Season Announced: PARAMOUNT THEATRE'S 2022-23 BROADWAY SERIES

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

PARAMOUNT THEATRE ANNOUNCES 2022-23

BROADWAY SERIES: 

DREAMGIRLS, THE SOUND OF MUSIC, 

INTO THE WOODS AND SCHOOL OF ROCK

Aurora’s Paramount Theatre enters its second decade with today’s announcement of the four blockbuster musicals on tap for its 2022-23 Broadway Series:

Meet the Dreamgirls - Effie, Lorrell and Deena - three talented young Black singers in the turbulent 1960s whose rise to the top will test their friendships to the very limit. This Tony-winning musical spawned an Oscar-winning movie for a reason: Henry Krieger’s music and Tom Eyen’s lyrics and book are unstoppably excellent. Christopher Betts makes his Chicago directing debut with Dreamgirls. Performances are August 31-October 16, 2022. Opening Night is Friday, September 9, at 8 p.m.

Set in Austria 1938 on the brink of World War II, The Sound of Music is the unforgettable Rodgers and Hammerstein classic musical about Maria, a young woman who takes a job as governess of the von Trapp Family while deciding whether to become a nun. After falling in love with the children, and eventually, Captain von Trapp, a clever ruse leads to the family’s daring escape from the Nazis through the Austrian Alps. Paramount’s Amber Mak directs. Performances are November 9, 2022-January 8, 2023. Opening Night is Friday, November 18, at 8 p.m.

Into the Woods, a seminal work by the late Stephen Sondheim, reimagines Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, Rapunzel, Cinderella and other Brothers Grimm characters in one of the most astounding and original fairytale retellings the stage has ever seen. Artistic Director Jim Corti directs Paramount’s journey Into the Woods. Performances are February 1-March 19, 2023. Opening Night is Friday, February 10, at 8 p.m.

Now we’re rocking, because Paramount Theatre’s 11th season finale is School of Rock, the fun-loving musical based on the popular Jack Black movie, from the genius mind of Andrew Lloyd Webber. Trent Stork directs. Performances are April 12- May 28, 2023. Opening Night is Friday, April 21, at 8 p.m.

“The promise of Season Eleven is a theatrical panorama of magnificent orchestras and a rock ‘n’ roll romp telling tales of making music and family on the merits of some of the most popular Broadway shows ever written for the stage,” said Paramount Artistic Director Jim Corti. “At once classical and contemporary, there is something for everyone here gathering us together, laughing and loving in sync, discovering loss and joy and what perhaps we have most in common: 'No one is alone.'”

Just as it has since it launched its first Broadway Series in 2011, Paramount still offers the same “Buy Two Shows, Get Two Shows Free” subscription offer. Broadway Series packages start as low as $56. In fact, Paramount subscribers pay no more than $39.50 per show, and that’s the most expensive ticket. Fees not included.                                                                        

Renewals begin today, Tuesday, March 8 at 10 a.m. As always, current subscribers are given the first chance to secure their seats for all four shows. During this renewal process, new subscribers can also pre-order a subscription to queue up for the best seats available before subscriptions and single tickets go on sale to the general public in July. 

Paramount Theatre is located at 23 E Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora. For information, visit ParamountAurora.com, call (630) 896-6666, or visit the Paramount Theatre box office, 23 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora, Wednesday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m; or, Sunday, 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Paramount’s 2022-23 Broadway Series:

Dreamgirls

August 31 – October 16, 2022

Opening Night: Friday, September 9, 8 p.m.

Book and lyrics by Tom Eyen

Music by Henry Krieger

Original Broadway production directed and choreographed by Michael Bennett

Orchestrations by Harold Wheeler

Produced on Broadway by Michael Bennett, Robert Avian, Geffen Records and The Shubert Organization

Directed by Christopher Betts

It’s the 1960s where the sound of Motown is on the rise. Meet the Dreamettes, Effie, Deena and Lorrell, three women trying to break their way onto the music scene. When car salesman Curtis Taylor Jr. signs the trio to a record label, he sets in motion a series of events that will forever change their lives, for better and for worse. Join the Dreamgirls as they navigate the highs and lows of life, love and fame. And remember, all you gotta do is dream.

Dreamgirls was nominated for 11 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. Originally from Chicago, director Christopher Betts makes his hometown debut with Dreamgirls. He is a New York-based writer, director and professor, currently earning his MFA at Yale School of Drama. He was the 2017-18 Julie Taymor World Theater Fellow, and received his BFA in drama from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

 

The Sound of Music

November 9, 2022 – January 8, 2023

Opening Night: Friday, November 18, 8 p.m.

Music by Richard Rodgers

Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II

Book by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse

Directed by Amber Mak

When Maria, a prospective nun is sent to be the governess of seven children for a captain of the Navy, she finds herself unexpectedly questioning her life path as she falls in love with the entire family. Music is at the heart of what unites them as they face tough decisions as Austria, their homeland, is on the brink of World War II. Do they stay or do they leave? 

Director Amber Mak has staged so many unforgettable Paramount blockbusters, including Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, nominated for six Jeff Awards including Best Musical, The Wizard of Oz, which earned seven Jeff nominations including Best Musical and Best Director. Just wait until you experience Mak’s staging of The Sound of Music, a nine-time Tony Award nominee and winner of Best Musical. Bring the family for a holiday outing at Paramount Theatre, where the lobby will be decked out in Christmas decorations and a two-story Christmas tree.

Into The Woods

February 1 – March 19, 2023

Opening Night: Friday, February 10, 8 p.m.

Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim

Book by James Lapine

Originally directed on Broadway by James Lapine

Orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick

Original Broadway production by Heidi Landesman, Rocco Landesman, Rick Steiner, M. Anthony Fisher, Frederic H. Mayerson and Jujamcyn Theaters

Originally produced by The Globe Theater, San Diego, CA

Directed by Jim Corti

A red cape, a strand of yellow hair, a golden shoe and a white cow. It’s these four items that send a baker and his barren wife through the woods on a magical journey to reverse a spell cast by an evil witch. Throw in Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, Rapunzel and Cinderella and you have one of the most astounding and original fairytale retellings the stage has ever seen. If you’ve seen The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast or Cinderella on Paramount’s stage, then you know the spectacle and extravagance that awaits you in Stephen Sondheim’s brilliant reimagining, nominated for ten Tony Awards, and winner, Best Score.

