Broadway in Chicago's Fall Theatre Season To Feature ANASTASIA, WICKED, DISNEY’S THE LION KING, A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS, AND DEAR EVAN HANSEN

ChiIL Mama’s ChiIL Picks List

Broadway In Chicago is thrilled to announce its fall season will feature 

Anastasia, Wicked, Disney’s The Lion King, A Magical Cirque Christmas, and Dear Evan Hansen.

Here at ChiIL Mama, we know that taking kids to live theatre boosts their empathy and can instill a lifelong love of the arts. I took my kids to age appropriate shows from the time they were toddlers and now my son's a senior theatre performance major at Northwestern University, one of the top schools in the country for theatre arts! He's also on cast at Bristol Renaissance Faire for the 4th season, entertaining and amusing thousands every weekend, all summer long. 

In our post-pandemic world, we're beyond elated that shows are touring once again. After the 2-3 year shutdown and slowdown, we will NEVER take live entertainment for granted again, and vow to catch as much theatre and music as possible. We're featuring five fall shows in the Broadway in Chicago lineup below, listed with recommended ages. As always, you know your own kids' maturity levels and interests best, so check out run times and get out and catch a play. Tickets make a great clutter-free holiday gift idea. Get out and make some experiential family memories this season.  

The Broadway In Chicago Fall line-up, including performance dates and venues, is as follows:

ANASTASIA

ONE WEEK ONLY!

Sep. 20, 2022 – Sep. 25, 2022

CIBC Theatre (18 W. Monroe)

The mystery that fascinated the world is now the musical that captivated Broadway. A rumor is spreading across the land: the missing princess of the Romanov empire may still be alive. Then, a young woman appears with no name and no family, but with the drive to discover her destiny. As she sets out on an epic journey in search of her past, clues unlock and memories return. Could she be the one they call Anastasia? Her remarkable story, by Tony Award®-winning playwright Terrence McNally, soars with a score by Tony Award-winning songwriters Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, including the Academy Award®-nominated hit “Journey to the Past.” With its opulent settings, dazzling costumes, and directed by Tony Award winner Darko Tresnjak with choreography by Peggy Hickey and tour direction by Sarah Hartmann, ANASTASIA is Broadway’s most spectacular new musical. ANASTASIA is recommended for ages 7 and older.

WICKED

Sep. 28, 2022 – Dec. 4, 2022

James M. Nederlander Theatre (24 W. Randolph)

WICKED, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin—smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, WICKED—the untold true story of the Witches of Oz—transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story that USA Today cheers is “a complete triumph! An original musical that will make you laugh, cry, and think.” WICKED is recommended for ages 8 and older.

Disney’s THE LION KING

Nov. 17, 2022 – Jan. 14, 2023

Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph)

Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is Disney’s THE LION KING, making its triumphant return to Chicago! More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular – one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to grace the stage. Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, Disney’s THE LION KING brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broadway. Tony Award®-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story filled with hope and adventure set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals. Disney’s THE LION KING also features the extraordinary work of Tony Award®-winning choreographer Garth Fagan and some of Broadway’s most recognizable music, crafted by Tony Award®-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice. There is simply nothing else like Disney’s THE LION KING. Disney’s THE LION KING is recommended for ages 6 and older.

A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS

ONE WEEK ONLY!

Dec. 6, 2022 – Dec. 11, 2022

CIBC Theatre (18 W. Monroe)

The world’s greatest entertainers unite for a spell-binding and incredible holiday production – A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS! Experience the enchantment of Christmas as Magical Hostess Lucy Darling takes you through an evening of dazzling performers and breathtaking cirque artists, accompanied by your favorite holiday music performed live. Get into the spirit of the season with this merry treat that’s perfect for the entire family.

DEAR EVAN HANSEN

Dec. 6, 2022 – Dec. 31, 2022

James M. Nederlander Theatre (24 W. Randolph)

DEAR EVAN HANSEN has struck a remarkable chord with audiences and critics everywhere, including The Washington Post who says DEAR EVAN HANSEN is “Theatrical magic. One of the most remarkable shows in musical theatre history.” The New York Times calls it “a breathtaking knockout of a musical.” And NBC Nightly News declares the musical “an anthem resonating on Broadway and beyond.” DEAR EVAN HANSEN features a book by Tony Award winner Steven Levenson, a score by Grammy®, Tony®, and Academy Award® winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land, The Greatest Showman), and direction by four-time Tony Award nominee Michael Greif (Rent, Next to Normal).

