FREE Streaming worldwide Peter Pan – A Musical Adventure Via Chicago Shakespeare Theater Through New Year's Day

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List 

Peter Pan – A Musical Adventure

Newly re-mastered performance recording filmed in front of a live audience

Streaming FREE on-demand worldwide this holiday season

now through January 1, 2021

Peter Pan (Johnny Shea) leads the Darling siblings (Carter Graf, Elizabeth Stenholt, and Cameron Goode) on a high-flying adventure to Neverland in Peter Pan – A Musical Adventure, directed and choreographed by Amber Mak, streaming free on-demand for the holiday season, December 19, 2020-January 1, 2021. Photo by Liz Lauren.

Here at ChiIL Mama, we're so excited that Chicago Shakespeare Theater is offering families a FREE on-demand streaming performance of Peter Pan – A Musical Adventure through New Year’s Day. CST has long been a hometown favorite of ours and we're thrilled that their world class productions now have a worldwide audience. Don't miss this.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater invites audiences of all ages to return to Neverland with a FREE on-demand streaming performance of Peter Pan – A Musical Adventure beginning . The newly re-mastered recording of the Theater’s 2018 production—directed and choreographed by Amber Mak—was filmed by multiple cameras in front of a live audience, and now gives at-home viewers a front-row seat to the show. The 80-minute performance event will be available for worldwide distribution through New Year’s Day at chicagoshakes.com/peterpan.

Peter Pan (Johnny Shea) is the boy who never wants to grow up

Based on J.M. Barrie's beloved tale about the boy who wouldn’t grow up, Peter Pan – A Musical Adventure dazzles with a score written by George Stiles and lyrics by Anthony Drewe—the award-winning songwriting duo behind smash hit Mary Poppins and the Olivier Award-winning Honk!. This newly updated version by Elliot Davis is based on the book by Willis Hall. The heartwarming musical follows Peter and the Darling children—Wendy, John, and Michael—on a high-flying journey to the enchanted world of Neverland, where the Lost Boys take on the villainous Captain Hook and his bumbling band of pirates. The 80-minute streamed production is the perfect opportunity for families to come together and experience the delights of theatrical performance this holiday season.

Wendy Darling (Elizabeth Stenholt) and Peter Pan (Johnny Shea) become fast friends

"What’s remarkable about young audiences is how they can transform the mundane and everyday into the fantastical," Director Amber Mak shared. "Yet in our world, as we tell them they have to grow up, that spark of imagination can be extinguished. Peter Pan has endured for so long because it inspires that imagination, hope, and freedom. Now more than ever, young people—and all of us, in fact—need that."

As part of the Theater’s commitment to making its programming accessible to all through its Access Shakespeare of initiatives, the streamed run of Peter Pan – A Musical Adventure includes options for closed captioning, ASL duo-interpretation, and audio description. Chicago Shakespeare is also virtually bringing the performance and supplementary activity materials to children's hospitals, senior care centers, and other residential facilities to spark joy when so many are unable to gather with loved ones due to distance or COVID-19 precautions this holiday season.

Captain Hook (James Konicek) is startled by the sound of the dreaded ticking crocodile while taunting the captured Lost Boys and Darling siblings, with the help of Starkey (Christina Hall)

Chicago Shakespeare Theater presents

Peter Pan – A Musical Adventure 

music by George Stiles

lyrics by Anthony Drewe

in a new version by Elliot Davis based on the book by Willis Hall

directed & choreographed by Amber Mak

Streaming Free On-Demand now playing through January 1, 2021

Wendy (Elizabeth Stenholt) spars with Captain Hook (James Konicek) as the Lost Boys take on the Pirates

CAST: Johnny Shea (Peter Pan), Elizabeth Stenholt (Wendy Darling), Cameron Goode (John Darling), Carter Graf (Michael Darling), James Konicek (Hook/Mr. Darling), Rengin Altay (Storyteller), Sean Patrick Fawcett (Smee), Roberta Burke (Mrs. Darling/Cecco), Jonathan Butler-Duplessis (Nana/Bill Jukes), Christina Hall (Starkey), Colin Lawrence (Curly), Michael Kurowski (Tootles), John Marshall Jr. (Slightly Soiled), and Travis Austin Wright (Nibs). 

