HELP OUT: The Actors Gymnasium Invites the Community to Celebrate 30 Years Under the Big Top

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Exclusive Event with Midnight Circus 

Honors the Past and Supports the Future

Here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows, we've adored both The Actors Gymnasium and Midnight Circus for decades. My own son and daughter grew up doing circus arts and were cast in numerous Actors Gymnasium youth circus shows over the years. Come on out and celebrate 30 years of AG and help out at the same time. The celebration isn’t just about looking back—it’s about paying it forward. All proceeds from the evening benefit the Actors Gymnasium's Student Scholarship Fund, ensuring that young artists can access their world-class training—regardless of financial circumstances.

The Actors Gymnasium, one of the nation’s premier circus and performing arts schools, invites the community to its 30th Birthday Bash happening Friday, September 19, 2025, at Tallmadge Park in Evanston, IL, under the big top!

This one-night-only event features an exclusive performance by Midnight Circus, followed by a birthday bash with drinks, dancing, and surprise performances—all set under an iconic circus tent. 

“For 30 years, we’ve helped people learn to fly,” says Murphy Monroe, AG Executive Director, “This event celebrates our history by investing in our future—through the students whose talent, drive, and potential inspire us every day.”

Evening Highlights Include:

VIP Reception (6:00 PM): Early entry to the show, drinks, bites, alumni mingle, and more

Midnight Circus Exclusive Performance (7:30 PM)

Birthday Bash (9:00–11:00 PM): Live music, exclusive 30th anniversary beer from Illuminated Brew Works, and a meet-and-greet with Midnight Circus performers, AG alumni, teen ensemble, and more!

Tickets are available now at https://givebutter.com/AG30thBirthdayBash

Can’t attend? Make a tax-deductible donation to the Scholarship Fund at checkout

Actor’s Gymnasium serves more than 1,000 students annually and is a cultural cornerstone of Evanston’s arts scene. This celebration is a chance to support their future—one daring performance at a time.

About Actors Gymnasium

Founded in 1995, the Actors Gymnasium is one of the nation's premier circus and performing arts training centers. Known for its original and daring circus-theatre productions, Actors Gym teaches thousands of students and welcomes tens of thousands of spectators annually.

Actors Gym partners with theaters nationwide and is proud to be a part of many of the nation's best physical theater productions. The Gym's Professional Circus Training Program is not just a training ground but a robust pipeline for career circus/theatre artists. These artists, who have honed their skills at the Gym, go on to grace stages and circus rings in Chicago and worldwide.

Actors Gym provides award-winning entertainment for corporate events, parades, halftime shows, and other special events. It also serves as the exclusive circus performing arts training provider for Lookingglass Theatre. Our collaborations with Lookingglass Theatre include Lookingglass Alice, Icarus, The Little Prince, Moby Dick, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Hardtimes, Luna Muda and Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.

Under the leadership of the legendary Circus-Ring-of-Fame artist and performer Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi, the Gym is committed to breaking down barriers in circus arts. This commitment not only makes circus arts more accessible but also showcases the power of circus to expand human potential, inspiring all who witness it.

OPENING: CIRCUS QUIXOTIC Via The Actors Gymnasium at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center in Evanston February 18, 2023 – March 26, 2023

ChiIL Mama’s ChiIL Picks List 

The Actors Gymnasium presents

CIRCUS QUIXOTIC

An original circus theatre production written and directed by David & Kerry Catlin With circus choreography by Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi

February 18, 2023 – March 26, 2023 at the Noyes Cultural Arts Center in Evanston

Recommended for ages 5+ to adult

The Actors Gymnasium has long been a favorite of ours and is a true Chicago treasure. My own son and daughter were cast in their spring and fall youth circus shows for years, and had a wonderful experience there. I'll be out to review on the 19th, with my son, Dugan, who is soon to graduate from Northwestern University with a Theatre Arts degree in performance.

The Actors Gymnasium is proud to announce CIRCUS QUIXOTIC, an original circus theatre production adapted and directed by David and Kerry Catlin, with circus choreography by Artistic Director Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi. The show features Michel Rodriguez Cintra, Amanda Raquel Martinez, Danielle Gennaoui, Ryan Huemmer, Julian Hester, as well as members of the Gym’s Teen Ensemble.

CIRCUS QUIXOTIC is part of Actors Gym's annual Winter Circus tradition, which is one of Chicago's most popular circus shows.

Adapted from Miguel de Cervantes’s Don Quixote, CIRCUS QUIXOTIC is an idealistic, unrealistic, and impractical journey into the mad and noble imagination of an unlikely knight and his dim, yet steadfast squire. Dare to dream of defeating diresome dragons, overcoming evil enchanters, toppling giants disguised as windmills, and bashing the book burners on this hilarious attempt to bring chivalry back into the world!

Opening and press night: Saturday, February 18, 2023

Performances are Saturdays at 4:30 PM and 7:30 PM, and Sundays at 3:00 PM

Circus Quixotic will be participating in Chicago Theatre Week February 18 - 26th. Discounted tickets will be available with code CTW23 during checkout.

Adapter/Director: David and Kerry Catlin Assistant Director: Da Eun Yoon

Circus Choreographer: Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi Production Associate: Griffin DiStasi

Stage Manager: Amalie Vega

Production Manager: Erin Gautille

Rigging Designer: Isaac Shoepp Costume Designer: Sully Radtke Lighting Designer: Daphne Agosin Sound Designer: Grover Hollway Composer: Kevin O’Donnell

Tickets start at $35 for adults and $20 for students and can be purchased online at www.actorsgymnasium.org/shows

Not recommended for children under 5.

All performances are at Noyes Cultural Arts Center at 927 Noyes St., Evanston, IL.

