OPENING: Lifeline Theatre KidSeries Presents Lions in Illyria 1/10-2/15

Lions in Illyria

World Premiere Based on William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night Opens January 11 Plus Stories Come Alive! Hour Workshops Every Saturday and Sunday During the Run.

Here at ChiIL Mama we've been promoting this show for ages, we've given away a family 4 pack of tickets to one of our lucky readers, and we're excited to say that opening day is near! Got your tickets yet?

*(This production is recommended for children ages five and up (children under two not permitted), and runs one hour with no intermission.

Act Out Kids:  Chicago Theatre openings, closings, reviews, giveaways, ticket sale dates and more. 

Lifeline Theatre’s KidSeries presents Lions in Illyria, a world premiere based on William Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, written by Lifeline Theatre ensemble member Robert Kauzlaric and directed by Lifeline Theatre ensemble member Amanda Delheimer Dimond. Separated from her brother by a storm at sea, the young lioness Violet must brave an unknown country all alone. Disguised as a boy, she joins with a preposterous peacock on a quest to claim the attentions of the most graceful gazelle in town. But soon Violet is torn between multiple masters and her adventure takes a turn for the absurd when she becomes entangled in the clownish antics of a wacky warthog and his featherbrained dodo sidekick. Travel to the weird and wonderful land of Illyria in a magical comedy loaded with music, monkeys, and mayhem. 

Congrats again to ChiIL Mama's 4 ticket Lions in Illyria winner ($60 value) out of 135 entries, Lisa A!

Click here for our past photo filled coverage & details on our giveaway.

(including a sweet photo filled flashback 5 years to highlight our longstanding love for Lifeline Kids' Series!)

Then and now. ChiIL Mama's kids loving Lifeline KidSeries at 9 & 7.

Sage & Dugan at 11 & 13: Old enough for the adult shows like Lifeline's Jane Eyre, but never too big for Lifeline's lobby "BIG CHAIR"!

Lions In Illyria runs Saturday, Jan. 10–Sunday, Feb. 15 

at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. 

Regular performance times are Saturdays and Sundays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. (Previews are Saturday, Jan.10 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; and Sunday, Jan. 11 at 11 a.m.) Tickets are $15 and may be purchased at the Lifeline Theatre Box Office, 773.761.4477, or by visiting www.lifelinetheatre.com.

(Back, L to R) Kate McDermott as Antonia the monkey pirate, Mykele Callicutt as Orsino the peacock nobleman; (Front, L to R) Bryan Bosque as Sebastian the lion, and Brandi Lee as Violet the lion. Photo by Suzanne Plunkett. 

PLUS: Join Lifeline Theatre every Saturday and Sunday at 12 p.m. during the run of Lions in Illyria (following the 11 a.m. show, or before the 1 p.m. show) for our Stories Come Alive! Hour. Children will enjoy an interactive storytelling session and on-your-feet theatre games. The cost is only $5 per child. Reservations are recommended, though not required. Contact Lifeline Theatre at 773-761-4477 for more information.

Lifeline Theatre also offers “Name Your Price” tickets a half-hour before the show (subject to availability), group rates and other discounts available upon request. A party room is available for full-service birthday and special event parties. Free parking is available at the designated lot west of the theatre (NE corner of Morse and Ravenswood) with free shuttle service before and after the show. Street parking is also available and Lifeline Theatre is handicapped and CTA accessible (Red Line Morse stop/busses).

(L to R) Brandi Lee as Violet the lion  and Mykele Callicutt as Orsino the peacock nobleman; in Lifeline Theatre’s production of “Lions in Illyria”. Photo by Suzanne Plunkett. 

LionsinIllyria_03

(Top) Kate McDermott as Antonia the monkey pirate and (Bottom) Bryan Bosque as Sebastian the lion; in Lifeline Theatre’s production of “Lions in Illyria,” by Robert Kauzlaric, directed by Amanda Delheimer Dimond, based on Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare; beginning Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015, and running through Sunday, Feb. 15. Lifeline Theatre is located at 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. Chicago, IL 60626. For tickets call the box office at 773-761-4477 or visit www.lifelinetheatre.com. Photo by Suzanne Plunkett. 

The complete cast and production team for Lions in Illyria includes:

CAST: Guest artists Bryan Bosque (Sebastian, Andrew), Mykele Callicutt (Orsino, Toby), Brandi Lee (Violet, Maria), and Kate McDermott (Olivia, Antonia). With understudies Ryan Czerwonko, Jaci Entwisle, Ryan Stajmiger, and Alison Sweat.

CREW: Lifeline Theatre ensemble members Robert Kauzlaric (Adaptor) and Amanda Delheimer Dimond (Director); with guest artists Benjamin W. Dawson (Production Manager), Mikhail Fiksel (Original Music & Sound Designer), Izumi Inaba (Costume Designer), Jordan Kardasz (Lighting Designer), John Kelly (Master Electrician), Liz Rice (Assistant Director), Clare Roche (Stage Manager), and Joe Schermoly (Scenic & Properties Designer, Technical Director).

