SAVE THE DATES: Chicago Premiere of Heartbreak Hotel Prequel To Million Dollar Quartet Coming June 30th

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

GET READY TO “SHAKE, RATTLE, AND ROLL” FOR THE CHICAGO PREMIERE OF

THE PREQUEL TO THE TONY-AWARD WINNING, RECORD-SETTING, 

CHICAGO FAVORITE 

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET

  

HEARTBREAK HOTEL

BROADWAY PLAYHOUSE AT WATER TOWER PLACE

JUNE 30 - SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

Broadway In Chicago, the producers of HEARTBREAK HOTEL, and Authentic Brands Group (ABG), owner of Elvis Presley Enterprises today, announce a musical premiere that will ignite the stage of the Broadway Playhouse.  HEARTBREAK HOTEL, the live musical, will make its debut at Broadway In Chicago’s Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place (175 E. Chestnut) for a limited engagement, running from June 30 through September 9, 2018.

From the creator of the Tony Award-winning smash-hit Million Dollar Quartet, HEARTBREAK HOTEL is a record-breaking musical, selling out at its world premiere at the historic Ogunquit Playhouse. This prequel to Million Dollar Quartet follows the tender story of Elvis Presley in the early years of his bourgeoning career as he and Sam Phillips create the music that will forever change their lives. As Elvis’ career skyrockets, both lifting and shattering the lives of those he loves, a secret love story is revealed, a betrayal is discovered, and “Colonel” Tom Parker changes the course of history, all in just 18 short months.

“We’re excited to debut HEARTBREAK HOTEL in Chicago, a city known for its dynamic arts and entertainment scene,” said Corey Salter, EVP of Celebrity and Entertainment at ABG. “This is the only Broadway musical that tells the remarkable story of Elvis’ rise to fame and we are thrilled with the momentum it has picked up.”

This brand new musical features hit songs from the King of Rock ‘n Roll as well as the legends who influenced his iconic music, with chart-toppers including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Tutti Frutti,” “That’s All Right Mamma,” “Shake Rattle and Roll,” and, of course, “Heartbreak Hotel.” This is where the story begins with a “walk down lonely street.” 

“For those who long for another trip down memory lane with Elvis, for those that want to recreate the excitement of Million Dollar Quartet, and  for those that want to dance in their seats – don’t miss this show!”  Eileen LaCario, Vice President of Broadway In Chicago said.

Casting will be announced in the coming months.

TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets for HEARTBREAK HOTEL at the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place (175 E. Chestnut) are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing GroupSales@BroadwayInChicago.com. Individual tickets will go on sale at a later date. For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.  

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 over 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.

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

ABOUT AUTHENTIC BRANDS GROUP
Authentic Brands Group (ABG) is a brand development, marketing and entertainment company, and the owner of Elvis Presley Enterprises, LLC in partnership with the Presley family. Headquartered in New York City, ABG owns, manages, and builds the long-term value a global portfolio of lifestyle, celebrity and entertainment brands. Our brands span a global retail footprint of more than 2,300 doors across luxury, specialty, department stores, shop-in-shops, ecommerce, mid-tier, and mass channels. ABG is committed to transforming brands by delivering compelling product, content, business, and immersive brand experiences. We create and activate original marketing strategies to drive the success of our brands across all consumer touchpoints, platforms, and emerging media. ABG’s global portfolio of iconic and world-renowned brands includes Marilyn Monroe®, Elvis Presley®, Muhammad Ali®, Shaquille O’Neal®, Dr. J®, Greg Norman®, Neil Lane®, Thalia®, Michael Jackson® (managed brand), Aéropostale®, Juicy Couture®, Jones New York®, Herve Leger®, Judith Leiber®, Frederick’s of Hollywood®, Frye®, Adrienne Vittadini®, Taryn Rose®, Misook®, Hickey Freeman®, Hart Schaffner Marx®, Spyder®, Tretorn®, Tapout®, Prince®, Airwalk®, Vision Street Wear®, Above The Rim®, and Hind®. abg-nyc.com


ABOUT THE PRODUCERS
HEARTBREAK HOTEL is produced by Floyd Mutrux, Mitch and Bonnie Bloom (Temple Dog Productions), Bruce Bendell and Jamie Bendell (Big Block Media), Scott Prisand (Robbins Lane) and Jeff Berg through their entity Heartbreak King Productions, LLC.

