ADULT NIGHT OUT: Chicago Premiere of MotherFreakingHood! at Chicago's Venus Cabaret Theater May 4 – June 11, 2023

 ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

The uproarious new musical comedy

MotherFreakingHood!

makes its Chicago premiere at the Venus Cabaret Theater

at Mercury Theater Chicago

The critically acclaimed musical features

original book and music by Julie Dunlap and Sara Stotts

with direction by Heidi Van

and music direction by Linda Madonia

 

Featuring Leah Morrow, Jacquelyne Jones, Tafadzwa Diener and Maya Rowe 

May 4 – June 11, 2023

Grab your friends, hire a sitter, and get ready to laugh your abs off! MotherFreakingHood!, the uproarious musical comedy celebrating the world’s second-oldest profession, is coming to Chicago’s Venus Cabaret Theater. This new, original musical by Julie Dunlap and Sara Stotts is directed by Heidi Van, with music direction by Linda Madonia. MotherFreakingHood! runs May 4-June 11, 2023 in the intimate Venus Cabaret Theater at Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Avenue. I'll be out for the press opening May 13th, so check back soon for my full review.

MotherFreakingHood! is an irreverent, yet sentimental, original musical comedy that follows first-time mom Rachel, second-time mom Angie, and fourth-time mom Marcia, as they sing and dance their way from pregnancy tests to empty nests...one bottle at a time! The uncensored trio takes on the world with unmotherly charm, discovering that this inconceivably hilarious adventure is best shared with friends. MotherFreakingHood! takes a blunt look at the parenting journey, told through all original music and unbridled humor.

After debuting in Kansas City at the Goppert Theatre in 2015, MotherFreakingHood!enjoyed a limited off-Broadway run at the 2017 New York Musical Festival in New York City, receiving rave reviews and continuing its development in Chicago and Kansas City. The musical then had a limited, sold-out run at The Black Box in Kansas City in September 2022 where it was named Broadway World's Best New Play or Musical for 2022 in the region.

“I am thrilled to be bringing this show to my hometown, sweet home Chicgo,” says co-playwright Sara Stotts. “Between Heidi [Van], Linda [Madonia)], Keely [Vasquez, casting director], and our all-female cast, we have a great team of extraordinary women bringing this critically acclaimed musical to the beautiful Venus Cabaret Theater.”

“MotherFreakingHood! is a full experience that gives mothers a place to laugh at the absurdities of child-rearing and reminds them they are not alone,” adds co-playwright Julie Dunlap.

The cast includes Leah Morrow (Marcia Burger), Jacquelyne Jones (Angie Miller),Tafadzwa Diener (Rachel Nixon) and Maya Rowe (Everywoman).

Tickets for MotherFreakingHood!, priced $65 for single tickets and $260 for premium reserved tables of four, are on sale now at the box office, 3745 N. Southport Avenue in Chicago, www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com. Discounted tickets available for groups of 8 or more.

About the Artists

Playwrights Julie Dunlap and Sara Stotts know the power of friendship well. The former roommates met at

the University of Kansas and quickly bonded while co-writing a short musical for the campus variety show, Rock Chalk Revue. While their careers led them to different cities, they maintained their friendship and shared love of music and writing, teaming up to writeMotherFreakingHood! while coping with raising their own kids, a move they claim was cheaper than therapy. With the primary goal of celebrating unsung heroes with unsung songs, the musical comedy became a labor of love.

Julie Dunlap (Playwright / Producer), a Kansas City native and mother of five, entered motherhood with a degree in Human Biology she used to make her own humans. To cope, she started a mom blog that was soon picked up by the Lawrence Journal-World as a weekly humor column. Within three years, though, she no longer felt 500 words each week sufficiently expressed the stories that made up her days as a mom and partnered with her former college roomie to write an entire musical about the experience. Julie lives in Lawrence, KS where she is a freelance writer and pianist.

Sara Stotts (Playwright / Producer), a mother of two, grew up in Ponca City, Oklahoma. After graduating from the University of Kansas, Sara earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Northwestern University. While in Chicago, she studied improvisation at both the Annoyance Theater and The Second City. There, she seasoned her funny bone and honed her music writing skills as the former front woman of the funk-blues band Chubby Nothin’ and the Bone. Sara lives in Wilmette, IL and practices Physical Therapy by day and by night she practices being a mom to her two delightful and loving and not at all angsty teenagers.  

Heidi Van (Director / Producer) is an actor, creator, and producer of contemporary experimental live theatre. She is the founder of Fishtank Theatre, Inc, a stalwart in the Kansas City arts community, which has been nurturing local artists and entrepreneurship in the arts since 2009. In 2019, Heidi opened The Black Box, an ever-evolving stage in Kansas City's West Bottoms. She leads with experience, wit and creativity both within the theater and in her favorite role: as a mother of three.

Dates: May 4 – June 11, 2023

Previews: May 4 – 7, 2023

Regular Run: May 11 – June 11, 2023

Press Performances: Friday, May 12 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, May 13 at 3pm and 8pm; Sunday, May 14 at 3 pm

 

Schedule:                             

Thursdays: 8pm

Fridays: 8pm

Saturdays: 3pm and 8pm

Sundays: 3pm

 

Location: Venus Cabaret Theater at Mercury Theater Chicago; 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago

 

Single Tickets: $65

Premium Reserved Tables for 4 people: $260

Box Office: 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago; www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com

 

COVID PROTOCOL: Mercury Theater Chicago follows the CDC and State of Illinois recommendations about maintaining a COVID safe environment. Any interaction with the public poses an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19. By visiting Mercury Theater Chicago, it is understood that everyone voluntarily assumes all risks related to exposure.

 

About Mercury Theater Chicago

The beautifully renovated Mercury Theater Chicago is in the heart of the Southport Corridor at 3745 North Southport Avenue, within a sophisticated neighborhood of restaurants and boutiques just steps from Wrigley Field. A delightful destination, Mercury Theater Chicago is a live-theater seating 280 people, adjoining Venus Cabaret Theater (seating 80). 

The building that houses the Mercury opened in 1912 as a silent film nickelodeon, named The Blaine Theatre after actor and former Senator and Secretary of State James G. Blaine. The Blaine became obsolete when talking pictures became popular nationwide in 1928. The building served a variety of uses until 1994, when it was purchased by theater producer Michael Cullen and transformed into a live theatre, named the Mercury Theatre.

In 2010 the building was sold again and reopened as Mercury Theater Chicago under the direction of Walter Stearns, a veteran theater director and producer. Mercury Theater Chicago's second performance space, Venus Cabaret Theater, offers a unique intimate theatrical experience complemented by specialty cocktails. Mercury Theater Chicago is thrilled to be part of the city's vibrant theatre community, boasting record-setting long runs, employing hundreds of artists and recognized with dozens of award nominations. Mercury Theater Chicago's team includes L. Walter Stearns and Eugene Dizon (Executive Producers), Christopher Chase Carter (Artistic Director), and Kristi J. Martens (Managing Director). Visit www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com.

 

Signed, Sealed, Delivered: A Stevie Wonder Experience Via Artists Lounge Live and Mercury Theater Chicago February 23 – March 12, 2023

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Artists Lounge Live and Mercury Theater Chicago present

Signed, Sealed, Delivered: 

A Stevie Wonder Experience

with John-Mark McGaha

at Mercury Theater Chicago

February 23 – March 12, 2023

 The run time is 2 hours, including one 15-minute intermission. 

  

Artists Lounge Live presents Signed, Sealed, Delivered: A Stevie Wonder Experience with John-Mark McGaha, written and directed by Angela Ingersoll and music directed by Will Kurk, runs February 23 – March 12, 2023 at Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Avenue. I'll be out for the press opening, February 23rd, so check back shortly for my full review.