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO

Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 22 years, has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago, lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining more than 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop, including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, James M. Nederlander Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at the Auditorium Theatre.

COVID-19  PROTOCOL

Masks are recommended for all audience members.

For the latest health and safety procedures and guidelines, tickets, and scheduling details, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Follow Broadway In Chicago: Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● TikTok @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

HELP OUT: “We Three Shows: A Broadway Holiday Benefit” for Chicago House and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids

“We Three Shows: A Broadway Holiday Benefit”

Featuring WICKED and BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL

National Tour Company Members

and HAMILTON Chicago Company Members

An evening benefitting Chicago House and 

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids

Members of the National Touring companies of WICKED and BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL, and HAMILTON Chicago company members, will host “We Three Shows: A Broadway Holiday Benefit,” a cabaret concert benefitting Chicago House and Social Service Agency and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. The benefit will take place at Thalia Hall (1807 South Allport Street) on December 11, 2017 at 7:30PM. Doors open at 6:00PM for VIP ticketed guests and 7:00PM for general admission.

General Admission tickets are available for $65 (main floor) and $85 (balcony seating). VIP tickets are available for $150 and include a pre-show reception with the performers at 6:00PM, reserved premier seating, catered light hors d’oeuvres, and complimentary drinks.  A limited number of premium opera boxes are available for $550 which includes seating for six at the foot of the stage.  Tickets are currently on sale now at www.thaliahallchicago.com. 

Net proceeds raised from the benefit will support adults and children living with HIV/AIDS as well as those at risk for HIV through wraparound services provided by Chicago House, including housing, employment services, medical linkage and retention, and prevention services. 

“We Three Shows: A Broadway Holiday Benefit” is produced by the company members of WICKED, BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL and HAMILTON themselves.  This performance event is an opportunity for the company to step out of their roles in the musicals and perform some of their personal favorites.

The evening will include a live auction featuring backstage tours – including costuming, makeup and “watching from the wings” opportunities, performance tickets, and an opportunity for walk on roles.

WICKED is at the Oriental Theatre (24 W. Randolph) now through January 21, 2018. Returning to Chicago by popular demand, BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL plays through January 28, 2018 at the Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph).  HAMILTON is currently playing at the CIBC Theatre (18 W. Monroe) with tickets on sale for performances through September 2, 2018. 

Tickets for all three shows are available at Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St., 18 W. Monroe St. and 175 E. Chestnut), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line (800-775-2000) and online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

ABOUT THE BENEFICIARIES
Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is one of the nation’s leading industry-based, nonprofit AIDS fundraising and grant-making organizations. By drawing upon the talents, resources, and generosity of the American theatre community, since 1988 BC/EFA has raised more than $300 million for essential services for people with AIDS and other critical illnesses across the United States. 

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS is the major supporter of the social service programs at The Actors Fund, including the HIV/AIDS Initiative, the Phyllis Newman Women’s Health Initiative and the Samuel J. Friedman Health Center for the Performing Arts. Broadway Cares also awards annual grants to more than 450 AIDS and family service organizations in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and Washington, DC.

For more information, please visit Broadway Cares online at broadwaycares.org, at facebook.com/BCEFA, at instagram.com/BCEFA, at twitter.com/BCEFA and at youtube.com/BCEFA.

Chicago House and Social Service Agency has been on the forefront of reducing barriers for those affected by HIV/AIDS since the early years of the epidemic. Founded in 1985, Chicago House was the first HIV housing provider in the Midwest. We now serve more than 2,000 clients annually through expanded programming to holistically support individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

Chicago House provides integrated programs inclusive of housing, employment services, medical linkage and retention services, HIV prevention services, trans specific services, and supportive programming to those who are disenfranchised by HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ marginalization, poverty, homelessness, and/or gender nonconformity.