GIVEAWAY: WIN a Pair of Tickets to House Theatre's Hatfield & McCoy ($80 value/2 pairs) Playing Through 3/11/18

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO ANNOUNCES CASTING 

FOR SHAWN PFAUTSCH’S

HATFIELD & MCCOY, 

WITH ALL-NEW MUSIC BY PFAUTSCH AND MATT KAHLER, 

DIRECTED BY MATT HAWKINS, 

JANUARY 19 – MARCH 11, 2018

 Running time: two hours and 45 minutes 

including intermission

This All-New Production of Hatfield & McCoy Now Features a Rich Score of Americana Music Spanning Bluegrass, Folk, Rock, and Pop. In an Homage to Romeo and Juliet, Political Divides Drive a Cycle of Violence Between Two Families

The House Theatre of Chicago announces an all-new production of Hatfield & McCoy, written by The House’s Company Member Shawn Pfautsch and directed by The House’s Company Member Matt Hawkins playing at the Chopin Upstairs Theatre, 1543 W. Division St., January 19 – March 11, 2018. 

Here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows we're banjo thumpin' stoked to check out this original production! House Theatre has long been a top favorite of ours and we particularly adore the productions they write in house. I'll be out with my husband and teens for the press opening on Sunday, Jan. 28th, so check back soon for my full review. 

Inspired by the true story of famous feuding families, and by Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, the production features original songs by Pfautsch and Matt Kahler. Preview performances are Friday, Jan. 19 – Saturday, Jan. 27 following the regular schedule, barring matinees. (NOTE: The January 21 preview performance begins at 7 p.m).  

The performance schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 3 and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Preview tickets are $20 and regular run tickets range from $30 – $50. Same-day tickets for students and industry professionals are $20 and available for all dates, seats permitting. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.thehousetheatre.com or call 773.769.3832. 

Two of our lucky readers will WIN a pair of tickets ($80 value/2 pairs). 

Good for winners' choice of any shows between 2/1 and 2/11 pending availability. Enter through midnight Monday, January 29th.

ENTER HERE for your chance to WIN

On the border of Kentucky and West Virginia, North and South, fact and fiction, two cabins both alike in dignity wage a whip-smart war of words and bullets. Hatfield & McCoy tells the true tale of the most infamous family feud in American history. Set at the close of the Civil War, a battle of Us versus Them catches two young lovers in a deadly cycle of violence.

Gunfire and romance escalate when young Rose Anna McCoy and Johnse Hatfield fall in love, marry in secret, and vow to reconcile their feuding families. Their tale of woe is served up with a heaping helping of original Americana tunes, connecting their past to our present.

New music created for the show represents Americana styles across generations, from bluegrass to 2017 pop. Hatfield & McCoy features a live band on stage comprised of synths, keyboards, an upright bass, fiddle, and guitar plus actors playing guitars, mandolins, banjos and vocals.

Hatfield & McCoy received its world premiere at The House in 2006. Workshops for the 2018 production were supported by University of Chicago’s UChicago Performance Lab.



The cast for Hatfield & McCoy includes: Robert D. Hardaway (Devil Anse Hatfield), Marika Mashburn* (Levicy Hatfield), Michael E. Smith* (Jim Vance), Jeff Mills (Bad Lias Hatfield), Kyle Whalen (Johnse Hatfield), Jenni M. Hadley (Hatfield Sister), Tia Pinson (Hatfield Sister, U/S Alifair), Ann Delaney (Hatfield Sister, U/S Jenni and Tia), Anish Jethmalani^ (Ol Ranl McCoy), Stacy Stoltz*^ (Sarah McCoy), Bradley Grant Smith (“Squirrel Huntin” Sam McCoy), Haley Bolithon (Rose Anna McCoy), Collin Quinn Rice (Calvin McCoy), Khloe Janel (Alifair McCoy), Cody Proctor (Asa “Harmon” McCoy), Tommy Malouf (Tolbert McCoy), Royen Kent (Pharmer McCoy), Kyle Ryan (Randolph “Bud” McCoy), Desmond Gray (Bill Staton) and Jamie Vann (Marshal Frank Phillips).

