Experience DUNE In IMAX October 22, 2021

 What We're Watching:

ChiIL Movies On Our Radar

DUNE

Experience it in IMAX

October 22

I've been a huge fan of Dune since I first read the trilogy in high school, and through many film and TV attempts to do the novels justice. I even named my dog Alia in the mid 90's, after the tiny but mighty psychic Dune character, born with some seriously intense powers. Here at ChiIL Mama, we're all beyond excited to catch the latest film and you can be sure we'll catch it in theatres on IMAX to maximize the experience. We're thrilled to partner up with IMAX to share all the latest content on Dune and other new releases coming to movie theaters this fall. Check back early and often. 

Check out the Dune | Official Main Trailer | Filmed For IMAX® HERE 

SYNOPSIS:

Beyond fear, destiny awaits. Experience Dune in IMAX.

IMAX Official Channels:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/IMAX

Instagram: www.instagram.com/IMAX

Twitter: www.twitter.com/IMAX

YouTube: www.youtube.com/IMAXmovies

DUNE Official Channels:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dune

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dunemovie/?hl=en

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dunemovie

#DuneMovie 

COME TOGETHER FOR AS YOU LIKE IT Beginning October 6th at Chicago Shakespeare Theater

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

Upcoming Season Productions and Programs for 2021/22

Academy Award-nominee David Strathairn stars in Remember This: The Lesson of Jan Karski

Broadway-bound World Premiere musical The Notebook from Ingrid Michaelson & Bekah Brunstetter

Shakespeare’s All’s Well That Ends Well directed by Shana Cooper in the Courtyard Theater

Leading director Sheldon Epps stages new take on The Tempest

Covid Precautions: vaccine proof, ID, and masks indoors at all times

The return of in-person performances has finally arrived, at Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s home on Navy Pier! Here at ChiIL Live Shows, CST has long been a favorite of ours, and we can't wait to catch the debut of As You Like It infused with the hit songs of The Beatles, beginning October 6, 2021. Check back soon for our full review.

Shakespeare’s romantic comedy joins a dynamic line-up of productions and programs for the Theater’s 2021/22 Season, which includes Academy Award-nominee David Strathairn in Remember This: The Lesson of Jan Karski, the Broadway-bound World Premiere musical The Notebook from Ingrid Michaelson and Bekah Brunstetter, Shakespeare’s All’s Well That Ends Well staged by Shana Cooper, visionary director Sheldon Epps’ startling new take on The Tempest, and a wide range of special theatrical events all year long. On the Theater’s three stages, in classrooms and neighborhoods across the city, and in venues around the world, Chicago Shakespeare has established itself as a multifaceted cultural hub—inviting audiences, artists, and community members to share powerful stories that connect us.

“We’re overcome with joy to be producing live theater again and sharing powerful artistic experiences with our audiences back where they belong at Chicago Shakespeare,” shared Artistic Director Barbara Gaines. “And we couldn’t wait! There’s never been a more important moment for all of us to come together—to gather with one another, to share music and laughter—and to bring back the magic we’ve missed over these many months apart.”

Chicago Shakespeare audiences return to the Courtyard Theater with a vibrant adaptation of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy As You Like It (October 6–November 21, 2021) adapted and directed by Daryl Cloran. Set in the ‘60s, the exuberant celebration of love features nearly 20 musical numbers from The Beatles songbook, performed live onstage, including “She Loves You,” “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” “Let It Be,” and “Here Comes the Sun.” The company includes Melanie Brezill (Celia) Adam Wesley Brown (Forest Lord/Hymen), Tony Carter (Oliver), Austin Eckert (Charles the Wrestler/Amiens), Lachrisa Grandberry (Audrey), Kevin Gudahl (Duke Senior/Duke Frederick), Heidi Kettenring (Phoebe), Kayvon Khoshkam (Touchstone), Kieran McCabe (Forest Lord), Steven Pringle (Adam/Sir Oliver Martext), Liam Quealy (Orlando), Lakeisha Renee (Rosalind), and Nancy Voigts (Corin).

Academy Award-nominated actor David Strathairn takes the stage in a tour-de-force solo performance, Remember This: The Lesson of Jan Karski (November 3-14, 2021). Originally created by The Laboratory for Global Performance and Politics at Georgetown University, Remember This is written by Clark Young and Derek Goldman, and directed by Goldman. Best known for acclaimed performances in Good Night, and Good Luck, Nomadland, and Lincoln, Strathairn takes on the role of real-life World War II hero Jan Karski. After surviving the devastation of Poland by Nazi Germany, Karski swears allegiance to the Polish Underground and risks his life to carry the first eyewitness reports of the Holocaust to the White House, where his warnings are met with inaction and disbelief. Strathairn captures the remarkable life of the self-described “insignificant, little man” who spoke truth in the halls of power in a timely story of moral courage.

The Theater’s raucous and irreverent holiday tradition Q Brothers Christmas Carol returns in a special limited engagement in The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare (December 7-23, 2021). Created and performed by Chicago hip hop sensations the Q Brothers Collective (GQ, JQ, Jax, and Pos) and developed with Creative Producer Rick Boynton, this wildly entertaining 80-minute reinterpretation of the Charles Dickens classic mashes up hip hop with contemporary musical styles ranging from reggae and dancehall music, to dubstep and epic rock ballads—all underscored with beats spun live at the turntables by DJ Supernova. A Chicago Shakespeare production, Q Brothers Christmas Carol is presented by CST and Richard Jordan Productions. In collaboration with leading Broadway and regional theater multimedia company HMS Media, the production will be filmed in front of a live audience for broadcast distribution.
Following the success of 2020’s virtual pop-up shop, the Holiday Artisan Market is slated to return in December 2021. From jewelry and ceramics to knitwork and more, the Holiday Artisan Market will not only be a one-stop-shop for bespoke and beautifully made gifts, but also celebration of the talent and resilience of our city’s creative community. One hundred percent of proceeds will go directly to the featured artisans, all from the creative sector—including onstage performers, backstage technicians, designers, and community artist partners from the Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks program. Last year’s event showcased more than 200 one-of-a-kind treasures from 25 local makers and garnered nearly $10,000 in direct artist support.

