HAPPENINGS
Indiana
May 4 15th Annual Car and Cycle Show, 9am-4pm, Muster Pool Parking Lot, 8837 Calumet Ave, Munster. 219.836.7275. munster.org. Attendees can enjoy a terrific display of more than 20 different car classifications, as well as cycles, competing for trophies at this annual event. Entry forms are available at Munster Town Hall and at local area business sponsors. Additional activities include an arts and crafts fair, a business fair, auto vendors, concessions and music.
May 4-Oct 26 Chesterton’s European Market, 8am-2pm, Broadway & 3rd St, Chesterton. 219.926.5513. dunelandchamber.com. Artists, chefs, merchants and farmers from across Indiana, Michigan and Illinois offer an array of products and services—artisan breads and pastries, boutique creamery cheeses, ethnic foods, meats, spices, oils, rare books, clothing, accessories, jewelry and fresh-from-the-farm produce and flowers—at this market. The day also features food vendors and live performances.
May 16 Lakeshore Public Television 25th Anniversary Celebration, 6:30-9pm, Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza, 800 E 81st St, Merrillville. 219.756.5656 ext.317. lakeshorepublicmedia.org. Lakeshore Public Television celebrates 25 years of providing quality PBS and local programming to Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland with an evening featuring music, food and fun. Highlights include a performance and meet-and-greet by Under the Streetlamp, hors d’oeuvres and more. Apr 19: RSVP deadline.
May 18 Crown Beer Fest, 2-6pm, Lake County Fairgrounds, 889 S Court St, Crown Point. crownbeerfest.com. One general admission tickets earns attendees the chance to sample beers from more than 30 Indiana craft brewers during this annual event. VIP ticket holders can enter at 1 p.m. Attendees must be 21 years or older and present a valid I.D.
May 18-19 Voyageur Rendezvous, 10am-4pm, Grand Kankaee Marsh, 21690 Range Line Rd, Hebron. 219.769.PARK. lakecountyparks.com. During this fun and educational event, visitors travel back more than 250 years when Northwest Indiana was primarily a marshland and learn how Native Americans; French-Canadian canoe men called “Voyageurs” and British and French militia, among others, lived and traded along the Grand Kankakee River. Activities include kids’ games authentic to the time period, historic demonstrations, a tomahawk toss, musical entertainment, merchants’ food and more.
May 19 Shopping Affair Vendor and Craft Show, 10am-4pm, Patrician Banquets, 410 E US 30, Schererville. 219.741.0435. anne-marieprince.com. More than 80 upscale vendors, crafters and direct sellers will fill the banquet hall for a day of shopping. The event also features entertainment, concessions, raffles and more. All admissions, donations and raffles benefit the Humane Society Calumet Area.
May 25 Cobe Car Cup 103rd Anniversary Celebration, 9am-noon registration, 1-2pm cruise, begins at Lake County Fairgrounds, 889 S Court St, Crown Point & ends at American Legion Post 101, E Commercial, Cedar Lake. 219.663.1800. Cars of all makes and models will cruise from the Lake County Fairgrounds in Crown Point, through Cedar Lake, toward Buckley Homestead in Lowell to downtown Lowell in celebration of the Cobe Car Cup’s 103rd Anniversary.
May 25 Jump into Spring Vendor and Craft Show, 9am-2pm, Avalon Manor, 3550 E Rte 30, Merrillville. 219.455.9725. Free and open to the public, this event showcases upscale local and regional vendors, crafters and businesses and features music, entertainment, raffles, door prizes, a kids’ corner and more.
Jun 1-Sept 28 2013 Farmers Market, 8am-1pm Sats, S Main St, Crown Point. 219.662.3290. crownpoint.in.gov/farmers. Produce, cheese, baked goods, flowers, home goods and accessories are available at this weekly farmers market.
Jun 7 20th Annual Beaux Arts Ball, Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.1839 ext. 100. southshoreartsonline.org. This black tie affair features cocktails, dinner and dancing, plus a live and silent auction. All proceeds from the event help support and grow the South Shore Arts everykid program, which provides art opportunities for more than 28,000 children and youths every year.
Jun 13-16 Portage Township Summerfest, Haven Hollow Park, 330 W 700 N, Valparaiso. 219.762.1623 ext. 31. This free festival promises fun for all ages with entertainment on two stages, a carnival, food booths, a beer garden, commercial and craft vendors, and interactive booth activities.
Jun 15 ARTour, Broadway, Calumet Rd & Fourth St, downtown Chesterton. 219.926.4711. chestertonart.com. The public is invited to view and interact with artists as the either outside in downtown Chesterton or inside local businesses.
Jun 15 Valparaiso Wine Festival, 3pm VIP admission, 4-7pm event, Central Park Plaza, W Lincolnway & Lafayette St, Valparaiso. 219.464.8332. valparaisoevents.com. Wine lovers can sample 80 wines and enjoy live music at this festival. Food will be available for purchase and all ticket purchases include an event wine glass and unlimited tastings. VIP tickets include early admission and admission to the VIP tent, where there will be exclusive wine tastings and food parings for the first hour. All tickets are presale and attendees must be 21 to enter with valid ID.
Jun 21-23 Four Winds Invitational, Blackthorn Golf Club, 6100 Nimtz Pkwy, South Bend. 574.232.4653. fourwindsinvitational.com. Professional women golfers from around the world will compete for a total prize of $150,000 at this second annual invitational hosted by Four Winds Casinos. Proceeds from this year’s tournament, part of the Symetra Tour, benefit Memorial Children’s Hospital.
Jun 21-23 Taste of the Region and Arts and Crafts Festival, 11am-10pm Fri-Sat, 11am-6pm Sun, downtown Crown Point. 219.663.1800. crossroadschamber.org. Attendees can enjoy food from local restaurants, browse arts and crafts from local vendors and listen to great live musical entertainment each night.
Jun 22 4th Annual Eat, Shop & Rock, 10am-4pm, Hohman Ave & Williams St, Hammond. 219.937.0111. downtownhammond.org. Hosted by the Downtown Hammond Council, the this sidewalk sale and fest celebrates the 60s, 70s and The Beatles and features a wide array of vendors; singing, look-a-like and trivia contests; live music; vintage cars; delicious food and more.
Jun 29-30 Garden Walk, 9am-5pm walk, Lowell. 11am-1pm lunch, Gardens on the Prairie, 3242 W 169th Ave, Lowell. 219.690.0911, 219.696.8282. lowellgardenclub.com. The Lowell Garden Club presents their 17th annual garden walk, featuring a stroll through some of the town’s most beautiful gardens with a garden luncheon held at Gardens on the Prairie.