Paramount’s trip Into the Woods will be staged by Artistic Director JIm Corti, Chicago’s only theater artist to have won Jeff Awards as an actor, choreographer and director, responsible for such Paramount past hits as Newsies, The Producers, Sweeney Todd and Les Misérables.

School of Rock

April 12–May 28, 2023

Opening Night: Friday, April 21, 8 p.m.

Based on the Paramount movie by Mike White

Book by Julian Fellowes

Lyrics by Glenn Slater

New Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber

Directed by Trent Stork

From the genius mind of Andrew Lloyd Webber comes a rousing, feel good and inspirational story of kids at a prestigious prep school. Wannabe rocker, Dewey Finn, has just been kicked out of his band, he can’t pay rent and his life is falling apart. When he scams his way into a teaching job meant for his roommate, Dewey turns a class of straight-A pupils into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band. Dewey’s love of music and rock soon inspires the kids to pursue what they love. 

Based on the hit movie starring Jack Black, School of Rock was nominated for four Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The director of School of Rock is Trent Stork, who staged Paramount’s hit productions of Kinky Boots and Legally Blonde.

Subscribe now to Paramount’s 2022-23 Broadway Series 

The rewards of subscribing to Paramount’s 2022-23 Broadway Series are ample – four amazing, Broadway-quality musicals at one of the most glamorous Art Deco theaters in the Midwest, all for less than the price and hassle of seeing just one show downtown.

In addition to the lowest major theater subscription prices in Illinois, exclusive benefits for Paramount Broadway subscribers are first choice of the same seats for all four shows, free ticket exchange privileges and first notice of added shows and special events. Broadway subscribers also receive first notice and exclusive pre-sale discounts of 10% off single tickets for Broadway performances and other select shows at Paramount, including concerts by internationally acclaimed music artists, comedy, dance, holiday shows, movies and family presentations. 

Paramount’s 2022-23 Broadway Series is sponsored by Dunham Foundation, BMO Harris Bank, ComEd, Illinois Arts Council and City of Aurora.

About Paramount Theatre

Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., is the center for performing arts in Aurora, the second largest city in Illinois. The beautiful, 1,843-seat theater, graced with a strong 1930s Art Deco influence and original Venetian décor, nationally known for its high-quality productions, superb acoustics and historic grandeur, has been the anchor of downtown Aurora since 1931.

After launching its own Broadway Series in 2011, Paramount Theatre grew to be the second largest subscription house in the U.S. Before Covid, more than 41,000 subscribers from all over Chicagoland and the Midwest were enjoying Paramount’s critically acclaimed, 2019-20 Broadway-caliber productions. In addition, Paramount also presents an array of internationally known comedians, musicians, dance troupes and family shows annually.

Paramount Theatre is one of four live performance venues programmed and managed by the Aurora Civic Center Authority. ACCA also oversees downtown Aurora’s newly renovated 165-seat Copley Theatre, home to Paramount’s new BOLD Series, along with the Paramount School of the Arts, RiverEdge Park, the city’s 6,000-seat outdoor summer concert venue, and Stolp Island Theatre, an immersive space opening in summer 2023.

Paramount Theatre continues to expand its artistic and institutional boundaries under the guidance of Tim Rater, President and CEO, Aurora Civic Center Authority; Jim Corti, Artistic Director, Paramount Theatre; a dedicated Board of Trustees and a devoted staff of live theater and music professionals.

For the latest updates, visit ParamountAurora.com or follow @ParamountAurora on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

WORLD PREMIERE OF DOUG WRIGHT’S GOOD NIGHT, OSCAR AT GOODMAN THEATRE MARCH 12 – APRIL 17, 2022

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar  

EMMY AWARD-WINNER SEAN HAYES IS OSCAR LEVANT, WITH EMILY BERGL, PETER GROSZ, BEN RAPPAPORT, ETHAN SLATER, TRAMELL TILLMAN AND JOHN ZDROJESKI

***LISA PETERSON DIRECTS THE NEWEST PLAY BY THE PULITZER-PRIZE WINNING AUTHOR OF I AM MY OWN WIFE AND WAR PAINT IN THE ALBERT THEATRE MARCH 12 – APRIL 17, 2022***

This spring, the nostalgia of 1950s late-night talk-shows takes the stage in the world premiere of Good Night, Oscar—Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Doug Wright’s exploration of the nexus of humor and heartbreak, the ever-dwindling distinction between exploitation and entertainment, and the high cost of baring one’s soul for public consumption. 

Emmy Award-winning and Tony Award-nominated actor Sean Hayes leads the cast of seven as Oscar Levant—character actor, pianist and wild card. Director Lisa Peterson’s production also features Emily Bergl (June Levant), Ben Rappaport (Jack Paar), Peter Grosz (Bob Sarnoff), Ethan Slater (Max Weinbaum), Tramell Tillman (Alvin Finney) and John Zdrojeski (George Gershwin). Good Night, Oscar appears March 12 – April 17; opening night is Monday, March 21. Tickets ($25 - $98, subject to change) are now available at GoodmanTheatre.org/Oscar or by phone at 312.443.3800. The Goodman is grateful for the support of JP Morgan Chase & Co. (Lead Corporate Sponsor) and Winston & Strawn LLP (Corporate Sponsor Partner); in addition, Good Night, Oscar is the recipient of an Edgerton Foundation New Play Award.

