Showing posts with label Houdini Box. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Houdini Box. Show all posts
Friday, February 24, 2012
Houdini Box-ChiIL Mama's Video Interview With Blair Thomas and Hannah Kohl
Houdini Box at Chicago Children's Theatre opened to rave reviews and critical acclaim. ChiIL Mama had the great opportunity to interview director, Blair Thomas and book/lyrics writer, Hannah Kohl. Catch this show while you can, before it performs a disappearing act worthy of the great magician himself.
Houdini Box is suitable for kids 5 and up, but all ages through adults will enjoy this magical production full of puppetry, excellent music, and a mysterious, creative storyline. Houdini Box is playing in Chicago at The Mercury Theatre through March 4th, then rematerializing in Skokie from March 14th-25th.
*Check out ChiIL Mama's Houdini Box review and photo filled feature here.
*Check out our interview with Oscar nominee, Brian Selznick, author of the original children's stories Houdini Box, the play, and Hugo, the movie, were based on! He's joined by Mark "Mucca Pazza" Messing, one of our favorite musical masterminds who wrote the score to Houdini Box and the recently extended Hunchback Variations, also now playing!
Click here for tickets and further information.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Brian Selznick Video Interview-Author of Hugo Cabret & Houdini Box
Article first published as
Interview With Brian Selznick, author of Hugo Cabret & Houdini
Box on Technorati.
Check out ChiIL Mama's original interview with Brian Selznick & Mark
Messing on opening day of The Houdini Box, theatrical adaptation, at
Chicago Children's Theatre. I caught up with Brian and Mark hours
before the first performance of this world premier. Hugo, the movie,
adapted from Selznick's book and illustrations, was a huge hit in 2011
and has been nominated for 11 Oscars-the most of any film this year!
Hear how Brian first found out about the nominations, see him dabble
in set painting, hear about his stage adaptation of Houdini Box, and get
to know the man behind Scorsese's latest masterpiece. Hugo is one of
our family's favorite films of all times. The Houdini Box play was also
adapted from one of Selznick's original children's book. Mark Messing
wrote the score.
Check out ChiIL Mama's prior photo filled Houdini Box coverage for show details.
If you haven't caught this one yet, we highly recommend it! The Mercury Theater run ends March 4th. Then the show moves to Skokie. Catch Houdini Box before it magically disappears!
Saturday, February 18, 2012
More Winners Updates: Mindy Hester & Joanie Leeds TODAY!
Chicagoland IS Kindie Land this weekend!! We've given away all our 4 packs and pairs of tickets, but you can still get out and see a bunch of great family friendly live music and theatre. Here's the short list of ChiIL Mama's favs, with links to more info.
Saturday:
Kindi Concerts/Live Music: Mindy Hester-Wilmette Theatre 10am-(birth-10 with parents) Jackie B. is our 4 ticket winner. Click the link for all the details.
Kindi Concerts/Live Music: Joanie Leeds-Beat Kitchen Concerts for Kids-noon-(birth-10 with parents) *We have a winner unable to go, so a new winner was picked-Erika S.
Check out Joanie Leeds while she's in Chi-Town from NYC. Let's give her a big Windy Kindie welcome!! Here at ChiIL Mama, we've reviewed and given away multiple copies of both of her CDs before. Now we're super stoked to see her live. Come on out to Beat Kitchen and hear her, meet us, and grab a shiny, new, holographic ChiIL Mama button-FREE.
Here's the latest update from Joanie herself:Febu-what?
It was 60 degrees in NYC yesterday. What? Isn't it supposed to be snowing right about now? I just heard our very own Groundhog, Staten Island Chuck didn't see it's shadow today which means we are in for a short winter. But if I've learned one thing in life, it's to be wary in trusting a hog from Staten Island. OK, I know there's a song in there somewhere.
To all my new little Nightlights joining us from LA, Boston and Westchester, welcome and thanks so much for coming out to see our January concerts. We had a blast playing for you.
Concerts
Beat Kitchen
Sat. Feb 18th, 2012
2100 W. Belmont. Chicago, IL
Doors at 11:00 am, Show at 12:00 PM, $6
With Chi-town Nightlights: The amazing kindie-artist Laura Doherty along with Andy Wilkins & Michael Riendeau
Boppin' and Burgers Family Music Series- Blues Bar
Sun. Feb 19th, 2012
2 West Busse Ave., Mt. Prospect, IL 60056
847-788-9977
12:00 pm, $5 donation suggested
Solo concert
Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose
Tue. Feb 21st, 2012
180 Woz Way San Jose, CA 95110
408-298-5437
Two 45 minutes shows starting at 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM
With Drummer Dan
Come out for my first show in the Bay Area in honor of Bicycle Safety week!
Recess Urban Recreation
Fri. Feb 24th, 2012
470 Carolina St. San Francisco, CA
(415) 701-7529
4:30 PM
With Drummer Dan!
JCC Manhattan
Sun. Mar 25th, 2012
334 Amsterdam Avenue
10:00 AM- 11:00 AM
Full band, Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
*Tix available online now!
To find out about upcoming concerts, make sure to check my website or become a Facebook Fan to get all the news & invitations.
Radio Airplay
Many of my tunes from 'What A Zoo' and 'I'm A Rock Star' have been playing on various radio stations across the country. Some of em' have even made their way to becoming #1. To keep them playing, make sure to make your requests known. XM Sirius Sattelite Radio takes requests right on their Kids Place Live Facebook wall and many others you can call in and request a song. With Valentine's Day approaching, feel free to suggest one of my lovey dovey tunes like, 'Give Me A Hug. Thanks everyone!
Best,
Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights
Sunday:
Laura Veirs photo credit: David Belisle
Bluegrass in Berwyn at FitzGerald's- 1pm (adults $12/kids just $2-all ages) 5th Annual After Brunch Bash at FitzGeralds with Sunnyside Up and The Teflons! Click the link for our prior write up with all the details.