This winter, acclaimed Belgian theatre company Ontroerend Goed—previously seen at Chicago Shakespeare with Fight Night (2018) and A History of Everything (2012)—virtually presents its new production TM (January 2022) as part of the WorldStage series. Made in collaboration with theater-makers from across the world and directed by Alexander Devriendt, TM beckons audiences into a live interactive one-to-one experience exploring media manipulation, populist ideology and conspiracy theories—and was hailed “an ingenious show that tears up theatre’s playbook” by The Guardian.
In March, Chicago Shakespeare is proud to continue its role as a key partner in the development of new work with the debut of Broadway-bound new musical, The Notebook (March 15–April 24, 2022). The World Premiere production features music and lyrics by singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson with book by playwright Bekah Brunstetter. Known for her distinctively soulful folk-pop style, Michaelson is a force in the music industry with four Top 20 albums and two Platinum singles: “The Way I Am” and “Girls Chase Boys.” Brunstetter is a supervising producer and writer on NBC’s Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning series This Is Us, as well as an accomplished playwright whose work has played at theaters including Manhattan Theatre Club, South Coast Repertory, Atlantic Theater Company, and The Old Globe. Broadway powerhouses Michael Greif (Dear Evan Hansen, Next to Normal, Grey Gardens, RENT) and Schele Williams (Aida, Motown the Musical) team up to direct this deeply moving portrait of the enduring power of love. Based on Nicholas Sparks' best selling novel that inspired the hugely popular film, The Notebook chronicles the decades-long love story between a mill worker named Noah and a privileged debutante named Allie. Beginning with a whirlwind summer romance, their love affair spans an entire lifetime—in spite of the differences that threaten to pull them apart. With music direction by Carmel Dean and choreography by Katie Spelman, the World Premiere production will feature a diverse, multi-generational cast, reflecting the timeless and universal nature of the love story.

Beginning in April 2022, Shakespeare’s nuanced coming-of-age love story All’s Well That Ends Well (April 23–May 29, 2022) is brought to new life in the uniquely intimate setting of the Courtyard Theater, staged by acclaimed director Shana Cooper. A company member at the acclaimed Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company in Washington, D.C., Cooper’s directing credits span classical theater to new works at leading regional companies including Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Seattle Rep, and Yale Repertory Theatre. She notably staged the world premiere of The COOP's inaugural production Terra Firma off-Broadway in 2019. Bold, complex characters and hilarious turns of wit and wisdom make for a vivid exploration of love and loss, courtship and class. Besotted with a man who does not return her love, the intelligent, resourceful young Helena navigates the complexities of unrequited romance, courtly drama, and the pesky meddling of her elders—only to discover the reality that happy endings are never quite as simple as they seem in fairy tales.

The new musical It Came from Outer Space (May 25–June 26, 2022) will make its World Premiere in the Spring directed by Laura Braza. Commissioned and developed by Chicago Shakespeare with Creative Producer Rick Boynton, the project reignites an artistic partnership with creators Joe Kinosian and Kellen Blair, following the success of their Jeff Award-winning 2011 musical, Murder for Two which premiered at Chicago Shakespeare and went on to be produced off-Broadway and in theaters around the world. In this adaptation of the cult classic ‘50s sci-fi film from Universal Pictures, It Came from Outer Space spins Ray Bradbury’s flying saucer tale with a clever musical score and creative physical humor—examining society’s fear of outsiders and embracing the wonder of what lies just beyond the stars.

In September 2022, Chicago Shakespeare will join forces with leading director Sheldon Epps to stage a new production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest. An award-winning director, Epps conceived and directed the Tony Award-nominated Broadway musical Play On!, an adaptation of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night set to the music of Duke Ellington, as well as the acclaimed musical revue Blues in the Night, which played on Broadway and London's West End. He directed the world premiere of Blue at Arena Stage Theatre, which went on to be produced off-Broadway at the Roundabout Theatre. In addition to serving more than 20 years as the artistic director for the Pasadena Playhouse, Epps has directed plays and musicals for many of the nation’s major theaters including The Guthrie, the Old Globe Theatre, Manhattan Theatre Club, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Playwrights Horizons, and Goodman Theatre. Epps is set to bring his artistic vision to a lyrical storytelling of Shakespeare’s mystical romance.

One of the most comprehensive and highly respected arts education programs in the country, Chicago Shakespeare’s Team Shakespeare education initiatives are set to serve thousands of teachers and students all year long. Key initiatives include Bard Core, a professional learning seminar that introduces Chicago Public Schools high school English, Special Education, and ESL teachers to drama-based strategies for engaging students—including struggling and reluctant readers, and English language learners—with Shakespeare and other challenging texts. In the annual Chicago Shakespeare SLAM, hundreds of high school students and their teacher coaches come together from Chicago Public Schools, and public, private, and parochial schools across the region to celebrate the power of their own artistic voices in conversation with Shakespeare’s stories. Saturday workshop sessions and small group work sessions throughout the fall culminate in a spirited, fun-filled Final Bout at Chicago Shakespeare in January 2022.

Chicago Shakespeare strives to make its facility and performances accessible to all patrons through Access Shakespeare programming, which offers services designed for individuals with mobility, hearing, or visual impairments for its productions. In addition to offering assistive-listening devices as well as large-print and Braille programs, the Theater schedules dedicated performances featuring ASL duo-interpretation, open captioning, audio description, and touch tours. Tickets to Access Shakespeare performances are provided at pay-what-you-can rates to ensure that cost does not prohibit participation.
 

ABOUT CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE THEATER

A Regional Tony Award recipient, Chicago Shakespeare Theater produces a year-round season—featuring plays, musicals, world premieres, family productions, and theatrical presentations from around the globe—alongside education programming for students, teachers, and lifelong learners, and creative community engagement with the city’s artists and neighborhoods.

Founded in 1986, the Theater has evolved and expanded to present as many as twenty productions and 650 performances annually and has been honored with numerous national and international awards. Chicago Shakespeare is the city’s leading presenter of international work and has toured its own productions to five continents. Dedicated to welcoming the next generation of theatergoers, one in four audience members is under the age of eighteen.

As a non-profit organization, Chicago Shakespeare is committed to approaching its work onstage and in the community with the values of service, ingenuity, and collaboration. The Theater strives to engage today’s artists and audiences in active and critical conversations with the work of the Theater’s namesake playwright, William Shakespeare.