About the Artists

Michel Rodriguez Cintra (Quixote): Michel Rodriguez Cintra is a Cuban born dancer, choreographer, acrobat, actor and teacher. He graduated from Escuela Nacional de Arte (National School of Arts) in Havana, Cuba. Upon graduation he was chosen to join Danza Contemporanea de Cuba where he became Principal Dancer and toured internationally. After moving to Chicago in 2008 Rodriguez danced with Hedwig Dances, where he performed in addition to choreographing his own works on the company. In 2013 Michel became an ensemble member with Lucky Plush productions, generating multiple roles in various works in their signature devised dance-theater style, and touring nationally and internationally. Michel was a founding member of The Cambrians where he performed and co-coreographed and toured nationally. He has been seen as a guest artist with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Concert Dance Inc, Khecari and Chicago Moving Company. Other choreographic credits include Solus for Visceral Dance Company, Dancing in the Parks, and Lit & Luz Festival Chicago- Mexico City, LatinX Chicago Arts Festival, The Harvest Chicago Contemporary Dance Festival, and at the Latino Artist Festival at Northwestern University. Rodriguez performed in the physical play Atalanta for the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival in 2019. Most recently he was seen with Lookingglass Theater as the White Rabbit in Lookingglass Alice. At The Dance Center of Columbia College Rodriguez was an Adjunct Faculty member, and is currently part of the faculty at the School of Theater and Dance at Northern Illinois University. Other accolades include being a finalist of the A.W.A.R.D. Show Chicago, by the Joyce Foundation, and he was named one of The Men of 2010 in dance by Timeout Chicago. In October 2013, he was the recipient of the prestigious 3Arts Award and was featured in Dance Magazine’s 25 to watch 2014. Michel joined the Actors Gymnasium family in 2015 as an instructor and he’s very very excited to play Cervantes/Quijote in Circus Quixotic

Amanda Raquel Martinez (Sancha): Amanda Raquel Martinez is thrilled to be back in her circus home for Winter Circus with this dream team! Chicago credits include: Somewhere Over the Border (Teatro Vista) American Mariachi (Goodman Theatre); American Bottom; 33 to Nothing (A Red Orchid Theatre); Ghost Quartet* (Black Button Eyes Productions); La Ruta (Steppenwolf); Big Lake, Big City (Lookingglass Theatre); Cinderella at the Theater of Potatoes (Hypocrites); As You Like It; Love, Loss and What I Wore (First Folio Theatre); For the Love Of (Pride Films and Plays); Even Longer and Farther Away (The New Colony); El Stories: The Holiday Train (Waltzing Mechanics.) Regional Credits include: Pirates of Penzance (Skirball Theatre Center); Resurrecting Wildflowers (HERE:Arts Center); Frankenstein (The McCarter Theatre in association with Lookingglass Theatre) Pirates of Penzance (Pasadena Playhouse; Skirball Center); Kitty Hawk (Adrienne Arsht Center); Pirates of Penzance; The Mikado (Olney Theatre Center.) *She is a recipient of a Joseph Jefferson Award for her role in this production.

Danielle Gennaoui (Dutchess): Since she was a little tater tot in St. Louis, MO, she loved to direct plays in her parents’ basement, climb every tree in sight, and spin around in circles until she fell over. Fortunately, not much has changed (though the falling over is fewer and further between).

Danielle began training at The Actors Gymnasium in 2008 and immediately fell in love with Circus. Danielle graduated with Bachelor of Arts in Theatre directing and performance from the Jordan College of Fine Arts at Butler University and is a graduate of Aloft Circus Arts Full-Time Training Program (Major: Lyra). In addition to working with Actors Gym, Danielle has been especially fortunate to perform, coach, and create with: Chicago Center for Dynamic Circus,Aloft Circus Arts, Circus Harmony, MSA & Circus Arts, Gravity Aerial Arts, Thodos Dance Chicago, Apple Tree Theatre, Sussurus Performance Group, and The Alexandrinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia. Danielle is incredibly grateful to be a part of Circus Quixotic and honored to collaborate with such an inspiring group of artists!

Ryan Huemmer (Duke): Ryan is an Actor-Acrobat who’s elated to be sharing the mystical journey of Circus Quixotic and performing in the space he has come to call his Chicago circus home! As a performer Ryan believes in utilizing extreme physicality not only to add a healthy dose of spectacle, but also to broaden the accessibility of his storytelling through the universal language of movement. Recent credits include, Lookingglass Alice (Lookingglass), Red Summer (MPAACT), Frankenstein (Oil Lamp Theater), and The Imagination Circus (The Galaxie). Ryan is a graduate of The Actor’s Gymnasium Pro-Training Program and Boston University’s School of Theatre. Huge thanks to David, Kerry, Sylvia, Griffin and the whole cast for fostering an incredibly playful, spontaneous and supportive environment to grow this story in! IG: @fly.guy.ry

Julian Hester (Barber): Julian is an Equity Jeff Nominated and SAG Award winning* actor based in Chicago. He’s a current Pro-Trainer Conservatory clown and Acro at Actors Gymnasium. Theater credits include productions at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Windy City Playhouse, Writers Theatre, Theatre Wit, and The Artistic Home Ensemble- company member there since 2015- where favorite credits include Jeff nominated work in The Late Henry Moss*, and Konstantin in The Seagull. Directing work includes The Pavilion and Malapert Love at the Den Theatre with Artistic Home. On TV he can currently be seen as Dr. Kendall Murray on Power- Book IV, and in reruns on Chicago Fire/Med/PD as Sorenstein. Film: Amazon’s King Rat, and Trial of the Chicago 7*. He is represented by Paonessa Talent Agency.

About Actors Gym

The Actors Gymnasium is one of the nation’s premiere circus and performing arts training centers, led by master teacher and Circus Ring of Fame artist Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi. Founded in 1995, it provides educational programs for students of all ages and levels, and produces original and daring circus-theatre.The Actors Gym also offers award-winning entertainment for corporate and other special events.

Actors Gym is proud to partner with many performing arts organizations throughout Chicagoland and serves as the exclusive provider of circus performing arts training for Lookingglass Theatre.