Kindi Concerts/Live Music: Laura Veirs Old Town-(3pm all ages with parents/evening adult show)
About Tumble Bee
(*ChiILMama will be reviewing Tumble Bee and we'll have a video interview with Laura Veirs, coming soon, too! So check back with ChiIL Mama like we vote in Chi, IL...early and often. We have some amazing things coming.)
Tumble Bee, the first children’s record from the prolific Laura Veirs (whose last release, July Flame, was dubbed “a perfect Sunday afternoon record” by The Oxford American and “sweet and irresistible” by Rolling Stone)
inspires listeners to lean in close and hit replay. The youthful
innocence in Veirs’ voice lends itself well to the jaunty spirit of the
album. The recording covers a wide range of folk songs, from early 20th century work songs to the ballads of Jimmie Rodgers, Woody Guthrie, Peggy Seeger and Harry Belafonte.
Veirs and renowned record producer Tucker Martine, her long-time
collaborator on seven of her eight records, have created a piece of art
that is sure to appeal to children as well as adult fans of Veirs’
previous work. The album features guest appearances by Colin Meloy
(Decemberists), Jim James (My Morning Jacket), Bela Fleck and Brian
Blade (drummer for Bob Dylan) among many others. As Smithsonian Folkways
recording artist Elizabeth Mitchell says, “This is a luminous, smart,
essential and truly extraordinary album.”
Inspired by the birth of her son and by countless fans who’ve told
her over the years how much their kids love her records, Veirs became
curious about the history of American children’s music. She and Martine
listened to hundreds of songs from the past several centuries,
including Harry Smith’s famous Anthology of American Folk Music. They selected what Veirs calls, “a sampling that reflects our richness as a people.” Tumble Bee was recorded at home in the spring of 2011.
“Many of these songs have been forgotten throughout the years,” says
Martine. “We wanted to bring these beloved songs to a new generation
with an instrumentation that both honors their traditions and creates
something unique.”
A joyous testament to this collective history, Tumble Bee embodies both the uplifting and fearful moments of childhood. Much more than simply a record for children, Tumble Bee
defies category to stand on its own as a vibrant, sonically beautiful
recording; listeners of all ages will revel in Veirs at her prime. “I
love this record,” says acclaimed songwriter Sufjan Stevens. “Laura’s
folk songs for children prove that the best children’s music never gets
old.”
Biography
Laura Veirs grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she often
spent summers camping with her family, which gave her much of her
songwriting inspiration. Veirs has said that she didn’t seriously listen
to music until she was in her 20s; instead, she just heard what was in
her environment. She listened to folk, country, classical and pop music
around the house and on the radio during her youth.
Attending Carleton College in rural Minnesota, Veirs latched onto
feminist punk rock from the Pacific Northwest, eventually starting an
all-female punk band called “Rair Kx!”. Laura studied geology and
Mandarin Chinese. After college, she embraced older country and folk
music. Her first foray into songwriting started with a geological
expedition in China, where she served as translator. She was miserable
and immersed herself into writing lyrics as a way of coping.
She put out her own self-titled album Laura Veirs, recorded live and
featuring just her and guitar, in 1999. She has since made seven highly
acclaimed records with producer/husband Tucker Martine. Veirs’ seventh
album, July Flame, was released in January 2010 on her own record label,
Raven Marching Band Records. Her most recent album, “Tumble Bee: Laura
Veirs Sings Folk Songs for Children,” was released in November, 2011 to
rave reviews both in the mainstream and parenting press.
Veirs tours frequently in Europe and North America and is currently
writing songs for a new album. She lives in Portland, Oregon with
Martine and their young son Tennessee.
Highly recommended and going on all weekend:
THEATRE: Houdini Box at The Mercury Theatre-(age 5+)
Click the link above for ChiIL Mama's show photos and review.
Magic, music, puppets, and performance unite in this awesome conglomeration, worthy of the escape artist/magic master himself. The Houdini Box is based on a book by Brian Selznick. Did you know, he's also the author of Hugo Cabret-the now famous book that inspired the movie Hugo, nominated for 11 Oscars? This show is a delight for all ages.
The Houdini Box: Chicago
January 24-March 4, 2012
Recommended for ages 5 and up
The Mercury TheatreRecommended for ages 5 and up
773.325.1700 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago
Show times are 11am and 2pm every Saturday and Sunday. Check the main site for additional weekday shows and more.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Act Out: Death and Harry Houdini Extended & 4 Free Tixs to The Houdini Box (photo filled feature)
Here are ChiIL Mama's original photos from opening night at The Houdini Box. The kids were elated to meet author/illustrator Brian Selznick, since they adore his books, The Houdini Box play and the movie, Hugo. He signed a copy of all of his books for them! Double click the slideshow for easy sharing options and more at SmugMug.
Win Free Tickets to The Houdini Box at Chicago Children's Theatre Sat 2-18! We've given away 4, but we've conjured up 4 more....tickets that is. Enter at the bottom of this post for your chance to win.
It's a magical month in Chi-Town with both Houdini Box at Chicago Children's Theatre and Death and Harry Houdini at The House Theatre. Houdini, who died Halloween night in 1927,vowed to attempt to return from beyond the grave. This February, he's doing a pretty spectacular job of it, as his spirit lives on in 2 creative collaborations.
In a magical synchronicity, worthy of the great master of illusion himself, Chi-Town can get completely immersed in Houdini this winter! Houdini Box is great for all ages and vividly and expertly brings to life Selznick's tale of a young boy's meeting with the great Houdini. The show mixes live action, puppetry, and an amazing original score by Chicago's own maestro of magical mayhem, Mark "Mucca Pazza" Messing. Check out our original video interview with Mark (coming this week), who also just had free reign on the score for Theatre Oobleck's highly acclaimed Hunchback Variations Opera, also now playing.
**Both Houdini shows even share a trickster in production staff, who worked out illusions for both! Check out our video interview, when we post it, and/or check out The House and Chicago Children's Theatre's sites, and if you correctly list his name, it's worth 4 entries!
