The Den Theatre today announced upcoming June 2025 shows at the theatre's Wicker Park stages at 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave., including "Anatomy of Murder" Podcast on June 4; Beth Stelling on June 6–7; IMHO: The Show on June 8; Gabby Bryan on June 12; Grace Helbig: "Let Me Get This Off My Chest" on June 14; Steve Hofstetter on June 15; Leah & Andrew Rudick on June 22; Rob Kazi on June 25; Alex Edelman on June 26; and Melissa Villaseñor on June 27–28. Tickets are now on sale at www.thedentheatre.com or by calling (773) 697-3830. 

"Anatomy of Murder" Podcast

Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 7:15 p.m.

Tickets: $27 - $50

"Anatomy of Murder" is a weekly true-crime podcast examining homicide cases and the paths to justice for victims. Former New York City homicide prosecutor and host of Investigation Discovery's "True Conviction," Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi, teams up with Emmy Award-winning investigative journalist and former deputy sheriff Scott Weinberger to take listeners behind the scenes for an insider's perspective on compelling cases from around the country. Each episode also features insight from a victim's family member, the prosecutor, or a member of law enforcement directly involved in the investigation.

Beth Stelling

Friday, June 6, 2025 at 7:15 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.

Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 7:15 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.

Tickets: $22 - $40

Beth Stelling is a comedian, writer, and actress based in Los Angeles. Her Netflix special "If You Didn't Want Me Then" topped several "Best of 2023" lists. She also appeared in the first season of Netflix's "The Standups." Conan O'Brien produced Stelling's previous hourlong special, "Girl Daddy," for HBO Max. She has written for television series including "Rick and Morty," "Strange Planet," "The Last O.G.," "I Love You, America with Sarah Silverman," "Another Period," and "Crashing" on HBO. A sought-after punch-up writer for feature films, she worked on Universal's hit "Good Boys" as an on-set writer. Stelling has guest-starred on Amazon's "Red Oaks," Comedy Central's "Corporate," and Peacock's "Rutherford Falls," where she played Ms. Fish. She also co-hosts the podcast "Sweethearts" with her best friend, Mo Welch.

IMHO: The Show

Sunday, June 8, 2025 at 7:15 p.m.

Tickets: $22 - $40

Darby Lynn Cartwright is a [redacted]-year-old drag queen with a heart of gold and arteries her doctors have called "worrisome." She hosts the YouTube series "IMHO: The Show" and the podcast "IMHO: The Podcast" with her best co-worker/acquaintance, Alexis Bevels. She also co-hosts the podcast "Twinnuendo" with her twin brother — spoiler: they are not fans of their dad.

Darby invented the concept of having a couch in front of her TV (she swears), allowing her to lie down while watching K-dramas about falling in love with demons — who are also horses, she thinks? She lives in Los Angeles, near Mark Hamill, and once almost hit him with her car while he was Luke jaywalking (yes, really). He was wearing large 1980s-style radio headphones with an antenna.

Darby has never seen a single "Star Wars" movie because she hates war...and space.

Alexis P. Bevels is a singing, dancing, twirling queen with a head full of air and a heart full of gold. She began her journey in musical theatre but didn't want to play just one part — she wanted to be the lead, director, costume designer and stage manager. Naturally, she became a full-time drag queen.

She lives in Los Angeles at the bottom of a hill, which worries her because...mudslides. When not living in constant fear, she's excited to report she has a boyfriend now — you can Google it. It's true.

You can also find Alexis on the award-winning YouTube series "IMHO: The Show" and the award-not-yet-winning podcast "IMHO: The Podcast." Otherwise, she's probably lying down somewhere, thinking about pogs.

IMHO: Live!

The ladies of IMHO are back in Chicago, gay people and others! Darby and Alexis return with a live show that is sure to make you say, "Oh, okay cool." There will be singing, sort-of dancing, comedy, trauma, and videos YouTube has called "not appropriate."

It's not just Darby and Alexis coming to town either — expect surprise guests from the IMHOCU (IMHO Cinematic Universe)! Also, the ladies promise not to make the show too long because they both have undiagnosed ADHD, so...they get it.

Gabby Bryan

Thursday, June 12, 2025 at 7:15 p.m.

Tickets: $22 - $37

Gabby Bryan is a New York-based stand-up comedian, actress, Emmy Award-winning producer and self-proclaimed girlie girl. This winter, she brought her Fringe hit "Billy and the Situation" to Union Hall, earning praise from The New York Times after a successful run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. She appeared alongside Olivia Wilde and Oscar Isaac in the film "Life Itself" (Amazon Prime), starred in the bilingual film "Ruta Viva" (HBO), and was featured in Ilana Glazer's special "Comedy on Earth" (Comedy Central). Bryan co-hosts "L'Podcast" with comedian Zack Signore, as well as "Let Me Ask My Dad" with musician and composer David Bryan. She has performed globally, with shows in London, Dublin, Los Angeles and Boston, and will launch her headlining tour, "Gabby Bryan Is My Best Friend," this fall. Bryan has built a large social media following of more than 270,000, sharing viral stand-up clips and comedy sketches. Follow her @gabbyisbryan on all platforms.

Grace Helbig: "Let Me Get This Off My Chest"

Saturday, June 14, 2025 at 7:15 p.m.

Tickets: $25 - $40

At 37, Grace Helbig was diagnosed with breast cancer — no family history, no pre-existing conditions. Her new show, "Let Me Get This Off My Chest," offers darkly humorous lessons and confessions from her unexpected journey through cancer treatment.

Steve Hofstetter

Sunday, June 15, 2025 at 7:15 p.m.

VIP Front Row Table + Meet & Greet: $150

Tickets: $25 - $55

One of YouTube's most popular comics with more than 225 million views and half a billion more on Facebook, Steve Hofstetter is also the host of "Finding Babe Ruth" on FS1. Hofstetter was the host and executive producer of "Laughs" (FOX) and has appeared on CBS' "The Late Late Show," E! "True Hollywood Story," "Comics Unleashed" and more. He has sold out shows in hundreds of cities and dozens of countries. Now is your chance to find out what the fuss is about during this no-holds-barred stand-up performance, featuring some of his unfiltered observations about life.

Leah & Andrew Rudick

Sunday, June 22, 2025 at 7:15 p.m.

Tickets: $25 - $45

Leah Rudick is an actor, writer and comedian whose viral comedy videos on TikTok and Instagram have amassed more than 1 million followers and counting. Best known for her "Wealthy Woman" character—an oblivious but lovable billionaire who delights in middle-class adventures—Rudick has cultivated a loyal fan base, with her videos topping 100 million views.

Springboarding off that success, she has spent the past year on the road, headlining and selling out top clubs across the country. Her unique brand of "weird girl" comedy has captivated audiences from all walks of life. Recent comedy festivals include Moontower JFL, San Francisco Sketchfest and Laughing Skull Fest.

Her TV appearances include HBO's "High Maintenance," IFC's "Commuters," and "Fast Company with James Corden." In 2024, she released her first one-hour comedy special, Spiraling, available to stream on Amazon and Apple TV.

"Going on flights of anxiety-fueled imagination, Rudick starts from a relative point of relatable normalcy, but simmers her way to as ridiculous a conclusion to a bit as she can conjure... The journey in this hour, richly colored by her unconscious, is akin to tasting your new favorite sweet treats in that you might be unsure what's happening at first, but get obsessed with the longer you savor it."

— The Comedy Bureau on Spiraling

"Stop reading and go follow Leah Rudick and then come right back."

— Vulture

"In a world of income disparity, class divides and rampaging Karens, how the heck did comedian Leah Rudick's TikTok sensation Wealthy Woman become so darn beloved?"

— Cracked

Andrew Rudick is a nationally touring stand-up comedian, writer and actor. One of the fastest-rising comedians in the Midwest, he has been featured on the nationally syndicated Bob and Tom Show. His debut comedy album debuted at the top of the Apple Music charts and can be heard regularly on SiriusXM.

Combining Midwestern charm with high-energy absurdism, Rudick's stand-up is a hit both onstage and across social media. His videos have earned tens of millions of views and more than 100,000 followers across platforms. His relatable energy landed him an appearance on HGTV's Design Fails.

He has performed at prestigious comedy festivals including Limestone Comedy Festival, North Carolina Comedy Festival, Alternating Currents, Whiskey Bear, Let's Fest, Crossroads, Brew HaHa and Devil's Cup Comedy Festival.

Rudick is currently playing to sold-out crowds across the country with his sister Leah on their Rudick Siblings Tour.

He also loves Fleetwood Mac and doesn't care who knows it.

Rob Kazi

Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at 7:15 p.m.

Tickets: $21 - $36

Hailing from New Orleans, Rob Kazi is one of today's most dynamic and talented comedic actors, captivating audiences both online and on stage.

Known for his infectious humor and quick-witted storytelling, Kazi has built an impressive following through his high-energy, short-form comedy content that consistently delivers laughs.

