The age-old idiom “it’s a small world” takes on profound meaning in the dance world. What might seem a like niche profession has a global reach, finding its way into even the smallest corners of a dance studio. A young, sensitive boy growing up in France, a British girl fascinated with storytelling, a Ukrainian-born ballet […]
A 10-year-old aspiring fashion designer who is battling cancer got the incredible opportunity to design her own dress with the help of Make-A-Wish and some Disney pros. Inspired by the iconic ball gowns in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Cinderella, Rita wished to step into the world of costume design at Disney. As part of her […]
Over the past two Sundays, Alicia Keys at in her GRAMMY acceptance speech for the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award and Kendrick Lamar through his Super Bowl halftime performance delivered powerful messages about the power of art to inspire future generations and advance social justice. What do the two artists have in common? They’ve both […]
The road to the Harris Theater began in the 1980s, when the performing arts were feverishly alive in Chicago. Dozens of new music, dance, and theater companies emerged while stalwart organizations experienced exciting growth. What the city lacked, however, was adequate space for its mid-size companies — those that had outgrown the storefront venues but […]
February in Chicago may be chilly, but the city and its suburbs offer plenty of ways to warm up with vibrant cultural celebrations, romantic outings, and winter fun. From honoring Black History Month with museum exhibits and performances to planning the perfect Valentine’s Day, this month is packed with reasons to get out and make […]
The devastating wildfires that swept through the Los Angeles area last week, fueled by powerful winds and severe drought conditions, have taken the lives of at least 27 people, destroyed thousands of structures, and forced mass evacuations. The Palisades Fire alone has consumed over 23,000 acres and damaged or destroyed more than 5,300 structures, while […]
A decade of transformative impact was celebrated at ASCENSION, Surge Institute‘s 10th anniversary celebration, which brought together alumni, supporters, and special guests to honor the organization’s decade-long mission of empowering leaders of color in the education sector. Held Nov. 7, 2024 at WildmanBT in Chicago, the evening was a powerful blend of inspiring storytelling, meaningful […]
Garfield Park Conservatory, a 2013 Make It Better Foundation Philanthropy Award Winner, transformed into a one-of-a-kind runway as floral designers unveiled stunning creations made entirely of plants and flowers at the annual FLEUROTICA fundraiser on Oct. 17, 2024. Drawing a sold-out crowd in just nine minutes, the event combined creative artistry with a mission to […]
January in Chicago offers the perfect mix of festive finales and fresh starts. From the last chance to see holiday light displays to cultural exhibitions, performances, and culinary delights, we’re highlighting the best ways to kick off the new year in style with the best things to do in Chicago and the suburbs this month. […]
Photography has the extraordinary power to document, inspire, and connect. As Director of Photography for the Make It Better Foundation, a contributing editor to photography publications around the world, and a photographer with over four decades of experience, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with some of the most talented photographers who have captured the […]