CREATIVE TEAM: Amber Mak (Director and Choreographer), Kory Danielson (Music Director), Jeff Kmiec (Scenic Designer), Theresa Ham (Costume Designer), Greg Hofmann (Lighting Designer), Ray Nardelli (Sound Designer), Mike Tutaj (Projections Designer), Richard Jarvie (Wig and Make-up Designer), Matt Deitchman (Orchestrator), Jerry Galante (Fight Choreographer), Susan Gosdick (Dialect Coach), Megan E. Farley (Associate Director and Choreographer), Deborah Acker (Production Stage Manager), and Sammy Brown (Assistant Stage Manager). Onstage flying effects by ZFX.

Toodles (Michael Kurowski), Nibs (Travis Austin Wright), Curly (Colin Lawrence), Slightly Soiled (John Marshall Jr.) rejoice in being part of “The Lost Boys Gang”

ABOUT CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE THEATER

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Barbara Gaines and Executive Director Criss Henderson, Chicago Shakespeare has redefined what a great American Shakespeare theater can be—a company that defies theatrical category. A leading international theater company and recipient of the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s year-round season offers a vibrant array of classics, musicals, new works, and family programs for 225,000 audience members annually. Chicago Shakespeare is the city’s leading presenter of international work, and has toured its own productions across five continents. The Theater’s nationally acclaimed arts in literacy programs support the work of teachers, and bring Shakespeare to life on stage for tens of thousands of students annually. Each summer, the company tours a free professional production to neighborhood parks across Chicago. In 2017 the Theater unveiled The Yard, which, together with the Jentes Family Courtyard Theater and the Thoma Theater Upstairs, positions Chicago Shakespeare as Chicago’s most versatile performing arts center. chicagoshakes.com

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

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

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

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

Created by Bros do Prose - Directed by Christian Libonati

At Mercury Theater Chicago

November 3 to December 23, 2018

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

Second star to the right and straight on to 

Mercury Theater Chicago!

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

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

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

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

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




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


For additional information visit www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com.

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

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

ENTER HERE

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

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

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

Bros do Prose

PETER PAN

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

Created by Bros do Prose - Directed by Christian Libonati

At Mercury Theater Chicago

November 3 to December 23, 2018

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

Second star to the right and straight on to 

Mercury Theater Chicago!

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

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

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

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

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




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


For additional information visit www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com.

WHAT WE'RE WATCHING: Disney Peter Pan 65th Anniversary Edition Out This Month on Blu-Ray, DVD, Digital

ChiIL Mama's ChiIL Flix Picks:

Experience the Magic of Disney’s Beloved Flight of Fantasy: “Peter Pan” 

Soars Into the Walt Disney Signature Collection

on Digital May 29 and on Blu-ray™ June 5

Celebrate the 65th anniversary of the timeless classic and enjoy new and original bonus features! 

Can you believe the movie about the boy who wouldn't grow up is turning 65?! This story created Wendy as a previously unheard of girls' name, and spawned numerous works of art, film, theatre, and creativity. Now you can bring it home and share it with generations to come.

Discover a ​darling conversation in an all-new clip featuring Wendy (Kathryn Beaumont) and John (Paul Collins) in celebration of the 65th Anniversary​ of Peter Pan! Experience the magic that went into animating the timeless classic with all new bonus content featured on the Peter Pan Walt Disney Signature Collection, now available on Digital and Movies Anywhere and on Blu-ray June 5!​

In celebration of its 65th anniversary, Disney’s beloved flight of fantasy, “Peter Pan,” joins the highly celebrated Walt Disney Signature Collection, landing in homes on Digital and  Movies Anywhere on May 29 and on Blu-ray June 5. With a little faith, trust and pixie dust, every member of the family will let their imagination soar on this epic adventure to Never Land, sparkling with legendary animation, extraordinary music and both all-new and classic bonus features.