Additional understudies include Adam Benjamin (U/S Devil Anse Hatfield, Ol Ranl), Tobi Mattingly (U/S Levicy, Sarah), Jacob Fjare (U/S Jim, Bad Lias, Marshal), Andy Monson (U/S Bill Stanton, Harmon, Sam, Sibling Swing) and Ethan Peterson (U/S Sibling Swing).Musicians in Hatfield & McCoy include: Matthew Muñiz* (Music Director/Keyboard), Jake Saleh (Upright Bass), and Jess McIntosh (Fiddle).

The creative and design team for Hatfield & McCoy includes: Matt Hawkins* (director), Shawn Pfautsch* (writer, co-composer), Madison Smith (assistant director), Lee Keenan* (scenic/lighting designer), Ellie Terrell (associate scenic designer, props designer), Emily McConnell (costume designer), Grover Hollway (sound designer), Matt Kahler (co-composer), Katherine Scott (choreographer), Marika Mashburn* (casting director) and Lauren Baston* (stage manager).

*Company Member with The House  ^Actor’s Equity Association Member

ABOUT SHAWN PFAUTSCH, Playwright, Co-Composer
Pfautsch is a playwright, musician, actor and a veteran company member of The House Theatre of Chicago, enlisting from the very beginning in 2000. His full-length plays, Season on the Line, The Attempters, and Hatfield & McCoy have all received their world premieres with The House. As an actor, he has been on stage around Chicago at: The House (Death & Harry Houdini, Cyrano, Thieves Like Us) Steppenwolf (Theatrical Essays), Chicago Children’s Theatre (A Year with Frog and Toad, Frederick), and The Hypocrites (Gilbert & Sullivan Rep). As part of The Hypocrites’ Gilbert & Sullivan rep, he has performed around the country, from Boston to Berkeley, Louisville and the DC area and most recently in New York City (Skirball Center at NYU) and Pasadena Playhouse. His short plays and one-acts have been produced in Chicago as well as Texas, Florida and Iowa.  

ABOUT MATT HAWKINS, director
Hawkins is a Chicago-based director, actor, fight choreographer and movement director.  He is a Founding Member of The House Theatre of Chicago and an Artistic Associate with Strawdog Theatre Company.  Over the past fifteen years he has worked with theatres such as the Royal Shakespeare Company, Stratford Festival, Kennedy Center, South Coast Rep, American Players’ Theatre, Drury Lane, Marriott, Paramount, Steppenwolf, Goodman, Lookingglass, Court Theatre and Writers Theatre. He has also worked extensively with Chicago Shakespeare and their education department, by serving as the director and voice/movement director of the Chicago Public Schools program, which was the recipient of the Humanities Youth Program Award in 2014, awarded by The White House and First Lady Michelle Obama.  He holds a BFA in acting from Southern Methodist University and an MFA in directing from The University of Iowa.  He has been nominated for thirteen Jeff Awards and has received five. Later this year he will direct and choreograph Spring Awakening (Notre Dame) and choreograph violence for Macbeth (Chicago Shakespeare). He is currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Notre Dame, where he serves as head of musical theatre for the Department of Film, Television, and Theatre.  He is married to actor/director/documentarian Stacy Stoltz.

ABOUT MATT KAHLER (Co-Composer)
Matt Kahler’s regional credits as a performer include The Pirates of Penzance (Actors Theater of Louisville; American Repertory Theater). Chicago credits include Animal Farm (Steppenwolf), Equivocation (Victory Gardens Theater); Hank Williams: Lost Highway (American Blues), Coriolanus, HMS Pinafore, The Mikado, Frankenstein (The Hypocrites); Richard III, Macbeth, Comedy of Errors (Lakeside Shakespeare Theatre); and Watership Down (Lifeline Theater). 



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 been nominated for 70 Joseph Jefferson Awards (22 wins), 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 16th year of original work is underway and The House continues its mission to unite Chicago in the spirit of Community through amazing feats of Storytelling.

REVIEW: Brit Wit Prevails In Potted Potter Now Extended Again Through February 25th

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

POTTED POTTER ANNOUNCES ANOTHER EXTENSION 

AT BROADWAY PLAYHOUSE AT WATER TOWER PLACE 

THROUGH FEBRUARY 25, 2018

NEW PERFORMANCES ON SALE NOW

ADDED DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND!