Now in its 32nd season, Lifeline Theatre is driven by a passion for story. Our ensemble process supports writers in the development of literary adaptations and new work, and our theatrical and educational programs foster a lifelong engagement with literature and the arts. A cultural anchor of Rogers Park, we are committed to deepening our connection to an ever-growing family of artists and audiences, both near and far. Lifeline Theatre – Big Stories, Up Close.

Lifeline Theatre’s programs are partially supported by Alphawood Foundation; The Arts Work Fund; Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation; CityArts grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events; The Common Cup; Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation; FGMK LLC; Flex Print , Inc. ; Lloyd A. Fry Foundation; The Grover Hermann Foundation; Illinois Arts Council, a state agency; MacArthur Fund for Arts and Culture at Prince; Netrix LLC; The Polk Bros. Foundation; The Shubert Foundation; and the annual support of businesses and individuals.

ACT OUT KIDS: Sleeping Beauty Opens at Drury Lane Theatre 4/23

Here at ChiIL Mama, we highly recommend Drury Lane. Their shows are professional, high quality entertainment, parking is free, and their food is fabulous.  It's easy to get city-centric, and just stay in town, since Chicago is home to so many stellar productions. But it's well worth the drive to Oak Brook Terrace to explore what Drury Lane has to offer. The drive time really isn't that much more than a trip in cross town traffic. Check them out.

THEATRE FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES

Drury Lane Theatre for Young Adults features Exceptional children’s programming throughout the year, culminating with the beloved annual tradition A CHRISTMAS CAROL.

Drury Lane is dedicated to reaching young audiences with entertaining, educational, and theatrical programming that engages and inspires children of all ages.  The Theatre for Young Adults presents both classic kid-friendly productions and new works and feature whimsical costumes, stunning sets, and all-star talent.

"SLEEPING BEAUTY"   April 23 - June 7, 2014

SLEEPING BEAUTY, the magical retelling of the Brothers Grimm tale, will be presented from April 23 through June 7 at Drury Lane Theatre for Young Adults, 100 Drury Lane, in Oakbrook Terrace. Beautifully reimagined by Marc Robin, the beloved musical is certain to delight and surprise young audiences. The production is directed by Jeff Award winner Tammy Mader (Sunset Boulevard, Gypsy, Thoroughly Modern Millie and Hairspray at Drury Lane Theatre). Drury Lane Theatre also offers families the special opportunity to have breakfast with characters from SLEEPING BEAUTY on select performance dates in the dining room with a festive buffet.

In a faraway kingdom, the vengeful sorceress Magenta casts an enchanted curse on the beautiful Princess Amber. Sleeping Beauty’s spell can only be broken by her true love’s first kiss before time runs out. Prince Hunter must overcome his fears as he scales the mountains, sails the dark sea and battles a dragon to prove his love to Princess Amber. The captivating and colorful fairy tale features a soaring score and lively choreography.

The cast of SLEEPING BEAUTY includes Megan Long as “Princess Amber” (Meet Me in St. Louis and Shout! The Mod Musical at Drury Lane Watertower), Michael Ehlers as “King Lapis” (Cats on Broadway, National Tours of Scrooge and Evita) Johanna McKenzie Miller as “Magenta” (Young Frankenstein and Fiddler on the Roof at Drury Lane Theatre, Mary Poppins at Marriott Theatre), Lisa Estridge as “Marigold” (Seussical and Hairspray at Drury Lane Theatre), Will Skrip as “Prince Hunter” (Les Misérables and Singin’ in the Rain at Drury Lane Theatre), Lillian Castillo as “Sienna” (Hairspray at Drury Lane Theatre), Kelsey Andres as “Periwinkle” (Hello, Dolly! at Drury Lane Theatre) and Lara Filip as “Ruby” (National Tours of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Evita).

A breakfast buffet with SLEEPING BEAUTY characters is offered on April 26, May 10, May 17, May 24, May 31, and June 7 at 11:30 a.m. The Breakfast Buffet package is available for $30.00 for adults and $25.00 for children 12 and under. Theater tickets may be purchased for the 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. show with the buffet package.

                           

Regular performances of SLEEPING BEAUTY are Wednesdays through Fridays at 10 a.m. Saturday performances are both at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. (excluding May 1, May 3, May 28, May 29, and May 30). Performance only tickets are available for $15 and a group rate of $12 per person is available for parties of 20 or more. For reservations, call (630) 530-0111 or visit www.ticketmaster.com or www.drurylane.com.

ACT OUT KIDS OPENING: Mr. Chickee's Funny Money at Chicago Children's Theatre 1/18-3/4 (ages 6+)

CHICAGO CHILDREN'S THEATRE'S 

NEW R&B FAMILY MUSICAL 

MR. CHICKEE'S FUNNY MONEY

JANUARY 18-MARCH 4, 2014

Here at ChiIL Mama we're huge fans of the excellent productions at Chicago Children's Theatre.   We also thoroughly enjoy the works of author Christopher Paul Curtis, so we can't wait to see another collaboration between these two!   Last year we were blown away by Bud Not Buddy, the highly acclaimed adaptation of another of Curtis' works.   

It was our great pleasure to meet Christopher Paul Curtis at the press opening of Bud Not Buddy last year.   At that time we bought all of his children's book we could get our hands on, from Chicago Children's Theatre, and he graciously signed them for us.   Mr. Chickee's Funny Money was one of them.   Check out our 7 prior Bud Not Buddy & Curtis related features here.

