OPENING: Barrel of Monkeys Presents THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA Rings in the Holidays

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

Barrel of Monkeys Presents

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA 

Rings in the Holidays

Directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd

December 10 – 22, 2018 at the Neo-Futurist Theater

An Original Sketch Show that is Written by Kids,

Performed by Grownups, and Enjoyed by Humans

ChiIL Mama will be out for the press opening, Monday, December 17th, so check back shortly after for our full review. BOM and THAT’S WEIRD,
GRANDMA are long time favorites of ours. Check it out!

Barrel of Monkeys celebrates the season with THAT’S WEIRD,
GRANDMA Rings in the Holidays, directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd, playing Mondays at 8pm (plus special weekend performances) from December 10 – December 22, 2018 at the Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago. Tickets are currently available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org
or by calling (773) 506-7140. 



Barrel of Monkeys’ beloved holiday special returns with a mix of classic stories from the That’s Weird, Grandma repertoire alongside brand new sketches and songs. Make That’s Weird, Grandma your family’s newest holiday tradition!

The cast includes Noah Appelbaum, Ashley Bland, Maeli Goren, Barry Irving, Meredith Milliron, Deanna Myers, Oly Oxinfry, Mary Tilden, Raquel Torre and Rawson Vint.





Now in its eighteenth year, THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA features adaptations of stories written during Barrel of Monkeys’ creative writing residencies in Chicago elementary schools. BOM’s ensemble of professional actors, comedians and musicians bring the young authors’ stories to life as raucous sketches, songs and movement pieces, performing first for students in their schools and then for the public. These stories – from hilarious dialogues between unlikely characters to poignant pleas for social change – resonate with adults while celebrating the imaginations of young people. Every week brings a new line-up of stories, and BOM invites audiences to vote on their favorites at each performance.



Location: 
Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave. in Chicago

Performance Schedule:
Monday, December 10 at 8 pm (preview)
Monday, December 17 at 8 pm (press performance)
Thursday, December 20 at 8 pm
Friday, December 21 at 8 pm
Saturday, December 22 at 8 pm

Tickets: 
Preview: $10 for adults, $5 children 12 and under, $8 groups of 10 or more. Regular run: $20 for adults in advance; $5 for children 12 and under; $12 for seniors, students, veterans/military and groups of 10 or more. Teen Arts Pass (TAP) members: $5 with ID. Tickets are currently available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org or by calling (773) 506-7140.



About the Director
Brandon Cloyd joined Barrel of Monkeys in 2007 and has been deeply involved in many facets of the company ever since. Prior to joining BOM, Brandon graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre and a minor in Business Institutions. Within BOM, Brandon has served as an
actor, teaching artist, lead teacher, a member of Teacher Corps, as well as directing shows for schools and public performances of That's Weird, Grandma. Before becoming the company’s Artistic Director in September 2017, Brandon served as BOM After-School Program Coordinator at Loyola Park from 2014-2016 and Program Director from 2016-2017. Outside of Barrel of Monkeys, he worked as the Associate Director of Camp Echo, where he has spent 13 summers managing campers and staff at a co-ed sleep away camp in Upstate New York. Brandon has worked with other theatre companies including Urban Theatre Company, American Theater Company, Filament Theatre, InGen Productions, ACLE's Teatrino in Italy and Purple Crayon Players at Northwestern University.

About Barrel of Monkeys
Since Barrel of Monkeys’ inception in 1997, its teaching artists have served more than 60 Chicago Public Schools. Over 15,000 elementary school students have participated in the Barrel of Monkeys programs,
which aim to build students' writing skills, improve self-esteem, and instill confidence in their ideas and abilities.

Barrel of Monkeys is sponsored in part by Wintrust Financial, Allscripts, Inc., Ernst and Young and Punchkick Interactive. It receives generous support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency; the National Endowment for the Arts; a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events; the Chicago Community Trust; Crown Family Philanthropies; Alphawood Foundation of Chicago; the Maurice R. and Meta G. Gross Foundation; Polk Bros Foundation; the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation; the Robert and Isabelle Bass Foundation, Inc.; The Saints; The Topfer Family Foundation, and many other generous individuals and foundations.

REVIEW: The House Theatre’s Nutcracker playing through December 30th, 2018

ChiIL Mama's ChiIL Picks List: Top Family Friendly Holiday Theatre Productions

The House Theatre's "Ballet Free" Nutcracker 

Photo Credit: Kimberly Robb Baker

Guest Review:
by Kimberly Robb Baker

The House Theatre’s Nutcracker is a loving, poignant and joyful experience for family members of all ages.  

I attended with my 10-year-old son, 8-year-old daughter and ageless mother. The production was a hit with all three generations and one we’re sure to return to in coming years. Though we love Tchaikovsky, it didn’t bother us a bit that this was a ballet-free version. In fact, the absence of toe shoes—along with an innovative book/adaptation by Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell, and Tommy Rapley—made the story accessible for audiences looking for less formal entertainment.


