THE OTHER CINDERELLA Returns To BLACK ENSEMBLE THEATER NOVEMBER 25, 2023 – JANUARY 14, 2024

 BLACK ENSEMBLE THEATER CONCLUDES 2023 SEASON OF EXCELLENCE

WITH THE HOLIDAY FAVORITE

THE OTHER CINDERELLA

Written and directed by JACKIE TAYLOR 

NOVEMBER 25, 2023 – JANUARY 14, 2024

Black Ensemble Theater’s Founder and CEO Jackie Taylor announces the return of her holiday classic hit The Other Cinderella. Written and directed by Taylor, The Other Cinderella concludes the hit 2023 Season of Excellence: Rejuvenation and runs November 25, 2023-December 31, 2024. 

It’s the 47th Anniversary of Jackie Taylor’s holiday classic hit The Other Cinderella. It’s been almost five decades, and Cinderella is proving to be ageless. The story line remains the same – Cinderella is from the projects, the Stepmamma works at the Post Office, the Brothers are from the Hood, and the Fairygodmamma hails from Jamaica!

At the helm of the Kingdom of Other is the King and the Queen and everybody – even Dorothy – has soul. This fun-filled story will have you laughing and dancing in the aisles. Of course, The Other Cinderella always brings something new to the party every time she takes the stage, so expect a few intoxicating and wonderful surprises. The Other Cinderella has lasted for many generations because her message is timeless: “You’ll have a lifetime of hopes and dreams of successes and failures in planning life’s scheme – there will always be heartaches that you must go through, but you live through them all – because of the spirit in you.” 

Jackie Taylor joyfully states, “I am so happy to bring back this timeless classic. It warms my heart every time someone asks, ‘is this the year for Cinderella?’ Cinderella has delighted five generations with her sassiness and realness. And I’m looking forward to her being around for at least another 50 years. Long live The Other Cinderella.”

The Other Cinderella features Miciah Lathan (Cinderella), Qiana McNary (Queen), Britt Edwards (Geneva), Michelle Bester (Margarite), Vincent Jordan (King), Cynthia Carter (Stepmama), RJ Griffith (Prince), Brandon Lewis (Page), Blake Reasoner (Brother From the Hood 1), Colleen Perry (Dorothy), Caitlin Dobbins (Lady in Waiting), Dennis Dent (Attendant), Makenzy Jenkins (Duke’s Son), and Melanie McCullough (Fairy Godmomma).

The artistic team is Jackie Taylor (Writer and Director), Robert Reddrick (Music Director), Denise Karczewski (Lights and Set Design), DJ Douglass (Sound Design), Harrison Orneals (Technical Director), and Jessica Moore (Equity Stage Manager).

Tickets are available at www.blackensemble.org, (773) 769-4451 and at the Black Ensemble Theater Box Office, 4450 N. Clark Street in Chicago. Performances are Fridays at 8:00 p.m., Saturdays at 3:00 and 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Tickets for previews (November 25, 26, December 1 and 2) are $56.50 and tickets for the regular run (December 3-January 14) are $56.50-$66.50 (fees included).

Masks are optional. Valet parking is available for $10 (cash only).

 

Currently playing at Black Ensemble Theater:

A Taste of Soul

Written & Directed by Daryl D. Brooks

Now running thru October 29, 2023

 

Black Ensemble Theater  

Founded in 1976, by the phenomenal producer, playwright and actress Jackie Taylor, Black Ensemble Theater is the only African American theater located in the culturally, racially, and ethnically diverse north side Uptown community. Through its Four Play Season of Excellence, The Black Ensemble Theater dazzles audiences locally, nationally, and internationally with outstanding original musicals that are entertaining, educational, and uplifting. The Black Ensemble Theater has produced more than 100 productions and employed over 5,000 artists. 

The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts. For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, visit www.BlackEnsembleTheater.org or call 773-769-4451. 

 

OPENING: You Can’t Fake the Funk at Black Ensemble Theater July 20- September 8, 2019

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

You Can’t Fake the Funk 

at Black Ensemble Theater 

July 20- September 8, 2019 

Things are about to get funky in Uptown as Chicago's legendary Black Ensemble Theater continues its 2019 Season (Legends and Lessons) with You Can’t Fake the Funk (A Journey Through Funk Music), written and directed by Producing Managing Director Daryl D. Brooks. ChiIL Mama can't wait to ChiIL on the “Mothership” in Chi, IL this weekend. I'll be out for the press opening Sunday, July 28th, so check back soon for my full review. I'm eager to catch BET's latest as funk's long been a favorite genre of ours here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows. I've had the pleasure to shoot stills of George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic several times from the photo pits at music festivals and I've caught many funk bands live over the decades. 

