Music Theatre Company: "The Pajama Game"

Music and pajamas always go well together. Such is the case with The Music Theatre Company‘s production of “The Pajama Game.” When I think musical, I tend to think big and boisterous—not something you would you expect in a smaller theater. This isn’t a problem for director Jess McCloud, along with founding artistic director and […]

Mavis Staples Supports The Womens Health Foundation

It’s a party to celebrate and educate. The Women’s Health Foundation is dedicated to empowering all women to embrace pelvic health, and its annual “Below the Belt” gala has become the fundraiser no one wants to miss. Surprisingly, despite decades of movement toward female equality, more sex education in schools, and the sheer importance of […]

Lookingglass Theatre: "Still Alice"

I think it’s going to be a few weeks before I don’t panic every time I forget where I put my keys. That’s the intensity that Lookingglass Theatre’s world premiere adaptation of Lisa Genova’s novel, “Still Alice” brings to the topic of early-onset dementia. It’s scary, it robs you of all the things you love, […]

Oriental Theatre: "Big Fish"

Musical adaptations of movies don’t have to be “all or nothing” propositions.” But “Big Fish” deserves to be just a little bit … bigger. Chicago-area theater-lovers again have the opportunity to see great entertainment before it hits the stage on Broadway, and this latest world premiere does not disappoint. The book by John August and […]

Chicago Children's Theatre: The Elephant & The Whale

“The Elephant & the Whale” is making a splash at the Ruth Page Center for Performing Arts. The family-friendly performance is produced by the Chicago Children’s Theatre in association with Redmoon Theater. Created by Frank Maugeri, whose past credits include co-creating “The Astronaut’s Birthday” at the MCA, “The Elephant and the Whale” is an innovative, […]

Lifeline Theatre: "The Emperor's New Threads"

Lifeline Theatre’s new production, “The Emperor’s New Threads: A Fashion Statement” is a fun outing for the whole family. The story, based on the folktale by Hans Christian Anderson, has a decidedly 60s flair with colorful costumes, toe-tapping songs and fun dance routines. The play was adapted for stage by ensemble member Frances Limoncelli, who […]

Sail On In to Coast Sushi

For many years, there was Jacky’s Bistro. Then it became, in short order, Jacky’s on Prairie, and the late, lamented Hota. Can the newest tenant finally lift the curse that has hung over this North Evanston location?

Cadillac Palace Theatre: “Catch Me if You Can”

Some shows simply demand attention. When “Les Miserables,” “Wicked,” “Miss Saigon,” or “Memphis,” come through town, those thirsty for water cooler bragging rights don’t think twice about plunking down their credit cards for tickets. The current touring company of last season’s Tony nominee, “Catch Me if You Can,” fails to achieve such can’t-miss status. But […]

Top Chef Alum Opens Siena Tavern

If you’re a Top Chef fan, I’m about to preach to the choir. But I stopped watching it the season Fabio Viviani didn’t win. And it wasn’t just because he was gorgeous, charming, and had an Italian accent I still hear in my dreams. Well… maybe a little bit! But also because his food looked […]