The Walt Disney Signature Collection edition of “Peter Pan” invites adventures of all ages to believe in magic once again and experience a timeless treasure from Disney’s golden age of animation that has stirred the hearts and imaginations of moviegoers worldwide since its original 1953 release. The Signature Collection edition offers over two hours of classic bonus features plus never-before-seen extras, including the latest installment of “Stories from Walt’s Office,” which explores Walt’s love of flying and the company planes; a nostalgic reunion between Kathryn Beaumont (the voice of Wendy) and Paul Collins (the voice of John); and new “Oke” renditions of the classic song “You Can Fly” and deleted song “Never Smile at a Crocodile” accompanied by on-screen lyrics and the film’s unforgettable animated characters. 

In “Peter Pan,” fantastic adventures await the Darling children—Wendy, John and Michael—when Peter Pan, the hero of their stories, whisks them away to the magical world of Never Land.  After flying with Peter and the delightfully impish Tinker Bell past the “second star to the right and straight on till morning,” they explore the enchanted island and Peter’s secret hideout with the Lost Boys, and leap into high-flying battles with swashbuckling pirates and the infamous villain Captain Hook. 

“Peter Pan” is the seventh title to join the Walt Disney Signature Collection, which includes groundbreaking films created or inspired by the imagination and legacy of Walt Disney, featuring timeless stories and characters that have touched generations. The film takes its place alongside “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Pinocchio,” “Bambi,” “The Lion King” and “Lady and the Tramp.”

Bonus Features:

BLU-RAY & DIGITAL*:
New Signature Collection Bonus
Stories from Walt’s Office: Walt & Flight – “Think of the happiest things, it’s the same as having wings”. One thing you’ll notice inside Walt Disney’s office are all of the models and pictures of airplanes. Walt loved planes and was an aficionado of flying. As a continuation of the “Stories from Walt’s Office” series, we’ll soar into the world of one of Walt’s favorite pastimes and look at the history behind the company airplane he used to scout Central Florida looking for the perfect place to build his second theme park. 

A “Darling” Conversation with Wendy & John: Kathryn Beaumont and Paul Collins – Join Disney Legend Kathryn Beaumont (the voice of Wendy) and Paul Collins (the voice of John) as they reunite for the first time in many years to reminisce and discuss their experiences working on Peter Pan, meeting Walt Disney and learning to fly … literally. 

You Can Fly” – A new “Oke” rendition and graphic look of the classic Disney song, “You Can Fly,” with fun lyrics on screen and lots of your favorite “Peter Pan” characters.

“Never Smile at a Crocodile” – A new “Oke” rendition and graphic look of the deleted song, “Never Smile at a Crocodile”, with fun lyrics on screen and highlighting the relationship between Captain Hook and Tick- Tock the Crocodile. 

Legacy/Classic Bonus
DisneyView
Sing-along Version of the film: Sing along with your favorite songs from the movie.

Growing Up with Nine Old Men – “Peter Pan” is both a story of living with a child’s sense of openness to the world and an acknowledgement that the path to adulthood most often leads away from those qualities. A parallel of sorts to that duality can be found in Walt Disney and his core group of animators, the Nine Old Men, in their lives and in their work. Our short film will look at who they were and the parts they played in one of the most remarkable team of artists that ever worked together. 

Deleted Song: “The Pirate’s Song” – Original demo recording of the song played over concept art.
Deleted Song: “Never Smile at a Crocodile” – With music played over static concept art of the crocodile from Pater Pan.
Deleted Song: “The Boatswain Song” – With music played over static concept art of Captain Hook and his crew. 