You Can’t Fake the Funk (A Journey Through Funk Music) will be performed July 20- September 8, 2019 at the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street in Chicago. 

Hop on the “Mothership” as we journey back when Afro’s were big, bellbottoms were tight, and the music was out of sight. You Can’t Fake the Funk (A Journey Through Funk Music) guides us through a musical genre that is sure to have you groovin’ in your seats... Ya’ Digg? You Can’t Take the Funk (A Journey Through Funk Music) will pay tribute to artists such as Sly and the Family Stone, Ohio Players, Earth Wind and Fire, Rufus and Chaka Khan, Rick James, George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic and Bootsy Collins, among others.

The cast includes Dwight Neal, Jayla Williams-Craig, Stewart Romeo, Blake Hawthorne, Lemond Hayes, Thera Wright, Vincent Jordan and Brandon Lavell.

The creative team includes Denise Karczewski and Bek Lambrecht (set design), Denise Karczewski (lighting design), David Samba (sound), Rueben Echoles (costume design), Chris Carter (choreographer) and Robert Reddrick (music director).

Tickets are available at www.blackensemble.org, (773) 769-4451 or at the Black Ensemble Theater Box Office, 4450 N. Clark Street in Chicago. Please note the scheduling change: A Thursday matinee has been added in place of Thursday evening performances. Tickets for regular season performances are priced at $55 on Thursday and Saturday matinees; and $65 on Fridays, Saturday evenings, and Sunday matinees. A 10% discount is available for students, seniors, and groups. Previews are priced at $45.

The Black Ensemble Theater will sell the Five Play Season Card which represent a $45.00 ticket price that can be used up to five times in the Season.  For more details or to purchase a Five Play Season Card contact the box office at 773-769-4451. 


Dates:                            
July 20 – September 8, 2019

Previews: July 20, 21, 26 and 27, 2019
Press Opening: Sunday, July 28, 2019 at 3:00 p.m.


Schedule:                        
Thursdays:        
2:00pm
*No show on August 8
                                    
Fridays:             
8:00 pm

Saturdays:             
3:00 pm and 8:00 pm

Sundays:                   
3:00 pm


Location:                         
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street, Chicago
Valet parking is available.



Ticket prices:                  
$45 Previews

$55 on Thursdays and Saturday matinees;

$65 on Fridays, Saturday evenings and Sunday matinees

A 10% discount is available for students, seniors, and groups.

Box Office:                      
Buy online at  www.blackensemble.org or call (773) 769-4451



The Black Ensemble Theater  

Founded in 1976, by the phenomenal producer, playwright and actress Jackie Taylor, Black Ensemble Theater is the only African American theater located in the culturally, racially and ethnically diverse north side Uptown community. Through its Five Play Season of Excellence, The Black Ensemble Theater dazzles audiences locally, nationally and internationally with outstanding original musicals that are entertaining, educational and uplifting. The Black Ensemble Theater has produced more than 100 productions and employed over 5,000 artists. 

The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts.  For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, visit  www.blackensemble.org or call 773-769-4451. 

OPENING: WOMEN OF SOUL (WITH A TRIBUTE TO THE QUEEN) VIA BLACK ENSEMBLE THEATER October 20, 2018 – January 27, 2019

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

BLACK ENSEMBLE THEATER TO OPEN

WOMEN OF SOUL 

(WITH A TRIBUTE TO THE QUEEN)

WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY DARYL D. BROOKS

October 20, 2018 – January 27, 2019

Black Ensemble Theater has long been a favorite of ours at ChiIL Live Shows and ChiIL Mama. They're a true Chicago treasure with original productions and world class talent on stage. I'll be out for the Press Opening of Women of Soul, (With a Tribute to the Queen) on October 28th, so check back soon for my full review.

Black Ensemble Theater continues its 2018 Season (Movers and Shakers) with Women of Soul, (With a Tribute to the Queen) written and directed by Black Ensemble Theater Associate Director Daryl D. Brooks. Women of Soul will be performed at the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street in Chicago, beginning October 20, 2018 with an unlimited run.  The press opening is Sunday, October 28 at 3:00pm. 