OPENING: All the Time in the World at Actors Gymnasium Feb 16 – Mar 24, 2019

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List:

Family Friendly Theatre/Circus Arts

All the Time in the World

Actors Gymnasium

Feb 16 – Mar 24, 2019

Actors Gymnasium (AG) has long been a favorite of ours for world class circus arts and stellar shows. My teens have both been cast in AG fall and spring youth circus shows for years. Their annual winter circus show is the biggest of the year, pairing professional actors with the teen performance team for breathtaking original works. We're especially eager to catch All the Time in the World, written and directed by the multitalented Kerry Catlin. Don't miss this! 

All the Time in the World is a circus about time. Trudy is a young girl who lives a hectic life with her very busy family, and who also has an imaginary friend.

When Trudy’s imaginary friend is suddenly too busy to play with her and leaves to join the circus, she and her parents enter the circus paracosm to find more time and reunite Trudy and her imaginary friend.

All the Time in the World is part of our annual Winter Circus tradition, which has been loved by thousands of people for the past decade. It’s one of Chicago’s most popular circus shows and features some of the city’s top performers and designers!

Director and Writer: Kerry Catlin
Circus Choreographer: Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi
Production Manager: Catherine Allen
Stage Manager: Jamie Crothers
Composer/Sound Designer: Kevin O’Donnell
Costume Designer: Sully Ratke
Lighting Designer: Kristof Janezic
Dance Choreographer: Tracy Walsh
Rigging Designer: Isaac Schoepp
Asst. Stage Manager: Damian Portz
Production Assistants: Griffin DiStasi & Emma Isaacs

Click here for tickets and more show information.

Noyes Cultural Arts Center
927 Noyes St.
Evanston, IL 60201
Children’s/Family, Circus

OPENING: Almost Wonderland, Actors Gymnasium's Fall Youth Circus November 3rd -11th for 6 Shows Only

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List:

Almost Wonderland

Here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows, we've been huge fans of the excellent circus arts productions and classes at Actors Gymnasium for years. My own teens were in their youth circus shows the past 4 years, and only stopped this fall because they were cast in school shows and cheer that conflicted. They're hoping to audition for the spring youth circus. 

These fun, high energy productions are a joy to see, and partner kids with top talent in the industry. As I review professional shows all over town, my kids often come as my +1, and it's been great to discover how many names they recognize in shows as people they've worked with at Actors Gymnasium. Quite a few actors, directors, costumers and more, are familiar names and faces to my teens now. Come on out and see the next generation of Chicago's circus artists in a whimsical all ages show. Two weekends, six shows only!

About Almost Wonderland:

Be immersed in multiple worlds in this new spin on beloved children’s classic tales created by Sammy Zeisel and Jason Clark, Almost Wonderland.

Dalice (they/them) doesn’t quite fit in, especially at school. Dropped into a fantasy world reminiscent of Wonderland, Oz and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, with the aid of a magical book, they discover that they’re not the only ones that are struggling.

This show is for all kids, even the kids at heart! 

PERFORMANCES NOV. 3 - NOV. 11

Saturdays at 4:30p and 7:30p

Sundays at 3p

Click here to order your tickets. Shows do sell out, so we highly recommend booking in advance.

OPENING: Circus Rendition of The Odyssey by Homer Via Actors Gymnasium's Spring Youth Circus

Chi IL Live Shows On Our Radar:

We're pleased to announce Actors Gymnasium's Spring Youth Circus production of 

The Odyssey by Homer! 

Adapted by Mary Zimmerman

Adapted and directed for the circus by Kerry Catlin

Circus Choreography by Sylvia Hernandez – DiStasi

Performances start May 12! 

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List: Family Friendly Circus Fun

For the 4th season now, my teen son and daughter have both been cast in Actors Gymnasium's amazing spring and fall circus shows. It's been a stellar opportunity for them to work with some of Chicago's top theatre professionals, hone their circus arts skills and make some lasting friendships. These family friendly productions are high quality, high flying aerial fun and well worth seeing. Don't miss these terrifically talented teens. The run is 6 shows only and the theatre space is intimate, so I strongly suggest getting tickets in advance. Highly recommended. I'll be out to catch the show on opening weekend, so check back soon for my full review.

This circus adaptation of Homer’s myth begins with a modern young woman who is struggling to understand Robert Fitzgerald’s translation of The Odyssey. A classical muse appears, and the young woman becomes the goddess Athena–a tireless advocate for Odysseus in his struggle to get home. Adapted for the circus from Mary Zimmerman’s irreverent and witty twist on this epic tale, Kerry Catlin brings to life the story of Odysseus’s ten-year journey, depicting his encounters with characters such as Circe, Poseidon, Calypso, the Sirens, and others with astonishing acts of circus.

My son, Dugan's playing Alcinous. Yes, I'm the mother of an ancient Greek king! Come on out and catch it if you can. 

The Actors Gymnasium Youth Circus is a performance-based training program for students 5th grade through 12th grade, which takes place in the fall and spring and culminates in a fully-produced, original show. This intensive experience pairs professional artists and youth performers to collaboratively create an original new show and includes high-quality training in drama, dance, aerial and circus arts. The Youth Circus is one of our most popular ticketed events each year.

Click HERE to order your tickets

OPENING: World Premiere Journey for the Sun: A SciFi Cartoon Circus Via Actors Gymnasium Through March 25th

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

Buckle into your jetpacks, put on three pairs of sunglasses, and blast toward a galactic, uncanny and steel-meltingly sizzling world premiere!

Here at ChiIL Mama & ChiIL Live Shows, we're astronomically excited for Actors Gymnasium's latest. We love it when our friends play well together and this AG collaboration with Frank Maugeri & Lindsey Whiting is sure to be stellar. I'll be out for the press opening with my whole circus lovin' family on 2/17 so check back soon for my full review. 

