.com or, for questions, call 773-609-2335.
Ticket Release This Week
Tickets for the indoor performances at Harris Theater and Museum of Contemporary become available this week. All tickets are free but tickets for indoor events must be reserved in advance through each venue’s box office.
Tickets for the August 20 program at the Harris Theater will be released Tuesday, July 8 at noon, available in person at the Harris Theater Box Office, 205 E. Randolph Drive, or by calling (312) 334-7777. Limit two (2) tickets per order; tickets ordered by phone will be held at Will-Call.
Tickets for the August 22 programs at the Museum of Contemporary Art will be release Wednesday, July 9 at noon, available in person at the MCA Stage Box Office, 220 E. Chicago Avenue, or by calling (312) 397-4010. Limit two (2) tickets per order; tickets ordered by phone will be held at Will-Call.
No tickets are needed for the outdoor Pritzker Pavilion events, including the Opening Night Simulcast presented by the Harris Theater on August 20 and the Grand Finale performance on August 23.
Any empty seats or tickets unclaimed at 15 minutes prior to curtain time will be released to those in a Stand-by line. Stand-by lines begin one hour before each performance, in person only. All seating is general admission.
Chicago Dancing Festival 2014 Schedule
Wednesday, August 20 – 7:30 pm
Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Street
“Classics and Creations”
The Chicago Dancing Festival opening night program will be simulcast on the outdoor screen of the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, thanks to Presenting Sponsor, the Harris Theater.
- Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Counterpoint, CDF original commission by Kyle Abraham
- The Juilliard School, The Jig Is Up by Eliot Feld
- Martha Graham Dance Company, Errand into the Maze by Martha Graham
- Stars of American Ballet*, Fancy Free by Jerome Robbins
- The Joffrey Ballet, Bells (excerpt) by Yuri Possokhov
Chelsea Bonosky
in 'Belladonna' by Adam Barruch
Photo by Nel Shelby
Friday, August 22 – 6 pm and 8 pm
Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Avenue
“Dances for 2”
- Adam Barruch, Belladonna by Adam Barruch
- The Joffrey Ballet, Bells (excerpt) by Yuri Possokhov
- Martha Graham Dance Company, Errand into the Maze by Martha Graham
- Ron De Jesus Dance*, Transition Zone, CDF original commission by Ron De Jesus
- Pam Tanowitz Dance*, Passagen by Pam Tanowitz (live music)
+-+Photo+by+Todd+Rosenberg.JPG)
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago Spring Series
"Falling Angels" Dress Rehearsal by Jiri Kylian
Photo by Todd Rosenberg Photography
Saturday, August 23 – 7:30 pm
Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph Street
“Celebration of Dance” Grand Finale
- After School Matters, CDF original commission by Darrell Grand Moultrie
- The Joffrey Ballet, Nine Sinatra Songs by Twyla Tharp
- The Juilliard School, The Jig Is Up by Eliot Feld
- Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Falling Angels by Jiří Kylián
- Rennie Harris Puremovement*, Students of the Asphalt Jungle by Dr. Rennie Harris
- Stars of Washington Ballet Brooklyn Mack and Maki Onuki, pas de deux from Le Corsaire by Marius Petipa
All programs are subject to change.
*CDF Debut
About the Chicago Dancing Festival
Established in 2007, the Chicago Dancing Festival was founded to elevate awareness of dance in Chicago, to increase accessibility to the art form and to provide inspiration for local artists. Its mission is to present a wide variety of excellent dance, enrich the lives of the people of Chicago and provide increased accessibility to the art form, thereby helping create a new audience. Its vision is to raise the national and international profile of dance in the city, furthering Chicago as the “dance capital of the world” (as Mayor Rahm Emanuel put it at the 2012 Chicago Dancing Festival).
Lar Lubovitch (Founder, Artistic Director) is one of America's most versatile and highly acclaimed choreographers and founded the Lar Lubovitch Dance Company 45 years ago. In the years since, he has choreographed more than 100 dances for his New York-based company, which has performed in nearly all 50 American states as well as in more than 30 foreign countries. Born in Chicago, Mr. Lubovitch was educated at the University of Iowa and the Juilliard School in New York.