“We are thrilled to produce the world premiere of this incredible new play by Doug Wright—an author I’ve long admired for illuminating his characters’ personal truths while infusing their stories with humor and wit. And we welcome director Lisa Peterson, who tackles classics and new works with equal vivacity and skill; her versatility makes her a perfect fit for Doug’s psychologically rich and highly theatrical new play,” said Artistic Director Robert Falls. “And we warmly welcome this stellar cast—led by Emmy Award-winning actor Sean Hayes, best known for his masterful portrayal of Jack McFarland on the NBC sitcom Will & Grace. Sean has stepped elegantly between the screen and stage for many years, receiving a Tony Award nomination for Best Leading Actor in a Musical for his role in Promises, Promises, and appearing in films such as The Bucket List, The Three Stooges and Pixar’s Monster’s University. I am delighted that Sean, who grew up in Glen Ellyn, makes his Goodman debut playing the brilliant and achingly human Oscar Levant.”

Halfway into the 20th century finds Americans glued to their TVs as Jack Paar’s amusing and always unpredictable banter echoes across living rooms. One night, he is joined by the equally unbridled pianist and character actor Oscar Levant. During an evening of witty one-liners—“there’s a fine line between genius and insanity; I have erased this line”—Oscar lays bare the necessity of insanity in the making of brilliant work and the cost he is willing to pay to entertain the masses in an episode that Paar’s audience, and the rest of America, won’t soon forget. 

“I’m very excited to be back at the Goodman for a third time, with another play about a character plucked from history,” said playwright Doug Wright, whose previous work at the Goodman includes the musical War Paint (2016) and I Am My Own Wife (2005), for which he earned the Pulitzer Prize. “I hope Chicago audiences find Oscar Levant as irascible, lovable, infuriating and unexpectedly moving as I have during the process of writing about him.”

THE COMPANY OF GOOD NIGHT, OSCAR

Oscar Levant…….Sean Hayes 

June Levant…….. Emily Bergl 

Jack Paar………….Ben Rappaport 

Bob Sarnoff………Peter Grosz 

Max Weinbaum.. Ethan Slater 

Alvin Finney………Tramell Tillman 

George Gershwin…John Zdrojeski

Understudies for this production include Sam Bell-Gurwitz—Max Weinbaum/George Gershwin; Daniel Cantor—Bob Sarnoff/Jack Paar; Chiké Johnson—Alvin Finney; Tiffany Scott–June Levant; and David Turner—Oscar Levant.

Set Design by Rachel Hauck

Costume Design by Emilio Sosa

Lighting Design by Ben Stanton and Carolina Ortiz Herrera 

Sound Design by Andre Pluess

Wig, Hair & Makeup by J. Jarad Janas

Casting is by Stephen Kopel. Dramaturgy is by Jacqueline Lawton. Kimberly McCann is the Production Stage Manager and Mario Wolf is the Stage Manager.

ENHANCED AND ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES

Visit  Goodmantheatre.org/Access  for more information about Goodman Theatre’s accessibility efforts.

Touch Tour and Audio-Described Performance: Saturday, April 9, 12:30pm Touch Tour; 2pm performance – The action/text is audibly enhanced for patrons via headset. NOTE: Touch Tours for the 2021/2022 Season will not have access to the stage due to current health and safety protocols, but will feature alternate pre-show sensory introductions.

ASL-Interpreted: Friday, April 15 at 8pm – An American Sign Language interpreter signs the action/text as played.

Open-Captioned: Saturday, April 16 at 2pm – An LED sign presents dialogue in sync with the performance.

Spanish Subtitles: Saturday April 16 at 8pm. 

ABOUT GOODMAN THEATRE

Chicago’s theater since 1925, Goodman Theatre is a not-for-profit arts and community organization in the heart of the Loop, distinguished by the excellence and scope of its artistic programming and community engagement. 

Led by Artistic Director Robert Falls and Executive Director Roche Schulfer, the theater’s artistic priorities include new play development (more than 150 world or American premieres), large scale musical theater works and reimagined classics. Artists and productions have earner two Pulitzer Prizes, 22 Tony Awards and more than 160 Jeff Awards, among other accolades. The Goodman is the first theater in the world to produce all 10 plays in August Wilson’s “American Century Cycle.” Its longtime annual holiday tradition A Christmas Carol, now in its fifth decade, has created a new generation of theatergoers in Chicago. The Goodman also frequently serves as a production and program partner with national and international companies and Chicago’s Off-Loop theaters.

Using the tools of the theatrical profession, the Goodman’s Education and Engagement programs aim to develop generations of citizens who understand the cultures and stories of diverse voices. The Goodman’s Alice Rapoport Center for Education and Engagement is the home of these programs, which are offered free of charge for Chicago youth—85% of whom come from underserved communities—schools and life-long learners.

As a cultural and community organization invested in quality, diversity and community, Goodman Theatre is committed to using the art of theater for a better Chicago. Goodman Theatre’s Action Plan for Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Anti-Racism and Access (IDEAA) was born out of the belief that progress means action, which includes building on the decades-long commitment to using art, assets and resources to contribute to a more just, equitable and anti-racist society.

Goodman Theatre was founded by William O. Goodman and his family in honor of their son Kenneth, an important figure in Chicago’s cultural renaissance in the early 1900s. The Goodman family’s legacy lives on through the continued work and dedication of Kenneth’s family, including Albert Ivar Goodman, who with his late mother, Edith-Marie Appleton, contributed the necessary funds for the creation on the new Goodman center in 2000.

Today, Goodman Theatre leadership also includes the distinguished members of the Artistic Collective: Rebecca Gilman, Dael Orlandersmith, Henry Godinez, Steve Scott, Kimberly Senior, Chuck Smith, Regina Taylor and Mary Zimmerman. Jeff Hesse is Chairman of Goodman Theatre’s Board of Trustees, Fran Del Boca is Women’s Board President and Craig McCaw is President of the Scenemakers Board for young professionals. 

FREE Streaming: Misalliance Repertory’s Radio Play Production of James M. Barrie’s THE NEW WORD

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar  

THE NEW WORD

By James M. Barrie

Directed by Barbara Zahora

Now streaming at www.misalliancerepertory.org

No charge - a gift to our supporters. (Donations gladly accepted)

Open ended

 

In The New Word, an ordinary British family gathers after dinner on the eve of their son's departure for service in World War I. At once poignant and hilarious, it features a family caught up in global events that will change their lives. 