All production photos by Michael Brosilow

There was dancing and singing of a musical theatre variety, including an opening number which made the small cast seem like one several times its size. There were cookies and laughter and gasps—also moments so still I could hear many others quietly weeping and know I wasn’t the only one who was touched by the performance.

Hailey Bolithon as Clara and Desmond Gray as her brother (and nutcracker) Fritz were the emotional anchors of the story. Clara’s love for Fritz and desire to rescue Christmas from the ratty little teeth of grief are compelling, as are Clara and Fritz’s connected sibling relationship and powerful singing voices.

Ben Hertel (Hugo, the Robot), Johnny Arena (Sock Monkey) and Rachel Shapiro (Phoebe, the doll--the favorite of both the kids) round out Clara’s posse with humor and warmth that balance the sadness, anger, and tension of her parents, deftly played by Nicholas Bailey and Amanda de la Guardia. Rom Barkhordar was enchanting as Clara’s eccentric uncle, and all “adult” actors played double-duty as convincing rats that were scary enough to startle, but portrayed within a cartoonish reality in which death is but a temporary inconvenience.

The snow play at intermission was tremendous fun and gave the kids a chance to get their wiggles out before the second half.

Photo Credit: Kimberly Robb Baker

This was our first time seeing the show, but I’m told there are new musical pieces added this year that further enhance the production many have come to love.

The House Theatre is appropriately named. A homey hospitality defined our time there from the self-accompanied singer on the lower level to the warm welcome from the ushers and even a parting gift of stationary kids could use to write to the characters with a guarantee of hearing back from them.

The sense of intimacy and family was cemented in its theatre-in-the-round setup as well as actors and ushers who interacted with the audience before and during the show.

Nutcracker will be playing through December 30th.

Kimberly Robb Baker is a Chicago based writer, blogger, consultant, story teller, and mother. 
You can find her worky stuff here: ThisLittleBrand.com and her artsy fartsy stuff here:  DisruptiveMama.com.

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar: 

The House Theatre's Nutcracker 

The House Theatre of Chicago's all-original, ballet-free and family-friendly production of The Nutcracker has been a family favorite of ours for years. The kids love to play in the fake snow at intermission, making snow angels on stage, and having snow fights. Toys come to life to sing and dance, and even the scary parts are fun, with a giant, multi headed rat puppet to be battled inside of cracking walls. We love that the nutcracker is a hero Marine in real life, who makes the ultimate sacrifice and returns to come to life each night and battle beside his sister. We also love that the main character is a brave girl and a rockin' role model who fights not only giant rats, but grief and loss as well. You may think you've seen The Nutcracker story many times before, but you've never seen it like THIS. Highly recommended. 

THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO 

CONTINUES ITS HOLIDAY TRADITION AND ANNOUNCES CASTING FOR THE ANNUAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY, BALLET-FREE ADAPTATION OF THE HOLIDAY CLASSIC 

THE NUTCRACKER, 

NOVEMBER 8 – DECEMBER 30, 

AT THE CHOPIN THEATRE

*NOTE: special family events on Nov. 25th and Dec. 2nd!

FAMILY DAY

Sunday, Nov 25, 1pm - 4:30pm 

Family Day offers "extras" for our younger guests ages 5+. Come early for kids' crafts including cookie decorating from our partners at Whole Foods Lakeview. Watch the 2pm matinee, and then join in a talkback for kids after the show lead by teen reviewer Ada Grey!

RELAXED/SENSORY-FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE

Sunday, Dec 2, 2pm - 5pm 

Relaxed/Sensory-Friendly performances welcome everyone to attend the production in a safe, non-judgmental space. Stage lights and sounds are dimmed, and house lights are dimmed but remain on. Guests can come and go from the audience as needed - we’ll provide quiet spaces in the lobby. We aim to ease the experience for those with sensory sensitivities, very young children, and anyone who would benefit from more leeway as an audience member. Before the show, the stage, lobby, puppets, and actors will be available to help everyone get acclimated.

Use code ACCESS for $20 tickets for this show.

Tommy Rapley Returns to Direct The House Theatre of Chicago’s 

Annual Performance of The Nutcracker

The House Theatre of Chicago brings back the hit holiday production with its annual engagement of The Nutcracker, an all-original, ballet-free and family-friendly production playing at The Chopin Theatre upstairs theatre, 1543 W. Division, November 8 – December 30. Company Members Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell and Tommy Rapley created the adaptation based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story with original direction and choreography by Tommy Rapley. 




The regular performance schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. with an added Sunday 6 p.m. performance on December 9, 16 and 23. Note: There are no performances on Nov. 9 or 17 and there are additional added performances on Friday, Nov. 23 at 3 p.m., and Wednesday, Dec. 19.

