Items filtered by date: November 2007

Hard music antihero Marilyn Manson arrives in Chicago to perform at Congress Theater on Friday, July 5th. Tickets to the all-ages show go on sale Friday, April 26th at noon. Purchase here: http://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/260027?utm_medium=bks

Marilyn Manson’s most recent full-length album Born Villain, his eighth overall, debuted in the Top 10 on the Billboard Top 200 Album Chart. It also grabbed the #1 spots on both the Heavy Album Chart and the Independent Album Chart.  “Born Villain is a return to form,” says CNN. “A hard-rocking album, brimming with rich imagery, visceral blowback and the glamour-meets-gutter eroticism that his best work evokes.” Rolling Stone has called the album some of his most “visceral and provocative tunes.” Born Villain earned Manson his fourth Grammy nomination at the 2013 Grammys in the category for Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance for the album’s lead single “No Reflection.”  

The tumultuous relationship Marilyn Manson has cultivated with the public through his genre-defying music and anti-status quo message of thinking for oneself has resulted in sold-out tours, protests, legal battles, adoration, hate, more than 50 million records sales, award-winning distilled spirits, several Grammy nominations and, most importantly, a long list of some of the most enduring and powerful singles ever, such as “Lunchbox,” “Get Your Gunn” “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” “The Beautiful People,” “Antichrist Superstar,” “Tourniquet,” “The Dope Show” and “I Don’t Like the Drugs (But the Drugs Like Me).”

Riot Fest Presents Marilyn Manson at Congress Theater Friday, July 5th

2135 N Milwaukee Ave  Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 360-8162

All Ages – Doors Open at 7pm

www.ticketfly.com - www.congresschicago.com - www.riotfest.org - www.marilynmanson.com

Event Detail:  http://www.ticketfly.com/event/260027

The pre-Broadway world premiere release of Big Fish hit the BIG stage, Friday, April 19^th at Chicago’s one and only Oriental theater; and it was a BIG HIT!  Just 10 years after its Hollywood release, this full length feature film has been reincarnated into a new fantastic and imaginative LIVE musical!  Based on the novel by Daniel Wallace, the BIG FISH musical give us a peak at the life of Will Bloom (played by Bobby Steggert), as he tries to learn of the life that his dying father once lived.   Edward Bloom (played by Norbert Leo Butz), though slowly coming to terms with death, comes to Bloom once more as he relives his life with his family through the tall tales that he is so notoriously known for.  The character of Edward Bloom literally pulls us, the audience, to center stage as we relives his journeys.  Through song, dance, and incredibly talented musicians, this musical really delivers from beginning to end!

One part of the show that was really unique was simply how the stage was utilized throughout the performance.  Instead of the musicians traditionally being set in the orchestra’s pit, musicians were set in the background of the stage, and the Orchestra’s pit was transformed into a sort of live “river” brought to life through the use of visual effects and projectors.  The stage set its self was a wonder to behold.  Transitions from scene to scene were flawless, and it was blatantly obvious as to how much work and rehearsal was needed to perfect this magical performance.  The use of visual effects was quietly tucked away throughout as we go from a hospital bed one moment, to a circus tent, to a town the next!  Big Fish is a unique performance unlike I've ever seen before on stage.  Once the show started going it was easy to forget that I was merely an audience member, watching from afar.  The show really almost makes you feel that you are there on stage and in the stories of Edward Bloom.  Actors Norbert Leo Butz, Bobby Steggert and Kate Baldwin really take to their roles and give you an unforgettable performance.  Notably, actor Norbert Butz is a lively and passionate actor with a great voice, that I think was very deserving of his role.  It would be a feat to top his natural talent and remarkable performance he gives the entire show.

 Big Fish is a musical for the whole family, as audiences of all ages can relate to the lives of the performers.  We all have or have had a father in our lives, and if you’re anything like me; can remember the stories and tall tales our own fathers once told us.  This connection to the audience’s own memories of a father is clear to me toward the end of the performance; as all I could hear from the audience (including me), was sniffling and the wiping away of tears of sadness as our main character comes to pass.  It was a tear jerker toward the end, as you don’t want the performance to end!  Big Fish will be playing at Chicago’s Oriental Theater from April 19^th-May 5^th 2013.  It’s only playing for a short time; however this is a PREBroadway release and I hope that after this short release to the public that it comes back in full swing for a longer showing!  Big Fish was a beautiful performance, and I honestly really enjoyed it more so than the movie!  Take advantage of this limited viewing of Big Fish, and see the story told unlike never before.   For more information about the show, or to purchase tickets, please visit BroadwayinChicago.com; and act fast, as BIG FISH will only be playing until May 5^th. 