Jay Franke (Founder, Artistic Director) began his formal training at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Dallas, Texas. In 1993, he was selected as a Finalist for the Presidential Scholar in the Arts and accepted into the Juilliard School. Upon receiving his BFA in Dance from the Juilliard School, Mr. Franke went to work with the Twyla Tharp Dance Company, “THARP!” Mr. Franke has since danced with The 58 Group, Lyric Opera Ballet Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and was a leading dancer in the Lar Lubovitch Dance Company from 2005 to 2010.
The Chicago Dancing Festival is grateful for its 2014 supporters including: InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, Official Hotel Partner; Museum of Contemporary Art; Harris Theater for Music and Dance; City of Chicago, Millennium Park; The Robert and Jamie Taylor Foundation; David Herro and Jay Franke; Illinois Arts Council; National Endowment for the Arts, Art Works; The Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation; The Chicago Community Trust; Arts Work Fund for Organizational Development; The MacArthur Fund for Arts and Culture at Prince; The Elizabeth Morse Charitable Trust; and the Irving Harris Foundation. The Harris Theater is proud to have the support of The Northern Trust Company as its 2014-2015 season sponsor.
For more information on the Chicago Dancing Festival, its history and programs, visit www.chicagodancingfestival.com.
Thursday, June 19, 2014
OPENING TOMORROW: ChiIL Mama's Video Interview With The Flying Steps From Red Bull's Flying Bach #VideoInterview
ChiIL Mama's ChiIL Picks List:
It sounds like a wacky mash up straight out of a sitcom or children's book. 3 B-Boys (hip-hop break dancers from Germany) hook up with a Swedish ballerina and hit the road, on tour with modern street dance to a score by Bach! Believe it or else... it's true. This show is opening right HERE in Chicago THIS Friday, and they've been playing all over the world to rave reviews.
Check out their insights on how this show is uniting old and young audiences and fans of quite divergent genres, and bringing packed houses back in cities where theatre and dance had been dying off. We also asked them "What's in your ipod?" and more. Catch our interview and clips from a hip-hop class they taught below:
ChiIL Mama was invited to Joffrey Tower earlier this spring, to do a video interview with 4 of the dancers.
WHO: Four dancers from the Berlin-based dance crew The Flying Steps, four-time break dance world champions, including Swedish contemporary dancer Anna Holmström and break dancers Mikel, KC-1 and Lil’ Ceng…
These fierce 4 were a treat to meet. They were personable and incredibly talented.
We chatted off camera a bit,too, after the formal interview, and asked the B-boys if they lived for touring and if it kind of sucked to have to teach classes or vice versa, since teaching and taking the stage sometimes require different talents and personalities. Of course, the guys admitted they dig performing and touring the world, but they also said one of their favorite things to do is teach hip-hop to KIDS in Berlin! Love it. They've even run their own school since 2007! I bet they're fantastic at it, too.
WHAT: Talk to press and host break dance workshops with local troupes and students at downtown Chicago dance studios including beginner and advanced sessions with high school and college students.
We can NOT wait to see their show opening THIS Friday 6/20, and we'll be there to review opening night. Check out our exclusive video interview and photos from their workshop right here. Then get your tickets to see them LIVE. They're here for SIX performances ONLY. We've been promoting this show since way back in March, but if you're still hesitating, don't. This is one multicultural, genre defying mash up you must see to believe.
Here's the Scoop:
ChiIL Mama's Photo Favs:
It sounds like a wacky mash up straight out of a sitcom or children's book. 3 B-Boys (hip-hop break dancers from Germany) hook up with a Swedish ballerina and hit the road, on tour with modern street dance to a score by Bach! Believe it or else... it's true. This show is opening right HERE in Chicago THIS Friday, and they've been playing all over the world to rave reviews.
Check out their insights on how this show is uniting old and young audiences and fans of quite divergent genres, and bringing packed houses back in cities where theatre and dance had been dying off. We also asked them "What's in your ipod?" and more. Catch our interview and clips from a hip-hop class they taught below:
WHO: Four dancers from the Berlin-based dance crew The Flying Steps, four-time break dance world champions, including Swedish contemporary dancer Anna Holmström and break dancers Mikel, KC-1 and Lil’ Ceng…
These fierce 4 were a treat to meet. They were personable and incredibly talented.
