OFFBEAT: Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals saluted with new Chicago stage show run

Phil Potempa's daily entertainment news column.

Join the band at 'The Music Man'

MERRILLVILLE | Charlie Blum reprises the lead role of lovable flim-flam man Harold Hill as Ross Summer Music Theatre celebrates it 49th year with "The Music Man" at Merrillville High School's Reinhart Auditorium.

"Oliver!" comes to Cedar Lake stage

CEDAR LAKE | Watch out for youthful pick pockets as L'Arc en Ciel Theater Group presents the musical "Oliver!", opening Friday, with dinner theater shows continuing Sundays and Fridays, Jan. 22, 27, 29, Feb. 3 and 5 at Great Oaks Banquets, 13109 S. U.S. 41.

"Forbidden Broadway's Greatest Hits" at Governors State University in January 2012

January welcomes humor and silly send-ups for a weekend of cabaret stage performances of "Forbidden Broadway's Greatest Hits" at Governors State University.

OFFBEAT: Theatre at the Center nets two Jeff Award nominations for 2011-2011 season

Phil Potempa's daily entertainment news column.

OFFBEAT: Reader wants to know about Gov. Ann Richards Broadway play

Phil Potempa's daily entertainment news column.

Get ready for Oktoberfest and other fall fundraisers

Spring Mill Health Campus will host an Oktoberfest on Oct. 5 as a fundraiser for Emmanuel Lutheran Church. Enjoy a lovely autumn evening with food, drinks, music and fun.

'Hot Mikado' swings into Drury Lane Oakbrook

When it's turned on, it sizzles; when it heats up, it explodes.

Fairytales, farces and musicals

When it comes to summer outings for your children or grandchildren, Navy Pier is a great destination. As you plan, be sure to include Chicago Shakespeare Theatre's delightful new family musical, "The Emperor's New Clothes."

'Ragtime' comes to the Merrillville High stage

Ross Summer Music Theatre and M&M Productions will bring the musical "Ragtime" to Reinhart Auditorium at Merrillville High School at 7:30 p.m. July 23, 24, 30 and 31 and 3 p.m. July 25 and Aug. 1.

An 'Island' tale of the power of love

"It's a fable, a fantasy with authentic elements of real life on a Caribbean island. It's a life lesson about the power of love over death" says "Once on Thus Island" director David Bell.