For more information about our services, making a donation, or volunteering visit us online at www.chicagohouse.org; and, https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoHouse1985

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 17 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining well up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Wicked Good Deal: $25 Day of Show Ticket Lottery at Block 37

WICKED ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF THE DAY OF SHOW DRAWING FOR $25 TICKETS

20 TICKETS HELD FOR EACH PERFORMANCE AT BLOCK 37

BY STEPHEN SCHWARTZ AND WINNIE HOLZMAN

BASED ON THE NOVEL BY GREGORY MAGUIRE

ORIENTAL THEATRE

DEC. 6, 2017 - JAN. 21, 2018

Want to catch Broadway In Chicago's WICKED without breaking the bank? My family entered this lottery a few years back and WON 2 pairs of front row tickets for $25 a seat (cash only)! So it is doable. Chances of being picked of course depend on turnout for any given show, but you've gotta be in it to win it, and it certainly doesn't hurt to try. Ticket lottery is free to enter. 

Broadway In Chicago is delighted to announce that a WICKED day-of-show drawing for a limited number of seats will take place inside Block 37. Throughout the run of the show on each performance day, people can pick up entry forms at the Block 37 guest services booth during business hours up until two hours prior to the performance. Entry forms are placed into the WICKED hat, one entry per person. Names will be drawn two hours before each performance for twenty seats at $25 each, cash only.

This drawing is available only in-person at Block 37 with a limit of two tickets per person. Drawing participants must have a valid photo ID when submitting their entry form and, if chosen, when purchasing tickets. Block 37 is located at 108 N. State across from the Oriental Theatre (24 W. Randolph). Chicago’s most popular musical will return to Broadway In Chicago’s Oriental Theatre during the holiday season for a limited seven-week engagement December 6, 2017 - January 21, 2018.

Mary Kate Morrissey returns to the WICKED National Tour as Elphaba after touring as the Elphaba standby in 2016. Off-Broadway: David Byrne’s Joan of Arc: Into the Fire (The Public Theater), Tamar of the River (Prospect Theater). International tour: Hair as Sheila. Regional: Elmer Gantry (Signature Theatre), Lizzie: The Musical (Portland Center Stage), Little Women (Syracuse Stage) and the workshop of Fun Home (Sundance Lab). Syracuse University.

Ginna Claire Mason comes directly from playing the Glinda standby on Broadway to play Glinda in the National Tour. National tour: Newsies (Katherine u/s), Flashdance (Gloria). Vegas: Duck Commander Musical (Korie). Regional favorites include Thoroughly Modern Millie (Millie), Grease (Sandy), Hairspray (Shelley). NYC concerts: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (Rosemary). Recently performed in Japan at the World Musical Concert. B.F.A., Elon University.

The company includes Judy Kay as Madame Morrible, Tom McGowan as The Wizard, Harry Bouvy as Doctor Dillamond, Catherine Charlebois as Nessarose, Robin De Jesús as Boq, John Robert Hall as Fiyero, and Chelsea Emma Franko, Deanna Aguinaga-Whyte, Allison Bailey, Kerry Blanchard, Beka Burnham, Lauren Cannon, Autumn Crockett Cooper, Michael Di Liberto, Michael Drolet, Ryan Patrick Farrell,  Napoleon W. Gladney, Sara Gonzales, Lauren Haughton, Chris Jarosz, John Krause, Kelly Lafarga, Chase Madigan, Tiffany Rae Mallari, Matt Meigs, Olivia Polci, Anthony Sagaria, Wayne Schroder, Tregoney Shepherd, Ben Susak and Justin Wirick.

With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Pippin, Godspell, Academy Award®-winner for Pocahontas and The Prince of Egypt) and book by Winnie Holzman (“My So Called Life,” “Once And Again” and “thirtysomething”), WICKED is directed by two-time Tony® Award winner Joe Mantello (Take Me Out, Love! Valour! Compassion!, The Vagina Monologues) and features musical staging by Tony® Award winner Wayne Cilento (Aida, The Who’s Tommy, How To Succeed…). The musical is based on the best-selling 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire.

The Broadway sensation, WICKED, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle.  Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin, who is smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”

With a thrilling score that includes the hits “Defying Gravity,” “Popular” and “For Good,” WICKED has been hailed by The New York Times as “the defining musical of the decade,” and by Time Magazine as “a magical Broadway musical with brains, heart, and courage.” 

Winner of over 100 international awards including the Grammy Award and three Tony Awards, WICKED has been performed in over 100 cities in 15 countries around the world (U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Japan, Germany, Holland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, The Philippines, China, Mexico, and Brazil) and has thus far been translated into six languages: Japanese, German, Dutch, Spanish, Korean, and Portuguese. 