Deleted Scene: “The Journey Home” – A proposed alternate ending where Peter asks the Lost Boys to return home with Wendy and the other children.
Deleted Scene: “Alternate Arrival” – A deleted scene where Wendy and the children are initially attacked by the Lost Boys because Tinker Bell tells them that Wendy is holding Peter captive. We also see in this version of the story that Nana the dog travels to Never Land with Wendy and the children.

Disney Song Select – Simply play the clip from the movie with subtitles underneath it. 
“The Second Star to the Right”
“You Can Fly”
“A Pirate’s Life”
“Following the Leader”
“Your Mother and Mine”
Audio Commentary Hosted by Roy Disney – Audio commentary hosted by Roy Disney, but carried on by several other people.  
Music and More
”Never Land”: The Lost Song – A bonus piece that sets up the backstory of where this lost song was found and how Richard Sherman recomposed it. 
Music Video: “Never Land” – Music Performed by Paige O’Hara – A music video of the song “Never Land” 
Music Video: “The Second Star to the Right” – Music Performed by T-Squad – A music video of the song “The Second Star to the Right” performed by T-Squad.

Backstage Disney
You Can Fly: The Making of ‘Peter Pan’ – A making-of video of the 1953 Disney classic, “Peter Pan.”
In Walt’s Words: “Why I Made ‘Peter Pan’” – Based upon an article written by Walt Disney retold as a dramatic recreation.
Tinker Bell: A Fairy’s Tale – An introspective video on the creation, history and personality of the one and only “Tink.”
The Peter Pan That Almost Was – Hosted by Ron Clements and John Musker, we take a look at the storyboards and early concepts of a version of the “Peter Pan” film that never saw the light of day.
The “Peter Pan” Story – An original featurette for the film created in 1952. 

*Bonus features may vary by retailer

DISC SPECIFICATIONS:
Product SKUs: Multi-screen Edition (Blu-ray, DVD, Digital Copy), Digital HD/SD, DVD
Feature Run Time: Approximately 77 minutes
Rating: G in U.S. and Canada; Bonus Material not rated 
Aspect Ratio: 1.33:1
Audio:                            Blu-ray: English 7.1 DTS-HDMA, Spanish and French 5.1 Dolby Digital, 1.0 English Original Theatrical Mix
DVD: English, Spanish, and French 5.1 Dolby Digital, 1.0 English Original Theatrical Mix
Digital: English, Spanish and French 5.1 Dolby Digital, English, Spanish and French 2.0 Dolby Digital 
Subtitles: English SDH, French & Spanish 
Closed Captions: English (DVD & Digital)

SOCIAL MEDIA:
Facebook: Facebook.com/PeterPan, Facebook.com/TinkerBell
Website: Movies.Disney.com/Peter-Pan
Instagram: Instagram.com/DisneyAnimation
YouTube: YouTube.com/user/DisneyMovies


ABOUT THE WALT DISNEY SIGNATURE COLLECTION:
The Walt Disney Signature Collection includes groundbreaking films created or inspired by the imagination and legacy of Walt Disney, featuring timeless stories and characters that have touched generations. Each release will offer special features for every member of your family plus a unique digital experience. To date, the collection includes “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Pinocchio,” “Bambi”, “The Lion King,” and “Lady and the Tramp.”

ABOUT THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS:
For over 90 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company was built. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under the following banners: Disney, including Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios; Disneynature; Marvel Studios; Lucasfilm; and Touchstone Pictures. The Disney Music Group encompasses the Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records labels, as well as Disney Music Publishing. The Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Disney on Broadway, Disney On Ice and Disney Live!

ACT OUT OPENING: Cathy Rigby is Peter Pan #BroadwayinChicago

ChiIL Mama, Sagezilla and Du-Jay will be reviewing Cathy Rigby is Peter Pan at press night TONIGHT.   The show just opened last night at the Cadillac Palace Theater and is in town until Feburary 10th.   