We chatted off camera a bit,too, after the formal interview, and asked the B-boys if they lived for touring and if it kind of sucked to have to teach classes or vice versa, since teaching and taking the stage sometimes require different talents and personalities. Of course, the guys admitted they dig performing and touring the world, but they also said one of their favorite things to do is teach hip-hop to KIDS in Berlin! Love it. They've even run their own school since 2007! I bet they're fantastic at it, too.
WHAT: Talk to press and host break dance workshops with local troupes and students at downtown Chicago dance studios including beginner and advanced sessions with high school and college students.
Here's the Scoop:
DISCOVER THE HIGH ART OF GETTING DOWN.
|
|
|
- When: June 21-22 & June 27-29 (Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30pm, Sunday afternoons at 2pm)
- Where: Civic Opera House
- Cost: $24 to $88 via Ticketmaster or at the Civic Opera House box office
This June, Chicago scores a major coup in the arts & performance sphere: The Flying Steps, four-time break dance world champions, perform Red Bull Flying Bach, a show making its exclusive U.S. stop in Chicago only for six performances at the prestigious Civic Opera House, June 20-29. This follows a sweeping tour with sold-out shows in over 24 European cities plus Japan, Australia, Canada and Chile.
Red Bull Flying Bach blends eye-popping urban dance – power moves, head spins, flairs, freezes, popping & locking – with live classical music performed by Christoph Hagel, opera director and pianist extraordinaire. Swedish ballerina Anna Holmström joins the seven international members of The Flying Steps. German-Lebanese b’boy Vartan Bassil is the show’s lead choreographer. The music? J. S. Bach’s The Well-Tempered Clavier, of course, plus electronic beats. Two disparate genres like classical music and break dance come together in amazing and surprising ways.
EXCLUSIVE U.S. ENGAGEMENT
of Red Bull Flying Bach Brings World-Renowned Dance Crew The Flying Steps
to Chicago for six performances only, June 20-29
For the first time in the United States after three seasons of sold out performances around the world, the celebrated and distinguished dance crew The Flying Steps will bring Red Bull Flying Bach to Chicago, making its debut in an exclusive U.S. engagement for six performances only downtown at the historic Civic Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, June 20 – 29, 2014.
Bach and breakdance don’t go well together? The four-time breakdance world champions The Flying Steps and opera director Christoph Hagel prove the contrary with their breathtaking performance, Red Bull Flying Bach. With their interpretation of Johann Sebastian Bach’s The Well-Tempered Clavier, they shift and overcome the borders between classical and urban culture. By combining Bach’s classical masterpiece with modern electronic beats and clever choreography, the audience of each performance truly experiences a powerhouse production invoking visual amusement with delightful sound.
Red Bull Flying Bach has sold out theaters around the world, such as Sweden, Australia, Germany, Iceland, Chile, Russia, Japan and Austria. The show itself is a beautiful blend of the minds of Artistic Directors Vartan Bassil (choreography) and Christoph Hagel (piano, musical director). The Civic Opera house, playing host to this one-of-a-kind performance, is eager to have the show debut on its famed stage later this year.
“We're really excited to host Flying Bach for their U.S. premiere this June,” said Rich Regan, Director of Facilities at the Civic Opera House. “It's a groundbreaking blend of traditional and contemporary entertainment that will be completely new to Chicago audiences.”
Swedish ballerina Anna Holmström joins the seven male break-dancers of The Flying Steps, fusing key elements of urban dance culture with precision ballet.
Tickets, ranging from $24 – $88, are now on sale by visiting at: http://www.ticketmaster.com/Red-Bull-Flying-Bach-tickets/artist/1595623 or by visiting the Civic Opera House box office. Red Bull Flying Bach will be performed over two weekends only: Friday and Saturday evenings, June 20, 21, 27 & 28, at 7:30pm, and Sunday afternoons, June 22 & 29, at 2pm.
ChiIL Mama's Photo Favs:
ABOUT RED BULL FLYING BACH
High culture meets urban art: In this clash of cultures, Red Bull Flying Bach turns the international classical world upside down. The creative performance visualizes and revives Bach’s The Well-Tempered Clavier crossing the borders of serious music and youth culture. Note by note. Step by step. With piano, harpsichord and electronic beats. With head spins, power moves and freezes. With visuals and a storyline, 70 minutes long.