Regular run tickets $30 – $50. Student and industry same-day discounted tickets are available for $20 for all dates, based on availability. Tickets may be purchased by calling 773.769.3832 or by visiting www.thehousetheatre.com.







The House’s unique take on this classic story has become an annual tradition for many offering something for everyone during the holiday season. The show is fast-paced, beautifully choreographed, family-friendly and moving for even those who might be on the Grinch’s side from time to time.

This fantastical expansion of the holiday classic centers on Clara’s journey to save Christmas in the face of grief. With the help of a magical nutcracker, the brave girl risks the darkness, fights the Rat King and saves her family. A modern holiday tradition weaving together riveting dialogue, astonishing puppetry, original songs and spellbinding spectacle to tell a heartwarming, darkly moving story of magic and hope — a meaningful outing fit for the whole family.



The House’s production of The Nutcracker is adapted from “The Nutcracker and the Mouse,” a story by E.T.A. Hoffmann by Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell, and Tommy Rapley. The production premiered at the Steppenwolf Theatre in 2007 under the Visiting Company Initiative and has enjoyed highly acclaimed runs with The House since 2010, as well as productions in Miami. In 2016, The House revamped the show during a workshop at the Chicago Performance Lab. Repeat fans will notice the addition of new musical pieces and new audience members continued to delight in the production’s creativity and heart 

The 2018 ensemble features many returning faces including Company Members Ben Hertel as Hugo, the Robot, and Johnny Arena as Monkey. Also returning are Desmond Gray as Fritz, the Nutcracker, Rachel Shapiro as Phoebe, the doll, Nicholas Bailey as David and Quite Scary Rat, and Amanda de la Guardia as Martha and Really Scary Rat. New to the cast are Rom Barkhordar as Uncle Drosslemeyer and Really Quite Scary Rat, and in the leading role, actress Hailey Bolithon (recently starring in Hatfield & McCoy) plays Clara. 


All production photos by Michael Brosilow

ABOUT THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO 

The House is Chicago's premier home for intimate, original works of epic story and stagecraft. Founded and led by Artistic Director Nathan Allen and driven by an interdisciplinary ensemble of Chicago’s next generation of great storytellers, The House aims to become a laboratory and platform for the evolution of the American theatre as an inclusive and popular artform.

The House was founded in 2001 by a group of friends to explore connections between Community and Storytelling through a unique theatrical experience. Since becoming eligible in 2004, The House has won 22 Joseph Jefferson Awards, became the first recipient of Broadway in Chicago’s Emerging Theater Award in 2007, and was awarded a 2014 National Theatre Company Grant by the American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony Awards. The 17th season of original work is underway and The House will continue its mission to unite Chicago in the spirit of Community through amazing feats of Storytelling.  

Review: It’s a Wonderful Life, Live in Chicago! At Stage 773 Through January 5, 2019

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

American Blues Theater Presents

17th Anniversary Production of

It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago!

From Frank Capra’s film

Directed by Artistic Director Gwendolyn Whiteside

Music Direction by Ensemble Member Michael Mahler

November 15, 2018 – January 5, 2019

All Productions Photos by Michael Brosilow

Review: It’s a Wonderful Life, Live in Chicago! 
By Catherine Hellmann, guest critic

Yes, we’ve all seen the Frank Capra classic movie with the earnest Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, the lovely Donna Reed as George’s eternally patient/upbeat wife Mary and miserly old Lionel Barrymore as evil Mr. Potter. Even if you watch this film every year and have lines of dialogue memorized, you still must see American Blues Theater’s charming “live radio” broadcast set in Chicago at “Radio WABT”  in 1944. (Oh, to be in the 1940’s when our country was united and proud. Sigh…)

If all the broo-ha-ha about the holidays, shopping, cards, family, decorating, cold weather, minimal parking in the city, and stress gets you down, then you REALLY need this show. From the beautiful solo numbers, and a kick-ass barbershop quartet rendition of “Winter Wonderland,” to the milk and cookies served by the actors in the lobby after the show, you can’t possibly stay in a grumpy mood for long. There is a quiz of holiday songs to open the show. The lady in front of me won by quickly identifying “Deck the Halls, and won Christmas socks which was “just what she wanted.” The cast leads sing-along Christmas carols and has a creative, funny bit about how in the 1940’s, who could possibly have a phone in the audience that may cause a disruption?

The entire cast is delightful and so talented. Brandon Dahlquist is marvelous as George Bailey, with his sincere and all good-natured temperament until his heart-breaking meltdown and final redemption; Dahlquist is just perfect in the role. John Mohrlein shines as the wicked Mr. Potter as well as the genuinely concerned future angel Clarence. Mohrlein should be a pro---amazingly, he has been playing these roles since the show’s inception 17 years ago! (That has to be some kind of Chicago record.) Ian Paul Custer and James Joseph are fun to watch and listen to as they switch characters’ voices and mannerisms continually. Custer has a turn as a nosy old neighbor urging George to kiss Mary, which is hilarious. (I asked the actors after the show how do they keep the different voices straight. Joseph said it is like doing a musical for them after awhile.) Camille Robinson is sweet as Mary Bailey; she and Dara Cameron also have lovely singing voices. Cameron was particularly adorable mimicking the children’s voices.