Dan and Jeff are some seriously funny fellows. We've caught Potted Potter quite a few times now, over the years, and still laughed throughout their show. This time around, they've updated some of the jokes to reflect current events and played with some of the gags, but even with predominantly the same script, this show is well worth a return trip. 

Their rapport with each other and the audience is undeniably fun, and this goofball, lowball, literary laugh riot is far funnier than many big budget comedies we've seen. These endearing theatre geeks have impeccable comedic timing and have the audience in stitches with minimal costumes and props. I've taken my kids, who are huge Harry Potter fans who have read all the books and seen all the movies. They adore Potted Potter as tweens and into the hard to entertain teen years too. This past time around I brought an English teacher, theatre buff, friend of mine who managed to evade nearly all of the Potter series in book and film forms. She still found Potted Potter highly entertaining. There are some great ticket deals out there so this makes for a fun, family friendly outing that won't break the bank. Highly recommended. 

Broadway In Chicago, Starvox Entertainment and Potted Productions are delighted to announce that Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Potter Experience – A Parody by Dan and Jeff will be extending its Chicago engagement for a second time this winter at Broadway In Chicago’s Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place (175 E. Chestnut) through February 25, 2018. The hit off-Broadway show has returned to the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place for its third season and is adding new performances in Chicago due to popular demand. 

Individual tickets for new performances are on sale now at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices and www.broadwayinchicago.com. A limited number of $15 and $30 tickets will be available for performances Feb. 8-Feb.18, 2018 as part of Chicago Theatre Week presented by the League of Chicago Theatres in partnership with Choose Chicago. For more information on Chicago Theatre week, visit www.chicagotheatreweek.com.

A Critic's Pick by the Daily Herald, New York Times, New York Magazine, Time Out London, Washington Post and Boston Globe, the show won the prestigious 2012 Olivier Award nomination for Best Entertainment & Family Show, playing to sold-out houses worldwide.

Created by former BBC Television hosts Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner, the play takes on the ultimate challenge of condensing, or “potting”, all seven Harry Potter books into 70 madcap minutes, aided only by multiple costume changes, brilliant songs, ridiculous props and a generous helping of Hogwarts magic. The show also invites audiences to engage with a real life game of Quidditch, but according to Clarkson and Turner’s unique set of rules.        

Whether you camped outside a bookstore for three days awaiting the release of the Deathly Hallows or you don’t know the difference between a horcrux and a Hufflepuff, the comedy, magic and mayhem of Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Experience – A Parody by Dan and Jeff makes for an entertaining and hilarious visit to the theatre.  The fast-paced show, which has made audiences aged six to Dumbledore (who is very old indeed) roar with laughter all over the world, is perfect for the entire family.

Chicago critics say that the latest run of the hit show “truly shines” (Windy City Times) and is “Hysterical and clever… a blast from start to finish.” (Picture This Post).

 The London critics raved too.  Said the Daily Telegraph, “A fabulously funny parody…will tickle the funny bone of every age group.’  The N.Y. Times exclaims the show is “Breathless and…HILARIOUS! And the Associated Press proclaims the show a “HIT!”

The New York Post writes the show is  “…a zany hoot!” while Time Magazine for Kids simply declares that Potted Potter is "...an AWESOME show!" So what are you waiting for!?  Now is the time for all good Potter fans to discover this hilarity firsthand!

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
               

JAN. 9-14, 2018 Friday Saturday Saturday Sunday Sunday JAN. 16-21, 2018 Friday Saturday Saturday Sunday Sunday JAN. 23-28, 2018 Friday Saturday Saturday Sunday Sunday JAN. 30-FEB. 4, 2018 Friday Friday Saturday Saturday Sunday Sunday

January January January January January January January January January January January January January January January February February February February February February

12 13 13 14 14 19 20 20 21 21 26 27 27 28 28 2 2 3 3 4 4

7:30PM 1:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 4:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 4:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 4:30PM 1:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 4:30PM

FEB. 6-11, 2018 Friday Saturday Saturday Sunday Sunday FEB. 13-18, 2018 Wednesday Friday Saturday Saturday Sunday Sunday FEB. 19-25, 2018 Monday Monday Friday Saturday Saturday Sunday Sunday