Michigan
Ongiong Touring Grand Rapids, 7-9pm, downtown Grand Rapids. 615.510.3599. squarepegevents.com. Presented by Grand Rapids Downtown Alliance and Square Peg Events, this new series of downtown walking tours features food and beverage sampling, culture and fun. The tours offer an opportunity for residents and out-of-towners to explore all that downtown Grand Rapids has to offer and enjoy a bit of education, all in a fun group setting. Mar 26: Mini Martini March; Apr 16: Down Under Gems Tour; Apr 30: W(h)ine Not Tour.
Through May 4 Indoor Farm Market in South Haven, 11am-3pm Sat, Foundry Hall, 422 Eagle St, South Haven. 269.543.4658. southhaven.org. Produce and baked goods will be available for sale at this indoor farm market.
Mar 30-May 25 Horse Drawn Trolley, Elm & State, downtown St. Joseph. Trolley riders can enjoy the clip-clop of hooves hitting the brick road mingled with the jangling of harnesses as a large Percheron pulls the trolley along the streets. Trolley rides offered weather permitting.
Apr 28-Sept 29 Allegan Antiques Market, 8am-4pm, last Sun of every month, Allegan County Fairgrounds, 150 Allegan Co Fair Dr, Allegan. 616.735.3333. alleganantiques.com. Antique hunters can browse the wares of nearly 400 antique dealers—including furniture, jewelry, collectibles, rugs and linens, silver and more—at this indoor-outdoor market.
May 4 Round Barn Sangria de Mayo, Round Barn Winery, 10983 Hills Rd, Baroda. 800.716.9463. roundbarnwinery.com. All are invited to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Round Barn Winery’s new 2013 sangria, tasty DiVine rum cocktails, a mouth-watering taco bar from Cravings Bistro and Pub and a full line-up of Round Barn wines, brews and spirits.
May 5-Oct 6 Antiques on the Bluff, 10am-5pm, first Sun of every month, Lake Bluff Park, downtown St. Joseph. 269.985.1111. stjoetoday.com. This annual fair on the shores of Lake Michigan is a premier event for antiquers, featuring more than vendors from around the Midwest.
May 8 Great Gardens Party, 5:30pm, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 E Beltline Ave, NE, Grand Rapids. 888.957.1580. meijergardens.org. The signature spring fundraising event supporting the gardens and sculpture park, this gardens-themed party features a delicious sit-down dinner and a selection of beer and wine, as well as live and silent auction where guests can bid on rare plants, high-quality artwork and unique VIP experiences—including private dinners, international and domestic vacations, concert tickets and more.
May 17 All Aboard! 5:30pm, downtown St. Joseph. stjosephpublicart.com. Visitors will be transported on an unforgettable journey when a fleet of planes, trains and helicopters pull into downtown St. Joseph. This event features the unveiling of 26 sculptures decorated by area artists, as well as other festivities. The sculptures will remain on display through Sept 28.
May 17-18 New Buffalo Spring Sidewalk Sales, downtown New Buffalo. newbuffalo.org. A variety of retail shops throughout downtown New Buffalo will showcase new summer trends in clothing and accessories, as well as end of the season bargains, and participating businesses—shops, restaurants, lodging and attractions—will offer something extra special Friday and Saturday.
May 18 BBQ, Blues and Bluegrass, 1-8pm, Whirlpool Centennial Field, downtown St. Joseph. stjoetoday.com. This event celebrates spring and features live music from local blues bands Slim Gypsy Baggage, Sugar Blue Band and SteelDrivers; craft beer and regional wines and local BBQ.
May 23-Aug 29 Riverfront Concert Series, 7pm Thus, Riverfront Park on Water St, South Haven. 269.637.0772. south-haven.com. During this summer long concert series, concert-goers can experience a variety of musical performances—including jazz, classical, folk and contemporary—while enjoying views of boats traveling on the river and fantastic sunsets over the lake. Concerts are free to the public and attendees should bring their own lawn chair or blanket, as well as a light coat.
Jun 13 Festival of Cars, downtown South Haven. 269.637.0345. southhaven.com. The entire family can enjoy this fun event featuring a variety of cars. Admission is free for spectators but donations are accepted. The event also features a silent auction and t-shirt sale to benefit Hunt for a Cure, which targets Cystic Fibrosis.
June 13-15 Artigras, 11am-6pm, Whittaker & Merchant Sts, downtown New Buffalo. newbuffalo.org. This second annual event offers original works of art in all mediums—paintings, sculptures, glass, photography, drawings, jewelry, fiber, wood, ceramics, mixed media and furniture—from more than 130 juried artists from around the world, as well as a select group of Harbor Country artists. The event also features live entertainment, artist demonstrations, activities for kids, great food and more.
Jun 13-16 Waterfront Festival, South Haven. 269.767.8765. waterfrontfilm.org. The shores of Lake Michigan come alive with filmgoers, actors, producers and directors during this three-day festival. Audiences can enjoy screenings of outstanding independent films from across the United States in casual, intimate settings. Films and events will be announced in late May.
Jun 15 Lake Michigan Shore Wine Festival, noon-10pm, Weko Beach, Bridgman. lakemichiganshorewinetrail.com. Wine and sun lovers will enjoy this annual event featuring samples of wonderful Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail locally-gown-and-produced varietals, live music and cuisine from local restaurants, all on the shores of the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan.
June 15 Rhumbline Regatta, 9-10am check-in, noon race, St. Joseph River Yacht Club, 1 Lighthouse Ln, St. Joseph. 269.983.6393. sjryc.com. This single race yacht regatta has four divisions and a five-hour maximum time limit. A party follows the race, with delicious food served riverside and awards presented to the top three bats in each section, plus music and entertainment to follow.
Illinois
Ongoing Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Hop-on Hop-off Signature Tour, beginning at 9am, various designated stops. Chicago. chicagotrolley.com. 773.648.5000. Available year-round and covering 13 miles with 14 stops, this tour takes passengers to Skydeck Chicago, the famed museum campus (Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium), the historic Chicago Theater, Millennium Park, Water Tower Place, The Art Institute, Navy Pier and the John Hancock Observatory.