With a natural gift for comedic timing and undeniable charisma, Kazi has transcended the digital realm to find success in stand-up comedy and acting. He made history as the first local New Orleans comedian to headline and sell out the Joy Theater.

His talent doesn't stop there. Kazi performed at the "Super Bold" 50 Cent comedy show for the Super Bowl and joined comedy heavyweights including Mike Epps, Lil Duval and Corey Holcomb on the "We Them Ones" comedy tour. His latest viral sensation, the character "BB Hell," has taken social media by storm, racking up more than 13 million views on Druski's "Coulda Been Records."

Whether he's performing live or creating viral moments online, Rob Kazi never fails to leave his audience in stitches—solidifying his place as a comedic powerhouse and beloved New Orleans icon.

Alex Edelman: Not Just For Us

Thursday, June 26, 2025 at 7:15 p.m.

Tickets: $30 - $40

One of the most critically hailed comedians of his generation, Alex Edelman is best known for solo shows that blur the line between his stand-up comedy roots and narrative-driven storytelling. His most recent offering, "Just for Us," played more than 500 performances around the world before premiering as an HBO original comedy special in April 2024. Along the way, it made award-winning stops in Melbourne, Edinburgh and London, and completed numerous sold-out runs in New York, where Edelman joined a small group of comedians who have performed on Broadway with a three-month stretch at the Hudson Theatre.

He previously won the prestigious Foster's Best Newcomer Prize at the 2014 Edinburgh Fringe Festival for his debut one-man show, "Millennial," becoming only the second American ever to do so—and the first since 1997. In 2024, Edelman received a special Tony Award, was named to the Time 100 list of most influential people, and won an Emmy Award.

Edelman appeared in Jerry Seinfeld's directorial debut for Netflix, "Unfrosted," alongside Seinfeld, Melissa McCarthy, Jim Gaffigan, Amy Schumer, Hugh Grant and others. He is currently developing a film with A24 that he will write, direct and star in, with Marc Platt and Steven Levenson producing. His debut nonfiction collection, "I Don't Belong Here," recently sold to Avid Reader at auction.

Next, Edelman will be seen starring in Greg Daniels' spinoff of "The Office" for Peacock. He also serves as a consulting producer on the show.

Beyond his on-camera work, Edelman was a staff writer on "The Great Indoors" for CBS, a story editor on "Teenage Bounty Hunters" for Netflix, and head writer for "Saturday Night Seder," which raised more than $3.5 million for the CDC COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund and featured talent such as Andy Cohen, Billy Porter, Dan Levy, Fran Drescher, Idina Menzel, Jason Alexander, Rachel Brosnahan and more.

He has written for outlets including The Atlantic and The Believer, produced documentaries for the U.S. State Department and ESPN's "30 for 30" series, and spent more than a decade working as a speechwriter for both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Boston Red Sox.

Melissa Villaseñor

Friday, June 27, 2025 at 7:15 p.m.

Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 7:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

Tickets: $22 - $40

Melissa Villaseñor broke barriers as the first-ever Latina cast member of "Saturday Night Live." A comedic impressions expert, she got her start as a semifinalist on "America's Got Talent." Some of her most memorable SNL impressions include Owen Wilson, Lady Gaga and Dolly Parton.

An accomplished voice actor, Villaseñor has voiced characters on several television shows, including Nickelodeon's "OK K.O.!" and "Rock, Paper, Scissors," and in films such as "Toy Story 4" and "Ralph Breaks the Internet." She received a Golden Globe nomination for her work. She was also a guest on Jerry Seinfeld's "Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee" and appeared in "Barry," "Crashing," and "Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens," among others.

Her multihyphenate talents span even further. She hosted the 2021 Independent Spirit Awards, published a self-help journal titled Whoops, I'm Awesome, recorded two music albums, had a Netflix special, and creates fine art.

Villaseñor's accolades include Forbes 30 Under 30, Rolling Stone's 50 Funniest People Right Now and CNN's Women in Comedy.

Hell in a Handbag Productions is pleased to conclude its 2024/25 Season with the world premiere of QUEEN FOR A DAY written by ensemble member Tyler Anthony Smith* and directed by Stephanie Shaw. This gay fantasia on national themes... wait, wrong play. This one-act comedy/drama/cry for help about a diva (Queen Elizabeth I, previously played by Cate Blanchett), another diva (America's first superstar designer Halston) and a very sane normal person (Liza Minnelli) will play July 9 – August 3, 2025 at the Bramble Arts Loft – The Berry, 5545 N. Clark St. in Chicago's Andersonville neighborhood. Tickets go on sale Friday, May 9, 2025 at handbagproductions.org. The press opening is Saturday, July 12 at 7:30 pm.

Please note: QUEEN FOR A DAY replaces Handbag's previously-announced production of ANNIE COKELEY, which will be staged at a later date.

The cast includes ensemble member Tyler Anthony Smith with Dakota Hughes and Will Lidke. Understudies include Wendy Hayne, Cory McMenomy and Brandon Nelson.

About the Production:

American fashion designer Roy Halston Frowick (Will Lidke), known to the world simply as Halston, is down on his luck. He's packing up his chic-as-hell Olympic Tower office for reasons he doesn't want to discuss. To make matters worse, Elizabeth I (Tyler Anthony Smith*) is knocking on his door. Yes, Elizabeth I, whose reign as Queen of England spanned from 1558 to 1603. But it's 1984 in New York City. All that time spent at Studio 54 might be starting to catch up to the King of Minimalism's brain.

Elizabeth I demands that Roy (who hates being called that) make her a new gown to (she lets out a singular cough) die in. Oh, and she needs it by the end of the day, even though he seems to be in the midst of a breakdown. He takes her money and agrees, and the unlikely pair moves forward with the design of a lifetime. That is until Halston has to help his best friend, Liza Minnelli (Dakota Hughes), with her new act. Any questions?

The production team includes Taylor Dalton (Scenic Designer), Rachel M. Sypniewski (Costume Designer), Garrett Bell (Lighting Designer), Miranda Coble (Sound Designer), Maggie O'Brien (Props Designer), Syd Genco* (Make-up Designer), Keith Ryan* (Wig Designer), Jacob Sousley (Assistant Director), Tom Daniel (Technical Director), Tyler Anthony Smith* (Production Manager), Michael S. Miller* (Graphic Designer) and Jenna Raithel (Stage Manager).

*Denotes Handbag Ensemble Member

PRODUCTION DETAILS:

Title: QUEEN FOR A DAY

Playwright: Tyler Anthony Smith*
Director: Stephanie Shaw
Cast (in alphabetical order): Dakota Hughes (Liza Minnelli), Will Lidke (Halston) and Tyler Anthony Smith* (Elizabeth I). Understudies: Wendy Hayne, Cory McMenomy and Brandon Nelson.

Location: Bramble Arts Loft – The Berry, 5545 N. Clark St., Chicago

Previews: Wednesday, July 9 at 7:30 pm, Thursday, July 10 at 7:30 pm and Friday, July 11 at 7:30 pm.
Regular run: Sunday, July 13 – Sunday, August 3, 2025
Curtain Times: Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 pm; Saturdays at 4 pm & 7:30 pm; and Sundays at 4 pm. Please note: there will be an added performance on Monday, July 28 at 7:30 pm (Industry Night).

Tickets: Previews: $25. General admission: $35. VIP reserved: $43. Tickets go on sale Friday, May 9, 2025 at handbagproductions.org/

About the Artists:

Tyler Anthony Smith (Playwright) is the unwell Hell in a Handbag ensemble member responsible for creating last season's megamusical, Poor People! Some other Chicago companies Miss Smith has worked with include: Haven (Hedwig in Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Jeff Award, Performer in a Principal Role - Musical), [producing body], Curious Theatre Branch (Rhino Fest), Sweetback Productions, The Neo-Futurists and Eclipse Theatre Company. Tyler appeared Off-Off-Broadway at La MaMa via Hell in a Handbag. He/She/They is/is/are represented by DDO. Instagram: @judithnightlight

Stephanie Shaw (Director) has presented her original solo performance work for a wide range of venues in the Chicago area, as well as NYC. An alumni member of the Neo-Futurists, she wrote and performed regularly for Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind for five years. She has directed a number of Solo Shows for Live Bait Theatre, The New York Fringe, Sweetback Productions and the simple pleasure of Tyler Anthony Smith and his audiences. She directed Tyler's Poor People! The Parody Musical, Frankenstreisand and Out! Darn Spot for Hell In A Handbag, as well as his People Do Do Such Things, The Kindness of Mangers and I Know You Need My Verve. She has directed for The Neo-Futurists, The New York Fringe, Oak Park Festival Theatre, MirrorBox Theatre (Cedar Rapids) and over a dozen plays and musicals for the theatre department of Columbia College Chicago, where she is a Professor of Instruction. Once upon a time, she was a theatre critic for the Chicago Reader.

About Hell in a Handbag Productions:

Hell in a Handbag is dedicated to the preservation, exploration, and celebration of works ingrained in the realm of popular culture via theatrical productions through parody, music and homage. Handbag is a 501(c)(3) Not for Profit. For additional information, visit handbagproductions.org.