Misalliance Repertory’s radio play production of James M. Barrie’s THE NEW WORD is now streaming 

Veterans of ShawChicago follow their acclaimed THE MUSIC CURE with a comedy-drama set in WWI era Britain, by the author of PETER PAN

Misalliance  Repertory Theatre, the company founded in 2020 by members of the former ShawChicago ensemble, has added a second audio play to their repertoire: James M. Barrie’s THE NEW WORD. Barrie’s 1915 play takes place on the night before a young man is leaving to join the army in WWI. It’s the last chance for a family to come together with some kind of understanding before the son leaves, possibly never to return. It is one of Barrie’s typically intimate and sympathetic studies of the tender commonplaces of daily domestic life, juxtaposed against the historic events of one of the deadliest conflicts in history.

 

Barrie’s 30-minute play is a short, but subtly insightful slice of life observing the impact of war on one family. The war has been underway for a year and 19-year-old Roger Torrance is about to assume his duties as a Second Lieutenant in the conflict. His rank of “Second Lieutenant” is “the new word” of the title. His father John Torrance says, “Till the other day we were so little of a military nation that most of us didn't know there were 2nd Lieutenants. And now, in thousands of homes we feel that there is nothing else. 2nd Lieutenant! It is like a new word to us.”

 

The play also explores the tensions in father-son and mother-son relationships of the period: how it was more acceptable for mothers and sons than for father and sons to express affection for each other. As Roger prepares to leave for the war, father and son re-evaluate that societal constraint, with John wryly observing, “We have, as it were, signed a compact, Roger, never to let on that we care for each other. As gentlemen we must stick to it.” Audiences will recognize the Barrie of PETER PAN in THE NEW WORD’s reflections on the nature of boys becoming men.

THE NEW WORD will be directed by Barbara Zahora 

Artistic Director of Oak Park Festival Theatre, and Professor and Co-Director of Acting at Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of Performing Arts. Zahora appeared frequently in productions at ShawChicago, where some of her favorite roles included Catherine in ARMS AND THE MAN, Hesione in HEARTBREAK HOUSE, the title roles in MAJOR BARBARA and CANDIDA, Maud and Carlotta in COWARD IN TWO KEYS, Nora in John Bull’s OTHER ISLAND, and Maggie in WHAT EVERY WOMAN KNOWS.

Richard Henzel, a veteran actor who appeared often with ShawChicago and other Chicago venues appears as the father, John Torrance. Henzel has performed his solo show, MARK TWAIN IN PERSON, throughout the U.S. 

Misalliance Artistic Director Mary Michell, a core member of ShawChicago, plays the wife and mother Ellen Torrance.

Roger, the son going off to war is played by Austyn Williamson, who has appeared in THE TEMPEST with Oak Park Festival Theatre and HENRY V for First Folio Theatre. Additionally, he was an understudy in RABBIT SUMMER at Redtwist Theatre) and in HOW TO DEFEND YOURSELF at Victory Gardens Theatre. 

Appearing as Roger’s Sister Emma is Pricilla Torres, whose recent credits include Georgie in SPIKE HEELS (The Studio Theatre Tierra Del Sol), Juliet in ROMEO AND JULIET (The Shakespeare Project of Chicago), Anne Bullen and Others in UNDISCOVERED COUNTRY for Oklahoma Shakespeare, where she also appeared in HENRY VIII.

The production team for THE NEW WORD also includes George Zahora (Sound Designer, recorded at Narwhal Studios Chicago), Daniel Millhouse (Managing Director and Production Coordinator), and Tom Bachtell (Graphic Design).

ABOUT MISALLIANCE REPERTORY THEATRE

Formed by former members of ShawChicago Theatre Company, which delighted Chicago audiences for 25 years, Misalliance Repertory Theatre is a group of artists collaborating to bring you the works of George Bernard Shaw and his literary kindred: hilarious and provocative plays, rooted in social commentary. As we explore these plays with our audiences, we hope to start a conversation about the kind of world we want to live in.

 

Additional information on the company is available at www.misalliancerepertory.org.

OPENING: LAST NIGHT IN KARAOKE TOWN MARCH 25 - APRIL 30th, 2022

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

THE FACTORY THEATER ANNOUNCES ITS LIVE RETURN OF 

THE 2020 HIT 

LAST NIGHT IN KARAOKE TOWN,

MARCH 25 - APRIL 30

The Factory Theater is Back with America’s First-Ever Tribute to Cleveland 

in a Return to Stage Remount of its Acclaimed Comedy 

Written by Mike Beyer and Kirk Pynchon and directed by Kim Boler

The Factory Theater,1623 W. Howard St., is pleased to announce the LIVE return of its hit production, Last Night in Karaoke Town, March 25-April 30. Written by Mike Beyer and Kirk Pynchon and directed by Kim Boler, the original run was ended during its run in spring 2020 due to COVID and the Factory is thrilled to remount the only known tribute to Cleveland in the history of American theater this fall to relaunch its space and to welcome its audiences back to Howard Street. Previews are Friday, March 18 and Saturday, March 19 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, March 20 at 3 p.m. 

The regular performance schedule is Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets for Last Night in Karaoke Town are $10 - $25 and may be purchased through the Box Office by calling 866-811-4111 or by visiting TheFactoryTheater.com. 

One of Cleveland’s oldest karaoke bars may have to close its doors forever, unless its long-time proprietor can convince the new building owner not to change it into a cider bar. With a neighborhood slowly gentrifying around them, the longtime patrons embark on a plan to keep their beloved watering hole intact. It all comes down to one final night, where the beer flows freely and the karaoke soars higher than Steve Perry’s vocals on “Don’t Stop Believin’.” 

Last Night in Karaoke Town during its original run was Jeff nominated and garnered rave reviews, including Katy Walsh of TheFourthWalsh.com who said “It’s a fun evening—Cleveland-style!” and Amy Munice of PictureThisPost.com who called it "A collection of diverse personalities that bond around music, shots and beer for whom you instantly feel affection." In addition to being Chicago Reader Recommended, Max Maller said Last Night in Karaoke Town is “A raucous showdown between the dual opposing forces of innovation and authenticity.”