Ongoing Randolph Street Market, 10am-5pm, last full weekend of every month except Dec, Plumbers Hall, 1340 W Washington St, Chicago. 312.666.1200. chicagoantiquemarket.com. This European-style, indoor-outdoor urban antique market features 200 select purveyors of high quality, amazingly priced “finds”—including furnishings, vintage clothing, jewelry, collectibles and more.
Through May 10 Lincoln Park Conservatory’s Spring Flower Show, 9am-5pm, Lincoln Park Conservatory, 2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago. chicagoparkdistrict.com. Visitors can experience the beauty of spring before the weather even begins to warm up at this free annual flower show. Featured flowers include the direct descendants of the great azaleas that once bloomed at the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 and spring flowering annuals and perennials.
May 4 Steppenwolf’s Gala 2013, Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N Halsted, Chicago. 312.654.5632. steppenwolf.org. Members of Steppenwolf’s acclaimed ensemble reunite for this gala, serving as hosts for an exclusive 30-minute performance, an elegant cocktail reception and intimate seated dinner, an exciting live auction featuring extraordinary adventures with the artists, a live rock band and DJ and dancing with a chic after-hours lounge. The gala benefits the theater, allowing it to produce ambitious plays, impact a young audience through educational programs and more.
May 14 A Taste for the Arts—Annual Gala, 6pm performance; 7:30pm gala & chef event, Harris Theater at Millennium Park, 205 E Randolph, Chicago. atasteforthearts.org. This highly anticipated event includes a performance from Chicago Academy for the Arts’ emerging artists, an exclusive dining experience on the Millennium Park Terrace with dazzling cuisine from an array of Chicago’s most talent chefs, a live and silent auction, a raffle, music, and more. Funds raised benefit Chicago Academy for the Arts’ programs and scholarships.
May 16 22nd Annual Chicago Benefit Dinner, 5:30pm, Hyatt Regency Chicago’s Grand Ballroom, 151 E Wacker Dr, Chicago. 312.345.3232. facinghistory.org. This business-attire event begins with a cocktail reception, followed by dinner and a program featuring alumni from Facing History and Ourselves classrooms. The dinner benefits international educational nonprofit Facing History and Ourselves.
May 17 Voices of a Creative State Benefit Luncheon, Hilton Chicago, 720 S Michigan Ave, Chicago. 312.855.3105 ext 12. Artsalliance.org. Arts Alliance Illinois’ inaugural benefit luncheon features a presentation by world-renowned cellist and Chicago Symphony Orchestra Judson and Joyce Green Creative Consultant, Yo-Yo Ma, about the powerful role that arts can and should play in the civic life of Illinois.
May 18-19 Green Festival, 10am-6pm Sat, 11am-5pm Sun, Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago. greenfestivals.org. Green Festival features all things green—including an organic, vegetarian and vegan food court; eco-fashion exhibits; hands-on DIY workshops; live music; an organic beer and wine garden; keynote presentations and a nationally renowned green marketplace with products and services from local and national green and sustainable businesses and organizations.
May 31-June 2 Millennium Art Festival, 11am-5pm Fri, 10am-5pm Sat-Sun, Lake St & Michigan Ave, Chicago. choosechicago.com. Located in the heart of downtown, this annual art festival offers original works from more than 130 acclaimed artists in every medium—including ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, sculptures, mixed media, painting, drawing, photography, wood and furniture. The event also features live music and festival fare from neighborhood restaurants.
Jun 8 Shedd Aquarium Gala 2013, 6pm-midnight, John G. Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. sheddaquarium.org/gala. Chicago’s most prominent philanthropic leaders will gather for a night of cocktails, dinner, entertainment and dancing at the aquarium’s annual black tie gala. Keeping in line with this year’s theme, Be like Bond—The Stingray Affair, the event promises an action-packed, cinematic experience for attendees.
Jun 13 A Summer Soirée with Gwyneth Paltrow, 6-10pm, The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, 160 E Pearson St, Chicago. 312.846.2072. siskelfilmcenter.org. The Gene Siskel Film Center of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago hosts an evening to celebrate the work of Academy Award-winner Gwyneth Paltrow and honor her with its prestigious Renaissance Award.
EXHIBITIONS
Indiana
Through May 12 Drawing to Conclusion, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W Second St, Michigan City. 219.874.4900. lubeznikcenter.org. This exhibit showcases the varied content, style and scale of eight contemporary Midwestern artists—Rick Lange, Christina Mrozik, Jennifer Nelson, Olivia Petrides, Monica Rezman, Lynn Retson, Matt Woodward and Monica Wulfurs. Also, through May 12: Line of Thought.
Through May 12 Line of Thought, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W Second St, Michigan City. 219.874.4900. lubeznikcenter.org. Members of the Area Artists Association interpret Line of Thought in a variety of mediums—including drawing, painting and photography—at this exhibit. Also, through May 12: Drawing to Conclusion; May 18-Jul 28: Construction Sites and Body Language.
Through Jun 2 A Trip through the Studebaker Factory, Studebaker National Museum, 201 S Chapin St, South Bend. 574.235.9714. studebakermuseum.org. Recreated from images from the museum’s archives, this exhibit replicates how the South Bend plant appeared during its peak period in the early 1950s and visitors can see the methods and materials used to build Studebaker automobiles. Also, through Apr 28: Studebaker at the Brickyard.
Through Jun 23 16th and 17th Century Old Master Works on Paper, The Snite Museum of Art, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame. 574.631.5466. sniteartmuseum.nd.edu. This exhibit is the culmination of student coursework completed during the 2013 spring semester and also features selections from the museum’s collection of Old Master prints and drawings. Also, through May 19: 2013 Thesis Exhibition by BFA and MFA Candidates.
Through Jun 30 Civil War Memorial Exhibit, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Dr, Hammond. 800.255.5253. southshorecva.com. Photos, artifacts and reproductions of Northwest Indiana Civil War regimental battle flags tell the story of the Lake, Porter and LaPorte County men who fought to preserve the Union and end slavery at this historical exhibit commemorating the 150th anniversary of the anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg.
Through Aug 19 Bird Exhibition, Dunes Learning Center, 700 Howe Rd, Chesterton. 219.395.9555. duneslearningcenter.org. This exhibit by artist Melissa Washburn features a series of mixed media pieces depicting some of the migratory bird species that can be seen in the Dunes area of Northwest Indiana.
May 18-Jul 28 Construction Sites, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W Second St, Michigan City. 219.874.4900. lubeznikcenter.org. The established and emerging national and international contemporary photographers participating in this exhibition are not still-life photographers. They are set designers, lighting engineers and casting directors who do not arrange and take pictures of scenery and objects but make them. Also, through May 12: Drawing to Conclusion and Line of Thought; May 18-Jul 28: Body Language.