As a USAG competitive gymnast, my daughter, Sage, is particularly stoked to see the gymnast who wouldn't grow up play the boy who wouldn't grow up!   Talk about cool grandmas....Cathy Rigby rocks.   I'm so inspired.   This woman has 4 kids and 4 grandkids and she's still queen of the aerial arts and engaging in nightly stage combat with pirates.   So what's YOUR excuse?!

Tony Award nominee Cathy Rigby takes flight in an all new production of Peter Pan! Discover the magic all over again of this two time Emmy award winning and two time Tony award nominated production.

The New York Times says "Rigby still carries off the flights, fights and acrobatics that make Peter Pan audiences mesmerized". Peter Pan is filled with timeless magical moments and a captivating hook. The legend you thought you knew, is now the adventure you never dreamed possible... Cathy Rigby is Peter Pan.

Dates

Opening night: 30 January 2013

Booking through until: 10 February 2013

Cathy Rigby

(Peter Pan)  During her gymnastics career, Cathy won numerous international medals- including eight gold- and in 1998, she was inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame. When Cathy retired from the sport, she joined ABC Sports for 18 years, providing expert commentary on the sport of gymnastics around the world. During this time, ABC's venerable Wide World of Sports named her one of "America's Most Influential Women in Sports." After seven years of intense vocal and theatrical training, she embarked on a new career in performing arts. National and regional tour credits include: Annie Get Your Gun, Meet Me In St. Louis, South Pacific, Paint Your Wagon, The Unsinkable Molly Brown, Silvia, and Steel Magnolias. On Broadway, she starred as the title role in Peter Pan in 1991 and 1998, and in Seussical the Musical as Cat-In-The-Hat in 2002. Cathy has been honored with the National Broadway Theatre Award, "Ovation" Lifetime Achievement Award (the West Coast version of a "Tony") and the 2004 Distinguished Lifetime Service Award from The League of American Theatres and Producers. In 1991, Cathy was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical when she starred in the 35th Anniversary production of Peter Pan on Broadway. In addition to multiple Tony nominations, Peter Pan also garnered several Emmy nominations, and a win, when A&E filmed the show for television broadcast in 2001. She recently finished filming An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars, which was released in July 2012. Cathy and her husband, Tom McCoy, are Executive Producers of the McCoy Rigby Entertainment Series at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts in La Mirada, California. They have successfully produced 18 seasons, and have launched several national touring productions including: Jekyll & Hyde, Jesus Christ Superstar, Peter Pan, Camelot and Happy Days, the Musical. The McCoy Rigby Conservatory of the Arts in Yorba Linda, California provides students with an opportunity to find their creative outlet, whether it be acting, dancing, singing, art or playwriting. 

She is very passionate about, and involved in two charities- Discovery Arts (www.discoveryarts.com) and her Non Profit, McCoy Rigby Arts (www.mccoyrigbyarts.com). 

After two Olympics, 18 years as a sports commentator, a successful entertainment career, 4 kids, 4 grandkids and 30 years of marriage to the same man, Cathy spends much of her spare time as a motivational speaker on the topics of nutrition & wellness, and The Art of Reinventing Yourself.

The bio above and the rest of the cast bios are available here.

Acting Out-Best of Chicago's Theatre Scene

We're devoting a giant chunk of today to theatre.   It's one of the best reasons to live in or near Chicago, and we just can't get enough.   Of course the shear number of choices can be daunting when you only have a little time and thousands of shows going on.    We'll give you a short list of our current favorites right here, and in depth reviews today, too, then tell you to get outta the house and off your computer and go see a show!

Ending:

We checked out opening night last night and will have a fun, photo filled recap up today.   This is a 3 night run only, so order your tickets before they sell out, and high tail it on over to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum for Redmoon's first ever youth spectacle.   Redmoon Theatre's esoteric yet accessible take on the world is all over this magical, kid-centric show.   

