Theater is Ephemeral this October

Don’t assume theater groups will be around forever. Many fine ensembles and companies have folded over the years, for one reason or another. And now, the future of Evanston’s Next Theatre is uncertain. All the more reason to turn out for Next’s current season. Don’t take your favorite local theaters for granted. They need your […]

Pumpkin Palooza: The Complete Pumpkin Product Primer

Cinnamon. Vanilla. Nutmeg. PUMPKIN. ‘Tis the season for pumpkin spice and its myriad permutations. Think you’re a pumpkin fanatic because you started using the #PSL back in August? That’s just the tip of the iceberg. Starbucks may have jumped the gun on official pumpkin season (aka October), but Trader Joe’s, Argo Tea, Target and just […]

Giordano Dance Chicago Premieres Work by Award-Winner Ray Leeper

America’s original jazz dance company returns to its roots with new full-company work. A 12-year-old Ray Leeper took a deep breath, let his nerves settle, and accepted the hand that eventually ushered him onto the dance floor more than 20 years ago. The now award-winning choreographer (“So You Think You Can Dance,” “America’s Got Talent”) […]

Soulful Characters Come to Life in Steppenwolf’s “The Night Alive”

Ghosts and devils often mingle with living human beings in Irish playwright Conor McPherson’s dramas. If there are any supernatural elements in his latest play—which is debatable—they aren’t quite so obvious. But the play is called “The Night Alive,” a title that hints at hidden forces in the darkness. The Chicago premiere of “The Night […]

"Don Giovanni" Updated for Lyric's 60th Anniversary

Voices make the opera, and “Don Giovanni,” Lyric Opera of Chicago’s opening production of its 60th season, had stellar vocal artists to spare. The title role in this Mozart masterpiece is sung by Polish baritone Mariusz Kwiecien, not only a powerful singer, but a formidable embodiment of the aristocrat whose womanizing ways lead to his […]

3 Ways to Skinny Up Everyday Meals

With a few substitutions that will eventually become healthy habits, you can make your meals a whole lot leaner. These changes will increase the nutritional value of your meals, reduce calories, decrease your intake of processed food and will leave you looking and feeling better. Karen Raden  is a registered dietitian in Northbrook. When she […]

Bravo! Goodman Theatre Turns 90

The Goodman Theatre in Chicago celebrates its 90th anniversary this season. It is another milestone for the longest active nonprofit theater in Chicago, and its two stages will be filled with works by established playwrights and some promising comedies by bright new names. Robert Falls, who has been the theater’s artistic director since 1986, reflects […]

4 Productions You Can't Miss This Fall

September is the start of a new season, and Chicago theaters are aiming to make a big impression. Isaac’s Eye Through December 7 While Writers Theatre builds a new Tudor Court venue designed by star architect Jeanne Gang, it will stage two shows this season in its 50-seat space at Books on Vernon—plus a site-specific […]

Top 6 Fall 2014 Beauty Trends

This fall, you’ll see new takes on beauty styles we’ve seen in the past seasons. Think concentrated, rich colors, dewy skin and mod hairstyles. These are our top beauty trends you’ll want to try out immediately! 1. Jewel-Toned Eyes A pop of rich color on lids is striking for fall and beautifully compliments a nude […]

Ask a Vet: Caring for Your Aging Dog

Your feisty, high-energy pooch is starting to show signs of aging. Ensure your dog’s golden years are happy, healthy and pain-free by acknowledging his age and making accommodations to keep him comfortable, active, and wagging his tail. The common belief that dogs age seven years to humans’ one year doesn’t apply to all dogs. Evanston […]