Nightmare or Nightclub? Rumor has it that TAOChicago is haunted by ghosts.
If you frequent the club scene in Chicago, you’re bound to have heard of TAO or at least seen the red-carpet entrance and line. You can’t miss this gargantuan stone building with spire-like posts on its four corners.
TAO is not just another hip, nightclub of the present day. It’s also the home of a couple of ghosts. As some would say, TAO Chicago is haunted.
Let’s back up here. Before this granite building was TAO, it embodied a different venue for various nightclubs from the 1980s through the mid-2010s. From nightclubs like Castle Chicago (where there were three nightclubs housed under one roof) to other clubs like Excalibur and Vision, this place has always been where trendy socialites dance, drink, and climb the social ladder.
But what if we went even further back in time? All throughout the 1900s up through the ’60s, the building traded many hands. This all-purpose structure has housed publishers, design institutes, and even recording studios. Let’s put it this way: TAO’s building is like the hot potato of Chicago.
Photo Credit: TAO Chicago
But why? Could it be the tumultuous economy from the ‘80s through the mid-2000s? Or shifting trends in nightclub-goers preferences? Or might it just be the ghosts of Chicago’s past?
All those theories sound like the perfect start to an economics class. But the ghost theory is particularly curious (and doesn’t require as many graphs with supply and demand).
In 1892, this granite building was home to the Chicago Historical Society—you know, since there was a fire, architect Henry Ives Cobb constructed a fire-proof building. Fast forward to the Eastland Disaster of 1915. Legend has it that 632 N. Dearborn was a pop-up-morgue (if you will) for the bodies that had drowned from the sinking of the SS Eastland. This theory is plausible, but considering that no bodies were actually ever brought there, it’s a little far-fetched. However, in 1931, just 16 years later, the Chicago Historical Society moved to Lincoln Park — for no known reason.
Years passed before the whole nightclub era of this historical society building-turned-pop-up-morgue takes over. When Excalibur was in business was the first hint that something was off about this place. There are plenty of stories from previous employees speaking to the usual ghost-stuff, i.e. candles being lit and then extinguished… Faucets or taps running — without any cause. Things, like bottles, breaking. Maybe an apparition here or there.
Photo Credit: TAO Chicago
Turns out, one of those apparitions happens to be Mary, a girl from the Southside of Chicago who dances with people and then suddenly disappears upon catching a ride.
Enter: Neil Tobin. Neil is a purveyor of all things paranormal, specifically in Chicago. He used to host a Supernatural Chicago show on Fridays back in the mid-2000s. During these shows, Tobin would share the infamous stories of this famed granite-building. Note: there are some stories that don’t line up chronologically speaking with this building (i.e. the Chicago Fire happened before this building was constructed). That being said, the story of Mary is extremely enticing (and maybe even believable).
Here’s how the story of Mary goes: Mary’s proper title is Resurrection Mary. Supposedly at a Supernatural Chicago seance with Tobin, a volunteer would hear two whispers: a name and a number. The name, in this particular seance, was “Mary” and the number whispered was “8.”
Don’t worry. It goes on.
With an envelope in hand, Tobin explains that there should be a message. Upon opening this letter, there’s the exact prediction of this seance’s events: the spirit of Mary, who died eight years before, would contact Tobin that evening.
All you need to know is to look out for yourself when you walk down the stairs (as previous employees have said they’ve fallen down without reason). And if candles start extinguishing themselves or Mary dances with you and then disappears, perhaps you should lay off the absinthe.
What do you think? Is TAO Chicago haunted? Let us know if you have a ghost story to share in the comments below!
At UrbanMatter, U Matter. And we think this matters.
Tell us what you think matters in your neighborhood and what we should write about next in the comments below!
It’s no secret that every month, Chicago puts on amazing events that will seriously upgrade your weekends. But it’s not always easy to decide what to do and where to go! What are a couple of fun things to do in Chicago this weekend? That’s where we come in.
We have the inside scoop on all of the latest events, festivals, and parties happening this February. Finding parking can be a hassle, but we got you. Other than that, we’re just here to show you fun Chicago events this weekend, which happens to hold a lot of festivals related to theater!
Returning for its seventh year, this week in February celebrates the city’s amazing theater scene with over 100 different productions taking place throughout the city at discounted prices. Tickets start at just $15 and will be announced soon. Don’t miss one of the best things to do in Chicago this February!
Calling all gamers! wndr After Dark is back and this time, they’ve partnered with I Play Games to bring you a gaming experience through the decades. Enjoy arcade machines from the 80s, retro home-console games from the 90s, and 2000s gaming and beyond. The usual wndr museum experience is included. The first entry is at 6:30pm and the last entry is at 9:30pm.