BrightSide Theatre, Naperville’s professional theatre company, has announced the cast for the final show of its 13^th season – the Stephen Schwartz/Roger O. Hirson musical PIPPIN. This tale of a prince who learns the true meaning of glory, love, and war ran for nearly five years in its original Broadway production, thanks to the captivating songs by Schwartz (songwriter of WICKED, GODSPELL, THE MAGIC SHOW and others), and the stunning staging and choreography by the legendary Bob Fosse. A Broadway-sized cast of 17 and an orchestra of seven will bring PIPPIN to life for BrightSide in a glorious, fully staged production at the company’s home venue of the Meiley-Swallow Hall at North Central College, from June 13 – 29. BrightSide Theatre’s Artistic Director Jeffrey Cass, whose more than 30 productions for BrightSide Theatre include such musicals as JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, CHESS IN CONCERT, A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC and GYPSY, will direct. Phil Videckis, music director for BrightSide’s JEKYLL AND HYDE IN CONCERT and JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, will be music director for Schwartz’s marvelous score that includes the legendary opening number “Magic to Do,” the plaintive “Corner of the Sky,” and the comic “No Time at All.” Aria Brynne, a recent graduate of Columbia College Chicago, who recently created the dances for THE PROM with St. Paul Conservatory of the Arts, is Choreographer. 

BrightSide’s PIPPIN cast will include Kassidy Alderman (Player, Chicago), Matthew Andresen (Player, Greenfield WI), Stan Austin (Charles/Player, Winfield), Michelle Bolliger (Fastrada/Player, Roselle), Shane Alexander Brown (Player, Villa Park), Evelyn Dorough (Theo, Plainfield), Thomas Ferro (Lewis/Player, Chicago), Erol Ibrahimovic (Player, Chicago), Delaney Katz (Player, Lake Zurich), Meghan Kessel (Player, Chicago), Cheryl Newman (Berthe/Player, Naperville), Tommy O'Brien (Pippin, Chicago), Asia Posey (Leading Player, Chicago), Monica Romo (Player, Niles), Amy Steele (Catherine/Player, Naperville), Jubilee Tai (Player, Elk Grove Village), and Amanda Vinson (Player, Chicago).

The production team, in addition to Cass, Videckis and Brynne, includes Arabella Zurbano (Scenic Designer), Cheryl Newman (Costume Designer), Kurt Ottinger (Lighting Designer), Delaney Kosar (Props Designer), Gabe Seplow (Production Manager), and Jeff Sand (Technical Director). 

PIPPIN will be performed in the Theatre at Meiley-Swallow Hall, North Central College, 31 S. Ellsworth, Naperville. Tickets are $37.00 for adults and $32.00 for students and seniors and are on sale now at www.BrightSidetheatre.com or by phone at 630-447-TIXS (8497). 

LISTING INFORMATION 

PIPPIN

Book by Roger O. Hirson

Music & Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz

Directed by Jeffrey Cass

Music Direction by Phil Videckis

Choreography by Aria Brynne

June 13-29, 2025

Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 pm

Press Opening Friday, June 13 at 7:30 pm

Theatre at Meiley-Swallow Hall

North Central College, 31 S. Ellsworth in Naperville

Tickets $32 - $37, available at www.BrightSideTheatre.com or at 630-447-TIXS (8497)

From the Tony Award winning composer of WICKED and GODSPELL, Stephen Schwartz, comes a captivating tale of a prince who learns the true meaning of glory, love, and war that will sweep you off your feet. With its unforgettable music, dynamic choreography, and imaginative storytelling, PIPPIN is a feast for the senses. There’s magic to do as the young prince finds that happiness lies not in extraordinary endeavors, but rather in the unextraordinary moments that happen every day.

BIOS 

Jeffrey Cass (Artistic Director/Director) is a Joseph Jefferson Award Nominee and has successfully directed over 30 Productions for BrightSide Theatre, most recently JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, CHESS IN CONCERT, A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC and GYPSY. He also played “Edna” in BST’s production of HAIRSPRAY. He holds a B.F.A. in Musical Theater Performance from Roosevelt University. He previously served as the Producing Director for Circle Theatre where he directed eight productions, including THE WHO’S TOMMY (6 Joseph Jefferson Nominations including Best Musical and Best Director).

Stephen Schwartz (Music and Lyrics). Stephen Schwartz wrote the music and lyrics for the current Broadway hit WICKED. In addition, he has contributed music and lyrics to GODSPELL, PIPPIN, THE BAKER’S WIFE, WORKING, CHILDREN OF EDEN, RAGS (music by Charles Strouse), SNAPSHOTS: A MUSICAL SCRAPBOOK, THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME (music by Alan Menken) and THE PRINCE OF EGYPT, as well as two musicals for younger audiences, CAPTAIN LOUIE and MY SON PINOCCHIO. Mr. Schwartz has been inducted into the Theatre Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame and has been given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Awards include three Academy Awards, four Grammy Awards, and a special Tony Award for his support of young theatre artists.

Roger O. Hirson (Book).  Awards and nominations: 1973 Tony Award® Best Book of a Musical Pippin [nominee] 1967 Tony Award® Best Musical Walking Happy [nominee] Productions: PIPPIN Book [Original, Musical, Comedy] (Oct 23, 1972 - Jun 12, 1977). WALKING HAPPY Book [Original, Musical] (Nov 26, 1966 - Apr 22, 1967).

ABOUT BRIGHTSIDE THEATRE

BrightSide Theatre (Jeffrey Cass, Artistic Director and Julie Ann Kornak, Executive Director) is committed to Enlighten, Educate, and Entertain through comedies and inspirational stories from across the globe.  A unique blend of award-winners, premieres, modern works and timeless classics meant to reflect upon and inform our community inhabit BrightSide’s stage. For more information on BrightSide Theatre, please visit www.BrightSidetheatre.com.

Eight Chicago artists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines have spent the last eight months in residence at the Chicago Puppet Lab, a program of the Chicago Puppet International Puppet Theater Festival, where they have been expanding their skill sets by creating new, original puppet theater works.

On May 29 through June 1, the 2024-25 Chicago Puppet Lab cohort will present their emerging works at the Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center, 4046 W. Armitage Ave., Chicago.

The 2025 Chicago Puppet Lab Showcase includes two rotating group shows, each featuring diverse works in progress by Chicago artists. Program A features Irene Wa., madigan burke, Sam Lewis and Charlie Malavé. Program B showcases work by Ruby Que, Anthony-Michael Stokes, Robbie Lynn Hunsinger and Michele Stine.

Tickets to each program, $20 regular/$15 student and seniors, are now on sale at chicagopuppetfest.org.  Act fast to take advantage of a 20 percent early bird discount, or get 20 percent off with promo code LABAB when purchasing tickets to both programs. Follow the festival on Facebook, Instagram or Vimeo, hashtag #ChiPuppetFest. 

The Chicago Puppet Lab, led by co-directors Tom Lee and Grace Needlman, is the developmental arm of the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival. In addition to presenting the largest annual puppetry festival of its kind in North America, the Festival’s Puppet Lab is an education space that incubates new works of boundary-breaking puppetry in Chicago, expands equity in the field of puppetry, and encourages interdisciplinary experimentation in puppet theater. 

Program A – Friday, May 30 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, May 31 at 3 p.m.; and Sunday, June 1 at 7 p.m. – includes:

she is drying
By Irene Wa.

Two characters and an excess of strings come together in a dance that explores the restriction of movement and the tension of dependency. It delves into the inner self; an encounter, an appearance, a fantasy. Featuring a large scale marionette. Music by Kobe.

Irene Wa. is a Mexican interdisciplinary artist who works in drawing, sculpture, ceramics, video, and writing. She holds a Master’s in Fine Arts from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design from Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City.

Operating Theater
By madigan burke


Join madigan and Harvey, two highly qualified medical puppet professionals, as they perform a surgery. Featuring figurative puppets and live feed video puppetry.

Burke (they/them) is a genderqueer ex-mechanical engineer turned multidisciplinary artist who likes to draw cartoons, make funny films, and sometimes create edgy and endearing puppet characters.

Black Episcopalian
By Sam Lewis


Sam asks his mom about their origins in the Episcopal Church. The incredible answer takes Sam on a journey back to his birthplace in rural Tennessee, uncovering a history he could have never imagined. Featuring live feed multiplane projection.

Sam Lewis is an actor, poet, vocalist, and recently, an “accidental puppeteer” because, in the early 2000s, he came across a vintage Black Americana marionette in an attic, which started him on an unexpected puppetry journey. Lewis explores racial issues and negative iconography with that marionette, renamed Jus Hambone.

A Suite of Dreams
By Charlie Malavé

Images, sounds and feelings pulled directly from the dream world into the shared waking world. A dream story told in the language of symbols. Puppetry styles include projected and manipulated shadows and puppet miniatures.