Award winning author, Christopher Paul Curtis at the opening of Bud, Not Buddy at Chicago Children's Theatre.  This gifted author went from hanging Buick doors to winning multiple Newbery Awards and Coretta Scott King Awards!   

We do a number of author interviews and frequently cover book signings.   I'm always impressed when authors are genuine and personable, even after hours of autographs!  Christopher Paul Curtis was was down to earth, friendly, and truly a joy to meet.  Even at the tail end of a sizable book signing line, he took time to chat with each child.

Right after we saw Bud Not Buddy, Sage came home from school all excited and she exclaimed "Our class just started reading about the wacky Watsons out loud with the whole class (The Watsons Go to Birmingham-1963).  And I got to share that I just met the author and got that book signed and saw Bud, Not Buddy!"   It's those moments that make me LOVE being a mom. Her enthusiasm was contagious. 

CCT's newest family musical is adapted from the best-selling young adult book of the same name by Christopher Paul Curtis, who also penned Bud, Not Buddy, the Newbery Award-winning book which spawned Chicago Children's Theatre's 2013 smash hit play Bud, Not Buddy. Mr. Chickee's Funny Money features music and lyrics by Motown legend Lamont Dozier and his son, co-music writer/lyricist Paris Dozier. The book is by David Ingber, with musical supervision, orchestrations and arrangements by Brian Usifer. Kevin Iega Jeff (co-founder and artistic director of Deeply Rooted Dance Company) will choreograph. Derrick Sanders (director of CCT's recent smash hits Bud, Not Buddy and Jackie and Me) will direct.

Mr. Chickee's Funny Money follows the misadventures of 10-year-old Steven, a self-proclaimed spy and president of the "Flint Future Detectives Club." At the heart of this whimsical story is a highly intelligent, out-of-the-box thinker, and entrepreneurial boy, who discovers that family, friends, imagination and determination are the true keys to success and that sharing the spotlight with others can make one even richer.As Steven and his friends plot to save Flint from financial ruin, Mr. Chickee's Funny Money grooves to a diverse new set list of original songs all played by a live band and so high-energy and entertaining that kids won't even know they're being treated to a celebration of contemporary African American music through the decades, including Motown, disco, rap, rock, soul, jazz and hip hop. Mr. Chickee's Funny Money brings generations of music lovers together in an adventurous story of mystery.

Single tickets to Mr. Chickee's Funny Money are on sale now, and start at $25. To purchase, visit chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call (872) 222-9555. For information on discounted group rates for schools, playgroups, birthday parties and scouting organizations, visit GroupTix.net or call (773) 327-3778.  Mr. Chickee's Funny Money is recommended for ages 6 and up.  