Michigan
Through May 19 Sight and Feeling—Photographs by Ansel Adams, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, 314 S Park St, Kalamazoo. 269.349.7775. kiarts.org. This exhibition of Ansel Adams’ Photographs from the KIA collection and local collectors suggests how the artist’s intuitive and emotional response to the landscape resulted in powerful and enduring photographs. Also, through May 26: Reflections—African American Life from the Myrna Colley-Lee Collection; through Jun 9: The Arts of China and Japan—Selections from the Collection; Apr 20-May 8: Young Artists of Kalamazoo County; May 18-Jun 19: High School Area Show 2013.
Apr 19-Jun 2 Bryan Whitney—Radio Flora, Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve, 13988 Range Line Rd, Niles. 269.695.6491. fernwoodbotanical.org. A photographer/artist and Michigan native now living and working in New York City, Bryan Whitney creates delicate x-rayed botanicals that transform familiar organic forms—including cherry blossoms, tulips, and roses—into unfamiliar, ethereal, dreamy works of art that bring new excitement to the garden experience. Also, through Apr 14: Great Lakes Chapter of the Guild of Scientific Illustrators Exhibition.
Through Jul 7 Titanic—The Artifact Exhibition, Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St NW, Grand Rapids. 616.929.1700. grmuseum.org. This exhibit features more than 150 artifacts conserved from the Titanic’s debris field. The exhibit focuses on the compelling human stories and offers visitors a poignant look at this iconic ship and its passengers.
Mar 22-Apr 28 Building Blocks Exhibit, South Haven Center for the Arts, 600 Phoenix St, South Haven. 269.637.1041. southhavenarts.org. Showcasing the artistic talents of elementary students in the South Haven area, this annual exhibit features two galleries of vibrant colors of a child's imagination. The exhibit is part of the South Haven Center for the Arts’ Community Outreach Program’s mission to enhance the experience of school-age children.
May 24-Aug 25 Looking East, Facing West—The World of Zhang Huan, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 E Beltline Ave, NE, Grand Rapids. 888.957.1580. meijergardens.org. Among the most prodigious and insightful artists working today, Chinese artist Zhang Huan is a sculptor, painter, photographer and performance and installation artist. This exhibit explores the world of Zhang Huan with sculptures, paintings and photographs. Also, through Oct: Bernar Venet at Meijer Gardens; May 25-26: Iris Show; Jun 22-23: Spring Rose Show; Jun 28-30: Standard Flower Show.
Jun 8-Aug 31 West Michigan Area Show 2013, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, 314 S Park St, Kalamazoo. 269.349.7775. kiarts.org. This annual juried exhibition showcases the work of West Michigan area artists from a 14-county region. Also, through May 26: Reflections—African American Life from the Myrna Colley-Lee Collection; through Jun 9: The Arts of China and Japan—Selections from the Collection; through Jun 23: Sight and Feeling—Photographs by Ansel Adams; May 18-Jun 9: High School Area Show 2013; Jun 22-Sept 15: Modern Twist—Contemporary Japanese Bamboo Art; Jun 22-Sept 15: A Precious Artistic Moment—Paintings by Catherine Hinkle; Jun 29-Sept 29: For and Against Modern Art—The Armory Show + 100.
Jun 7-Jul 21 Sculpture and Works on Paper by Caroline Lee, Krasl Art Center, 707 Lake Blvd, St. Joseph. 269.983.0271. krasl.org. American expatriate sculptor Caroline Lee’s monumental body of work in steel, aluminum and bronze are on display at this exhibit. Her sculptures and drawings encapsulate sleek futuristic aesthetics as well as dynamic expressionism. Also, through Jun 2 The Floating World—Ukiyo-e Prints from the Lauren Rogers Museum of Art.
Illinois
Opens Mar 14 Animal Inside Out, Museum of Science and Industry, 57th St and Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. 773.947.3133. msichicago.org. This exhibit explores the intricate biology and physiology of some of the world’s most spectacular creatures—from goats and giraffes to octopuses and ostriches. From creator of the trailblazing BODY WORLDS exhibitions, anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens, this exhibit showcases more than 100 animal specimens that have been preserved through the process of plastination, which replaces the body's fluids with plastics to incredibly detailed effect.
Begins May 17 Cosmic Wonder, Adler Planetarium, 1300 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. 312.922.7827. adlerplanetarium.org. The newest adventure at the Adler takes audiences on a mind-blowing tour of space, a billion light-years and back. Audiences will orbit the Moon, zoom into a canyon on Mars and soar through the cosmic web where a million galaxies shower down on them.
Through Jun 2 Destroy the Picture—Painting the Void, 1949-1962, Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago. 312.280.2660. mcachicago.org. Created post-World War II, the works in this exhibit respond to the physical and psychological destruction wrought by the war as artists ripped, cut, burned and affixed objects to the canvas in lieu of paint. The exhibit features approximately 100 works by artists from eight countries. Also, through Apr 7: Goshka Macuga—Exhibit, A; through Apr 28: Color Bind—The MCA Collection in Black and White; through May: MCA Chicago Plaza Project—Martin Creed; through May 5: William Kentridge; through May 12: Akram Zaatari; Mar 19-Jun 18: Jason Lazarus; Apr 27-Aug 11: Amalia Pica.
Through Jun 16 Fashion and The Field Museum Collection: Maria Pinto, The Field Museum, 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. 312.922.9410. fieldmuseum.org. This presentation showcases clothing designs from the museum’s collections, selected by esteemed Chicago fashion designer Maria Pinto, whose works are also featured. Also, through Jun 9: Images of Afterlife.
Through Aug 4 Sharing Space—Creative Intersections in Architecture and Design, The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago. 312.629.6635. artic.edu/aic. From the powerful effect of color to the rigor of geometry, this exhibit presents architecture and design works that reveal common concepts and strategies across interwoven fields. Also, through May 12: Irving Penn—Underfoot, Picasso and Chicago and When Collecting Was New—Photographs from the Robert A. Taub Collection; through Aug 25: Late Roman and Early Byzantine Treasures from the British Museum; through Apr 28: Project Projects—Test Fit and Recent Acquisitions of Textiles, 2004-2011; through May 5: Danh Vo—We the People (detail), 2010-2013; through Jun 18: Cy Twombly—Sculpture Selections, 1948-1995; through Jun 23: Spot the Dog—Paw Prints!; through June 2: The Artist and the Poet and They Seek a City—Chicago and the Art of Migration, 1910-1950; through Aug 11: Kara Walker—Rise Up Ye Mighty Race!