In between acts of the radio show, the actors sing commercials for Com Ed, a local animal hospital, and neighborhood dining at Fahlstrom’s Fresh Fish Market, among others. The lyrics and tunes are just as enjoyable as the actual program. Matt Edmonds leads all the music very capably on the piano and also acts as the announcer and various voices.

My daughter’s favorite part was watching the clever sound effects produced by Shawn J. Goudie. He had a small door to open and close for entrances and exits, a tub of water with a plunger for the river scene, and glasses to clink when George is in the bar. Kids will love this aspect of the show, and I admit that it fascinated me, too.    



I can be kind of a Scrooge around the Christmas season. After seeing this inspiring rendition of It’s a Wonderful Life, I was ready to go home, drag my artificial Christmas tree up from basement storage, and set it up in the living room. As Auntie Mame would sing,”We need a little Christmas. Right this very minute. We need a little Christmas now.” You will leave Theater 773 reflecting on all the blessings in your life.  

Catherine Hellmann is a teacher, writer, and theater junkie. She has tried to inspire urban and rural middle schoolers for over twenty years. A mother of three, she is thrilled to once again claim Chicago as home.  

American Blues Theater continues its 2018-2019 Season with its 17th Annual Production of It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago! from Frank Capra’s film and directed by Artistic Director Gwendolyn Whiteside with musical direction by Ensemble Member Michael Mahler. It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago! runs November 15, 2018 – January 5, 2019 at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. in Chicago.  The official press opening is November 17, 2018 at 7:30 p.m.



As the second-longest holiday play in Chicago, the American Blues Ensemble treats Chicago audiences to a live 1940s radio broadcast of holiday favorite It’s a Wonderful Life for the 17th year. The incredible cast recreates the entire town of Bedford Falls with Foley sound effects, an original score and holiday carols. The Bedford Falls “residents” extend their hospitality after every performance when audiences are treated to milk and cookies served by the cast.  

The cast of It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago! includes Brandon Dahlquist (George Bailey), Dara Cameron* (Violet), Ian Paul Custer* (Harry), Matt Edmonds (Announcer/Pianist), Shawn Goudie* (Foley), James Joseph* (Uncle Billy), John Mohrlein* (Clarence/Mr. Potter), and Camille Robinson* (Mary Bailey).



The creative team includes Austin Cook* (score composer), Grant Sabin* (scenic), Christopher J. Neville* (costumes), Katy Peterson (lights) Elyse Dolan* (properties) and Paul Deziel* (projection design). The stage manager is Shandee Vaughan*.

*Denotes Ensemble and Artistic Affiliates of American Blues Theater

It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago! has received Joseph Jefferson Award nominations for Best Midsize Production and Best Ensemble.

Dates:
November 15, 2018 – January 5, 2019

Previews: November 15 - November 17, 2018
Regular Run: November 18, 2018 – January 5, 2019

Schedule:
Wednesdays:  7:30pm
Thursdays:  7:30pm
Fridays:  7:30pm
Saturdays:  4:30pm & 7:30pm
Sundays:  2:30pm

Additional performances on November 23 at 4:30pm; November 29 at 2:30pm; and January 1 at 7:30pm

No performances on November 17 at 4:30pm; November 22; November 29 at 7:30; or January 5 at 7:30pm

Arrive 10 min early for prizes and audiograms



Holiday Events: 
Children 12 & under receive keepsakes on December 2 (Hanukkah) and December 23 (Santa visits)

Location:
Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave. in Chicago

Ticket prices:
$19 - $59

Box Office:
Buy online at AmericanBluesTheater.com or by calling 773.654.3103.





About American Blues Theater
Winner of the American Theatre Wing’s prestigious National Theatre Company Award, American Blues Theater is a premier arts organization with an intimate environment that patrons, artists, and all Chicagoans call home.  American Blues Theater explores the American identity through the plays it produces and communities it serves. 

The diverse and multi-generational artists have established the second-oldest professional Equity Ensemble theater in Chicago.  The 35-member Ensemble has 600+ combined years of collaboration on stage. As of 2018, the theater and artists received 204 Joseph Jefferson Awards and nominations that celebrate excellence in Chicago theater and 35 Black Theatre Alliance Awards. The artists are honored with Pulitzer Prize nominations, Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, Emmy Awards and numerous other accolades.   

WIN 4 Tickets (Up to $188 Value) to the WORLD PREMIERE OF AMERICAN GIRL LIVE First National Tour Launch at The North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie 12/21/18

ChiIL Mama’s Chi, IL Picks List

WORLD PREMIERE 
OF 
AMERICAN GIRL LIVE 

ENTER BELOW FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN 4 OPENING NIGHT TICKETS!