Women of Soul guides pays tribute to some of the most powerful women in soul music, including Chaka Khan, Diana Ross, Tina Marie, Natalie Cole, Janis Joplin—and a special tribute to Aretha Franklin, just to name a few. This show takes a look at the struggles and the triumphs these women went through to reach the pinnacle of their success. The production of Women of Soul is written and directed by Daryl D. Brooks, whose hits with Black Ensemble include Men of Soul in 2015.

The cast includes Cynthia Carter, Robin DaSilva, Jerica Exum, Hannah Efsits, Dwight Neal, Colleen Perry, Rhonda Preston, Jessica Seals, Aerial Williams, and Jayla Williams-Craig.

The creative team includes Denise Karczewski (set and lighting design), Aaron Quick (projection design), David Samba (sound), Reuben Echoles (costume design), and Nic Bellanger (technical direction).

As with all Black Ensemble Theater productions, Women of Soul features live musicians led by musical director/arranger Robert Reddrick (drums). Musicians include Adam Sherod (keyboards), Dolpha Fowler Jr. (keyboard 2), Mark Miller (bass), and Gary Baker (guitar).

Tickets are available at the Black Ensemble Box Office located at 4450 N. Clark St in Chicago, or online at www.blackensemble.org, or by phone at (773) 769-4451. Tickets are $45 for previews (October 20, 21, 26 and 27), $55 (Saturday matinees) and $65 (Fridays, Saturday evenings and Sunday matinees). A 10% discount is available for students, seniors, and groups.

The Black Ensemble Theater is also selling the Five Play Card which allows the holder to see 5 plays or bring five friends to one play or any combination of 5. The Five Play Card is a great deal at $225 which represents a significant savings of $20.00 per full price ticket.   For more details or to purchase a Five Play Card contact the box office at 773-769-4451. 

Dates: October 20, 2018 – January 27, 2019
Previews: October 20, 21, 26 and 27
Closing: January 27, 2019

Schedule:  
Thursdays:  7:30pm
Fridays:  8:00pm
Saturdays: 3:00pm and 8:00pm
Sundays: 3:00pm

Location:                        
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street, Chicago
Valet parking is available.

Ticket prices: $45 Previews
$55 on Thursdays and Saturday matinees;
$65 on Fridays, Saturday evenings and Sunday matinees
A 10% discount is available for students, seniors, and groups.
Box Office:  Buy online at www.blackensemble.org or call (773) 769-4451

The Black Ensemble Theater
Founded in 1976, by the phenomenal producer, playwright and actress Jackie Taylor, Black Ensemble Theater is the only African American theater located in the culturally, racially and ethnically diverse north side Uptown community. Through its Five Play Season of Excellence, The Black Ensemble Theater dazzles audiences locally, nationally and internationally with outstanding original musicals that are entertaining, educational and uplifting. The Black Ensemble Theater has produced more than 100 productions and employed over 5,000 artists.

The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts.  For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, visit www.BlackEnsembleTheater.org or call 773-769-4451.

FREE With RSVP: Chicago’s Theater Community Coming Together to Fight the Ism’s 9/25/17

Black Ensemble Theater and Steppenwolf Theatre Company announce

Chicago’s Theater Community Coming Together to Fight the Ism’s

"Highlighting Racism"

A one-night only event Sponsored by

The Alphawood Foundation and MacArthur Foundation

Featuring presentations from Teatro Vista, About Face Theatre, Black Ensemble Theater, Her Story Theatre, Firebrand Theatre, and more

Monday, September 25, 2017

6:00pm event; 7:00pm reception and networking

On Monday, September 25, the Chicago theater community will come together to fight racism in a special event co-produced by Black Ensemble Theater and Steppenwolf Theatre Company. This special one-night-event, Chicago’s Theater Community Coming Together to Fight the Ism’s "Highlighting Racism," will begin with a presentation at 6:00pm followed by a reception and networking at approximately 7:00 p.m. at the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street. The event is free and open to the public.

This one-night-only event will focus on a positive experience to explore racism and and other oppressions, and includes performances and presentations from area companies including Teatro Vista, About Face Theatre, Black Ensemble Theater, Her Story Theatre and Firebrand Theatre.  Featured speakers include Tyronne Stoudemire (‎Vice President Global Diversity and Inclusion, Hyatt Corporation) and Angelique Powers (President, The Field Foundation and Co-Founder of Enrich). There will be an opportunity for audience participation in this transformative evening. The evening was motivated by recent discussion within the Chicago theater community regarding racism and offers the entire community, including artists, administrators and critics the opportunity to come together and communicate positively and productively.