The region’s largest cider festival featuring artisanal ciders from around the world takes place at Navy Pier, with general admission and VIP tickets available online. The festival takes place in two sessions, from 12 pm – 3 pm and 5 pm – 8 pm, with VIP passes extending that session another hour. Attendees must be 21 and over.
Tim and Eric come to The Chicago Theatre on Saturday, February 22 for their 2019 Mandatory Attendance World Tour. Expect more spoofs, goofs and insanity, including some very special surprises they can’t talk about right now.
From 4 – 8 pm, enjoy wine and whiskey tastings, live music, small bites, and meet and greets with Animal Ambassadors at the Brookfield Zoo. Tickets for general admission start at $95.
At UrbanMatter, U Matter. And we think this matters.
Tell us what you think matters in your neighborhood and what we should write about next in the comments below!
The best breweries in Chicago is a hard list to craft, since the Chicagoland area boasts over 160 breweries and counting. There are several that get lost in the mix, slipped under the rug, or even just forgotten, and it’s our job to keep those awesome breweries in the spotlight. So, these are the best local breweries near you in Chicago you might have overlooked in your thirst for beer, and ones you’re never going to forget again.
Photo Credit: Adams Street Brewery
Adams Street Brewery | 17 W Adams St
You’ve probably seen the old-school, bright lights at the Berghoff Restaurant in the Loop — how could you miss ‘em?! But nestled right under your nose is Adams Street Brewery. Family-owned and -operated, this local brewery near you brings the art of brewing alive with the deep-rooted family traditions. Come for their happy hour and savor their Bavarian pretzel with any of their brews. Fun fact: the brew-master is a third-generation Berghoff Restaurant employee and has been locally featured for his brews, most notably his stout!
Photo Credit: Lo Rez Brewing
Lo Rez Brewing and Taproom | 2101 S Carpenter St
First developing brews in a garage, this Pilsen, Chicago-born craft brewery near you is as community-centric and humble as they come. Lo Rez Brewing and Taproom is a gift from a garage: the founders poured their passions into their pours and, in doing so, developed the necessary skills through training and certification. In three short years, what was a passion project became a full-on brewery and taproom. But it’s also more: Lo Rez is a hand-crafted treasure for the community that goes back to developing strong connections.
Photo Credit: Haymarket Brewing
Haymarket Brewing | 737 W Randolph St
Recalling the 1886 riot and bombing in Chicago’s very own Haymarket Square, Haymarket Brewing is a nod to the triumph of workers’ rights while also recognizing the present-day struggle of needing a brew after work. This local brewery is for the working folk — from white collar to blue collar and everything in between. This Chicago-born brewery pours their world-decorated and award-winning brews for all with everyone’s tastes in mind. Hats off, brews up!
Photo Credit: Metropolitan Brewing
Metropolitan Brewing | 3057 N Rockwell St
Metropolitan Brewing has come a long way since its inception in 2009. An original of Ravenswood, Metropolitan Brewing has since moved to Avondale with a taproom developed, designed, and crafted by local Chicago architects, developers, and contractors. This local brewery is all about maintaining the sanctity of Chicago’s spirit in every brew while still experimenting with modern techniques and tastes. Be sure to check out their growing list of beers and bring a Metropolitan home with you in a growler!
Photo Credit: Marz Community Brewing Company Instagram
Marz Community Brewing Co. | 3630 S Iron St
In all sincerity and love, if Marz Community Brewing Co. were a table in the middle-school cafeteria, it would be the most eclectic yet modern, refined yet approachable table. Really, this brewery is full of the most friendly, creative, community-oriented culinary connoisseurs of Chicago. They combine the rebellious spirit of their hometown with their reverence for connecting others. Bring your adventurous palate and sincere smile — Marz is bound to lift your spirits.
Photo Credit: All Rise Brewing
All Rise Brewing Co. | 235 N Ashland Ave
All Rise Brewing Co. has the ultimate biker aesthetic without being intimidating or gnarly in a scary way. This West Side local brewery puts the pride of Chicago in every pour while still maintaining its rough edges. Fit in or stand out — it doesn’t matter! As long as you’re here, you’re part of the biker gang!
Clean, sleek, yet whimsical and top-notch: welcome to Hopewell Brewing Co. Founded by three friends and graduates of the University of Illinois, whose paths diverged from nonprofit work to sales, this craft brewery near you in Chicago maintains its unpretentious spirit and recognizes the humble home-brewing beginnings that started it all. You’ll feel right at home in their taproom, where you can play a board game, stay a while, and have conversations with your newfound friends. The bartenders are approachable and friendly while still maintaining their brewing chops. Be sure to join for Hopewell’s 4 Year Anniversary on February 29th!