Through Sept 8 Creatures of Light—Nature’s Bioluminescence, The Field Museum, 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. 312.922.9410. fieldmuseum.org. From glowworms to deep-sea fishes, this exhibit features the mysterious and magical world of bioluminescence. Visitors can discover the thousands of living organisms that blink, glow, flash and flicker. Also, through Jun 9: Images of Afterlife; through Jun 16: Fashion and The Field Museum Collection—Maria Pinto; through Sept 8: Scenes from the Stone Age—The Cave Paintings of Lascaux.
Apr 27-Aug 11: Amalia Pica, Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago. 312.280.2660. mcachicago.org. The artist’s first major solo museum show in the U.S., this exhibit includes many of Amalia Pica’s most significant recent works and new commissions—including drawings, sculptures, large-scale photographic prints, slide projections, live performances and installations. Also, through Apr 28: Color Bind—The MCA Collection in Black and White; through May: MCA Chicago Plaza Project—Martin Creed; through May 5: William Kentridge and Akram Zaatari; through Jun 2: Destroy the Picture—Painting the Void; through Jun 18: Jason Lazarus; May 18-Sept 29: Chicago Conceptual Abstraction; May 18-Oct 6: Theaster Gates—13th Ballad; May 18-Nov 10: Think First, Shoot Later—Photography from the MCA Collection; May 25-Sept 8: Gaylen Gerber.
Opens May 17 Cosmic Wonder, Adler Planetarium, 1300 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. 312.922.7827. adlerplanetarium.org. During Adler Planetarium’s new immersive space experience, the world’s most technologically advanced dome theater transforms into a virtual observatory, allowing viewers to see stunning space visuals in a new way. This live show tells the compelling story of how, through time, humans have pieced together an understanding of the cosmos and invites audiences to ask questions and help scientists unlock modern mysteries of the unknown.
FILM
Indiana
Cinemark at Valparaiso, 700 Porter’s Vale Blvd, Valparaiso. 800.326.3264, 219.464.0260. cinemark.com. Playing new releases as well as the Cinemark Classic Series, Cinemark is the leading motion picture exhibitor. Cinemark at Valparaiso features roomy stadium seating and RealD 3D and digital presentations for an all-around quality movie viewing experience.
Portage 16 IMAX, 6550 US Hwy 6, Portage. 219.764.7569. portage16imax.com. The brand-new Portage 16 IMAX showcases blockbusters as well as electrifying 3D films that are uniquely suited to the IMAX format. With projected images up to eight stories high and a spectacular, wraparound digital surround-sound system, this theater offers a total-immersion moviegoing experience.
Michigan
The Vickers Theatre, 6 N Elm St, Three Oaks. 269.756.3522. vickerstheatre.com. Home of the annual “Sound of Silents Film Festival,” this painstakingly restored turn-of-the-century art house screens a variety of notable independent films. A lofty, two-story gallery space, showcasing the works of Midwestern artists, is open to the public before and between shows. Further enhancing its art-house cachet, the Vickers hosts live music, performance art and poetry readings on its stage.
Illinois
The Gene Siskel Film Center, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 164 N State St, Chicago. 312.846.2600. siskelfilmcenter.org. This film center-renamed in 2000 for its most passionate supporter, the late film critic Gene Siskel-has been exhibiting critically acclaimed, as well as entertaining “motion picture art” in its state-of-the-art facilities since its inception in 1972. Presenting more than 100 films each month, the center showcases cutting-edge, independent features and classic revivals, as well as premieres of new American and foreign films. From hosting the “Annual Festival of Films from Iran” to The Grapes of Wrath, the diverse offerings have quality in common. A focus on education is supported by guest lecturers, discussions and courses, and film-related exhibits can be viewed at the on-site gallery/café.
PERFORMANCE
Indiana
Chicago Street Theater, 154 W Chicago St, Valparaiso. 219.464.1636. chicagostreet.org. Now in its 58th season of bringing live theatrical entertainment to the greater Northwest Indiana region, the CST presents a variety of plays and musicals each season, in addition to regularly scheduled theater classes for both adults and children. Apr 12-27: The Graduate. May 10-18: A Picasso; May 24-Jun 8: A View from the Bridge.
DeBartolo Performing Arts Center, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame Campus. 574.631.2800. performingarts.nd.edu. The state-of-the-art, 150,000-square-foot facility, newly opened in 2004, is host to some of the world’s most celebrated artists. In addition, its stages showcase student, faculty and community performers, as well as the South Bend Symphony Orchestra, Southold Dance, the Notre Dame Symphony, the South Bend Civic Theatre, and more. Apr 6: Stradivari Quartet; Apr 7: Kristian Olesen; Apr 14: Tricia Park and Conor Hanick and Anna Cooper Sacred Music Voice Recital; Apr 17-21: Intimate Apparel; Apr 20: Eileen Ivers and Immigrant Soul; Apr 26: James Crawford Wiley Sacred Music Recital; Apr 27: Aaron Kortze Sacred Music Student Organ Recital. Apr 28: Notre Dame Band Chamber Ensembles Concert and Notre Dame University Band Spring Concert; Apr 30: Notre Dame Jazz Bands Spring Concert and ND Playwrights Now!; May 4: Nathan Gunn; May 10: Wait Wait . . . Don’t Tell Me!; May 16: This House; May 17: Notre Dame Band Graduation Concert; May 18: Notre Dame Glee Club Commencement Concert.
Footlight Players, 1705 Franklin St, Michigan City. 219.874.4035. footlightplayers.org. This community theater group has been entertaining audiences in Michigan City for more than 50 years with its productions of dramas, comedies and musicals. Apr 5-7, 11-14: Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.
Horseshoe Casino, 777 Casino Center Dr, Hammond. 866.711.7463. horseshoehammond.com. World-class gambling and top-name entertainment combine to create an unprecedented experience at this 350,000-square-foot casino. The Venue, the casino’s 90,000-square-foot entertainment facility, hosts some of the hottest Chicagoland entertainment. Apr 27: Jason Alexander; May 3: The Whispers; May 25: Hong Ngoc.
LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra, performances in LaPorte and Michigan City, 614 Lincolnway, LaPorte. 219.362.9020. lcso.net. This exciting orchestra offers a variety of concerts throughout the season, including classical, pops, chamber, children’s and family. Apr 20: Trumpet Invasion (LaPorte Civic Auditorium, 1001 Ridge St, LaPorte).