Celebrate the genius and jubilation of Stevie Wonder with acclaimed singer and multi-instrumentalist John-Mark McGaha (The Ray Charles Legacy, Smokey Joe's Cafe). Backed by a phenomenal 7-piece band, McGaha radiates soul, charm, and generosity in a concert filled with moving stories and powerful music. Songs include: "For Once in My Life," "Isn't She Lovely," "Higher Ground," "You Are The Sunshine Of My Life," "Superstition," and "I Just Called to Say I Love You."

Tickets for Signed, Sealed, Delivered: A Stevie Wonder Experience, priced $35-$75, are on sale now at the box office, 3745 N. Southport Avenue in Chicago, www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com.

The creative team for Signed, Sealed, Delivered: A Stevie Wonder Experience is Angela Ingersoll (writer, director), Will Kurk (music director), John-Mark McGaha (story supervisor), Will Kurk (band arrangements) and Josh Rzepka (horn arrangements). The Artists Lounge Live Executive Producer is Michael Ingersoll and the Artistic Director is Angela Ingersoll.

The musicians include: John-Mark McGaha (headliner/piano/guitar), Will Kurk (music director/ piano/

synth/vocal), Will Baggett (bass), Chuck Lacy (drums), Cherise Coaches (supporting vocals), Jessica Brooke Seals (supporting vocals), Josh Rzepka (trumpet) and Jesse Montijo (sax/flute).

 

About John-Mark McGaha

Broadway World cheers, "McGaha is marvelous... crystal-clear perfection." John-Mark McGaha is an acclaimed singer, actor, storyteller, and multi-instrumentalist. He headlines concerts across the country with Artists Lounge Live, starring in Signed, Sealed, Delivered: John-Mark McGaha Sings Stevie Wonder, Someday At Christmas: John-Mark McGaha Sings Stevie Wonder, Unforgettable: John-Mark McGaha Sings Nat King Cole, and A Nat King Cole Christmas. Theatre credits include starring Off-Broadway in the musical Cafe A Gogo and portraying jazz great Lionel Hampton in Tuxedo Junction. Other credits include Smokey Joe's Cafe; Violet; The Ray Charles Legacy; The Sinatra Legacy; and The Cash Legacy at Nashville's historic Ryman Auditorium. Also a music arranger, he provided Music Direction and Adaptation for the world premiere musical Ocean 1222: A Black Family Christmas. Television appearances include a featured musical guest spot on BET's Centric Celebrates Selma: 50th Anniversary Music Special. McGaha began studying classical piano at the age of five. He attended Birmingham Southern College and the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in New York. His central passion is worshipping God in spirit and truth. He served as Director of Contemporary Worship and Arts at Trinity United Methodist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. John and his wife Grace have five beautiful children.

Dates: February 23 – March 12, 2023 

Schedule: 

Thursdays: 7:30 p.m.

Fridays: 7:30 p.m.

Saturdays: 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Sundays: 2:30 p.m.

 

Location: 

Mercury Theater Chicago

3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago

 

Tickets: $35 – $75

Box Office: 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago

www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com

 

COVID PROTOCOL: Mercury Theater Chicago follows the CDC and State of Illinois recommendations about maintaining a COVID safe environment. Any interaction with the public poses an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19. By visiting Mercury Theater Chicago, it is understood that everyone voluntarily assumes all risks related to exposure.

Valet Parking is available at the theater. The closest paid parking lot is at Blaine Elementary School (across from the theater at 3830 N Southport) and is available through Spothero or by QR Code upon arrival. Mercury Theater Chicago encourages use of public transportation. 

Discount tickets available for Chicago Theatre Week.

About Artists Lounge Live

Artists Lounge Live is a Chicago-based company presenting captivating concerts nationwide. We feature timeless popular music performed by singular talents with superb musicianship and intimate storytelling. Artists Lounge Live is created and produced by married team Michael and Angela Ingersoll. Executive Producer Michael Ingersoll starred as Nick Massi of the Four Seasons in Jersey Boys, originating the Broadway Tour’s San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Chicago casts. He also created retro-rock group Under the Streetlamp, starring in several PBS specials and touring internationally. Artistic Director Angela Ingersoll received an Emmy Award nomination for Get Happy: Angela Ingersoll Sings Judy Garland on PBS, touring live nationwide. She also starred as Judy Garland in End of the Rainbow, receiving Chicago’s Jeff Award and Los Angeles Times Woman of the Year in Theatre.

About Mercury Theater Chicago

The beautifully renovated Mercury Theater Chicago is in the heart of the Southport Corridor at 3745 North Southport Avenue, within a sophisticated neighborhood of restaurants and boutiques just steps from Wrigley Field. A delightful destination, Mercury Theater Chicago is a live-theater seating 280 people, adjoining Venus Cabaret Theater (seating 80). 

The building that houses the Mercury opened in 1912 as a silent film nickelodeon, named The Blaine Theatre after actor and former Senator and Secretary of State James G. Blaine. The Blaine became obsolete when talking pictures became popular nationwide in 1928. The building served a variety of uses until 1994, when it was purchased by theater producer Michael Cullen and transformed into a live theatre, named the Mercury Theatre.

In 2010 the building was sold again and reopened as Mercury Theater Chicago under the direction of Walter Stearns, a veteran theater director and producer. Mercury Theater Chicago's second performance space, Venus Cabaret Theater, offers a unique intimate theatrical experience complemented by specialty cocktails. Mercury Theater Chicago is thrilled to be part of the city's vibrant theatre community, boasting record-setting long runs, employing hundreds of artists and recognized with dozens of award nominations. Mercury Theater Chicago's team includes L. Walter Stearns and Eugene Dizon (Executive Producers), Christopher Chase Carter (Artistic Director) and Kristi J. Martens (Managing Director). Visit www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com.

 

GIVEAWAY: WIN A Family 4 Pack of Tickets to Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation at Mercury Theatre Chicago March 15-June 12, 2022

Enter to WIN a Family Four Pack of Tickets Below

THE CHICAGO PREMIERE OF DISNEY’S WINNIE THE POOH: THE NEW MUSICAL STAGE ADAPTATION 

AT THE MERCURY THEATRE

Winnie the Pooh Cast (Chris Palmieri, Jake Bazel, Emmanuel Elpenord, Kirsty Moon)_Photo Credit/ Evan Zimmerman (MurphyMade)

 “Enchanting!” Time Out

“Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation is magical, sweet as honey, and full of humor. It's a wholesome, delightful, enchanting piece of theatre.” BroadwayWorld

ChiIL Mama’s ChiIL Picks List:

Family Friendly Shows On Our Radar

Here at ChiIL Mama we were raised on A. A. Milne's timeless tales of Pooh, Christopher Robin, and their best friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit and Owl (and Tigger too!). It was a joy to introduce the books and the classic Disney featurettes to our own children, and now we're jazzed to see the stage adaptation! We're thrilled to partner up with the production to offer a chance for two of our readers to win free family four pack of tickets to Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation. Sing Ho for the life of a bear and plan your own adventure with life-sized puppets, in the Hundred Acre Wood. 

Enter at the bottom of this post for your chance to win! 

Winnie the Pooh, Kristina Dazon (Kanga), Kirsty Moon (Roo)

Photo Credit/ Evan Zimmerman (MurphyMade)

After its acclaimed, record-breaking run in New York City, Jonathan Rockefeller’s Disney’s Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation will arrive in Chicago on March 15, 2022 for a limited 13-week run through June 12, 2022 at the Mercury Theatre Chicago (3745 N. Southport Ave.) For tickets and more information about Winnie the Pooh, visit www.WinnieThePoohShow.com.

