I haven't been as talkative as I usually am due to the 2+ hour morning AND evening commutes I've had this week. Thank you construction/rain/stalled cars/Lake Shore Drive/Blues Fest/general bad drivers.
But that's okay, because it's Ribfest weekend!!!!!!! No, not the Naperville Ribfest (which I don't recommend to anyone.), Ribfest Chicago. I plan to spend Sunday eating my weight in delicious ribs and deep fried stuff.
I'm sure you're aware that Blues Fest is this weekend. I'm not one for giant music festivals, but I'm thinking I'm going to have to visit the Essie Pop-Up Shop. They're giving Blues Fest attendees free manicures all weekend on Jackson Blvd, using shades from their new Braziliant collection. Awesome!
And while you're downtown getting your nails done, check out the Zombie March Chicago in Millennium Park on Saturday at 3:00 p.m. Any and all undead can participate, and you can even get your make-up applied for free before the march.
Ever wanted to ride your bike naked through the city? Check out the World Nake Bike Ride tomorrow from 8:00 - 11:00 p.m.! If you want to know where to go, join the mailing list or ask to join the Facebook group. The ride is between 12 and 22 miles across the city. After just a few miles of bike riding I feel like the seat is halfway up my rear end. Imagine where it would be after 22 miles of naked riding.....
There's some weirdness happening over at Metro tonight. Alien Queen: The Concert pays tribute to the band Queen and the movie Alien. The show will include special guest DJs and the premier of Battlestar Fantastica, a variety show featuring Mattrick Swayze & the Power of Cheer, Cameron Esposito, DoubleDJ, Ray Gunn, Electro Sapiens, The Force, Fruit Orgy and Chicago Tap Theatre. (Tap dance shout-out!) I'm very confused, but if you want to see it tickets are $16 in and advance and $20 at the door.
And don't forget the gorgeous Old Town Art Fair and the Wells Street Art Festival.
Showing posts with label Theater. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Theater. Show all posts
Friday, June 10, 2011
Friday, May 13, 2011
It's a "Dirty Tap Dancing Bake Sale" Kind of Weekend
Blogger was down, Twitter is being stupid, my computer keeps freezing....not a good Friday the 13th for Andrea! But I'm heading to Green City Market tomorrow to kick off my weekend of relaxation and NOT having to drive to the suburbs. YAY!
Down & Dirty Romeo & Juliet @ Justins - Saturday, May 15 7:00 p.m.
Yeah, you've seen the Leonardo DiCaprio version, and you probably had to read it in high school, but have you ever been in it? Shattered Globe Theater does a very interesting take on this classic, presenting 14 actors who know the lines and the roles, but the audience gets to cast the show. If you don't like it, swap the actor out for another one. And audince members can join as various Montagues and Capulets. Sounds fun to me!
Chicago Food Blogger Bake Sale @ The Poison Cup - Saturday, May 14 12:00 p.m.
Chicago food bloggers like West of the Loop, EZ Bake Oven, Not A Crazy Vegan, Blondie's Cakes, Joy's Misadventures, Engineer and an Oven, Chef Druck Musing, NBC Feast, The Pink Apron will participate in the National Food Blogger Bake Sale on Saturday. Enjoy these blogger's homebaked goods and proceeds will go towards Share our Strength, a non-profit that strives to end childhood hunger. Check out the gluten-free and vegan options and the wine tasting.
National Tap Dance Day @ DuSable Museum of African American History - Sunday, May 15 5:00 p.m.
One thing you probably don't know about me is that I'm a tap dancer. Tap dance is such an amazing art form, and unfortunately too many people don't know much more than what they learned in 2nd grade dance class. If you want to experience the Chicago tap scene and some of the most fabulous tap dancing ladies in the entire world - including the incredible Dianne Walker - check out the National Tap Dance Day show put on by the Chicago Human Rhythm Project this Sunday.
And to give you a tap preview, check out this video of today's tap greats Jason Samuels Smith, Chloe Arnold, John Klauss, Yokiko, Tre Dumas and Dianne Walker.
Down & Dirty Romeo & Juliet @ Justins - Saturday, May 15 7:00 p.m.
Yeah, you've seen the Leonardo DiCaprio version, and you probably had to read it in high school, but have you ever been in it? Shattered Globe Theater does a very interesting take on this classic, presenting 14 actors who know the lines and the roles, but the audience gets to cast the show. If you don't like it, swap the actor out for another one. And audince members can join as various Montagues and Capulets. Sounds fun to me!