First National Tour to Launch at The North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie

December 21-23, 2018

One of ChiIL Mama's lucky readers will 

WIN 4 Tickets to Opening Night of 

American Girl LIVE on 12/21/18 

(Up to $188 Value)

Enter through midnight 12/15/18. Tickets good for opening night on 12/21/18.

American Girl Live, an all-new musical inspired by the popular characters from American Girl® owned by Mattel, Inc., will celebrate its world premiere at The North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd.), Dec. 21-23, 2018. The cast of American Girl Live includes Jenna Bruce as Rebecca, Ashley Diane as Luciana, Laila E. Drew as Melody, Shelby Lysette Miguel as Nanea, Monica Potson as Julie and Kelsey Elaine Pressnall as Maryellen. The cast also features Orisa Gutierrez and Mari Skoultchi. For tickets and more information, please visit, NorthShoreCenter.org or call 847-673-6300.

American Girl Live will feature all-original songs and an unforgettable experience for fans of American Girl as they witness some of their favorite characters come to life. Audiences will join a group of girls at sleepover camp for an exciting summer away from home. When each camper is faced with a new challenge or experience, she comes to better understand the timeless lessons of her favorite American Girl character. The messages shared provide positive examples of friendship, courage and hope that will extend beyond the performance and into the hearts of the audience.

American Girl Live will perform at The North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd.) on Friday, Dec. 21 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 22 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 23 at 1 p.m. Tickets range in price from $37 - $47 and are available now. Special VIP packages featuring a pre-show party and post-show photo opportunity with the cast are also available. Please visit, NorthShoreCenter.org or call 847-673-6300 for tickets or more information.

 

About American Girl
American Girl is a premium brand for girls and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mattel (NASDAQ: MAT), a leading global children's entertainment company that specializes in design and production of quality toys and consumer products.  Headquartered in Middleton, WI, American Girl offers an inspiring world of dolls, content, and experiences that nourish a girl’s spirit and help develop her strength of character. Best-selling lines include Truly Me™, Girl of the Year™, Bitty Baby™, WellieWishers™, and American Girl’s classic historical characters. The company sells products through its award-winning catalogue, on americangirl.com, in its proprietary U.S. experiential retail stores, as well as at specialty retailers nationwide. By inspiring girls to be their best, American Girl has earned the loyalty of millions and the praise and trust of parents and educators.

About Mills Entertainment
Mills Entertainment, a live entertainment content studio, and division of Creative Artists Agency (CAA), collaborates with top talent and property holders to create unforgettable live experiences.  With full global distribution and partnerships worldwide, our specialty is taking shows from concept to stage, serving as the complete solution in realizing the vision.  Current projects include Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live!, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Carnival of Curi-oddities, Mel Brooks Live! Back in the Saddle Again, and Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience. www.millsentertainment.com

About The North Shore Center
The North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie is a dynamic two-theater complex designed by Boston architect Graham Gund and opened in November 1996. The North Shore Center is managed by Professional Facilities Management, Inc. and operates as part of the Village of Skokie’s plan to provide cultural, literary and educational programs to benefit the citizens of Skokie and Chicago’s North Shore. The facility features an 867-seat main theater, and a convertible 318-seat theater, which serves as the home to Northlight Theatre. In addition, there is a 6,000-square-foot grand lobby, rehearsal hall and conference rooms. The North Shore Center presents a Feature Series and the curriculum-based Youtheatre program, which has provided supplemental arts education to over a million Chicago area students since its launch in 1980. Located 30 minutes from Chicago’s Loop and conveniently across from Westfield Old Orchard Mall, the Center is in close proximity to many excellent dining, shopping and hotel options. Free parking is also abundantly available. For more information or tickets to its diverse programming, please visit NorthShoreCenter.org.

Enter HERE for your chance to WIN 4 Tickets to Opening Night of American Girl LIVE on 12/21/18 (Up to $188 Value)

Age range: All
Giveaway Details: Enter through midnight 12/15/18. Tickets good for opening night on 12/21/18.

Disclosure: It's our great pleasure at ChiIL Mama to partner up with lots of local theaters, restaurants, live concert venues and more, to offer great giveaways for our readers. Thanks to all the theaters mentioned here for offering us complimentary tickets for review purposes and for our giveaways. As always, all opinions are my own.

4 Shows Only: RUTH PAGE CIVIC BALLET’S THE NUTCRACKER RETURNS TO NORTHEASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY, DECEMBER 1 AND 2 2018

ChiIL Mama’s Chi, IL Picks List

RUTH PAGE CIVIC BALLET’S FAMILY FAVORITE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION 

THE NUTCRACKER 

RETURNS TO NORTHEASTERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY, DECEMBER 1 AND 2

The Ruth Page Civic Ballet is proud to present its annual production of The Nutcracker, with original choreography by Ruth Page, and co-directed by Victor Alexander and Dolores Lipinski Long. This production is performed at Northeastern Illinois University, 3701 W. Bryn Mawr Avenue in Chicago, Saturday, Dec. 1 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 2 at 1 and 5 p.m. Tickets for the performance are $32 for general admission, $20 for seniors and children under the age of 12 years and $10 for NEIU students, faculty and staff, one ticket per I.D. card. Tickets may be purchased at www.ruthpage.org.