Photo Credit: Begyle Brewing
Begyle Brewing | 1800 W Cuyler Ave
In Ravenswood, there’s this hidden gem of a brewery that puts its beer where its mouth is. In other words, Begyle Brewing is the ultimate destination for merging rough and industrial with warm and communal. Featuring house-brewed pours with community events (vinyasa, anyone?), Begyle is a neighborhood and city favorite. You can find their pours in various bars across the city, but if you go directly to their taproom, be sure to learn about their Community Supported Brewery (CSB) Membership. The CSB concept, much like a co-op in agriculture and food, allows members to subscribe and pick up a growler each month along with monthly growler refills. Available in terms of six months or a year, CSB allows consumers and the community to grow while reaping the benefits of the harvest.
Photo Credit: Spiteful Brewing
Spiteful Brewing | 2024 W Balmoral Ave
Looking for an increasingly rebellious yet realistic approach to beer? Look no further than Spiteful Brewing. Conceived on a stove and named after an altercation during a childhood hockey game, Spiteful Brewing is a mighty team of nine, brewing and bringing you craft beers with relatable names. Bring a friend and join a tour to learn more about this local Chicago brewery, bringing you a dose of robust realism in a glass!
Support your local Chicago breweries — we’ll drink to that!
At UrbanMatter, U Matter. And we think this matters.
Tell us what you think matters in your neighborhood and what we should write about next in the comments below!
Chicago has fantastic museums. From the Museum of Science and Industry to the Art Institute of Chicago, there are a variety of different museums available. Luckily, you can continue to explore many museums even after the sun goes down. These after-hours events are a fun way to experience the exhibits long after everyone else has left and gone home. Here are some of the best museums after dark events in Chicago.
Photo Credit: Stoptime Live
After Dark at the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago hosts regular After Dark events that are 21+. Each event will focus on a specific exhibit at the museum. You’ll be able to appreciate art while listening to live music, eating appetizers, and drinking the event’s signature cocktail.
Photo Credit: Adler Planetarium
Adler After Dark
Welcome to anyone over the age of 21, Adler After Dark has recently been relaunched and is bigger and better than ever. At the after-hours events, you’ll get access to all the exhibits and galleries, as well as unlimited sky shows and guest lectures. When the weather is nice, you can also check out the Doane Observatory!
Photo Credit: Shedd Aquarium
Shedd After Hours
Shedd Aquarium After Hours is for 21+ who want to see some of the unique animals at the aquarium. During this Chicago museum after dark event, you can listen to bands or DJs while sampling snacks and cocktails. Tickets to the event also give you access to all permanent and special exhibits.
Photo Credit: Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo will occasionally host after-hour events for both families and adults only. During the summer, you can enjoy craft brews, live music, all while roaming the zoo and checking out the animals.
Photo Credit: Field Museum
Dozin’ With The Dinos at the Field Museum
Kids can spend the night at the Field Museum, learning more about dinosaurs, doing hands-on activities, and exploring the museum after dark with flashlights. They can also learn from some of the top museum scientists.
Photo Credit: Museum of Science + Industry
Museum of Science + Industry After Hours
The MSI After Hours lets adults explore the museum and exhibits after the door. You’ll be able to drink cocktails and beer while nibbling on snacks and enjoying the programming put on by the event. The events take place on Friday evenings from 7 pm to 10 pm.
Photo Credit: Museum of Science + Industry
Science Snoozeum at the Museum of Science + Industry
MSI also offers kid-friendly evening events on select Fridays and Saturdays. Kids aged 6 to 12 can have an unforgettable night watching movies in the Giant Dome Theater, making science toys, completing a scavenger hunt, and then spending the night at the museum.
Photo Credit: wndr museum
wndr After Dark
wndr hosts after-hour events, where you still can get the full museum experience while dancing to the live DJ set. Other after-hour events will be themed. For example, you might be able to play games after hours, watch movies, or even participate in a speed dating event. Each month’s theme changes, so check out their event page to see what it is coming up.
Have you enjoyed Chicago museums after dark? Let us know how it was in the comments below!
At UrbanMatter, U Matter. And we think this matters.
Tell us what you think matters in your neighborhood and what we should write about next in the comments below!