“Still Alice” tells the story of a highly intelligent, respected Northwestern professor of linguistics and cognitive psychology who begins having the symptoms of early onset Alzheimer’s at the age of 49. At first, she has small problems of forgetfulness, and attributes them to menopause but after getting lost on a morning run and then going to work at 4AM in her pajamas, Alice realizes that she is losing all of the memories that make her who she is as a person.

The play directed by Christine Mary Dunford, which was adapted from the bestselling book by a Harvard trained neuroscientist, Lisa Genova, seems light and humorous at the start but effectively brings the audience directly into the center of Alice’s own family life and experiences as she begins the long, dark journey not into madness but into something that feels much worse, the absence of self, almost an animal like existence of childlike dependence on those around her.

Dunford introduces a very effective character called “Herself” who is dressed like Alice and represents her inner monologue. At one point  Alice and “herself” sit center stage like two ragdolls with their arms wrapped around each other and Alice asks if “herself” will remember her when all of her memories are gone, Herself hugs Alice and says, “I will always remember you, I LIKE you!” 

I was also impressed with the way the play dealt with the idea of suicide in the face of this monstrous disease. After progressing in a relatively short time to a point where Alice can not remember her own daughter right after seeing her perform onstage Alice writes a computer note to herself named “ butterfly”. The file instructs Alice that if she can no longer answer four simple questions like where do you live, and how many children do you have, she is to go to a drawer in the living room and swallow of the pills she finds in there and go to sleep without telling anyone. But by the time she finds the “butterfly” file Alice and “herself” have digressed so badly that they cannot follow the simple instructions.

This play really shows the impact and horror of this type of “forgetting” on the family as they struggle to spend meaningful time with their still young and otherwise healthy mother who is quickly becoming lost and frustrated in a world with no meaning like a child. A poignant and striking example of this is when Alice runs back into her house to use the bathroom before jogging with her husband but ends up wetting herself because she can not remember where the bathroom is in her own house.

Eva Barr who plays Alice does a wonderful job of playing the athletic, super intelligent “everywoman” who is totally caught unaware by the devastating progression of her disease.  Maryann Mayberry who plays “Herself” does so with a great sense of humor and wonder as the young healthy mind inside of us all that rails against the odd behaviors as they begin to occur with greater frequency. Christopher Donahue who plays Alice’s husband gives us a wonderful, compassionate and subtle performance as the beleaguered husband whose wife he adores is slipping into full-blown senility before his very eyes.

I highly recommend this sparing, tight and effective production for audiences young and old who will most likely be dealing with Alzheimer’s care giving or treatment for some family member at some point in their lives. “Still Alice” doesn’t just set out the tragedy of early onset Alzheimer’s, it inspires one to truly appreciate and deeply consider the essential value of our memories and most simple cognitive abilities for quality of life  at every age in our lives regardless of career success or financial wellbeing.

+Still Alice” is playing at Lookingglass Theatre through May 19^th. For more information, visit www.lookingglasstheatre.org.

Steppenwolf Theatre is currently presenting the world-premiere production of “Head of Passes”. A story that takes place in the marshlands of Louisiana, “Head of Passes” is a story about tested convictions and soul searching.

What begins as a family gathering for a birthday party, turns into a tragic tale that would test the spirit of those with the greatest resolve. In this case, though many would curse the name of God after such endured misfortune and heartbreak, we see such a trust in one’s faith actually strengthened. It is a story that points to the question that everything happens for a reason and suggests everything is part of a greater plan. It is a story of belief and touches on the existence of angels.

“Head of Passes” features a bright and talented cast. Cheryl Lynn Bruce shines and delivers a masterful performance as “Shelah”, the family’s mother. Glenn Davis and Steppenwolf favorite, Alana Arenas, also bring out their A-game, as both are dynamic n their support roles.

Set on the porch of a large southern house, we are taken as an audience to the swampy backwoods at the mouth of the Mississippi River where the shifting grounds and rain are taking a toll on the family’s home. When the house and family are simultaneously destroyed, Shelah is left dependant on her own inner strength and faith.

Big time performances and an elaborate set that comes with its own surprise make this an thoroughly entertaining production.

“Head of Passes” is playing at Steppenwolf through June 9^th. For show and ticket information, visit www.steppenwolf.org or call Audience Services at  312-335-1650.