“This is a necessary evening of education, understanding and coming together,” comments Black Ensemble Founder and CEO Jackie Taylor.  “We must understand the systemic process of racism and oppression — what is it and how can we remove it from our community?  This is a way to bring us together so that we can begin the healing process that is so necessary in a racist and oppressive society.

David Schmitz, Executive Director of Steppenwolf Theatre shares his thoughts concerning the evening.  “Jackie Taylor and Black Ensemble Theater have been leading this crucial work since the organization’s founding 41 years ago! We join Jackie’s call for an ongoing, community-wide dialogue about racism in our field and an experience-sharing process for artists, administrators and critics.  Steppenwolf leadership is eager to participate in this dialogue, and will offer whatever resources we can to aide and further the discussion.”

Tickets for this event are FREE and open to the public.  Tickets must be reserved.  To reserve tickets go to  blackensembletheater.org/fighttheisms.  Or visit the Black Ensemble Theater website at www.blackensemble.org.

The Black Ensemble Theater
Founded in 1976, by the phenomenal producer, playwright and actress Jackie Taylor, Black Ensemble Theater is the only African American theater located in the culturally, racially and ethnically diverse north side Uptown community. Through its Five Play Season of Excellence, The Black Ensemble Theater dazzles audiences locally, nationally and internationally with outstanding original musicals that are entertaining, educational and uplifting. The Black Ensemble Theater has produced more than 100 productions and employed over 5,000 artists.

On November 18, 2011, The Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center opened and is able to accommodate larger-scale productions, bigger audiences and a wider range of educational programming. The new facility includes amenities such as a 299-seat main stage theater (double the capacity of the original venue); 14 offices, classroom space, rehearsal hall, dance studio, scene shop, costume shop, and wardrobe rooms; seven dressing rooms; rehearsal room for musicians; front lobby space with concession areas; and an indoor parking garage.  The completion of a 150-seat theater, which will serve as an experimental stage for the work of the Black Playwright Initiative (BPI), with construction by General Contractor Norcon Inc., is expected in 2018.

The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts.  For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, please visit www.BlackEnsembleTheater.org or call 773-769-4451.

About Steppenwolf Theatre Company
Steppenwolf Theatre Company is the nation's premier ensemble theater. Formed by a collective of actors in 1976, the ensemble has grown to 49 members who represent a remarkable cross-section of actors, directors and playwrights. Thrilling and powerful productions from Balm in Gilead to August: Osage County-and accolades that include the National Medal of Arts and 12 Tony Awards-have made the theater legendary. Steppenwolf produces hundreds of performances and events annually in its three spaces: the 515-seat Downstairs Theatre, the 299-seat Upstairs Theatre and the 80-seat 1700 Theatre. Artistic programing includes a seven-play season; a two-play Steppenwolf for Young Adults season; Visiting Company engagements; and LookOut, a multi-genre performances series. Education initiatives include the nationally recognized work of Steppenwolf for Young Adults, which engages 15,000 participants annually from Chicago's diverse communities; the esteemed School at Steppenwolf; and Professional Leadership Programs for arts administration training. While firmly grounded in the Chicago community, nearly 40 original Steppenwolf productions have enjoyed success both nationally and internationally, including Broadway, Off-Broadway, London, Sydney, Galway and Dublin. Anna D. Shapiro is the Artistic Director and David Schmitz is the Executive Director. Eric Lefkofsky is Chair of Steppenwolf's Board of Trustees. For additional information, steppenwolf.org, facebook.com/steppenwolftheatre, twitter.com/steppenwolfthtr and instagram.com/steppenwolfthtr.

REVIEW: Powerhouse Personal Show "From Jackie With Love" Highly Recommended

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

JACKIE TAYLOR TO STAR IN

A THREE NIGHT ENGAGEMENT OF

FROM JACKIE WITH LOVE 

(WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW)

AT BLACK ENSEMBLE THEATER 

March 6-8, 2017 at 7:30pm

 Black Ensemble Theater Founder and CEO Jackie Taylor will star in her one-woman show From Jackie With Love (What The World Needs Now) at the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street in Chicago, March 6-8, 2017 at 7:30pm.  