February February February February February February February February February February February February February February February February February February

9 10 10 11 11 14 16 17 17 18 18 19 19 23 24 24 25 25

7:30PM 1:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 4:30PM 7:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 4:30PM 1:30PM 4:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 7:30PM 1:30PM 4:30PM

TICKET INFORMATION

Individual tickets for Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Experience – A Parody by Dan and Jeff at the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place are on sale now and range from $25-$69.95 with a select number of premium seats available. A limited number of $15 and $30 tickets will be available for performances Feb. 8-Feb.18, 2018 as part of Chicago Theatre Week presented by the League of Chicago Theatres in partnership with Choose Chicago. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 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 at www.BroadwayInChicago.com. 

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 over 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.

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

ABOUT CHICAGO THEATRE WEEK

Chicago Theatre Week celebrates the rich tradition of theatre-going in Chicago. Returning for the sixth year, Chicago Theatre Week 2018 will be held February 8-18 and will include value-priced tickets to more than 120 shows. Visitors and residents will again have the opportunity to sample the extraordinary range of theatrical offerings throughout Chicagoland. The CTW ticket offers will be listed on a centralized website – www.ChicagoTheatreWeek.com – starting January 9, 2018. Chicago Theatre Week is presented by the League of Chicago Theatres with support from Choose Chicago.

WIN a Family 4 Pack of Tickets to Disney On Ice Dare To Dream Wed 1/24 at Allstate Arena

Moana, Beauty and the Beast and More Heading For Chicago's Allstate Arena and United Center Through February 4th

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List:

Disney’s Smash Hits Moana and Beauty and the Beast 

Redefine Heroism as Part of 

Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream

Moana, Maui and Friends from Disney’s Moana Take the Ice for the First Time; Set to Arrive in Chicago Area, January 24

ENTER HERE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN

one family 4-pack for Opening Night at Allstate Arena, Wednesday, January 24 at 7:00 p.m.

As a mom, with both a son and daughter, I'm thrilled that Disney has brave, adventurous characters now that are great models for both of them. Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream, is family fun for all ages. We're jazzed to partner up with them, once again, with a great ticket giveaway for our readers.

Disney’s Moana voyages onto the ice for the first time as Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream, produced by Feld Entertainment Inc., brings courage and adventure to Chicago. Performances are set for Jan. 24-28 and Feb. 7-11 at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Ill., with an interim engagement at Chicago’s United Center, Jan. 31 - Feb. 4. Hosts Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will bring Chicago-area audiences on an expedition across raging seas and snow-covered mountains in this action-packed extravaganza featuring Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, Tangled and Cinderella.

Dare To Dream takes families on a high-sea adventure as Moana sets sail on a life-changing quest to save her island with help from the demigod Maui. With the ice floor transformed into the vast oceanic scape, Disney On Ice allows Moana’s strength and determination to take center stage. This engaging atmosphere lets audiences deepen their existing connection to their favorite wayfinder and discover one’s true identity is never out of reach.

“As parents, we strive to find role models who embolden our children to choose kindness and exhibit the values we aim to impart, and this production of Disney On Ice truly embodies this goal,” said Executive Vice President of Feld Entertainment and Producer of Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream, Nicole Feld. “With Dare To Dream, I want to inspire the youngest members of our families with the heroic stories of their favorite Disney characters and allow them to discover the hero within themselves.”

Beautiful production numbers invite audiences into the world of Beauty and the Beast, as Belle shows what it means to be fearless. Along with her new friends in the enchanted castle, Belle is encouraged to step outside the ordinary and find joy in the bleakest situation. As she looks beyond the harsh exterior of the Beast to reach his gentle heart, fans learn there are teachable moments in everyday life.

Through the athleticism and grace of Anna and Elsa, Rapunzel and Flynn, and Cinderella, brave heroes from Frozen, Tangled and Cinderella ignite passions to believe. Showgoers will witness each characters’ unique qualities and talents inspiring children around the world to discover their inner hero.

“One of the most magical things about Disney On Ice is the performers’ ability to authentically showcase the best qualities of Disney characters,” said Director Patty Vincent. “At our shows, moms and dads are able to experience the magic through the eyes of their children, allowing them to reconnect with their favorite characters and once again experience the childlike wonder and hope that inspires us all.” 