Located on Chicago’s iconic Navy Pier, Chicago Shakespeare’s campus features the Jentes Family Courtyard Theater, The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare, and the Thoma Theater Upstairs. Onstage, in classrooms and neighborhoods across the city, and in venues around the world, Chicago Shakespeare is a multifaceted cultural hub—inviting audiences, artists, and community members to share powerful stories that connect us. www.chicagoshakes.com

Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s 2021/22 Season

Re-lighting of the Marquee – October 6, 2021

AUDIENCES RETURN TO CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE

As You Like It

by William Shakespeare | adapted & directed by Daryl Cloran

conceived by Daryl Cloran and the Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival

in the Courtyard Theater

October 6–November 21, 2021

WORLD-CLASS ARTISTRY ON OUR STAGES

Remember This: The Lesson of Jan Karski

by Clark Young and Derek Goldman | directed by Derek Goldman | starring David Strathairn

in The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare

November 3-14, 2021

THE HOLIDAY TRADITION CONTINUES

Q Brothers Christmas Carol

written by Q Brothers Collective (GQ, JQ, Jax, Pos) | directed by GQ and JQ | developed with Rick Boynton

in The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare

December 7-23, 2021

CELEBRATING THE TALENT OF OUR CITY’S ARTISANS

Holiday Artisan Market @ Chicago Shakespeare

Virtual pop-up shop with 100% proceeds to local artists

December 2021

STREAMING THE WORLDSTAGE

Ontroerend Goed’s

TM

a WorldStage production from Belgium

directed by Alexander Devriendt

on Chicago ShakesSTREAM

January 2022

STUDENTS IN CONVERSATION WITH SHAKESPEARE

Chicago Shakespeare SLAM

in high schools across the region and onstage at Chicago Shakespeare

January 2022

PRE-BROADWAY WORLD PREMIERE

The Notebook

music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson | book by Bekah Brunstetter | based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks | directed by Michael Greif and Schele Williams

In The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare

March 15–April 24, 2022

SHAKESPEARE’S COMING-OF-AGE LOVE STORY

All’s Well That Ends Well

by William Shakespeare | directed by Shana Cooper

in the Courtyard Theater

April 23–May 29, 2022

WORLD PREMIERE MUSICAL EVENT

It Came from Outer Space

book, music and lyrics by Joe Kinosian and Kellen Blair | directed by Laura Braza

in the theater Upstairs at Chicago Shakespeare

May 25–June 26, 2022

LEADING DIRECTOR HELMS NEW PRODUCTION

The Tempest

by William Shakespeare | directed by Sheldon Epps

September–October 2022

 

“THE OFFICE EXPERIENCE” MAKES U.S. DEBUT IN CHICAGO OCTOBER 15th, 2021

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List:

Largest Official Interactive Fan Experience Celebrating The Office

photo credit Superfly X

I'll be out for the press preview on October 13th with my teen daughter, Sage, and her boyfriend, Andrew. She is a HUGE fan of The Office and can't wait to check out The Office Experience. Her boyfriend even made her an original trivia board game based on the show for her birthday! Check back soon for our photo filled recap and feature. 

This fall, fans of The Office will be transported to the world of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company when The Office Experience makes its debut in Chicago on October 15th .  Fans are invited to celebrate their favorite moments and characters from the widely acclaimed television series in the largest official interactive fan experience based on The Office, created by Superfly X and Universal Live Entertainment in consultation with The Office’s U.S. creator Greg Daniels.  

 

The Office Experience will be located at The Shops at North Bridge on the Magnificent Mile at 540 N. Michigan Ave. (corner of N. Michigan Ave. and E. Ohio St.) Tickets go on sale Friday, August 27 at 10 a.m. CT exclusively at www.theofficeexperience.com.

 

The interactive two-story experience features 17 rooms filled with original props and costumes, set re-creations and more as fans visit Scranton Business Park and other sites associated with the beloved series. Guests will be able to take pictures throughout the Dunder Mifflin office including Pam’s desk, Michael’s office and Ryan’s closet as well as Schrute Farms. Fans will relive iconic episodes and memorable moments such as Kevin’s Chili Spill and Beach Day. The Office Experience will celebrate all the series’ major characters and will also commemorate, among many other things, the Dundie Awards and Jim and Pam’s love story.  An on-site themed retail store replicating the Warehouse, featuring exclusive products never before offered for sale will be open to both ticketed and non-ticketed guests. 

 

“We are thrilled to partner with Universal Live Entertainment to create The Office Experience, the first official interactive experience based on The Office,” said Stacy Moscatelli, Co-President and Chief Strategy Officer of Superfly X. “We have no doubt that this incredible city, with its millions of residents and visitors, will provide the perfect backdrop for the world premiere of The Office Experience.” 

 

”We are delighted that Superfly X is presenting the world’s largest official interactive fan experience based on the beloved series, The Office,” said Michael Silver, President of Global Business Development for Universal Parks & Resorts.  “Fans will not only relive memorable episodes from the series but will themselves be able to participate in some of its most iconic moments.  The Office is more popular than ever, and we are thrilled that its millions of fans around the world will now be able to live the experience as well as view it on Peacock.”   

 

The Office Experience will be open through January 17th, 2022.  Guests can reserve timed entry tickets starting at $37.50 plus taxes and fees. Tickets can be purchased by visiting wwww.theofficeexperience.com. Private access tickets, as well as corporate and private rentals, will also be available. For more information on space rentals, email privateevents@theofficeexperience.com.  

 

Fans can catch up on all nine seasons of The Office including never-before-seen and deleted scenes, bloopers, featurettes and interviews as well as The Office: Superfan Episodes. Peacock now has Superfan Episodes available for Seasons 1, 2 and 3. For more about The Office on Peacock, visit peacocktv.com.  

 

About Superfly X  

Superfly X is the global themed entertainment division of Superfly. Founded in 2020, Superfly X is transforming the way fans interact with their favorite entertainment properties with The FRIENDS Experience. Superfly X is building on its expertise in creating iconic live experiences like Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, Outside Lands and Clusterfest as well as for some of the most recognized brands in the world. Superfly is headquartered in New York.  

 

About Universal Live Entertainment 

Universal Live Entertainment partners with best-in-class entertainment companies to bring today’s most popular stories, characters and adventures to life in a city near you. From larger-than-life touring shows to immersive, walk-through exhibitions and family entertainment centers, Universal’s world-class entertainment brands are delivered across the globe for families, friends and people of all ages to enjoy. Productions include Jurassic World Live Tour, Jurassic World: The Exhibition, A Minions Perspective, DreamWorks; The Exhibition, Trolls LIVE, Film to Live Orchestra concerts and more.  

 

Universal Live Entertainment is a division of Universal Parks & Resorts, a unit of Comcast NBCUniversal. With theme park destinations in California, Florida, Japan, Singapore, and very soon Beijing, Universal Parks & Resorts offers guests around the globe today’s most relevant and popular entertainment experiences. Universal theme parks are known for immersive experiences that feature some of the world’s most thrilling and technologically advanced film- and television-based attractions. Comcast NBCUniversal wholly owns Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Orlando Resort, and Universal Studios Japan. In addition, the company has a license agreement with Universal Studios Singapore at Resorts World Sentosa and is opening a theme park destination in Beijing this year called Universal Beijing Resort.  