We, like you, are not made of money. And while we personally love going out to get a fancy cocktail – or, like, 4 fancy cocktails – from time to time, our wallets are not always quite so enthusiastic. Given that drinking anywhere in Chicago is often times soooo damn expensive, we’re guessing that you might feel the same way. So, in a last-ditch effort to give your bank account and ours a much-needed respite, here are the various destinations to get cheap drinks in Chicago.19
2013 West North Avenue – 1/2 off everything 5pm–7pm M-F, $5 Tito’s cocktails on Thursdays
Estelle’s is one helluva neighborhood bar – and it’s definitely got the drink specials to match. It is one of the cheapest bars in Chicago that offers daily happy hour specials that run from 5pm–7pm, Mondays through Fridays, and offers half off EVERYTHING but food and shots, meaning your average cocktail is only gonna cost you about five bucks. As if that wasn’t enough, Estelle’s also offers $5 Tito’s mixed drinks on Thursdays, $4 Ferent Branca shots on Monday (for when you’re feeling fancy), and a $7 High Life + Four Rose combo on Sundays. I mean, why would you ever spend more than $10 on a cocktail when this exists?
Okay, so I get that $9 might not seem like a cheap drink, but in a city where specialty cocktails regularly cost us upwards of $11, nine bucks is a miracle and you know it. Not only does Antique Taco offer a $9 classic marg at each of its three locations, but they also do a mean rosemary and seasonal option for the same price. As an added benefit for all my cheapos out there, margarita pitchers at Antique Taco are also just $30. Gimme, please.
Okay, deep breath – Kincade’s offers: $3 Miller Lite and Coors Light drafts on Tuesdays, $1 domestic bottles on Wednesdays, $10 domestic PITCHERS on Thursdays, a $4 draft o’ the day on Fridays, AND, last but not least, $6 Tito’s cocktails, Bloody Mary’s, Jumbo Screwdrivers, and White Trash Mimosas on Sundays.
Did you catch all that? ‘Cause this perpetually full sports bar is pretty much the cheap drink Mecca.
2771 North Lincoln Avenue – again, so many specials
Delilah’s is Lincoln Park’s resident beer bar and features nearly 200 different drafts and bottles for you to take for a spin. In a concerted effort to get you to drink as much awesome beer as humanly possible, Delilah’s offers up cheap-as-hell daily specials such as $1 beer and $2 Jim Beam on Mondays, $3 High Life bottles on Tuesdays, $3 PBR longnecks and $3 Evan Williams White Label Bourbon on Wednesdays, $3 Schlitz Bottles and $3 Lot 40 Rye on Thursdays, $3 Labatt Blue and $3 Maker’s Mark Bourbon on Fridays, $3 Molson Canadian and $3 Four Roses Bourbon on Saturdays, and $3 Hamm’s Premium Lager Pints and $3 Redemption Rye on Sundays.
Why you would ever buy another beer for more than $3 again, I don’t know.
122 West Monroe Street – $8 Disco Punch, $6 Beer, and $5 Anticuchos during happy hour
There is nothing we love more than getting a sweet deal at an expensive restaurant — and happy hour at Boleo is just that. This swanky rooftop bar is usually mixin’ up $12 cocktails, but starting at 4:30 pm on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights, that price is slashed nearly in half to accommodate cheap drinkers like yours truly. Plus, Boleo’s happy hour goes until about 7 pm, meaning I can have my deal with dinner this time around. Order up a $5 Anticuchos for a traditional Peruvian street skewer.
2521 North Milwaukee – 1/2 off cocktails and beers from 6 pm – 8 pm
The Owl is Logan Square’s original hipster haven. Serving up good drinks, excellent beer, and uber-chill vibes (if chill vibes can even be “uber”), The Owl’s Sunday – Friday Early Bird Special is a must for anyone trying to save a couple of bucks with half-off cocktails. What’s more, this laid-back watering hole also offers $5 Absolut wells on Sunday, $2 – 3 beers on Tuesday, and so many more.
940 West Weed – $9 domestic pitchers, $19 domestic buckets and $8 Bloody Marys on Saturdays & Sundays
A classic sports bar, live music venue, and country hot spot all rolled into one, there should be no doubt in your mind that Joe’s is offering some sweet drink deals on the cheap. Though their specials rotate pretty regularly, the best deal we could find was the bar’s Saturday/Sunday/Game Day special, which lists pitchers for under $10, buckets for under $20 and loaded Bloody Mary’s for the low, low price of just $8, in the mornings only.
The Irish know how to drink. This is just common knowledge. So it really shouldn’t come as a shock when I tell you that The Kerryman – an Irish pub – has some of the best damn cheap drinks in town. Their specials include, but are not limited to: $4 Corona, $4 Corona Light, and $4 Michelob Ultra on Mondays, half-price BOTTLES of wine and $6 glasses on Tuesdays, $4 Truly Cans and $4 White Claw Cans on Wednesday, $8 Old Fashioneds on Thursday, $4 Guinness, $5 Jameson shots, and $6 Tito’s cocktails during Happy Hour on Friday, AND $5 mimosas, Bloody Marys, and Chambord Kir Royales on Saturday & Sunday. Whew.