The House Theatre show, Death and Harry Houdini, at The Chopin, is self rated PG13, although after seeing opening night we plan to bring our 8 & 10 year olds back. There are some intense gas mask wearing, grim reaper scenes and death defying escape arts, but nothing too over the top for tweens and teens, unless you have a very sensitive child. This heart pounding remount of House Theatre's innagural show kicks it up a notch by giving Dennis Watkins propensity for truly stunning trickery, a historical context, setting, costuming, characterization and plot. We adore the theatre genre that couches circus arts within a theatrical storyline. Cirque du Soleil does that so well, as do our local gems, The House Theatre, Lookingglass Theatre, Aloft, 500 Clown, TMLMTBGB and Actor's Gymnasium, among others. This timely remount celebrates a decade in the life of The House Theatre in grand fashion. This one's not to be missed!
*ChiIL Mama has original video interviews with 4 Houdini Box creatives, including Brian Selznick, Oscar nominated author of Hugo Cabret & Houdini Box, the director, the lyricist and the composer. We'll be posting all of those, along with our full reviews this week!
Directed by Blair Thomas. Book and Lyrics by Hannah Kohl, Music by Mark Messing. Based on the book THE HOUDINI BOX written and illustrated by Brian Selznick, and published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers
So check back in and ChiIL out with ChiIL Mama. Spread the word and enter like we vote in Chi, IL...early and often.
Here's the Details from The House:
Our 10th Anniversary production of Death and Harry Houdini is extending through April 15!
As a fan of The House, you are part of something truly special. This incredible show has broken records, selling every ticket just one week after our Opening Night! If you were not able to get in before the regular run sold out, we now have 27 added performances for you to choose from.
Single ticket prices are increasing, so additional tickets for you and your friends are offered at a discount price of $30 each. Use code FRIEND10 for tickets between now and 4/8. See all the new dates below.
On February 24, The Magic Parlour transfers to the Palmer House Hilton!
Need more magic? See Dennis Watkins (star of Houdini) perform mind-blowing magic and mind reading in his up-close late-night show. Act fast for tickets to the final performance at the Chopin on 2/17, or slip on something swanky and be one of the first to witness The Magic Parlour at the Palmer House. Because you are a friend of The House, these premium tickets are offered at a discount price of $50. Use code PALMER25 when you buy. See The Magic Parlour dates below.
Iron Stag King update
To make sure that everyone who wants to see Death and Harry Houdini can get a seat, we are moving our newest creation, Iron Stag King: Part One, into the Fall. We'll be sharing news from our workshops and development process throughout the summer leading up to the start of this tremendous new trilogy.
Special discounts on tickets for our friends.
Use code FRIEND10 for $10 off added performances of Death and Harry Houdini through 4/8.
Use code PALMER25 for $25 off The Magic Parlour at The Palmer House.
Available Performances for Death and Harry Houdini:
Saturday Feb 18 3pm
Saturday Feb 25 3pm
Saturday March 3 3pm
Saturday March 10 3pm
Thursday March 15 8pm
Saturday March 17 3pm
Sunday March 18 7pm
Thursday March 22 8pm
Friday March 23 8pm
Saturday March 24 3pm
Saturday March 24 8pm
Sunday March 25 7pm
Wednesday March 28 7pm
Friday March 30 8pm
Sunday April 1 2pm
Sunday April 1 7pm
Wednesday April 4 7pm
Thursday April 5 8pm
Friday April 6 8pm
Saturday April 7 3pm
Saturday April 7 8pm
Sunday April 8 7pm
Wednesday April 11 7pm
Thursday April 12 8pm
Saturday April 14 3pm
Saturday April 14 8pm
Sunday April 15 7pm
Available Performances for The Magic Parlour (Dennis Watkins also performs some wickedly mind blowing magic for adults as himself, in a late night treat of a show. He comes from generations of magicians, and rumor is, his grandfather met Houdini. After this week, the show moves to The Palmer House Hilton. Check it out. Highly recommended! Read ChiIL Mama's Magic Parlour review here.)
Friday February 17 10:30pm at The Chopin Theatre
Friday February 24 10:30pm at The Palmer House Hilton
Friday March 2 10:30pm at The Palmer House Hilton
Friday March 9 10:30pm at The Palmer House Hilton
Friday March 16 10:30pm at The Palmer House Hilton
Friday March 23 10:30pm at The Palmer House Hilton
Friday March 30 10:30pm at The Palmer House Hilton
Friday April 6 10:30pm at The Palmer House Hilton
The Magic Parlour performances will continue through the summer, after our Houdini cast returns from their run in Miami!
Get Tickets for either or both shows here
Enter Here for your chance to win tickets to Chicago Children's Theatre's Houdini Box
The Houdini Box: Chicago
Recommended for ages 5 and up
The Mercury Theatre
773.325.1700 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago
Directed by Blair Thomas. Book and Lyrics by Hannah Kohl, Music by Mark Messing. Based on the book THE HOUDINI BOX written and illustrated by Brian Selznick, and published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers
*Wait for Rafflecopter to load up right here (if you've gone through RSS feed or are scrolling down the blog and don't see it, click on the actual page title and it should pop right up). Entries are easy. Winning rocks!
Thursday, January 26, 2012
We're Giving Away Tickets to Houdini Box, Cirque Du Soleil's Quidam & Windy City Circus!
Enter at the bottom of this post for your shot at 3 fantastic, family friendly shows. ChiIL Mama's giving away free four packs of tickets to all of them!!
CHICAGO CHILDREN'S THEATRE HOLDING ITS BREATH, CAN'T WAIT FOR WORLD PREMIERE OF THE HOUDINI BOX, BASED ON THE BOOK BY BRIAN "HUGO" SELZNICK, JAN. 24-MAR. 4 AT THE MERCURY THEATER
NOTHING CAN CONTAIN THE CREATIVITY OF DIRECTOR BLAIR THOMAS, BOOK/LYRICIST HANNAH KOHL, AND COMPOSER MARK "MUCCA PAZZA" MESSING AS THEY PREPARE TO UNCHAIN CCT'S NEWEST STAGE ADVENTURE THE HOUDINI BOX ALREADY SET TO ESCAPE TO THE NORTH SHORE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS IN SKOKIE SOON AFTER ITS CHICAGO RUN, MAR. 14-25, 2012
Master puppeteer Blair Thomas will direct and create sets and puppets for CCT's The Houdini Box, already a recipient of two prestigious development grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. Book and lyrics are by Hannah Kohl, with original music by Mark Messing, music director of Chicago's #1 circus punk marching band Mucca Pazza.