 

About Peacock 

Peacock is NBCUniversal’s streaming service. Peacock delivers a world-class slate of exclusive originals, on-demand libraries of hit TV shows, plus critically acclaimed films from the vaults of Universal Pictures, Focus Features, DreamWorks Animation, Illumination and Hollywood’s biggest studios. In addition, Peacock taps into NBCUniversal’s unmatched ability to deliver a broad range of compelling topical content across news, sports, late-night, Spanish-language and reality. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. 

Got Your Fall Tickets For Broadway In Chicago Yet?

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar: 

Broadway In Chicago is back with productions opening October 5th. Tickets are on sale now for touring shows from fall through January 2022. Check out the fabulous picks below and more at www.BroadwayInChicago.com. Broadway In Chicago Box Office hours are currently Monday-Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. but they'll change as productions begin.

“Our audience’s health and safety is our top priority and as such you will experience many changes. We have enhanced our air handling and filtration throughout the theatres, incorporated new sanitation technologies, and have reduced all touchpoints including initiating mobile ticketing and making mobile Playbills available. And together with our audience COVID 19 protocols, we are committed to audiences being safe and healthy,” said Lou Raizin, President of Broadway In Chicago.

Audience members are all required to be masked and show proof of vaccination. For those with exceptions, proof of a negative COVID 19 test is required. All Broadway In Chicago schedules, productions, and protocols for attendance will continue to be reviewed as further guidance and recommendations are provided by the CDC, Illinois State, and Chicago Departments of Health. For the latest health and safety procedures and guidelines, visit BroadwayInChicago.com/COVID19.

Join the celebration as the curtain rises again and head over to the Broadway In Chicago Box Office to get your tickets for these upcoming shows:

RENT 25th ANNIVERSARY FAREWELL TOUR

October 5 – 10, 2021
CIBC Theatre, 18 W. Monroe St. 

For a quarter of a century, RENT has inspired us to choose love over fear and to live without regret. This Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning phenomenon has become more than a musical – it’s a cultural touchstone and a source of joy and strength for millions. RENT’s 25th Anniversary “Farewell Season of Love” is your FINAL CHANCE to experience this celebrated touring production – so don’t miss it!

ALTON BROWN: LIVE! BEYOND THE EATS

October 16, 2021 – Two Performances Only!
CIBC Theatre, 18 W. Monroe St.
Production Photos available here.
Alton Brown is hitting the road with a new culinary variety show. Audiences can expect more comedy, more music, more highly unusual cooking demos, and more potentially dangerous science stuff. Prepare for an evening unlike any other and if Brown calls for volunteers... think twice.

WHAT THE CONSTITUTION MEANS TO ME

October 26 – November 21, 2021
Broadway Playhouse, 175 E. Chestnut St.

Playwright Heidi Schreck’s boundary-breaking play breathes new life into our Constitution and imagines how it will affect the next generation of Americans. Fifteen-year-old Heidi earned her college tuition by winning Constitutional debate competitions across the United States. In this hilarious, hopeful, and

achingly human new play, she resurrects her teenage self in order to trace the profound relationship between four generations of women and the founding document that shaped their lives.

BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL

November 2 – 7, 2021
CIBC Theatre, 18 W. Monroe St.

Long before she was Carole King, chart-topping music legend, she was Carol Klein, Brooklyn girl with passion and chutzpah. She fought her way into the record business

as a teenager and, by the time she reached her twenties, had the husband of her dreams and a flourishing career writing hits for the biggest acts in rock ‘n’ roll. But it wasn’t until her personal life began to crack that she finally managed to find her true voice.BEAUTIFUL tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit songwriting team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history. Along the way, she made more than beautiful music, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation.

PARADISE SQUARE – Pre-Broadway Premiere!

Nov. 2 – Dec. 5, 2021
James M. Nederlander Theatre (24 W. Randolph)

The creators of such landmark shows as Ragtime, Spring Awakening, The Laramie Project and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical bring PARADISE SQUARE to Chicago for a strictly limited engagement, prior to Broadway. New York City. 1863. The country is divided over immigration, racial tensions, and political ideology. The chaos of the Civil War rages on in the heart of the Five Points slum. But in this neighborhood, something extraordinary is occurring. Free born Blacks and those

who escaped slavery are living, working, and intermarrying with newly arrived Irish immigrants. A new music and dance flourishes. A new culture is created from an accidental society. 2021 Tony Award nominee Joaquina Kalukango (the star of lastyear’s Broadway hit Slave Play) leads the dynamic cast of this timely and compelling new musical.

Disney’s FROZEN
November 19, 2021 – January 22, 2022
Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St.

From the producer of The Lion King and Aladdin, FROZEN, the Tony®-nominated Best Musical, is now on tour across North America, and the critics rave, “It’s simply magical!” (LA Daily News). FROZEN features the songs you love from the original Oscar®-winning film, plus an expanded

score with a dozen new numbers. An unforgettable theatrical experience filled with sensational special effects, stunning sets and costumes, and powerhouse performances, FROZEN is everything you want in a musical: It’s moving. It’s spectacular. And above all, it’s pure Broadway joy.

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO

Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 21 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining more than 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, James M. Nederlander Theatre, Auditorium Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place.

Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago 

GIVEAWAY: WIN a SPACE JAM: A NEW LEGACY DVD or Blu-ray Out October 5th

 Warner Bros. is excited to announce that SPACE JAM: A NEW LEGACY will arrive on 4k, Blu-ray and DVD October 5th!

ChiIL Mama's happy to partner up with Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) on a giveaway to celebrate the release of “Space Jam: A New Legacy” on 4K, Blu-ray and DVD. “Space Jam: A New Legacy” will also continue to be available to own in high definition and standard definition from participating digital retailers. Got littles who are big fans? Enter below for your chance to win. Open to anyone in the continental US.

Space Jam: A New Legacy

COMES HOME FROM WARNER BROS. HOME ENTERTAINMENT

“A Looney Tunes adventure that will delight generations of fans.”

-Julian Roman, MovieWeb

Premium Digital Ownership debut early on Sept 3

4K, Blu-ray and DVD arrive on Oct 5

Witness the epic adventure of NBA champion and global icon LeBron James alongside timeless Tune Bugs Bunny when “Space Jam: A New Legacy” arrives for Premium Digital Ownership at home on Sept 3. The film is directed by Malcolm D. Lee and (“Girls Trip,” “Night School”) from a screenplay by Juel Taylor & Tony Rettenmaier & Keenan Coogler & Terence Nance and stars LeBron James and Oscar nominee Don Cheadle (the “Avengers” films, “Hotel Rwanda”). The film will also be available on 4K, Blu-ray and DVD beginning on Oct 5.