Inspired by the beloved books by A. A. Milne and the classic Disney featurettes, the production was welcomed in New York with rave reviews where it was called “A perfect reintroduction to live theater. It’s a captivating adventure with spectacular puppetry,” (Mommy Poppins); “Charming and whimsical stage show that Pooh surpasses every expectation I had for it,” (The Laughing Place); “Winnie the Pooh is delightfully first-rate,” (Theatre Pizzazz); “Irresistible. ‘Winnie the Pooh’ is sweeter than honey,” (DC Metro Arts); “An hour of bountiful joy,” (New York Theatre Guide); “Mesmerizing life-size puppets and original Sherman Brothers tunes, the beautiful new Winnie the Pooh musical is must-see,” (Theatrely); and “The wonderful thing about musicals is that musicals are wonderful things. The New ‘Winnie the Pooh’ Musical Is Sweeter than Honey,” (Toy Insider.)

“The music, the life-size puppets, and the charming performances are the perfect way to introduce (or re-introduce) audiences to live theatre, and this is a must-see show for Winnie the Pooh fans of all ages. I am thrilled to be entrusted to bring this celebrated character to the stage for new audiences as they join our adventure into the Hundred Acre Wood. And what a grand adventure we had in New York City and now we look forward to celebrating Pooh and friends in Chicago,” said Jonathan Rockefeller, creator of Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Adaptation.

In a new story from the Hundred Acre Wood, this fresh stage adaptation is told with impressive life-size puppetry, telling exciting new stories featuring characters that have played iconic roles in the lives of children for generations. Accompanying the magical, modern narrative is an original score from Nate Edmondson, which features some of the songs written for the animated feature from The Sherman Brothers’, including Winnie the Pooh, The Blustery Day, The Wonderful Thing About Tiggers and Whoop-De-Dooper Bounce and A.A. Milne’s The More It Snows (featuring music by Carly Simon) and Sing Ho, a new arrangement. 

Winnie the Pooh broke theatre box office records during its New York premiere for largest advance and is developed and presented by renowned family entertainment creator Jonathan Rockefeller (whose spectacular puppetry is omnipresent in the acclaimed productions of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, Paddington Gets in a Jam and the recently released streaming film Paddington Saves Christmas). 

A leader in family entertainment, Rockefeller Productions values the safety of its patrons and its staff and will enforce current CDC and industry safety standards, all patrons will be required to wear a mask inside the theatre, and every person 12 + will be required to show proof of vaccine before entering the theatre. Children 5-11 will be admitted with one vaccine that was administered at least 14 days prior to performance. For children under 5, proof of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of the performance start time or a negative COVID-19 antigen test taken within 6 hours of the performance start time will be accepted. Health and safety protocols are subject to change in accordance with CDC and local public health mandates. 

The Mercury Theatre Chicago is located at 3745 N. Southport Ave., Chicago

Tickets are now available by visiting www.WinnieThePoohShow.com

Performances are Thursdays at 7 p.m., Fridays at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., Saturdays at 10 a.m., 2 and 7 p.m. and Sundays at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., with ticket prices starting at $38.

The cast features members of the acclaimed Off-Broadway theatrical show, including Jake Bazel as Pooh; Chris Palmieri as Tigger; Emmanuel Elpenord as Eeyore, Rabbit and Owl; and Chicagoans Emilie Rose Danno, Carolyn Plurad, and Tina-Kim Nguyen rotate in the roles of Piglet, Roo and Kanga.  

“As we embark on a national tour for Disney’s Winnie the Pooh, with Chicago

as our next stop for the Hundred Acre Wood, we are proud to have a group of

local actors joining our cast to play the distinct roles of Kanga, Piglet and

Roo. Emilie, Tina and Carolyn are dynamic performers who perfectly embody the

beloved characters, based on the classic book and animated film. They will

superbly complement the returning cast members as we bring this production to

the Mercury Theatre Chicago,” said Jonathan Rockefeller, creator of Disney’s Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Adaptation. 

  

The creative team for the show includes creative director Jonathan Rockefeller, co-scenic designers Jack Golden and Josh Warner, costume designer Lindsay McWilliams, lighting designer Jamie Roderick and original music and orchestrations were composed by Nate Edmonson. Puppets were created by Rockefeller Productions under lead puppet builders Matthew Lish and Ben Durocher. The production also features songs from the Disney featurette by the Oscar® and Grammy® Award-winning American songwriting duo of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. 

About the artists in Disney’s Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation:  

Jonathan Rockefeller (creator and director) is an acclaimed American/Australian

producer, director and writer. Creator of family entertainment, Rockefeller’s

original works include Disney's Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, Paddington Gets In a Jam, Elmer the

Patchwork Elephant Show, Mr Men & Little Miss On Stage, That Golden Girls

Show!: A Puppet Parody.  

Jake Bazel (Pooh) is a puppeteer, voice actor, writer and coach with over a decade of experience working in children’s media. Additional credits include Sesame Street (HBO/PBS), Sesame Workshop’s Helpsters (Apple TV+), Rockefeller Productions’ The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, Paddington Gets in a Jam and more. He often serves on faculty at The Highlight Foundation and as an animation voice acting coach, alongside Sunday Music at Great Big Voices.  

Chris Palmieri (Tigger) is a puppeteer and voice actor known for his work in the Emmy-nominated preschool series Snug’s House (NBC/Universal Kids). Additional credits include King Cryolophosaurus in Jim Henson’s Dinosaur Train Live. Palmieri also served as a puppet builder for Mystery Science Theater 3000 Live.  

Emmanuel Elpenord (Eeyore, Rabbit, Owl) is a puppeteer known for his work in the original cast of the off-Broadway production of Disney’s Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Adaptation. Additional credits include puppeteering for national and international runs of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show with Rockefeller Productions, Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater and the Bryant Park Shakespeare production of Othello.  

Emilie Rose Danno (Piglet/Roo, Kanga) is a Chicago-based actor, who most recently played Audrey in Little Shop Of Horrors at Metropolis Theatre, where she earned a

Broadway World Chicago nomination for Best Performer in a Musical. Danno has

worked in a number of other theatrical productions across the Chicagoland area

at The Miracle Center, West Side Improv and Blank Theatre Cabaret. 

Tina-Kim Nguyen (Piglet/Roo, Kanga) is a Chicago-area actor with credits like The Legacy of Sherwood Forest at Inkwell Arts and Learning, Water by the Spoonful at Northeastern Illinois University, and Richard III at Eclectic Full Contact Theatre.

 

Carolyn Plurad (Piglet/Roo, Kanga) is an award-winning actor with acting credits in City Lit’s production of Fuente Ovejuna, and The Butcher’s Son by Vi Nhan Tran. Her performance as Xinh in The Butcher’s Son was nominated in the Best Supporting Performer category of the Chicago Musical Theater Festival in 2018, and the play was the festival’s Most Promising Musical winner in the same year. Other credits include performances with the Lifeline, Oil Lamp Theater, The Second City, Steel Beam Theater, Odds Bodkin, and Chicago Kid’s Company.  

Winnie the Pooh, Chris Palmieri (Tigger), Emmanuel Elpenord (Rabbit)

Photo Credit: Evan Zimmerman (MurphyMade)

ABOUT THE SHOW

Winnie the Pooh has been enjoyed by millions of readers and viewers ever since English author A.A. Milne first chronicled the adventures of Christopher Robin’s friends in the Hundred Acre Wood in 1926. The books, featuring illustrations by English illustrator E.H. Shephard, have sold over 50 million copies worldwide. The theatrical rights to the Pooh stories were acquired by Disney in 1961, with an original intent to produce a feature film, but after production began, Walt Disney decided to make short featurettes instead. The three featurettes were subsequently incorporated into the feature The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. This was the last film in the Disney canon in which Walt Disney had personal involvement. The first featurette, Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree was released during his lifetime, while Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day was still in development. Disney’s Winnie the Pooh has since become one of the best-loved and most successful franchises in history. 

