From Brahms v. Radiohead to Beethoven X Beyoncé: How Steve Hackman’s Genre-Bending Mashups Are Reimagining Classical Music

When visionary composer and conductor Steve Hackman woke from a dream pairing history’s greatest symphonist with one of today’s defining pop artists, he had no idea it would lead to a movement redefining the concert experience. That dream becomes reality this fall when Beethoven X Beyoncé debuts at Chicago’s Harris Theater — a one-night-only performance […]

Why Collaboration Is Chicago’s Secret to a Thriving Arts Community

A rare artistic alliance takes center stage in Chicago this fall as Harris Theater for Music and Dance, the Joffrey Ballet, and Chicago Philharmonic come together for Joffrey at the Harris: Matters of the Heart — a five-performance event uniting dance and live orchestral music in Chicago Nov. 6-9. Though the paths of three creative powerhouses have […]

Top 21 Women’s Boards Driving the Future of U.S. Nonprofits

Women make up nearly 75 percent of the nonprofit workforce — yet fewer than 42 percent of nonprofit boards are chaired by women, and only 22 percent of the sector’s largest organizations are led by women. This persistent gender gap, often fueled by entrenched biases and a “glass escalator” effect that propels men faster into […]

Behind the Music That Ignites 'Carmen' — Joffrey Ballet's Bold Season Opener

In a smoky cigarette factory on the brink of civil war, love becomes a battlefield in the The Joffrey Ballet’s U.S. premiere of Liam Scarlett’s Carmen at the Lyric Opera House. Opening the Joffrey’s 70th anniversary season on Sept. 18, 2025, Scarlett’s Carmen brings striking new visual intensity to Georges Bizet‘s iconic score — but it’s the music, […]

Farewell Tours, Reunions, Reinventions: The Who, Paul McCartney, Oasis, and More Rock Royalty Coming to Chicago

Lollapalooza returns to Grant Park this weekend, spotlighting what’s trending now. But some of the most meaningful moments in music this year aren’t about what’s next — they’re about honoring what’s endured. From long-awaited reunions to emotional farewells, this season’s most powerful rock shows are more than concerts — they’re reminders of how music unites […]

31 Best Things to Do in Chicago and the Suburbs in July 2025

July in Chicago means long days, late sunsets, and no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re chasing live music, fireworks, food festivals, or art exhibitions, this month brings the kind of high-energy, culture-packed calendar that makes summer here feel so electric. From classic traditions like the 4th on 53rd Parade to major headliners at Lollapalooza […]