REDMOON YOUTH SPECTACLE 2011 Redmoon Theater at Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum,  2430 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago Audiences of all ages from diverse Chicago neighborhoods will gather to witness a major cultural event designed, authored, built and performed by the young people of Chicago at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Produced by Chicago's acclaimed large-scale spectacle theater company, Redmoon, the first-ever 'Youth Spectacle' will give Chicagoans a fantastical glimpse into the way local youth experience and interpret the natural world every day. Check out Hot Tixs for a great deal on tickets HALF-PRICE TICKETS THIS WEEK: Thursday 6:00pm $5.00 buy now or at Hot Tix outlet Thursday 8:00pm $5.00 buy now or at Hot Tix outlet   Friday 6:00pm $5.00 buy now or at Hot Tix outlet Friday 7:00pm $5.00 buy now or at Hot Tix outlet Friday 8:00pm $5.00 buy now or at Hot Tix outlet

500 Clown  Trapped One weekend remains for 500 Clown Trapped! The Saturday show at 2:00 is sold out, but there are still tickets for Friday and Saturday at 7:00. Don't miss this amazing production!   Head on over to Adventure Stage and check 'em out.   Click here for more info!  ALL TICKETS $35*   Final 3 weeks-Must close June 5th Click HERE and use code TRUCKER when ordering. Check out ChiIL Mama's review HERE.

DON'T MISS THE SHOW THAT CRITICS ARE RAVING ABOUT! 

"HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!"
-Hedy Weiss, Chicago Sun-Times

"REMARKABLE!  1/2 stars (out of 4)
MOVING & FRESH!"
-Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune

“WORKING will make you proud to be a Chicagoan!”
-Paul Lisnek, Comcast Network

800-775-2000

Tickets available at any Broadway In Chicago Box Office.
Special Group Pricing Available for 15+ 312-977-1710
*Offer valid on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday evenings only. Not valid on premium seating, with any other offer or on previously purchased tickets. Normal ticketing fees apply. Subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply. Offer ends at the close of business on Friday, June 3.

Extended:

Did you all watch 190North on May 8? If not, click here to get a behind-the-scenes look at the show!

"AN AWFULLY BIG ADVENTURE"

threesixty entertainment, in association with Broadway In Chicago, is excited to announce a unique event – a spectacular new production of J M Barrie’s classic story, PETER PAN, at the Chicago Tribune Freedom Center. Conceived by an award-winning creative team, the SMASH HIT Peter Pan features twenty-two actors, stunning puppets, epic music and dazzling flying sequences surrounded by breathtaking video projection using the world’s first 360-degree CGI theater set. Both cast and audience fly over Edwardian London. Performed in a state-of-the-art theater pavilion, this magical new “in-the-round” production of Peter Pan is an extraordinary experience for the whole family. 

Tickets for PETER PAN and Into Neverland are also available through Ticketmaster.

“A VISUALLY DAZZLING, LONDON-BORN PRODUCTION 

OF J M BARRIE’S PETER PAN.” 

- Wall Street Journal 

“THE WORLD’S FIRST FULLY 360-DEGREE PROJECTED MOVIE FOR LIVE THEATRE.” 

-Time Out

ADD TO THE MAGIC!

NEVERLAND CRUISE: Travel in style along the Chicago River to see PETER PAN, a spectacular new production based on the classic story by J M Barrie. On select nights, sail along Chicago's newly renovated Riverwalk to Neverland. Package includes cruise to and from the Freedom Center aboard Chicago’s Little Lady and price level 1 ticket to PETER PAN. Don't miss what the Wall Street Journal calls "a visually dazzling, London-born production." 

Click here for the details. 