ABOUT THE FLYING STEPS
The Flying Steps are consecutively one of the most successful urban dance crews worldwide with breathtaking shows and one-of-a-kind choreographies, appealing to a diverse audience. The group was founded by Vartan Bassil and Kadir “Amigo” Memis in 1993 in Berlin. The Flying Steps specialize in urban dance styles like b-boying and popping-and-locking, and have won several world championships, like the Battle of the Year and Red Bull Beat Battle.
In 2007, they opened their own dance school in Berlin – The Flying Steps Academy. With a mission to guide the next generation of urban dance and offer young prospects an opportunity with social projects, the Academy is how the Flying Steps set the stage for the next generation of dance.
Monday, June 16, 2014
PHOTO RECAP: March Fourth LIVE at Lincoln Hall Chicago 6/10/14 #OriginalPhotos
Hey March Fourth--You've played my little sister's March 4th birthday party in Portland for years. Thanks for hitting Chicago on my 14th wedding anniversary. You rock! Can't think of a better way to celebrate.
Once you catch these guys LIVE, you'll be addicted! We've been seeing them & shooting stills/videos at their shows for years, and we're super stoked they were not only playing our anniversary, but double headlining with another of our favs, Liquid Soul! Also, they moved to bigger digs at Lincoln Hall, so the stilt walkers weren't hunched over on the ceiling like they've been at Martyrs.
For now, here's ChiIL Live Shows' full set of photos in the slide show below. We've embedded our favorites under that. Check them out! We'll have our original video clips from the 6/10 show up shortly too.
I first heard about March Fourth from my sister who lives in Portland, OR, where they hail from. They play a lot out there, but their big trademark bash is always a March 4th show, where they let anyone in for free who was born that day, (like my sister). She played me some of their YouTube clips and I was hooked. Since then we've caught them every time their tour bus rolls in to Chicago.
**CLICK HERE for loads of our past March Fourth coverage including original HD video show footage & stills & current 2014 tour dates.**
Check back with ChiIL Mama, ChiIL Travel Kids & ChiIL Live Shows like we vote in Chi, IL... early and often.
Get Social:
More M4 Photo Favorites 6/10/14:
Once you catch these guys LIVE, you'll be addicted! We've been seeing them & shooting stills/videos at their shows for years, and we're super stoked they were not only playing our anniversary, but double headlining with another of our favs, Liquid Soul! Also, they moved to bigger digs at Lincoln Hall, so the stilt walkers weren't hunched over on the ceiling like they've been at Martyrs.
For now, here's ChiIL Live Shows' full set of photos in the slide show below. We've embedded our favorites under that. Check them out! We'll have our original video clips from the 6/10 show up shortly too.
I first heard about March Fourth from my sister who lives in Portland, OR, where they hail from. They play a lot out there, but their big trademark bash is always a March 4th show, where they let anyone in for free who was born that day, (like my sister). She played me some of their YouTube clips and I was hooked. Since then we've caught them every time their tour bus rolls in to Chicago.
**CLICK HERE for loads of our past March Fourth coverage including original HD video show footage & stills & current 2014 tour dates.**
Check back with ChiIL Mama, ChiIL Travel Kids & ChiIL Live Shows like we vote in Chi, IL... early and often.
We have photo & video filled features, loads of great reviews and interviews, and lots of weekly giveaways--nationwide toys/games/products and Chicago based music and theatre tickets. We know what rocks in Chi, IL and beyond... so come travel vicariously with us all summer long. ChiIL out with ChiIL Mama, then get out and go places.
Get Social:
Follow us on FACEBOOK and TWITTER so you don't miss out. Follow us by RSS feed (add your address in the side bar to the right) to get an easy e-mail digest and/or on social media.
ChiIL Live Shows (adult) FACEBOOK PAGE and TWITTER
ChiIL Mama (family friendly) FACEBOOK PAGE and TWITTER
ChiIL Travel Kids (family travel fun beyond Chi, IL)
YOUTUBE (We have 240+ original videos on our YouTube Channel including video interviews with musicians, theatre people, parents in the arts, live show footage & more!)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)