Grammy Award-Winning Cast recording available on Decca Broadway. For more information about WICKED log on to www.wickedthemusical.com or www.BroadwayInChicago.com. Follow WICKED on Twitter and Facebook.

CAST BIOGRAPHIES
MARY KATE MORRISSEY (Elphaba) is air­borne with excitement to return to this electric company after touring as the Elphaba Standby in 2016. Off-Broadway: David Byrne’s Joan of Arc: Into the Fire (The Public Theater), Tamar of the River (Prospect Theater). International tour: Hair as Sheila. Regional: Elmer Gantry (Signature Theatre), Lizzie: The Musical (Portland Center Stage), Little Women (Syracuse Stage) and the workshop of Fun Home (Sundance Lab). Syracuse University. “Epic thanks: Christopher Freer and CGF, Craig Burns, Matt Farnsworth and my friends and family. For TC, Mom and Dad. Never underestimate the power of listening, beauty and beat drops.” @maryspacekate.

GINNA CLAIRE MASON (Glinda) is thrillified to travel by bubble with Wicked on tour! She comes directly from Broadway as the Glinda standby. National tour: Newsies (Katherine u/s), Flashdance (Gloria). Vegas: Duck Commander Musical (Korie). Regional favorites include Thoroughly Modern Millie (Millie), Grease (Sandy), Hairspray (Shelley). NYC concerts: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (Rosemary). Recently performed in Japan at the World Musical Concert. B.F.A., Elon University. Many thanks to DGRW, Telsey + Co. and the Wicked creative team. “For mom and dad and my Prince Eric.” Instagram/Twitter: @ginnaclaire.

JUDY KAYE (Madame Morrible) joins the tour after having played Madame Morrible on Broadway. Other Broadway: Nice Work If You Can Get It (Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award); Souvenir (Tony nomination, L.A. Ovation Award); The Phantom of the Opera (Tony Award); Mamma Mia! (Tony nomination); Ragtime (L.A. Ovation Award); On the Twentieth Century (TheatreWorld Award); Grease; Oh, Brother; Cinderella; Candide (NYCO); The Pajama Game (NYCO); Brigadoon (NYCO); Bells Are Ringing; Face the Music; Little Me (Encores!). For more: JudyKaye.com.

TOM McGOWAN (The Wizard). Broadway: Wicked, She Loves Me, Casa Valentina, Chicago, Ivanov, La Bete (Tony and Drama Desk noms.). Off-Broadway: The Food Chain (Obie). West End: Wicked. Television: Uncle Jax on “The Good Fight,” Kenny on “Frasier,” Bernie on “Everybody Loves Raymond,” “Veep,” “Modern Family,” “CSI,” “ER,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Film: Freeheld, The Birdcage, Heavyweights, Ghost World, Bad Santa, As Good As It Gets, Bean, Family Man. M.F.A., Yale. B.F.A., Hofstra. Thanks to daughter, Mary, for introducing him to Wicked when she and her best friend, Sara, spent the entire summer of ’04 playing Glinda and Elphaba in the backyard.

HARRY BOUVY (Doctor Dillamond). Off-Broadway: Silence! The Musical (original cast re­cording). Tour: The Producers. Vegas: Spamalot. Regional: Yale Rep, St. Louis Rep, Cincinnati Playhouse, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Pittsburgh Public, City Theatre Company, TheaterWorks Hartford, Montana Shakespeare, Arrow Rock Lyceum, Drury Lane Oakbrook, Syracuse Stage. Film: The Producers. Television: “The Good Wife,” “Law & Order,” “Sex and the City.” For Sean, always and all ways. harrybouvy.com.

CATHERINE CHARLEBOIS (Nessarose). Broadway and national tour: Wicked (Nessarose). Regional : Beauty and the Beast (Belle) at Ogunquit Playhouse, Music Theatre Wichita and North Carolina Theatre; Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Milly) at Music Theatre Wichita; Steel Magnolias (Shelby) at Triad Stage. Catherine can be seen in the parody video Downton Abbey at 54 Below as Lady Mary Crawley and Michelle Dockery. Catherine is also a style blogger: follow along at CharleboisChic.com and on social media @CharleboisNYC!