INTO NEVERLAND: Begin your journey in the Pavilion, our foyer tent, and learn about J M Barrie, the story behind Peter Pan, and its 100-year theatrical and cinematic history. Take a tour of the extraordinary THREESIXTY° THEATRE. Watch video interviews with the creative team. Access exclusive information about the cast and the production, including the 360° CGI Technology. The tour is hosted exclusively by our very own cast members - Fridays at 5 pm! 

Click here to buy.

Dixie's Tupperware Party
Check out ChiIL Mama's video interview with Dixie, tupperware lady, and character extrordinare.   And check out our review of her smash hit, Off Broadway show, now extended an additional 4 weeks at The Royal George Theatre!



Beginning:

Watership Down at Lifeline Theatre

April 29 – June 19, 2011 Thu & Fri at 7:30pm, Sat at 4pm & 8pm, Sun at 4pm

"The novel’s message of empathy for the nonhuman world remains alarmingly relevant, and its tale of survival against the odds compelling, especially in this well-wrought production."  –Time Out Chicago

"Lifeline Theatre's brilliant production captures the epic sprawl and driving suspense of its source... In fact, Lifeline tops Adams's signature feat of delivering well-defined, often affecting characters who are--you know--rabbits"  –Chicago Reader 

When their birthplace is destroyed, brothers Hazel and Fiver lead a misfit band of survivors on a quest for a new home. Confronted with insurmountable dangers on all sides, the refugees must join forces with unexpected allies and conquer their deepest fears in order to endure. Join a pair of unlikely leaders in the journey of a lifetime, in this unforgettable story of survival against impossible odds. A stirring adventure, re-imagined for the Lifeline stage by the award-winning adaptor and director of Johnny Tremain.

*Recommended for ages 10 and up.

A world premiere based on the contemporary bestseller by Richard Adams
Adapted by John Hildreth
Directed by Katie McLean Hainsworth

One Show Only:

Get a sneak peek at some of Chicago's most exciting new works of circus art!  This next installment of the Actors Gymnasium performance series focuses on the development of new acts.  Professionals from the Chicagoland circus community will be featured as well as advanced students from The Actors Gymnasium's own classes.

One Show Only!

Saturday May 28, 2011

7:30pm

The Actors Gymnasium

927 Noyes Street, Evanston

Tickets: $10

Tickets are available through

Brown Paper Tickets 

online or by calling

1-800-838-3006.

These guys offer aerial classes for adults and children.    Check out their web site for details.

Guess Who's Stopping In Before They Take Off on Summer Tours?  Yup! You guessed it! The Circus Cats of Chicago Featuring the Amazing Acrocats The fantastic felines will perform at Gorilla Tango Theatre Saturday, June 4, 2011 at 2pm and 4pm! The Amazing Acro-Cats will perform their usual feats of agility pushing carts, riding skateboards, rolling barrels, ringing bells, turning on lights, walking tight ropes, jumping through hoops, knockabout acts and much more! These furry funambulists, aerialists and Pongers are no “dog and pony show” but real troupers! ADVANCE PURRRRRRCHASE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Tickets are $18; click HERE for more info and to purchase tickets or call 773-598-4549. Gorilla Tango Theatre - 1919 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago IL, 60647

Celebrating:

That's Weird Grandma
Barrel of Monkey's long running, Monday night show, is neither beginning nor ending, but they are celebrating.   Like Broadway in Chicago and CircEsteem, they, too, are celebrating the big one oh!   April marked the 10 year anniversary of That's Weird Grandma.   It's rare for a show to run for a decade, so you can rest assured these guys are truly funny and well worth checking out.   We have loads of show photos and a video interview for you this month.    


If you read our "interconnected piece" a few weeks back, you'll remember that Anthony, Barrel of Monkey cast member, also teaches our kids at CircEsteem and choreographed Du-Jay's clown routine.   He's also married to one of the 500 Clown trio, currently wrapping up at Adventure Stage.    Tom, the Producing Artistic Director at the helm of Adventure Stage is a former Monkey, serendipitously sat next to us at Peter Pan, and enrolled his twin daughters in the same preschool Sagezilla attended 5 years ago with kids of actors and creative higher ups at 500 Clown, Lookingglass, The House Theatre, and The Curious Theatre Branch, among others.  Confused yet?   The coinkidink vortex of theatre in Chi Town spins on.