Tickets for Chicago-area performances of Disney On Ice presents Dare To Dream start at $25 and are available at the Allstate Arena and United Center box offices, through Ticketmaster, and by phone at (800) 745-3000. Parking is FREE with ticket purchase in all official Allstate Arena and United Center parking lots. Service charges, facility and handling fees may apply.

For additional information, visit DisneyOnIce.com and stay current on the latest developments through social media:

OPENING: 31st ANNUAL YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS FESTIVAL Via PEGASUS THEATRE CHICAGO at Chicago Dramatists

PEGASUS THEATRE CHICAGO ANNOUNCES

31st ANNUAL YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS FESTIVAL FEATURING FOUR NEW WORKS BY EMERGING ARTISTS  

JANUARY 4 – 27, 2018

Written by High School Students and Given a Staged Professional Production at Chicago Dramatists 

Here at ChiIL Mama, we're excited to be promoting and reviewing this excellent Fest again this year. I'll be out this Sunday, so check back soon for my full review. In the past I've been enthralled with the high caliber writing and diverse styles of the winning authors. Years ago the daughter of a close friend of mine won the Young Playwrights Fest in high school, and she went on to get her Masters from U of I and continue a lifelong love of theatre and literature. This year my 16 year old son's theatre class from Lane Tech is coming out to see the show this Wednesday, then they're going back to write their own submissions for next year! I'm thrilled we have such a stellar resource in Chicago, to spark the interest of our next generation of playwrights and creative thinkers.

All photos by Emily Schwartz

(L to R)Kristen Alesia and Meagan Dilworth in DECISION DAY by Abigail Henkin, directed by Jerrell Henderson

Pegasus Theatre Chicago is proud to announce the authors and plays being presented at the 31st Young Playwrights Festival, Jan. 4 – 27, 2018 at Pegasus’s resident home Chicago Dramatists, 773 N. Aberdeen. Each play is written by high school students and given a staged professional production. The winning productions are performed in tandem Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Previews are Thursday, Jan. 4 – Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018 at 7:30 p.m. each night. 

Tickets are $18 for students, $25 for seniors and $30 for general admission and are available at PegasusTheatreChicago.org or by phone at 866.811.4111.

All photos by Emily Schwartz

(L to R) David Flack and Peter Surma in PENCILS AND PENS by Aaron Powdermaker, directed by Ilesa Duncan

The Young Playwrights Festival (YPF) celebrates the 31st year of the program that inspires Chicago students to explore their histories, research their communities and mine their personal journeys to write dynamic one-act plays for the stage. YPF is the only event of its kind in Chicago and is the second largest in the country.

Under the auspices of Pegasus Theatre Chicago, the winning teen playwrights’ productions are work-shopped and staged as part of its main stage season with full casts and production teams. The competition enhances language arts, encourages independent, high-level thinking, strong personal values and influences career development for Chicago’s teens.

The competition received over 500 submissions in 2017 with this year’s selections being Maday Favela of Whitney M. Young Magnet High School and her play Bullet With Butterfly Wings; Mairi Glynn of Von Steuben High School, Monster; Abigail Henkin of Lane Tech College Prep, Decision Day and Aaron Powdermaker of Lane Tech College Prep, Pencils and Pens.

All photos by Emily Schwartz

(L to R) Gloria Petrelli and Meagan Dilworth in BULLET WITH BUTTERFLY WINGS by Maday Favela, directed by Emmi Hilger 

The 31st YOUNG PLAYWRIGHTS FESTIVAL includes:

Bullet with Butterfly Wings
By Maday Favela – Whitney M. Young Magnet High School – teacher Elizabeth Danesh
Directed by Emmi Hilger
Leviathan takes advantage of Lexa’s anxiety and depression by coaxing her into ending her year-long friendship with Juno.

Monster
By Mairi Glynn – Von Steuben High School – teacher Margaret Sullivan
Directed by Ilesa Duncan
Alya, a Hijabi Muslim teen, is called into a police station for questioning after a bombing.

Decision Day
By Abigail Henkin -- Lane Tech College Prep – teacher Brian Telles
Directed by Jerrell Henderson
Lizzy, a high-achieving high school senior, is being wooed in this hilarious send up of college recruitment.  She struggles to decide which of the three is really her best option.