Jonathan Butler-Duplessis, critically acclaimed for his portrayal of Benny in Paramount Theatre's fall opener In the Heights and currently playing the Ghost of Christmas Present in A Christmas Carol at Theatre at the Center, leads the A-list cast of Chicago's top professional musical theater performers as 10-year old Steven. Ashley Elizabeth Honore, seen in Southbridge at Chicago Dramatists and Home at Court Theatre, plays Steven's friend Richelle. Travis Turner, who played the title role last season in CCT's Bud, Not Buddy, and appeared in Porgy and Bess, Tartuffe and The Misanthrope at Court Theatre, will play Steven's friend Russell. Acclaimed Chicago soul singer Yaw Agyeman is cast as Mr. Chickee. Alexis J. Rogers, 2013 Equity Jeff Award winner as Billie Holiday in Porchlight's Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill, will play dual roles - Steven's mother Lynetta and Madame Director. Bear Bellinger, who appeared in Paramount's Miss Saigon and Court's Porgy and Bess, will play Steven's father, Elmwood. Elena Flores, Lisa in the Broadway production and national tour of Mamma Mia, will play Agent 2. Brian Grey, recently in The Wheel at Steppenwolf and a veteran of CCT's Bud, Not Buddy, plays Agent Fondoo. Puppeteer Sam Deutsch (Redmoon's The Cabinet) will bring fun, funky life to Steven's loyal dog, Zoopy.   Behind the Scenes of Mr. Chickee's Funny Money   As a member of Holland-Dozier-Holland in the 1960's, Lamont Dozier (music writer/lyricist) is credited for being one of the primary architects of the Motown Sound, responsible for writing, co-writing and producing more than 54 #1 hits for The Supremes, Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, Freda Payne and a host of others. His hits include Stop in the Name of Love, How Sweet It Is, Reach Out I'll Be There, Where Did Our Love Go and more.Dozier has been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, from which he received the 2009 Johnny Mercer Award, the highest praise a songwriter can achieve. He has worked with such contemporary acts as Alison Moyet, Aretha Franklin, Simply Red, Phil Collins, Boy George, Eric Clapton, Kanye West, Joss Stone, Solange Knowles, Dave Stewart, Sir Cliff Richard, Phil Collins and George Benson. His music catalogue is one of the most sampled to date by everyone from rappers Notorious B.I.G., Tupac Shakur, Lil Wayne, Dr. Dre, The Alchemist, Common, Lupe Fiasco and Three 6 Mafia, to soul icons Mary J. Blige, Nas and Usher, and even alternative rockers Linkin Park. Paris Dozier (co-music writer/lyricist)  is a native of Los Angeles. Dozier's professional career in music began when he was 15, writing songs for artists on Hollywood Records, Disney, where he would be signed two years after as a singer/songwriter and producer. While at Hollywood Records, Dozier was mentored by and produced an album with Rob Cavallo, most notably regarded as the producer who discovered Green Day and is now the CEO ofWarner Music Group. Dozier later became musical theme writer forB-InTune Television on UPN 13. He continues to write and produce for various artists in just about every genre of music. Born in Flint, Michigan, Christopher Paul Curtis (author, Mr. Chickee's Funny Money) 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 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. His books include Mr. Chickee's Funny Money, its sequel Mr. Chickee's Messy Mission and Bucking the Sarge.    Derrick Sanders (director) is Founding Artistic Director of Congo Square Theatre Company, a Chicago Tribune Chicagoan of the Year in 2005, and winner of multiple Joseph Jefferson Awards and Black Theater Alliance Awards. His most recent collaborations with Chicago Children's Theater - last season's Bud, Not Buddy and the 2011 world premiere of Jackie and Me, written by Steven Dietz, based on the book by Dan Gutman - both enjoyed widespread critical acclaim and nearly sold-out runs at the Ruth Page. CCT's version of Jackie and Me has since received productions at Children's Theatre Company in Minneapolis, New York's Atlantic Theatre Company, and in Seattle, Houston and St. Louis. The script was recently published by Dramatic Publishing. Brian Usifer (music supervision, orchestrations and arrangements) was music director of Kinky Boots on Broadway, associate music supervisor of The Book of Mormon on Broadway, and played in the orchestra of Broadway and off-Broadway productions of The 25th Annual Putman County Spelling Bee, Avenue Q, Altar Boyz, Sister Act, Wicked and Burnt Part Boys.     David Ingber (book) is a New York-based writer/composer. His musicals include Fantasy Football:  The Musical and Zombies Actually. He writes video content for the Major League Baseball Fan Cave, and he has written for web series including ESPN's Mayne Street with Kenny Mayne and Microsoft's Fasterpiece Theater. The design team is Courtney O'Neill (scenic design); Rebecca Jeffords (lighting design); Ray Nardelli (sound); Christine Pascual (costume design); Kevin Iega Jeff (choreography); Margaret Goddard-Knop (properties design); and Sam Deutsch (puppet design). Dennis Conners is production stage manager.   Mr. Chickee's Funny Money received its first staged reading at the Apollo Theater in February of 2012 directed by Kim Rubinstein. It was workshopped in Summer 2013 at the American Music Theatre Project at Northwestern University's In the Works program, supported in part by an Arts Work grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation.      