Mercury Theater has your springtime fun all ready and waiting for you. “Barnum” is not just an enjoyable musical, but it is also an amazing spectacle complete with aerial artistry, gymnastics, unicycles, clowns and juggling. Donned in colorful costumes, each performer/actor helps in succeeding to creating the illusion that we, the audience, are actually present at a mid-1800s circus. A creative set brings us inside a circus tent where the story of Phineas Taylor (P.T.) Barnum fluidly unfolds – the story of “The Greatest Show on Earth”.

Veteran Broadway actor Gene Weygandt is nothing short of fantastic as P.T. Barnum, radiating a childlike energy that is joyous to watch throughout, creating a character to cheer for from the show’s opening number “There Is A Sucker Born Every Minute”. Weygandt exudes charisma and is sure to sing and dance his way into your heart as the man who dreams big and stops at nothing to make them happen.

“Barnum” is a story of vision, trial and error and overcoming obstacles with true love and support. It is the story of how one of the greatest entertainment staples over the past century and a half began – The Barnum and Bailey Circus. Cory Goodrich also shines in this production as Chairy Barnum, the loyal and reassuring wife of P.T.  Plenty of the show’s numbers are attention grabbing, though Goodrich and Weygandt are simply adorable during “The Colors of My Life”. Full of ballads and toe-tappers by Michael Stewart and Cy Coleman, “Barnum” finds its footing quickly and keeps going forward.

With an ensemble made up of acrobatic cast members who can all sing as well as dance, the show really pulls off a circus-like excitement. It is a well-rounded pool of talent that helps in drawing the constant awe and anticipation from the audience. Taylor Krasne-Wilton performs outstanding gymnastics while both Donica Lynn and Summer Naomi Smart display their own unique and powerful vocals. Before the show even begins, a couple clowns take to the main floor to have fun with the crowd.

For adults seeing this show, “Barnum” will make you a kid again – back to the days when a circus could bring out that youthful exhilaration that many of us have long since forgotten. That said, “Barnum” is also great time for children, too. There is nothing offensive or off-color in this show that parents would need to be worried about.   

“Barnum” is playing at Mercury Theater (3745 N. Southport, Chicago) thru June 16^th so there is plenty of time to get your tickets. For tickets or more show information call 773-325-1700 or visit www.mercurytheater.com.     

The circus is in town!

I’ve never been to Havana, Cuba. I never even saw Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights. But after seeing the world premiere of River North Dance Chicago and the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic’s performance of “Havana Blue,” Havana is definitely a place that I would hop on a plane and visit in a heartbeat. I am of course basing this decision entirely upon the hope that everyone breaks out into expertly choreographed dances to express emotions and feelings for the city they reside in. Regardless, the premiere of “Havana Blue” was a wonderful and entertaining surprise.

“Havana Blue” was created and collaborated on by choreographer Frank Chaves and jazz trumpeter Orbert Davis. They traveled the streets of Cuba, immersing themselves into the culture, the nightlife, exploring the country’s musical routes. What they came back with was a beautiful ensemble that celebrates the life and exuberance that is Havana.

Entering the theater and the show, I was far from the most knowledgeable about Jazz or Cuban life and culture. Jazz lovers and dance lovers alike flocked to see “Havana Blue” to make it a nearly sold-out performance, a feat I had never seen at the Auditorium Theater. The crowd was energetic and lively, freely swaying back and forth to the music and even jumping up in the aisles to dance. Everyone in the audience, including my friend who accompanied me, knew when Orbert Davis said ‘Dizzy,’ knew to respond with ‘Gillespie.’ But I soon discovered, when the curtain went up and the music started to play, I didn’t need to know a great deal about the show, or jazz history, to appreciate the art forms performing in front of me.

The curtains rose to reveal a brass jazz band, the brass twinkling under the bright stage lights, set against a dark brick wall. It was an impressive sight, and just as visually stunning as the gorgeous dance pairs of River North Dance Chicago that opened the show, the women in flowing blue dresses, the men in sexy-tight pants and open shirts, muy caliente.