 

The Sherman Brothers are the multi-talented Oscar® and Grammy® Award-winning American songwriting duo of Richard M.  Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. The Sherman Brothers wrote more motion-picture musical scores than any other songwriting team in film history.  Among these are the Disney classics Mary Poppins, The Jungle Book, Bedknobs and Broomsticks, and The Aristocats. The Sherman Brothers worked directly with Walt Disney on the first two Winnie the Pooh featurettes: Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree (which garnered a Grammy Award nomination) and Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day. The brothers won a Grammy Award for the third featurette: Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too. All three featurettes were incorporated into the 1977 musical film The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. The duo also wrote songs for Winnie the Pooh and a Day for Eeyore and The Tigger Movie, with their music also featured in the movie Christopher Robin.

 

Jonathan Rockefeller and Rockefeller Productions embraced the challenge of re-imaging Disney’s Winnie the Pooh for a new audience by bringing it to life on stage in puppet form. The company has garnered global accolades, from critics and audiences alike, for their production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, with 14 productions playing on four continents. An extended run of the show in New York City culminated in Drama Desk and Off-Broadway Alliance nominations, as did Paddington Gets in a Jam, which tours China and the US in 2022. Other projects include the award-winning short film, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, written by preeminent author/illustrator Eric Carle and the recently released Christmas special Paddington Saves Christmas. 

 

Produced in association with Disney Theatrical Productions

Winnie the Pooh, Jake Bazel (Pooh)

Photo Credit/ Evan Zimmerman (MurphyMade)

Enter Here for your chance to WIN 

a Family Four Pack of Tickets from ChiIL Mama

To Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation at Chicago's Mercury Theatre 

Two winners will receive 4 tickets each to your choice of show dates (pending availability). Contest open through midnight March 22nd, 2022. Enter early and often. Winners will be emailed and announced here, on our site, as well as via our social media outlets. Good luck! 

Winnie the Pooh, Chris Palmieri (Tigger)

Photo Credit/ Evan Zimmerman (MurphyMade)

OPENING: Little Shop of Horrors at Mercury Theater March 1 through April 28, 2019

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

March 1 through April 28

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS has long been one of my favorite musicals and I can't wait to see Mercury Theater's unique take on this classic. My son and I are beyond excited to be catching the press opening Sunday, March 10th, so check back soon for my full review. This is a great pick for multigenerational appeal.

Seymour Krelborn is in search of an escape from his poverty-stricken life on an urban skid-row. He discovers a mysterious carnivorous plant, which survives on human blood.  This man-eating plant quickly blossoms into a fully-fledged local attraction and propels Seymour to success. Before long, Seymour discovers the plant’s extra-terrestrial roots and its’ ultimate desire for world domination.

This hit sci-fi musical has devoured the hearts of audiences around the world for more than 30 years, following the story of floral assistant who stumbles across a new breed of carnivorous plant that promises to grant him fame, fortune and all his desires – as long as the blood keeps flowing. LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS will feature the creative talents of Walter Stearns (Director), Eugene Dizon (Musical Director) and Christopher Carter (Choreographer)

Walter Stearns, Executive Director of Mercury Theater Chicago, announced the cast and creative team of the upcoming LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, running on the main stage from March 1 through April 28. 

Leading the cast of LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS is Christopher Kale Jones as Seymour, Dana Tretta as Audrey and Tommy Novak as Mr. Mushnik.  LITTLE SHOP also features Shantel Cribbs (Chiffon), Nicole Lambert (Crystal), Adhana Reid (Ronnette), David Sajewich (Dr. Orin and Everyone Else), Jonah Winston (Audrey II Voice) and Sam Woods (Audrey II Puppet). The creative team includes Walter Stearns (director), Eugene Dizon (Musical Director), Christopher Carter (Choreographer), Alan Donahue (Set Designer), Scott Deter Flores* (Assistant Stage Manager), Kristof Jarezic (Lighting Designer), Kristi J. Martens* (Production Stage Manager), Serena Sandoval (Costume Designer) and Carl Wahlstrom (Sound Designer).









Howard Ashman and Alan Menken (Disney's The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin) are the creative geniuses behind what has become one of the most popular shows in the world. LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS is based on a Roger Corman thriller from the 1960’s (which featured a young Jack Nicholson).  As a musical it has delighted and enthralled audiences since it’s opening off-Broadway in 1982. The original production won several awards, including the 1982–1983 New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical, the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical, and the Outer Critics Circle Award. 

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS runs from March 1 through April 28. The press opening is Sunday, March 10 at 7:30pm. The performance schedule is Wednesdays at 8pm, Thursdays at 8pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 5pm and 8:30pm and Sundays at 3pm. Individual tickets range from $35-$65 and are available online at www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com, over the phone at 773.325.1700, or in person at the Mercury Theater box office at 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago.

About the Cast of LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS:

CHRISTOPHER KALE JONES* (Seymour) is thrilled to be making his acting debut at Mercury Theater Chicago, revisiting a role he first tackled at famed Ford's Theatre in Washington D.C. Perhaps best known for playing Frankie Valli in the 1st National Tour of Jersey Boys (including a Tonight Show appearance), Chris's other favorite roles include Chris in Miss Saigon (Foothills Theatre), Sebastian in Twelfth Night (Orlando Shakespeare Theatre) and Mercury in Olympus on my Mind (Bristol Riverside Theatre). Chicago-area credits include: Miracle on 34th St. (Theatre at the Center), The Ballad of Little Jo (Steppenwolf), A Midsummer Night's Dream (Chicago Shakespeare Theatre), The King and I and 2018’s Jeff-award winning production of Ragtime (Marriott Theatre). Also, a recording artist, Chris recorded four albums and toured internationally with his former band, PBS sensation “Under the Streetlamp”. Chris is a graduate of Northwestern, a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association, and thankful to be partnered with Gray Talent Group. Love to his wife and original Audrey, actress Jenna Coker-Jones, and of course to his little Audrey II, daughter Presley Rose Jones.  Last year, Chris partnered with Mercury Theater Chicago to record his latest album DARIN: Live at the Mercury, a celebration of the hits of Bobby Darin.

DANA TRETTA* (Audrey) returns to the Mercury Theater Chicago, having last appeared as Gilda Radner in Bunny Bunny. Other Chicago theatre credits include work with TimeLine Theatre (In the Next Room, or the vibrator play, Fiorello!), Paramount Theatre (Hair, A Christmas Story), About Face Theatre (The Homosexuals, We Three Lizas), Porchlight Music Theatre (A Class Act, Mack and Mabel), Marriott Theatre (Wizard of Oz, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown), Writers Theater (The Frog Prince), Route 66 Theatre (High Fidelity), Griffin Theatre (Company), Theo Ubique (Cabaret, Some Enchanted Evening),The House Theatre (Rose and the Rime), and Boho Theatre (The Glorious Ones, Pippin - Non-Equity Jeff Award). Dana is represented by Shirley Hamilton Talent.

JONAH WINSTON* (Audrey II - Voice) is overjoyed to be returning to The Mercury Theatre Chicago where he was recently seen as Trekkie Monster in the Mercury's smash hit production of Avenue Q! Fresh off of his performance as Little John in The Cleveland Playhouse's production of Ken Ludwig's Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood in Cleveland, Ohio, some of Jonah's favorite Chicago credits include: Mr. Fezziwig in A Christmas Carol (Goodman Theatre), the Maître d' in The Merry Widow (Lyric Opera of Chicago), and Newt Lee/Riley in Parade (Writers Theatre). Jonah has also worked regionally at The Indiana Repertory Theatre, The Green House Theatre, Illinois Shakespeare Festival, Porchlight Music Theatre, American Blues Theatre, and Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre. Television and Voice Over credits include Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., Senor Wolley, Skittles, Kool Aid, and Nestle. A native of Indianapolis, Indiana, Jonah holds duel bachelor's degrees in Theatre Performance and Vocal Music from the Butler University Jordan College of the Arts, as well as a Master of Letters Degree from the Flinders University Drama Center in Adelaide, South Australia.