We've been fans of Actors Gymnasium's excellent productions for years, and their winter show, featuring a cast of circus professionals and the highly talented AG Teen Ensemble, is always something to see. I've been consistently wowed over the years by the creativity, high-caliber circus skills, and extreme entertainment value of Actors Gymnasium's winter shows. My two teens are not in this production, but have immensely enjoyed being cast in AG's last 4 fall and spring youth circus shows. 

Advanced tickets are highly recommended, as their performance space is intimate and shows sell out fast. Special opening night tickets for Saturday 2/17/18 are available for $60 and include an after party. ChiIL Mama will be there... will YOU?! Discount tickets are available in conjunction with Chicago Theatre Week for Sunday's matinee on 2/18/18. Details below. Don't miss this! 

Photo by Cole Simon

In 1964, the sun is overheating and The Owner of an Indiana drive-in movie theater is called upon to save earth with an unlikely bunch of heros. Will The Owner and their sidekicks be able to save the galaxy and avert a human-made environmental catastrophe?

The creative team brings to life an enormous intergalactic robot and Poppie, a real life talking popcorn machine in this SciFi Cartoon Circus adventure! Journey for the Sun features astonishing aerialists, insane acrobatics, sophisticated puppetry, in-depth object design, film and cartoon animation. 



Written by Seth Bockley and Co-directed by Frank Maugeri (from Cabinet of Curiosity Events and the late Redmoon Theater), and Lindsey Noel Whiting, Circus choreography by Sylvia Hernandez - DiStasi, original music by Kevin O'Donnell and costumes by Sully Ratke. The cast includes Kasey Foster, Jean Carlos, Yuri Lane : The Human Beatbox, and members of The Actors Gymnasium Teen Ensemble. 

Opening and Press Night

Saturday, February 17 at 7:30PM 

Tickets: $60 

Includes delicious nibbles by SMACK DAB, 

libations by Temperance, and a stellar dance party with musical guest 

Old Timey! 

General Admission tickets start at $25! 

Group discounts are available!

Fridays at 7:30PM 

Saturdays at 4:30PM and 7:30PM 

Sundays at 3:00PM 

Best dates and seats: 

Friday, February 23 at 7:30PM 

Saturday, February 24 at 7:30PM

Friday, March 2 at 7:30PM 

Friday, March 9 at 7:30PM

Co-Director Frank Maugeri says, "This is going to be good old fashioned pageant fun and serious circus madness, with a rock ship of a team." 

Frank Maugeri is the founder of Cabinet of Curiosity Events. He is also the Community Programs Artistic Director at the Chicago Children's Theatre where he develops educational classes and camps for children 0 - 14, and selects and supports the CCT teaching community. Prior to joining CCT, Frank was a 22-year veteran Producing Artistic Director at Redmoon Theater. Frank is an artist, director, producer and designer of unique art, education and events. His creations are highly visual, design-driven, movement-inspired, object-centered, and range from intimate miniature-scale productions to mammoth public spectacles. Throughout his career, he has been an inventor and designer of sets, events, and objects; choreographer of people and mechanisms; and ritual and community maker. Frank's life revolves around the arts and how the arts bring people together. (For full biography, please contact James Anthony at james@actorsgymnasium.org)



Seth Bockley (Author) is a playwright and director specializing in literary adaptation, physical and design-driven production, and new play development. As a writer his works include 2666 (adapted with Robert Falls from the novel by Roberto Bolaño); CRISPR Kids; Rip Van Winkle: or, Cut The Old Moon Into Stars; The Death and Life of Billy the Kid; Laika's Coffin; Wilderness; February House (with Gabriel Kahane); Ask Aunt Susan, and adaptations from stories by George Saunders: Jon and CommComm. Directing credits include the multimedia documentary works Wilderness and Basetrack Live (En Garde Arts); 2666 (with Robert Falls); Samsara by Lauren Yee; Ewald Palmetshofer's hamlet is dead. no gravity; Philip Dawkins' Failure: A Love Story; Jason Grote's Civilization (all you can eat) and 1001; and the clown play Guerra, with Mexico City-based troupe La Piara (toured Mexico, Colombia, and the U.S.)

OPENING: Acclaimed Hard Times Returns To Lookingglass Theatre 10/4-1/14/17

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

Lookingglass Theatre Company Presents

Its Award-Winning, Circus-Infused Production of

Hard Times

Adapted and Directed by Ensemble Member Heidi Stillman

From the Book by Charles Dickens

In Association with The Actors Gymnasium

October 4, 2017 – January 14, 2018

RUN TIME

2 hours 30 minutes, including one intermission

AGE RECOMMENDATION

Ages 8+

In a Chicago theatre season that's off to a roaring start, with a plethora of world class options, I have to say Lookingglass Theatre's Hard Times remount, directed by Heidi Stillman, is at the top of my must see list. I missed their award winning, highly acclaimed first run of Hard Times in 2001 and am eagerly anticipating catching the press opening with the family on October 14th. Check back soon for our full review.

Lookingglass Theatre Company opens its 30th Anniversary Season with the return of the award-winning, circus-infused Hard Times, adapted and directed by Artistic Director and Ensemble Member Heidi Stillman from the book by Charles Dickens and in association with The Actors Gymnasium. Hard Times runs October 4, 2017 – January 14, 2018 at Lookingglass Theatre Company, located inside Chicago's historic Water Tower Water Works, 821 N Michigan Ave at Pearson. 



A Dickensian carnival of characters inhabits the streets of smoke-choked Coketown: grim Mr. Gradgrind’s school churns out joyless students; poor Stephen Blackpool toils in the nearby mines; and mill-owner Mr. Bounderby, full of bluster and bombast, presides over it all. Only when a traveling circus alights nearby, and young orphan Sissy Jupe enters their world, does a ray of hope shine through. Artistic Director Heidi Stillman adapts and directs this timeless love-letter to the power of beauty, hope, and imagination. 

Heidi Stillman—in her finest, most nuanced work as both adapter and director—has crafted a show of tremendous grace and heart, darkness and light. She has brought to life a Victorian-era epic that bursts with wit and whimsy, and all the outrage, hope, severity, and sentimentality of the novel.