Charlie Malavé (he/him) is a musician, multi-instrumentalist, performing artist, and video maker whose body of work has produced an array of unique instruments, compositions, music videos, webisodes and theatrical productions. He’s also one of the leaders of the Chicago band, Mucca Pazza.

Program B - Thursday, May 29 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, May 31 at 7 p.m.; and Sunday,
June 1 at 3 p.m. - features:

Touch
By Ruby Que

Touch plays with constructed invisibility to propose new ways of seeing and communicating using object puppetry, live sensor input from a puppet microphone and ice puppetry.

Ruby Que (they/them) is a multidisciplinary artist with a focus on site-specific intervention and expanded cinema performance. In their work they open portals and create hauntings.

Anansi - a Dispersal of Wisdom
By Anthony-Michael Stokes

The aspiring god of storytelling earns their title by being entrusted by the elder Sky God Nyame, with an impossible task of traveling the world and gathering all the stories and wisdom. A Griot storyteller, immersive, spiritual experience; his quest reveals that no one has more lessons to be learned than Anansi himself, a “Humanette” large scale solo puppet.

Anthony-Michael Stokes is a newly-arrived, Chicago-based multidisciplinary teaching artist and award-winning educator. Originally from El Paso, Stokes holds BFAs in music theater and dance and a masters in education. He has trained as a puppeteer with the Jim Henson Company and the Sesame Street Puppeteer workshop. He also presented The Scarecrow, his riff on The Wizard of Oz, at the 2025 Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival.

Shehnai Mist/Suona Flames
By Robbie Lynn Hunsinger
 
Transforming the moods and music of the Indian Shehnai and Chinese Suona into puppetry with translucent shadow puppetry, animations and wearable musical instrument puppets.

Robbie Lynn Hunsinger (she/her) is a professional classical oboist turned coder, multi-instrumentalist, composer, improviser, interactive installation artist and creative technologist. She specializes in live audiovisual performance and immersive interactive installations using motion, weight and sound activated triggers, robotics, responsive lights, custom circuits, multi-tracked audio and layered projections. 

AudioFile
By Michele Stine

A record player, a rotary phone, cassettes and ancient suitcases. The physical remnants of a life left behind, and the playground for someone to rediscover the joy of sound. Featuring object puppetry, crankie, figurative puppetry and solo.

Michele Stine (she/they) is an actor, clown and puppeteer. Stine spends time digging through trash alleys for materials, much to her mother’s dismay. They have performed with Rough House Theatre, Filament Theatre, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Theatre Unspeakable, Lifeline Theatre, Emerald City Theatre, Theatre SUMM, among others.

About the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival

Originally founded in 2015 as a project of Blair Thomas & Co., the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival has highlighted artists from nations including Belgium, Chile, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Kenya, Korea, Mexico, Norway, Puerto Rico, Poland, Scotland and South Africa as well as from Chicago and across the U.S. with the goal of promoting peace, equality, and justice on a global scale. 

Already, the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival has grown to be the largest of its kind in North America. The seventh and most recent Festival in January 2025 spanned 12 days and dozens of Chicago venues, presenting an international pageant of puppet artists and more than 120 puppetry activities. This year’s Festival attracted a record 22,128 audience members from Chicago, the U.S. and around the world, and was named Best Performing Arts Festival by the Chicago Reader.

In 2022, under the leadership of Artistic Director and Festival Founder Blair Thomas and Executive Director Sandy Smith Gerding, the Festival moved from a biennial to an annual event, and tripled its footprint in Chicago’s historic Fine Arts Building. It opened an expanded office suite, debuted the Chicago Puppet Studio, which designs and fabricates puppets for theaters and events around the U.S., and launched the Chicago Puppet Lab, an education space and developmental residency designed to incubate more works of boundary-breaking puppetry in Chicago, expand equity in the field of puppetry, and encourage interdisciplinary experimentation in puppet theater.

The Chicago Puppet Lab and the Chicago Puppet Lab Showcase are generously supported by Kristy and Brandon Moran, the Pritzker Foundation and the Paul M. Angell Foundation.

For more information, visit chicagopuppetfest.org.

Rosemont's Parkway Bank Park entertainment district (5501 Park Place, Rosemont) will turn up the volume this summer with the return of its popular "Rockin' in the Park" free summer concert series. Presented by Feldco, the 2025 series will kick off on Sunday, May 25 and include a post-show fireworks display. Free concerts will continue every Thursday and select Friday evenings from May 29 through August 29, showcasing music by renowned tribute bands alongside food and beverage tents on the park's great lawn. All Thursday night concerts will culminate with a musical fireworks display. The 2025 lineup features a mix of returning favorites and exciting new cover bands celebrating rock legends including Rod Stewart, the Doobie Brothers, and Foreigner.

"Rockin' in the Park" concerts will run from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Admission to "Rockin' in the Park" is free. Outside food and coolers are prohibited. Parking is available at the Parkway Bank Park parking garage and is free with validation from any of the park's venues. This season, Parkway Bank Park will be giving away free "Rockin' in the Park" 2025 commemorative t-shirts onsite during concert hours, while supplies last. 

The 2025 Rockin' in the Park lineup is outlined below:  
* indicates post-show fireworks

Sunday, May 25: Pino Farina Band* – Adult alternative rock group, Pino Farina Band, bring audiences an energetic mix of original music and beloved covers. Lead singer and lyricist Pino Farina's powerhouse voice is often compared to late indie-artist Jeff Buckley. Known for their showmanship, Pino Farina Band's concerts dazzle fans with a blend of high-energy performances and tender, intimate songs.Thursday, May 29: Kings & Associates* – Kings & Associates have established themselves as one of Australia's most unique modern blues bands. Led by husband-and-wife duo Anjii Portolesi and Steve Portolesi, the award-winning Australian group blends blues, soul, funk, R&B and gospel together into a style that's all their own.Thursday, June 5: Infatuation STL* – Hailing from St. Louis, Infatuation is an eight-piece powerhouse of seasoned musicians united to deliver the ultimate Rod Stewart tribute experience. Fronted by the dynamic Tim Levene, the band brings Stewart's iconic hits to life with passion, precision and an electrifying stage presence that will keep audiences singing along all night.Thursday, June 12: Departure* – Celebrating 15 years, Departure recreates the look, sound and feel of the original 80s rock group, Journey. Known for their high-energy and engaging performances, Departure brings the very best of Journey to audiences of all ages.Thursday, June 19: The Dyer Davis Group* – American singer and guitarist Dyer Davis recently released his debut album, "Dog Bites Back" for WildRoots Records. The young talented artist finds inspiration in blues-based rockers such as Jeff Beck to create his unique sound, featuring fiery vocals and soulful guitar skills.

Thursday, June 26: Atomic Punks* – Direct from Los Angeles, Calif., this group pays tribute specifically to the glory days of Van Halen fronted David Lee Roth. Roth himself referred to the group as "the best tribute to Van Halen ever." For more than 20 years, the Atomic Punks have been re-creating Eddie Van Halen's classic guitar sound, while capturing all of the enthusiasm and flash Van Halen brought to the stage.Friday, June 27: 24K Magic / George Michael Reborn 

Guaranteed to keep audiences on their feet, 24K Magic pays homage to the hottest hits from popular singer-songwriter Bruno Mars. Led by Evan Saucedo, 24K Magic's performances aim to emulate Mars' signature sound, choreography and flashy fashion, offering Bruno Mars fans the ultimate tribute.Robert Bartko exudes the energy and passion of George Michael and Wham! in the 80s and 90s with George Michael Reborn. From "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go," to "Careless Whisper," George Michael Reborn embodies the vocal range, choreography and looks of George Michael and leaves audiences cheering for an encore.Thursday, July 3: Slippery When Wet* – Hailing from Atlanta, Ga., Slippery When Wet performs the exact live arrangements from Bon Jovi's 2000 "Crush" tour, 2002 "Bounce" tour, 2005 "Have a Nice Day" tour, 2008 "Lost Highway" tour and 2010 "The Circle" tour. This band's drive, musical ability and showmanship strive to duplicate the live Bon Jovi experience.Thursday, July 10: Listen To The Music* – Listen to the Music delivers an authentic, high-energy tribute to the legendary Doobie Brothers. Based in Canada and made up of top-tier musicians, the band faithfully reproduces the Doobie Brothers' greatest hits, bringing their timeless sound to life for audiences everywhere.Thursday, July 17: Live the Who* – Direct from Detroit, Mich., this band plays tribute to The Who at the band's unstoppable best from 1968-1974, capturing the feel, sound and look of the legendary rock band in each concert.Thursday, July 24: New World Men* – New World Men deliver a powerful tribute to the legendary sound of Rush, capturing the spirit and intensity of the iconic band's live performances. Featuring the exceptional talents of François Larouche, Mathieu Groulx and Marc Girard, this immersive concert experience takes audiences on a journey through Rush's most celebrated eras.Friday, July 25: Boy Band Night / Semple Band