Chicago Food Blogger Bake Sale @ The Poison Cup - Saturday, May 14 12:00 p.m.
Chicago food bloggers like West of the Loop, EZ Bake Oven, Not A Crazy Vegan, Blondie's Cakes, Joy's Misadventures, Engineer and an Oven, Chef Druck Musing, NBC Feast, The Pink Apron will participate in the National Food Blogger Bake Sale on Saturday. Enjoy these blogger's homebaked goods and proceeds will go towards Share our Strength, a non-profit that strives to end childhood hunger. Check out the gluten-free and vegan options and the wine tasting.
National Tap Dance Day @ DuSable Museum of African American History - Sunday, May 15 5:00 p.m.
One thing you probably don't know about me is that I'm a tap dancer. Tap dance is such an amazing art form, and unfortunately too many people don't know much more than what they learned in 2nd grade dance class. If you want to experience the Chicago tap scene and some of the most fabulous tap dancing ladies in the entire world - including the incredible Dianne Walker - check out the National Tap Dance Day show put on by the Chicago Human Rhythm Project this Sunday.
And to give you a tap preview, check out this video of today's tap greats Jason Samuels Smith, Chloe Arnold, John Klauss, Yokiko, Tre Dumas and Dianne Walker.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Reefer Madness!
Today is 4/20. Now, unless you're a film major or sporting white people dreads then you most likely don't care. But if you're in the market for a more drug-test-friendly way to celebrate the day, check out the Brown Paper Box Co. production of REEFER MADNESS! THE MUSICAL.
REEFER MADNESS! THE MUSICAL is a tounge-in-cheek (I don't actually know that that phrase means, but it sounds good) spoof on a 1936 flick called "Tell Your Children," warning parents of the hysteria that their Ozzie & Harriet children will experience if they try marijuana. I've never see a stage production, but the movie is hilarious. Check out a clip below.
This one-night-only performance runs 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 for general seating or $40 for VIP seating. What do you get with VIP seating? Special muchies during the show. And Studio BE is BYOB so it should be a really good time.
And if you're looking for the true story behind 4/20, read this story from the Huffington Post.
As a side note: I was scrolling through my Facebook newsfeed, ready to roll my eye at all of my former classmates who posted a lame "4/20 rocks" status message. Instead I see 3D sonograms and check-ins at Legoland. When did this happen?!
REEFER MADNESS! THE MUSICAL is a tounge-in-cheek (I don't actually know that that phrase means, but it sounds good) spoof on a 1936 flick called "Tell Your Children," warning parents of the hysteria that their Ozzie & Harriet children will experience if they try marijuana. I've never see a stage production, but the movie is hilarious. Check out a clip below.
This one-night-only performance runs 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Tickets are $20 for general seating or $40 for VIP seating. What do you get with VIP seating? Special muchies during the show. And Studio BE is BYOB so it should be a really good time.
And if you're looking for the true story behind 4/20, read this story from the Huffington Post.
As a side note: I was scrolling through my Facebook newsfeed, ready to roll my eye at all of my former classmates who posted a lame "4/20 rocks" status message. Instead I see 3D sonograms and check-ins at Legoland. When did this happen?!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Last Night for the Western Double Feature at the Brew & View!!
The Brew & View just tweeted that tonight is the last night for their True Grit (2011)/Blazing Saddles double feature! How did I not know about this! Only $5 admission. True Grit plays at 8:00 p.m. and Blazing Saddles plays at 10:30 p.m.
You've probably heard The Brew & View called by it's other name: The Vic. When the venue isn't hosting various concerts it becomes a rowdy movie theater with a full bar. They serve pizza, and you can have food delivered to the theater. (However, you can't actually bring food into the theater with you. I don't understand that.)
The theater usually plays second- and third-run movies. Remember how those used to be called 99 cent theaters? If you go to the Brew & View website and fill out the survey, you can print the 'thank you for filling out our annoying survey' screen for a $1 admission. Otherwise you can usually see a double (sometimes triple) features for only $5.
A note before you run out and buy tickets. This is going to be a much more lively movie experience than AMC. Expecially if they're showing a classic. Feel free to dance around and say the lines with the actors.
You've probably heard The Brew & View called by it's other name: The Vic. When the venue isn't hosting various concerts it becomes a rowdy movie theater with a full bar. They serve pizza, and you can have food delivered to the theater. (However, you can't actually bring food into the theater with you. I don't understand that.)