ROBIN DE JESÚS (Boq). Broadway: In the Heights (Tony nomination, Drama Desk Award), La Cage aux Folles (Tony, Drama Desk nomina­tions), Rent. Select Off-Broadway and regional: Domesticated (Lincoln Center), In the Heights, Patti Issues, Cabaret, Aladdin, Two Gentlemen of Verona, Grease and Homos, Or…. Select film: Camp, HairBrained, Gun Hill Road, Elliot Loves, 11:55 Holyoke, Fat Girls. Select TV: “Law & Order: SVU,” “How to Make It in America.” Cabaret: Crush to Crushed, The Struggle is Real (54 Below). Tweet and Instagram @RobinOfJesus.

JON ROBERT HALL (Fiyero) is a Los Angeles native. He recently played Tom Chisum in the Emmy Award-winning “Grease: Live!” on Fox, as well as recurring on “Glee.” He also played Stacee Jaxx in the Vegas production of Rock of Ages at the Venetian. In addition, Jon produces music for young social media stars and helps develop them. His company HallPass Productions is an L.A. staple for many of the heavy-hitting kids in the social media world. Go to his website or DM for ways to work with him. Jonroberthall.com. Insta/twitter/Musical.ly: @jonhall28 and @hallpassproductions.

CHELSEA EMMA FRANKO (Standby for Elphaba) is ecstatic to be making her national tour debut with Wicked. Most recently, she was Live at the Hyperion in Disney’s California Adventure. Favorite regional credits: Company (Marta), Damn Yankees (Gloria Thorpe), Meet Me in St. Louis (Esther), Oklahoma! (Ado Annie), Monty Python’s Spamalot (Lady of the Lake), Chicago (Roxie Hart), Hairspray, Sunset Boulevard and Shrek. For mum, dad and SRO. @thechelseaemma.

DEANNA AGUINAGA-WHYTE (Assistant Dance Captain, Swing). Broadway: Mamma Mia! West Side Story, A Chorus Line. Tours: Fame the Musical, Evita, Radio City Christmas Spectacular. B.A. sociology, Cal State University of Long Beach and 200 Hour Yoga Alliance Certification. “Love and gratitude to husband Blake and our daughter Kya for sharing this Wicked dream adventure.”

ALLISON BAILEY (Ensemble, u/s Glinda). National tour debut! Regional credits: Goodspeed and New London Barn Playhouse. The Boston Conservatory ’14. “Thanks to God and much love to my family, DGRW and Telsey + Co.” Allison-Bailey.com.

KERRY BLANCHARD (Ensemble) is so happy to be a part of Wicked. Thanks to everyone at Wicked, Telsey and MSA. “All my love to my wonderful family and amazing friends for their never-ending support, love and laughter.”

BEKA BURNHAM (Ensemble, u/s Glinda, Nessarose). Back in Oz! Previously with the com­pany for almost two years. BoCo ’14. “Love and thanks to Craig/Telsey, DGRW, my Wicked fam­ily, Mom and Dad and especially my pup Root.”

LAUREN CANNON (Ensemble). Thrilled to be in Oz! Credits include West Side Story (nat’l/int’l/Ogunquit Playhouse), Radio City Christmas Spectacular and recently seen on the 2016 Tony Awards. “Love to my family.” @L_cannon.

AUTUMN CROCKETT COOPER (Ensemble). Credits include Rihanna, LeAnn Rimes, Billy Gilman, CeCe Winans, I Kissed a Vampire (film), “America’s Got Talent,” CW’s “The 100,” Cirque de la Symphonie, Odyssey Dance Theatre, Eclipse, Frozen Live, La Mirada Theatre production of Cats and West Side Story.

MICHAEL DI LIBERTO (Swing, u/s Witch’s Father, Ozian Official, The Wizard, Dr. Dillamond). National tours: Annie, Cinderella, Strike Up the Band. Select regional: The Producers (Helen Hayes nomination), Sweeney Todd, Elf, Oliver!, LMNOP, Spamalot, The 39 Steps, Titanic. MichaelDiLiberto.net

MICHAEL DROLET (Ensemble, u/s Boq). Broadway: Wicked. National tours: Wicked—L.A. cast (Boq), Saturday Night Fever (Vinnie). Regional: Peter Pan—Dorset Theatre Festival (Peter Pan), Of Mice and Men—Palace Theatre (Curley), Cyrano—Fulton Opera House. TV: “The Tonight Show.” B.F.A.: University of the Arts. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter: @michael_drolet.