Over but awesome:

CircEsteem's Spring Circus was amazing.   We'll have a photo filled recap for you very soon, and video clips shortly thereafter.   If the show inspired you to take up aerial arts or clown around more, summer camp is coming.   If you want more circus in your kids' lives, sign ups are going on now.    You're never too old to learn new tricks.   If it's you who wants more circus in your life, stop living vicariously through your kids and do something fun for yourself.   Fall brings adult circus classes at CircEsteem as well.


The other great thing you can do is buy benefit tickets to Cirque du Soleil's OVO (details below under Save the date)

Hair rocked our world and we're sad it was such a short run here in Chi-Town.   If you're one of our national readers and the Broadway version of Hair is coming your way, go already.    It's an award winning revival piece and a great night out.   When I first got tickets I wanted to take my 10 year old son, but remembering the sex and drug laden song lyrics, I hesitated.    I revisited the soundtrack and put the dilemma to an on line parenting group and school parents we know well.    The results were some interesting, thought provoking takes on the issue and we'll have an in depth article published soon.

Save the date:

Thursday, Jul 14, 2011

Cirque du Soleil's OVO

8:00 PM
United Center
1902 W. Madison
Chicago, IL

CircEsteem and Cirque du Soleil have partnered in raising money to benefit CircEsteem since 2005.  Through this partnership CircEsteem has raised over $75,000 through the sale of tickets to Cirque du Soleil shows here in Chicago.  This year, Cirque du Soleil has generously donated 450 tickets for OVO, their latest touring show.   Through the sale of these tickets, CircEsteem can raise over $50,000 with 100% of the ticket price going directly to support CircEsteem’s work with at risk youth in the Chicago area. A portion of the ticket price is also tax deductible.  Please consider purchasing a ticket and supporting the work of CircEsteem. Download the OVO order form.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater Presents World Premiere Family Musical The Adventures of Pinocchio A CST Family Commission by Drama Desk Award Nominees Neil Bartram and Brian Hill July 13 through August 28, 2011 Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) presents the world premiere family musical The Adventures of Pinocchio from July 13 to August 28, 2011. Based on Carlo Collodi's classic tale of a wooden puppet who yearns to be a real boy, this original CST Family commission will turn CST's Courtyard Theater stage into a larger-than-life, European-style marionette theater. Created by multiple Drama Desk Award-nominated team Neil Bartram(music/lyrics) and Brian Hill (book), The Adventures of Pinocchio is directed by Rachel Rockwell, who returns to CST after staging last summer's world premiere CST Family musical The Emperor's New Clothes.  Tickets for The Adventures of Pinocchio from July 13 to August 28, 2011, in CST's Courtyard Theater are $18-$25 with special discounts available for groups of 10 or more. All patrons receive a 40% parking discount at Navy Pier garages. For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Chicago Shakespeare Theater's Box Office at 312.595.5600 or visit the Theater's website at  www.chicagoshakes.com. *Six Degrees of Separation Alert:   The Adventures of Pinocchio's  Puppetry Designer, Meredith Miller, was featured by ChiIL Mama HERE.   She can be seen every Thursday night in the magical basement parlour of The House Theatre, with more amazing puppets and quirky hats that she's designed. Adventure Stage has also announced their upcoming season and we're looking forward to Walk Two Moons.

Fall 2011 

Walk Two Moons 

Adapted for the stage by Tom Arvetis (ASC's Producing Artistic Director)

Based on the novel by Sharon Creech
Directed by Matthew Reeder

November 5 - December 8, 2011  "Don't judge a man until you've walked two moons in his moccasins." Click here for more information.