2421 North Milwaukee – cocktails usually start around $6
The Whistler is a relatively upscale stage/gallery/bar/restaurant in Wicker Park where they could easily be charging you 12 bucks a drink. And they totally do. That being said, being the kind, gentle souls that they are, The Whistler’s daily drinks menu usually includes at least one drink under the $8 mark, meaning that even the brokest (broke-est?) of folk can swing by and enjoy this cool space.
2048 Armitage Ave – daily drink deals, $5 Jack and Gingers DAILY!
Jack and Ginger’s is one of our favorite neighborhood dives, through and through. Stop by any night of the week to cash in on some of their fantastic deals :
Monday: $4 shots, $10 domestic pitchers
Tuesday: $4 flavored vodka, $1 off ALL DRAFTS
Wednesday: $4 Revolution beer, $3 “J” shots (Jim, Jack, Jose, Jager, even Jepson – you get the idea)
Thursday: $5 all bombs, $14 domestic buckets
Friday: $4 well drinks, $2 off Bulleit Whiskey
Saturday: $5.50 Tito’s drinks, $4 Bloody Marys and mimosas, $9 (for 3) or $14 (for 5) retro cans
From 4 pm – 7 pm, Mondays through Fridays, Roger’s Park Social is serving up a $6 happy hour specials. The menu features house wines, $1 off Illinois draft beers, and a “pick yer mule” deal that lets you choose whatever, whether your feelin’ vodka, tequila, or bourbon that day.
5024 North Sheridan – select drinks for $6 and under all week long
Big Chicks is a no muss, no fuss LGBTQ-friendly bar offering squeal-worthy drink deals all week long. Stop by on Sundays for $4 vodka lemonades, $2 off pitchers of draft beer and $5 Well Vodka + Select Mixers on Mondays, $7 “Kick Ass” Mezcal Mules and $5 bottles of Corona on Tuesdays, $1 off all local craft beers, and more specials, on Wednesdays or, if your feelin’ extra cheap, $6 Absolut cocktails on Thursdays.
343 South Dearborn Street – late night and happy hour specials 5-7 pm daily
This speakeasy and karaoke lounge offers cheapskates like ourselves both happy hour and late-night specials on a daily basis. Some of Brando’s best deals and steals include $4 Moscow mules, $5 Bulleit Rye Old Fashioned, $5 Bombay Sapphire G&T, $5 Boiler Maker with Carlsberg and Jameson Caskmates, and $4 3 Floyds bottled beers. Did we mention that’s all daily?
Last, but certainly not least, the piece de resistance – the $1 beer $1 wines, and $3 martinis at The Franklin Room. Though it may only be served from 11:30 am to 2 pm, Mondays through Fridays, this standard bar and restaurant does offer a full menu of drinks for just one dollar apiece. We should probably mention that you have to buy lunch in order to cash in on the deal, but who cares? $1 drinks are worth it.
2133 South Halsted Street – $7 mojitos on Tuesdays, $4 Latin beers on Wednesdays, $5 well drinks on Thursdays
You can’t go wrong when you stop into this Mexican haunt. It’s located a little off the beaten path in Pilsen, but well worth the trip, especially during their daily specials. Every day holds something new, like Latin Wednesdays with $4 Latin beers and $7 margaritas, or $5 well drinks on Thursdays. Topping it off with $7 mojitos on Tuesdays, Del Toro knows how to bring all the boys to their yard.
Antarctica has hit a record high temperature. Sixty thousand known cases of the new coronavirus are causing global panic. Australia is still on fire. And the U.S. is gearing up for elections. The Times Are Racing, the title of the Joffrey Ballet’s winter mixed repertory program, captures a sense of the urgency we surely all feel. Yet few guiding principles–not even escapism–bring order to the presentation. The oldest pieces, Mono Lisa (2003) and The Sofa (1995) by Itzik Galili of Israel, account for two of the three Joffrey premieres–the third being the 2017 ballet by New York City Ballet resident choreographer Justin Peck that closes and titles this show. The other two works, British choreographer Christopher Wheeldon’s Commedia (2008) and Bliss! created on commission by Chicago’s Stephanie Martinez in 2019, offer a nod to modernism with Stravinsky scores. Though the company’s dancers looked in fine form, the program does not cohere into a discernible vision, nor is it truly a study in contrasts.