The Memorial Opera House, 104 E Indiana Ave, Valparaiso. 219.548.9137. mohlive.com. This renovated, 364-seat building—with red, white and blue stained-glass windows—was built as a living memorial to the Civil War veterans of Porter County. Built in 1893, the theater has a rich history as a venue for musical and dramatic performances. Apr 19-21: Gypsy.
The Morris Performing Arts Center, 211 N Michigan St, South Bend. 574.235.9190, 800.537.6415. morriscenter.org. The home of the Broadway Theatre League, the South Bend Symphony Orchestra and the Southold Dance Theater, the 2,560-seat Morris Performing Arts Center has enraptured audiences in the heart of downtown South Bend for more than 75 years. Apr 6: South Bend Symphony Orchestra’s British Heritage; Apr 9: Celtic Woman—Believe; Apr 27: South Bend Symphony Orchestra’s German Heritage; Apr 28: Brian Regan—Live in Concert.
Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra, various venues. 219.836.0525. nwisymphony.org. Conducted by the charismatic Kirk Muspratt, this professional orchestra performs concerts that range in atmosphere from the whimsical pops series to the edifying and inspirational maestro series, many of which offer pre-concert discussions with the conductor an hour before the concert. Apr 12: Mahler 2 (The Auditorium at Bethel Church, 10202 Broadway, Crown Point).
Star Plaza Theatre, I-65 & US 30, Merrillville. 219.769.6600. starplazatheatre.com. With 3,400 seats arranged in two intimate seating levels, the theater consistently hosts premier performers year-round. With its convenient location in the heart of Northwest Indiana’s shopping and dining district and its proximity to the adjoining Radisson Hotel, the Star Plaza offers a total entertainment package to area theatergoers. Apr 18: Indiana Ballet Theatre’s Cinderella. May 3: George Lopez; May 8-12: Sesame Street Live—Elmo Makes Music; May 16: Ted Nugent.
The Theatre at the Center, Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3255. theatreatthecenter.com. This theater, just 35 minutes from downtown Chicago, has the distinction of being the only professional equity theater in Northwest Indiana, and showcases the artistry of professional actors, musicians and designers from throughout the Midwest. Apr 25-Jun 2: What a Glorious Feeling.
Towle Community Theater, 5205 Hohman Ave, Hammond. 219.937.8780. towletheater.org. To honor its mission of nurturing and celebrating local talent in the arts, the Towle Community Theater presents exhibitions, theatrical productions and musical performances in the heart of downtown Hammond. Apr 11, 13: Laughing Stock; May 3-5, 9-11, 17-19: Jewtopia.
Michigan
The Acorn Theater, 6 N Elm St, Three Oaks. 269.756.3879. acorntheater.com. The 250-seat Acorn is home to a carefully reconstructed, rare Barton Theater Pipe Organ and boasts bistro tables and occasionally offbeat entertainment options. Apr 13: Casey Abrams; May 25: Livingston Taylor.
Box Factory for the Arts, 1101 Broad St, St. Joseph. 269.983.3688. boxfactoryforthearts.org. The Berrien Artist Guild has converted an old box factory into a multidisciplinary arts resource, housing galleries, studios, an art shop and a café. Visitors also can take advantage of the Box Factory as an entertainment venue, attending stage performances by singers, musicians, poets and actors. Apr 13: Doc Hosler and The Rusty Nails; Apr 20: The Natch'l Blues; April 27: Susan Harrison; May 4: Gina Mc Laughlin; May 11: The Women of Riversong; Jun 1: Lomax Big House; June 8: The Men of Riversong; Jun 15: A Concert of Portraits and Landscapes; Jun 22: Lake Effect Jazz Big Band; Jun 29: An Evening of Sinatra.
Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra, DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids. 616.454.9451 ext 4. grsymphony.org. Recognized as one of America’s leading regional orchestras, this Grammy-nominated symphony provides the orchestra for Opera Grand Rapids and the Grand Rapids Ballet Company. The orchestra’s eight concert series with performances designed for young children through adults feature a wide range of repertoire. Apr 12-13: Boléro; Apr 14: The Listener; Apr 19-21: Cirque Mechanics; Apr 26-27: Bach’s St. John Passion. May 10-11: Beethoven’s Solemn Mass; May 16-17: Beethoven Symphony No. 6; May 17: New Horizons.
Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra, various venues. 269.349.7759. kalamazoosymphony.com. Founded in 1921, this outstanding ensemble entertains the Kalamazoo area with a classical subscription series, annual holiday presentations, chamber orchestra concerts, free summer park concerts and various educational programs. Apr 19: Carmina Burana (Miller Auditorium, 2200 Auditorium Dr, Kalamazoo). May 5: Peter and the Wolf (Chenery Auditorium, 714 S Westnedge, Kalamazoo).
The Livery, 190 5th St, Benton Harbor. 269.925.8760. liverybrew.com. As its name suggests, the Livery is a former horse stable, residing in the Arts District of downtown Benton Harbor. Not content to just offer its twelve taps of microbrew, an outdoor beer garden, an appetizing soup and sandwich menu, and a coffee bar, the Livery is also a venue for an eclectic variety of musical performances. Apr 6-7: Gun Metal Black. Apr 13: Chuck Jagers and Slim Gypsy Baggage; May 10: Anne Hills.
Silver Creek Event Center, Four Winds Casino, 11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo. 866.494.6371. fourwindscasino.com/events. The Silver Creek Event Center is a 1,500-seat, multi-use facility that is located next to the casino floor. In addition to hosting concerts, the 70,000-square-foot event center can be reconfigured to host a variety of meetings, special events, conferences and banquets. Apr 12: USBA Light Heavyweight Championship Title Bout; Apr 19: Robert Irvine; May 10: Tower of Power; May 24: Smashmouth; May 30: Fuel; May 31: Huey Lewis and the News.
Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra, various venues. 269.982.4030. smso.org. This versatile orchestra offers a traditional Mendel Mainstage Series, small ensemble works in the Around Town Series, and the Performing Artists series, which showcases a wide range of styles with guest artists. Apr 6: All Beethoven Concert. May 11: Northern Lights (LMC Mendel Center Mainstage, 2755 E Napier Ave, Benton Harbor).