The film was produced by Ryan Coogler, LeBron James, Maverick Carter and Duncan Henderson, with Sev Ohanian, Zinzi Coogler, Allison Abbate, Jesse Ehrman, Jamal Henderson, Spencer Beighley, Justin Lin, Terence Nance and Ivan Reitman executive producing. The film also stars Khris Davis (“Judas and the Black Messiah,” TV’s “Atlanta”), Sonequa Martin-Green (TV’s “The Walking Dead,” “Star Trek: Discovery”), newcomer Cedric Joe, Jeff Bergman (“Looney Tunes Cartoons”) and Eric Bauza (“Looney Tunes Cartoons”).

On Sept 3, “Space Jam: A New Legacy” will be available for early Premium Digital Ownership at home for $29.99 and for 48-hour rental via PVOD for $24.99 SRP on participating digital platforms where you purchase movies.

On Oct 5, “Space Jam: A New Legacy” will be available on 4K, Blu-ray and DVD. “Space Jam: A New Legacy” will also continue to be available to own in high definition and standard definition from participating digital retailers.

Additionally, Warner Bros. will continue its partnership with Nifty’s, the social NFT platform, to introduce a second collection of limited-edition NFTs inspired by the film.

“Space Jam: A New Legacy” will also be available on Movies Anywhere. Using the free Movies Anywhere app and website, consumers can access all their eligible movies by connecting their Movies Anywhere account with their participating digital retailer accounts.

SYNOPSIS

This transformational journey is a manic mashup of two worlds that reveals just how far some parents will go to connect with their kids. When LeBron and his young son Dom are trapped in a digital space by a rogue A.I., LeBron must get them home safe by leading Bugs, Lola Bunny and the whole gang of notoriously undisciplined Looney Tunes to victory over the A.I.’s digitized champions on the court: a powered-up roster of professional basketball stars as you’ve never seen them before. It’s Tunes versus Goons in the highest-stakes challenge of his life, that will redefine LeBron’s bond with his son and shine a light on the power of being yourself. The ready-for-action Tunes destroy convention, supercharge their unique talents and surprise even “King” James by playing the game their own way.

4K, BLU-RAY & DVD ELEMENTS

“Space Jam: A New Legacy” 4K UHD combo pack and Blu-ray contain the following special features: 

First Quarter: Game On

Second Quarter: Teamwork

Third Quarter: Out of This World

Fourth Quarter: The Looniest

Deleted Scenes

“Space Jam: A New Legacy” DVD contains the following special features: 

Deleted Scenes

ABOUT MOVIES ANYWHERE

Movies Anywhere is a digital movie platform that enables movie fans to discover, access, and watch their favorite digital movies in one place. Movies Anywhere brings together a library of nearly 7,500 digital movies from Sony Pictures, Twentieth Century Fox Film, The Walt Disney Studios (including Disney, Pixar, Marvel Studios and Lucasfilm), Universal Pictures (including DreamWorks and Illumination Entertainment) and Warner Bros., and will continue to expand the consumer experience as more content providers, digital retailers and platforms are added. By connecting participating digital retailers that include Amazon Prime Video, FandangoNOW, Google Play, iTunes and Vudu, movie fans can now bring together their digital movie collections (whether purchased or redeemed) in one place and enjoy them from the comfort of their living rooms, and across multiple devices and platforms, including Amazon Fire devices; Android devices and Android TV; Apple TV; Chromecast; iPhone, iPad and iPod touch; Roku® devices and popular browsers. Movie fans can also redeem digital codes found in eligible Blu-ray and DVD disc packages from participating studios and enjoy them through Movies Anywhere. Movies Anywhere – your movies, together at last.

ABOUT DIGITAL 

*Digital movies or TV episodes allow fans to watch a digital version of their movie or TV show anywhere, on their favorite devices. Digital movies or TV episodes are included with the purchase of specially marked Blu-ray discs. With digital, consumers are able to instantly stream and download movies and TV shows to TVs, computers, tablets and smartphones through retail services. For more information on compatible devices and services go to wb.com/digitalmoviefaq. Consult a digital retailer for details and requirements and for a list of digital-compatible devices.

BASICS

PRODUCT SRP

4K UHD Combo Pack $49.98

Blu-ray $39.98

DVD $34.98

Digital Ownership: Sept 3, 2021

PVOD: Sept 3, 2021

4K, Blu-ray and DVD Street Date: Oct 5, 2021 

DVD Languages: English, English-ADS, Latin Spanish, Canadian French, Brazilian Portuguese

BD Languages: English, English-ADS, English ATMOS, Latin Spanish, Canadian French, Brazilian Portuguese

4K Languages: English, English-ADS, English ATMOS, Latin Spanish, Canadian French,  German, German-ADS, Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, Danish, Romanian, Hungarian, Hindi

DVD Subtitles: English SDH, Latin Spanish, Canadian French, Parisian French, Brazilian Portuguese

BD Subtitles: English SDH, Latin Spanish, Canadian French, Parisian French, Brazilian Portuguese

4K Subtitles: English SDH, Latin Spanish, Canadian French, Parisian French, German, German SDH, Norwegian, Swedish, Finnish, Danish, Romanian, Greek, Hungarian, Hindi 

Running Time: 115 minutes

Rating: Rated PG for some cartoon violence and some language

DVD: DLBY/DGTL

Blu-ray: ATMOS TrueHD, DLBY/DGTL

4K: ATMOS TrueHD, DLBY/DGTL

The Credits

About “Space Jam: A New Legacy”

The film is directed by Malcolm D. Lee and (“Girls Trip,” “Night School”) from a screenplay by Juel Taylor & Tony Rettenmaier & Keenan Coogler & Terence Nance and produced by Ryan Coogler, LeBron James, Maverick Carter and Duncan Henderson, with Sev Ohanian, Zinzi Coogler, Allison Abbate, Jesse Ehrman, Jamal Henderson, Spencer Beighley, Justin Lin, Terence Nance and Ivan Reitman executive producing

The ensemble stars NBA champion and global icon LeBron James alongside Oscar nominee Don Cheadle (the “Avengers” films, “Hotel Rwanda”), Khris Davis (“Judas and the Black Messiah,” TV’s “Atlanta”), Sonequa Martin-Green (TV’s “The Walking Dead,” “Star Trek: Discovery”), newcomer Cedric Joe, Jeff Bergman (“Looney Tunes Cartoons”) and Eric Bauza (“Looney Tunes Cartoons”).