The evening opens with Commedia, an episodic, deconstructed vision of harlequins set to Stravinsky’s Pulcinella suite under the gaze of a painted set of masked faces. Center stage, a ballerina splats in second position onto the lap of her partner, her legs hooked behind him. It doesn’t have a prelude or a follow-through; it merely exists as an interjection. Commedia is like this–all disjointed steps and scenes that reference the imagery of commedia dell’arte without any of the purpose. Dancers wear incomplete assortments of masks, capes, and ruffs and occasionally execute a stylized gesture amid the technical display, but, in the absence of context, can drama or humor exist? One solution was presented opening night when Gayeon Jung and Edson Barbosa took the stage for the Gavotta con due variazioni. Bright with unpretentious verve, their evident delight in each other made a moment as simple as Barbosa’s head popping up behind Jung’s arm more charming to watch than the pinwheeling lifts that punctuate the work.
While Wheeldon’s work uses scenario as a framework for cerebral technical exploration, Galili’s contributions showcase explosive intensity. Mono Lisa starts with the lights lowered to the floor and a haze of fog. A pair of bare legs (Victoria Jaiani) comes into view. Enter a man (Stefan Goncalvez). A duet of aggressive strutting and fiendishly difficult partnering, sort of like William-Forsythe-meets-voguing, proceeds without a resolution beyond the fatigue of its performers.
The Sofa, which artistic director Ashley Wheater (recently knighted by the British Empire) describes in his program note as “a light look at romance in the modern world,” is easily the most disturbing piece in the program. Viewed as a rapid-fire series of pratfalls on a sofa that doubles as trampoline, it could be humorous and rather dazzling. And yet, The Sofa simply can’t be viewed in the abstract. A single duet repeats, once with a man and a woman (Temur Suluashvili and Anna Gerberich) and once with two men (Suluashvili and Fernando Duarte), the first time a cartoonish rendition of domestic violence, the second time defusing the tension of the first with the consent that presumably underlies a sadomasochistic relationship. She elbows him in the chest. He picks her up and throws her. She smacks his face and rides him sidesaddle. Etc.–all as Tom Waits croons, “Nobody, nobody will ever love you / The way I could love you / Because nobody is that strong.” The punchline of the piece, that the abusive man becomes the submissive partner in the second duet, is, despite Wheater’s program note, particularly problematic in a moment that exactly coincides with the end of Harvey Weinstein’s trial–or haven’t we learned anything about consent yet?
Communal masculinity forms the centerpiece of Bliss! where a shirtless set of machos dance in unison, classical steps interspersed with a shoulder roll here, a hip thrust there–a strangely idyllic picture that is interrupted by the intrusion of two women in rhinestone-encrusted figure skater costumes, who distract and fracture the group. With a presence that matches his command of technique, Barbosa gives a standout performance that carries him right into Peck’s work, seen for the first time with a company other than NYCB. Danced by a cast of 20 in sneakers and street clothes, The Times Are Racing is Jerome Robbins’s Glass Pieces with Twyla Tharp’s energy to the relentless pulse of Dan Deacon’s 2012 America album, with lots of patterned pacing, carefully coordinated breaks to the upright order of classicism, and some fabulous male duets. Barbosa’s electric charisma blazes, visualized by the glistening corona of sweat that radiates from his hair as he whips his head, as if youth really were eternal. v
In the dicey business of bringing historic opera to contemporary audiences, Lyric Opera’s current production of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s The Queen of Spades is a winner. Three hours and 45 minutes long? Sung in Russian? No problem; deal me in. This exploration of obsession is compulsively watchable.
Said to have been composed in a 44-day frenzy, the opera is based on an Alexander Pushkin story about an obsessive gambler–a subject Pushkin knew firsthand. The opera (with a libretto by Modest Tchaikovsky, the composer’s brother), expanding on this theme, is about obsessive ideation that fixes on romance as well as gambling, before moving on to guilt.
The central character, Gherman (tenor Brandon Jovanovich), is hell-bent on possessing both Lisa (soprano Sondra Radvanovsky), a woman he’s fallen in love with at first sight, and a dangerous secret her grandmother happens to possess that will allow him to win at cards. Lisa’s a stretch for this impoverished outsider–she’s engaged to marry a prince (baritone Lucas Meachem). Against the odds, Gherman succeeds in winning her heart, but–and this is the crux of the story–driven as he is, he can’t stop there. He persists in his quest for her grandmother’s secret, leading to a devastating final loss.
This is psychodrama powered by the sweep and emotional acuity of Tchaikovsky’s Russian romantic score. The 20-year-old production, originally directed by Richard Jones, with sets and costumes by John Macfarlane (directed here by Benjamin Davis), moves the action up to the tense grey 1930s. It makes use of puppets, graveyard humor, and surreal shifts in perspective to weave an increasingly claustrophobic and ominous spell. Radvanovsky and Jovanovich powerfully, wrenchingly, give voice to their characters, and everyone in the huge cast–including the Lyric Opera Chorus and members of the Chicago Children’s Choir–plays up to their game.