SAM WOODS (Audrey II - Puppet) is overjoyed to be returning to Mercury Theater Chicago after spending time with them on Avenue Q understudying Princeton and Nicky! Some of his favorite regional credits include: Ali Hakim in Oklahoma! (Crane River Theatre Co.), Warner in Legally Blonde: The Musical (Paul Bunyan Playhouse), Mercutio in an immersive re-telling of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and Jamie Wyeth in Nureyev's Eyes, both with the Bluebarn Theater. When not performing theatre, Sam can be found improvising with his team Hero's Journey or writing his next play or sketch.  

TOMMY NOVAK* (Mr. Mushnik) is thrilled to be making their Mercury Theater Chicago debut with Little Shop of Horrors after returning from an international directorial debut in Jinan, China, where they directed a production of Peter Pan, and embarking on a tour of China with a production of Seussical. Select Chicago credits include: Hairspray (Skylight Music Theater), Do Re Mi and Billy Elliot (Porchlight) and Robin Hood at First Stage.

NICOLE LAMBERT (Crystal) Nicole Lambert is thrilled to be making her Mercury debut. Her favorite Chicago credits include: Sour Kangaroo in Seussical (Marriott Theater); Ensemble in Memphis (Porchlight Theater); Daniella u/s and Ensemble in In the Heights (Porchlight Music Theater); Jennifer in Creatives (Chicago Workshop Theater); Peggy in Godspell (St. Sebastian Players); Mimi in Rent (Bright Side Theater); Carmen in Fame the Musical (Real Clear Theater). Nicole received her training from Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University.

ADHANA REID (Ronnette) is a recent graduate of Northwestern University where she focused on studying musical theatre and marketing. She is thrilled to be making her debut at Mercury Theater Chicago with this talented cast and crew of Little Shop of Horrors. Chicago credits include Fantastic Mr. Fox (Emerald City Theatre); Eclipsed (Pegasus Theatre); Big River (Theatre at the Center); Stick Fly; Sweet Charity (Northwestern University); and Spring Awakening (Marriott Theatre).

SHANTEL CRIBBS (Chiffon) is excited to make her Mercury Theater Chicago debut. Chicago credits include: Beauty and the Beast (Silly Girl, Ensemble, Babette u/s) at Drury Lane Theatre; Memphis (Ethel, Ensemble, Felicia u/s, Jeff nominated) at Porchlight Music Theatre; Marie Christine (Women 2, Beatrice, Marie Christine u/s, Jeff nominated) at BoHo Theatre; Hairspray (Dynamite) at Windy City Music Theatre. Shantel worked with Chet Walker at The School at Jacob’s Pillow where she performed in A Jazz Happening at Ted Shawn Theatre. Shantel is a proud Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit alum. Shantel received her BFA degree in musical theatre performance from Columbia College Chicago in 2017.

About the Creative Team of LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS:

L. WALTER STEARNS (Director) As Executive Director of Mercury Theater Chicago, Walter is a champion for Chicago artists and productions and has overseen the physical and cultural revival of a beautiful theatre. He has directed over 40 musicals including his Jeff Award-winning productions of The Addams Family and Ragtime as well as the Jeff Award nominated productions of Mary Poppins, The Producers, The Addams Family, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Barnum-The Circus Musical, The Christmas Schooner, Nine the Musical, Ragtime, Gypsy, The Secret Garden, Sweeney Todd, Company, A New Brain, Into the Woods, Merrily We Roll Along and Falsettos. He was pleased to produce The Man Who Murdered Sherlock Holmes, which was awarded the Jeff Award for New Work. Most recently, he opened the new Venus Cabaret Theater with Stephen Sondheim’s Company and Stephen Schwartz’s Pippin. Walter has received the Jeff Award, BroadwayWorld Award, After Dark Awards, the Larry Sloan Advocate Award (for his support of Season of Concern), the first Guy Adkins award for his contributions to the art of musical theatre and the Franny Award as a distinguished alumnus of the University of Illinois at Chicago.

EUGENE DIZON (Musical Director) is thrilled to be collaborating with this talented cast and crew of Little Shop of Horrors. Eugene has been musical directing for over two decades garnering 6 Jeff Awards (Ragtime, Sweeney Todd, Amadeus, Company, Into the Woods, Merrily We Roll Along), Jeff nominations for A Grand Night for Singing, Candide, Nine the Musical, Closer Than Ever, A Little Night Music, Passion, Colette Collage, Falsettos; 4 After Dark Awards (Ragtime, Sweeney Todd, A New Brain, Merrily We Roll Along), and BroadwayWorld nominations for Company, Hair, Mary Poppins, The Color Purple. Additionally, he has musical directed Pippin, The Producers and Barnum at the Mercury. He is honored to have been inducted into the Chicago Filipino Hall of Fame. Eugene has co-produced 6 “Season of Carols” CD’s (with Cory Goodrich) which features some of the brightest talent in Chicago theater today, for which Season of Concern awarded him the 2013 Larry Sloan Advocate Award and the Season of Concern 2018 Larry Sloan Legacy Award for consistently and passionately being a trailblazer on behalf of Season of Concern.

CHRIS CARTER (Choreographer) is thrilled to return to Mercury Theater Chicago with Little Shop of Horrors. Selected credits include: Hair (Mercury Theater Chicago); Memphis. Dreamgirls, In the Heights and the Porchlight Revisits productions of They’re Playing Our Song and Chess (Porchlight Music Theatre); Five Guys Named Moe (Court Theater); The Legend of Georgia McBride (Northlight Theater); and Sweeney Todd, Godspell, The Secret Garden, Pirates of Penzance (Grand Valley State University); Show Boat, Oklahoma (Lyric Opera Chicago); Show Boat (San Francisco and Houston Grand Opera); Hairspray (Drury Lane Oakbrook); Duke Ellington’s Queenie Pie (Chicago Opera Theater); Oliver, Carousel, Brigadoon (Music Theatre Works); The Wiz, 42nd Street, Guys and Dolls (Theatre at the Center); Smokey Joe’s Café (Circle Theatre); The Wild Party (Actor's Theater). Chris has been the choreographer for the Grand Rapids Civic's SRT for the past five years. He was a Debbie Allen Dance Academy Scholarship student and has additional credits including national tours, commercial, industrial and concert work.




About Mercury Theater Chicago
The beautifully renovated Mercury Theater Chicago is located in the heart of the Southport Corridor at 3745 North Southport Avenue, within a sophisticated neighborhood of restaurants and boutiques just steps from Wrigley Field. A delightful destination, Mercury Theater Chicago is a live-theater seating 290 people, adjoining Venus Cabaret Theater (seating 80). Guests are taken care of from the moment they arrive with valet service and luxe farm-to-table dining at its adjoining restaurant, Grassroots.

WIN 4 Tickets ($80 Value) To Bros Do Prose Peter Pan at Mercury Theater Chicago

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

Enter below for your shot at 4 Tickets to 
Bros do Prose PETER PAN at Mercury Theater

Inspired by the novel ‘Peter & Wendy’ by J.M. Barrie

Created by Bros do Prose - Directed by Christian Libonati

At Mercury Theater Chicago

November 3 to December 23, 2018

Here at ChiIL Mama, we're excited to partner up with Mercury Theater Chicago on a sweet ticket giveaway for our readers. I'll be out to catch the show November 5th, so check back soon for my full review. In the meantime, enter for your chance to win 4 Tickets ($80 Value). 