The Cast for the 2022 Production includes Wendy Hayne* (Diana), Ashley Yates* (Shannon), Genna Ellis* (Audrey), Gabriella Fernandez* (Lily), Abbie Warhus* (Fran), Jillian Leff* (Shawn), Brittney Brown* (Evelyn), Vic Kuligoski+ (Brad), Michael Jones+ (Ted), Bob Pantalone+ (Miles), Chase Wheaton-Werle+ (Kenny), Amber Washington* (Avery), Hilary Sanzel* (Diana U/S), Tuesdai B. Perry*^ (Avery U/S), Theresa Liebhart* (Lily/Audrey U/S), Lizzy Mosher* (Fran/Evelyn/Shawn U/S), Marshall Kious+ (Ted/Miles U/S), Marisa Lerman* (Shannon U/S).

Pronoun Key: + (he/him/his); * (she/her/hers); ^ (they, them, theirs). = (any with respect)

ABOUT MIKE BEYER

Mike Beyer is a current ensemble member at the Factory Theater and has been with the company since its inception. He is the author/co-author of several past Factory plays, including White Trash Wedding and a Funeral (with Bill Havle), Hey! Dancin’! (with Kirk Pynchon), Hey! Dancin’! Hey! Musical! (also with Kirk Pynchon), Dirty Diamonds, and Herb Stabler: Wandering Spirit. Beyer has also appeared in several Factory productions, and makes his home in Chicago. 

ABOUT KIRK PYNCHON

Kirk Pynchon is a Factory Theater emeritus ensemble member, having been with the Factory since the early '90s. Over the years he has written several successful plays for the Factory, including Man Card, Poppin' and Lockdown, Poppin' and Lockdown 2: Dance the Right Thing, Hey! Dancin'! (with Mike Beyer), and Hey! Dancin'! Hey! Musical! (also with Mike Beyer). Pynchon lives in Los Angeles and is the Managing Editor of a small media firm. He is also a co-host of the indie podcasts Music Raygun and Nostalgicast.

ABOUT KIM BOLER 

Kim Boler has been an ensemble member of the Factory Theater since 2015 and will be making her Chicago directorial debut with Last Night in Karaoke Town. She has also appeared as an actor in numerous Factory productions: Zombie Broads, Jenny & Jenni, The Last Big Mistake and Fight City.

ABOUT THE FACTORY THEATER

For more than 25 years, the Factory has created its shows from scratch, doing exactly the kind of theater they wanted to do. From writing workshops to the closing night bash, Factory shows are a unique experience that fits its exacting standards: original, bold, and full-tilt. Its shameless ensemble are ambassadors of a good time, making certain that Chicago remains heartily entertained.

OPENING: LA CAGE AUX FOLLES STARRING “RUPAUL DRAG RACE’S” GINGER MINJ* VIA MUSIC THEATER WORKS MARCH 10 - APRIL 3, 2022

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar  

MUSIC THEATER WORKS ANNOUNCES CAST FOR LA CAGE AUX FOLLES STARRING “RUPAUL DRAG RACE’S” GINGER MINJ*, MARCH 10 - APRIL 3, 2022

AT THE NORTH SHORE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 

Tickets Now on Sale for the Spring 2022 Production that is so Much Fun, it will be Hard to Keep Anything Straight, Directed by Producing Artistic Director Kyle Dougan+/^ and Music Directed by Kyra Leigh*, Choreography by Christopher Chase Carter+ and Costumes by “Project Runway’s” Justin LeBlanc+

Pronoun Key: + (he/him/his); * (she/her/hers); ^ (they, them, theirs). = (any with respect)

Music Theater Works is proud to announce the cast for its spring production of the Tony-Award winning La Cage Aux Folles,  music and lyrics by Jerry Herman+, book by Harvey Fierstein+, directed by Producing Artistic Director Kyle Dougan+/^ and music directed by Kyra Leigh* with choreography by Christopher Chase Carter+. La Cage Aux Folles performance schedule includes a preview performance Thursday, March 10 at 1 p.m. with press opening Friday, March 11 at 8 p.m. The running time is currently two hours and 40 minutes including one 15-minute intermission. The performance schedule is Wednesdays at 1 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m. Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are now on sale at $19.50 - $106 with Meet and Greet with Ginger Minj options and discounted 2022 subscriptions at MusicTheaterWorks.com.

The winner of six Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Score, Best Book and Best Revival of a Musical, La Cage Aux Folles is a night full of belly-laughs. Based on the hit French farce that also inspired West End and international productions and Hollywood’s “The Birdcage,” this Broadway smash has a hilarious book by Harvey Fierstein (Torch Song Trilogy and Kinky Boots) and a score by the king of show tunes, Jerry Herman (Hello, Dolly! and Mame).  With “RuPaul’s Drag Race” headliner, Ginger Minj*, as “Albin” and costumes by “Project Runway” designer Justin LeBlanc+, The Music Theater Works rendition of this classic is guaranteed to be one of the most entertaining productions of the year. The theatre will be transformed into La Cage’s elegant St. Tropez nightclub complete with an onstage bar and surprises at every turn. And when a non-traditional family’s future in-laws come for a visit, La Cage shines the spotlight on family, love, commitment and drag as the truth comes out in the wildest of ways. 

The cast of La Cage Aux Folles includes Ginger Minj*, (Albin); Jason Richards+ (Georges); Christopher Ratliff+, (Jean-Michel); Dane Strange+, (Jacob); Thomas E. Squires+, (Dindon/Renaud); Caron Buinis*, (Marie Dindon/Mme. Renaud); Honey West*, (Jacqueline/Albin understudy); Anthony Whitaker+, (Francis); Darryl D’Angelo Jones+, (Tabarro); Daniel Hurst+, (Chantel); Matthew Weidenbener+, (Hanna); Gabe Kohlbeck+, (Mercedes); Brian Selcik+, (Bitelle), Isaiah Engram+, (Angelique) , Jordon Taylor* (Phaedra) and Alicia Berneche*, (Marie Dindon and Jacquline understudy); Ariel Triunfo* (Anne/Cagelle understudy) and Riley Vogel+ (Jean Michel /Cagelle understudy).