Musically, it’s an embarrassment of riches, starting with the trio of men who launch the action: tenor Kyle van Schoonhoven and bass-baritone David Weigel as Gherman’s associates, and bass-baritone Samuel Youn–Alberich in Lyric’s Ring–in another neatly executed nasty turn as Gherman’s pernicious friend Count Tomsky. Then there’s a trio of mighty mezzo sopranos: Jill Grove as a governess; Elizabeth DeShong as Lisa’s friend Pauline; and spot-on veteran Jane Henschel making her Lyric debut as Lisa’s grandmother, the Countess, once known as the Venus of Moscow.
Also, of course, the Lyric Opera Orchestra. A more traditional Queen of Spades was the first opera Andrew Davis conducted as Lyric’s music director. As he heads into his final season in that job (he’ll depart in 2021), this production is an apropos bookend to his 20-year tenure. v
The Des McAnuff-directed Summer: The Donna Summer Musical begins with a seasoned Donna Summer, or Diva Donna (Dan’yelle Williamson), recounting how in her early days, a colleague asked her what people will be doing years from then. She responded she didn’t know, but one thing’s for sure: they’d be dancing.
Though the “The Queen is Back” opening number was crowded with several dancers and somewhat blinding outfits on stage, what follows is a fascinating exploration of a life well lived. This touring musical (book by Colman Domingo, Robert Cary, and McAnuff, featuring hits created by Summer, Giorgio Moroder, Paul Jabara, and others) breezes through the stages of Summer’s life, from childhood as Duckling Donna (Olivia Elease Hardy) growing up in Boston to Disco Donna (Alex Hairston) who becomes the queen of 1970s disco, to Diva Donna, who wants to slow down and enjoy family life.
Throughout the production Diva Donna provides context to what’s happening in her life and in her head. Moments of joyous relief, angry thought, and everything else in between is expressed by older Donna, who now has the wisdom to understand the sometimes-reckless decisions of others and herself and breaks it all down for the audience.
From top to bottom, the production is all glitter, sparkle, afros, leather and animal print: a testament to the glamorous life of the legendary singer. (Paul Tazewell created the costumes, with wig design by Charles G. LaPointe.) Yet the glamour was not without difficulties.
In every stage of life, she has loved and lost, in one way or the other. As a child, she lost friends in church who said her voice sounded like a police siren. Donna of the disco era fired (and sued) her manager Neil Bogart (John Gardiner) when she learned he was misappropriating her money, and Diva Donna suffered an ultimate loss, laying her parents to rest. Yet still, the groovy performer persisted.
Messages of independence and equal pay loom large when Donna’s lawsuit against Casablanca Records comes up, accompanied by an energetic and profound performance of “She Works Hard for the Money” that’s enough to make every member of the audience as angry as the singer must have been upon learning that she hadn’t been receiving the fair fruits of her labor.
A standout moment from this number is when an unnamed lawyer (Brooke Lacy) reveals that Donna is in an exploitative contract and says, “This may be disingenuous coming from a middle-aged white guy like me.” Though played for laughs, it’s hard to miss the sheer amount of women playing people presumed to be men throughout the production. From top hats and suits to short wigs and canes, a subtle, yet forthright, statement is made about how in the high point of Donna’s career, gender lines were blurred within the disco (and often queer) community, as they are now.
Summer’s struggle with the antidepressant Marplan and suicidal thoughts are stepping-stones to her recovery from the pressures of a fast-paced career, showing how the disco queen dealt with her own depression and anxiety offstage.
The final scenes of the musical end before her demise; she and her daughters sing “Stamp your Feet” from 2008’s Crayons (her last studio album), when she discloses she has cancer. And “Friends Unknown” honors friends who died of HIV/AIDs years prior, offering possible hope of redemption for her rumored past hurtful remarks about a community who adored her. (Summer reportedly said “God made Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve” at a 1983 concert, though she denied ever calling AIDS “divine retribution.”) From there, up-tempo “Hot Stuff” and “Last Dance” close the production.
At the end of it all, Donna Summer proved herself to be more than just the “disco queen” of the 70s. But even if she’s only remembered for disco music, Summer reminds us that that’s A-OK, too. v
Whether you want to feel the love or not this weekend, there’s plenty of recommended things to do.