Chicago Children's Theatre's world premiere of Mr. Chickee's Funny Money is presented in association with Funny Money Enterprises and Bisno Productions. CCT's world premiere of Mr. Chickee's Funny Money will be followed by a New York production at The Atlantic Theater Company in Spring 2014. Mr. Chickee's Funny Money performance schedule Previews of Mr. Chickee's Funny Money are Saturday and Sunday, January 18 and 19 at 11 a.m; and Tuesday through Friday, January 21-24 at 10 a.m. Press opening is Friday, January 24 at 7 p.m. Performances that weekend are Saturday, January 25 at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., and Sunday January 26 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.   Performances continue through February 2: Tuesday at 10 a.m., Wednesday at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., Thursday at 10 a.m., Friday at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Saturday at 6 p.m., and Sunday at 11 a.m.  Starting the week of February 3 through February 23, regular performance times are Tuesday at 10 a.m., Wednesday at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., Thursday at 10 a.m., Friday at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Saturday at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., and Sunday at 11 a.m.   *Please note:  The Friday, February 14, 6:30 p.m. performance of Mr. Chickee's Funny Money is Autism-Friendly. The entire house is reserved exclusively for families with children on the autism spectrum. This creates a safe, welcoming environment for children with autism, where nobody needs to worry if a child gets loud or active. All seats are $25. The final week of performances are Wednesday and Thursday, February 26 and 27 at 10 a.m.; Friday, February 28 at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, March 1 at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Sunday, March 2 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.     Tickets are $25 for children and adults to Friday night performances. Tickets to weekend shows are $28 for children, $38 for adults. To purchase, visit chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call (872) 222-9555. For discounted school, scout, playgroup, extended family and other group rates, visit GroupTix.net or call (773) 327-3778.  Running time is approximately 75 minutes with no intermission. What else is in store for Chicago Children's Theatre's 2013-2014 season? Following Mr. Chickee's Funny Money, Chicago Children's Theatre's 2013-14 season finale is the return of The Very Hungry Caterpillar and other Eric Carle Favorites performed by Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia. The production plays April 25-26 at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, then moves to The Ruth Page for a run April 29 - June 1. In response to having programming running for every aged child, CCT will also launch a new series called Later Stage. The program will add four Friday night performances during the spring 2014 run of The Very Hungry Caterpillar featuring work for older children (8 and up) being created by smaller, cutting-edge companies Theatre Unspeakable and Manual Cinema. In addition to expanded mainstage programming, Chicago Children's Theatre's Red Kite Project, the company's ongoing series of theatrical experiences and summer theater camps for children on the autism spectrum, will present the U.S. premiere of Jacqueline Russell's new show Red Kite/Blue Sky in February 2014 at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park.    More about CCT's home, The Ruth Page Center for the Arts    Chicago Children's Theatre is presenting its second full season at the Ruth Page Center, 1016 N. Dearborn St., conveniently located in the heart of Chicago's Gold Coast neighborhood, just steps from the Magnificent Mile. Via public transit, the Ruth Page is a short walk from the CTA Red Line Clark/Division and Chicago stops, and the Clark, Broadway, Division and Chicago Avenue bus lines. Neighborhood street parking is available, and the Ruth Page offers discounted garage parking with ticket validation at 1250 N. Dearborn ($10) and 1030 N. State ($12). Nearby family-friendly restaurants include Chicago Q (1160 N. Dearborn), Epic Burger (40 E. Pearson), Lou Malnati's Pizzeria (1120 N. State), The 3rd Coast Café (1260 N. Dearborn), and Dave and Busters (1030 N. Clark).       In addition to presenting its mainstage season at one location, CCT is fully equipped to host birthday parties and other special events at its new home at the Ruth Page. CCT also has expanded its children's theater classes at Ruth Page, including Glee Club, song and dance for ages 9 to 13, Mondays from 4 to 5:30 p.m; Dream Factory, acting and story creation for ages 6 to 10, Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6 p.m.; and Tiny Sparks, a story playtime for ages 3 to 5, Saturdays from 11 to 11:50 a.m. Sign up for the winter or spring 2014 sessions at chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call (773) 227-0180 x 15 for more information.    About Chicago Children's Theatre Chicago Children's Theatre (CCT) focuses on the production of first-rate children's theatre, with top writing, performing and directorial talent and high-quality design and production expertise. CCT 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. Led by Artistic Director Jacqueline Russell, and Board Chair Todd Leland, the company is supported by a committed Artistic Council of Chicago-based actors, directors, musicians and designers, and a dynamic Board of Directors comprised of dedicated individuals from the fields of entertainment, philanthropy and business.  Officers include David Saltiel, President; Jacqueline Tilton, Vice Chair; Lynn Lockwood Murphy, Vice Chair and Secretary; and David Chung, Treasurer. Chicago Children's Theatre is sponsored in part by ComEd, Goldman Sachs Gives, JPMorgan Chase and Target.