The theater usually plays second- and third-run movies. Remember how those used to be called 99 cent theaters? If you go to the Brew & View website and fill out the survey, you can print the 'thank you for filling out our annoying survey' screen for a $1 admission. Otherwise you can usually see a double (sometimes triple) features for only $5.
A note before you run out and buy tickets. This is going to be a much more lively movie experience than AMC. Expecially if they're showing a classic. Feel free to dance around and say the lines with the actors.
Friday, April 1, 2011
It's a "Violent Torpedo of Truth" Kind of Weekend
Okay, so my goal is to do all of these this weekend. Yes, that includes going to see Charlie Sheen. It may be wrong to encourage him, but how can I pass up tickets to the biggest train wreck on Earth?
Charlie Sheen @ The Chicago Theater - April 3, 8:00 p.m.
Will he make out with a hooker for an hour? Wrestle tigers? Pass out? Either way, the "My Violent Torpedo of Truth/Defeat is Not an Option" tour hits The Chicago Theatre this Sunday night. And if you need even MORE Charlie, head over to Enclave later that night for a celebrity appearance.
Bakesale for Japan @ A Perfect Event - April 2, 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
This national bakesale will take place across the national benefitting Peace Winds Japan. Debbi Lilly of A Perfect Event will host an amazing bake sale featuring delicious creations from truffle truffle; flavors like sake & lime brownies, poundcake with orange blossom glade and Asian poached pear tart. Wash it down with sparkling teas infused with prosecco and chai and pomegranate green tea.
Midnight Showing of "The Shining" @ Music Box Theatre - April 1 & 2, 12:00 a.m.
No matter how many times you see it, "The Shining" never fails to scare. Intensify your horror experience with a midnight screening of the classic Kubrick film at the Music Box Theater this weekend.
National Pillow Fight Day @ Tribune Tower Plaza - April 2, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
It's pretty simple: bring pillow. Hit participants with said pillow. Get hit with said participants' pillows. You're not allowed to attack passers-by and/or children, and no intoxicated warriors allowed. Post battle refreshments at the Billy Goat. The Chicago event will take place in front of the Tribune building, but check out the website to locate your nearest battle.
P.S. If you're going out tonight, my advice is to stay away from Wrigleyville. Opening day turns into amateur night.
Charlie Sheen @ The Chicago Theater - April 3, 8:00 p.m.
Will he make out with a hooker for an hour? Wrestle tigers? Pass out? Either way, the "My Violent Torpedo of Truth/Defeat is Not an Option" tour hits The Chicago Theatre this Sunday night. And if you need even MORE Charlie, head over to Enclave later that night for a celebrity appearance.
Bakesale for Japan @ A Perfect Event - April 2, 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
This national bakesale will take place across the national benefitting Peace Winds Japan. Debbi Lilly of A Perfect Event will host an amazing bake sale featuring delicious creations from truffle truffle; flavors like sake & lime brownies, poundcake with orange blossom glade and Asian poached pear tart. Wash it down with sparkling teas infused with prosecco and chai and pomegranate green tea.
Midnight Showing of "The Shining" @ Music Box Theatre - April 1 & 2, 12:00 a.m.
No matter how many times you see it, "The Shining" never fails to scare. Intensify your horror experience with a midnight screening of the classic Kubrick film at the Music Box Theater this weekend.
National Pillow Fight Day @ Tribune Tower Plaza - April 2, 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
It's pretty simple: bring pillow. Hit participants with said pillow. Get hit with said participants' pillows. You're not allowed to attack passers-by and/or children, and no intoxicated warriors allowed. Post battle refreshments at the Billy Goat. The Chicago event will take place in front of the Tribune building, but check out the website to locate your nearest battle.
P.S. If you're going out tonight, my advice is to stay away from Wrigleyville. Opening day turns into amateur night.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Nobody Puts Baby in the Corner; Free Screening Tonight!
Got a last minute, post-Valetine's Day date night for you: a free screening of "Dirty Dancing" at Landmark Century Cinema. Moviefone is working it hard with a free cocktail and snack hour at 7:00 p.m., showtime at 8:00 p.m. RSVP here, and be sure to get there early.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Countdown to a Quirky Valentine's Day: Casablanca Sweetheart Sing Along
Long before "The Notebook" (excuse me, I just threw up a little) there was "Casablanca," one of the greatest film romances of all time. Sure, you could watch the collector's edition DVD at home in your heart-speckled underwear, but why not get the full viewing experience at the delightfully retro Music Box Theatre. On Sunday, February 13 at 2:00 p.m. the theater will host the Second Annual "Casablanca" Sweetheart Sing Along in celebration of Valentine's Day.