Through 2/28: Bonny Nahmias’s first solo exhibition, “To Hold Space,”presents a project that she began in 2017. Stretching a tin can telephone over areas that are broken by geography, modernity, and politics, she has surpassed barriers and blockades. The project is accompanied by a book, The Orchestra Of Space Holders. Opening reception is Fri 2/14, 6-10 PM. Ground Level Platform, 2001 S. Halsted, groundlevelplatform.org, free.
2/14-2/16: Violet Surprise Theatre presentsLez Beaus, a festival of 10-minute plays celebrating lesbian love through the ages. The dozen pieces, selected by artistic directors Iris Sowlat and Allison Fradkin, include stories about romance in an all-girls baseball league of the past and a “girl gets boi” love story set in contemporary times. Fri-Sat 7:30 PM, Sun 3 PM, the Martin, 2515 W. North, themartinchicago.com, $12.
Fri 2/14: Anti-Valentine’s Day is celebrating National Condom Week and has partnered with sexual health organizations to provide free condoms and sexual health education to teenagers. There will be music, dancing, crafts, pizza, cheese, games, and, of course, condoms. 6-9 PM, National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th, nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org, free.
Fri 2/14: Odd Pleasures: A Queer Valentine’s Day Event features a queer variety show hosted by Aunty Chan that includes live ASMR, drag, comedy, and short films. 6-9 PM, Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, 220 E. Chicago, mcachicago.org, $10, $8 students.
Fri 2/14: Love is Stronger than the State: a Migrant Solidarity Benefit is a fundraiser for a family seeking asylum as well as a trans person who recently migrated to Chicago. Featuring food, drink, activities for children, nail art by Sharon, a Cupid Photo Booth, and a raffle with art by Rebel Betty and Audra Jacot. No one turned away for lack of funds. 7 PM-midnight, the #LetUsBreathe Collective, 1434 W. 51st, facebook.com/ChicagoIWOC, $5-$10 suggested donation.
Sat 2/15: The Marz Record Fair, organized by Marz Brewing and Mississippi Records, features vendors and DJs from International Anthem, Sonorama, Electric Jungle, Shady Rest Vintage & Vinyl, Black Pegasus, 606 Records, Delmark, Orindal Records, Tone Deaf Records, South Rhodes Records, Atlantic Posters, Maximum Pelt, DJ Leslie Deckard, and Mississippi Records. Noon-8 PM, Marz Community Brewing Taproom, 3630 S. Iron, marz.beer, free.
Sat 2/15: Author Angela Kenyatta shares her knowledge of journaling and writing during a workshop at the library for Black History Month. 2 PM, Sulzer Regional Library, 4455 N. Lincoln, chipublib.org, free.
Sat 2/15: The one-night-only show The Witch Project looks at witches and queer icons through spoken word, live music, and drag. 7:30 PM, Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee, thedentheatre.com, $15.
Sat 2/15: The Half-Court Classic 3v3 Invitational is a celebration of basketball culture with a three on three tournament and complimentary food and beverages, hosted by Kyle O’Quinn and organized by Lululemon Chicago and Mob Rep with Cool Kids, Femdot, Qari, DJ Evie the Cool, DJ Cash Era, DJ Selah Say. 8 PM-1 AM, 454 N. Armour, bit.ly/lululemon-and-mob-rep-present-the-half-court-classic-tickets, $20.
Sat 2/15:Super Tasty is an inclusive, sex-positive talk show that is poppin’ off for a special Valentine’s Day weekend edition. Performers include Clitora Leigh and Lavender Vyxn, and interviews with Dr. Pia Holec about sexpectations. There will be a sensual massage demo and a panel with sex coach Tazima Parris and therapists Matthew Amador and Peter Navarro. Stay for the AfterGlow where the stage opens up for a shopping experience from local vendors. 8 PM, Constellation 3111 N. Western, supertastyshow.com, $25.
Sun 2/16: The Fox Club has joined with GMan Tavern to sell handmade and vintage goods at the Winter Sucks Market. Drink specials and vendors will be present with a free admission. Noon-5 PM, GMan Tavern, 3740 N. Clark, gmantavern.com, free.
Sun 2/16: The two-person event “The landscape reels back” features, curator, arts organizer, and Chicago artist Alexis Brocchi, who looks at how to search for information through nontraditional methods, and Tracie Hayes, an artist and ecologist. 4-7 PM, Roman Susan, 1224 W. Loyola, romansusan.org, free.
Sun 2/16: Stand-up Marty DeRosa hosts the Second Annual Davefest, a fundraiser for the David Carl Guastella Scholarship Foundation featuring comedy from Blake Burkhart, Cameron Gillette, Nate Burrows, and more plus music by Natalie Grace Alford and Sammy Arechar. 8:30 PM, Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western, emptybottle.com, $10. vRead More