Jackie Taylor may be 65, but she gives most 25 year olds a run for the money! She has the charisma, powerhouse vocals, and even the dance moves to bring down the house, coupled with the wisdom of a lifetime of experience. It's an irresistible combination. We've long been fans of her writing and directing talents and her skills in expanding the 40 year old Black Ensemble Theatre into a world class Chicago gem. Still, except for exuberant curtain calls, I've only had the pleasure of seeing her performing on stage once, in a roll she jumped into when a cast member had an emergency and couldn't make it in that day. 

From Jackie With Love (What The World Needs Now) is Jackie Taylor in her full glory, singing original songs, playing her first guitar, embodying favorite monologues, and sharing her personal back story. With a band of 5 musicians and 3 backup singers who are all veteran BET ensemble members, Jackie Taylor had the audience laughing, smiling, weeping openly, and singing along in turn. She is entirely genuine, with a real connection to the audience, and a raw willingness to share her passions, her pain, her past, and her hopes for the world. This show is nothing short of inspiring. Highly recommended.

You may know Jackie Taylor as the Founder and Executive Director of the Black Ensemble Theater, but have you ever experienced her as a performer on stage? Ms. Taylor will sing, dance and share her celebrated acting talents through monologues from her own works and the works of August Wilson, Lorraine Hansberry, Pearl Cleage and Tennessee Williams. The story will be laced with Jackie’s own personal song compositions as we experience her perspectives on her life, from growing up in Cabrini Green to embracing a dysfunctional family to her own the successes and failures.  

Black Ensemble Theater will host a VIP night of From Jackie With Love (What The World Needs Now) on Wednesday, March 8, 2017, as a fundraiser to ensure the company’s future as the preeminent African-American theater company in the country.  The evening will begin at 6:30pm with a pre-show reception with appetizers, champagne and wine, followed by the performance at 7:30pm.

Regular tickets for all three performances are $65.  The VIP Event on March 8 is $150 which includes the private reception and performance.  Tickets are available at the Black Ensemble Box Office located at 4450 N. Clark St in Chicago, online HERE, or by phone at (773) 769-4451. 

The Black Ensemble Theater 

Founded in 1976, by the phenomenal producer, playwright and actress Jackie Taylor, Black Ensemble Theater is the only African American theater located in the culturally, racially and ethnically diverse north side Uptown community. Through its Five Play Season of Excellence, The Black Ensemble Theater dazzles audiences locally, nationally and internationally with outstanding original musicals that are entertaining, educational and uplifting. The Black Ensemble Theater has produced more than 100 productions and employed over 5,000 artists.

On November 18, 2011, The Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center opened and is able to accommodate larger-scale productions, bigger audiences and a wider range of educational programming. The new facility includes amenities such as a 299-seat main stage theater (double the capacity of the original venue); 14 offices, classroom space, rehearsal hall, dance studio, scene shop, costume shop, and wardrobe rooms; seven dressing rooms; rehearsal room for musicians; front lobby space with concession areas; and an indoor parking garage.  The completion of a 150-seat theater, which will serve as an experimental stage for the work of the Black Playwright Initiative (BPI), with construction by General Contractor Norcon Inc., is expected in 2017. 

The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts.  For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, please visit www.BlackEnsembleTheater.org or call 773-769-4451.

ChiIL Picks for Mother's Day: BLACK ENSEMBLE THEATER PRESENTS SPECIAL MOTHER’S DAY CONCERT

BLACK ENSEMBLE THEATER PRESENTS

SPECIAL MOTHER’S DAY CONCERT

TO MOTHER – WITH LOVE (A CONCERT JUST FOR HER)

FEATURING PERFORMANCES BY THE STARS OF BLACK ENSEMBLE

Sunday, May 12 at 3 p.m.

Black Ensemble Theater Founder and Executive Director Jackie Taylor announces a special Mother’s Day concert, To Mother – With Love (A Concert Just For Her), featuring the stars of Black Ensemble. The one-day-only concert will be held on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12 at 3 p.m. at the new Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street in Chicago.

To Mother – With Love will feature the Black Ensemble's star performers singing love songs dedicated to “Mom.”  Featured performers include Rashawn Thompson, Melanie McCullough, Dawn Bless, Meghan Murphy, Lyle Miller, and more.

Tickets, priced at $50, are available by calling (773) 769-4451 or online at www.blackensembletheater.org.

The Black Ensemble Theater

Founded in 1976, by the phenomenal producer, playwright and actress Jackie Taylor, Black Ensemble Theater is the only African American theater located in the culturally, racially and ethnically diverse north side Uptown community. Through its Five Play Season of Excellence, The Black Ensemble Theater dazzles audiences locally, nationally and internationally with outstanding original musicals that are entertaining, educational and uplifting. The Black Ensemble Theater has produced more than 100 productions and employed over 5,000 artists.