Warner Bros. Pictures presents a Proximity/The SpringHill Company Production, a Malcolm D. Lee Film, “Space Jam: A New Legacy.”

About Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, Inc.

Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) brings together Warner Bros. Entertainment's home video and digital distribution businesses in order to maximize current and next-generation distribution scenarios. An industry leader since its inception, WBHE oversees the global distribution of content through packaged goods (Blu-ray Disc™ and DVD) and digital media in the form of electronic sell-through and video-on-demand via cable, satellite, online and mobile channels. WBHE distributes its product through third party retail partners and licensees. 

For more information check out: https://www.facebook.com/SpaceJamMovie and look for the hashtag #SpaceJamMovie across social media platforms.

Enter HERE for your chance to WIN!

Winner's choice of one “Space Jam: A New Legacy” Blu-ray $39.98 or DVD $34.98.  Open to anyone in the continental US. Winner will be drawn October 6th and notified via e-mail and also posted publicly at ChiILMama.com and on our social media platforms. 

Thanks to Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) for partnering up with ChiIL Mama on this sponsored post and providing us with our giveaway prize. 

REVIEW: THE WORLD GOES ‘ROUND at The Marriott Theatre Now Playing Through November 7th, 2021

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

Terry James, Executive Producer 

Aaron Thielen, Artistic Director 

presents 

The Songs of Kander and Ebb 

Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, one of the most subscribed theaters in the nation, is re-opening with THE WORLD GOES ROUND, a musical revue featuring the songs of Kander and Ebb, the legendary musical duo. The cast includes several Broadway veterans as well as a host of talented Chicago favorites, so don’t miss this!

 All Production Photos by Liz Lauren unless otherwise noted

REVIEW:

By Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

Photo by B Kenaz-Mara

As the masked Marriot Theatre audience tentatively ventures out for an experiment in non social distancing, a lone steamer trunk and a ghost light grace a barren stage, an apt visual as Chicago area stages have been dark for over two years now. Audiences and actors alike have a lot to unpack, emotionally and physically, as we negotiate the new reality of theatre openings in the waning days of covid and this was a lovely way to begin again. The energy and happiness was palpable as the stage lights came to life and colorful costumes, props, and actors again populated the stage. 

Meghan Murphy

Things feel a bit daring with a packed house and no possibility of six feet of space between neighbors. Yet some experiences are worth a risk, and with vaccines and mask mandatory, a good portion of the theatre loving populace is tired of staring at their own walls and ready for some soul filling song and dance numbers. Marriot Theatre delivers. The World Goes Round is just the tonic for a pandemic weary populace. 

Even in a COVID-abridged version with no intermission, to reduce movement in and out of the theatre, this show packs an impressive score of toe tapping favorites as the audience is taken on a journey through Kander and Ebb’s virtual hit parade of songs including showstoppers “Cabaret,” “New York, New York,” “All That Jazz,” and “Maybe This Time.” The revue also covers numbers from Chicago, Funny Lady, Kiss of The Spider Woman, Woman of The Year and more. 

Photo by B Kenaz-Mara

Meghan Murphy, AKA: Big Red, has long been a favorite of ours here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows. It's such a joy to see her in a role where she's free to belt out the powerhouse vocals she does so well, and showcase both her range, and her iconic, retro style. The entire cast is top notch and a joy to see in action. 

Meghan Murphy

Break out your theatre garb and head on out for The Happy Time and All That Jazz. 

Isn't This Better than sitting around the house? Highly recommended. 

Free parking is available at all performances. To reserve tickets, please call The Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or go to www.ticketmaster.com. Visit www.MarriottTheatre.com for more information. 

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

Check Out The World Goes 'Round Promotional Video Here

Tony & Drama Desk Award-nominated Director and Choreographer Marcia Milgrom Dodge (Ragtime 2009 revival) will direct and choreograph the Marriott Theatre production.  Milgrom Dodge recently appeared on 2 episodes of Disney+ ENCORE!. She says, “In our newly reimagined production, five friends meet in an abandoned theatre after almost two years of not being able to do what they love most – Perform! The company reflects on what they’ve lost, re-visits meaningful relationships, re-creates their favorite numbers--with choreography that tips its bowler-hat to the great Bob Fosse--and sings their hearts out, as souls are restored with renewed hope for the future.” Associate Director/Choreographer is Josh Walden, who also served with Milgrom Dodge as Associate Director and Associate Choreographer for the Tony nominated Broadway revival of Ragtime and has choreographed many productions at the Kennedy Center, The Muny and more. 

The Artistic Associate for the production is Jonathan Butler-Duplessis. Musical Direction is by Jeff Award winner Ryan T. Nelson. The production will feature Set Design by Christopher Rhoton, Costume Design by Sully Ratke, Lighting Design by Jesse Klug, Sound Design by Michael Daly, Wig Design by Miguel Armstrong, and Properties Design by Sally Zack. Intimacy Consultant is Charlie Baker, Stage Manager is Michael Hendricks, Assistant Stage Manager is Richard Strimer and Musical Supervisor is Patti Garwood. 

Allison E. Blackwell & Joseph Anthony Byrd

Allison E. Blackwell

Allison E. Blackwell, a Marriott Theatre newcomer, returns to the Chicago area after playing Violetta in the World Premiere production of Pretty Woman: The Musical at the Nederlander Theatre. Allison has appeared in numerous Broadway productions including A Night with Janis Joplin (Aretha Franklin), Pretty Woman: The Musical (Violetta), The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess and Disney’s The Lion King. 

Joseph Anthony Byrd

Joseph Anthony Byrd is thrilled to be back at the Marriott Theatre where he was last seen as Jacob in La Cage Aux Folles. Joseph also appeared as Lola in Kinky Boots on Broadway and in the Broadway tours of The Lion King and Mamma Mia! 

Kevin Earley

Chicago native and Broadway veteran Kevin Earley has also appeared at the Marriott Theatre in productions including City of Angels, Pirates of Penzance (Jeff Nomination), La Cage Aux Folles, and many more. Kevin earned a Joseph Jefferson Award for The Balladeer in Assassins and played Tommy in Goodman Theatre’s production of Brigadoon. 

Meghan Murphy

Meghan Murphy has lit up the Marriott Theatre stage many times, most recently in Mamma Mia! (Tanya, Jeff Nomination), City of Angels (Oolie/Donna, Jeff Nomination), Sleeping Beauty (Magenta), & Footloose (Betty Blast). 

Amanda Rose

Amanda Rose & Joseph Anthony Byrd

Amanda Rose, also a Marriott Theatre newcomer, appeared in the Broadway and National Tour productions of Holiday Inn (Linda u/s), Wicked (Nessarose), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Mrs. Bucket), Dr. Dolittle starring Tommy Tune, and Oklahoma! (Laurey).  