Central to the Ruth Page Civic Ballet’s performance schedule is its annual presentation of The Nutcracker, the popular recreation of the beloved holiday classic. Originally presented in the Arie Crown Theater from 1965 to 1997, the Ruth Page Civic Ballet’s performance recreates Ruth Page’s original full-length staging. Exquisite dancing, stunning costumes and magical settings in the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sweets, these performances promise world-class entertainment and holiday joy for children of all ages.

About Victor Alexander
Born in Pinar del Rio, Cuba, and trained at the prestigious Escuela Nacional de Arte (ENA) in Havana. Alexander has had an extensive performing and choreographic career in the United States. He is the director of the Ruth Page School of Dance and was also included in Dance Magazine’s prestigious “25 to Watch in 2013” list. Alexander is known for his riveting stage presence as he mixes formidable technique he gained in the rigorous training ground of Cuban dance schools with facility at theatrical interpretation.

About Dolores Lipinski Long
Because of her lifetime connection to Ruth Page, Dolores Lipinski Long has been associated with the world's greatest dancers, choreographers, producers and designers. In addition to her role with the Ruth Page School of Dance as its associate director, she is also the co-director of the Ruth Page Civic Ballet. With her celebrated husband of 47 years, Larry Long, (1936-2009), Long co-founded the Ruth Page School of Dance.

About the Ruth Page Civic Ballet
An important component of the Ruth Page School of Dance is the Ruth Page Civic Ballet, its official training company for dancers 18-22 years of age and one of the Center's Artists In- Residence. Dancers are invited to take part in the Civic by it’s artistic director, Victor Alexander, who will guide and mentor each aspiring young artist during the one to two year program. The mission of the Ruth Page Civic Ballet is to identify, nurture and mentor emerging dance artists from around the world through enhanced performance opportunities within an elite training company. Serving as a bridge between training and professional performance, company members will refine their ballet and contemporary techniques in an international environment of performers and educators before moving on to professional careers in dance. The Civic's dancers are joined in performances by notable guest artists and choreographers, expanding their sphere of professional work.
    
About the Ruth Page School of Dance
Offering the highest level of training to young dancers, professionals, and those who study dance for personal enrichment, the Ruth Page School of Dance was founded in 1971 by Ruth Page and Larry Long. Mr. Long, who went on to become the School’s much loved Director until his death in 2009, along with his wife and Co-Director, Dolores Lipinski, helped set the standard of excellence in dance training that continues to this day. Mikhail Baryshnikov in an interview during his dancing career, noted that Mr. Long was one of the ten best ballet teachers in the nation. Through his legacy, hundreds and hundreds of young dancers have gone on to professional careers throughout the world in the field they love.

Led by Director Victor Alexander since 2013, and through an experienced and dedicated faculty of dance professionals and international partners, the Ruth Page School of Dance develops well-rounded dance artists through high-quality training. The School also embraces diverse cultures as a source of inspiration for creativity and human self-expression in dance, creating lifelong ambassadors for the art of dance. By providing the highest level of training and personal development to each student, the School’s philosophy is all students will benefit from the discipline, creative thinking and emotional expressiveness that dance provides. With a strong commitment to international partners and collaborations, the Ruth Page School of Dance has developed a network of exceptional programs and exchanges with esteemed dance training centers in Spain, Italy and Cuba, among others. Significant among these is the relationship with Cuba’s National School of Ballet (Escuela Nacional de Cuba – ENB), which was a pioneering program and cultural exchange in 2015 between the two schools.

About the Ruth Page Center for the Arts
An incubator of artistic energy and excellence and the center of Chicago's dance history, the Ruth Page Center for the Arts carries forward the vision of international dance icon Ruth Page to make dance accessible to everyone, ensuring that children and dance artists have a place to study, work and perform at the highest level of excellence. Located at 1016 N. Dearborn Street, the Center serves the Chicago dance community by being an incubator, providing a home, office space, rehearsal space, performance opportunities, professional dance training and marketing support for the up-and-coming companies and artists of Chicago's vibrant dance scene. Founded by Chicago icon and internationally-renown performer and choreographer, Ruth Page, the Center reflects her vision of supporting dance excellence in Chicago. Emanating from the Illinois heartland, the visionary work of Ruth Page influenced the growth of theater design, opera-ballet and dance. She achieved worldwide recognition as a true pioneer of dance in America by creating at the forefront of social, political and artistic issues. As a prominent force in the Chicago arts community, the Ruth Page Center for the Arts continues that legacy through its initiatives and programs that nurture the art form of dance, and by being an arts incubator for emerging and established artists and organizations.