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

Mr. Chickee's Funny Money will star Chicago soul singer Yaw Agyeman as Mr. Chickee (photo credit:  Tyler Core)   The cast also boasts A-list Chicago actors (from left) Jonathan Butler-Duplessis (In the Heights), Travis Turner (Bud, Not Buddy), Alexis J. Rogers (Jeff Award-winner, Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill), and Bear Bellinger (Miss Saigon).

ACT OUT KIDS: Jungle Book Opening at The Goodman Theatre (6+) Now Extended Through Aug. 11th

One of the most hotly anticipated theatre events of the summer is nearly here.   Tickets are selling fast, so get yours NOW.   Here at ChiIL Mama we can't wait to see this one!   Tickets to The Goodman's Jungle Book are certainly one of the bear necessities of life for summer 2013.

THE JUNGLE BOOK BY TONY AWARD-WINNER MARY ZIMMERMAN, BASED ON THE 1967 WALT DISNEY FILM AND RUDYARD KIPLING’S ORIGINAL WORK, MAKES ITS THEATRICAL DEBUT AT GOODMAN THEATRE ***SECOND EXTENSION WEEK ADDED DUE TO HIGH DEMAND FOR TICKETS, NOW RUNS JUNE 21 - AUGUST 11*** ***YOUNG CHICAGOAN RONI AKURATI JOINS AKASH CHOPRA AS “MOWGLI THE MAN CUB”*** Goodman Theatre’s world premiere of The Jungle Book begins previews on June 21 (opening night is July 1) and, with a second extension week just added, now runs through August 11. Tony Award winner Mary Zimmerman reimagines Walt Disney’s 1967 animated hit into a wholly original new work for the stage, drawing from both the film as well as Rudyard Kipling’s 1894 collection of stories set in the Indian jungle and featuring original Indian-inspired music and dance. As previously announced, 10-year-old Akash Chopra makes his Chicago debut as young “man cub” Mowgli, who comes of age with the help of the anthropomorphic singing and dancing jungle animals; joining him in the role at select performances is Roni Akurati, who most recently appeared at the Goodman as Tiny Tim in the 2011 production of A Christmas Carol. The full 31-member company (19 cast and 12-member band) appears below. Zimmerman’s new book for the Goodman premiere blends the humor and spirit of Disney’s iconic film with Kipling’s poetry, balancing the jubilant songs from the film with the universal themes about the loss of childhood innocence. “Every adult knows how it feels to have been a child—the time when we're closer to the animals, nature and much freer outside of the rules of man—and how it feels to leave that time of life. I think that's part of the enduring, universal appeal of The Jungle Book,” said Zimmerman. “I want the audience to experience the joys of the music of the Disney film and of a world where you are one with nature and the animals—even with its dangers and troubles—and the recognition that you can’t stay there.” The score contains seven songs from the film, plus never-before-heard pieces from the Academy and Grammy Award winners Richard M. and Robert B. Sherman. Richard Sherman collaborates with Music Director Doug Peck, who arranges and orchestrates the music, adding underscoring based both on themes from the film and Indian ragas and dance music. Peck’s instrumentation includes piano/harmonium, bass, drum set, clarinet, saxophones, flute, trumpet, trombone, tuba, Indian snake trumpets, Carnatic (South Indian) violin, sitar, veena, tablas, ghattam, dholak and dhol. Tony Award-winning choreographer Christopher Gattelli collaborates with Chicago-based Hema Rajagopalan—founder and artistic director of Chicago’s Natya Dance Theatre—to combine elements of classical Indian dance forms with jazz, tap and other types of movement to enhance the storytelling. Rajagopalan’s company performs Bharata Natyam, a major classical Indian dance form that relies heavily on expressive, specific hand gestures. “I am extremely proud to bring The Jungle Book to Goodman audiences,” said Artistic Director Robert Falls. “Imaginative enough for family audiences yet told with the wit and sophistication that has become a hallmark of Mary’s work, it’s a beautiful new interpretation that captures the power, wonder and humor that have made these stories immortal.” Tickets to The Jungle Book ($30-$125, discounts available for subscribers, students and military, prices subject to change) are now on sale: visit GoodmanTheatre.org, call 312.443.3800 or in-person at the Goodman box office (170 N. Dearborn). The production runs approximately two hours (including one 15-minute intermission) and is for adults and families with children 6+. The Jungle Book is produced by special arrangement with Disney Theatrical Productions, which proudly supports Zimmerman's development of this title, providing financial support, creative consultation and access to song material, and is also produced in association with Huntington Theatre Company, where it will play September 7 – October 6, 2013. Allstate and JPMorgan Chase are Premier Sponsors of The Jungle Book and ComEd is the Official Lighting Sponsor. Chicago Tribune is the Media Partner and the Efroymson Family Fund is the Leadership Sponsor. Accenture and Towers Watson are Opening Night Sponsors.

The Jungle Book Rehearsal Photos Via Goodman Theatre:

Akash Chopra (Mowgli) pals around with a backstage buddy during his break in rehearsal for the world-premiere musical adaptation of The Jungle Book.

ACT OUT KIDS EXTENDED: The Silent Language at TUTA Studio Theatre

NOW EXTENDED

"★★★★...Critic's Choice" -Timeout Chicago

"Highly Recommended" - Chicago Reader

April 19-June 9, 2013

The Silent Language by Miodrag Stanisavljevic

Directed by Jacqueline Stone

THIS is The Silent Language:

*RESERVE SPOTS NOW!

*CHECK OUT CHIIL MAMA'S PAST COVERAGE ON THE SILENT LANGUAGE

*READ ALL REVIEWS

NEW!   The Reviews are in...The Silent Language is a MUST SEE! The Silent Language Interview Series A Gift Of Kindness and Support TUTA Theatre Chicago & Serbian-American Museum bringHomebody from Belgrade, Serbia!  Read all about it! Press Release:  Artistic Changes at TUTA TUTA is now using social media - connect with us on Facebook and Twitter to get all the latest news! You can also catch up with our blog. The Silent Language By Miodrag Stanisavljevic @ TUTA Studio Theatre "The Silent Language", a U.S. premiere, by Serbian playwright Miodrag Stanisavljevic, translated by Zoran Paunovic, is a highly musical and darkly comedic fairy tale. Written in the 1981, "The Silent Language" is an adaptation of an old Serbian folk tale originally called Nemusti Jezik.  It follows the journey of a young village servant named Poor Gasho as he gains the ability to understand the "the silent language."   As defined in this story, it is the language that only animals can speak and understand.  On a larger scale, the script also speaks to the things we see and hear in everyday life, but fail to recognize due to our inabilities to listen and focus on details.   Stanisavljevic's structure is exciting and risky, marking a departure from the typical "alls-well-that-ends well" fairy tale structure.  It's very open and at times, exposes the harsh realities of both good and evil.  A large forest provides a backdrop for countless discoveries, facing your fears, and finding secrets in unexpected places. "The Silent Language" will mark two big milestones at TUTA.  It will be the U.S. premiere of a rarely produced Serbian play and it will mark the directorial debut at TUTA of their newly appointed Artistic Director, Jacqueline Stone.  Stone, a co-founder and longtime company member, brings a wealth of experience and a unique understanding of TUTA's mission and desire to bring innovative international works to American audiences.  The Silent Language is an ensemble piece, and will draw upon the long tradition and commitment TUTA has to working with its company members.  It's musical in both form and content, and there will be a continued exploration of TUTA's commitment to original and rearranged forms of music.   The production features the talents of company member Jaimelyn Gray, and guest artists Sean Ewert, Laurie Larson, Carolyn Malloy, Max Lotspeich, Aaron Lawson, and Angela Bullard, under the direction of Jacqueline Stone (co-founder).  Design and technical collaborators include:  Original Music and Musical Direction by Wain Parham; set design by Michelle Lilly; costume design by Branimira Ivanova; lighting design by Keith Parham; sound design by Joe Court; prop design by Joel Lambie; and stage management by Allison Raynes. Artistic Director and Co-Founder Jacqueline Stone directs "The Silent Language", which makes this the 13th production she has been artistically a part of for the company over the last eleven years.  As an actress, she has appeared in numerous TUTA productions including The Wedding (1996, 2010, 2011), The Hour, Alice, Little Prince, Still Life in Color, Uncle Vanya (2008, 2009), Baal, and Fulton Street Sessions.  Other Chicago theatre she has worked with include Chicago Dramatists, The Second City, Prop Thtr, 20% Theatre Company, WNEP Theatre, New Leaf Theatre, Backstage, Brown Couch, and io (formerly Improv Olympic).  Stone recently directed the world premiere of Chelsea Marcantal's Devour at 20% Theatre Company, in addition to Jenny Siedelman's August 8, 1974.  She directed the world premiere of Dee Bolos' acclaimed one woman show Southside (Prop Thtr, NYC Fringe, Seattle Fringe).  In addition she directed the world premiere of Don't Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus! (Apollo,Touring company, and Millennium Park) and the Midwest première of Junie B. Jones at Emerald City Theatre Company.   "The Silent Language" will perform at TUTA Studio Theatre, 2010 W. Fulton Avenue, from April 19 to June 9th, Friday and Saturday at 8pm, and Saturday and Sunday at 4pm (no show Saturday, May 4, Sunday May 12, Saturday June 1, or Friday, June 7).  There is an additional 8pm show on Sunday, June 2nd.  Preview performances are Thursday, April 11, to Thursday, April 18. Opening press nights are Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20 at 8 p.m.  Spots are "Pay-what-you-can" for previews and a suggested donation of $25 for adults and $15 for industry/students/children under 18 for the regular performances.  Spots are extremely limited, and reservations are highly recommended.  To reserve spots to The Silent Language:  Call 1-800-838-3006 (24 Hours) or buy here online.  For more information on TUTA, visit www.tutato.com.