The performance schedule is as follows: Wednesdays at 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.,with select Thursday 1:00 p.m. shows. Ticket prices range from $50 to $60, excluding tax and handling fees. Call for student, senior, and military discounts. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings there are a limited number of dinner-theatre packages available for purchase through the Marriott Theatre Box Office. To make a restaurant reservation, please call 847.634.0100. Reservations strongly recommended. Free parking is available at all performances. To reserve tickets, please call The Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or go to www.ticketmaster.com. Visit www.MarriottTheatre.com for more information. The Songs of Kander and Ebb 

 

The cast includes Allison E. Blackwell, Joseph Anthony Byrd, Kevin Earley, Meghan Murphy, and Amanda Rose; with understudies Christian Denzel Bufford, Alanna Lovely Alexandra Palkovic, Allison Sill, and Trevor Vanderzee. 

Along with a growing coalition of leading Chicagoland performing arts venues, for the health and safety of our audiences, artists and staff, face masks and proof of COVID-19 vaccine or appropriate negative test are required for all patrons during the run of THE WORLD GOES ‘ROUND. Additionally, to reduce movement in and out of the theatre, THE WORLD GOES ‘ROUND will be presented by special permission in a COVID-abridged version with no intermission. Protocol details are available at MarriottTheatre.com. 

The Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr. in Lincolnshire, presents THE WORLD GOES ‘ROUND, the delightful musical revue featuring the works of John Kander and Fred Ebb, considered one of the most prolific and acclaimed Broadway musical creative teams of all time. The production will preview Wednesday, September 15th, open September 22nd, and close Sunday, November 7th. 

 All Production Photos by Liz Lauren unless otherwise noted 

Lifeline Theatre Kicks Off its 39th Season with Carmilla Episodic Audio Drama Through November 30, 2021

ChiIL Streaming Shows On Our Radar 

Lifeline Theatre Kicks Off its 39th Season with 

Carmilla Episodic Audio Drama

Lifeline Theatre presents a three-part audio drama adaptation of J. Sheridan Le Fanu’s gothic  novella Carmilla, adapted by ensemble member Aly Renee Amidei, directed by Scott Cummins. Young  Laura is sequestered in a remote castle in Eastern Europe when a fortuitous carriage accident delivers a  mysterious house guest, the bewitching Carmilla. While the young women begin to find themselves  entangled in forbidden desire, a series of unexplained, grisly murders befalls the neighboring village and  woods. Could the legends be true…or is it merely superstition? A visceral feast for the ears, experience J.  Sheridan Le Fanu’s entrancing story that inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. 

Carmilla, an audio drama, will run Saturday, Oct. 30 – Tuesday, Nov. 30 online. Beginning October 30, the  episodes will air week by week until the final episode at which point all will be available for listening until  November 30. Ticket holders will receive a password to a private webpage where the episodes will be  available for listening. The ticket price is Name Your Price (suggested donation of $20) for full access until  November 30. Tickets go on sale Friday, September 17 and can be purchased by visiting www.lifelinetheatre.com or by calling our box office at 773.761.4477. 

The complete cast and production team for Carmilla includes: 

CAST: Lifeline Theatre ensemble members Patrick Blashill (Father), Bilal Dardai (Henri/Andrej), & Jenifer  Tyler (Madam Perrodon/Mother); with guest artists David Adams (Martin/Peasant), Gabriela Diaz (Bertha/Janna/Peasant), LaQuin Groves (General Speilsdorf/Baron Vordeenburg), Destini Huston (Laura/Young Laura), Michaela Petro (Carmilla), & Joshua J. Razavi (Doctor Hesselius/Matska). 

PRODUCTION TEAM: Lifeline Theatre ensemble members Aly Amidei (Adaptor), Bilal Dardai (Audio  Drama Consultant), & Elise Kauzlaric (Dialect Coach); with Amelia Ablan (Production Manager), Keith  Conrad (Sound Designer/Engineer), Scott Cummins (Director), & Kate Reed (Stage Manager). 

ABOUT ALY RENEE AMIDEI (ADAPTOR)  

Aly Renee Amidei has been a member of Lifeline’s artistic ensemble since 2012 and originally adapted  Carmilla for Wildclaw Theatre in 2011. Most recently for the Lifeline stage, she adapted and costume  designed Bunny’s Book Club for the KidSeries. Other Lifeline credits include: adapting and designing Lester’s  Dreadful Sweaters and doing costumes for Fabel-ous! She is also a proud ensemble member at Strawdog  Theatre Company and Buffalo Theatre Ensemble. Her costume and makeup designs have been seen at  Michigan Shakespeare Festival, Lakeside Shakespeare Theatre, Irish Theater of Chicago, Magick Theatre in  San Antonio, Buffalo Theater Ensemble, Stage Left, Artistic Home, House Theater, Piven Workshop, and  Vitalist Theater. She is the assistant professor of costume design at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte  and her research focuses on designing for new works and re-envisioned classics. 

ABOUT SCOTT CUMMINS (DIRECTOR)  

Scott Cummins has been involved in over 90 productions throughout the United States either as an actor,  director and/or fight choreographer. He is an Artistic Associate for both WildClaw Theatre Company and  Lakeside Shakespeare Theatre, and a company member of Vs. Theatre Company. He directed the World  Premiere of Carmilla for WildClaw Theatre Company in 2011. Other Chicago productions include: the Midwest  premiere of Scenes From The Big Picture for Seanachai Theatre and I’m Spritual Dammitby Jennifer Weigel  for Route 66 Theatre. Most recently, he directed Pool Boy by Wendy Hopkins for Lost Angels Theatre in Los  Angeles, as well as True West at Vs. Theatre Company. 

Beginning Saturday, Oct. 30, the episodes will air week by week until the final episode at which point all will  be available for listening until November 30. Ticket holders will receive a password to a private webpage  where the episodes will be available for listening. The ticket price is Name Your Price (suggested donation of  $20) for full access until November 30. Tickets go on sale Friday, September 17 and can be purchased by visiting www.lifelinetheatre.com or by calling our box office at 773.761.4477. 

Now in its 39th season, Lifeline Theatre continues to explore, interpret, and reimagine books and other literary  works to create stories that move us beyond the margins of our own lives. Lifeline Theatre – Big Stories, Up Close. 