Van Andel Arena, 130 W Fulton, Grand Rapids. 616.742.6600. vanandelarena.com. Ranked second on Billboard Magazine’s 2003 Top 10 Arena Venues for its size, this $75 million 12,000-plus capacity arena offers world-class family shows, concerts and sporting events to the increasingly popular Grand Rapids area. Apr 3: Kid Rock. Apr 25: Kenny Chesney; May 14: Ted Nugent, REO Speedwagon and Styx.
West Michigan Symphony, Frauenthal Center for Performing Arts, 425 W Western Ave, Muskegon. 231.727.8001. westmichigansymphony.org. With eight pairs of concerts a year, the West Michigan Symphony has played a leading role in the region’s cultural community for almost 70 years. It has helped bring a renewed vitality and life to the center of Muskegon and with it, the historic Frauenthal Theater, a 1,729-seat venue with extraordinary beauty, excellent acoustics and sight lines. Apr 19-20: Women as Muses. May 10-11: The 3 Broadway Divas; May 31-Jun 1: Season Finale.
Illinois
Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, 50 E Parkway, Chicago. 312.902.1500. auditoriumtheatre.org. A National Historic Landmark and a mainstay of Chicago architecture and theatre since 1889, the Auditorium continues to provide unparalleled ballet performances and a variety of artistic productions. Through Mar 31: Priscilla Queen of the Desert; Apr 13: River North Dance Chicago and Orbert Davis’ Chicago Jazz Philharmonic-Havana Blue; Apr 14: Eisenhower Dance Ensemble’s Motown in Motion; Apr 24-May 5: The Joffrey Ballet’s Othello. May 9: Good vs. Evil—An Evening with Anthony Bourdain and Eric Ripert; May 10: Maximize Your Life—Jillian Michaels; May 12: The Tenors’ Lead Your Heart; May 15: Music + Movement Festival; May 17: Eifman Ballet of St. Petersburg’s Rodin.
Broadway in Chicago, various venues, Chicago. 800.775.2000. broadwayinchicago.com. A joint venture between the two largest commercial theater producers and owner/operators in the U.S., Broadway in Chicago offers the finest of professional stage productions in multiple theaters, all residing in Chicago’s lively Loop. Bank of America Theatre, 18 W Monroe St. Through Sept 8: The Book of Mormon. Broadway Playhouse, 175 E Chestnut. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W Randolph St. Through Mar 24: Jekyll & Hyde; Apr 2-14: Catch Me If You Can; Apr 16-21: American Idiot; Apr 23-May 5: Anything Goes. May 10-12: Shen Yun. Oriental Theatre, 24 W Randolph. Apr 2-May 5: Big Fish.
The Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University, 1 University Pkwy, University Park. 708.235.2222. centertickets.net. The Center for Performing Arts is celebrating 11 years of promoting cultural enhancement on the South Side of Chicago through world-class performing arts productions and arts education. Mar 28: Celtic Crossroads; Apr 11: The Piano Men—A Musical Journey through the ‘70s; Apr 17: Ed Asner as FDR; Apr 24-25: Anne Sexton’s Transformations.
City Winery Chicago, 1200 W Randolph St, Chicago. 312.733.9463. citywinery.com. The city’s newest concert venue and only fully operational winery, will present an eclectic mix of the most respected names in pop, rock, jazz, blues and world music. Mar 29: Hayes Carll; Apr 4: Wayne Hancock; Apr 5: Paul Thorn and Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis; Apr 6-7: David Bromberg Quartet and Allen Toussaint; Apr 8: Creed Bratton; Apr 9-10: David Grisman Andy Statman Quartet; Apr 12: Bill Bragg; Apr 19: Holly Near Band; Apr 20: The Proclaimers; Apr 21: Paris Combo; Apr 25: NOA (Achinoam Nini). Apr 26: Otis Clay; May 2: Southern Culture on the Skids; May 3: Cory Chisel and the Wandering Sons; May 17: 10,000 Maniacs; May 21: Hot Club of Cowtown; May 25: Cathy Richardson Band.
Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Navy Pier, 800 E Grand Ave, Chicago. 312.595.5600. chicagoshakes.com. Prominently located on Navy Pier in Chicago, this venue mounts renowned productions of the plays of William Shakespeare, as well as works from distinguished American and international playwrights and directors. The theater’s mission to reach out to younger audiences is well accomplished with its offerings of children’s productions and student matinees. The architecturally dynamic structure houses both an engaging, 500-seat courtyard theater and a 200-seat black box theater. Apr 30-Jun 16: Henry VIII; May 11-26: Roadkill.
Chicago Sinfonietta, Orchestra Hall at Symphony Center, 2205 S Michigan Ave, Chicago. chicagosinfonietta.org. In its pursuit of “Musical Excellence through Diversity,” the Chicago Sinfonietta—the official orchestra of the Joffrey Ballet—presents compelling, innovative works, often by composers and soloists of color. Apr 19-20: Arab Spring.
The Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St, Chicago. 312.462.6300. thechicagotheatre.com. The Chicago Theatre has been a prototype for area theaters since 1921. With its lavish architecture and an elegant stage, the Chicago Theatre seats 3,600 and stands seven stories high. Apr 1: Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds; Apr 19-20: Jim Gaffigan; Apr 27: Diana Krall. May 1: Joe Bonamassa; May 4: Russell Peters; May 9: Paramore.
Court Theatre, 5535 S Ellis Ave, Chicago. 773.753.4472. courttheatre.org. The Court Theatre is a not-for-profit, professional regional theater that is located on the campus of the University of Chicago. Its mission to “discover the power of classic theater” is realized in its intimate, 251-seat auditorium. Through Apr 7: Proof. Through Jul 14: Save on Proof and Moliere; May 9-Jun 9: Misanthrope.
The Goodman Theatre, 170 N Dearborn St, Chicago. 312.443.3800. goodmantheatre.org. Since 1925, the Goodman Theatre has provided entertainment to the Chicago area; however, a new, state-of-the-art two-theater complex was completed in 2000—75 years to the day after the dedication of the original—and resides in the vibrant North Loop Theater District within walking distance of fine hotels and restaurants. Through Apr 14: Measure for Measure; Apr 13-May 12: The Happiest Song Plays Last; Apr 27-Jun 2: By the Way, Meet Vera Stark.