Bros do Prose puts a fresh new spin on J.M. Barrie’s beloved PETER PAN featuring a cast of two actors at Mercury Theater Chicago (3745 N. Southport Avenue) from November 3 to December 23, 2018. 

This new play created by Bros do Prose is directed by Christian Libonati and features original music by Michael Huey and Ella Raymont with lyrics by Bros do Prose. PETER PAN comes to Mercury Theater Chicago direct from its acclaimed world premiere at The Summer Theatre of New Canaan, Connecticut. Information and tickets are available at www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com.

In a whirlwind of creativity, sick beats and physical feats, a cast of two actors brings new life to the beloved story of Peter Pan. In this play, Wendy Darling dreams of a magical island where she never has to grow-up. When Peter Pan flies out of her dreams and in through her window, Wendy convinces him to lead her to Neverland. And so begins the adventure of a lifetime! Through mischievous antics with Peter Pan, cunning confrontations with Captain Hook, and Saturday night dance parties with the Lost Boys, Wendy uncovers the strength and joy that will keep her young long after she leaves Neverland. Whether this is your first or hundredth journey to Neverland, Bros do Prose PETER PAN will have you flying!

Bros do Prose PETER PAN features Breon Arzell as Peter Pan, Captain Hook, et. al. and Ella Raymont as Wendy, Smee, Tinkerbell, et. al. and is directed by Christian Libonati. The production team includes Brad Caleb Lee (scenic designer), Michael Huey (composer/sound designer), Ilana Breitman (costume designer), Corinne Curtis Broadbent (dance choreographer), and Dan Renkin (fight choreographer). Bros do Prose PETER PAN was originally produced and premiered at The Summer Theatre of New Canaan June 2018.


Music: Michael Huey & Ella Raymont
Lyrics: Bros do Prose
Cast: Breon Arzell (Peter Pan, Captain Hook, and more) and Ella Raymont (Wendy, Smee, Tinkerbell, and more)

Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago.

Previews: Saturday, November 3 @ 11am and Sunday, November 4 @ 11am.
Performances continue November 10 to December 23, 2018.  Saturday & Sunday at 11am.

Tickets are $20.00 and are available online at www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com, over the phone at (773) 325-1700, or in person at Mercury Theater Chicago box office (3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago). 

Second star to the right and straight on to 

Mercury Theater Chicago!

Grab three tickets, get the fourth free with a Family Fun Pack!

Join us for a limited engagement of Bros do Prose PETER PAN, presented from November 3 to December 23. The cast of Bros do Prose PETER PAN includes Ella Raymont (Wendy Darling) and Breon Arzell (Peter Pan). Bros do Prose is a theater organization which strives to create timely, impactful, and endlessly creative theater for children, in addition to theater workshops taught in Chicago, New York and Connecticut.

Ask for the Family Fun Pack offer by phone at 773-325-1700 or in-person at the box office at 3745 North Southport Avenue. Subject to availability. Offer cannot be combined with any other discounts. Offer is not applicable to any previously purchased tickets. 

About Bros do Prose:
Bros do Prose adapts epic stories into two-person immersive and physically electric theater. Bros do Prose was started by Christian Libonati, Ella Raymont and Omen Sade in 2017 to create timely, impactful, and endlessly creative theater for production on any scale. With training ranging from the International Lecoq School in Paris to Mary Zimmerman and Improv Olympics in Chicago, the “Bros” bring a unique formula creating intelligent, action-packed performances that have all ages laughing, dancing and playing together.

Bros do Prose received three 2017 Broadway World Connecticut nominations including Best Children’s/Family Production for their co-production of THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD by Oliver Emanuel at The Summer Theatre of New Canaan, Connecticut. Bros do Prose is currently touring their acclaimed productions of THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD & PETER PAN to Connecticut schools. For additional information on Bros do Prose visit www.BrosDoProse.com




About Mercury Theater Chicago:
The beautifully renovated Mercury Theater Chicago is an intimate jewel box of a theater in the heart of the Southport Corridor, a sophisticated neighborhood of restaurants and boutiques just steps from Wrigley Field. Under the Direction of Executive Director L. Walter Stearns, Mercury Theater Chicago is currently running their hit production of AVENUE Q thru November 4, 2018 with a production of PIPPIN in Venus Cabaret Theater set to run from October 11 to December 16, 2018.


For additional information visit www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com.

WIN 4 Tickets ($80 Value) To Bros Do Prose Peter Pan at Mercury Theatre Chicago

Enter through midnight Thursday, November 8th. Tickets good for winner's choice of shows through the end of November (pending availability). Winner will be announced here and on our social media outlets Friday 11/8/18. 

ENTER HERE

Disclosure: Thanks to Mercury Theater for providing complimentary tickets for our giveaway and review purposes. As always, all opinions are my own.

OPENING: Bros do Prose Hip Hop Peter Pan at Mercury Theater Through December 23, 2018

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

Bros do Prose

PETER PAN

Inspired by the novel ‘Peter & Wendy’ by J.M. Barrie

Created by Bros do Prose - Directed by Christian Libonati

At Mercury Theater Chicago

November 3 to December 23, 2018

Bros do Prose puts a fresh new spin on J.M. Barrie’s beloved PETER PAN featuring a cast of two actors at Mercury Theater Chicago (3745 N. Southport Avenue) from November 3 to December 23, 2018. I'll be out for the press opening November 5th, so check back shortly after for my full review. 

This new play created by Bros do Prose is directed by Christian Libonati and features original music by Michael Huey and Ella Raymont with lyrics by Bros do Prose. PETER PAN comes to Mercury Theater Chicago direct from its acclaimed world premiere at The Summer Theatre of New Canaan, Connecticut. Information and tickets are available at www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com.

In a whirlwind of creativity, sick beats and physical feats, a cast of two actors brings new life to the beloved story of Peter Pan.  In this play, Wendy Darling dreams of a magical island where she never has to grow-up. When Peter Pan flies out of her dreams and in through her window, Wendy convinces him to lead her to Neverland. And so begins the adventure of a lifetime! Through mischievous antics with Peter Pan, cunning confrontations with Captain Hook, and Saturday night dance parties with the Lost Boys, Wendy uncovers the strength and joy that will keep her young long after she leaves Neverland. Whether this is your first or hundredth journey to Neverland, Bros do Prose PETER PAN will have you flying!

Bros do Prose PETER PAN features Breon Arzell as Peter Pan, Captain Hook, et. al. and Ella Raymont as Wendy, Smee, Tinkerbell, et. al. and is directed by Christian Libonati. The production team includes Brad Caleb Lee (scenic designer), Michael Huey (composer/sound designer), Ilana Breitman (costume designer), Corinne Curtis Broadbent (dance choreographer), and Dan Renkin (fight choreographer). Bros do Prose PETER PAN was originally produced and premiered at The Summer Theatre of New Canaan June 2018.


Music: Michael Huey & Ella Raymont
Lyrics: Bros do Prose
Cast: Breon Arzell (Peter Pan, Captain Hook, and more) and Ella Raymont (Wendy, Smee, Tinkerbell, and more)

Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago.

Previews: Saturday, November 3 @ 11am and Sunday, November 4 @ 11am.
Performances continue November 10 to December 23, 2018.  Saturday & Sunday at 11am.

Tickets are $20.00 and are available online at www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com, over the phone at (773) 325-1700, or in person at Mercury Theater Chicago box office (3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago). 

Second star to the right and straight on to 

Mercury Theater Chicago!

Grab three tickets, get the fourth free with a Family Fun Pack!

Join us for a limited engagement of Bros do Prose PETER PAN, presented from November 3 to December 23. The cast of Bros do Prose PETER PAN includes Ella Raymont (Wendy Darling) and Breon Arzell (Peter Pan). Bros do Prose is a theater organization which strives to create timely, impactful, and endlessly creative theater for children, in addition to theater workshops taught in Chicago, New York and Connecticut.