WIN 4 FREE Tickets To TUTA Studio Theatre--US Premiere of The Silent Language (Ages 8+) #giveaway #sponsored

Gasho (Max Lotspeich) plays the guitar in TUTA Theatre Chicago’s The Silent Language

ACT OUT KIDS OPENING:  ChiIL out with ChiIL Mama and this darkly comedic, Serbian, fairy tale musical!   (recommended for ages 8+).   Enter below for your chance to WIN 4 tickets to any 4pm weekend matinee through midnight 4/18.   (Disclosure:   Thanks to TUTA for kickin' us tickets for our giveaway and review purposes.   All opinions are our own.)

Some of the things we love and value most about raising urban kids are the multicultural and cultural opportunities.   TUTA Theatre has both!   Our own last name "Mara" is a slavic fairy tale character--a biting night witch or vampire type who comes to you while you sleep and induces "nightmares".   Cool huh.   So, our family's well primed to dig the macabre in The Silent Language.   ChiIL Mama will be there midway through the run and we'll have a full review up shortly thereafter.   

TUTA THEATRE CHICAGO CONTINUES THEIR 11^th SEASON WITH THE U.S. PREMIERE OF THE SILENT LANGUAGE BY MIODRAG STANISAVLJEVIC AND DIRECTED BY TUTA ARTISTIC DIRECTOR JACQUELINE STONE

The wedding couple (Max Lotspeich and Carolyn Molloy) 

The Silent Language, a U.S. premiere, by Serbian playwright Miodrag Stanisavljevic, translated by Zoran Paunovic, is a highly musical and darkly comedic fairy tale. Written in the 1981, The Silent Language is an adaptation of an old Serbian folk tale originally called Nemusti Jezik.  It follows the journey of a young village servant named Poor Gasho as he gains the ability to understand the “the silent language.”   As defined in this story, it is the language that only animals can speak and understand.  On a larger scale, the script also speaks to the things we see and hear in everyday life, but fail to recognize due to our inabilities to listen and focus on details. 

Stanisavljevic’s structure is exciting and risky, marking a departure from the typical “alls-well-that-ends well” fairy tale structure.  It’s very open and at times, exposes the harsh realities of both good and evil.  A large forest provides a backdrop for countless discoveries, facing your fears, and finding secrets in unexpected places.

The Silent Language will mark two big milestones at TUTA.  It will be the U.S. premiere of a rarely produced Serbian play and it will mark the directorial debut at TUTA of their newly appointed Artistic Director, Jacqueline Stone.  Stone, a co-founder and longtime company member, brings a wealth of experience and a unique understanding of TUTA’s mission and desire to bring innovative international works to American audiences.  The Silent Language is an ensemble piece, and will draw upon the long tradition and commitment TUTA has to working with its company members.  It’s musical in both form and content, and there will be a continued exploration of TUTA’s commitment to original and rearranged forms of music. 