– Chicago Sun-Times

As brilliantly conceived as any Dickens stage adaptation I have ever seen. It’s a tribute not only to the glory of Dickens, but to the joy of theater.

– Chicago Tribune

Dates:                           
Previews:  October 4 – 13, 2017
Regular run: October 15, 2017 – January 14, 2018

Times:                          
Tuesdays: 7:30 p.m. (Nov 21; Dec 12, 19; Jan 2 only)
Wednesdays: 7:30 p.m.
Thursdays: 2:00 p.m. (Oct 19, 26; Nov 16, 30; and Dec 21, 28 only)
7:30 p.m. (except Nov 23)
Fridays: 7:30 p.m.
Saturdays: 2:00 p.m. (except Oct 7, 14)
7:30 p.m.
Sundays: 2:00 p.m. (except Oct 15)
7:30 p.m. (except Oct 8, 15; Dec 24, 31)

*There are additional performances on Friday, November 24 and Wednesday, December 27 at 2:00 p.m.

Accessible Performances: 
Audio Described/Touch Tour performance, Thursday, December 7, 2017 at 7:30 p.m.
(Touch Tour begins at 6 p.m.)
Open Captioned performance, Thursday, December 14, 2017 at 7:30 p.m.
lookingglasstheatre.org/access

Returning to Hard Times are Ensemble Members David Catlin (returning to the role of Stephen and Sleary), Raymond Fox (returning to the role of Mr. Gradgrind, Sissy’s Father and Slackbridge), Louise Lamson (in the role of Rachael, Mrs. Gradgrind and Scherezade through 12/17) and Artistic Associate Troy West (returning to the role of Mr. Bounderby). The cast also includes Artistic Associate Atra Asdou (Rachael, Mrs. Gradgrind and Scherezade beginning 12/19), with Audrey Anderson (Sissy), Amy J. Carle (Mrs. Sparsit, Drunk Woman and Pufflerumpus), Raphael Cruz (Bitzer and Le Papillon), Cordelia Dewdney (Louisa), Marilyn Dodds Frank (returning to the role of Mrs. Pegler), Nathan Hosner (Mr. Harthouse, Mr. M’Choakumchild and Kidderminster) and JJ Phillips (Tom).

The creative team for Hard Times includes Ensemble Members Daniel Ostling (returning scenic designer) and Mara Blumenfeld (returning costume designer), Artistic Associates Brian Sidney Bembridge (returning lighting designer), Andre Pluess (returning sound designer and original composition) and Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi (returning circus choreography) with Amanda Herrmann (props design), Isaac Schoepp (rigging) and Eva Breneman (dialect coach). The stage manager is Jeri Frederickson.



About the Artists
HEIDI STILLMAN (Adaptor/Director/Artistic Director/Lookingglass Ensemble Member) has both written and directed productions for Lookingglass including: Cascabel (in collaboration with Tony Hernandez and Rick Bayless), The North China Lover, Hephaestus (in collaboration with Tony Hernandez), The Brothers Karamazov (2009 Raven Award), Hard Times (five Jeff Awards including Director, New Work, and Production; also produced at Arden Theatre Company in Philadelphia), and The Master and Margarita (Jeff Nominated). Additional writing credits with Lookingglass include: The Last Act of Lilka Kadison with Nicola Behrman, David Kersnar, Abbie Phillips and Andy White, The Old Curiosity Shop with Laura Eason and Raymond Fox (Jeff Award for Adaptation), and The Baron in the Trees with Larry DiStasi (Jeff Nominated). Directing work with Lookingglass includes: Death Tax, Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo, Trust, The Wooden Breeks, and Hillbilly Antigone. Heidi’s adaptation of The Book Thief premiered at Steppenwolf Theatre Company. She directed Minita Gandhi’s Muthaland for Silk Road Rising Solos and Victory Gardens’ Ignition Festival, CAATA/ConFEST, and at 16th Street Theatre. Most recently, she co-wrote and directed The Year I Didn’t Go to School at the Chicago Children’s Theatre.

AUDREY ANDERSON (Sissy) is making both her Lookingglass and Chicago professional debut in Hard Times. Born and raised in Minneapolis, Audrey moved to Chicago to study theatre at Loyola University where she is currently a senior. She has performed with numerous Minneapolis professional companies, including Children’s Theatre Company and Classical Actors Ensemble, along with many collegiate productions while attending Loyola University, a few being columbinus, Elephant’s Graveyard, and FML: How Carson McCullers saved my life. Audrey learned to fly at Xelias Aerial Arts in Minneapolis, and continued her studies at The Actors Gymnasium upon moving to Chicago.

ATRA ASDOU (Rachael, Mrs. Gradgrind, Scherezade beginning Dec. 19/Lookingglass Artistic Associate) returns to Lookingglass now as an Artistic Associate, last appearing in Blood Wedding and Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo. Past performances include: 1984 (Steppenwolf for Young Adults), A Christmas Carol (Goodman Theatre), Heartbreak House (Writers Theatre), Dirty (The Gift Theatre), Seminar (Haven Theatre), and Inana (TimeLine Theatre). She is a graduate of Loyola University, Second City (where she is an understudy to the touring company), and iO (where she is on the Harold team, Lil’ Tooties, and an ensemble member of Whirled News Tonight).

AMY J. CARLE (Mrs. Sparsit, Drunk Woman, Pufflerumpus)’s previous Lookingglass credits include: North China Lover, Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo, Peter Pan (A Play), and Trust. Other Chicago credits include: Harvey and Orlando (Court Theatre); The Book of Joseph (Chicago Shakespeare Theater); Wonderful Town, The Sins of Sor Juana, Rock ‘N’ Roll, and Desire Under the Elms (Goodman Theatre); The Book Thief, The Internationalist, Animals Out of Paper, Sex With Strangers, and Hedda Gabler (Steppenwolf Theatre Company). Off-Broadway National Tour: The Vagina Monologues. Regional credits: The Profane (Chautauqua Theater Company); Fully Committed and The Diary of Anne Frank (Madison Repertory Theatre); Or, (Forward Theater); Morning Star (Kansas City Repertory Theatre). Television:  Boss (STARZ), Chicago Code (FOX), Law & Order, Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and CRISIS (NBC). Film: Who Gets the Dog? Amy coaches privately, and teaches at Vagabond School for the Arts.