Harris Theater, 205 E Randolph, Chicago. 312.704.8414. harristheaterchicago.org. Now in its fifth season at its home in the Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Millennium Park, this modern state-of-the-art theater guarantees that the audience will enjoy a wide variety of performances in an intimate setting. Apr 5: Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s Quintessential Quartets; Apr 8: Music of the Baroque’s Handel’s Israel in Egypt; Apr 10: Music Institute of Chicago’s Eat to the Beat; Apr 19-20: Chicago Sinfonietta’s Arab Spring. Apr 20, 24, 26, 27: Chicago Opera Theater’s María de Buenos; Apr 23: Fulcrume Point New Music Project’s ALTERED STATES; May 1: Eat to the Beat—The Seldoms; May 8: Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center’s Britten at 100; May 18-19: Ballet Chicago’s Balanchine + Beyond; May 20: Music of the Baroche’s Bach’s St. John Passion; May 21: John Waters; May 22: Ludovico Einaudi and his Ensemble’s In a Time Lapse; May 24: Pam Ann’s Cockpit; May 30: Chicago Academy for the Arts’ Eat to the Beat.
Lyric Opera of Chicago, Civic Opera House, Madison & Wacker, Chicago. 312.332.2244 ext 5600. lyricopera.org. The world-class Lyric Opera enraptures audiences with its spectacular artistry, performing in one of the most unique theaters in the world. The recently refurbished Civic Opera House not only is an elaborate treasure on the inside, but it is architecturally distinctive as well, shaped like a throne facing the Chicago River. Through Mar 28: La Boheme; Through Mar 30: Rigoletto; Mar 26-Apr 6: A Streetcar Named Desire; May4-19: Oklahoma!
Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago. 312.397.4010. mcachicago.org. Reflecting the modern atmosphere of the adjoining museum, the state-of-the-art MCA Theater features elegant oak-paneled walls and tiered seating, which guarantees that every one of the 300 seats can boast the best seat in the house. Through Mar 31: Teatro Buendia’s Pedro Páramo; Apr 18: Young Jean Lee’s Theater Company’s Untitled Feminist Show; Apr 30-May 1: eight blackbird with Nico Muhly and Bryce Dressner; May 7-12: L’Illusion Théâtre de marionettes—Under the Stars; May 16-19: Back to Back Theatre’s Ganesh Versus the Third Reich; May 30-Jun 2: International Contemporary Ensemble’s David Lang—The Whisper Opera.
Orchestra Hall at Symphony Center, 220 S Michigan Ave, Chicago. 312.294.3000. cso.org. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is consistently hailed as one of today’s leading orchestras. Performances by the CSO are much in demand at home and in the most prestigious music capitals of the world. Led by renowned Italian conductor Riccardo Muti as its tenth music director, the CSO is working to fulfill his vision for the Orchestra-to deepen its engagement with the Chicago community, to nurture the legacy of the CSO while supporting a new generation of musicians, and to collaborate with visionary artists. Performances held daily, except Wednesday. Mar 28-30: Uchida Plays Mozart; Mar 29: Sonny Rollins; Mar 30, Apr 7, 14, 2-287: In the Park with Civic; Apr 3: Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 3 and Choir of King’s College; Apr 4: Prokofiev Piano Concerto No. 3; Apr 5: Max Raabe and Palast Orchester’s I Won't Dance; Apr 6, 27: Once Upon a Symphony’s Abiyoyo; Apr 7: Pierre-Laurent Aimard; Apr 8: Sheherazade; Apr 10: Emerson String Quartet; Apr 11-13, 16: Muti Conducts Bach Mass; Apr 13: CSO All-Access Chamber’s Bach Family; Apr 14: Staatskapelle Dresden; Apr 15: Open Rehearsal with Riccardo Muti; Apr 18-19, 23: Muti Conducts Beethoven 4; Apr 19: Chris Thile and Brad Mehldau; Apr 20: Bobby McFerrin’s Spirit You All; Apr 21: St Paul Chamber Orchestra; Apr 25-27: Muti and Pollini; Apr 28: CSO Chamber at the Art Institute of Chicago; Apr 28: Evgeny Kissin; May 1: Afterwork Masterwork’s Spanish Passion; May 2-4: CSO’s Spanish Passion; May 4: Get Up and Dance; May 5: SCP’s Jorge Federico Osorio; May 9, 11, 14: CSO’s Rimsky-Korsakov Sheherazade; May 10: MusicNOW’s Mercury Soul @ Metro; May 10, 12: Beyond the Score’s Sheherazade; May 13: Civic Orchestra’s Rivers—Nature. Power. Culture. May 15: SCP’s Yo-Yo Ma and CSO Musicians; May 16, 18, 21: CSO’s Beethoven 6; May 19: SCP’s Marc-Andre Hamelin; May 20: SCO’s Corporate Night—Aretha Franklin; May 23-25, 28: CSO’s Revueltas Noche de los Mayas; May 24: SCP’s Obert Davis’ Chicago Jazz Philharmonic; May 30-31: CSO’s Fray Plays Mozart.
Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd, Aurora. 630.896.6666. paramountaurora.com. Named “One of Chicago’s Top Ten Theatres” by the League of Chicago Theatres, the Paramount is renowned for the quality and caliber of its presentations, superb acoustics and historic beauty. Mar 28: Scotty McCreery; Mar 30: Stayin’ Alive; Apr 4: Little Engine That Could; Apr 12: Spring Gala; Apr 13-14 STOMP. May 18: Herman’s Hermits and Ides of March; May 19: Raffi.
Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St, St Charles. 630.584.6342. pheasantrun.com. Acclaimed throughout Chicago and the Midwest for its entertainment, Pheasant Run Resort features theater at its Mainstage and Studio theaters, comedy at Zanies Comedy Club, and live music, entertainment, art exhibits and shopping at its own version of Bourbon Street. Mar 28-May 19: Forever Plaid. May 24: Side Effects May Include…; May 31: The Best of The Second City.
Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N Halsted, Chicago. 312.335.1650. steppenwolf.org. The Chicago-based cast is an internationally renowned group of 43 artists, committed to the art of ensemble collaboration. Now in its 35th season, Steppenwolf continues to fulfill its mission by offering intriguing performances and taking artistic risks. Through Apr 28: The Birthday Party; Apr 4-Jun 9: Head of Passes. Apr 18: The Windy City Soul Club
Victory Gardens Theater, various venues. 773.871.3000. victorygardens.org. As one of the country’s most respected midsized professional theater companies, this Tony Award-winning theater is dedicated to serving playwrights and producing world premiere plays. Programs include five mainstage productions with emphasis placed on the development of an ethnically and culturally diverse community of arts. Apr 5-May 5: The Whale. May 24: BALL and Other Funny Stories About Cancer.
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