Ask for the Family Fun Pack offer by phone at 773-325-1700 or in-person at the box office at 3745 North Southport Avenue. Subject to availability. Subject to availability. Offer cannot be combined with any other discounts. Offer is not applicable to any previously purchased tickets. 

About Bros do Prose:
Bros do Prose adapts epic stories into two-person immersive and physically electric theater. Bros do Prose was started by Christian Libonati, Ella Raymont and Omen Sade in 2017 to create timely, impactful, and endlessly creative theater for production on any scale. With training ranging from the International Lecoq School in Paris to Mary Zimmerman and Improv Olympics in Chicago, the “Bros” bring a unique formula creating intelligent, action-packed performances that have all ages laughing, dancing and playing together.

Bros do Prose received three 2017 Broadway World Connecticut nominations including Best Children’s/Family Production for their co-production of THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD by Oliver Emanuel at The Summer Theatre of New Canaan, Connecticut. Bros do Prose is currently touring their acclaimed productions of THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD & PETER PAN to Connecticut schools. For additional information on Bros do Prose visit www.BrosDoProse.com




About Mercury Theater Chicago:
The beautifully renovated Mercury Theater Chicago is an intimate jewel box of a theater in the heart of the Southport Corridor, a sophisticated neighborhood of restaurants and boutiques just steps from Wrigley Field. Under the Direction of Executive Director L. Walter Stearns, Mercury Theater Chicago is currently running their hit production of AVENUE Q thru November 4, 2018 with a production of PIPPIN in Venus Cabaret Theater set to run from October 11 to December 16, 2018.


For additional information visit www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com.

OPENING: PIPPIN Via Mercury Theater at Venus Cabaret from October 11 to November 18, 2018

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Mercury Theater Chicago Announces Cast of PIPPIN


PIPPIN to run in the Mercury Theater’s Venus Cabaret from October 11 to November 18, 2018



**Note: This play contains mature content, including sex, drug use, and theatrical gun fire and gun violence. It is recommended for mature audiences ages 15 and older.
**

I'll be out with my teenage son for the press opening, October 13th, so check back soon for our full review. Here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows we've long been fans of Mercury Theater Chicago's excellent productions, and we're elated that they've added the intimate Venus Cabaret to their sphere of influence. We're expecting Pippin to be stellar!

Mercury Theater Chicago, 3745 N. Southport Avenue, is pleased to announce that PIPPIN will run from October 11th through December 16th in Venus Cabaret Theater. In this ‘Magic to Do’ musical Prince Pippin is on a quest for his ‘Corner of the Sky’ and eventually meets a special ‘Kind of Woman’. 

Audiences will experience PIPPIN like never before in this intimate and immersive production featuring Donterrio Johnson as the Leading Player. PIPPIN will reunite the creative talents behind our hit production of HAIR THE AMERICAN TRIBAL LOVE ROCK MUSICAL featuring L. Walter Stearns (director), Eugene Dizon (musical direction), and Brenda Didier (choreography). 

Heir to the Frankish throne, the young prince Pippin is in search of the secret to true happiness and fulfillment. He seeks it in the glories of the battlefield, the temptations of the flesh and the intrigues of political power (after disposing of his father, King Charlemagne the Great). In the end, though, Pippin finds that happiness lies not in extraordinary endeavors, but rather in the unextraordinary moments that happen every day. PIPPIN’s message is universal and connects with audiences across the age spectrum.

With an infectiously unforgettable score from four-time Grammy winner, three-time Oscar winner and musical theatre giant Stephen Schwartz, PIPPIN continues to captivate and appeal to the young at heart throughout the world. Winner of four 2013 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival, PIPPIN first opened in 1972 and ran on Broadway for 1,944 performances with choreography by Bob Fosse and a book written by Roger O. Hirson. 

The cast includes Nicole Armold, Kayla Boye, Adam Fane, Don Forston, Donterrio Johnson, Iris Lieberman, Michael Rawls, Gabriel Robert, Sawyer Smith and Koray Tarhan. In addition to Stearns, Dizon and Didier, the creative team includes Rachel Boylan (costume design), Dustin L. Derry (lighting design), Carl Wahlstrom (sound design), Shanna Vanderwerker (associate choreographer) and Max Maxin IV (video design). Stage management is by Scott Flores-Deter.

Mercury Theater Chicago is an entertainment complex consisting of 2 stages – Mainstage Mercury, an intimate jewel-box of a theatre, seating 290 people in a continental style and the Venus Cabaret, an immersive theatrical experience to delight all senses in a cabaret setting. The Mercury Theater is located in the heart of a sophisticated neighborhood of restaurants and shopping close to Wrigley Field. A delightful theater destination, 

Mercury Theater Chicago takes care of its guests from the moment they arrive with valet service and dining at its adjoining restaurant, Grassroots. The hilarious Broadway musical AVENUE Q will be playing on the Mainstage alongside PIPPIN through November 4th, 2018.

PIPPIN runs from October 11th through December 16th. The press openings are Saturday, October 13th and Sunday, October 14th at 7:30pm.  The performance schedule is Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 7:30pm, Saturdays at 2:30pm and 7:30pm and Sundays at 2:30pm. Wednesday evening performances at 7:30pm will be offered beginning on October 31st. 

Individual tickets range from $60-$65, which include appetizers and dessert, and are available online at www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com, over the phone at 773.325.1700, or in person at the Mercury Theater box office at 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago. 

About the cast of PIPPIN:

NICOLE ARMOLD (Catherine) is delighted to return to Venus Cabaret Theater where she was last seen as Susan in the inaugural production of Company. Her Mercury Theater Chicago credits include: Mary Poppins (Mary Poppins) and Martha (The Christmas Schooner). Other recent Chicago credits include: Ride the Cyclone and Sense and Sensibility (Chicago Shakespeare Theater), Into the Woods (Metropolis), Northanger Abbey (Lifeline), Mill Girls (ATC/ETOPiA) and The Merry Widow (Light Opera Works). 

KAYLA BOYE (Ensemble, u/s Fastrada, Catherine) is thrilled to return to Mercury Theater Chicago where she was last seen in Mary Poppins. Selected credits include South Pacific (Drury Lane Theatre); Billy Elliot, New Faces Sing 1969 and Little Me (Porchlight Music Theatre) and A Christmas Story (Citadel Theatre). 

ADAM FANE (Ensemble, Lewis, u/s Pippin) is thrilled to return to the Mercury Theater/Venus Cabaret after playing Rod in the 2014 production of Avenue Q. Selected credits include: Rock of Ages (National Tour); Billy Elliot: the Musical (Porchlight Music Theatre); Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Mamma Mia!, Hairspray & Mary Poppins (Paramount Theatre); Gypsy, Shrek the Musical, & Ride the Cyclone (Chicago Shakespeare Theater); Avenue Q (Jeff Award Nominated, NightBlue) Selected on-camera credits include “Canal Street” and “Chicago P.D.” 

DON FORSTON* (King Charlemagne) is excited to return to the Mercury Theater after two Christmas seasons in the Mercury Theater Chicago’s production of The Christmas Schooner. His numerous Chicago theatre credits include My Fair Lady, Guys and Dolls and Pirates of Penzance (Jeff Award Nominated) (Marriot 
Theatre); and White Christmas (Drury Lane). Select on-camera credits include “Chicago P.D.” and “Rookie of the Year.”

DONTERRIO JOHNSON* (Leading Player) returns to Mercury Theater Chicago where he was last seen in the 2014 cast of Avenue Q and The Color Purple. National Tours: Waitress Regional: Spamilton (Daveed Diggs); Jesus Christ Superstar (Judas, 2015 Jeff Award); Ain't Misbehavin (Andre, 2014 Jeff nomination); Next To Normal (Dan) and Urinetown (Mr. Cladwell). Selected on-camera credits include USA's “Sirens.” 