Performances of Chicago Children's Theatre's The Houdini Box are Jan. 24-Mar. 4, 2012 at the Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago. Note: Subsequent Friday 7 pm performances on Feb. 3, Feb. 10 and Feb. 24 will be an expanded "An Evening of Magic," including the show followed by award-winning magician Brett Schneider performing amazing feats of magic and illusion. Tickets to all performances are $15-$36. For tickets and information, go to chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call the Mercury Theater box office, 773.325.1700.
Circus with a Purpose Benefits Children’s Charities
Windy City Circus is proud to announce its new partnership with the City of Chicago to celebrate the city’s 175th birthday. This will include a special salute during every performance of the circus throughout its 10 day run.
David Maas is the Big Top producer and founder of Windy City Circus, and also will serve as master of ceremonies. A renowned magician and the star of many American and international circuses, Maas is best known as the co-star of the “World Renowned David & Dania Quick Change,” in which he and Moscow Circus veteran Dania Kaseeva Maas perform an astonishing series of split-second costume changes, an act that has been featured on such programs as “America’s Got Talent” and “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” and also has wowed stage and arena audiences world-wide.
“Our goal is to bring the classic circus experience to our hometown with a true Chicago feel,” says Maas, who served as Ringmaster of the Big Apple Circus for many years. “Several figures important to Chicago, including Marshall Field, Frank Lloyd Wright and even Mrs. O’Leary will make appearances in the production, providing Chicago historical stories with some of the most remarkable circus performers working today. What’s more, patrons will know that their ticket purchase directly supports organizations in our community.”
At Navy Pier, a colorful circus scene will be designed inside Festival Hall, and Windy City Circus audiences will sit within 50 feet of the performance ring. In addition to David and Dania’s “Quick Change,” Windy City Circus will feature an internationally acclaimed roster of circus stars, including aerial and trapeze artists, clowns, jugglers and animal acts.
Windy City Circus Debuts at Navy Pier Feb. 17-26
Performances will run Feb. 17 – 26, with performances every day. Performances are: Tuesday – Friday at 10:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sundays at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Enter here for your chance to win:
*Wait for Rafflecopter to load up right here (if you've gone through RSS feed or are scrolling down the blog and don't see it, click on the actual page title and it should pop right up). Entries are easy. Winning rocks! Start your new year off right with Disney on Ice Dare to Dream.
Houdini Box at Chicago Children's Theatre-Free 4 pack of tickets (*recommended for ages 5 and up)
Enter here to win--ENDS AT MIDNIGHT TONIGHT (THURS)! Winner announced Friday at noon.
Enter here to win--ENDS AT MIDNIGHT TONIGHT (THURS)! Winner announced Friday at noon.
Tickets good for Saturday 1/28/12 at 11am. Enter with the Rafflecopter form at the bottom of this post.
**For parents and older kids, we also have a pair of (18+) tickets to see Clip Art at Schubas. **This is your last chance to win Clip Art Monday tickets, so click this link and enter here.** Our winners for both will be announced this Friday at noon.
The Houdini Box, is based on a book by the creator of The Invention of Hugo Cabret! This production also features original music by Mark "Mucca Pazza" Messing.
The Houdini Box: Chicago
January 24-March 3, 2012
The Mercury Theatre 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago
The Mercury Theatre 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago
**ChiIL Mama will be shooting an exclusive video interview tomorrow with Blair Thomas, Director/Master Puppeteer, and Mark "Mucca Pazza" Messing, who wrote the original music!**
Then we'll be checking out the opening night show on and we'll have a full review up for you shortly. Author Brian Selznick is also slated to be in the audience.
As famed escape artist Harry Houdini circles the globe performing one incredible stunt after another, Victor, a young devotee goes through his own rigorous magician’s training – locking himself in closets, holding his breath under water and walking into walls. After a chance encounter with his hero, Victor receives a special box that just might contain the secrets of Houdini’s great success.
NOTHING CAN CONTAIN THE CREATIVITY OF DIRECTOR BLAIR THOMAS, BOOK/LYRICIST HANNAH KOHL, AND COMPOSER MARK "MUCCA PAZZA" MESSING AS THEY PREPARE TO UNCHAIN CCT'S NEWEST STAGE ADVENTURE THE HOUDINI BOX ALREADY SET TO ESCAPE TO THE NORTH SHORE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS IN SKOKIE SOON AFTER ITS CHICAGO RUN, MAR. 14-25, 2012
Master puppeteer Blair Thomas will direct and create sets and puppets for CCT's The Houdini Box, already a recipient of two prestigious development grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. Book and lyrics are by Hannah Kohl, with original music by Mark Messing, music director of Chicago's #1 circus punk marching band Mucca Pazza.
Performances of Chicago Children's Theatre's The Houdini Box are Jan. 24-Mar. 4, 2012 at the Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago. Note: Subsequent Friday 7 pm performances on Feb. 3, Feb. 10 and Feb. 24 will be an expanded "An Evening of Magic," including the show followed by award-winning magician Brett Schneider performing amazing feats of magic and illusion. Tickets to all performances are $15-$36. For tickets and information, go to chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call the Mercury Theater box office, 773.325.1700.
Cirque Du Soleil's Quidam-Free 4 pack of tickets
Good for the opening night performance, February 8th at 7:30pm. Enter through Thursday 2/2 at midnight.
**All our readers are winners! ChiIL Mama's also got a cool 25% off discount on non-peak performances on all price levels using the promo code “CHILL”. Non-peak performances are all performances except for those on Friday and Saturday.