From *NSYNC, Backstreet Boys and New Kids on The Block to Boys 2 Men, One Direction and more, the Boy Band Night plays tribute to popular boy bands will have audiences dancing and singing along all night long.Semple Band is a high-energy, Chicago-based group known for its exceptional musicianship and dynamic stage presence. Led by the charismatic Keith Semple, the band offers a high-energy performance with tunes spanning from classic '70s rock to modern pop. Their diverse medleys feature iconic artists like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson and more, while also showcasing original songs in nearly every show.Thursday, July 31: Southern Accents* – Southern Accents recreates the music, style and sound of Tom Petty professionally with immaculate precision and wildly contagious enthusiasm. United in their quest to offer the ultimate Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers experience, each member of the band looks the part, plays the part and lives the part.Thursday, August 7: Double Vision* – Featuring some of New York City's top rock musicians, Double Vision delivers an authentic tribute to Foreigner with impressive technical skill and dedication. Known for their impeccable recreation of Foreigner's greatest hits from the '70s and '80s, the band brings audiences an unforgettable experience filled with energy, sing-alongs and non-stop energy.Thursday, August 14: Ticket to the Moon* – Ticket to the Moon is an Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) tribute band hailing from Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. Composed of eight talented musicians, the group is dedicated to bringing audiences the extraordinary musical arrangements of ELO through high-energy performances.Thursday, August 21: Brooklyn Charmers* – The Brooklyn Charmers are known for injecting a new, dedicated energy into the beloved musical catalogue of Steely Dan, bridging the gap between new and lifelong Steely Dan fans alike. Featuring masterful precision, the group is proud to pay tribute to Steely Dan's infectious hooks and poignant lyrics.Thursday, August 28: Rod Tuffcurls & The Bench Press* – Beloved Chicago band Rod Tuffcurls and The Bench Press delivers an electrifying, one-of-a-kind live experience. Known for their bone-crushing three-part harmonies and laser-sharp musicianship, the band delivers a powerhouse performance every time they hit the stage. With a wildly eclectic and carefully curated repertoire, each show is a joyful, genre-defying celebration that keeps audiences dancing, singing and coming back for more.Friday, August 29: Bee Gees Gold / The Wayouts

Backed by a renowned rhythm section, Bee Gees Gold recreates the look and sound of the Bee Gees from the 1960s and 1970s. Featuring the detailed vocals of John Acosta as Barry, Daryll Borges as Robin and Jeff Celentano as Maurice, the band performs legendary Bee Gees tracks from early hits such as "Massachusetts" and "I Started A Joke," to disco-era classics including "Stayin' Alive" and "You Should Be Dancing."The Wayouts play tribute to 1960s garage rock. Their concerts combine raw intensity with professional musicianship in order to bring fresh life to classic songs by artists such as The Kinks and The Animals.

About Parkway Bank Park
Rosemont's Parkway Bank Park entertainment district is a 200,000 square-foot complex home to 16 dining and entertainment venues offer upscale international cuisine, live music and comedy, state-of-the-art film, indoor skydiving, bowling and more. Conveniently located near O'Hare International Airport at 5501 Park Place, Parkway Bank Park is easily accessible from Chicago as well as the suburbs. A 20-minute drive from Chicago's Loop, Parkway Bank Park is walking distance from the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, the CTA Blue Line Rosemont station, Fashion Outlets of Chicago and the Rosemont Theatre. Convenient parking is available and is free with validation from any of the Park's venues.The current venues located within Parkway Bank Park include Adobe Gila's, Aloft Chicago O'Hare, AMC Theatre, Bub City, Crust Brewing, Fat Rosie's Taco & Tequila Bar, Fogo de Chão, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, Joe's Live, Kings Dining & Entertainment, Pete's Dueling Piano Bar, Pete's Tiki Tiki, Saltwater Coastal Grill, Sugar Factory, Verilife and Zanies Comedy Club. The venues surround a great lawn that plays host to a variety of seasonal events including concerts, festivals and a winter ice rink. For more information, visit ParkwayBankPark.com.About The Village of Rosemont
Rosemont, Illinois, Chicagoland's business and entertainment suburb, is conveniently located five minutes from O'Hare Airport and twenty minutes from Chicago's downtown. Easily accessible via the area's major highways, Rosemont is home to the Allstate Arena, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, a wide variety of hotel and dining options, Rosemont Theatre, Fashion Outlets of Chicago, Parkway Bank Park entertainment district and Impact Field. Rosemont continues to flourish and evolve, based on 69 years of growth and under the current leadership of Mayor Bradley A. Stephens. For more information, visit www.Rosemont.com. 

Broadway In Chicago is thrilled to announce that its free SUMMER CONCERT will return to Millennium Park on August 11, 2025. The free concert, sponsored by ABC 7 Chicago, will take place on Monday, August 11, 2025 at 6:15 p.m. at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St). The annual event is presented with the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. Fans can expect selections from PARADE, which will already be in performances at the CIBC Theatre (18 W. Monroe), and MJ THE MUSICAL, which will begin performances at the James M. Nederlander Theatre on Tuesday, August 12; as well as upcoming subscription shows THE SOUND OF MUSIC, HELL’S KITCHEN , the modern-day holiday classic ELF THE MUSICAL, STEREOPHONIC, and 2024 Tony Award® winning Best Musical THE OUTSIDERS. More shows will be announced later this summer.

Production photos of participating shows available to download here.

The Broadway In Chicago Summer Concert is presented in collaboration with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. Every summer in Millennium Park, the City of Chicago proudly presents symphonic music, dance, opera, Broadway hits and more—performed by some of Chicago’s best-loved cultural institutions. For the latest news and events, visit millenniumpark.org and follow Millennium Park on Facebook (@MillenniumParkChicago), Twitter, and Instagram (Millennium_Park).

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


ABOUT MILLENNIUM PARK
Discover a world-class collection of architecture, landscape design and art that provides the backdrop for hundreds of free cultural programs including concerts, exhibitions, interactive art and family activities. In Millennium Park, you’ll find a spectacular gathering spot located in the heart of the city, a destination for all Chicagoans and visitors alike. Millennium Park is the #1 attraction in the Midwest and among the top 10 most-visited sites in the U.S. It is also the anchor of an urban cultural campus (Millennium Park Campus) that includes the Chicago Cultural Center, Maggie Daley Park and The Art Institute of Chicago. Millennium Park is located on Michigan Avenue, bordered by Randolph St. to the north, Columbus Dr. to the east and Monroe St. to the south. The Park is open daily during the summer from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Plan your visit at millenniumpark.org, follow us on Facebook (@MillenniumParkChicago), Twitter, and Instagram (@Millennium_Park) and join the conversation on social media using #MillenniumPark.

ABOUT CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS AND SPECIAL EVENTS
The City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) supports artists and cultural organizations, invests in the creative economy, and expands access and participation in the arts throughout Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods. As a collaborative cultural presenter, arts funder, and advocate for creative workers, our programs and events serve Chicagoans and visitors of all ages and backgrounds, downtown and in diverse communities across our city—to strengthen and celebrate Chicago. DCASE produces some of the city’s most iconic festivals, markets, events, and exhibitions at the Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park, and in communities across the city—serving a local and global audience of 25 million people. The Department offers cultural grants and resources, manages public art, supports TV and film production and other creative industries, and permits special events throughout Chicago. For details, visit Chicago.gov/DCASE.

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 25 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 up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, James M. Nederlander Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium.
 

For more information and tickets, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.
Follow @BroadwayInChicago on
Facebook ● Instagram ● TikTok ●Bluesky ● YouTube
#broadwayinchicago

American Blues Theater, under the continued leadership of Executive Artistic Director Gwendolyn Whiteside, presents the Chicago premiere of Artistic Affiliate Charles Smith's Golden Leaf Ragtime Blues, directed by Ensemble Member Chuck Smith. Capping off Blues' 2024-2025 season, Golden Leaf Ragtime Blues is a comedic and thoughtful tale brought to the stage by the creative team behind last season's successful The Reclamation of Madison Hemings. Running May 23 – June 29, 2025, tickets to Golden Leaf Ragtime Blues are on sale now through the American Blues Theater box office, www.americanbluestheater.com, (773) 654-3103. The press opening is schedule for May 29, 2025 at 7:00pm.

Pompey is an aging white vaudevillian; Jet is a Black teenager. Thrown together by circumstances beyond their control, they show us how basic needs and emotions transcend barriers of race, religion, and age. Don't miss Ensemble member and veteran TV star Dennis Cockrum's ("Shameless") return to American Blues Theater in the role of Pompey, along with Ensemble member Dawn Bach (Marsha), Justin Banks (Jet) and James Sherman (Ollie).

Executive Artistic Director Gwendolyn Whiteside comments, "We're thrilled to produce another collaboration between Charles Smith and Chuck Smith. Working with these two legends has been a dream for us. There is a palpable excited around American Blues as we welcome back Ensemble member Dennis Cockrum to our stage to help bring this wonderful play to life."