DAVID CATLIN (Mr. Sleary, Stephen Blackpool/Lookingglass Ensemble Member)’s Lookingglass acting credits include: The Arabian Nights, Our Town, Argonautika, Summertime, La Luna Muda, Manuscript Found at Saragossa, The Vanishing Twin, The Scarlet Letter, The Odyssey, and The Jungle. Other Chicago performance credits include: Marnie & Phil: A Circus Love Letter, Lost & Found: A Recycled Circus and All the Time in the World (The Actors Gymnasium); The Elephant & The Whale (Chicago Children’s Theatre/Redmoon Theater); The Nutcracker (The House Theatre of Chicago); The Midnight Circus. David is an artistic associate with The Actors Gymnasium and serves on the acting faculty for Northwestern University.

RAPHAEL CRUZ (Bitzer, Le Papillon), a native of San Francisco, began his journey into the circus arts at age six.  Specializing in traditional Chinese acrobatics he studied with the Founder of the Nanjing acrobatic troupe, Master Trainer Lu Yi. At the age of 15, furthered his training at The National Circus School of Montreal. He specialized in Hand to Hand and after graduating, he became an original member and artistic collaborator of The 7 Fingers production of Traces. Raphael also studied music extensively and plays several instruments, which helped him land the role Buster in Cirque du Soleil’s production of Iris (2012) in Los Angeles. Other credits include: Assistant Choreographer for the opening ceremonies of the Sochi Olympics; Associate Acrobatic Designer for Cirque du Soleil’s Broadway production Paramour. Raphael is also a cast member of French contemporary dance company DCA’s latest production Courte Pointe.

CORDELIA DEWDNEY (Louisa) returns to Lookingglass after this summer’s Moby Dick. She has worked with Alliance Theatre, Arena Stage, and South Coast Repertory for the National tour of Moby Dick and has appeared on Chicago Med. Cordelia is a graduate of Northwestern University with degrees in Theatre and English.

MARILYN DODDS FRANK (Mrs. Pegler)’s credits with Lookingglass include: The Last Act of Lilka Kadison, Metamorphosis, Metamorphoses, Hard Times, George, and The Idiot. Broadway: Superior Donuts; The Clean House (Lincoln Center). Chicago: Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Goodman Theatre, Victory Gardens Theater, Shaw Chicago, A Red Orchid Theatre, Court Theatre, Latino Chicago, Teatro Vista, Remains Theater, Next Theatre Company, New Criminals Theater Company, Rivendell Theatre Ensemble and Piven Theatre Workshop. New York: En Garde Arts and La MaMa. LA: The Actors’ Gang and Padua Playwrights. Marilyn has performed in the premieres of four plays written and directed by Maria Irene Fornes and movies with Robert Altman, Judd Apatow, Michael Apted, and Stephen Frears, among others. Forthcoming movies directed by Chicago Independents: Our Father, What They Had, and Slice.

RAYMOND FOX (Mr. Gradgrind, Sissy’s Father, Slackbridge, Lookingglass Ensemble Member) last appeared at Lookingglass in Moby Dick. Off-Broadway/Broadway: Metamorphoses (Second Stage Theatre, Circle in the Square Theatre). Regional Credits: Goodman Theatre, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Arena Stage, Arden Theatre, South Coast Repertory, Remy Bumppo Theatre Company, Route 66 Theatre, Hartford Stage, American Repertory Theatre, Indiana Repertory Theatre, Alliance Theatre, Meadow Brook Theatre, The House Theatre of Chicago, Mark Taper Forum, Court Theatre, McCarter Theatre, Kansas City Repertory Theatre, First Folio Theatre, Canada’s Stratford Festival and TimeLine Theatre (Blood and Gifts, 2013 Equity Jeff Award for Supporting Actor). Education: Northwestern University and the A.R.T. Institute at Harvard University.

NATHAN HOSNER (Mr. Harthouse, Mr. M’Choakumchild, Kidderminster) was last seen at Lookingglass as Captain Ahab in Moby Dick. He recently played Lord Aster in the first national tour of Peter and the Starcatcher. Chicago credits include productions with Writers Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Court Theatre, Goodman Theatre, Paramount Theatre, Northlight Theatre, About Face Theatre, and First Folio Theatre. Regional credits include productions with American Players Theatre, Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Indiana Repertory Theatre, New Theatre, Illinois Shakespeare Festival, Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre, Door Shakespeare, and The BoarsHead Theater. Nathan is a graduate of The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.

LOUISE LAMSON (Rachael, Mrs. Gradgrind, Scherezade through Dec. 17/Lookingglass Ensemble Member) returns to the Lookingglass stage and to Hard Times, where she originated the role of Louisa Gradgrind. Other Lookingglass credits include: The Idiot, The Secret in the Wings, The Wooden Breeks, Icarus (The Getty Villa, LA), The Brothers Karamazov, Our Town, The Arabian Nights, Ethan Frome, Metamorphoses, The Little Prince, and most recently Death Tax. Other Chicago credits include: About Face Theatre’s Bash (After Dark Award and Jeff Award Nomination) and The Odyssey (Goodman Theatre). New York credits include: Metamorphoses (Second Stage Theatre and Broadway) and The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci (Second Stage Theatre). Louise is a graduate of Northwestern University. She joined the ensemble in 2016.