RYAN PATRICK FARRELL (Ensemble, u/s Chistery). A Michigan native. Began danc­ing at age 8. Ryan is thrilled to join Wicked on tour. Credits include Wicked (Chicago), Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Cats national tour (Mistoffelees), Copacabana (Mill Mountain), Princess Cruises, Chase Brock Experience (Joyce Soho) and Boyz II Men. Love to Mom and Dad.

NAPOLEON W. GLADNEY (Dance Captain, Swing, u/s Chistery). B.F.A. dance performance, Chapman University. Select credits include Wicked first/second nat’l tours, Me & Caesar Lee (Chor.), Odyssey Dance Theatre European tour, Backhaus Dance, “The Late Late Show,” “Good Morning America” and The Dance Cartel. @napogladney.

SARA GONZALES (Ensemble, u/s Madame Morrible). Webster University B.F.A. in musical theater. Regional: Bridget in Bring It On (L.A.), Daniela in In the Heights (L.A.) and more. Award-winning jazz vocalist, performing internationally at IAJE in Toronto, Monterey Jazz Festival and 54 Below. Saragonzales.weebly.com.

LAUREN HAUGHTON (Swing, u/s Nessarose). Broadway: Wicked. Off-Broadway: Fools in Love. Regional favorites: Sammy with Leslie Bricusse (Old Globe Theatre), Turn of the Century with Tommy Tune (Goodman Theatre). B.F.A.: musi­cal theater, Syracuse University. Thanks to Mom, Dad, the Gillis family. “Je t’aime Michael.” IG: @laurenhaughton. Website: laurenhaughton.com.

CHRIS JAROSZ (Ensemble). La La Land, “Glee,” Radio City’s New York Spectacular, Cirque du Soleil, “SYTYCD.” Excited to be joining the national tour of Wicked. “Love to my Mom, Dad and my MSA family.”

JOHN KRAUSE (Ensemble, u/s Fiyero, Witch’s Father, Ozian Official). Broadway: Fun Home. Off-Broadway: Camp Rolling Hills. Tour/regional: Green Day’s American Idiot, Drew in Rock of Ages (Vegas) and Cruel Intentions: The Musical (L.A.).The Boston Conservatory. Instagram/Twitter: @johnakrause.

KELLY LAFARGA (Swing) feels honored to join Wicked. Film: Step Up 2: The Streets, Step Up 3D. TV: “Glee,” “Bones,” “How I Met Your Mother,” “DWTS.” Tours: Eve, Donnie Klang. Marymount Manhattan College. Thanks Mom, Nina, and Sasha for their endless love and sup­port. “Dad, I love and miss you always.”

CHASE MADIGAN (Chistery). West Side Story (Broadway), Radio City Christmas Spectacular, The New York Spectacular, Rock the Ballet (inter­national tour). Thrilled to be joining the national tour of Wicked! Love to Mom and Dad!

TIFFANY RAE MALLARI (Ensemble) has been lucky to perform for the past 10 years. Some accomplishments include High School Musical 3, Cirque du Soleil’s Viva! Elvis and Disneyland’s California Adventure.

MATT MEIGS (Ensemble, u/s Boq). Broadway: Holiday Inn, Tuck Everlasting, Matilda. Vegas: Rock of Ages (Franz). National tour: Mary Poppins. “For mom—who taught me to live with an open heart and open mind.” @matt_meigs.

OLIVIA POLCI (Ensemble, u/s Elphaba) re­cently completed two solo shows at Feinstein’s/54 Below in New York City. Other credits in­clude The Threepenny Opera (Jenny), Wendy’s Shadow (Young Wendy) and Foolerie (Kate). Thanks to Telsey + Co., her family and friends. B.F.A. in musical theater from Montclair State University. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @oliviafpolci.

ANTHONY SAGARIA (Ensemble, u/s Fiyero). Broadway: American Psycho. NYC/regional: The Bad Years, Murder Ballad, Into the Woods. TV/film: “OITNB,” “Madam Secretary,” Block Island. Thanks to family, SMS, BWU, Telsey + Co. Twitter/Instagram: @Anthony_Sagaria.