The Ruth Page Civic Ballet is proud to present its annual production of The Nutcracker, with original choreography by Ruth Page, and co-directed by Victor Alexander and Dolores Lipinski Long. This production is performed at Northeastern Illinois University, 3701 W. Bryn Mawr Avenue in Chicago, Saturday, Dec. 1 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 2 at 1 and 5 p.m. Tickets for the performance are $32 for general admission, $20 for seniors and children under the age of 12 years and $10 for NEIU students, faculty and staff, one ticket per I.D. card. Tickets may be purchased at www.ruthpage.org.

For more information about The Ruth Page Center for the Performing Arts and its programs visit www.RuthPage.org.

The Ruth Page Civic Ballet Season sponsors include Northeastern Illinois University, the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, Copa Airlines, and the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

OPENING: The Play That Goes Wrong December 4-6th at Chicago's Oriental Theatre

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

December 4-6th at Chicago's Oriental Theatre

Find out more info and order your tickets HERE.

REVIEW: Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at the Chicago Theatre

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar

TWO-TIME TONY® NOMINATED BROADWAY STAR 

GAVIN LEE 

SET TO STEAL CHRISTMAS THIS SEASON IN 

DR. SUESS' 
HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS!  THE MUSICAL 

AT THE CHICAGO THEATRE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Guest Review 
by Kimberly Robb Baker
Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at the Chicago Theatre, directed by Matt August with book and lyrics by Timothy Mason and music by Mel Marvin, was a lovely family treat that deftly balanced sweet and salty flavors.

Zoya & Sadie enjoying The Grinch

Photo Credit: Kim Mohiuddin

I saw the show with my eight-year-old daughter Zoya and her six-year-old friend Sadie. The kids loved the Chicago Theatre itself. Running around taking photos of the architecture and each other in its Versailles-like space was fantastic pre-show entertainment. Obligingly, there was a nice Grinch cutout just for such photo ops. Attending families were in the hum-bug spirit—one little one dressed as The Grinch and few parties were sporting matching Grinch gear. One group reported that the show is an annual ritual.

Gavin Lee as the Grinch, was brilliant and truly used his body as an instrument. His physical comedy chops were sharp, but his movements, down to expertly wielding the tufts of green fur at the end of his fingers to fidget and strum and clean and eat his ear wax, really brought the green grump to life.

Zoya especially liked the scene of pandemonium where we saw the Grinch envisioning everything he hates about Christmas and Whos. It was reminiscent of the original Shrek book in which Shrek has a “nightmare” that he’s surrounded by happy, singing children. Oh, the humanity… er monster-ity! We observed here that the Grinch seemed sensitive to all the noise and lights of the season. In this and throughout, he was uncomfortable with physical touch and direct eye contact. It’s enough to make one wonder if he simply had un-addressed sensory issues.

Avery Sell played Cindy Lou Who the night we went. She was a right little Christmas bonbon opposite the Grinch’s lump of coal. Sell has a beautiful voice and embodied the unique Who culture and physical habits (like holding hands horizontally bent out from the wrists à la the Dr. Seuss drawings and responding to “air” head-pats with sparkly little shimmies).



Speaking of Who-ness, the entire cast be-bopped about Whoville as ambassadors of Christmas fun. It would all have been a bit too much if it weren’t for a number on Whoville’s main street that highlighted how their Christmas cheer had been tainted by materialism. It was a relevant critique of our own society and served the purpose of demonstrating that the Whos had as much to learn from this experience as the Grinch did.  

The sets and lighting were impressive and true to the original Dr. Seuss drawings. In one of our favorite scenes, the Grinch and his dog Max were convincingly portrayed sledding down the mountainside to Whoville at breakneck speed. Clever drops quickly moved us through various locations, provided a snow effect that made the girls gasp, and created a Vegas showroom atmosphere for the Grinch’s more self-aggrandizing moments.



The costumes were equally fantastical. One of Sadie’s favorite parts was the way the Grinch’s illuminated so she could see his heart growing.

It was a clever trick to make an older Max (the dog) into the narrator, and Ken Land brings the right amount of austereness to the role, balanced by the tremendous physicality of his young dog self. The youthful Max was perfectly played by Aleksa Kurbalija. He was the quintessential Grinch’s best friend, as instrumental as Cindy Lou in his master's transformation.

Zoya complained that we never find out why elder Max is leaving Whoville, which is a great point as the entire setup of the story is based on the conceit that he’s looking back over his life as he relocates in his old age.  

I wish the cast had been more diverse. There seemed to be three people of color in a cast of about twenty. However, none of them had (major/noticeable) lines and the puppets meant to portray the Whos from a distance (an uber creative idea that worked well otherwise), all appeared white. This vanilla vestige of Seuss’s era needs updating.