Shows are at Sears Centre Arena in Hoffman Estates. Click here for full show details and a schedule of area pre-show appearances at suburban Whole Foods locations.
Windy City Circus-Free 4 pack of tickets
Good for your choice of performances Feb. 21 – 24 (pending availability). Enter through Monday 2/13 at midnight.
WINDY CITY CIRCUS BRINGS WORLD-CLASS AERIALISTS, JUGGLERS AND ILLUSIONISTS, AS WELL AS AN ARRAY OF HISTORIC CHICAGO CHARACTERS TO NAVY PIER FEBRUARY 17-26
Circus with a Purpose Benefits Children’s Charities
Windy City Circus, an all-new locally produced professional circus featuring jaw-dropping circus acts and hilarious characters from around the world, will make its debut inside Navy Pier’s Festival Hall, 600 E. Grand Avenue, Feb. 17-26, 2012. This exciting “circus with a purpose” will have a strong hometown feel, featuring cameo appearances by an assortment of famous and infamous Chicago area historic figures. 80% of net ticket sale proceeds will go to benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana and the Special Olympics Chicago and co-sponsor Special Children’s Charities.
Windy City Circus is proud to announce its new partnership with the City of Chicago to celebrate the city’s 175th birthday. This will include a special salute during every performance of the circus throughout its 10 day run.
David Maas is the Big Top producer and founder of Windy City Circus, and also will serve as master of ceremonies. A renowned magician and the star of many American and international circuses, Maas is best known as the co-star of the “World Renowned David & Dania Quick Change,” in which he and Moscow Circus veteran Dania Kaseeva Maas perform an astonishing series of split-second costume changes, an act that has been featured on such programs as “America’s Got Talent” and “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” and also has wowed stage and arena audiences world-wide.
“Our goal is to bring the classic circus experience to our hometown with a true Chicago feel,” says Maas, who served as Ringmaster of the Big Apple Circus for many years. “Several figures important to Chicago, including Marshall Field, Frank Lloyd Wright and even Mrs. O’Leary will make appearances in the production, providing Chicago historical stories with some of the most remarkable circus performers working today. What’s more, patrons will know that their ticket purchase directly supports organizations in our community.”
At Navy Pier, a colorful circus scene will be designed inside Festival Hall, and Windy City Circus audiences will sit within 50 feet of the performance ring. In addition to David and Dania’s “Quick Change,” Windy City Circus will feature an internationally acclaimed roster of circus stars, including aerial and trapeze artists, clowns, jugglers and animal acts.
Performances will run Feb. 17 – 26, with performances every day. Performances are: Tuesday – Friday at 10:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sundays at 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.
Enter here for your chance to win:
*Wait for Rafflecopter to load up right here (if you've gone through RSS feed or are scrolling down the blog and don't see it, click on the actual page title and it should pop right up). Entries are easy. Winning rocks! Start your new year off right with Disney on Ice Dare to Dream.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Win Free Tickets to The Houdini Box at Chicago Children's Theatre!
Today is Free Ticket Tuesday at ChiIL Mama. We have winners for:
1 pair of tickets to Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Fest--Lisa L. Click the link above for our original photo filled coverage from 2011, band info, the 2012 line up, main site and more.
**Remember: KIDS UNDER 12 ARE ADMITTED FREE TO THE CONGRESS THEATRE CHICAGO BLUEGRASS & BLUES FEST SHOWS WITH A PAYING ADULT!!
1 family 4 pack to Winter Fest at Beat Kitchen--Teresa
Sunday, January 29th EARLY SHOW
Winter Fest 2012!!
Winter Fest 2012!!
MARY MACARONI
SARAH PARKER
NILI YELIN
ISTVAN & HIS IMAGINARY BAND
SARAH PARKER
NILI YELIN
ISTVAN & HIS IMAGINARY BAND
Doors: 11:00 am | Show: 11:00 am-3:00pm
Tickets: $8.00 | All Ages
ChiIL Mama will be upstairs with our free Rock N Roll Photo Booth, Instrument Petting Zoo & brand new HOLOGRAPHIC ChiIL Mama buttons!
ChiIL Mama is stoked to sponsor Beat Kitchen's Concerts for kids-all ages-$6-every Sunday at noon/ *Winter Fest is 11am-3pm-$8 *We have 4 free tickets to EVERY show, so come ChiIL out with ChiIL Mama and enter like we vote in Chi, IL...early and often!)
Big congrats!
Free family 4 pack--enter here to win--2 days only! Winner announced Friday at noon.
We also have two opportunities for you to win more tickets through Thursday at midnight:
Houdini Box at Chicago Children's Theatre 4 pack (recommended for ages 5 and up)
Tickets good for Saturday 1/28/12 at 11am. Enter with the Rafflecopter form at the bottom of this post.
& a pair of (18+) tickets to see Clip Art at Schubas. Our winners will be announced this Friday at noon.
The Houdini Box, is based on a book by the creator of The Invention of Hugo Cabret! This production also features original music by Mark "Mucca Pazza" Messing.
The Houdini Box: Chicago
January 24-March 3, 2012
The Mercury Theatre 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago
The Mercury Theatre 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago
As famed escape artist Harry Houdini circles the globe performing one incredible stunt after another, Victor, a young devotee goes through his own rigorous magician’s training – locking himself in closets, holding his breath under water and walking into walls. After a chance encounter with his hero, Victor receives a special box that just might contain the secrets of Houdini’s great success.
NOTHING CAN CONTAIN THE CREATIVITY OF DIRECTOR BLAIR THOMAS, BOOK/LYRICIST HANNAH KOHL, AND COMPOSER MARK "MUCCA PAZZA" MESSING AS THEY PREPARE TO UNCHAIN CCT'S NEWEST STAGE ADVENTURE THE HOUDINI BOX ALREADY SET TO ESCAPE TO THE NORTH SHORE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS IN SKOKIE SOON AFTER ITS CHICAGO RUN, MAR. 14-25, 2012
If you're a fan of children's literature but not already familiar with children's author and illustrator Brian Selznick, all of that is about to change.