Pencils and Pens
By Aaron Powdermaker – Lane Tech College Prep – teacher Kirsten Hanson
Directed by Ilesa Duncan
Perry and Marshal are friends enjoying a simple life. However, when Perry wants to move up in the world it’s at the cost of leaving his best friend behind.

All photos by Emily Schwartz

(front L to R) Gloria Imseih Petrelli and Hunter Price, (rear) Amy Johnson and Peter Surma in MONSTER by Mairi Glynn, directed by Ilesa Duncan

The productions’ casts include Kristen Alesia. Meagan Dilworth, David Flack, Amy Johnson, Gloria Petrelli, Hunter Price and Peter Surma.

The production team includes Marisa Gil (scenic designer), Josh Wroblewski (lighting designer), Robert Kuhn (costume designer), Katy Vest (prop designer), AJ Chien (sound designer) and Kelly Butler (production manager).

ABOUT JERRELL L. HENDERSON, director
Jerrell L. Henderson is a director and teaching artist. Recent directing credits include Bud, Not Buddy at the Children's Theatre of Charlotte and The Caucasian Chalk Circle at Franklin & Marshall College. Other credits include The Healer: A Workshop Production with Pegasus Theatre Chicago and In The Red and Brown Water at Northwestern University (co-director with Henry Godinez). As an assistant director, Henderson has worked with The Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre, and Lookingglass. He received a BA in Theatre Arts from The Pennsylvania State University, an MFA in Directing from Northwestern University, is a member of the Lincoln Center Directors Lab and is currently a member of Victory Gardens Directors Inclusion Initiative.

ABOUT EMMI HILGER, director
Emmi Hilger has directed The Clean House by Sarah Ruhl, References to Salvador Dalí Make Me by José Rivera, Don’t Look by Gina Doherty and Johnny 10 Beers’ Daughter for Something Marvelous (where she is producing artistic director). Hilger has also recently worked with Ensemble Dal Niente, Stage Left, The Jades, 20% Theatre Company, Concordia University, and Collaboraction.  She is an associate artist and associate dramaturg with Chicago Dramatists and an artistic associate with Stage Left.

ABOUT ILESA DUNCAN, director
Ilesa Duncan is the producing artistic director at Pegasus Theatre Chicago. Her recent directing work includes Pegasus’ recent, Jeff-Recommended, sold-out Shakin the Mess Outta Misery, the world premiere of Jeff-Recommended Rutherford’s Travels and For Her as a Piano also for Pegasus, Broken Fences at 16th Street Theater, the Jeff Award-nominated The Nativity with Congo Square and the Jeff Award-winning Jar the Floor at ETA Creative Arts. Duncan has also worked with Goodman Theatre, Writers Theatre, Victory Gardens Theater, Rivendell Theatre Ensemble, Lifeline Theater, Stage Left and Chicago Dramatists, as well as Contemporary American Theatre Company (Ohio), The Alliance Theatre (Atlanta), Arena Stage (Washington DC) and Lincoln Center Theater (New York). Duncan’s creative nonfiction short stories have been published (Columbia College Chicago) and she’s written poems and screenplays.  For the stage, she co-adapted Rutherford’s Travels from the National Book Award-winning novel "Middle Passage," co-wrote and directed Blakk Love: Stoeez of A Darker Hue and facilitated the devised project Do You See What I’m Saying for Chameleon.

ABOUT PEGASUS THEATRE CHICAGO
Pegasus Theatre Chicago has been a mainstay in the Chicago theater community for nearly 38 years. Its recent rebranded mission is to produce boldly imaginative theatre, champion new and authentic voices and illuminate the human journey. The theatre adheres to the core values of community engagement, social relevance, boldness, adventure and excellence.

Pegasus is also committed to initiating important conversations through the arts with strong community engagement and socially relevant programming, including the Young Playwrights Festival for high school-age scribes, which celebrated its 31st Anniversary this year. Pegasus Theatre Chicago has received seventy-seven Joseph Jefferson Citations since its inception.

The 31st Young Playwrights Festival is made possible with the generous support of The MacArthur Fund at the Richard Driehaus Foundation, the Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, the Lloyd A. Fry Foundation, Polk Bros. Foundation, the Seabury Foundation, the City of Chicago, Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and the Illinois Arts Council Agency.