IRIS LIEBERMAN* (Berthe) is making her Venus Cabaret Theater debut. A Jeff Award-winning actress, she has performed leading and featured roles in over 170 productions. Selected credits include Cabaret (Theatre at the Center, Jeff nomination); Beauty and the Beast (Fireside Theatre), Elegy (Richard Christiansen Theatre), and Fiddler on the Roof (Paramount Theatre). Select on-camera credits include: “Hoodlum,” “Groundhog Day” and “Missing Person.”

MICHAEL RAWLS (Ensemble, u/s Leading Player) is excited to be a part of their first production with Venus Cabaret Theater. Their previous credits include Man of La Mancha (MadKap Productions); Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer (Hell in a Handbag) and Madagascar (Chicago Shakespeare). 

GABRIEL ROBERT (Theo) is thrilled for his Venus Cabaret Theater debut. Selected credits include Gypsy at Jedlicka Performing Arts Center and The Magic Flute at The Lyric Opera. Recent on-camera credits include a recurring role on Showtime’s “The Chi.”

SAWYER SMITH* (Fastrada) is excited to make their Venus debut! Mercury Theater Chicago credits include: The Bardy Bunch, The Producers, The Addams Family. Selected credits include: The Fly Honey Show 9 (The Inconvenience); Rock of Ages (Drury Lane Theater); First Date (Royal George); Cats, Rent and A Chorus Line (Paramount Theater); and Pippin (BoHo). Choreography credits include: Heathers: The Musical (Kokandy, Jeff Award); Altar Boyz, The Full Monty, Titanic, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Griffin Theatre) and Sweet Charity (Timber Lake Playhouse). 

KORAY TARHAN (Pippin) is thrilled to be making his Venus Cabaret Theater debut. Originally from Los Angeles, Koray graduated from Columbia College Chicago in 2013 and began traveling the country working regionally from San Diego to Cincinnati. Previous credits include The Boy Who Danced on Air (Diversionary Theatre, San Diego), Cabaret (Lewis Family Playhouse), Memphis (Porchlight Music Theater) and Seussical (Drury Lane)

About the Creative Team of PIPPIN: 

L. WALTER STEARNS (Director) As Executive Director of Mercury Theater Chicago, Walter is a champion for Chicago artists and productions and has overseen the physical and cultural revival of a beautiful theatre. He has directed over 40 musicals including his Jeff Award-winning productions of The Addams Family and Ragtime as well as the Jeff Award nominated productions of Mary Poppins, The Producers, The Addams Family, Avenue Q, The Color Purple, Barnum -The Circus Musical, The Christmas Schooner, Nine the Musical, Ragtime, Gypsy, The Secret Garden, Sweeney Todd, Company, A New Brain, Into the Woods, Merrily We Roll Along and Falsettos. He was pleased to produce The Man Who Murdered Sherlock Holmes, which was awarded the Jeff Award for New Work. Most recently, he opened the new Venus Cabaret Theater with Stephen Sondheim’s Company. Walter has received the Jeff Award (Ragtime), BroadwayWorld Award (Avenue Q), After Dark Awards, the Larry Sloan Advocate Award (for his support of Season of Concern), the first Guy Adkins award for his contributions to the art of musical theatre and the Franny Award as a distinguished alumnus of the University of Illinois at Chicago.

EUGENE DIZON (Musical Director) is ecstatic to be collaborating with this talented cast and crew of Pippin at Venus Cabaret Theater. His work is Collage, Falsettos; 4 After Dark Awards (Ragtime, Sweeney Todd, A New Brain, Merrily We Roll Along), and BroadwayWorld nominations for Hair, Mary Poppins and The Color Purple. 

Additionally, he has been the musical director for Company, The Producers and Barnum, all at the Mercury, and Company at Venus. He is honored to have been inducted into the Chicago Filipino Hall of Fame. Eugene has co-produced 6 “Season of Carols” CD’s (with Cory Goodrich) which features some of the brightest talent in Chicago theater today, for which Season of Concern awarded him the 2013 Larry Sloan Advocate Award and the Season of Concern 2018 Larry Sloan Legacy Award for consistently and passionately being a trailblazer on behalf of Season of Concern. Eugene has been musical directing for over two decades garnering 6 Jeff Awards (Ragtime, Sweeney Todd, Amadeus, Company, Into the Woods, Merrily We Roll Along), Jeff nominations for A Grand Night for Singing, Candide, Nine the Musical, Closer Than Ever, A Little Night Music, Passion and Colette.

BRENDA DIDIER (Choreographer) is thrilled to make her Venus Cabaret debut! Dider’s Mercury Theater choreography credits include Barnum, The Color Purple, The Addams Family, The Christmas Schooner, Mary Poppins and directing last season's Hair. Didier is a freelance director/choreographer and recipient of multiple Jeff Awards in direction and choreography, After Dark Awards, the National Youth Theatre Award and was honored last spring with the 2018 Guy Adkins Award for the advancement of music theatre in Chicago. 

RACHEL BOYLAN (Costume Design) is excited to be a part of Venus Cabaret’s inaugural season after having spent many years working at Mercury Theater Chicago. Her Mercury Theater Chicago design credits include: Avenue Q (2014 and 2018), Mary Poppins and I Left My Heart. Additional selected Chicago credits include: Leavings (Polarity Theater Ensemble); Hello & Goodbye (Bluebird Arts); All Girl Dracula (The Mammals); Who Too, The Dancing Plague (The Right Brain Project); Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (St. James Community Theater). 

DUSTIN L. DERRY (Lighting Design) is excited to return for his fourth project with Mercury Theater Chicago after recently working on Avenue Q, Company and The Christmas Schooner. Selected theatrical work includes Bullets Over Broadway (Nightblue). Select dance credits include Ensemble Español, Inaside Chicago Dance, Deeply Rooted Dance Theatre and the Moscow Ballet. 

G. "MAX" MAXIN IV (Video Design) is excited to be working with Mercury Theatre again after last working on Avenue Q. Selected Chicago credits include: Avenue Q (Mercury Theater); Cyrano (Jeff Award Nominated); A Little Night Music, Urinetown (Jeff Award Nominated); Oklahoma (Marriott); Pippin, Chorus Line, Little Women, Cabaret, Bare (Another Door); The View Upstairs (Circle Theatre); Homos or Everyone in America, Perfect Arrangement and Angry Fags (Pride Films & Plays). 

CARL WAHLSTROM (Sound Design) is ecstatic to be working on Pippin, his 16th show at Mercury Theater Chicago. Carl’s recent design credits include the Venus Theater Cabaret inaugural production of Company and the currently running Mercury Theater Chicago production of Avenue Q. Wahlstrom is the resident sound engineer at Mercury Theater Chicago. 

SHANNA VANDERWERKER (Associate Choreographer) is delighted to make her Mercury Theater Chicago debut. Selected choreography credits include 42nd Street, Newsies, South Pacific, Beauty and the Beast, Singin’ In The Rain (Fireside Theatre); Lysistrata Jones (Refuge Theater Project, Jeff Award Nominated). Selected performance credits include Dance Captain of the 1st National Tour of Wicked as well as a swing in the Broadway company, company member of dre.dance in NYC, and “Kids of the Kingdom” at Walt Disney World. 

SCOTT FLORES-DETER* (Stage Manager) is excited to be working with Venus Cabaret Theater. Selected credits include: Pinkalicious: The Musical (Emerald City), The Nutcracker (Peoria Ballet), Late Nite Catechism 

(Nuns4Fun Entertainment), and various productions with The Second City. Flores-Deter is currently working on the Mercury Theater Chicago stage in the long-running hit, Avenue Q, after an incredible run in 2014 (BroadwayWorld Award).