Selznick's 2008 Caldecott Award-winning book, The Invention of Hugo Cabret, debuted last November as Academy Award-winning director Martin Scorsese's first 3D family film Hugo, and was just nominated for 11 Academy Awards including Best Picture.
Meanwhile, Selznick's newest children's graphic novel, Wonderstruck, was recently published by Scholastic Books to rave reviews.
And now, the Brian Selznick trifecta continues right here in Chicago when Chicago Children's Theatre unleashes The Houdini Box, a world premiere musical adventure based on Selznick's popular first novel about a mischievous boy who receives a special box that just might contain the secrets of Harry Houdini's success.
Master puppeteer Blair Thomas will direct and create sets and puppets for CCT's The Houdini Box, already a recipient of two prestigious development grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. Book and lyrics are by Hannah Kohl, with original music by Mark Messing, music director of Chicago's #1 circus punk marching band Mucca Pazza.
Performances of Chicago Children's Theatre's The Houdini Box are Jan. 24-Mar. 4, 2012 at the Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago. Note: Subsequent Friday 7 pm performances on Feb. 3, Feb. 10 and Feb. 24 will be an expanded "An Evening of Magic," including the show followed by award-winning magician Brett Schneider performing amazing feats of magic and illusion. Tickets to all performances are $15-$36. For tickets and information, go to chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call the Mercury Theater box office, 773.325.1700.
For more information about Chicago Children's Theatre visit chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call 773.227.0180.
1 (18+) pair of tickets to the final Monday of Clip Art's residency at Schubas. Last night, we had a Lara Miller fashion press event, then we hit Empty Bottle to see Otter Petter, Mutts, Pinto & The Bean, & Wally Dogger.
However, our ticket winners told us Clip Art put on a phenomenal show.
She said, "Andy did a killer, acapella version of the Tom Waits song, "I'll Be Gone" from Frank's Wild Years. It was fantastic! The also covered The Kinks and The Shins. Tina Howe sat in on a couple of songs, as did Jessie from JC Brooks and The Uptown Sound and Cosmos."
1/30 -8:00PM w/ Baby Teeth + Jennifer Hall
Tickets In The Works:
- Family 4 pack to Cirque Du Soliel's Quidam!
- Laura Doherty (Kindie folk rock)-Valentine Show at Old Town School of Folk Music
- Monster Truck Jam
- Feb 5: Okee Dokee Brothers
Feb 12: Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies
Feb 18: Joanie Leeds & The Nightlights (Laura Doherty, Andy Wilkins & Michael Riendeau)
Feb 19: Mr. Dave
Feb 26: Apples, Peaches, Lemonade featuring Jonas Friddle, Maria McCullough and Jason McInnes
Mar 4: Jeanie B! & The Jellybeans
Mar 11: Super Stolie & The Rockstars
Mar 18: Human-Tim + Robot-Tim
Mar 25: Little Miss Ann Band
April 15: The Boogers
April 22: The Candy Band
April 29: Mary Macaroni
May 6: Human-Tim + Robot-Tim
May 20: Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies
Enter here for Houdini Box Tickets:
*Wait for Rafflecopter to load up right here (if you've gone through RSS feed or are scrolling down the blog and don't see it, click on the actual page title and it should pop right up). It's easy to enter and so much fun to win.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Act Out-Opening, Closing, Extended & Recommended
Opening: Here at ChiIL Mama/ChiIL Live Shows, we can't wait for Houdini and Houdini Box! Houdini Box is family friendly fun at Chicago Children's Theatre and Houdini is playing simultaneously at The House for the PG13 crowd (*As always, use your best judgement. You know your own kids better than suggested age guides.) We'll be at opening night of both, very different shows next week. There are so many fantastic offerings this year. We'll continue to run ACT OUT theatre features often, with more family friendly and adult shows. Here's a hand full of stand outs. *FF signifies family friendly.
Mama Mia
Broadway in Chicago
Oriental Theatre
1 week only!
Opens 1/24-29th FF
MAMMA MIA! is the ultimate feel-good show that has audiences coming back again and again to relive the thrill. Now the Broadway sensation is coming to Chicago’s Oriental Theatre and it’s your turn to have the time of your life at this smash-hit musical that combines ABBA’s greatest hits, including “Dancing Queen,” “S.O.S.,” “Super Trouper,” “Take A Chance on Me” and “The Winner Takes It All,” with an enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship. Whether it’s your first visit or your fourteenth, see the show that has the whole world coming back for more, because every time feels like the first time at MAMMA MIA!.
Ticket prices are $18 to $85.
Groups of 15 or more now on sale!
Call 312-977-1710
Ticket prices are $18 to $85.
Groups of 15 or more now on sale!
Call 312-977-1710
The Hunchback Variations Opera
Theatre Oobleck
Victory Gardens
*Music by Mark Messing (Check out our video interview with him here)
That’s right. It’s happening. Theater Oobleck is doing its first opera.
“Cerebral, comic, and just plain weird,” St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 2002)
Mickle Maher‘s The Hunchback Variations (2001) has been one of the most successful productions in Oobleck’s 23-year history—presented to critical acclaim over the last decade in Chicago, St. Louis, Washington D.C., and Hamburg, Germany.
The Hunchback Variations takes the form of a panel discussion between Quasimodo, hunchback of Notre Dame, and Ludwig van Beethoven, composer, on their attempt to create a mysterious sound effect called for in Anton Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard. Playing out over 11 scenes, or “variations,” the story details the duo’s collaboration—one doomed by their mutual deafness, their unpleasant working conditions, and the fact that Beethoven has not yet finished reading the The Cherry Orchard.
A deft deconstruction of the creative process, and a fearless investigation of artistic collaboration, Hunchback is driven by questions about the nature of music and sound and performance. So, what could be more natural than to throw it fully – collaboratively!—into the embrace of music and sound and performance by giving it over to the wildly innovative mind of composer Mark Messing, the genius behind the scores of numerous Redmoon productions, and co-founder of the mad, brilliant marching band, Mucca Pazza?