The production was just the right length for younger children, and both girls raved about the rousing closing number. If you’re looking for family holiday fun and a way to expose your children to theatre, The Grinch is the gift that keeps on giving.

Kimberly Robb Baker is a Chicago based writer, blogger, consultant, story teller, and mother. You can find her worky stuff here: ThisLittleBrand.com and her artsy fartsy stuff here:  DisruptiveMama.com.

THE LIMITED HOLIDAY ENGAGEMENT RUNS FROM

NOVEMBER 16 THROUGH NOVEMBER 25, 2018

**Tickets range from $35-$125** 

Out of 1,125 entries, congrats again to Jennifer K, ChiIL Mama's WINNER of 4 orchestra tickets (up to $500 value) to opening night, Friday, November 16th, 2018.

The Madison Square Garden Company announced that two-time Tony Award®-nominated Broadway actor Gavin Lee will steal Christmas this season in the title role of the Grinch in Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical. This limited holiday engagement will run at The Chicago Theatre from November 16 through November 25, 2018. Tickets are on sale now.

Lee was most recently on Broadway as the tap-dancing show stopper Squidward Tentacles in SpongeBob SquarePants, for which he received his second Tony nomination. Previously, Lee originated the role of Bert in Mary Poppins on West End (Olivier nomination), Broadway (Tony nomination and Drama Desk Award) and on the first national tour. The British-born actor and proud dad of three is also known for his recurring role of Alan Woodford on USA Network’s “White Collar.”

“I am thrilled to step in to the furry, stinky green shoes of the world’s most beloved Christmas bad boy this holiday season,” Lee said. “As a dad myself, I know first-hand the magic of introducing kids to live theater and I look forward to hearts growing three sizes as they experience this beloved story in a whole new way…live on stage!”

More than two million audience members have already discovered the magic of Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical. Featuring the hit songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas,” the Grinch discovers there’s more to Christmas than he bargained for in this heart-warming holiday musical that The New York Times hails as “100 times better than any bedtime story.”  Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the holiday-loving Whos.

Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical features magnificent sets designed by John Lee Beatty and costumes designed by Robert Morgan that are inspired by Dr. Seuss’ original book. Mel Marvin and Timothy Mason’s music and book breathe new life into this timeless story. The 2018 production is directed by Matt August and choreographed by Bob Richard, based on the original choreography by John DeLuca. Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical was originally created by three-time Tony Award®-winning director, Jack O’Brien. The show is produced by Running Subway Productions and Big League Productions.

For more information about Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at The Chicago Theatre, visit chicagotheatre.com/grinch. Tickets are available at The Chicago Theatre box office, all Ticketmaster outlets and Ticketmaster phone charge 1.800.745.3000. Groups of nine or more please call GroupTix at (773) 327-3778; discounts are available for groups of 20 or more. Tickets starting at $35.

Gavin Lee Credits:

Broadway: Squidward in SpongeBob SquarePants - The Broadway Musical (Tony nomination, Drama Desk Award), Thenadier in Les Misérables, Bert in Disney's Mary Poppins (Tony and Olivier nominations, Drama Desk and Theater World Awards). Other theater: Showboat (Carnegie Hall), Holiday Inn (World premiere, Goodspeed), Mary Poppins (1st National Tour), The Nerd (Bucks County Playhouse). London's West End: Top Hat, Mary Poppins, Crazy For You, Peggy Sue Got Married, Me And My Girl, Oklahoma! and Contact.  TV: 'Woodford' in “White Collar” (season six), “Law and Order SVU”, “The Good Wife”.

About The Madison Square Garden Company

The Madison Square Garden Company (MSG) is a world leader in live sports and entertainment experiences.  The company presents or hosts a broad array of premier events in its diverse collection of iconic venues: New York’s Madison Square Garden, The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and Beacon Theatre; the Forum in Inglewood, CA; The Chicago Theatre; and the Wang Theatre in Boston.  Other MSG properties include legendary sports franchises: the New York Knicks (NBA), the New York Rangers (NHL) and the New York Liberty (WNBA); two development league teams –  the Westchester Knicks (NBAGL) and the Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL); and esports teams through Counter Logic Gaming, a leading North American esports organization, and Knicks Gaming, MSG’s NBA 2K League franchise.  In addition, the Company features the popular original production – the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes – and through Boston Calling Events, produces New England’s preeminent Boston Calling Music Festival. Also under the MSG umbrella is TAO Group, a world-class hospitality group with globally-recognized entertainment dining and nightlife brands: Tao, Marquee, Lavo, Avenue, The Stanton Social, Beauty & Essex and Vandal.  More information is available at www.themadisonsquaregardencompany.com

Disclosure: It's our pleasure to partner up with The Madison Square Garden Company and The Chicago Theatre on this sponsored post. They have provided us with complimentary tickets for our giveaway and for review purposes. As always, all opinions are our own.