WAYNE SCHRODER (Witch’s Father, Ozian Official, u/s The Wizard, Doctor Dillamond). Broadway: 9 to 5, A Christmas Carol. Tours: 9 to 5. Off-Broadway: The Prince and the Pauper, Mimi le Duck. Film: The Producers, Brando, Welcome Home. Television: “Guiding Light,” “All My Children.” Concert: Kristina at Carnegie Hall and Royal Albert Hall in London.

TREGONEY SHEPHERD (Midwife, u/s Madame Morrible) is excited to make her home in Munchkinland. Broadway: Been there. National tours: Done that. Regional theater: Check. One woman shows: Check again. Education: D.M.A. vocal performance. Love to Lafayette. TregoneyShepherd.com.

BEN SUSAK (Swing, u/s Chistery) is very grate­ful to be back with the Munchkinland family! Credits: Cirque du Soleil, “SYTYCD,” Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, Florence + the Machine, Ke$ha, Kelly Clarkson, “American Music Awards,” “Video Music Awards,” “Billboard Awards,” “DWTS,” “American Idol,” San Francisco Ballet.

JUSTIN WIRICK (Ensemble). Joined Jan. 2010. 3,000+ performances. 20 Green Girls. Denizen of Pittsburgh, Pa. Travel enthusiast: eight plus years of touring, 50 states, eight provinces, 15 countries. Passions/hobbies: Wicked, gymnastics, figure skat­ing, fundraising, event coordinating, photography, motivational speaking. “Success is where prepara­tion and opportunity meet.” Adventures and full bio on Insta @justinwirick88.

TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets for WICKED at the Oriental Theatre range from $62-$212 with a select number of premium seats available. Tickets are available now for groups of 15 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710.  Tickets are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St., 18 W. Monroe St. and 175 E. Chestnut), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line at (800) 775-2000 and online.



ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 17 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining well up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.

FREE Outdoor Summer Broadway Showcase Returns To Pritzker Pavilion 8/14

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

BROADWAY IN CHICAGO ANNOUNCES FREE ANNUAL SUMMER CONCERT

  

Featuring performances by

Disney’s ALADDIN, BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL, the Pre-Broadway Engagement of ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE, LES MISÉRABLES, LOVE NEVER DIES,

MOTOWN THE MUSICAL, SCHOOL OF ROCK and WICKED

Monday, August 14 at Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park

Chi, IL embraces the outdoor summer concert season with open arms and here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live we just can't get enough. There are free shows galore, in every musical genre. One of our annual favorites is the FREE BROADWAY IN CHICAGO SUMMER CONCERT. Don't miss this! 

Broadway In Chicago is thrilled to announce their annual FREE BROADWAY IN

CHICAGO SUMMER CONCERT, sponsored by ABC 7 Chicago and hosted by Janet Davies, ABC 7 Chicago’s entertainment reporter and host of the entertainment and lifestyle program 190 NORTH on ABC 7. The concert will take place on Monday, August 14, 2017 at 6:15 p.m. at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park (201 E Randolph St). 

The Broadway In Chicago Summer Concert at Millennium Park is presented with the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. This year, there will be preview performances from Disney’s ALADDIN, BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL, the Pre-Broadway Engagement of ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE, LES MISÉRABLES, LOVE NEVER DIES, MOTOWN THE MUSICAL, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s SCHOOL OF ROCK and WICKED. More performances will be announced closer to the event.

“This is truly our favorite night of the year! At the incomparable Pritzker Pavilion, you are surrounded by the Chicago skyline and entertained by a selection of phenomenal musicals. It is a truly unique evening,” says Eileen LaCario, Vice President of Broadway In Chicago. “The evening brings Chicagoans of all ages together to appreciate Broadway’s best - it is like the 'Lollapalooza' of Broadway.”

The Broadway In Chicago Summer Concert is presented in collaboration with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events as part of Millennium Park Presents. Millennium Park proudly presents symphonic music, dance, opera, Broadway hits and more—performed by some of Chicago’s best-loved cultural institutions. For full calendar information, visit millenniumpark.org. 