The La Cage Aux Folles production team includes Producing Artistic Director Kyle A. Dougan+/^, (director); Kyra Leigh*, (music director); Christopher Chase Carter+, (choreography); Tommy Novak^, (assistant director); Scott Davis*, (scenic design); Justin LeBlanc+, (costume design); Andrew Meyers+, (lighting design) and Hayley E. Wallenfeldt*, (props design). 

Health Safety Procedure:

ALL GUESTS will be required to wear a face mask regardless of vaccination status and to present their photo ID with proof of full vaccination from COVID-19 with an approved vaccine.

Please visit https://www.musictheaterworks.com/health-safety-procedures/ for more information.

 

ABOUT GINGER MINJ*, “Albin”

Long before she held court as a finalist on season 7 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” Ginger Minj reigned as The Comedy Queen of The South from her homebase in Orlando, Florida. The self-professed “nicest bitch you’ll ever meet” cites classic funny ladies Carol Burnett, Lucille Ball and Dolly Parton as her idols. “Anyone who can pile three wigs on their head, squeeze their body into a beaded and rhinestoned gown and serve humor alongside the glamour is my hero,” says Minj. That’s why she coined the term “Glamour Toad'' to describe her unique persona. 

In 2016, Ginger released her debut album, “Sweet Tea,” which was soon followed by years spent touring the world and performing showtunes for Broadway royalty on national television. With more than 200,000 global streams, Ginger Minj went on to star in the 2018 Netflix feature film, “Dumplin’” (Jennifer Anniston, Dove Cameron) and in June 2021 released her sophomore album “Gummy Bear,” which peaked at #2 on the iTunes Comedy Album Charts. She then followed up in September 2021 with her third studio album, “Double Wide Diva,” which peaked at #10 on the iTunes Country Album Charts.

Ginger Minj was a finalist of Season 6 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” and is continuously working on exciting projects to come in 2022 including a new book entitled “Southern Fried Sass” which tells her life story through stories and family recipes.

ABOUT PRODUCING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR KYLE DOUGAN+/^, director

Kyle Dougan worked as casting associate and events manager for Music Theater Works, and rejoined the company in 2018 as Producing Artistic Director Designate, following a two-year stint in academia. He relocated to Chicago in 1999, after completing his Masters in Musical Theatre at Goldsmiths, University of London, where he produced and directed a workshop of new musicals. He also stage managed a series of new musicals with Perfect Pitch: New Musicals at Trafalgar Studios. In the Chicago area Kyle has directed, associate-directed and assistant-directed shows for Chamber Opera Chicago, Theatre at the Center, Big Noise Theater and The Music Theatre Company. He has served as artistic producer of a series of new musicals with Midwest New Musicals, as executive director of FWD Theatre Project and as co-owner of Style Theatrical Casting, a professional casting company in Chicago.

ABOUT KYRA LEIGH*, music director

Kyra Leigh is thrilled to be making her debut with Music Theater Works! Chicago acting credits include Porchlight Revisits Nunsense (Porchlight Music Theatre}; The Things I Could Never Tell Steven (American debut at PrideArts);Love Serving Love (Valiant Theatre); Sundown, Yellow Moon (Raven Theatre); music directing credits include HeadOver Heels (Kokandy Productions); She’s also composed Transfigure, a full concept album.

CHRISTOPHER CHASE CARTER+, choreographer

Christopher Chase Carter is the artistic director of Mercury Theater Chicago. Before moving to Chicago, Carter studied in Michigan, where he began his theater career performing, directing and choreographing award-winning community and college productions. He attended Grand Valley State University achieving his bachelor of arts while on scholarship. After graduating, Carter became an active participant in the Chicago dance and theater community. In 2019, he directed and choreographed the pilot production of “Scottsboro Boys'' working closely with Musical Theater International (MTI) and Susan Stroman at the International Thespian Festival. He followed that up by directing a history-making production of “Legally Blonde” at Northwestern University. He has been honored with many scholarships throughout his career. In 2005, he moved to Los Angeles where he was awarded a scholarship to the Debbie Allen Dance Academy. After training at DADA, he returned to Michigan to finish his degree. He was one of four dancers chosen for a scholarship to study abroad in Kingston, Jamaica to further his training and education at The Edna Manley School. After graduating, this inspired Cater to start his own scholarship, The Christopher Carter Arts Scholarship, to help underprivileged artists pursue their dreams. With a true passion for creativity and art, Carter is excited about the future of theater and looks forward to being part of the evolution of performance and artistry.

ABOUT MUSIC THEATER WORKS

Music Theater Works is a resident professional not-for-profit music theater founded in 1980. During its 40-year history it has presented more than 150 productions and intimate presentations. Music Theater Works is a professional theater company whose mission is to present works for the musical stage including historic repertoire, revitalizing the Golden Age of Broadway and earlier works, celebrating the Great American Songbook and introducing modern classics. The company uses collaborations among theaters, other artistic disciplines, social service agencies, local business, educational institutions and others to create music theater for the 21st century.

Audiences know that at Music Theater Works they will experience musical theater, which is often unavailable on the stages of commercial theaters and opera houses, in beautiful, colorful modern productions with professional artists and live orchestra.

Music Theater Works is proud to announce the cast for its spring production of the Tony-Award winning La Cage Aux Folles,  music and lyrics by Jerry Herman+, book by Harvey Fierstein+, directed by Producing Artistic Director Kyle Dougan+/^ and music directed by Kyra Leigh* with choreography by Christopher Chase Carter+. La Cage Aux Folles performance schedule includes a preview performance Thursday, March 10 at 1 p.m. with press opening Friday, March 11 at 8 p.m. The running time is currently two hours and 40 minutes including one 15-minute intermission. The performance schedule is Wednesdays at 1 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m. Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are now on sale at $19.50 - $106 with Meet and Greet with Ginger Minj options and discounted 2022 subscriptions at MusicTheaterWorks.com.

La Cage Aux Folles performance schedule is 

Preview: Thursday, March 10 at 1 p.m.