“Havana Blue” is comprised of a several sultry and powerful dance segments, each representing a mood that you could find in the life-pulse of the Cuban city. One of the more notable dances was “Solteras" ("Single Ladies"), which many found to be a sad(ish) dance in which one woman was not being coupled up to dance with male partners. But the solo woman did not dance with a dejected rhythm but a “que sera sera” style, retaining a sexiness and comfortableness with dancing alone. Indeed, the women shifted partners, each woman getting a chance to dance solo while the couples danced around them. As the “Solteras” danced, there were smiles on their faces, not longing. I viewed the dance as empowerment for women, not romantic yearning because they weren’t coupled up. The women danced in spite of not having a partner and danced beautifully and strong, not slumped and saddened. (Cue female empowerment music: 'All the solteras, all the solteras,' kidding). Shortly after that performance was another notable dance segment "Lo Masculino" ("The Masculine"). To sum up the performance in one word: steamy. The males of River North Dance Chicago performed shirtless to a powerhouse number filled with masculinity, sweaty six-pack abs, and moves that would have made Baryshnikov proud. It was the perfect blend of power and rhythm that really made "Havana Blue" pop and sizzle.

“Havana Blue” completely embodied the sensual, powerful, and allure of the Havana culture. The artistic direction of Frank Chaves with River North Dance Chicago and the artistic direction of Orbert Davis was a match made in the streets of Havana. These two men created a show that will surely be enjoyed for years to come. Should you see “Havana Blue” coming to a city near you, or to our very own Chicago again, be sure to samba your way to see this show, you will not be decepcionado.

Based on the Charles Dickens’ 1838 classic Oliver Twist, OLIVER! has further immortalized this ageless story of a young orphan who finds himself living in the slums of London. Winner of multiple Tony Awards, this fiery musical has all the elements needed to cast a lasting impression on its audience.

OLIVER! follows the story of Oliver Twist, a kind, goodhearted kid who is brought to an orphanage after his mother dies while giving birth to him. He is mistreated and eventually sold to a family run funeral parlor by Mr. Bumble, the orphanage’s chief authority. Realizing he is damned to a life of further abuse, Oliver makes a break for it, running away to take his chances on the seedy streets of London. It is on these streets where he quickly makes friends with “The Artful Dodger”, a street smart pickpocket who brings Oliver back to his hideout to join a band of child criminals run by “Fagin”, an older man who makes his money by instructing and teaching these children grifting and petty street crime.  Oliver, not cut out for this kind of life, is then forced to make some tough decisions.

OLIVER!, Drury Lane’s big musical, is filled with unforgettable show tunes including, “Consider Yourself”, “As Long As He Needs Me’ and “I’d Do Anything”. Heidi Kettenring leads the large cast of 35 as “Nancy” in this large scale production that is captivating from its opening scene where the “Workhouse Boys” set the tone with the big dance and singing number, “Food Glorious Food”.

Though there are many fantastic performances worth noting including Brady Tutton as “Oliver Twist”, it is the “Workhouse Boys” who double as “Fagin’s Gang” that really steal the show. This talented group comprised of children did everything asked of them and more, displaying strong and polished vocals and executing complicated dance sequences to perfection.

OLIVER! is a total package that has everything, including fun song and dance numbers, a well-designed set that takes the audience to mid-19^th century London and a compelling story that is fun to follow. OLIVER! is playing Drury Lane in Oakbrook (100 Drury Lane) through June 2^nd. For tickets and/or other show information call 630-530-0111 or visit www.drurylane.com.          

There is nothing better than a good chase. Based on the remarkable, almost too far-fetched true story, “Catch Me If You Can” is a whirlwind of exciting scenes and show stopping numbers. The story follows the exploits of Frank Abagnale Jr., a con artist in a league of his own, who successfully passes as a doctor, an airline pilot and a lawyer – all before hitting the age of 21 years old. I should also mention that he stole nearly two million dollars by passing bad checks. While Frank lives the playboy life from one city to the next, the F.B.I. is hot on his trail but by-the-book agent Carl Hanratty always a step behind.

It’s the early 1960’s and the jazzy, jet-setting era is tremendously brought to life with memorable, well-timed songs and dance numbers that swing and sway with an unadulterated youthfulness, such as the opening “Live in Living Color”, “Jet Set”, “Someone Else’s Skin” and the sexy “Doctors Orders”.

A well-rounded and talented cast put this show on the must-see-while-in-town list. The charismatic Stephen Anthony as “Frank Jr.” puts on one of the best stage performances I have seen in the last few years delivering spot on timing and on-a-dime expression while also providing breathtaking vocal prowess, most notably in his big finale “Good-bye”. Dominic Fortuna also demonstrates his pitch-perfect, lounge club voice as “Frank Abagnale Sr”, while Merritt David Janes (“Carl Hanratty”) does a great job as the likeable agent who gradually befriends Frank Jr. as the chase ensues. Caitlin Maloney as Frank Jr.’s mother “Paula” and Aubrey Mae Davis (“Brenda”) also deserve great praise for their wonderful performances.