JJ PHILLIPS (Tom) returns to Lookingglass where he previously appeared as Kev in Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo (Jeff Award Nominee, Actor in a Supporting Role—Play), as well as Paolo in The North China Lover, and the understudy for Ian in last season’s Beyond Caring. Chicago: Steppenwolf Theatre Company (Next up: Fat Pig, Leveling Up), The House Theatre of Chicago (The Hammer Trinity), Griffn Theatre (Punk Rock). Regional: Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts (Miami). Film/TV: Chicago Fire, Thrill Ride, and the upcoming web series Kappa Force and Blame It On Toby.

TROY WEST (Mr. Bounderby/Lookingglass Artistic Associate) has been an Artistic Associate since 2002. Broadway: August: Osage County (also London & Sydney). Off-Broadway: Bug (Barrow Street Theatre) and The Execution (Nat Horne Theater). Steppenwolf Theatre Company: Linda Vista, The Berlin Circle, Terry Won’t Talk and Picasso At The Lapin Agile (also San Francisco and LA), among others. Regional credits include: American Conservatory Theater, Arden Theatre Company, Geffen Playhouse, Indiana Repertory Theatre, and Portland Center Stage. Chicago credits: A Red Orchid Theatre, Famous Door Theatre Company, Goodman Theatre, Next Theatre Company, and Remains Theater, among others. Upcoming: The Boring Professor in the feature film, The Pages and recreating the role of Michael Stiles in Linda Vista at Center Theatre Group in LA.

First Rehearsal Video:


REFLECT Panels
Lookingglass’ REFLECT Series is a curated selection of post-show discussions featuring panelists with a range of viewpoints and expertise on the content and context of each production. These wide-ranging conversations, moderated by artistic staff, offer an opportunity for Lookingglass audiences and guests to engage with the vision and visionaries behind each show, get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the unique Lookingglass process, and hear from artists, academics and authorities with diverse perspectives on the material.

REFLECT post-show panel discussions take place directly following the 2:00 p.m.­ matinee on select Sundays at Lookingglass Theatre. The discussions are free and open to the public.

October 22:  Hard Times/These Times: Hard Times for Truth
With scientific data being questioned and the recent emergence of “alternative facts,” how do we determine the lines between fact and opinion, speculation and lie? Tackle this quandary with Lookingglass Artistic Director and Hard Times adaptor and director Heidi Stillman, and the Raven Foundation’s Andrew McKenna.

October 29:  Hard Times/These Times: The World of Work
The Industrial Revolution transformed Dickens’ England, with new technologies bringing new jobs for some and eliminating others. How is the Information Age similarly changing our world today?

November 12:  Hard Times/These Times: A Matter of Power
With income inequality on the rise and an increasingly polarized body politic, how do class, gender, race and other dividing lines intersect and align to keep us apart?

December 3:  Hard Times/These Times: Behind the Scenes
Join Hard Times artists for a peek behind the curtain at the genesis of the production, and how it has changed from 2001 to 2017.

December 10:  Hard Times/These Times: Charles Dickens and The Holiday Spirit
In Chicago and cities across the country, A Christmas Carol is an annual seasonal offering. What is it about Dickens’ works that uniquely lends itself to holiday fare?

Theatre Night Out for Young Professionals – Thursday, November 30, 2017
Join members of the Lookingglass Associates Board and other young professionals for a pre-show reception at Theory (9 W Hubbard St) and a performance of Hard Times. lookingglasstheatre.org/under35  



Subscriptions
Subscriptions are on sale for the 2017–2018 Season. Performances will be held at Lookingglass Theatre Company, located inside Chicago's historic Water Tower Water Works, 821 N Michigan Ave at Pearson. 

Subscribers can choose between a 3-play subscription, the Gglasspass program, or for those under 35, the Madhatter’s Club. For the 2017–2018 Season, 3-play subscriptions range from $116–$170.

The Gglasspass is a flex pass available to all ages. For $150, Gglasspass holders receive 3 tickets that can be used in any combination and denomination for any Lookingglass production in the 2017–2018 Season.

The Madhatter’s Club flex pass is available to those 35 or younger. The Madhatter’s Club flex pass is $75 and includes 3 tickets that members can use in any combination and denomination for any Lookingglass production in the 2017-2018 Season.

Subscription benefits include access to the best seats in the house, pre-sale opportunities and savings before single tickets go on sale to the general public, special perks at restaurant partners, unlimited ticket exchanges, discounted parking at the nearby John Hancock Center, Water Tower Place and Olympia Centre Garage, reduced tuition for Lookingglass’ renowned classes and summer camps, and access to exclusive subscriber-only events. For season subscription and ticket information, call the Lookingglass Theatre box office at (312) 337-0665 or visit lookingglasstheatre.org.

About Lookingglass Theatre Company
Inventive. Collaborative. Transformative. Lookingglass Theatre Company, recipient of the 2011 Regional Theatre Tony Award, was founded in 1988 by eight Northwestern University students. Now in its 30th season, Lookingglass is home to a multi-disciplined ensemble of artists who create story-centered theatrical work that is physical, aurally rich and visually metaphoric. The Company has staged 64 world premieres, received 144 Joseph Jefferson Awards and nominations, and work premiered at Lookingglass has been produced in New York City, Los Angeles, Seattle, Berkeley, Philadelphia, Princeton, Hartford, Kansas City, Washington D.C., Atlanta, Louisville and St. Louis. Lookingglass original scripts have been produced across the United States. In 2016, Lookingglass received the MacArthur Award for Creative and Effective Institutions.

The Lookingglass Theatre in Chicago's landmark Water Tower Water Works opened in June 2003. In addition to developing and presenting ensemble work, Lookingglass Education and Community programs encourage creativity, teamwork and confidence with thousands of community members each year.

Lookingglass Theatre Company continues to expand its artistic, financial and institutional boundaries under the guidance of Artistic Director Heidi Stillman, Executive Director Rachel Kraft, Producing Director Philip R. Smith, Connectivity and Engagement Director Andrew White, Interim Managing Director Michele Anderson, a 24 member artistic ensemble, 23 artistic associates, an administrative staff and a dedicated board of directors led by Chairman John McGowan and President Nancy Timmers. For more information, visit lookingglasstheatre.org.