Press Night: Friday, March 11 at 8 p.m.

Saturday, March 12 at 2 p.m.

Saturday, March 12 at 8 p.m.

Sunday, March 13 at 2 p.m.

Wednesday, March 16 at 1 p.m.

Friday, March 18 at 8 p.m.

Saturday, March 19 at 2 p.m.

Saturday, March 19 at 8 p.m.

Sunday, March 20 at 2 p.m.

Wednesday, March 23 at 1 p.m.

Friday, March 25 at 8 p.m.

Saturday, March 26 at 2 p.m.

Saturday, March 26 at 8 p.m

Sunday, March 27 at 2 p.m.

Wednesday, March 30 at 1 p.m.

Friday, April 1 at 8 p.m.

Saturday, April 2 at 2 p.m.

Saturday, April 2 at 8 p.m.

Sunday, April 3 at 2 p.m.

Chicago premiere of Stand Up If You’re Here Tonight Via American Blues Theater at Theater Wit March 18 – April 9, 2022

 

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

American Blues Theater announces

Stand Up If You’re Here Tonight

written and directed by John Kolvenbach

featuring American Blues Artistic Affiliate Jim Ortlieb

March 18-April 9, 2022

**American Blues Theater honors healthcare workers, first responders, educators & support staff, and military personnel with complimentary and deeply discounted tickets. American Blues proudly supports NAMI Chicago and SAMHSA.**

American Blues Theater, under the continued leadership of Artistic Director Gwendolyn Whiteside, announces the Chicago premiere of Stand Up If You’re Here Tonight, written and directed by John Kolvenbach, featuring American Blues Theater Artistic Affiliate Jim Ortlieb. Stand Up If You’re Here Tonight runs March 18-April 9, 2022 at Theater Wit,1229 W. Belmont Ave. Tickets are available at (773) 975-8150 and www.americanbluestheater.com. I'll be out for the press performance March 19th. In the meantime check back early and often.

“You’ve tried everything. Yoga. Acupuncture. Therapy. You floated in salt water in the pitch black dark. You juiced, you cleansed, you journaled, you cut, you volunteered. You got a mattress that fitted itself to your fetal form. You ate only RINDS for three days and nights. You reached out, you looked within. You have tried. And yet here you are.”

So begins a new play by Olivier-nominated playwright John Kolvenbach in its Chicago premiere. American Blues Theater Artistic Affiliate Jim Ortlieb delivers a tour-de-force performance as a man desperate for connection, bent by isolation, and deeply in love with the audience itself.

Artistic Director Gwendolyn Whiteside comments, “We’re thrilled to present the Chicago premiere of John Kolvenbach’s latest work. He brilliantly captured our shared pandemic experience and given an injection of hope. We couldn’t be happier by the return of Artistic Affiliate Jim Ortlieb to our stage.”

 The creative team includes Michael Trudeau* (scenic / lighting design / TD), Rachel West* (master electrician), and Shandee Vaughan* (SM & Production Manager).

*Denotes Artistic Affiliate of American Blues Theater

About the Artists 

John Kolvenbach and Jim Ortlieb previously worked together Boston on Half ’n Half ’n Half (now titled The Marriage Play), for which Jim was awarded a 2012 IRNE Award for best lead actor. Most recently, they worked together on Stand Up If You’re Here Tonight, which opened in the summer of 2021 at The Harbor Stage and, simultaneously, in Los Angeles with VS. and Circle X.

John Kolvenbach he/him (playwright / director) On the West End: Love Song (Olivier nomination, Best New Comedy, directed by John Crowley) and On an Average Day (with Woody Harrelson and Kyle MacLachlan, also directed by Mr. Crowley.) Love Song premiered at Steppenwolf in 2006, directed by Austin Pendelton. It has been produced in New York, Zurich, Melbourne, Sydney, Wellington, Seoul and Rome. There have been over fifty productions in the U.S. Average Day was produced in Los Angeles by VS. (with Johnny Clark and Stef Tovar) and in Chicago by VS. and Route 66. Average Day has been produced in Tel Aviv, Buenos Aires, and Lisbon. Goldfish premiered at South Coast Repertory, then at the Magic Theatre in San Francisco, directed by Loretta Greco. The play was done in repertory with Mrs. Whitney, which was directed by the author. Most recently, Reel to Reel received its premiere at the Magic. Sister Play received its premiere at The Harbor Stage Company and at the Magic, both productions directed by the author. Stand Up If You’re Here Tonight opened in the summer of 2021 at The Harbor Stage and, simultaneously, in Los Angeles with VS. and Circle X. Other plays include: Fabuloso (premiered at WHAT, subsequent productions in San Juan and Zurich, in Spanish and Swiss German), Bank Job (Amphibian Stages) and Marriage Play or Half ‘n Half ‘n Half (Merrimack Rep.) Film: Clear Winter Noon, an original screenplay, was selected for the Blacklist in 2008.

 Artistic Affiliate Jim Ortlieb returns to American Blues Theater where he previously appeared in the title role in Scapin.

Jim Ortlieb he/him (Man) is a proud Artistic Affiliate of American Blues Theater and a member of the rare breed of middle-class actors. After studying with William Esper and Kathryn Gately at Rutgers University, Jim was invited by Lois Hall to teach in Chicago at Lois Hall Studio, a mainstay of professional studios in the 1980s. It was because of Lois that Jim Ortlieb was welcomed into the Chicago theater community.