The creative team includes Charles Smith* (playwright), Chuck Smith* (director), Shayna Patel* (scenic), Jared Gooding* (lights), Lily Walls* (costumes & wardrobe supervisor), Rick Sims* (co-sound), Warren Levon* (co-sound), Tyson Carter (properties), Wilson Cain (dramaturg), Richard Lundy* (stage manager), Michael Trudeau* (facilities manager & ME), Nate Walczyk* (production manager) Tom Daniel* (technical director), and Chris Walls (audio supervisor).

*Denotes an Ensemble Member or Artistic Affiliate of American Blues.

About the Artists

CHARLES SMITH (playwright) is a proud Artistic Affiliate of American Blues Theater. Plays include The Reclamation of Madison Hemings, Objects in the Mirror, Free Man of Color, Knock Me a Kiss, The Golden Leaf Ragtime Blues, Freefall, The Gospel According to James, Jelly Belly, Pudd'nhead Wilson, Les Trois Dumas, Denmark, Sister Carrie, The Sutherland, Black Star Line, Takunda, Cane, and City of Gold. His plays have been produced by Indiana Repertory Theatre, Goodman Theatre, Victory Gardens Theater, The Acting Company, People's Light, The New Federal Theatre, Penumbra, Crossroads Theatre Company, Shakespeare & Company, Penguin Repertory Theatre, Ujima Theatre Company, The Colony Theatre, St. Louis Black Rep, Weissberger Theater Group, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Jubilee Theatre, Ensemble Theatre in Houston, Pegasus Theatre Chicago, Westcoast Black Rep., Robey Theatre Company, Berkeley Repertory Theater, Ensemble Theatre in Cleveland, Independent Theatre in Adelaide, South Australia, the HBO New Writers Project, the International Children's Theater Festival in Seattle, and The National Black Theatre Festival.

He has been commissioned by Cleveland Play House and The Acting Company, and has received multiple commissions from Victory Gardens, Indiana Rep, and Goodman. He received the 2024 Kesselring Prize for Playwriting for his play, The Price of the Ticket. Other awards include a Joseph Jefferson Award, a John W. Schmid Award, two Ohio Arts Council Individual Excellence Awards, the Illinois Arts Council Governors Award, the Joyce Award, the Cornerstone National Playwriting Award, The National Black Theatre Festival's August Wilson Playwriting Award, Princess Grace Fellowship, the Theodore Ward National Playwriting Award, two Black Theatre Alliance Awards for New Work, the NBC New Voices Award, and numerous other AUDELCO, Jeff, NAACP, and Black Theatre Alliance award nominations.

He is an alumnus of New Dramatists, a graduate of the University of Iowa Playwrights Workshop, one of the founding members of the Playwrights Ensemble at the Tony Award-winning Victory Gardens Theatre in Chicago, Distinguished Professor Emeritus and Presidential Research Scholar in the Arts and Humanities at Ohio University and has taught playwriting at Northwestern University, for the Prague Summer Program in Creative Writing in the Czech Republic, and for the Center for Dramatic Art in Groznjan, Croatia.

CHUCK SMITH (director) is a proud Ensemble member of American Blues Theater where he directed Leroi Jones' Dutchman, Flyin' West, & The Reclamation of Madison Hemings. He is a member of Goodman Theatre's Board of Trustees and is a Goodman Theatre Resident Director. He is also a resident director at the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe in Sarasota, Florida. Goodman credits include the Chicago premieres of Pullman Porter Blues; By the Way, Meet Vera Stark; Race; The Good Negro; Proof and The Story; the world premieres of By the Music of the Spheres and The Gift Horse; James Baldwin's The Amen Corner, which transferred to Boston's Huntington Theatre Company, where it won the Independent Reviewers of New England (IRNE) Award for Best Direction; A Raisin in the Sun; Blues for an Alabama Sky; August Wilson's Gem of the Ocean, Two Trains Running and Ma Rainey's Black Bottom; Objects in the Mirror, Having Our Say, Ain't Misbehavin' the 1993 to 1995 productions of A Christmas Carol; Crumbs From the Table of Joy; Vivisections from a Blown Mind and The Meeting.

He served as dramaturg for the Goodman's world-premiere production of August Wilson's Gem of the Ocean. He directed the New York premiere of Knock Me a Kiss and The Hooch for the New Federal Theatre and the world premiere of Knock Me a Kiss at Chicago's Victory Gardens Theater, where his other directing credits include Master Harold... and the Boys, Home, Dame Lorraine and Eden, for which he received a Jeff Award nomination.

Regionally, Mr. Smith directed Death and the King's Horseman (Oregon Shakespeare Festival), Birdie Blue (Seattle Repertory Theatre), Jitney and Gem of the Ocean (Nashville Shakespeare Festival), The Story (Milwaukee Repertory Theater), Blues for an Alabama Sky (Alabama Shakespeare Festival) and The Last Season (Robey Theatre Company). At Columbia College he was facilitator of the Theodore Ward Prize playwriting contest for 20 years and editor of the contest anthologies Seven Black Plays and Best Black Plays. He won a Chicago Emmy Award as associate producer/theatrical director for the NBC teleplay "Crime of Innocence" and was theatrical director for the Emmy-winning "Fast Break to Glory" and the Emmy-nominated "The Martin Luther King Suite".

He was a founding member of the Chicago Theatre Company, where he served as artistic director for four seasons and directed the Jeff-nominated Suspenders and the Jeff-winning musical Po'. His directing credits include productions at Fisk University, Vanderbilt University, Roosevelt University, Eclipse Theatre, ETA, Black Ensemble Theater, Northlight Theatre, MPAACT, Congo Square Theatre Company, The New Regal Theater, Kuumba Theatre Company, Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre, Pegasus Players, the Timber Lake Playhouse in Mt. Carroll, Illinois, the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana, and the University of Wisconsin in Madison. In 2019 he received an Honorary Ph.D. from his alma mater Governors State University and has received lifetime achievement awards from The African-American Arts Alliance of Chicago, the League of Chicago Theaters and the Joseph Jefferson Awards Committee. He is a 2003 inductee into the Chicago State University Gwendolyn Brooks Center's Literary Hall of Fame and a 2001 Chicago Tribune Chicagoan of the Year. He is the proud recipient of the 1982 Paul Robeson Award and the 1997 Award of Merit presented by the Black Theater Alliance of Chicago.

DAWN BACH (Marsha) – has been a proud Ensemble member of American Blues Theater since 1993. Dawn has appeared in numerous Blues productions over the years, including Catch-22, A Stone Carver, On the Waterfront, A Lie of the Mind and Dark at the Top of the Stairs. She served as musical director/composer for Medea and wrote original music for Toys in the Attic, for which she received the After Dark Award for outstanding original music. She has hosted and narrated numerous industrial films and has appeared on the stages of Lifeline, Shakespeare Project of Chicago, Bailiwick, Next, Buffalo Theatre Ensemble, Northlight (Cowgirls, Smoke on the Mountain) and Goodman Theatre (A Christmas Carol). A long-time student of the late Mary Ann Thebus, Dawn is also a trained singer and violinist.

JUSTIN BANKS (J'Taurius, aka Jet) – is thrilled to make his premiere at the American Blues Theater. Recently, he wrote and performed in The Second City's Bob Curry Fellowship production, The Minority Report: What Had Happened Was..., and understudied for The Second City's Black By Popular Demand. Justin is also a former contributing writer for "The Onion." He studied Meisner and Viewpoints at Black Box Acting Studio's "The Academy" and is a recent graduate of Vanderbilt University. He is represented by Gray Talent Group.

DENNIS COCKRUM (Pompey) has been a proud Ensemble member of American Blues Theater since 1988. Shows at Blues include: Bad Moon, written by founding member Rick Cleveland; Desire Under the Elms by Eugene O'Neill; On the Waterfront by Budd Schulberg with Stan Silverman; Tobacco Road by Jack Kirkland; readings for The Commons series. BROADWAY: Frost/Nixon by Peter Morgan. REGIONAL: Dead End by Sidney Kingsley (Ahmanson Theatre, Los Angeles); Lincoln Park Zoo by Richard Strand (Geva Theatre, Rochester, NY); God of Isaac and Mr. 80% both by James Sherman (Victory Gardens, Chicago); Jefferson Citation recipient for Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead by Tom Stoppard (Court Theatre, Chicago); FILM: Uncle Buck, Code of Silence, The Package, Murder by Numbers, Desperate Measures, Extreme Movie, Glimmer Man, Downeast, Gangster Squad, Inherit the Wind, Hail Caesar! TELEVISION: Chicago Med, Malcolm in the Middle, American Dreams, Cheers, Pretty Freekin' Scary, NCIS, Uncle Buck, Star Trek (Next Generation, Voyager, Enterprise), Firefly, King of Queens, Bookie, and seven seasons as Terry Milkovich on Shameless.