Before the film screening, you'll get the opportunity to serenade your sweetheart with classic love songs like "You are My Sunshine" and "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off," while the Music Box organ plays accompaniment and song lyrics are projected on the screen. After you've gotten it out of your system, sit back and watch the movie. Individual tickets are $11 or two for $20.
And here's a little YouTube treat to help you practice for the sing-along:
Before the film screening, you'll get the opportunity to serenade your sweetheart with classic love songs like "You are My Sunshine" and "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off," while the Music Box organ plays accompaniment and song lyrics are projected on the screen. After you've gotten it out of your system, sit back and watch the movie. Individual tickets are $11 or two for $20.
And here's a little YouTube treat to help you practice for the sing-along:
Friday, January 21, 2011
Countdown to a Quirky Valentine's Day: The St. Valentine's Day Massacre
We could argue all day about the cultural/commercial/romantic significance (or irrelevance) of Valentine's Day, but, in the end, it's here to stay. So skip the cliché candlelit dinner and let the Chicago Quirk show you how to celebrate in style with a countdown to Valentine's Day happenings around Chicago.
And since nothing says love like mass murder, I'll start with the Tommy Gun's Garage re-enaction of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre!
On February 14, 1929 seven members of the Bugs Moran gang were brutally murdered in an event that made the country realize just how bad the Prohibition Era Chicago gang wars had gotten. Being that Tommy Gun's Garage is Prohibition Era speakeasy/dinner theater restaurant, they have reenacted this event every year for over 20 years.
After you experience the classic Tommy Gun's revue – skits, singing and dancing hosted by Vitto, “da gangsters” and “da flappers” – sit back and watch this display of Chicago history. One by one, actors portraying the unlucky men walk on to the scene, set to resemble the SMC Cartage Company where the tragic event occurred. (The garage has long since been torn down, but you can still visit the site at 2122 N Clark St.) As the narrator tells each man's story, actors portraying Al Capone's men dressed as "coppers" on a mock raid begin arresting the gangsters. But instead of cuffing them, they line them up and let the bullets fly. Whereas is was never proven that Al Capone was behind the massacre, it has always been assumed that this was a message from Capone to his long-time rival, Bugs Moran.
The show itself is great for families with older children (10-years old and up) but the re-enactment is extremely realistic, so leave the kids at home. It's so realistic, in fact, that it's been filmed for numerous St. Valentine's Day Massacre documentary films and television shows, including the History Channel.
The show runs throughout Valentine's Day weekend, and seating is limited so make a reservation. Ticket pricing is $60 - $75 and includes a multi-course dinner and the show.
And since nothing says love like mass murder, I'll start with the Tommy Gun's Garage re-enaction of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre!
On February 14, 1929 seven members of the Bugs Moran gang were brutally murdered in an event that made the country realize just how bad the Prohibition Era Chicago gang wars had gotten. Being that Tommy Gun's Garage is Prohibition Era speakeasy/dinner theater restaurant, they have reenacted this event every year for over 20 years.
After you experience the classic Tommy Gun's revue – skits, singing and dancing hosted by Vitto, “da gangsters” and “da flappers” – sit back and watch this display of Chicago history. One by one, actors portraying the unlucky men walk on to the scene, set to resemble the SMC Cartage Company where the tragic event occurred. (The garage has long since been torn down, but you can still visit the site at 2122 N Clark St.) As the narrator tells each man's story, actors portraying Al Capone's men dressed as "coppers" on a mock raid begin arresting the gangsters. But instead of cuffing them, they line them up and let the bullets fly. Whereas is was never proven that Al Capone was behind the massacre, it has always been assumed that this was a message from Capone to his long-time rival, Bugs Moran.
The show itself is great for families with older children (10-years old and up) but the re-enactment is extremely realistic, so leave the kids at home. It's so realistic, in fact, that it's been filmed for numerous St. Valentine's Day Massacre documentary films and television shows, including the History Channel.
The show runs throughout Valentine's Day weekend, and seating is limited so make a reservation. Ticket pricing is $60 - $75 and includes a multi-course dinner and the show.
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