When she retired, Jim renamed the school, Chicago Actors Project, which remained vibrant until 1989. During the ‘80s and onward, Jim acted with many Chicago theaters, including The Goodman (Candide), Pheasant Run (Sorrows of Stephen), Organic (M the Murderer), Wisdom Bridge (Only Kidding), Northlight (All in the Timing), and Steppenwolf (Picasso at the Lapine Agile, The Man Who Came to Dinner), Touchstone (Racing Demon, Indiscretions), Gare St. Lazare Players (Hughie), Bailiwick (An Uncertain Hour by Nick Patricca) and as a member of American Blues Theater he played the title role in Scapin. Ortlieb’s new found family of Chicago artists lead him all over the world. When Bob Meyer of the Gare St. Lazare Players moved to Europe to spend more time with his son, Charlie, Jim traveled there to collaborate on numerous productions with Bob and the extensive group of expatriated English speaking artists in Paris, Ireland, and England such as Hughie, The Homecoming, Faith Healer, and Requiem for a Heavyweight. Malcolm Ewen brought Jim to the Weston Playhouse in Vermont where he did Guys and Dolls, The Mikado, Candide, and Tartuffe. In the midst of the IATSE strike in 1999, Jim, his wife and two children moved to Los Angeles where they have lived ever since. Other acting credits include on Broadway in Aaron Sorkin’s The Farnsworth Invention, Of Mice and Men with James Franco and Chris O’Dowd directed by Anna Shapiro, and Guys and Dolls with Lauren Graham and Oliver Platt, the first National Tour of Billy Elliot the musical for two years in Chicago and in Toronto. In 2012 Ortlieb was nominated for an IRNE award for his lead performance in Half ’n Half ’n Half (now titled The Marriage Play) by John Kolvenbach. That relationship continues through today with Stand Up If You’re Here Tonight! His film and TV credits include: Drunkboat with John Malkovich and John Goodman and directed by Bob Meyer, Flatliners, Home Alone, A Mighty Wind, Contagion, Chain Reaction, The Onion Movie, Latter Days, Bug, and Magnolia. His television credits include Station 19, American Horror Story, 911: Lone Star, How to Get Away With Murder, Grey’s Anatomy, West Wing, The Closer, Roswell, Six Feet Under, Gabriel’s Fire, and The Shield. Jim has done more than 75 commercials and voiceovers in his 45 years as an actor all of which has helped pay the bills. Both of Jim’s daughter returned to Chicago where they both graduated from DePaul University. Grainne (grahn-yah) Ortlieb, a Theatre School grad, remains in Chicago with the community the whole family calls home.

Schedule:   

Dates: March 18 – April 9, 2022                 

Thursdays: 7:30pm

Fridays: 7:30pm

Saturdays: 4:30pm (except, no show March 19) and 7:30pm

Sundays: 2:30pm

Additional performance on Wednesday, April 6 at 7:30pm.

 Location: Theater Wit, 1229 W Belmont Ave in Chicago

 Ticket prices: $25-$45, plus $2.75 Theater Wit venue fees

Box Office: Buy online at www.americanbluestheater.com or (773) 975-8150

Group Sales discounts and Blue Card Memberships available now by calling (773) 654-3103 or visiting  www.americanbluestheater.com.

 

About American Blues

Winner of the American Theatre Wing’s prestigious National Theatre Company Award, American Blues Theater is a premier arts organization with an intimate environment that patrons, artists, and all Chicagoans call home. American Blues Theater explores the American identity through the plays it produces and communities it serves.

 

The diverse and multi-generational artists have established the second-oldest professional Equity Ensemble theater in Chicago. As of 2022, the theater and artists received 221 Joseph Jefferson Awards and nominations that celebrate excellence in Chicago theater and 40 Black Theatre Alliance Awards. The artists are honored with Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize nominations, Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, Emmy Awards and numerous other accolades.

REVIEW: Victory Gardens Theater To Stream Final Five Live Performances of Queen of the Night March 9–13, 2022

ChiIL Live And Streaming Shows On Our Radar   

Victory Gardens Theater to live-stream

Queen of the Night

with an innovative pilot program

Five live performances to be streamed

March 9–13, 2022

REVIEW: 

By Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

Here at ChiIL Live Shows we're loving the trend of theatres live streaming part of their run for those out of town or otherwise unable to sit indoor with a crowd. I caught opening night and Terry Guest (Ty) and André Teamer (Stephen) are wonderful in this poignant LGBTQ parenting adventure. 

Gay, young adult, Ty is hilariously out of his element in the wilderness with his father, but trying to embrace the experience and unpack some baggage. His father, Stephen doesn't stoop to the usual cliche of working class father of a gay son. 

Though they have a complicated and somewhat negative past history, he has evolved and is trying hard to bond with his adult son. I also love the intimacy of Victory Gardens Theater's 109 seat, upstairs Richard Christiansen Theater, named for beloved, long time Chicago critic, who passed away in January at age 90. Shout out to the set designer and sound designer for creating a delightful, overgrown wilderness that's exciting to escape to. 

Parenting children who don't turn out like you is complicated. Divorce and remarriage is difficult. Bridging not only the generation gap but the chasm between gay and heteronormative cultural can be daunting. Navigating relationships with your biological family as adults can be intense, and Queen of the Night explores this all too human experience in a tender, funny, heartfelt way. There's something especially dynamic and compelling about a 2 person show, and Queen of the Night nails it. Recommended. 

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

Victory Gardens Theater, in partnership with Assemble Stream, will live-stream the final five performances of its critically acclaimed production of Queen of the Night. The pilot program includes cameras that have been mounted in the theater and throughout the set for superior live-stream capabilities and making the live performance simultaneously available to patrons at home and in the theater. This is the first program of its kind in Chicago.

"We are excited to be partnering with Assemble this season especially after watching their work on Lynn Nottage’s Clyde’s on Broadway. With livestream performances, we will be able to reach a broader audience than ever before, and share work by Chicago artists with theater-lovers around the world who may never have the opportunity to visit Victory Gardens in person," comments Artistic Director Ken-Matt Martin.

A divorced father and his queer son head to the woods of southeastern Texas to relive the camping trips of earlier, easier days. But even without cell service, certain things are inescapable. Playwright travis tate explores masculinity and queerness through the lens of multi-generational Blackness, offering a hilarious, heart-rending family portrait about reckoning with the wilderness of a shared past, while facing an uncertain future.

Written by travis tate and directed by Victory Gardens Artistic Director Ken-Matt Martin, Queen of the Night features Terry Guest (Ty) and André Teamer (Stephen). The live-stream performance options will be available March 9-12, 2022 at 7:30pm Central, and March 13, 2022 at 3pm Central. Streaming tickets are $24 and can be purchased at https://victorygardens.assemblestream.com/.