The Inspiration Behind the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Million Dollar Gala — Concerts, School and Community Programs

Have you ever stopped to think about why otherwise busy people put extraordinary time and effort into million dollar fundraisers for cultural institutions? The “why” behind their actions is almost always inspiring. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s upcoming Symphony Ball on Oct. 15 is the culmination of the Orchestra’s 125th anniversary season. The organizers of the annual gala intend to raise […]

by Susan B. Noyes

Chicago’s Best Live Music in August (Plus Spotify Playlist)

End your summer on a high note — literally — with Chicago’s must-see live music in August. Don’t miss the hot summer playlist too.  Tall Heights Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Aug. 1 The Boston-based progressive folk duo of singer/guitarist Tim Harrington and singer/cellist Paul Wright deliver understated yet harmoniously emotive music. Their upcoming album “Neptune” arrives Aug. 19, […]

by Lyndsey Havens for Valslist

Best of 2016 Winners!

For the sixth year in a row, our audience has spoken — this year louder than ever before. With more than 168,000 votes across 11 categories, what follows are the best businesses and services in Chicago and around the North Shore. Share your thoughts with us on social media using the hashtag #Bestof2016.

by Make It Better

Best of 2016: Arts & Entertainment

Make It Better’s Best of 2016 drew more than 168,000 votes across 11 categories. Share your thoughts with us on social media using the hashtag #Bestof2016. Best Live Music Venue (Suburbs)  |  Most Beautiful Place to Hear Live Music Ravinia Ravinia is the go-to destination for live music under the stars. 418 Sheridan Road, Highland […]

by Jennifer Speaker

With Summer Season in Full Force, Ravinia Readies for 50th Gala

This summer, Ravinia welcomes not only its usual star-studded lineup but also the 50th year of their annual charity gala. Hosted by the Ravinia Women’s Board, the gala will benefit Reach*Teach*Play, a nonprofit dedicated to engaging underserved communities in music education. For this very special year, Maestro James Levine will also be returning to Ravinia nearly […]

by Jessica Suss

Chicago Shakespeare Theater Raises Record $1.4 Million to Make Arts Accessible

On April 23, 2016 — the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s death — the Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) held its 2016 gala, a vibrant celebration that, through whimsical décor and clever performances, brought the legendary poet back to life. About 500 people attended the event, which raised a record $1.4 million that will benefit CST’s Urban Classrooms […]

by Meghan Streit

Chicago Symphony Orchestra Welcomes Kristin Chenoweth for Corporate Night

Chicago businesspeople on June 20 will experience a night of dinner and entertainment at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s 27th annual Corporate Night, featuring Tony and Emmy award-winning singer and actress Kristin Chenoweth and members of the CSO, led by acclaimed Broadway musical director and conductor Mary Mitchell Campbell. “This is a great opportunity for these corporations […]

by Susan Pasternak