On November 18, 2011, The Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center opened and is able to accommodate larger-scale productions, bigger audiences and a wider range of educational programming. The new facility includes amenities such as a 299-seat main stage theater (double the capacity of the original venue); 14 offices, classroom space; rehearsal hall, dance studio, scene shop, costume shop, and wardrobe rooms; seven dressing rooms; rehearsal room for musicians; front lobby space with concession areas; and an indoor parking garage.  The completion of a 150-seat theater, which will serve as an experimental stage for the work of the Black Playwright Initiative (BPI), is expected in 2013.

The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts.  For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, please visit www.BlackEnsembleTheater.org or call 773-769-4451.

MLK Day Chicago 2013 #ChiILpicks

ChiIL Mama's checkin' out Bud, Not Buddy at the press opening TONIGHT, and we'll have a full review shortly.   We'll be hangin' with the author Christopher Paul Curtis.   You can too, on MLK day.

Teach your children well.   MLK day means more than a 3 day weekend and a chance to snuggle down in the covers and sleep in.   We love living in a major city, as there's always too much to do.   Many museums, theatres, and organizations are having Martin Luther King Jr. events and activities.   These are our ChiILpicks for 2013:

1.  “Too Hot to Handel: The Jazz-Gospel Messiah” JANUARY 19 – 20

2.  Black Ensemble Theater-MLK Day Celebration

3.  Bud, Not Buddy Author Event

Top left  is Christopher Paul Curtis, author, Bud, Not Buddy.   Photo credit for all:  Margaret Strickland.

CHICAGO CHILDREN'S THEATRE INVITES FAMILIES TO MEET BUD, NOT BUDDY AUTHOR CHRISTOPHER PAUL CURTIS MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY EVENT IS MON., JAN. 21 AT 1 PM AT CHASE AUDITORIUM

All outdoor photos feature actor Travis Turner as Bud in Chicago Children's Theatre's new production of Bud, Not Buddy.

Chicago Children's Theatre (CCT) invites families to meet Christopher Paul Curtis, author of Bud, Not Buddy, on Monday, Jan. 21, 2013 at 1 p.m. at the ChaseAuditorium, 10 S. Dearborn St. in downtown Chicago.   Admission is complimentary for this Chicago Children's Theatre Community Event, but reservations are required.  Please rsvp at chicagochildrenstheatre.org/CPC . Kids will be out of school for Martin Luther King Day, so bringing them downtown to meet Curtis - one of the most prolific African American writers of contemporary children's literature today, and author of the only book to win both the Newbery Medal and the Coretta Scott King Author Award - is an ideal way to honor the holiday.

Bud, Not Buddy follows the heartwarming, unforgettable journey of a young African-American orphan as he searches for his father in Depression-era Michigan. Full of laugh-out-loud humor and wonderful characters from the world of jazz, the book is afavorite with children 8 and up and, at many schools, is required reading for February, Black History Month.

CCT's free event includes a Q&A with Curtis introduced by Chicago Children's Theatre Artistic Director Jacqueline Russell, co-moderated by Talia Garg (12) and Olivia Garg (10). Curtis will meet fans and sign books after the discussion.

Curtis is visiting Chicago for the opening weekend of Chicago Children's Theatre's newest production, a live stage adaptation of his book Bud, Not Buddy. The production is directed by Derrick Sanders, director of CCT's 2011 smash hit Jackie and Me. 

School and public performances of Bud, Not Buddy run Jan. 12-Feb. 24, 2013 at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St., Chicago.  Single tickets start at $20. To purchase, visit chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call (872) 222-9555. For group rates, visit GroupTix.net or call (773) 327-3778. 

JPMorgan Chase, Official Education Sponsor of Chicago Children's Theatre, is generously providing their 400-seat downtown auditorium for this community event.

About Christopher Paul Curtis

Born in Flint, Michigan, Christopher Paul Curtis was always a great reader, but as a youth he could not find books "that were about me." He spent his first 13 years after high school on the assembly line of Flint's historic Fisher Body Plant #1, hanging 80-pound car doors on Buicks. He wrote during his breaks to escape the noise of the factory, while attending college at night. Curtis made an outstanding debut in children's s literature with The Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963. His second novel, Bud, Not Buddy, is the first book ever to receive both the Newbery Medal and the Coretta Scott King Author Award. 