JAMES SHERMAN (Ollie) originally from Chicago, was a theatre student at Illinois State University in the 1970s. He began his professional career with The Second City in Chicago and received an M.F.A. degree from Brandeis University. Living in New York in the 1980s, James studied acting with Uta Hagen for five years and had his first professional production as a playwright. He was a founding member of the Playwrights Ensemble of the Tony Award-winning Victory Gardens Theater and had thirteen plays premiered there. He is the author of many plays including Magic Time, The God of Isaac, Beau Jest, Jest a Second!, Romance in D, From Door to Door, Jacob and Jack, The Ben Hecht Show, and Chagall In School. James' plays have been published and are regularly produced by theaters throughout the United States and have also been seen in Canada, Mexico, Australia, Argentina, Brazil, England, Germany, Austria, Turkey, Poland, South Africa, China, and Korea. In the summer of 2008, James wrote and directed the movie of his play, BEAU JEST, starring Lainie Kazan, Seymour Cassel, and Robyn Cohen. James currently teaches classes in Improvisation and American Comedy at DePaul University and Columbia College of Chicago He is a member of The Dramatists Guild of America. jamessherman.com

Fact Sheet

Title:                           Golden Leaf Ragtime Blues

Written by:                Charles Smith

Directed by:              Ensemble Member Chuck Smith                      

Featuring:                  Dennis Cockrum* (Pompey), Dawn Bach* (Marsha), Justin Banks (Jet) and James Sherman (Ollie).       

Creative Team:            Shayna Patel* (scenic), Jared Gooding* (lights), Lily Walls* (costumes & wardrobe supervisor), Rick Sims* (co-sound), Warren Levon* (co-sound), Tyson Carter (properties), Wilson Cain (dramaturg), Richard Lundy* (stage manager), Michael Trudeau* (facilities manager & ME), Nate Walczyk* (production manager) Tom Daniel* (technical director), and Chris Walls (audio supervisor).

*Ensemble member or Artistic Affiliate of American Blues Theater

Dates:                        May 23 – June 29, 2025

Schedule:                   

Wednesdays: 2:00 PM (June 4 &18) & 7:30 PM (May 28 only)

Thursdays: 7:30 PM

Fridays: 7:30 PM

Saturdays: 3:00 PM (June 7, 21, 28) & 7:30 PM (except June 7 & 21)

Sundays: 2:30 PM

Location:                    American Blues Theater, 5627 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago

Ticket prices:              Previews: $25; Regular Run: $45; Opening night with reception: $60

Box office:                   Buy online at www.americanbluestheater.com or by calling (773) 654-3103.

Public Programming and Special Events

American Blues Theater is excited to offer audiences even more ways to engage with artists, neighbors and the larger community through its two programs The Commons and @Home Accessibility Series.

The Commons features readings, live concerts, open mics, game nights, town halls and more at American Blues. The @Home Accessibility Series features readings, live concerts, and town halls from the comfort of home via Zoom. For the most up-to-date programming schedule or to purchase tickets, visit www.americanbluestheater.com. Additional programming will be announced throughout the season.

The upcoming schedule for The Commons series follows:

Piano Man

Performed by Ian Paul Custer & Friends

Sunday, May 25, 2025 at 6:00 PM

An intimate concert featuring Ensemble member Ian Custer performing the hits from Billy Joel, Elton John, Ben Folds, and other male singer/pianists.

Sounds of the Soul

Gospel Music's Anthem of Freedom

Featuring vocalist Marquetta Jackson

Monday, June 16, 2025 at 7:00 PM

Powerful gospel songs of resilience, hope, and triumph that celebrate freedom.

My Amazon Diary

Written and Performed by Rick Cleveland

Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 7:00 PM

Founding Ensemble member Rick Cleveland shares his comic and heartfelt journey through Hollywood, mental illness, and 20 years of online purchases.

The upcoming schedule for @Home series follows:

Inclusion & Allyship

Anti-racism Workshop with Belonging Specialist Tania Richard

Wednesday, May 7 at 6:30 PM Central (via Zoom)

Continuing work of the anti-racism movement, Belonging Specialist & Artistic Affiliate Tania Richard helps attendees with their journey.

Rubber Banned Book Club – Anne Frank's The Diary of a Young Girl

Tuesday, May 27 at 6:30 PM Central (via Zoom)

Featuring readings from The Definitive Edition of The Diary of a Young Girl by Ensemble member Dara Cameron and guest artist Atlie Gilbert.

Blues Views – The Artists of Golden Leaf Ragtime Blues

Tuesday, June 24 at 6:30 PM Central (via Zoom)

A discussion with playwright Charles Smith, director Chuck Smith, and actors Dawn Bach, Justin Banks, Dennis Cockrum, and James Sherman.

About American Blues Theater

Winner of the prestigious National Theatre Company Award from American Theatre Wing (Tony Awards). American Blues Theater is an Ensemble of artists committed to producing new and classic diverse stories that ask the question: "What does it mean to be American?"

The diverse and multi-generational artists have established the second-oldest professional Ensemble theater in Chicago. As of 2024, the theater and artists received 239 Joseph Jefferson Awards and nominations that celebrate excellence in Chicago theater and 44 Black Theatre Alliance Awards. The artists are honored with Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize nominations, Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, Emmy Awards and numerous other accolades. 

The Joffrey Ballet concludes its 69^th season with two-time Tony Award®-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon's enchanting and family-friendly Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Set to Joby Talbot's hallucinatory sound world of sweeping melodies and ticking clocks, the production features vibrant stagecraft and puppetry by Tony Award®-winning designer Bob Crowley, transforming Lewis Carroll's classic tale with a modern twist. The production run has been extended for the first time in the Company's history, with 14 performances across three weekends at the historic Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive, from June 5 to 22, 2025 (originally scheduled to close June 15). 

Based on Carroll's beloved story, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland takes audiences on a magical journey through a fantastical world filled with iconic characters, including the high-strung Queen of Hearts, the entrancing Caterpillar, and the tap-dancing Mad Hatter. Through a seamless fusion of humor, whimsy, and fantasy, Wheeldon makes Wonderland wonderfully real in this audience-favorite dance adventure.

A highlight of the year, the Joffrey is the first American company to bring Wheeldon's whimsical Wonderland to life. Premiering in 2011 at the Royal Opera House in London, the ballet has since toured internationally with some of the world's most prestigious ballet companies.

Renowned for blending popular culture with artistic brilliance, Wheeldon also choreographed The Joffrey Ballet's reimagined holiday classic The Nutcracker, celebrating its 10^th anniversary this year. The Joffrey first collaborated with Wheeldon on Swan Lake in 2014.

"The Joffrey holds a special place in my heart. I can't think of a more fitting U.S. company to premiere Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," says choreographer Christopher Wheeldon. "The Joffrey dancers lead the way in storytelling through dance, approaching choreography with enthusiasm and energy. Their passion allows them to fully inhabit the zany and colorful characters of Wonderland. Each year, I'm in awe of their growth in The Nutcracker; it remains one of my proudest achievements. These dancers are artists of curiosity and great integrity."

The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE said, "Collaborating with Christopher is always extraordinary. We are honored to be the first American company to perform Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, a production that dazzles on every level. This spectacular finale to our record-breaking season bursts with theatricality, whimsical stagecraft, and inspiring design. The versatility, theatricality, and technical prowess of the Joffrey artists will bring the iconic characters of Wonderland to life in the most magical way."

President & CEO Greg Cameron added, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland embodies the Joffrey's commitment to artistic excellence and accessibility. For the first time, we've added four extra performances to expand our Joffrey for All initiatives. These added performances provide more opportunities to engage with our Community Engagement partners and affiliated schools, offering equitable access to arts education for Chicago's youth. Wonderland is a joyful and imaginative showcase of the very best the Joffrey has to offer."

Alice's Adventures in Wonderland features live music performed by the Lyric Opera Orchestra, conducted by Scott Speck, Music Director of The Joffrey Ballet.

Special thanks to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland Producing Sponsor Margot and Josef Lakonishok; Presenting Sponsors Ethel Gofen, The Negaunee Foundation, and Sonja and Conrad Fischer; Major Sponsors Mary Jo and Doug Basler, Dancing Skies Foundation, Mr. and Mrs. Ronald V. Waters III, Audrey Weaver, and the Women's Board of The Joffrey Ballet; Production Sponsors Lynda Sue Lane, M.D., Holly Palmer Foundation, Jeanette Stevens, Richard and Diane Weinberg, and an anonymous Production Sponsor; and Costume Sponsor Jane Ellen Murray Foundation.

Tickets and Schedule
The Joffrey Ballet presents Alice's Adventures in Wonderland from Thursday, June 5–Sunday, June 22, 2025; the full performance schedule is as follows: Thursday, June 5 at 7:30PM; Friday, June 6 at 7:30PM; Saturday, June 7 at 2:00PM and 7:30PM; Sunday, June 8 at 2:00PM; Thursday, June 12 at 7:30PM; Friday, June 13 at 7:30PM; Saturday, June 14 at 2:00PM and 7:30PM; Sunday, June 15 at 2:00PM; Thursday, June 19 at 7:30PM; Friday, June 20 at 7:30PM; Saturday, June 21 at 2:00PM and 7:30PM; Sunday, June 22 at 2:00PM.