OPENING: World Premiere of The Magnificent Wonder at Actors Gymnasium for 6 Shows Only

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List:

The Magnificent Wonder at Actors Gymnasium

Don't let the word "youth" fool you. This show is packed with major talent. The cast auditioned for their roles and they've been prepping for 70+ hours to build this show, choreograph, learn lines, and master mind blowing circus arts under the training of some of Chicago's top professional choreographers and performers. Of course we're extra jazzed here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows, since both of my teens are returning to perform in their 3rd AG Youth Circus show. The Fall Youth Circus is fabulous family friendly fun. The intimate venue has limited seating so book tickets ahead if you can. Shows do sell out. Highly recommended. Don't miss this! 

Last Call November 11th & 12th:

ABOUT

AT THE ACTORS GYMNASIUM, PEOPLE LEARN TO FLY – PHYSICALLY, EMOTIONALLY, AND CREATIVELY. 

The Actors Gymnasium was founded in 1995 and has grown to become one of the nation’s premiere circus and performing arts training centers.

We are dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American Theatre, through developing physical performers and encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration.

We promote our core values of creativity, community, and courage across three program areas:

1. TEACHING CIRCUS ARTS AND PERFORMANCE SKILLS BOTH ONSITE AT THE NOYES CULTURAL ARTS CENTER, AND OFFSITE AT A DOZEN OR MORE COMMUNITY LOCATIONS.

Our Professional Training Program and Summer Circus Intensive and serve artists from across the United States and beyond.

Weekly classes for students of all ages and experience levels reach over 1,000 students per year, while our summer and winter camps engage over 200 youth aged 9–14.

2. PRODUCING ORIGINAL AND DARING CIRCUS-THEATRE PRODUCTIONS, INCLUDING NINE PRODUCTIONS A YEAR AT NOYES.

Our shows provide students with invaluable performance opportunities, and the annual premiere of our Winter Circus features professional circus artists alongside our up-and-coming young performers.

We also collaborate with theaters ranging from local Chicago storefronts to major regional companies. This past season, Lookingglass’s Moby Dick toured to three Tony-Award-winning theatres: The Alliance (Atlanta), Arena Stage (DC) and South Coast Repertory (CA). The rolling world premiere of The Magic Play started at The Goodman before opening at Olney Theater (VA). We also collaborated with Chicago Children’s Theatre on The Year I Didn’t Go to School.

3. SHOWCASING PROFESSIONAL ARTISTS BY PROVIDING AWARD-WINNING AND AWE-INSPIRING ENTERTAINMENT FOR CORPORATE AND OTHER SPECIAL EVENTS.

We provide entertainment at events ranging from private weddings to major public parades, and everything in between. These events help support our mission by raising the profile of Chicago’s circus community and introducing people to this vital and exciting art form.

“Even as an audience member, the work you do inspires me into metaphorical flight. Every performance or class I’ve witnessed lights me up and jump starts my imagination and drive. Thank you for flying lessons.”

REVIEW: The Silver Whistle at Actors Gymnasium

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List:

The Silver Whistle

Last Call. Must end Sunday!

The Actors Gymnasium Spring Youth Circus 

PRESENTS

An Empowering and Highflying Adaptation of Jay Williams 

Beloved Children's Story

**The magic of The Silver Whistle is recommended for ages 5 & up!**

Book written by Jay Williams

Adapted & Directed by Anna Basile & Abby Pajakowski

Circus Choreography by Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasti & Tommy Tomlins

It was our great pleasure to catch the opening performance of The Silver Whistle last Saturday, and we adored it! Actors Gymnasium has long been a favorite of ours for high caliber, playful and professional productions. They raise the bar on creative book based adaptations and original works while seamlessly incorporating stellar circus arts, live music, and superb storytelling. This show is my 16 year old son, Dugan's 2nd Actors Gymnasium production, while his sister, Sage, was in the past spring and fall shows. He has loved the cast camaraderie and welcomed the opportunity to work on circus choreography with some of Chicago's top talent. 

Sure, the spring and fall youth circus productions are comprised of a cast of kids, but don't underestimate them. Auditions are required for these shows and the talent pool runs deep. We highly recommend checking out The Silver Whistle. It's a charming tale with a female lead, upbeat choreography, impressive circus arts, catchy tunes, and a great message. This is a good bet for multigenerational fun for ages 5 to 105...

We do recommend booking tickets on line in advance if possible. It's a small theatre and shows do sell out. The up side is, there's not a bad seat in the place! What are you waiting for? Go already.  



Saturday(s) May 13 & 20 at 4:30PM and 7:30PM 
Sunday(s) May 14 & 21 at 3:00PM
Tickets: $15 - $20
Group reservations and general questions call 847.328.2795
On-site box office opens 1.5 hours prior to the start of each performance

MORE ABOUT THE SHOW
"Prudence the Plain" has never left the small village where she grew up, sheltered by her mother, the Wise Woman of the West. But now her mother has fallen ill and leaves Prudence with a magical silver whistle and a word of advice: go out into the world and live. Despite grief and uncertainty, Prudence sets out on a journey to create her own life. She encounters creatures of all kinds, a clever witch seeking the throne, and a one-of-a-kind Wazar. The Silver Whistle explores what happens when an unlikely hero chooses to embrace her ever-changing world and the people inhabiting it. 

The production is an empowering and highflying adaptation of the original children's book written by Jay Williams. Anna Basile and Abby Pajakowski direct this circus theatre production at the Actors Gymnasium. While reading the story, they were struck by its illustrations - an entire world is brought to life with its beautiful, whimsical and often very funny images. These images inspired the choreography and circus routines, honoring the highly physical style of performance for which Actors Gymnasium is known. 




WORDS FROM THE DIRECTORS
"We loved Prudence immediately because her so-called plainness affords her the freedom to explore the world without expectations and become whatever person she wants be. As an ensemble we asked ourselves, who do we want our heroine to be?"