Curtis' writing - and his dedication to it - has been greatly influenced by his family members. He modeled characters in Bud, Not Buddy after his two amazing grandfathers - Earl "Lefty" Lewis, a Negro Baseball League pitcher, and 1930s bandleader Herman E. Curtis, Sr., of Herman Curtis and the Dusky Devastators of the Depression.  For more information, visit his website nobodybutcurtis.com

About Chicago Children's Theatre

Itinerant no longer, Chicago Children's Theatre has happily moved in to its first-ever permanent home, the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn Street, a lovely tree-lined street in the heart of Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood, just steps from the Magnificent Mile.

Chicago Children's Theatre focuses on the production of first-rate children's theatre in Chicago, with top writing, performing and directorial talent and high-quality design and production expertise. Chicago Children's Theatre aspires to enrich our community through diverse and significant theatrical and educational programming that engages and inspires the child in all of us.    

Launched in 2005, Chicago Children's Theatre strives to provide affordable and accessible theatre for families and area school children. To enhance the impact of any given production's themes, Chicago Children's Theatre offers educational materials and programs for families and educators. 

In addition to its mainstage programming for families, schools and groups, Chicago Children's Theatre is expanding its theater class and camp offerings for children at the Ruth Page, and continuing its Red Kite Project, creating multi-sensory, interactive theater programming tailored specifically to the needs and interests of children on the autism spectrum. 

  

Chicago Children's Theatre's 2012-2013 season is made possible in part by the generosity of its sponsors: ComEd is the Official Lighting Sponsor. Goldman Sachs Gives is the Official Season Sponsor. JPMorgan Chase is the Official Education Sponsor.Target is the Official School Field Trip Sponsor. United is the Chicago Premiere Sponsor as well as the Official and Exclusive Airline Sponsor.     

For more information about Chicago Children's Theatre visitchicagochildrenstheatre.org, call CCT's new dedicated box office line, (872) 222-9555, or the administrative office, (773) 227-0180.

ACT OUT CLOSING: The Other Cinderella at Black Ensemble Theatre #ChiILpicks #review #holidaytheatrefavs

Must close January 13

BLACK ENSEMBLE THEATER PRESENTS THE HOLIDAY FAVORITE

JACKIE TAYLOR’S

THE OTHER CINDERELLA

FOR THE FIRST TIME AT

THE NEW BLACK ENSEMBLE THEATER CULTURAL CENTER

If you haven't seen this show yet, go already!   The Other Cinderella is highly recommended and makes our ChiILpicks list for Holiday Theatre Favorites.  My nine year old daughter, Sage, and I caught opening night of this rockin' remake of the fairytale classic and were blown away by the talented cast and creative script.  

Sage is all about grrrrl power and has a low tolerance for the typical Cinderella fairy tale genre, so we happily skipped the more traditional Emerald City Cinderella for The Other Cinderella this year.   Sage found great role models in tiny but mighty Alyssa Zopp (Peanut Butter), a girl from the hood who's "one of the boys", and in Ta-Tynisa Wilson's entirely endearing Cinderella portrayal. 

I thoroughly enjoyed the impressive talent of the vocalists, and the soul, Motown vibe of the musical numbers was a welcome break from more traditional, seasonal musical fare.  Sage did grumble that there were too many songs and not enough dialogue, but she's not a huge fan of musicals, to begin with.  Otherwise she was quite enthusiastic about recommending the show.   There's a bit of mellowly mature language, but overall, this is a great, family friendly piece with hilarious characters and and excellent message of empowerment, made modern, yet retaining fun fairy tale elements.   

We sincerely hope The Other Cinderella continues to make a reappearance as a holiday classic for years to come.   The Other Cinderella has returned every other year since 1976.   Sure, the famous coach driver has changed over the years, and cell phones and other updated trappings have appeared and become woven into the ever evolving and changing piece.    But the core message remains as timely and relevant as it was 26 years ago. 

BLACK ENSEMBLE THEATER

The Other Cinderella

Written & directed by:    Black Ensemble Theater Founder and CEO Jackie Taylor

Choreographer:             Rueben Echoles

Musical Director:           Robert Reddrick

Dates:                          November 23 – January 13, 2012 

Location:                      Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street.