Lifeline Theatre’s programs are partially supported by A.R.T League Inc.; The Bayless Family Foundation;  Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation; Chicago CityArts, a grant from the 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; Illinois Arts Council Agency; MacArthur Fund for Arts and Culture at Prince;  The Polk Bros. Foundation; Rogers Park Social; S&C Electric Company Fund; Shaw Chicago; The Shubert  Foundation; and the annual support of businesses and individuals.

REVIEW: Chicago's Blue Man Group Resumes Live Shows

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List:

Family Friendly Fun

Photo by D. Kenaz-Mara

Back In Blue: 

Chicago's Favorite Indigo Entertainers 

Return to Open Run at 

Briar Street Theatre

**Show is suitable for all ages and guests 3 years old and up are welcome. All guests require their own ticket, regardless of age or lap seating. The show is 90 minutes with no intermission. ChiIL Tip: the drumming and music does get loud for little ears, so we recommend bringing hearing protection for kids.**

GUEST REVIEW:

By Dugan Kenaz-Mara

The Blue Man Group is back and it’s as wonderful as ever! After 15 or so months off from performing, The Blue Man Group has brought all of their loveable antics back to Briar Street Theater and has reignited the joy of seeing live theater. And they do it all safely too! Everyone was required to wear a mask and any audience member drawn onto the stage was given a face shield before interacting with the Blue Men. 

Photo by D. Kenaz-Mara

Before the show even starts you get a fun experience! From the moment you enter the lobby, you might notice classical paintings lining the walls with a little extra blue thrown in. From there you’ll pass a giant blue face perfect for photo ops, before entering the actual theater bathed in blue light. Then the pre-show looping text helps set the chaotic funny mood for the upcoming show. How many twinkies does a Blue Man eat in his life? What bout the amount of toilet paper used in a day in the US? These questions and more are answered (sarcastically) before the show even starts. 

Photo by D. Kenaz-Mara

When the show begins, the audience is bombarded with spectacle after spectacle. From paint drums to musical pipes to Cap'n Crunch, there’s never a dull moment. I especially loved the design elements that went into making the show. The lighting design brought tons of colors to the black stage and out into the audience, the instruments and props were all super creative takes on normal items, and the set was able to change in an instant using their multitude of screens. In addition to that, all of the actors were fabulous too. The Blue Men were able to effortlessly connect to the audience without using words. From subtle gestures to knowingly blank stares, the Blue Men really tapped into human emotion which the viewers were able to recognize easily. They even brought that energy into their props, breathing life into instrumental pipes and controlling people using their signal light wands. 

One of their specialties is keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. When watching the show you never know when you specifically might be singled out. The pre-show announcements called out specific audience members, and the show stopped to call attention to people arriving late. There were also many points in the show where the Blue Men would venture out into the audience (sometimes via the aisles and sometimes climbing right over people’s heads) to pick an audience member to go on stage and help in the performance. But if you don’t get singled out you’ll still have the chance to participate. There are many moments scattered throughout the show where audience members will get to stand up, dance, scream out, and catch things thrown from the stage.

Photo by D. Kenaz-Mara

In the end, watching Blue Man Group was an exhilarating show and I would recommend it to anyone who loves to have fun and wants to have the experience of a lifetime. 

Dugan Kenaz-Mara is an actor, designer, and photographer studying theatre and psychology at Northwestern University. Contrary to popular belief, he is not a time traveler.

Blue Man Group Chicago. Photo credit Caroline Talbot Photography

Theatrical phenomenon Blue Man Group has made its long-awaited return to Chicago’s Briar Street Theatre! A dynamic combination of art, music, comedy and technology, Blue Man Group encourages audiences to reconnect with their inner (and outer) child in order to see the world through a new perspective.  

“For more than 20 years, Blue Man Group has established itself as one of the top entertainment destinations in Chicago,” said Mary Grisolano, Managing Director of Blue Man Group. “We are absolutely thrilled to return to the stage and welcome new and returning audiences to the Briar Street Theatre.”  

Blue Man Group originally debuted at the Briar Street Theatre in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood in 1997. Three bald and blue men explore today’s cultural norms with wonder, poking fun at the audience’s collective quirks and reminding them how much they all have in common. The show is continually refreshed with new music, stories, custom instruments and state-of-the-art technology.   

Blue Man Group Ticket Information

Blue Man Group Chicago ticket prices range from $49 – $89. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.blueman.com. A full show schedule and pricing can also be found at www.blueman.com.  

Special rates are available for groups of 10 or more, varying from $57 – $70 per person. For groups of 10 or more, email chicagogroups@blueman.com to request information.  

2021 Performance Schedule: 

August  

Saturday, August 28 at 5 and 8 p.m. 

Sunday, August 29 at 2 and 5 p.m.  

September 

Wednesday, September 1 at 8 p.m. 

Thursday, September 2 at 8 p.m. 

Friday, September 3 at 5 and 8 p.m. 

Saturday, September 4 at 5 and 8 p.m. 

Sunday, September 5 at 5 and 8 p.m. 

Wednesday, September 8 at 8 p.m. 

Thursday, September 9 at 8 p.m. 

Friday, September 10 at 8 p.m. 

Saturday, September 11 at 5 and 8 p.m. 

Sunday, September 12 at 2 p.m. 

Wednesday, September 15 at 8 p.m. 

Thursday, September 16 at 8 p.m. 

Friday, September 17 at 8 p.m. 

Saturday, September 18 at 5 and 8 p.m. 

Sunday, September 19 at 2 p.m. 

Wednesday, September 22 at 8 p.m. 

Thursday, September 23 at 8 p.m. 

Friday, September 24 at 8 p.m. 

Saturday, September 25 at 5 and 8 p.m. 

Sunday, September 26 at 2 p.m. 

Wednesday, September 29 at 8 p.m. 

Thursday, September 30 at 8 p.m. 

  

October 

Friday, October 1 at 8 p.m. 

Saturday, October 2 at 5 and 8 p.m. 

Sunday, October 3 at 2 p.m. 

Additional fall and holiday performances will be announced at a later date. 

  

About Blue Man Group 

Blue Man Group is a global entertainment phenomenon, known for its award-winning theatrical productions, iconic characters and multiple creative explorations. Blue Man Group performances are euphoric celebrations of human connection through art, music, comedy and non-verbal communication. Since debuting at New York’s Astor Place Theatre in 1991, the live show has expanded to additional domestic residencies in Boston, Chicago, and Las Vegas, an international residency in Berlin, and multiple North American and World tours, reaching more than 35 million people worldwide. Blue Man Group is universally appealing to a broad range of age groups and cultural backgrounds, and continually injected with new music, fresh stories, custom instruments and sensory stimulating graphics. Blue Man Group is owned and operated by Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group. For more information, please visit www.blueman.com.