With George Andrew Wolff (tenor) as Beethoven, Larry Adams (bass) as Quasimodo, Tim Lenihan on piano, and Paul Ghica on cello.
Lighting design by Chris Wooten. Stage Management by Melinda Evans. !nea-logo-color.jpg 300w! This project is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts
*Quick ticket explanation: You can get your “more if you’ve got it, free if you’re broke” tickets (as per Theater Oobleck tradition) by calling the box office 773-871-3000. For on-line tickets, click on the link above, then click on the day you want. Then in the next screen you indicate how many tickets you want. Then in the NEXT screen you are given the option of a “Regular Price” (that would be $20), a $10, or a $1 ticket.
The Hunchback Variations is “a moving meditation on collaboration and the creative process.” –Jack Helbig, Chicago Reader, on the play’s 2001 debut
“This is not the stuff of standard theater, much less standard opera. It is the stuff of an absurdist masterpiece.” —Chicago Stage Review’s Venus Zarris, on a 2011 workshop production of The Hunchback Variations Opera
Houdini Box
Chicago Children's Theatre
Mercury Theatre
3745 N. Southport Avenue, Chicago
opens 1/24 FF
*Music by Mark Messing (interviewed here by ChiIL Mama)
January 24-March 4, 2012
Recommended for ages 5 and up
Directed by Blair Thomas. Book and Lyrics by Hannah Kohl, Music by Mark Messing. Based on the book THE HOUDINI BOX written and illustrated by Brian Selznick, and published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Brought to life right before your eyes by actors, musicians, and puppets, sure to thrill and surprise. As famed escape artist Harry Houdini circles the globe performing one incredible stunt after another, Victor, a young devotee goes through his own rigorous magician’s training – locking himself in closets, holding his breath under water and walking into walls. After a chance encounter with his hero, Victor receives a special box that just might contain the secrets of Houdini’s great success.
CHICAGO TRIBUNE: “The Houdini Box” is Top 10 show to see in early 2012
-Chris Jones
“The Houdini Box,” Chicago Children’s Theatre. Brian Selznick wrote the children’s book “The Invention of Hugo Cabret,” the source for “Hugo,” one of the more prominent holiday movies this year. That has propelled Selznick and his work to a new level of awareness. “The Houdini Box,” which will be directed at Chicago Children’s Theatre by the formidable visual storyteller Blair Thomas, is a brand-new musical based on Selznick’s first book, the story of a boy who receives a mysterious box that may unlock the secrets of Harry Houdini.
Download “The Houdini Box” Study Guide and get info about the
Entrants to The Houdini Box Who's Your Hero? illustrated essay contest must be 15 years or younger as of Feb. 17, 2012.
Limit one entry per person. Comprehensive show study guides including complete contest information and rules are already being sent to schools, libraries, book stores and children's retailers throughout Chicagoland. Or, download a show study guide via The Houdini Box show page on Chicago Children's Theatre's website, http://chicagochildrenstheatre.org/shows/the-houdini-box.
MAGIC MYSTERY DEATH & HARRY HOUDINI
The House Theatre
opens 1/29 FF-PG13
Come one, come all to see the Great Harry Houdini escape the clutches of Death!
Before your very eyes, The House's very own Dennis Watkins takes your breath away, chained and submerged in Houdini's dreaded Water Torture Cell.
Death-defying performances begin this weekend... with FREE PIZZA!
Tickets are just $25 to witness this unforgettable performance through March 11.
DON'T DELAY - performances are already selling out!
Saturday 1/21 at 8pm SOLD OUT
Sunday 1/22 at 7pm Limited Availability
Thursday 1/26 at 8pm Good Availability
Friday 1/27 at 8pm SOLD OUT
Saturday at 1/28 SOLD OUT
$5 off each ticket with code MAGIC5 good for shows through 1/28
Quidam
Cirque Du Soleil
Hoffman Estates
Sears Centre Arena
Opens 2/8 FF
1 week run only-must close 2/12
*ChiIL Mama has an exclusive video interview
with members of Quidam's cast coming soon.
Cirque Du Soleil will be coming to a suburban Whole Foods Market Near You! A Cirque Du Soleil bus will be coming to Whole Foods Market Chicagoland locations to bring their show on the road. Customers will be able to participate in many fun activities including:
• Watch Quidam sizzle reels and behind the scenes videos
• Souvenir photos with a Quidam theme using green screen technology
• Opportunity to win Quidam show tickets and prizes
• Receive Quidam branded popcorn bags and postcards
For more information, call your participating store.
Participating Whole Foods Market Locations and Schedules:
151 Rice Lake Square, Wheaton IL
630-588-1500
Monday January 23rd from 3-5pm
2607 West 75th St., Naperville IL
630-579-7700
Wednesday January 25th from 11am-1pm
1331 North Rand Rd. Palatine, IL
847-776-8080
Thursday January 26th from 3-5pm
750 Martingale Rd. Schaumburg, IL
847-585-5800
Sunday January 29th from 11am-2pm
Broadway in Chicago
Oriental Theatre
Opens 2/7-2/19
Direct from Broadway, the smash-hit musical AMERICAN IDIOT tells the story of three lifelong friends, forced to choose between their dreams and the safety of suburbia. Based on Green Day’s GRAMMY® Award-winning multiplatinum album and featuring the hits “Boulevard of Broken Dreams,” “21 Guns,” “Wake Me Up When September Ends,” “Holiday” and the blockbuster title track, AMERICAN IDIOT boldly takes the American musical where its never gone before. With direction by Michael Mayer (Spring Awakening), choreography by Steven Hoggett (Black Watch) and orchestrations and arrangements Tom Kitt (Next to Normal), the result is an experience Charles Isherwood of The New York Times declares “thrilling, emotionally charged, and as moving as any Broadway musical I’ve seen this year!”
Ticket prices are $27 to $95.
Groups of 15 or more now on sale!
Call 312-977-1710
Damage Manual
Atalee Judy & BONEdanse
Theatre Wit
Opens 2/2
We're huge fans of Atalee Judy's work and we've already posted loads of YouTube video clips that became this show, but nothing compares to seeing it in person. Come check them out!