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For more information on the Summer Concert and Broadway In Chicago, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Lisle and Witches and Saige Oh My JULY 3 – 6, 2013

WICKED HOT AIR BALLOON SOARS OVER 

THE CHICAGO AREA 

IN LISLE EYES TO THE SKIES FESTIVAL 

JULY 3 – 6, 2013

ChiIL out with ChiIL Mama at Lisle's Eyes to the Skies Festival.   We're pretty stoked to see The Wicked Witch in flight!   

Broadway In Chicago is pleased to announce WICKED, Broadway’s biggest blockbuster, will be flying its own WICKED Hot Air Balloon, to Lisle, Illinois, for the “Eyes to the Skies Festival.”  Their very own Defying Gravity hot air balloon will appear at the festival July 3 – 6, 2013.  The WICKED hot air balloon is making this special appearance in honor of the smash hit musical’s return to Chicago’s Oriental Theatre Oct. 30 – Dec. 21, 2013.

WICKED is sure to be one of this year’s most treasured balloons at the Eyes to the Skies Festival, which is celebrating its 31^st Anniversary. 

Ever since Saige, American Girl of the Year appeared on the scene for 2013, girls across the nation have become obsessed with colorful, gorgeous hot air balloons.   My own 10 year old, Sage, is no exception.   That was the only thing she requested for her birthday!

We read the American Girl book, Saige Paints the Sky, together as a family, in which Saige's dad owns and flies his own hot air balloon that Saige did the design for.   She takes her friends up in it to celebrate her 10th.   We couldn't Paint the Sky with a hot air balloon ride for our Saige, but we all chipped in and bought her the balloon, and took all her friends to Jump Sky High which was a blast!!   (Full photo/video feature coming soon.)


Balloon love is only bound to intensify with the brand new release of the Saige Paints the Sky MOVIE on July 2nd on Blu-Ray/DVD combo pack.  The movie will also air for free on TV Saturday, July 13, at 8/7C on NBC.  




We got a press preview copy and it was a huge hit in our household with the 10 year old girl demographic.   The New Mexico locations are stunningly gorgeous.  The story is a compelling one of inner and outer strength, overcoming fears and obstacles, practicing hard and fighting for the arts.   And Jane Seymour rocks as Saige's Grandma, Mimi.   The Saige movie also introduces Sidney Fullmer as Saige, a talented artist with a passion for horses, in this modern-day story about finding one’s voice.

**Click here to check out ChiIL Mama's prior Saige Paints the Sky movie coverage and enter to win a FREE Blu-Ray/DVD combo of the Saige movie!**  

Then bring the family out for a real live hot air balloon extraganza July 3-6th!

Lisle Eyes to the Skies Festival

The festival attracts an attendance each year of more than 50,000 patrons.  Highlights include performances by nationally known musical groups, the best in local band performances, a large carnival, a craft fair, a special children’s area, two food courts and of course, daily launches of hot air balloons and a balloon glow before the spectacular nightly fireworks show.  The Eyes to the Skies Festival has been selected six times as “One of the County’s Top 100 Tourist Destinations” by the American Bus Association.  Since 2009, The Lisle Eyes to the Skies Committee, a not-for-profit  (501c3) corporation, comprised of local citizens and volunteer business leaders, has organized and produced the festival.  Proceeds from the festival are divided up between six local charitable affiliations: The Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions, Chamber of Commerce, Partners for Parks and the Lisle Education Foundation.  Located in Community Park in Lisle, on 110 acres of beautiful trees, lakes and open space, the festival runs from July 3 through July 6, 2013. The carnival operates July 3 through July 7, 2013.  Please visit www.eyestotheskies.org for complete details.

There's even a wheelchair accessable balloon that gives free rides to handicapped adults & kids.   How cool is that?!

Serena’s Song

Serena’s Song
Each day, “Serena’s Song,” the nation’s first wheelchair accessible balloon, will be giving tethered rides to children and adults with disabilities from 6 to 7:30 a.m. and from 6:00 p.m. until dusk Friday through Sunday, weather permitting. To reserve a flight, contact SEASPAR at www.seaspar.org.

Flights are on Wednesday, July 3 – Saturday, July 6, from 6:00-7:30 a.m. and from 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Serena’s Song Flyer
Serena Registration Form

WICKED TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets are now available for groups of 20 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710.  Individual tickets for WICKED will go on-sale at a later date.  For more information about WICKED, please visit www.wickedthemusical.com or www.BroadwayInChicago.com