Ticket prices:                $55 - $65

Box Office:                   Buy online at www.ticketmaster.com or call (773) 769-4451

The most successful of all of the Black Ensemble Theater productions, The Other Cinderella returns every other year since 1976.  It is now a Black Ensemble classic that always features some new twist, turns, and surprises.  The Other Cinderella joyously retells the familiar fairy tale with an Afro-centric twist.  There’s a “Stepmama” who works at the post office, two stepsisters who “don’t do nuthin’,” the brothers are from the ‘hood, Cinderella was born in the projects and the “fairy Godmama” is from Jamaica.  Just as in the “traditional” Cinderella, there is a King, a Queen, and a Prince, but in this kingdom, everybody has soul.  

The Other Cinderella is appropriate for all ages, featuring original music, exciting dances and a heartwarming story that reminds audiences of the greatness of the human spirit.

The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts. For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, please visit www.BlackEnsembleTheater.org or call 773-769-4451.

“We are thrilled to bring back our bi-annual hit The Other Cinderella,” says Jackie Taylor. “It’s amazing to witness the many generations that keep returning year after year. The audience is a rainbow of colors, cultures and ages which testifies to how The Other Cinderella delivers a message of love, hope and the importance of believing in yourself that really speaks to the masses.” As with every production there is always something new and exciting coming from the Kingdom of Other.

As with all Black Ensemble Theater productions, Robert Reddrick will serve as musical director charged with making the beautiful original music written by Jackie Taylor and Michael Ward an unforgettable and transformational experience. The Black Ensemble Musicians include Robert Reddrick on drums, Tracy Baker on bass, Herbert Walker on guitar, and Mark Moultrup and Andrea Moore on piano.

The cast includes: Ta-Tynisa Wilson (Cinderella), A’rese Emokpae (The Fairy God Mama), Dawn Bless (Stepmama), Lisa Beasley (Margarite), Jessica Moore (Geneva), Dwight Neal (King), Rhonda Preston (Queen), Lawrence Williams (Prince), Raymond Wise (Page), David Simmons (Attendant), Mandy Lewis (Lady in Waiting), Brandon Holmes (Ground Hog), Alyssa Zopp (Peanut Butter), Malcolm Thompson (Pee Wee) Rueben Echoles (A.B.) and Erin O’Shea (Dorothy.)

The outstanding production team tasked with making this the most magical of all The Other Cinderella’s in the past 35 years includes Dave Ferguson (Set Design), June Saito (Costumes), Denise Karczewski (Lights), Rueben Echoles (Choreography and Wigs), and Sarah Helt (Props). Bekki Lambrecht is the Technical Director, Emily Wall is the production stage manager and Vickie Spires is the company Equity stage manager.

Black Ensemble Theater's world premiere production of "FROM DOO WOP TO HIP HOP" will be featured during Chicago Theater Week.

From Doo Wop to Hip Hop
Written by Jackie Taylor and Rueben Echoles
Directed by Jackie Taylor
February 7, 2013-March 31, 2013
Opening: Sunday, February 10, 2013 at 3:00 p.m.

This melodic look at the Doo Wop era celebrates such iconic groups as The Platters, The Drifters and the Chantels (just to name a few). Since it first premiered in 1995 it has had several revivals because it is indeed a Black Ensemble Theater Treasure. You can't help but snap your fingers to the beat as we take a stroll down memory lane hearing those beautiful songs like Smoke Gets In Your Eyes, This Magic Moment and Maybe while exploring how the successful music of today is related to the magical era of Doo Wop. With the emphasis on Doo Wop music this is a production that brings the '50s into the 21st Century.

The Black Ensemble Theater

Founded in 1976, by the phenomenal producer, playwright and actress Jackie Taylor, Black Ensemble Theater is the only African American theater located in the culturally, racially and ethnically diverse north side Uptown community. Through its Five Play Season of Excellence, The Black Ensemble Theater dazzles audiences locally, nationally and internationally with outstanding original musicals that are entertaining, educational and uplifting. The Black Ensemble Theater has produced more than 100 productions and employed over 5,000 artists.

On November 18, 2011, The Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center opened and is able to accommodate larger-scale productions, bigger audiences and a wider range of educational programming. The new facility includes amenities such as a 299-seat main stage theater (double the capacity of the original venue); 14 offices, classroom space; rehearsal hall, dance studio, scene shop, costume shop, and wardrobe rooms; seven dressing rooms; rehearsal room for musicians; front lobby space with concession areas; and an indoor parking garage. The completion of a 150-seat theater, which will serve as an experimental stage for the work of the Black Playwright Initiative (BPI), is expected in 2013