Closing:
Broadway in Chicago
Bank of America Theatre
*highly recommended
closes 1/22We had the great pleasure of seeing the show on opening night. We were blown away by the choreography, and the excellent orchestra, prominently featured on stage instead of tucked away in the orchestra pit. With booming, seductive vocals by Frank Sinatra himself, overlaid with the live, big band, I kept catching myself looking for the singer, even though I knew better! Come Fly Away is flying from Chi-town the 22nd, so don't miss your chance. The dancing was exquisite, moving and the perfect balance between classic and contemporary. We particularly loved the "drunken dancers" reminiscent of drunken masteresque kung fu movie choreography. That takes talent to pull off! The emotions shone through, whether the dances were angry, playfully flirtatious, bumbling, sorrowful or sexy and provided a perfect compliment to Sinatra's classics. If a picture's worth a thousand words, this wordless wonder just might provide a picture perfect evening of enjoyment.
COME FLY AWAY is the new Broadway musical that brings together the legendary music of FRANK SINATRA and the creative vision of Tony Award-winner TWYLA THARP (Movin’ Out).This one-of-a-kind experience combines the seductive vocals of “Ol’ Blue Eyes” with the sizzling sound of a live on-stage big band and the visceral thrill of Tharp’s choreography. As 15 of the world’s best dancers tell the story of four couples falling in and out of love, you will experience the exhilaration of a first kiss, the excitement of a first dance, and the bittersweet moments of a first good-bye in a world of sparkling romance and astonishing beauty.
COME FLY AWAY features a score of beloved Sinatra classics including “Fly Me to the Moon,” “My Way,” “New York, New York” and “Witchcraft.” Ticket prices are $32 to $95. GROUPS OF 15 OR MORE ON SALE NOW! CALL (312) 977-1710
Highly Recommended/Full Reviews Coming Soon:
The Ghost is Here
Vitalist Theatre
DCA Storefront
click here for ChiIL Mama's prior coverage
Megacosm
Brett Neveu's latest
A Red Orchid Theatre
click here for ChiIL Mama's prior coverage
On Our Radar :
(shows we haven't had a chance to see yet, but have heard great things about)
Dark Plays Or Stories for Boys
dark play or stories for boys by Carlos Murillo
Directed by Anthony MoseleyJan. 12 - Feb. 26, 2012
Collaboraction at the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1575 N. Milwaukee Ave
Dark play or stories for boys follows a teenage boy’s foray into the virtual world. His fictional internet identity begins as a harmless game, but the game takes on a frightening reality when real emotion overtakes his online relationship. When Nick’s virtual world collides with the real world, his fantasies of love, intimacy, obsession and betrayal spiral into consequences that lead him to the brink of death. dark play or stories for boys was first produced as part the Humana Festival at Actor's Theatre of Louisville. Murrillo is the winner of National Latino Playwriting Award (2006) and the Otis Guernsey New Voices in American Playwriting Award at the 28th annual William Inge Theatre Festival. Murillo currently serves as the Head of Playwrighting Program at The Theatre School at DePaul University.
The cast of the Chicago premiere includes Clancy McCartney (Nick), Aaron Kirby (Adam), Olivia Dustman (Rachel/Molly), Jane deLaubenfels (Female Netizen) and Sorin Brouwers (Male Netizen). Lighting Design by Michael Reed, set design is by Joe Schermoly, sound design is by Stephen Ptacek and costume design is by Drew Hill.
Collaboraction at the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1575 N. Milwaukee Ave
Dark play or stories for boys follows a teenage boy’s foray into the virtual world. His fictional internet identity begins as a harmless game, but the game takes on a frightening reality when real emotion overtakes his online relationship. When Nick’s virtual world collides with the real world, his fantasies of love, intimacy, obsession and betrayal spiral into consequences that lead him to the brink of death. dark play or stories for boys was first produced as part the Humana Festival at Actor's Theatre of Louisville. Murrillo is the winner of National Latino Playwriting Award (2006) and the Otis Guernsey New Voices in American Playwriting Award at the 28th annual William Inge Theatre Festival. Murillo currently serves as the Head of Playwrighting Program at The Theatre School at DePaul University.
The cast of the Chicago premiere includes Clancy McCartney (Nick), Aaron Kirby (Adam), Olivia Dustman (Rachel/Molly), Jane deLaubenfels (Female Netizen) and Sorin Brouwers (Male Netizen). Lighting Design by Michael Reed, set design is by Joe Schermoly, sound design is by Stephen Ptacek and costume design is by Drew Hill.
Punk Rock
Griffin Theatre
Theatre Wit
Visiting Company Griffin Theatre
Punk Rock
By Simon Stephens
Directed by Jonathan Berry
Now playing through March 04, 2012
The American Premiere of Simon Stephens' powerful and critically acclaimed drama about a group of high school age students preparing for their final exams and nearing the end of their school lives. When the whole world opens up before you, there’s a danger it’ll swallow you up, there’s danger all around in this shattering new play that explores the volatility of adolescent life. *Contains
*Strong Adult Content
There is no late seating available for this production.
El Circo Cheapo
Aloft
ongoing-1st Saturdays of every month-next show 2/4
“The only thing cheap is the admission!”-Santa Fe Reporter
Like circus? Like awesome things that are crazy cheap? Then have we got just the thing for you. El Circo Cheapo Cabaret is an amazing circus show like nothing you have ever seen. An ever changing cast of some of the world’s most talented circus performers, as well as other performance artists, ensures no two shows are ever the same.
Feb 4th, 2012 at 7 and 10 PM
Make your seat reservation now by heading here.
*The 7 PM is family friendly. The 10 PM is 18+.
Extended:
Broadway in Chicago
Broadway Playhouse
extended through May 27th! FF
Check out ChiIL Mama's Pinkalicious review here and our exclusive interview with Pinkalicious and her little brother right here!
*We also recommend checking out Chicago Kids
for a great guide to Family Friendly Theatre going on right now.
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