Performance Runs Friday April 19 – Sunday May 19 at TUTA Studio Theatre

Click the Rafflecopter link below for your shot at winning 4 tickets:

(Tickets to any 4pm weekend matinee of your choice.   Enter through midnight 4/18.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

TUTA Theatre Chicago continues its eleventh season with The Silent Language, a U.S. premiere, written by Serbian playwright Miodrag Stanisavljevic, translated by Zoran Paunovic, and directed by Artistic Director Jacqueline Stone.  The Silent Language will run Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., in addition to Saturday and Sunday matinees at 4 p.m., from April 19 – May 19 at TUTA Studio Theatre, 2010 W. Fulton Street.  There is no 8 p.m. show on Saturday, May 4.  

Pay what you can previews & industry night:

Preview performances are April 11 – 18, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 p.m., in addition to Saturdays and Sundays at 4 p.m. and are “pay-what-you-can”.  

There is a “pay-what-you-can” industry performance on Monday, April 29 at 8 p.m.  There is a suggested donation of $25 at the door for adults and $15 for industry/students/children under 18 at all performances.  Seating is extremely limited.  Reservations are highly recommended.  To reserve spots call Brown Paper Tickets at 1-800-838-3006 (24 Hours) or on-line at www.brownpapertickets.com.  *All reservations must be claimed no later than 15 minutes before a performance or they will be released.  This show is recommended for children ages eight and up.

The production features the talents of company member Jaimelyn Gray, and guest artists Sean Ewert, Laurie Larson, Carolyn Malloy,Max Lotspeich, Aaron Lawson, and Angela Bullard, under the direction of Jacqueline Stone (co-founder).  Design and technical collaborators include:  Original Music and Musical Direction by Wain Parham; set design by Michelle Lilly; costume design by Branimira Ivanova; lighting design by Keith Parham; sound design by Joe Court; prop design by Oliver Todd; and stage management by Allison Raynes.

Artistic Director and Co-Founder Jacqueline Stone directs The Silent Language, which makes this the 13^th production she has been artistically a part of for the company over the last eleven years.  As an actress, she has appeared in numerous TUTA productions includingThe Wedding (1996, 2010, 2011), The Hour, Alice, Little Prince, Still Life in Color, Uncle Vanya (2008, 2009), Baal, and Fulton Street Sessions.  Other Chicago theatre she has worked with include Chicago Dramatists, The Second City, Prop Thtr, 20% Theatre Company, WNEP Theatre, New Leaf Theatre, Backstage, Brown Couch, and io (formerly Improv Olympic).  Stone recently directed the world premiere of Chelsea Marcantal’s Devour at 20% Theatre Company, in addition to Jenny Siedelman’s August 8, 1974.  She directed the world premiere of Dee Bolos’ acclaimed one woman show Southside (Prop Thtr, NYC Fringe, Seattle Fringe).  In addition she directed the world premiere ofDon’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus! (Apollo,Touring company, and Millennium Park) and the Midwest première of Junie B. Jones at Emerald City Theatre Company. 

The Silent Language at TUTA Studio Theatre, 2010 W. Fulton Avenue, April 19 – May 19 (no show Sat, May 4).  Preview performances are Thursday, April 11 – Thursday, April 18. Opening press nights are Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20 at 8 p.m.  Spots are “Pay-what-you-can” for previews and a suggested donation of $25 for adults and $15 for industry/students/children under 18 for the regular performances.  Spots are extremely limited, and reservations are highly recommended.  To reserve spots to The Silent Language call 1-800-838-3006 (24 Hours) or go on-line to www.brownpapertickets.com.  For more information on TUTA go to www.tutato.com.

                            (L to R) Gander (Sean Ewert) and Goose (Angela Bullard)     

Photos by Anthony Robert La Penna

ACT OUT KIDS: The Cat In The Hat at the Broadway Playhouse Tickets on Sale Now #BroadwayinChicago

THE CAT IN THE HAT COMING TO THE BROADWAY PLAYHOUSE AT WATER TOWER PLACE INDIVIDUAL TICKETS ON SALE TODAY Broadway In Chicago AND Emerald City Theatre are thrilled to announce that individual tickets for THE CAT IN THE HAT are on-sale to the public as of April 5, 2013 at 10am. THE CAT IN THE HAT will play the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place (175 East Chestnut) June 15 – Sep. 1, 2013.   Emerald City Theatre’s production of THE CAT IN THE HAT, based on the book by Dr. Seuss and adaptation by Katie Mitchell, is the perfect friend for a boring rainy afternoon. From games and mischief to Thing One and Thing Two, The Cat brings all sorts of trouble to this grey day— but will Sally and her brother be able to explain the mess to Mother? This Dr. Seuss classic leaps onto the stage with chaotic exuberance in this adaptation from the National Theatre in London. Best suited for ages 3-10. “Broadway In Chicago is excited to continue their partnership with Emerald City Theatre. We love bringing families and young audiences to the Broadway Playhouse to enjoy and share theatrical memories together,” says Eileen LaCario, Vice President of Broadway In Chicago. For schedule information, visit BroadwayInChicago.com TICKET INFORMATION Tickets for THE CAT IN THE HAT at the Broadway Playhouse range from $16-$22.  A select number of premium seats are also available for many performances. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710.  Tickets are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St., 18 W. Monroe St. and 175 E. Chestnut), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Kiosk at Water Tower Place (845 N. Michigan Ave.), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line at (800) 775-2000, all Ticketmaster retail locations and online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.  For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.