This wonderfully directed show by Jack O’Brien really has it all. The stage adaptation of Steven Spielberg’s 2002 hit of the same name brings out everything desired in a fun, stimulating and visual Broadway musical.   

“Catch Me if You Can” is playing at Cadillac Palace (151 W Randolph) through April 14^th. Ticket information can be found at www.BroadwayInChicago.com, www.CatchMeOnTour.com or by calling (800) 775-2000.

Just sit back, fasten your seat belts and enjoy the chase!

Chicago, IL—On Friday, May 3rd at Elbo Room (2871 N. Lincoln Ave.,  Chicago, IL 60657),Sonic Palace recording studio will celebrate 10 years of recording and promoting music. For one decade now, Matt Mercado (with the help of engineer Kyle Reese) has been producing up-and-coming rap and rock artists with his affordable, full-service recording facilities. Mercado knows a thing or two about the music business. As a musician and major label recording artist himself (Daisy Chain, Mindbomb, Pivot Man, Supermercado), Mercado has seen the industry from all sides. His mission with Sonic Palace? To not just record artists and send them on their way, but to nurture and promote these artists outside the studio walls. This role, which once fell to record labels, is embraced by Sonic Palace. To back up this supportive philosophy, Mercado has organized an event to showcase the studio’s efforts.

Read the Illinois Entertainer interview with Matt Mercado:

http://illinoisentertainer.com/2013/03/studiophile-march-2013/

Helping to celebrate this milestone are a host of Sonic Palace clients including Cosmic Fury, False Hope Fades, Bolo Marchay, Matthew Farris, CEO, Moses Valdez, Some Years Later, KSK, Sapa Inca and others.

The highlight of the evening will be a performance by Famme Frasier.Famme is a rising rap artist from Ardmore, OK who will be making his Chicago debut at the Elbo Room.

Listen to Famme Frasier's Mixtape, D.O.P.E. on Indy Live Mix Tapes:

http://indy.livemixtapes.com/mixtapes/20531/famme-frasier-dope.html

Also scheduled is Mercado’s own project Cosmic Fury, featuring Danny Vega, Frank Iffland, and Michael Ray Garrett, who will perform songs from their debut 6 song EP.

Tickets are $10 and are available online at www.elboroomlive.com and at the Elbo Room door the day of the event. Doors open at 7pm with performances starting at 8pm and go until 1:30am.

For more information or interview requests, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

773-295-8330

www.sonicpalacemusic.com

There are few musical artists that have managed to stay in the mind of popular culture like Tom Jones. Some of this has to do with his timeless hits such as "She's a Lady". Other reasons that Tom Jones has managed to be so popular is that he constantly reinvents his sound. Finally, there is no doubt that his frequent live performances in the US and of course his famous UK concerts have also helped maintain his profile in the public mind. It can be said that there are some artists who are better well known than Tom Jones, but very few can claim to be as popular and enduring as this singer. 

Early Life 

Tom Jones was born in South Wales and was challenged early in life by a case of tuberculosis. According to his own statement, his time fighting tuberculosis was the worst two years of his life and he was unable to do little but listen to music and draw. Tom Jones Married soon after high school to Melinda Trenchard and a month later his first child was born. 

Early Career 

Tom Jones began his performing career with a beat group called Tommy Scott and the Senators which became a well known local group. As he began to become more popular, Tom Jones recorded several early singles which led to him becoming well known not only in the UK, but also in the US where he enjoyed several top forty hits in both countries. After some initial success the young singers popularity began to decline and he switched his style to more of a country sound which revitalized his career. 

The Las Vegas Years 

In the late sixties Tom Jones became one of several stars to begin headlining in Las Vegas. His shows became known for their sexual tension and raw energy. During his time in Vegas, Tom Jones befriended Elvis Presley and the two became close friends. At this time Tom Jones decided that he preferred the more lucrative club acts to cutting new records and it would be quite some time before he released a new album. 

Coming back 

For a long time Tom Jones seemed destined to be a footnote in music history, however he enjoyed a rather sudden and strong resurgence in the late 80s and early nineties and has since remained at the forefront of the world wide music scene. While Tome Jones has not released an album in a while he still performs live very often and these UK concerts are well known for carrying the same energy as they did when he was a much younger man. 

In the end, Tom Jones is sure to remain part of the music world for years to come and even when he dies there is little doubt many people will remember what he offered. His combination of crooning lyrics, sexually charged performances, and memorable tunes is sure to last for years and years to come.