Tickets are available for purchase at the Lyric Opera Box Office located at 20 N. Upper Wacker Dr. by telephone at 312.386.8905, or online at joffrey.org.

About The Joffrey Ballet 
The Joffrey Ballet is one of the premier dance companies in the world today, with a reputation for boundary-breaking performances for 69 years. The Joffrey repertoire is an extensive collection of all-time classics, modern masterpieces, and original works.  

Founded in 1956 by pioneers Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, the Joffrey remains dedicated to artistic expression, innovation, and first-rate education and engagement programming. The Joffrey Ballet continues to thrive under The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE and President and CEO Greg Cameron. 

The Joffrey Ballet is grateful for the support of its 2024-2025 Season Sponsors: Abbott Fund, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, The Florian Fund, Gallagher, Anne L. Kaplan, and Live Music Sponsors: Sandy and Roger Deromedi, Sage Foundation, Robert and Penelope Steiner Family Foundation, and The Marina and Arnold Tatar Fund for Live Music. The Joffrey also acknowledges Season Partners: Chicago Athletic Clubs, and Athletico Physical Therapy, official provider of physical therapy for The Joffrey Ballet. 

For more information on The Joffrey Ballet and its programs, visit joffrey.org. Connect with the Joffrey on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. 

Chicago's Rivendell Theatre Ensemble continues to celebrate its 30th Anniversary season with the World Premiere co-production of Keiko Green's GORGEOUS, directed by Kirsten Fitzgerald. The co-production with Raven Theatre runs May 1 - June 7, 2025, at Raven, 6157 N. Clark St. The press opening is Wednesday, May 7, at 7:30pm. The season includes Rivendell's current production of No Such Thing, in a world premiere production by Lisa Dillman, directed by Malkia Stampley. Rivendell continues devising work on the Folded Map Project, Tonika Johnson's groundbreaking work that addresses segregation in Chicago with core artists for a summer writing workshop. Rivendell will also host Tonika's photography in its theatre lobby throughout 2025.

About GORGEOUS

Gorgeous, written by Keiko Green and directed by Kirsten Fitzgerald, features Stephanie Shum (Jenny) and Rivendell Theatre Artistic Director Tara Mallen (Bernie). The creative team includes: Mara Ishihara Zinky (Scenic Designer), Paloma Locsin (Props Designer), Maegan Pate (Costume Designer), Seojung Jang (Lighting Designer), Connor Wang (Sound Designer), Caroline Uy (Dramaturg), and JC Widman (Stage Manager).

Jenny has a simple life; she takes care of the elderly and shows dogs professionally. When her just-a-little-bit-older boyfriend Bill dies suddenly, all Jenny wants is to get rid of his stuff and continue to show his champion Bulldog, GORGEOUS. Enter Bernie, a tornado of a woman. Amid the boxes of things that made up Bill's life, Jenny and Bernie must find a way forward for themselves and the dog.

Tickets are on sale at www.raventheatre.com. 

Rivendell Artistic Director Tara Mallen comments, "We are thrilled to be bringing Keiko Green's fresh and unapologetic voice to Chicago with this co-production between Raven and Rivendell. With Rivendell's continued commitment to amplifying women's voices and Raven's history of championing and producing new work, our combined efforts make for a production that gets at the heart of this world premiere comedy. It has been an absolute delight to share resources with the wonderful artists at Raven and it has served as a great reminder that the truly the best way forward is through collaboration and community."

FACTS:

Dates: May 1 - June 7, 2025

Press Opening: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

Schedule: Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Sundays at 3 p.m.

Running Time: approximately 90 minutes with no intermission

Location: Raven Theatre, 6157 N. Clark St. in Chicago

Tickets: General Admission: $45; Previews $30 (May 1-4).

Discounts for students, seniors, military, and groups of 6 or more, are available. 

Pay-What-You-Can Performances: Saturday, May 3, Thursday, May 8, and Friday, May 23

Box Office: www.raventheatre.com 

ABOUT No Such Thing

The world premiere of No Such Thing by Rivendell Ensemble Member Lisa Dillman and directed by Malkia Stampley continues through April 27, 2025. Tickets are now available at Rivendell Theatre Ensemble, 5779 N. Ridge Avenue in Chicago, (773) 334-7728 or www.RivendellTheatre.org.

Ren was once a sought-after screenwriter. Now in late middle age, her career foundering, she finds herself at a crossroads of social and professional invisibility. Seeking the intimacy that's been missing from her friendly but sexless marriage without capsizing the rest of her life, she begins an intricately constructed affair that blends sex and storytelling. Fact and fiction collide.

No Such Thing looks at the question of what makes a life story and charts the unpredictable changes to that story in a society that tends to downsize women out of some of their most productive years.

The cast of No Such Thing includes RTE member Jessica Ervin (Olivia) with Susan Gosdick (Ren), Matt DeCaro (Ted), Cheryl Hamada (Marilyn) and Josh Odor (Fallon).

The creative team includes Lauren Nichols (Scenic Design), Evelyn Danner (Costume Design), Madeleine Reid (Lighting Design), Ethan Korvne (Sound Design), Lonnae Hickman (Props Designer), Shannon Golden (Production Manager), Kristi Martens (Stage Manager) and Autumn Dancy (Assistant Stage Manager).

Tara Mallen says, "No Such Thing is the absolute embodiment of Rivendell's 30 years of excellence – a new play developed through our Fresh Produce developmental series, featuring contributions from a cadre of genius artists, with a resonant story told from an all too often invisible perspective – a woman over sixty. We are delighted to offer Chicago yet another provocative and surprising work penned by our longtime ensemble member, Lisa Dillman, and cannot imagine a better way to kick off our thirtieth anniversary season!"

Title: No Such Thing

Written by: RTE member Lisa Dillman

Directed by: Malkia Stampley

Featuring: RTE member Jessica Ervin (Olivia) with Susan Gosdick (Ren), Matt DeCaro (Ted), Cheryl Hamada (Marilyn) and Josh Odor (Fallon).

Creative Team: Lauren Nichols (Scenic Design), Evelyn Danner (Costume Design), Madeleine Reid (Lighting Design), Ethan Korvne (Sound Design), Lonnae Hickman (Props Designer), Kristi Martens* (Stage Manager) and Autumn Dancy (Assistant Stage Manager).

Production Sponsor: Michael Litt

Dates: through April 27, 2025

Schedule: Thursdays at 8:00pm; Fridays at 8:00pm; Saturdays at 4:00pm and 8:00pm

Special added performances include: Monday, April 21 at 8:00pm (Industry Night); Sunday, April 27 at 3:00pm (Closing)

Tickets: $39 General Admission

$17 Student, Educators, Military/Veterans, Industry (Limited quantity, first-come, first-served); $28 Seniors; $49 Sponsor Admission (to help us pay artists fair wages by covering the full cost of a seat at the performance); $94 Angel Admission (1 Basic Admission, plus helping to cover discounted or free tickets to people who need them

Membership / Subscription: RIV Pass: $95 (see Rivendell productions and other events as often as desired)

Box Office: (773) 334-7728 or www.RivendellTheatre.org

ABOUT RIVENDELL THEATRE ENSEMBLE

Since 1994, Rivendell Theatre Ensemble has advanced the lives of women through theatre. Rivendell cultivates the talents of women artists—writers, actors, directors, designers and technicians—by seeking out innovative plays that explore unique female experiences and producing them in an intimate salon environment.

Rivendell employs women theatre artists, offers mind-expanding experiences with new voices and perspectives, and sparks dialogue and action on critical issues in the lives of women and their communities.

In our 30-year history, Rivendell has earned 12 Joseph Jefferson Awards and nearly four dozen nominations. We are recognized as a national force in new play development and a home for women theatre artists. We engage about 200 artists and 3,000+ audience members each year through our mainstage season and new work development.

For more information about Rivendell Theatre Ensemble, visit http://rivendelltheatre.org. Follow Rivendell on Facebook at Facebook.com/rivendelltheatre and on Instagram at @rivendelltheatre.

Rivendell Theatre Ensemble is supported by generous grants from: SIF Fund at The Chicago Community Trust; TERRA Foundation for American Art, Paul M. Angell Family Foundation; Shubert Foundation; Illinois Arts Council Agency; Bayless Family Foundation; The Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation; Sarah and the 2 C Dogs and Amazing Edibles.

ABOUT RAVEN THEATRE COMPANY

Raven Theatre tells stories of today and the past that connect us to our cultural landscape. Through its plays, as well as its educational programming, Raven is committed to serving our communities' needs through the arts. Raven Theatre Company is funded in part by The Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, JCCC Foundation, Paul M. Angell Foundation, Polk Bros Foundation, S&C Electric Company Fund, and The Shubert Foundation. This project is partially supported by a CityArts grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. This programming is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency. For more information visit www.raventheatre.com.